bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive laboratory evolution for increased temperature tolerance of the diatom Nitzschia inconspicua
Authors: LaPanse Alaina J. , Burch Tyson A. , Tamburro Jacob M. , Traller Jesse C. , Pinowska Agnieszka , Posewitz Matthew C.
Published: December 2022

Outdoor microalgal cultivation for the production of valuable biofuels and bioproducts typically requires high insolation and strains with high thermal (>37°C) tolerance. While some strains are naturally thermotolerant, other strains of interest require improved performance at elevated temperatures to enhance industrial viability. In this study, adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) was performed for over 300 days using consecutive 0.5°C temperature increases in a constant temperature incubator to attain greater thermal tolerance in the industrially relevant diatom Nitzschia inconspicua str. Hildebrandi. The adapted strain was able to grow at a constant temperature of 37.5°C; whereas this constant temperature was lethal to the parental control, which had an upper‐temperature boundary of 35.5°C before adaptive evolution. Several high‐temperature clonal isolates were obtained from the evolved population following ALE, and increased temperature tolerance was observed in the clonal, parent, and non‐clonal adapted cultures. This ALE method demonstrates the development of enhanced industrial algal strains without the production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Intra‐lymphocele microsurgical identification of causative afferent vessels for effective lymphaticovenular anastomosis in lymphocele treatment: A case report
Authors: Mitsui Kohei , Narushima Mitsunaga , Danno Kanako , Ishiura Ryohei , Banda Chihena H.
Published: December 2022

Lymphoceles are an important complication of pelvic and abdominal surgery with a reported incidence of 11%–88%. Conventional treatment includes compression, puncture aspiration, sclerotherapy, and ligation but recurrence is not uncommon and is difficult to treat. Recently, microsurgical lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis, lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) and reconstruction of lymphatic circulation with flaps are increasingly being utilized for lymphocele treatment. Effective microsurgical treatment requires precise identification of the causative afferent vessels for the most efficient circulatory by‐pass. However, direct identification of these vessels using traditional lymphoscintigraphy and near infrared lymphography is challenging and often not possible. We report the case of a 55‐year‐old woman who presented with bilateral inguinal lymphoceles and lymphedema following pelvic surgery for vulvovaginal cancer. Bilateral multiple LVAs of the lower extremities were performed and the lower limb circumferences reduced postoperatively, however both lymphoceles still persisted. The patient was successfully treated by approaching the lymphoceles from inside the lymphocele cavity. The causative afferent lymph vessels were directly identified microsurgically by gentle pressure on the inner wall and causative afferent lymph vessel lymphaticovenular anastomosis was performed. The lymphoceles resolved promptly after surgery without complications, and no recurrence was observed on 5 years follow‐up. This case report presents an innovative microsurgical approach to lymphocele treatment, including examination and techniques to identify the causative afferent lymphatic vessels for effective anastomosis. We report this case to demonstrate the importance of lymphatic vessel selection in the microsurgical treatment of lymphocele.
Commission, product quality and return policy in agency selling
Authors: Hsiao Lu , Chen Ying‐Ju , Xiong Hui
Published: December 2022

Many sellers provide products for consumers directly on online platforms. This selling format is labeled “agency selling.” In this article, we investigate the platform's contract design and the seller's quality and return decisions in the agency selling. We find that the platform chooses a high commission rate to induce the seller to accept returns when the salvage factor is large enough or the consumers' willingness to pay for quality is sufficiently low. Compared to the direct channel, the seller is more likely to accept returns in the agency selling. Moreover, if the consumers' willingness to pay for quality increases, the platform intends to reduce the commission rate to induce the seller to increase the quality. The commission rate makes no influence on the generosity of the refund. However, when the consumers' willingness to pay for quality is sufficiently large, the platform prefers the seller to offer no refund and the commission rate may increase in the consumers' willingness to pay for quality. Finally, we consider two extensions: quality affects satisfaction probability and return window.
Workplace violence against nursing interns and patient safety: The multiple mediation effect of professional identity and professional burnout
Authors: Yang Qianqian , Yang Linlin , Yang Chunling , Wu Xia , Chen Yue , Yao Pingping
Published: December 2022

Background

Most nursing interns have suffered some form of workplace violence in clinical settings, which has been linked to the jeopardizing of patient safety. Although previous research studies have examined the effect of workplace violence on patient safety, few studies have examined whether workplace violence is associated with patient safety through professional identity and professional burnout among nursing interns.

Aims

To test whether professional identity and professional burnout play mediating roles in the relationship of workplace violence and patient safety among nursing interns.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study included 466 nursing interns from three tertiary grade A hospitals. The Workplace Violence Scale, the Professional Identity Scale, the Maslach Burnout Inventory‐General Survey, and the Patient Safety Behaviour Scale were used to gather data. Associations among workplace violence, professional identity, professional burnout, and patient safety were assessed by correlation and the serial‐multiple mediation analysis.

Results

Workplace violence, professional identity, professional burnout and patient safety were significantly correlated. Workplace violence can have a direct positive impact on patient safety of nursing interns, but also an indirect impact on patient safety through three paths: the independent mediating role of professional identity, the independent mediating role of professional burnout, and the chain mediating role of professional identity and professional burnout.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that workplace violence can affect patient safety through decreasing professional identity and increasing professional burnout among nursing interns. Interventions aimed at decreasing workplace violence among nursing interns would be beneficial for professional attitude and patient safety.
In silico evaluation of a beta‐lactam dosing guideline among adults with serious infections
Authors: Williams Paul , Cotta Menino Osbert , Abdul‐Aziz Mohd H. , Wilks Kathryn , Farkas Andras , Roberts Jason A.
Published: December 2022

Study Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the achievement of therapeutic pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK‐PD) exposure targets for beta‐lactam antibiotics using product information dosing or guideline‐based dosing for the treatment of serious infections.

Design

In silico study.

Data Source

ID‐ODSTM(Individually Designed Optimum Dosing Strategies).

Patients and Intervention

None.

Measurements and Main Results

In silico product information and guideline‐based dosing simulations for cefepime, ceftazidime, flucloxacillin, meropenem, and piperacillin/tazobactam were performed using pharmacokinetic models from seriously ill patient populations. The median simulated concentration at 48 and 96 h was used to measure the probability of target attainment (PTA) to achieve predefined therapeutic and toxicity PK‐PD targets. A multiple linear regression model was constructed to identify the effect of guideline‐based dosing covariates on achieving pre‐defined therapeutic targets. In total, 480 dosing simulations were performed. The PTA percentage with guideline‐based dosing at 48 and 96 h was 80% and 68%, respectively, yielding significantly higher results when compared to product information dosing (48.45% and 49%, respectively),p < 0.001 at both time points. At 48 h, predefined toxicity thresholds were exceeded in 4.7% and 0% of simulations for guideline‐based and product information‐based dosing, respectively (p = 0.002). eGFR was significantly associated with the % PTA by guideline‐based dosing, with eGFR values of 20 and 50 ml/min both statistically significant in leading to an increase in PTA.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that achievement of PK‐PD exposures associated with an increased likelihood of effectiveness was more likely to occur with guideline‐based dosing; especially at 48 h.
Spirometry correlates with physical activity in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Kaslow Jacob A. , Sokolow Andrew G. , Donnelly Thomas , Buchowski Maciej S. , Markham Larry W. , Burnette William Bryan , Soslow Jonathan. H.
Published: December 2022

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is associated with progressive muscle weakness and respiratory decline. To date, studies have focused on respiratory decline and loss of ambulation as a metric of loss of skeletal muscle strength. However, new functional measures can assess skeletal muscle disease regardless of ambulatory status. The relationship between these tests and concurrent lung function is currently unexplored.

Objective

To assess the correlation between spirometry measurements and functional muscle assessments such as accelerometry and quantitative muscle testing (QMT).

Methods

Enrolled patients with DMD underwent accelerometry and QMT at study clinic visits. Any pulmonary function testing within 6 months of visit was obtained from the electronic medical record. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between spirometry and functional muscle testing.

Results

Forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) demonstrated the strongest correlation with accelerometry. Both FVC and FEV1 showed a similar relationship to accelerometry when activity was divided into intensity categories, with low intensity and moderate‐to‐vigorous activity categories showing the strongest correlation. Maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and FVC showed the most robust correlations with total QMT (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

Lung function, specifically FVC percent predicted and FEV1%p, shows a good correlation with upper and lower extremity skeletal muscle functional testing such as accelerometry and QMT.
Using electrical impedance tomography to characterize lung impairment of children with primary ciliary dyskinesia: A pilot cross‐sectional study
Authors: Pensabene Mariacarola , Gambazza Simone , Carta Federica , Rocchi Alessia , Lelii Mara , Madini Barbara , Hassan Vittoria , Piotto Marta , Patria Maria Francesca
Published: December 2022

Background

In children with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), measures more sensitive than spirometry are needed to characterize underlying pulmonary impairment. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a promising noninvasive method for monitoring the distribution of lung ventilation, and it does not require patient collaboration. We aimed to provide an assessment of the feasibility and clinical usefulness of EIT in characterizing lung impairment in children with PCD, compared to spirometry and multiple breath nitrogen washout (MBWN2) test.

Methods

Children and adolescents with PCD underwent MBWN2 test as first respiratory assessment, followed by EIT monitoring and spirometry during outpatient follow‐up.

Results

We included 12 out of 16 individuals regularly followed at our clinic. A total of 41.7% (5/12) showed abnormal forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), whereas 11/12 (91.7%) had abnormal ventilation inhomogeneity measured with MBWN2 test. Using EIT, the global inhomogeneity (GITOT) index showed moderate to strong correlation with FEV1 (ρ = −0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.87 to 0.02) and ranged from 37 to 44, with the highest inhomogeneity detected in the dorsal right quadrant. GITOT was moderately correlated with RV/TLC %predicted (ρ = 0.38, 95% CI: −0.17 to 0.74), while we detected a weak correlation between GITOT and lung clearance index (ρ = 0.29, 95% CI: −0.45 to 0.82).

Conclusion

EIT appears promising as a noninvasive technique to characterize ventilation distribution in children with PCD, thus providing a complementary assessment to static and dynamic lung function measures of PCD disease.
Conceptualising adherence to exercise for musculoskeletal pain: A concept mapping study
Authors: Bailey Daniel , Bishop Annett , Foster Nadine E. , Holden Melanie A.
Published: December 2022

Background

The concept of adherence to exercise for musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is poorly defined and inadequately measured. This study aimed to, (1) conceptualise adherence to exercise therapy for MSK pain, and (2) identify statements most representative of the new conceptualisation that could be developed into items for a new measurement tool.

Methods

Concept mapping methodology was used, which is an integrated mixed methods approach. Focus groups with stakeholders generated statements describing adherence to exercise for MSK pain. Statements were grouped according to themes and rated for importance. Data analysis via multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis produced a series of concept maps, which were refined during a further stakeholder workshop to produce the final conceptualisation of exercise adherence. Mean importance ratings established statements most suitable for future development.

Results

Twenty‐eight participants produced 100 unique statements concerning adherence, which were sorted and rated. Analysis of the sort data with further participant refinement concluded that adherence to exercise consists of six domains: communication with experts; targets; how exercise is prescribed; patient knowledge and understanding; motivation and support; and psychological approach and attitudes. Fifty‐six statements were rated with above average importance for inclusion in a new measure of adherence to exercise for MSK pain.

Conclusion

Adherence to exercise for MSK pain is a complex and multi‐dimensional construct represented by six distinct domains. Statements that best represent these domains have been identified by key stakeholders and will inform the development of a new measure of adherence to exercise for MSK pain.
Understanding the Influence of Metal Oxide Layer Thickness and Defects on Resistive Switching Behavior Through Numerical Modeling
Authors: Dias Catarina , Ventura João
Published: December 2022

The resistive switching dynamics in metal–insulator–metal (MIM) structures may be explained through the formation and rupture of metallic filaments in the dielectric layer. Considerable research has been performed as an attempt to explain the microscopic origins of how regions that are originally insulating can change into conductors. Looking at how these conducting local regions are interconnected, the simulation of these localized switches can help understand how material properties such as thickness and defects influence the switching behavior and parameters. Here, the random circuit breaker (RCB) model is implemented and the dependence of the forming, Set, and Reset voltages on the oxide thickness and defect percentage is compared with experimental data. Only the forming voltage increases with the thickness, showing that, after the first step, the conductive filament formation and rupture occur only at a thinner thickness. It is observed that a higher percentage of initial conductive defects in the oxide layer promotes the forming step.
Effects of High‐Pressure H2 and D2 Post‐Metallization Annealing on the Electrical Properties of HfO2/Si0.7Ge0.3
Authors: Kim Jinyong , Choi Seongheum , Nguyen An Hoang-Thuy , Lee Woohui , Choi Rino , Kim Hyoungsub
Published: December 2022

High‐pressure annealing (HPA) in both hydrogen (H2) and deuterium (D2) environments is attempted on HfO2/Si0.7Ge0.3 capacitors as a post‐metallization annealing (PMA) approach. As compared with conventional forming gas annealing (FGA), a dramatic reduction in the interface state density (Dit) is achieved after both H2‐ and D2‐HPA processes at the equivalent temperature (300 °C) and time (30 min) by effectively passivating the Ge‐induced dangling bonds at the interface region. Meanwhile, the stress‐induced leakage current characteristics are only improved by the D2‐HPA process, indicating that D‐passivation is more resistant to external electrical stress than H‐passivation. As the PMA temperature increases to 500 °C, both HPA further decreases the Dit, but a significant increase is observed for FGA. In addition, the PMA temperature‐dependent degradation of leakage current is less in HPA than in FGA.
Interactions of fast‐moving consumer goods in cooking: Insights from a quantitative ethnographic study
Authors: Berumen Gustavo , Fischer Joel , Baumers Martin
Published: December 2022

Fast‐moving consumer goods (FMCGs) are increasingly equipped with enhanced packaging that incorporates novel functionalities. Providing FMCGs with this technology is challenging due to their unique characteristics, such as their low cost and short lifespan. Knowledge derived from a comprehension of their interactions in practice can help develop FMCGs that better cater to consumer needs and are well‐integrated into real‐world contexts. To help develop a method for the formation of such practical insights, 20 households were visited where participants were then observed as they cooked a meal. The sessions were captured on video, and a detailed record of the interactions between individuals, FMCGs and other items was made. A quantitative ethnographic approach was applied to analyse and build an understanding of different aspects of these interactions including their frequential, sequential and correlational features. The findings are discussed through the lens of how an appreciation of the interactions of FMCGs can serve as a valuable guidance for the design and development of their enhanced counterparts. The discovery that FMCGs are linked to the use of other items, for instance, is proposed as an opportunity to make use of the unique properties of the other items that a given FMCG commonly interacts with as a resource to create functionalities. As an exploratory reflection of how FMCGs are utilised in practice, the methods and knowledge presented in this study can be valuable in creating enhanced FMCGs by advocating for a product development process in which decisions are firmly grounded in empirical insights.
Pulmonary Hypertension Association's 2022 International Conference Scientific Sessions Overview
Authors: Alamri Ayedh K. , Shelburne Nicholas J. , Mayeux Jennalyn D. , Brittain Evan
Published: December 2022

The considerable progress made in recent years in the diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment of pulmonary hypertension was highlighted during the most recent edition of the Pulmonary Hypertension Association Scientific Sessions, which was held in Atlanta, Georgia from June 9 to 11, 2022, with the theme: Vision for the PHuture: The Evolving Science and Management of PH. Content presented over the 3‐day conference focused on scientific and management updates since the last sessions were held in 2018 and included didactic talks, debates, and roundtable discussions across a broad spectrum of topics related to pulmonary hypertension. This article aims to summarize the key messages from each of the session talks.
Liquid chromatography–quadrupole orbitrap and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry system for rapid identification and quantitation of thirty nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen in illegal products
Authors: Park Hyoung‐Joon , Ham Hyeon Joo , Yang Yoon Ji , Seo Min Kyeong , Kim Hyung Il , Lee Ji Hyun
Published: December 2022

Rationale

As the public interest in healthcare increases, illegal dietary supplements, foods, and drugs containing unauthorized pharmaceutical ingredients, including nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, have been identified. Excessive and unintentional consumption is toxic to the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver; therefore, these pharmaceuticals must be monitored using analytical methods.

Methods

A rapid and reliable analysis system involving liquid chromatography–quadrupole orbitrap mass spectrometry (LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS) and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) was established and validated to identify and quantify 30 NSAIDs and acetaminophen. In addition, we obtained the MS2 spectrum for each component with the proposed structure of the fragment ions.

Results

The analytical method was applied to 505 samples of illicitly distributed dietary supplements, foods, and pharmaceuticals. Non‐steroidal analgesics were detected in 126 samples. Carbamazepine (42.9%) and diclofenac (30.2%) were the most detected components in the samples; other pharmaceutical adulterants were also detected in some cases. Additionally, we present the identification of an unknown component, dexamethasone (799 μg/g), using LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS in a sample containing the unknown component with meloxicam (15.4 mg/g).

Conclusions

The developed analysis system, consisting of qualitative analysis using LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS and quantitative analysis using LC/MS/MS, can rapidly and accurately identify and quantify NSAIDs and acetaminophen while also identifying non‐analytical components.
Unveiling the linkage between hydropower growth and tourism sustainability in EU27 region: An empirical analysis
Authors: Alsaleh Mohd , Yang Zhengyong , Chen Tinggui , Abdul‐Rahim A. S.
Published: December 2022

Hydropower comes with a lot of inestimable values. It is indubitably an eco‐system‐friendly resource that causes no harm to the natural state of the environment. This creates a better alternative to the heat energy radiating the earth. It is a cost‐efficient source of energy and it offers unique opportunities to have cost‐efficient tourism sector management in the EU region centers. The primary objective of this research is to determine the effect of hydropower output on tourism sustainability in the European Union (EU 27) states from 1990 to 2021. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) was adopted for this study. Findings from this study show that a significant increase in the tourism sector growth can occur in EU14 emerging economies using hydropower output and economic growth variables than in EU13 emerging economies. In addition, among other variables captured in this study, population density and good governance were seen to have a higher level of contribution to tourism sector growth in EU14 emerging economies than in EU13 emerging economies. It was also found that a significant increase in the tourism sector growth could be achieved in the EU13 emerging economies due to the high consumption of fossil fuels than in EU14 emerging economies. This finding implies that the EU27 could achieve sustainability in their tourism sector significantly through the substitution of fossil fuel output with hydropower. This will foster the attainment of Energy Union aims by 2030. It is also a good way to combat climate change and environmental pollution. Using the pooled mean group (PMG), mean group (MG), and dynamic fixed effect (DFE) methods, the projected calculations were seen to be valid. The study, therefore, recommended that EU27 countries should prioritize hydropower in their pursuit of renewable energy production as this will help them to achieve sustainability in their tourism sector and become secure in their energy need now and in the future time. The government, Politicians, and all other concerned stakeholders in the EU27 countries should strive towards replacing fossil fuels with hydropower. This will help to ensure sustainability in their tourism sector and there will be security in the energy sector of these EU27 Countries.
Reprogramming stem cells in regenerative medicine
Authors: Mao Jiayi , Saiding Qimanguli , Qian Shutong , Liu Zhimo , Zhao Binfan , Zhao Qiuyu , Lu Bolun , Mao Xiyuan , Zhang Liucheng , Zhang Yuguang , Sun Xiaoming , Cui Wenguo
Published: December 2022

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that are generated from adult somatic cells are induced to express genes that make them pluripotent through reprogramming techniques. With their unlimited proliferative capacity and multifaceted differentiation potential and circumventing the ethical problems encountered in the application of embryonic stem cells (ESC), iPSCs have a broad application in the fields of cell therapy, drug screening, and disease models and may open up new possibilities for regenerative medicine to treat diseases in the future. In this review, we begin with different reprogramming cell technologies to obtain iPSCs, including biotechnological, chemical, and physical modulation techniques, and present their respective strengths, and limitations, as well as the recent progress of research. Secondly, we review recent research advances in iPSC reprogramming‐based regenerative therapies. iPSCs are now widely used to study various clinical diseases of hair follicle defects, myocardial infarction, neurological disorders, liver diseases, and spinal cord injuries. This review focuses on the translational clinical research around iPSCs as well as their potential for growth in the medical field. Finally, we summarize the overall review and look at the potential future of iPSCs in the field of cell therapy as well as tissue regeneration engineering and possible problems. We believe that the advancing iPSC research will help drive long‐awaited breakthroughs in cellular therapy.
Bio‐inspired adhesive hydrogel for biomedicine—principles and design strategies
Authors: Li Wenzhao , Yang Xinyuan , Lai Puxiang , Shang Luoran
Published: December 2022

The adhesiveness of hydrogels is urgently required in various biomedical applications such as medical patches, tissue sealants, and flexible electronic devices. However, biological tissues are often wet, soft, movable, and easily damaged. These features pose difficulties for the construction of adhesive hydrogels for medical use. In nature, organisms adhere to unique strategies, such as reversible sucker adhesion in octopuses and nontoxic and firm catechol chemistry in mussels, which provide many inspirations for medical hydrogels to overcome the above challenges. In this review, we systematically classify bioadhesion strategies into structure‐related and molecular‐related ones, which cover almost all known bioadhesion paradigms. We outline the principles of these strategies and summarize the corresponding designs of medical adhesive hydrogels inspired by them. Finally, conclusions and perspectives concerning the development of this field are provided. For the booming bio‐inspired adhesive hydrogels, this review aims to summarize and analyze the various existing theories and provide systematic guidance for future research from an innovative perspective.
Ternary PM6:Y6 Solar Cells with Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Wieland Laura , Li Han , Zhang Xuning , Chen Jianhui , Flavel Benjamin S.
Published: December 2022

An organic solar cell with single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in the photoactive layer is typically a type II heterojunction with the semiconducting SWCNTs acting as the electron donor and C60 or other fullerene derivatives as the acceptor. Herein, the performance of solar cells consisting of (6,5) SWCNTs combined with C60 and three nonfullerene acceptors is evaluated in a bilayer architecture. SWCNTs are then combined with the donor/acceptor PM6:Y6 in a ternary mixture and both bulk heterojunction and bilayer devices are fabricated. The SWCNTs are found to extend the light absorption of PM6:Y6 solar cells into the infrared but their use must strike a balance between the SWCNT concentration to enhance light absorption and solvent‐induced changes to the morphology of the active layer.
Application of intelligent packaging for meat products: A systematic review
Authors: Khodaei Seyedeh Mahsa , Gholami‐Ahangaran Majid , Karimi Sani Iraj , Esfandiari Zahra , Eghbaljoo Hadi
Published: December 2022

Background

Today, in response to consumer demand and market trends, the development of new packaging with better performance such as intelligent packaging has become more important. This packaging system is able to perform intelligent functions to increase shelf life, increase safety and improve product quality.

Objectives

Recently, various types of packaging systems are available for meat products, especially cooked, fresh and processed meats. But because meat products are very perishable, monitoring their quality and safety in the supply chain is very important. This systematic article briefly reviews some of the recent data about the application of intelligent packaging in meat products.

Methods

The search was conducted in Google Scholar, Science Direct, Elsevier, Springer, Scopus, and PubMed, from April 1996 to April 2021 using a different combination of the following keyword: intelligent packaging, and meat.

Results

The results showed that the intelligent packaging presents several benefits compared to traditional packaging (e.g., antimicrobial, antioxidant, and shelf life extension) at the industrial processing level. Thus, these systems have been applied to improve the shelf life and textural properties of meat and meat products.

Conclusions

It is necessary to control the number of intelligent compounds that are included in the packaging as they clearly influence the quality and nutritional properties as well as the final cost of the food products.
Stump pyometra in a spayed female dog secondary to tamoxifen
Authors: Ehrhardt Caryn , Odunayo Adesola , Pascutti Kristina , Carvajal Jose , Ham Kathleen , Harris Autumn Nourse
Published: December 2022

Objective

To describe a complication associated with the long‐term use of tamoxifen for the treatment of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis in a dog.

Case Summary

A 2‐year‐old female spayed poodle cross was evaluated for a stump pyometra. The dog was diagnosed with sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis a year prior and was treated with tamoxifen, an oestrogen receptor antagonist, for treatment of the disease. The dog developed a swollen vulva with vulvar discharge and a stump pyometra was diagnosed on ultrasound. Hormonal testing was submitted to evaluate for an ovarian remnant and the dog underwent an exploratory laparotomy, where the uterine stump was removed. No ovarian remnant tissue was identified intra‐operatively, and hormonal testing (anti‐Müllerian hormone, progesterone, oestradiol) and histopathology were consistent with the absence of ovarian tissue. The tamoxifen was discontinued. The dog recovered uneventfully after surgery.

New or Unique Information Provided

This report describes a complication of treatment of a rarely described clinical disease. While most cases of stump pyometra involve ovarian remnant syndrome, this case report describes a stump pyometra in a dog without remnant tissue that was undergoing treatment with tamoxifen. Tamoxifen has been reported to cause pyometra in intact female dogs. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report to describe a stump pyometra in a spayed female dog, secondary to the use of tamoxifen.
The wound healing effect of collagen/adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) hydrogel: In vivo study
Authors: Abbasi Kamyar , Tavakolizadeh Sara , Hadi Alireza , Hosseini Maryam , Soufdoost Reza Sayyad , Heboyan Artak , Alam Mostafa , Fani‐Hanifeh Sadaf
Published: December 2022

Background

The complex wound healing process involves activating and synchronizing intracellular, intercellular, and extracellular components. Adipose tissue is attracting attention to promote wound healing. Within subcutaneous adipose tissue, stromal vascular cells and their subsets release growth factors and cytokines critical for neovascularization and wound repair.

Objectives

This study evaluated human placental collagen/adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) hydrogel for wound healing in rats.

Methods

In this study, ADSCs were harvested, cultured, and mixed with placental collagen. Twelve rats were used, and their backs were excised three times each. Group one received collagen/ADSCs, group two collagen, and group three non‐filled (control) excisions. The healing processes were assessed by histological analysis, taking photographs, and calculating the percentage of wound contraction in mentioned times.

Results

Histopathological analysis revealed that the content of fibroblasts, follicles of the hair, and angiogenesis in group one was significantly more than in other groups. Group one had a significant result compared with the collagen and control groups. In group one, significant wound healing and wound contraction were observed with 52% and 80% wound contraction at 7 and 14 days, respectively.

Conclusion

Collagen/ADSCs can be considered a suitable candidate hydrogel in wound healing with a high potential for enhancing wound repairing.
Preparation and performance of PVC long‐term heat stabilizer based on the synergistic effect of uracil and metal complexes
Authors: Zhang Wenshuo , Xia Huiyun , Song Lifang , Huo Huiwen , Lu Changjie , Sun Yihan , Niu Yanhui
Published: December 2022

In order to improve the deficiency of traditional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) heat stabilizer, triazole‐based zinc‐containing complex (abbreviated as [Zn(ttr)(OAc)]) with good compatibility with PVC and a strong ability to absorb HCl was prepared in this paper, which was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). PVC sheets were prepared by mixing PVC with composite heat stabilizer (DAJ) composed of [Zn(ttr)(OAc)] and 1,3‐dimethyl‐6‐aminouracil (DAU). Different kinds and amounts of common auxiliary heat stabilizers were selected and added to the DAJ system to study the effect of thermally stable system on PVC by Congo red test, Discoloration test, Dynamic thermal stability test, SEM, TGA and Transmittance test and the relevant mechanism was explored. The PVC sheets with DAJ blended by 1.2 phr DAU and 0.8 phr [Zn(ttr)(OAc)] showed relatively excellent coloring properties, long‐term thermal stability, and high light transmittance. Compared with dibenzoylmethane (DBM), 0.5 phr sorbitol and 1.5 phr epoxy soybean oil (ESBO)/Antioxidant 168 showed good synergistic effect with DAJ. Due to the polyhydroxy nature of sorbitol, the thermal stability of PVC was significantly improved, and the transmittance of PVC benefited from the similar miscibility of ESBO long chain. This was also confirmed by TGA and SEM of PVC sheet.
Jejunal intramural haematoma in a captive African lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Butcher Richelle G. , Lenting Baukje , Clarke Alison S. , Buckle Kelly , Gans Cristina
Published: December 2022

A 19‐year‐old, entire, female, captive African lion (Panthera leo) presented acutely for reduced appetite and lethargy. Bloodwork revealed a poorly regenerative anaemia, hypoalbuminaemia and monocytosis. Ultrasound indicated the presence of a peri‐renal mass, but advanced imaging techniques were unavailable at the time. Minimal clinical improvement was seen with supportive treatment, and euthanasia was elected 11 days after presentation. Postmortem examination revealed an intramural intestinal haematoma of the jejunum with serosal haemorrhage and haemoabdomen, and a peri‐renal mass. Histology showed that the peri‐renal mass was an adrenal cortical carcinoma. The underlying cause of the intramural haematoma was not determined, but it was considered the probable cause for the clinical decline of this animal. Intramural intestinal haematoma is an uncommon entity in veterinary species, and has not been reported in any members of Felidae. This is the first documented case of an intramural intestinal haematoma in an African lion.
Backsliding among indicators of democratic stability relevant to public health: Risks in OECD nations
Authors: Willison Charley E. , Falkenbach Michelle , Greer Scott L. , Singer Phillip M.
Published: December 2022

Oppression and inequality, as critical social and structural determinants of health, are key threats to public health. Democratic stability provides institutional measures to mitigate oppression and inequality. We investigate trends in democratic backsliding in the Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) nations, overall, and compare trends in backsliding among specific indicators of democracy relevant to public health based on protections against oppression and inequality. We leverage a comprehensive, longitudinal, data set (V‐DEM), capturing key indicators of democracy in OECD nations from 2010 to 2020. Indicators were selected from the scholarly literature on democracy and health for their effects on oppression and inequality. We observe trends over time in democratic stability among OECD nations, overall, and then compare trends in democratic stability or backsliding across OECD nations within categories of democratic indicators established to mitigate oppression and inequality. Democracy is declining across all OECD nations. Broad democratic declines are shown between types of OECD member states. Country income is not necessarily protective for democratic stability. We find specific declines in two measures with immediate implications for public health—Civil Liberties and Integrity of the Courts—across at least half of all OECD nations and a particularly alarming level of change in the United States. Politics shape and limit public health. Declining components of democracy can have both short‐ and long‐term consequences for population health by increasing inequality and reducing mechanisms to protect against oppressive tactics. Public health can play an important role in improving democracy by strengthening accountability.
The mortality burden of frailty in hip fracture patients: a nationwide retrospective study of cause-specific mortality
Authors: Forssten Maximilian Peter , Mohammad Ismail Ahmad , Ioannidis Ioannis , Wretenberg Per , Borg Tomas , Cao Yang , Ribeiro Marcelo A. F. , Mohseni Shahin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Frailty is a condition characterized by a reduced ability to adapt to external stressors because of a reduced physiologic reserve, which contributes to the high risk of postoperative mortality in hip fracture patients. This study aims to investigate how frailty is associated with the specific causes of mortality in hip fracture patients.

Methods

All adult patients in Sweden who suffered a traumatic hip fracture and underwent surgery between 2008 and 2017 were eligible for inclusion. The Orthopedic Hip Frailty Score (OFS) was used to classify patients as non-frail (OFS 0), pre-frail (OFS 1), and frail (OFS ≥ 2). The association between the degree of frailty and both all-cause and cause-specific mortality was determined using Poisson regression models with robust standard errors and presented using incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusted for potential sources of confounding.

Results

After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 127,305 patients remained for further analysis. 23.9% of patients were non-frail, 27.7% were pre-frail, and 48.3% were frail. Frail patients exhibited a 4 times as high risk of all-cause mortality 30 days [adj. IRR (95% CI): 3.80 (3.36–4.30), p < 0.001] and 90 days postoperatively [adj. IRR (95% CI): 3.88 (3.56–4.23), p < 0.001] as non-frail patients. Of the primary causes of 30-day mortality, frailty was associated with a tripling in the risk of cardiovascular [adj. IRR (95% CI): 3.24 (2.64–3.99), p < 0.001] and respiratory mortality [adj. IRR (95% CI): 2.60 (1.96–3.45), p < 0.001] as well as a five-fold increase in the risk of multiorgan failure [adj. IRR (95% CI): 4.99 (3.95–6.32), p < 0.001].

Conclusion

Frailty is associated with a significantly increased risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality at 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Across both timepoints, cardiovascular and respiratory events along with multiorgan failure were the most prevalent causes of mortality.
Ultrasound evaluation of a new surface reference line to describe sural nerve location and safe zones to consider in posterior leg approaches
Authors: Ruiz-Riquelme Pablo , Poggio-Cano Daniel , Sala-Blanch Xavier , Cuéllar Bernal Daniel , Baduell Albert , Garcia-Elvira Rubén , Testa Enrique Adrián
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Several authors have described methods to predict the sural nerve pathway with non-proportional numerical distances, but none have proposed a person-proportional, reproducible method with anatomical references. The aim of this research is to describe ultrasonographically the distance and crossing zone between a surface reference line and the position of the sural nerve.

Methods

Descriptive cross-sectional study, performed between January and April 2022 in patients requiring foot surgery who met inclusion criteria. The sural nerve course in the posterior leg was located and marked using ultrasound. Landmarks were drawn with a straight line from the medial femoral condyle to the tip of the fibula. Four equal zones were established in the leg by subdividing the distal half of the line. This way, areas based on simple anatomical proportions for each patient were studied. The distance between the marking and the ultrasound nerve position was measured in these 4 zones, creating intersection points and safety areas. Location and distances from the sural nerve to the proposed landmarks were assessed.

Results

One-hundred and four lower limbs, 52 left and 52 right, assessed in 52 patients were included. The shortest median distance of the nerve passage was 2.9 mm from Point 2. The sural nerve intersection was 60/104 (57.7%) in Zone B, 21/104 (20.1%) in Zone C and 19/104 (18.3%) in Zone A. Safety zones were established. Average 80.5% of coincidence in sural nerve localization was found in the distal half of the leg, in relation to the surface reference line when comparing both legs of each patient.

Conclusions

This study proposes a simple, reproducible, non-invasive and, for the first time, person-proportional method, that describes the distance and location of the main areas of intersection of the sural nerve with points and zones (risk and safe zones) determined by a line guided by superficial anatomical landmarks. Its application when surgeons plan and perform posterior leg approaches will help to avoid iatrogenic nerve injuries.

Level of evidence

IV.
Artificial intelligence-based diagnosis of asbestosis: analysis of a database with applicants for asbestosis state aid
Authors: Groot Lipman Kevin B. W. , de Gooijer Cornedine J. , Boellaard Thierry N. , van der Heijden Ferdi , Beets-Tan Regina G. H. , Bodalal Zuhir , Trebeschi Stefano , Burgers Jacobus A.
Published: December 2022

Objectives

In many countries, workers who developed asbestosis due to their occupation are eligible for government support. Based on the results of clinical examination, a team of pulmonologists determine the eligibility of patients to these programs. In this Dutch cohort study, we aim to demonstrate the potential role of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system for automated, standardized, and cost-effective evaluation of applications for asbestosis patients.

Methods

A dataset of n = 523 suspected asbestosis cases/applications from across the Netherlands was retrospectively collected. Each case/application was reviewed, and based on the criteria, a panel of three pulmonologists would determine eligibility for government support. An AI system is proposed, which uses thoracic CT images as input, and predicts the assessment of the clinical panel. Alongside imaging, we evaluated the added value of lung function parameters.

Results

The proposed AI algorithm reached an AUC of 0.87 (p < 0.001) in the prediction of accepted versus rejected applications. Diffusion capacity (DLCO) also showed comparable predictive value (AUC = 0.85, p < 0.001), with little correlation between the two parameters (r-squared = 0.22, p < 0.001). The combination of the imaging AI score and DLCO achieved superior performance (AUC = 0.95, p < 0.001). Interobserver variability between pulmonologists on the panel was estimated at alpha = 0.65 (Krippendorff’s alpha).

Conclusion

We developed an AI system to support the clinical decision-making process for the application to the government support for asbestosis. A multicenter prospective validation study is currently ongoing to examine the added value and reliability of this system alongside the clinic panel.

Key Points

• Artificial intelligence can detect imaging patterns of asbestosis in CT scans in a cohort of patients applying for state aid.

• Combining the AI prediction with the diffusing lung function parameter reaches the highest diagnostic performance.

• Specific cases with fibrosis but no asbestosis were correctly classified, suggesting robustness of the AI system, which is currently under prospective validation.
Pooled analysis of epigenome-wide association studies of food consumption in KORA, TwinsUK and LLS
Authors: Hellbach Fabian , Sinke Lucy , Costeira Ricardo , Baumeister Sebastian-Edgar , Beekman Marian , Louca Panayiotis , Leeming Emily R. , Mompeo Olatz , Berry Sarah , Wilson Rory , Wawro Nina , Freuer Dennis , Hauner Hans , Peters Annette , Winkelmann Juliane , Koenig Wolfgang , Meisinger Christa , Waldenberger Melanie , Heijmans Bastiaan T. , Slagboom P. Eline , Bell Jordana T. , Linseisen Jakob
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Examining epigenetic patterns is a crucial step in identifying molecular changes of disease pathophysiology, with DNA methylation as the most accessible epigenetic measure. Diet is suggested to affect metabolism and health via epigenetic modifications. Thus, our aim was to explore the association between food consumption and DNA methylation.

Methods

Epigenome-wide association studies were conducted in three cohorts: KORA FF4, TwinsUK, and Leiden Longevity Study, and 37 dietary exposures were evaluated. Food group definition was harmonized across the three cohorts. DNA methylation was measured using Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip in KORA and Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip in the Leiden study and the TwinsUK study. Overall, data from 2293 middle-aged men and women were included. A fixed-effects meta-analysis pooled study-specific estimates. The significance threshold was set at 0.05 for false-discovery rate-adjusted p values per food group.

Results

We identified significant associations between the methylation level of CpG sites and the consumption of onions and garlic (2), nuts and seeds (18), milk (1), cream (11), plant oils (4), butter (13), and alcoholic beverages (27). The signals targeted genes of metabolic health relevance, for example, GLI1, RPTOR, and DIO1, among others.

Conclusion

This EWAS is unique with its focus on food groups that are part of a Western diet. Significant findings were mostly related to food groups with a high-fat content.