bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective regulation of a defined subset of inflammatory and immunoregulatory genes by an NF-κB p50–IκBζ pathway
Authors: Daly Allison E. , Yeh George , Soltero Sofia , Smale Stephen T.
Published: June 2024

The five NF-κB family members and three nuclear IκB proteins play important biological roles, but the mechanisms by which distinct members of these protein families contribute to selective gene transcription remain poorly understood, especially at a genome-wide scale. Using nascent transcript RNA-seq, we observed considerable overlap between p50-dependent and IκBζ-dependent genes in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-activated macrophages. Key immunoregulatory genes, includingIl6,Il1b,Nos2,Lcn2,andBatf,are among the p50–IκBζ-codependent genes. IκBζ-bound genomic sites are occupied at earlier time points by NF-κB dimers. However, p50–IκBζ codependence does not coincide with preferential binding of either p50 or IκBζ, as RelA co-occupies hundreds of genomic sites with the two proteins. A common feature of p50–IκBζ-codependent genes is a nearby p50/RelA/IκBζ-cobound site exhibiting p50-dependent binding of both RelA and IκBζ. This and other results suggest that IκBζ acts in concert with RelA:p50 heterodimers. Notably, p50–IκBζ-codependent genes comprise a high percentage of genes exhibiting the greatest differential expression between TLR4-stimulated and tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-stimulated macrophages. Thus, our genome-centric analysis reveals a defined p50–IκBζ pathway that selectively activates a set of key immunoregulatory genes and serves as an important contributor to differential TNFR and TLR4 responses.
Nuclear mass predictions using machine learning models
Authors: Yüksel Esra , Soydaner Derya , Bahtiyar Hüseyin
Published: June 2024

The exploration of nuclear mass or binding energy, a fundamental property of atomic nuclei, remains at the forefront of nuclear physics research due to limitations in experimental studies and uncertainties in model calculations, particularly when moving away from the stability line. In this work, we employ two machine learning (ML) models, support vector regression (SVR) and Gaussian process regression (GPR), to assess their performance in predicting nuclear mass excesses using available experimental data and a physics-based feature space. We also examine the extrapolation capabilities of these models using newly measured nuclei from AME2020 and by extending our calculations beyond the training and test set regions. Our results indicate that both SVR and GPR models perform quite well within the training and test regions when informed with a physics-based feature space. Furthermore, these ML models demonstrate the ability to make reasonable predictions away from the available experimental data, offering results comparable to the model calculations. Through further refinement, these models can be used as reliable and efficient ML tools for studying nuclear properties in the future.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Inclusive Hadronic Decay Rate of the
τ
Lepton from Lattice QCD: The
u¯s
Flavor Channel and the Cabibbo Angle
Authors: Alexandrou Constantia , Bacchio Simone , De Santis Alessandro , Evangelista Antonio , Finkenrath Jacob , Frezzotti Roberto , Gagliardi Giuseppe , Garofalo Marco , Kostrzewa Bartosz , Lubicz Vittorio , Romiti Simone , Sanfilippo Francesco , Simula Silvano , Tantalo Nazario , Urbach Carsten , Wenger Urs ,   Extended Twisted Mass Collaboration
Published: June 2024

We present a lattice determination of the inclusive decay rate of the process τ↦Xusντ in which the τ lepton decays into a generic hadronic state Xus with u¯s flavor quantum numbers. Our results have been obtained in nf=2+1+1 isosymmetric QCD with full nonperturbative accuracy, without any operator product expansion approximation and, except for the presently missing long-distance isospin-breaking corrections, include a solid estimate of all sources of theoretical uncertainties. This has been possible by using the Hansen-Lupo-Tantalo method [M. Hansen , ] that we have already successfully applied [A. Evangelista , ] to compute the inclusive decay rate of the process τ↦Xudντ in the u¯d flavor channel. By combining our first-principles theoretical results with the presently available experimental data, we extract the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element |Vus|, the Cabibbo angle, with a 0.9% accuracy, dominated by the experimental error.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
PEPICO analysis of catalytic reactor effluents towards quantitative isomer discrimination: DME conversion over a ZSM-5 zeolite
Authors: Babayan Morsal , Redekop Evgeniy , Kokkonen Esko , Olsbye Unni , Huttula Marko , Urpelainen Samuli
Published: June 2024

The methanol-to-hydrocarbons (MTH) process involves the conversion of methanol, a C1 feedstock that can be produced from green sources, into hydrocarbons using shape-selective microporous acidic catalysts – zeolite and zeotypes. This reaction yields a complex mixture of species, some of which are highly reactive and/or present in several isomeric forms, posing significant challenges for effluent analysis. Conventional gas-phase chromatography (GC) is typically employed for the analysis of reaction products in laboratory flow reactors. However, GC is not suitable for the detection of highly reactive intermediates such as ketene or formaldehyde and is not suitable for kinetic studies under well defined low pressure conditions. Photoelectron–photoion coincidence (PEPICO) spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful analytical tool for unraveling complex compositions of catalytic effluents, but its availability is limited to a handful of facilities worldwide. Herein, PEPICO analysis of catalytic reactor effluents has been implemented at the FinEstBeAMS beamline of MAX IV Laboratory. The conversion of dimethyl ether (DME) on a zeolite catalyst (ZSM-5-MFI27) is used as a prototypical model reaction producing a wide distribution of hydrocarbon products. Since in zeolites methanol is quickly equilibrated with DME, this reaction can be used to probe vast sub-networks of the full MTH process, while eliminating or at least slowing down methanol-induced secondary reactions and catalyst deactivation. Quantitative discrimination of xylene isomers in the effluent stream is achieved by deconvoluting the coincidence photoelectron spectra.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 1-[6-bromo-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-4-yl]pyrrolidin-2-one
Authors: Pronina Anastasia A. , Podrezova Alexandra G. , Grigoriev Mikhail S. , Hasanov Khudayar I. , Sadikhova Nurlana D. , Akkurt Mehmet , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: June 2024

In the title compound, C19H18BrFN2O, the pyrrolidine ring adopts an envelope conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by intermolecular N—H...O, C—H...O, C—H...F and C—H...Br hydrogen bonds, forming a three-dimensional network. In addition, C—H...π interactions connect molecules into ribbons along the b-axis direction, consolidating the molecular packing. The intermolecular interactions in the crystal structure were quantified and analysed using Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Evaluation of a program of social intervention for adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (PROSEAR)
Authors: Cardelle-Pérez Federico , Díaz-Caneja María Ángeles , Martín-Pérez Ángela de Lourdes , Andrés-Espallardo Sonia , Ortega-García María Dolores , Horcajo-Marrupe Belén
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) surpasses 2% in some regions. However, there is a lack of manualized programs targeting the social skills of adolescents with these disorders, particularly in the Spanish language context. This study aims to introduce PROSEAR, an innovative social skills program for adolescents with ASD implemented in a Day Hospital setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The evaluation used the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Social Skills Scale (EHS) as measures, administering pre- and postintervention tests for each patient.

Findings

SDQ exhibited the most significant improvement in the domain of peer problems. In terms of EHS, it demonstrated beneficial effects across all evaluated domains, with statistically significant improvements observed specifically in the expression of anger or disagreement. Limitations include a small sample size and lack of a randomized control group.

Originality/value

The outcomes align with existing literature supporting the intervention as positive in clinical practice. Overall, the PROSEAR intervention shows promise for enhancing social skills in adolescents with ASD. Further research is needed to improve therapeutic approaches for this population.
Intellectual capital and subscription rate: an empirical investigation in the Indian initial public offering market
Authors: Wadhwa Sukanya , Sahoo Seshadev
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of intellectual capital (IC) on investor demand (i.e. subscription rate). The rise of the knowledge economy motivates us to investigate how the value added by the IC of the issuing firms affects potential investors’ responses.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the impact of IC on initial public offering (IPO) subscription rates using 234 IPOs from March 31, 2010 to March 31, 2021. This study uses multivariate regression, including year and industry dummies, and conduct robustness tests with industry subsamples. Additionally, this paper uses an alternative demand proxy (i.e. listing day returns) and two-staged least squares to address endogeneity.

Findings

This paper documents an inverse relationship between investor demand and human capital efficiency alongside a positive correlation between investor demand and structural capital efficiency. Additionally, IC efficiency positively affects listing day returns, with individual investor demand significantly driven by institutional investors.

Originality/value

This study uses Pulic’s (2000) methodology for measuring IC and examines whether it reduces information asymmetry in the IPO market and encourages investors to subscribe to an issue. This study holds significant implications for IPO issuing firms, investors and regulators regarding the IC disclosure in the prospectus.
Dynamics of corporate governance and dividend policy alliance: a meta-analytical approach
Authors: Narang Naina , Gupta Seema , Tripathy Naliniprava
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The present study uses a meta-analysis technique to explore the association between corporate governance and dividend policy. The extant literature delivers inconclusive findings on the relationship between corporate governance and dividend policy. Therefore, this study aims to resolve the issues and deliver comprehensive results.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involves a meta-analysis of 53 research studies using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and population, intervention, comparison, outcome and study design approaches. The paper examines the impact of moderators: corporate governance structure (Anglo-American, communitarian or emerging system) and dividend distribution metrics (dividend over net income, dividend over total assets and absolute amount of dividend/dividend per share). The study involves subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis to examine the impact of moderators.

Findings

The study’s results specify that board size and percentage of female directors significantly impact the dividend decisions of the company. In addition, subgroup analysis and meta-regression results demonstrate that dividend measurement proxy moderates the association between corporate governance and dividend policy.

Originality/value

Based on the existing literature surveyed, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the current study is the first to conduct a meta-analysis on the relationship between corporate governance and dividend policy. This paper is unique and the first one of its kind (to the best of the authors’ knowledge) to cover all these moderating variables under an umbrella and consolidate the results to understand the existing knowledge and direct future research in the area of corporate governance and dividend decisions.
Conversing in the shadow of echoes – a scale development and validation of the dark side of organizational internal communication
Authors: Anand Amitabh , Sinitsyna Elena , Takács Sándor , Kazakov Sergey
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate the scales on the dark side of internal communication (IC) that capture a more nuanced perception of ineffectiveness, manipulation and miscommunication from the employee perspective. This study also examines this scale's effects on employee outcomes (such as employee loyalty and quiet quitting).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed the dark side of the IC scale through qualitative interviews and a review of relevant literature. Statistical techniques such as exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity and nomological validity were performed on the newly produced scales. The authors also examined the predictive validity effects of these scales on employee loyalty and quiet quitting using participants from Hungary.

Findings

The scale development resulted in a 15-item measuring three dimensions of the dark side of IC. After several statistical examinations, the scale exhibited robust psychometric properties and is reliable and valid.

Originality/value

This study empirically supported the new phenomenon of studying the dark side of IC, and the scale can be used to measure employee outcomes, the effectiveness of organizational communication, etc.
A measure of pedagogical self-efficacy that predicts course evaluations for an international sample of management education faculty
Authors: Ladd Ted , Bachnik Katarzyna , Nimon-Peters Amanda , Scrocchi Sonia
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examined the relationship between pedagogical self-efficacy and student course evaluations among an international sample of management education faculty. We also investigated gender’s moderating role in this relationship and its impact on the development of pedagogical self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 professors at an international business school, identifying three subdomains of pedagogical self-efficacy: course design, classroom management, and feedback provision. We designed a 25-question faculty survey to measure pedagogical self-efficacy, administered it to 84 faculty members, and analyzed the data alongside 20,000 student course evaluations.

Findings

All three pedagogical self-efficacy domains significantly predicted student course evaluations. The self-efficacy of female faculty had a positive relationship with course evaluations across all subdomains. In contrast, the self-efficacy of male faculty had a negative relationship with course evaluations on the course design subdomain. Student evaluations of courses taught by women were 10% lower than those taught by males and male faculty had significantly higher self-efficacy ratings than their female counterparts.

Practical implications

The results suggest that interventions designed to boost pedagogical self-efficacy can enhance student learning, irrespective of faculty gender. However, given biases in how students perceive female faculty, it is likely that female and male faculty members develop self-efficacy differently.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine how pedagogical self-efficacy affects course evaluations, focusing on gender as a potential moderator. We also added an international higher education perspective to self-efficacy theories.
Does energy poverty contribute to gender inequality and environmental degradation in Africa?
Authors: Butty Oliver N. , Seraj Mehdi , Özdeşer Hüseyin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether energy poverty impacts gender inequality and CO2 emissions in African countries with the biggest economies by gross domestic product (GDP) per capita from 1996 to 2020. Additionally, this study examines the existence of the gender Kuznets curve (GKC) and the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) theories. Furthermore, it evaluates the connection between economic development and carbon emissions, on the one hand, and economic development and gender inequality on the other.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the augmented Dickey–Fuller and Phillip–Perron unit root tests to determine the degree of integration between the variables. It also uses the Pedroni and Fisher–Combine Johansen cointegration tests to assess a long-run relationship between the variables. The authors adopted the pooled mean group (PMG)-autoregressive distributed lag model and used the E-Views 12 software to run the analysis.

Findings

The empirical analysis approves the long-run correlation among the variables used in this study. Increased energy poverty and GDP increase CO2 emissions, whereas income square hurts CO2 emissions. These results are consistent with the EKC hypothesis, which proposes a non-linear relationship between CO2 emissions and economic growth in the studied areas (similar to an inverted U shape). Long-term foreign direct investment (FDI) has a negative correlation with CO2 emissions. On the contrary, energy poverty, GDPsq and FDI find a positive relationship with gender inequality, whereas GDP finds a negative association with gender inequality. The negative relationship between GDPsq and gender inequality establishes a “U”-shaped connection between income and gender inequality. Thus, it supports the hypothesis of the GKC. Therefore, this study proposes that decreasing energy poverty is vital for promoting a clean environment and mitigating gender inequality.

Originality/value

This study supports the hypothesis of the GKC. Therefore, this study proposes that decreasing energy poverty is vital for promoting a clean environment and mitigating gender inequality.
Governance of Islamic social finance: learnings from existing literature
Authors: Napitupulu Rodame Monitorir , Sukmana Raditya , Rusydiana Aam Slamet
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature pertaining to the governance of Islamic social finances (ISF). The primary aim is to identify and highlight global research patterns and deliver noteworthy insights that can be gleaned by ISF institutions worldwide.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a hybrid approach, incorporating both bibliometric and content analysis methodologies. The authors curated a data set comprising 73 scholarly documents (articles) obtained from the Scopus database, covering the period from 2010 to 2023. The data collection process was conducted in March 2023. VOSviewer and content analysis were used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The authors unveiled six distinct categories derived from the available literature on governance in ISF. These categories encompassed accountability, governance practice, performance, efficiency, Islamic accounting and governance awareness. Extensive deliberations have taken place regarding these six categories to enhance their prominence among ISF institutions. Furthermore, the findings of this study provided valuable directions for future research in this domain.

Research limitations/implications

The use of English articles obtained from the Scopus database in this study ensured that the selected papers were of a significant standard of excellence within the specific realm of knowledge under examination.

Practical implications

Enhancing governance practice within ISF institutions could enhance their overall performance, thereby playing a crucial role in optimizing their contributions to societal and economic contexts.

Social implications

This endeavor served as a means to enlighten numerous stakeholders regarding social finance institutions, fostering an environment of informed decision-making and effective governance that aligns with the principles of Islamic economics.

Originality/value

This study represents a pioneering bibliometric publication on the governance of ISF, providing academics with a robust basis for comprehending the evolving landscape of literature within this specific area of research.
Has the smart city construction reduced energy consumption? Evidence from China
Authors: Xu Shulin , Xiong Yunjun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of smart city construction (SCC) on urban energy consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus is on a panel of 285 prefecture level cities in China from 2010 to 2021. The empirical evidence is based on the difference-in-difference (DID) method. We uses per capita coal consumption as a proxy variable to measure urban energy consumption energy consumption. We set the SCC as a policy dummy variable, with pilot cities set to 1 and non-pilot cities set to 0. We also selected a series of control variables that affect urban energy consumption, such as urbanization rate, labor force, road density, number of college students per 10000 people, regional economic development level and so on.

Findings

(1) SCC significantly reduces urban energy consumption, and the conclusion still holds after conducting robustness testing; (2) SCC reduces urban energy consumption is mainly effective in those cities with larger scale, stronger human capital, larger financial services and better information infrastructure construction; (3) The technological innovation and industrial structure upgrading are the main mechanisms for the SSC policy to reduce urban energy consumption.

Originality/value

The results in this study provide evidence for achieving an environmentally friendly society.
Pigmented sweetened rose petal crush enriched multi-millet cookies: investigating the physical properties, phytochemistry, molecular and structural transformations
Authors: Dubey Rajesh Kumar , Sharma Rajan , Bhandari Manisha , Jhans Bhupinder , Singh Jeevanjot , Bobade Hanuman
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the use of rose petals rich in bioactive components possessing several health benefits in the form of pigmented sweetened rose petals crush (P SRP C) at varying levels in the formulation of cookies to develop consumerfavored natural flavored food products.

Design/methodology/approach

PSRPC was used as functional ingredient in millet cookies at varying levels of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. Developed cookies were evaluated for physical parameters, bioactive components along with their associated antioxidant activity, texture (hardness, fracturability), surface morphology and molecular interactions. Most acceptable cookies were selected on the basis of sensory evaluation.

Findings

Cookies formulated from millet flour were significantly different from wheat flour cookies. Furthermore, the incorporation of PSRPC in millet cookies increased the total phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. Texture analysis results showed that cookies with higher level of PSRPC had lower hardness and fracturability. PSRPC-incorporated cookies were darker and redder due to the pigments found in rose. Surface morphology and functional groups were altered on addition of PSRPC. Cookies incorporated with 10% PSRPC were highly acceptable on the basis of sensory score.

Originality/value

The current study developed newer conditions for development of cookies from PSRPC. Results foresee the potential of PSRPC as a functional ingredient in value-added food products having health benefits.
Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years in children who received sildenafil therapy in utero: The STRIDER randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sharp Andrew , Cornforth Christine , Jackson Richard , Harrold Jane , Turner Mark A. , Kenny Louise C. , Baker Philip N. , Johnstone Edward D. , Khalil Asma , von Dadelszen Peter , Papageorghiou Aris T. , Alfirevic Zarko , Vollmer Brigitte ,   the STRIDER group
Published: June 2024

Objective

Severe early‐onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) causes stillbirth, neonatal death and neurodevelopmental impairment. Poor maternal spiral artery remodelling maintains vasoactive responsiveness but is susceptible to treatment with sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which may improve perinatal outcomes.

Design

Superiority, double‐blind randomised controlled trial.

Setting

A total of 20 UK fetal medicine units.

Population

Pregnancies affected by FGR, defined as an abdominal circumference below the tenth centile with absent end‐diastolic flow in the umbilical artery between 22+0 and 29+6 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Treatment with sildenafil (25 mg three times/day) or placebo until delivery or 32 weeks of gestation.

Main outcome measures

All infants alive at hospital discharge were assessed for cardiovascular function and cognitive, speech/language and neuromotor impairment at 2 years of age. The primary outcome was survival without cerebral palsy or neurosensory impairment, or a Bayley‐III composite score of >85.

Results

In total, 135 women were randomised between November 2014 and July 2016 (70 to sildenafil and 65 to placebo). We previously published that there was no improvement in time to delivery or perinatal outcomes with sildenafil. In all, 75 babies (55.5%) were discharged alive, with 61 infants eligible for follow‐up (32 sildenafil and 29 placebo). One infant died (placebo), three mothers declined and ten mothers were uncontactable. There was no difference in neurodevelopment or blood pressure following treatment with sildenafil. Infants who received sildenafil had a larger head circumference at 2 years of age (median difference 49.2 cm, IQR 46.4–50.3, vs 47.2 cm, 95% CI 44.7–48.9 cm).

Conclusions

Sildenafil therapy did not prolong pregnancy or improve perinatal outcomes and did not improve infant neurodevelopment in FGR survivors. Therefore, sildenafil should not be prescribed for this condition.
Chemical and physical changes induced by cold plasma treatment of foods: A critical review
Authors: Bayati Mohammad , Lund Marianne N. , Tiwari Brijesh K. , Poojary Mahesha M.
Published: June 2024

Cold plasma treatment is an innovative technology in the food processing and preservation sectors. It is primarily employed to deactivate microorganisms and enzymes without heat and chemical additives; hence, it is often termed a “clean and green” technology. However, food quality and safety challenges may arise during cold plasma processing due to potential chemical interactions between the plasma reactive species and food components. This review aims to consolidate and discuss data on the impact of cold plasma on the chemical constituents and physical and functional properties of major food products, including dairy, meat, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and grains. We emphasize how cold plasma induces chemical modification of key food components, such as water, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, polyphenols, and volatile organic compounds. Additionally, we discuss changes in color, pH, and organoleptic properties induced by cold plasma treatment and their correlation with chemical modification. Current studies demonstrate that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in cold plasma oxidize proteins, lipids, and bioactive compounds upon direct contact with the food matrix. Reductions in nutrients and bioactive compounds, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, sugars, polyphenols, and vitamins, have been observed in dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and beverages following cold plasma treatment. Furthermore, structural alterations and the generation of volatile and non‐volatile oxidation products were observed, impacting the color, flavor, and texture of food products. However, the effects on dry foods, such as seeds and nuts, are comparatively less pronounced. Overall, this review highlights the drawbacks, challenges, and opportunities associated with cold plasma treatment in food processing.
Identifying desirable attributes in dairy‐rich breakfast and desserts for older adults
Authors: Pepito Bryan Michael L. , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: June 2024

In the next decade, the US anticipates a rapid increase in the older adult population, who also face an increased risk for disease. To reduce this risk, research should explore increasing intake of nutrient‐dense foods and prepared meals that include dairy foods and utilize novel food processing that better retain nutrients. This study identified attributes that older adults (age = 65+) desire in dairy‐rich ready‐to‐eat breakfasts and desserts, two meals important in healthy aging. Two online choice‐based conjoint analysis surveys were fielded (one for breakfast and one for dessert) to determine desirable attributes amongst respondents (breakfast n = 211; dessert n = 300). Breakfast concepts included protein source, primary ingredient, type of dairy, and health claim. Dessert concepts included primary flavor, primary sweetener, type of inclusion, and health claim. Breakfast results revealed the desirable attributes included “no meat” (utility value [UV] = 0.138), “eggs” (UV = 0.384), “cheese” (UV = 0.034), and “good source of fiber” (UV = 0.163). Two consumer clusters were identified with cluster 1 (n = 151) desiring “red meat” as the protein source and cluster 2 (n = 60) preferring “no meat.” The majority of respondents (86%) indicated a willingness to consume foods processed with a novel technique. For the dessert meals, desirable attributes were “chocolate flavor” (UV = 0.638), “sugar” (UV = 0.859), “fruit inclusions” (UV = 0.522), and “heart‐healthy” (UV = 0.453). Dessert consumer cluster 1 (n = 145) desired chocolate desserts sweetened with sugar, whereas cluster 2 (n = 155) desired vanilla desserts sweetened with honey. Participants who preferred oral manipulation of food via “smooshing” expressed a higher liking for desserts with no inclusions. These results provide insight for future product development for older adults involving dairy products or novel processing techniques.

Practical Applications

This study shows that both sensory attributes and health claims are important considerations when developing ready to eat meals for older adults. For breakfast, providing a vegetarian option is important while for desserts, both chocolate and vanilla remain popular options.
MethOxyfluraNe in InTerventiOnal Radiology (MONITOR): A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Copping Ross , Balamon Paul , Lau Marcus , Catt Jules , Schlaphoff Glen
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Procedural sedation and pain management in interventional radiology (IR) are of critical importance to successful outcomes but remain under‐researched. Methoxyflurane has been previously used in some minor procedures with several advantages including rapid onset and offset and a good safety profile. The purpose of this study was to evaluate methoxyflurane for procedures in IR.

Methods

A randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was performed between October 2021 and November 2022. Patients presenting for portacath insertion, portacath removal or solid organ biopsy were randomised to either methoxyflurane or placebo. Three hundred and fourteen patients were enrolled in total. Patients were supplied with one Penthrox inhaler containing either 3 mL methoxyflurane or placebo. The primary endpoints of the study were change in pain and anxiety scores compared with baseline, measured on a standardised visual analogue scale (VAS) pre‐procedure, at 5‐min intervals during the procedure and post‐procedure. Baselines scores were controlled for in the statistical analysis. Safety analysis was also performed.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐nine patients received methoxyflurane and 145 received placebo. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. The methoxyflurane group had lower pain and anxiety scores throughout the procedure (P < 0.001) with 2.5 times less pain (VAS 1.08/10) and 1.6 times less anxiety (VAS 0.97/10) on average. Lower post‐procedure pain (mean 0.72 vs 1.44; P < 0.001) and anxiety (mean 0.55 vs 1.13; P = 0.008) were also observed with methoxyflurane. There were no drug or major procedure‐related adverse events.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that methoxyflurane provides safe and effective analgesia and anxiolysis for some procedures in IR.
Successful intracranial response of lorlatinib after resistance with alectinib and brigatinib in patients with ALK‐positive lung adenocarcinoma: Implications of CNS penetration rate of brigatinib
Authors: Sato Yuki , Sato Yoshiharu , Irie Kei , Nanjo Shigeki , Hara Shigeo , Fujiwara Satoru , Tomii Keisuke
Published: June 2024

We present the case of a 34‐year‐old Japanese man with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer and brain metastases. After central nervous system (CNS) disease progression with alecintib and brigatinib, treatment with lorlatinib resulted in a good intracranial response. In this case, we investigated brain penetration ratio of brigatinib using cerebrospinal fluid and paired serum samples, and the ratio was 0.012. Further, we investigated resistance mechanisms via next‐generation sequencing (NGS) using lung biopsy at lung cancer diagnosis and brain biopsy sample at progressive disease of brigatinib. No apparent resistance mechanism of known ALK resistance, such as ALK mutations, amplifications, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and bypass pathway activation were detected. Taken together, we speculate that the low CNS penetration rate of brigatinib confers CNS progression. Further studies are warranted to reveal the resistance mechanism and propose a treatment strategy for CNS progression in ALK‐positive patients.
Video analysis of real‐life shoulder dystocia to assess technical and non‐technical performance
Authors: Hjorth‐Hansen Kristiane Roed , Rosvig Lena , Hvidman Lone , Kierkegaard Ole , Uldbjerg Niels , Manser Tanja , Brogaard Lise
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Managing obstetric shoulder dystocia requires swift action using correct maneuvers. However, knowledge of obstetric teams' performance during management of real‐life shoulder dystocia is limited, and the impact of non‐technical skills has not been adequately evaluated. We aimed to analyze videos of teams managing real‐life shoulder dystocia to identify clinical challenges associated with correct management and particular non‐technical skills correlated with high technical performance.

Material and Methods

We included 17 videos depicting teams managing shoulder dystocia in two Danish delivery wards, where deliveries were initially handled by midwives, and consultants were available for complications. Delivery rooms contained two or three cameras activated by Bluetooth upon obstetrician entry. Videos were captured 5 min before and after activation. Two obstetricians assessed the videos; technical performances were scored as low (0–59), average (60–84), or high (85–100). Two other assessors evaluated non‐technical skills using the Global Assessment of Team Performance checklist, scoring 6 (poor) to 30 (excellent). We used a spline regression model to explore associations between these two score sets. Inter‐rater agreement was assessed using interclass correlation coefficients.

Results

Interclass correlation coefficients were 0.71 (95% confidence interval 0.23–0.89) and 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.52–0.94) for clinical and non‐technical performances, respectively. Two teams had low technical performance scores; four teams achieved high scores. Teams adhered well to guidelines, demonstrating limited head traction, McRoberts maneuver, and internal rotation maneuvers. Several clinical skills posed challenges, notably recognizing shoulder impaction, applying suprapubic pressure, and discouraging women from pushing.

Two non‐technical skills were associated with high technical performance: effective patient communication, with teams calming the mother and guiding her collaboration during internal rotational maneuvers, and situation awareness, where teams promptly mobilized all essential personnel (senior midwife, consultant, pediatric team). Team communication, stress management, and task management skills were not associated with high technical performance.

Conclusions

Videos capturing teams managing real‐life shoulder dystocia are an effective tool to reveal challenges with certain technical and non‐technical skills. Teams with high technical performance are associated with effective patient communication and situational awareness. Future training should include technical skills and non‐technical skills, patient communication, and situation awareness.
Medical management of anorectal malformations
Authors: Ambartsumyan Lusine
Published: June 2024

Background

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are congenital anomalies of the anorectum and the genitourinary system that result in a broad spectrum of hindgut anomalies. Despite surgical correction patients continue to have late postoperative genitourinary and colorectal dysfunction that have significant impact on quality of life.

Aim

This paper will review the current evidence and discuss the evaluation and management of postoperative patients with ARMs who present with persistent defecation disorder.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE/EMBASE databases applying the following terms: ARMs, imperforate anus, constipation, faecal incontinence, neurogenic bowel, posterior sagittal anorectoplasty.

Results

Patients who present with postoperative defecation disorders require timely diagnostic and surgical evaluation for anatomic abnormalities prior to initiation of bowel management. Goals of management are to avoid constipation in young children, achieve faecal continence in early childhood and facilitate independence in older children and adolescents. Treatment options vary from high dose stimulant laxatives to high‐volume retrograde and antegrade enemas that facilitate mechanical colonic emptying.

Conclusions

Appropriate diagnostic work‐up and implementation of treatment can decrease long‐term morbidity and improve quality of life in postoperative patients with ARMs who presents with defecation disorders.
Hirschsprung's disease. Management
Authors: Morera Claudio , Nurko Samuel
Published: June 2024

Background

Hirschsprung's disease (HD) is a rare congenital disease that is characterised by the absence of ganglion cells in the myenteric plexus starting in the distal bowel. This results in distal functional obstruction and may lead to complications like enterocolitis. The treatment is surgical and requires the resection of the aganglionic segment, and the pull‐through of normal intestine into the anal opening. However, even after successful surgery, patients may continue to have symptoms.

Aim

Discuss current surgical techniques and management strategies for patients with postoperative symptoms after surgical correction of Hirschsprung's disease.

Methods

A review of the literature was done through PubMed, with a focus on clinical management and approach.

Results

We describe the clinical problems that can occur after surgical correction. These include obstructive symptoms, enterocolitis, or faecal incontinence. A systematic approach for the evaluation of these patients includes the exclusion of anatomic, inflammatory, behavioural or motility related factors. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the evaluation includes examination under anaesthesia, the performance of contrast studies, endoscopic studies, measurement of anal sphincter function and colonic motility studies. The treatment is focused towards addressing the different pathophysiological mechanisms, and may include medical management, botulinum toxin to the anal sphincter or rarely redo‐operation.

Conclusions

Patients with Hirschsprung's disease need to have surgical correction, and their postoperative long‐term management is complex given a variety of associated problems that can occur after surgery. A systematic evaluation is necessary to provide appropriate therapy.
Editorial: Reading the cholate—A new gateway to portal hypertension and oesophageal varices: Authors' reply
Authors: Hassanein Tarek , Keaveny Andrew P. , Mantry Parvez , Smith Alastair D. , McRae Michael P. , Kittelson John , Helmke Steve , Everson Gregory T. ,   for the SHUNT‐V Investigators
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Hassanein et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18054 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18113
Letter: Persisting with persistence—A caution as an outcome measure in inflammatory bowel disease: Authors' reply
Authors: Yiu Tsz Hong , Ko Yanna , Pudipeddi Aviv , Natale Patrizia , Leong Rupert W.
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Yiu et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18006andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18114
Comparison of physiologically functional compounds in Sika deer Cervus nippon meats obtained from different regions in Japan
Authors: Miyata Shiho , Chiku Kazuhiro , Yamaguchi Chisato , Nishimura Toshihide
Published: June 2024

In Japan, the promotion of effective use of many wild deer as food resource has been conducted. However, they are not necessarily utilized effectively. Thus, we focused physiologically functional compounds to find characteristics of Sika deer meats (commercially available) obtained from different regions such as Hokkaido, Wakayama, Tokushima, and Miyazaki prefectures in Japan, making it a valuable resource for future studies and applications. The amount of carnosine, anserine, and balenine in muscle of deer from Wakayama prefecture was significantly lower than that in muscle of deer from other prefectures. The differences of amount of imidazole dipeptides in different prefectures seems to be caused by feed, rearing environment, and breed. The amount of carnitine in deer meat from Hokkaido was significantly lower than that in muscle of deer from other prefectures, while the amount of acetyl‐carnitine in deer meat from Miyazaki prefectures was significantly higher than that from other prefectures. The amounts of glutamine, ornithine, and 3‐methylhistidine in muscles of deer from Wakayama prefectures were significantly higher than those in muscle of deer from other prefectures. These results might be caused by differences in feeding habits, habitat, the muscle types, and subspecies of deer obtained from four regions in Japan.
TLR5 ligand induces the gene expression of antimicrobial peptides and CXCL8 through IL‐1β gene expression in cultured rumen epithelial cells
Authors: Nishihara Koki , Suzuki Yutaka , Haga Satoshi , Roh Sanggun
Published: June 2024

High grain feeding or weaning, which could compromise the rumen epithelium by increasing ruminal short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations with pH reduction, is associated with high levels of ruminal toll‐like receptor 5 (TLR5). This study aimed to determine the role of TLR5 in the rumen epithelium. Immunohistochemistry revealed that TLR5 was localized in cells on the basal side (i.e., basal and spinous layers) rather than in the granular layer in the rumen epithelium, where tight junctions are most potent, in pre‐ and post‐weaning calves (n = 9). Primary bovine rumen epithelial cells (BRECs) obtained from Holstein cows (n = 3) were cultured to investigate the factors that upregulate TLR5; however, SCFA, low pH (pH 5.6), BHBA, L‐lactate, D‐lactate, and LPS did not upregulate TLR5 gene expression in BREC. Primary BREC treated with flagellin (TLR5 ligand) had higher expression of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) (P < 0.05) than BREC treated with vehicle. In addition, BREC treated with IL‐1β had higher expression of antimicrobial peptides and C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 than BREC treated with vehicle (P < 0.05). These results suggest that ruminal TLR5 may recognize epithelial disruption via flagellin and mediate the immune response via IL‐1β during high‐grain feeding or weaning.
What factors influence scientific concept learning? A study based on the fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis
Authors: Ma Jingjing , Liu Qingtang , Yu Shufan , Liu Jindian , Li Xiaojuan , Wang Chunhua
Published: June 2024

This research employs the fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method to investigate the configurations of multiple factors influencing scientific concept learning, including augmented reality (AR) technology, the concept map (CM) strategy and individual differences (eg, prior knowledge, experience and attitudes). A quasi‐experiment was conducted with 194 seventh‐grade students divided into four groups: AR and CM (N = 52), AR and non‐CM (N = 51), non‐AR and CM (N = 40), non‐AR and non‐CM (N = 51). These students participated in a science lesson on ‘The structure of peach blossom’. This study represents students' science learning outcomes by measuring their academic performance and cognitive load. The fsQCA results reveal that: (1) factors influencing students' academic performance and cognitive load are interdependent, and a single factor cannot constitute a necessary condition for learning outcomes; (2) multiple pathways can lead to the same learning outcome, challenging the notion of a singular best path derived from traditional analysis methods; (3) the configurations of good and poor learning outcomes exhibit asymmetry. For example, high prior knowledge exists in both configurations leading to good and poor learning outcomes, depending on how other conditions are combined.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Augmented reality proves to be a useful technological tool for improving science learning.

The concept map can guide students to describe the relationships between concepts and make a connection between new knowledge and existing knowledge structures.

Individual differences have been emphasized as essential external factors in controlling the effectiveness of learning.

What this paper adds

This study innovatively employed the fsQCA analysis method to reveal the complex phenomenon of the scientific concept learning process at a fine‐grained level.

This study discussed how individual differences interact with AR and concept map strategy to influence scientific concept learning.

Implications for practice and/or policy

No single factor present or absent is necessary for learning outcomes, but the combinations of AR and concept map strategy always obtain satisfactory learning outcomes.

There are multiple pathways to achieving good learning outcomes rather than a single optimal solution.

The implementation of educational interventions should fully consider students' individual differences, such as prior knowledge, experience and attitudes.
Differences in manifestations of epilepsy and developmental delay in PURA syndrome and 5q31 microdeletions
Authors: Kofoed Andreas W. S. , Kristiansen Silvia S. , Miranda Maria J. , Rubboli Guido , Johannesen Katrine M.
Published: June 2024

PURA is mapped to chromosome 5q31 and plays a vital role in neuronal development and synapse formation. Here, we aim to explore PURA's impact on cognitive development and epilepsy phenotype by comparing patients with single nucleotide variants (SNPs) in the PURA gene (PURA‐SNP patients) to those with 5q31 microdeletions including PURA (5q31del + PURA) and those with 5q31 microdeletions not including the PURA gene (5q31del‐PURA). A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed. Two separate searches were performed in order to find patients with PURA SNPs and 5q31 microdeletions. This review includes data from 191 patients collected from a total of 18 articles; 174 of the patients had PURA SNPs, 13 had 5q31 microdeletions involving the PURA gene, and 4 had 5q31 microdeletions without PURA gene implication. All patients exhibited hypotonia, feeding difficulties and dysmorphic features, however epilepsy was primarily present in patients with PURA syndrome, that is, groups PURA‐SNP and 5q31del + PURA. Regarding the developmental milestones the 5q31del + PURA group stood out as being the most severe, while the 5q31del‐PURA group showed a relatively mild phenotype. Our findings support the hypothesis of PURA being the key contributor of developmental delay and epilepsy among patients with PURA syndrome.