bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the associated factors in postoperative wound infection following open reduction and internal fixation for elbow fracture
Authors: Cui Changwei , Ma Lijie , Qi Xiangbei
Published: April 2024

Postoperative wound infections (PWIs) following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for elbow fractures can significantly affect patient outcomes. Identifying associated risk factors is crucial for improving clinical practices and patient care. A retrospective analysis (June 2020–June 2023) at our institution involved 90 patients who underwent elbow ORIF. Thirty patients developed PWIs (case group), compared to 60 who did not (control group). Variables like anaemia, operation duration, hospital stay, blood loss, body mass index (BMI), age, hypoalbuminemia, smoking status, diabetes mellitus and open fractures were examined. Univariate and multivariate analyses determined the impact of these variables on PWI incidence, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The main pathogens identified were Escherichia coli among Gram‐negative bacteria (59.46%) and Staphylococcus aureus among Gram‐positive bacteria (40.54%). In the univariate analysis, hypoalbuminemia, anaemia, and lifestyle factors such as smoking showed higher prevalence in patients with PWIs. However, age and length of hospital stay did not significantly influence infection rates. The multivariate analysis further elucidated that anaemia, smoking, diabetes mellitus and open fractures were independent, significant predictors of PWIs. These findings highlight the complexity of factors influencing infection risk post‐ORIF, underscoring the importance of both individual health conditions and surgical complications in patient outcomes. Anaemia, smoking, diabetes mellitus and open fractures significantly increase the risk of PWI after elbow ORIF. Early identification and management of these risk factors are imperative to reduce infection rates and improve postoperative recovery.
Pluralistic ignorance and occupational choice: The impact of communicating norms on graduate students' career aspirations
Authors: Leong Suyi , Hegarty Mary , Sherman David K.
Published: April 2024

Occupational choices at the early stage of one's career path are influenced by the real and imagined input of mentors. This research focuses on PhD advisors and the graduate students that they mentor. Each participant in that dyadic mentoring relationship holds assumptions about the beliefs of the other regarding the students' career preferences. We propose that, in the absence of discussions surrounding career goals in such relationships, pluralistic ignorance surrounding career norms may develop. PhD students may assume that their advisors prefer that students seek academic research positions; while advisors may assume students prefer academic research positions and may not bring up alternative careers. Three studies adopt a mixed‐method approach to investigate divergent experiences surrounding career discussions. Study 1A (N = 301 faculty members in STEM fields) features qualitative and quantitative data and found that PhD advisors have experience working with students whose career preferences did not align with their expectations, and report changing their mentorship approaches while maintaining rigorous training. Study 1B (N = 195 PhD students in STEM fields) features qualitative data and found that students, although generally comfortable discussing different career options with their advisors, report several concerns that deterred them from discussing nonacademic research positions. Study 2, an experiment designed to compare perceived with actual norms (N = 200 PhD students in STEM fields) revealed that such discomfort could be alleviated by making explicit advisors' support for diverse career options and actual career preferences. The present research provides insights about pluralistic ignorance with implications for having more holistic career discussions in dyadic mentor relationships.
Integrated analyses for identification of a three‐gene signature associated with Chaihu Shugan San formula for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment
Authors: Xing Jia‐heng , Tan Ru‐xue , Huang Fei‐er , Tian Nan
Published: April 2024

Chaihu Shugan San (CSS) is a well‐known traditional herbal formula that has the potential to ameliorate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, its mechanism of action remains unknown. Here, we identified the key targets of CSS against HCC and developed a prognostic model to predict the survival of patients with HCC. The effect of CSS plus sorafenib on HCC cell proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay. LASSO‐Cox regression was used to establish a three‐gene signature model targeting CSS. Correlations between immune cells, immune checkpoints and risk score were determined to evaluate the immune‐related effects of CSS. The interactions between the components and targets were validated using molecular docking and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) assays. CSS and sorafenib synergistically inhibited HCC cell proliferation. Ten core compounds and 224 targets were identified using a drug compound–target network. The prognostic model of the three CSS targets (AKT1, MAPK3 and CASP3) showed predictive ability. Risk scores positively correlated with cancer‐promoting immune cells and high expression of immune checkpoint proteins. Molecular docking and SPR analyses confirmed the strong binding affinities of the active components and the target genes. Western blot analysis confirmed the synergistic effect of CSS and sorafenib in inhibiting the expression of these three targets. In conclusion, CSS may regulate the activity of immune‐related factors in the tumour microenvironment, reverse immune escape, enhance immune responses through AKT1, MAPK3, and CASP3, and synergistically alleviate HCC. The co‐administration of sorafenib with CSS has a strong clinical outlook against HCC.
A 78‐year‐old woman with diffuse white matter infiltration and predominant involvement of bilateral temporo‐parieto‐occipital regions
Authors: Paoli Charlotte , Mc Leer Anne , Boyer Julien , Mondot Lydiane , Dadone‐Montaudié Bérengère , Godfraind Catherine , Burel‐Vandenbos Fanny
Published: April 2024

Diffuse paediatric‐type high‐grade glioma, H3‐wildtype and IDH‐wildtype (H3/IDH‐wt‐pHGG) is a newly defined entity amongst brain tumours, primarily reported in children. It is a rare, ill‐defined type of tumour and the only method to diagnose it is DNA methylation profiling. The case we report here carries new knowledge about this tumour which may, in fact, occur in elderly patients, be devoid of evocative genomic abnormalities reported in children and harbour a misleading mutation.
Pyrroloquinoline quinone ameliorates PM2.5‐induced pulmonary fibrosis through targeting epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Chao Chia‐Chia , Hsiao Sheng‐Yen , Kao Wan‐Chen , Chiou Pei‐Chen , Huang Chieh‐Chen , Wang Mei‐Ting , Chen Po‐Chun
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary fibrosis is a lung disorder affecting the lungs that involves the overexpressed extracellular matrix, scarring and stiffening of tissue. The repair of lung tissue after injury relies heavily on Type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEII), and repeated damage to these cells is a crucial factor in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Studies have demonstrated that chronic exposure to PM2.5, a form of air pollution, leads to an increase in the incidence and severity of pulmonary fibrosis by stimulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lung epithelial cells. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a bioactive compound found naturally that exhibits potent anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative properties. The mechanism by which PQQ prevents pulmonary fibrosis caused by exposure to PM2.5 through EMT has not been thoroughly discussed until now. In the current study, we discovered that PQQ successfully prevented PM2.5‐induced pulmonary fibrosis by targeting EMT. The results indicated that PQQ was able to inhibit the expression of type I collagen, a well‐known fibrosis marker, in AEII cells subjected to long‐term PM2.5 exposure. We also found the alterations of cellular structure and EMT marker expression in AEII cells with PM2.5 incubation, which were reduced by PQQ treatment. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to PM2.5 considerably reduced cell migratory ability, but PQQ treatment helped in reducing it. In vivo animal experiments indicated that PQQ could reduce EMT markers and enhance pulmonary function. Overall, these results imply that PQQ might be useful in clinical settings to prevent pulmonary fibrosis.
The Hippo signalling pathway and its impact on eye diseases
Authors: Du Yuxiang
Published: April 2024

The Hippo signalling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade, has been shown to be crucial for cell fate determination, homeostasis and tissue regeneration. Recent experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that the Hippo signalling pathway is involved in the pathophysiology of ocular diseases. This article provides the first systematic review of studies on the regulatory and functional roles of mammalian Hippo signalling systems in eye diseases. More comprehensive studies on this pathway are required for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of eye diseases and the development of effective therapies.
Effect of Curcuma longa extract on reproduction function in mice and testosterone production in Leydig cells
Authors: Zhang Yisheng , Yang Liu , Xue Shan , Zhang Yichang , Li Zihan , Zhang Min , Kai Guoyin , Li Juan
Published: April 2024

Curcuma longa, best known for its culinary application as the main constituent of curry powder, has shown potential impact on the reproductive system. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Curcuma longa extract (CLE) on Kidney‐Yang deficiency mice induced by hydrocortisone and the possible roles in testosterone secretion in Leydig cells. We evaluated male sexual behaviour, reproductive organ weight, testosterone levels, and histological tissue changes in hydrocortisone‐induced mice. CLE effectively reversed hydrocortisone‐induced Kidney‐Yang deficiency syndrome by improving sexual behaviour, testis and epididymis weight, testosterone levels and reducing pathological damage. Our in vitro study further indicated that CLE stimulated testosterone production via upregulating the mRNA and protein expression of steroidogenic enzymes in Leydig cells. It significantly improved H89‐inhibited protein expression of StAR and cAMP‐response element‐binding (CREB), as well as melatonin‐suppressed StAR protein expression. The data obtained from this study suggest that CLE could alleviate Kidney‐Yang deficiency symptoms and stimulate testosterone production by upregulating the steroidogenic pathway. This research identifies CLE as a potential nutraceutical option for addressing testosterone deficiency diseases.
Identification and biocontrol potential of entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema siamkayai occurring in western Thailand against the common cutworm, Spodoptera litura Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) under laboratory and screenhouse conditions
Authors: Noosidum Atirach , Onwong Rattanawadee , Sumaya Nanette Hope , Khwanket Niyaporn , Arkhan Chatchaloem
Published: April 2024

The common cutworm, Spodoptera litura, is a serious insect pest of many vegetables and crops worldwide. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) have been utilized as biological control agents for controlling various insect pests, including the larvae of S. litura. Many indigenous EPN have been recognized to be more effective in specific field applications. Among the 160 soil samples collected in undisturbed areas of western Thailand, three samples tested positive for EPN. Three indigenous EPN were identified as Steinernema siamkayai namely, EPNKU63, EPNKU70 and EPNKU85, based on ITS and D2/D3 expansion region analysis of the 28s rRNA genes. Additionally, genetic analysis of the symbiotic bacteria using recA rRNA sequences confirmed their identity as Xenorhabdus stockiae namely, PEPNKU63, PEPNKU70 and PEPNKU85. To evaluate their initial biocontrol potential against the 6th instar larvae of Galleria mellonella, virulence assays were conducted. The application of 100 infective juveniles (IJs)/insects resulted in the mortality of 80–100% of G. mellonella larvae after 72 h. When symbiotic bacteria were applied at 1 × 106 cells/insect, they exhibited 63–93% mortality against G. mellonella larvae after 120 h. In further laboratory tests, three S. siamkayai isolates achieved 100% mortality of 3rd instar Spodoptera litura larvae within 72 h, with LC50 values ranging from 29 to 30 IJs/insect. In screenhouse experiments, it was revealed that all S. siamkayai isolates displayed substantial virulence, ranging from 62% to 74%, against 3rd instar S. litura larvae within 72 h. This study demonstrates the biocontrol potential of S. siamkayai in controlling S. litura larvae.
Failure and complication rates of different materials, designs, and bonding techniques of ceramic cantilever resin‐bonded fixed dental prostheses for restoring missing anterior teeth: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alqutaibi Ahmed Yaseen , Alghauli Mohammed Ahmed , Almuzaini Sarah A. , Alharbi Abdullah F. , Alsani Abdulrahman A. , Mubarak Arwa M. , Alhajj Mohammed Nasser
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The objective of this review was to assess clinical trials that have examined the materials, design, and bonding of ceramic cantilevered resin‐bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs) as a potential option for replacing missing anterior teeth. The evaluation primarily focuses on the rate of restoration failure and clinical complications.

Materials and Methods

A thorough search of databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, was conducted. The most recent search was performed in October 2023. Clinical studies that compared ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs with double retainers or cantilevered RBFDPs using different ceramic materials or bonding systems were included. The outcome measures considered were restoration failure and complication rates.

Results

Twelve studies met the eligibility criteria. The pooled data showed a statistically significant decrease in complication events when using cantilever designs compared with double retainer designs (p < 0.05); however, there were no differences found between the two designs in terms of restoration failure. The complication and failure rate of cantilever RBFDPs did not show a statistically significant difference with or without ceramic primer application before luting with phosphate monomer‐containing luting resin (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs have lower complication rates compared with those with double retainers. The use of a ceramic primer prior to luting composite resin for ceramic cantilevered RBFDPs decreases the occurrence of complications and failures, although this effect was not statistically significant. Additional research is required to confirm these findings. Glass ceramic cantilever RBFDPs showed a decrease in success after 6 years, requiring ongoing monitoring, but both zirconia and glass‐infiltrated alumina cantilever RBFDPs have demonstrated durability with excellent long‐term success and survival rates for up to 10 and 15 years.

Clinical Significance

Cantilever ceramic RBFDPs in the anterior region are a less invasive and valuable treatment option, providing good esthetic results.
Size structure, age, and growth of the blue shark, Prionace glauca (Linnaeus, 1758) in southern Brazil
Authors: Marquez Raquel , Barreto Rodrigo , Cardoso Luis Gustavo
Published: April 2024

The blue shark is a highly migratory species with a worldwide distribution, making it susceptible to multiple fishing fleets across the globe. In southern Brazil, it is an important target, comprising up to 40% of the total biomass landed by the commercial surface longline fleet. This study aims to contribute to a better understanding of how the species uses the region and to update its life‐history information available for future assessments. Over five consecutive years (2018–2022) of landings and onboard monitoring, we gathered size data and vertebral samples to describe the species size composition in the region, as well as its seasonal and interannual variability and to update estimated life‐history parameters. The results showed that southern Brazil is mainly inhabited by large juvenile males that arrive during winter (July–September) and stay until spring (October–December), when their frequency decreases. Small adult males are present throughout the year but in higher frequencies during summer. A small number of adult females are present with higher frequencies during spring and summer, which decreases during the austral autumn and winter. Some variability in the presence of each life stage was observed among years. The estimated life‐history parameters were as follows: L∞: 255.02 cm fork length (FL), k: 0.20, L0:35.68 cm FL for males; L∞: 246.47 cm FL, k: 0.23, L0:36.77 cm FL for females; and L∞: 269.58 cm FL, k: 0.18, L0:36.19 cm FL for pooled sexes. However, the estimated values must be cautiously interpreted, as the obtained samples cannot be construed as representative of the entire harvested stock due to the lack of consistent presence of some life stages in the study region.
A framework for modelling the probability of flooding under levee breaching
Authors: Wallace Thomas , Crawford‐Flett Kaley , Wilson Matthew , Logan Tom
Published: April 2024

Levees aim to provide protection during floods, however, these structures can breach, causing significant damage. Flood maps that include levee breaching are often limited to deterministic methods. Where probabilistic breaching is done, it often requires computationally expensive Monte Carlo simulations and an understanding of the geotechnical levee properties that are often limited. In this paper, we combine existing fragility curves and empirical breaching equations with a framework for automating levee breaching in catchments with limited geotechnical information. This method can be adapted and applied to existing 2D flood models to determine the probability of inundation, given that a breach occurs. This ultimately allows for greater emergency responses and land use planning to reduce the flood risk faced by our communities. The method was applied to four case study catchments. The results showed that including levee breaching in one catchment led to an average increase in the inundated area by 48.2% and a tripling in the potentially exposed area. However, breaching in some locations reduced the inundation extent by 12%, illustrating the potential for fuse plug levees and floodways as a flood mitigation strategy. This strategy has seen successful usage internationally. Further investigation is recommended to consider whether these mitigation strategies should be enacted.
Effect of food environment on the ability of microorganisms to form biofilms
Authors: Radi Benjelloun Ghita , Bahlaouan Bouchaib , Rizki Hajar , Waddi Khawla , Asbai Zakaria , Bennani Mohamed , Foughal Tarik , El Antri Said , Boutaleb Nadia
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study is to understand the effect of the food product's, even in trace amounts, in the biofilm formation potential of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Bacterial adhesion was tested using three different food media, in which bacterial cells were adapted before determining how this would affect their adhesion score and biofilm formation potential: sterilized milk, mineral water, and pasteurized commercial orange juice. After characterization of the bacteria and the adhesion support by the contact angle, the adhesion score obtained by the theoretical mathematical model XDLVO developed by van Oss was compared to that obtained by the experimental approach, in order to examine the role of non‐specific (thermodynamic) and specific (biological) interactions in adhesion. Changes in the membrane composition of bacteria, as a function of acclimation conditions, were evaluated by infrared spectroscopy. Results reveal variability in the spectral region between 900 and 1200 cm−1 specific to capsular polysaccharides (CPS) or lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and also in the range between 2800 and 3000 cm−1 characteristic of membrane lipids and phospholipids. Biofilm formation by S. aureus and E. coli was affected by commercial UHT milk. This led to increased hydrophobicity and total adhesion energy within the environment of these strains. However, no correlation was observed between the adhesion scores obtained through experimental and theoretical approaches. This underscores the necessity of considering the specific characteristics of individual food products in understanding the phenomenon of biofilm formation. Understanding, the mechanism, the variations in bacterial surface characteristics, and the conditions that favor or disadvantage the formation of biofilms, may have important implications, in the development of preventive and curative strategies, to control of food‐borne infections.
Preface: Special issue: 14thInternational Conference on Brain Energy Metabolism: Energy substrates and microbiome govern brain bioenergetics and cognitive function with aging
Authors: McKenna Mary C. , Choi In‐Young , Schousboe Arne
Published: April 2024

This Preface introduces the Special Issue entitled, “Energy Substrates and Microbiome Govern Brain Bioenergetics and Cognitive Function with Aging”, which is comprised of manuscripts contributed by invited speakers and program/organizing committee members who participated in the 14th International Conference on Brain Energy Metabolism (ICBEM) held on October 24–27, 2022 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. The conference covered the latest developments in research related to neuronal energetics, emerging roles for glycogen in higher brain functions, the impact of dietary intervention on aging, memory, and Alzheimer's disease, roles of the microbiome in gut‐brain signaling, astrocyte‐neuron interactions related to cognition and memory, novel roles for mitochondria and their metabolites, and metabolic neuroimaging in aging and neurodegeneration. The special issue contains 25 manuscripts on these topics plus three tributes to outstanding scientists who have made important contributions to brain energy metabolism and participated in numerous ICBEM conferences. In addition, two of the manuscripts describe important directions and the rationale for future research in many thematic areas covered by the conference.

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The global financial cycle and capital flows: Taking stock
Authors: Scheubel Beatrice , Stracca Livio , Tille Cédric
Published: April 2024

Since the global financial crisis, a rich and expanding literature on the so‐called global financial cycle (GFCy) has emerged. This has fueled a debate in academic and policy circles on how to measure the GFCy, and how it impacts international capital flows, possibly in a time‐varying way. We review the literature that has shown the relevance of the GFCy, as well as the heterogeneity of its impact on capital flows and its variations over time. We assess how various indicators of the GFCy affect episodes of large capital flows, and find a robust effect especially on episodes driven by non‐resident investors. Non‐linearity and instability over time, notably a less strong impact after the global financial crisis, are found at least for some GFCy indicators.
Monetary Policy and Asset Price Overshooting: A Rationale for the Wall/Main Street Disconnect
Authors: CABALLERO RICARDO J. , SIMSEK ALP
Published: April 2024

We analyze optimal monetary policy and its implications for asset prices when aggregate demand has inertia. If there is a negative output gap, the central bank optimally overshoots aggregate asset prices (above their steady‐state levels consistent with current potential output). Overshooting leads to a temporary disconnect between the performance of financial markets and the real economy, but accelerates the recovery. When there is a lower bound constraint on the discount rate, good macroeconomic news is better news for asset prices when the output gap is more negative. Finally, we document that during the COVID‐19 recovery, the policy‐induced overshooting was large.
Effect of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract on the growth performance, haematological, antioxidative and immune responses of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) juveniles
Authors: Paray Bilal Ahamad , Adeshina Ibrahim , Bhat Eijaz Ahmed , Raji Abdullateef , Umma Samuel B. , Alliy Robiat O. , Tiamiyu Lateef O.
Published: April 2024

The effects of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract (LBLE) on the growth performance, feed utilisation and haematological parameters of juveniles African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (mean = 8.45 ± 0.6 g) raised in a flow water (mean temperature 26.7°C, mean pH 7.52, mean dissolved oxygen 6.05 mg/L) were assessed in this study. Diets (400 g/kg crude protein; 4631.5 kcal/kg gross energy) supplemented with LBLE at levels of 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 g/kg diet were served to fish in triplicates (each replicate has 20 fish) until they appeared satiated for 12 weeks. Then, they were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila infection for further 2 weeks. Fish served dietary LBLE had considerable higher weight gain (64.76 g) and specific growth rate (765.5% g/day) than the fish group fed with the control diet with a reduced feed conversion ratio (1.45) (p < 0.05). Compared to fish fed with the control diet, the villi height (146.30 µm) and width (284.35 µm) of the intestines increased greatly in a dose (LBLE in diets) dependent order. Similarly, dietary LBLE increased (p < 0.05) the packed cell volume (46.11%) and haemoglobin (17.03 g/dL), whereas 1.5 g of LBLE increased the counts of white blood cells. Glutathione S‐transferase (769.43 U/mg protein), glutathione peroxidase (84.14 U/mg protein) and superoxide dismutase (433.15 U/mg protein) activities were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in fish fed with diets supplemented with LBLE compared to the control one. Additionally, dietary LBLE increased phagocytic and lysozyme activities and protected C. gariepinus against bacterial infections where the lowest death was observed in the fish fed on the diet containing 1.5 g LBLE/kg feed. These findings showed that the fish fed with LBLE/kg diet improved their immune system, antioxidant and growth performance in addition to providing protection from A. hydrophila infection with the optimum dose of 1.80 g/kg diet.
Retrospective investigation of the energy requirements for weight loss and weight maintenance after weight loss programme in obese dogs
Authors: Teixeira Fabio Alves , Pedrinelli Vivian , Porsani Mariana Yukari Hayasaki , Bonder Brana Sanctos Alo , Fasolai Ana Beatriz , Brunetto Marcio Antonio
Published: April 2024

Obesity is a highly prevalent disease in dogs and is characterized by the excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that results in metabolic changes. Its treatment is based on a negative energy balance focusing on energy restriction. However, there are few studies in dogs that assessed the energy intake needed for adequate weight loss and to weight maintenance afterward. The aim of this study was to evaluate data about the treatment of canine obesity, with emphasis on energy restriction to induce weight loss and to maintain body weight (BW) and ideal body condition after weight loss. This was a retrospective study in which records of obese dogs from a veterinary teaching hospital were assessed between 2014 and 2020. Sixteen dogs were considered in the study according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and 10 of these participated in the maintenance phase after weight loss. The animals lost a mean of 23.2% their initial weight in a mean of 422 days. The mean weekly weight loss rate was 0.58% of BW, and the mean daily energy intake for weight loss was 59 kcal/kg current BW0.75. When the target BW was considered, which was defined as the current weight minus 10% for every point in the body condition score scale above 5, the mean energy for weight loss was 71 kcal/kg target BW0.75. In the maintenance phase, the animals were assessed for a mean of 134 days. The mean energy intake to maintenance BW was 70 kcal/kg BW0.75. The lower energy requirement of obese dogs during and after weight loss can work as an alert for the formulations of therapeutic weight loss diets to contain a high nutrient density focusing on the wellbeing, health, and quality of life of obese dogs, not just for the weight loss phase, but a diet for the weight maintenance phase.
Validation of the IDDSI funnel for liquid flow testing
Authors: Steele Catriona M. , Liu Qian , MacCallum Haakon , Peladeau‐Pigeon Melanie , Chen Jianshe , Hanson Ben , Vanderwegen Jan , Lam Peter
Published: April 2024

In 2017, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) introduced the IDDSI flow test which enables patients, clinicians, caregivers, food service professionals and researchers to classify liquid thickness into five levels based on the volume of liquid remaining in a standard 10 mL slip tip syringe after 10 s of flow under gravity. Within a few months of publishing the IDDSI flow test instructions, several barriers emerged: (1) the preferred model of syringe (BD 303134) was not equally accessible around the world, causing some users to perform flow tests with alternate models of syringe; (2) differences in syringe geometry across models led to variations in IDDSI flow test results; and (3) the need to use a second syringe for sample loading added complexity and cost to end users. To address these barriers, IDDSI designed the IDDSI funnel, a novel device, which combines the geometry of the BD 303134 syringe with a kitchen funnel to facilitate easy loading of liquid samples without need for a second syringe. In this report, we compare the IDDSI flow test results across two devices: syringe BD 303134 and IDDSI funnel. IDDSI level classifications were in complete agreement with the syringe reference test results in 67/73 (92%) of the test fluids and temperature conditions with mean difference of residual liquid across devices of 0.2 (2% full scale). These results demonstrate excellent correspondence between the two devices.
Correlation between acoustic characteristics and sensory evaluation of puffed‐grain food based on energy analysis
Authors: Zhu Chengkai , Hu Xinnan , Jia Xiwu , Ji Zhili , Wang Zhan , Shen Wangyang
Published: April 2024

Puffed‐grain food is a crispy snack whose consumer satisfaction depends on snack crispness and crunchiness, which can be characterized by the sound and the acoustic signals of food breaking. This study aimed to evaluate whether acoustic characteristics can be used to predict the crispness of various puffed‐grain food. Sensory evaluation was performed on puffed‐grain products with varying hygroscopic durations and different types. The relation between sensory evaluation and acoustic characteristics of nine different types of food was examined. The Hilbert–Huang transform was used to perform energy segmentation of the acoustic signal of puffed‐grain food and observe its energy migration process. The results showed that energy release was more concentrated in the low‐frequency range for grain‐puffed foods with different hygroscopic durations. No notable correlation was observed between the low‐frequency interval and sensory crispness for the different types of puffed‐grain foods. However, the acoustic features extracted from their inherent low‐frequency intervals showed a significantly improved correlation with sensory crispness. Therefore, it provides a theoretical reference for applying acoustic characteristics to describe food texture.
Textural, rheological, melting properties, particle size distribution, and NMR relaxometry of cocoa hazelnut spread with inulin‐stevia addition as sugar replacer
Authors: Berk Berkay , Cosar Sumeyye , Mazı Bekir G. , Oztop Mecit H.
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the influence of substituting 60, 80, and 100% of the sugar in traditional cocoa hazelnut paste (control) formulation with inulin‐stevia (90:10, w/w) mixture on textural and rheological characteristics, melting behavior, water activity (aw), particle size distribution (PSD), and color. Textural, rheological, melting properties, and color of samples were analyzed after 1, 2, and 3 months of storage at 11°C. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry experiments were also performed to understand the interaction of new ingredients with oil. Replacement of sugar with inulin‐stevia gave darker color, reduced Casson yield stress, and changed the textural parameters and melting profile of the samples depending on the level but did not create a remarkable effect on PSD and Casson plastic viscosity. Increasing inulin‐stevia content yielded lower aw and higher T2a values indicating decreased mobility of water. Complete removal of sugar caused low spreadability. The results showed that an 80% replacement level yielded a product with similar textural parameters and fat‐melting mouth feeling compared to control sample. Cocoa hazelnut spreads prepared with inulin and stevia showed good textural stability during storage.
Elevation of S2‐bound α1‐acid glycoprotein is associated with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Oltmanns Carlos , Bremer Birgit , Kusche Laura , Stål Per , Zenlander Robin , Tauwaldt Jan , Rydén Ingvar , Påhlsson Peter , Cornberg Markus , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: April 2024

There is an urgent need for new high‐quality markers for the early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Åström et al. suggested that S2‐bound α1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) might be a promising marker. Consequently, we evaluated the predictive advantage of S2‐bound AGP in the early detection of HCC. In a retrospective case–control study of patients chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and treated with direct‐acting antiviral agents (n = 93), we measured S2‐bound AGP using the HepaCheC® ELISA kit (Glycobond AB, Linköping, SE) at the start of treatment, end of treatment and follow‐up (maximum: 78 months). Patients were retrospectively propensity score matched (1:2). Thirty‐one patients chronically infected with HCV developed HCC after a sustained virological response, while 62 did not. In addition, samples of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection, metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease and HCC of different etiologies were analysed. S2‐bound AGP elevation in HCC patients was confirmed. However, we did not observe a predictive advantage of S2‐bound AGP for the early detection of HCC during treatment and follow‐up. Interestingly, S2‐bound AGP levels correlated with aspartate aminotransferase (ρ = .56, p = 9.5×10−15) and liver elastography (ρ = .67, p = 2.2×10−16). Of note, S2‐bound AGP decreased in patients chronically infected with HCV after treatment‐induced HCV clearance. Fucosylated S2‐bound AGP levels were elevated in patients with chronic HCV and HCC. The potential role of S2‐bound AGP as a novel tumour marker requires further investigation.
Investigating the timing of spawning of two sea urchins (Tripneustes gratilla and Toxopneustes pileolus)
Authors: Lin Shih‐jie , Hsu Chia‐Hsuan , Soong Keryea
Published: April 2024

Many marine organisms broadcast gametes for external fertilization, thus conspecifics need to concentrate the time of gamete release through synchronization with environmental factors. We investigated the timing of spawning in two sea urchin species, Tripneustes gratilla and Toxopneustes pileolus, by assessing the spawning potential of individuals using both surveys and experiments in southern Taiwan from March to November 2010. We developed a new method to observe the spawning potential without sacrificing any individuals, defining those individuals‐initiated spawning within 30 min after 10 s of exposure to air as having the spawning potential. We discovered that the percentage of individuals with spawning potential, that is, the spawning ratios of the population, varied greatly from 0% to 80% in To. pileolus and from 0% to 50% in Tr. gratilla within the reproductive seasons. We evaluated the possibility of a lunar/semilunar rhythm of spawning ratios of the population and tested three environmental factors, that is, light intensity, tide, and temperature that could potentially affect the spawning potential of the sea urchins by experiments. Individuals with spawning potential were neither randomly nor evenly distributed among days but were aggregated on certain days; however, no lunar/semilunar rhythm of the spawning ratios was detected within the reproductive season. The possible role of the tidal factor within a day was not found in experiments in either species. However, when water temperature was >27°C in our surveys, significantly higher spawning ratios were observed in To. pileolus, but not in Tr. gratilla in the reproductive season. A further temperature experiment in To. pileolus supported the positive role of high temperature on the spawning ratios of individuals. In addition, To. pileolus was more likely to spawn during the day than at night, and the light/dark experiments suggested that the spawning potential was controlled by an endogenous biological clock rather than by the ambient light conditions directly. The lack of rhythmic pattern and yet concentrated spawning of these sea urchins may be adaptive to avoid predation.
Global assessment of effective population sizes: Consistent taxonomic differences in meeting the 50/500 rule
Authors: Clarke Shannon H. , Lawrence Elizabeth R. , Matte Jean‐Michel , Gallagher Brian K. , Salisbury Sarah J. , Michaelides Sozos N. , Koumrouyan Ramela , Ruzzante Daniel E. , Grant James W. A. , Fraser Dylan J.
Published: April 2024

Effective population size (Ne) is a particularly useful metric for conservation as it affects genetic drift, inbreeding and adaptive potential within populations. Current guidelines recommend a minimum Ne of 50 and 500 to avoid short‐term inbreeding and to preserve long‐term adaptive potential respectively. However, the extent to which wild populations reach these thresholds globally has not been investigated, nor has the relationship between Ne and human activities. Through a quantitative review, we generated a dataset with 4610 georeferenced Ne estimates from 3829 populations, extracted from 723 articles. These data show that certain taxonomic groups are less likely to meet 50/500 thresholds and are disproportionately impacted by human activities; plant, mammal and amphibian populations had a <54% probability of reaching = 50 and a <9% probability of reaching = 500. Populations listed as being of conservation concern according to the IUCN Red List had a smaller median than unlisted populations, and this was consistent across all taxonomic groups. was reduced in areas with a greater Global Human Footprint, especially for amphibians, birds and mammals, however relationships varied between taxa. We also highlight several considerations for future works, including the role that gene flow and subpopulation structure plays in the estimation of in wild populations, and the need for finer‐scale taxonomic analyses. Our findings provide guidance for more specific thresholds based on Ne and help prioritise assessment of populations from taxa most at risk of failing to meet conservation thresholds.
Integrated corridor management by cooperative traffic signal and ramp metering control
Authors: Farabi Abdullah Al , Mohebifard Rasool , Niroumand Ramin , Hajbabaie Ali , Hadi Mohammed , Elefteriadou Lily
Published: April 2024

This paper formulates a cooperative traffic control methodology that integrates traffic signal timing and ramp metering decisions into an optimization model to improve traffic operations in a corridor network. A mixed integer linear model is formulated and is solved in real time within a model predictive controller framework, where the cell transmission model is used as the system state predictor. The methodology is benchmarked in a case study corridor in San Mateo, CA, in VISSIM with two optimization scenarios, namely, optimal metering and optimal signal control, and two simulation scenarios with a preset metering plan and no metering. The numerical results show that integrated traffic signal and ramp metering control reduces delays, stops, and travel times of the corridor by up to 33.1%, 36%, and 16.4%, respectively, compared to existing benchmark conditions. With appropriate weights prioritizing freeway or arterial street operations, the integrated control balances traffic congestion between the arterial street and the freeway.
An efficient Bayesian method with intrusive homotopy surrogate model for stochastic model updating
Authors: Chen Hui , Huang Bin , Zhang Heng , Xue Kaiyi , Sun Ming , Wu Zhifeng
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a new stochastic model updating method based on the homotopy surrogate model (HSM) and Bayesian sampling. As a novel intrusive surrogate model, the HSM is established by the homotopy stochastic finite element (FE) method. Then combining the advanced delayed‐rejection adaptive Metropolis–Hastings sampling technology with HSM, the structural FE model can be updated by uncertain measurement modal data. The numerical results show that the updating effectiveness of the proposed method is better than that of the Bayesian methods with the non‐intrusive surrogate models, such as stochastic response surface model and Kriging model. Compared to the Bayesian method with the intrusive second‐order perturbation model, the updating results of the proposed method are more accurate, especially when the fluctuation of the uncertain measured data is large and the stiffness of the structure significantly changes. The model updating results of a cable‐stayed bridge show that the statistic modal properties of the updated bridge model have a very good agreement with the uncertain measurement modal data.
Use of nursing care bundles for the prevention of ventilator‐associated pneumonia in low‐middle income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Rehmani Amyna Ismail , Au Alesia , Montgomery Carmel , Papathanassoglou Elizabeth
Published: April 2024

Background

Ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) is a significant concern in low‐middle‐income countries (LMICs), where the burden of hospital‐acquired infections is high, and resources are low. Evidence‐based guidelines exist for preventing VAP; however, these guidelines may not be adequately utilized in intensive care units of LMICs.

Aim

This scoping review examined the literature regarding the use of nursing care bundles for VAP prevention in LMICs, to understand the knowledge, practice and compliance of nurses to these guidelines, as well as the barriers preventing the implementation of these guidelines.

Study Design

The review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) five‐stage framework and the PRISMA‐ScR guidelines guided reporting. Searches were performed across six databases: CINAHL, Medline, Embase, Global Health, Scopus and Cochrane, resulting in 401 studies.

Results

After screening all studies against the eligibility criteria, 21 studies were included in the data extraction stage of the review. Across the studies, the knowledge and compliance of nurses regarding VAP prevention were reported as low to moderate. Several factors, ranging from insufficient knowledge to a lack of adequate guidelines for VAP management, served as contributing factors. Multiple barriers prevented nurses from adhering to VAP guidelines effectively, including a lack of audit/surveillance, absence of infection prevention and control (IPC) teams and inadequate training opportunities.

Conclusions

This review highlights the need for adequate quality improvement procedures and more efforts to conduct and translate research into practice in intensive care units in LMIC.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

IPC practices are vital to protect vulnerable patients in intensive care units from developing infections and complications that worsen their prognosis. Critical care nurses should be trained and reinforced to practice effective bundle care to prevent VAP.
ChatGPT/GPT‐4 (large language models): Opportunities and challenges of perspective in bariatric healthcare professionals
Authors: Law Saikam , Oldfield Brian , Yang Wah ,   Global Obesity Collaborative
Published: April 2024

ChatGPT/GPT‐4 is a conversational large language model (LLM) based on artificial intelligence (AI). The potential application of LLM as a virtual assistant for bariatric healthcare professionals in education and practice may be promising if relevant and valid issues are actively examined and addressed. In general medical terms, it is possible that AI models like ChatGPT/GPT‐4 will be deeply integrated into medical scenarios, improving medical efficiency and quality, and allowing doctors more time to communicate with patients and implement personalized health management. Chatbots based on AI have great potential in bariatric healthcare and may play an important role in predicting and intervening in weight loss and obesity‐related complications. However, given its potential limitations, we should carefully consider the medical, legal, ethical, data security, privacy, and liability issues arising from medical errors caused by ChatGPT/GPT‐4. This concern also extends to ChatGPT/GPT ‐4's ability to justify wrong decisions, and there is an urgent need for appropriate guidelines and regulations to ensure the safe and responsible use of ChatGPT/GPT‐4.
Orthodontic treatment in children and adolescent patients with X‐linked hypophosphatemia: A case–control study
Authors: Janssens Yann , Duplan Martin Biosse , Linglart Agnès , Rothenbuhler Anya , Chaussain Catherine , Le Norcy Elvire
Published: April 2024

Objectives

X‐linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare genetic disease that disturbs bone and teeth mineralization. It also affects craniofacial growth and patients with XLH often require orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to describe changes in the dental health of XLH children during orthodontic treatment compared with those in matched controls undergoing similar orthodontic procedures.

Materials and Methods

For this retrospective case–control study, we included all individuals less than 16 years old diagnosed with XLH, orthodontically treated in our centre from 2016 to 2022 and pair‐matched them to patients with no chronic or genetic conditions. Clinical and radiological parameters concerning their malocclusion, craniofacial discrepancy and the characteristics and iatrogenic effects of their orthodontic treatment were analysed.

Results

Fifteen XLH patients (mean age: 11.3 ± 2.1), pair‐matched to 15 control patients were included. Orthodontic treatment was successfully conducted in XLH patients with slightly shorter duration and similar iatrogenic effects as in the control group, except for the occurrence of dental abscess during and after orthodontic tooth movement. XLH patients did not show more relapse than the controls.

Conclusion

Despite the presence of oral manifestations of XLH such as spontaneous abscesses, XLH patients can undergo orthodontic treatment with no obvious additional iatrogenic effects.