bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of spray drying and freeze drying on the protein profile of whey protein concentrate
Authors: Haas Joanna , Kim Bum Jin , Atamer Zeynep , Wu Chao , Dallas David C.
Published: October 2024

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is consumed for its high protein content. The structure and biological functionality of whey proteins in WPC powders may be affected by the drying technique applied. However, the specific impact of spray drying and freeze drying on the overall protein profile of whey protein derived from sweet whey streams at scale is unknown. Herein, we examine the effects of commercial‐scale freeze drying and spray drying on WPC to determine which method better preserves bioactive whey proteins, with the goal of helping the dairy industry create high‐value products that meet the growing consumer demand for functional dairy products. WPCs were produced from pasteurized liquid whey using either a commercial spray dryer or freeze dryer. A variety of analytical techniques, including enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and bottom‐up proteomics using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectroscopy were used to identify, quantify, and compare the retention of bioactive proteins in WPC before and after spray drying and freeze drying. In addition, the extent of denaturation was studied via solubility testing, differential scanning calorimetry, and hydrophobicity assessment. There was little to no difference in the retention or denaturation of key bioactive proteins between spray‐dried and freeze‐dried WPC powders. There was a higher percentage of select Maillard modifications in freeze‐dried and spray‐dried powders than in the control. The lack of significant differences between spray drying and freeze drying identified herein indicates that freeze drying does not meaningfully improve retention of bioactive proteins compared with spray drying when performed after multiple pasteurization steps.

Practical Application

This study aimed to provide insight into the impacts of spray drying versus freeze drying on whey proteins. Overall, our results indicate that for commercial dairy processing that involves multiple rounds of pasteurization, freeze drying does not meaningfully improve the retention of bioactive proteins compared with spray drying. These findings may help the food and dairy industry make informed decisions regarding the processing of its whey protein products to optimize nutritional value.
Effects of preheat treatment and syringic acid binding on the physicochemical, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of black soybean protein isolate before and after in vitro digestion
Authors: He Yiqing , Sun Haiwen , Han Bingyao , Olajide Tosin Michael , Yang Minxin , Miao Qianqian , Liao Xianyan , Huang Junyi
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the effects of preheat treatment (70–100 °C) and syringic acid (SA) grafting on the antioxidant, antibacterial, and physicochemical properties of black soybean protein isolate (BSPI) before and after in vitro digestion. The results revealed that both preheat treatment and SA grafting increased the digestibility and the absolute zeta potential value of BSPI. However, as the preheating temperature increased, the antioxidant ability of BSPI decreased, which was improved by SA grafting. During in vitro digestion, the absolute zeta potential and antioxidant activities of preheated BSPI and preheated BSPI–SA complex followed the order: intestine > gastric > before digestion. Compared with before digestion, preheated BSPI with its SA complex after in vitro digestion exhibited excellent antibacterial activities. Importantly, the preheated BSPI–SA complex enhanced the SA recovery rate during digestion and SA stability, with the highest recovery rate observed for the SA‐grafted BSPI with preheat treatment at 100°C (BSPI100–SA). The principal component analysis sufficiently distinguished preheated BSPI and preheated BSPI–SA complexes. There were partitions between BSPI and BSPI–SA treated at different preheating temperatures. This study contributes to expanding the potential applications of BSPI with its SA complex in food products and offers guidance for designing SA delivery systems.

Practical Application

Preheated BSPI–SA complexes could serve as functional ingredients in food or health products. Besides, preheated BSPI has application potential as a carrier for SA delivery.
Optimization of the preparation process of Spirulina blended liquor and Spirulina fermented wine, analysis of volatile components and in vitro antioxidant study
Authors: Li Xinyi , Feng Jia , Lv Junping , Liu Qi , Liu Xudong , Liu Yang , Xie Shulian , Nan Fangru
Published: October 2024

The optimal conditions were explored for the preparation of Spirulina blended liquor (SBL) and Spirulina fermented wine (SFW), respectively. The parameters obtaining highest alga polysaccharide were calculated by response surface methodology. The optimal conditions for SBL preparation were base liquor of 42% vol, ultrasonication time of 37‐min and ultrasonic power of 80 W with polysaccharide content (PC) and alcohol content (AC) of 0.2181 g/L and 39.7% vol, respectively. In the case of SFW, optimum fermentation occurred at 22°C, with a 4% inoculum and 6‐day period with PC and AC of 8.533 g/L and 11.2% vol, respectively. Headspace solid‐phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to quantitatively analyze the volatile components of SBL and SFW. There were 32 and 40 main aroma compounds in SBL and SFW, respectively. Volatile organic compounds, including α‐ionone and β‐ionone, produced by Spirulina were detected in both SBL and SFW. Comparative evaluation of scavenging activity and total reducing power revealed the antioxidant capacity of SFW significantly outperformed that of SBL.
Implementing a perioperative medicine for older people undergoing surgery (POPS) service: A guide for clinical leaders
Authors: Lodge Margot Elizabeth , Dhesi Jugdeep , Andrew Nadine Elizabeth , Srikanth Velandai , Ayton Darshini Rebecca , Moran Chris
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to translate previous implementation science research describing the implementation of perioperative medicine for older people undergoing surgery (POPS) services into a format that is comprehensible and relevant to clinical leaders contemplating implementing a POPS service.

Methods

We conducted a multistage expert end‐user review process to design a POPS implementation guide. Our expert research team created a draft POPS service implementation guide using previous implementation science research that described the core elements and implementation of a POPS service. Next, we invited multidisciplinary (allied health, anaesthetics, geriatric medicine, nursing and surgery) clinical leaders in perioperative medicine (n = 12) from five contextually different health services to review the guide. These clinical leaders then participated in two rounds of review and refinement of the implementation guide.

Results

The first draft of the POPS service implementation guide was reviewed by clinical leaders (n = 4) with participants querying implementation science‐based language and concepts, the format of the guide and its practical use. We revised the guide accordingly, and the next draft was reviewed by the second group of clinical leaders (n = 8). Feedback from the second group review was supportive of the guide's comprehensibility and relevance, and only minor changes were made to the final version of the POPS service implementation guide.

Conclusions

We used an implementation science‐based approach to create a POPS service implementation guide that is comprehensible and relevant to clinical leaders in perioperative care. The next steps are to use the guide and assess its utility to support implementation of a POPS service.
A competency framework for simulation facilitation in low‐resource settings: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Mossenson Adam I. , Livingston Patricia , Brown Janie A. , Khalid Karima , Rubio Martinez Rodrigo
Published: October 2024

Background

Skilled facilitators are essential to drive effective simulation training in healthcare. Competency‐based frameworks support the development of facilitation skills but, to our knowledge, there are no frameworks that specifically address context‐sensitive priorities developed with practitioners working in low‐resource settings.

Methods

We aimed to develop a core competency framework for healthcare simulation facilitation in low‐resource settings using a modified Delphi process. We drew on the domain expertise of members of the Vital Anaesthesia Simulation Training Community of Practice, with the study guided by a four‐member steering group experienced in the conduct of simulation in low‐resource settings. In survey round 1, participants (n = 54) were presented with an initial competency set derived from a previous qualitative study and co‐created a set of 57 competencies for effective simulation facilitation in low‐resource settings. In survey round 2, participants (n = 52) ranked competencies by relevance into three performance categories: techniques; artistry; and values. In survey round 3, participants (n = 50) ranked competencies on their importance. The steering group collated results and presented a draft core competency framework. In survey round 4, participants (n = 50) voted with 98% agreement that this framework represented the most relevant and important competencies for effective facilitation of simulation sessions in low‐resource settings.

Results

The final 32‐item framework encompasses core competencies found in existing standards and includes important new concepts such as demonstration of cultural sensitivity; humility; ability to recognise and respond to potential language barriers; facilitation team collaboration; awareness of logistics; and contingency planning.

Discussion

This competency‐based framework highlights specific practices required for effective simulation facilitation in low‐resource settings. Further work is required to refine and validate this tool to train simulation facilitators to deliver effective training to improve patient safety.
More the merrier? influence of mango orchards on the composition of the reptile communities of the lateritic plateaus, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Amberkar Prathamesh , Mungikar Rahul
Published: October 2024

Change in land‐use patterns affects a landscape by changing the composition of local flora and fauna. The lateritic plateaus in Konkan are one such example of this rapid land‐use change. Although these plateaus are rich in endemic flora and fauna, they are considered as “wastelands” due to lack of woody vegetation and thus, are subjected to various land‐uses. Mango cultivation in this region has become a major source of income due to its Alphonso variety of mangoes. Hence, over the last few decades, many plateaus have been converted into mango orchards. However, how the conversion of plateaus to mango orchards has affected species composition of different groups of organisms remains unclear. In the present study, we sampled the lateritic plateaus and plateaus converted into mango orchards in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, to investigate the response of the reptile communities. We observed more species heterogeneity in the orchards compared to the unaltered sites. Moreover, it appeared that there was a species turnover when the plateaus were converted into orchards. The generalist and widespread species such as agamids and skinks and very few specialist species were comparatively more abundant in the orchards. On the contrary, the plateaus without orchards harbored more specialist species such as Hemidactylus albofasciatus (n = 62, in unaltered sites vs. n = 5 in the orchards), Echis carinatus (n = 15 in unaltered sites and none in the orchards) and Ophisops jerdonii (n = 45 in unaltered site vs. n = 12 in the orchards) compared to the generalist species.
Outcomes reported in elective colorectal cancer surgery research for older patients: A scoping review
Authors: Xavier Hepsi H. , Bhattacharya Yagnaseni , Poobalan Amudha , Brazzelli Miriam , Ramsay George
Published: October 2024

Aim

Colorectal cancer rates are increasing in older populations, who often have comorbidities and face higher surgical risks and mortality rates. Therefore, surgical outcomes, such as 5‐year mortality rates, may not be appropriate, necessitating a focus on postoperative quality of life. However, determining optimal postoperative outcome measures for older colorectal cancer patients poses a challenge. This scoping review aimed to explore currently available data describing postoperative outcomes used to assess older patients undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery.

Method

We conducted a comprehensive literature search of major electronic databases from inception to March 2023. Studies exploring frail or older individuals with colorectal cancer undergoing elective surgical procedures, and which reported postoperative outcomes, were included. Outcomes were categorized as surgery‐specific versus person‐centred and summarized using narrative synthesis. The type and rate of surgery‐specific outcomes were tabulated.

Results

Of 1366 identified citations, 16 studies focused on person‐centred outcomes and 66 reported exclusively on surgery‐specific outcomes. Nine ‘person‐centred outcome’ studies reported discharge destination, primarily home discharge. Postoperative delirium ranged from 8.2% to 18.1% in six studies. Four studies explored geriatric syndromes, three analysed activities of daily living, and three studies reported significant quality of life improvement. The 66 ‘surgery‐specific outcome’ studies assessed mortality (N = 61); length of stay (N = 40); postoperative complications (N = 47); readmission (N = 18); reoperation (N = 16); and survival (N = 42).

Conclusion

Person‐centred outcomes are underreported, but crucial for guiding patient management. Older patients require adequate information about their postoperative recovery period to enhance wellbeing. Future research must address this gap to improve care for older people undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery.
Diagnostic ability and adverse events of mucosal incision‐assisted biopsy for gastric subepithelial tumors: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Koizumi Eriko , Goto Osamu , Matsuda Akihisa , Otsuka Toshiaki , Ishikawa Yumiko , Nakagome Shun , Niikawa Masahiro , Habu Tsugumi , Yoshikata Keiichiro , Kirita Kumiko , Noda Hiroto , Higuchi Kazutoshi , Onda Takeshi , Omori Jun , Akimoto Naohiko , Yoshida Hiroshi , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic ability and examine the efficacy of countermeasures to adverse events of mucosal incision‐assisted biopsy (MIAB) for gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs).

Methods

We performed a literature search and identified 533 relevant articles. Eleven articles, including 339 lesions, were ultimately used in the meta‐analysis. The primary end‐point was the pathological diagnostic rate of MIAB for gastric SETs, and the secondary end‐point was the incidence of adverse events. The efficacy of acid secretion inhibitors in preventing postoperative bleeding and that of local injection before incision to prevent perforation were also examined.

Results

Nine studies were conducted in Japan and two in South Korea, of which only two were prospective studies. The pooled pathological diagnostic rate of MIAB for gastric SETs was 87.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 80.2–94.0; I2 = 68.7%). The adverse event rate of the pooled population was 0.2% (95% CI 0–1.4; I2 = 0%). The acid secretion inhibitors significantly reduced postoperative bleeding (odds ratio 0.06, 95% CI 0.01–0.66, P = 0.02). Perforation occurred in 0% and 2.6% of the local and nonlocal injection cohorts, respectively, and the pathological diagnostic rates were 50% and 66.7%, respectively.

Conclusions

MIAB is a reliable technique with a favorable diagnostic rate and few adverse events. Acid secretion inhibitors may effectively prevent postoperative bleeding; however, the efficacy of local injection remains unclear. This technique could be an option for tissue sampling in gastric SETs.
Changing Scope of Gentrification in Seoul? Neighborhood Transformation and Displacement in Sangwangsimni and Changsin‐Sungin Industrial Clusters
Authors: Križnik Blaž , Kim Kon
Published: October 2024

Gentrification and displacement used to be an integral part of neighborhood transformation in Seoul, contributing to its economic and urban growth. While direct displacement has recently declined, new forms of displacement are emerging. This study employs a qualitative, case‐oriented research approach to understand gentrification in Seoul by comparing neighborhood transformation and displacement in Sangwangsimni and Changsin‐Sungin industrial clusters. In Sangwangsimni, the property‐led urban redevelopment contributed to the direct displacement of residents. In contrast, Changsin‐Sungin residents were able to remain in place because of the state‐led urban regeneration. However, the latter resulted in residents' feelings of powerlessness, emotional distress, and alienation, which increased displacement pressure and contributed to their indirect displacement. The consequences of neighborhood transformation for displacement reveal not only the changing scope of gentrification in Seoul but also the enduring role of the state in facilitating capital accumulation through the class remaking of the city.
Time to response with ravulizumab, a long‐acting terminal complement inhibitor, in adults with anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive generalized myasthenia gravis
Authors: Habib Ali A. , Benatar Michael , Vu Tuan , Meisel Andreas , Attarian Shahram , Katsuno Masahisa , Liao Serena , Beasley Kathleen N. , Howard James F.
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

The efficacy and safety of ravulizumab, a terminal complement C5 inhibitor, in adults with anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive (AChR Ab+) generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) were demonstrated in the CHAMPION MG study (NCT03920293). This analysis aimed to characterize the latency to onset of a clinically meaningful therapeutic effect for ravulizumab.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of data collected for up to 60 weeks from CHAMPION MG was performed to assess the timing of response to ravulizumab. Response was analyzed based on reductions of ≥2 and ≥3 points (minimal clinically important differences [MCIDs]) in Myasthenia Gravis–Activities of Daily Living (MG‐ADL) and Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) total scores, respectively, and on more rigorous reductions of ≥3 and ≥5 points, respectively. Time to first response was assessed using the Kaplan–Meier product‐limit method.

Results

The median (95% confidence interval) time to first response was 2.1 (2.1–2.6) and 4.1 (2.3–10.0) weeks for reductions of ≥2 and ≥3 points in MG‐ADL total score, respectively (n = 139), and 4.1 (2.1–10.0) and 18.3 (11.0–33.4) weeks for reductions of ≥3 and ≥5 points in QMG total score, respectively (n = 134). Cumulative response rates at Week 60 (data cut‐off) were 88% and 82% for ≥2‐ and ≥3‐point MG‐ADL score reductions, respectively, and 86% and 59% for ≥3‐ and ≥5‐point QMG score reductions, respectively.

Conclusions

The median times to MCID with ravulizumab treatment in patients with AChR Ab+ gMG were ~2 weeks and ~4 weeks based on MCID MG‐ADL and QMG total score reductions, respectively.
Increased CRHR1 expression on monocytes from patients with AA enables a pro‐inflammatory response to corticotrophin‐releasing hormone
Authors: Guo Hong‐Wei , Lai Hui‐Jun , Long Bo‐Quan , Xu Li‐Xin , Wang Eddy Hsi Chun , Shapiro Jerry , McElwee Kevin J.
Published: October 2024

Stress may play a key role in alopecia areata (AA), though the exact interactions of stress with AA remain undefined. Corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH), the proximal regulator of the stress axis, has been recognized as an immunomodulatory factor in tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We used multicolour flow cytometry to identify receptor CRHR1 expression on PBMC subsets in AA patients (n = 54) and controls (n = 66). We found that CRHR1 was primarily expressed by circulating monocytes. CRHR1 expression on monocytes was enhanced in AA compared with controls (3.17% vs. 1.44%, p = 0.002, chi‐squared test). AA incidence was correlated to elevated CD14+ monocyte numbers (R = 0.092, p = 0.036) and markedly independently correlated with increased CRHR1 expression (R = 0.215, p = 0.027). High CRHR1 expression was significantly related to chronic AA (disease duration >1 year; p = 0.003, chi‐squared test), and large lesion area (AA area >25%; p = 0.049, chi‐squared test). We also observed enhanced percentages of active monocytes and reduced CD16+ CD3− NK cell numbers in AA patients' PBMCs (p = 0.010; 0.025, respectively). In vitro CRH treatment of PBMCs and human monocyte cell line THP‐1 promoted CD86 upregulation. The findings imply that stress‐related factors CRH and CRHR1 contribute to AA development and progression where higher CRHR1 expression is associated with chronic AA and larger lesions.
Lentigo Maligna and Lentigo Maligna Melanoma of the External Ear: Clinical and Dermoscopic Features of 19 Patients
Authors: Dika Emi , Venturi Federico , Veronesi Giulia , Veneziano Leonardo , Scotti Biagio
Published: October 2024

External ear lentigo maligna/lentigo melanoma (LM/LMM) represents approximately 1%–4% of all primary cutaneous melanomas. Over the past 20 years, dermoscopy has proven highly effective in early detection of LM/LMM, with recent studies identifying perifollicular linear projections (PLP) as a specific diagnostic criterion for early LM. However, in clinical practice, LM and LMM turn out to be very difficult to distinguish based on dermoscopic findings. Therefore, our retrospective monocentric study aimed to investigate dermoscopic characteristics, as well as the epidemiological and clinical data of 19 patients diagnosed with the external ear (EE) LM/LMM at the Oncologic Dermatology Unit in Bologna. Dermoscopic images were obtained using the FotoFinder Medicam 800HD, and specific criteria validated by the International Dermoscopy Society (IDS) for atypical pigmented facial lesions were assessed. Fisher's exact test was primarily used for statistical comparisons. As results, most of the patients were male (74%) with an average age (± SD) at diagnosis of 69.8 (± 15.1) years old. LMM appeared more commonly observed in elderly patients as compared to LM (mean 71.6 vs. 66.7, p = 0.514), presenting as pigmented macule (89.5%) of the ear lobule (23.9%). A statistically significant difference (p = 0.01) of tumour’ diameter between LMM and LM was reported with the first resulting more than twice the size of the latter. Concerning dermoscopic findings, asymmetric pigmented follicles, obliteration of the follicular openings and grey circles were more frequently observed in LMM compared to LM (63.2% vs. 31.6%; 63.2% vs. 26.3%; 47.4% vs. 15.8%, respectively).
Nrf2 Activation in Keratinocytes: A Central Role in Diabetes‐Associated Wound Healing
Authors: Kaussikaa Srinivasan , Prasad Murali Krishna , Ramkumar Kunka Mohanram
Published: October 2024

Wound healing is a complex biological process crucial for tissue repair, wherein keratinocytes play a pivotal role in initiating, sustaining and completing the cascade. Various local and systemic factors, such as lifestyle, age metabolic disorders and vascular insufficiency, can influence this process, and in the context of diabetic wounds, disrupted biological mechanisms, including inflammation, tissue hypoxia, decrease in collagen production along with increased oxidative stress and keratinocyte dysfunction, contribute to delayed healing. During re‐epithelialisation, keratinocytes undergo rapid multiplication and migration, forming a dense hyperproliferative epithelial layer that restores the epidermal barrier. Nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor (Nrf2), a vital transcription factor, emerges as a central regulator in managing antioxidant proteins and detoxifying enzymes, serving as a guardian against elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels during stress. Nrf2 also orchestrates angiogenesis and anti‐inflammatory responses crucial for wound repair. Studies demonstrate that under high‐glucose conditions, Nrf2 activation promotes wound healing by enhancing cell proliferation and migration while reducing apoptosis. Nrf2 activators stimulate endogenous antioxidant production, thereby mitigating oxidative stress. Furthermore, Nrf2 upregulation is associated with decreased expression of cytokines such as TNF‐α and IL‐ 6. Recent research underscores the potential of bioactive molecules, including dietary polyphenols, traditional medicinal compounds and pharmacological agents, in activating Nrf2 and preventing diseases such as diabetes due to their robust antioxidative properties. This review aims to investigate the activation of Nrf2 by these bioactive molecules in cultured keratinocytes and animal models, elucidating the key molecular regulatory mechanisms involved in alleviating oxidative stress and facilitating the diabetic wound healing process. Understanding these complex pathways may offer insights into novel therapeutic strategies for enhanced wound healing in diabetes‐associated complications.
The Love Jones Cohort and singlehood are family law issues
Authors: Martinez Phillips Kimberly , Marsh Kris
Published: October 2024

This article reviews the changing Black family and households. The core theme is to understand the uniqueness of those single and living alone in the Black middle class—the “Love Jones Cohort”—and how their intersecting identities of race, class, gender, and singleness inform their lifestyle, shape how they manage life decisions, and their relationship to policy as well as family law and family court. This essay moves beyond the popularized and omnipresent inquiry: “Why are Black women not getting married?” or “Why are there so many single professional Black women?” This line of questioning throws the spotlight squarely on Black women's individual dating practices, while often ignoring structural factors that undergird those decision‐making processes. It implies that because of the individual actions of the Love Jones Cohort, specifically Black women, they are somehow at a deficiency if they are not married and child‐free, rendering them invisible as a family. This article discusses the legal implications of the presence of the Love Jones Cohort.
A HOUSE WITH EXPOSED BEAMS: INQUIRY‐BASED LEARNING AND HISTORIANS’ ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES AS SCHOLAR‐TEACHERS
Authors: Conn Zachary
Published: October 2024

This is an article about the relationship between historical scholarship and pedagogy. The teaching of history can itself be seen as a meaningful form of historical scholarship and poses some of the same methodological, theoretical, and ethical questions as historical research, albeit usually generating quite different answers to the queries. I delve into three sets of questions that are of significance to historians in our roles as researchers and as teachers. In scholarship and in teaching, it pays to consider the relationship between authority and humility. In the library and the classroom, there is a balance to be struck between narrative and analysis. In both settings, one must at times choose between historicist particularity and human universalism. I discuss each set of tensions with reference to such thinkers as Paulo Freire, bell hooks, and Friedrich Nietzsche. In each case, I also draw on my own experience in the classroom, particularly my time teaching tenth‐grade world history. Throughout, I suggest that intellectually and ethically flourishing history classrooms are often “houses with exposed beams,” in which teachers initiate students as junior members in communities of historical inquiry, often, though not always, through collaborative analyses of revealing primary documents.
Duration versus accuracy—what matters for computerised adaptive testing in schools?
Authors: Ebenbeck Nikola , Bastian Morten , Mühling Andreas , Gebhardt Markus
Published: October 2024

Background

Computerised adaptive tests (CATs) are tests that provide personalised, efficient and accurate measurement while reducing testing time, depending on the desired level of precision. Schools have different types of assessments that can benefit from a significant reduction in testing time to varying degrees, depending on the area of application, but for which the loss of measurement accuracy has a different impact. The implementation of CAT can take several approaches, each of which can potentially affect the resulting test length and accuracy.

Objectives

We compare the methods of estimation‐based CAT and binary‐search‐based CAT to determine the extent to which they are suitable for school assessment in terms of their length and accuracy.

Methods

This study uses simulations based on empirical data from a cohort of pupils with and without special needs (n = 400) to examine the effects of probabilistic estimation‐based CAT and deterministic binary‐search‐based CAT on the length and accuracy of an adaptive reading test for pupils with different ability levels.

Results and Conclusions

Estimation‐based CAT leads to a 40% test reduction with an average accuracy of r = 0.96, while binary‐search‐based CAT leads to a test reduction of up to 88% with an average accuracy of r = 0.83. Both methods demonstrate the applicability of CAT in educational environments. Practical advantages and disadvantages of both methods for learning environments are discussed, as well as which method is best suited for specific assessment needs.
Understanding the Experiences of Nurses' Work: Development and Psychometric Evaluation of an End of Shift Survey
Authors: Parr Jenny M. , Slark Julia , Lawless Jane , Teo Stephen T. T.
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore and validate an end of shift survey with a low response burden, practical application and generated evidence of related associations between workload, quality of work and patient care, missed care and job satisfaction.

Design

A retrospective cross‐sectional survey of the experiences of nursing staff.

Methods

Data were collected from 265 nurses who responded to a questionnaire at the end of their shift in 2022. Exploratory factor analysis was undertaken using IBM SPSS v.27 and confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken using IBM AMOS v27. Hypotheses testing was undertaken using IBM SPSS v.27 using multiple regression analyses.

Results

All of the hypotheses were supported. There was a negative association between workload and quality of work and job satisfaction. Quality of work was negatively associated with workload and missed care and positively associated with job satisfaction. The association between missed care and job satisfaction was negative.

Conclusion

The EOSS is a valid and reliable tool with a low response burden. The tool supports previous research which demonstrated there is a negative relationship between level of workload and shift type with satisfaction, quality of work and potentially nurse retention.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

In the context of a global nursing shortage nursing leaders must ensure that care we provide is of the highest quality. We must take every action to address high workload to reduce the risk that fundamental care is not sacrificed, job satisfaction is improved and nurses remain in the profession. The EOSS gives nurse leaders a reliable, practical, consistent, applied tool that will better enable associations to be observed between resource configuration, workload and critical impacts on nursing and patient care.

Reporting Method

We have adhered to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines using the STROBE reporting method.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Phthalocyanine derivative attenuates TNF‐α production in macrophage culture and prevents alveolar bone loss in experimental periodontitis
Authors: Breseghello Isadora , Rosalen Pedro Luiz , Bruzadelli Rafaela Franco Dias , de Araújo Leonardo Pereira , Abdalla Henrique Ballassini , Lazarini Josy Goldoni , Paiva Isadora Marques , Bueno‐Silva Bruno , Cordeiro Márcia Regina , de Alencar Severino Matias , Vilhena Fabiano Vieira , Cunha Thiago Mattar , Fernandes Leandro Araújo , Ikegaki Masaharu , Franchin Marcelo
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study investigated the activity and mechanism of action of the iron tetracarboxyphthalocyanine (FeTcPc) on tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) production and its impact on experimental periodontitis.

Methods

RAW 264.7 macrophages were treated with FeTcPc, activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at 10 ng/mL, and the TNF‐α levels were measured, as well as the nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation. Subsequently, a mouth gel containing 1% FeTcPc was topically administered to the gingival tissue of mice with periodontitis‐induced ligatures. Bone loss and the gene expression of Tnfα, p65 (NF‐κB), and receptor‐activating nuclear factor kappa B ligand (Rankl) were quantified in gingival tissue. Finally, the systemic toxicity of FeTcPc was estimated in Galleria mellonella larvae.

Results

In an activated RAW 264.7 macrophage culture, 100 μM FeTcPc reduced TNF‐α release and NF‐κB activation. Regarding experimental periodontitis, topical application of mouth gel containing 1% FeTcPc blocked alveolar bone loss. Additionally, 1% FeTcPc reduced the expression of Tnfα, p65 (NF‐κB), and Rankl in gingival tissue. Finally, administration FeTcPc at doses ranging from 1 to 1000 mg/kg did not cause acute systemic toxicity in G. mellonella.

Conclusion

Overall, we demonstrated the potential of mouth gel containing FeTcPc as a therapeutic strategy for managing osteolytic inflammatory disorders, such as periodontitis.
Perceived risks and benefits of telePrEP interventions: An interview study with rural sexual minority men in Texas
Authors: Owens Christopher , Buchanan Elizabeth , Fisher Celia B.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Many rural areas lack brick‐and‐mortar HIV prevention resources despite the increasing rates of HIV. Although online HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programs can potentially increase uptake among rural sexual minority men (SMM), their attitudes and preferences regarding telehealth‐based PrEP (telePrEP) programming are uncertain. This qualitative study examined rural SMM's perceived risks and benefits of participating in a hypothetical telePrEP program.

Methods

Twenty rural SMM living in Texas completed a semi‐structured online videoconferencing interview between April 12 and June 14, 2023. Data were analyzed with reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

Four themes were constructed: (1) telePrEP interventions increase accessibility but completely online services might be inadequate; (2) telePrEP and mail‐order interventions are convenient but face challenges; (3) telePrEP interventions need to address confidentiality and privacy within the context of the sociopolitical climate; and (4) telePrEP interventions need to address trustworthiness and transparency.

Conclusions

Overall, our results indicate that rural SMM perceive telePrEP interventions that provide at‐home and telehealth PrEP, HIV testing, and HIV care services as beneficial. However, overall utility and acceptability depend on perceptions of privacy, confidentiality, trustworthiness, and transparency. Given the HIV prevention and treatment service deserts in which many rural SMM live, telePrEP interventions must purposefully demonstrate how their operations and data will remain safe and secure. Further work should explore contextual or situational factors that influence the willingness and acceptability of rural SMM to participate in online HIV prevention intervention research studies.
The Coup, the Pandemic, and Turkey's Civilian Control over the Military
Authors: Yıldırım Galip Emre
Published: October 2024

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has developed an unlikely but pragmatic ally in expanding his hold on state power: the armed forces. This article shows how Erdoğan fundamentally restructured and curbed the military's power after the failed coup attempt of 2016. These reforms divided the army, empowered the police‐like gendarmerie, and placed civilian authorities squarely in control of both. The study analyzes the use of the gendarmerie inside Turkey, and the army outside, as the government battled the Covid‐19 outbreak and tried to assist foreign countries in their fights against the pandemic. This use of hard power bolstered the government's soft power, strengthening the Erdoğan regime. The case demonstrates the effectiveness of Turkey's new civil‐military relations and indicates that we should expect to see the state continue to leverage its military capacity to solve problems at home and abroad.
Metabolomics: Implication in cardiovascular research and diseases
Authors: Ajoolabady Amir , Pratico Domenico , Dunn Warwick B. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Ren Jun
Published: October 2024

Cellular metabolism influences all aspects of cellular function and is crucial for overall organismal health. Metabolic disorders related to cardiovascular health can lead to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Moreover, associated comorbidities may also damage cardiovascular metabolism, exacerbating CVD and perpetuating a vicious cycle. Given the prominent role of metabolic alterations in CVD, metabolomics has emerged as an imperative technique enabling a comprehensive assessment of metabolites and metabolic architecture within the body. Metabolite profile and metabolic pathways help to deepen and broaden our understanding of complex genomic landscape and pathophysiology of CVD. Here in this review, we aim to overview the experimental and clinical applications of metabolomics in pathogenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, and management of various CVD plus future perspectives and limitations.
Beta2‐Adrenergic Stimulation Induces Resistance Training‐Like Adaptations in Human Skeletal Muscle: Potential Role of KLHL41
Authors: Jessen Søren , Quesada Júlia Prats , Di Credico Andrea , Moreno‐Justicia Roger , Wilson Richard , Jacobson Glenn , Bangsbo Jens , Deshmukh Atul S. , Hostrup Morten
Published: October 2024

Skeletal muscle mass plays a pivotal role in metabolic function, but conditions such as bed rest or injury often render resistance training impractical. The beta2‐adrenergic receptor has been highlighted as a potential target to promote muscle hypertrophy and treat atrophic conditions. Here, we investigate the proteomic changes associated with beta2‐adrenergic‐mediated muscle hypertrophy, using resistance training as a hypertrophic comparator. We utilize MS‐based proteomics to map skeletal muscle proteome remodeling in response to beta2‐adrenergic stimulation or resistance training as well as cell model validation. We report that beta2‐adrenergic stimulation mimics multiple features of resistance training in proteome‐wide remodeling, comprising systematic upregulation of ribosomal subunits and concomitant downregulation of mitochondrial proteins. Approximately 20% of proteins were regulated in both conditions, comprising proteins involved in steroid metabolism (AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKRC1C3), protein‐folding (SERPINB1), and extracellular matrix organization (COL1A1, COL1A2). Among overall most significantly upregulated proteins were kelch‐like family members (KLHL) 40 and 41. In follow‐up experiments, we identify KLHL41 as having novel implications for beta2‐adrenergic‐mediated muscle hypertrophy. Treating C2C12 cells with beta2‐agonist for 96 h increased myotube diameter by 48% (p < 0.001). This anabolic effect was abolished by prior knockdown of KLHL41. Using siRNA, KLHL41 abundance was decreased by 60%, and the anabolic response to beta2‐agonist was diminished (+ 15%, i.e., greater in the presence of KLHL41, knock‐down × treatment: p = 0.004). In conclusion, protein‐wide remodeling induced by beta2‐adrenergic stimulation mimics multiple features of resistance training, and thus the beta2‐adrenergic receptor may be a target with therapeutic potential in the treatment of muscle wasting conditions without imposing mechanical load.
Skin Tone Analysis Through Skin Tone Map Generation With Optical Approach and Deep Learning
Authors: Jung Geunho , Kim Semin , Yoo Sangwook
Published: October 2024

Background

Skin tone assessment is critical in both cosmetic and medical fields, yet traditional methods like the individual typology angle (ITA) have limitations, such as sensitivity to illuminants and insensitivity to skin redness.

Methods

This study introduces an automated image‐based method for skin tone mapping by applying optical approaches and deep learning. The method generates skin tone maps by leveraging the illuminant spectrum, segments the skin region from face images, and identifies the corresponding skin tone on the map. The method was evaluated by generating skin tone maps under three standard illuminants (D45, D65, and D85) and comparing the results with those obtained using ITA on skin tone simulation images.

Results

The results showed that skin tone maps generated under the same lighting conditions as the image acquisition (D65) provided the highest accuracy, with a color difference of around 6, which is more than twice as small as those observed under other illuminants. The mapping positions also demonstrated a clear correlation with pigment levels. Compared to ITA, the proposed approach was particularly effective in distinguishing skin tones related to redness.

Conclusion

Despite the need to measure the illuminant spectrum and for further physiological validation, the proposed approach shows potential for enhancing skin tone assessment. Its ability to mitigate the effects of illuminants and distinguish between the two dominant pigments offers promising applications in both cosmetic and medical diagnostics.
Spatial and Temporal Variations in Offshore Crude Oil Transportation: Insights From China's Coastal Ports
Authors: Chen Yanming , Cai Xinyu , Xiao Yijia , Hu Keyan , Yin Changgui , Yan Zhaojin
Published: October 2024

Analyzing the spatial and temporal variations of offshore crude oil transportation at China's coastal ports is critical for the country's energy security. The automatic identification system provides high‐resolution real‐time data on China's offshore crude oil transportation, offering more precise spatial and temporal insights than existing statistical studies. In this study, we propose a novel method for calculating offshore crude oil transportation volumes by considering the operational status of crude oil tankers as “empty” or “full.” This approach enhances reliability and provides detailed port‐level transport data. Our findings reveal notable similarities between the centrality measures of maritime oil transportation and oil tanker networks, but significant differences in community divisions. Specifically, in the tanker networks, Chinese ports are categorized into three regions, with one region being dominant and the other two regions containing only four ports. In contrast, the oil flow networks show China divided into two major regions and two minor ones. This study offers valuable contributions to strengthening energy security in China and supports informed policy development and implementation.
Leaf abaxial and adaxial surfaces differentially affect the interaction of Botrytis cinerea across several eudicots
Authors: Caseys Celine , Muhich Anna Jo , Vega Josue , Ahmed Maha , Hopper Aleshia , Kelly David , Kim Sydney , Madrone Matisse , Plaziak Taylor , Wang Melissa , Kliebenstein Daniel J.
Published: October 2024

Eudicot plant species have leaves with two surfaces: the lower abaxial and the upper adaxial surface. Each surface varies in a diversity of components and molecular signals, resulting in potentially different degrees of resistance to pathogens. We tested how Botrytis cinerea, a necrotroph fungal pathogen, interacts with the two different leaf surfaces across 16 crop species and 20 Arabidopsis genotypes. This showed that the abaxial surface is generally more susceptible to the pathogen than the adaxial surface. In Arabidopsis, the differential lesion area between leaf surfaces was associated with jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) signaling and differential induction of defense chemistry across the two surfaces. When infecting the adaxial surface, leaves mounted stronger defenses by producing more glucosinolates and camalexin defense compounds, partially explaining the differential susceptibility across surfaces. Testing a collection of 96 B. cinerea strains showed the genetic heterogeneity of growth patterns, with a few strains preferring the adaxial surface while most are more virulent on the abaxial surface. Overall, we show that leaf–Botrytis interactions are complex with host‐specific, surface‐specific, and strain‐specific patterns.
Stabilization of 82 sacroiliac luxations in 67 cats using two sacroiliac screws (2014–2023)
Authors: Schreiber Kevin R. L. , Thibault Alexandre , Hamon Martin , Haudiquet Philippe
Published: October 2024

Objective

To describe sacroiliac luxation stabilization in cats using two screws and to report clinical and radiographic short‐term outcomes.

Study design

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

Sample population

Cats (n = 67) with sacroiliac luxation.

Methods

Case records of cats presented for sacroiliac luxation stabilized using two screws per side affected, one lag and one positional, between 2014 and 2023 were reviewed. The percentage of sacral purchase (PoSP) for each screw, percentage of reduction (PoR), and pelvic canal width ratio (PCWR) were measured and calculated.

Results

Eighty‐two sacroiliac luxations were stabilized. Two 2.0 mm screws were used in 69 cases; two 2.4‐mm screws in nine cases, and one 2.4 mm with one 2.0 mm screw in four cases. The mean PoSPs for lag and positional screws were 46% ± 12 and 31% ± 11, respectively. The median PoR was 89% (41 to 100). The mean PCWR was 1.23 ± 0.11. Clinical follow up was available for 42 cats with 53 sacroiliac luxations at a median of 87 days (36 to 2503). The full function was noted in 34 patients (81%). Screw failure occurred in five sacroiliac joints (4.7%), including loosening (n = 3), and breakage (n = 2) of the positional screws (n = 1). Pelvic canal diameter was maintained in all cases.

Conclusion

Excellent functional and radiographic outcomes were obtained for cats with sacroiliac luxation stabilized with two sacroiliac screws.

Clinical significance

Feline sacroiliac luxation can be stabilized using two sacroiliac screws.
A realisation result for moduli spaces of group actions on the line
Authors: Brum Joaquín , Bon Nicolás Matte , Rivas Cristóbal , Triestino Michele
Published: October 2024

Given a finitely generated group , the possible actions of on the real line (without global fixed points), considered up to semi‐conjugacy, can be encoded by the space of orbits of a flow on a compact space naturally associated with and uniquely defined up to flow equivalence, that we call the Deroin space of . We show a realisation result: every expansive flow on a compact metrisable space of topological dimension 1, satisfying some mild additional assumptions, arises as the Deroin space of a finitely generated group. This is proven by identifying the Deroin space of an explicit family of groups acting on suspension flows of subshifts, which is a variant of a construction introduced by the second and fourth authors. This result provides a source of examples of finitely generated groups satisfying various new phenomena for actions on the line, related to their rigidity/flexibility properties and to the structure of (path‐)connected components of the space of actions.
Morse numbers of complex polynomials
Authors: Maxim Laurenţiu , Tibăr Mihai
Published: October 2024

To a complex polynomial function with arbitrary singularities, we associate the number of Morse points in a general linear Morsification . We produce computable algebraic formulae in terms of invariants of for the numbers of stratwise Morse trajectories that abut, as , to some point of the space or at infinity.