bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complexity analysis from EEG data in congestive heart failure: A study via approximate entropy
Authors: Cacciotti Alessia , Pappalettera Chiara , Miraglia Francesca , Valeriani Lavinia , Judica Elda , Rossini Paolo Maria , Vecchio Fabrizio
Published: April 2023

Aim

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a very complex clinical syndrome that may lead to ischemic cerebral hypoxia condition. The aim of the present study is to analyze the effects of CHF on brain activity through electroencephalographic (EEG) complexity measures, like approximate entropy (ApEn).

Methods

Twenty patients with CHF and 18 healthy elderly people were recruited. ApEn values were evaluated in the total spectrum (0.2–47 Hz) and main EEG frequency bands: delta (2–4 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), alpha 1 (8–11 Hz), alpha 2 (11–13 Hz), beta 1 (13–20 Hz), beta 2 (20–30 Hz), and gamma (30–45 Hz) to identify differences between CHF group and control. Moreover, a correlation analysis was performed between ApEn parameters and clinical data (i.e., B‐type natriuretic peptides (BNP), New York Heart Association (NYHA), and systolic blood pressure (SBP)) within the CHF group.

Results

Statistical topographic maps showed statistically significant differences between the two groups in the total spectrum and theta frequency band. Within the CHF group, significant negative correlations were found between total ApEn and BNP in O2 channel and between theta ApEn and NYHA scores in Fp1, Fp2, and Fz channels; instead, a significant positive correlation was found between theta ApEn and SBP in C3 channel and a nearly significant positive correlation was obtained between theta ApEn and SBP in F4 channel.

Conclusion

EEG abnormalities in CHF are very similar to those observed in cognitive‐impaired patients, suggesting analogies between the effects of neurodegeneration and brain chronic hypovolaemia due to heart disorder and underlying high brain sensitivity to CHF.
Alone but together: Cloud‐based commensality benefits physical and mental health
Authors: Wang Chujun , Wan Xiaoang
Published: April 2023

Cloud‐based commensality refers to an eating scenario in which people are eating and videoconferencing with remote co‐diners. We report two experiments designed to investigate whether cloud‐based commensality can exert a positive effect on individuals' physical and mental health. In Experiment 1, the participants were asked to rate their expectations concerning their feelings when eating in the context of cloud‐based commensality or solitary eating and to make food choices in each eating scenario. In Experiment 2, romantic couples were recruited to have meals in different eating scenarios in the laboratory and were asked to rate their emotions and close relationships. The results of the two experiments revealed that when engaging in cloud‐based commensality, participants reduced their intake of meat dishes but did not increase their choices of meat dishes compared to solitary eating. Moreover, the results suggest that cloud‐based commensality can alleviate negative feelings and promote positive emotions during periods of quarantine or non‐quarantine and enhance close relationships for romantic couples. These findings demonstrate that cloud‐based commensality is beneficial for individuals' physical and mental health and provide practical implications for utilizing social eating to promote healthy eating.
Egg morphology and mating behaviour of Dryops rufipes (Krynicki, 1832) (Coleoptera: Dryopidae) newly recorded from the Central Anatolian Region of Turkey
Authors: Özdamar Hakan , Özyurt Koçakoğlu Nurcan , Candan Selami
Published: April 2023

A group of aquatic Coleoptera specimens was collected from Güvenç Village in the Kahramankazan region of Ankara. Among these specimens was Dryops rufipes (Krynicki, 1832) (Coleoptera: Dryopidae), which is recorded from the Middle Anatolian Region of Turkey for the first time. The egg morphology of D. rufipes is described based on light and scanning electron microscope micrographs. Copulation and oviposition are described.
Antiseizure medication use during pregnancy and neonatal growth outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lavu Alekhya , Vaccaro Christine , Zusman Enav , Aboulatta Laila , Aloud Basma , Alessi‐Severini Silvia , Haidar Lara , Peymani Payam , Ng Marcus C. , Ruth Chelsea , Falk Jamison , Desrochers Brianne , Valencia Eunice , Shouman Walid , Rabbani Rasheda , Eltonsy Sherif
Published: April 2023

Aims

We aimed to systematically synthesize the current published literature on neonatal growth outcomes associated with antiseizure medication (ASM) use during pregnancy.

Methods

We searched seven databases, from inception to 23 March 2022. We investigated small for gestational age (SGA) and low birth weight (LBW) as primary outcomes and birth weight, birth height, cephalization index and head circumference as secondary outcomes. The primary analysis included pregnant people exposed to any ASM compared with unexposed pregnant people. Subgroup analysis included ASM class analysis, within epilepsy group analysis and polytherapy compared to monotherapy.

Results

We screened 15 720 citations and included 65 studies in the review. Exposed pregnant people had a significantly increased risk of SGA relative risk (RR) 1.33 (95% CI 1.18 to 1.50, I2 74%), LBW RR 1.54 (95% CI 1.33 to 1.77, I2 67%), and decreased birth weight with a mean difference (MD) of −118.87 (95% CI −161.03 to −76.71, I2 42%) g. A non‐significant risk change in birth height and head circumference was observed. In subgroup analysis, ASM polytherapy, within epilepsy and ASM class analysis were also associated with an increased risk of SGA and LBW.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis demonstrates that pregnant people exposed to ASMs have a significantly increased risk of adverse fetal growth outcomes including SGA and LBW and decreased birth weight compared to unexposed pregnant people. Polytherapy was associated with higher risks compared to monotherapy. Additional studies are warranted on specific ASM risks.
Predictors of older patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Pereira Anabela , Ribeiro Oscar , Veríssimo Manuel
Published: April 2023

Background

Deprescribing is a complex process requiring a patient‐centred approach. One frequently expressed deprescribing barrier is patients' attitudes and beliefs towards deprescribing. This study aimed to identify the predictors of patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with community‐dwelling patients aged ≥65 who are taking at least one regular medication. Data collection included patients' demographic and clinical characteristics and the Portuguese revised Patients' Attitudes Towards Deprescribing (rPATD) questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to present the patients' characteristics. Multiple binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of the patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed.

Results

One hundred ninety‐two participants (median age 72 years; 65.6% female) were included. Most (83.33%) were willing to have medications deprescribed, and the predictors were age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.136; 95% CI 1.026, 1.258), female sex (aOR = 3.036; 95% CI 1.059, 8.708) and the rPATD concerns about stopping factor (aOR = 0.391; 95% CI 0.203, 0.754).

Conclusions

Most patients were willing to have their medications deprescribed if it is recommended by their doctors. Older age and female sex increased the odds of willingness to deprescribe; higher concerns about stopping medications decreased the odds. These findings suggest that addressing patients' concerns about stopping their medicines may contribute to deprescribing success.
Generalized trust and military attitudes in Russia: The role of national and global human identification
Authors: Gulevich Olga A. , Osin Evgeny N.
Published: April 2023

Generalized trust is an optimistic view of human nature that influences people's attitudes and behaviour. Most studies focus on the positive effects of generalized trust. However, there is evidence suggesting that generalized trust may be associated with both positive and negative outcomes. In the present study, we focus on the ambivalent associations of generalized trust with the Russians' attitudes towards the Russian invasion in Ukraine. We used cross‐sectional design in three online samples of Russian residents (N = 799, 745 and 742) collected in March, May and July 2022. The participants were anonymous volunteers who completed measures of generalized trust, national identity, global human identity and military attitudes. The study has shown that generalized trust was a positive predictor of both national identity and global human identity. National identity, however, predicted positive attitudes towards the invasion and the use of nuclear weapons, whereas global human identity was a negative predictor of those outcomes. Mediation analysis revealed that the indirect effects of generalized trust mediated by the two types of identification had an inverse direction. We interpret the results with reference to the differences in the content of national identity and global human identity.
Programmed ageing: decline of stem cell renewal, immunosenescence, and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lathe Richard , St. Clair David
Published: April 2023

The characteristic maximum lifespan varies enormously across animal species from a few hours to hundreds of years. This argues that maximum lifespan, and the ageing process that itself dictates lifespan, are to a large extent genetically determined. Although controversial, this is supported by firm evidence that semelparous species display evolutionarily programmed ageing in response to reproductive and environmental cues. Parabiosis experiments reveal that ageing is orchestrated systemically through the circulation, accompanied by programmed changes in hormone levels across a lifetime. This implies that, like the circadian and circannual clocks, there is a master ‘clock of age’ (circavital clock) located in the limbic brain of mammals that modulates systemic changes in growth factor and hormone secretion over the lifespan, as well as systemic alterations in gene expression as revealed by genomic methylation analysis. Studies on accelerated ageing in mice, as well as human longevity genes, converge on evolutionarily conserved fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors, including KLOTHO, as well as insulin‐like growth factors (IGFs) and steroid hormones, as key players mediating the systemic effects of ageing. Age‐related changes in these and multiple other factors are inferred to cause a progressive decline in tissue maintenance through failure of stem cell replenishment. This most severely affects the immune system, which requires constant renewal from bone marrow stem cells. Age‐related immune decline increases risk of infection whereas lifespan can be extended in germfree animals. This and other evidence suggests that infection is the major cause of death in higher organisms. Immune decline is also associated with age‐related diseases. Taking the example of Alzheimer's disease (AD), we assess the evidence that AD is caused by immunosenescence and infection. The signature protein of AD brain, Aβ, is now known to be an antimicrobial peptide, and Aβ deposits in AD brain may be a response to infection rather than a cause of disease. Because some cognitively normal elderly individuals show extensive neuropathology, we argue that the location of the pathology is crucial – specifically, lesions to limbic brain are likely to accentuate immunosenescence, and could thus underlie a vicious cycle of accelerated immune decline and microbial proliferation that culminates in AD. This general model may extend to other age‐related diseases, and we propose a general paradigm of organismal senescence in which declining stem cell proliferation leads to programmed immunosenescence and mortality.
The histone demethylase Utx controls CD8+ T‐cell‐dependent antitumor immunity via epigenetic regulation of the effector function
Authors: Noda Haruna , Suzuki Junpei , Matsuoka Yuko , Matsumoto Akira , Kuwahara Makoto , Kamei Yoshiaki , Takada Yasutsugu , Yamashita Masakatsu
Published: April 2023

CD8+ T cells play a central role in antitumor immune responses. Epigenetic gene regulation is essential to acquire the effector function of CD8+ T cells. However, the role of Utx, a demethylase of histone H3K27, in antitumor immunity remains unclear. In this study, we examined the roles of Utx in effector CD8+ T‐cell differentiation and the antitumor immune response. In a murine tumor‐bearing model, an increased tumor size and decreased survival rate were observed in T‐cell‐specific Utx KO (Utx KO) mice compared with wild‐type (WT) mice. The number of CD8+ T cells in tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was significantly decreased in Utx KO mice. We found that the acquisition of effector function was delayed and attenuated in Utx KO CD8+ T cells. RNA sequencing revealed that the expression of effector signature genes was decreased in Utx KO effector CD8+ T cells, while the expression of naïve or memory signature genes was increased. Furthermore, the expression of Cxcr3, which is required for the migration of effector CD8+ T cells to tumor sites, was substantially decreased in Utx KO CD8+ T cells. These findings suggest that Utx promotes CD8+ T‐cell‐dependent antitumor immune responses partially through epigenetic regulation of the effector function.
Frequency of superscan on bone scintigraphy: A systematic review
Authors: Kovacsne Adrienn , Kozon Isabella , Bentestuen Morten , Zacho Helle D.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Bone scintigraphy (BS) is an important tool for detecting bone metastasis. BS with diffuse increased skeletal radioisotope uptake with absent or faint urinary tract and soft tissue activity is defined as a superscan. In this review, we investigate the different etiologies causing superscan and the reported frequency of superscan among different disease entities.

Materials and Methods

The search terms were ‘bone’ AND ‘superscan’ OR ‘superscan’ in the PubMed database from 1980 to November 2020. Eligibility criteria included the following: Peer‐reviewed studies containing original data using 99mTc‐phosphate‐analogue BS reporting a superscan pattern. Unretrievable papers, imaging modalities other than BS or with insufficient information to assess the aetiology were excluded. The abstracts of every paper and full texts of potentially eligible papers were assessed independently by three observers.

Results

Sixty‐seven papers were included (48 case reports and 19 cohort studies). Studies conducted in patients with osteomalacia or skeletal fluorosis revealed superscan in all patients. Other benign causes of superscan were hyperparathyroidism and kidney disease. Among papers with malignant cause, prostate cancer was the most common cause, followed by gastric cancer. The frequency of superscans ranged from 1.3% in a cohort of mixed cancer types up to 2.6% in patients with gastric cancer and up to 23% in a cohort of prostate cancer patients.

Conclusion

Superscan is most frequently seen in prostate cancer, but numerous other cancers and metabolic bone diseases can cause superscan, which should be kept in mind when encountering an unexpected superscan on BS.
Autoimmune bullous dermatoses
Authors: Holtsche Maike M. , Boch Katharina , Schmidt Enno
Published: April 2023

Autoimmune bullous dermatoses (AIBD) are a heterogeneous group of about a dozen diseases characterized clinically by erosions and blisters and immunopathologically by autoantibodies against structural proteins of the skin or transglutaminase 2/3. The diagnosis of AIBD has made tremendous progress in the last decade due to the availability of standardized serological assays that, knowing the clinical picture, allow the diagnosis in the vast majority of patients. The development of various in vitro and in vivo models of the most common AIBD, namely, bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris, mucous membrane pemphigoid, and the rare epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, allows identification of key molecules and inflammatory pathways as well as preclinical evaluation of the effect of new anti‐inflammatory agents. The approval of rituximab for moderate and severe pemphigus vulgaris and the development of national and international guidelines for the most common AIBD have considerably advanced the care of these patients. Nevertheless, the limited therapeutic armamentarium is the main challenge for the management of AIBD. Several phase II and III randomized controlled clinical trials provide hope for new, effective, and safe therapeutic options in the coming years. This review summarizes the epidemiology, clinic, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and therapy of AIBD and gives an outlook on both current diagnostic and therapeutic needs as well as future developments.
Melanom
Authors: Ugurel Selma , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: April 2023

Das Melanom ist ein hoch aggressiver Hauttumor mit dem Beinamen „schwarzer Hautkrebs“, da er von den pigmentbildenden Zellen (Melanozyten) ausgeht. Die Tumoren neigen zu invasivem Wachstum und früher lymphogener und hämatogener Metastasierung. Bekannte Risikofaktoren sind UV‐Strahlung, ein heller Hauttyp, das Vorhandensein multipler atypischer Nävi sowie eine positive Familienanamnese. Entscheidend für den Krankheitsverlauf sind eine leitliniengerechte Diagnostik und Therapie. Neben der vollständigen Exzision des Primärtumors mit adäquatem Sicherheitsabstand stehen verschiedene Systemtherapien zur Verfügung. Dies sind insbesondere die gegen BRAF zielgerichtete Therapie sowie die PD‐1‐basierte Immuncheckpoint‐Therapie. Das vorliegende Mini‐Review erhebt keinen Anspruch auf Vollständigkeit, sondern soll vorrangig diejenigen Aspekte der Erkrankung berücksichtigen, die derzeit im klinischen und wissenschaftlichen Fokus stehen und zu denen es neue Entwicklungen zu berichten gibt. Insbesondere gibt es neue Therapieschemata bei inoperablen Melanomen und Studien zu adjuvanten Behandlungen, aber auch Entwicklungen zur Diagnostik.
New insights into RAGE/Diaph1 interaction as a modulator of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in peripheral nervous system in long‐term hyperglycaemia
Authors: Zglejc‐Waszak Kamila , Pomianowski Andrzej , Wojtkiewicz Joanna , Banach Marta , Juranek Judyta K.
Published: April 2023

This review focuses on receptor for advanced glycation endproducts/diaphonous related formin 1 (RAGE/Diaph1) interaction as a modulator of actin cytoskeleton dynamics in peripheral nervous system (PNS) in diabetes. Deciphering the complex molecular interactions between RAGE and Diaph1 is crucial in expanding our understanding of diabetic length dependent neuropathy (DLDN). DLDN is a common neurological disorder in patients with diabetes. It is well known that actin cytoskeletal homeostasis is disturbed during DLDN. Thus, we review the current status of knowledge about RAGE/Diaph1 impact on actin cytoskeletal malfunctions in PNS and DLDN progression in diabetes. We also survey studies about small molecules that may block RAGE/Diaph1 axis and thus inhibit the progression of DLDN. Finally, we explore examples of cytoskeletal long‐non coding RNAs (lncRNAs) currently unrelated to DLDN, to discuss their potential role in this disease. Most recent studies indicated that lncRNAs have a great potential in many research areas, including RAGE/Diaph1 axis as well as DLDN. Altogether, this review is aimed at giving us an insight into the involvement of cytoskeletal lncRNAs in DLDN.
Trends in Chinook salmon spawner abundance and total run size highlight linkages between life history, geography and decline
Authors: Atlas William I. , Sloat Matthew R. , Satterthwaite William H. , Buehrens Thomas W. , Parken Charles K. , Moore Jonathan W. , Mantua Nathan J. , Hart Jon , Potapova Anna
Published: April 2023

Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, Salmonidae) are foundational to social‐ecological systems of the Northeast Pacific Rim and exhibit a rich diversity of life histories including in their adult migration timing, age at critical life‐history transitions and marine feeding distributions. In recent decades Chinook have experienced declines across much of their native range; however, changes in productivity and abundance have rarely been evaluated in relation to life‐history variation. To understand trends in Chinook salmon production, and how they are related to life history, we compiled time series data from the Fraser River to the Sacramento River on total run size (pre‐fishery abundance) and escapement (post‐fishery spawner abundance) and fit time series models to estimate trends across this bioregion. Our analysis revealed that most Chinook populations are declining, with negative trends in escapement (57 of 79) and total run (16 of 23) size. Trends were most acutely negative for interior spring Chinook in the Fraser, Columbia and Snake Rivers and most populations in California. Summer and fall Chinook had mixed trends, with several summer and fall upriver bright populations in the interior Columbia and Fraser exhibiting increases in abundance from the 1990s to 2019. Our research reveals widespread declines of this important species, but local complexity in trends that are mediated by population‐level life history, migratory behaviours and watershed‐scale restoration actions. Understanding linkages between life histories and resilience should inform rebuilding efforts for Chinook salmon and highlight the need to conserve intraspecific biodiversity.
Middle childhood attachment‐based family therapy: Theory and model description
Authors: Van Vlierberghe Leen , Diamond Guy , Bosmans Guy
Published: April 2023

In middle childhood, the first manifestations of mental health problems can emerge and become a precursor of mental health issues in adolescence. Given that weak parent–child attachment can contribute to this distress, it is possible that strengthening the attachment bond could reduce risk trajectory. Unfortunately, evidence‐based attachment‐focused interventions are lacking at this age. Attachment‐based family therapy (ABFT) is a well‐studied intervention for troubled adolescents and has the potential to be extended downward to children. However, ABFT for adolescents focuses on mentalization and trauma conversation strategies that may be developmentally advanced for children's capacities. Therefore, we modified the intervention strategies to be more developmentally sensitive to childhood. Middle childhood ABFT (MCABFT) builds on the theory that insecure attachment develops through a learning process that can be interrupted and reorganized to promote secure attachment development. MCABFT uses less conversation and more play and puts parents more at the center of the therapy compared with ABFT for adolescents. In this article, we describe MCABFT's theoretical and clinical model.
Drug–drug interactions of protein kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukaemia patients: A study using the French health insurance database
Authors: Pajiep Marie , Lapeyre‐Mestre Maryse , Despas Fabien
Published: April 2023

The introduction of protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs) for chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) has considerably improved prognosis of the disease but has also demonstrated a great potential for drug–drug interactions. Using the French health insurance databases, we aim to investigate the frequency, identify the associated factors and describe the potential consequences of potential drug–drug interactions (pPKI‐DIs) between PKIs and concurrent medications in CML. A retrospective cohort study has been performed among patients with CML identified in the French healthcare database from 2011 to 2014. A pPKI‐DI is defined as the presence of drugs listed as ‘interacting’ on the same day as PKI dispensing (co‐dispensing) or in its coverage period (co‐medication) during the first year of follow‐up. The list of interacting drugs is based on the summary of products characteristics (SPCs) and Thesaurus of interactions. We performed specific nested case–control comparisons to investigate the association between PKI‐DI and each of the three potential outcomes (death, hospitalisation for adverse drug reactions and switch to another PKI). We included 3480 patients; 1429 (41%) had a co‐dispensing pPKI‐DI, and 2153 (62%) had a co‐medication pPKI‐DI; 50% of the pPKI‐DIs were ‘to be taken into account’, and 17% were ‘not recommended’. The PKI with the most interactions was imatinib, and additional common drug classes included statins, benzodiazepines and proton pump inhibitors. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the use of a higher number of additional drugs, comorbidities at baseline, high number of prescribers and higher ages were potential risk factors. Nilotinib and dasatinib showed a tendency towards a higher risk of pPKI‐DI compared to imatinib. Despite the fact that some PKI‐DIs were potentially clinically relevant, we did not find any significant association with death, hospitalisation for adverse drug reactions and switching. These findings should increase awareness to help reduce the prevalence of PKI–drug interactions and thereby ensure better management of CML patients.
Digital touch in sponsorship: Getting closer to the brand through virtual reality
Authors: Petit Olivia , Lorey Thierry , Dosquet Frédéric
Published: April 2023

Supporters are consuming more and more sporting events through digital platforms. Brands should adapt to these new consumption patterns in order to strengthen their connection with their customers. Today, researchers and practitioners can create more interactive and enjoyable experiences through virtual reality (VR) applications. Through two studies conducted on VR during sporting events, we show that mentally representing the touch experiences of players on the field reduces the psychological distance between the supporter and the player, which strengthens the supporter's attachment to the team and, through the same attachment, to the sponsor (Study 1). We also highlight that these positive effects of VR compared to real touch (using a player's jersey) is linked to the improvement of immersion, which stimulates touch imagery (Study 2). We discuss the implications of this research for theory and practice in the sports business and other sectors.
Bio soups – new functional dehydrated soups enriched with lyophilised Fuscoporia torulosa extracts
Authors: Stojanova Monika , Pantic Milena , Klaus Anita , Mihajlovic Dragana , Miletic Dunja , Sobajic Sladjana , Stojanova Marina Todor , Niksic Miomir
Published: April 2023

The aim of this research was to produce a lyophilised water and ethanol extract from Fuscoporia torulosa mushroom, to determine the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of the extracts and in industrial conditions to produce a new, functional product – Bio Soups, enriched with lyophilised extracts derived from fruiting body of F. torulosa mushroom, at the same time without use of synthetic additives. The application of the lyophilised extracts in the industrial production of dehydrated soups showed positive results. Such soups are characterised with higher (P < 0.05) antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, compared to conventional soups, while it has been proven constant biological potential and stability up to the 90th day of production. This is the first dehydrated soup enriched with lyophilised extract of medicinal mushroom, since its production does not require special conditions, and it possesses exceptional functional properties, this product could have a many times greater market potential compared to conventional soups.
Effects of dry‐curing salt content on flavour formation in different production steps during the processing of water‐boiled salted duck
Authors: Liu Ya , Liao Huiyun , Xie Qiusheng , Li Kecheng , Xu Baocai , Yao Zhong , Li Xinfu , Sun Yun
Published: April 2023

This study evaluated the effects of dry‐curing salt content [4% low salt (LS), 6% medium salt (MS), 8% high salt (HS)] on volatile compounds, lipid oxidation and lipolysis during the processing of water‐boiled salted duck (WSD). After dry‐curing, the varieties and content of volatile compounds increased significantly. The total content of volatile compounds tended to increase at dry‐curing, brining and early and middle air‐drying stages, and then decrease. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values increased during the whole process. The free fatty acids (FFAs) content increased at dry‐curing, brining and early air‐drying stages, and decreased after air‐drying for 1 day. Compared with LS, HS and MS had higher content of characteristic flavour substances and FFAs, especially unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), and higher TBARS during the processing of WSD. It showed that 6% dry‐curing salt content (MS) was applicable to practical production of WSD for flavour formation and salt reduction in dry‐cured meat products.
Approach to schizophrenia
Authors: Harris Anthony
Published: April 2023

Schizophrenia is the most common of a group of psychotic disorders that occur in approximately 3% of the population over the lifespan. It has clear genetic antecedents, which are shared across the spectrum of psychotic disorders; however, a range of other biological and social factors influence the onset and treatment of the disorder. Schizophrenia is diagnosed by a characteristic set of symptoms (positive, negative, disorganisation, cognitive and affective) accompanied by a functional decline. Investigations are used to exclude other organic causes of psychosis and to provide a baseline for the negative effects of pharmacological treatments. Treatment requires a combination of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. Physical health is poor in this group of people and this is not helped by inconsistent care from health services. Although earlier intervention has improved the immediate outcomes, the longer‐term outcome has not significantly shifted.
Newly discovered mechanisms that mediate tumorigenesis and tumour progression: circRNA‐encoded proteins
Authors: Wu Chengwei , Wang Song , Cao Tingting , Huang Tao , Xu Lishuai , Wang Jiawei , Li Qian , Wang Ye , Qian Long , Xu Li , Xia Yabin , Huang Xiaoxu
Published: April 2023

Proteins produced by cap‐independent translation mediated by an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) in circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in tumour progression. To date, numerous studies have been performed on circRNAs and the proteins they encode. In this review, we summarize the biogenesis of circRNAs and the mechanisms regulating circRNA‐encoded proteins expression. We also describe relevant research methods and their applications to biological processes such as tumour cell proliferation, metastasis, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis, autophagy and chemoresistance. This paper offers deeper insights into the roles that circRNA‐encoded proteins play in tumours. It also provides a theoretical basis for the use of circRNA‐encoded proteins as biomarkers of tumorigenesis and for the development of new targets for tumour therapy.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii‐like oocyst shedding in feral and owned cats in Damascus, Syria
Authors: Ismail Mohammad Taher , Al‐Kafri Abeer
Published: April 2023

Background

The incidence of toxoplasmosis in humans in Syria indicates an increase in the number of infections with this disease. Cats are the only definitive host of Toxoplasma gondii and excrete environmentally resistant oocysts in their feces.

Objectives

Estimate the prevalence of T. gondii‐like oocyst shedding in the cat population in Damascus, Syria.

Animals

One‐hundred domestic cats.

Methods

One‐hundred fecal samples from cats (68 feral cats and 32 owned cats) were collected in Damascus between October and December 2017 and examined for T. gondii‐like oocysts by direct microscopic examination using Sheather's sugar flotation procedure.

Results

Examination of the samples showed that 36% (36/100) of the cats were shedding T. gondii‐like oocysts. Sporulated or unsporulated oocysts morphologically consistent with T. gondii were detected in 38.2% (26/68) of the samples collected from feral cats and in 31.3% (10/32) of the samples collected from client‐owned cats.

Conclusion

The clinical importance of Toxoplasmosis in humans lies in the transmission of Toxoplasma to the fetus especially in the first trimester, resulting in severe clinical symptoms in the infant and leading to spontaneous abortion, stillbirth or other serious health problems and severe sequelae (e.g., mental retardation, blindness, hearing, and neurological disorders). Our results showed higher prevalence in Syria than in Lebanon. High amounts of T. gondii‐like oocyst shedding were detected in both feral and client‐owned cats in Damascus, emphasizing the importance of further research to understand T. gondii infection in people and animals in this region.
Optimization of stocking density and shipping duration for transportation of Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis (Temminck et Schlegel), eggs, and experimental verification of polyethylene glycol treatment to reduce collision damage
Authors: Hayashida Takao , Higuchi Kentaro , Hashimoto Hiroshi , Kazeto Yukinori , Takashi Toshinori
Published: April 2023

Pacific bluefin tuna (PBT), Thunnus orientalis, is one of the most important species for aquaculture worldwide. For the conservation of this species and sustainable development of the tuna farming industry, production based on closed‐cycle aquaculture should be promoted. In this study, to develop an efficient method for transporting PBT eggs, we simulated egg transportation to optimize stocking density and shipping duration, which are the two variables critical to the transportation procedure of PBT. Based on the findings of this study, we concluded that PBT eggs should be transported at a density of 1 × 104 eggs/L within 12 h in the field. Furthermore, we showed that collisions between eggs during transportation negatively affected the normal hatching rates of eggs, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) treatment (at 1000 μg/mL for 12 h) could reduce such damage. Our results suggest that PEG treatment is a practical approach that contributes to the stable transportation of PBT eggs, particularly in cases where the effects of physical shock damage is considerably increased.
(Why) Are Open Research Practices the Future for the Study of Language Learning?
Authors: Marsden Emma , Morgan‐Short Kara
Published: April 2023

Open research practices are relevant to all stages of research, from conceptualization through dissemination. Here, we discuss key facets of open research, highlighting its rationales, infrastructures, behaviors, and challenges. Part I conceptualizes open research and its rationales. Part II identifies challenges such as the speed and cost of open research, the usability of open data and materials, the difficulties of conducting replication research, and the economics and sustainability of open access and open research generally. In discussing these challenges, we have sought to provide examples of good practice, describe and evaluate emerging innovations, and envision change. Part III considers ongoing coevolutions of culture, infrastructure, and behaviors and acknowledges the limitations of our review and of open research practices. We argue that open research is indeed a large part of our future, and most—if not all—challenges are surmountable, but doing so requires significant changes for many aspects of the research process.
Impact of a daily legume‐based meal on dietary and nutritional intake in a group of omnivorous adults
Authors: Ferreira Helena , Vasconcelos Marta , Gil Ana M. , Oliveira Beatriz , Varandas Elisete , Vilela Eugénia , Say Kimhuong , Silveira Joana , Pinto Elisabete
Published: April 2023

Adopting eco‐friendly diets will demand the consumption of more plant‐based protein food sources such as legumes. However, assessing the impact of such a dietary shift on the dietary and nutritional intake of traditionally omnivorous populations is needed. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of substituting a traditional omnivorous‐based lunch for a vegetarian, legume‐based meal on the daily dietary and nutritional intake in a group of omnivorous adults in the city of Porto, Portugal. Nineteen, non‐vegetarian, healthy young adults consumed a vegetarian, legume‐based meal from Monday to Friday, for 8 consecutive weeks. Socio‐demographic data, health status, lifestyle‐related information and anthropometric parameters were recorded. Three‐day food records were used to collect food intake at baseline and week 8. European Food Safety Authority and World Health Organization reference values were used to assess nutritional inadequacies. Variables were described as medians (P25 and P75). Wilcoxon signed‐rank and Mann–Whitney tests were used for statistical comparisons. A p‐value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Participants consumed 38.0 (P25 = 35.0; P75 = 40.0) meals, resulting in an intake of 84.5 g (P25 = 74.9; P75 = 98.4) of cooked legumes per meal, meaning 11 subjects (57.9%) met the Portuguese guidelines for legume consumption (≥80 g/day of legumes). The current dietary intervention did not seem to aggravate the prevalence of nutritional inadequacies for the macro‐ and micronutrients tested, except for the case of vitamin B12 (52.6% [95% CI: 28.9–75.6] vs. 78.9% [95% CI: 54.4–94.0]). This could be linked to the reduction of dietary sources of this vitamin which is an expected consequence of vegetarian meals. Dietary changes towards grain legume‐based diets are desirable yet need to be carefully implemented to prevent exacerbating potential nutrient inadequacies, especially of vitamin B12.
The relationship between alarm fatigue and burnout among critical care nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ding Shenglan , Huang Xiuhua , Sun Rong , Yang Lili , Yang Xiaorong , Li Xue , Liu Jianhua , Yang Hui , Zhou Hong , Huang Xiaoming , Su Fenghua , Shu Lingzhi , Zheng Xingli , Wang Xin
Published: April 2023

Background

Alarm fatigue has significant negative impacts on nurses and patient safety. However, the relationship between alarm fatigue and burnout is still unclear.

Aims

This study aimed to explore the relationship between alarm fatigue and burnout among critical care nurses.

Study design

A descriptive‐analytical cross‐sectional study design was used. Data were collected from five hospitals in mainland China between January 2022 and March 2022. A general information questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Intensive Care Unit Nurse Alarm Fatigue Questionnaire, and the Chinese version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory were used.

Results

A total of 236 critical care nurses were enrolled in this study. The mean score of alarm fatigue among critical care nurses was 21.11 ± 6.83. The results showed that critical care nurses experienced moderate alarm fatigue levels, and most nurses had moderate to high levels of burnout. The multiple linear regression analyses showed that alarm fatigue was independently associated with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization dimensions, and reduced personal accomplishment dimension.

Conclusions

Alarm fatigue was associated with burnout among critical care nurses. Reducing critical care nurses' alarm fatigue may help to alleviate burnout.

Relevance to clinical practice

Managers should provide comprehensive training for nurses and promote the application of artificial intelligence technology in alarm management to reduce alarm fatigue and improve burnout among critical care nurses.
Vital statistics, absolute abundance and preservation rate of Tyrannosaurus rex
Authors: Griebeler Eva M.
Published: April 2023

I present a simulation model on vital statistics, absolute abundance (N, total number of individuals that ever lived) and preservation rate (p, minimum number of fossils known divided by N) of Tyrannosaurus rex. It is based on a published age‐structured population model that assumes a reptile or bird‐like reproduction for T. rex to estimate its age‐specific survival rates. My model applies input variables and equations from a recently published model on N and p. This model yielded 2.5 billion T. rex individuals (N) and one fossil per 80 million individuals (p). The average N values calculated by my model were at minimum 27.6% and p values at maximum 361.5% that of a previous model and uncertainties in all output variables were always larger in my model. The equation on output variable ‘population density’ introduced the largest uncertainty to N and p. The output variable ‘generation time’ differed the most between models, but for N and p, the huge size of the input area modelled and geological longevity minimized this difference. Unlike my model, the generation time as well as life expectancies, gross reproduction rates, and reproductive values of individuals calculated from the previous model all strongly contradicted our current understanding of the biology of T. rex and of other theropods. Their values also disagreed with those of large extant reptiles, birds and mammals. All of these shortcomings of the previous model favour the assessment of individual and population characteristics of T. rex and of other extinct species using my model.
The engineered CRISPR‐Mb2Cas12a variant enables sensitive and fast nucleic acid‐based pathogens diagnostics in the field
Authors: Jiao Jian , Liu Yiqi , Yang Mengli , Zheng Jingcheng , Liu Chonghuai , Ye Wenxiu , Song Shangwei , Bai Tuanhui , Song Chunhui , Wang Miaomiao , Shi Jiangli , Wan Ran , Zhang Kunxi , Hao Pengbo , Feng Jiancan , Zheng Xianbo
Published: April 2023

Existing CRISPR/Cas12a‐based diagnostic platforms offer accurate and vigorous monitoring of nucleic acid targets, but have the potential to be further optimized for more efficient detection. Here, we profiled 16 Cas12a orthologs, focusing on their trans‐cleavage activity and their potential as diagnostic enzymes. We observed the Mb2Cas12a has more robust trans‐cleavage activity than other orthologs, especially at lower temperatures. An engineered Mb2Cas12a‐RRVRR variant presented robust trans‐cleavage activity and looser PAM constraints. Moreover, we found the existing one‐pot assay, which simultaneously performed Recombinase Polymerase Amplification (RPA) and Cas12a reaction in one system, resulted in the loss of single‐base discrimination during diagnosis. Therefore, we designed a reaction vessel that physically separated the RPA and Cas12a steps while maintaining a closed system. This isolated but closed system made diagnostics more sensitive and specific and effectively prevented contamination. This shelved Mb2Cas12a‐RRVRR variant‐mediated assay detected various targets in less than 15 min and exhibited equal or greater sensitivity than qPCR when detecting bacterial pathogens, plant RNA viruses and genetically modified crops. Overall, our findings further improved the efficiency of the current CRISPR‐based diagnostic system and undoubtedly have great potential for highly sensitive and specific detection of multiple sample types.
Influence of cannabis use on incidence of psychosis in people at clinical high risk
Authors: Chester Lucy A. , Valmaggia Lucia R. , Kempton Matthew J. , Chesney Edward , Oliver Dominic , Hedges Emily P. , Klatsa Elise , Stahl Daniel , van der Gaag Mark , de Haan Lieuwe , Nelson Barnaby , McGorry Patrick , Amminger G. Paul , Riecher‐Rössler Anita , Studerus Erich , Bressan Rodrigo , Barrantes‐Vidal Neus , Krebs Marie‐Odile , Glenthøj Birte , Nordentoft Merete , Ruhrmann Stephan , Sachs Gabriele , McGuire Philip ,   for the EU‐GEI High Risk Study Group
Published: April 2023

Aims

Evidence for case–control studies suggests that cannabis use is a risk factor for the development of psychosis. However, there have been limited prospective studies and the direction of this association remains controversial. The primary aim of the present study was to examine the association between cannabis use and the incidence of psychotic disorders in people at clinical high risk of psychosis. Secondary aims were to assess associations between cannabis use and the persistence of psychotic symptoms, and with functional outcome.

Methods

Current and previous cannabis use were assessed in individuals at clinical high risk of psychosis (n = 334) and healthy controls (n = 67), using a modified version of the Cannabis Experience Questionnaire. Participants were assessed at baseline and followed up for 2 years. Transition to psychosis and persistence of psychotic symptoms were assessed using the Comprehensive Assessment of At‐Risk Mental States criteria. Level of functioning at follow up was assessed using the Global Assessment of Functioning disability scale.

Results

During follow up, 16.2% of the clinical high‐risk sample developed psychosis. Of those who did not become psychotic, 51.4% had persistent symptoms and 48.6% were in remission. There was no significant association between any measure of cannabis use at baseline and either transition to psychosis, the persistence of symptoms, or functional outcome.

Conclusions

These findings contrast with epidemiological data that suggest that cannabis use increases the risk of psychotic disorder.
Metabolic syndrome as a late effect of childhood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation – A thorough statistical evaluation of putative risk factors
Authors: Gerbek Tina , Thomsen Birthe Lykke , Muhic Ena , Christiansen Terkel , Sørensen Kaspar , Ifversen Marianne , Kofoed Klaus , Müller Klaus
Published: April 2023

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is frequent among survivors of childhood hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation (HSCT), but assessment of risk factors is challenged by survivor and participation bias in long‐term follow‐up studies.

Methods

A cohort of 395 pediatric patients transplanted between 1980 and 2018 was investigated. MetS was assessed at follow‐up between December 2018 and March 2020. Two composite outcomes ((a) combining MetS and death, (b) combining MetS, death, and nonparticipation) were considered to address the risk of selection bias.

Results

Among 234 survivors invited to the follow‐up, 96 individuals (median age 27 years) participated. MetS prevalence was 30% among participants. The only significant HSCT risk factor was a variable combining HSCT indication and conditioning with total‐body irradiation (TBI) (p = .0011). Compared to acute leukemias (AL) treated with high‐grade TBI (8–12 Gy), a lower MetS prevalence was seen for nonmalignant diseases treated with no/low‐grade TBI (0–4.5 Gy) (OR = 0.04, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.00–0.23). Analyses of the composite outcomes indicated overestimation of the effect of high‐grade TBI due to selection bias. Scrutiny showed strong residual confounding between HSCT indication and high‐grade TBI within AL‐patients. The HSCT effect on MetS reflected HSCT effects on high‐density‐lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides. Compared to AL treated with high‐grade TBI, nonmalignant diagnoses treated with no/low‐grade TBI had higher HDL (+40%, 95% CI: +21% to +62%) and lower triglyceride (−59%, 95% CI: −71% to −42%).

Conclusion

The TBI effect on MetS may be overestimated in follow‐up studies due to selection bias and confounding. The TBI effect was confined to the potentially modifiable MetS criteria  HDL and triglyceride.