bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic profile of Brazilian patients with LAMA2‐related dystrophies
Authors: Camelo Clara Gontijo , Moreno Cristiane de Araujo Martins , Artilheiro Mariana da Cunha , Fonseca Alulin Tácio Quadros Monteiro , Gurgel Gianetti Juliana , Barbosa André Vinícius , Donis Karina Carvalho , Saute Jonas Alex Morales , Pessoa André , Van der Linden Hélio , Gonçalves Ana Rita Alcântara , Kulikowski Leslie Domenici , Kok Fernando , Zanoteli Edmar
Published: May 2024

LAMA2‐related dystrophies (LAMA2‐RD) constitute a rare neuromuscular disorder with a broad spectrum of phenotypic severity. Our understanding of the genotype–phenotype correlations in this condition remains incomplete, and reliable clinical data for clinical trial readiness is limited. In this retrospective study, we reviewed the genetic data and medical records of 114 LAMA2‐RD patients enrolled at seven research centers in Brazil. We identified 58 different pathogenic variants, including 21 novel ones. Six variants were more prevalent and were present in 81.5% of the patients. Notably, the c.1255del, c.2049_2050del, c.3976 C>T, c.5234+1G>A, and c.4739dup variants were found in patients unable to walk and without cortical malformation. In contrast, the c.2461A>C variant was present in patients who could walk unassisted. Among ambulatory patients, missense variants were more prevalent (p < 0.0001). Although no specific hotspot regions existed in the LAMA2, 51% of point mutations were in the LN domain, and 88% of the missense variants were found within this domain. Functional analysis was performed in one intronic variant (c.4960‐17C>A) and revealed an out‐of‐frame transcript, indicating that the variant creates a cryptic splicing site (AG). Our study has shed light on crucial phenotype–genotype correlations and provided valuable insights, particularly regarding the Latin American population.
Calibrated intraoral scan protocol (CISP) for full‐arch implant impressions: An in vitro comparison to conventional impression, intraoral scan, and intraoral scan with scan‐aid
Authors: Li Junying , Chen Zhaozhao , Nava Paolo , Yang Shengtao , Calatrava Javier , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess a newly developed intraoral scan protocol in enhancing the accuracy of complete‐arch implant impressions.

Materials and Methods

Four impression approaches were applied to the same maxillary edentulous model with 6 implants: (1) intraoral scan (IOS), (2) intraoral scan with scan aid (IOS‐SA), (3) calibrated intraoral scan protocol (CISP), and (4) conventional splinted open‐tray impression (CONV). Each approach was repeated 10 times, and a direct scan of the model with a desktop scanner was used as a reference model. The alignment of scans and the reference model was conducted by two methods: (a) aligning all scan bodies to evaluate the overall fit, and (b) aligning the first and second scan bodies to simulate the Sheffield fit test for passive fitting of multiple implant‐supported prostheses. Linear deviations from the reference model (trueness) and within each group (precision) were analyzed using Python scripts.

Results

When aligned by all scan bodies, the CISP group exhibited comparable mean trueness (38.33 μm) and precision (45.97 μm) to the CONV group (44.30 and 47.92 μm respectively), both of which significantly outperformed the IOS group (86.82 and 83.17 μm, respectively). Furthermore, in the virtual Sheffield fit test, the CISP group achieved the highest levels of mean trueness at the end span (121.7 μm), making a linear deviation reduction of 36.7%, 60%, and 41.4% when compared to the CONV, the IOS, and the IOS‐SA groups, respectively. Moreover, the CISP group (104.3 μm) displayed a remarkable 65, 182, and 86 μm advantage in precision over the CONV, IOS, and IOS‐SA groups, respectively.

Conclusion

CISP demonstrated comparable accuracy to the gold standard, the conventional splinted open‐tray impression. Furthermore, it excelled in the virtual passive fitting test.
We need a formal framework based on neuroscience for training in developmental neurology
Authors: Vollmer Brigitte
Published: May 2024

This editorial is linked to Letter to the editor by Gogou on pages 1106–1107 of this issue.
A prospective observational study to evaluate a possible relationship between vitamin K antagonist therapy and risk of peripheral arterial disease in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bourron Olivier , Mohammedi Kamel , De Keizer Joe , Schneider Fabrice , Hadjadj Samy , Saulnier Pierre‐Jean
Published: May 2024

Aim

The use of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) may increase the risk of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) because vitamin K is a strong inhibitor of medial arterial calcification. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) exposes patients to an increased risk of PAD. We examined how the use of VKAs modulates the risk of incident PAD in people with T2D.

Materials and Methods

SURDIAGENE is a French cohort including 1468 patients with T2D with a prospective follow‐up from 2002 to 2015. The primary outcome of the current analysis was the first occurrence of PAD, a composite of lower‐limb amputation (LLA) or lower‐limb revascularization. LLA and lower‐limb revascularization were considered individually as secondary outcomes.

Results

During a 7‐year median follow‐up, PAD occurred in 147 (10%) of the 1468 participants. The use of VKAs was not significantly associated with the risk of PAD [multivariable adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.42, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.88‐2.31]. During the study period, LLA and lower‐limb revascularization occurred in 82 (6%) and 105 (7%) participants, respectively. The use of VKAs was significantly associated with increased risk of LLA [multivariable adjusted HR 1.90 (95% CI, 1.04‐3.47)], but not lower‐limb revascularization [multivariable adjusted HR 1.08 (95% CI, 0.59‐1.97)].

Conclusions

In this prospective study, we did not observe any excess risk of PAD requiring lower‐limb revascularization in people with type 2 diabetes using VKAs. However, our data suggest a high risk of LLA in VKA users. Further studies are required to confirm this observation.
Global variation in ecoregion flammability thresholds
Authors: Ellis Todd M. , Bowman David M. J. S. , Williamson Grant J.
Published: May 2024

Anthropogenic climate change is altering the state of worldwide fire regimes, including by increasing the number of days per year when vegetation is dry enough to burn. Indices representing the percent moisture content of dead fine fuels as derived from meteorological data have been used to assess geographic patterns and temporal trends in vegetation flammability. To date, this approach has assumed a single flammability threshold, typically between 8 and 12%, controlling fire potential regardless of the vegetation type or climate domain. Here we use remotely sensed burnt area products and a common fire weather index calculated from global meteorological reanalysis data to identify and describe geographic variation in fuel moisture as a flammability threshold. This geospatial analysis identified a wide range of flammability thresholds associated with fire activity across 772 ecoregions, often well above or below the commonly used range of values. Many boreal and temperate forests, for example, can ignite and sustain wildfires with higher estimated fuel moisture than previously identified; Mediterranean forests, in contrast, tend to sustain fires with consistently low estimated fuel moisture. Statistical modelling showed that flammability thresholds derived from burnt area are primarily driven by climatological variables, particularly precipitation and temperature. Our analysis also identified complex associations between vegetation structure, fuel types, and climatic conditions highlighting the complexity in vegetation–climate–fire relationships globally. Our study provides a critical, necessary step in understanding and describing global pyrogeography and tracking changes in spatial and temporal fire activity.
Soil and climate‐dependent ingrowth inference: broadleaves on their slow way to conquer Swiss forests
Authors: Flury Roman , Portier Jeanne , Rohner Brigitte , Baltensweiler Andri , Di Bella Meusburger Katrin , Scherrer Daniel , Thürig Esther , Stadelmann Golo
Published: May 2024

Forests provide essential ecosystem services that range from the production of timber to the mitigation of natural hazards. Rapid environmental changes, such as climate warming or the intensification of disturbance regimes, threaten forests and endanger forest ecosystem services. In light of these challenges, it is essential to understand forests' demographic processes of regeneration, growth, and mortality and their relationship with environmental conditions. Specifically, understanding the regeneration process in present‐day forests is crucial since it lays the foundation for the structure of future forests and their tree species composition. We used Swiss National Forest Inventory (NFI) data covering vast bio‐geographic gradients over four decades to achieve this understanding. Trees that reached a diameter at breast height of 12 cm between two consecutive NFI campaigns were used to determine regeneration and were referred to as ingrowth. Employing three independent statistical models, we investigated the number, species, and diameter of these ingrowth trees. The models were subsequently implemented into a forest simulator to project the development of Swiss forests until the mid‐21st century. The simulation results showed an ingrowth decrease and a shift in its species composition, marked by a significant reduction in Norway spruce Picea abies and concurrent increases in broadleaves. Nevertheless, the pace of this change towards climatically better adapted species composition is relatively slow and is likely to slow down even further as ingrowth declines in the future, in contrast to the fast‐changing climatic conditions. Hence, support through adaptive planting strategies should be tested in case ingrowth does not ensure the resilience of forests in the future. We conclude that since the regeneration of forests is becoming increasingly challenging, the current level at which ecosystem services are provided might not be ensured in the coming decades.
“Spanish flu,” encephalitis lethargica, and COVID‐19: Progress made, lessons learned, and directions for future research
Authors: Brainin Michael , Teuschl Yvonne , Gelpi Ellen
Published: May 2024

One hundred years ago, an influenza pandemic swept across the globe that coincided with the development of a neurological condition, named "encephalitis lethargica" for the occurrence of its main symptom, the sudden onset of sleepiness that either developed into coma or gradually receded. Between 1917 and 1920, mortality of the flu was >20 million and of encephalitis lethargica approximately 1 million. For lessons to be learned from this pandemic, it makes sense to compare it with the COVID‐19 pandemic, which occurred 100 years later. Biomedical progress had enabled testing, vaccinations, and drug therapies accompanied by public health measures such as social distancing, contact tracing, wearing face masks, and frequent hand washing. From todays' perspective, these public health measures are time honored but not sufficiently proven effective, especially when applied in the context of a vaccination strategy. Also, the protective effects of lockdowns of schools, universities, and other institutions and the restrictions on travel and personal visits to hospitals or old‐age homes are not precisely known. Preparedness is still a demand for a future pandemic. Clinical trials should determine the comparative effectiveness of such public health measures, especially for their use as a combination strategy with vaccination and individual testing of asymptomatic individuals. It is important for neurologists to realize that during a pandemic the treatment possibilities for acute stroke and other neurological emergencies are reduced, which has previously led to an increase of mortality and suffering. To increase preparedness for a future pandemic, neurologists play an important role, as the case load of acute and chronic neurological patients will be higher as well as the needs for rehabilitation. Finally, new chronic forms of postviral disease will likely be added, as was the case for postencephalitic parkinsonism a century ago and now has occurred as long COVID.
Experimental approaches for induction of diabetes mellitus and assessment of antidiabetic activity: An in vitro and in vivo methodological review
Authors: Gavanji Shahin , Bakhtari Azizollah , Abdel‐latif Rania , Bencurova Elena , Othman Eman M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus poses a global health challenge, driving the need for innovative therapeutic solutions. Experimental methods play a crucial role in evaluating the efficacy of potential antidiabetic drugs, both in vitro and in vivo. Yet concerns about reproducibility persist, necessitating comprehensive reviews.

Objectives

This review aims to outline experimental approaches for inducing diabetes and evaluating antidiabetic activity, synthesizing data from authoritative sources and academic literature.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of prominent databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus, to identify relevant articles spanning from 1943 to the present. A total of 132 articles were selected for inclusion in this review, focusing on in vitro and in vivo experimental validations of antidiabetic treatments.

Results

Our review highlights the diverse array of experimental methods employed for inducing diabetes mellitus and evaluating antidiabetic interventions. From cell culture assays to animal models, researchers have employed various techniques to study the effectiveness of novel therapeutic agents.

Conclusion

This review provides a comprehensive guide to experimental approaches for assessing antidiabetic activity. By synthesizing data from a range of sources, we offer valuable insights into the current methodologies used in diabetes research. Standardizing protocols and enhancing reproducibility are critical for advancing effective antidiabetic treatments.
Damage to tropical forests caused by cyclones is driven by wind speed but mediated by topographical exposure and tree characteristics
Authors: Ibanez Thomas , Bauman David , Aiba Shin‐ichiro , Arsouze Thomas , Bellingham Peter J. , Birkinshaw Chris , Birnbaum Philippe , Curran Timothy J. , DeWalt Saara J. , Dwyer John , Fourcaud Thierry , Franklin Janet , Kohyama Takashi S. , Menkes Christophe , Metcalfe Dan J. , Murphy Helen , Muscarella Robert , Plunkett Gregory M. , Sam Chanel , Tanner Edmund , Taylor Benton N. , Thompson Jill , Ticktin Tamara , Tuiwawa Marika V. , Uriarte Maria , Webb Edward L. , Zimmerman Jess K. , Keppel Gunnar
Published: May 2024

Each year, an average of 45 tropical cyclones affect coastal areas and potentially impact forests. The proportion of the most intense cyclones has increased over the past four decades and is predicted to continue to do so. Yet, it remains uncertain how topographical exposure and tree characteristics can mediate the damage caused by increasing wind speed. Here, we compiled empirical data on the damage caused by 11 cyclones occurring over the past 40 years, from 74 forest plots representing tropical regions worldwide, encompassing field data for 22,176 trees and 815 species. We reconstructed the wind structure of those tropical cyclones to estimate the maximum sustained wind speed (MSW) and wind direction at the studied plots. Then, we used a causal inference framework combined with Bayesian generalised linear mixed models to understand and quantify the causal effects of MSW, topographical exposure to wind (EXP), tree size (DBH) and species wood density (ρ) on the proportion of damaged trees at the community level, and on the probability of snapping or uprooting at the tree level. The probability of snapping or uprooting at the tree level and, hence, the proportion of damaged trees at the community level, increased with increasing MSW, and with increasing EXP accentuating the damaging effects of cyclones, in particular at higher wind speeds. Higher ρ decreased the probability of snapping and to a lesser extent of uprooting. Larger trees tended to have lower probabilities of snapping but increased probabilities of uprooting. Importantly, the effect of ρ decreasing the probabilities of snapping was more marked for smaller than larger trees and was further accentuated at higher MSW. Our work emphasises how local topography, tree size and species wood density together mediate cyclone damage to tropical forests, facilitating better predictions of the impacts of such disturbances in an increasingly windier world.
Machine‐learning classifier models for predicting sarcopenia in the elderly based on physical factors
Authors: Kim Jun‐hee
Published: May 2024

Aim

As the size of the elderly population gradually increases, musculoskeletal disorders, such as sarcopenia, are increasing. Diagnostic techniques such as X‐rays, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are used to predict and diagnose sarcopenia, and methods using machine learning are gradually increasing. This study aimed to create a model that can predict sarcopenia using physical characteristics and activity‐related variables without medical diagnostic equipment, such as imaging equipment, for the elderly aged 60 years or older.

Methods

A sarcopenia prediction model was constructed using public data obtained from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Models were built using Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine (SVM), XGBoost, LightGBM, RandomForest, and Multi‐layer Perceptron Neural Network (MLP) algorithms, and the feature importance of the models trained with the algorithms, except for SVM and MLP, was analyzed.

Results

The sarcopenia prediction model built with the LightGBM algorithm achieved the highest test accuracy, of 0.848. In constructing the LightGBM model, physical characteristic variables such as body mass index, weight, and waist circumference showed high importance, and activity‐related variables were also used in constructing the model.

Conclusions

The sarcopenia prediction model, which consisted of only physical characteristics and activity‐related factors, showed excellent performance. This model has the potential to assist in the early detection of sarcopenia in the elderly, especially in communities with limited access to medical resources or facilities. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 595–602.
Metabolic effects of switching to Biktarvy (B/F/TAF) in patients with HIV‐1 treated with antiretroviral regimens that do not include tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or tenofovir alafenamide (TAF): The Metabic study
Authors: Busca‐Arenzana C. , Ortega‐González D. , Díaz‐Almirón M. , Montes M. L. , Martin‐Carbonero Luz , Mican R. , Montejano R. , Ramos‐Ruperto L. , Valencia Eulalia , Delgado‐Hierro Ana , Bernardino Jose I.
Published: May 2024

Background

Studies on switching to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)‐based regimens raise concerns about a worse metabolic profile in people with HIV, even though most received tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in their previous regimen. This study aims to evaluate changes in lipid fractions, glucose, and serum markers for hepatic steatosis (HS) after switching from a TDF‐ or TAF‐sparing regimen to bictegravir/emtricitabine/TAF (B/F/TAF).

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of people with HIV who switched to B/F/TAF from TDF‐ or TAF‐sparing regimens between January 2019 and May 2022 with at least 6 months of follow‐up. The primary endpoint was the absolute change in lipid fractions at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in lipid fractions at 12 months and changes in other metabolic parameters (glucose, creatinine, and HS based on the triglyceride‐to‐glucose [TyG] ratio at 6 and 12 months). Changes were analysed using mixed linear regression models with random intercept and time as a fixed effect.

Results

The study included 259 people with HIV (median age 55 [interquartile range (IQR) 47–60] years; 80% male; 88% Caucasian; CD4+ T‐cell count 675 [IQR 450–880] cells/mm3; 84.3% HIV‐RNA <50 copies/mL). In total, 63 patients (30%) had hypertension, 93 (44%) dyslipidaemia, 30 (14%) diabetes, and 45% obesity/overweight. Most (60%) switched from integrase inhibitor‐based regimens, and 21% switched from a boosted regimen. At 6 months, significant reductions were observed in total cholesterol (−7.64 mg/dL [95% confidence interval (CI) −13.52 to −1.76; p = 0.002]), triglycerides (−23.4 [95% CI −42.07 to −4.65]; p = 0.003), and TyG ratio (−0.14 [95% CI −0.23 to −0.05]; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In our real‐life cohort, the effect of switching TDF‐/TAF‐sparing regimens to triple therapy with B/F/TAF improved total cholesterol, triglycerides, and serum markers of HS at 6 months and was neutral for the remaining metabolic parameters at 12 months.
Corruption and audit fees: New evidence from EU27 countries
Authors: Mottinger Markus
Published: May 2024

This study examines the relationship between country‐level corruption and audit pricing decisions across EU27 countries. Using a sample of 29,607 firm‐year observations for the period 2011–2021, I find that firms headquartered in more corrupt countries pay higher audit fees and have longer reporting lags. I also show that this relationship is stronger after the EU audit reform came into force in 2016. The results suggest that auditors respond to corruption risk stemming from the broader macroeconomic environment by increasing audit fees and audit effort. In additional analyses, I show how the association between audit fees and corruption varies across firm industries, and I document that female engagement partners tend to be more sensitive to corruption risk than their male counterparts. Ultimately, I find unexpected evidence indicating that financial reporting quality, proxied by discretionary accruals, is not adversely affected by corruption. This study addresses prior calls for a more granular understanding of external factors in audit research and provides the first European evidence of the association between corruption and auditor responses. The implications of this study should be particularly relevant for researchers, market participants and regulators.
Impact of financial literacy on consumer financial behavior: A systematic review and research agenda using TCCM framework
Authors: Negi Pushpa , Jaiswal Anand
Published: May 2024

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the impact of financial literacy on consumer financial behavior through a systematic literature review. While numerous studies have explored this association, there is a lack of a comprehensive analysis that consolidates diverse insights and offers a holistic view. Our study addresses research questions, including the utilization of theoretical frameworks explaining the impact of financial literacy on consumer financial behavior. Also, we explore the diverse contexts encompassing industries, countries, and consumer types, involved in this relationship. We scrutinize the dependent, independent, control, mediating, and moderating variables involved, along with the methodological approaches utilized for assessing the impact. Employing the Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Methodology (TCCM) framework, we systematically analyzed 79 identified papers using the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR‐4‐SLR) protocol. The findings highlight the multifaceted factors shaping individuals' financial decisions and behaviors, shedding light on the complex dynamics prevalent across industries, countries, and consumer segments. Our review offers insights into future research directions, advocating the integration of fresh theories and innovative methodologies to enhance existing knowledge. This study significantly contributes to academic understanding and offers valuable guidance for policymakers, businesses, and educators seeking to enhance financial literacy education and shape positive consumer financial behaviors.
Nasal tip rotation flap for reconstruction of surgical defects on the distal nose
Authors: Rickstrew Jace , Neill Brett C. , Downing Malia , Cappel Jonathan A. , Tolkachjov Stanislav N.
Published: May 2024

Background

The nose is a common site for the development of skin cancers. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a highly curative treatment for skin cancer of the nose. Reconstruction of MMS defects on the nose, especially on the distal aspect, can be challenging given the proximity of multiple subunits and limited adjacent tissue reservoirs. Our goal was to describe our experience using a nasal tip rotation flap (NTRF) for MMS defects on the distal nose.

Methods

A retrospective review of all MMS cases at multiple institutions between June 2018 and June 2022 was undertaken. Cases that used an NTRF to repair the MMS defect(s) were selected, and data were collected on patient demographics, tumor type, anatomical location of the tumor, preoperative and postoperative size, number of stages needed to clear the tumor, repair dimensions, and any postoperative complications.

Results

A total of 66 cases that utilized an NTRF for reconstruction were included. The mean preoperative tumor size was 0.8 cm (range: 0.3–1.6 cm), and the mean defect size was 1.2 cm (range: 0.7–1.9 cm). The defects were most commonly on the nasal tip. There were no significant complications observed.

Conclusions

The nasal tip rotation flap is a reliable reconstruction option for MMS defects of the distal nose. This flap can be used for defects that involve the nasal tip, soft triangle, and/or portions of the ala, including the alar rim.
Microbiological quality and safety of non‐treated fresh and squeezed juices from supermarkets in Lleida, Spain
Authors: Neggazi Isma , Colás‐Medà Pilar , Viñas Inmaculada , Alegre Isabel
Published: May 2024

The growing consumption of untreated juices has increased the outbreaks related to Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes. Although these pathogens are not in favourable conditions in fruit juices, cases of survival in acidic environments have been reported in fruit and vegetable juices. Thus, this study has evaluated the microbiological quality (total aerobic mesophilic microorganisms (TAM), moulds and yeasts, total coliforms (TC) and E. coli populations) and investigated the occurrence of foodborne pathogens (Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes) in 100 fresh (blended) and self‐service (monovarietal) untreated juices. Concerning the obtained results, pH was higher for fresh juices than for self‐service juices. The results showed great variability in TAM, moulds and yeasts and TC populations. For TAM, the results ranged from 1.7 to 7.4 log cfu mL−1. Values for moulds and yeasts, ranged from below detection limit (<10 cfu mL−1) to 5.9 log cfu mL−1. And for TC, results went from below detection limit (<1 cfu mL−1) to 4.4 log cfu mL−1. However, significant differences were only observed between the two types of samples in TC, being higher in fresh juices than in self‐service juices. For E. coli enumeration, all the samples were below the detection limit (1 cfu mL−1). Finally, no Salmonella spp. or L. monocytogenes were detected in 25 mL of sample. All analysed samples complied the requirements from European regulation.
Antifungal activity of alginate coatings with essential oil of Mexican oregano incorporated in the stem of tomatoes
Authors: Hernández‐Figueroa Ricardo H. , Mani‐López Emma , López‐Malo Aurelio
Published: May 2024

Adding natural antimicrobials such as essential oils (EOs) to alginate coatings on fruits provides an antifungal effect and a semipermeable water vapour barrier. This work aims to evaluate the antifungal effect of Lippia berlandieri S. (Mexican oregano) EO incorporated into alginate to coat tomato stems inoculated with Penicillium commune, Fusarium spp., or Cladosporium herbarum. Alginate films and coatings with EO concentrations (0%, 0.25%, 0.75%, 1%, 2%, or 4% v/v) were prepared to evaluate their properties (physical, mechanical, and water vapour transmission rates) as well as their effect on mould growth on tomato stems for 28 days during refrigerated storage. Mould growth was described with probabilistic and time‐to‐growth predictive models. Two treatment types were assessed (tomato inoculated and coated, TIC, and tomato coated and inoculated, TCI) to provide information about the moment of mould contamination (before or after coating). EO concentration influenced the alginate films' physical, mechanical, and barrier properties. Testing the coatings against moulds revealed varying inhibitory effects. Fusarium spp. exhibited the highest resistance, while C. herbarum was the most susceptible. The predictive models appropriately described the probability of growth or the time‐to‐growth of the studied moulds, identifying critical concentrations of oregano EO needed to inhibit mould growth effectively. The findings suggest that alginate coatings with oregano EO can serve as a natural and effective antifungal treatment for tomatoes, offering insights into optimal concentrations and application methods for extended shelf life.
Exploring novel peptides in adzuki bean and mung bean hydrolysates with potent antibacterial activity
Authors: Karami Zohreh , Muangnapoh Chonchanok , Suthienkul Orasa , Suriyarak Sarisa , Duangmal Kiattisak
Published: May 2024

This study delved into the antimicrobial potential of hydrolysates from adzuki bean and mung bean protein concentrates, created using Alcalase and Flavourzyme enzymes. Targeting common foodborne pathogens (Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella Enteritidis, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis) and Escherichia coli, the research underscored the crucial role of peptidase in generating antibacterial peptides. Fractions F2 of Flavourzyme hydrolysed adzuki bean (ABF) and F4 of Flavourzyme hydrolysed mung bean (MBF) showed the highest antibacterial activity against S. Typhimurium and S. aureus, respectively, whereas F2 of Alcalase hydrolysed mung bean (MBA) exhibited very poor activity against S. aureus. TripleTOF LC–MS/MS analysis revealed small cationic antibacterial peptides, with lysine being prominent against S. aureus and proline–proline against S. Typhimurium. These findings highlighted the significant contribution of protease enzymes in fostering antibacterial peptide production, offering valuable insights for developing effective antimicrobial agents in the context of food safety.
Harnessing artificial intelligence in microbial food safety: global progress and implications in the ASEAN region
Authors: Panaligan Dominic , Sy Isaac Cornelius Bensley , Sarza Riann Martin
Published: May 2024

Food safety remains one of the major concerns in ASEAN, with many of the recent developmental plans and published policies in the region being focused on the topic. Most recent WHO data indicate that over 90% of the food safety burden in ASEAN is due to microbial foodborne diseases. However, conventional systems for controlling FBDs are resource‐intensive and require significant infrastructure which may not yet be present in ASEAN. Prior work on the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) in food safety application has shown its potential to reduce costs and increase efficiency. However, there remains a paucity in such research specific for the ASEAN region. In this review, the state of microbial food safety and the unique challenges in the ASEAN region are presented. The global state‐of‐the‐art of microbial food safety applications of AI are presented and possible steps for its adaptation to the ASEAN context are then discussed.
Lifestyle‐based subtypes of childhood obesity and their association with cardiometabolic factors: A cluster analysis
Authors: Huang Jia‐Shuan , Ramakrishnan Rema , Liu Quan‐Zhen , Wang Cheng‐Rui , Shen Song‐Ying , Huang Ming‐Xi , Wei Xue‐Ling , Qiu Xiu , He Jian‐Rong
Published: May 2024

Background

Lifestyle factors play an important role in the development and management of childhood obesity and its related cardiometabolic complications.

Objective/Methods

We aimed to explore childhood obesity subtypes based on lifestyle factors and examine their association with cardiometabolic health. We included 1550 children with obesity from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Cluster analysis identified obesity subtypes based on four lifestyle factors (physical activity, diet quality, sedentary time and smoking). Multiple linear regression assessed their association with cardiometabolic factors.

Results

Five subtypes of childhood obesity were identified: unhealthy subtype (n = 571; 36.8%), physically active subtype (n = 185; 21.1%), healthy diet subtype (n = 404; 26.1%), smoking subtype (n = 125; 8.1%) and non‐sedentary subtype (n = 265; 17.1%). Compared with the unhealthy subtype, the physically active subtype had lower insulin and HOMA‐IR levels, and smoking subtype was associated with lower HDL levels. When compared with children with normal weight, all obesity subtypes had worse cardiometabolic profile, except the physically active subtype who had similar DBP, HbA1c and TC levels; smoking subtype who had similar TC levels; and healthy diet and non‐sedentary subtypes who had similar DBP levels.

Conclusion

Children of different lifestyle‐based obesity subtypes might have different cardiometabolic risks. Our new classification system might help personalize assessment of childhood obesity.
Impact of foot ulcer‐related factors on quality of life in patients with diabetes: Prospective observational study
Authors: Oe Makoto , Saad Supriadi Syafiie , Jais Suriadi , Sugama Junko
Published: May 2024

Quality of life (QOL) may be impacted by foot ulcer‐related factors, with prevention of diabetes‐related foot ulcers or more effective early healing helping to improve overall patient QOL. This study, which examined the relationship between foot ulcer‐related factors and QOL in patients with diabetes, was conducted as a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study entitled: “Factors associated with the discontinuation of wound care specialist clinic visits in patients with diabetic foot ulcers”. We investigated EQ‐5D‐5L, patient characteristics and foot ulcer‐related factors of 73 patients with diabetes‐related foot ulcers who visited one wound clinic in Indonesia between August 2020 and February 2021. Results showed that the mean health utility was 0.294 ± 0.371. Factors selected for the multiple regression analysis included inflammation/infection of DMIST, first‐ever foot ulcer, and size of DMIST. First‐ever foot ulcer (β = 0.309, p = 0.003) and size of DMIST (β = −0.316, p = 0.015) were significantly associated with the health utility (p < 0.001). Significant improvement in the health utility of 15 patients was observed when the ulcer healed (Wilcoxon signed‐rank sum test, p = 0.001). In conclusion, not only ulcer severity but also the first‐ever foot ulcer itself affected the QOL in patients with diabetes. These results suggest there will be a greater impact on the QOL of patients who develop diabetes‐related foot ulcers for the first time, along with the importance of prevention and early healing, through early infection control and wound size reduction.
‘Nutrition has everything to do with wound healing’—health professionals' perceptions of assessment and management of nutrition in individuals with diabetes‐related foot ulceration
Authors: Donnelly Hailey R. , Clarke Erin D. , Collins Clare E. , Tehan Peta E.
Published: May 2024

Determine how healthcare professionals perceive their role in nutrition assessment and management, and explore barriers and enablers to assessment and management of nutrition in individuals with DFU. Mixed methods including a cross‐sectional online survey derived from current international guidelines and theoretical domains framework, and semi‐structured interviews with conventional content analysis was performed. One hundred and ninety‐one participants completed the survey, with 19 participating in interviews. Many health professionals are not confident in their ability in this area of practice, are uncertain their nutrition advice or management will be effective in assisting wound healing outcomes and are uncertain their intervention would result in adequate behaviour change by the individual with DFU. Major barriers to implementation of nutrition assessment and management were: inadequate time, lack of knowledge and lack of clinical guidance and enablers were as follows: professional development, a standardised clinical pathway and screening tool and a resource addressing wound healing and diabetes management. Nutrition assessment and management in individuals with DFU is not consistently applied. Whilst health professionals believed nutrition was important for wound healing, they lacked confidence in implementing into their practice. Further dissemination of existing guidance and implementation of education programs and resources would help overcome cited barriers.
A clinical study of the local injection of a freshly manufactured 35 kDa hyaluronan fragment for treating chronic wounds
Authors: Treger Dylan , Zhang Lujia , Jia Xiaoxiao , Hui Jessica H. , Gantumur Munkh‐Amgalan , Hui Mizhou , Liu Li
Published: May 2024

This study manufactured a 35 kDa hyaluronan fragment (HA35) by enzymatically degrading high‐molecular‐weight HA using hyaluronidase PH20 derived from bovine testis. The research then examined the therapeutic efficacy of locally administered, tissue‐permeable HA35 in alleviating chronic wounds and their associated neuropathic pain. For 20 patients with nonhealing wounds and associated pain lasting over three months, 100 mg of HA35 was injected daily into the healthy skin surrounding the chronic wound for 10 days. Self‐assessments before and after treatment indicated that HA35 significantly enhanced wound healing. This was evidenced by the formation of fresh granulation tissue on the wounds (p < 0.0001); reduced darkness, redness, dryness, and damage in the skin surrounding the wounds (p < 0.0001), and a decrease in wound size (p < 0.001). Remarkably, HA35 injections alleviated pain associated with chronic wounds within 24 hours (p < 0.0001). It can be concluded that the low‐molecular‐weight hyaluronan fragment HA35 potentially enhances the immune response and angiogenesis during wound healing.
Postsynthetic modification of yttria‐stabilized zirconia aerogels with silica coatings for enhanced thermal stability
Authors: Olson Nathaniel S. , Stokes Jamesa L. , Guo Haiquan , Hurwitz Frances I. , Rogers Richard B. , Shah Nachiket , Krogstad Jessica A.
Published: May 2024

Maintaining high surface area and porosity at high temperatures is important when considering aerogels for use in thermal management systems. The mesoporous structure of aerogels results in extremely low thermal conductivity, making them lightweight, high performance insulating materials. Maintaining these properties requires innovative routes to suppress sintering and pore collapse as use temperatures rise. The current work aims to improve the pore structure stability of yttria‐stabilized zirconia aerogels by the addition of a SiO2 coating. The functionalization of surface hydroxyl groups by the addition of SiO2 is hypothesized to mitigate condensation reactions, which are a driving force for shrinkage and pore structure collapse. Zirconia aerogels with 0, 10, and 30 mol% yttria (YO1.5) additions were coated in a tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) solution and exposed to temperatures up to 1200°C. Crystal structure, pore structure, and aerogel morphology were investigated to understand changes in aerogel thermal stability. The SiO2 coating exhibited a greater influence on pore stability over yttria concentration, with specific surface area of the coated aerogels being twice that of the uncoated aerogels up to 1000°C. However, the presence of the SiO2 coating promoted rapid sintering and densification at 1200°C, establishing an upper use temperature for SiO2 and a need to develop other coating chemistries.
The (dis)organization of leg ulcer care: A realist synthesis
Authors: Pagnamenta Fania , Lhussier Monique , Rapley Tim
Published: May 2024

Background

Venous leg ulcers affect 1.5% of the UK adult population. Leg ulcers are painful, can be malodourous and are associated with poor quality of life. Leg ulcers are predominantly cared for by nurses in the community. Frequently, patients receive suboptimal treatment through unwanted variations in care and simple ulcers deteriorate to become hard‐to‐heal wounds. It is important to understand the current UK system of care and how nurses and patients navigate through it.

Aim

The aim of this paper was to understand how, when, for whom and in what context leg ulcers are cared for in the United Kingdom and specifically, the current system of care, the nurses' role and the patients' experience in this system of care.

Design

A realist synthesis of the literature was undertaken, reported following the RAMESES publication standards: Realist syntheses.

Data Sources

An iterative literature search was conducted across three recognized health collections from January 2010 to January 2022 that included descriptive studies as well as primary research.

Results

73 papers were included.

Conclusion

In the absence of UK national guidance that recommends how leg ulcer care is organized and delivered, care is commissioned locally, with variable outcomes. Patients with venous leg ulcers would like to be looked after by knowledgeable, skilled and confident nurses, in well‐equipped and staffed clinics; nurses who have the ability to make clinical judgements to alter their treatment when necessary and are empowered to refer to specialist centres when further support is required.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This synthesis offers guidance to commissioners and providers to change how leg ulcer care is organized.

Patient or Public Contribution

The views of a patient and public group was sought at each stage of the synthesis.
The physical, social, and mental conditions of machine learning in student health evaluation
Authors: Tyulepberdinova Gulnur , Mansurova Madina , Sarsembayeva Talshyn , Issabayeva Sulu , Issabayeva Darazha
Published: May 2024

Background

This study aims to assess how well several machine learning (ML) algorithms predict the physical, social, and mental health condition of university students.

Objectives

The physical health measurements used in the study include BMI (Body Mass Index), %BF (percentage of Body Fat), BSC (Blood Serum Cholesterol), SBP (Systolic Blood Pressure), and DBP (Diastolic Blood Pressure).

Methods

The mental health evaluation relied on the following methods: PHQ‐9 (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9), ISI (Insomnia Severity Index), GAD‐7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale), and SBQ‐R (Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire‐Revised). The study assessed KEYES, the comprehensive social health indicator. The study uses a famous methodology for training and testing four well‐known ML algorithms, namely the K‐nearest neighbors algorithm, decision trees, Naïve Bayes, and the random forest algorithm.

Results and Conclusions

The recall value of the RF algorithm is higher by 2.0%, 4.15%, and 11.25%, respectively. The F‐score value of the RF algorithm is also the highest. The differences amount to 4.56% (Naïve Bayes), 2.50% (DT), and 11.20% (K‐NN). Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and F‐score were used to assess the researched ML algorithms' prediction ability. With a 99.40% prediction accuracy, a 97.60% precision, a 99.30% recall, and an F‐score value of 98.70%, the Random Forest method performed the best. ML algorithms can serve as tools for the prediction of physical, mental, and social health state of patients, including students, but they have a rather narrow scope of application and do not cover all aspects of health.
Reassessing Cohesion Policy Through the Lens of the New EU Industrial Policy
Authors: Molica Francesco
Published: May 2024

The research note explores the role of cohesion policy in the emerging EU industrial agenda with the view to anchor it in the new industrial policy paradigm. The first part discusses the historical evolution of EU industrial policy and presents the main features of the conceptual perspective loosely referred to as ‘new industrial policy’. Then, the note investigates the main tensions between cohesion policy's rationales and instruments and the new industrial policy perspective, for instance in relation to the use of experimentation and directionality, and outlines pathways to address them through different lines of research. In conclusion, the note discusses positive avenues to tackle the identity crisis facing cohesion policy thanks to the new industrial policy perspective.
Evaluation of minimally invasive esthetic crown lengthening using an open flap versus flapless surgical approach: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Sourour Marie‐line , Tawfik Omnia Khaled , Hosny Manal , Fawzy El‐Sayed Karim Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Esthetic crown lengthening (ECL) is commonly advocated to treat patients with altered passive eruption (APE). Since the introduction of the minimally invasive surgical concept, a limited number of studies have investigated this technique in a standardized manner, with further studies required to verify the validity and predictability of the minimally invasive FL‐technique. The current randomized trial compares a minimally invasive (ECL), using piezosurgery with flapless‐approach (FL), versus an open‐flap (OF) approach in the management of patients with APE Type 1B.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four patients diagnosed with APE Type 1B were randomly assigned into test (FL) with tunneling approach or control (OF) group with minimally invasive flap reflection (n = 12/group). Postoperative pain was assessed during the first 48 h. Gingival margin (GM) level relative to a custom‐made stent (rGM) and patient satisfaction were assessed preoperative, immediately after surgery, at 3 and 6 months postsurgically. Postoperative swelling was reported for the first week postsurgically. Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BoP), clinical attachment level (CAL), pocket depth (PD) and pink esthetic score (PES), were evaluated at baseline and 6 months. Linear regression analysis was conducted for pain.

Results

OF‐group reported significantly higher pain and swelling scores than FL‐group during the first 48 h (p < 0.05). FL‐group showed no significant differences regarding rGM between 3 and 6 months, in contrast to OF‐group, where a significant decrease in rGM was notable (p < 0.05). No significant differences in PI, BoP, CAL, PD, PES, and patient satisfaction scores were evident between groups (p > 0.05). Regression analysis demonstrated that treatment and gender were significant predictors for pain (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the current study's limitations, piezo‐surgical ECL with FL‐approach presented significantly lower postoperative pain, swelling, and early GM stability compared to OF‐approach.

Clinical Significance

Piezosurgical ECL with a FL‐approach can be considered a predictable technique with advantages over the OF‐approach in the management of patients with APE Type1B.