bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students' perspectives on why they drop out and possible retention strategies
Authors: Huo Yang , Messenger Rachel Anna , Miller Doug
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to address the issue of why students want to drop out from a course and suggests appropriate strategies to enhance student retention.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 260 hospitality management students were surveyed based on both Tinto's model of student–institution integration and a theory of planned behavior on student departure. The research applies data mining and decision tree using the classification and regression trees (CART) method as an analytic tool to identify a group, discover relationships between groups and predict future events for segmentation.

Findings

The results regarding the demographics indicate that the most critical factors of dropout included residency status, financial situation, quality of class and occupation.

Research limitations/implications

This is a limited US sample, based on student perceptions only and not lecturer or institution perceptions.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical evidence of student perspective along with institutional and learning environment factors. It includes data from students who are currently enrolled (which previous literature has not covered) by testing student–institution integration and planned behavior on student departure.
Developing an analytical framework to identify early warnings of serious problems with the quality and safety of care
Authors: Wilson Steven
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the approach taken in National Health Service Scotland to sharing information between health and care oversight bodies and the development of an analytical framework to monitor and identify early signals of serious problems in the quality and safety of health and care services.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the reports from UK public inquiries into serious failures in health and social care services identified the prominent themes that appear repeatedly as the causes of failure. These themes were used to develop an analytical framework setting out the seven primary causes of failures in the quality and safety of health and care services and the triggers or signals for each of these primary causes.

Findings

In Scotland, the Sharing Intelligence for Health and Care Group uses the analytical framework to collate their combined intelligence and shapes their discussions around the known signs of systemic failure and their early warning signs.

Originality/value

Research into the nature of organisational failure in the health and care sector is limited. This paper provides a practical framework for regulators and providers to target their attention to the known signs of systemic failure and ensure that the early warning signs are routinely surfaced, understood and addressed.
News-based uncertainty measures and returns on prices of precious metals: evidence from regime switching and time-varying causality approach
Authors: Adeosun Opeoluwa Adeniyi , Adeosun Olumide Adeola , Tabash Mosab I. , Anagreh Suhaib
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The study aims to examine the relationship among economic policy uncertainty (EPU), geopolitical-risks (GPR), the interaction (EPGR) of EPU and GPR and the returns of gold, silver, platinum, palladium and rhodium using monthly data from January (1997) to May (2021).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs the Markov-switching and the novel Shi et al. (2020) bootstrap time-varying Granger-causality approach.

Findings

Though the Markov-switching shows variation in the responses of precious metals to EPU, GPR and EPGR across low and high states, the paper observes the safe-haven potential of the precious metals in the high regime while the hedging potency is also evident in the results. To further substantiate the safe-haven and hedging properties, the time-varying Granger-causality shows the causal effect of EPU on all the selected precious metal returns coinciding with global events. While the authors show that GPR Granger causes platinum, palladium and rhodium consistently under the rolling/recursive-evolving tests, the authors cannot find the causal effect of GPR on gold and silver returns across the algorithms. The paper also observes persistence in the causal effect of EPGR on palladium and platinum across all the algorithms, while gold and rhodium only show consistency in the responses under the rolling- and recursive-evolving algorithms given the conditions of homoscedasticity and heteroscedasticity.

Practical implications

The authors' results are essential to investors and policymakers since both typically leverage the hedging and safe-haven characteristics of precious metals to obviate downside risks during highly uncertain periods.

Originality/value

The authors' techniques allow examining the hedging and safe-haven properties of precious metals across regimes and date-stamp critical periods of causation inherent in the relationship.
CSR discrepancies, firm visibility and performance: a mediated moderation analysis
Authors: Al-Shammari Marwan A. , Al-Shammari Hussam , Banerjee Soumendra Nath
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to revisit the relationship between CSR and firm market performance. The authors examine whether a gap between the firm's internal and external CSR moderates the CSR-firm market performance relationship. Additionally, the authors propose that the moderating effect of the CSR gap on this relationship is mediated by firm visibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The initial sample is the Fortune 500 firms during the years 2004–2013. The final panel data sample consisted of 1,300 firms and 6,128 observations from 2004 to 2013. The authors obtained data from five different sources: Compustat North America Fundamental Annual, GMI Ratings, Execucomp, IBES and KLD Stats.

Findings

The results of this research find evidence that both internal CSR and external CSR were positively related to firm market performance, but that the relationship was stronger for firms with equal emphasis on external and internal CSR activities. Furthermore, the negative moderating effect of the CSR gap was mediated by the firm visibility.

Originality/value

The findings of the study advance our understanding of the CSR-FP relationship. First, the theoretical arguments and the empirical evidence highlight that the CSR-FP relationship exists and that its magnitude is contingent upon the gap between internal and external CSR investments. Second, the authors enhanced theoretical understanding of how and why CSR relates to firm performance by exploring firm visibility as a mediator. Specifically, the authors introduced firm visibility as a mechanism which explains the effect of the interaction of overall CSR with the CSR gap on firm performance.
Effect of selenium biofortification on bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in germinated black soybean
Authors: Huang Junyi , Qian Jiana , Wang Shanshan , Li Yingqiu , Zhai Xiaolin , Olajide Tosin Michael , Shen Garry X. , Liao Xianyan
Published: February 2022

Biofortification using inorganic selenium has become an effective strategy to enhance selenium content in crops. In the present study, the effects of selenium biofortification on the chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of black soybean (BS) during germination were studied. The contents of selenium, total sugar, vitamin C, γ‐aminobutyric acid, total polyphenols, and total flavonoids in selenium biofortified germinated black soybeans (GBS‐Se) significantly increased compared to germinated black soybeans (GBS). However, the contents of soluble protein, fat, and reducing sugar were decreased, while fatty acid composition was not significantly different between GBS and BS. HPLC analysis showed that 12 phenolic acids of all samples, which mainly existed in free forms. Their contents increased at low concentration of selenium and decreased along with the rise of selenium concentrations. The antioxidant activity of GBS‐Se as analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis positively correlated with the accumulation of phenolic substances. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that GBS and GBS‐Se were significantly different from BS. Moreover, the physicochemical indexes of GBS showed regularly changes with increasing selenium content, and those of GBS‐Se50 and GBS‐Se75 were significantly different from GBS. The results provide a systematic evaluation on the effect of selenium fortification on the germination of seeds and useful information for the development of Se‐enriched functional foods.

Practical Application

The organic selenium black soybean (BS) produced by the germination method can be directly processed and eaten to improve human health. In addition, complexes of organic selenium, vitamin C, and γ‐aminobutyric acid of germinated BS can be developed into functional substances and applied to food or health products as functional ingredient and/or natural antioxidant supplements.
Purification of polyphenols from Phyllanthus emblica L. pomace using macroporous resins: Antioxidant activity and potential anti‐Alzheimer's effects
Authors: Gan Jin , Zhang Xin , Ma Chenjing , Sun Long , Feng Ying , He Zhao , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2022

Phyllanthus emblica L. pomace is a waste residue obtained following juicing that contains many polyphenols. In this study, NKA‐II resin was selected as the optimal macroporous resin for separation and employed to separate the crude polyphenol extract of P. emblica pomace. The separation conditions were optimized, and the polyphenol content, polyphenol components, antioxidant activity, and potential anti‐Alzheimer's effects of the extract were measured before and after purification. Results showed that the polyphenol content of the purified extract was 656.85 mg/g, which was 2.1 times higher than that of the nonpurified form. Further, the polyphenol components of the pomace, which was like that of the fruit, did not vary after purification. The antioxidant activity of the purified extract was also significantly improved. Moreover, purified extract significantly reduced the paralysis rate of the transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans model of Alzheimer's disease, and the mechanism was related to maintenance of redox homeostasis.

Practical Application

The polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of purified polyphenol from Phyllanthus emblica L. pomace extracts were significantly improved using optimal separation methods with NKA‐II macroporous resin and 70% aqueous ethanol as the eluent in this study. Moreover, purified polyphenols showed potential effects in alleviating Alzheimer's disease. These results suggest that polyphenols separated from P. emblica pomace are valuable for further research and development, and the utilization rate of P. emblica fruit is improved due to the further development of P. emblica pomace.
SAFE and SBSE combined with GC‐MS and GC‐O for characterization of flavor compounds in Zhizhonghe Wujiapi medicinal liquor
Authors: Ma Longhua , Meng Qingran , Chen Feng , Gao Wenjie
Published: February 2022

Volatile compounds in Chinese Zhizhonghe Wujiapi (WJP) medicinal liquor were extracted by solvent‐assisted flavor evaporation extraction (SAFE) and stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE), respectively, and identified by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Results showed that a total of 123 volatile compounds (i.e., 108 by SAFE, 50 by SBSE, and 34 by both) including esters, alcohols, acids, aldehydes, ketones, heterocycles, terpenes and terpenoids, alkenes, phenols, and other compounds were identified, and 67 of them were confirmed as aroma‐active compounds by the application of the aroma extract dilution analysis coupled with gas chromatography‐olfactometry. After making a simulated reconstitute by mixing 41 characterized aroma‐active compounds (odor activity values ≥1) based on their concentrations, the aroma profile of the reconstitute showed good similarity to that of the original WJP liquor. Omission test further corroborated 34 key aroma‐active compounds in the WJP liquor. The study of WJP liquor is expected to provide some insights into the characterization of special volatile components in traditional Chinese medicine liquors for the purpose of quality improvement and aroma optimization.
Structure of fish proteins as modified by salting procedures: A rheological and ultrastructural analysis of hake (Merluccius hubbsi) fillets
Authors: Marchetti Marion D. , Gómez Paula L. , Yeannes María I. , Garcia Loredo Analía B.
Published: February 2022

Salting is a technique used for preserving fish meat and allows obtaining added value products. The salting process provokes several structure modifications, which in turns cause changes in the fish texture. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of three salting procedures (dry salting [DS], mixed salting [MS] and brining [BS]) on the rheology and structure of Merluccius hubbsi (Argentine hake). Rheological properties were evaluated using dynamic oscillatory and thermorheology tests, and the structure changes by scanning electron microscopy. DS samples showed the highest values of salt concentration referred to liquid phase (zNaCl), while BS showed the lowest ones. In all cases, elastic (G′) and loss (G″) modulus increased with salting time. G′ values exceeded G″ values, indicating a predominant solid behavior. DS samples presented the greatest increase in rheological parameters (G′, G″ and η*). Thermomechanical spectra allowed to identify an increase in denaturation temperature (Td) of proteins (myosin and actin) for DS and MS, and to a lesser extent for BS (Td = 46.7 ± 0.4°C, Td = 50.3 ± 0.8°C, Td = 58.8 ± 0.6°C and Td = 58.2 ± 0.9°C for fresh, BS, MS and DS, respectively). Ultrastructural images evidenced conformational changes on the myofibrillar proteins and the connective tissue (collagen). BS caused the least superficial damage to hake tissue. Based on the results, BS could be the method recommended for the industrial production of salted M. hubbsi.

Practical Application

During salting of hake, variations in water and salt content have a significant effect on the myofibrillar and connective tissue proteins. The study of rheological properties and microstructure allows a better understanding of the conformational changes induced by the salting process. The least surface damage exhibited by brining fillets is consistent with the mass transfer mechanism that leads to the formation of a film on the muscle surface that dilutes the salt; for this reason, compared to dry and mixed salting, brining could be the method recommended for the industrial production of salted (>15% w/w) Merluccius hubbsi.
Microencapsulated procyanidins by extruding starch improved physicochemical properties, inhibited the protein and lipid oxidant of chicken sausages
Authors: Song Jialin , Jiang Lijun , Qi Mingming , Suo Wenjing , Deng Yuxin , Ma Chengye , Li Hongjun , Zhang Dongliang
Published: February 2022

Microencapsulated procyanidins by extruding starch (MPS) were used in meat and meat products as an antioxidant for their simple production process and high stability. This study investigated the controlled released properties of MPS and their effect on antioxidant capacity, physicochemical properties, and sensory qualities of chicken sausages during 4°C storage within 28 days. Antioxidant capacity, particle size analysis, and simulated digestion in vitro demonstrated that microencapsulation by extruding starch delayed the procyanidins release. The reduced crystal structure of MPS was determined by the morphology observation (SEM) and the decrease of the typical diffraction peak at 2θ of 20.9° (XRD). The MPS‐added sausage had a higher (p < 0.05) ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging ratio (97.6% and 67.3%) and sulfhydryl contents (114.69 nmol/g protein) than other groups. Moreover, lower (p < 0.05) thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (0.67 mg MDA/kg sausage) and carbonyl values (3.24 nmol/mg protein) were detected in MPS‐added sausages than others at the end of storage. The MPS addition increased redness (a* value) and decreased the lightness (L* value). The sensory analysis suggested that the sausage with the increased redness was favorable. These results denominated that MPS was an alternative antioxidant in chicken sausages.

Practical Application: In this study, microencapsulated procyanidins were prepared by extrusion technology, and the effect on the quality of chicken sausages was investigated, which provides an alternative natural antioxidant for meat and meat products.
Changes in volatile profiles of a refrigerated‐reheated xylose‐cysteine‐lecithin reaction model analyzed by GC×GC‐MS and E‐nose
Authors: Zhang Zheqi , Zang Mingwu , Zhang Kaihua , Li Dan , Wang Shouwei , Li Xiaoman , Zhou Huimin , Zhang Xi
Published: February 2022

The changes in the volatile profiles of a xylose‐cysteine‐lecithin reaction model were investigated by using comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC×GC‐MS) in combination with headspace solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) and electronic nose (E‐nose) to evaluate the contribution of refrigerating and reheating treatment to warmed‐over flavor (WOF). The volatile compound results and E‐nose revealed that the contribution of refrigerating and reheating to the WOF was not consistent. After refrigerating, the level of furfuryl mercaptan increased, while that of 1‐octene‐3‐ol, octanal, nonanal, and 2‐decanone decreased, which affected the flavors. An increase in the level of 1‐octene‐3‐ol, 2‐pentyl‐thiophene, and hexanoic acid and a decrease in the levels of furfural, 2‐methyl‐3‐furanthiol, and 2‐methyl‐3‐pentanethiol occurred during reheating. According to the odor activity value and sensory evaluation, the sulfur‐like odor became more intense after refrigerating, while the rancid‐like odor grew stronger, but the sulfur‐like odor alleviated after reheating. Overall, the reaction between residual substances caused the WOF during refrigeration, also lead to the fatty acid oxidation increased after reheating. The overproduction of fatty acids oxidation products and decreased of volatile product of Maillard reaction leads to the WOF during reheating.

Practical Application

This study provides theoretical guidance to reduce the off‐flavors of meat products.
Production of process flavorings from methionine, thiamine with d‐xylose or dextrose by direct extrusion: Physical properties and volatile profiles
Authors: Sasanam Sirinapa , Rungsardthong Vilai , Thumthanaruk Benjawan , Wijuntamook Sombat , Rattananupap Vasan , Vatanyoopaisarn Savitri , Puttanlek Chureerat , Uttapap Dudsadee , Mussatto Solange I.
Published: February 2022

The conventional method to produce process flavoring is non‐continuous, time consuming, and generates a high volume of effluent. This research aimed to evaluate the use of methionine, thiamine, and reducing sugars to develop process flavorings by direct extrusion, as a potential alternative to the conventional method. The mixed substrates consisted of methionine: d‐xylose (MX), methionine: dextrose (MD), thiamine: d‐xylose (TX), and thiamine: dextrose (TD) at 80:20 w/w. Three barrel temperatures of the extruder were controlled at 65, 80, and 50°C, respectively, a screw speed of 30 rpm and feed rate at 3 kg/hr. Appearance, pH, odor, and taste description of the product from each mixture were determined. Volatile compounds, possibly occurred from the Maillard reaction during the extrusion were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The products exhibited different levels of meaty odor and bitter taste. Those obtained from MD showed the highest L* (lightness, 85.37) and frequency for just‐about‐right in terms of taste (33.33%) and odor (60.00%). Products from MX and MD presented the highest frequency for intense taste, and higher frequency for color compared to TX and TD. More volatile compounds were detected from the use of methionine than from thiamine. The key meaty odor compounds such as dimethyl disulfide, dimethyl trisulfide, methional, and methanethiol were found in the samples from MX and MD, while only dimethyl disulfide was detected in the mixture of TX and TD. Finally, the results demonstrated that direct extrusion reaction from methionine and d‐xylose or dextrose is a highly efficient method to produce meaty process flavorings.

Practical Application

The manuscript describes the production of process flavorings that exhibited meaty flavors by extrusion process. Physical properties, volatile profiles, and sensory evaluation of the products from methionine, thiamine, d‐xylose, and glucose were evaluated. The extruded products from methionine and dextrose exhibited acceptable color, taste, and odor and presented many volatiles compounds contributing to meaty flavors. The results revealed the high potential to use a direct extrusion process with very low effluent, compared to the conventional method, to produce meaty flavors for industrial application.
Identification of coumarin‐based food additives using terahertz spectroscopy combined with manifold learning and improved support vector machine
Authors: Chen Tao , Ma Lingjie , Tang Zongqing , Yu Ling Xiao
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this paper is to use terahertz (THz) spectroscopy combined with manifold learning and improved support vector machine (SVM) model to identify the coumarin‐based food additives. The 216 THz absorbance spectra (144 for calibration set and 72 for prediction set) of six coumarin‐based food additives are measured by using THz time‐domain spectroscopy (THz‐TDS) in the range of 0.5–2.0 THz. The method (P‐t‐SNE) combined principal component analysis (PCA) with manifold learning t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t‐SNE) is used for feature extraction of the THz spectra. Then, an improved SVM using differential evolution (DE) to improve gray wolf optimization (GWO) to optimize parameters is proposed. Finally, the result shows that the prediction set accuracy of PCA‐DEGWO‐SVM, P‐t‐SNE‐DEGWO‐SVM, and P‐t‐SNE‐GWO‐SVM models are 97.22%, 98.61%, and 95.83%, respectively, indicating that the accuracy by P‐t‐SNE is increased by about 1.39% compared with that processed by PCA, and the accuracy by DEGWO is also increased by about 2.78% compared with that processed by GWO. In conclusion, the improved model (P‐t‐SNE‐DEGWO‐SVM) has the best identification effect, and it is proved to be an effective method to identify coumarin‐based food additives.

Practical Application

The method used in this paper can be applied in the field of food safety detection. When detecting coumarin‐based food additives, the method proposed in this paper is more time‐saving and efficient than traditional detection methods. Through some more tests and adjustments, it will be possible to achieve rapid and on‐site identification of various food additives.
Effect of temperature on the development and reproduction of Thrips flavus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Gao Yu , Ding Ning , Wang Di , Zhao Yi‐jin , Cui Juan , Li Wen‐bo , Pei Tian‐hao , Shi Shu‐sen
Published: February 2022

In Northeast China, thrips have long been considered a secondary pest of soybean until recent years. No study has provided clear reports regarding the effects of temperature on the development and reproduction of Thrips flavus Schrank (Thysanoptera: Thripidae).

Our aim was to study whether the population dynamics of T. flavus were affected by temperatures. Thus, the development, reproduction and growth of T. flavus populations reared on soybean leaves were studied at five different constant temperatures.

The temperature and rate of development from eggs to adults were linearly related between 19 and 31°C. The developmental threshold temperature and effective accumulated temperature were 11.60°C and 273.89 degree‐days for the whole generation. The viability of adult survival decreased with the increase in temperature between 19 and 31°C.

The value of life expectancy of females ranged from 7.47 days (at 31°C) to 16.66 days (at 22°C), while the life expectancy value of males ranged from 5.33 days (at 19 and 31°C) to 17.0 days (at 25°C). The mean fecundity per female was highest at 19°C, with 7.85 eggs/day. The intrinsic rate of increase was the highest (0.102) at 31°C.

The results obtained indicate that temperature is a key factor associated with the development and reproduction of T. flavus on soybean.
Similarities in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management across intensive care unit types in the United States: An analysis of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry
Authors: Owyang Clark G. , Donnat Claire , Brodie Daniel , Gershengorn Hayley B. , Hua May , Qadir Nida , Tonna Joseph E.
Published: February 2022

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) use in the United States occurs often in cardiothoracic ICUs (CTICU). It is unknown how it varies across ICU types.

Methods

We identified 10 893 ECMO runs from the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Registry across 2018 and 2019. Primary outcome was ECMO case volume by ICU type (CTICU vs. non‐CTICU). Adjusting for pre‐ECMO characteristics and case mix, secondary outcomes were on‐ECMO physiologic variables by ICU location stratified by support type.

Results

CTICU ECMO occurred in 65.1% and 55.1% (2018 and 2019) of total runs. A minority of total runs related to cardiac surgery procedures (CTICU: 21.7% [2018], 18% [2019]; non‐CTICU: 11.2% [2018], 13% [2019]). After multivariate adjustment, non‐CTICU ECMO for cardiac support associated with lower 4‐ and 24‐h circuit flow (3.9 liters per minute [LPM] vs. 4.1 LPM, p < 0.0001; 4.1 LPM vs. 4.3 LPM, p < 0.0001); for respiratory support, lower on‐ECMO mean fraction of inspired oxygen ([FiO2], 67% vs. 69%, p = 0.02) and lower respiratory rate (14 vs. 15, p < 0.0001); and, for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR), lower ECMO flow rates at 24 h (3.5 LPM vs. 3.7 LPM, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

ECMO mostly remains in CTICUs though a minority is associated with cardiac surgery. Statistically significant but clinically minor differences in on‐ECMO metrics were observed across ICU types.
Video display terminal use and dry eye: preventive measures and future perspectives
Authors: Kamøy Bjørnar , Magno Morten , Nøland Sara T , Moe Morten C , Petrovski Goran , Vehof Jelle , Utheim Tor P.
Published: February 2022

Background

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common cause of ocular pain and discomfort. Dry eye disease (DED) stems from a loss‐of‐tear film homeostasis and is frequently seen in video display terminal (VDT) users. Video display terminal (VDT) use reduces blink rates and increases incomplete blinks, leading to tear film instability and ocular inflammation, promoting DED.

Purpose

To assess and evaluate the methods for preventing VDT‐associated DED and ocular discomfort.

Methods

Studies were found using PubMed and Embase with the search terms: (digital visual terminal* OR computer use OR screen use OR smartphone OR display OR visual display terminal* OR computer vision syndrome OR tablet OR phone OR screen time) AND (dry eye OR DED).

Results

Thirty‐one relevant articles were found. Ten described single‐visit studies, whereas 21 had a prolonged follow‐up. Most preventive measures of VDT‐associated DED aimed to increase blink rate or directly prevent tear film instability, ocular inflammation, mucin loss or ocular surface damage. Using an adjustable chair and ergonomic training, blink animations and omega‐3 supplementation improved signs and symptoms of VDT‐associated DED. Taking frequent breaks was associated with fewer symptoms, but no study assessed the commonly suggested 20‐20‐20 rule.

Conclusion

Preventive measures, such as blink animation programmes, oral intake of omega‐3 fatty acids and improved ergonomics act on different parts of the vicious cycle of dry eye and could supplement each other. A comparison of the efficacy of the different interventions as well as more evidence of the effect of increased humidity, VDT filters and ergonomic practices, are required.
Predictors of anti‐VEGF efficacy in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy based on intraocular cytokine levels and pigment epithelium detachment subtypes
Authors: Mao Jianbo , Zhang Caiyun , Zhang Shian , Liu Chenyi , Chen Nuo , Tao Jiwei , She Xiangjun , Zheng Zicheng , Lv Zhe , Shen Lijun
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare intraocular cytokines among different types of pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) in patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and to investigate the association of cytokine levels and PED types with response to anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy.

Methods

We included 88 patients with chronic CSC and 30 controls. The anti‐VEGF agent conbercept was given intravitreally to chronic CSC patients. Cytokines VEGF, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐8, IL‐10, interferon‐inducible protein‐10 and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 in aqueous humour were measured. Treatment efficacy, cytokine levels, changes in best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and optical coherence tomography parameters were assessed at baseline and 1 month after treatment.

Results

Patients were divided into three groups: flat irregular PED (FIPED) with choroidal neovascularization (CNV), FIPED without CNV and focal PED. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was the only cytokine significantly higher in chronic CSC FIPED patients. There were no significant differences in VEGF between FIPED patients with or without CNV (p = 0.234). At 1 month after conbercept injection, treatment effective rates in FIPED patients with or without CNV were significantly higher than in patients with focal PED (p < 0.05). Best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was improved in both FIPED groups (p < 0.05), but not in the focal PED group (p = 0.180). All three groups had significant decreases in central macular thickness (p < 0.05), and PED heights in FIPED patients were reduced (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with FIPED in chronic CSC had elevated intraocular VEGF levels and responded favourably to conbercept. Anti‐VEGF treatment may be an option for FIPED CSC patients with or without secondary CNV.
Gene polymorphisms of TLR10: effects on bacterial meningitis outcomes in Angolan children
Authors: Tenhu Elina , Teräsjärvi Johanna , Cruzeiro Manuel Leite , Savonius Okko , Rugemalira Emilie , He Qiushui , Pelkonen Tuula
Published: February 2022

This study examined whether gene polymorphisms for toll‐like receptor 10 (TLR10) associated with the susceptibility to and outcomes of bacterial meningitis (BM) in Angolan children. The study cohort consisted of 190 BM patients and the determination of ten single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by Sanger sequencing. Patients with BM caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae who carried the following variants of TLR10 SNPs exhibited an increased risk of coexisting pneumonia: rs10004195 (T > A) (p = 0.025), rs10856837 (G > A) (p = 0.018) or rs11096956 (G > T) (p = 0.010). Yet, TLR10 SNPs rs11466652 (A > G), rs10856837 (G > A) and rs11096956 (G > T) influenced the protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Moreover, compared with the wild type, patients with pneumococcal meningitis carrying a variant genotype of TLR10 SNP rs11466648 (A > G) exhibited an increased risk of developing blindness (p = 0.025), whereas patients with TLR10 SNP rs10004195 (T > A) exhibited a lower risk of convulsions at admission (p = 0.039) and a lower risk of altered consciousness (p = 0.029). This study suggests a relationship exists between coexisting pneumonia, protein levels in CSF, blindness, convulsions and an altered consciousness with genetic variations of TLR10 in BM in Angolan children.
Prevalence of HFE‐related haemochromatosis and secondary causes of hyperferritinaemia and their association with iron overload in 1059 French patients treated by venesection
Authors: Le Gac Gérald , Scotet Virginie , Gourlaouen Isabelle , L'Hostis Carine , Merour Marie‐Christine , Karim Zoubida , Deugnier Yves , Bardou‐Jacquet Edouard , Lefebvre Thibaud , Assari Suzanne , Ferec Claude
Published: February 2022

Background

Venesection is the key therapy in haemochromatosis, but it remains controversial in hyperferritinaemia with moderate iron accumulation. There is substantial evidence that the results of HFE genotyping are routinely misinterpreted, while elevated serum ferritin has become more frequent in recent years in white adult populations following the increase of obesity and metabolic traits.

Aims

To examine the reasons for prescribing venesection in 1,059 French patients during the period 2012‐2015, determine the true prevalence of HFE‐related haemochromatosis, and compare iron overload profiles between haemochromatosis and non‐haemochromatosis patients.

Results

Only 258 of the 488 patients referred for haemochromatosis had the p.[Cys282Tyr];[Cys282Tyr] disease causative genotype (adjusted prevalence: 24.4%). Of the 801 remaining patients, 112 (14.0%) had the debated p.[Cys282Tyr];[His63Asp] compound heterozygote genotype, 643 (80.3%) had central obesity, 475 (59.3%) had metabolic syndrome (MetS) and 93 (11.6%) were heavy drinkers. The non‐haemochromatosis patients started therapeutic venesection 9 years later than haemochromatosis patients (P < 0.001). Despite similar serum ferritin values, they had lower transferrin saturation (41.1% vs 74.3%; P < 0.001), lower amounts of iron removed by venesection (1.7 vs 3.2 g; P < 0.001) and lower hepatic iron concentrations (107 vs 237 µmol/g; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Haemochromatosis is over‐diagnosed and is no longer the main reason for therapeutic venesection in France. Obesity and other metabolic abnormalities are frequently associated with mild elevation of serum ferritin, the MetS is confirmed in ~50% of treated patients. There is a minimal relationship between serum ferritin and iron overload in non‐p.Cys282Tyr homozygotes. Our observations raise questions about venesection indications in non‐haemochromatosis patients.
A survey of veterinarians' practices, recommendations and perceptions associated with the prevention of tetanus in horses in Australia
Authors: Dennis ST , El Hage CM , Brookes VJ
Published: February 2022

Objective

Identify veterinarians' practices, recommendations and perceptions when preventing tetanus in horses in Australia.

Methods

Graduated members of Equine Veterinarians Australia participated in an online survey about the prevention of tetanus in horses in Australia.

Results

Of 77 respondents (response rate ~ 8%), 50 (65%) reported that they had attended collectively 145–152 cases of tetanus in horses in Australia (1.1 cases of tetanus observed/10 veterinarian‐years since qualification). The estimated case fatality rate (CFR) was at least 79%. Puncture wounds were most frequently suspected as the entry point (32%; n = 47). Five respondents (7%) reported cases of localised tetanus. Three respondents reported generalised tetanus within 2 weeks of tetanus antitoxin (TAT) administration. Respondents did not report any cases of tetanus in horses which had been vaccinated according to manufacturer's recommendations. All respondents recommended vaccination, but over 50% (N = 45) stated ‘lack of veterinary recommendation’ as often or sometimes a reason why clients did not vaccinate horses. Opinions varied on the use of TAT for peri‐exposure prophylaxis; 67% of respondents dosed TAT independent of body weight, with the rest dosing according to body weight. Cases of Theiler's disease related to the use of TAT were not reported in Australia by respondents.

Discussion

The caseload of equine tetanus appears relatively low among equine veterinarians in Australia. Consistent with the literature, estimated CFR was high. Respondents' recommendations and perceptions about tetanus vaccination were generally consistent but varied regarding TAT usage. Evidence for TAT usage is limited and we recommend studies of TAT efficacy in horses.
Use of chlorprothixene and the risk of diabetes and major adverse cardiovascular events: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Højlund Mikkel , Wagner Christina Blanner , Wesselhoeft Rikke , Andersen Kjeld , Fink‐Jensen Anders , Hallas Jesper
Published: February 2022

Chlorprothixene is commonly used off‐label in low doses for sedative‐hypnotic purposes although it might carry a risk of cardiometabolic adverse events due to its pharmacodynamic profile. We investigated the risk of diabetes and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) with use of low‐dose chlorprothixene, compared with use of low‐dose quetiapine in a nationwide cohort study, including all new users of low‐dose chlorprothixene (n = 81 328) and low‐dose quetiapine (n = 91 163) in Denmark 2000–2017. Main outcomes were diabetes and MACE (myocardial infarction, stroke and death from cardiovascular causes). The association between cumulative dose of chlorprothixene and the outcomes was tested in a case–control analysis. Low‐dose chlorprothixene use was associated with increased risk of diabetes (intention‐to‐treat [ITT]‐hazard ratio [HR]: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.08–1.25), compared with low‐dose quetiapine use. This association strengthened when follow‐up was restricted to time on treatment (as‐treated [AT]‐HR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.14–1.56). Low‐dose chlorprothixene use was also associated with increased risk of MACE (ITT‐HR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.04–1.21) and stroke (ITT‐HR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.06–1.37) but not with myocardial infarction (ITT‐HR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.95–1.30) nor death from cardiovascular causes (ITT‐HR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.96–1.20). Cumulative dose of chlorprothixene ≥6000 mg was associated with increased risk of diabetes (OR: 1.15–1.63; test for trend: p < 0.001), whereas cumulative dose of chlorprothixene ≥1500 mg was associated with increased risk of MACE (OR: 1.10–1.85; test for trend: p < 0.001). In conclusion, low‐dose chlorprothixene use is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic adverse events compared with low‐dose quetiapine use.
Who helps and why? A longitudinal exploration of volunteer role identity, between‐group closeness, and community identification as predictors of coordinated helping during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Wakefield Juliet Ruth Helen , Bowe Mhairi , Kellezi Blerina
Published: February 2022

Mutual aid groups have allowed community members to respond collectively to the COVID‐19 pandemic, providing essential support to the vulnerable. While research has begun to explore the benefits of participating in these groups, there is a lack of work investigating who is likely to engage in this form of aid‐giving, although early accounts suggest that existing volunteers have played a significant part in the mutual aid phenomena. Taking a social identity approach, the present study sought to identify what social psychological processes predict this continued engagement by exploring predictors of coordinated COVID‐19 aid‐giving for pre‐existing volunteers. A two‐wave longitudinal online survey study (N = 214) revealed that volunteer role identity among existing volunteers at T1 (pre‐pandemic) was positively associated with volunteer‐beneficiary between‐group closeness at T1, which in turn was positively associated with community identification at T1. This in turn positively predicted coordinated COVID‐19 aid‐giving at T2 (3 months later). This paper therefore reveals the intra‐ and intergroup predictors of pandemic‐related coordinated aid‐giving in pre‐existing volunteers. Implications for voluntary organisations and emergency voluntary aid provision are discussed.
A new Kunitz‐type snake toxin family associated with an original mode of interaction with the vasopressin 2 receptor
Authors: Droctové Laura , Ciolek Justyna , Mendre Christiane , Chorfa Amélia , Huerta Paola , Carvalho Chrystelle , Gouin Charlotte , Lancien Manon , Stanajic‐Petrovic Goran , Braco Lorine , Blanchet Guillaume , Upert Gregory , De Pauw Gregory , Barbe Peggy , Keck Mathilde , Mourier Gilles , Mouillac Bernard , Denis Servent , Rodríguez de la Vega Ricardo C. , Quinton Loïc , Gilles Nicolas
Published: February 2022

Background and Purpose

Venomous animals express numerous Kunitz‐type peptides. The mambaquaretin‐1 (MQ1) peptide identified from the Dendroaspis angusticeps venom is the most selective antagonist of the arginine‐vasopressin V2 receptor (V2R) and the only unique Kunitz‐type peptide active on a GPCR. We aimed to exploit other mamba venoms to enlarge the V2R‐Kunitz peptide family and gain insight into the MQ1 molecular mode of action.

Experimental Approach

We used a bio‐guided screening assay to identify novel MQs and placed them phylogenetically. MQs were produced by solid‐phase peptide synthesis and characterized in vitro by binding and functional tests and in vivo by diuresis measurement in rats.

Key Results

Eight additional MQs were identified with nanomolar affinities for the V2R, all antagonists. MQs form a new subgroup in the Kunitz family, close to the V2R non‐active dendrotoxins and to two V2R‐active cobra toxins. Sequence comparison between active and non‐active V2R Kunitz peptides highlighted five positions, among which four are involved in V2R interaction and belong to the two large MQ1 loops. We finally determined that eight positions, part of these two loops, interact with the V2R. The variant MQ1‐K39A showed a higher affinity for the hV2R, but not for the rat V2R.

Conclusions and Implications

A new function and mode of action is associated with the Kunitz peptides. The number of MQ1 residues involved in V2R binding is large and may explain its absolute selectivity. MQ1‐K39A represents the first step in the improvement of the MQ1 design from a medicinal perspective.
Development of antigen‐prediction algorithm for personalized neoantigen vaccine using human leukocyte antigen transgenic mouse
Authors: Charneau Jimmy , Suzuki Toshihiro , Shimomura Manami , Fujinami Norihiro , Mishima Yuji , Hiranuka Kazushi , Watanabe Noriko , Yamada Takashi , Nakamura Norihiro , Nakatsura Tetsuya
Published: February 2022

Immunotherapy is currently recognized as the fourth modality in cancer therapy. CTL can detect cancer cells via complexes involving human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules and peptides derived from tumor antigens, resulting in antigen‐specific cancer rejection. The peptides may be predicted in silico using machine learning‐based algorithms. Neopeptides, derived from neoantigens encoded by somatic mutations in cancer cells, are putative immunotherapy targets, as they have high tumor specificity and immunogenicity. Here, we used our pipeline to select 278 neoepitopes with high predictive “SCORE” from the tumor tissues of 46 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or metastasis of colorectal carcinoma. We validated peptide immunogenicity and specificity by in vivo vaccination with HLA‐A2, A24, B35, and B07 transgenic mice using ELISpot assay, in vitro and in vivo killing assays. We statistically evaluated the power of our prediction algorithm and demonstrated the capacity of our pipeline to predict neopeptides (area under the curve = 0.687, P < 0.0001). We also analyzed the potential of long peptides containing the predicted neoepitopes to induce CTLs. Our study indicated that the short peptides predicted using our algorithm may be intrinsically present in tumor cells as cleavage products of long peptides. Thus, we empirically demonstrated that the accuracy and specificity of our prediction tools may be potentially improved in vivo using the HLA transgenic mouse model. Our data will help to design feedback algorithms to improve in silico prediction, potentially allowing researchers to predict peptides for personalized immunotherapy.
Graphical Tools for Visualization of Missing Data in Large Longitudinal Phenomena
Authors: Jiménez Edgar , Macías Rodrigo
Published: February 2022

The analysis of large quantities of longitudinal data requires quick decision tools to ensure data quality and to find useful patterns for analysis in exploratory stages. We propose algorithms based on ordering, sampling and grouping applied to lasagna plots, a special kind of matrix plot, which are heat maps created to visualize longitudinal studies. These algorithms can be applied to large data sets to find patterns of interest, monotone and intermittent, in the missing data with low computational cost compared to previous alternatives. Visualization with these algorithms addresses a trade‐off in visualization design: reducing visual clutter versus increasing the information content in a visualization. The method enables the visualization of missing data in a clear and concise way. We apply our techniques to four real‐world data sets of different origins and sizes that share analysis and visualization tasks and discuss the patterns found within them.
What is the added value of patch testing with 30 fragrance allergens in addition to the European Baseline series?
Authors: Krijl Rosalie C. , Ipenburg Norbertus A. , Franken Sylvie M. , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: February 2022

Background

Patch testing with the fragrance allergy markers in the European baseline series (EBS) does not identify all patients with fragrance allergy. Hydroperoxides of linalool and limonene have been shown to be useful allergens in detecting fragrance sensitization.

Objectives

To evaluate the added value of testing with 30 fragrance allergens in addition to the EBS.

Methods

All patients with suspected fragrance allergy who underwent patch testing at the Amsterdam University Medical Centers between November 2019 and January 2021 to the EBS and fragrance series were included.

Results

Of 323 patients tested, 162 (50.2%) were found to be fragrance sensitized. The most sensitizing single allergens were the hydroperoxides of linalool (1.0 and 0.5% pet.) and limonene (0.3 and 0.2% pet.). Testing with the hydroperoxides of linalool and limonene identified 62 fragrance‐sensitized patients (38.3%) who could not be detected by the common fragrance markers. Of all fragrance‐sensitized patients, 21 (13.0%) would have been missed when not testing with the fragrance series.

Conclusions

Patch testing with the fragrance series in addition to the EBS is valuable. To reduce the risk of false‐negative reactions, it is advisable to test the hydroperoxides of linalool and limonene.
Exposure and work‐related factors in subjects with hand eczema: Data from a cross‐sectional questionnaire within the Lifelines Cohort Study
Authors: Brands Marjolein J. , Loman Laura , Schuttelaar Marie L.A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Hand eczema (HE) is the most frequently occurring occupational skin disease. However, studies on non‐occupational wet exposure, occupations not considered as high‐risk, and socioeconomic factors regarding HE are scarce.

Objectives

To investigate the association between HE and occupational and non‐occupational wet exposure and work‐related factors in the Dutch general population.

Methods

Within the Lifelines Cohort Study, participants with HE were identified by a digital, add‐on questionnaire that included questions regarding exposure. Data on work‐related and socioeconomic factors were collected from baseline.

Results

Overall, 57 046 participants (42.0%) were included. Occupational and non‐occupational wet exposure were positively associated with HE in the past year (odds ratios (ORs) 1.35, [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22–1.49] and 1.34, [95%CI: 1.17‐1.53], respectively). Positive associations for high‐risk occupations (OR 1.20, [95%CI: 1.06‐1.36] for personal care workers in health services and OR 1.25, [95%CI: 1.06‐1.48] for nursing and midwifery professionals), occupations not considered as high‐risk (OR 1.19, [95%CI: 1.03‐1.39] for legal, social and religious associate professionals) and higher levels of education were found (OR 1.17, [95%CI: 1.04‐1.32] and OR 1.18, [95%CI: 1.04‐1.34] for middle and high level, respectively).

Conclusion

Preventive strategies for HE should focus on avoidance of all wet exposure, regardless of origin. In addition, job tasks instead of job title should be taken into account. As previous results on the association between HE and socioeconomic factors differ, future research should focus on a uniform definition of socioeconomic status.