bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vervet monkeys socialize more when time budget constraints are experimentally reduced
Authors: Borgeaud Christèle , Jankowiak Béatrice , Aellen Mélisande , Dunbar Robin I.M. , Bshary Redouan
Published: July 2021

In species that live in stable groups, successful management of time budget (i.e., the proportion of time involved in different behaviours) and social relationships has been proposed to be a key variable affecting individual fitness. Such management is limited by time constraints, which are group size and season dependancy. However, the link between time budget constraints and grooming patterns as a means to service social relationships has never been studied experimentally. Here, we reduced the time constraints of three wild vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops pygerythrus) groups by offering them high quality food for 60 min in the morning. We conducted 10 trials in summer and 10 trials in winter. We found that vervet monkeys indeed reduced the proportion of time spent foraging during the rest of those days compared to control days and increased the proportion of grooming time spread over more bouts. Individuals that did not get access to the food still participated as much in grooming as those that did eat. In accordance with our expectations, social network analysis revealed a larger grooming network on supplementation days: vervet monkeys used their extra time to socialize with more different group members. Furthermore, following our predictions, the effect of provisioning was usually stronger during the winter season (when food was scarce and days shorter) than during the summer, and the number of conflicts decreased during supplementation days. Finally, despite the fact that adults and juveniles of all three groups increased their proportion of time spent grooming during supplementation days, few group and age differences emerged in the way vervet monkeys manage their time budget. Interestingly, some of these differences seem to be independent of group size. In conclusion, vervet monkeys seize the opportunity to increase the proportion of time spent in social behaviours if time budget constraints are reduced.
Cysteine residues in the fourth zinc finger are important for activation of the nitric oxide‐inducible transcription factor Fzf1 in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Nasuno Ryo , Yoshioka Natsuko , Yoshikawa Yuki , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) is a ubiquitous signaling molecule in various organisms. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, NO functions in both cell protection and cell death, depending on its concentration. Thus, it is important for yeast cells to strictly regulate NO concentration. The transcription factor Fzf1, containing five zinc fingers, is reportedly important for NO homeostasis by regulating the expression of the YHB1 gene, which encodes NO dioxygenase. However, the mechanism by which NO activates Fzf1 is still unclear. In this study, we showed that NO activated Fzf1 specifically at the protein level by RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. Our further transcriptional analyses indicated that cysteine residues in the fourth zinc finger (ZF4) are required for the NO‐responsive activation of Fzf1. Additionally, the present results suggest that ZF4 is important for the protein stability of Fzf1. From these results, we proposed possible mechanisms underlying Fzf1 activation.
Early response and safety of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma in patients who do not meet IMbrave150 eligibility criteria
Authors: Sho Takuya , Suda Goki , Ogawa Koji , Kimura Megumi , Kubo Akinori , Tokuchi Yoshimasa , Kitagataya Takashi , Maehara Osamu , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Shigesawa Taku , Nakamura Akihisa , Yamada Ren , Ohara Masatsugu , Kawagishi Naoki , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Nakai Masato , Morikawa Kenichi , Furuya Ken , Baba Masaru , Yamamoto Yoshiya , Suzuki Kazuharu , Izumi Takaaki , Meguro Takashi , Terashita Katsumi , Ito Jun , Miyagishima Takuto , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: July 2021

Aim

A clinical trial (IMbrave150) indicated the efficacy and safety of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we evaluated this therapeutic combination in a real‐world setting, with a focus on patients who did not meet the IMbrave150 eligibility criteria.

Methods

In this multicenter study, patients with unresectable HCC treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab between October 2020 and May 2021 were screened. In patients who did not meet IMbrave150 eligibility criteria, treatment responses and safety at 6 and 12 weeks were evaluated.

Results

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab was initiated in 64 patients, including 46 patients (71.9%) who did not meet IMbrave150 eligibility criteria. Most of these patients had a history of systemic therapy (44/46). The objective response rate and disease control rate observed using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1 were 5.2% and 82.8% at 6 weeks and 10.0% and 84.0% at 12 weeks, respectively; these rates were similar between patients who met and did not meet the IMbrave150 criteria. Ten patients experienced progressive disease (PD) at 6 weeks. Portal vein tumor thrombosis was significantly associated with PD (p = 0.039); none of the 15 patients with hepatitis B virus‐related HCC experienced PD (p = 0.050). The most common adverse events of grade 3 or higher were aspartate aminotransferase elevation (n = 8, 13.8%) and the safety profile was similar between patients who met and did not meet the IMbrave150 criteria.

Conclusion

Most patients treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab did not meet the IMbrave150 criteria; however, the combination therapy showed good safety and efficacy at the early treatment phase.
Digital art history in 2021
Authors: Brey Alexander
Published: July 2021

The past decade has seen tremendous growth and innovation in the use of digital resources, methods, and tools in the history of art and architecture. While digital art history is less developed than text‐based disciplines, the emergence of new digital standards for visual and spatial data, and advances in computer vision are poised to revolutionize the field. This article provides a survey of recent developments in digital art history from the perspective of European and North American publications and conferences. I discuss the digitization of visual, spatial, and textual resources by museums, research centers, and individual researchers. Researchers have developed a variety of tools for digitally analyzing art and architecture, which can replicate or challenge traditional methods of formal, iconographic, and socio‐historical analysis. Trends in published research indicate uneven growth in the theoretical sophistication of digital art history scholarship. While digital methods are quickly moving into the training of art history professionals and students, digital art history communities in museums, research institutes, and universities remain somewhat fragmented. I conclude with a reflection on critiques of digital art history, several of which have not been fully addressed in recent scholarship.
Age class of alien tree stands retained for mammal protection have differential effects on flower‐visiting insect assemblages
Authors: Adedoja Opeyemi , Kehinde Temitope , Samways Michael J.
Published: July 2021

Limited sunlight reduces plant productivity and foraging activities of pollinators, such as when alien trees shade out native flowering plants. The conservation management response is to remove the impoverishing effect of the alien tree canopy. However, alien trees can provide benefit for certain species when they provide significant scarce resources. We assess how flower‐visiting insects respond to shading from young, small‐sized, open canopy vs. mature, tall, closed‐canopy alien pine trees retained specifically as refuges for certain rare mammals.

We sampled flower–visitor species diversity and interactions at various distances from pine stands of both sizes in a matrix of low sclerophyllous natural vegetation. We sampled flower–visitors using coloured pan traps and estimated flower–visitor interactions and flower diversity.

Reduction in percentage light reaching the understorey significantly reduced flower abundance, with zero flowers in tall pine understorey. Flower–visitor species composition differed across sampling locations with increasing distance from tall pine understorey. Although pine tree size led to a decline in flower–visitor interaction frequency and network specialisation in all pine tree stands, some bee species that are mostly tree nesters, were observed in unique interactions in association with tall pines only.

We show that alien pines, especially tall trees, have an impoverishing effect on flowering plants and flower–visitors. However, these trees also confer benefit to specialised groups such as tree‐nesting bees. While active alien pine removal is encouraged where the trees are actively invading, maintaining well‐contained small stands is of value for two different taxa of conservation concern.
Survival and prognostic factors of managing cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis: A 1‐ to 4‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Lee Junghoon , Kim Sunil , Kim Euiseong , Kim Kyung‐Ho , Kim Seong Taek , Jeong Choi Yoon
Published: July 2021

Aim

This prospective clinical study evaluated the clinical performance of managing cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis through a combination of internal and external splinting and investigated factors that can affect pulp survival after splinting.

Methodology

Thirty‐four teeth diagnosed with cracks and reversible pulpitis were enrolled and treated with bidirectional crack splinting: 1) immediate splinting with a stainless‐steel band, 2) internal splinting with crack line removal and resin filling and 3) external splinting with a temporary crown followed by final crown placement. If the symptoms remained/recurred, root canal treatment was performed. Patients were followed up at 3, 6 and 12 months, then annually thereafter. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis to calculate the survival of the treated teeth and Cox univariate proportional hazards regression model to investigate prognostic factors were performed.

Results

Twenty‐nine (97%) teeth were followed up for up to 4 years. The pulp survival rate was 72% after banding and 91% after final crown cementation. No tooth was extracted (100% tooth survival rate). In the univariate Cox proportional hazard test, pain on percussion was the only statistically significant factor (hazard ratio = 11.77). Teeth with pain on percussion at the first visit had a pulp survival rate of 46% during the follow‐up period. In comparison, their counterparts without pain had a 94% pulp survival rate.

Conclusions

Bidirectional splinting successfully managed cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis. Pain on percussion (mechanical allodynia) may be an important factor in deciding whether to attempt root canal treatment on symptomatic cracked teeth. A step‐by‐step approach with bidirectional crack splinting should be encouraged for a cracked tooth with a vital pulp without mechanical allodynia rather than pre‐emptive root canal treatment.
The forms of financial literacy overconfidence and their role in financial well‐being
Authors: Vörös Zsófia , Szabó Zoltán , Kehl Dániel , Kovács Olivér Béla , Papp Tamás , Schepp Zoltán
Published: July 2021

Overconfidence in financial literacy (FL) is defined and assessed in various ways, and results regarding the effects of FL overconfidence on financial well‐being are inconsistent. Therefore, this study aims to develop our understanding of the processes by which overconfidence in FL influences the financial well‐being of consumers; that is to separately examine the effects of the different forms of FL overconfidence on financial well‐being. In order to map the associations between FL, the forms of FL overconfidence, and financial well‐being, the data of 506 randomly selected Hungarian test‐takers were collected by a self‐report questionnaire. According to the results, FL and its overestimation (OE) are positively linked to households' financial outcomes. Hence, perceived FL is a better predictor of financial well‐being than actual FL skills. Moreover, the results add to the existing body of literature by showing that the effects of the different forms of overconfidence are divergent: overprecision and OE may be damaging. Thus, the paper provides evidence that FL overconfidence is a multifaceted construct, and its different forms affect financial well‐being differently.
Caregivers’ experiences of contributing to patients’ self‐care in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Matarese Maria , Pendoni Roberta , Piredda Michela , De Marinis Maria Grazia
Published: July 2021

Aim

To identify, analyze and synthesize qualitative studies on caregivers’ experiences of contributions to the self‐care of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Background

COPD patients perform daily self‐care behaviours to manage the disease. With aging and disease progression, patients need to rely on the contributions of informal caregivers, usually family members, for disease management. Caregivers’ normal or habitual contributions to patients’ self‐care have not yet been completely investigated.

Design

Thematic synthesis of qualitative studies.

Data sources

CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, Emcare and OpenGrey databases were searched from inception to September 2020. The search was restricted to English‐language papers.

Review methods

Studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. The initial line‐by‐line codes were aggregated into descriptive themes from which analytical themes were derived.

Results

Fifteen papers from nine countries, published 2009–2020, were included. Six analytical themes encompassing 22 descriptive themes were identified and grouped in two overarching themes describing caregivers’ experiences of contributions to patients’ self‐care during the stable and exacerbation phases of COPD. In the stable phases, caregivers contribute through maintaining disease stability, promoting healthy behaviours, fostering normal life and helping perform daily activities. During exacerbations, caregivers contribute through assessing, monitoring and managing symptoms in collaboration with patients or autonomously. They contribute by performing actions, motivating patients, organizing care, sensing variations in symptoms, acquiring knowledge and educating patients, making decisions, communicating and collaborating with healthcare providers and patients and advocating for patients.

Conclusion

This thematic synthesis enlarges knowledge of caregivers’ contributions to patients’ self‐care in COPD, detailing the ways by which caregivers provide care to patients.

Impact

Contributing daily to the self‐care of a family member with COPD is a complex experience. Nurses need to acknowledge the importance of caregivers’ contributions to patient disease management and develop effective educational interventions to support them.
People with intellectual disabilities living in care facilities engaging in virtual social contact: A systematic review of the feasibility and effects on well‐being
Authors: Bakkum Lianne , Schuengel Carlo , Sterkenburg Paula S. , Frielink Noud , Embregts Petri J. C. M. , de Schipper Johanna Clasien , ten Brug Annet , Tharner Anne
Published: July 2021

Background

During the initial phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic, many people with disabilities living in home care facilities could not receive visitors. The use of virtual social contact has been recommended by health authorities. This systematic review examined the scientific evidence of the use and feasibility of information and communication technology (ICT) for social contact by people with intellectual disabilities living in care facilities, and potential effects on well‐being.

Methods

Five databases were searched using traditional systematic screening and machine‐learning supported screening. Findings are presented in a narrative synthesis using thematic analysis.

Results

Nine studies were included. We described three themes: means of ICT used for social contact; effects on well‐being; and benefits, barriers, and preconditions.

Conclusions

Engaging in virtual social contact may be feasible for people with severe to mild intellectual disabilities, but there is little concrete evidence that this can be used as an alternative for in‐person contact.
Safety and feasibility of left bundle branch area pacing following valvular interventions: Multicenter study
Authors: Gul Enes Elvin , Kabadi Rajiv A. , Padala Santosh K. , Sanchez Somonte Paula , Kron Jordana , Shepard Richard K. , Koneru Jayanthi N. , Kalahasty Gautham , Terricabras Maria , Tsang Bernice , Khaykin Yaariv , Wulffhart Zaev , Pantano Alfredo , Ellenbogen Kenneth A. , Verma Atul
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and feasibility of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) in patients with valvular interventions.

Methods

Eighty‐four patients were included in this study. All patients underwent recent surgical or percutaneous valvular interventions. LBBAP was attempted in all patients. Implant success rates, peri‐ and postprocedure electrocardiogram, pacing parameters, and complications were assessed at implant, and during follow‐up.

Results

LBBAP implantation was successful in 80/84 (95%) patients. Mean age was 74.1 ± 13.8 years and 56% patients were male. Prior valvular replacements included: percutaneous aortic (26), surgical aortic (36), combined surgical aortic plus mitral (6), MVR (10), tricuspid (1), and pulmonic (1). Average LVEF was 52.6 ± 11%. Majority of patients underwent LBBAP due to atrioventricular block (76%) and sinus node disease (13%). Total procedure duration was 74.1 ± 12.5 min and fluoroscopic duration was 9.7 ± 6.8 min. Pacing parameters were stable during follow‐up period of 10.0 ± 6.3 months. Pacing QRS duration was significantly narrower than baseline QRS duration (131.5 ± 31.4 ms vs. 114.3 ± 13.7 ms, p < .001, respectively). No acute complications were observed. Mean follow‐up was 10.0 ± 6.3 months (median: 8.4 months, min: 1 and max: 24 months). During follow‐up, there were three device infections and two patients had loss of LBBA capture within 1 month of implant.

Conclusions

LBBAP is a feasible and safe pacing modality in patients with prior interventions for valvular heart disease.
Electrical delays in quadripolar leads with cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Koerber Scott M. , Field Michael E. , Cobb Daniel B. , Gregoski Mathew J. , Sturdivant John L. , Gold Michael R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Pacing at sites of late intraventricular activation (QLV) or long interventricular conduction (right ventricle [RV]‐left ventricular [LV]) have been associated with improved cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) outcomes. Quadripolar leads improve CRT outcomes by allowing for electrical repositioning to optimize pacing sites. However, little is known regarding the effect of such repositioning on electrical delay.

Objective

Determine the relationship between different electrical bipoles from a quadripolar lead and measures of electrical delay.

Methods

Forty‐six patients underwent CRT with a quadripolar lead. The RV‐LV and QLV intervals were measured for both the proximal and distal bipoles and the difference (Δ) between bipoles for each measure were calculated. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of electrical delays.

Results

This was a typical CRT population with a mean age of 65 years and ejection fraction of 27%, with left bundle branch block (LBBB) present in 70%. The regression model for ΔQLV was significant (p = .05), with both gender (p = .008) and LBBB status (p = .020) significant predictors. The overall regression model for ΔRV‐LV was not significant. ΔQLV and ΔRV‐LV were significant among LBBB patients. Among non‐LBBB, only ΔRV‐LV was significant (mean: 7.2 ms, p = .006). ΔRV‐LV versus ΔQLV were strongly correlated in LBBB (R2 = .92) but not non‐LBBB (R2 = .06).

Conclusion

In LBBB, ΔRV‐LV and ΔQLV are closely correlated suggesting that the proximal bipole and thus basal LV pacing sites should be selected when feasible. Greater variation in activation pattern is present in non‐LBBB, so pacing sites should be individualized.
Thickness of the left atrial wall surrounding the left atrial appendage orifice
Authors: Słodowska Katarzyna , Hołda Jakub , Dudkiewicz Damian , Malinowska Karolina , Bolechała Filip , Kopacz Paweł , Koziej Mateusz , Hołda Mateusz K.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the thickness of the left atrial wall surrounding the left atrial appendage (LAA) orifice.

Methods and Results

The tissue thickness around the LAA orifice was measured at four points (superior, inferior, anterior, and posterior) in 200 randomly selected autopsied human hearts. The thickest tissue was observed at the anterior point (3.17 ± 1.41 mm), followed by the superior (2.47 ± 1.00 mm), inferior (2.22 ± 0.80 mm) and posterior (2.22 ± 0.83 mm). The chicken wing LAA type was associated with the lowest thickness at the superior point compared to the cauliflower and arrowhead shapes (p = .024). In hearts with an oval LAA orifice, the atrial wall was significantly thicker in all points than in specimens with a round LAA orifice (p > .05). Both the LAA orifice anteroposterior diameter and orifice surface area were negatively correlated with the tissue thickness in the anterior (r = −.22, p = .004 and r = −.23, p = .001) and posterior points (r = −.24, p = .001 and r = −.28, p = .005). Endocardial surface roughness was commonly in the inferior pole of the LAA orifice (75.5% of cases), while they are much less prevalent in other sectors around the orifice (anterior: 17.5%), superior: 4.0%, and posterior: 1.5%).

Conclusions

Although a significant heterogeneity in the atrial wall thickness around the LAA orifice was observed, the thickness in the respective points is quite conservative and depends only on LAA orifice size and shape, as well as LAA body shape. Thin atrial wall and endocardial surface roughness might challenge invasive procedures within this region.
The inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in improving inflammatory response after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Campolo Michela , Casili Giovanna , Lanza Marika , Filippone Alessia , Cordaro Marika , Ardizzone Alessio , Scuderi Sarah Adriana , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Esposito Emanuela , Paterniti Irene
Published: July 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) provokes primary and secondary damage on endothelium and brain parenchyma, leading neurons die rapidly by necrosis. The mammalian target of rapamycin signalling pathway (mTOR) manages numerous aspects of cellular growth, and it is up‐regulated after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Currently, the significance of this increased signalling event for the recovery of brain function is unclear; therefore, we used two different selective inhibitors of mTOR activity to discover the functional role of mTOR inhibition in a mouse model of TBI performed by a controlled cortical impact injury (CCI). Treatment with KU0063794, a dual mTORC1 and mTORC2 inhibitor, and with rapamycin as well‐known inhibitor of mTOR, was performed 1 and 4 hours subsequent to TBI. Results proved that mTOR inhibitors, especially KU0063794, significantly improved cognitive and motor recovery after TBI, reducing lesion volumes. Also, treatment with mTOR inhibitors ameliorated the neuroinflammation associated with TBI, showing a diminished neuronal death and astrogliosis after trauma. Our findings propose that the involvement of selective mTORC1/2 inhibitor may represent a therapeutic strategy to improve recovery after brain trauma.
LncRNA PAXIP1‐AS1 fosters the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension via ETS1/WIPF1/RhoA axis
Authors: Song Rong , Lei Si , Yang Song , Wu Shang‐Jie
Published: July 2021

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life‐threatening disease featured with elevated pulmonary vascular resistance and progressive pulmonary vascular remodelling. It has been demonstrated that lncRNA PAXIP1‐AS1 could influence the transcriptome in PAH. However, the exact molecular mechanism of PAXIP1‐AS1 in PAH pathogenesis remains largely unknown. In this study, in vivo rat PAH model was established by monocrotaline (MCT) induction and hypoxia was used to induce in vitro PAH model using human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (hPASMCs). Histological examinations including H&E, Masson's trichrome staining and immunohistochemistry were subjected to evaluate the pathological changes of lung tissues. Expression patterns of PAXIP1‐AS1 and RhoA were assessed using qRT‐PCR and Western blotting, respectively. CCK‐8, BrdU assay and immunofluorescence of Ki67 were performed to measure the cell proliferation. Wound healing and transwell assays were employed to evaluate the capacity of cell migration. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay, co‐immunoprecipitation, RIP and CHIP assays were employed to verify the PAXIP1‐AS1/ETS1/WIPF1/RhoA regulatory network. It was found that the expression of PAXIP1‐AS1 and RhoA was remarkably higher in both lung tissues and serum of MCT‐induced PAH rats, as well as in hypoxia‐induced hPASMCs. PAXIP1‐AS1 knockdown remarkably suppressed hypoxia‐induced cell viability and migration of hPASMCs. PAXIP1‐AS1 positively regulated WIPF1 via recruiting transcriptional factor ETS1, of which knockdown reversed PAXIP1‐AS1‐mediated biological functions. Co‐immunoprecipitation validated the WIPF1/RhoA interaction. In vivo experiments further revealed the role of PAXIP1‐AS1 in PAH pathogenesis. In summary, lncRNA PAXIP1‐AS1 promoted cell viability and migration of hPASMCs via ETS1/WIPF1/RhoA, which might provide a potential therapeutic target for PAH treatment.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies of CD19 CAR T cell in human leukaemic xenograft models with dual‐modality imaging
Authors: Wu Qiong , Wang Yan , Wang Xinyu , Liang Ningxia , Liu Jingjing , Pan Donghui , Xu Yuping , Wang Lizhen , Yan Junjie , Wang Guangji , Miao Liyan , Yang Min
Published: July 2021

In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T)‐cell therapy has shown great potential in treating haematologic disease, but no breakthrough has been achieved in solid tumours. In order to clarify the antitumour mechanism of CAR T cell in solid tumours, the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) investigations of CD19 CAR T cell were performed in human leukaemic xenograft mouse models. For PK investigation, we radiolabelled CD19 CAR T cell with 89Zr and used PET imaging in the CD19‐positive and the CD19‐negative K562‐luc animal models. For PD evaluation, optical imaging, tumour volume measurement and DNA copy‐number detection were performed. Unfortunately, the qPCR results of the DNA copy number in the blood were below the detection limit. The tumour‐specific uptake was higher in the CD19‐positive model than in the CD19‐negative model, and this was consistent with the PD results. The preliminary PK and PD studies of CD19 CAR T cell in solid tumours are instructive. Considering the less efficiency of CAR T‐cell therapy of solid tumours with the limited number of CAR T cells entering the interior of solid tumours, this study is suggestive for the subsequent CAR T‐cell design and evaluation of solid tumour therapy.
Process effectiveness assessment by modeling the kinetics of lotus seed drying combining air‐borne ultrasound and microwave vacuum
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Lei Yanping , Lo Y. Martin , Han Yinjie , Zheng Baodong , Tian Yuting
Published: July 2021

This study presents the effects of ultrasound (US) on the drying kinetics of lotus seeds in a hybrid dryer equipped with constant microwave power in combination with airborne US at vacuum degree (USMVD) and atmospheric pressure (USMD) from 120 to 440 W of five US power levels. Water‐borne US pretreatment before microwave drying (US + MD) or microwave vacuum drying (US + MVD) was simultaneously performed to compare their effectiveness in drying lotus seeds under the same US power. USMD and USMVD techniques reduced the drying time up to 26.19% and 14.29% while reducing energy consumption by up to 10.42% and 23.02% when compared with MVD and MD (without US), respectively, and with relatively high ultrasonic power density. The US + MD and US + MVD drying also reduced the processing time and energy consumption compared to MD and MVD process, respectively, but was less effective than USMVD and USMD. In addition, with higher US power applied, drying occurred more rapidly with less energy consumption. The newly proposed model showed the best fit to the drying curve based on model with the highest regression coefficient, lowest root mean square error, sum square error, and chi‐square. Furthermore, the enhanced effectiveness by USMVD and USMD could be attributed to the respective “heating” and “synergistic” effects generated by microwave and US. Therefore, US in combination with MVD or MD could be used jointly owing to the enhanced process effectiveness.

Practical applications

Drying process is one of the most complex and energy‐consuming processes. The drying kinetics model was applied in drying equipment engineering. The drying kinetic model studies the law of moisture changes during the drying process and provides a theoretical basis for the adjustment of the lotus seed drying equipment parameters. In order to improve the quality of drying products and optimize the drying process, it is necessary to use mathematical model to simulate the drying process under different drying conditions. This study provides data support for equipment selection, energy saving, and consumption reduction and industrial design of lotus seeds drying process.
Honor killings in Muslim and Western countries in modern times: A critical literature review and definitional implications
Authors: Ne'eman‐Haviv Vered
Published: July 2021

Honor killings are an ancient phenomenon that has been widely discussed in the professional literature. This article reviews the current literature in the field, using a socio‐cultural theoretical framework, and critically examines the effect of modernization processes on the phenomenon, distinguishing between Arab and Muslim countries and Western countries. The review shows that despite modernization processes, and at times owing to concerns about these processes, the use of honor killings as a tool to strengthen patriarchal control seems to be widening. The impact of these trends on the definition of honor killings is discussed. An up‐to‐date literature review is necessary to raise awareness of this phenomenon of violence and to establish effective prevention programs. Directions for future research are also discussed.
Participation of persons with dementia and their caregivers in research
Authors: Frank Lori , Jennings Lee A. , Petersen Ronald C. , Majid Tabassum , Gilmore‐Bykovskyi Andrea , Schicker Lonni , Karlawish Jason
Published: July 2021

Background

The National Institute on Aging, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Human Services as part of the National Alzheimer's Project Act, convened a 2020 National Research Summit on Care, Services, and Supports for Persons with Dementia and their Caregivers. This review article addresses research participation by persons living with dementia (PLWD) and their care partners in two different ways: as research participants with input on outcomes studied and as engaged research partners.

Results

This article summarizes each of the topics presented at this Summit session, followed by reflection from the session panelists. Lee Jennings examined collection of outcomes directly from PLWD and the potential for individualized outcomes to enhance measurement in intervention trials. Ron Petersen discussed the impact of nomenclature on research and clinical care, and how and why investigators should be mindful of the connection between dementia nomenclature and the conduct of dementia research. Tabassum Majid examined strategies for engagement in research, including specific examples of involving PLWD and their care partners (including staff in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities), and the potential for this research engagement to improve our understanding of interventions in dementia.

Conclusions

Research participation by PLWD and their care partners is evolving. This review summarizes three areas of opportunity and steps for researchers to work with PLWD and their care partners to design and conduct research that enhances knowledge based on what we learn from PLWD and their care partners, and creates knowledge with them.
Emerging topics in dementia care and services
Authors: Wolff Jennifer L. , Benge Jared F. , Cassel Christine K. , Monin Joan K. , Reuben David B.
Published: July 2021

Background

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), in conjunction with the Department of Health and Human Services as part of the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA), convened a 2020 Dementia Care, Caregiving, and Services Research Summit Virtual Meeting Series. This review article summarizes three areas of emerging science that are likely to grow in importance given advances in measurement, technologies, and diagnostic tests that were presented at the Summit.

Results

Dr. Cassel discussed novel ethical considerations that have resulted from scientific advances that have enabled early diagnosis of pre‐clinical dementia. Dr. Monin then summarized issues regarding emotional experiences in persons with dementia and their caregivers and care partners, including the protective impact of positive emotion and heterogeneity of differences in emotion by dementia type and individual characteristics that affect emotional processes with disease progression. Finally, Dr. Jared Benge provided an overview of the role of technologies in buffering the impact of cognitive change on real‐world functioning and their utility in safety and monitoring of function and treatment adherence, facilitating communication and transportation, and increasing access to specialists in underserved or remote areas.

Conclusions

National policy initiatives, supported by strong advocacy and increased federal investments, have accelerated the pace of scientific inquiry and innovation related to dementia care and services but have raised some new concerns regarding ethics, disparities, and attending to individual needs, capabilities, and preferences.
Design, implement, and diffuse scalable and sustainable solutions for dementia care
Authors: Boustani Malaz , Unützer Jürgen , Leykum Luci K.
Published: July 2021

Most innovations developed to reduce the burden of Alzheimer disease and other related dementias (ADRD) are difficult to implement, diffuse, and scale. The consequences of such challenges in design, implementation, and diffusion are suboptimal care and resulting harm for people living with ADRD and their caregivers. National experts identified four factors that contribute to our limited ability to implement and diffuse of evidence‐based services and interventions for people living with ADRD: (1) limited market demand for the implementation and diffusion of effective ADRD interventions; (2) insufficient engagement of persons living with ADRD and those caring for them in the development of potential ADRD services and interventions; (3) limited evidence and experience regarding scalability and sustainability of evidence‐based ADRD care services; and (4) difficulties in taking innovations that work in one context and successfully implementing them in other contexts. New investments in the science of human‐centered design, implementation, and diffusion are crucial for meeting the goals of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease under the auspices of the National Alzheimer's Project Act.
Telehealth was beneficial during COVID‐19 for older Americans: A qualitative study with physicians
Authors: Goldberg Elizabeth M. , Jiménez Frances N. , Chen Kevin , Davoodi Natalie M. , Li Melinda , Strauss Daniel H. , Zou Maria , Guthrie Kate , Merchant Roland C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Individuals aged 65 and older face unique barriers to adoption of telehealth, and the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has provided a “natural experiment” in how to meet the health needs of older patients remotely. Physician perspectives on practical considerations surrounding telehealth adoption, motivations of use, and reasons for nonuse are necessary to inform the future of healthcare delivery. The objective is to understand the experiences of physicians using telemedicine for older patients.

Methods

From September to November 2020, we conducted 30‐min semi‐structured interviews using purposeful sampling to identify and enroll participants from diverse settings. We included 48 U.S.‐based physicians (geriatrician, n = 18, primary care, n = 15, emergency, n = 15) from all geographic regions, rural–urban and academic/community settings. Audio‐recorded interviews were professionally transcribed and analyzed using framework analysis. Major themes and subthemes were identified.

Results

Participants had a median (interquartile range) age of 37.5 (34–44.5), 27 (56%) were women. Five major themes emerged: (1) telehealth uptake was rapid and iterative, (2) telehealth improved the safety of medical care, (3) use cases were specialty‐specific (for geriatricians and primary care physicians telehealth substituted for in‐person visits; for emergency physicians it primarily supplemented in‐person visits), (4) physicians altered clinical care to overcome older patient barriers to telehealth use, and (5) telehealth use among physicians declined in mid‐April 2020, due primarily to patient needs and administrator preferences, not physician factors.

Conclusion

In this qualitative analysis, physicians reported a rapid, iterative uptake of telehealth and attenuation of use as coronavirus disease 2019 prevalence declined. Physician experiences during the pandemic can inform interventions and policies to help buoy telehealth for ongoing healthcare delivery and ensure its accessibility for older Americans.
Mass spectrometry‐based methods for robust measurement of Alzheimer's disease biomarkers in biological fluids
Authors: Korecka Magdalena , Shaw Leslie M.
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia affecting 60%–70% of people afflicted with this disease. Accurate antemortem diagnosis is urgently needed for early detection of AD to enable reliable estimation of prognosis, intervention, and monitoring of the disease. The National Institute on Aging/Alzheimer's Association sponsored the ‘Research Framework: towards a biological definition of AD’, which recommends using different biomarkers in living persons for a biomarker‐based definition of AD regardless of clinical status. Fluid biomarkers represent one of key groups of them. Since cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is in direct contact with brain and many proteins present in the brain can be detected in CSF, this fluid has been regarded as the best biofluid in which to measure AD biomarkers. Recently, technological advancements in protein detection made possible the effective study of plasma AD biomarkers despite their significantly lower concentrations versus to that in CSF. This and other challenges that face plasma‐based biomarker measurements can be overcome by using mass spectrometry. In this review, we discuss AD biomarkers which can be reliably measured in CSF and plasma using targeted mass spectrometry coupled to liquid chromatography (LC/MS/MS). We describe progress in LC/MS/MS methods’ development, emphasize the challenges, and summarize major findings. We also highlight the role of mass spectrometry and progress made in the process of global standardization of the measurement of Aβ42/Aβ40. Finally, we briefly describe exploratory proteomics which seek to identify new biomarkers that can contribute to detection of co‐pathological processes that are common in sporadic AD.

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Refining the amyloid β peptide and oligomer fingerprint ambiguities in Alzheimer’s disease: Mass spectrometric molecular characterization in brain, cerebrospinal fluid, blood, and plasma
Authors: Michno Wojciech , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Brinkmalm Gunnar
Published: July 2021

Since its discovery, amyloid‐β (Aβ) has been the principal target of investigation of in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Over the years however, no clear correlation was found between the Aβ plaque burden and location, and AD‐associated neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Instead, diagnostic potential of specific Aβ peptides and/or their ratio, was established. For instance, a selective reduction in the concentration of the aggregation‐prone 42 amino acid‐long Aβ peptide (Aβ42) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was put forward as reflective of Aβ peptide aggregation in the brain. With time, Aβ oligomers—the proposed toxic Aβ intermediates—have emerged as potential drivers of synaptic dysfunction and neurodegeneration in the disease process. Oligomers are commonly agreed upon to come in different shapes and sizes, and are very poorly characterized when it comes to their composition and their “toxic” properties. The concept of structural polymorphism—a diversity in conformational organization of amyloid aggregates—that depends on the Aβ peptide backbone, makes the characterization of Aβ aggregates and their role in AD progression challenging. In this review, we revisit the history of Aβ discovery and initial characterization and highlight the crucial role mass spectrometry (MS) has played in this process. We critically review the common knowledge gaps in the molecular identity of the Aβ peptide, and how MS is aiding the characterization of higher order Aβ assemblies. Finally, we go on to present recent advances in MS approaches for characterization of Aβ as single peptides and oligomers, and convey our optimism, as to how MS holds a promise for paving the way for progress toward a more comprehensive understanding of Aβ in AD research.

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Evaluating the impact on hospital acquired pressure injury/ulcer incidence in a United Kingdom NHS Acute Trust from use of sub‐epidermal scanning technology
Authors: Nightingale Pippa , Musa Louisa
Published: July 2021

Background

The incidence of pressure injury/ulcers is persistent despite multiple prevention strategies in hospitals across the globe. Current standard of pressure injury/ulcer care supported by subjective skin tissue assessments, risk assessment tools and clinical judgement is ineffective in consistent pressure injury/ulcer prevention.

Aim

A pragmatic study, aligning with SQUIRE guidelines, was conducted at Chelsea and Westminster hospitals to measure the impact of adding scanning technology to the prevailing standard of care pathway on the incidence of category 2–4 hospital‐acquired pressure injury/ulcers.

Methods

Six hundred and ninety‐seven mixed‐population patients at risk for pressure injuries/ulcers with a Waterlow score of ≥10 and a mean age ≥65 years were enrolled across four wards over a 6‐month period. Scanning technology was added to the prevailing standard of care as a device adjunctive to clinical judgement for the detection of deep and early‐stage pressure‐induced tissue damage. Ward staff completed comprehensive device training by the device manufacturer. Clinical interventions were initiated by clinical judgement informed by injury/ulcer risk assessments, skin and tissue assessments and scanner readings. Incidence of reportable category 2–4 pressure injuries/ulcers from the prior 12‐month period from the same wards were used as a control comparator population. All diagnosed category 2–4 pressure injuries/ulcers, unstageable and deep‐tissue injuries were recorded.

Results

Prior study 12‐month pressure injury/ulcer incidence was 0.6% (5/892 patients) in ward A, 4.4% (9/206 patients) in Ward B, 1.1% (12/1,123 patients) in Ward C and 2.6% (16/625 patients) in Ward D. Two pressure injury/ulcers in Ward B were recorded during the study. Zero pressure injuries/ulcers were recorded in the remaining three wards resulting in an 81% incidence reduction across all four wards. Improved clinical decisions from clinical judgement based on Sub‐Epidermal Moisture (SEM) Scanner data were reported in 83% patients (n=578/697).

Conclusion

Implementing scanning technology into routine clinical practice achieves consistent reductions in pressure injury/ulcer incidence.
Relation between hyponatraemia and falls by acute hospitalised patients: A case‐control study
Authors: Aranda‐Gallardo Marta , Gonzalez‐Lozano Antonio , Oña‐Gil Jose Ivan , Morales‐Asencio Jose Miguel , Mora‐Banderas Ana , Canca‐Sanchez Jose Carlos
Published: July 2021

Aims and objectives

To investigate the possible association between hyponatremia and falls, in a sample of hospitalised adult patients.

Background

In‐hospital falls are a problem of major importance, provoking a significant decline in the quality of life of many patients. Recent studies have identified a relationship between such falls and the presence of hyponatremia.

Design

Analytical retrospective observational case‐control study.

Methods

The study population consisted of hospitalised patients who had suffered an in‐hospital fall during the period 2014–2016. For each case, two controls who had not suffered any such fall were recruited. These cases and controls were matched according to gender, age, hospitalisation unit and date of admission. Study data were obtained from the hospital’s record of falls, regarding the patients’ socio‐demographic factors, physical and psychological conditions and blood levels of sodium, potassium, urea and creatinine. The study is reported in accordance with STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology guidelines.

Results

The study sample consisted of 555 patients (185 cases and 370 controls). Hyponatraemia was detected in 57 cases (30.8%). A statistically significant relationship was found between the presence of hyponatraemia and the occurrence of falls: OR = 2.04. Other risk factors for falls were hypercreatinaemia OR 2.49, hyperuraemia OR 1.82, disorientation, need for ambulatory assistance and longer hospital stay.

Conclusions

From the study findings, we conclude that hyponatraemia is a predictor of falls by acute hospitalised patients. Further research is needed on the relationship between hypercreatinaemia, hyperuraemia and falls.

Relevance to clinical practice

The assessment of risk factors for falls, such as hyponatraemia, can alert us to the possibility of this event occurring and facilitate the implementation of preventive measures. This parameter should be included as a significant new factor in assessment instruments designed to assess the risk of falls, thus enhancing the reliability and diagnostic validity of these instruments.
Bank survival around the world: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Kočenda Evžen , Iwasaki Ichiro
Published: July 2021

Bank survival is essential to economic growth and development because banks mediate the financing of the economy. A bank's overall condition is often assessed by a supervisory rating system called CAMELS, an acronym for the components Capital adequacy, Asset quality, Management quality, Earnings, Liquidity, and Sensitivity to market risk. Estimates of the impact of CAMELS components on bank survival vary widely. We perform a metasynthesis and metaregression analysis (MRA) using 2120 estimates collected from 50 studies. In the MRA, we account for uncertainty in moderator selection by employing Bayesian model averaging. The results of the synthesis indicate an economically negligible impact of CAMELS variables on bank survival; in addition, the effect of bank‐specific, (macro)economic, and market factors is virtually absent. The results of the heterogeneity analysis and publication bias analysis are consistent in terms that they do not find an economically significant impact of the CAMELS variables. Moreover, best practice estimates show a small economic impact of CAMELS components and no impact of other factors. The study concludes that caution should be exercised when using CAMELS rating to predict bank survival or failure.