bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of pea dietary fiber by ultrafine grinding and hypoglycemic effect in diabetes mellitus mice
Authors: Wang Meng , Chen Xuanhong , Dong Leichao , Nan Xijun , Ji Wei , Wang Sai , Sun Wanting , Zhou Quancheng
Published: March 2021

This study was designed to investigate the effects of ultrafine grinding on the physicochemical properties of pea dietary fiber (PDF) and the hypoglycemic effect of ultrafine grinding dietary fiber on diabetes mellitus (DM). So, the PDF was treated by ultrafine grinding technology, and its microstructure and physicochemical properties were determined. Then, the DM model was established, and the 4‐week ultrafine grinded pea dietary fiber (UGPDF) diet intervention was conducted by using gavage and feeding. During this period, the blood glucose and body weight of the mice were measured, and an oral glucose tolerance test was measured on the last day. The biochemical blood indexes of the mice were determined, and the pancreas was stained with HE after dissecting. The results showed that after ultrafine grinding, the structure fragmentation, specific surface area increased, and UGPDF showed higher swelling ability as well as water and oil holding capacities. Simultaneously, UGPDF had a significant effect on reducing blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin in DM mice, improving the wasting state of mice and increasing the tolerance to glucose. Further, the results of the HE section showed that the pancreatic islet cells gradually returned to normal regular morphology. In biochemical blood indicators, UGPDF reduced TC and TG levels in the blood. This study provided a specific data basis for the following research on the hypoglycemic mechanism, and broadens the application field of PDF.

Practical Application

The physicochemical properties of pea dietary fiber were improved by ultrafine grinding technology. Because of this, the application of pea dietary fiber in the field of hypoglycemic had a better effect, laying a foundation for the next research on hypoglycemic mechanism.
Determination of changes in physicochemical and sensory characteristics of purple passion fruit with the application of different packaging systems, including an ethylene scavenger additive
Authors: Ballesteros Shannon , Salamanca Mayerly C. , Sierra Cesar A. , Palomeque Liliam A. , Castellanos Diego A.
Published: March 2021

To achieve a suitable packaging configuration, it is important first to determine the physicochemical characteristics related to the packaged product. In this study, the physicochemical characterization of fresh purple passion fruits of three different ripening stages was carried out to determine key variables for the packaging, such as O2 consumption and CO2–ethylene production rates. Subsequently, intermediate‐ripe fruits were packaged for 21 days at 6 °C under three packaging conditions: Xtend® perforated bags, low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) bags, and LDPE bags with a novel ethylene scavenger active additive (ESAA). It was observed that an equilibrium modified atmosphere was formed in the packages. For the Xtend® bags, the highest values of O2 (yo2 = 0.184 to 0.192) and lowest of CO2 (yco2 = 0.033 to 0.041) were reached, whereas for the LDPE bags with ESAA these values were moderate. In the case of ethylene, the LDPE bags showed the highest levels in the headspace (26 to 31 ppm), whereas the lowest levels were obtained in the LDPE bags with additive (2 to 4 ppm). These levels resulted in a delay in the ripening of the fruits during storage, which was verified through a sensory acceptability test that was carried out on the juice extracted from the fruits. In this sensory test, panelists identified similar characteristics between the fruits packaged with ESAA and the Xtend® bags, regarding the control fruits. The LDPE bags with the ethylene scavenger performed satisfactorily and can considerably delay the ripening, which may result in longer shelf life and conservation of fresh purple passion fruits.

Practical Application

This work presents a novel packaging proposal that reduces oxygen and ethylene levels in contact with purple passion fruits. Our proposed active packaging can be used to increase the fruit shelf life by improving its conservation conditions throughout the chain of storage, transport, and distribution in the market. With this, it will be possible to reduce the fruit's losses due to senescence and to reduce the substrate consumption by using a more effective packaging system.
Mulberry leaf phenolics and fiber exert anti‐obesity through the gut microbiota‐host metabolism pathway
Authors: Liao Sentai , Long Xiaoshan , Zou Yuxiao , Liu Fan , Li Qian
Published: March 2021

The effect of mulberry leaf powder and components on preventing obesity and regulating lipid metabolism were investigated in the present study. The mechanism of action was explored by examining the gut microbiota and lipid metabolism‐related signaling pathways. As evidenced by the nutritional obesity rats model experiments, the middle concentration mulberry leaf powder (MLP) group (0.8 g/kg·d) significantly reduced Lee's index (25.1, compared with model control group [MC] 25.7) and had the strongest lipid metabolism regulation effect. Furthermore, the suppression effects of different mulberry leaf components on nutritional obesity were compared and the mulberry leaf phenolics and fiber mixture (Mulberry leaf mixture [MLM]) group (0.6 g/kg·d) was found to have the strongest efficacy (body weight [BW] reduced 12.4%). Real time PCR (RT‐qPCR) and western blot analyses demonstrated that MLP (0.8 g/kg·d) and its components inhibited adipocyte differentiation and triglyceride synthesis through the PPAR‐γ‐ C/EBP‐α signaling pathway, resulting in lipid metabolism regulation. Gut microbiota analysis indicated that MLM (0.6 g/kg·d) prevented the reduction in intestinal flora diversity (reach 491 species) caused by high‐energy feed, and reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio (to 7.99%) and the obesity associated flora, Lachnospiraceae (to 19.1%), whereas it improved the content of the beneficial flora, Lactobacilli, Lactobacillus_johnsonii (reach 11.77%). MLM improved the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of the two functional components (phenolics and fiber) and maximized the anti‐obesity effect through the gut microbiota‐host metabolism pathway.

Practical Application

The anti‐obesity and lipid metabolism regulation effect of mulberry leaf components were evaluated in this study. The fiber and phenolics of this plant have the potential for development of weight‐loss functional foods.
Mesozoic–Cenozoic Tectonic Evolution and Uplift in Pamir: Application of Fission Track Thermochronology
Authors: FAN Baocheng , LIU Mingyi , HE Zixin , MENG Guanglu , WU Huanhuan , LI Lu
Published: March 2021

The Pamir Plateau can be divided into three secondary tectonic units from north to south: the North, the Middle and the South Pamir Blocks. The North Pamir Block belonged to the southern margin of Tarim‐Karakum, thermochronological study of the Pamir structural intersection indicates that accretion of the Middle Pamir Block to the Eurasian Continental Margin and its subduction and collision with the North Pamir Block occurred in the Middle–Late Jurassic. Due to the Neo‐Tethys closure in the Early Cretaceous, the South Pamir Block began to collide with the accretion (the Middle Pamir Block) of the Eurasian Continental Margin. Affected by the collision and continuous convergence between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate since the Cenozoic, Pamir is in a multi‐stage differential uplift process. During 56.1–48.5 Ma, North Pamir took the lead in uplifting, that is, the first rapid uplift in the Pamir region began there. The continuous compression and contraction of the Indian and Eurasian plates during 22.0–15.1 Ma forced the Pamir tectonic syntaxis to begin its overall uplift, i.e. Pamir began to enter the second rapid uplift stage in the Early Oligocene, which lasted until the Middle Miocene. During 14.6–8.5Ma, South Pamir was in a rapid uplift stage, while North Pamir was in a relatively stable state, showing asymmetry of tectonic deformation in the Pamir region in space. Since 6.5 Ma, Pamir began to rapidly uplift again.
Relationship between Thermal Metamorphism of Coal and the Periodic Variation Law of Geochemical Behavior of Elements: A Study on the C2 Coal Seam in the Fengfeng Mining Area of the Handan Coalfield in Hebei, China
Authors: YANG Jianye , QIN Shenjun , ZHANG Weiguo , LIU Shande , XU Fei
Published: March 2021

This study highlights the response of the periodic variation of the geochemical behavior of elements to the thermal metamorphism of coal by considering the differentiation mode and differentiation degree of elements of the C2 coal seam in the Fengfeng mining area of the Handan Coalfield in Hebei, China. The periodic variation of the geochemical behavior of elements was observed to change towards a certain direction as the degree of metamorphism of a geological body increased. Based on the coincidence degree (or similarity degree) between the geochemical behavior of elements and periodic variation of elements, the 57 elements in this study were divided into two levels. The periodic variation of the geochemical behavior of first‐level elements was largely synchronous with that of their first ionization energy, suggesting that only one differentiation mode exists and the elements are mainly inorganically associated. The differentiation mode of the second‐level elements deviated to a certain extent from their first ionization energy; the larger the deviation, the more complicated and diverse was the differentiation mode. Among the second‐level elements, the grade of coal metamorphism has evident and intuitive effects on the proportion of elements with particular structural features, such as the 4q+3 type of elements and the odd‐odd elements. In addition, the distribution of elements in organic and inorganic matter within coal are subject to the structural features of the elements. The differentiation mode and differentiation intensity of elements could be characterized by the hierarchical parameter and differentiation intensity. The hierarchical parameter and differentiation intensity of certain elements showed a good positive or negative correlation with Rmax in coal. The 57 elements in this study were quantitatively ordered according to the degree of magmatic hydrothermal fluid influence and thermal metamorphism of coal through graphs depicting the goodness of fit, correlation coefficient with Rmax, and differentiation intensity. The results of this study are consistent with the results of previous field research, illustrating the scientific significance and application value of this study on the periodic variation of the geochemical behavior of elements.
Final‐stage Southward Subduction of the Eastern Paleo‐Asian Ocean: Evidence from the Middle Permian Mafic Intrusions in the Northern Margin of the North China Craton
Authors: JING Yan , GE Wenchun , DONG Yu , YANG Hao , JI Zheng , BI Junhui , ZHOU Hongying , XING Dehe
Published: March 2021

The northern margin of the North China Craton (NCC) contains widespread Permian magmatic rocks, but the origin of these rocks remains controversial. This uncertainty hampers us from better understanding of tectonic framework and evolution of the eastern Paleo‐Asian Ocean, particularly with respect to its final‐stage subduction and closure time. To address these questions, this study presents petrological, zircon U‐Pb geochronological, whole‐rock geochemical and in situ zircon Hf isotopic data for these Permian mafic intrusions in the northern margin of the NCC. Precise zircon U‐Pb dating results indicate that these mafic intrusions were emplaced in the Middle Permian (ca. 260 Ma). Geochemically, the studied mafic intrusions have high MgO and transition metals element contents, with high Mg# values, indicating a mantle origin. These mafic intrusions are characterized by enrichments in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs; e.g., Rb, Ba, and K) and light rare earth elements (LREEs), and depletions in high field strength elements (HFSEs; e.g., Nb, Ta, and Ti) and heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), indicating that they were formed in a subduction‐related setting. These geochemical features, together with zircon ∊Hf(t) values (–1.1 to +11.2), indicate that their parental magmas were derived from partial melting of heterogeneous mantle wedge metasomatized by subduction‐related fluids, with the contributions of slab sediments. The studied mafic intrusions also show wide range of major and trace elements contents, and variable Mg# values, Eu and Sr anomalies, suggesting that their parental magmas had undergone variable degrees of fractional crystallization. Together with the E–W trending Permian continental arc along the northern margin of the NCC, we confirm that the generation of the Middle Permian mafic intrusions was related to southward subduction of the Paleo‐Asian oceanic lithosphere beneath the NCC and the Paleo‐Asian Ocean had not closed prior to the Middle Permian.
Mergers and marginal costs: New evidence on hospital buyer power
Authors: Craig Stuart V. , Grennan Matthew , Swanson Ashley
Published: March 2021

We estimate the effects of hospital mergers, using detailed data containing medical supply transactions (representing 23% of operating costs) from a sample of US hospitals, 2009–2015. Pre‐merger price variation across hospitals (Gini coefficient 7%) suggests significant opportunities for cost decreases. However, we observe limited evidence of actual savings. In this retrospective study, targets realized 1.9% savings; acquirers realized no significant savings. Examining treatment effect heterogeneity to shed light on theories of “buyer power,” we find that savings, when they occur, tend to be local, and potential benefits of savings may be offset by managerial costs of merging.
Filling a gap in standardized nursing terminology. Development of a new nursing diagnosis proposal on heart failure self‐care
Authors: Sanson Gianfranco , Vellone Ercole , Takao‐Lopes Camila , Barrientos‐Trigo Sergio , Porcel‐Gálvez Ana María , Riegel Barbara , D'Agostino Fabio
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Heart failure is a highly prevalent chronic health problem associated with poor quality‐of‐life and negative outcomes. Self‐care is a cornerstone in patients suffering from heart failure. Nurses are commonly engaged in enhancing patients’ self‐care behaviors, but the specific condition of deficit on self‐care is not clearly identified by nurses. No nursing diagnoses focused on self‐care of heart failure patients is currently available. This study aimed to develop a new nursing diagnosis that focuses on self‐care in heart failure patients.

Data sources

A concept and content analysis were used. Some steps of the concept analysis were performed through an integrative literature review conducted searching in PUBMED and CINAHL databases to identify attributes, antecedents, and consequences of the diagnosis. Forty‐five articles were selected from the 1450 studies found. Then, the content analysis was performed by an international panel of 29 experts. Two Delphi rounds were used to achieve consensus and an item content validity index was calculated for each diagnostic element.

Data synthesis

Integrative review proposed four diagnostic labels, two definitions, 15 defining characteristics, and 44 related factors. After the two Delphi rounds a consensus was reached for each diagnostic indicator with a content validity index ranging from 82.8% to 100%. The nursing diagnosis—labeled heart failure self‐care deficit—was validated with a definition, eight defining characteristics, 15 related factors, and five at‐risk populations.

Conclusions

This diagnosis allows nurses to document patients’ self‐care in daily clinical practice through a standard nursing terminology, by naming this health problem, describing its etiology, and clinical manifestations.

Implications for nursing practice

This new diagnosis is expected to assist nursing clinicians, educators, and students in clinical reasoning with the aim to improve diagnostic accuracy in identifying patients with a heart failure self‐care deficit, to select the most appropriate interventions and pursue better outcomes.
The association of ketamine induction with blood pressure changes in paramedic rapid sequence intubation of out‐of‐hospital traumatic brain injury
Authors: Fouche Pieter F. , Meadley Ben , St Clair Toby , Winnall Alison , Jennings Paul A. , Bernard Stephen , Smith Karen
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) is used to secure the airway of traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, with ketamine frequently used for induction. Studies show that ketamine‐induction RSI might cause lower blood pressures when compared to etomidate. It is not clear if the results from that research can be extrapolated to systems that use different dosing regimens for ketamine RSI. Ambulance Victoria authorized the use of 1.5 mg/kg ketamine in January 2015 for head injury RSI induction by road‐based paramedics. This study aims to examine whether systolic blood pressure changed when ketamine was introduced for prehospital head injury RSI.

Methods

This study was a retrospective analysis of out‐of‐hospital suspected TBI that received RSI by paramedics. Our analysis employs an interrupted time‐series analysis (ITSA), which is a quasi‐experimental method that tested whether hypotension and systolic blood pressures changed after the switch to ketamine induction in 2015. This ITSA utilized an ordinary least squares regression on complete observations using Newey–West standard errors.

Results

During the study period, paramedics performed RSI in 8,613 patients, and 1,759 (20.4%) had a TBI. Ketamine usage increased by 52.7% in January 2015 (p < 0.001) after road‐based paramedics were authorized to use ketamine induction. This analysis found significant 5% increase in post‐RSI hypotension (p = 0.046) after the introduction of ketamine, and thereafter the incidence of post‐RSI hypotension increased steadily by 0.5% every 3 months (p = 0.004). Concurrently, changes in systolic blood pressure, as measured by the interval just before induction to the last measured on scene, show an average decrease of 7.8 mm Hg (p = 0.04) at the start of 2015 with the ketamine rollout.

Conclusions

This ITSA shows that postinduction hypotension and also decreases in systolic blood pressures became evident after the introduction of ketamine. Further research to investigate the association between ketamine induction and survival is needed.
Cytisine versus varenicline for smoking cessation in New Zealand indigenous Māori: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Walker Natalie , Smith Barry , Barnes Joanne , Verbiest Marjolein , Parag Varsha , Pokhrel Subhash , Wharakura Mary‐Kaye , Lees Tina , Cubillos Gutierrez Huber , Jones Brian , Bullen Christopher
Published: March 2021

Aim

To determine whether cytisine was at least as effective as varenicline in supporting smoking abstinence for ≥ 6 months in New Zealand indigenous Māori or whānau (extended‐family) of Māori, given the high smoking prevalence in this population.

Design

Pragmatic, open‐label, randomized, community‐based non‐inferiority trial.

Setting

Bay of Plenty, Tokoroa and Lakes District Health Board regions of New Zealand.

Participants

Adult daily smokers who identified as Māori or whānau of Māori, were motivated to quit in the next 2 weeks, were aged ≥ 18 years and were eligible for subsidized varenicline. Recruitment used multi‐media advertising.

Interventions

A total of 679 people were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to receive a prescription for 12 weeks of cytisine or varenicline, plus low‐intensity cessation behavioural support from the prescribing doctor and community stop‐smoking services or a research assistant. Day 5 of treatment was the designated quit date.

Measurements

The primary outcome was carbon monoxide‐verified continuous abstinence at 6 months, analysed as intention‐to‐treat (with multiple imputation for missing data). Secondary outcomes measured at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post‐quit date included: self‐reported continuous abstinence, 7‐day point prevalence abstinence, cigarettes per day, time to (re)lapse, adverse events, treatment adherence/compliance and acceptability, nicotine withdrawal/urge to smoke and health‐care utilization/health‐related quality of life.

Findings

Verified continuous abstinence rates at 6 months post‐quit date were 12.1% (41 of 337) for cytisine versus 7.9% (27 of 342) for varenicline [risk difference 4.29%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = –0.22 to 8.79; relative risk 1.55; 95% CI = 0.97–2.46]. Sensitivity analyses confirmed that the findings were robust. Self‐reported adverse events over 6 months occurred significantly more frequently in the varenicline group (cytisine: 313 events in 111 participants; varenicline: 509 events in 138 participants, incidence rate ratio 0.56, 95% CI = 0.49–0.65, P < 0.001) compared with the cytisine group. Common adverse events were headache, nausea and difficulty sleeping.

Conclusion

A randomized controlled trial found that cytisine was at least as effective as varenicline at supporting smoking abstinence in New Zealand indigenous Māori or whānau (extended‐family) of Māori, with significantly fewer adverse events.
Host range determination in a novel outbreak pest of sugarcane, Cacosceles newmannii (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae, Prioninae), inferred from stable isotopes
Authors: Smit Chantelle , Javal Marion , Conlong Desmond E. , Hall Grant , Terblanche John S.
Published: March 2021

An outbreak of Cacosceles newmannii (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) was detected for the first time on sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) in 2015 in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. Although primary host plants of this native species remain unknown, these are central to testing hypotheses concerning the outbreak.

We hypothesized that this species has undergone a host plant shift (i.e. a feeding association with a novel host plant).

We compared δ13C and δ15N ratios of adult beetles retrieved from South African museum collections, collected between 1891 and 2016 (n = 23; ‘pre‐outbreak’), with samples from infested fields in 2017 (n = 9, ‘post‐outbreak’) and in 2019 (n = 23, ‘post‐outbreak’), as well as diverse, plausible host plants (n = 42 samples across 10 species) from infested fields and surrounding patches of indigenous and commercial forest vegetation. We used Bayesian isotope mixing models to infer the relative contribution of the different plants to the diet of C. newmannii.

Pre‐outbreak, C3 plants contributed strongly to the larval diet, whereas post‐outbreak, C4 plants were the largest component of their diet. There was some indication of C4 plants contributing to their diet pre‐outbreak.

Our results suggest that the outbreak of this polyphagous beetle was not a dramatic host shift but rather a rapid increase in the proportion of C4 plants already in their diet.

We concluded that plants from the families Fabaceae and Poaceae are the most likely host plants of this species. Nevertheless, the drivers of this rapid outbreak on sugarcane remain poorly determined and should be the focus of future research.
Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of emodepside, a potential novel treatment for onchocerciasis (river blindness), in healthy male subjects
Authors: Gillon Jean‐Yves , Dennison Jeremy , van den Berg Frans , Delhomme Sophie , Dequatre Cheeseman Karen , Peña Rossi Claudia , Strub Wourgaft Nathalie , Specht Sabine , Pedrique Belén , Monnot Frédéric , Skrabs Susanne , Rodriguez Maria‐Luisa , Stass Heino
Published: March 2021

Aims

Emodepside is an anthelmintic, originally developed for veterinary use. We investigated in healthy subjects the safety, and pharmacokinetics of a liquid service formulation (LSF) and immediate release (IR) tablet of emodepside in 2 randomised, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled, Phase I studies.

Methods

Seventy‐nine subjects in 10 cohorts in the single ascending dose study and 24 subjects in 3 ascending‐dose cohorts in the multiple ascending dose study were enrolled. Emodepside as LSF was administered orally as single 1–40‐mg doses and for 10 days as 5 or 10 mg once daily and 10‐mg twice daily doses, respectively. Pharmacokinetics and safety were assessed up to 21 and 30 days, respectively. In addition, IR tablets containing 5 or 20 mg emodepside were tested in the single ascending dose study.

Results

Emodepside as LSF was rapidly absorbed under fasting conditions, with dose‐proportional increase in plasma concentrations at doses from 1 to 40 mg. Terminal half‐life was > 500 hours. In the fed state, emodepside was absorbed more slowly but overall plasma exposure was not significantly affected. Compared to the LSF, the rate and extent of absorption was significantly lower with the tablets.

Conclusions

Overall, emodepside had acceptable safety and tolerability profiles, no major safety concerns, after single oral administration of 20 mg as LSF and after multiple oral administration over 10 days at 5 and 10 mg OD and at 10 mg twice daily. For further clinical trials, the development of a tablet formulation overcoming the limitations observed in the present study with the IR tablet formulation is considered.
N‐acetylcysteine as a new prominent approach for treating psychiatric disorders
Authors: Smaga Irena , Frankowska Małgorzata , Filip Małgorzata
Published: March 2021

N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well‐known and safe mucolytic agent, also used in patients with paracetamol overdose. In addition to these effects, recent preclinical and clinical studies have shown that NAC exerts beneficial effects on different psychiatric disorders. Many potential mechanisms have been proposed to underlie the therapeutic effects of NAC, including the regulation of several neurotransmitters, oxidative homeostasis, and inflammatory mediators. In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the ability of NAC to ameliorate symptoms and neuropathologies related to different psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive–compulsive disorder, obsessive–compulsive‐related disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Although preclinical studies have shown a positive effect of NAC on animal models of psychiatric disorders, the clinical efficacy of NAC is not fully established. NAC remains a strong candidate for adjunct treatment for many psychiatric disorders, but additional preclinical and clinical studies are needed.
Something About the Way You Speak: A Meta‐analysis on Children’s Linguistic‐based Social Preferences
Authors: Spence Jessica L. , Hornsey Matthew J. , Imuta Kana
Published: March 2021

There is growing interest in the role of linguistic cues (accents, dialects, language) in driving children’s social preferences. This meta‐analysis integrated 131 effect sizes involving 2,680 infants and children from 2 days old to 11 years. Overall, children prefer native‐accent, native‐dialect, and native‐language speakers over non‐native counterparts (d = 0.57). Meta‐regression highlighted that bilinguals (d = 0.93) do not exhibit less native‐speaker preference compared to monolinguals (d = 0.62). Children displayed stronger preferences based on accent (d = 1.04) than dialect (d = 0.44) and language (d = 0.39). Children’s cultural background, exposure to non‐native speech, age, and preference measure were not significant moderators. The data are discussed in light of several theoretical explanations for when and why children show linguistic‐based social preferences.
Factors of success in community forest conservation
Authors: Wilkie David , Painter Michael
Published: March 2021

Drawing on structured interviews of 29 conservation practitioners with first‐hand experience working with successful community forest conservation projects in eight countries around the world, this article explores how context influences the importance of Mancur Olson's five requisites for collective action, and Elinor Ostrom's eight design principles for effective common‐pool resource management. Results suggest that Olson was correct that social cohesion is a common attribute of successful community forest management efforts. But the survey also suggests that it is shared identity that is most the important contributor to cohesion and that this can occur largely absent of regular, positive face‐to‐face interactions as Olson suggests. Interviews also show that all eight of Ostrom's design principles are manifest by successful community forest conservation efforts. Although recognition of a community rights to self‐determination was reported to be essential, it was also considered insufficient without the timely and competent support of national authorities to help communities effectively exercise their rights when faced with threats from more economically and politically powerful external actors.
Mohs surgery for early‐stage Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) achieves local control better than wide local excision ± radiation therapy with no increase in MCC‐specific death
Authors: Terushkin Vitaly , Brodland David G. , Sharon Danny J. , Zitelli John A.
Published: March 2021

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) of the skin is most commonly treated with wide local excision (WLE) with or without adjuvant radiation therapy (RT). Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) as monotherapy may offer an alternative treatment modality. The purpose of this study is to describe outcomes of patients with primary Stage I/II MCC treated with MMS alone and no RT.

Methods

A retrospectively collected sample of 56 MCCs treated with MMS was studied over an 18‐year period. Tumor and treatment characteristics were described, and follow‐up was assessed.

Results

A total of 56 primary Stage I/II MCCs in 53 patients were treated with MMS as monotherapy from April 2001 through July 2019. Patients were followed for an average of 4.6 years (median 2.7 years, range 0.8 to 16.9 years), of which 19 (33.9%) had follow‐up of 5 years or more. There were no local recurrences due to inadequate excision. The 5‐year Kaplan‐Meier MCC‐specific survival for AJCC8 Stage I and AJCC8 Stage IIA were 91.2% and 68.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

In comparison to historical controls, Mohs surgery offers a survival that is at least as good as WLE +/‐ RT, with the added benefits of no need for adjuvant RT or the need for further surgery for treatment of local recurrence.
Determination of aflatoxins, deoxynivalenol, ochratoxin A and zearalenone in organic wheat flour under different storage conditions
Authors: Annunziata Loredana , Schirone Maria , Visciano Pierina , Campana Guido , De Massis Maria Rosaria , Migliorati Giacomo
Published: March 2021

Samples of flour derived from an organic wheat seed cultivated in the region Abruzzo (Central Italy) were examined for the detection of aflatoxins, deoxynivalenol, ochratoxin A and zearalenone after storage in the presence of oxygen or under vacuum, for one year. They were analysed by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection for aflatoxins, ochratoxin A and zearalenone and with diode array detector for deoxynivalenol. An immunoaffinity column clean‐up was applied for all the compounds, except for aflatoxin determination, which required a solid‐phase extraction. Recoveries (range: 76–107%) and within‐laboratory reproducibility (RSD% < 10.3) met the performance criteria of Commission Regulation (EU) No. 519/2014 amending Commission Regulation (EC) No. 401/2006 for the detection of mycotoxins in foodstuffs. Analytes were below the detection limit of the method, and this result was probably due to the quality of organic seed and good agricultural practices performed for the prevention of mycotoxin formation.
Millets as potential nutri‐cereals: a review of nutrient composition, phytochemical profile and techno‐functionality
Authors: Sharma Rajan , Sharma Savita , Dar B.N. , Singh Baljit
Published: March 2021

Millets are sustainable drought‐resistant crops capable of surviving a wide range of climatic conditions. They are small‐seeded grains rich in proteins, minerals and bioactive compounds inducing several health benefits and provide protection against chronic and degenerative modern lifestyle disorders. Hypoglycaemic profile and bioactive composition are the key elements for the popularity of millets as functional ingredients for the development of novel food products of commercial importance. Despite numerous health benefits and agro‐economic potential, millets have lost their popularity due to coarse nature and are underutilised in developed countries. Food scientists and nutritionists are characterising and valorising millets to enhance their use for food applications. The present article reviews research investigations about nutritional composition (macro‐ and micro‐nutrients), biologically active components (phenolic acid, flavonoids, phytosterols and related antioxidant potential) and techno‐functionality of millets. Pharmacological impact and their utilisation in value‐added products have also been included.
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) protein as a prospective plant‐based ingredient: a review
Authors: Boukid Fatma
Published: March 2021

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most grown and consumed pulses and it is traditionally commercialised as seeds, flour or canned foods. In the frame of alternative protein sources, chickpea emerged as a rich source of dietary proteins (17–22%) that can be dry‐ or wet‐extracted. The application of chickpea proteins as food ingredients is still in the early stages, where their properties and how they interact within food matrices are scarcely studied. Therefore, this review provides recent advances in processing, characteristics and applications of chickpea proteins. Nutritionally, these proteins have various biological activities, adequate levels of essential amino acids and protein digestibility. Technologically, their bland flavour, neutral taste and light colour make them suitable ingredients for new products development including noodles, breads, cookies and sausages. Chickpea proteins and particularly hydrolysates are a promising alternative to be used more broadly as functional ingredients.
The role of near‐infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green dye in pedicle division with the paramedian forehead flap
Authors: Schlosshauer Torsten , Rothenberger Jens , Heiss Christian , Rieger Ulrich M.
Published: March 2021

The paramedian forehead flap is considered the gold standard for nasal reconstruction following oncologic surgery. During the 21‐day delay in two‐stage surgery protocols, many patients report considerably reduced quality of life because of the pedicle. This prospective case series study examined the usefulness of near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence with indocyanine green (ICG) for flap perfusion assessment and identified variables associated with time to flap perfusion. Ten patients (mean age 75.3 ± 11.6 years) with diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma (n = 9) or squamous cell carcinoma (n = 1) underwent intravenous indocyanine injection and NIR fluorescence imaging for assessment of flap vascularisation 2 to 3 weeks after stage 1 surgery. NIR fluorescence imaging showed 90% to 100% perfusion areas in all patients after 14 to 21 days. Early pedicle division occurred in two patients on postoperative days 14 and 16. One minor complication (wound healing disorder) was seen following flap takedown after 14 days. There were no associations between time to flap perfusion and defect size or flap area. NIR fluorescence imaging with ICG dye is a useful method for non‐invasive perfusion assessment when used in conjunction with clinical assessment criteria. However, a decision for early pedicle division may raise risk of complications in specific patient groups and must therefore be made with great care.
Development and psychometric testing of a family concordance competency scale for families with children having chronic illnesses
Authors: Takatani Satoshi , Honda Junko , Hohashi Naohiro
Published: March 2021

Aim

This study aimed to develop a Family Concordance Competency Scale for Family System Units (FCCS‐Fa) for families with children having chronic disease, and to evaluate its reliability and validity.

Methods

FCCS‐Fa was developed by taking the following steps: (a) drafting based on the elements comprising concordance between healthcare professionals and families with patients suffering from chronic illness; (b) evaluation of face and content validity by an expert panel; and (c) re‐examination of face and content validity by semi‐structured interviews with 16 families. Criterion‐related validity was evaluated using the existing scale and construct validity was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis. Analysis of each FCCS‐Fa evaluation item, internal consistency, and the 2‐week test–retest reliability was also conducted. An anonymous self‐reported questionnaire survey was conducted, targeting families with chronically ill children who were outpatients at three hospitals.

Results

A total of 196 subjects were analyzed. As results of FCCS‐Fa item analysis and exploratory factor analysis, a scale structure comprised of 17 evaluation items and three factors were adopted. In addition, a significant correlation with several existing scales was identified and the criterion‐related validity was also confirmed. The Cronbach's α coefficient for the overall scale was .927, the intraclass correlation coefficient applying the retest method was .905, and internal consistency and test–retest reliability were both confirmed.

Conclusions

We developed FCCS‐Fa with reliability and validity. Assessing family concordance competency using this scale and supporting families to achieve family concordance can lead to self‐management by families.
Gamma‐glutamyltransferase and the risk of head and neck cancer mortality
Authors: Cho Hye Min , Choi Hye Mi , Lee Kyung‐Eun , Cho Nam‐Pyo
Published: March 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the association between baseline serum gamma‐glutamyltransferase levels and the mortality risk of head and neck cancers.

Methods

A total of 481 414 Korean participants aged 40–79 years at enrollment were examined. The hazard ratios for head and neck cancer mortality were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models, which were adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

In the overall study population, high gamma‐glutamyltransferase levels were significantly associated with head and neck cancers mortality in a dose‐response linear relation (p < 0.001). After excluding participants (n = 125) who died of head and neck cancers within five years of enrollment, the main results remained similar to those of the analysis of all 313 head and neck cancers deaths in the study population.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that serum gamma‐glutamyltransferase activity is positively associated with an increased mortality risk in head and neck cancers in a dose‐dependent manner.
The miR‐155‐5p inhibits osteoclast differentiation through targeting CXCR2 in orthodontic root resorption
Authors: Jiang Hongtao , Kitaura Hideki , Liu Lin , Mizoguchi Itaru , Liu Shiying
Published: March 2021

Background and objective

Root resorption is an unavoidable side effect of orthodontic tooth movement. The mechanism of root resorption is similar to bone resorption; the odontoclasts share similar characteristics with osteoclasts (OCs). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR‐155‐5p play an important role in OC differentiation, but the underlying molecular mechanism of miR‐155‐5p in this process is not fully understood. We found that the miR‐155‐5p seed sequences were complementary to a sequence conserved in the 3‐untranslated region of CXCR2 mRNA. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism underlying the effect of miR‐155‐5p on OC differentiation by targeting CXCR2.

Materials and methods

In this study, we divided the orthodontic patients into mild, moderate, and severe groups according to the severity of root resorption. The gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients in different groups was collected, and the expression levels of dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) were detected by ELISA, and the expression levels of CXCR2 and miR‐155‐5p in GCF were detected by real‐time quantitative PCR (qRT‐PCR). The relationship between miR‐155‐5p and CXCR2 was verified by double luciferase. We analyzed changes of CXCR2 and miR‐155‐5p expression after transfection of miR‐155‐5p mimic and inhibitor into RAW264.7 cells induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) through qRT‐PCR and western blotting. The effect of miR‐155‐5p on OC differentiation was evaluated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. QRT‐PCR and western blotting were used to analyze expression of the osteoclastic bone resorption‐related enzymes carbonic anhydrase 2 (CA II), matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9), and cathepsin K. To further confirm the direct targeting effect of CXCR2 by miR‐155‐5p, we blocked CXCR2 using si‐CXCR2 in RANKL‐induced RAW264.7 cells.

Results

Dentin phosphoprotein levels were consistent with the trend of miR‐155‐5p changes, and the trend of CXCR2 expression was opposite to miR‐155‐5p changes. miR‐155‐5p can be directly targeted to act on CXCR2. The expression of miR‐155‐5p was significantly downregulated in differentiated OCs. MiR‐155‐5p inhibited OC differentiation, and downregulated CA II, MMP‐9, and cathepsin K expression at the protein and mRNA levels.

Conclusions

In summary, the results of this study suggested that miR‐155‐5p inhibited OC differentiation by targeting CXCR2, thus reducing root resorption in orthodontics. MiR‐155‐5p can be used as an effective target for avoiding or reducing the degree of root resorption in orthodontic treatment.
Effect of antiviral therapy in patients with low HBV DNA level on transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Myung Pyo , Yang Jae Kook , Jun Baek Gyu , Kim Young Don , Cheon Gab Jin , Jung Hee Jae , Yoo Jeong‐Ju , Kim Sang Gyune , Kim Young Seok , Jeong Soung Won , Jang Jae Young , Kim Hong Soo , Lee Sae Hwan
Published: March 2021

Antiviral therapy improves survival in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the effect of antiviral therapy in patients with low‐level viremia HBV‐HCC receiving non‐curative therapy remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the role of antiviral therapy in patients with low‐level viremia and treated with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). This retrospective study evaluated 206 patients with HBV‐HCC who underwent TACE as an initial treatment. Of those, 135 patients received antiviral therapy (antiviral group), and 71 did not (non‐antiviral group). The definition of low‐level viremia was an HBV DNA level <2000 IU/ml. Kaplan‐Meier curves, log‐rank tests and Cox regression analysis were used for statistical analyses. The median follow‐up duration was 39 months (1–174 months). Overall survival (OS) did not differ between groups (P = .227). Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage (BCLC), Child‐Pugh (CP) class and α‐fetoprotein level were independent prognostic factors for OS. Antiviral therapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.503, P = .022) was a prognostic factor for 2‐year survival. On subgroup analysis, antiviral therapy improved short‐term survival in patients with BCLC stage 0 and A (P = .037) and CP class A (P = .04). In patients with low‐level viremia, antiviral therapy yielded short‐term survival benefits, particularly in patients with early‐stage HCC.
Comparative analysis of morphometric traits of farmed sugar kelp and skinny kelp, Saccharina spp., strains from the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Umanzor Schery , Li Yaoguang , Bailey David , Augyte Simona , Huang Mao , Marty‐Rivera Michael , Jannink Jean‐Luc , Yarish Charles , Lindell Scott
Published: March 2021

Our team has initiated a selective breeding program for regional strains of sugar kelp, Saccharina latissima, to improve the competitiveness of kelp farming in the United States. Within our breeding program, we also include an endemic putative species, Saccharina angustissima, locally referred to as skinny kelp. We crossed uniclonal gametophyte cultures derived from 37 wild‐collected blades representing five sugar kelp strains and one skinny kelp strain to produce 104 unique crosses. Each cross was outplanted on a near‐shore research farm located in the Gulf of Maine (GOM). After the first farming season, our results indicated that sugar kelp and skinny kelp were interfertile, and produced mature and reproductively viable sporophytes. Morphological traits of individual blades varied depending on the parental contribution (sugar vs. skinny), with significant differences found in progeny blade length, width, thickness, and in stipe length and diameter. Despite these differences, wet weight and blade density per plot showed no statistical differences regardless of the cross. Given their published genetic similarity and their interfertility shown here, S. angustissima and S. latissima may not be different species, and may each contribute genetic diversity to breeding programs aimed at meeting ocean farming and market needs.
A case report and literature review of multiple orthokeratinizing odontogenic cysts: The great mimicker
Authors: Joseph Jessica , Dungarwalla Mohammed M. , Jones Judith
Published: March 2021

Background

Orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts are a rare type of odontogenic cyst, which are identified by an orthokeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. These cysts were originally classified as a subtype of odontogenic keratocysts; however, they have been redefined as a distinct entity. They radiographically mimic dentigerous cysts which can confound the final diagnosis. Most of the literature describes cases of single OOC, with far fewer cases of multiple orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts being reported.

Method

This paper details a case of multiple orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts in a patient and compares their presentation to other cases of multiple orthokeratinising odontogenic cysts reported in the literature.

Results

Six previous cases of multiple orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts were identified in the literature. The majority of features were similar to the case presented, with most cysts occurring in the mandible, in males in their third decade. In all but one of the cases, these cysts were also associated with unerupted teeth.

Discussion

Orthokeratinizied odontogenic cysts display similar features to other odontogenic cysts. However, they possess distinctly different features to odontogenic keratocysts in their histopathology, presentation and recurrence rate.

Conclusion

Orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts should be considered as a radiographical differential diagnosis for a dentigerous cyst and a histopathological differential diagnosis for odontogenic keratocyst.
Pre‐emptive administration of gabapentinoids to reduce postoperative pain and opioid usage following oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures
Authors: Bhavaraju Surya A. , Vorrasi John S. , Talluri Sandeep , Kalladka Mythili , Khan Junad
Published: March 2021

Aim

The objective of this review was to assess the efficiency of pre‐emptive gabapentinoid administration on postoperative pain and opioid consumption in patients undergoing oral surgical procedures.

Material and Methods

A review of the literature was performed using various indexed databases. A total of six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the current systematic review which compared postoperative analgesic and/or opioid‐sparing effect of gabapentinoids (either alone or in combination with other drugs).

Results

Out of the six studies included, four studies showed a statistically significant reduction in pain scores while three studies showed a significant reduction in opioid consumption postoperatively. All studies included reported that adverse effects like nausea and vomiting were higher in the placebo group except for one study, which reported a higher frequency of adverse events in the pregabalin group. The overall risk of bias was low in five studies and moderate in one study.

Conclusions

In brief, gabapentinoids when administered pre‐emptively in patients undergoing oral surgical procedures reduced postoperative pain and opioid consumption. However, there is a need for further research to come to a consensus regarding the dosage and timing of the pre‐emptive gabapentinoids administration. Also, surgery specific research is needed in future studies.