bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding digital health: Productive tensions at the intersection of sociology of health and science and technology studies
Authors: Henwood Flis , Marent Benjamin
Published: October 2019

In this editorial introduction, we explore how digital health is being explored at the intersection of sociology of health and science and technology studies (STS). We suggest that socio‐material approaches and practice theories provide a shared space within which productive tensions between sociology of health andSTScan continue. These tensions emerge around the long‐standing challenges of avoiding technological determinism while maintaining a clear focus on the materiality and agency of technologies and recognising enduring sets of relations that emerge in new digital health practices while avoiding social determinism. The papers in this Special Issue explore diverse fields of healthcare (e.g. reproductive health, primary care, diabetes management, mental health) within which heterogenous technologies (e.g. health apps, mobile platforms, smart textiles, time‐lapse imaging) are becoming increasingly embedded. By synthesising the main arguments and contributions in each paper, we elaborate on four key dimensions within which digital technologies create ambivalence and (re)configure health practices. First,promissory digital healthhighlights contradictory virtues within discourses that configure digital health. Second, (re)configuring knowledgeoutlines ambivalences of navigating new information environments and handling quantified data. Third,(re)configuring connectivityexplores the relationships that evolve through digital networks. Fourth,(re)configuring controlexplores how new forms of power are inscribed and handled within algorithmic decision‐making in health. We argue that these dimensions offer fruitful perspectives along which digital health can be explored across a range of technologies and health practices. We conclude by highlighting applications, methods and dimensions of digital health that require further research.
On digital intimacy: redefining provider–patient relationships in remote monitoring
Authors: Piras Enrico Maria , Miele Francesco
Published: October 2019

Remote monitoring has often been thought to lead to a highly structured and standardised care process. Several studies have stressed that patient–provider communication could be hindered if mediated by technologies, leading to an impoverished relationship. We argue that while remote monitoring leads to a redefinition of the patient–provider relationship, it could also offer the opportunity to develop a more intimate acquaintance not possible via only routine visits. The study is part of a clinical trial aimed at assessing the acceptability of a remote monitoring platform for type 1 diabetes. Drawing on practice‐based studies, we focused our analysis on the practice of text message exchange between patients and providers. The 396 conversations were coded with a template analysis, leading to the identification of two main categories: ‘knowing the patient’ and ‘knowing about the patient’. The analysis reveals that the practice of messaging led to the development of a ‘digital intimacy’, a relationship characterised by a thorough familiarity made possible by electronic devices that extends to face‐to‐face encounters. Drawing on our case, we argue that remote monitoring can foster greater intimacy between patients and providers, which is made possible by the overall increase in the quantity and quality of communication between patients and providers.
Estimating treatment effects with machine learning
Authors: McConnell K. John , Lindner Stephan
Published: October 2019

Objective

To demonstrate the performance of methodologies that include machine learning (ML) algorithms to estimate average treatment effects under the assumption of exogeneity (selection on observables).

Data Sources

Simulated data and observational data on hospitalized adults.

Study Design

We assessed the performance of several ML‐based estimators, including Targeted Maximum Likelihood Estimation, Bayesian Additive Regression Trees, Causal Random Forests, Double Machine Learning, and Bayesian Causal Forests, applying these methods to simulated data as well as data on the effects of right heart catheterization.

Principal Findings

In Monte Carlo studies, ML‐based estimators generated estimates with smaller bias than traditional regression approaches, demonstrating substantial (69 percent‐98 percent) bias reduction in some scenarios. Bayesian Causal Forests and Double Machine Learning were top performers, although all were sensitive to high dimensional (>150) sets of covariates.

Conclusions

ML‐based methods are promising methods for estimating treatment effects, allowing for the inclusion of many covariates and automating the search for nonlinearities and interactions among variables. We provide guidance and sample code for researchers interested in implementing these tools in their own empirical work.
Investigation of Monosodium Glutamate Alternatives for Content of Umami Substances and Their Enhancement Effects in Chicken Soup Compared to Monosodium Glutamate
Authors: Wang Shangci , Tonnis Brandon D. , Wang Ming Li , Zhang Shaokang , Adhikari Koushik
Published: October 2019

This research aimed to compare the effects of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and its alternatives on sensory characteristics of chicken soup. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis was carried out to quantify umami substances in potential MSG alternatives. Two mushroom extracts (CE and MC), one tomato extract (TC), and one yeast extract (YE) powders were selected due to their high equivalent umami concentration (EUC). These extracts together with MSG were then applied individually at four different levels (CE, MC, TC, MSG: 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%; YE: 0.0125%, 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1%) in chicken soup in order to compare their impact on major sensory attributes using the degree of difference from control (DODC) test. Our results showed that all four extracts at all the usage levels exhibited an enhancement effect on the overall flavor, meaty flavor, saltiness, and umami taste. The extent of enhancement depended on the type of the alternative and its usage level. Higher levels of MSG alternatives (except YE) suppressed the chicken flavor. YE had similar enhancement effects as MSG on umami and salty tastes already at lower usage levels. At the lowest concentration, TC showed a stronger enhancement effect than MSG, but its effect on most attributes decreased as the usage dose increased. Compared to CE, the other mushroom extract MC resembled MSG at most levels. Overall, the closest synergistic effect in chicken soup was noted with 0.1% MSG, 0.1% MC, and 0.025% YE.

Practical Application

This study compared the enhancement effects of MSG and selected alternatives in chicken soup. Results will help food manufacturers who would like to replace MSG with natural umami substances in soup products to enhance flavor and reduce sodium chloride.
Ceramic form and function in the Neolithic Gulf. A view from Bahra 1
Authors: Smogorzewska Anna
Published: October 2019

This paper discusses the possible functions of ceramic vessels in the Neolithic Gulf, based on new data from the Ubaid‐related settlement of Bahra 1 (Kuwait). Two pottery groups identified at the site—Ubaid Ware and Coarse Red Ware—are found in great numbers and variety of forms which provides grounds for a reconsideration of the role of pottery vessels in the societies of the Gulf. Analysis of this material reveals a more varied function of pottery vessels compared to that suggested in earlier studies. It was also possible to define the function of certain pottery vessels in more detail, both in their economic and social context.
How and when to use clozapine
Authors: Rubio J. M. , Kane J. M.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Clozapine is the only approved strategy for treatment‐resistant schizophrenia, although it is highly underutilized. We aim to generate practical and actionable evidence‐based recommendations for the use of this drug considering prescription barriers.

Method

Narrative review.

Results

A consistent body of evidence supports the efficacy of clozapine reducing morbidity and mortality in schizophrenia. The main obstacles to its use are the lack of experience by prescribers and perceived treatment burden. Systematic screening of eligibility, utilization of available resources for consultation, developing a professional network with other stakeholders, as well as optimizing how clozapine is presented to patients is discussed. Furthermore, specific evidence‐based recommendations for initiation, maintenance, and safety monitoring with clozapine are provided.

Conclusion

Clozapine prescription is one of the areas in psychiatry with the greatest mismatch between efficacy and utilization in clinical practice. Although multiple barriers to the use of clozapine exist, some of these may be overcome by updates of routine clinical practice.
Recurrence patterns identify aggressive form of human papillomavirus‐dependent vulvar cancer
Authors: McWhirter Rebekah E. , Otahal Petr , Taylor‐Thomson Debbie , Maypilama Elaine Lawurrpa , Rumbold Alice R. , Dickinson Joanne L. , Thorn Jane C. , Boyle Jacqueline A. , Condon John R.
Published: October 2019

Background

Vulvar cancer is rare and, as a result, is understudied. Treatment is predominantly surgery, irrespective of the type of vulvar cancer, and is associated with physical, emotional and sexual complications. A cluster of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐dependent vulvar cancer patients was identified in Arnhem Land Northern Territory (NT), Australia, in which young Indigenous women were diagnosed at 70 times the national incidence rate.

Aims

To assess whether women from the Arnhem Land cluster differ from women with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) resident elsewhere in the NT in recurrence after treatment, disease progression and mortality.

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort study of NT‐resident women diagnosed with VIN or invasive vulvar cancer (VSCC) between 1 January 1993 and 30 June 2015 was undertaken. Time to recurrence was assessed using cumulative incidence plots and Fine and Gray competing risk regression models. Mean cumulative count was used to estimate the burden of recurrent events.

Results

Indigenous women from Arnhem Land experienced more recurrences after treatment than non‐Indigenous women, the cancers recurred faster, and Indigenous women have worse survival at five years.

Conclusions

In characterising the epidemiological features of this cluster, we have identified a particularly aggressive form of vulvar cancer. This provides a unique opportunity for elucidating the aetiopathological pathways driving vulvar cancer development that may ultimately lead to preventive and therapeutic targets for this neglected malignancy. Further, these findings have important implications for clinical practice and HPV vaccination policy in the affected population.
Against the family veto in organ procurement: Why the wishes of the dead should prevail when the living and the deceased disagree on organ donation
Authors: Albertsen Andreas
Published: October 2019

The wishes of registered organ donors are regularly set aside when family members object to donation. This genuine overruling of the wishes of the deceased raises difficult ethical questions. A successful argument for providing the family with a veto must (a) provide reason to disregard the wishes of the dead, and (b) establish why the family should be allowed to decide. One branch of justification seeks to reconcile the family veto with important ideas about respecting property rights, preserving autonomy, and preventing harm. These arguments are ultimately unsuccessful. Another branch of arguments is consequentialist, pointing out the negative consequences of removing the veto. Whether construed as concerning family distress or as a potential drop in the organs available, these arguments are unsuccessful; the first fails to recognize the tremendous distress associated with waiting for an organ, while the second has little supporting evidence. A final section considers and rejects whether combining some of the arguments just examined could justify the family veto. We should thus remove the family veto in organ donation.
Social workers' reflexive understandings of their “everyday” communications with children
Authors: Hadfield Mark , Ruch Gillian , Winter Karen , Cree Viviene , Morrison Fiona
Published: October 2019

Over the past two decades, the use of ethnographic research methods, in combination with a range of discursive, conversational, and multimodal analytical approaches, have provided vivid accounts of the complex nature of social workers' everyday communication. This paper discusses the potential and the problems of combining a video‐stimulated recall methodology with an explicit theoretical framework, in order to generate critical reflexive “insider” accounts of social workers' direct encounters with children. The framework employed was based on an adaptation of Goffman's concepts of “framing” and “footing,” which were integrated into an analytical process designed to theorize social workers' critiques regarding the nature of their communication with children. Three detailed case exemplars are used to demonstrate the potential of this methodology to explore the “delicate” agency required by social workers in the practice of authentic communication in complex professional inquiries with children. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of the theoretical and practical issues associated with utilizing reflexive methodologies in professional contexts.
Shared decision‐making in older children and parents considering elective adenotonsillectomy
Authors: MacDonald Amanda I. , Chorney Jill , Bezuhly Michael , Hong Paul
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Shared decision‐making describes a collaborative process in which healthcare providers and patients/families make treatment decisions using the best available evidence, while taking into account the patient's values and preferences. The objectives of this study were to assess the level of decisional conflict and shared decision‐making experienced by older children and their parents when considering elective adentonsillectomies.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

Paediatric otolaryngology clinic in a teaching hospital.

Participants

Participants included 53 children older than 9 years and their parents who underwent consultation for tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy.

Main outcomes measures

Children and parents completed the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) and Shared Decision‐Making Questionnaire‐Patient Version (SDM‐Q‐9). Surgeons completed the Shared Decision‐Making Questionnaire‐Physician Version (SDM‐Q‐Doc).

Results

Overall, 10 (19%) parents and 18 (34%) children reported clinically significant decisional conflict. Parents who opted not to proceed with surgery had significantly higher DCS scores than those who decided to proceed with surgery. Both parents and children SDM‐Q‐9 and total DCS scores were significantly negatively correlated. Physician SDM‐Q‐Doc and parent total DCS scores were negatively correlated, while parent and physician SDM scores were positively correlated.

Conclusions

Many older children and parents reported significant decisional conflict when considering elective paediatric otolaryngology surgery. Decisional conflict levels for both children and parents decreased with greater perceived levels of shared decision‐making. Older children did not appear to discern the same levels of shared decision‐making as parents and surgeons. Future research should assess methods to implement shared decision‐making into clinical practice for clinicians, parents and children when appropriate.
Dye removal using hydrophobic polyvinylidene fluoride hollow fibre composite membrane by vacuum membrane distillation
Authors: Li Hongbin , Feng Xiangwei , Shi Wenying , Zhang Haixia , Du Qiyun , Qin Longwei , Qin Xiaohong
Published: October 2019

Hydrophobic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fibre composite membranes were prepared by the dilute solution coating process to build a special surface structure that was similar to the dual micro‐nano structure on the lotus leaf. Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropene) was chosen as the hydrophobic polymer candidate in dilute solution. Membrane morphology and surface hydrophobicity were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and dynamic water contact angle measurement. The prepared PVDF hollow fibre membranes were employed to separate dyes (Congo Red and Methylene Blue) from water by vacuum membrane distillation. The effects of operational conditions (feed temperature, vacuum pressure and feed flow rate) on the vacuum membrane distillation performance of different PVDF membranes were investigated. The results indicated that the water contact angle values of PVDF composite membrane surfaces improved from 93.6° to 130.8°, which was mainly attributed to the formation of micro‐nano rods. This structure was similar to the dual micro‐nano structure on the lotus leaf. Under test feed temperature, vacuum pressure and feed flow rate conditions, the dye rejection rate of Congo Red and Methylene Blue by the hydrophobic PVDF hollow fibre membrane remained above 99.5% and 99%, which was higher than that of the pristine PVDF membrane (99% and 98%, respectively). In addition, the hydrophobic PVDF hollow fibre composite membrane showed higher permeation flux under different conditions compared with the pristine PVDF membrane, which was attributed to membrane surface hydrophobicity and the electrostatic interactions between dyes and the PVDF membrane surface.
Gender differences in the consumption of alcohol mixed with caffeine and risk of injury
Authors: Roemer Audra , Stockwell Tim , Zhao Jinhui , Chow Clifton , Vallance Kate , Cherpitel Cheryl
Published: October 2019

Introduction and Aims

There is increasing evidence suggesting the consumption of caffeinated alcoholic beverages is associated with risks over and above alcohol use on its own; however, research in this area remains limited. We examined whether gender differences existed in the relationship between the combined use of alcohol and caffeine (Alc + Caff) and risk for injury.

Design and Methods

This emergency department study utilised case–control and case‐crossover analyses to examine in situ session specific Alc + Caff use and injury risk for men and women, while controlling for socio‐demographic variables, dose of alcohol and caffeine, other substance use, risk‐taking propensity and context. The sample comprised 2804 individuals aged 18‐years or older who presented to three hospital emergency departments in British Columbia.

Results

A relationship between Alc + Caff use and increased risk of injury was confirmed. Further, gender differences were found in the risk relationship between Alc + Caff use and injury. Women were found to have a higher risk injury propensity following Alc + Caff use in both the case–control (OR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.78, 5.84) and case‐crossover analyses (OR = 3.21, 95% CI = 1.69, 6.12), relative to men (OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.30, 2.30; OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.86). These results remained even after controlling for demographic factors, risk‐taking, context and other substance use.

Discussion and Conclusions

Women may be at higher risk of injury than men following the consumption of alcohol mixed with caffeine. The findings offer support for differential low‐risk drinking guidelines for men and women and the restriction and regulation of the sale and availability of caffeinated alcoholic beverages.
Elderhood: Aging's new frontier
Authors: Martinson Roland
Published: October 2019

Drawing on folk wisdom and the social sciences, the surge in older adulthood is re‐framed as a new frontier of individual and societal opportunity.
Pharmacokinetic interaction between modified Atkins diet and antiepileptic drugs in adults with drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Kverneland Magnhild , Taubøll Erik , Molteberg Ellen , Veierød Marit B. , Selmer Kaja K. , Nakken Karl O. , Iversen Per O.
Published: October 2019

Objective

The aim was to examine the influence of modified Atkins diet on serum concentration of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).

Methods

Prospective data from 63 adult patients with either focal or generalized drug‐resistant epilepsy recruited to 12‐week dietary treatment as add‐on to AEDs are analyzed. AED serum concentrations, ketones, glucose, and hemoglobin A1c were measured before and after the dietary intervention. Paired t test was used and Spearman correlation coefficient, r, was estimated.

Results

Mean age was 37 years (range 16‐65 years). Mean serum concentrations of carbamazepine, clobazam, and valproate were significantly reduced after 4 and 12 weeks of the diet period (<.001 ≤ P ≤ .02). Levels of lacosamide, lamotrigine, and topiramate were less reduced (.02 ≤ P ≤ .08), whereas the serum concentrations of oxcarbazepine, zonisamide, and levetiracetam were unchanged (.06 ≤ P ≤ .90). The largest reduction in serum concentration was found for clobazam: mean reduction after 12 weeks was 1.5 μmol/L (34%). Percent change in serum concentration after 4 and 12 weeks of all drugs analyzed was −10.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] −14.1 to −6.8; n = 60; P < .001) and −13.5% (95% CI −18.8 to −8.3; n = 56; P < .001), respectively. Percent change in serum concentration of AEDs was not significantly correlated to percent change in seizure frequency after 12 weeks of dietary treatment (r = .14, P = .33, n = 53) but negatively correlated to urine ketosis (r = −.43; P = .003; n = 46).

Significance

A reduction in AED serum concentrations may counteract a seizure‐reducing effect of the diet, and in patients without such an effect, it may cause seizure aggravation. Thus, we recommend that clinicians who are treating patients with ketogenic diets monitor serum concentrations of the concomitant AEDs.
Arctic shrub colonization lagged peak postglacial warmth: Molecular evidence in lake sediment from Arctic Canada
Authors: Crump Sarah E. , Miller Gifford H. , Power Matthew , Sepúlveda Julio , Dildar Nadia , Coghlan Megan , Bunce Michael
Published: October 2019

Arctic shrubification is an observable consequence of climate change, already resulting in ecological shifts and global‐scale climate feedbacks including changes in land surface albedo and enhanced evapotranspiration. However, the rate at which shrubs can colonize previously glaciated terrain in a warming world is largely unknown. Reconstructions of past vegetation dynamics in conjunction with climate records can provide critical insights into shrubification rates and controls on plant migration, but paleoenvironmental reconstructions based on pollen may be biased by the influx of exotic pollen to tundra settings. Here, we reconstruct past plant communities using sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA), which has a more local source area than pollen. We additionally reconstruct past temperature variability using bacterial cell membrane lipids (branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers) and an aquatic productivity indicator (biogenic silica) to evaluate the relative timing of postglacial ecological and climate changes at a lake on southern Baffin Island, Arctic Canada. The sedaDNA record tightly constrains the colonization of dwarf birch (Betula, a thermophilous shrub) to 5.9 ± 0.1 ka, ~3 ka after local deglaciation as determined by cosmogenic 10Be moraine dating and >2 ka later than Betula pollen is recorded in nearby lake sediment. We then assess the paleovegetation history within the context of summer temperature and find that paleotemperatures were highest prior to 6.3 ka, followed by cooling in the centuries preceding Betula establishment. Together, these molecular proxies reveal that Betula colonization lagged peak summer temperatures, suggesting that inefficient dispersal, rather than climate, may have limited Arctic shrub migration in this region. In addition, these data suggest that pollen‐based climate reconstructions from high latitudes, which rely heavily on the presence and abundance of pollen from thermophilous taxa like Betula, can be compromised by both exotic pollen fluxes and vegetation migration lags.
Refractory orthostatic hypotension after creation of a brachio‐basilic arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Abuzeineh Mohammad , Yerram Preethi , Misra Madhukar
Published: October 2019

Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are preferred vascular access in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD). However, AVFs, can occasionally lead to clinically significant complications. Of these, cardiovascular complications have been well described in the literature. In this report, we describe a case of a 78‐year‐old Caucasian male with ESRD who presented with severe debilitating dizziness and orthostatic hypotension that started soon after the creation of left brachiobasilic AVF. The patient had no significant cardiovascular history apart from essential hypertension. His symptoms persisted despite extensive evaluation and interventions, and abated only after banding of the AVF. This report describes the timeline of the patient's clinical course beginning from the day of creation of his AVF, through the course of his hospitalization leading to AVF banding and ending with postoperative recovery phase with resolution of symptoms. We will also review the pathophysiologic effects of AVF on cardiovascular system, as well as the potential causes of our patient's clinical presentation.
Comparative analysis of spray‐drying microencapsulation of Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Lactobacillus acidophilus cultivated in different growth media
Authors: Lin Ta‐Chen , Chen Bang‐Yuan , Chen Chun‐Yeh , Chen Yuh‐Shuen , Wu Haibo
Published: October 2019

To screen the optimal lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from nine strains LAB and culture media composition for spray‐drying microencapsulation in advance, the physicochemical and physiological properties of microencapsulation including cell permeability, viable cell count, and survival rate were analyzed. According to the primary results of the bacterial growth, pH determination, and quantification of organic acids, the optimal LAB of two from nine strains selected to be better promising LAB for spray drying was found to be Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Lactobacillus acidophilus. The viable cells count and survival rate were significantly higher for both B. adolescentis and L. acidophilus cultivated in MRS broth with glucose of carbon source containing 10% (w/w) green tea extract(p < .05). Thus, the optimal LAB and culture medium for spray‐drying microencapsulation were obtained, which is beneficial to human health and has potential applications in the health food industry.

Practical applications

This study evaluated the physicochemical and physiological properties of microcapsules with various compositions and their potential for application in the encapsulation of probiotic microorganisms such as B. adolescentis and L. acidophilus. The highest survival rate of the microcapsule with a carrier composition of 95% maltodextrin (MD) + 5% isomaltooligosaccharide (IMOS) was found at inlet/outlet temperatures of 120/60°C in both B. adolescentis and L. acidophilus. Encapsulation increases the cell permeability, cell viability, and survival rate and plays an important role in the spray‐drying of food products, resulting in a high stability, and viability during storage.
Activation of liver X receptor promotes hippocampal neurogenesis and improves long‐term cognitive function recovery in acute cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion mice
Authors: Chen Lili , Song Dan , Chen Beibei , Yang Xuemei , Cheng Oumei
Published: October 2019

Cerebral ischemia (CI) leads to cognitive dysfunction due to the loss of hippocampal neurons. Liver X receptors (LXRs), including the LXRα and LXRβ isoforms, are critical for neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, neurodegeneration, and cholesterol metabolism. However, the potential role of LXRs in the pathogenesis of CI‐induced cognitive impairment is unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of LXR activation on hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive function in mice with CI. C57 mice were randomized into four groups that included a sham group and three treatment groups with CI [Vehicle, TO901317 (TO90, an agonist of LXRs) and GSK2033 (an antagonist of LXRs)]. Mice were subjected to bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 20 min to induce transient CI. The Morris water maze test was executed to detect spatial learning and memory. Proliferation, differentiation, and immature neurons in the subgranular zone (SGZ) were examined using Immunofluorescence. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway‐associated protein. TO90 significantly improved spatial learning and memory deficits induced by CI on 28 days. It enhanced the proliferation of neural stem cells, the number of immature neurons and the differentiation from nascent cells to neurons. The expression of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway‐associated protein level was totally increased. The forenamed effects of TO90 were decreased in GSK2033 group. Thus, our findings suggest that LXRs activation can improve long‐term cognitive dysfunction caused by CI by increasing neurogenesis, and LXRs may serve as a potential therapeutic target for cerebral ischemia.

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Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14753.
Pasta noodles enriched with sweet potato starch: Impact on quality parameters and resistant starch content
Authors: Kolarič Lukáš , Minarovičová Lucia , Lauková Michaela , Karovičová Jolana , Kohajdová Zlatica
Published: October 2019

This research is focusing on the texture, rheology, and sensory properties of pasta products enriched with the sweet potato starch (SPS) as well as on the content of resistant starch (RS) in these products. SPS was extracted from orange sweet potatoes using 1 mol. L−1 Sodium chloride solution. Durum wheat flour semolina was partially supplemented with 10, 20, and 30% (w/w) by SPS in the pasta formulation and the influence of enrichment on the cooking quality, mechanical and sensory properties, and the color was observed. SPS addition resulted in decreased water absorption and shorter dough development time, but the stability of the dough was also decreased. The optimum cooking time for pasta was reduced, but only slightly, on the other side, the swelling index increased, which negatively impacted on the firmness of the products. Increasing of the SPS content also resulted in higher stickiness values for pasta. When up to 20% of wheat flour was replaced, the color of finished products was less acceptable. In the products, the resistant and total starch content were determined. Pasta cooking resulted in the reduction of RS content, which was then increased by storing products for 24 hr. It can be concluded that the substitution of part of semolina flour with SPS increased the level of RS, but on the other side, it caused some significant differences from the quality of pasta made from semolina only.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Culex modestus across Europe: does recent appearance in the United Kingdom reveal a tendency for geographical spread?
Authors: Hernández‐Triana L. M. , Brugman V. A. , Pramual P. , Barrero E. , Nikolova N. I. , Ruiz‐Arrondo I. , Kaiser A. , Krüger A. , Lumley S. , Osório H. C. , Ignjatović‐Ćupina A. , Petrić D. , Laure Setier‐Rio M. , Bødker R. , Johnson N.
Published: October 2019

In mainland Europe, the mosquito species Culex modestus Ficalbi (1890) is a bridge vector for West Nile virus (WNV) from its natural bird‐mosquito cycle to mammals. The present study assessed the genetic diversity of Cx. modestus, as well as related Culex species, using the mitochondrial COI DNA barcoding region and compared this with the population structure across Europe. A haplotype network was mapped to determine genealogical relationships among specimens. The intraspecific genetic diversity within individual Culex species was below 2%, whereas the interspecific genetic divergence varied from 2.99% to 13.74%. In total, 76 haplotypes were identified among 198 sequences. A median‐joining network determined from 198 COI sequences identified two major lineages that were separated by at least four mutation steps. A high level of intraspecific genetic diversity was not detected in Cx. modestus in samples submitted from different European populations, which indicates that morphologically identified specimens represent a single species and not a species complex. Therefore, it is deduced that different populations of Cx. modestus will show a similar potential to transmit WNV, lending support to concerns that the population present in southeast England represents a risk of transmission to humans.
Discrimination of oral squamous cell carcinoma from oral lichen planus by salivary metabolomics
Authors: Ishikawa Shigeo , Sugimoto Masahiro , Edamatsu Kaoru , Sugano Ayako , Kitabatake Kenichiro , Iino Mitsuyoshi
Published: October 2019

Objective

This study was conducted to distinguish salivary metabolites in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) from those in oral lichen planus (OLP) to identify practical biomarkers for the discrimination of OSCC from OLP.

Subjects and Methods

Whole unstimulated saliva samples were collected from patients with OSCC (n = 34) and OLP (n = 26). Hydrophilic metabolites in the saliva samples were comprehensively analysed by capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry. To evaluate the discrimination ability of a combination of multiple markers, a multiple logistic regression (MLR) model was developed to differentiate OSCC from OLP.

Results

Fourteen metabolites were found to be significantly different between the OSCC and OLP groups. Among them, indole‐3‐acetate and ethanolamine phosphate were used to develop the MLR model. The combination of these two metabolites showed a high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.856, 95% confidential interval: 0.762–0.950; p < .001) for discriminating OSCC from OLP.

Conclusions

We identified salivary metabolites for discerning between OSCC and OLP, which is clinically important for detecting the malignant transformation of OLP by both dentists and oral surgery specialists. Our candidate salivary metabolites show potential for non‐invasive screening of OSCC versus OLP.
Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Bhatia Harpreet S. , Bailey Joseph , Unlu Ozan , Hoffman Katherine , Kim Robert J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are effective alternatives to warfarin for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) including patients with CKD III. However, data on patient outcomes with DOACs for advanced CKD are limited, while warfarin use is controversial.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients with AF using DOACs and CKD stages III‐V was conducted. The primary outcomes were stroke or systemic embolism and major bleeding while on DOAC therapy among CKD IV and V patients. Rates of outcomes from the DOAC trials and from previous studies of warfarin in CKD were referenced.

Results

Of 316 patients reviewed, 152 were included with mean CrCl of 38.8 mL/min. Stroke and systemic embolism occurred at a rate of 1.17 per 100 person‐years, with no significant difference between CKD IV/V and CKD III (P = .567). Rates were comparable to DOAC use from the DOAC trials, and lower than rates in studies of warfarin in CKD IV/V patients. There was a nonstatistically significant trend toward increased major bleeding in CKD IV/V patients. Rates of major bleeding in CKD III to V subjects were comparable to published rates for warfarin users with similar levels of renal impairment.

Conclusions

In our study, DOACs appeared to be as efficacious and safe in CKD IV and V as in CKD III. In addition, DOACs appeared to be more effective than, and as safe as warfarin when compared with reference studies of patients with advanced CKD. Our findings support the use of DOACs for thromboembolism prevention in patients with advanced CKD and AF.
Classical Consociational Theory and Recent Consociational Performance
Authors: McGarry John
Published: October 2019

Lijphart’s classical consociational theory, developed between the 1960s and 1975, was based largely on the experience of four western European cases. He argued that the success of consociations depended on the preparedness and ability of elites to cooperate, and that the prospects for success were facilitated by the presence of certain historical and structural factors, including a tradition of accommodation and a “multiple balance of power”. In the past forty years or so, consociations have been implemented, or attempted, in a number of places quite unlike the classical cases. This article argues that a satisfactory explanation of the performance of the new consociations requires consideration of three dimensions additional to those described in Lijphart’s classical account. These are, respectively, the i) external dimension; ii) the security dimension; and iii) the self‐determination dimension.
Identification of the novel allele, HLA‐A*26:193, in a patient with Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Tang Wenqiang , Pan Li , Zhang Anqi , Fu Bo , Liu Wei
Published: October 2019

The HLA‐A*26:193 allele differs from HLA‐A*26:03:01 at position 1202 within exon 2.
Solid sedimentation rates history of the Southern African continental margins: Implications for the uplift history of the South African Plateau
Authors: Baby Guillaume , Guillocheau François , Braun Jean , Robin Cécile , Dall'Asta Massimo
Published: October 2019

The Cretaceous and Cenozoic fill of the continental margins of southern Africa (South‐East Atlantic and Agulhas Margins) contains a continuous record of sediment supplied from the South African Plateau (SAP) for the past 134 million years. Estimates of solid sediment volumes deposited offshore were calculated from isopach maps and extrapolated vertical cross‐sections derived from a large amount of industrial geophysical data. Solid phase volumes and accumulation rates were calculated for six epochs: Lower Cretaceous (134–113 Ma), Mid Cretaceous (113–93.5 Ma), Upper Cretaceous (93.5–81 and 81–66 Ma), Palaeogene (66–25 Ma), Neogene (25–0 Ma). Our new compilation demonstrates the existence of two periods of elevated flux. The most important one occurs in the late Cretaceous (93.5–66 Ma) and was synchronous with an acceleration of onshore denudation as shown by thermochronometric data. After a period of extremely low accumulation rate, the second phase of elevated flux started in the Oligocene (~30–25 Ma) until present‐day. From these observations we suggest that the main phase of uplift of the SAP took place during the Upper Cretaceous. Two mechanisms, namely uplift caused by lithospheric delamination or by dynamic topography caused by the continent moving over the African Superplume, are viable explanations for our observations. The more recent and lower amplitude episode of enhanced accumulation rates is likely to correspond to a second period of uplift, potentially associated with the onset of uplift and extension along the East African Rift System.
HLA‐matched platelet transfusions are effective only in refractory patients with positive HLA antibody screening
Authors: Kreuger Aukje L. , Mäkelburg Anja B.U. , Somers Judith A.E. , Tomson Bert , van de Watering Leo M. G. , van der Bom Johanna G. , van Kraaij Marian G.J. , Weller Claudia M.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Recipients of platelet transfusions with 1‐hour corrected count increments (1hCCIs) of 7.5 or less on two subsequent platelet transfusions with random platelets may benefit from human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐matched platelet concentrates. We aimed to quantify the efficacy of HLA‐matched platelets concentrates expressed in 1hCCIs.

METHODS

We performed a cohort study among consecutive refractory patients who received HLA‐matched platelet concentrates in the Netherlands between 1994 and 2017. We performed mixed‐model linear regression comparing 1hCCIs after HLA split‐antigen–matched transfusions with 1hCCIs after HLA‐mismatched transfusions, adjusted for within‐patient correlations. A donor‐to‐patient match was categorized as a split‐match if all donor HLA‐A and ‐B antigens were present in the patient as well; that is, donor and patient were HLA identical or compatible. Subgroup analyses were performed for patients with positive or negative HLA antibody screens. Finally, the additional effect of ABO mismatches on 1hCCIs was investigated.

RESULTS

The 1hCCI after an HLA‐matched transfusion was 14.09 (95% reference interval, 1.13‐29.89). This was 1.94 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74‐3.15) higher than 1hCCI after HLA‐mismatched transfusions. In patients with negative HLA antibody screening tests, HLA matching did not affect 1hCCIs. Conditional on HLA matching, 1hCCIs decreased by 3.70 (95% CI, ‐5.22 to −2.18) with major ABO mismatches.

CONCLUSION

Matched platelet concentrates yielded maximal 1hCCIs, whereas mismatched transfusions still resulted in adequate increments. There is no indication for HLA‐matched platelets in patients with negative antibody screens.
Skin Friction Measurements of Transition in High Reynolds Number, Adverse Pressure Gradient Flow
Authors: Holley Brian M. , Hardin Larry W. , Tillman Gregory , Lin Ray-Sing , Joo Jongwook
Published: October 2019

A combined experimental and analytical modeling effort has been carried out to measure the skin friction response of the boundary layer in high Reynolds number adverse pressure gradient flow. The experiment was conducted in the United Technologies Research Center (UTRC) Acoustic Research Tunnel, an ultra-low freestream turbulence facility capable of laminar boundary layer research. Boundary layer computational fluid dynamics and stability modeling were used to provide pre-test predictions, as well as to aid in interpretation of measured results. Measurements were carried out at chord Reynolds numbers 2–3 × 106, with the model set at multiple incidence angles to establish a range of relevant leading edge pressure gradients. The combination of pressure gradient and flight Reynolds number testing on a thin airfoil has produced a unique data set relevant to propulsion system turbomachinery.
Managing Conflict and Resistance to Change in a Minor Hockey System
Authors: Wigfield Daniel , Snelgrove Ryan
Published: October 2019

In March 2017, responding to a pressure to improve athlete development and enjoyment, Hockey Canada moved to change how youth are introduced to hockey by mandating the implementation of a cross-ice development program for its entry-level participants. The mandate of cross-ice programming was to ensure that all 75,000 entry-level participants received increased touches of the puck on an appropriately sized playing surface; thus, heightening their spatial awareness and foundational skills necessary to enjoyably move forward in hockey. As is common for many sport organizations, the proposed programming changes were met with resistance by some stakeholders. Surprisingly, the resistance to the programming changes evolved into a much-publicized intergroup conflict within Hockey Canada’s largest market. The dispute could not be resolved in time for the beginning of the 2017–2018 season. As a result, the defiant local leagues were granted a one-year reprieve from implementing cross-ice programming. With only a one-year reprieve granted, Hockey Canada must now determine the appropriate steps to fully implement their desired programming change and ensure that resistance-based conflicts are limited in the future.
Associations Between Trajectories of Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Television Viewing Time Across Adulthood: The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Lounassalo Irinja , Kankaanpää Anna , Hirvensalo Mirja , Rovio Suvi P. , Tolvanen Asko , Biddle Stuart J.H. , Helajärvi Harri , Palomäki Sanna H. , Salin Kasper , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Raitakari Olli T. , Tammelin Tuija H.
Published: October 2019

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine trajectories of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and television-viewing (TV) time and their associations in adults over 10 years. Methods: The sample comprised 2934 participants (men, 46.0%) aged 24–39 years in 2001 and they were followed up for 10 years. LTPA and TV time were assessed using self-report questionnaires in 2001, 2007, and 2011. Longitudinal LTPA and TV-time trajectories and their interactions were analyzed with mixture modeling. Results: Three LTPA (persistently highly active, 15.8%; persistently moderately active, 60.8%; and persistently low active, 23.5%) and 4 TV time (consistently low, 38.6%; consistently moderate, 48.2%; consistently high, 11.7%; and consistently very high, 1.5%) trajectory classes were identified. Persistently highly active women had a lower probability of consistently high TV time than persistently low-active women (P = .02), whereas men who were persistently highly active had a higher probability of consistently moderate TV time and a lower probability of consistently low TV time than their persistently low-active counterparts (P = .03 and P = .01, respectively). Conclusions: Maintaining high LTPA levels were accompanied by less TV over time in women, but not in men. The associations were partially explained by education, body mass index, and smoking.
Allosteric pathway selection in templated assembly
Authors: van Galen Martijn , Higler Ruben , Sprakel Joris
Published: October 2019

Allostery plays a critical role in selecting high-fidelity assembly pathways.
Soft nanocomposite electroadhesives for digital micro- and nanotransfer printing
Authors: Kim Sanha , Jiang Yijie , Thompson Towell Kiera L. , Boutilier Michael S. H. , Nayakanti Nigamaa , Cao Changhong , Chen Chunxu , Jacob Christine , Zhao Hangbo , Turner Kevin T. , Hart A. John
Published: October 2019

A soft nanocomposite surface with voltage-tunable adhesive strength manipulates nano- and microscale objects.
Ketones and aldehydes as alkyl radical equivalents for C─H functionalization of heteroarenes
Authors: Dong Jianyang , Wang Zhen , Wang Xiaochen , Song Hongjian , Liu Yuxiu , Wang Qingmin
Published: October 2019

The polar nature of the C═O bond commonly allows it to undergo direct attack by nucleophiles at the electrophilic carbon atom in which ketones and aldehydes act as alkyl carbocation equivalents. In contrast, transformations in which ketones and aldehydes act as alkyl radical equivalents (generated in carbonyl carbon) are unknown. Here, we describe a new catalytic activation mode that combines proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) with spin-center shift (SCS) and enables C─H alkylation of heteroarenes using ketones and aldehydes as alkyl radical equivalents. This transformation proceeded via reductive PCET activation of the ketones and aldehydes to form α-oxy radicals, addition of the radicals to the
N
-heteroarenes to form C─C bonds, and SCS to cleave the C─O bonds of the resulting alcohols. This mild protocol represents a general use of abundant, commercially available, ketones and aldehydes as latent alkyl radical equivalents.
Interleukin-36γ–producing macrophages drive IL-17–mediated fibrosis
Authors: Sommerfeld Sven D. , Cherry Christopher , Schwab Remi M. , Chung Liam , Maestas David R. , Laffont Philippe , Stein Julie E. , Tam Ada , Ganguly Sudipto , Housseau Franck , Taube Janis M. , Pardoll Drew M. , Cahan Patrick , Elisseeff Jennifer H.
Published: October 2019

Single-cell RNAseq defines macrophage phenotypes in fibrotic biomaterial environments (see the related Focus by Perciani and MacParland).
Pharmacodynamics of ClpP-Activating Antibiotic Combinations against Gram-Positive Pathogens
Authors: Mroue Nader , Arya Anu , Brown Gandt Autumn , Russell Cameron , Han Angel , Gavrish Ekaterina , LaFleur Michael
Published: October 2019

It is often difficult to cure endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and device-associated infections caused by Gram-positive pathogens, despite therapy with clinically appropriate antibiotics. This may be due to antibiotic tolerance or resistance development. Acyldepsipeptides (ADEPs) are a class of bactericidal compounds active against a variety of clinically important Gram-positive bacteria, including staphylococci, streptococci, and enterococci.