bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the aggressive agents' penetration into concrete by non-destructive techniques
Authors: Khial Nassima , Chaid Rabah
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Around the world, many structures are affected by pathological reactions between the concrete and the surrounding environment in which these structures are designed, these pathologies lead to compromise their serviceability. In this context, this paper aims to study the durability of concrete in different environments with non-destructive techniques, by studying its contamination by the aggressive agents’ penetration. And this, by evaluation of the influence of the durability indicator that is the absorption by immersion, on the mechanical properties (compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and damage), of specimens having undergone immersion/drying cycles, in different aggressive media (water, seawater and acids: sulfuric and acetic with a concentration of 5%).

Design/methodology/approach

Concrete specimens were manufactured in the laboratory, and then underwent immersion/drying cycles, in parallel, the weight gain of the specimens was carried out in the wet state after immersion and in the dry state after drying, and the ultrasonic speeds were also taken in a dry state. The results showed a decrease in the mechanical properties studied, namely, the compressive strength as well as the elastic properties (modulus of elasticity, damage) as a function of the increase in absorption, and that the weakest properties are those of test specimens submerged in water.

Findings

Non-destructive tests have shown that the parameters examined increase with the immersion/drying cycles, up to the fourth cycle. Beyond that, they drop gradually, and this is valid for four environments. This decline is due to the degradation of cement pastes exposed to water, seawater and acid attacks. This is explained by the greater or lesser dissolution of all the major elements making up the cementitious matrix (CSH, Ca(OH)2, CaO, SiO2, C3S, C2S, C3A, C2S) depending on the nature and concentration of the chemical substances evacuated. The results showed that the highest absorption rate and damage are those recorded for the specimen immersed in water, followed by that of the specimens immersed in acids, followed by that of the specimen immersed in sea water. The highest compressive strength and stiffness are those of the specimen immersed in sea water, followed by that immersed in acids, then in water.

Originality/value

The work developed aimed to study the durability of concrete, by addressing the study of the coupling absorption – mechanical characteristics of concrete, in different aggressive media (water, seawater and acids), to seek a relationship between these parameters. The tests provided are non-destructive tests, which consist of taking measures that do not damage the concrete. They allow indirect measurements of the mechanical properties of concrete as well as the monitoring of their evolution over time. They also allow having certain accuracy, because the measurements are taken at the same place.
Emerging relationships among soil microbes, carbon dynamics and climate change
Authors: García‐Palacios Pablo , Chen Ji
Published: June 2022

Soils represent the largest carbon (C) pool in terrestrial ecosystems. The preservation and increase of soil C play a significant role in the fight against climate change, and can deliver other key ecosystem services beyond climate mitigation.

Soil C responses to climate change are largely driven by soil microbial communities, but they still represent a major source of uncertainty when predicting soil C variation in space and time.

This Special Feature identifies emerging findings from soil microbial ecology and climate change research that can reduce such uncertainty if incorporated into theory and models. The contributions span from novel perspectives on the priming effect and soil microbial enzymes, to understudied key biomes for global soil C such as tropical forests, to plant inputs–microbial necromass–mineral interactions, to soil C and microbial responses to changing precipitation patterns and recent advances in trait‐based and soil C modelling.

Together, this collection of papers draws attention to novel frameworks and ideas that can pave the road for future research on microbial contribution to soil C turnover and storage under climate change.
Relative fitness of susceptible and Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2‐single‐/dual‐protein‐resistant Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on non‐Bt diet and a diet containing a low concentration of two proteins
Authors: Lin Shucong , Head Graham , Price Paula , Niu Ying , Huang Fangneng
Published: June 2022

Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) is a destructive agricultural pest species that is targeted by both Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) maize and cotton in the United States. Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 are two Bt proteins expressed in a widely planted maize event MON 89034. In this study, two tests (Test‐I and Test‐II) were conducted to evaluate the relative fitness of Bt‐susceptible and ‐resistant H. zea on non‐Bt diet (Test‐I and Test‐II) and a diet containing a mix of Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 at a low concentration (Test‐II only). Insect populations evaluated in Test‐I were two Bt‐susceptible strains and three Bt‐resistant strains (a single‐protein Cry1A.105‐, a single‐protein Cry2Ab2‐, and a dual‐protein Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2‐resistant strains). Test‐II analyzed the same two susceptible strains, three backcrossed‐and‐reselected Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2‐single‐/dual‐protein‐resistant strains, and three F1 heterozygous strains. Measurements of life table parameters showed that neither the single‐ nor dual‐protein Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2 resistance in H. zea was associated with fitness costs under the test conditions. The single Cry protein resistances at a concentration of a mix of Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 that resulted in a zero net reproductive rate for the two susceptible strains were functionally incomplete recessive or codominant, and the dual‐protein resistance was completely dominant. The lack of fitness costs could be a factor contributing to the rapid revolution of resistance to the Cry proteins in this species. Data generated from this study should aid our understanding of Cry protein resistance evolution and help in refining IRM programs for H. zea.
The significance of follow‐up serum uric acid levels in predicting all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Wang Yaomin , Zhang Qilong , Ren Pingping , Pan Yixuan , Liu Yi , Li Chenglin , Fan Zhenzhen , Han Fei , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Jianghua
Published: June 2022

Background

This study aimed to analyze the change of serum uric acid (SUA) level post peritoneal dialysis (PD), and the correlation between follow‐up SUA and prognosis in patients with PD.

Methods

A total of 1402 patients with PD were evaluated. We graded SUA levels into four grades at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months post PD, and then compared all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality among patients with different SUA grades at each time point. Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional‐hazards regression models were used in the analysis.

Results

The SUA levels were 7.97 ± 1.79, 7.12 ± 1.48, 7.05 ± 1.33, 7.01 ± 1.30, and 6.93 ± 1.26 mg/dl at baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively. There was significant difference on all‐cause mortality among patients with PD with different graded SUA levels at 6 months post PD (p = 0.010), and the all‐cause mortality was lowest in patients with the grade of 5.65 mg/dl ≤ SUA <7.13 mg/dl.

Conclusion

SUA level decreased after PD during follow‐up. At 6 months post PD, the grade of 5.65 mg/dl ≤ SUA <7.13 mg/dl was appropriate for better patients' survival.
Choosing collection methods and sample sizes for monitoring bees
Authors: Tronstad Lusha , Bell Christine , Crawford Madison
Published: June 2022

Establishing protocols to sample and monitor bees is critical as pollinators decline. Bees are collected using passive and active methods, but choosing which method and how many samples to collect is challenging.

We collected bees in pan traps, vane traps and target netting (bumble bees only) at 96 locations across Wyoming from the sagebrush steppe to mountain meadows. We used power analysis to estimate the number of samples needed to detect a change in bee and bumble bee abundance and richness across elevations (1120–3308 m).

Vane traps and pan traps required a similar number of samples to detect a change in the abundance and richness of bees; however, vane traps caught four times more bees and 97% of genera compared to pan traps.

Vane traps required far fewer samples to detect changes in the abundance and richness of bumble bees compared to target netting. Pan traps caught so few bumble bees that we do not recommend using them.

We recommend using seven to nine vane traps to monitor the abundance and richness of bees and bumble bees, and supplementing bumble bee monitoring with target netting when possible.
Split‐Window OCT biometry in pseudophakic eyes
Authors: Sikorski Bartosz L. , Hoffer Kenneth J.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To determine the utility of Split‐Window optical coherence tomography OCT (SW‐OCT) biometry in measuring ocular axial dimensions as well as imaging the intraocular lens (IOL) and posterior capsule in pseudophakic eyes.

Methods

Sixty‐nine pseudophakic eyes of 69 subjects were enrolled in the study. The results of SW‐OCT biometry implemented in the SD OCT device for posterior and anterior segment imaging (REVO NX, Optopol Technology) were compared with those obtained with the SS‐OCT‐based biometer IOLMaster 700 (Carl Zeiss Meditec). Differences in measurement values between the two biometers were determined using the paired t‐test. Agreement was assessed through intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland–Altman plots.

Results

The correlation between measurements obtained with SW‐OCT and SS‐OCT was very high (ICC for: axial length (AL) = 1.000; anterior chamber depth (ACD) = 0.997; IOL thickness (IOL LT) = 0.997; central corneal thickness (CCT) = 0.987). The mean AL measurement difference was 0.003 ± 0.021 mm (the 95% LoA ranged from −0.04 to 0.05); the mean ACD difference was −0.009 ± 0.025 mm (95% LoA, −0.06 to 0.04); mean LT difference was 0.001 ± 0.021 mm (95% LoA, −0.04 to 0.04); and mean CCT difference was 1.4 ± 5.4 μm (95% LoA, −9 to 12).

Conclusion

The study shows small, non‐significant differences between the biometric measurements obtained with REVO NX SW‐OCT and IOLMaster 700 SS‐OCT in pseudophakic eyes. However, SW‐OCT offered significantly lower ACD and LT measurement failure rates. With high‐resolution imaging, SW‐OCT enables accurate assessment of IOL position relative to the posterior capsule and visualization of capsular fibrosis.
Antibiotic hypersensitivity in cystic fibrosis – Low frequency of anaphylaxis over 16 000 courses
Authors: Kowalik Aleksandra , de Monestrol Isabelle , Sorjonen Kimmo , Brockow Knut , Gülen Theo
Published: June 2022

Aims

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR) to antibiotics are common and a substantial issue in managing patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical features as well as risk factors of DHR to antibiotics in CF.

Method

A 20‐year retrospective study was conducted among 226 CF patients (100 children and 126 adults) attending our centre. The Swedish Registry for Cystic Fibrosis and electronic medical records enabled us to ascertain the number and routes of antibiotic courses. All suspected DHR were evaluated.

Results

The patients had a total of 16 910 antibiotic courses, of which 6832 (40%) were intravenously administered. Of 226 enrolled CF patients, 70 (31%) developed overall 131 DHR to antibiotics. The prevalence of DHR increased with advancing age (P < .001). Beta‐lactams elicited 71% of all DHR and piperacillin was the most common single culprit (30% of intravenous and 24% of all DHR). Reactions were mild to moderate and mostly limited to skin; no severe cutaneous adverse reactions were observed. Additionally, anaphylaxis was rare, constituting 2.3% (3/131) of all DHR. Patients with DHR were exposed to significantly more courses of antibiotics than those without DHR (median 124 vs. 46, retrospectively, P < .001).

Conclusions

DHR to antibiotics, particularly to beta‐lactams, are increased in CF patients, and associated with a higher number of cumulative exposures because of recurrent infections. However, severe cutaneous or systemic DHR, such as anaphylaxis, appear to be rare.
Identification of racial/ethnic disparities associated with severe maternal morbidity using the Arkansas All‐Payer Claims Database (2013‐2017)
Authors: Rezaeiahari Mandana , Brown Clare C. , Ali Mir M. , Tilford J. Mick , Magann Everett F.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To evaluate the effect of maternal characteristics on the odds of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) through 42 days postpartum.

Study Design

We conducted a retrospective observational study of 77 172 births using birth certificate and insurance claims data from the Arkansas All Payers Claims Database, years 2013‐2017, to identify racial disparities associated with SMM for births between April 1, 2014, and November 19, 2017.

Methods

Multiple logistic regression was used to examine the effect of sociodemographic factors and clinical comorbidities on the odds of SMM among non‐Hispanic white (“white”), non‐Hispanic Black (“Black”), and Hispanic women.

Results

The rate of SMM was 227.41 per 10 000 births, with Black women (330 per 10 000 births; 95% CI: 296.16‐366.38), having a significantly higher rates than white women (197; 95% CI: 171.72‐225.84) and Hispanic women (180; 95% CI: 155.86‐207.54). After adjusting for maternal demographics, birth‐related clinical variables, and comorbidities, SMM remained higher among Black women (aOR 1.37; 95% CI 1.11‐1.70) relative to white women.

Conclusions

Comorbidities, socioeconomic factors, and other factors did not fully explain the Black–white disparities in SMM. Persistent disparities in the rates of SMM throughout 42 days postpartum among Black women relative to white women points to the need for higher quality, more equitable care for women of color in the fist months postpartum.
Intergenerational reproduction and self‐rated health in Canada
Authors: Veenstra Gerry , Vanzella‐Yang Adam
Published: June 2022

Intergenerational processes in which the socioeconomic status of middle‐ and upper‐class parents is reproduced in their children have been extensively documented by social scientists. We mobilized a unique dataset, the Longitudinal and International Study of Adults (LISA) linked to income data from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), to investigate the relevance of intergenerational socioeconomic reproduction for inequalities in self‐rated health in a national sample of Canadians aged 25 to 50. We found strong intergenerational elasticities implicating both parental education and parental family income in the acquisition of both personal education and personal family income. Parental education was not significantly associated with self‐rated health. Parental family income was significantly associated with self‐rated health among women only, partly explained by the socioeconomic status of the women themselves. These results suggest that intergenerational reproduction plays a small role in the generation of high levels of self‐rated health among Canadian women but not among Canadian men.
ELOVL5‐mediated fatty acid elongation promotes cellular proliferation and invasion in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Nitta Satoshi , Kandori Shuya , Tanaka Ken , Sakka Shotaro , Siga Masanobu , Nagumo Yoshiyuki , Negoro Hiromitsu , Kojima Takahiro , Mathis Bryan J. , Shimazui Toru , Miyamoto Takafumi , Matsuzaka Takashi , Shimano Hitoshi , Nishiyama Hiroyuki
Published: June 2022

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) features altered lipid metabolism and accumulated polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Elongation of very long–chain fatty acid (ELOVL) family enzymes catalyze fatty acid elongation, and ELOVL5 is indispensable for PUFAs elongation, but its role in RCC progression remains unclear. Here, we show that higher levels of ELOVL5 correlate with poor RCC clinical prognosis. Liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis showed decreases in ELOVL5 end products (arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid) under CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of ELOVL5 while supplementation with these fatty acids partially reversed the cellular proliferation and invasion effects of ELOVL5 knockout. Regarding cellular proliferation and invasion, CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of ELOVL5 suppressed the formation of lipid droplets and induced apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress while suppressing renal cancer cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knockout of ELOVL5 inhibited AKT Ser473 phosphorylation and suppressed renal cancer cell invasion through chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand‐2 downregulation by AKT‐mTOR‐STAT3 signaling. Collectively, these results suggest that ELOVL5‐mediated fatty acid elongation promotes not only cellular proliferation but also invasion in RCC.
Real-world dose adjustments of biologic treatments in psoriasis and their economic impact: a Swedish national population study
Authors: Egeberg Alexander , Freilich Jonatan , Stelmaszuk M. Natalia , Kongerslev Rikke , Apol Eydna , Hansen Jes Birger , Levin Lars-Åke
Published: June 2022

Background

To date, evidence on the dose adjustments of biologics in the real-world treatment of psoriasis is limited. However, dose adjustments may have important clinical and economic implications.

Aims

To study the dose adjustments of individual biologics over time in real-world practice in Sweden.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of adults with moderate to severe psoriasis was conducted based on Swedish national registry data from 2010 to 2018. Treatment episodes were identified for individual patients from the date of drug dispensation to the end of the supply of the drug. Dosing data were expressed as the proportion of treatment episodes with accumulated syringes/vials equal to, above or below the recommended guidelines. Real-world costs were calculated and compared with costs predicted from dosing guidelines.

Results

The mean dose was above recommended levels for all biologics investigated. Weighted mean dose adjustments for adalimumab, etanercept, secukinumab and ustekinumab were 13%, 23%, 8% and 3%, respectively, over the entire treatment period. Higher doses translate to higher costs, including notable increases over time vs. expected costs for secukinumab.

Conclusions

Dose adjustments of biologics are frequent in clinical practice but differ for the various biologics. The mean observed increases in dose above guideline recommendations might indicate perceptions of suboptimal efficacy for biologics, with implications for the cost and cost-effectiveness of these treatments. Further research is warranted to understand the reasons for dose adjustments in clinical practice.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection as a less invasive option for elderly patients with early gastric cancer with a relative indication for endoscopic resection
Authors: Maekawa Akira , Uedo Noriya
Published: June 2022

This Editorial refers to the article by Y. Kishida et al., p 497–507 of the issue DEN 34:3.
Effectiveness, safety and treatment adherence of biosimilar follow‐on insulin in diabetes management
Authors: Pham Timothy T. , Chen Xiaoxue , Barron John , Hart Richard , Abarca Jacob , DeVries Andrea
Published: June 2022

Aim

To assess the change in HbA1c after initiation of biosimilar follow‐on insulin (Basaglar) or reference insulin (Lantus) among patients with type 2 diabetes. We also compared treatment adherence, safety events and costs at 1 year after initiation of insulin.

Materials and Methods

Using claims data from a large US health plan during 2016‐2020, we identified adults with type 2 diabetes who initiated either Basaglar or Lantus. Generalized linear regression modelling assessed the differences in outcomes between the two groups. A 0.4% margin was used to determine non‐inferiority for HbA1c.

Results

The study included 1136 Basaglar users and 6304 Lantus users. Both Lantus and Basaglar groups showed more than 1% reduction in HbA1c over 6 months and over 12 months. Reduction in HbA1c with Basaglar was similar (non‐inferior) to that with Lantus, with an adjusted difference of Basaglar to Lantus of 0.14% (95% CI −0.02 to 0.30) over 6 months and 0.17% (95% CI 0.02 to 0.32) over 12 months. Rates of adverse events were similar for both hypoglycaemia and vascular events. The Basaglar group showed higher adherence in terms of proportion of days covered (adjusted difference 0.06, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.08). Medical costs were similar, but the cost of Basaglar was lower (adjusted mean cost difference −$462, 95% CI −$556 to −$363) after adjustment.

Conclusions

In patients with type 2 diabetes, Basaglar provided similar glycaemic control compared with Lantus, had a similar safety profile and lower drug costs, and showed more favourable adherence.
Comparing a daily versus weekly titration algorithm in people with type 2 diabetes switching from basal insulin to iGlarLixi in the LixiLan ONE CAN randomized trial
Authors: Hramiak Irene , Gerstein Hertzel C. , Leiter Lawrence A. , Yale Jean‐François , Bajaj Harpreet S. , Stewart John , Toutounji Marie‐Josée , Harris Stewart B.
Published: June 2022

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety of a simple daily titration algorithm compared with a weekly dose adjustment of iGlarLixi in people with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

LixiLan ONE CAN (NCT03767543), a randomized, 26‐week, open‐label, multicentre phase 3 trial conducted in Canada, involved 265 people with type 2 diabetes and an HbA1c of ≥7.5% to ≤ 10.5% or less (≥58 to ≤91 mmol/mol) on basal insulin for 6 months or longer. Participants were randomized 1:1 with instructions to self‐titrate iGlarLixi daily (1 unit/day) or once weekly (2 or 4 units/week) to a common target fasting plasma glucose of 4.4 to 5.6 mmol/L (79 to 101 mg/dl). The primary objective was to show non‐inferiority of the daily versus weekly titration algorithm.

Results

At 26 weeks, daily titration of iGlarLixi was not inferior to a weekly titration for both the prespecified primary endpoint of change in HbA1c from baseline (least square [LS] mean change: −1.24% vs. −0.92%, respectively; LS mean difference: 0.32%; 95% CI [0.07, 0.57]; P < .0001) and for the secondary endpoint of change in weight from baseline (LS mean change: −0.22 vs. +0.81 kg, respectively; LS mean difference: 1.03 kg; 95% CI [0.01, 2.06]; P < .0001). Indeed, for both the primary and secondary outcome, the daily titration of iGlarLixi was superior. There were no statistically significant differences in hypoglycaemia incidence between the two titration strategies during the 26‐week study.

Conclusion

A daily titration algorithm for switching basal insulin to iGlarLixi was shown to be non‐inferior and superior for glycaemic control and weight compared with weekly titration.
The quality, safety, feasibility, and interpretive accuracy of echocardiographic and lung ultrasound assessment of COVID‐19 patients using a hand‐held ultrasound
Authors: Dadon Ziv , Levi Nir , Alpert Evan Avraham , Orlev Amir , Belman Daniel , Glikson Michael , Butnaru Adi , Gottlieb Shmuel
Published: June 2022

Background

The association between COVID‐19 infection and the cardiovascular system necessitates the use of an echocardiogram in this setting. Information on the utilization, safety, and quality of point‐of‐care cardiac and lung ultrasound using a hand‐held device in these patients is scarce.

Aims

To investigate the safety, technical aspects, quality indices, and interpretive accuracy of a hand‐held echocardiogram in patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

From April‐28 through July‐27, 2020, consecutive patients with COVID‐19 underwent hand‐held echocardiogram and lung ultrasound evaluation (Vscan Extend™; GE Healthcare) within 48‐h of admission. The operators recorded a series of technical parameters and graded individual experiences. The examinations were further analyzed by a blinded fellowship‐trained echocardiographer for general quality, proper acquisition, and right ventricular (RV) demonstration.

Results

Among 103 patients, 66 (64.1%) were male. Twenty‐nine (28.2%) patients could not turn on their left side and 23 (22.3%) could not maintain effective communication. The mean length of each echocardiogram study was 8.5 ± 2.9 min, battery usage was 14 ± 5%, and mean operator‐to‐patient proximity was 59 ± 11 cm. Ninety‐five (92.2%) examinations were graded as fair/good quality. A fair agreement was demonstrated between the operator and the echocardiographer for general ultrasound quality (Kappa = 0.329,p< 0.001). A fair‐good correlation (r= 0.679,p< 0.001) and substantial agreement (Kappa = 0.612,p< 0.001) were demonstrated between the operator and echocardiographer for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), whereas a fair agreement was demonstrated for RV systolic function (Kappa = 0.308,p= 0.002). LVEF agreement was also assessed using the Bland‐Altman analysis revealing a mean bias of −0.96 (95% limits of agreement 9.43 to −11.35;p= 0.075).

Conclusions

Among patients with COVID‐19, echocardiography with a hand‐held ultrasound is a safe and reasonable alternative for a complete formal study (<10% poor‐quality indices). Echocardiogram assessment by the operators during the exam acquisition is reliable for LVEF, while RV systolic function should be subsequently offline reassessed.
From STRs to SNPs via ddRAD‐seq: Geographic assignment of confiscated tortoises at reduced costs
Authors: Biello Roberto , Zampiglia Mauro , Fuselli Silvia , Fabbri Giulia , Bisconti Roberta , Chiocchio Andrea , Mazzotti Stefano , Trucchi Emiliano , Canestrelli Daniele , Bertorelle Giorgio
Published: June 2022

Assigning individuals to their source populations is crucial for conservation research, especially for endangered species threatened by illegal trade and translocations. Genetic assignment can be achieved with different types of molecular markers, but technical advantages and cost saving are recently promoting the shift from short tandem repeats (STRs) to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Here, we designed, developed, and tested a small panel of SNPs for cost‐effective geographic assignment of individuals with unknown origin of the endangered Mediterranean tortoise Testudo hermanni. We started by performing a ddRAD‐seq experiment on 70 wild individuals of T. hermanni from 38 locations. Results obtained using 3182 SNPs are comparable to those previously obtained using STR markers in terms of genetic structure and power to identify the macro‐area of origin. However, our SNPs revealed further insights into the substructure in Western populations, especially in Southern Italy. A small panel of highly informative SNPs was then selected and tested by genotyping 190 individuals using the KASP genotyping chemistry. All the samples from wild populations of known geographic origin were genetically re‐assigned with high accuracy to the original population. This reduced SNPs panel represents an efficient molecular tool that enables individuals to be genotyped at low cost (less than €15 per sample) for geographical assignment and identification of hybrids. This information is crucial for the management in‐situ of confiscated animals and their possible re‐allocation in the wild. Our methodological pipeline can easily be extended to other species.
Birth relatives’ perspectives about same‐gender parent adoptive family placements
Authors: Farr Rachel H. , Vázquez Cassandra P. , Lapidus Emily P.
Published: June 2022

Little research exists about the experiences of birth relatives connected to lesbian and gay (LG) parent adoptive families. Using mixed methods, we examined the perspectives of birth relatives and other adoption triad members (adoptive parents, adoptees). First, from interviews with birth relatives (N = 62) in the USA, we explored openness to same‐gender parent adoptive placements. Next, we conducted a thematic analysis from interviews with a subsample (n = 24) whose child was placed with LG adoptive parents about why LG parents were chosen. Finally, eight (of these 24) were connected to seven LG adoptive parent families who were participants in a larger study. Among these adoption triads, we investigated how members described their contact experiences. Results showed that most birth relatives were open to placements with same‐gender couples, and those who had done so often made this decision intentionally for various specific reasons. Birth relatives tended to be satisfied with adoptive family contact and desired more in the future. Adoption triad members generally reported warm feelings toward each other and commitments to continued contact. These findings provide insight about diverse conceptualizations of kinship, how contact can be effectively navigated across complex family relationships, and implications for adoption practice and policy.
Multiple detection of both attractants and repellents by the dCache‐chemoreceptor SO_1056 of Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Boyeldieu Anne , Poli Jean‐Pierre , Ali Chaouche Amine , Fierobe Henri‐Pierre , Giudici‐Orticoni Marie‐Thérèse , Méjean Vincent , Jourlin‐Castelli Cécile
Published: June 2022

Chemoreceptors are usually transmembrane proteins dedicated to the detection of compound gradients or signals in the surroundings of a bacterium. After detection, they modulate the activation of CheA‐CheY, the core of the chemotactic pathway, to allow cells to move upwards or downwards depending on whether the signal is an attractant or a repellent, respectively. Environmental bacteria such as Shewanella oneidensis harbour dozens of chemoreceptors or MCPs (methyl‐accepting chemotaxis proteins). A recent study revealed that MCP SO_1056 of S. oneidensis binds chromate. Here, we show that this MCP also detects an additional attractant (l‐malate) and two repellents (nickel and cobalt). The experiments were performed in vivo by the agarose‐in‐plug technique after overproducing MCP SO_1056 and in vitro, when possible, by submitting the purified ligand‐binding domain (LBD) of SO_1056 to a thermal shift assay (TSA) coupled to isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). ITC assays revealed a KD of 3.4 μm for l‐malate and of 47.7 μm for nickel. We conclude that MCP SO_1056 binds attractants and repellents of unrelated composition. The LBD of SO_1056 belongs to the double Cache_1 family and is highly homologous to PctA, a chemoreceptor from Pseudomonas aeruginosa that detects several amino acids. Therefore, LBDs of the same family can bind diverse compounds, confirming that experimental approaches are required to define accurate LBD‐binding molecules or signals.
Is there compression or expansion of morbidity in the Philippines?
Authors: Cruz Grace Trinidad , Cruz Christian Joy Pattawi , Saito Yasuhiko
Published: June 2022

Aims

This study contributes to previous initiatives examining healthy and active aging in the Philippines.

Methods

We employed the Sullivan method to calculate healthy life expectancy (HLE) and active life expectancy (ALE) using the 2007 Philippine Survey on Aging and the 2018 Longitudinal Study of Ageing and Health. We compared the estimates at two time points, providing evidence of change over time.

Results

There was no statistically significant change in the relative proportion of HLE over time for both sexes, suggesting dynamic equilibrium. For men, the increase in life expectancy was mainly an increase in unhealthy state (UHLE). The slight increases in HLE for all ages were not statistically significant. The differences in relative increase in HLE were not statistically significant. HLE for women increased over time, with statistically significant increases at ages 60 and 70 years. ALE declined in all age groups for both sexes, but the decline was statistically significant only among women in their 60s and 70s. There was also a statistically significant decline in the proportion of remaining life in an active state for all ages among both men and women, suggesting an expansion of morbidity.

Conclusions

Findings suggest no evidence of compression of morbidity in the Philippines from 2007 to 2018. The HLE results suggest a dynamic equilibrium, while ALE results indicate an expansion of morbidity. The findings emphasize the need for the government to promote life course interventions that foster healthy choices and conduct further research to understand the factors influencing longevity and active aging in the Philippines. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 511–515.
Skin wetness sensitivity across body sites commonly affected by pain in people with migraine
Authors: Buoite Stella Alex , Filingeri Davide , Garascia Gabriele , D’Acunto Laura , Furlanis Giovanni , Granato Antonio , Manganotti Paolo
Published: June 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate skin wetness perception and thermal sensitivity in people with migraine and similar healthy controls.

Background

Environmental triggers, such as cold and humidity, are known triggers for pain in people with migraine. Sensory inputs might be implicated in such heightened responses to cold‐humid environments, such that a migraine‐induced hypersensitivity to cold wetness could be present in people with migraine. However, we lack empirical evidence on skin thermal and wetness sensitivity across skin sites commonly associated with reported pain in migraine, such as the forehead.

Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional observational study, conducted in a university hospital setting, evaluated skin wetness perceptions and thermal sensations to wet non‐noxious warm‐wet, neutral‐wet, and cold‐wet stimuli applied to the forehead, the posterior neck, and the index finger pad of 12 patients with migraine (mean and standard deviation for age 44.5 ± 13.2 years, 7/12 [58%] women) and 36 healthy controls (mean and standard deviation for age 39.4 ± 14.6 years, 18/36 [50%] women).

Results

On the forehead, people with migraine reported a significantly higher wetness perception than healthy controls across all thermal stimulus (15.1 mm, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8 to 28.5, p = 0.027, corresponding to ~ 15% difference), whereas no significant differences were found on the posterior neck nor on the index finger pad. We found no differences among groups in overall thermal sensations (−8.3 mm, 95% CI: −24.0 to 7.3, p = 0.291; −7.8 mm, 95% CI: −25.3 to 9.7, p = 0.375; and 12.4 mm, 95% CI: −4.0 to 28.9, p = 0.133; forehead, posterior neck, and index finger, respectively).

Conclusion

These findings indicate that people with migraine have a heightened sensitivity to skin wetness on the forehead area only, which is where pain attacks occur. Future studies should further explore the underlying mechanisms (e.g., TRPM8‐mediated cold‐wet allodynia) that lead to greater perception of wetness in people with migraine to better understand the role of environmental triggers in migraine.
Triptan medication use among patients with migraine with contraindications in the US
Authors: Pero Adriana , Pace Anna , Dhamoon Mandip S.
Published: June 2022

Objective

We sought to investigate the prevalence of triptan use among patients with migraine who have contraindications to triptan usage, and to explore specifics of the medication prescribed, dosage, and route of administration.

Background

Triptan medications are a mainstay of acute migraine therapy, but little is known about prevalence and patterns of triptan prescribing among patients with contraindications in the United States.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we used data from the IBM Marketscan database to identify patients aged ≥ 18 years with migraine from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, using International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modification 10 codes. Contraindications to triptan medications were identified by review of package labels as listed on the US Food and Drug Administration website. Triptan medications were identified from the IBM Micromedex Redbook linked to prescription claims along with route of administration and dosage.

Results

Of 1,038,472 individuals diagnosed with migraine, 400,112 (38.5%) were prescribed triptan medication, and of those who were prescribed a triptan, 55,707 (13.9%) had at least one contraindication, with the most common contraindication being cardiac arrhythmia (33,696/400,112 individuals, 8.4%) followed by cerebrovascular disease (14,787/400,112, 3.7%) and coronary artery disease (10,236/400,112, 2.6%). Sumatriptan was the most prescribed triptan (261,736/1,038,472, 25.2%), and the subcutaneous and intranasal routes were more commonly prescribed among those with contraindications compared with those without contraindications.

Discussion

A substantial proportion of patients with migraine with contraindications were prescribed triptan medications. These findings call for further research on the outcomes of patients with medical contraindications who are prescribed triptan medications, and for greater clarity in prescribing guidelines about the optimal approach for acute therapy among patients with migraine.
Updated generic search filters for finding studies of adverse drug effects in Ovid medline and Embase may retrieve up to 90% of relevant studies
Authors: Golder Su , Farrah Kelly , Mierzwinski‐Urban Monika , Barker Beth , Rama Anna
Published: June 2022

Background

The most current objectively derived search filters for adverse drug effects are 15 years old and other strategies have not been developed and tested empirically.

Objective

To develop and validate search filters to retrieve evidence on adverse drug effects from Ovid medline and Ovid Embase.

Methods

We identified systematic reviews of adverse drug effects in Epistemonikos. From these reviews, we collated their included studies which we then randomly divided into three tests and one validation set of records. We constructed a search strategy to maximise relative recall using word frequency analysis with test set one. This search strategy was then refined using test sets two and three and validated on the final set of records.

Results

Of 107 systematic reviews which met our inclusion criteria, 1948 unique included studies were available from medline and 1980 from Embase.

Generic adverse drug effects searches in medline and Embase achieved 90% and 89% relative recall, respectively. When specific adverse effects terms were added recall was improved.

Conclusion

We have derived and validated search filters that retrieve around 90% of records with adverse drug effects data in medline and Embase. The addition of specific adverse effects terms is required to achieve higher recall.
Effects of shared characteristics between eco‐labels: A case for organic and local food
Authors: Chen Junhong , Lai John , Chen Xuqi , Gao Zhifeng
Published: June 2022

Food labels are created to reduce information asymmetry and help consumers make better food choices. However, the labels may have unanticipated effects, especially when they share common characteristics that may introduce confusion in making food choices. This study investigates how perceived relationships between different food labels may affect the price premiums of organic and local attributes for milk and fresh strawberries. Results show that the impacts of perception vary by product and label, and different food labels could positively affect price premiums on organic and local products. Results provide policy implications for better labeling and educational programs to reduce inadvertent confusion and improve consumer decision‐making.
Consumer behaviour towards chicken breasts affected with myopathy (Wooden Breast): face‐to‐face vs. online tests
Authors: da Rocha Thayse C. , Olegario Lary S. , de Carvalho Leila M. , Pereira Deyse A. , González‐Mohino Alberto , Ventanas Sonia , Estévez Mario , Madruga Marta Suely
Published: June 2022

The incidence of the Wooden Breast myopathy (WB) in the meat industry is increasingly high and causes economic losses. This work seeks to study the impact of this myopathy on consumer perception. The aim of this study was to evaluate consumers' degree of knowledge, acceptability and purchase intention of chicken breasts affected by the WB. In face‐to‐face scenario, 197 participants evaluated samples of Normal (N), Moderate (WBM) and Severe WB (WBS) breasts fillet, whereas in the online scenario 200 participants analysed the photographic images of the samples. Participants' perceptions did not show differences among informed conditions, conversely to the scenario. N samples show higher scores in both tests in the face‐to‐face scenario, but this was not the case for the samples evaluated in the online scenario, where WBM samples were better accepted and did not present differences compared with N breast samples regarding purchase intention. This work shed light on the importance of the scenario for consumer perception and the necessity of reformulated objectives and experimental designs in the current pandemic context.
Application and characterisation of industrial brewing by‐products in biodegradable starch‐based expanded composites
Authors: Lopes Aline Carvalho , Klosowski Ana Beatriz , Carvalho Benjamim Melo , Olivato Juliana Bonametti
Published: June 2022

Concern headed under waste management promotes the development and application of biodegradable materials. Naturally occurring lignocellulosic fibres, such as malt bagasse (MB), are often low‐cost industrial by‐products with attractive properties. This work focused on extruding starch‐based expanded composites, containing two different brewing residues, Pilsen malt bagasse (PMB) and Weiss malt bagasse (WMB). Their mechanical, thermal and structural properties were evaluated. The expansion index was higher in the WMB10 extruded composite (25.73 ± 4.75), also evident in the SEM‐FEG images which show more quantity and uniformity of pores. WMB5 and WMB10 resulted in a 50% decrease in composite water solubility relative to the Control. The hardness (N) of the samples was reduced by using MB fibres of both types, producing a less stiff and brittle material, which contributes to a potential application as alternative biodegradable packaging for non‐biodegradable materials based on expanded polystyrene.
Investigation of Brazilian grape juice metabolomic profile changes caused by methyl jasmonate pre‐harvest treatment
Authors: Moro Laís , da Mota Renata Vieira , Purgatto Eduardo , Mattivi Fulvio , Arapitsas Panagiotis
Published: June 2022

Grape juice is a major source of potential health‐promoting bioactive polyphenols, especially for children and those who do not consume wine. Since the subtropical climate may negatively affect the concentrations of grape polyphenols, especially anthocyanins, elicitors such as methyl jasmonate (MeJa) could be used to promote polyphenol biosynthesis. This work aimed at investigating the impact of MeJa treatment on grape juice produced via a traditional low‐cost process from two Vitis labrusca cultivars and in two Brazilian regions. The untargeted LC–MS analytical protocol demonstrated that Isabel Precoce juices strongly benefited from MeJa treatment, especially regarding their anthocyanic profile, regardless of the cultivation region. Known MeJa markers in wine and V. vinifera grapes (flavanols, flavonols and stilbenes) in this experiment had mixed behaviours depending on the region/variety/cultivation. Moreover, it was found that all the detected hydroxycinnamates were influenced by the treatment, especially the concentration of their glucosides, which was increased. Glutathione, 2‐S‐glutathionyl caftaric acid and indole lactic acid glucoside were identified for the first time as MeJa treatment biomarkers in grape products, indicating a possible positive effect on juice antioxidant properties.
Comparative assessment of bone collagen recovered from different livestock and poultry species: microstructure, physicochemical characteristics and functional properties
Authors: Liu Hong , Guo Yujie , Xu Xiong , Liu Jiqian , Zhang Hongru , Qi Liwei , Zhang Chunhui , Gao Hongwei
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to recover and characterise livestock and poultry bone collagens (LBCs) from yak (YBC), bovine (BBC), porcine (PBC) and chicken (CBC) sources and perform comparative assessment on their microstructure, physicochemical and functional properties. Amino acid compositions, SDS–PAGE and spectroscopic analysis confirmed that LBCs were intact triple‐helical collagen I of [α1(I)]2α2(I) with some structural differences. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed that LBCs displayed a loose and porous fibrous meshwork. The Td values of SCI, YBC, BBC, PBC and CBC were 42.6, 42.3, 44.6, 41.9 and 42.9 °C, and 5.81, 7.15, 6.28, 6.79 and 5.33 of pI values, respectively. Structural differences also endowed LBCs with dissimilar functional properties, such as water‐holding capacity, foaming and emulsifying. The structure–function correlations analysis revealed the structure–function correlations of LBCs. This study offered a new prospect that the sustainable livestock and poultry bones (LBs) might be valorised as an alternative collagen source and provided useful information for the industrial production and fostered further rational valorisation of LBCs.
Effects of Agaricus bisporus on gel properties of chicken myofibrillar protein
Authors: Nan Haijuan , Stepanova Tetiana M. , Kondratiuk Natalia V. , Nie Yuanyang , Li Bo
Published: June 2022

The gel‐forming ability of myofibrillar protein (MP) is highly correlated with the characteristics of emulsified meat products. Incorporation of Agaricus bisporus (Ab) powder into MP gels may enhance its gel properties to facilitate the development of a novel and safe meat product. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of Ab powder on gel strength, water holding capacity (WHC), texture, rheological behaviour, LF‐NMR spin–spin relaxation (T2), microstructure and protein secondary structure of the MP gel system. The results indicated that the gel strength, WHC, G' value and G" value were significantly improved when the addition of Ab powder increased from 0% to 6% (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the T2 relaxation time was shortened, and free water was transformed into immobilised water. The texture of the gel was improved when 1%–4% Ab powder was added compared to the control. Furthermore, Ab filled in the gel network and promoted the unfolding of MP α‐helix and the formation of MP β‐sheet during the thermal denaturation of MP, leading to a dense aggregated network structure. The study suggested that Ab could be a promising ingredient in improving chicken MP's gel properties and developing fat‐reduced meat products.