bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of social media platforms to discuss and educate the public on allergic contact dermatitis
Authors: Nguyen Morgan , Case Slaton , Botto Nina , Liszewski Walter
Published: November 2021

Background

Social media platforms are increasingly used by patients to research and discuss medical problems.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify by whom, how frequently, and in what manner allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is discussed on social media sites.

Methods

Search terms “allergic contact dermatitis” and “contact dermatitis” were queried across Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, Facebook, YouTube, and Google search metrics. The frequency, content, and creators of the content were assessed.

Results

ACD content was identified on all platforms, generated by by patients, physicians, professional organizations, and companies. When comparing the volume of posts, more content was on Instagram than Twitter, particularly among patients. Patient support groups were identified on Facebook but not on Reddit. A formal analysis of YouTube videos found that the medical information presented in these videos was often of poor quality.

Conclusions

Patch testing physicians should be aware that information on ACD exists across social media sites. While some content is generated by physicians, patients and industry groups also post and share material. Patch testing physicians should know that there is an opportunity to share ACD information, but they should also be aware that patients are posting and creating online support communities independent of physicians.

Highlights

Online support communities exist for patients with ACD on Facebook.

Online information is of lower quality, with a mean QUEST quality score of 7.4/28 on reviewed YouTube videos.

Of the five social media sites reviewed, patients are most active on Instagram, Reddit, and Facebook.

Approximately 9000 Google searches per month are conducted using contact dermatitis‐related search terms.

Differences in terminology exist between physicians and non‐physicians. While the most popular hashtag term was “contact dermatitis”, physicians disproportionately authored posts tagged with “allergic contact dermatitis.”
Use of indocyanine green fluorescence guidance in redo ileocolic resection for Crohn's disease
Authors: Freund Michael R. , Kent Ilan , Agarwal Samir , Wexner Steven D.
Published: November 2021

Aim

Redo ileocolic resection in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) is associated with significant technical challenges that may be associated with high complication rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of near‐infrared fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green (ICG), often used to evaluate blood supply to the anastomosis in CD patients undergoing repeat ileocolic resection.

Method

This study was a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent redo ileocolic resection using ICG bowel perfusion assessment between 2015 and 2021. Patients were matched and compared on a 1:2 basis with a control group undergoing the same procedure without perfusion assessment.

Results

Twelve patients underwent redo ileocolic resection with ICG perfusion assessment (ICG group). These were compared with 24 patients who underwent the procedure without ICG (control group). Both groups were similar in demographics and operative characteristics including median operating time (255 vs. 255.5 min, p = 0.39) and conversion rate (22% vs. 36.8%, p = 0.68). Median estimated blood loss was significantly higher in the ICG group [150 (50–400) vs. 100 ml (20–125)]. Successful ICG perfusion assessment was seen in all patients in the ICG group and did not change management in any case. Overall postoperative complication rates were comparable between the groups (58.3% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.72). No anastomotic leaks occurred in the ICG group compared with one (1/24, 4.2%) in the control group (p = 0.99).

Conclusion

Fluorescence ICG perfusion assessment is feasible and safe in redo ileocolic resection in patients with CD. Larger studies are needed to evaluate whether this technique should be routinely used in these complex surgical interventions.
Temporal trends and current use of de novo belatacept in kidney transplant recipients in the United States
Authors: Karadkhele Geeta , Duneton Charlotte , Garro Rouba , Badell Idelberto Raul , Pearson Thomas C. , Larsen Christian P. , Hogan Julien
Published: November 2021

The adoption of de novo belatacept in kidney transplant (kTx) recipients was hampered by an increased risk of acute cellular rejection (ACR) with variation in adopted belatacept based immunosuppressive therapies across centers. We used data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) to evaluate the temporal trends in belatacept use and describe the associated induction and maintenance regimens in US adult kTx recipients transplanted between June 2011 and December 2018. The number of patients receiving de novo‐belatacept based immunosuppressive therapy increased from .74% in 2011 to 3.11% in 2016. In 2016, 66/207 centers used de novo belatacept‐based regimen with 3.03% using it in over 50% of their patients. The use of T‐cell depleting agents increased with time. Since 2012, the rate of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) use in combination with belatacept remained stable around 50% and ∼30% remained under belatacept/CNI combination at 1‐year post‐transplantation. The adoption of belatacept as de novo immunosuppressive regimen has been slow and its use remains low in the United States. Various regimens have been used to modulate the risk of ACR. Further studies evaluating the long‐term outcomes of these regimens and assessing their safety especially with regard to the risk of infection are needed.
Cytological scoring for pancreatic specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration
Authors: Kiso Yuri , Matsuda Yoko , Esaka Shikine , Nakajima Yuri , Shirahata Hiroto , Fujii Yuko , Matsukawa Miho , Kakizaki Mototsune , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Arai Tomio
Published: November 2021

Objective

Cytological diagnosis of pancreatic specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) is often challenging because of the small sample size or well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma with weak cytological atypia. Therefore, the sensitivity and specificity of cytological diagnosis for pancreatic cancer should be improved. Hence, we aimed to clarify the utility of cytological scoring to distinguish malignant from benign lesions for cytological diagnosis of pancreatic EUS‐FNA specimens.

Methods

Seven reviewers, including four cytotechnologists and three medical doctors, evaluated 20 morphological indices in pancreatic specimens obtained by EUS‐FNA (malignant, n = 111; benign, n = 31). Statistical analyses were performed using Fisher's exact test, logistic regression analysis, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and Youden index.

Results

Among the 20 indices, there was a high incidence rate (>40%) of the following 13 indices in malignant cases: irregular structure, hyperchromatic nucleus, irregular cell polarity, unclear cell boundaries, nuclear membrane thickening, anisonucleosis, overlapping, irregular nuclei, high nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratio, binding decline, the simultaneous appearance of malignant and benign cells, enlarged nucleoli, and background necrosis. When we diagnosed pancreatic specimens using these 13 cytological indices, the cut‐off value of 8/9 showed the highest Youden index (0.950) as well as high sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing malignant from benign specimens (98% and 97%, respectively).

Conclusion

Thirteen cytological indices showed high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating malignant and benign lesions using pancreatic EUS‐FNA samples. All 13 indices were important for diagnosing malignancy in the pancreatic cytology smear of EUS‐FNA. Further validation studies are required.
Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3: impact on early haematopoietic reconstitution following allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Weischendorff Sarah , Sengeløv Henrik , Juul Anders , Nielsen Claus H. , Ryder Lars P. , Kielsen Katrine , Müller Klaus
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate whether high endogenous levels of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and its binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3) were related to a faster reconstitution of different blood cell populations in the early phase after allogeneic myeloablative haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

We measured IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 by chemiluminescence during the first three weeks after transplantation in 35 adult patients undergoing myeloablative HSCT and calculated area under the curve divided by time (AUC/t) for each patient.

Results

Circulating levels of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 correlated with counts of reticulocytes (rs = 0.44, p = .011 and r = 0.41, p = .017, respectively) and thrombocytes (rs = 0.38, p = .030 and rs = 0.56, p = .0008) three weeks post‐transplant. Furthermore, high IGFBP‐3 levels correlated with absolute lymphocyte counts 3 weeks post‐HSCT (rs = 0.54, p = .012) and were associated with shorter time to neutrophil engraftment (rs = −0.35, p = .043). Both IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 levels were associated with the number of circulating natural killer cells one month after HSCT (rs = 0.42, p = .032 and rs = 0.57, p = .0026).

Conclusion

These data indicate that high levels of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 relate to a faster haematopoietic reconstitution after HSCT and suggest a biological influence of these mediators in haematopoietic homeostasis in these patients.
Brainwaves beyond diagnosis: Wider applications of electroencephalography in idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Seneviratne Udaya , Cook Mark , D’Souza Wendyl
Published: November 2021

Electroencephalography (EEG) has long been used as a versatile and noninvasive diagnostic tool in epilepsy. With the advent of digital EEG, more advanced applications of EEG have emerged. Compared with technologically advanced practice in focal epilepsies, the utilization of EEG in idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) has been lagging, often restricted to a simple diagnostic tool. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of broader applications of EEG beyond this narrow scope, discussing how the current clinical and research applications of EEG may potentially be extended to IGE. The current literature, although limited, suggests that EEG can be used in syndromic classification, guiding antiseizure medication therapy, predicting prognosis, unraveling biorhythms, and investigating functional brain connectivity of IGE. We emphasize the need for longer recordings, particularly 24‐h ambulatory EEG, to capture discharges reflecting circadian and sleep–wake cycle‐associated variations for wider EEG applications in IGE. Finally, we highlight the challenges and limitations of the current body of literature and suggest future directions to encourage and enhance more extensive applications of this potent tool.
Extreme heat increases stomatal conductance and drought‐induced mortality risk in vulnerable plant species
Authors: Marchin Renée M. , Backes Diana , Ossola Alessandro , Leishman Michelle R. , Tjoelker Mark G. , Ellsworth David S.
Published: November 2021

Tree mortality during global‐change‐type drought is usually attributed to xylem dysfunction, but as climate change increases the frequency of extreme heat events, it is necessary to better understand the interactive role of heat stress. We hypothesized that some drought‐stressed plants paradoxically open stomata in heatwaves to prevent leaves from critically overheating. We experimentally imposed heat (>40°C) and drought stress onto 20 broadleaf evergreen tree/shrub species in a glasshouse study. Most well‐watered plants avoided lethal overheating, but drought exacerbated thermal damage during heatwaves. Thermal safety margins (TSM) quantifying the difference between leaf surface temperature and leaf critical temperature, where photosynthesis is disrupted, identified species vulnerability to heatwaves. Several mechanisms contributed to high heat tolerance and avoidance of damaging leaf temperatures—small leaf size, low leaf osmotic potential, high leaf mass per area (i.e., thick, dense leaves), high transpirational capacity, and access to water. Water‐stressed plants had smaller TSM, greater crown dieback, and a fundamentally different stomatal heatwave response relative to well‐watered plants. On average, well‐watered plants closed stomata and decreased stomatal conductance (gs) during the heatwave, but droughted plants did not. Plant species with low gs, either due to isohydric stomatal behavior under water deficit or inherently low transpirational capacity, opened stomata and increased gs under high temperatures. The current paradigm maintains that stomata close before hydraulic thresholds are surpassed, but our results suggest that isohydric species may dramatically increase gs (over sixfold increases) even past their leaf turgor loss point. By actively increasing water loss at high temperatures, plants can be driven toward mortality thresholds more rapidly than has been previously recognized. The inclusion of TSM and responses to heat stress could improve our ability to predict the vulnerability of different tree species to future droughts.
Elongated microparticles tuned for targeting hyaluronic acid delivery to specific skin strata
Authors: Yamada Miko , Dang Nhung , Lin Lynlee L. , Flewell‐Smith Ross , Jane L. Espartero Lore , Bramono Diah , Grégoire Sébastien , Belt Paul J. , Prow Tarl W.
Published: November 2021

Objective

Microneedle or fractional laser applications are the most common topical delivery enhancement platforms. However, these methods of drug delivery are not skin strata specific. Drug delivery approaches which could target specific stratum of the skin remains a challenge. Elongated microparticles (EMPs) have been used in enhancing drug delivery into the skin. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, elongated silica microparticles with two different length profiles to enhance delivery of hyaluronic acid into different strata of human skin.

Methods

Two types of EMPs—long (milled EMPs) or short (etched EMPs) length ranges were characterized. A prototypical liquid formulation (Fluorescent hyaluronic acid) with and without EMP enhancement were evaluated for hyaluronic acid delivery in ex‐vivo human skin. High performance liquid chromatography, Typhoon fluorescence scanning system, laser scanning confocal microscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) were used to validate F‐HA stability, visualize fluorescein in the skin, image the depth of F‐HA delivery in the skin and define EMP penetration in skin strata, respectively. Statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism 6 software (GraphPad Software Inc, USA).

Results

Fluorescein‐hyaluronic acid was stable and EMP enhanced skin penetration. RCM revealed that ‘etched EMP’ penetrated the skin to the stratum spinosum level. The vast majority (97.8%; p < 0.001) of the etched EMP did not penetrate completely through the viable epidermis and no obvious penetration into the dermis. In contrast, milled EMP showed 41‐fold increase in penetration compared to the etched EMP but penetrated beyond the dermoepidermal junction.

Conclusion

EMPs can enhance delivery of hyaluronic acid. Using EMPs with defined length distributions, which can be tuned for a specific stratum of the skin, can achieve targeted hyaluronic acid delivery.
Effects of cold‐pressing conditions on physicochemical and functional properties of cold‐pressed tigernut oil and starch isolated from press‐cake
Authors: Miao Wen‐Bo , Li Yi‐Jia , Ma Shi‐Yuan , Jiang Ji‐Hui , Liu Hua‐Min , Cai Xiao‐Shuang , Qin Zhao , Wang Xue‐De
Published: November 2021

Tigernut tuber is a peculiar source of oil because it has high amounts of starch. To collect tigernut oil and obtain high‐quality starch from pressed cake, a comprehensive validation of the cold‐pressing method was conducted. At 40–60 MPa, from one pressing, 67.18–73.97% of total oil content can be obtained; with three pressings, 77.38–82.34% of total oil can be obtained. Starch yields from solvent extraction of cold‐pressed press‐cake are significantly higher (P < 0.05) compared with native tigernut flour. For oils from different pressings, the fatty acid and total tocopherol contents had no obvious difference. Structural and functional analysis of the starch showed that cold‐press pretreatment had little effect on the particle size and molecular chains of the starch, while the syneresis and storage modulus (G′) of starch gel increased slightly. Overall, cold‐pressing is a potential processing method for effectively developing tigernut oil and starch as industrial resources.
Structural and rheology properties of pea protein isolate‐stabilised emulsion gel: Effect of crosslinking with transglutaminase
Authors: Zhan Fuchao , Tang Xiaomin , Sobhy Remah , Li Bin , Chen Yijie
Published: November 2021

The microstructures and characteristics (water holding capacity (WHC) and rheological properties) of pea protein isolate (PPI) emulsion gels produced via transglutaminase (TGase) with different oil‐weight fractions (φ, 20%~50%) were studied in the present work. The results showed that the WHC and gel strength (storage modulus) of PPI emulsion gel were raised with increasing of φ. Simultaneously, the proteins entrapped within the network gradually increase due to the enzymatic treatment, which resulted in a tighter internal structure of emulsion gel. At high oil‐weight fractions (e.g. 50%), the network of the emulsion was essentially a coarse chain of particulate, mainly forming a ‘close‐knit’ oil droplet. Therefore, the gelation mechanism is related to the state of proteins in the system, which are divided into proteins adsorbed and unadsorbed on the interface. The results will be of significant assistance in comprehending the theories of the gelation process and the protein emulsion gels immobilisation by the enzyme.
Effects of treatment of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma (DBD‐CP) on mechanical, barrier and functional characteristics of casein‐based films
Authors: Hou Yaqi , Liu Qi , Mian Safian Murad , Luo Yanghe , Mu Guangqing , Jiang Shujuan , Zhou Mingyi , Wu Xiaomeng
Published: November 2021

Dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma (DBD‐CP) improves packing characters of films. According to our previous study, the physical performances including barrier and mechanical properties of casein films were enhanced by DBD‐CP treatment. The aim of this paper was to study the effects of DBD‐CP discharge on the physical performances of films made from casein‐based film‐forming solutions. The structural characteristics, mechanical and barrier properties, and heat stability of the produced casein films were evaluated. As expected, the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) results indicated that the DBD‐CP treatment improved heat stability of the films. However, other properties such as tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EAB) and barrier to water vapours were negatively affected. Similar results were obtained after examining casein film‐forming solution treated with DBD‐CP using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). In conclusion, treating the film‐forming solution directly with DBD‐CP should be done cautiously while reinforcing the films packing properties.
Effect of vacuum impregnation on enzymatic browning of fresh‐cut potatoes during refrigerated storage
Authors: Zhao Wenting , Wang Yue , Ma Yue , Liang Hao , Zhao Xiaoyan
Published: November 2021

The effect of vacuum impregnation with ascorbic acid (AA) and calcium ascorbate (CaA) on enzymatic browning of fresh‐cut potatoes was investigated. Results showed that vacuum impregnation (VI) with AA‐CaA treatment for 2 min had a significant anti‐browning effect. VI treatment not only maintained cell membrane integrity, inhibited the key enzyme activities of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase but also retarded generation of phenolic substrate, particularly chlorogenic acid. Meanwhile, VI promoted AA‐CaA solution to infiltrate into potato tissue and delayed loss of ascorbic acid. In conclusion, VI treatment was more efficient for preventing browning with a shorter processing time of 2 min compared to traditional impregnation under atmospheric pressure and could be used as a promising method to inhibit browning of fresh‐cut potatoes.
Quorum quenching and anti-biofilm activities of halotolerant Bacillus strains isolated in different environments in Algeria
Authors: El Aichar Fairouz , Muras Andrea , Parga Ana , Otero Ana , Nateche Farida
Published: November 2021

Aims

The current study aimed to screen Bacillus strains with wide-spectrum quorum quenching (QQ) activity against N-acyl-l-homoserine lactones (AHLs), helpful in controlling virulence traits in Gram-negatives, including biofilm formation and also with anti-biofilm activity against Gram-positives.

Methods and Results

A total of 94 halotolerant strains of Bacillus isolated from soil and salt-lake sediment samples in Algeria were examined for the presence of QQ activity against AHLs, the presence of the aiiA gene, encoding an AHL lactonase enzyme typical of Bacillus spp., antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus mutans. Of all strains of Bacillus spp. isolated, 48.9% showed antibacterial activity. In addition, 40% of these isolates showed a positive QQ activity against long-chain AHLs, of which seven strains presented the aiiA gene. Among the species with broad-spectrum QQ activity, the cell extract of Bacillus thuringiensis DZ16 showed antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa PAO1, reducing 60% using the Amsterdam active attachment (AAA) biofilm cultivation model. In addition, the cell extract of B. subtilis DZ17, also presenting a broad-spectrum QQ activity, significantly reduced Strep. mutans ATCC 25175 biofilm formations by 63% and 53% in the xCELLigence and the AAA model, respectively, without affecting growth. Strain DZ17 is of particular interest due to its explicit halophilic nature because it can thrive at salinities in the range of 6%–30%.

Conclusions

B. thuringiensis DZ16 and B. subtilis DZ17 strains have interesting antibacterial, QQ, and anti-biofilm activities. The high range of salinities accepted by these strains increases their biotechnological potential. This may open up their use as probiotics, the treatment and prevention of conventional and emerging infectious diseases.

Significance and Impact of Study

The use of safe, economical and effective probiotics is limited to control the infections related to multi-resistant bacteria. In our study, we provide two promising agents with QQ, anti-biofilm and antibacterial activities.
Iron and methyl jasmonate increase high-value PUFA production by elevating the expression of desaturase genes in marine microalga Isochrysis sp.,
Authors: Ayothi Parthasarathy , Muthu Arumugam , Shanmugam Kathiresan
Published: November 2021

Aim

This study investigated the effect of several metabolic enhancers on the expression of fatty acid biosynthetic genes and their influence on the production of high-value PUFA in the marine microalgae Isochrysis sp., CASA CC 101.

Methods and Results

The effect of the presence of iron (Fe), nicotinic acid (NIC), methyl jasmonate (MJ) and thidiazuron (TDZ) on the expression of the fatty acid desaturase genes Δ6Des, Δ5Des and Δ4Des was studied in cultures of the marine microalga Isochrysis sp., CASA CC 101. The production of high-value PUFA like γ-linolenic acid (GLA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was correlated with these gene expressions. The results showed that MJ, Fe and TDZ significantly increased the lipid content than the control. MJ specifically up-regulated ∆6Des gene expression and thereby increased GLA production. Whereas Fe specifically increased ∆5Des gene expression and thereby increased EPA production. However, Fe and TDZ-treated cells effectively upregulated the expression of ∆4Des and increased the production of DHA when compared with control cells.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that addition of Fe and MJ in the culture medium triggers the expression of PUFA biosynthetic genes, especially ∆6Des and ∆4Des, in marine microalga Isochrysis sp., CASA CC 101 their presence resulted in increased production of the PUFAs GLA, EPA and DHA.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This study shows that the addition of Fe and MJ to the culture media of Isochrysis sp., CASA CC 101 results in up-regulation of its genes Δ4Des, Δ6Des and Δ5Des, and improves the production of PUFA. Therefore, the addition of Fe and MJ to the culture medium is useful to increase the production of high-value PUFA in Isochrysis sp., CASA CC 101 and also to the other micro algal species.
Santin and cirsimaritin from Betula pubescens and Betula pendula buds induce apoptosis in human digestive system cancer cells
Authors: Szoka Lukasz , Nazaruk Jolanta , Stocki Marcin , Isidorov Valery
Published: November 2021

Flavonoids are bioactive secondary metabolites of plants, which exert anti‐cancer effects. However, metabolism in enterocytes and the liver can influence the biological activity of flavonoids contained in the diet. Therefore, results from in vitro studies on cancer cells from the digestive tract and liver may reflect the real effects in the human body. Previously, we have found that the extract from birch buds exerts antiproliferative activity in a panel of cancer cells. In the present study, the anti‐cancer activity of ten flavonoids isolated from the buds of Betula pubescens and Betula pendula was characterized. Among them, santin and cirsimaritin significantly reduced viability, proliferation and clonogenicity of gastric (AGS), colon (DLD‐1) and liver (HepG2) cancer cells. Both flavonoids induced apoptosis, accompanied by activation of caspase‐3, caspase‐7, caspase‐8 and caspase‐9. Moreover, upregulation of p53 was detected only in wild‐type p53 harbouring cells. Together, our results suggest that santin and cirsimaritin exhibit promising anti‐cancer activity in cultures of digestive system cancer cells.
Development of an innovative mathematical model to design an active modified atmosphere storage system for mango (cv. Amrapali)
Authors: Thakur Rajeev Ranjan , Mangaraj Shukadev
Published: November 2021

Currently, the modified atmosphere storage (MAS) technique is one of the most economical and widely adopted practices used to enhance the shelf life of fresh produce including mango. The MAS system is designed in two ways; one is called passive MAS and other is active MAS. Nowadays the bulk handling and storage of fresh produce at on‐farm level is one of the challenging tasks and therefore, using the basic principle of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) the study was aimed to develop an active MAS system. In this study, to design an active MAS system for 100 kg of mango, an innovative active mathematical model was developed using enzyme kinetics‐based respiration rate model coupled with Arrhenius equation under active condition (50, 100, and 150 cc of O2 absorber). The designed active system was used for on‐farm handling and storage of mango at 27°C. The basic aim of the model was to determine the exact quantity of oxygen absorber required to bring early dynamic equilibrium condition inside the MAS system with optimum level of gas concentration (5–8% O2 and 5–8% CO2) for mango. The model was solved by Adam's numerical method using Taylor's formulae and iterated in MATLAB software. The mean relative percentage deviation moduli (E) between the experimental and predicted values of O2 and CO2 concentration was found to be 8.97 and 8.42%, respectively, indicating the accuracy of the developed active model.

Practical applications

On‐farm handling of fresh horticultural crops is the leading problem for orchard growers and causes excess postharvest losses. The current work presents some interesting results on the determination of the exact concentration of oxygen absorber required to design an accurate as well as a perfect active modified atmosphere storage system for 100 kg of mango using the concept of mathematical modeling. The principle aim of this approach was to increase the adaptability of the modified atmosphere packaging concept for preservation and shelf life extension of fresh produce during bulk handling and transportation. The designed system is easy to handle mango during its on‐farm storage and might become a boon for orchard growers.
The effect of music interventions on chronic pain experienced by older adults: A systematic review
Authors: Hsu Hui‐Fen , Chen Kuei‐Min , Belcastro Frank
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To synthesize results from multiple studies to determine the effects of music interventions on chronic pain in older adults.

Design

This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guideline to identify and select studies.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified from nine electronic databases. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklists were employed to assess methodological quality. All authors performed screening, data extraction, and synthesis. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials investigating music for chronic pain in older adults aged 65 and older.

Findings

Eight studies involving 524 older adults were included, comprising five randomized controlled trials and three quasi‐experimental studies. Music interventions consisted of live music, recorded music, and active music, with a variety of music styles and genres. Despite the small and short‐term effects, five studies presented significantly positive outcomes for reducing chronic pain and its common comorbidities in older adults following music interventions. Three studies reported decreased trends in pain scores although they did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Music has potential to be an effective adjuvant for managing chronic pain in older adults.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses can incorporate music into the care of older adults with chronic pain.
Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: Efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics
Authors: Nestor Mark S. , Ablon Glynis , Gade Anita , Han Haowei , Fischer Daniel L.
Published: November 2021

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of hair loss consisting of a characteristic receding frontal hairline in men and diffuse hair thinning in women, with frontal hairline retention, and can impact an individual's quality of life. The condition is primarily mediated by 5‐alpha‐reductase and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which causes hair follicles to undergo miniaturization and shortening of successive anagen cycles. Although a variety of medical, surgical, light‐based and nutraceutical treatment options are available to slow or reverse the progression of AGA, it can be challenging to select appropriate therapies for this chronic condition.

Aims

To highlight treatment options for androgenetic alopecia taking into consideration the efficacy, side effect profiles, practicality of treatment (compliance), and costs to help clinicians offer ethically appropriate treatment regimens to their patients.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was conducted using electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, EBSCO) and textbooks, in addition to the authors' and other practitioners' clinical experiences in treating androgenetic alopecia, and the findings are presented here.

Results

Although topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, and low‐level light therapy are the only FDA‐approved therapies to treat AGA, they are just a fraction of the treatment options available, including other oral and topical modalities, hormonal therapies, nutraceuticals, PRP and exosome treatments, and hair transplantation.

Discussion

Androgenetic alopecia therapy remains challenging as treatment selection involves ethical, evidence‐based decision‐making and consideration of each individual patient's needs, compliance, budget, extent of hair loss, and aesthetic goals, independent of potential financial benefits to the practitioners.
A proposed scoring system for facial port‐wine stain evaluation: Facial port‐wine stain area and severity index
Authors: Ren Jie , Tuan Hsiaohan , Huang Chenyu , Shu Dan , Chen Dian , Zhou Eray Yihui , Liu Dehua , Tu Ping , Zhao Yi
Published: November 2021

Background

Port‐wine stain (PWS) is a congenital capillary malformation that often occurs on the face. Feasible and quantitative evaluation of facial port‐wine stain (FPWS) can significantly impact its clinical management and aid in future research.

Aim

To develop and validate an easy‐to‐use scoring system for FPWS evaluation.

Methods

A facial port‐wine stain area and severity index (FSASI) scoring system was proposed. To determine the FSASI score, the face was divided into four regions: forehead, right malar, left malar, and perioral. The severity of FPWS in each region was evaluated by three factors: percentage of the area affected, lesion color, and thickness. To evaluate the intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability of FSASI, two separate FSASI assessments on 111 clinical pictures were conducted by each rater in a one‐week interval, and the results from 6 independent raters at different time points were compared. Validity of the FSASI scores was assessed by comparing it with physician global assessment (PGA) and traditional classification data. Validity of the area and color elements of FSASI was also determined. The changes in FSASI scores after vascular‐targeted photodynamic therapy (V‐PDT) were analyzed to evaluate the treatment effect.

Results

The FSASI scoring system showed good intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability (ICC >0.75, p < 0.001) and was found to be comparable to PGA scores (Spearman's r = 0.752–0.907, p < 0.001) and traditional classification data (Spearman's r = 0.426–0.662, p < 0.001). Efficacy analysis indicated that FSASI scores decreased after V‐PDT treatment.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated the reliability and validity of FSASI, which may be applied to assess the severity of FPWS and to evaluate treatment effects in clinical practice and research.
The safety and efficacy of a cosmetic camouflaging agent for post‐procedural bruising
Authors: Gold Michael H. , Chilukuri Suneel , Day Doris , Enright Kaitlyn M.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

A challenge of minimally invasive esthetic procedures (eg, injectables and threads) is managing adverse events (AEs), such as post‐procedural bruising. Implementation of post‐procedural camouflage therapy may minimize the appearance of bruising and mitigate AEs.

Aims

A physician and patient user experience program was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a concealer for the cosmetic camouflage of post‐procedural bruising.

Methods

Thirty female patients with a mean age of 42.03 years participated in the program. Physicians and patients completed various questionnaires regarding the safety and efficacy of the investigational product (Dermablend™ Professional Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer) at three timepoints: Visit 1 (Day 0); Visit 2 (Day 3); and Visit 3 (Day 14 ± 3 days).

Results

All patients presented with mild‐to‐moderate bruising following treatment with either esthetic injectables or threads. On average, users required 1.55 (SD: 0.72) coats to sufficiently cover their bruise(s). After application of the concealer, 78.18% of users displayed “clear skin with no signs of erythema” and 21.82% displayed “almost clear skin, with slight redness.” No physician‐reported AEs related to product use were reported throughout the evaluation period. No allergic reactions upon application nor intolerance to the product after prolonged use (ie, up to 14 days ± 3 days) was observed. Throughout the duration of use, 98.81% of subjects were at least slightly satisfied with results. At Visits 1 and 2, 100% of physicians were at least slightly satisfied with results.

Conclusion

Cosmetic concealer use can ameliorate the post‐procedural experience for patients presenting with mild‐to‐moderate bruising.
The relationships between step count and hospitalisation‐associated outcomes in acutely hospitalised older adults – A systematic review
Authors: Levin Chedva , Rand Debbie , Gil Efrat , Agmon Maayan
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose

Although low ambulation among older adults has been linked to a broad range of adverse outcomes during and after acute hospitalisation, a systematic inquiry of the link between step count and these consequences is required. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to systematically review the relationships between step count and hospitalisation‐associated outcomes in acutely hospitalised older adults.

Methods

The electronic databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Embase were searched for studies including older adults (above age 65) hospitalised in acute internal wards. The search included the following key terms: ‘accelerometer’, ‘step count’, ‘hospital’, ‘internal ward’, and ‘older adults’. Step count measurement linked to short‐ and/or long‐term outcome(s) during and/or after hospitalisation. All types of articles (except reviews) in English from 1990 to May 2020 were considered. The Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included observational studies. Randomised controlled trials (RCT) were evaluated using the PEDro scale. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. PRISMA guidelines were followed and a PRISMA checklist for reporting systematic reviews completed.

Results

The search yielded 1340 articles, and of those, the inclusion criteria were met by 12 studies: eight prospective, three interventional (one randomised controlled trial), and one case‐control. These studies included three major adverse hospitalisation outcomes associated with step count: functional decline, longer length of stay, and higher re‐hospitalisation rate; however, the large heterogeneity in the studies’ methodology makes meta‐analysis impossible.

Conclusions

Daily step count during hospitalisation of older adults is negatively associated with adverse outcomes, but causation cannot be inferred due to inconsistent outcomes and various methodological limitations. More studies are needed to illuminate causal pathways and mechanisms underlying these relationships, especially to differentiate between the relative contribution of personal versus environmental factors.
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Post and Core Restorations: A 3D Accuracy Analysis between Heat‐Pressed and CAD‐CAM Fabrication Methods
Authors: Lalama Martin , Rocha Mateus Garcia , O'Neill Edgar , Zoidis Panagiotis
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) based post and core restorations using heat‐pressed and computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD‐CAM) methods.

Materials and Methods

Post and core patterns (n = 10) were fabricated using an acrylic pattern resin and each pattern was scanned to generate a resin pattern standard tessellation file (STL‐R) to be used as the standard control group for the 3D profilometric analysis. The STL‐R files were loaded into a computer‐aided manufacturing (CAM) machine and a milling disk made of a modified PEEK‐based polymer with 20% ceramic fillers was milled into post and core restorations. Each original post and core resin pattern was sprued, invested and pressed using pellets made of the same PEEK material and a PEEK pressing unit. The resulting post and core restorations from the CAD‐CAM and heat‐pressed methods were scanned to generate STL‐M (milled) and STL‐P (heat‐pressed) files, respectively. STL‐M and STL‐P files were digitally aligned and compared to STL‐R files using a 3D analysis software. The 3D spatial distribution deviation was exported, and the statistical analysis was performed using the 95% CI deviation distribution from the Gaussian function subtraction. The statistical outcome for each group was merged and a 3D color‐coded map was created showing the average deviation (α = 0.05).

Results

The heat‐pressed post and core restoration showed 79 ±6% of the areas within ±50 µm while the CAD‐CAM post‐and‐core restoration showed 66 ±9%. The CAD‐CAM post and core restorations show 6 ±5% of the areas above the ideal for marginal adaptation limit threshold of 200 µm, while only 0.7 ±0.7% was found for the heat‐pressed.

Conclusions

The heat‐pressed method to manufacture PEEK‐based post and core restorations showed higher accuracy than the CAD‐CAM method.
Prognostic value of left ventricular‐arterial coupling estimated using echocardiography in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Osuga Tatsuyuki , Morita Tomoya , Sasaki Noboru , Morishita Keitaro , Ohta Hiroshi , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi
Published: November 2021

Background

The interaction between the left ventricle (LV) and systemic arterial systems, known as left ventricular‐arterial coupling (VAC), has been evaluated based on the effective arterial elastance (Ea) to LV end‐systolic elastance (Ees) ratio (Ea/Ees). The Ea reflects the total arterial load of LV, whereas Ees reflects the LV systolic function. A recent study found that inappropriate VAC based on increased Ea/Ees estimated by echocardiography is associated with advanced disease severity in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Hypothesis

Inappropriate VAC assessed by echocardiographic estimation of Ea/Ees is associated with a worse prognosis in dogs with MMVD.

Animals

Eighty‐nine dogs with MMVD.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Dogs underwent echocardiographic examinations at enrollment. The Ea was estimated using the formula: mean blood pressure/(forward stroke volume/body weight). The Ees was estimated using the formula: mean blood pressure/(LV end‐systolic volume/body weight). The Ea/Ees was calculated.

Results

By end of study, 22 dogs died of cardiac‐related causes with 67 dogs censored. Dogs with increased Ea/Ees (Ea/Ees >0.34; median survival time, 527 days; 95% confidence interval [CI], 322 days‐not determinable) had a shorter survival time (P < .0001) than those without increased Ea/Ees (Ea/Ees ≤0.34; median survival time, >1112 days; 95% CI, not determinable). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that Ea/Ees, body weight, peak systolic mitral annular velocity, and the peak early diastolic transmitral velocity‐to‐peak early diastolic mitral annular velocity ratio were independent predictors of cardiac‐related death among echocardiographic indices.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Inappropriate VAC assessed based on echocardiographically‐estimated Ea/Ees is associated with a worse prognosis in dogs with MMVD.
Advancing consideration of gender within health profession education: What is required?
Authors: Lydon Sinéad , Madden Caoimhe , Byrne Dara , O'Connor Paul
Published: November 2021

Educators need to ensure that the cause of gender differences are identified, leading the authors to argue for the importance of considering whether institutional cultures or practices contribute to any gaps observed.
Cutaneous iontophoresis of vasoactive medications in patients with scleroderma‐associated pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Al Abdi Sami , Almoushref Allaa , Naal Tawfeq , Melillo Celia A. , Aulak Kulwant S. , Ahmed Mostafa K. , Chatterjee Soumya , Highland Kristin B. , Dweik Raed A. , Tonelli Adriano R.
Published: November 2021

Background

It remains unknown whether the cutaneous microvascular responses are different between patients with scleroderma‐associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SSc‐PAH) and SSc without pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Methods

We included 59 patients with SSc between March 2013 and September 2019. We divided patients into 4 groups: (a) no PH by right heart catheterization (RHC) (n = 8), (b) no PH by noninvasive screening tests (n = 16), (c) treatment naïve PAH (n = 16), and (d) PAH under treatment (n = 19). Microvascular studies using laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) were done immediately after RHC or at the time of an outpatient clinic visit (group b).

Results

The median (IQR) age was 59 (54–68) years, and 90% were females. The responses to local thermal stimulation and postocclusive reactive hyperemia, acetylcholine, and sodium nitroprusside iontophoresis were similar among groups. The microvascular response to treprostinil was more pronounced in SSc patients without PH by screening tests (% change: 340 (214–781)) compared with SSc‐PAH (naïve + treatment) (Perfusion Units (PU) % change: 153 (94–255) % [p = .01]). The response to A‐350619 (a soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activator) was significantly higher in patients with SSc without PH by screening tests (PU % change: 168 (46–1,296)) than those with SSc‐PAH (PU % change: 22 (15–57) % [p = .006]). The % change in PU with A350619 was directly associated with cardiac index and stroke volume index (R: 0.36, p = .03 and 0.39, p = .02, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients with SSc‐PAH have a lower cutaneous microvascular response to a prostacyclin analog treprostinil and the sGC activator A‐350619 when compared with patients with SSc and no evidence of PH on screening tests, presumably due to a peripheral reduction in prostacyclin receptor expression and nitric oxide bioavailability.
The soybean TGA transcription factor GmTGA13 plays important roles in the response to salinity stress
Authors: Ke D. , He Y. , Fan L. , Niu R. , Cheng L. , Wang L. , Zhang Z.
Published: November 2021

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is an important oil, food and economic crop in the world. High salinity severely affects the growth and yield of soybean. Overexpressing a specific anti‐retroviral transcription factor by biotechnology is an effective way to cultivate new stress‐tolerant varieties of soybean. TGA transcription factor is a subfamily of bZIP and plays an important role in abiotic stress responses.

A TGA subfamily gene GmTGA13 was cloned and the gene expression, subcellular localization and transcriptional activity were measured. Through the Ag. tumefaciens mediated flower dip method and the Ag. rhizogenes mediated transformation of soybean hairy roots, the transgenic Arabidopsis and the ‘combination’ soybean plants of overexpressing GmTGA13 were obtained. The two types of transgenic plants were treated with salt stress respectively, and the related physiological indexes were determined. Furthermore, the expression levels of five abiotic stress responsive genes were analyzed in GmTGA13 overexpression hairy roots.

GmTGA13 gene was highly expressed in roots and significantly induced by saline stress in soybean. GmTGA13 encoded a nuclear localization protein and had transcriptional activation activity. Overexpression of GmTGA13 enhanced the saline stress tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis and the ‘combination’ soybean plants. Furthermore, overexpression of GmTGA13 enhanced the expression of the stress responsive genes in transgenic soybean hairy roots.

In conclusion, overexpression of GmTGA13 is beneficial to the absorption of K+ and Ca2+ by the cell, thereby regulating the ion homeostasis in the cell balance. GmTGA13 enhanced salt resistance of plants by regulating the expression of many stress‐responsive genes.