bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of preheat treatment and syringic acid modification on the structure, functional properties, and stability of black soybean protein isolate
Authors: Miao Qianqian , He Yiqing , Sun Haiwen , Olajide Tosin Michael , Yang Minxin , Han Bingyao , Liao Xianyan , Huang Junyi
Published: May 2024

This study investigated preheated (25–100°C) black soybean protein isolate (BSPI) conjugated with syringic acid (SA) (25 and 50 µmol/g protein) under alkaline conditions, focusing on the structure, functional properties, and storage stability. The results revealed that the SA binding equivalent and binding rate on BSPI increased continuously as the preheat temperature increased. Additionally, preheating positively impacted the surface hydrophobicity (H0) of BSPI, with further enhancement observed upon SA binding. Preheating and SA binding altered the secondary and tertiary structure of BSPI, resulting in protein unfolding and increased molecular flexibility. The improvement in BSPI functional properties was closely associated with both preheating temperature and SA binding. Specifically, preheating decreased the solubility of BSPI but enhanced the emulsifying activity index (EAI) and foaming capacity (FC) of BSPI. Conversely, SA binding increased the solubility of BSPI with an accompanying increase in EAI, FC, foaming stability, and antioxidant activity. Notably, the BSPI100‐SA50 exhibited the most significant improvement in functional properties, particularly in solubility, emulsifying, and foaming attributes. Moreover, the BSPI‐SA conjugates demonstrated good stability of SA during storage, which positively correlated with the preheating temperature. This study proposes a novel BSPI‐SA conjugate with enhanced essential functional properties, underscoring the potential of preheated BSPI‐SA conjugates to improve SA storage stability.

Practical Application

Preheated BSPI‐SA conjugates can be used as functional ingredients in food or health products. In addition, preheated BSPI shows potential as a candidate for encapsulating and delivering hydrophobic bioactive compounds.
A methyl esterase from Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum reshapes the prebiotic properties of apple pectin by triggering differential modulatory capacity in faecal cultures
Authors: Calvete‐Torre Inés , Sabater Carlos , Muñoz‐Almagro Nerea , Campelo Ana Belén , Moreno F. Javier , Margolles Abelardo , Ruiz Lorena
Published: May 2024

Pectin structures have received increasing attention as emergent prebiotics due to their capacity to promote beneficial intestinal bacteria. Yet the collective activity of gut bacterial communities to cooperatively metabolize structural variants of this substrate remains largely unknown. Herein, the characterization of a pectin methylesterase, BpeM, from Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, is reported. The purified enzyme was able to remove methyl groups from highly methoxylated apple pectin, and the mathematical modelling of its activity enabled to tightly control the reaction conditions to achieve predefined final degrees of methyl‐esterification in the resultant pectin. Demethylated pectin, generated by BpeM, exhibited differential fermentation patterns by gut microbial communities in in vitro mixed faecal cultures, promoting a stronger increase of bacterial genera associated with beneficial effects including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Collinsella. Our findings demonstrate that controlled pectin demethylation by the action of a B. longum esterase selectively modifies its prebiotic fermentation pattern, producing substrates that promote targeted bacterial groups more efficiently. This opens new possibilities to exploit biotechnological applications of enzymes from gut commensals to programme prebiotic properties.
Listening to patients, for the patients: The COVAD Study—Vision, organizational structure, and challenges
Authors: Joshi Mrudula , Darooka Naitica , Saha Sreoshy , Dyball Sarah , Sen Parikshit , Yaadav Praggya , Javaid Mahnoor , Kadam Esha , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki , Dey Dzifa , Cavagna Lorenzo , Makol Ashima , Gutiérrez Carlos Enrique Toro , Caballero Uribe Carlo V. , Kuwana Masataka , Burmester Gerd‐Rüdiger , Ziade Nelly , Wincup Chris , Andreoli Laura , Parodis Ioannis , Tan Ai Lyn , Guillemin Francis , Knitza Johannes , Wang Guochun , Dalbeth Nicola , Velikova Tsvetelina , Gracia‐Ramos Abraham Edgar , Nikiphorou Elena , Day Jessica , Chinoy Hector , Aggarwal Rohit , Agarwal Vikas , Gupta Latika ,   the COVAD study group
Published: May 2024

Background

The pandemic presented unique challenges for individuals with autoimmune and rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) due to their underlying condition, the effects of immunosuppressive treatments, and increased vaccine hesitancy.

Objectives

The COVID‐19 vaccination in autoimmune diseases (COVAD) study, a series of ongoing, patient self‐reported surveys were conceived with the vision of being a unique tool to gather patient perspectives on AIRDs. It involved a multinational, multicenter collaborative effort amidst a global lockdown.

Methods

Leveraging social media as a research tool, COVAD collected data using validated patient‐reported outcomes (PROs). The study, comprising a core team, steering committee, and global collaborators, facilitated data collection and analysis. A pilot‐tested, validated survey, featuring questions regarding COVID‐19 infection, vaccination and outcomes, patient demographics, and PROs was circulated to patients with AIRDs and healthy controls (HCs).

Discussion

We present the challenges encountered during this international collaborative project, including coordination, data management, funding constraints, language barriers, and authorship concerns, while highlighting the measures taken to address them.

Conclusion

Collaborative virtual models offer a dynamic new frontier in medical research and are vital to studying rare diseases. The COVAD study demonstrates the potential of online platforms for conducting large‐scale, patient‐focused research and underscores the importance of integrating patient perspective into clinical care. Care of patients is our central motivation, and it is essential to recognize their voices as equal stakeholders and valued partners in the study of the conditions that affect them.
A new Finnish flavor of feline coat coloration, “salmiak,” is associated with a 95‐kb deletion downstream of the KIT gene
Authors: Anderson Heidi , Salonen Milla , Toivola Sari , Blades Matthew , Lyons Leslie A. , Forman Oliver P. , Hytönen Marjo K. , Lohi Hannes
Published: May 2024

Cats with a distinctive white hair pattern of unknown molecular cause have been discovered in the Finnish domestic cat population. Based on the unique appearance of these cats, we have named this phenotype salmiak (“salty licorice”). The use of a commercially available panel test to genotype four salmiak‐colored cats revealed the absence of all known variants associated with white‐haired phenotypic loci: full White (W), Spotting (Ws) and the Birman white Gloves associated (wg) allele of the KIT proto‐oncogene (KIT) gene. Whole‐genome sequencing on two salmiak‐colored cats was conducted to search for candidate causal variants in the KIT gene. Despite a lack of coding variants, visual inspection of the short read alignments revealed a large ~95 kb deletion located ~65 kb downstream of the KIT gene in the salmiak cats. Additional PCR genotyping of 180 domestic cats and three salmiak‐colored cats confirmed the homozygous derived variant genotype fully concordant with the salmiak phenotype. We suggest the newly identified variant be designated as wsal for “w salmiak”.
Patterns of opioid use after surgical discharge: a multicentre, prospective cohort study in 25 countries
Authors:   TASMAN Collaborative
Published: May 2024

Background

Excessive opioid prescribing following surgery contributes to the growing opioid crisis. Prescribing practices are modifiable, yet data to guide appropriate prescription of opioids at surgical discharge remain sparse. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with opioid consumption following discharge from surgery.

Methods

An international prospective multicentre cohort study was performed recruiting adult patients undergoing common general, orthopaedic, gynaecological and urological surgery, with follow‐up 7 days after discharge. The primary outcome measures were the quantities of prescribed and consumed opioids in oral morphine milligram equivalents. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were performed to investigate factors associated with the primary outcome measures.

Results

This analysis included 4273 patients from 144 hospitals in 25 countries. Overall, 1311 (30.7%) patients were prescribed opioids at discharge. For those patients prescribed opioids, mean (SD) 179 (240) oral morphine milligram equivalents were prescribed, yet only 81 (145) oral morphine milligram equivalents were consumed within the first 7 days after discharge. An increased dose of opioids prescribed at discharge was associated with an increased dose of opioids consumed during the follow‐up period (β = 0.33 (95%CI 0.31–0.34), p < 0.001). The risk of prescribing more opioids than patients consumed increased as quantities of opioids prescribed at discharge exceeded 100 oral morphine milligram equivalents, independent of patient comorbidity, procedure and pain. Patients were prescribed more than twice the quantity of opioids they consumed in the first 7 days following discharge from surgery.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the current quantities of opioids provided at discharge exceed patient needs and may contribute to increasing community opioid use and circulation.
SNHG15‐mediated feedback loop interplays with HNRNPA1/SLC7A11/GPX4 pathway to promote gastric cancer progression
Authors: Duan Yantao , Yan Yonghao , Fu Hongbing , Dong Yang , Li Kun , Ye Zaisheng , Dou Yi , Huang Binhao , Kang Wei , Wei Gong‐Hong , Cai Qiliang , Xu Dazhi , Zhou Donglei
Published: May 2024

Dysregulation of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of gastric cancer (GC). However, the regulation of lncRNA SNHG15 in GC has not been well studied. Mechanisms for ferroptosis by SNHG15 have not been revealed. Here, we aimed to explore SNHG15‐mediated biological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms in GC. The novel SNHG15 was identified by analyzing RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) data of GC tissues from our cohort and TCGA dataset, and further validated by qRT‐PCR in GC cells and tissues. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays were performed to examine the role of SNHG15 on GC both in vitro and in vivo. SNHG15 was highly expressed in GC. The enhanced SNHG15 was positively correlated with malignant stage and poor prognosis in GC patients. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function studies showed that SNHG15 was required to affect GC cell growth, migration and invasion both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the oncogenic transcription factors E2F1 and MYC could bind to the SNHG15 promoter and enhance its expression. Meanwhile, SNHG15 increased E2F1 and MYC mRNA expression by sponging miR‐24‐3p. Notably, SNHG15 could also enhance the stability of SLC7A11 in the cytoplasm by competitively binding HNRNPA1. In addition, SNHG15 inhibited ferroptosis through an HNRNPA1‐dependent regulation of SLC7A11/GPX4 axis. Our results support a novel model in which E2F1‐ and MYC‐activated SNHG15 regulates ferroptosis via an HNRNPA1‐dependent modulation of the SLC7A11/GPX4 axis, which serves as the critical effectors in GC progression, and provides a new therapeutic direction in the treatment of GC.
Dysfunction of CD8+ T cells around tumor cells leads to occult lymph node metastasis in NSCLC patients
Authors: Li Chaozhuo , Hu Mengyu , Cai Siqi , Yang Guanqun , Yang Liying , Jing Hongbiao , Xing Ligang , Sun Xiaorong
Published: May 2024

Occult lymph node metastasis (OLNM) is one of the main causes of regional recurrence in inoperable N0 non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients following stereotactic ablation body radiotherapy (SABR) treatment. The integration of immunotherapy and SABR (I‐SABR) has shown preliminary efficiency in mitigating this recurrence. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the functional dynamics of critical immune effectors, particularly CD8+ T cells in the development of OLNM. In this study, tissue microarrays (TMAs) and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) were used to identify CD8+ T cells and functional subsets (cytotoxic CD8+ T cells/predysfunctional CD8+ T cells (CD8+ Tpredys)/dysfunctional CD8+ T cells (CD8+ Tdys)/other CD8+ T cells) among the no lymph node metastasis, OLNM, and clinically evident lymph node metastasis (CLNM) groups. As the degree of lymph node metastasis escalated, the density of total CD8+ T cells and CD8+ Tdys cells, as well as their proximity to tumor cells, increased progressively and remarkably in the invasive margin (IM). In the tumor center (TC), both the density and proximity of CD8+ Tpredys cells to tumor cells notably decreased in the OLNM group compared with the group without metastasis. Furthermore, positive correlations were found between the dysfunction of CD8+ T cells and HIF‐1α+CD8 and cancer microvessels (CMVs). In conclusion, the deterioration in CD8+ T cell function and interactive dynamics between CD8+ T cells and tumor cells play a vital role in the development of OLNM in NSCLC. Strategies aimed at improving hypoxia or targeting CMVs could potentially enhance the efficacy of I‐SABR.
Chronic Prurigo
Authors: Thünemann Julia , Müller Svenja , Steinbrink Kerstin , Ständer Sonja , Zeidler Claudia
Published: May 2024

Chronic prurigo (CPG) is a neuroinflammatory dermatosis characterized by prolonged pruritus lasting more than 6 weeks, pruriginous skin lesions, and repeated scratching.

Patients with CPG suffer significantly from psychological distress and a marked impairment in their quality of life. The most common subtype of CPG is chronic nodular prurigo (CNPG, also called prurigo nodularis).

In addition to the clinical features of CPG and the burden of disease, this CME article provides an overview of the significant advances in understanding the pathophysiology, including the associated therapeutic options for CPG. Dupilumab is the first approved therapy for moderate and severe CNPG to date from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). It also highlights other agents currently being studied in Phase II and Phase III clinical, randomized, placebo‐controlled trials. These include biologics such as nemolizumab (anti‐IL‐31‐RA‐mAb), vixarelimab/KPL‐716 (anti‐Oncostatin‐M receptor β‐mAb), and barzolvolimab/CDX‐0159 (anti‐KIT‐mAb), as well as Janus kinase inhibitors such as povorcitinib/INCB054707 and abrocitinib, and opioid modulators such as nalbuphine.
Can the galling mite Eriophyes tiliae alter the phenolic profile and antioxidant capacity of Tilia platyphyllos in a high UV radiation environment?
Authors: Guedes Lubia M. , Rodríguez‐Cerda Lorena , Gavilán Elvis , Aguilera Narciso
Published: May 2024

Leaves of large‐leaved lime, Tilia platyphyllos Scop. (Malvaceae), harbor colonies of Eriophyes tiliae (Pagenstecher) (Acari: Eriophyidae), capable of modifying the leaf structure (inducer of nail‐galls) and physiology. The aerial organs of T. platyphyllos have traditionally been consumed for their high antioxidant capacity, related to the rich polyphenol profile. Here, we investigated the polyphenol profiles and antioxidant activity of T. platyphyllos non‐galled leaves and galls to determine the changes induced by the mite in a Chilean environment with high ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Phenolic compound identification in the methanol extracts of non‐galled leaves and galls was carried out through HPLC. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was quantified through spectrophotometry, and it was compared with the standards of the three major phenolic compounds of both organs. Nine phenolic compounds were detected in non‐galled leaves and galls, with no differences between the two organs, except for the absence of gallic acid in galls. The concentration of phenolic compounds did differ significantly between the two conditions. In leaf galls, epicatechin and cyanidin‐3‐glucoside concentrations and antioxidant capacity increased significantly compared to non‐galled leaves. As chlorogenic acid and cyanidin‐3‐glucoside are active phenols responding to UV radiation stress, their concentration in T. platyphyllos leaves could be a response to the high UV radiation occurring in Chile during spring and summer. The phenolic compounds detected here have been reported to be potent antioxidants, that are probably potentiated by E. tiliae for its own protection against UV‐B radiation, as the two most abundant compounds in the galls exhibited the highest capacity to reduce ABTS and DPPH radicals. However, we do not rule out the participation of phenolics in protection against natural enemies of the gall mite, as chlorogenic acid and epicatechin are powerful antifeedants.
Plant‐mediated facilitation to conspecifics and heterospecifics by two phloem‐feeding maize pests: The influence of insect identity and order of arrival
Authors: de Oliveira Marina Chaves , Morales‐Silva Tiago , Pereira Patricia , Pec Marvin , de Souza Lívia Aparecida , Peñaflor Maria Fernanda G. V.
Published: May 2024

Herbivory by insects leads to changes in both primary and secondary plant metabolism, ultimately impacting subsequent interactions. Some phloem‐feeding insects have developed mechanisms to suppress herbivore‐induced plant defences and manipulate the quality of host phloem sap, thereby facilitating their establishment on the host plant. Based on evidence that the specialized phloem‐feeding insects, Dalbulus maidis and Rhopalosiphum maidis, can suppress herbivore‐induced defences in maize, we hypothesized that infestation by either of these pests in maize would facilitate the colonization and establishment of subsequent conspecific and heterospecific individuals. We conducted a series of behavioural assays with these insects in both laboratory and greenhouse settings.

The corn leafhopper D. maidis preferred previously infested plants as hosts, but it did not discriminate between conspecific‐ or heterospecific‐infested plants for colonization. However, when selecting a host for oviposition, it preferred depositing eggs on conspecific‐infested plants, which were the hosts that the offspring performed better compared to both non‐infested and heterospecific‐infested plants.

The corn aphid R. maidis also preferred previously infested plants over non‐infested plants as hosts. However, the aphid preferred heterospecific‐infested over conspecific‐infested plants, even though heterospecific‐infested plants were hosts of lower quality to aphids. Aphids performed better on conspecific‐infested plants, followed by heterospecific‐infested plants, when compared to non‐infested plants.

Our results confirm that previous colonization by the specialized phloem‐feeding insects facilitates subsequent infestations by conspecifics and heterospecifics. However, the facilitation for heterospecifics was asymmetric, as colonization by D. maidis facilitated infestations by R. maidis more than the reverse sequence of infestation.
Family dynamics in the context of elder family financial exploitation: Application of qualitative genogram analysis
Authors: Puhlman Daniel J. , Maurya Rakesh , Shigeto Aya , Murillo‐Borjas Gustavo A. , Vincenti Virginia B.
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study examined family dynamics that are common in families experiencing elder family financial exploitation (EFFE) using an innovative analytical protocol, qualitative genogram analysis.

Background

EFFE is a form of elder abuse that affects many older adults and their families. Individual factors associated with EFFE have been examined, but what is missing is a greater focus on the complex family dynamics that contribute to this violation of older family members.

Method

Using qualitative genogram analysis (QGA), a three‐step analytical protocol using family systems theory as a foundation, this study identified key relationship patterns commonly found in families where exploitation had occurred. Family genograms generated from 20 interviewees representing 20 families that reportedly experienced EFFE were used to identify common family dynamic themes.

Results

Using QGA, we identified four relational dynamic themes across families: distance and closeness, triangulation, power and dominance, and partner influence.

Conclusion

These themes illustrate that families experiencing EFFE have several similar relational dynamics, which may have contributed to creating contexts that made older family members more vulnerable to financial exploitation.

Implications

The findings of this study provide important indicators for practitioners (e.g., family therapists, family life educators, family attorneys) and policymakers in supporting older family members in making better financial decisions later in life.
Toward inclusive teaching: Utilizing student‐created case studies in a personal finance course
Authors: Xiao Jing Jian , Dewsbury Bryan , Azizi Mehri
Published: May 2024

In this qualitative study, we explore the potential of an innovative case study approach in a personal finance course among college students with the goal of making the course inclusive for students who are from economically disadvantaged families and traditionally have unsuccessful experiences in math. Students were required to create their own cases based on their unique, diverse backgrounds. Student reflections on their personal case study projects underwent thematic analyses. Our analysis documents the benefits and barriers perceived by students in this unique case study implementation, which has implications for promoting inclusive teaching in personal finance course design and delivery.
The distribution of global tidal marshes from Earth observation data
Authors: Worthington Thomas A. , Spalding Mark , Landis Emily , Maxwell Tania L. , Navarro Alejandro , Smart Lindsey S. , Murray Nicholas J.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Tidal marsh ecosystems are heavily impacted by human activities, highlighting a pressing need to address gaps in our knowledge of their distribution. To better understand the global distribution and changes in tidal marsh extent, and identify opportunities for their conservation and restoration, it is critical to develop a spatial knowledge base of their global occurrence. Here, we develop a globally consistent tidal marsh distribution map for the year 2020 at 10‐m resolution.

Location

Global.

Time period

2020.

Major taxa studied

Tidal marshes.

Methods

To map the location of the world's tidal marshes at 10‐m resolution, we applied a random forest classification model to Earth observation data from the year 2020. We trained the classification model with a reference dataset developed to support distribution mapping of coastal ecosystems, and predicted the spatial distribution of tidal marshes between 60° N and 60° S. We validated the tidal marsh map using standard accuracy assessment methods, with our final map having an overall accuracy score of 0.85.

Results

We estimate the global extent of tidal marshes in 2020 to be 52,880 km2 (95% CI: 32,030 to 59,780 km2) distributed across 120 countries and territories. Tidal marsh distribution is centred in temperate and Arctic regions, with nearly half of the global extent of tidal marshes occurring in the temperate Northern Atlantic (45%) region. At the national scale, over a third of the global extent (18,510 km2; CI: 11,200–20,900) occurs within the USA.

Main conclusions

Our analysis provides the most detailed spatial data on global tidal marsh distribution to date and shows that tidal marshes occur in more countries and across a greater proportion of the world's coastline than previous mapping studies. Our map fills a major knowledge gap regarding the distribution of the world's coastal ecosystems and provides the baseline needed for measuring changes in tidal marsh extent and estimating their value in terms of ecosystem services.
Will social media celebrities drive me crazy? Exploring the effects of celebrity endorsement on impulsive buying behavior in social commerce
Authors: Shao Zhucheng , Ho Jessica Sze Yin , Tan Garry Wei‐Han , Ooi Keng‐Boon , Dennis Charles
Published: May 2024

This study evaluates the influence of social media celebrity endorsements on consumers' impulsive buying behavior in social commerce by extending the signaling theory and commitment‐trust theory. A self‐managed online questionnaire is designed to collect the data from 295 valid respondents and analyze it using a multi‐analytical hybrid structural equation modeling‐artificial neural network (ANN). The results reveal that relational switching alternatives and relationship benefits directly contribute to relationship commitment to social media celebrity, whereas shared value and parasocial interaction positively lead to social commerce trust; both relationship commitment and social commerce trust induce consumers' impulsive buying behavior in social commerce. From a theoretical perspective, this study enriches the components of signaling theory and commitment‐trust theory, expanding their applicability and transferability in social commerce. Moreover, this study consolidates the theoretical integration, indicating that signaling theory can be considered as an antecedent of commitment‐trust theory for triggering consumers' impulsive buying. Methodologically, adopting second‐order constructs benefits, this study captures the multidimensionality and complexity of social commerce trust and impulsive buying from the partial least squares‐ANN perspectives. In practice, this research provides valuable insights into how to better invite celebrity endorsements and build long‐term relationships with customers, as well as offers insights into countries where social commerce is lacking today. That being said, this study is constrained by its cross‐sectional research design, conducted in Malaysia. Future research endeavors should consider launching longitudinal, multicountry studies to broaden the applicability of the findings.
J‐AVENUE: A retrospective, real‐world study evaluating patient characteristics and outcomes in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma treated with avelumab first‐line maintenance therapy in Japan
Authors: Kikuchi Eiji , Hayakawa Nozomi , Nakayama Masashi , Uno Masahiro , Nakatsu Hiroomi , Kitagawa Chiyoe , Miyake Hideaki , Yamada Takeshi , Fujita Kazutoshi , Shimoyama Hideaki , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Kobayashi Mizuki , Nakamura Motonobu , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Sano Takeshi , Nishiyama Naotaka , Ito Takayuki , Kajita Masahiro , Kobayashi Takashi , Kitamura Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The JAVELIN Bladder 100 phase 3 trial showed that avelumab first‐line maintenance + best supportive care significantly prolonged overall survival and progression‐free survival versus best supportive care alone in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma who were progression‐free following first‐line platinum‐based chemotherapy. We report findings from J‐AVENUE (NCT05431777), a real‐world study of avelumab first‐line maintenance therapy in Japan.

Methods

Medical charts of patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma without disease progression following first‐line platinum‐based chemotherapy, who received avelumab maintenance between February and November 2021, were reviewed. Patients were followed until June 2022. The primary endpoint was patient characteristics; secondary endpoints included time to treatment failure and progression‐free survival.

Results

In 79 patients analyzed, median age was 72 years (range, 44–86). Primary tumor site was upper tract in 45.6% and bladder in 54.4%. The most common first‐line chemotherapy regimen was cisplatin + gemcitabine (63.3%). Median number of chemotherapy cycles received was four. Best response to chemotherapy was complete response in 10.1%, partial response in 58.2%, and stable disease in 31.6%. Median treatment‐free interval before avelumab was 4.9 weeks. With avelumab first‐line maintenance therapy, the disease control rate was 58.2%, median time to treatment failure was 4.6 months (95% CI, 3.3–6.4), and median progression‐free survival was 6.1 months (95% CI, 3.6–9.7).

Conclusions

Findings from J‐AVENUE show the effectiveness of avelumab first‐line maintenance in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma in Japan in clinical practice, with similar progression‐free survival to JAVELIN Bladder 100 and previous real‐world studies, supporting its use as a standard of care.
Structured interactions between nurses and patients through intentional rounding: A scoping review
Authors: Al‐Anati Abdelrahman , Molloy Luke , Sim Jenny , Halcomb Elizabeth , Frost Steven A.
Published: May 2024

Aim

To synthesize existing literature describing the impact of intentional rounding on patient outcomes among hospitalized adults.

Background

Intentional rounding has been described as purposeful therapeutic communication between nurses and patients during regular checks with patients using standardized protocols. Despite the widespread adoption of intentional rounding, the current understanding of the benefits of these structured interactions between nurses and patients is limited.

Introduction

The critical role of nurses in ensuring high‐quality and safe care in acute hospitals is often noted only when things go wrong. This was highlighted by investigations into the reasons for the failures in patient care at the Mid Staffordshire National Health Services.

Methods

A scoping review was performed and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for scoping review guidelines.

Findings

Sixteen studies were included in the final review. Various rounding models were noted among different clinical settings; four studies reported a significant reduction in falls, and a further three reported a decrease in pressure injuries. Two studies reported a reduction in call bell usage. Significant improvements in patients’ satisfaction with intentional rounding were reported in three studies.

Discussion

Promoting intentional rounding without solid evidence of its acceptability, feasibility, and suitability in different clinical settings could compromise nurses' ability to provide safe care.

Conclusion and implications for nursing

There is weak evidence of the effectiveness of intentional rounding on patient outcomes because of the diversity of methods employed and methodological limitations in many studies. Our findings identify the need for robust studies to explore the acceptability and feasibility of a rounding protocol that can be implemented in different clinical settings.
Empowering learners with AI‐generated content for programming learning and computational thinking: The lens of extended effective use theory
Authors: Shanshan Shang , Sen Geng
Published: May 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence–generated content (AIGC) has stepped into the spotlight with the emergence of ChatGPT, making effective use of AIGC for education a hot topic.

Objectives

This study seeks to explore the effectiveness of integrating AIGC into programming learning through debugging. First, the study presents three levels of AIGC integration based on varying levels of abstraction. Then, drawing on extended effective use theory, the study proposes the underlying mechanism of how AIGC integration impacts programming learning performance and computational thinking.

Methods

Three debugging interfaces integrated with AIGC by ChatGPT were developed for this study according to three levels of AIGC integration design. The study conducts a between‐subject experiment with one control group and three experimental groups. Analysis of covariance and a structural equation model are employed to examine the effects.

Results and Conclusions

The results show that the second and third levels of abstraction in AIGC integration yield better learning performance and computational thinking, but the first level shows no difference compared to traditional debugging. The underlying mechanism suggests that the second and third levels of abstraction promote transparent interaction, which enhances representational fidelity and consequently impacts learning performance and computational thinking, as evidenced in test of the mechanism. Moreover, the study finds that learning fidelity weakens the effect of transparent interaction on representational fidelity. Our research offers valuable theoretical and practical insights.
Clinical significance of PNO1 as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Roy Sanjit K. , Srivastava Shivam , McCance Caroline , Shrivastava Anju , Morvant Jason , Shankar Sharmila , Srivastava Rakesh K.
Published: May 2024

The RNA‐binding protein PNO1 plays an essential role in ribosome biogenesis. Recent studies have shown that it is involved in tumorigenesis; however, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to examine whether PNO1 can be used as a biomarker of HCC and also examine the therapeutic potential of PNO1 knockout for the treatment of HCC. PNO1 expression was upregulated in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. PNO1 expression was positively associated with tumour stage, lymph node metastasis and poor survival. PNO1 expression was significantly higher in HCC compared to that in fibrolamellar carcinoma or normal tissues. Furthermore, HCC tissues with mutant Tp53 expressed higher PNO1 than those with wild‐type Tp53. PNO1 knockout suppressed cell viability, colony formation and EMT of HCC cells. Since activation of Notch signalling pathway promotes HCC, we measured the effects of PNO1 knockout on the components of Notch pathway and its targets. PNO1 knockout suppressed Notch signalling by modulating the expression of Notch ligands and their receptors, and downstream targets. PNO1 knockout also inhibited genes involved in surface adhesion, cell cycle, inflammation and chemotaxis. PNO1 knockout also inhibited colony and spheroid formation, cell migration and invasion, and markers of stem cells, pluripotency and EMT in CSCs. Overall, our data suggest that PNO1 can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of HCC, and knockout of PNO1 by CRISPR/Cas9 can be beneficial for the management of HCC by targeting CSCs.
The combination of breast cancer PDO and mini‐PDX platform for drug screening and individualized treatment
Authors: Cui Yuxin , Ran Ran , Da Yanyan , Zhang Huiwen , Jiang Meng , Qi Xin , Zhang Wei , Niu Ligang , Zhou Yuhui , Zhou Can , Tang Xiaojiang , Wang Ke , Yan Yu , Ren Yu , Dong Danfeng , Zhou Yan , Wang Hui , Gong Jin , Hu Fang , Zhao Shidi , Zhang Huimin , Zhang Chengsheng , Yang Jin
Published: May 2024

The majority of advanced breast cancers exhibit strong aggressiveness, heterogeneity, and drug resistance, and currently, the lack of effective treatment strategies is one of the main challenges that cancer research must face. Therefore, developing a feasible preclinical model to explore tailored treatments for refractory breast cancer is urgently needed. We established organoid biobanks from 17 patients with breast cancer and characterized them by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and next generation sequencing (NGS). In addition, we in the first combination of patient‐derived organoids (PDOs) with mini‐patient‐derived xenografts (Mini‐PDXs) for the rapid and precise screening of drug sensitivity. We confirmed that breast cancer organoids are a high‐fidelity three‐dimension (3D) model in vitro that recapitulates the original tumour's histological and genetic features. In addition, for a heavily pretreated patient with advanced drug‐resistant breast cancer, we combined PDO and Mini‐PDX models to identify potentially effective combinations of therapeutic agents for this patient who were alpelisib + fulvestrant. In the drug sensitivity experiment of organoids, we observed changes in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling axis and oestrogen receptor (ER) protein expression levels, which further verified the reliability of the screening results. Our study demonstrates that the PDO combined with mini‐PDX model offers a rapid and precise drug screening platform that holds promise for personalized medicine, improving patient outcomes and addressing the urgent need for effective therapies in advanced breast cancer.
Examining variability in Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention strategy use in caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Brown Hallie , Swain Deanna , Kim Hye Won , Rogers Sally , Estes Annette , Kasari Connie , Lord Catherine , Kim So Hyun
Published: May 2024

Background

Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) for young children with autism spectrum disorder commonly involve caregiver‐mediated approaches. However, to date, there is limited research on how caregivers' skills change, and, in turn, impact child outcomes.

Methods

We evaluated the NDBI strategy use of 191 caregivers prior to participation in NDBIs (or control groups) across multiple randomized controlled trials, using the Measure of NDBI Strategy Implementation, Caregiver Change (MONSI‐CC). Clustering analyses were used to examine caregiver variability in NDBI strategy use at intervention entry. Generalized Linear Mixed Models were used to examine changes in caregiver strategy use over the course of intervention and its impact on changes in children's social communication.

Results

Using clustering analysis, we found that caregivers' baseline skills fit four profiles: limited, emerging, variable, and consistent/high, with few demographic factors distinguishing these groups. Caregivers starting with limited or emerging skills improved in their strategy use with intervention. Caregivers starting with more skills (consistent/high or variable) maintained higher skills over intervention. Children of caregivers in these groups who received target NDBIs improved in their social communication skills.

Conclusions

Results suggested that caregiver skills improve through participation in NDBIs and may directly contribute to their children's outcomes, although more research on mediating factors is needed. Individualized approaches for caregivers and their children starting with differing skill profiles at intervention entry may be warranted.
Understanding provider use of a new clinical decision support tool aimed at reducing excess telemetry in an academic health system: A retrospective study
Authors: Hatley Maya , Korostoff‐Larsson Olivia , Malik Tahir , Blecker Saul , Eaton Kevin P.
Published: May 2024

Rationale

Cardiac monitoring has often been identified as an area of overutilization and remains a limited resource in many hospitals. With the aim of reducing telemetry overuse, we added clinical decision support to our health system's telemetry order with guidance on appropriate indications for monitoring. The new order requires selection of an appropriate clinical indication.

Aims and Objectives

In this study, we aimed to understand provider engagement with this tool by assessing concordance between selected indications within the order and the clinical presence of those conditions as documented within the patient chart.

Methods

We randomly selected 100 telemetry orders from July to October 2022 across four different hospitals at NYU Langone Health. Two independent, blinded reviewers used a structured protocol to identify documentation of actual indications for telemetry in each selected chart. We calculated the rate of concordance between indications selected in the order and indications that were determined to be clinically present on chart review.

Results

There were 30,839 telemetry orders placed during the study timeframe. Overall concordance between the selection within the order and the actual indication was 48% (95% confidence interval [CI], 38.21%−57.79%). We observed especially low concordance rates for vague indications, such as ‘Other’, and for ‘Confirmed Stroke’, which was the only indication allowing for indefinite telemetry.

Conclusion

The overall low concordance suggests a disconnect between the support tool and clinical practice. Providers are more likely to select an indication that reduces downstream work regardless of a patient's true clinical indication.
Challenges in downstream dam passage and the effect of dam removal on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolt migrations
Authors: Shry Samuel , Harbicht Andrew , Forsberg Hanna , Nilsson Anders , Hellström Gustav , Österling Martin , Calles Olle
Published: May 2024

Migration is critical for life‐cycle completion in diadromous fish species. River connectivity is vital in facilitating these large‐scale movement events, but the extent of present‐day river fragmentation can interfere with these migrations. Fish passage solutions (FPSs) are commonly implemented with the aim of improving river connectivity. In our study, we investigated the performance of two types of FPSs, spill regimes and complete dam removal, on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolt migrations. We used acoustic telemetry to monitor migration behavior and passage success of 120 wild smolts released in three different groups/sites: one group with two dams to pass to reach the river mouth, a second group with one dam to pass, and a control group without any barriers to pass (upstream of a recently removed hydroelectric dam). Smolt passage probabilities were similar for the two studied dams (87% and 86%) but showed variation in path choice, delay times, and loss rates. Passage success was influenced by several factors, such as body size, diel period, and water temperature, but not flow. Cumulative passage success to the river mouth was 61%, with most individuals being lost within lentic river stretches, either in the forebays of hydroelectric power stations or in naturally wide river stretches. Within the recently rehabilitated river sections (post dam removal), passage speeds were significantly faster than all other sections of the river (post‐rehabilitation x¯ = 56.1 km/day) with significantly faster speeds compared to pre‐rehabilitation (pre‐x¯ = 28.0 km/day). Our findings provide valuable information on the benefits of dam removal and highlight the need for further rehabilitation measures in upriver reaches where barriers still affect downstream passage.
Accelerometer‐based swimming metabolism of smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Authors: Brownscombe Jacob W. , Smith Kurtis , Bzonek Paul A.
Published: May 2024

Bioenergetics is informative for a range of fundamental and applied resource management questions, but findings are often constrained by a lack of ecological realism due to the challenges of remotely estimating key parameters such as metabolic rate. To enable field applications, we conducted a calibration study with smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu, 0.7–2 kg) surgically implanted with accelerometer transmitters and exposed to a ramp‐Ucrit swimming protocol in a swim tunnel respirometer across a range of water temperatures (6, 12, 18, and 24°C). There was an exponential increase in fish acceleration with swimming speed, and acceleration per speed was higher in smaller fish and female fish, and at colder temperatures. Mass‐specific fish metabolic rate (MO2; mg O2 kg−1 h−1) increased with swimming speed, acceleration, and temperature, and decreased with fish mass, which when combined were strong predictors of MO2. Maximum metabolic rate (MMR) was estimated to peak at 22°C, but maximum sustained swimming speed (Ucrit) remained high at c. 90–100 m s−1 above 20°C, based on second‐order polynomial functions. Aerobic scope (AS) estimates peaked at 20°C (>90% AS at 17–24°C; >50% AS at 11–28°C). Males exhibited marginally higher MMR, AS, and Ucrit than females at higher temperatures. Larger fish generally exhibited higher Ucrit, but smaller fish had a marginally broader performance range (AS, Ucrit) among temperatures, benefiting from higher MMR despite a steeper increase in resting metabolic rate with temperature. These findings enable field studies to estimate metabolic metrics of smallmouth bass in situ to characterize their ecological energetics and inform bioenergetics models.
Marine predators segregate interspecifically by space and time in a sheltered coastal bay
Authors: Murray Taryn S. , Elston Chantel , Smale Malcolm J. , Childs Amber‐Robyn , Dicken Matthew L. , Cowley Paul D.
Published: May 2024

Marine predators are vital to the healthy functioning of coastal ecosystems, but to understand their roles, it is necessary to elucidate their movement ecology, particularly in relation to one another. A decade's worth of acoustic telemetry data (2011–2020) from Algoa Bay, South Africa, was investigated to determine how two mesopredatory species (teleosts: dusky kob Argyrosomus japonicus, n = 11, and leervis Lichia amia, n = 16) and two top predatory species (sharks: ragged‐tooth sharks Carcharias taurus, n = 45, and white sharks Carcharodon carcharias, n = 31) used and shared this bay ecosystem. Multi‐annual seasonal fidelity to the bay was exhibited by all species, but differences in residency were observed among species. Similarly, species used space in the bay differently—the teleosts moved less and had movements restricted to the central and western inshore regions of the bay. Conversely, the sharks roamed more, but detections were concentrated in the western part of the bay for C. taurus and in the eastern part of the bay for C. carcharias. Social network analysis showed that species segregated in space and time on a fine scale. However, there was some interaction observed between C. taurus, L. amia, and A. japonicus, but to varying degrees. This is likely because of strong habitat preferences exhibited by each species and predator–prey relationships between these predatory guilds. Results highlight that the sheltered marine Algoa Bay is a resource‐rich environment, supporting multiple predators with different hunting strategies albeit similar prey preferences. Finally, these species are likely afforded some protection by the current Greater Addo Elephant National Park Marine Protected Area in the bay but are vulnerable to fishing pressure when they leave this ecosystem.
Bile acid–microbiota crosstalk in hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Wang Jiaxin , Xu Huimin , Liu Zixin , Cao Yutong , Chen Siyu , Hou Ruifang , Zhou Yun , Wang Yandong
Published: May 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic non‐cytopathic virus characterized by liver‐specific gene expression. HBV infection highjacks bile acid metabolism, notably impairing bile acid uptake via sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP), which is a functional receptor for HBV entry. Concurrently, HBV infection induces changes in bile acid synthesis and the size of the bile acid pool. Conversely, bile acid facilitates HBV replication and expression through the signaling molecule farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a nuclear receptor activated by bile acid. However, in HepaRG cells and primary hepatocytes, FXR agonists suppress HBV RNA expression and the synthesis and secretion of DNA. In the gut, the size and composition of the bile acid pool significantly influence the gut microbiota. In turn, the gut microbiota impacts bile acid metabolism and innate immunity, potentially promoting HBV clearance. Thus, the bile acid–gut microbiota axis represents a complex and evolving relationship in the context of HBV infection. This review explores the interplay between bile acid and gut microbiota in HBV infection and discusses the development of HBV entry inhibitors targeting NTCP.