bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ali Syed Basharat , Chaudhuri Debajyoti , Field Deborah , Hissaria Pravin
Published: March 2022

Background

Cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndrome (CAPS) is an autoinflammatory disorder with a spectrum ranging from the milder familial cold auto‐inflammatory syndrome (FCAS) phenotype to the more severe Muckle–Wells Syndrome. Although headaches are the most common neurological symptoms, neuroinflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) have only been reported in the more severe phenotypes.

Case Presentation

We describe a 43‐year‐old male diagnosed with relapse‐remitting MS who developed cold‐induced arthralgias and urticaria. He initially presented with facial numbness and arthralgias in his late teenage years, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multiple lesions with periventricular white matter extension. Oligoclonal bands were detected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Symptoms gradually improved, and a decade later he presented with numbness at upper limbs and tongue. Brain and spine MRI showed new lesions, but CSF was unremarkable. He was started on interferon β‐1a with symptomatic improvement until another flare around 13 years later. Treatment was changed to dimethyl fumarate. During this hospitalization, urticaria was problematic and particularly associated with cold temperatures. This raised suspicion for possible CAPS and subsequently confirmed with an A439V mutation in the NLRP3 gene, consistent with FCAS. Anakinra was started but was not tolerated because of localized reactions despite desensitization. His serum amyloid A was mildly elevated at 9 mg/L (reference range 0–6). He remains stable from a neurological perspective, including imaging, and continues dimethyl fumarate.

Conclusions

To date, FCAS and possible association with MS has not been described. The case raises challenges in the diagnosis of concurrent disease processes. It also highlights that neurological sequelae should be considered in all spectrums of CAPS, and distinctions with MS should be made where possible.
De novo heterozygous variants in KIF5B cause kyphomelic dysplasia
Authors: Itai Toshiyuki , Wang Zheng , Nishimura Gen , Ohashi Hirofumi , Guo Long , Wakano Yasuhiro , Sugiura Takahiro , Hayakawa Hiromi , Okada Mayumi , Saisu Takashi , Kitta Ayana , Doi Hiroshi , Kurosawa Kenji , Hotta Yoshihiro , Hosono Katsuhiro , Sato Miho , Shimizu Kenji , Takikawa Kazuharu , Watanabe Seiji , Ikeda Naho , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Fujita Atsushi , Uchiyama Yuri , Tsuchida Naomi , Miyatake Satoko , Miyake Noriko , Matsumoto Naomichi , Ikegawa Shiro
Published: March 2022

Kyphomelic dysplasia is a heterogeneous group of skeletal dysplasias characterized by severe bowing of the limbs associated with other variable findings, such as narrow thorax and abnormal facies. We searched for the genetic etiology of this disorder. Four individuals diagnosed with kyphomelic dysplasia were enrolled. We performed whole‐exome sequencing and evaluated the pathogenicity of the identified variants. All individuals had de novo heterozygous variants in KIF5B encoding kinesin‐1 heavy chain: two with c.272A>G:p.(Lys91Arg), one with c.584C>A:p.(Thr195Lys), and the other with c.701G>T:p.(Gly234Val). All variants involved conserved amino acids in or close to the ATPase activity‐related motifs in the catalytic motor domain of the KIF5B protein. All individuals had sharp angulation of the femora and humeri, distinctive facial features, and neonatal respiratory distress. Short stature was observed in three individuals. Three developed postnatal osteoporosis with subsequent fractures, two showed brachycephaly, and two were diagnosed with optic atrophy. Our findings suggest that heterozygous KIF5B deleterious variants cause a specific form of kyphomelic dysplasia. Furthermore, alterations in kinesins cause various symptoms known as kinesinopathies, and our findings also extend the phenotypic spectrum of kinesinopathies.
Lithium attenuates blood–brain barrier damage and brain edema following intracerebral hemorrhage via an endothelial Wnt/β‐catenin signaling‐dependent mechanism in mice
Authors: Song Dengpan , Ji Ya‐Bin , Huang Xiao‐Wen , Ma Yin‐Zhong , Fang Cheng , Qiu Lin‐Hui , Tan Xi‐Xi , Chen Yi‐Man , Wang Sheng‐Nan , Chang Junlei , Guo Fuyou
Published: March 2022

Background

Vasogenic cerebral edema resulting from blood–brain barrier (BBB) damage aggravates the devastating consequences of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Although augmentation of endothelial Wnt/β‐catenin signaling substantially alleviates BBB breakdown in animals, no agents based on this mechanism are clinically available. Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar mood disorders and can upregulate Wnt/β‐catenin signaling.

Methods

We evaluated the protective effect of lithium on the BBB in a mouse model of collagenase IV‐induced ICH. Furthermore, we assessed the effect and dependency of lithium on Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in mice with endothelial deletion of the Wnt7 coactivator Gpr124.

Results

Lithium treatment (3 mmol/kg) significantly decreased the hematoma volume (11.15 ± 3.89 mm3 vs. 19.97 ± 3.20 mm3 in vehicle controls, p = 0.0016) and improved the neurological outcomes of mice following ICH. Importantly, lithium significantly increased the BBB integrity, as evidenced by reductions in the levels of brain edema (p = 0.0312), Evans blue leakage (p = 0.0261), and blood IgG extravasation (p = 0.0009) into brain tissue around the hematoma. Mechanistically, lithium upregulated the activity of endothelial Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in mice and increased the levels of tight junction proteins (occludin, claudin‐5 and ZO‐1). Furthermore, the protective effect of lithium on cerebral damage and BBB integrity was abolished in endothelial Gpr124 knockout mice, suggesting that its protective effect on BBB function was mainly dependent on Gpr124‐mediated endothelial Wnt/β‐catenin signaling.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that lithium may serve as a therapeutic candidate for treating BBB breakdown and brain edema following ICH.
Does pre‐operative counselling of the donor improve immediate and short‐term outcomes after living liver donation? – A review of the literature and expert panel recommendations
Authors: Adams Megan A. , Andacoglu Oya , Crouch Cara E. , de Santibañes Martin , Jackson Whitney E. , Jalal Arif , Montasser Iman F. , Rubman Susan , Spiro Michael , Raptis Dimitri Aristotle , Miller Charles , Pomfret Elizabeth ,   the ERAS4OLT.org Working Group
Published: March 2022

Background

There is some evidence in the literature to suggest that pre‐operative counselling improves pain scores postoperatively. However, it is unclear whether pre‐operative counselling of the donor improves immediate and short‐term outcomes after living liver donation.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to investigate the available quality of evidence (QOE) of pre‐operative counselling for living donors on short term outcomes, provide expert opinion, grade recommendations and identify relevant components for Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Central.

Methods

Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines and recommendations using the GRADE approach derived from an international expert panel. Endpoints were defined by the WHOQOL‐BREF scale: physical health, psychological, social relationships, and environment. PROSPERO ID: CRD42021260677.

Results

Screening of 452 records and full texts led to 12 articles matching inclusion criteria, of which one was a randomized controlled trial (RCT), and 11 were observational retrospective cohort studies. A total of 933 individuals undergoing donor hepatectomy were included, of whom only 90 received dedicated perioperative ERAS protocols. Donors that received pre‐operative counselling had fewer physical symptoms post donation, lower rates of fatigue, lower rates of pain, shorter recovery times and fewer unexpected medical problems, and less anxiety post donation. Female donors had higher affective and adverse effects scores, and 50% of donors reported adverse effects to analgesia that interfered with functional activity. Receiving information about analgesic options increased perception of care among donors.

Conclusions

Providing comprehensive pre‐operative counselling to living liver donors is associated with improved short‐term outcomes after donation (QOE; moderate to low I Grade of Recommendation; Strong).
What Drives Chinese Firms' Export Sophistication? A Perspective from the Rise of Minimum Wages
Authors: Li Xiaoping , Peng Shuzhou , Huang Wei‐Chiao , Zhou Qian
Published: March 2022

This paper re‐examines the driving factors behind the upgrading of China's export sophistication. Based on county‐level minimum wages and firm‐level export data for 2000–2013, this paper finds that the labor cost shocks caused by rising minimum wages have a significant positive impact on Chinese firms' export sophistication. Channel tests show that the positive effect of rising minimum wages on firms' export sophistication derives from the exit of less sophisticated products and the reallocation of the relative share of surviving products, rather than introducing new highly sophisticated products. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that rising minimum wages have a greater impact on export sophistication for low‐wage firms, domestic firms, and labor‐intensive firms. This paper has implications for developing countries regarding the transition from a low‐cost labor trade model to a sophistication‐driven trade model.
Decomposition Analysis of Poverty Reduction in Rural China: 2007–2018
Authors: Luo Chuliang
Published: March 2022

Using the last three waves of the rural household surveys conducted by the Chinese Household Income Project in 2007, 2013, and 2018, this paper focuses on changes in poverty in rural China. The paper decomposes poverty change into the growth effect and the inequality effect, and also decomposes the contributions of income components, concentrating particularly on income from public transfers. Economic growth had a very significant poverty reduction effect for both absolute and relative poverty, but the inequality effect mostly offset it; in total, absolute poverty reduced significantly, and relative poverty increased from 2007 to 2018. Local wage income became the main contributor to both absolute and relative poverty reduction, replacing household agricultural operational income, and the contribution of wage income from migration declined. Public transfers effectively reduced absolute poverty but not relative poverty.
Sensorimotor and working memory systems jointly support development of perceptual rhythm processing
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Woong , Lee Kyung Myun , Lee Yune Sang
Published: March 2022

We studied the role of sensorimotor and working memory systems in supporting development of perceptual rhythm processing with 119 participants aged 7–12 years. Children were assessed for their abilities in sensorimotor synchronization (SMS; beat tapping), auditory working memory (AWM; digit span), and rhythm discrimination (RD; same/different judgment on a pair of musical rhythm sequences). Multiple regression analysis revealed that children's RD performance was independently predicted by higher beat tapping consistency and greater digit span score, with all other demographic variables (age, sex, socioeconomic status, music training) controlled. The association between RD and SMS was more robust in the slower tempos (60 and 100 beats‐per‐minute (BPM)) than faster ones (120 and 180 BPM). Critically, the relation of SMS to RD was moderated by age in that RD performance was predicted by beat tapping consistency in younger children (age: 7–9 years), but not in older children (age: 10–12 years). AWM was the only predictor of RD in older children. Together, the current findings demonstrate that the sensorimotor and working memory systems jointly support RD processing during middle‐to‐late childhood and that the degree of association between the two systems and perceptual rhythm processing is shifted before entering into early adolescence.
Achieving diabetes treatment targets in people with registered mental illness is similar or improved compared with those without: Analyses of linked observational datasets
Authors: Nieuwenhuijse Emma A. , Struijs Jeroen N. , Sutch Stephen P. , Numans Mattijs. E. , Vos Rimke C.
Published: March 2022

Aims

To determine the association between registered mental illness and type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment targets, while taking into account the effects of health expenditure and social determinants of health.

Methods

This observational cross‐sectional study was based on routine primary care data, linked to socio‐economic and medical claims data. The main outcomes, analysed by multivariate logistic regression, were achieving primary care guideline treatment targets for HbA1c, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and LDL‐cholesterol in 2017. We examined the association with diagnosed mental illness registered by the general practitioner (GP) or treated via specialist’ mental healthcare between 2016 and 2018, adjusting for, medication use, body mass index, co‐morbidity, smoking, and additionally examining effect‐modification of healthcare expenditures, migration status, income and demographics.

Results

Overall (N = 2862), 64.0% of participants achieved their treatment targets for HbA1c, 65.1% for SBP and 53.0% for LDL‐cholesterol. Adjusted for migrant background, income and care expenditures, individuals <65 years of age with mental illness achieved their HbA1ctreatment target more often than those without (OR (95% CI)): treatment by GP: 1.46 (1.01, 2.11), specialist care: 1.61 (1.11, 2.34), as did men with mental illness for SBP: GP OR 1.61 (1.09, 2.40), specialist care OR 1.59 (1.09, 2.45). LDL‐cholesterol target was not associated with mental illness. A migrant background or low income lowered the likelihood of reaching HbA1ctargets.

Conclusions

People with registered mental illness appear comparable or better able to achieve diabetes treatment targets than those without. Achieving HbA1ctargets is influenced by social disadvantage.
Identifying barriers to gene flow and hierarchical conservation units from seascape genomics: a modelling framework applied to a marine predator
Authors: Boussarie Germain , Momigliano Paolo , Robbins William D. , Bonnin Lucas , Cornu Jean‐François , Fauvelot Cécile , Kiszka Jeremy J. , Manel Stéphanie , Mouillot David , Vigliola Laurent
Published: March 2022

The ongoing decline of large marine vertebrates must be urgently mitigated, particularly under increasing levels of climate change and other anthropogenic pressures. However, characterizing the connectivity among populations remains one of the greatest challenges for the effective conservation of an increasing number of endangered species. Achieving conservation targets requires an understanding of which seascape features influence dispersal and subsequent genetic structure. This is particularly challenging for adult‐disperser species, and when distribution‐wide sampling is difficult. Here, we developed a two‐step modelling framework to investigate how seascape features drive the genetic connectivity of marine species without larval dispersal, to better guide the design of marine protected area networks and corridors. We applied this framework to the endangered grey reef shark, Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos, a reef‐associated shark distributed across the tropical Indo‐Pacific. In the first step, we developed a seascape genomic approach based on isolation‐by‐resistance models involving circuit theory applied to 515 shark samples, genotyped for 4991 nuclear single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. We show that deep oceanic areas act as strong barriers to dispersal, while proximity to habitat facilitates dispersal. In the second step, we predicted the resulting genetic differentiation across the entire distribution range of the species, providing both local and global‐scale conservation units for future management guidance. We found that grey reef shark populations are more fragmented than expected for such a mobile species, raising concerns about the resilience of isolated populations under high anthropogenic pressures. We recommend the use of this framework to identify barriers to gene flow and to help in the delineation of conservation units at different scales, together with its integration across multiple species when considering marine spatial planning.
Participatory scenarios for restoring European landscapes show a plurality of nature values
Authors: Quintero‐Uribe Laura C. , Navarro Laetitia M. , Pereira Henrique M. , Fernández Néstor
Published: March 2022

Large‐scale ecological restoration is crucial for effective biodiversity conservation and combating climate change. However, perspectives on the goals and values of restoration are highly diverse, as are the different approaches to restoration e.g. ranging from the restoration of cultural ecosystems to rewilding. We assess how the future of nature is envisioned in participatory scenarios, focusing on which elements of rewilding and nature contributions to people have been considered in scenario narratives across Europe. We used the Nature Futures Framework archetypes as a template to synthesize pluralistic perspectives of nature. We found that different values of nature are often represented as counteracting elements and fail to integrate the plural views of nature. Nature as Culture was the main archetype found in the scenarios, usually associated with positive impacts on the non‐material benefits to people. Intrinsic values of nature (i.e., Nature for Nature) were associated with positive impacts on regulating benefits and negative impacts on material benefits, being the only archetype of future associated with positive impacts on all three components of rewilding. Nature for Society was associated with moderate positive impacts on material and regulatory nature contributions to people. Business as usual futures were associated with negative impacts on regulating and non‐material benefits to people and on all three components of rewilding. Our results highlight two major gaps in the scenarios that should be addressed in participatory restoration planning and models. Firstly, there is a paucity of spatially explicit approaches, with most studies failing to transform the results of participatory scenario planning into model projections. Secondly, we found scenarios that explored co‐benefits between multiple nature perspectives were overall missing from the literature. Novel scenario narratives and approaches that explore synergies among different nature values are needed to design future large‐scale restoration where biodiversity recovery and human well‐being are intrinsically linked and fostered.
Economic and health impacts of Helicobacter pylori eradication strategy for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Kowada Akiko , Asaka Masahiro
Published: March 2022

Background

Most peptic ulcer cases are associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection or the use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). H. pylori eradication therapy is recommended for the treatment of H. pylori‐positive peptic ulcers. We aimed to assess and validate the cumulative economic and health effects of H. pylori eradication strategy for the treatment of peptic ulcers compared with PPI therapy strategy.

Materials and Methods

We developed a cohort state‐transition model for H. pylori eradication strategy and PPI therapy strategy over a lifetime horizon from a healthcare payer perspective. We targeted two hypothetical cohorts of H. pylori‐positive patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers aged 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80. The main outcomes were costs, quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs), life expectancy life‐years (LYs), incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios, ulcer recurrence cases, and ulcer‐associated deaths. One‐way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the impact of uncertainty.

Results

In the base‐case analysis, H. pylori eradication strategy was less costly with greater benefits than PPI therapy strategy in all age groups. Cost‐effectiveness was not sensitive to any variables in all age groups. Sensitivity analyses showed strong robustness of the results. From 2000 to 2020, H. pylori eradication strategy saved US$14.07 billion over a lifetime, increased 8.65 million QALYs and 1.23 million LYs over a lifetime, and prevented 551,298 ulcer recurrence cases and 59,465 ulcer‐associated deaths, compared with PPI therapy strategy.

Conclusions

H. pylori eradication strategy not only has contributed significantly to preventing ulcer recurrence and reducing ulcer‐associated deaths but also has resulted in great cost savings. All over the world, H. pylori eradication strategy is likely to have yielded a comparable magnitude of economic and health benefits, depending on the epidemiology of H. pylori‐related peptic ulcers and the healthcare environment in each country.
Stressing the need for validated measures of cortisol in HIV research: A scoping review
Authors: Swann Shayda A. , King Elizabeth M. , Côté Hélène C. F. , Murray Melanie C. M.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

People living with HIV experience numerous endocrine abnormalities and psychosocial stressors. However, interactions between HIV, cortisol levels, and health outcomes have not been well described among people living with HIV on effective therapy. Furthermore, methods for measuring cortisol are disparate across studies. We describe the literature reporting cortisol levels in people living with HIV, describe methods to measure cortisol, and explore how this relates to health outcomes.

Methods

We searched the PubMed database for articles published in the past 20 years regarding HIV and cortisol with ≥50% of participants on antiretroviral therapies. Articles included observational, case‐control, cross‐sectional, and randomized controlled trials analyzing cortisol by any method. Studies were excluded if abnormal cortisol was due to medications or other infections. Variables were extracted from selected studies and their quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.

Results

In total, 19 articles were selected and included, covering the prevalence of abnormal cortisol (n = 4), exercise (n = 4), metabolic syndrome and/or cardiovascular disease (n = 2), mental health and cognition (n = 9), and sex/gender (n = 6). Cortisol was measured in serum (n = 7), saliva (n = 8), urine (n = 2), and hair (n = 3) specimens. Comparisons between people with and without HIV were inconsistent, with some evidence that people with HIV have increased rates of hypocortisolism. Depression and cognitive decline may be associated with cortisol excess, whereas anxiety and metabolic disease may be related to low cortisol; more data are needed to confirm these relationships.

Conclusions

Data on cortisol levels in the era of antiretroviral therapy remain sparse. Future studies should include controls without HIV, appropriately timed sample collection, and consideration of sex/gender and psychosocial factors.
Development and quality evaluation of a cereal‐based breakfast product from yellow maize (Zea mays), sesame (Sesamum indicum) and mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) flour blends
Authors: Orngu Orngu Africa , Mbaeyi‐Nwaoha Ifeoma Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

Composite flours were prepared from blends of yellow maize (Zea mays), sesame seed (Sesamum indicum) and oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) powder in the ratio of 80:20:0; 75:20:5; 70:20:10; 65:20:15 and 60:20:20, respectively to produce the cereal‐based breakfast product coded as YSB, SMB, TMB, PMB and OMB with YSB as the control. The breakfast cereals were produced by hydration and toasting of yellow maize and sesame to 160°C for 25 min and blended together with oven‐dried and packaged oyster mushroom. The developed products were analysed for proximate, vitamins, minerals and sensory properties. The proximate composition (%) of different blends ranged as moisture (4.07–7.08), ash (3.09–2.28), crude fat (16.04–12.83), crude fibre (4.30–8.22), protein (16.14–22.54), carbohydrate (56.34–47.04) and energy (434.34–393.83 Kcal). Vitamin A (7.99–5.98 mg/100 g), vitamin B1(0.08–0.42 mg/100 g), vitamin B2(0.06–0.15 mg/100 g), vitamin B3(1.91–4.52 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (3.55–3.32 mg/100 g) were u while minerals (mg/100 g) were calcium (75.31–58.02), potassium (0.65–4.01), magnesium (12.25–12.62), iron (1.21–4.15) and zinc (0.40–1.32). Sensory scores revealed that the cereal‐based breakfast product were acceptable to the panellist with oyster mushroom supplementation up to 10%.
Valorisation of Crocus sativus flower parts for herbal infusions: impact of brewing conditions on phenolic profiling, antioxidant capacity and sensory traits
Authors: Bellachioma Luisa , Rocchetti Gabriele , Morresi Camilla , Martinelli Erika , Lucini Luigi , Ferretti Gianna , Damiani Elisabetta , Bacchetti Tiziana
Published: March 2022

Saffron production from Crocus sativus flowers produces large amounts of by‐products that may represent an excellent source of polyphenols. The aim of this work was to evaluate infusions originating from different brewing processes and from different saffron flower portions, in terms of both functional and sensory traits. For this aim, total polyphenols and total flavonoids, in vitro antioxidant assays and an untargeted phenolic profiling were applied. In general, tepals showed higher polyphenol and flavonoid content than stamen infusions, and their bioactive content depended more on brewing temperature than brewing time. These findings were consistent with both antioxidant capacity and phenolic profiling. Multivariate statistics highlighted polyphenols discriminating ‘boiled’ vs. ‘cold’ infusions, being mainly flavonoids, phenolic acids and the alkylphenol 5‐pentadecylresorcinol (showing a strong down‐accumulation at the higher brewing temperatures). Positive correlations could be highlighted between anthocyanins, flavones, flavonols and lignans, and the in vitro antioxidant assays. In general, cold brewing was successful in extracting phenolic compounds and provided better sensory properties, thus indicating that this may represent a valuable strategy to develop saffron‐based functional beverages with better consumers' acceptability.
Effects of adding chickpea and chestnut flours to layer cakes
Authors: Gallego Cristina , Belorio Mayara , Guerra‐Oliveira Priscila , Gómez Manuel
Published: March 2022

Chestnut and chickpea flours have interesting nutritional characteristics and can be incorporated into layer cake formulations. This study aims to evaluate the effect of incorporating mixtures of these flours with wheat flour in the elaboration of layer cakes. With this aim, layer cakes were elaborated with the three different flours. Mixes of 50% of these flours and a mixture of the three flours in the same proportion were analysed. Batter density, microstructure and viscosity, as well as the specific volume, texture and acceptability of layer cakes were evaluated. Chickpea flour reduced the batter density and increased viscosity compared to wheat flour, while chestnut flour reduced viscosity and did not clearly affect density. Although both flours produced layer cakes with lower specific volume, as well as less cohesive and springiness, the effect on specific volume was clearer in chestnut flour. With 50% of chickpea flour, it was possible to obtain layer cakes with the same specific volume and hardness as those made with wheat flour. Layer cake acceptability decreased with the reduction in wheat flour, regardless of the type of flour incorporated. No improved acceptability has been found when combining chickpea and chestnut flours.
Quality improvement of kenaf‐based tofu: effects of kenaf seed substitution, and coagulant types and concentrations on the physicochemical quality, texture profile and microstructure of the tofu
Authors: Ibrahim Shafa’atu Giwa , Wan Ibadullah Wan Zunairah , Saari Nazamid , Karim Roselina
Published: March 2022

Tofu was made by substituting kenaf seed (K) with soybean (S) at 100 (positive control), 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10% and 0% (negative control). The results indicated that kenaf seed substitution at all ratios significantly increased the soluble solids and protein content of the milky extracts. The yield, moisture and protein content of the tofu were significantly increased with the increase in kenaf seed substitution, while the lipid content was significantly decreased. The tofu made with kenaf seed substitution of 50%, 40% and 30% had the same protein content (43.76–45.36 g/100 g) with the positive control (45.36 g/100 g), but a significantly higher lipid content (32.00–35.75 g/100 g) than that of the positive control (27.50 g/100 g). The microstructure of the tofu revealed that only the positive control had a honey‐comb structure, whilst the tofu made from kenaf seed‐soybean blends had a pseudo‐honey like structure. Up to 30% of soybean can be added into the kenaf‐based tofu, without any negative effect on the textural and colour properties and, protein content, but significantly improved the essential amino acids content of the kenaf‐based tofu. Therefore, the blend of 70K:30S ratio using 0.5 g% glucono delta‐lactone as a coagulant is recommended to produce kenaf seed‐soybean tofu.
Suitability of Argentinian maize hybrids for polenta production
Authors: Bongianino Nicolás Francisco , Steffolani María Eugenia , Biasutti Carlos Alberto , León Alberto Edel
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the suitability of different soft‐endosperm commercial maize hybrids to obtain polenta of good technological quality. Ten commercial soft‐endosperm hybrids and two open‐pollinated varieties (quality controls) of maize were used. Grain physical characteristics were determined, and polentas from each genotype were obtained. The chemical composition of semolina was determined, and polenta was evaluated in terms of viscoelasticity, cooking characteristics and colour. The semolina yield was between 50.96 to 69.36%. The control genotypes showed the lowest values for peak viscosity, with 3670.5 and 3966.25 cP. Hybrid Next22.6 showed the highest consistency value, while C6006, Col17, Ds507 and Srm566 presented the lowest value of all samples tested. Hybrid N7822 first, followed by Ds507 and Srm553, proved to be suitable for the food industry. The good characteristics of this dish were associated with high pasting temperature and semolina yield, and low consistency and viscosity values.
Utilising grape juice processing by‐products as bulking and colouring agent in white chocolate
Authors: Altınok Emir , Kurultay Sefik , Konar Nevzat , Toker Omer Said , Kopuk Berkay , Gunes Recep , Palabiyik Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

In this study, grape pomace (mixture of grape seeds and skins) powder (GPP), obtained from grape processing, was used at different concentrations [10.0 (GPP10), 20.0 (GPP10) and 30.0 (GPP10) g/100 g] in white chocolate formulation for the partial replacement of sucrose. The results indicated that GPP addition at a higher concentration (>10.0 g/100 g) significantly affected the particle size, moisture content, texture and flow behaviour of white chocolate samples (P < 0.05). However, using GPP at a concentration of 10.0 g/100 g had advantages for physicochemical and flow properties. As expected, under simulated in vitro digestion conditions, the bioaccessibility of total phenolic compounds in saliva, gastric juice and intestinal juice for GPP10 samples was significantly higher than the control (P < 0.05). In conclusion, results of the study showed that it was possible to partially replace the sucrose with GPP at a concentration of 10.0 g/100 g in white chocolate formulations.
Thermophysical and electrical properties of rare‐earth‐cerate high‐entropy ceramics
Authors: Ping Xinyu , Meng Bin , Li Chen , Lin Wu , Chen YingQuan , Fang CongCong , Zhang Han , Liang Wenke , Zheng Qian
Published: March 2022

A new series of rare‐earth‐cerate high‐entropy ceramics with compositions of (La0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Gd0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 (HEC1), (La0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Gd0.2Yb0.2)2Ce2O7 (HEC2), (La0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Yb0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 (HEC3), (La0.2Nd0.2Yb0.2Gd0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 (HEC4), (La0.2Yb0.2Sm0.2Gd0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 (HEC5) as well as a single component of Nd2Ce2O7 are fabricated via sintering the corresponding sol–gel‐derived powders at 1600°C for 10 h. HEC1–5 samples exhibit a single‐cerate phase with fluorite structure and high configurational entropy. Compared with Nd2Ce2O7, HEC1–5 samples have a lower grain growth rate owing to the sluggish diffusion effect. The chemical compositional uniformity of HEC1–5 as well as Nd2Ce2O7 does not apparently change after annealing at 1500°C for different time intervals (1, 6, 12, and 18 h). Compared with 8YSZ, HEC1–5 samples display the decreased thermal conductivity and increased thermal expansion coefficient. The lattice size disorder parameter of HEC1–5 is negatively related to the thermal conductivity in 26–450°C. Furthermore, HEC1–5 and Nd2Ce2O7 exhibit lower oxygen‐ion conductivity, meaning an increased resistance to oxygen diffusion.
Aridification‐driven evolution of a migratory fish revealed by niche modelling and coalescence simulations
Authors: Booth Emily J. , Sandoval‐Castillo Jonathan , Attard Catherine R. M. , Gilligan Dean M. , Unmack Peter J. , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: March 2022

Aim

Major knowledge gaps exist regarding the evolution of arid zone organisms. For freshwater species with high dispersal potential, little is known if historical aridification influenced connectivity across drainage divides and impacted on their divergence and diversification. We tested the hypothesis that the historical aridification of Australia promoted the isolation and influenced the demographic histories and evolutionary divergence of a migratory group of freshwater obligates.

Location

Central and eastern Australia; Murray–Darling Basin (MDB), Lake Eyre Basin (LEB), Fitzroy Basin (FIT).

Taxon

Three lineages of golden perch (Macquaria ambigua), a widespread fishery resource from inland Australia.

Methods

We obtained genome‐wide data for golden perch sampled throughout their range. Phylogenetic relationships were reconstructed using maximum likelihood. Species distribution modelling was used to predict contemporary and past distributions for the three lineages and to develop hypotheses regarding their biogeographic and demographic histories. Hypotheses were independently tested using coalescent simulations in fastsimcoal and DIYABC with the genomic dataset.

Results

We found evidence for three reciprocally monophyletic lineages that have experienced little to nil genetic connectivity since divergence. Coalescent models suggest that the coastal (FIT) and inland (MDB and LEB) lineages diverged ~103 thousand years ago (ka), followed by the split of MDB and LEB lineages ~58 ka. These timings agree with reductions of large freshwater environments in Australia during the late Pleistocene. Species distribution models show an extreme decrease in habitat during the Last Glacial Maximum ~21 ka, consistent with inferred demographic contractions in coalescent tests.

Main conclusions

We reveal that aridification of Australia during the late Pleistocene has driven and reinforced the divergence of a migratory freshwater obligate. Our findings are important for informing the conservation management of aquatic organisms under climate change. This work further demonstrates the value of using species distribution modelling to formulate diversification hypotheses and to improve interpretation of coalescent analyses.
Characterizing the ASD–ADHD phenotype: measurement structure and invariance in a clinical sample
Authors: Krakowski Aneta D. , Cost Katherine Tombeau , Szatmari Peter , Anagnostou Evdokia , Crosbie Jennifer , Schachar Russell , Duku Eric , Georgiades Stelios , Ayub Muhammad , Kelley Elizabeth , Nicolson Rob , Pullenayegum Eleanor , Barnett‐Tapia Carolina
Published: March 2022

Background

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have considerable overlap, supporting the need for a dimensional framework that examines neurodevelopmental domains which cross traditional diagnostic boundaries. In the following study, we use factor analysis to deconstruct the ASD–ADHD phenotype into its underlying phenotypic domains and test for measurement invariance across adaptive functioning, age, gender and ASD/ADHD clinical diagnoses.

Methods

Participants included children and youth (aged 3–20 years) with a clinical diagnosis of ASD (n = 727) or ADHD (n = 770) for a total of 1,497 participants. Parents of these children completed the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), a measure of autism symptoms, and the Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD and Normal Behaviour (SWAN) questionnaire, a measure of ADHD symptoms. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed on combined SCQ and SWAN items. This was followed by a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and tests of measurement invariance.

Results

EFA revealed a four‐factor solution (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, social‐communication, and restricted, repetitive, behaviours and interests (RRBI)) and a CFA confirmed good model fit. This solution also showed good model fit across subgroups of interest.

Conclusions

Our study shows that a combined ASD–ADHD phenotype is characterized by two latent ASD domains (social communication and RRBIs) and two latent ADHD domains (inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity). We established measurement invariance of the derived measurement model across adaptive functioning, age, gender and ASD/ADHD diagnoses.
Skin manifestations and clinical features of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms: a retrospective multicentre study of 125 patients
Authors: Lee J.W. , Lee S.R. , Kim M.J. , Cho S. , Youn S.W. , Yang M.S. , Kim S.H. , Kang H.R. , Kwon O.
Published: March 2022

Background

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe adverse drug reaction generally accompanied by skin manifestations as the first and most frequent symptoms. However, skin manifestations and associated clinical features of DRESS have not been fully explored and evaluated.

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the skin manifestations of DRESS in detail and analyse their association with demographic characteristics and extra‐cutaneous clinical features.

Methods

We conducted this retrospective study on patients with DRESS diagnosed between September 2009 and August 2021 at three medical institutes and validated using the RegiSCAR score. Data regarding demographics, skin manifestations and clinical characteristics were retrieved through thorough chart reviews.

Results

Among 182 potential cases of DRESS, the validated 125 cases were analysed. A widespread rash extending over more than 50% of the body surface area was observed in 122 patients (97.6%) and typical facial oedema was experienced by 67 patients (53.6%). Polymorphous maculopapules were the most common rash morphology (106, 84.8%): specifically, exfoliative (59, 47.2%), urticarial (57, 45.6%) and purpuric forms (39, 31.2%) were common. Mucosal involvement was observed in 41 patients (32.8%). Patients with carboxamide antiepileptics (carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine) experienced more oedema (P = 0.014) and typical facial oedema than those with allopurinol (P = 0.021). The RegiSCAR score was higher in patients with purpura (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Skin manifestations of DRESS exhibit a wide range of skin lesions and can vary according to the culprit drugs. Early suspicion and prompt intervention are needed to improve prognosis.
How can SMEs signal their quality and growth orientation to the market? An analysis of the cost of Italian corporate mini‐bonds
Authors: Boccaletti Simone , Rossi Emanuele , Rossolini Monica
Published: March 2022

We examine how small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) may signal their quality and growth orientation to the market and the effect on the cost of bond funding, which is often high for unlisted firms and SMEs mainly because of their information opacity and higher riskiness. The paper contributes to the growing European debate on market innovations aimed at facilitating funding for smaller and nonlisted firms, breaking from the prior main focus on the cost for large and listed companies of accessing liquid bond markets. We analyze 220 mini‐bonds listed in Italy between 2013 and 2017 to examine determinants of yield spreads. Our explanatory variables are size, age, and tangible assets—all indicators of the firm's information opacity—together with the issuer's growth opportunities, rating availability, and the presence of a guarantee. The findings suggest that tangible assets can ease the asymmetric information and associated monitoring costs for investors, thus reducing the bond yield spread. More significantly, the yield spread depends on the type of investment project financed: risky growth projects are associated with a higher cost of funding than other types of projects. Under such circumstances, the rating represents an informative instrument for the market in assessing issuers' growth orientation.
A qualitative study on the perspectives and needs of oncology nurses about recognition and management of suicide risk in cancer patients
Authors: Öztürk Sevda , Hiçdurmaz Duygu
Published: March 2022

Aims

To determine the perspectives and needs of the oncology nurses in recognising and managing the risk of suicide in cancer patients.

Background

Cancer patients are one of the groups with a high risk of suicide. The perspectives and needs of oncology nurses regarding their recognition and management of suicide risk in such patients need to be clarified.

Design and methods

This qualitative descriptive study used a sample of 33 oncology nurses that were sampled by maximum variation sampling from different oncology units and hospitals. Data were collected with in‐depth interviews via a semi‐structured interview form and analysed with content analysis. The COREQ guideline was followed for the reporting of the study.

Results

Three main themes and eight subthemes were identified, namely ‘An uncertain atmosphere: sensing the risk of suicide but not seeing the picture’ (Subthemes: Inability to identify suicide risk, Unclear responsibilities and Distress as a result of uncertainty), ‘Efforts to give meaning to and compensate losses of patients’ (Subthemes: Attributions to cancer‐related losses of patients and Interventions to alleviate distress related to loss) and ‘Hindrances beyond the nurse’ (Subthemes: Stigma towards psychosocial problems and getting help, Disagreement with the Physician and A lack of institutional culture on suicide prevention).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that oncology nurses have insufficient knowledge and skills and unclear roles in recognising and managing suicide risk. In addition, nurses have difficulty in helping patients due to the insufficient support of team members, stigmas of patients and their relatives towards getting help, patient workloads, and inadequate institutional support in risk management. Training programmes aiming to increase nurses’ awareness, knowledge and skills should be developed and embedded into current in‐service education programmes and undergraduate education curricula as part of professional improvement.

Relevance to clinical practice

The results of the study can contribute to planning the content and scope of suicide prevention training peculiar to oncology nursing.
Optimizing regional chemotherapy for epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Sugarbaker Paul H.
Published: March 2022

Aim

The response with intravenous chemotherapy using cisplatin and paclitaxel in patients with advanced ovarian cancer is often substantial. However, this regression of the malignancy is not durable, and a majority of patients succumb to this disease process. It is possible that alternative types of chemotherapy and alternative routes of chemotherapy administration can improve the results of treatment and perhaps, reduce the morbidity and mortality that patients experience.

Methods

Regional chemotherapy treatments previously presented in the ovarian cancer literature were reviewed and critically analyzed. New methods for chemotherapy delivery for both advanced primary and recurrent ovarian cancer were reviewed. This included hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC), and normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (NIPEC) long‐term.

Results

An important addition to perioperative chemotherapy delivery is the simultaneous use of heat with intraperitoneal drug delivery after a complete cytoreductive surgery. Drugs to be considered for HIPEC are cisplatin, gemcitabine, and melphalan. For EPIC, chemotherapy agents to consider include paclitaxel, pemetrexed, gemcitabine, and liposomal doxorubicin. For NIPEC, paclitaxel is the drug of choice usually combined with a systemic agent as bidirectional chemotherapy. Also, pemetrexed, gemcitabine, and liposomal doxorubicin are drugs to be considered for NIPEC in phase I/II trials.

Conclusions

Innovative regimens of regional chemotherapy may improve the outcome of patients with advanced ovarian cancer. These chemotherapy treatments must be integrated with complete cytoreductive surgery and the availability of peritoneal access for repeated delivery of chemotherapy solutions.
Double‐Crown Prosthesis Retention Using Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK): An In Vitro Study
Authors: Igarashi Kensuke , Katagiri Hiroki , Abou‐Ayash Samir , Schimmel Martin , Afrashtehfar Kelvin I.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To assess the retentive force of telescopic crowns using polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) high‐performance polymer in relation to conventional materials over a long period of time in an in vitro setting.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six sets of primary and secondary crowns were fabricated as per the double crown‐retained prostheses approach. Six samples were included in each of the five test groups (1: zirconia/PEKK [Zr/PEKK]; 2: titanium/PEKK [Ti/PEKK]; 3: cobalt‐chrome/PEKK [CoCr/PEKK]; 4: PEKK/PEKK; and 5: gold/PEKK [Au/PEKK]) and the single control group (gold/galvano‐gold [Au/GA]). The insertion‐removal test was performed for 20,000 cycles, and the surface condition was observed. Retentive forces were analyzed using two‐way ANOVA (α<0.05).

Results

The retention forces in groups Zr/PEKK and Ti/PEKK significantly decreased over time (group 1:p= 0.035 and group 2:p= 0.001), whereas retentive force increased significantly in groups PEKK/PEKK, Au/PEKK, and control (group 4:p= 0.001, group 5:p= 0.008, and control:p= 0.042). Similar wear was observed on the primary crown in groups PEKK/PEKK, gold/PEKK, and control.

Conclusions

Groups PEKK/PEKK and Au/PEKK showed a transition of retentive force similar to the control group. Groups PEKK/PEKK and Au/PEKK had similar wear on the surface compared to control. Therefore, PEKK has a promising clinical potential.
Marginal Accuracy of Lithium Disilicate Full‐Coverage Single Crowns Made by Direct and Indirect Digital or Conventional Workflows: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Tabesh Mahtab , Nejatidanesh Farahnaz , Savabi Ghazal , Davoudi Amin , Savabi Omid
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Several studies have compared digital intraoral scanners and conventional impressions. The accuracy of these two methods in terms of marginal accuracy of lithium disilicate crowns is not well‐established, yet. The purpose of this study was to systematically review available publications on marginal fit of single‐unit, full‐coverage, tooth‐supported lithium disilicate restorations.

Methods

Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Scopus were electronically searched along with a manual search. After critical appraisal, data from selected studies were extracted and mean marginal difference with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. Meta‐analysis of the collected data was conducted using STATA software.

Results

The meta‐analysis revealed similar marginal gap values in intraoral scanners with conventional groups (p>0.05) and in intraoral scanners with extraoral canners (p>0.05).

Conclusion

No significant difference was seen between digital and conventional impressions or intra‐ and extraoral scanners for marginal accuracy of lithium disilicate crowns.