bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances and highlights in T and B cell responses to drug antigens
Authors: Fernandez‐Santamaria Ruben , Ariza Adriana , Fernandez Tahia D. , Cespedes José A , Labella Marina , Mayorga Cristobalina , Torres María J
Published: October 2021

The immunological mechanisms involved in drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) are complex, and despite important advances, multiple aspects remain poorly understood. These not fully known aspects are mainly related to the factors that drive towards either a tolerant or a hypersensitivity response and specifically regarding the role of B and T cells. In this review, we focus on recent findings on this knowledge area within the last 2 years. We highlight new evidences of covalent and non‐covalent interactions of drug antigen with proteins, as well as the very first characterization of naturally processed flucloxacillin‐haptenated human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands. Moreover, we have analysed new insights into the identification of risk factors associated with the development of DHRs, such as the role of oxidative metabolism of drugs in the activation of the immune system and the discovery of new associations between DHRs and HLA variants. Finally, evidence of IgG‐mediated anaphylaxis in humans and the involvement of specific subpopulations of effector cells associated with different clinical entities are also topics explored in this review. All these recent findings are relevant for the underlying pathology mechanisms and advance the field towards a more precise diagnosis, management and treatment approach for DHRs.
Making ideas a reality: optimising healthtech innovation in Australia
Authors: Sloan Ken
Published: October 2021

In Australia, there is a wealth of opportunity to accelerate innovation in healthtech. It is well known that Australia's healthcare system has the right ecosystem to support new ideas into reality. Surgeons together with academia play a significant role in democratising innovative solutions. However, we are learning it takes many actors and contributors to ensure the process is clearer into the future by addressing barriers, incentivising innovation and creating systemic frameworks.
Incidence of and mortality from Bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) infections after BCG instillation therapy
Authors: Nurminen Pertti , Ettala Otto , Uusitalo‐Seppälä Raija , Nummi Antti , Järvinen Riikka , Antti Kaipia , Boström Peter J.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To investigate the incidence of and mortality associated with Bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) infections in a Finnish population of patients with bladder cancer treated with BCG instillations.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a nationwide register study and identified patients with BCG infections in Finland during 1996 to 2016 using the Finnish Cancer Registry and the Finnish National Infectious Diseases Register. We estimated the number of patients treated with BCG instillations based on data on national consumed BCG doses used to treat patients with bladder cancer, and calculated the annual incidence proportion of BCG infections. We further performed a detailed medical chart review to describe the clinical features and outcomes of the treated BCG infections.

Results

In total, 87 patients with BCG infection after BCG treatment of bladder cancer were identified. The incidence proportion increased gradually, yielding a cumulative incidence proportion of 2.5% during the latter half of the study period. BCG infections led to significant mortality, with 10% overall mortality and 17.5% mortality from systemic infections, which is notably higher than previously reported.

Conclusion

The incidence proportion of BCG infections among bladder cancer patients treated with BCG has increased in Finland up to 2.5% at a nationwide level, with a notably higher mortality rate than previously reported.
Characterisation of agonist signalling profiles and agonist‐dependent antagonism at PACAP‐responsive receptors: Implications for drug discovery
Authors: Tasma Zoe , Siow Andrew , Harris Paul W. R. , Brimble Margaret A. , Hay Debbie L. , Walker Christopher S.
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose

The pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating peptide (PACAP) family is of clinical interest for the treatment of migraine. These peptides activate three different PACAP‐responsive class B G protein‐coupled receptors: the PAC1, VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. The PAC1 receptor may be alternatively spliced, generating variants that can differ in their pharmacological or signalling profiles. To inform drug discovery efforts targeting migraine, we need to better understand how the different PACAP‐responsive receptors signal and how effectively these responses can be blocked by antagonists.

Experimental Approach

The signalling profiles of the human PAC1n, PAC1s, VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors were examined in transfected Cos7 cells for cAMP, IP1, pAkt, pERK and pCREB. Biased signalling was then quantified. The ability of antagonists to block PACAP‐38, PACAP‐27 or VIP stimulated cAMP accumulation at PACAP‐responsive receptors was also determined.

Key Results

PACAP‐responsive receptors exhibited varied pharmacological profiles but activated signalling in a similar manner. The PAC1n and PAC1s receptors displayed distinct pharmacology. At the PAC1s receptor, VIP and PHM were more potent than at the PAC1n receptor. PACAP‐responsive receptors displayed agonist‐dependent antagonism where PACAP‐38 was less effectively antagonised compared to PACAP‐27 and VIP.

Conclusions and Implications

The distinct pharmacological profile displayed by the PAC1s receptor suggests that it can act as a dual receptor for VIP and PACAP. Furthermore, the effectiveness of blocking a signalling pathway can be influenced by which endogenous PACAP family agonist is present. These effects have potential implications for the development and effectiveness of drugs targeting the PACAP system.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Advances in Migraine and Headache Therapy (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.3/issuetoc
Clinical significance of circulating tumour cells and tumour marker detection in the chemotherapeutic evaluation of advanced colorectal cancer
Authors: Shen Feifei , Zhu Yiwen , Wang Fan , Cai Xun , Ding Honghua , Zhou Fei , Wang Jingjue , Gu Hongli , Liu Chuan , Li Qi
Published: October 2021

Aim

Systemic chemotherapy combining biological targeted therapies is the standard therapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), but effective markers are needed to identify clinical responders. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been associated with prognosis in patients with mCRC. This study aimed to explore the relationship between CTC number and the clinical response of patients with advanced CRC.

Method

Epithelial cell adhesion molecule‐independent enrichment and CD45− fluorescence in situ hybridization immunofluorescence were used to detect peripheral blood CTCs in 79 patients with advanced CRC. Fisher's exact test and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient were used to analyse the correlation between CTC number and efficacy of chemotherapy. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

Among the evaluable patients, CTCs were significantly correlated with clinical response (r =4.891, p = 0.031). High CTC numbers were associated with a poor treatment response (r = −0.250, p = 0.027). Dynamic decrease in CTC number was associated with clinical response (p = 0.046). High baseline CTC number and carcinoembryonic antigen levels were prognostic factors for unfavourable PFS in multivariable analysis [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.30, p = 0.011 and HR = 2.04, p = 0.044, respectively]. Compared with the CTC‐positive group, the CTC‐negative group showed superior PFS (median PFS 15.53 vs. 9.43 months, p = 0.041) among CRC patients receiving first‐line treatment.

Conclusion

CTC number is a feasible biomarker for predicting outcomes in mCRC patients receiving systemic chemotherapy.
The AIATSIS Return of Cultural Heritage Project: Understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Material Held Overseas and the Initial Challenges to Repatriating Material to Custodians
Authors: Johnston Iain G. , Meara Tamarind , Ley Lyndall , Simpson Christopher , Lyons Jason , Rutherford Rose , Quadri Diana
Published: October 2021

This paper explores the first research phase of the AIATSIS Return of Cultural Heritage Project (2018–2020); where AIATSIS scoped, researched and repatriated significant cultural heritage material from overseas collecting institutions to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia. In the initial research phase, the authors undertook a survey of international collecting institutions to scope their holdings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander material culture and their willingness to repatriate significant objects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The results of this survey demonstrate a readiness of institutions to share collection records with AIATSIS and a desire by those institutions to have relationships with the First Nations represented in their collections. The authors also found a willingness by a considerable portion of international collecting institutions to consider the repatriation of cultural heritage material to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The final part of the paper evaluates the effectiveness of these collection records and associated public repatriation and deaccession polices to submit a repatriation request for the return of significant Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage material to communities in Australia.
Social Relations, Gender and Empowerment in Economic Development: Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur
Authors: Shamier Clare , McKinnon Katharine , Woodward Kerry
Published: October 2021

This article reflects on commissioned research to assess gender impacts of a local economic development project on the island of Flores in Indonesia. The programme in Flores succeeded in raising household incomes and has become the basis for a model that has now been applied globally. Concurrently, however, the project witnessed the imposition of a narrow capitalocentric economic development vision and a failure to comprehend the nuance and richness of local, gendered, economic practices. The research results demonstrate that the benefits of increased cash income and new pathways for women to become leaders are accompanied by costs for individuals, households and communities, most acutely visible in the social economy. The international NGO that commissioned the research was pleased to hear of the benefits, but resisted the inclusion of any negative findings in the final report. This article suggests that this resistance reflects a broader refusal within the development sector to attend to research that has, for decades, been calling for more nuanced approaches to social and economic change, and more careful consideration of gender along the way.
Predictors of mental health in aid workers: meaning, resilience, and psychological flexibility as personal resources for increased well‐being and reduced distress
Authors: Young Tarli , Pakenham Kenneth I. , Chapman Cassandra M. , Edwards Martin R.
Published: October 2021

Aid workers operate in stressful environments and tend to experience high psychological distress, yet not enough is known about their well‐being and how to improve their mental health. This research project surveyed 243 aid workers in 77 countries undertaking humanitarian and development work who reported lower well‐being and higher psychological distress than the general population. Well‐being and distress emerged as two related but distinct mental health outcomes, encouraging further research on well‐being in the sector. Better mental health outcomes were predicted by the presence of meaning, psychological flexibility, and resilience. Presence of meaning was the strongest predictor, whereas resilience was the weakest. Meaning was a stronger predictor of good mental health among national workers, whereas psychological flexibility was a stronger predictor among female, older, and international workers. These results can support evidence‐based approaches to staff care and mental health interventions for aid workers, expanding the current focus on resilience to include meaning and psychological flexibility.
Just how internationally relevant can evidence‐based cerebral palsy clinical practice guidelines be?
Authors: Saloojee Gillian
Published: October 2021

This commentary is on the clinical practice guide by Jackman et al. on pages 536–549 of this issue.
HTE 3.0: Knowledge‐based systems in cascade for familial hypercholesterolemia detection and dyslipidemia treatment
Authors: López Beatriz , Torrent‐Fontbona Ferran , Masana Marín Luis , Zamora Alberto
Published: October 2021

HTE 3.0 aims to support clinicians in the detection of patients with dyslipidemia, especially patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), and in the recommendation of personalized lipid‐lowering treatments. The core of HTE 3.0 is a clinical decision support system in which several knowledge‐based systems are serialized: patient detection, therapeutic target setting, personalized treatment assessment, and treatment combination and prioritization, according to different criteria. The experimental evaluation of HTE 3.0 shows that the use of HTE 3.0 would mean increasing the capacity to detect FH by 5.7 times compared with usual clinical practice. Regarding the lipid‐lowering treatment, a comparison of 18 cases among seven lipidologists shows that the differences between treatments provided by HTE 3.0 and human lipidologists are smaller than the differences between human experts.
Nonlinear time‐varying fatigue reliability analysis based on the improved toughness exhaustion model
Authors: Gao Kai , Liu Gang
Published: October 2021

The state function based on fatigue accumulation model has a great influence on accuracy of fatigue reliability analysis of components. A nonlinear fatigue accumulation model considering the interaction of loads is proposed in this paper. The square ratio of front and back loads is presented as a new load interaction factor and embedded into the conventional toughness exhaustion model; thus, this improved model can reflect the load sequence and interaction effect simultaneously. Moreover, the fatigue state function using the improved model is constructed and analyzed by the probability density evolution method. Then experimental data of four materials are used to verify the proposed model, and results show that the residual life fraction predicted by the proposed model is accurate. Furthermore, accuracy and efficiency of the time‐varying fatigue reliability analysis using the proposed model is validated using experimental data from a carbon steel test and a helical compression spring test.
The Headache in Emergency Departments study: Opioid prescribing in patients presenting with headache. A multicenter, cross‐sectional, observational study
Authors: Pellatt Richard A. F. , Kamona Sinan , Chu Kevin , Sweeny Amy , Kuan Win Sen , Kinnear Frances B. , Karamercan Mehmet A. , Klim Sharon , Wijeratne Tissa , Graham Colin A. , Body Richard , Roberts Tom , Horner Daniel , Laribi Said , Keijzers Gerben , Kelly Anne‐Maree
Published: October 2021

Objective

To describe the patterns of opioid use in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with nontraumatic headache by severity and geography.

Background

International guidelines recognize opioids are ineffective in treating primary headache disorders. Globally, many countries are experiencing an opioid crisis. The ED can be a point of initial exposure leading to tolerance for patients. More geographically diverse data are required to inform practice.

Methods

This was a planned, multicenter, cross‐sectional, observational substudy of the international Headache in Emergency Departments (HEAD) study. Participants were prospectively identified throughout March 2019 from 67 hospitals in Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Adult patients with nontraumatic headache were included as identified by the local site investigator.

Results

Overall, 4536 patients were enrolled in the HEAD study. Opioids were administered in 1072/4536 (23.6%) patients in the ED, and 386/3792 (10.2%) of discharged patients. High opioid use occurred prehospital in Australia (190/1777, 10.7%) and New Zealand (55/593, 9.3%). Opioid use in the ED was highest in these countries (Australia: 586/1777, 33.0%; New Zealand: 221/593, 37.3%). Opioid prescription on discharge was highest in Singapore (125/442, 28.3%) and Hong Kong (12/49, 24.5%). Independent predictors of ED opioid administration included the following: severe headache (OR 4.2, 95% CI 3.1–5.5), pre‐ED opioid use (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.11–1.82), and long‐term opioid use (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.26–2.58). ED opioid administration independently predicted opioid prescription at discharge (OR 8.4, 95% CI 6.3–11.0).

Conclusion

Opioid prescription for nontraumatic headache in the ED and on discharge varies internationally. Severe headache, prehospital opioid use, and long‐term opioid use predicted ED opioid administration. ED opioid administration was a strong predictor of opioid prescription at discharge. These findings support education around policy and guidelines to ensure adherence to evidence‐based interventions for headache.
Eggshell derived nano‐hydroxyapatite incorporated carboxymethyl chitosan scaffold for dentine regeneration: A laboratory investigation
Authors: Baskar Kaviya , Saravana Karthikeyan Balasubramanian , Gurucharan Ishwarya , Mahalaxmi Sekar , Rajkumar Gurusamy , Dhivya Vijayakumar , Kishen Anil
Published: October 2021

Aim

To assess odontogenic differentiation abilities of porous biomineralizable composite scaffolds comprising eggshell derived nano‐hydroxyapatite (HAnp) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) on cultured human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs).

Methodology

Nano‐hydroxyapatite was derived from eggshells using a simple combustion method and CMC was prepared from chitosan through a chemical route. Several compositions of HAnp‐CMC (0:5, 5:0, 1:5, 2:5, 3:5, 4:5 and 1:1 w/w%) scaffolds were prepared by magnetic stirring and freeze‐drying methods. HAnp‐CMC scaffolds were characterized using high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy combined with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction methods. In vitro bioactivity was determined following the interaction in simulated body fluid for 21 days. The optimized composite was then loaded onto hDPSCs to assess cell viability/proliferation, dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressions using 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry methods, respectively, following 7, 14 and 21 days. For intergroup and intragroup comparisons, Kruskal–Wallis and Friedman tests were employed, respectively, followed by appropriate post hoc test (Dunn). Significant levels were set at *p < .05 and *p < .01.

Results

Synthesized hydroxyapatite (HAp) comprised crystals ranging from 20 to 50 nm (HAnp) with spherulite morphology and calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) molar ratio of 1.67. The ultrastructure of all the scaffolds revealed a highly interconnected porous microstructure, whilst the chemical characterization displayed specific functional groups of both HAnp and CMC. In vitro bioactivity assessment confirmed the biomineralization potential of all scaffolds with an apatite‐like crystal formation on the surface. The 1:5 HAnp‐CMC revealed a favourable pore size (60–180 µm) that was suitable for cell seeding and was chosen for further experiments. Cell viability/proliferation rates of hDPSCs loaded 1:5 HAnp‐CMC at 21st day was significantly greater than that at 7th day (p < .05). The mean relative quantification of DSPP expression by the scaffold was significantly higher (p < .05) on day 21 (3.16) than on day 7 (1.67). Mean fluorescence intensity of the VEGF expression at day 21 (32.5) was also significantly higher (p < .01) than at day 7 (12.54).

Conclusion

hDPSCs on 1:5 HAnp‐CMC scaffolds displayed increased cell viability/proliferation and enhanced DSPP as well as VEGF expressions. The 1:5 HAnp‐CMC composite has the potential to serve as a promising scaffold for dentine regeneration.
Stereolithographic additive manufacturing of acoustic devices with spatially modulated cavities
Authors: Kirihara Soshu
Published: October 2021

Stereolithographic additive manufacturing (STL‐AM) has been developed to create practical components with functional geometries. Nanoparticles are mechanically dispersed into photosensitive resins, and the resulting mixed paste is thinly spread on a flat substrate. One‐dimensional (1D) raster lines were cured via ultraviolet laser scanning. Two‐dimensional (2D) cross‐sections are formed by adjacent joining. Three‐dimensional (3D) solid structures are fabricated via lamination bonding. The composite precursors were dewaxed and sintered under optimized heat treatment conditions. Computer‐aided design, manufacture, and evaluation (CAD/CAM/CAE) processes of acoustic devices with rigid alumina structures will be progressively reviewed. Cylindrical cavities were divided into self‐similar volumes as harmonic instruments to perform overtone sounds. Spherical cavities were connected with steric junctions as noise suppressors to exhibit absorption bands. Qualitative improvements in social and industrial environments by using stereolithographic technologies are discussed and practically demonstrated.
Therapeutic management of subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis and chromoblastomycosis in kidney transplant recipients: a retrospective study of 82 cases in a single center
Authors: Lima Alice Cortes de Castro , Santos Daniel Wagner de C. L. , Hirata Sérgio Henrique , Nishikaku Angela Satie , Enokihara Milvia Maria Simões e Silva , Ogawa Marilia Marufuji
Published: October 2021

Background

Melanized fungi are a distinct group of pathogens that cause infections like chromoblastomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis, especially in a state of immunosuppression including solid organ transplant recipients. Guidelines for the treatment of these infections are lacking, and there is no available standard recommendation.

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic aspects of subcutaneous melanized fungal infections in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

A retrospective medical record was performed for kidney transplant recipients with melanized fungal infection evaluated in a single institution from January 1996 to December 2018.

Results

Eighty‐two episodes were noticed in our series. The treatment of subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis was managed by surgical excision without antifungal therapy in 34 cases (34/68; 50%), and the association of both methods occurred in 18 cases (18/68; 26.5%). A complete surgical excision without antifungal therapy was observed in six (6/14; 42.9%) episodes of chromoblastomycosis, and combined treatment was possible in three (3/14; 21.4%) cases. Five episodes of chromoblastomycosis and 16 episodes of phaeohyphomycosis were managed only with antifungal therapy.

Conclusion

Management depends on the dermatologic lesion, immunosuppression condition, and anatomical cleavage plane. The sample size is still small in order to dictate a guideline, but it can be hard to execute a larger study given the rarity of this group of infections.
Inelastic relaxation in silica via reactive molecular dynamics
Authors: Rimsza Jessica M. , Grutzik Scott J. , Jones Reese E.
Published: October 2021

Silica glass exhibits rate‐dependent and irreversible processes during deformation and failure, resulting in inelastic effects. To explore this phenomena, molecular dynamics simulations of structural relaxation surrounding a crack tip in silica glass were performed at four different temperatures (100, 300, 600, 900 K) using a reactive force field. Per‐atom stresses were found to relax during the simulation, with the highest stress relaxation occurring at 900 K. Stress relaxation was radially dependent relative to the crack tip, with stress dissipation occurring primarily within a 25–30 Å inelastic region. Within 10 Å of the crack tip, the defect concentration decreased from 0.18 to 0.09 #/nm2 during inelastic relaxation at 900 K. Conversely, the defect concentration 20 Å from the crack tip increased from 0.105 to 0.118 #/nm2 at 300 K, and from 0.113 to 0.126 #/nm2 at 600 K, which formed a defect‐enriched region ahead of the crack tip. The difference in defect concentrations suggests the possibility of a stress mediated defect migration mechanism, where defects move away from the crack tip during inelastic relaxation. Additionally, defect speciation indicated that undercoordinated silica defects, such as non‐bridging oxygen, were removed through the formation of higher coordination defects during relaxation. Overall, stress relaxation causes changes in the defect concentration profile near the crack tip, which has the potential to alter the properties of silica glass in the inelastic region during relaxation.
A realist review of the home care literature and its blind spots
Authors: Contandriopoulos Damien , Stajduhar Kelli , Sanders Tanya , Carrier Annie , Bitschy Ami , Funk Laura
Published: October 2021

Rationale, aims and objectives

There is a large body of literature from all over the world that describes, analyzes, or evaluates home care models and interventions. The present article aims to identify the practical lessons that can be gained from a systematic examination of that literature.

Method

We conducted a three‐step sequential search process from which 113 documents were selected. That corpus was then narratively analysed according to a realist review approach.

Results

A first level of observation is that there are multiple blind spots in the existing literature on home care. The definition and delimitation of what constitutes home care services is generally under‐discussed. In the same way, the composition of the basket of care provided and its fit with the need of recipients is under‐addressed. Finally, the literature relies heavily on RCTs whose practical contribution to decisions or policy is disputable. At a second level, our analysis suggests that three mechanisms (system integration, case management and relational continuity) are core characteristics of home care models' effectiveness.

Conclusion

We conclude by providing advice for supporting the design and implementation of stronger home care delivery systems. Our analysis suggests that doing so implies a series of sequential steps: identify what system‐level goals the model should achieve and which populations it should serve; identify what type of services are likely to achieve those goals in order to establish a basket of services; and finally, identify the best ways and specific means to effectively and efficiently provide those services. Those same steps can also support ex‐post evaluations of existing home care systems.
Integral evaluation for intermittent cold storage of apples by using mathematical modeling
Authors: Han Jia‐Wei , Ji Zeng‐Tao , Zuo Min , Yang Xin‐Ting
Published: October 2021

This study proposes an integrated approach to evaluate the efficiency of intermittent warming (IW) on cooling rate, uniformity, energy efficiency, mass loss, and the development of CIs by combining experiment and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. The results show that the cooling homogeneity and mass loss increases with increasing the warming duration and frequency, although the incidence of chilling injuries (CIs) and energy consumption decrease under these conditions. Near the bottom of the pallet, CIs increased and mass loss decreased because of the higher cooling rate of fruit in this zone. The accuracy of the CFD simulations was confirmed by a good agreement with experiments. The root‐mean‐square error and mean absolute percentage error for fruit temperature were 0.879°C and 21.42%, respectively.

Practical applications

Reducing energy consumption and chilling injuries (CIs) is vital for improving the overall economic benefits of the cold chain and maintaining poststorage quality in fresh fruit. This research provides a reliable theoretical and experimental basis for improving the efficacy of IW and for ensuring optimum IW treatment and thereby minimizing energy consumption and CIs during fruit storage.
Elucidation of steady shear flow properties of β‐glucan solutions under different thermal and environmental conditions by different rheological models
Authors: Hematian Sourki Abdollah , Koocheki Arash
Published: October 2021

The present study was carried out to investigate flow behavior of β‐glucan of hull‐less barley cultivar Lut, as influences of concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1%); temperatures (5, 25, 45, and 60°C); NaCl and CaCl2 salts; pHs; and sugar. Shear stress data were fitted versus shear rates using the models with yield stress such as Casson, Heinz–Casson, Mizrahi–Berk, Generalized Herschel–Bulkley, Vocaldo, and Schulmann–Haroske–Reher together with general model of power law. Power law model provided the most appropriate fit for flow behavior properties of β‐glucan at various concentrations and temperatures with high R2 and low root mean square error. By increase in temperature, consistency coefficient was decreased and flow behavior index was enhanced. Results showed that consistency coefficient increased nonlinearly along with increase in concentration. The highest dependency of consistency coefficient on temperature was observed at 1% concentration (Ea = 31.4 kJ/mol). Apparent viscosity was decreased at 1% concentration of salts. The reduction of apparent viscosity was sharper for NaCl than CaCl2. The highest value of consistency coefficients and the lowest flow behavior indices were found in pH range of 5–7. Increase in sucrose concentration up to 30% elevated consistency coefficient but had no significant effect on flow behavior index. In general, the results showed that the flow behavior of β‐glucan in different conditions can be well interpreted by most rheological models. β‐glucan can also be introduced to the food industry as a suitable thickener in the variety of food solutions with different physicochemical properties (temperature, pH, and the presence of salts and sugar).

Practical Applications

Research in the field of rheological behaviors of food fluids plays critical role in designing the processes, transportation systems (pumps and pipes), heat transfer equipment (heat exchangers and evaporators), and determination of the correlation between sensory and textural properties of foods. Temperature, concentration, and environmental conditions (pH, salt, and sugar) are predicted to have a significant effect on the flow behavior of β‐glucan solution. Evaluation of flow behavior of β‐glucan solutions using rheological models provides a reliable prediction about flow behavior of them under various conditions of processing, production, and storage. Food liquids experience different concentrations, temperatures and pH during production, storage, transportation, distribution, marketing, and so forth. Therefore, modeling and simulating the flow behavior of β‐glucan solutions helps foods containing this dietary fiber (as a hydrocolloid) to easily withstand various environmental and thermal conditions in industrial processes without any problems.
Women's views of birth after cesarean section
Authors: Sys Dorota , Kajdy Anna , Baranowska Barbara , Tataj‐Puzyna Urszula , Gotlib Joanna , Bączek Grażyna , Rabijewski Michał
Published: October 2021

Background

Vaginal birth is a safe mode of childbirth for the majority of women after cesarean section (CS). However, data show that women who have undergone a CS are more likely to have an elective CS (ECS) than a vaginal birth after CS (VBAC) in many areas of the world.

Aim

This study aimed to review the literature about women's mode of birth preferences and attitudes and the underlying reasons for, and factors associated with, their preferences.

Methods

This is narrative literature review. PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases were searched, limiting the results to non‐interventional studies published between 1990 and 2020. Twenty‐one articles were included in the analysis.

Results

The review found 34 different factors that influence women's preferences. Five factors influenced both VBAC and ECS preference, depending on the study. The most common factors having a dualistic effect on preference were: medical staff recommendation, doctor's opinion, and fear of pain. The most common factors were: desire to experience natural childbirth, faster/easier recovery, support from doctor's, and midwife's opinion. Among the factors influencing the preference for ECS, two were particularly prominent: predictability, controllability and comfortability of CS and the belief that CS is safer for the baby and/or mother.

Conclusions

Our review showed that there are a variety of factors that influence women's preference for the mode of delivery after CS. Some of these have a dualistic effect according to the study. The key to making an informed decision regarding the mode of delivery is communication with medical professionals.
Tongue cleaning in the elderly and its role in the respiratory and swallowing functions: Benefits and medical perspectives
Authors: Izumi Maya , Akifusa Sumio
Published: October 2021

Oral dysfunction, including oral uncleanness and decline in tongue motor function, tongue pressure and swallowing function, precedes frailty. The tongue's dorsum is a reservoir of oral microbiota, desquamated epithelial mucosa and leukocytes due to the multi‐papillate anatomy, and leads to tongue coating. The tongue coating is frequently found in older adults because of hyposalivation, immunity's hypoactivity, diminished motor function and compromised tongue's pressure with age. Anaerobe‐driven volatile sulphur compounds in tongue coating are a major cause of intra‐oral malodor. Dysbiosis of the tongue‐coating microbiome rather than the amount of microorganisms is associated with a risk of aspiration pneumonia. Daily tongue cleaning with a brush or scraper is an easy way to control tongue coating deposits and quality. Using mouth wash or rinse‐containing germicides is also a way to control the microbiota of tongue coating. The tongue function is closely related to swallowing. Tongue and suprahyoid muscles are linked with respiratory muscles through the endothoracic fascia. The mechanical stimulation during the cleaning of the tongue may stimulate the respiratory muscles. An intervention trial revealed that tongue cleaning by mucosal brush improves tongue pressure, swallowing and respiratory function in old residents of nursing homes, suggesting a rehabilitative effect of tongue cleaning on the swallowing and respiratory functions, preventing aspiration pneumonia. This narrative review assesses the tongue‐cleaning benefits for respiratory and swallowing functions and the possibility of preventing aspiration pneumonia.
HAGLROS promotes cell proliferation and angiogenesis and inhibits apoptosis by activating multiple signaling pathways in LSCC cells
Authors: Ma Yunxia , Zhang Hui , Li Xiaohong , Liu Yehai
Published: October 2021

Background

HAGLROS is a long noncoding RNA involving in the development of a variety of cancers, but its mechanism of action in laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas (LSCC) is still unclear. We aim to unveil the effect and mechanism of HAGLROS on LSCC.

Methods

The expression of HAGLROS in LSCC patients’ tissues, serum, and LSCC cell lines was quantified by quantitative real‐time PCR. AMC‐HN‐8 and SNU‐46 cells were transfected with the overexpression plasmid of HAGLROS and shHAGLROS, and the functional assay (colony formation assays, flow cytometry, and tube formation) was performed. Western blot was used to determine the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), P27 and cleaved caspase‐3, as well as phosphorylated‐c‐Jun‐N‐terminal kinase (p‐JNK), JNK, phosphorylated‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (p‐Erk1/2), Erk1/2, phosphorylated‐protein kinase B (p‐AKT) and AKT.

Results

HAGLROS was highly expressed in LSCC tissues and cells, and it was correlated to lymph node, tumor depth, and clinical stage of LSCC patients. The proliferation ability of LSCC cells was higher than that of HuLa‐PC cells. Meanwhile, HAGLROS overexpression promoted the abilities of proliferation and angiogenesis and reduced apoptosis, whereas silencing of HAGLROS exerted the opposite effects in LSCC cell lines. Moreover, overexpressed HAGLROS upregulated the expressions of VEGF and PCNA yet downregulated the expressions of P27 and cleaved caspase‐3 by activating Erk1/2 and AKT or JNK signaling pathways in different LSCC cell lines.

Conclusion

Overexpressed HAGLROS promoted the proliferation and angiogenesis yet inhibited apoptosis of LSCC cells by activating Erk1/2 and AKT or JNK signaling pathways.
Concentrating vs. spreading our footprint: how to meet humanity's needs at least cost to nature
Authors: Balmford A.
Published: October 2021

How to feed, house, clothe and power 11 billion of us without eliminating very many species and wrecking Earth's climate is perhaps this century's greatest challenge. We must obviously strive to curb growth in resource‐intensive demand, but we also need to identify production systems that meet people's needs at least overall cost to nature. The land‐sharing/sparing concept provides a quantitative framework for doing this, centred around the principle that generating meaningful insights requires comparing alternatives that are matched in terms of overall production. Applications of this framework to >2500 individually assessed species of vertebrates, plants and insects across five continents show that most species decline under farming, and that most would fare least badly under a land‐sparing approach – with high‐yield production meeting demand in a relatively small, farmed area, freeing‐up space for conservation of intact habitats elsewhere in the landscape. However, important questions remain around how to deliver high yields sustainably, and how to ensure high‐yield farming does indeed spare natural habitat. The framework is increasingly being applied in other domains too – including urban planning, recreation, forestry and fisheries – where it has the potential to shed light on long‐running debates about whether nature would prefer us to concentrate our impact or spread it more lightly but widely. The realization that conservation cannot be delivered without simultaneously considering how humanity meets its needs in these and other sectors is of particular significance as policymakers meet to establish global environmental targets through to 2030 and beyond.
Genomic‐based epidemiology reveals independent origins and gene flow of glyphosate resistance in Bassia scoparia populations across North America
Authors: Ravet Karl , Sparks Crystal D. , Dixon Andrea L. , Küpper Anita , Westra Eric P. , Pettinga Dean J. , Tranel Patrick J. , Felix Joel , Morishita Don W. , Jha Prashant , Kniss Andrew , Stahlman Phillip W. , Neve Paul , Patterson Eric L. , Westra Philip , Gaines Todd A.
Published: October 2021

Genomic‐based epidemiology can provide insight into the origins and spread of herbicide resistance mechanisms in weeds. We used kochia (Bassia scoparia) populations resistant to the herbicide glyphosate from across western North America to test the alternative hypotheses that (i) a single EPSPS gene duplication event occurred initially in the Central Great Plains and then subsequently spread to all other geographical areas now exhibiting glyphosate‐resistant kochia populations or that (ii) gene duplication occurred multiple times in independent events in a case of parallel evolution. We used qPCR markers previously developed for measuring the structure of the EPSPS tandem duplication to investigate whether all glyphosate‐resistant individuals had the same EPSPS repeat structure. We also investigated population structure using simple sequence repeat markers to determine the relatedness of kochia populations from across the Central Great Plains, Northern Plains and the Pacific Northwest. We found that the original EPSPS duplication genotype was predominant in the Central Great Plains where glyphosate resistance was first reported. We identified two additional EPSPS duplication genotypes, one having geographical associations with the Northern Plains and the other with the Pacific Northwest. The EPSPS duplication genotype from the Pacific Northwest seems likely to represent a second, independent evolutionary origin of a resistance allele. We found evidence of gene flow across populations and a general lack of population structure. The results support at least two independent evolutionary origins of glyphosate resistance in kochia, followed by substantial and mostly geographically localized gene flow to spread the resistance alleles into diverse genetic backgrounds.
Fine‐scale habitat use of foraging sperm whales is driven by seafloor topography and water column structure
Authors: Guerra Marta , Dawson Stephen M. , Somerford Tamlyn R. , Slooten Elizabeth , Rayment William J.
Published: October 2021

Knowledge of the spatial distribution and habitat preferences of marine top‐predators is essential for monitoring their populations. The summertime abundance of male sperm whales (parāoa, Physeter macrocephalus) at the Kaikōura Canyon (New Zealand) has almost halved over the last three decades, possibly reflecting a shift in distribution away from this foraging ground. To better understand the seasonal drivers of habitat use by sperm whales, we recorded presence and absence locations of foraging whales during acoustic‐visual surveys, in conjunction with water‐column oceanographic sampling. Season‐specific generalized additive models (GAM) indicated that whale distribution was best predicted by seafloor depth, thermal stratification in the water‐column, and slope gradient and orientation. Habitat use differed between summer and winter, consistent with patterns in diving behavior and stable isotope ratios, suggesting seasonal fluctuations in prey targeted by sperm whales. Our results advance understanding of fine‐scale habitat use by sperm whales, with new insights into the ecological drivers of seasonal fluctuations in foraging distribution. Our study demonstrates the importance of quantifying water‐column processes in the study of habitat preferences by deep‐diving predators. We also identify thermal stratification as an oceanographic feature susceptible to climate change, which could contribute to the decline in sperm whale abundance at Kaikōura.
Prognosis of patients with Rome IV‐defined versus physician‐diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome: Longitudinal follow‐up study
Authors: Goodoory Vivek C. , Craig Orla F. , Gracie David J. , Black Christopher J. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Little is known about the differences between patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by a physician who meet the Rome IV criteria for IBS and those who do not. We conducted a longitudinal follow‐up study examining this.

Methods

We collected complete gastrointestinal, extraintestinal, and psychological symptom data from 577 consecutive adult patients with suspected IBS in a single UK gastroenterology clinic. We compared baseline characteristics between patients who met Rome IV criteria for IBS, and those who had IBS according to a physician's diagnosis but who did not meet Rome IV criteria, as well as examining whether meeting Rome IV criteria at baseline influenced evolution of symptoms under therapy.

Key Results

Of 455 patients diagnosed with IBS by a physician, 375 (82.4%) met Rome IV criteria and 80 (17.4%) did not. Those who met Rome IV criteria were more likely to report severe symptoms (67.6%, vs. 30.0%,p < 0.001) and that symptoms limited activities ≥50% of the time (63.0%, vs. 37.5%,p < 0.001). Patients with Rome IV IBS were more likely to have abnormal anxiety scores (50.8%, vs. 35.9%,p = 0.007) and higher levels of somatoform symptom‐reporting (29.4%, vs. 12.5%,p < 0.001). Despite this, during longitudinal follow‐up, there was no significant difference in mean number of appointments required subsequently, or IBS symptom severity.

Conclusions and Inferences

Although patients who met the Rome IV criteria had more severe symptoms at baseline and were more likely to exhibit psychological comorbidity, they did not appear to have a worse prognosis than those with physician‐diagnosed IBS.
The nutrition transition to a stage of high obesity and noncommunicable disease prevalence dominated by ultra‐processed foods is not inevitable
Authors: Popkin Barry M. , Ng Shu Wen
Published: October 2021

The Nutrition Transition model is presented with the nature and pace of change in key stages varying by location and subpopulations. At present, all high‐income and many low‐ and middle‐income countries are in a stage of the transition where nutrition‐related noncommunicable diseases including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension are dominating adult morbidity and mortality and are very high or growing rapidly in prevalence. Some countries still have key subpopulations facing hunger and undernutrition defined by stunting or extreme thinness among adults. We call these double burden of malnutrition countries. All low‐ and middle‐income countries face rapid growth in consumption of ultra‐processed food and beverages, but it is not inevitable that these countries will reach the same high levels of consumption seen in high‐income countries, with all the negative impacts of this diet on health. With great political and civil society commitment to adoption of policies shown in other countries to have improved dietary choices and social norms around foods, we can arrest and even reverse the rapid shift to diets dominated by a stage of high ultra‐processed food intake and increasing prevalence of nutrition‐related noncommunicable diseases.
Ruminococcus gnavus ameliorates atopic dermatitis by enhancing Treg cell and metabolites in BALB/c mice
Authors: Ahn Jae‐Rin , Lee Seung‐Hwa , Kim Byunghyun , Nam Myung Hee , Ahn Yoon Kyung , Park Yoon Mee , Jeong Seon‐Mi , Park Min Jee , Song Kun Baek , Lee So‐Yeon , Hong Soo‐Jong
Published: October 2021

Background

Ruminococcus gnavus (R. gnavus) are mucin‐degrading gut bacteria that play a key role in the early colonization of the gut by serving as endogenous sources of nutrients. They can also influence immune development. We had previously reported a lower abundance of R. gnavus in infants with atopic dermatitis (AD) compared with that in healthy subjects. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of orally administered R. gnavus on antibiotic treatment‐induced gut dysbiosis (and the underlying mechanism) in a mouse model of AD.

Methods

Four‐week‐old female BALB/C mice were administered antibiotic cocktails for 2 weeks. R. gnavus was orally administered throughout the study duration. At 6 weeks of age, AD was induced by epidermal sensitization with ovalbumin. AD phenotypes and systemic and gut immune responses were investigated.

Results

Orally administered R. gnavus significantly reduced AD‐associated parameters (i.e., transepidermal water loss, clinical score, total serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E level, OVA‐specific IgE level, and skin inflammation). R. gnavus treatment also resulted in significant downregulation of T helper 2–related cytokine mRNA and upregulation of interleukin (IL)‐10 and Foxp3 in the skin. The population of CD4+FOXP3+ T cells in mesenteric‐ and skin‐draining lymph nodes and butyrate levels in the cecum increased in R. gnavus‐administered AD mice.

Conclusions

Immune modulation by orally administered R. gnavus may alleviate AD symptoms through the enhancement of regulatory T‐cell counts and short‐chain fatty acids production in AD mice.