bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk assessment of drug–drug interaction potential for bintrafusp alfa with cytochrome P4503A4 substrates: A totality of evidence approach
Authors: Vugmeyster Yulia , Locke George , Helwig Christoph , Rolfe P. Alexander , Dong Jennifer Q. , Venkatakrishnan Karthik
Published: September 2022

Bintrafusp alfa, a first‐in‐class bifunctional fusion protein composed of the extracellular domain of TGF‐βRII (a TGF‐β “trap”) fused to a human IgG1 mAb blocking PD‐L1, is being evaluated for efficacy and safety in solid tumor indications as monotherapy and in combination with small‐molecule drugs. We evaluated the perpetrator drug–drug interaction (DDI) potential of bintrafusp alfa via cytochrome P4503A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme modulation, which is responsible for the metabolism of a majority of drugs. The holistic approach included (1) evaluation of longitudinal profiles of cytokines implicated in CYP3A4 modulation and serum 4β‐hydroxycholesterol, an endogenous marker of CYP3A4 activity, in a phase I clinical study, and (2) transcriptomics analysis of the CYP3A4 mRNA levels vs the TGFB gene expression signature in normal hepatic tissues. Bintrafusp alfa was confirmed not to cause relevant proinflammatory cytokine modulation or alterations in 4β‐hydroxycholesterol serum concentrations in phase I studies. Transcriptomics analyses revealed no meaningful correlations between TGFB gene expression and CYP3A4 mRNA expression, supporting the conclusion that the risk of CYP3A4 enzyme modulation due to TGF‐β neutralization by bintrafusp alfa is low. Thus, bintrafusp alfa is not expected to have DDI potential as a perpetrator with co‐administered drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; this information is relevant to clinical evaluations of bintrafusp alfa in combination settings.
Synkanzerogenese von natürlicher UV‐Strahlung und polyzyklischen aromatischen Kohlenwasserstoffen bei der Entstehung von Plattenepithelkarzinomen der Haut?
Authors: Weistenhöfer Wobbeke , Lutz Regina , Hiller Julia , Schmitz‐Spanke Simone , Drexler Hans
Published: September 2022

Plattenepithelkarzinome der Haut können durch berufsbedingte Exposition gegenüber polyzyklischen aromatischen Kohlenwasserstoffen (PAK) wie in Teer und Ruß oder gegenüber UV‐Strahlung induziert und als Berufskrankheiten anerkannt und entschädigt werden. Eine mögliche synkanzerogene Wirkung dieser Expositionen bei der Entstehung von Plattenepithelkarzinomen beim Menschen wird diskutiert. Um dies wissenschaftlich zu überprüfen, wurde eine systematische Literaturrecherche in den Datenbanken PubMed, Web of Science und Scopus durchgeführt. Studien mit Personen mit Plattenepithelkarzinomen der Haut und ihren Vorstufen und beruflicher, außerberuflicher oder therapeutischer Exposition gegenüber UV‐Strahlung und PAK wurden ausgewählt. Zusätzlich wurden tierexperimentelle Studien mit Expositionen gegenüber UV‐Strahlung und PAK ausgewertet. Nach Sichtung der Zusammenfassungen von 510 identifizierten Studien wurden die Volltexte von 131 Studien geprüft. Aus keiner der epidemiologischen Studien ergaben sich belastbare Hinweise für eine Synkanzerogenese von PAK und UV‐Strahlung bei der Entstehung von Plattenepithelkarzinomen der Haut beim Menschen. Aus tierexperimentellen Studien und mechanistischen Untersuchungen liegen Hinweise für eine (über‐)additive Wirkung von UV‐Strahlung und PAK‐Exposition vor, so dass eine Synkanzerogenese möglich erscheint. Es fehlen jedoch quantitative Dosis‐Wirkungs‐Beziehungen, die den Vergleich des Beginns einer adversen Wirkung zwischen den verschiedenen Expositionen ermöglichen.
Biologika zur Behandlung mittelschwerer bis schwerer Plaque‐Psoriasis im Kindes‐ und Jugendalter: Systematischer Review und Netzwerk‐Metaanalyse
Authors: Huang I‐Hsin , Yu Chia‐Ling , Tai Cheng‐Chen , Tu Yu‐Kang , Chi Ching‐Chi
Published: September 2022

Hintergrund und Zielsetzung

Vergleich der Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit von Biologika zur Behandlung mittelschwerer bis schwerer Plaque‐Psoriasis im Kindes‐ und Jugendalter, soweit diese von der US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) und der European Medicines Agency (EMA) zugelassen sind.

Patienten und Methodik

Die Datenbanken MEDLINE, Embase und Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials wurden im Zeitraum bis 7. Mai 2021 nach relevanten randomisierten, kontrollierten Studien (RCT, randomized controlled trials) durchsucht. Eine Fixed‐Effect‐Netzwerk‐Metaanalyse (NMA) wurde durchgeführt, wobei für die Rangfolge die SUCRA (surface under the cumulative ranking curve) berechnet wurde. Die primären Endpunkte waren die Verbesserung des Psoriasis Area and Severity Index Score um ≥ 90 % (PASI 90) nach 12–16 Wochen sowie das Ausscheiden aufgrund von Nebenwirkungen (DAE, discontinuation owing to adverse events) im Laufe der ersten 12–16 Wochen.

Ergebnisse

Fünf RCT mit insgesamt 798 pädiatrischen Psoriasis‐Patienten wurden in unsere Analyse einbezogen. Sämtliche untersuchten Biologika zeigten im Vergleich zu Placebo signifikant verbesserte PASI 90‐Werte, während das Risiko für DAE keinen Unterschied zu Placebo aufwies. Basierend auf der SUCRA erreichte Secukinumab in der niedrigeren Dosierung (SEC‐L) das beste Ansprechen im PASI 90 (84,7 %), gefolgt von Ixekizumab (70,8 %).

Schlussfolgerungen

Unter allen eingeschlossenen Biologika konnte mit SEC‐L das beste Ansprechen im PASI 90 erreicht werden, ohne das Risiko für DAE zu erhöhen. Weitere Langzeitstudien sollten folgen.
Beta cell endoplasmic reticulum stress drives diabetes in the KINGS mouse without causing mass beta cell loss
Authors: Daniels Gatward Lydia F. , Kim Yujin , Loe Aerin , Liu Yiyang , Kristensen Line , King Aileen J. F.
Published: September 2022

Aims

Beta cell endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress can cause cellular death and dysfunction and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes. Animal models of beta cell ER stress are critical in further understanding this and for testing novel diabetes therapeutics. The KINGS mouse is a model of beta cell ER stress driven by a heterozygous mutation in Ins2. In this study, we investigated how beta cell ER stress in the KINGS mouse drives diabetes.

Methods

We investigated whether the unfolded protein response (UPR) was activated in islets isolated from male and female KINGS mice and whether this impacted beta cell mass and turnover.

Results

Whilst the UPR was up‐regulated in KINGS islets, with increased protein expression of markers of all three UPR arms, this was not associated with a mass loss of beta cells; beta cell apoptosis rates did not increase until after the development of overt diabetes, and did not lead to substantial changes in beta cell mass.

Conclusion

We propose that the KINGS mouse represents a model where beta cell maladaptive UPR signalling drives diabetes development without causing mass beta cell loss.
Monitoring of long‐term tolerance of European ash to Hymenoscyphus fraxineus in clonal seed orchards in Sweden
Authors: Liziniewicz Mateusz , Tolio Beatrice , Cleary Michelle
Published: September 2022

The invasive alien pathogenic fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus causing ash dieback (ADB) has devastated European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) populations across Europe. Breeding for resistance is the most feasible measure to reduce future losses of ash, and the presence of resistance, albeit at low level, has been demonstrated in numerous genetic trials around Europe. This study is a continuation of the inventories tracking the vitality status of different clones, which started in 2006 at two ash seed orchards in southern Sweden. A new inventory conducted in the summer of 2021 revealed that the ten clones previously identified as the most tolerant to ADB based on periodic surveys from 2006 and onwards still remain the most tolerant, while susceptible clones continued to decline and are completely disappearing from the orchards. Browsing caused mortality in some of the most tolerant clones in one of the orchards during the last assessment period. Despite the animal damage, the stable resistance observed in tolerant clones over a 15 years period forms a solid basis for the continuation of the breeding programme where good candidates are selected for further study.
Towards hybrid human‐AI learning technologies
Authors: Molenaar Inge
Published: September 2022

Education is a unique area for application of artificial intelligence (AI). In this article, the augmentation perspective and the concept of hybrid intelligence are introduced to frame our thinking about AI in education. The involvement of quadruple helix stakeholders (i.e., researchers, education professionals, entrepreneurs, and policymakers) is necessary to understand the opportunities and challenges of different educational use cases from an integrated point of view. To facilitate a meaningful dialogue, a common language about AI in education is needed. This article outlines elements of such a common language. The detect‐diagnose‐act framework is used to describe the core functions of AI in education. The six levels of automation model is introduced to develop our thinking about the roles of AI, learners, and teachers in educational arrangements. In this model, the transition of control between teacher and technology is articulated at different levels and related to the augmentation perspective. Finally, the future of AI in education is discussed using self‐regulated learning as an example. The proposed common language will help to support a coordinated development of an interdisciplinary dialogue between quadruple helix stakeholders to strengthen meaningful application of AI for learning and teaching.
Lesions of nucleus accumbens shell abolish socially transmitted food preferences
Authors: Noguer‐Calabús Irina , Schäble Sandra , Kalenscher Tobias
Published: September 2022

Rats adapt their food choices to conform to their conspecifics' dietary preferences. The nucleus accumbens shell is a relevant brain region to process reward‐related and motivated behaviours and social information. Here, we hypothesize that the integrity of the nucleus accumbens shell is necessary to show socially transmitted food preferences. We made excitotoxic and sham lesions of nucleus accumbens shell in male Long–Evans rats who performed a social transmission of food preference task. In this task, observer rats revealed their original preference for one out of two food options. Afterward, they were exposed to a demonstrator rat who was fed with the observer's originally non‐preferred food, and the observer's food choices were sampled again. Sham lesioned observer rats changed their food preferences following interaction with the demonstrator, specifically by increasing the intake of their originally non‐preferred food type. This interaction‐related change in preference was not found after nucleus accumbens shell lesions. The lesion effects on choice were not the consequence of impaired social or non‐social motivation, anxiety or sensory or motor function, suggesting that they reflected a genuine deficit in social reward revaluation. These results highlight the role of nucleus accumbens shell in revaluating food rewards to match a conspecific's preferences.
Western black widow spiders (Latrodectus hesperus) remember prey capture location and size, but only alter behavior for prey caught at particular sites
Authors: Sergi Clint , Schlais Audrey , Marshall Martie , Rodríguez Rafael L.
Published: September 2022

Animals form memories and use them to guide future behaviors. The information stored in memory is selected to include only details that result in adaptive decision‐making. Understanding the contents of animal memories can provide insight into an animal's ecology and evolution. In this paper, we use an assay of searching behavior to reveal the contents of West black widow spiders’ memory. We provided prey in two major components of black widow webs and then stole the prey to elicit searching behavior. We used search effort, in terms of likelihood of searching and the number of bouts of searching, to determine whether spiders form memories of their prey, and whether their memories include any specific features of their prey. Black widows were significantly more likely to search after experiencing prey theft, which demonstrates the spiders form memories of their prey. Black widows were also more likely to search for relatively larger prey, but this effect depended on the site of prey capture within the web (only for prey snared at the web's gumfooted lines). This indicates that black widows also form memories of the relative size of their prey and its capture location. Further, their natural history helps interpret when these details are stored or used, and when not. Our results underscore the importance of behavioral observations for understanding the contents of animal memories.
Importance of temperature on immuno‐metabolic regulation and cancer progression
Authors: Wang Haiping , Ülgen Melis , Trajkovski Mirko
Published: September 2022

Cancer immunotherapies emerge as promising strategies for restricting tumour growth. The tumour microenvironment (TME) has a major impact on the anti‐tumour immune response and on the efficacy of the immunotherapies. Recent studies have linked changes in the ambient temperature with particular immuno‐metabolic reprogramming and anti‐cancer immune response in laboratory animals. Here, we describe the energetic balance of the organism during change in temperature, and link this to the immune alterations that could be of relevance for cancer, as well as for other human diseases. We highlight the contribution of the gut microbiota in modifying this interaction. We describe the overall metabolic response and underlying mechanisms of tumourigenesis in mouse models at varying ambient temperatures and shed light on their potential importance in developing therapeutics against cancer.
Effects of climate on salmonid productivity: A global meta‐analysis across freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Gallagher Brian K. , Geargeoura Sarah , Fraser Dylan J.
Published: September 2022

Salmonids are of immense socio‐economic importance in much of the world, but are threatened by climate change. This has generated a substantial literature documenting the effects of climate variation on salmonid productivity in freshwater ecosystems, but there has been no global quantitative synthesis across studies. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to gain quantitative insight into key factors shaping the effects of climate on salmonid productivity, ultimately collecting 1321 correlations from 156 studies, representing 23 species across 24 countries. Fisher's Z was used as the standardized effect size, and a series of weighted mixed‐effects models were compared to identify covariates that best explained variation in effects. Patterns in climate effects were complex and were driven by spatial (latitude, elevation), temporal (time‐period, age‐class), and biological (range, habitat type, anadromy) variation within and among study populations. These trends were often consistent with predictions based on salmonid thermal tolerances. Namely, warming and decreased precipitation tended to reduce productivity when high temperatures challenged upper thermal limits, while opposite patterns were common when cold temperatures limited productivity. Overall, variable climate impacts on salmonids suggest that future declines in some locations may be counterbalanced by gains in others. In particular, we suggest that future warming should (1) increase salmonid productivity at high latitudes and elevations (especially >60° and >1500 m), (2) reduce productivity in populations experiencing hotter and dryer growing season conditions, (3) favor non‐native over native salmonids, and (4) impact lentic populations less negatively than lotic ones. These patterns should help conservation and management organizations identify populations most vulnerable to climate change, which can then be prioritized for protective measures. Our framework enables broad inferences about future productivity that can inform decision‐making under climate change for salmonids and other taxa, but more widespread, standardized, and hypothesis‐driven research is needed to expand current knowledge.
Why and when older people lose their teeth: A study of public healthcare patients aged 60 years and over in 2007‐2015
Authors: Hiltunen Kaija , Vehkalahti Miira M.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This register‐based study on public sector patients aged 60 years and over assessed annual age‐specific volume of and reasons for tooth extractions as well as changes in these across the period 2007‐2015.

Background

Alongside the rapidly ageing population, the demand for public oral healthcare services is growing. Damaged teeth may induce a long‐lasting inflammation burden in old age.

Materials and methods

Data used the electronic documentation of oral healthcare procedures recorded according to healthcare regulation. The study population consisted of all patients over 60 years of age (n = 216 059) who were treated 2007‐2015 in public oral health care available to all citizens of Helsinki, Finland. Data for the 9‐year time series included reasons for tooth extractions and were aggregated by patient age into 5‐year groups. Statistical analyses included rates and proportions, mean values, correlation coefficients and linear regression modelling.

Results

Extraction patients (n = 48 623) were more likely in the older age groups: 21.8% in the age group 60‐64 and 27.5% in the age group 90+. Mean number of tooth extractions among all patients was 0.4 per patient and 1.7 per extraction patient. Among all tooth extractions (n = 82 677), main reasons were caries 29.5%, apical periodontitis 19.4%, tooth remnant 19.4% and periodontitis 18.0%. Tooth remnant predominated as extraction reason in the oldest age groups, while apical periodontitis displayed an upward trend by calendar year.

Conclusion

Tooth extractions attributable to caries were common in all old‐age groups, tooth remnant extractions were most common in older age groups, and apical periodontitis abounded as extraction reason during 2007‐2015.
Gestational exposure to erenumab—The outcome of three pregnancies
Authors: Bonifácio Gonçalo V. , de Carvalho Sofia Cupertino , Oliveira Renato , Gil‐Gouveia Raquel
Published: September 2022

Erenumab is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) approved for the preventive treatment of migraine. While preclinical studies on calcitonin gene‐related peptide mAbs did not identify any reproductive toxicity, pregnant and breastfeeding women were excluded from the pivotal human studies, and therefore the safety of calcitonin gene‐related peptide medications in this population must be studied. So far, postmarketing data of accidental exposures have not brought to light any specific toxicities. Three women treated with erenumab in our series conceived while exposed to the drug. All had previous successful pregnancies, were on erenumab for more than 6 months, and had ≥80% reduction in headache frequency. The one who stopped erenumab only 1 month before conceiving had a spontaneous abortion during the first trimester due to a gestational trophoblastic neoplasia and has since conceived with an uneventful gestation. The other two women stopped treatment during the first trimester, and both pregnancies went to term with no complications. All babies have shown normal development. No plausible explanation relates the mechanism of action of erenumab and the serious complication that occurred in one patient. Continuous follow‐up and reporting of all exposures are encouraged to gather safety data on pregnant and nursing women and on the development of the newborns. So far, immediately stopping the drug is advised and may contribute to decreasing the potential risks.
PhD crisis in the Global South: Oversupply or mismanagement of talent?
Authors: Khelifi Saber
Published: September 2022

Rising unemployment rates among PhDs gave relevance to a crisis narrative revolving around the assumed oversupply of doctorate holders. The discourse, which originated in established systems of higher education two decades ago, has not been duly tested in the Global South. Taking Tunisia as a case in point, this article probes the validity of the association between high unemployment rates and the oversupply narrative to answer the question of whether Tunisia actually trains more PhDs than necessary. Using quantitative data from national and supranational databases, the state of affair in Tunisia is put into perspective with some neighbouring and OECD countries along four axes: stock and flow of PhDs, student experience, qualification of academic staff and transition to employment. Overall, the paper's main finding discredits the oversupply claim as Tunisia trails in a number of respects but calls for upgrading the static and rather obsolete doctoral training system. Doctorate holders' unemployment is mainly rooted in structural economic and bureaucratic deficiencies as well as a traditional occupational structure that fails to grasp PhDs outside academia. A more exhaustive policy mix is required to streamline the management of doctoral output and address the signs of a degrading research potential.
Incidental findings in the bowel cancer population screening program: other polyps and malignancies – A nationwide study
Authors: Nagtegaal Iris D , Vink‐Börger Elisa , Kuijpers Chantal C H J , Dekker Evelien , Shepherd Neil A
Published: September 2022

The introduction of bowel cancer population screening programs has had a profound impact on gastrointestinal pathology. While the focus is mainly on quality assurance of diagnoses relevant for the outcome of these programs (colorectal cancer and its precursors), incidental findings are increasingly diagnosed. The incidence of such findings is largely unknown. Therefore, we investigated the incidence of incidental findings within the national screening program of the Netherlands. From the Dutch nationwide pathology databank (PALGA), we retrieved all histological diagnoses of patients participating in the national bowel cancer screening program from the start in 2014 until 1/1/2021. Descriptive statistics were used. During these 7 years, in total 9407 other polyps and malignancies (262 per 10,000 colonoscopies) were diagnosed. The majority (65%) were classified as inflammatory polyps. The most common malignancies were neuroendocrine tumours (n = 198, 6 per 10,000 colonoscopies); less common were lymphomas (n = 64) and metastases (n = 33). Mesenchymal polyps, such as leiomyomas and lipomas, were relatively common (27 and 16 per 10,000 colonoscopies, respectively), in comparison with neural polyps such as perineuriomas, ganglioneuromas, and neurofibromas (respectively 3, 2, and 1 per 10,000 colonoscopies). This is the largest study into the incidence of nonconventional colorectal polyps and malignancies in a homogeneous cohort of asymptomatic patients. Several of these diagnoses may have consequences for treatment and follow‐up, in particular the malignancies and detection of patients with hereditary cancer syndromes.
Break down the barriers of auto‐inflammation: How to deal with a monogenic auto‐inflammatory disease and immuno‐haematological features in 2022?
Authors: Vergneault Hélène , Picard Capucine , Georgin‐Lavialle Sophie
Published: September 2022

In the past few years, the spectrum of monogenic systemic auto‐inflammatory diseases (MSAID) has widely expanded beyond the typical recurrent fever. Immuno‐haematological features, as cytopenias, hypogammaglobulinemia, hypereosinophilia, lymphoproliferation and immunodeficiency, have been described in association of several MSAID. The objective of this review was to describe these particular MSAID. MSAID must be suspected in front of immuno‐haematological features associated with non‐infectious recurrent fever, chronic systemic inflammation, inflammatory cutaneous manifestations, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. Genes and cellular mechanisms involved are various but some of them are of special interest. Defects in actine regulation pathway are notably associated with cytopenia and immune deficiency. Because of their frequency, ADA2 deficiency and Vacuoles, E1‐Enzyme, X‐linked, auto‐inflammatory, Somatic (VEXAS) syndrome deserve to be noticed. ADA2 deficiency results in polyarteritis nodosa‐like presentation with a wide panel of manifestations including cytopenia(s), lymphoproliferation and immune deficiency. Neutrophilic dermatosis or chondritis associated with macrocytic anaemia or myelodysplasia should lead to screen for VEXAS. Of note, most of MSAID are associated with inflammatory anaemia. We proposed here a clinical and pragmatic approach of MSAID associated with immuno‐haematological features.
Long‐term care in the context of population ageing: What role for social protection policies?
Authors: Tessier Lou , De Wulf Nathalie , Momose Yuta
Published: September 2022

With the acceleration of population ageing, healthy ageing is becoming an imperative for all. Social protection systems have an important role to play in this endeavour. Through a life cycle approach, social protection systems can support i) the prevention of disability in old age (i.e. by addressing the social determinants of health and rehabilitation), ii) effective access to long‐term care without hardship for those who need it, and iii) decent work in the care economy. To do so will require adopting a gender‐transformative approach. Indeed, women are disproportionately represented among both older persons and long‐term care providers in their diversity. Further, to adequately contribute to healthy ageing and effective access to long‐term care without hardship as a rights‐based entitlement, social protection systems will need to build strong coordination between health care, social care and other social policies. This article highlights the key entry points for social protection systems to contribute to the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing, building on the rights‐based approach of human rights and international social security standards.
Parent‐ and teacher‐reported associations from adolescent bifactor models of psychopathology: an outcome‐wide association study of 26 outcomes in mid‐life
Authors: Hoffmann Mauricio Scopel , Evans‐Lacko Sara , Collishaw Stephan , Knapp Martin , Pickles Andrew , Shearer Christina , Maughan Barbara
Published: September 2022

Background

Adolescent mental health problems have lasting impacts on health and social functioning later in life. Evidence to date mostly comes from studies of specific diagnostic categories/dimensions, but hierarchical models can elucidate associations with general as well as specific dimensions of psychopathology. We provide evidence on long‐term outcomes of general and specific dimensions of adolescent psychopathology using both parent and teacher reports.

Methods

Parents and teachers from the Isle of Wight study completed Rutter behaviour scales when participants were 14–15 years old (n = 2,275), assessing conduct, emotional and hyperactivity problems. Metric‐invariant bifactor models for parents and teachers were used to test domain‐specific and domain‐general associations with 26 self‐reported psychosocial outcomes at mid‐life (age 44–45 years, n = 1,423). Analyses examined the individual and joint contributions of parent and teacher reports of adolescent psychopathology. All analyses were adjusted for covariates (gender, IQ and family social class) and weighted to adjust for the probability of nonresponse.

Results

Parent‐ and teacher‐reported general factors of psychopathology (GFP) were associated with 15 and 12 outcomes, respectively, across the socioeconomic, relationship, health and personality domains, along with an index of social exclusion. Nine outcomes were associated with both parent‐ and teacher‐reported GFP, with no differences in the strength of the associations across reporters. Teacher‐reported specific factors (conduct, emotional and hyperactivity) were associated with 21 outcomes, and parent‐reported specific factors were associated with seven. Five outcomes were associated with the same specific factors from both reporters; only one showed reporter differences in the strength of the associations.

Conclusions

These findings confirm the relevance of the GFP and the utility of teacher as well as parent reports of adolescent mental health in predicting psychosocial outcomes later in the life course.
A prospective, multicentre study to assess frailty in elderly patients with leg ulcers (GERASstudy)
Authors: Zorge Nadja E. , Scheerders Eveline R. Y. , Dudink Koen , Oudshoorn Christian , Polinder‐Bos Harmke A. , Waalboer‐Spuij Rick , Schlejen Peter M. , van Montfrans Catherine
Published: September 2022

Background

Although leg ulcers are a burdensome disease most common in those aged 65 years and older, frailty in this population has not yet been well established.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to prospectively explore and compare the presence of frailty in elderly patients with chronic leg or foot ulcers by applying different validated frailty screening methods in three healthcare settings and to assess the feasibility of frailty screening.

Methods

We compared frailty of leg ulcer patients referred to an academic hospital with a non‐academic hospital, leg ulcer patients receiving (primary) homecare, and a dermato‐oncology patient population (control group). Frailty and quality of life were assessed using four validated questionnaires: the Groninger Frailty Indicator, Geriatric‐8, Mini‐Cog and Wound Quality of Life. To analyse data multiple (non)‐parametric tests were performed.

Results

Fifty of 60 included leg ulcer patients (83%) scored “frail” on at least one frailty questionnaire (GFI, G8 or Mini‐Cog). The number of patients scoring “frail” on two or three out of three applied frailty questionnaires were significantly higher in the academic and homecare ulcer population compared with the non‐academic ulcer population and control group (p = 0.002). In the academic ulcer population mean Wound Quality of Life scores were 30.2 (SD 17.6), compared with 17.7 (SD 13.1) in the non‐academic and 15.0 (SD 10.4) in the homecare ulcer population (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The majority of patients suffering from leg ulcers in this study was frail. The highest frailty prevalence was observed in the academic and homecare ulcer populations. The largest impaired quality of life was reported in the academic ulcer population. In dermatology practice, implementing frailty screening and initiating appropriate (paramedical) supportive care should be considered to improve patient outcomes.
Current status and prospect of entomopathogenic fungi for controlling insect and mite pests in tea plantations
Authors: Yang Feiying , Wu Yuekun , Dong Fang , Tu Juan , Li Xiaofei , Dong Yue , Hu Xinlong , Xie Feng
Published: September 2022

Tea,Camellia sinensis(L) O. Kuntze, is the most popular non‐alcohol beverage and has over a thousand years of cultivation history. Sustainable tea cultivation is hampered by insect and mite pests and heavily relies on conventional pesticides. However, such management strategies can cause environmental pollution and insect resistance. Well‐planted tea ecosystem naturally provides a suitable micro‐climatic condition for the prosperity of natural enemies, especially entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) that are susceptible to moisture, temperature and sunlight. Hence, EPF have been widely used in tea plantations for pest management. Here, we summarized the approaches of research pertaining to EPF diversity in ecosystems. We also describe the general infection process and discuss the environmental factors that impact EPF efficiency. Finally, we listed the successful cases of EPF in tea pest management. Overall, this review has provided the application status and biological potential of EPF, which will contribute to agricultural productivity, and ecological, economic and social sustainability in the tea ecosystem.
Physicochemical properties of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) starch annealed at different temperatures
Authors: Nwaogazie Faith O. , Akinwande Bolanle A. , Oyeyinka Samson A.
Published: September 2022

Bambara groundnut is a starchy grain that could serve as a starch source for the industry. In the native form, starches are generally unsuitable for most industrial applications and hence are modified. Physical modification methods including annealing are preferred for starch modification because they are environmentally friendly. Previous studies on the annealing of Bambara starch focused on single‐temperature treatment. This study investigated the physicochemical properties of Bambara starch annealed at varying temperatures of 45, 50, 55, and 60°C for 24 h. The amylose contents of the starches varied between 27.18% and 28.53%. Annealed Bambara starches showed significantly lower swelling and solubility values than the native starch. Furthermore, except for the time to peak (4.05–4.44 min), pasting temperatures (81.95–84.00°C), gelatinization temperatures (70.47–77.23°C), and gelatinization enthalpies (3.95–4.41 J/g) which increased the pasting properties of the annealed starches decreased. The result of this study should guide researchers on the specific annealing temperature to use for specific food and industrial applications.

Novelty impact statement

Bambara grains are rich in starch which could be used as an alternative and cheap starch source to the conventional corn and potato sources. This study report for the first time the impact of different annealing temperatures on the physicochemical properties of Bambara starch. Annealing was chosen because it is an environmentally friendly method of starch modification. Results from this study show that the modified starch would have varying applications in the food industry, for example as a thickener, and as a stabilizer.
Commercial pectin production from dried florida orange peel: Effect of process conditions on pectin structure and function
Authors: Cameron Randall G. , Ferguson Kyle , Zhao Wei , Dorado Christina
Published: September 2022

To determine the feasibility of using Florida, USA, oranges for pectin production, we evaluated the effects of time, temperature, and pH on pectin properties extracted from dried Valencia orange peel using a hot acid process. Juice extracted peel was collected weekly, and following pretreatment, the dried peel was pooled and used to extract pectin with time (4, 5, and 6 h), temperature (65 and 75°C), and pH (1.6 and 1.8) as process variables. Pectin properties, including yield, sugar composition, molecular weight, intrinsic viscosity, degree of methylesterification, degree of branching, degree of blockiness, absolute degree of blockiness, and Standard Acid in Glass (SAG), were determined. In addition, we evaluated the response of each variable to the process conditions using response surface methodology. The analysis of variance (anova) models for molecular weight, intrinsic viscosity, and yield were highly significant, with actual values decreasing with increasing temperature. Increasing reaction time also decreased values for molecular weight and intrinsic viscosity.

Novelty impact statement

This study indicates that process time and temperature affected pectin quality, functionality, and yield. Increasing temperature had the most detrimental effect on desirability in an optimization analysis.
Bioprocess optimization for glycopeptide biosurfactant production by means of Lactobacillus delbrueckii: Design expert laden approach
Authors: Goyal Surbhi , Singh Jagdish
Published: September 2022

A bacterial strain, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, was isolated and screened for high potential of biosurfactant (BS) production yield. The current research emphasizes the optimization of process parameters through OFAT (one factor at a time) and RSM (response surface methodology) to achieve optimal BS production. Therefore, xylose and peptone were screened as the best carbon and nitrogen sources respectively by means of OFAT, along with temperature (37°C), inoculum size (5%), and fermentation time (39 h). Furthermore, optimization of xylose (1% w/v), peptone (0.5%w/v), and pH (6.5) through Box–Behnken statistical design was validated by ANOVA (analysis of variance) and found significant (p < .05) with optimal BS yield (7.31 g/L). The solvent‐extracted glycopeptide BS displayed cationic nature, with thermal (0–120°C), pH (2–12), and NaCl (2%–12% w/v) stability. The functional attributes of BS like antiadhesive and antimicrobial activity toward Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria and emulsifying potency against various vegetable oils make it worthwhile and applicable.

Practical applications

The recent applications of BS and hazards of pathogenic biofilm make it challenging to produce enhanced yield of BS. In light of this, present work is focused to optimize yield from Lactobacillus delbrueckii for its applications as antibiofilm and bioemulsifier agent in various industries. Furthermore, the glycoproteinaceous BS from microbe in question is itself unique and novel. Additionally, the statistical design of optimization provides experiment modeling, production rate, and significance of opted design which makes the whole process feasible to explore new possibilities for BS production.
Process standardization for formulating protein‐augmented corn‐based extrudates using defatted sesame flour (DSF): Sesame oil industry waste valorization
Authors: Gojiya Devanand , Davara Paresh , Gohil Vanraj , Dabhi Mukesh
Published: September 2022

The investigation was intended to produce the protein‐enriched extruded snack by incorporation, comprising corn flour and defatted sesame flour. Experiment was executed using central composite rotatable design through four variables, feed moisture content (10–18%, w.b), defatted sesame flour (10%–40%), die head temperature (100–160°C), and screw speed (200–300 rpm). The quality of extrudates was evaluated by examining protein content, extrudate hardness, water solubility index, and water absorption index of the product as well as bulk density, expansion ratio, and sensory attribute. The results analysis revealed that defatted sesame flour significantly did utmost influence among tested variables followed by feed moisture content, die head temperature with screw speed. The admixture symmetry with standardized extrusion process amended nutritive class of corn flour‐based extrudate in terms of protein content by 19.21 g/100 g.

Novelty impact statement

The defatted sesame flour (DSF) is residual; afterward, oil extraction was used for formulating novel protein‐rich extrudate.

The impact of various operational and feed parameters has been investigated, standardized, and validated for formulating protein‐augmented extrudate using response surface methodology.

The DSF can be utilized effectively in protein‐rich corn‐based extrudate development which has comparatively higher protein (19.21 g/100 g) content compare to the control.
Effect of sucrose on the extrusion of varied whole sorghum grits genotypes
Authors: Collantes Nathália Ferreira , Carvalho Carlos Wanderlei Piler , Ascheri José Luis Ramírez , Chávez Davy William Hidalgo , Comettant‐Rabanal Raúl , Bernardo Cristiany Oliveira , Queiroz Valéria Aparecida Vieira
Published: September 2022

The effect of sucrose on the extrusion of varied whole sorghum genotypes was studied using a single‐screw system. The raw sorghum flours were characterized in terms of chemical composition and particle size. Specific mechanical energy (SME) was measured as a process parameter, as well as expansion properties, hydration, paste viscosity, instrumental color, and texture, along with total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total condensed tannins (TCT) in the puffed extrudates. In general, the addition of 10% sucrose reduced SME (p < .05), sectional expansion, hydration, and cold paste viscosity, indicating lower starch conversion and increased lightness (L*) and hardness (Fc). In contrast, BRS 501 showed opposite results for most of the variables measured, due to the suppression of the lubricant effect attributed to the high lipid in this genotype. Furthermore, the extrusion process at 0% sucrose released TPC values by 71.2% and 317.5% for low‐tannin extrudates, while the addition of sucrose (10%) did not alter the TPC (p > .05) and had a protective effect on TCT retention in BRS 305 genotype extrudates.

Practical applications

The worldwide food intake of non‐traditional whole grains such as sorghum has been restricted. Although it has been recently considered as an interesting an attractive gluten‐free cereal due to its high and varied content of phytochemicals that provide health benefits and dietary fiber source. To take advantage of its potential, thermoplastic extrusion technology was used as a tool to develop textured sorghum expanded products with improved digestibility and retention of bioactive compounds. On the other hand, in order to improve its potential use as sweet snacks, the addition of sugar concentrations (10%) was added to improve its palatability, allowing to obtain expanded extrudates rich in fiber and bioactive compounds with improved taste compared to conventional extrudates, which would be of interest of the consumer and the food industries.
Selected quality parameters of wheat flour and dough for the production of Iraqi flatbread
Authors: Alhendi Abeer S. , Al‐Hayani Nuhoodh K. , Alsharafani Mustafa A. , Almukhtar Balsam Q. , Sabri Nadia F. , Abdulmahdi Zinah H. , Alobaidy Zahraa S. , Alhaddad Farah M.
Published: September 2022

Characterization of some products and finding a correlation with well‐known chemical or rheological properties is an important issue in terms of facilitating trade worldwide. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to characterize and score Iraqi flatbread in addition to discover a correlation between the scored flatbread and the chemical or rheological properties of wheat flour. Multilinear regression was used, and several models were created to predict flatbread scores. The results showed that gluten index was highly correlated to flatbread (R2 = +0.8672, p < .0001) followed by the degree of dough softening (R2 = −0.8406, p < .0001) and resistance to extension (R2 = +0.7293, p < .0006). The highest correlated model to predict Iraqi flatbread was by combining the three mentioned properties (R2 = 0.9303, p < .0001). The confidence 95% of predicting flatbread scores by following the models was high and significant, and the models can be helpful for wheat trading to Iraq.

Novelty impact statement

Iraqi flatbread is the most common type of bread eaten in Iraq, and wheat imported to Iraq must be suitable for producing this kind of bread. Determining wheat flour quality in terms of the chemical or rheological properties that are understood by all experts in the field facilitates wheat trading to Iraq. The current study found that gluten index and degree of dough softening were the main chemical and rheological properties that described the quality of wheat flour that is suitable for producing Iraqi flatbread.
Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) fruit: Nutritional value, handling and processing techniques, and health benefits
Authors: Stephen Jaspin , Radhakrishnan Mahendran
Published: September 2022

Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) is an oil‐rich fruit that is valued globally for its nutritional value and bioactive compounds. Intake of avocado in turn leads to immune system enhancements, and protection of oxidative damage mediated in the organism through cellular metabolic activities. The significant challenge to raise the consumption of avocado is maintaining its high dietetic value through its processing/supply chains. This challenge is accredited to its quick ripening caused by high enzymatic concentration and lipid auto‐oxidation. Darkening of avocado pulp also occurs which affects the taste, quality, and shelf life of the fruit. The objective of this study was to highlight the nutritional composition, handling, processing techniques, and health benefits, as well as applications of avocado. Some processing methods include freezing, microwave drying, freeze‐drying, pulsed light, high‐pressure processing, cold plasma, packaging, and storage atmosphere which is essential for quality improvement and shelf life extension.

Novelty impact statement

Consumption of avocado has health benefits like bactericidal, anti‐obesity, anti‐hyperlipidemic, hypolipidemic, anti‐diabetic, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐viral properties. The use of preservation technologies as well as storage in the modified and controlled atmosphere can be used to extend avocado shelf life. This study will be advantageous for industrial commercialization and assessment of these innovative technologies.
A novel postharvest preservation technology of fruit—Intermittent high oxygen treatment: A case study on “Lingwu” long jujube
Authors: Hou Shuangdi , Yang Qian , Zheng Jiaxuan , Liu Xia
Published: September 2022

Fresh “Lingwu” long jujube (Ziziphus jujuba cv. Mill) fruit is susceptible to softening, water loss, and flavor change during storage. The effect of intermittent high oxygen treatment (IHOT) on the quality of jujube was investigated, which was immersed in the oxygen concentration of 50% and 90% for 30 min every week along with 8 weeks of storage at 0 ± 1°C. Significantly, the firmness, weight loss, soluble solids content (SSC), and membrane integrity were significantly retarded in 50% and 90% IHOT. Meanwhile, the activities of peroxidase (POD) were maintained a higher level after 35 d storage in 50% IHOT. And the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) were significantly inhibited, and the peak was delayed by 50% IHOT. Furthermore, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity was barely changed during the first 28 days of storage, and the lowest enzymatic activity was shown later in the 50% IHOT. These results indicated that the short‐term HOIT with appropriate concentration (50%) delayed the softening, maintained the moisture content and membrane integrity, and modulated key metabolic pathways of jujube fruit. As a whole, the applicability of IHOT could prolonged the shelf life of fresh jujube, which shows a great potential, in the application of fruit preservation.

Practical applications

Evaluation of different oxygen concentrations and treated models on jujube fruit helps the development of preservation technology for extending the shelf life of fruits. The application of intermittent high oxygen treatment to the fruits and vegetables was helpful to a novel postharvest preservation technology and the development of the fresh jujube fruit market.