bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial rheology and morphology of casein and non‐starch polysaccharides mixed layers at oil/water interface
Authors: Aslan Türker Duygu , Saraç Meryem Göksel , Doğan Mahmut
Published: July 2023

This work aims to determine the importance of the interfacial attributes on the emulsion stability of casein and five different non‐starch polysaccharides (NSPs) and to compare the interfacial rheological properties at the O/W interface. Various interfacial properties of the layers were determined as well as the bulk rheological properties and morphological structures of emulsions. The results of steady interfacial viscosity pointed out that the interfacial film formed by the reaction between casein and lemon fiber had the highest mechanical strength. The molecules of the samples prepared with all other NSPs, except for the emulsions prepared with lemon fiber, were rapidly dispersed and absorbed at the O/W interface, and their Gi′ and Gi″ remained nearly constant throughout the test. As a result, it was found that the layers showed non‐negligible influences on the interfacial behavior, the amount of NSPs adsorbed at the interface, and the viscoelasticity of the interfacial layers.

Practical applications

This study was conducted considering the interfacial properties of emulsions and evaluated the stability along with the steady and dynamic rheological properties. The obtained results of current study highlighted the importance of determining the interfacial characteristics of non‐starch polysaccharides (NSPs) and casein‐stabilized emulsions because they can be used to predict the stability of emulsion throughout the shelf life and to get a deeper knowledge on the effects of the NSPs fortification on the emulsion efficiency in food products. A strong positive correlation was found between apparent viscosity and the presence of NSPs. Without NSPs, emulsions were unstable due to depletion or bridging aggregation. The findings are of great importance in understanding the stability and behavior of protein and NSPs‐stabilized emulsions. Therefore, the findings of this study will contribute for both the literature and food industry.
Analytical validation of an ELISA for the measurement of feline pancreas‐specific lipase and re‐evaluation of the reference interval and decision threshold for diagnosing pancreatitis
Authors: Wu Yu‐An , Steiner Jörg M. , Huisinga Elke , Beall Melissa J. , Buch Jesse , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Lidbury Jonathan A.
Published: July 2023

Background

The diagnosis of feline pancreatitis can be challenging. The clinical presentation often includes mild, nonspecific clinical signs, such as vomiting, anorexia, and weight loss. Measurement of feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) concentration in serum has been reported to be sensitive and specific for a diagnosis of pancreatitis in cats. However, analytical validation for a widely available commercial assay for the measurement of fPLI concentration has not been published.

Objective

We aimed to analytically validate the Spec fPL assay (IDEXX Laboratories, Westbrook, ME), a commercial ELISA for the measurement of fPLI concentration, and re‐evaluate its reference interval and decision threshold for diagnosing pancreatitis in cats.

Methods

Dilutional linearity, accuracy, precision, and the effect of interfering substances were assessed. The upper limit of the reference interval was calculated based on the 95th percentile of results from clinically healthy cats (n = 107), and a decision threshold for diagnosing pancreatitis was calculated with an expected specificity of 99%.

Results

Analytical validation demonstrated good linearity, accuracy, and precision, as well as the absence of interference from lipemia, hemolysis, or icterus. The upper limit of the reference interval for Spec fPL was determined to be 4.4 μg/L, and the decision threshold (a theoretical cut‐off) for diagnosing pancreatitis was determined to be 8.8 μg/L based on a desired specificity of 99%.

Conclusions

The Spec fPL assay is analytically valid, and results suggest that a decision threshold of 8.8 μg/L would have high diagnostic specificity for excluding clinically healthy cats.
The impact of individualised funding on the wellbeing of mothers raising an autistic child in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Priestley Racheal , Yeung Polly , Cooper Lareen
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION: How best to support the wellbeing of mothers raising autistic children is an emerging issue of importance due to the growth in autism diagnoses. While the move to individualised funding has been seen to promote autonomy for disabled people and their family to make decisions about services to meet their needs, it has also received criticisms, leading to inequitable processes and outcomes. The purpose of this research was to explore how individualised funding has impacted on mothers raising autistic children and their wellbeing.
METHODS: A qualitative approach, combining semi-structured interviews and the theoretical underpinning of social constructionism, was used to interview seven mothers in 2020 to discuss their experiences of raising an autistic children and how individualised funding has impacted on them. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected.
FINDINGS: Key findings indicated that caring for an autistic child has an ongoing negative impact on mothers’ overall wellbeing and the individualised funding did not seem to ease the stresses of caring.
CONCLUSION: Mothers raising an autistic child in Aotearoa New Zealand face complex funding systems, which are difficult to navigate. Individualisation of disability funding frameworks continues to create barriers and negatively impact the wellbeing of mothers. Wellbeing requires the funding support to see the family as a unit of care instead of the individualisation of a child’s needs. Results of this study urge practitioners and policymakers to support parents raising an autistic child in a more flexible and holistic way to meet the unique circumstances of a family.
Introducing a professional capabilities framework for social work in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Ballantyne Neil , Beddoe Liz , Hay Kathryn , Maidment Jane , Walker Shayne , Merriman Caitlin
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION: This article discusses the findings from a project on enhancing the professional capabilities of newly qualified social workers. Existing capability and competence frameworks are reviewed, and components of a draft Aotearoa New Zealand Professional Capabilities Framework (ACPF) are outlined.
METHODS: This phase of the research programme began with a literature scan of five social work professional capability frameworks then used this information, data from earlier parts of the study, and a series of co-production workshops with key stakeholders to draft a professional capabilities framework for newly qualified and more experienced social workers.
FINDINGS: Analysis of the existing frameworks and data from the co-production workshops identified seven core values and 10 core capabilities to guide early-career and more experienced social work practitioners in Aotearoa New Zealand.
IMPLICATIONS: Professional capabilities frameworks can guide and inform the practice and learning of all social workers. Following further stakeholder engagement, especially with tangata whenua (Indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand), it is strongly recommended that the Social Workers Registration Board considers the adoption or adaptation of the APCF as an alternative to the current competence standards.
The challenge of right-wing populism— A human rights approach
Authors: Beddoe Liz
Published: July 2023

Review of The challenge of right-wing populism—A human rights approach. Edited by Carolyn Noble and Goetz Ottmann (Eds.) Routledge 2021. ISBN 978-0-429-05653-6, pp.235, ebk, NZD78.99.
Air quality policy should quantify effects on disparities
Authors: Wang Yuzhou , Apte Joshua S. , Hill Jason D. , Ivey Cesunica E. , Johnson Dana , Min Esther , Morello-Frosch Rachel , Patterson Regan , Robinson Allen L. , Tessum Christopher W. , Marshall Julian D.
Published: July 2023

New tools can guide US policies to better target and reduce racial and socioeconomic disparities in air pollution exposure
A Qualitative Investigation of the Psychosocial Impact of Chronic Low Back Pain in Ghana
Authors: Ampiah Josephine Ahenkorah , Moffatt Fiona , Diver Claire , Ampiah Paapa Kwesi
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a global health concern associated with multidimensional/biopsychosocial levels of affectation in developed countries, with holistic management requiring consideration of these factors. There has been minimal research exploring the psychosocial impact of CLBP, and the factors influencing it, in African contexts, with none in Ghana.

Objectives

To explore the psychosocial impact of CLBP among patients with CLBP in Ghana.

Design

Qualitative study using individual semistructured face-to-face interviews, underpinned by Straussian grounded theory principles and critical realist philosophy.

Participants

Thirty patients with CLBP attending physiotherapy at two hospitals in Ghana.

Results

Five categories: loss of self and roles, emotional distress, fear, stigmatisation and marginalisation, financial burden, and social support and three mechanisms: acquired biomedical/mechanical beliefs from healthcare professionals (HCPs), sociocultural beliefs and the socioeconomic impact of CLBP were derived.

Conclusion

CLBP adversely affects multidimensional/biopsychosocial aspects of individuals experiencing CLBP in Ghana. This delineates the need for a biopsychosocial approach to care. There is the need for HCPs in Ghana to reassess current CLBP management strategies to address the influence of adverse HCPs biomedical inclinations on patients’ psychosocial consequences. Population-based education strategies and consideration of formal support systems for persons with disabling CLBP may also be beneficial.
Atomistic modelling and structural characterisation of coated gold nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Dickers Matthew D. , Verkhovtsev Alexey V. , Mason Nigel J. , Solov’yov Andrey V.
Published: July 2023

This study presents the results of atomistic structural characterisation of 3.7-nm-diameter gold nanoparticles (NP) coated with polymer polyethylene glycol-based ligands of different lengths (containing 2–14 monomers) and solvated in water. The system size and composition are selected in connection to several experimental studies of radiosensitisation mechanisms of gold NPs. The coating structure and water distribution near the NP surface are characterised on the atomistic level by means of molecular dynamics simulations. The results of simulations carried out in this study, combined with the results of our recent study (Verkhovtsev et al. in J Phys Chem A 126:2170–2184, 2022) and those from the field of polymer physics, are used to calculate key structural parameters of the coatings of radiosensitising gold NPs. On this basis, connections between the coating structure and distribution of water are established for different NP sizes as well as lengths and surface densities of coating molecules. The quantitative analysis of water distribution in the vicinity of coated metal NPs can be used to evaluate the radiosensitising effectiveness of a particular NP system based on the proximity of water to the NP metal core, which should impact the production of hydroxyl radicals and reactive oxygen species in the vicinity of metal NPs exposed to ionising radiation.

Graphical abstract
Heavy Metal Content and Health Risk Assessment of Some Selected Medicinal Plants from Obuasi, a Mining Town in Ghana
Authors: Amerley Amarh Flora , Selorm Agorku Eric , Bright Voegborlo Ray , Winfred Ashong Gerheart , Nii Klu Nortey Enoch , Jackson Mensah Napoleon
Published: July 2023

Medicinal plants represent an important class of traditional medicines. This research was conducted to assess the levels of selected heavy metals in some medicinal plants from Obuasi, a mining area in Ghana. Twenty different medicinal crops were sampled for this study. The levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) after wet digestion. The concentrations (mg/kg) of As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, and Pb were 1.092 − 0.206, 1.341 − 0.253, 6.603 − 2.005, 0.045 − 0.001, 282.798 − 20.583, 4.967 − 1.676, and 26.410 − 0.629, respectively. Some concentrations of Cr, Cd, As, Mn, and Pb analyzed in all 20 medicinal plant samples exceeded WHO permissible limits for medicinal food while concentrations of Ni, As, and Hg for all the samples were below the WHO permissible limit. The estimated dietary intake (EDI) was compared to the tolerable daily intake recommended by WHO/FAO. Results obtained from hazard indices such as the hazard quotient and carcinogenic risk show that the medicinal plants are not likely to cause cancer if they are consumed over a prolonged period of time.
Efficacy of Lipophilic Statins on Outcomes of Patients Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Chiang Cho-Han , Chen Yuan-Jen , See Xin Ya , Chang Yu-Cheng , Wang Shih-Syuan , Peng Chun-Yu , Horng Chuan-Sheng , Hsia Yuan Ping , Chiang Cho-Hung , Peng Cheng-Ming , Chiang Cho-Hsien
Published: July 2023

Background: Statins are associated with improved survival outcomes in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), but the impact of lipophilic and hydrophilic statin properties on patient outcomes is unknown. Objectives: We aim to investigate if statins with lipophilic properties are associated with clinical outcomes in patients receiving ICIs. Method: We conducted a retrospective cohort study at two tertiary referral centers in Taiwan comprising patients receiving ICIs between January 2015 and December 2021. We compared the comparative effect of lipophilic and hydrophilic statins on patient outcomes. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS) and the secondary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS). Results: Among 734 patients receiving ICIs, there were 51 lipophilic statin users, 25 hydrophilic statin users, and 658 nonusers. Lipophilic statin users had a longer median OS (38.0 [IQR, 16.7–not reached] vs. 15.2 [IQR, 8.2–not reached] months vs. 18.9 [IQR, 5.4 51.6] months) and PFS (13.0 [IQR, 4.7–41.5] vs. 8.2 [IQR, 2.2–14.7] months vs. 5.6 [2.3–18.7] months) than hydrophilic statin users and non-statin users. In Cox proportional hazard analyses, the use of lipophilic statins was associated with a 40–50% lower risk of mortality and disease progression compared with hydrophilic statin or non-statin users. Conclusions: The use of lipophilic statins seems to be associated with survival benefits in patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Long-Term Prognosis and Related Factors in Patients with Cirrhosis Treated with Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration
Authors: Tamura Yamato , Asaoka Yoshinari , Takeuchi Akihito , Matsumoto Kosuke , Miura Ryo , Abe Koichiro , Arizumi Toshihiko , Yamamoto Masayoshi , Kodashima Shinya , Kondo Hiroshi , Yamamoto Takatsugu , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) was developed as an effective treatment for gastric varices in patients with cirrhosis. Because liver fibrosis in these patients is assumed to be advanced, their prognosis is expected to be poor. In this study, we investigated the prognosis and characteristics of the patients. Methods: We enrolled 55 consecutive patients with liver cirrhosis treated with BRTO between 2009 and 2021 at our department. To evaluate factors related to variceal recurrence and long-term prognosis, survival analysis was performed on 45 patients, excluding those who died within 1 month, had an unknown prognosis, or whose treatments were converted to other treatments. Results: During a mean follow-up period of 2.3 years, esophageal varices recurred in 10 patients and could be treated endoscopically. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was related to the variceal recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.27, 95% CI: 1.17–15.5, p = 0.028). The survival rate after the procedure at 1, 3, and 5 years was 94.2%, 74.0%, and 63.5%, respectively, and 10 patients died of hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 6), liver failure (n = 1), sepsis (n = 1), and unknown reasons (n = 2). The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) level was proved to be a significant poor prognostic factor (HR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93–0.99, p = 0.023). The comorbid hypertension (HTN) was the main cause of low eGFR, and HTN was also significantly related to survival (HR = 6.18, 95% CI: 1.57–24.3, p = 0.009). Most of the patients with HTN were treated with calcium channel blocker and/or angiotensin receptor blocker. Conclusion: The clinical course of patients with cirrhosis treated with BRTO was dependent on the metabolic factors including renal function, comorbid HTN, and NASH.
Histopathological Features of Time-Zero Kidney Biopsy Are Predictive Factors for Posttransplant Anemia
Authors: Mokos Mislav , Juric Ivana , Mokos Ivica , Coric Marijana , Kastelan Zeljko , Basic-Jukic Nikolina
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Posttransplant anemia (PTA) is a common complication of kidney transplantation, associated with reduced graft survival and higher mortality. We aimed to determine the association of PTA with histopathological characteristics of time-zero allograft biopsy and donor clinical characteristics. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort study that included 587 patients who underwent kidney transplantation in our center. Hemoglobin levels were assessed at 6 and 12 months after transplantation, and anemia was defined according to World Health Organization criteria. The kidney allograft time-zero biopsy has been done in all investigated cases. The evaluated histopathological parameters of the kidney allografts included glomerulosclerosis, arteriolar hyalinosis (AH), vascular fibrous intimal thickening (CV), interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. The Banff Classification of Allograft Pathology criteria were followed to assess the allograft histopathological changes. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 31.3% at 6 months after transplantation and 23.5% at 12 months. There was an association between 20-50% glomerulosclerosis and PTA in both time points, independently from estimated glomerular filtration rate. AH and interstitial fibrosis were identified as independent risk factors for anemia 6 months after transplantation. Conclusion: Histopathological features of time-zero kidney biopsy may be predictors of PTA. Among them, our study recognized 20–50% degree of glomerulosclerosis, AH, and CV as the most significant risk factors for PTA.
Frequency of Sex Chromosome Involvement in a Large Cohort of Subjects with Two Copy Number Variants
Authors: Vara Autumn , Smith Janice L. , Hashmi S. Shahrukh , Wagner Victoria F. , Gunther Kathryn , Rodriguez-Buritica David F.
Published: July 2023

Copy number variants (CNVs) are a common finding in the clinical setting and contribute to both genetic variation and disease. Studies have described the accumulation of multiple CNVs as a disease-modifying mechanism. While it has been described how additional CNVs may play a role in phenotype, in which ways and to what extent sex chromosomes are involved in dual CNV scenario has not been fully defined. To describe the distribution of CNVs, a secondary data analysis using the DECIPHER database on 2,273 de-identified individuals with two CNVs was performed. CNVs were designated larger and secondary based on size and characteristics. We found that the X chromosome was observed to be the most common chromosome involved in secondary CNVs. Further analysis showed CNVs on the sex chromosome have significant differences compared to autosomes when comparing median size (p = 0.013), pathogenicity groups (p < 0.001), and variant classification (p = 0.001). Lastly, we identified chromosome combinations for larger and secondary CNVs and observed the plurality of secondary CNVs fell in the same chromosome as the larger. The observations of this study provide additional information on sex chromosome CNV involvement in a variety of indications.
Cognitive Activities, Lifestyle Factors, and Risk of Cognitive Impairment, with an Analysis of the Apolipoprotein Epsilon 4 Genotype
Authors: Sun Yuying , Wang Zhihui , Sun Shengzhi , Cui Lu , Zhu Xiaoquan , Ho Sai Yin , Qi Shige
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Cognitive stimulating activities and a healthy lifestyle are associated with less cognitive impairment. However, whether the association is varied by Apolipoprotein epsilon 4 (APOE ε4) allele carrier status remains inconclusive. We aimed to investigate whether the association of cognitively stimulating activities and a healthy lifestyle with the risk of cognitive impairment varied by APOE ε4 allele carrier status. Methods: A case-control study was conducted for adults aged 60 years and above. Six province administrative units (Beijing, Shanghai, Hubei, Sichuan, Guangxi, and Yunnan) were included using stratified multistage cluster sampling. A total of 1,300 individuals were identified with cognitive impairment (cases) at enrollment and were matched 1:2 on sex, age (±2 years), and residential district with controls who were cognitively normal at the time of the evaluation. We used a standardized questionnaire to collect information on cognitive stimulating activities, lifestyle factors, demographics, and comorbidity. Cognitive stimulating activities included reading books or newspapers, playing cards or mahjong, using the Internet, socializing with neighbors, and community activities. Lifestyle factors included smoking, alcohol drinking, daily tea drinking, and regular exercise. We used logistic regression to assess the interaction between cognitive stimulating activities, lifestyle factors, and APOE ε4 allele carrier status (yes/no) on the risk of cognitive impairment. We tested for additive interaction by estimating relative excess risk (RERI) due to interaction and multiplicative interaction employing the p value of the interaction term of each lifestyle factor and APOE ε4 into the model. Results: Four cognitive stimulating activities were associated with less cognitive impairment regardless of APOE ε4 status. Using the Internet (odds ratio [OR]: 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30–0.95), daily tea drinking (OR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.63–0.98), and regular exercise (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.65–0.94) were associated with less cognitive impairment only in noncarriers. Multiplicative and additive interactions were found between community activities and APOE ε4 carrier status (multiplicative p value = 0.03; RERI 0.738, 95% CI: 0.201–1.275). Conclusion: The associations between cognitive activities and cognitive impairment were robust regardless of the APOE ε4 carrier status, while the associations between lifestyle factors and cognitive impairment varied by APOE ε4 carrier status.
Serum Vitamins A and E at Mid-Pregnancy and Their Relationships with Both Maternal and Cord Blood Antioxidant Status and Perinatal Conditions: The NELA Cohort
Authors: Sánchez-Campillo María , Gázquez Antonio , Serrano-Munuera Ana , Arnao Marino B. , Avilés-Plaza Francisco , Garcia-Serna Azahara M , Noguera-Velasco José A , Martínez-López de Castro Ana , Martínez-Graciá Carmen , Suárez-Martínez Clara , Santaella-Pascual Marina , Vioque Jesús , Montoya-Hernández Carmen , Ballesteros-Meseguer Carmen , Sánchez-Ferrer Marisa , Perez-Fernandez Virginia , Morales Eva , García-Marcos Luis , Larqué Elvira ,   The Nela Study Group
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Most of the pregnant women do not achieve the recommended dietary intake of vitamins A and E. These vitamins may counteract oxidative stress involved in some adverse perinatal outcomes. We aimed to assess the associations between maternal vitamin A and E at mid-pregnancy with both maternal and fetal outcomes and to identify possible early biomarkers during pregnancy to predict and prevent oxidative stress in the offspring. Methods: Data on dietary and serum levels of vitamins A and E were collected from 544 pregnant women from the Nutrition in Early Life and Asthma (NELA) study, a prospective mother-child cohort set up in Spain. Results: There were large discrepancies between low dietary vitamin E intake (78% of the mothers) and low serum vitamin E levels (3%) at 24 weeks of gestation. Maternal serum vitamins A and E at mid-pregnancy were associated with higher antioxidant status not only in the mother at this time point (lower hydroperoxides and higher total antioxidant activity [TAA]) but also with the newborn at birth (higher TAA). Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was negatively associated with maternal serum vitamin A (OR: 0.95 CI: 0.91–0.99, p = 0.009) at mid-pregnancy. Nevertheless, we could not detect any association between GDM and oxidative stress parameters. Conclusions: In conclusion, maternal vitamin A and E serum levels may be used as an early potential biomarker of antioxidant status of the neonate at birth. Control of these vitamins during pregnancy could help avoid morbid conditions in the newborn caused by oxidative stress in GDM pregnancies.
The Neo-X Does Not Form a Barr Body but Shows a Slightly Condensed Structure in the Okinawa Spiny Rat (Tokudaia muenninki)
Authors: Kudo Ryoma , Yoshida Ikuya , Matiz Ceron Luisa , Mizushima Shusei , Kuroki Yoko , Jogahara Takamichi , Kuroiwa Asato
Published: July 2023

X chromosome inactivation (XCI) is an essential mechanism for gene dosage compensation between male and female cells in mammals. The Okinawa spiny rat (Tokudaia muenninki) is a native rodent in Japan with XX/XY sex chromosomes, like most mammals; however, the X chromosome has acquired a neo-X region (Xp) by fusion with an autosome. We previously reported that dosage compensation has not yet evolved in the neo-X region; however, X-inactive-specific transcript (Xist) RNA (long non-coding RNA required for the initiation of XCI) is partially localized in the region. Here, we show that the neo-X region represents an early chromosomal state in the acquisition of XCI by analyses of heterochromatin and Barr body formation. We found no evidence for heterochromatin formation in the neo-X region by R-banding by acridine orange (RBA) assays and immunostaining of H3K27me3. Double-immunostaining of H3K27me3 and HP1, a component of the Barr body, revealed that the entire ancestral X chromosome region (Xq) showed a bipartite folded structure. By contrast, HP1 was not localized to the neo-X region. However, BAC-FISH revealed that the signals of genes on the neo-X region of the inactive X chromosome were concentrated in a narrow region. These findings indicated that although the neo-X region of the inactive X chromosome does not form a complete Barr body structure (e.g., it lacks HP1), it forms a slightly condensed structure. These findings combined with the previously reported partial binding of Xist RNA suggest that the neo-X region exhibits incomplete inactivation. This may represent an early chromosomal state in the acquisition of the XCI mechanism.
Effectiveness of Palonosetron, 1-Day Dexamethasone, and Aprepitant in Patients Undergoing Carboplatin-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Hayashi Toshinobu , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Matsuo Koichi , Uchiyama Masanobu , Kawada Kei , Nakano Takafumi , Egawa Takashi
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Dexamethasone (DEX)-sparing strategy with 5-hydroxytryptamine-3 receptor antagonist (5HT3RA) and aprepitant (APR), as triplet antiemetic prophylaxis, is associated with poor control of delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in patients receiving carboplatin (CBDCA)-based chemotherapy. This study aimed to evaluate whether using palonosetron (PALO) as a 5HT3RA provides superior control with CINV than first-generation (1st) 5HT3RA in triplet antiemetic prophylaxis with a DEX-sparing strategy. Methods: Pooled patient-level data from a nationwide, multicenter, and prospective observational study were analyzed to compare the incidence of CINV between patients administered PALO and 1st 5HT3RA in combination with 1-day DEX and APR. Results: No significant differences were observed in the incidence of CINV, pattern of CINV, or severity of nausea by type of 5HT3RA in triplet antiemetic prophylaxis with DEX-sparing strategy. In both groups, the incidence of nausea gradually increased from day 3, peaked on day 4 or 5, and then declined slowly. The visual analog scale scores in the delayed phase remained high throughout the 7-day observation period. Conclusion: Careful patient selection and symptom monitoring are needed when implementing the DEX-sparing strategy in triplet antiemetic prophylaxis for patients undergoing CBDCA-based chemotherapy. Furthermore, additional strategies may be needed to achieve better control of delayed CINV.
Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of 3 Months of CAPOX Followed by 3 Months of Capecitabine and 6 Months of CAPOX/FOLFOX in the Adjuvant Treatment of Low-Risk Stage III Colon Cancer Treated Surgically
Authors: Bardakci Murat , Demirtas Esmer Derya , Hafizoglu Emre , Yaslikaya Sendag , Genc Tugrul Burak , Ozcelik Melike , Erdat Efe Cem , Hendem Engin , Buyukbayram Mehmet Emin , Alaca Topcu Zeynep , Kalkan Ziya , Yildirim Nilgun , Celebi Abdussamet , Ergun Yakup , Paydas Semra , Tatli Ali Murat , Karakas Hilal , Koseci Tolga , Sendur Mehmet Ali Nahit
Published: July 2023

Introduction: In the adjuvant treatment of low-risk stage III colon cancer treated surgically, 3 months of CAPOX followed by 3 months of capecitabine is not a common clinical practice. Since there are no data on this practice in the literature, we have no idea how often it is used. However, it should be noted that this application is used in some centers due to the cumulative neurotoxicity of oxaliplatin but there are insufficient data in the literature on its efficacy. Methods: The data of patients with colon cancer treated surgically who were followed up in 12 different oncology centers in Turkey between November 2004 and June 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The study included 194 patients. The treatment arms were as follows: 3 months of CAPOX followed by 3 months of capecitabine = arm A and CAPOX/FOLFOX (6 months) = arm B. There were 78 patients (40.2%) in arm A and 116 patients (59.8%) in arm B. The median age and sex distribution were similar between the treatment arms. The median follow-up period of all patients was 34.4 months (95% confidence interval, 29.1–39.7). When arm A was compared with arm B, 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 75.3% versus 88.4% and 5-year DFS was 75.3% versus 82.8%, respectively. There were similar DFS outcomes between the treatment arms (p = 0.09). Rates of any grade of neuropathy were numerically lower in arm A, but the difference between the treatment arms was not statistically significant (51.3% vs. 56.9%; p = 0.44). The frequency of neutropenia was similar between the treatment arms. Conclusion: In this study, the efficacy and safety of the 3 months of CAPOX followed by 3 months of capecitabine chemotherapy regimen in the adjuvant treatment of low-risk stage III colon cancer treated surgically were proven. This result may also support the discontinuation of oxaliplatin at 3 months while continuing fluoropyrimidines, which is a common clinical practice but lacks sufficient data.
Exploring the Principles Applied During the Production of an Open Writing Textbook
Authors: Atkinson Dawn , Corbitt Stacey
Published: July 2023

Despite coverage of materials development principles in the applied linguistics literature, principled production of open textbooks has not received attention. To address this gap and demonstrate the interdisciplinary potential of materials development research, the authors drew upon concurrent verbalization and interview data they collected while composing their first coursebook, a freely available open textbook designed for first-year university writing courses that enroll English first-language and second-language learners, to discern how they applied principles. Qualitative content analysis of the data indicated the novice textbook writers focused on learning objectives to negotiate textbook relevancy and currency concerns, tried to create relatable content, and employed varied repetition and layering to build modular chapters. This study illustrates the generalizability of materials development research and principles and offers a view of open textbook authorship for teachers interested in the activity.
Ultrasonic-assisted sustainable pollution free advanced method for isolation of colouring material from Amba Haldi (Curcuma aromatica) for wool dyeing
Authors: Habib Noman , Adeel Shahid , Ali Aamir , Mia Rony , Khan Shahid Rehman , Qayyum Muhammad Abdul
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the colouring performance of Amba Haldi–based natural extracted yellowish colour for the dyeing of wool fabric using ultrasonic (US) treatments. Before and after the US treatment, the colourant was separated in aqueous and acidic solutions for up to 60 min. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to investigate the surface morphology and chemical changes in the cloth before and after radiation. On the wool fabric that was ultrasonically treated at 75°C for 45 min, an acidic extract of Amba Haldi powder after US treatment for 20 min showed good colour depth (K/S). Acacia extract (2%), pomegranate extract (1.5%) and pistachio extract (1%), when used as pre-biomordants, were shown to have excellent colour strength. Acacia (1.5%) extract, pomegranate (2%) extract and pistachio (1.5%) extract were also used as post-biomordants. As pre-chemical mordants, Al salts (1%), Fe salts (1.5%) and tannic acid salts (2%), whereas Al salts (2%), Fe salts (1%) and tannic acid salts (2%), have produced successful results as post-chemical mordants. Overall, it was discovered that pomegranate extract (2%), used as a post-bio-mordant, and salt of Fe (1.5%), used as a post-chemical mordant, both exhibit exceptional colour strength. Ultrasonic treatment, a procedure that is harmless for the environment, has only served to increase the colour strength of dye on wool fabric, and the addition of bio-mordants has made the process more sustainable.
Making the left behind as a subject of crisis
Authors: Dobbernack Jan
Published: July 2023

Working through the narrative construction of the left behind, the article explores how groups become visible as subjects of crisis, with reference to material conditions, attitudinal disposition and moral outlook. It suggests that crisis provides a panoramic vision that is crucial for understanding how authors delineate left behind subjectivity, suggest relational dispositions and put audiences and spectators into the frame. Considering book-length titles and policy proposals, the article examines contributions to a body of work that speaks on behalf of populations and makes them subject of social-diagnostic, moral and political evaluation. It argues that this type of image-making renders left behind constituencies visible as subjects of resentment but without history, self-authorship and depth. With this focus, the article adds a critical perspective to the study of crises at a point when their permanence and multiplication challenge existing frameworks.
Complications of cyanoacrylate adhesive closure therapy in chronic venous insufficiency: A single center, single-surgeon study
Authors: Keles Ercan
Published: July 2023

Objectives

In this study, we present the complication data of patients we treated for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) with cyanoacrylate adhesive closure (CAC) therapy for 2 years.

Methods

Complications of 382 CAC procedures performed by the same surgeon were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

Independent of patients, depending on the payment system of the state; two hundred twenty-three (58.4%) of 382 procedures were performed using the Venex system, and the Variclose system was used in 159 (41.6%) patients. A phlebitis-like reaction occurred in 46 (12%) patients, induration in 18 (4.7%) patients, hyperpigmentation in five (1.3%) patients, abscesses in four (1%) patients, cellulitis in three (0.8%) patients, and granuloma in one (0.3%) patient. In addition, as serious complications, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) developed in three patients and pulmonary embolism in one of these patients. Interestingly, temporary blindness was also observed in one patient.

Conclusions

Although CAC therapy is a reliable method, its complications should not be ignored. Its use by experienced surgeons reduces the risk of complications.
The Meanings of Internationalism: A Collective Discussion on Pan-African, Early Soviet, Islamic Socialist and Kurdish Internationalisms Across the 20th Century
Authors: Dirik Dilar , Younis Musab , Chehonadskih Maria , Uddin Layli , Davidson Miri
Published: July 2023

‘Few political notions are at once so normative and so equivocal as internationalism’, wrote Perry Anderson 20 years ago. Little has changed: today too, internationalism tends to take the form of a regular exhortation to think or act beyond the border or boundary, yet its political content remains underdetermined. What do we mean when we talk about internationalism? The following discussion sought to approach this question not by returning to first principles – to a definition of internationalism that could stand outside of a given historical context – but by reconstructing different concepts of internationalism developed by a series of lesser studied political movements spanning the 20th century. Musab Younis discusses anticolonial and pan-African internationalisms of the 1920s–40s; Maria Chehonadskih interrogates the interwar Soviet internationalism of Alexander Boganov; Layli Uddin excavates the Islamic socialist activities of Maulana Bhashani; and Dilar Dirik focuses on the meanings of internationalism in the history of the Kurdistan Freedom Movement. These movements bore witness to a fundamental set of shifts in the nature of the international system as empires collapsed and new nation-states were born, while global structures of exploitation and extraction recomposed themselves in the Cold War and post-Cold War landscape. In this context, all conceived of internationalism as a fundamentally revolutionary project.
Protect and Control: Coverture's Logics Across Welfare Policy and Abortion Law
Authors: Downey Margaret Mary , Daniel Clare , McGlynn-Wright Anne , Haugeberg Karissa
Published: July 2023

In the aftermath of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which overturned the federal constitutional right to abortion, states have begun to recriminalize the procedure. These abortion bans raise important questions about the political and social status of women and pregnant people in the United States. Moreover, restrictions in social welfare programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, which serve low-income pregnant people and parents, raise similar questions. The regulation and administration of all three are framed by race, class, and gender. To understand how these restrictions (a) claim to protect women but ultimately function to control, police, and surveil and (b) rely on imagined, stereotype-laden psychological states such as vulnerability, irresponsibility, or irrationality, we turn to the British Common Law doctrine of coverture, which subsumed a married woman's legal, financial, and political identities under her husband's. The American colonies, and later, states of the United States, drew from British Common Law to craft laws that regulated relationships between men and women. Taken together, this analysis can provide a more comprehensive accounting of the cumulative harms experienced by women, poor people, people of color, and pregnant people in today's health and social welfare landscape. We conclude with recommendations for psychologists and other mental health providers to address, in practice and advocacy, the ethical dilemmas and obligations raised by the reach of coverture's logics in people's lives.
Factors influencing the decision-making in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for small renal masses
Authors: Kazan Ozgur , Cakici Mehmet Caglar , Kokurcan Alihan , Ozenc Gorkem , Karakoyunlu Nihat , Atis Gokhan , Imamoglu Muhammet Abdurrahim , Yildirim Asif
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives:

We analyzed the factors affecting the decision on surgical approach such as hilum dissection, vessel clamping, and the warm ischemia time (WIT) in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for small renal masses (SRMs).

Methods:

Patients who underwent LPN for SRMs between 2011 and 2021 in two centers were retrospectively screened. Standardized R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score (RNS) and each of the components were scored on a Likert scale and the effect on the surgical approach was examined by using them separately.

Results:

A total of 133 patients, 85 of whom were on-clamp and 48 were off-clamp, were included in the study. Greater tumor size, low BMI, higher RNS, upper pole tumor, low exophytic rate, and nearness to the collecting system were statistically significant for both on/off-clamp and hilar dissection decisions. In multivariate analysis, greater tumor size, upper pole tumor, lower rate of exophytic part (E2), nearness to the collecting system (N3) were independent risk factors for vessel clamping. Greater tumor size and lower exophytic tumor rate (E2) were independent risk factors for hilum dissection. We could not identify any factor affecting WIT.

Conclusion:

Individual components of RNS may serve as a better tool for decision-making on vessel clamping and hilum dissection during LPN for SRMs.
Psychosocial Barriers to Adult Learning and the Role of Prior Learning Experiences: A Comparison Based on Educational Level
Authors: Van Nieuwenhove Lisse , De Wever Bram
Published: July 2023

Low-educated adults participate less in adult education than higher-educated adults. In this study, we analyze psychosocial barriers to learning while acknowledging that barriers for low-educated adults may be different from those of medium- and high-educated adults. An extended version of the Theory of Planned Behavior is used to study training intention. We add prior Learning Experiences as predictor to the model. A total of 563 adults filled in the questionnaire. Higher-educated adults show more Perceived Behavioral Control, Perceived Social Norms, and more positive Attitudes towards lifelong learning. Logistic regression demonstrated that Perceived Behavioral Control, Perceived Social Norms and Attitudes are related to training intention, but prior Learning Experiences are not. Mediation analyses showed that the relationship between Perceived Behavioral Control and Intention is mediated through Learning Experiences. The findings suggest that psychosocial barriers need to be taken into account when considering how to reach non-participating adults.
Interval cancers in a national colorectal screening programme based on faecal immunochemical testing: Implications for faecal haemoglobin concentration threshold and sex inequality
Authors: Clark Gavin RC , Godfrey Thomas , Purdie Calum , Strachan Judith , Carey Francis A , Fraser Callum G , Steele Robert JC
Published: July 2023

Objective

To compare interval cancer proportions (ICP) in the faecal immunochemical test (FIT)-based Scottish Bowel Screening Programme (SBoSP) with the former guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT)-based SBoSP and investigate associations between interval cancer (IC) and faecal haemoglobin concentration (f-Hb) threshold, sex, age, deprivation, site, and stage.

Methods

The ICP data from first year of the FIT-based SBoSP and the penultimate year of the gFOBT-based SBoSP were compared in a prospective cohort design.

Results

With FIT, 801 colorectal cancers (CRCs) were screen detected (SDC), 802 were in non-participants, 548 were ICs, 39 were colonoscopy missed and 72 were diagnosed after incomplete screening; with gFOBT: 540, 904, 556, 45, and 13, respectively. FIT had a significantly higher proportion of SDC compared to IC than gFOBT. For FIT and gFOBT, ICP was significantly higher in women than men. As f-Hb threshold increased, ICP increased and, for any f-Hb threshold for men, a lower threshold was required for comparable ICP in women. In Scotland, the current threshold of ≥80 µg Hb/g faeces would have to be lowered to ≥40 µg Hb/g faeces for women to achieve sex equality for ICP. In the FIT-based SBoSP, there were four times as many stage I SDC than IC. This was reversed in advanced stages, with twice as many stage IV CRC diagnosed as IC versus SDC.

Conclusions

Reducing the numbers of IC requires lowering the f-Hb threshold. Using different f-Hb thresholds for women and men could eliminate the sex disparity, but with additional colonoscopy.
Food-derived Bioactive Peptides with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibiting Effect: A Systematic Review
Authors: Daza-Rodríguez Belén , Martínez Angie Rodríguez , Padilla Albeiro Marrugo , Lázaro Johana Márquez
Published: July 2023

Objective

To describe the current scientific evidence of food-derived bioactive peptides and their angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibiting effect.

Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed. We searched MEDLINE (through PubMed) and Science Direct databases to identify studies assessing food-derived bioactive peptides and angiotensin-converting enzyme-inhibiting effects. The evidence was organized and presented using tables and narrative synthesis.

Results

We identified 11 peptides with the best antihypertensive potential: RDGGYCC, LRLESF, FHAPWK, and LVLPG from plants; LSGYGP, ITT, VISDEDGVTH, ATT, and LWHTH from animals; and ALGRV and SPQW from fungi, which demonstrated their antihypertensive potential in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

Overall, food-derived bioactive peptides with hypertensive activity were identified, which shows a promising field as a therapeutic alternative to conventional pharmacological treatments.
Extracellular Vesicle Size Reveals Cargo Specific to Coagulation and Inflammation in Pediatric and Adult Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Thangaraju Kiruphagaran , Setua Saini , Lisk Christina , Swindle Delaney , Stephenson Daniel , Dzieciatkowska Monika , Lamb Derek R. , Moitra Parikshit , Pak David , Hassell Kathryn , George Gemlyn , Nuss Rachelle , Davizon-Castillo Pavel , Stenmark Kurt R. , D’Alessandro Angelo , Irwin David C. , Buehler Paul W.
Published: July 2023

Aberrant coagulation in sickle cell disease (SCD) is linked to extracellular vesicle (EV) exposure. However, there is no consensus on the contributions of small EVs (SEVs) and large EVs (LEVs) toward underlying coagulopathy or on their molecular cargo. The present observational study compared the thrombin potential of SEVs and LEVs isolated from the plasma of stable pediatric and adult SCD patients. Further, EV lipid and protein contents were analyzed to define markers consistent with activation of thrombin and markers of underlying coagulopathy. Results suggested that LEVs—but not SEVs—from pediatrics and adults similarly enhanced phosphatidylserine (PS)-dependent thrombin generation, and cell membrane procoagulant PS (18:0;20:4 and 18:0;18:1) were the most abundant lipids found in LEVs. Further, LEVs showed activated coagulation in protein pathway analyses, while SEVs demonstrated high levels of cholesterol esters and a protein pathway analysis that identified complement factors and inflammation. We suggest that thrombin potential of EVs from both stable pediatric and adult SCD patients is similarly dependent on size and show lipid and protein contents that identify underlying markers of coagulation and inflammation.