bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of fortified pasteurized cow milk with nanoliposome loaded with skipjack tuna eyeball oil
Authors: Pudtikajorn Khamtorn , Sae‐leaw Thanasak , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: June 2021

Nanoliposomes loaded with skipjack tuna eyeballs oil (STEO‐NL) were prepared using an ethanol injection method, without and with the aid of ultrasonication. Higher amplitude (80%) and longer time (15 min) of ultrasonication reduced particle size (from 192.20 to 150.70 nm) and zeta‐potential (from −40.43 to −47.29 mV) of STEO‐NL but increased peroxide value (PV), conjugated diene (CD) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) of STEO‐NL. However, encapsulation efficiency was not different among all the samples (96.82‐97.70%) (P > 0.05). Cow milk was fortified by addition of STEO‐NL (without ultrasonication) at different final levels (0, 2.5 and 5.0% w/w). Subsequently, high‐temperature short‐time (72 °C, 15 s) process was employed to pasteurize the fortified milk, which were further stored up to 10 days at 4 °C. Microbiological quality and pH of pasteurized fortified cow milk were still acceptable. Addition of STEO‐NL at higher level (5%) resulted in higher PV and TBARS and lower acceptability than the control and that fortified with 2.5% STEO‐NL throughout the storage of 10 days, but sensorial acceptability was still obtained. In general, no differences in colour, and viscosity were attained among all samples. Moreover, pasteurized cow milk fortified with STEO‐NL had an increased amount of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Study of aroma compound formations and transformations during Jinxuan and Qingxin oolong tea processing
Authors: Liu Huifan , Li Sufen , Zhong Yuming , Lan Siqi , Brennan Charles Stephen , Wang Qin , Ma Lukai
Published: June 2021

We characterised the formation and dynamic changes in the main aroma compounds produced during the manufacturing process of Jinxuan and Qingxin oolong tea. Thirty‐five aroma compounds were investigated. Subsequent principal component and cluster analyses showed that the fresh leaves, spread leaves and rocked leaves of the two varieties of tea were distinguished from each other. Particularly, the aldehyde and ‘other’ compounds showed the highest correlation coefficients (0.71 and −0.70) among the principal. The heat map showed that the proportions of acetic acid, 3‐methylbutanal and 2‐methylbutanal significantly changed during the manufacturing process of the two tea varieties. The key amino acids (isoleucine, leucine, valine and aspartic acid) and enzymes (branched‐chain amino acid aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase) involved in the synthesis of 3‐methylbutanal and 2‐methylbutanal differed between the two varieties during manufacture. Our study reveals the characteristics of different varieties of oolong tea and their aroma formation after manufacture using the same process.
Lactobacillus plantarum BC299 can alleviate dextran sulphate sodium‐induced colitis by regulating immune response and modulating gut microbiota
Authors: Zhao Jingqi , Yan Ting , Wang Yaqi , Yang Yanrui , Geng Weitao , Wang Jinju , Jia Longgang , Wang Yanping
Published: June 2021

It is well known that probiotics are effective in relieving inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, their exact mechanism is still unclear. Herein, we evaluated the effect of novel Lactobacillus plantarum BC299 on dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)‐induced colitis model mice and investigated the molecular mechanism. We found BC299 could regulate immune response and reduce immunosuppression by enhancing the expression of Th1 T cells in cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppressive model mice. Meanwhile, DSS‐induced colitis model mice were furtherly constructed. The results displayed BC299 can restore bodyweight and relieve colon morphology of colitis mice. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction results demonstrated BC299 can regulate immune response by reducing the expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β mRNA and increasing the expression of IL‐10 and TGF‐β mRNA. Moreover, BC299 administration reshaped and increased the diversity of gut microbiota in IBD mice. Therefore, BC299 can alleviate colitis by regulating immune response and modulating gut microbiota.
Structural analysis and anti‐obesity effect of Polygonatum cyrtonema polysaccharide against obesity induced by high‐fat diet in mice
Authors: Liang Juan , Xu Rujing , Zong Kai , Yu Nianjun , Wu Zhendong , Wu Hongfei , Zhou An
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to analyse the physicochemical properties of Polygonatum cyrtonema polysaccharide (PCP) and evaluated its effects in a high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obese mice. Experimentally, PCP was established as a homogeneous heteropolysaccharide with both α‐ and β‐configurations, and its estimated average molecular weight was ˜5.1 kDa. Besides, we discovered its major monosaccharides, including galactose, mannose, rhamnose, galacturonic acid and glucose. PCP markedly decreased obesity‐related parameters, improved serum lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and leptin levels and reversed insulin resistance. It also reduced the hepatic infiltration of lipid droplets and the size of adipocytes in adipose tissues. Finally, PCP simulation significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein‐α (C/EBPα), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ), sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c) and fatty acid synthase (FAS). On the contrary, it increased carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT1) and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) levels closely related to thermogenesis and glucolipid metabolism. Taken together, these findings have provided evidence that PCP could be a potential anti‐obesity ingredient in preventing diet‐induced obesity.
Clinicopathological and immunophenotypic features of early T cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: A flow cytometry score for the initial diagnosis
Authors: Chandra Dinesh , Singh Manish K. , Gupta Ruchi , Rahman Khaliqur , Yadav Diksha Dev , Sarkar Manoj K. , Gupta Anshul , Yadav Sanjeev , Kashyap Rajesh , Nityanand Soniya
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the prevalence of early T precursor‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ETP‐ALL), study its clinicopathological features and devise a ‘flow score’ based on immunophenotypic profiles.

Material Methods

This was a retrospective study where clinical and laboratory data of all consecutive T‐ALL cases were analysed to identify features differentiating ETP from non‐ETP‐ALL. The utility of a flow score based on the five commonly used markers in leukaemia panels for T‐ALL (CD34, CD8, CD5, CD13 and CD33) was evaluated to differentiate ETP from non‐ETP‐ALL.

Results

Early T precursor‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia constituted 24.2% (n = 29) of all T‐ALL cases. It was significantly more common in adults (30.2%) as compared to paediatric (17.5%) patients (P = .046). The median age of presentation was significantly higher than the non‐ETP group. (24 vs 19 years; P = .01). Patients with ETP‐ALL usually presented with organomegaly, lymphadenopathy, lower levels of haemoglobin, total leucocyte count, peripheral blood blast proportion and LDH levels as compared to non‐ETP‐ALL. The majority of ETP‐ALL cases had L2 morphology with a moderate amount of cytoplasm showing frequent blebbing. A flow score cut‐off value of ≥3 on ROC curve analysis had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 94.6% respectively.

Conclusion

Early T precursor‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia had unique clinical and laboratory features. The prevalence of this entity is more common in the adult population. A flow score based on a minimum of five widely used markers can confidently identify ETP‐ALL and should be included in the primary panel of markers used for flow cytometric analysis.
Mapping the literature on financial well‐being: A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Singh Manjit , Singh Simarjeet
Published: June 2021

The field of personal finance has gained research momentum since the financial crisis of 2008, however, only few comprehensive reviews have been conducted to date. This study adopts a systematic review methodology to build a knowledge structure on financial well‐being. By combining bibliometric tools and content analysis, this study aims to capture insights not provided in earlier reviews, such as key authors, important journals, active countries and organisations, highly cited articles, and the prestige of reviewed papers. After reviewing 114 financial well‐being‐related papers, the study strives to highlight the factors associated with financial well‐being, as well as the relationships and critical theories underpinning research in this field. Based on the reviewed literature, research gaps are uncovered, and future research directions are provided to expand the knowledge in the area of financial well‐being.
The intergroup sensitivity effect in mergers and acquisitions: Testing the role of merger motives
Authors: Liang Shuang , Ullrich Johannes , van Dick Rolf , Lupina‐Wegener Anna
Published: June 2021

Research has shown that people are more defensive to criticism when it stems from an outgroup member, compared to an ingroup member (the intergroup sensitivity effect: ISE). We conducted two online vignette experiments to examine the ISE in the context of an organizational merger and the role of merger motives for the ISE. We predicted that the ISE would also emerge in mergers and acquisitions (M&As), but people would respond less negatively to criticism from the outgroup when the motive for the merger is described as achieving synergies rather than growth. In Experiment 1 (N = 452), which did not mention any motives behind the acquisition, a significant ISE emerged. Experiment 2 (N = 587) again showed an ISE regardless of the merger motive. In both experiments, the ISE was mediated by perceptions of the outgroup criticism as less legitimate and constructive. Overall, this research points to the intergroup sensitivity effect as a relevant phenomenon during post‐merger integration.
Victimization among children and adolescents accessing the Meyer pediatric hospital: A retrospective study
Authors: Nocentini Annalaura , Fiorentini Giada , Maffei Francesca , Martin Rosanna , Losi Stefania , Teodori Caterina , Pisano Tiziana , Gori Sara , De Luca Lisa , Menesini Ersilia
Published: June 2021

Problem

The consistent prevalence and occasionally severe consequences of bullying and victimization suggest the need to include a more accurate assessment of these episodes within the Emergency Departments (ED). However, the literature on mental health related symptoms of bullying/victimization treated in the ED is still scarce. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of peer victimization amongst children and adolescents referred to an Italian Pediatric Emergency Department. Differences between Hospital Departments, type of victimization and ages are tested.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted with 705 subjects. The age range was from 6 to 18 years old (M = 13.09; SD = 3.048).

Findings

15.3% of the sample reported to be victimized (8.2% occasionally; 7.1% systematically). For the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, we found a significant association between peer victimization and being adolescent (Fisher's p = 0.003). In addition, a significant association was found between verbal victimization and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit (Fisher's p = 0.02) and physical victimization and Child Abuse Department (Fisher's p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Findings suggest the importance of an accurate assessment of victimization experiences of children and adolescents with access to ED, to prevent future re‐victimization and crystallization of symptoms across time.
MACF1 alleviates aging‐related osteoporosis via HES1
Authors: Yin Chong , Tian Ye , Hu Lifang , Yu Yang , Wu Zixiang , Zhang Yan , Wang Xue , Miao Zhiping , Qian Airong
Published: June 2021

Ageing‐related osteoporosis is becoming an emerging threat to human health along with the ageing of human population. The decreased rate of osteogenic differentiation and bone formation is the major cause of ageing‐related osteoporosis. Microtubule actin cross‐linking factor 1 (MACF1) is an important cytoskeletal factor that promotes osteogenic differentiation and bone formation. However, the relationship between MACF1 expression and ageing‐related osteoporosis remains unclear. This study has investigated the expression pattern of MACF1 in bone tissues of ageing‐related osteoporosis patients and ageing mice. The study has further elucidated the mechanism of MACF1 promoting bone formation by inhibiting HES1 expression and activity. Moreover, the therapeutic effect of MACF1 on ageing‐related osteoporosis and post‐menopausal osteoporosis was evaluated through in situ injection of the MACF1 overexpression plasmid. The study supplemented the molecular mechanisms between ageing and bone formation, and provided novel targets and potential therapeutic strategy for ageing‐related osteoporosis.
mTORC2 regulates hierarchical micro/nano topography‐induced osteogenic differentiation via promoting cell adhesion and cytoskeletal polymerization
Authors: Gao Qian , Hou Yuying , Li Zhe , Hu Jinyang , Huo Dawei , Zheng Huimin , Zhang Junjiang , Yao Xiaoyu , Gao Rui , Wu Xudong , Sui Lei
Published: June 2021

Surface topography acts as an irreplaceable role in the long‐term success of intraosseous implants. In this study, we prepared the hierarchical micro/nano topography using selective laser melting combined with alkali heat treatment (SLM‐AHT) and explored the underlying mechanism of SLM‐AHT surface‐elicited osteogenesis. Our results show that cells cultured on SLM‐AHT surface possess the largest number of mature FAs and exhibit a cytoskeleton reorganization compared with control groups. SLM‐AHT surface could also significantly upregulate the expression of the cell adhesion‐related molecule p‐FAK, the osteogenic differentiation‐related molecules RUNX2 and OCN as well as the mTORC2 signalling pathway key molecule Rictor. Notably, after the knocked‐down of Rictor, there were no longer significant differences in the gene expression levels of the cell adhesion‐related molecules and osteogenic differentiation‐related molecules among the three titanium surfaces, and the cells on SLM‐AHT surface failed to trigger cytoskeleton reorganization. In conclusion, the results suggest that mTORC2 can regulate the hierarchical micro/nano topography‐mediated osteogenesis via cell adhesion and cytoskeletal reorganization.
Role of skeletal muscle lipids in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance of obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Gilbert Marc
Published: June 2021

Obesity predisposes individuals to the development of insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and muscle plays a central role in this phenomenon. Insulin resistance is associated with: (i) a metabolic inflexibility characterized by a reduced impaired switching from free fatty acid (FA) to carbohydrate substrates; and (ii) an ectopic accumulation of triglyceride in skeletal muscle, generating a cellular “lipotoxicity”, but triglyceride per se, does not contribute to insulin resistance (“athlete’s paradox”). A large body of evidence supports the idea that a decreased mitochondrial capacity to oxidize FA leads to an accretion of intracellular triglyceride and an accumulation of acyl‐CoAs, which are used to synthesize diacylglycerol and ceramide. These lipid derivatives activate serine kinases, leading to increase of insulin receptor substrate 1 serine phosphorylation, which impairs insulin signaling. A second model proposes that insulin resistance arises from an excessive mitochondrial FA oxidation. Studies have shown that the type of FA, unsaturated or saturated, is critical in the development of insulin resistance. It should be also stressed that FA oversupply activates inflammatory signals, induces endoplasmic reticulum stress, increases mitochondrial oxidative stress and influences the regulation of genes that contributes to impaired glucose metabolism. These cellular insults are thought to engage stress‐sensitive serine kinases disrupting insulin signaling. In conclusion, reduced dietary lipid intake in association with physical exercise could be a therapeutic option to improve insulin sensitivity.
Ozone nanobubble treatments improve survivability of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) challenged with a pathogenic multi‐drug‐resistant Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Thanh Dien Le , Linh Nguyen Vu , Sangpo Pattiya , Senapin Saengchan , St‐Hilaire Sophie , Rodkhum Channarong , Dong Ha Thanh
Published: June 2021

A rapid increase in multi‐drug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria in aquaculture highlights the risk of production losses due to diseases and potential public health concerns. Previously, we reported that ozone nanobubbles (NB‐O3) were effective at reducing concentrations of pathogenic bacteria in water and modulating fish immunity against pathogens; however, multiple treatments with direct NB‐O3 exposures caused alterations to the gills of exposed fish. Here, we set up a modified recirculation system (MRS) assembled with an NB‐O3 device (MRS‐NB‐O3) to investigate whether MRS‐NB‐O3 (a) were safe for tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), (b) were effective at reducing bacterial load in rearing water and (c) improved survivability of Nile tilapia following an immersion challenge with a lethal dose of MDR Aeromonas hydrophila. The results showed no behavioural abnormalities or mortality of Nile tilapia during the 14‐day study using the MRS‐NB‐O3 system. In the immersion challenge, although high bacterial concentration (~2 × 107 CFU/ml) was used, multiple NB‐O3 treatments in the first two days reduced the bacteria between 15.9% and 35.6% of bacterial load in water, while bacterial concentration increased from 13.1% to 27.9% in the untreated control. There was slight up‐regulation of non‐specific immune‐related genes in the gills of the fish receiving NB‐O3 treatments. Most importantly, this treatment significantly improved survivability of Nile tilapia with relative percentage survival (RPS) of 64.7% – 66.7% in treated fish and surviving fish developed specific antibody against MDR A. hydrophila. In summary, the result suggests that NB‐O3 is a promising non‐antibiotic approach to control bacterial diseases, including MDR bacteria, and has high potential for application in recirculation aquaculture system (RAS).
Exploring nonlinear linkage between profitability and leverage: US multinational versus domestic corporations
Authors: Alnori Faisal
Published: June 2021

This study examines the impact of profitability on the capital structure decision of US multinational and domestic corporations. The findings reveal that the relationship between multinational corporations’ (MNCs') profitability and their leverage ratios is U‐shaped and nonlinear, while this nonlinear relation does not exist for domestic firms (DCs). This nonlinear relationship indicates that the effect of profitability on multinational corporations' leverage depends on the levels of their profitability. Consistent with the dominance of the pecking order theory, lower‐profitability MNCs have a tax shield advantage that does not outweigh the information asymmetry costs of debt financing. Conversely, higher‐profitability MNCs have a tax shield advantage that outweighs the information asymmetry costs of debt financing. The findings are robust after using two different classifications for multinational firms, including foreign tax and foreign sales; after applying an alternative methodology and during different time horizons.
Possible clinical efficacy and tolerability of platelet‐rich plasma with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Yosef Ayman , Elkady Nada , Khattab Fathia
Published: June 2021

Background

Narrowband‐ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) is a promising, effective, and safe therapeutic option for atopic dermatitis (AD), but the treating courses frequently need an extended period since they might have a possible hazard for several side effects and cases of non‐compliance.

Objective

To discover the influence of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) injecting on the outcomes of short‐term NB‐UVB treatment for AD cases.

Patients and methods

The present study includes 44 atopic dermatitis cases with general symmetric lesions. For every case, the left side of the body was treated with NB‐UVB (control side) whereas the right side was treated with NB‐UVB plus PRP intradermal injection, at 3–week interval for 3–months.

Results

A statistically high significant reduction was found in the EASI score, IGA score in the combined side (PRP plus NB‐UVB) in comparison with NB‐UVB side.

Conclusion

Intradermal PRP injecting in addition to NB‐UVB can be considered as a simple, acceptable, and economical method for treating atopic dermatitis. It decreases the NB‐UVB therapeutic period and is predictable to raise case compliance. Assessments through follow‐up were proposed and undertaken to rate the efficacy of treatment.
The effect of salutogenesis‐based care on the sense of coherence in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Uzdil Nurcan , Ceyhan Özlem , Şimşek Nuray
Published: June 2021

Aims

This research is conducted to determine the effect of salutogenesis‐based home care on the sense of coherence in patients with peritoneal dialysis.

Background

Recent studies on the salutogenesis model have shown that the model is effective in promoting and improving health. It was observed that studies based on the salutogenesis model were carried out in the form of a training programme, and there was no study that shows its effectiveness on patient care by integrating it into the nursing process.

Design

The research is conducted as a pre‐test–post‐test control group experimental study.

Methods

The study included 73 patients, including 36 in the intervention group and 37 in the control group. The research data are collected using the Patient Identifier Information Form, Dialysis Symptom Index (DSI), General Self‐Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the Sense of Coherence Scale (SIS). The intervention group is provided care based on the salutogenesis model by making home visits 1 time per week for 8 weeks. In this study, the TREND checklist was followed for non‐randomised controlled trials.

Results

In the study, the pre‐test DSI, GSES and SIS (meaningfulness, comprehensibility, manageability sub‐dimension) mean scores of the individuals in the intervention and control groups are similar. The third‐month and sixth‐month intervention group SIS total and sub‐dimension scores and GSES scores are found to be statistically significantly higher than the scores of the control group.

Conclusions

As a result of the study, it is determined that the care based on the salutogenesis model provided to peritoneal dialysis patients increases the sense of coherence and self‐efficacy and provides symptom control and decreases the dialysis symptoms.

Relevance to clinical practice

It has been observed that the salutogenesis model can be used as a step of nursing care in providing symptom control by strengthening the self‐efficacy of patients in clinical and home care.
Building capacity in times of crisis: Increasing cultural competence of healthcare professionals in the context of the COVID‐19
Authors: Slobodin Ortal , Kula Yosef , Clempert Neta , Cohen Odeya
Published: June 2021

Background

Nurses are the frontline healthcare professionals fighting the medical and social effects of the current COVID‐19 pandemic. Although they work with diverse populations, there is a lack of literature on culturally competent education during an emergency such as a pandemic.

Aims and objectives

To examine the effectiveness of an online education programme aimed at increasing cultural competence among rescue teams and healthcare professionals facing the challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

Pre–post‐web‐based intervention study.

Methods

Pre–post‐intervention surveys were administered to a matched sample of Israeli healthcare and rescue organisation professionals. The initial sample included 303 participants (52% women) who completed the pre‐intervention survey. More than half of the sample (56%, n = 170) were paid workers or volunteers in health organisations. Of the initial sample, 154 participants completed the post‐intervention survey following the online cultural competence education programme. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis were used to evaluate participants’ gains in culturally competent attitudes, knowledge, skills and encounters. This study followed the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Participants found the online programme useful in improving their cultural competence during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The highest gains were found in the attitudes domains, whereas the lowest in the knowledge domain. Pre‐intervention cultural competence scores and incorporating the programme in the educational curricula predicted increased gains in cultural competence.

Conclusions

Online educational interventions showed potential for increasing professionals’ awareness of cultural biases, differences and attitudes, leading to more open and accepting attitudes towards patients of different backgrounds.

Relevance to clinical practice

Recognising the need for real‐time, low‐cost and available training, the World Health Organization recommended using online courses for healthcare professionals struggling in the pandemic frontline. Online education programmes provide a useful platform for training health professionals in times of emergency.
Macrosomia and large for gestational age in Asia: One size does not fit all
Authors: Harvey Louise , van Elburg Ruurd , van der Beek Eline M.
Published: June 2021

Macrosomia, usually defined as infant birth weight of ≥4000 g, does not consider gestational age, sex, or country/region‐specific differences in mean birth weight and maternal body weight. This issue is particularly relevant for Asia, where 60% of the world's population lives, due to variations in maternal size and birth weights across populations. Large for gestational age (LGA), defined as birth weight > 90th centile, is a more sensitive measure as it considers gestational age and sex, though it is dependent on the choice of growth charts. We aimed to review reporting of macrosomia and LGA in Asia. We reviewed the literature on prevalence and risk of macrosomia and LGA in Asia over the last 29 years. Prevalence of macrosomia ranged from 0.5% (India) to 13.9% (China) while prevalence of LGA ranged from 4.3% (Korea) to 22.1% (China), indicating substantial variation in prevalence within and between Asian countries. High pre‐pregnancy body mass index, excessive gestational weight gain, and impaired glucose tolerance conferred risk of macrosomia/LGA. Incidence of macrosomia and LGA varies substantially within and between Asian countries, as do the growth charts and definitions. The latter makes it impossible to make comparisons but suggests differences in intrauterine growth between populations. Reporting LGA, using standardized country/regional growth charts, would better capture the incidence of high birth weight and allow for comparison and identification of contributing factors. Better understanding of local drivers of excessive intrauterine growth could enable development of improved strategies for prevention and management of LGA.
Transcranial Doppler to evaluate postreperfusion therapy following acute ischemic stroke: A literature review
Authors: Shahripour Reza Bavarsad , Azarpazhooh M. Reza , Akhuanzada Humayon , Labin Edward , Borhani‐Haghighi Afshin , Agrawal Kunal , Meyer Dawn , Meyer Brett , Hemmen Thomas
Published: June 2021

Cerebral vessel recanalization therapy, either intravenous thrombolysis or mechanical thrombectomy, is the main treatment that can significantly improve clinical outcomes after acute ischemic stroke. The degree of recanalization and cerebral reperfusion of the ischemic penumbra are dependent on cerebral hemodynamics. Currently, the main imaging modalities to assess reperfusion are MRI and CT perfusion. However, these imaging techniques cannot predict reperfusion‐associated complications and are not readily available in many centers. It is also not feasible to repeat them frequently for sequential assessments, which is important because of the changing nature of cerebral hemodynamics following stroke. Transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) is a valid, safe, and inexpensive technique that can assess recanalized vessels and reperfused tissue in real‐time at the bedside. Post thrombectomy reocclusion, hyperperfusion syndrome, distal embolization, and remote infarction result in poor outcomes after mechanical or intravenous reperfusion therapy. Managing blood pressure following these endovascular treatments can also be a dilemma. TCD has an important role, with major clinical implications, in evaluating cerebral hemodynamics and collateral vessel status, guiding clinicians in making individualized decisions based on cerebral blood flow during acute stroke care. This review summarizes the most relevant literature on the role of TCD in evaluating patients after reperfusion therapy. We also discuss the importance of performing TCD in the first few hours following thrombolytic therapy in identifying hyperperfusion syndrome and embolic signals, predicting recurrent stroke, and detecting reocclusions, all of which may help improve patient prognosis. We recommend TCD during the hyperacute phase of stroke in comprehensive stroke centers.
Neurofilament light chain as a biomarker of meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology in dogs
Authors: Yun Taesik , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Lee Dohee , Kim Hakhyun , Kim Soochong , Chang Dongwoo , Na Ki‐Jeong , Yang Mhan‐Pyo , Kang Byeong‐Teck
Published: June 2021

Background

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a neuron‐specific cytoskeletal protein expressed in axons. Damaged axons of the central nervous system release NfLs into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the blood. In humans with neurologic diseases, NfL is used as a biomarker.

Objectives

To identify the potential of NfL as a supportive tool for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of meningoencephalitis of unknown etiology (MUE) in dogs.

Animals

Twenty‐six client‐owned healthy dogs, 10 normal Beagle dogs, and 38 client‐owned MUE dogs.

Methods

Cohort study. The concentrations of NfL in serum and CSF were measured using single‐molecule array technology.

Results

Median NfL concentration was significantly higher in MUE dogs (serum, 125 pg/mL; CSF, 14 700 pg/mL) than in healthy dogs (serum, 11.8 pg/mL, P < .0001; CSF, 1410 pg/mL, P = .0002). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of serum and CSF NfL concentrations were 0.99 and 0.95, respectively. The cut‐off values were 41.5 pg/mL (serum) and 4005 pg/mL (CSF) for differentiating between healthy and MUE dogs, with sensitivities of 89.19% and 90%, respectively, and specificities of 96.97% and 100%, respectively. The NfL concentration showed a significant decrease (pretreatment, 122 pg/mL; posttreatment, 36.6 pg/mL; P = .02) in the good treatment‐response group and a significant increase (pretreatment, 292.5 pg/mL; posttreatment, 1880 pg/mL, P = .03) in the poor treatment‐response group.

Conclusions and Clinical importance

Neurofilament light chain is a potential biomarker for diagnosing MUE and evaluating response to treatment.
Kinetic disposition of diazepam and its metabolites after intravenous administration of diazepam in the horse: Relevance for doping control
Authors: Schenk Ina , Machnik Marc , Broussou Diane , Meuly Astrid , Roques Béatrice B. , Lallemand Elodie , Düe Michael , Röttgen Helma , Lagershausen Henrike , Toutain Pierre‐Louis , Thevis Mario
Published: June 2021

In horses, the benzodiazepine diazepam (DIA) is used as sedative for pre‐medication or as an anxiolytic to facilitate horse examinations. As the sedative effects can also be abused for doping purposes, DIA is prohibited in equine sports. DIA is extensively metabolized to several active metabolites such as nordazepam, temazepam and oxazepam (OXA). For veterinarians, taking into account the detection times of DIA and its active metabolites is needed for minimizing the risk of an anti‐doping rule violation. Therefore, a pharmacokinetic study on 6 horses was conducted using a single intravenous (IV) dose of 0.2 mg/kg DIA Plasma and urine samples were collected at specified intervals until 16 and 26 days post‐administration, respectively. Samples were analysed by a sensitive liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry method. DIA showed a triphasic elimination pattern in the horse. The mean plasma clearance of DIA was 5.9 ml/min/kg, and the plasma elimination half‐life in the terminal phase was 19.9 h. Applying the Toutain model approach, an effective plasma concentration of DIA was estimated at 24 ng/ml, and irrelevant plasma concentration (IPC) and irrelevant urine concentration (IUC) were computed to 0.047 and 0.1 ng/ml, respectively. The detection time according to the European Horserace Scientific Liaison Committee (EHSLC), that is the time for which observed DIA plasma concentrations of all investigated horses were below the IPC was 10 days. Using Monte Carlo Simulations, it was estimated that concentrations of DIA in plasma would fall below the IPC 18 days after the DIA administration for 90% of horses. However, in the present study, a single administration of DIA could be detected for 24 days in urine via the presence of OXA, its dominant metabolite.
Transaction Costs and Congressional Careers: The Effect of Flight Availability on Retirement Decisions
Authors: Malhotra Neil , González Rojas Christian
Published: June 2021

How do the transaction costs of office holding affect congressional careers? These costs may influence the kinds of people who select into public office and therefore the representativeness of democratic institutions. Gaining causal leverage on this question has been difficult given that many costs associated with office holding are endogenous to characteristics of legislators. Using a natural experiment, we examine the effect of exogenous changes in transaction costs in the US Congress caused by changes in the availability of direct flights from home districts to Washington, DC. We find that gaining an airport that provides a round‐trip direct flight to Washington, DC, is associated with an approximately 1.6 percentage point increase in the probability that a member runs for reelection. One implication of these results is that members more sensitive to office‐holding costs—such as moderates or members of underrepresented groups—may be less likely to seek and maintain political careers.
Changes in the structure of seed dispersal networks when including interaction outcomes from both plant and animal perspectives
Authors: González‐Castro Aarón , Morán‐López Teresa , Nogales Manuel , Traveset Anna
Published: June 2021

Interaction frequency is the most common currency in quantitative ecological networks, although interaction quality can also affect benefits provided by mutualisms. Here, we evaluate if interaction quality can modify network topology, species' role and whether such changes affect community vulnerability to species loss. We use a well‐examined study system (bird–lizard and fleshy‐fruited plants in the ‘thermophilous' woodland of the Canary Islands) to compare network and species‐level metrics from a network based on fruit consumption rates (interaction frequency, IF), against networks reflecting functional outcomes: a seed dispersal effectiveness network (SDE) quantifying recruitment, and a fruit resource provisioning network (FRP), accounting for the nutrient supply of fruits. Nestedness decreased in the FRP and the SDE networks, due to the lack of association between fruit consumption rates and 1) nutrient content and; 2) recruitment at the seed deposition sites, respectively. The FRP network showed lower niche overlap due to resource use complementarity among frugivores. Interaction evenness was lower in the SDE network, in response to a higher dominance of lizards in the recruitment of heliophilous species. Such changes, however, did not result in enhanced vulnerability against extinctions. At the plant species level, strength changed in the FRP network in frequently consumed or highly nutritious species. The number of effective partners decreased for species whose seeds were deposited in unsuitable places for recruitment. In frugivores, strength was consistent across networks (SDE vs IF), showing that consumption rates outweighed differences in dispersal quality. In the case of lizards, the increased importance of nutrient‐rich species resulted in a higher number of effective partners.

Our work shows that although frequency strongly impacts interaction effects, accounting for quality improves our inferences about interaction assembly and species role. Thus, future studies including interaction outcomes from both partners' perspectives will provide valuable insights about the net effects of mutualistic interactions.
Monopoly Pricing with Participation‐Dependent Social Learning About Quality of Service
Authors: Ma Qian , Shou Biying , Huang Jianwei , Başar Tamer
Published: June 2021

The quality of many online services (such as online games, video streaming, cloud services) depends not only on the service capacity but also on the number of users using the service simultaneously. For a new online service, the potential users are often uncertain about both the capacity and congestion level of the service, and hence are uncertain about the quality of service (QoS). In this study, we consider users’ participation‐dependent social learning (PDSL), that is, learning of the QoS through participants’ online reviews. The key difference from the traditional social learning mechanism is that the learning object (QoS) is not a fixed value, but instead, it depends on the number of review participants. We study how such a new learning process affects the service provider's dynamic pricing strategy in four different market scenarios, depending on whether the decisions are for two periods or infinite periods and whether users are aware of the congestion effect or not. Our analysis yields several key insights. First, the presence of PDSL significantly affects the provider's optimal pricing policy. In a two‐period market with congestion‐unaware users, the provider would always set a flat price when there is no PDSL; in contrast, when there is PDSL, the optimal price can either increase or decrease, depending on the capacity and the prior mean QoS belief. Second, users’ congestion‐awareness causes the provider to set a non‐decreasing pricing policy in the two‐period market, while the provider's steady‐state pricing policy in the infinite‐period market increases with the capacity and the prior QoS belief. Third, the existence of PDSL increases the provider's profit in all four market scenarios as long as the provider's capacity is larger than users’ prior mean QoS belief.
Combining Raman imaging and MCR‐ALS analysis for monitoring retinol permeation in human skin
Authors: Essendoubi Mohammed , Alsamad Fatima , Noël Philippe , Meunier Marie , Scandolera Amandine , Sandré Jérôme , Manfait Michel , Gobinet Cyril , Reynaud Romain , Piot Olivier
Published: June 2021

Background

Monitoring the transcutaneous permeation of exogenous molecules using conventional techniques generally requires long pre‐analytical preparation or labelling of samples. However, Raman spectroscopy is a label‐free and non‐destructive method which provides spatial distribution of tracked actives in skin. The aim of our study was to prove the interest of Raman imaging coupled with multivariate curve resolution alternating least square (MCR‐ALS) analysis in monitoring retinol penetration into frozen and living human skin.

Materials and Methods

After topical treatment of skin samples by free or encapsulated retinol, thin cross sections were analysed by Raman imaging (up to 100 µm depth). Mann‐Whitney test was used to identify retinol spectroscopic markers in skin. MCR‐ALS was used to estimate retinol contribution in Raman spectral images. Heat maps were constructed to compare the distribution of free and encapsulated retinol in skin models.

Results

We identified the bands at 1158, 1196 and 1591 cm‐1 as specific features for monitoring retinol in skin. Moreover, our MCR‐ALS results showed an improvement of retinol penetration (up to 30 µm depth) with the encapsulated form as well as storage reservoir formation in stratum corneum, for each skin model. Finally, greater retinol penetration into living skin was observed.

Conclusion

This study shows a proof of concept for the evaluation of retinol penetration in skin using Raman imaging coupled with MCR‐ALS. This concept needs to be validated on more subjects to include inter‐individual variability but also other factors affecting skin permeation (age, sex, pH, etc). Our study can be extended to other actives.
Hepatitis B infections among blood donors in England between 2009 and 2018: Is an occult hepatitis B infection a risk for blood safety?
Authors: Harvala Heli , Reynolds Claire , Gibney Zoë , Derrick Jade , Ijaz Samreen , Davison Katy L. , Brailsford Su
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most frequent infections identified in blood donors in England and represents an ongoing blood safety risk. We have analyzed markers of HBV infections in blood donors in England between 2009 and 2018 and used these to estimate the likelihood of non‐detection of occult HBV infection (OBI).

Methods

We collected epidemiological, virological, and genotyping information on HBV cases identified in England, 2009–2018. The estimated risk of non‐detection and likely transmission of OBI were compared to lookback and transfusion‐transmitted infections surveillance data.

Results

Six‐hundered and fifty‐five HBV‐infected blood donors were identified in England during the 10‐year period; 598 chronic, 32 acute, and 25 occult HBV infections. However, most donors with chronic and occult infections were born in Eastern Europe, Africa, or Asia (451/544, 83% and 14/24, 58%); acute infections were largely seen in UK‐born donors (19/28, 68%). Genotyping of 266 HBV‐positive samples revealed five genotypes (A–E), reflecting ethnicity and country of birth. Most OBIs were identified in repeat donors (19/25); lookback data identified a transmission rate of 8.3%. It is estimated that at least 13 potentially infectious donations from donors with OBI remain undetected annually, equating to an overall residual transmission risk of 3.1 per million donations using our current screening strategy of HBsAg screening with HBV nucleic acid testing (NAT) in pools of 24.

Conclusions

OBI accounted for the majority of the HBV residual risk in England. Further cost–benefit analysis is required to estimate if our current HBV screening strategy should be changed.
International survey of strategies to mitigate transfusion‐transmittedTrypanosoma cruzi in non‐endemic countries, 2016–2018
Authors: Crowder Lauren A. , Wendel Silvano , Bloch Evan M. , O'Brien Sheila F. , Delage Gilles , Sauleda Silvia , Leiby David A. ,   for the WP‐TTID Subgroup on Parasites
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic to Mexico, Central and South America. While initially limited to the Americas, emigration of infected persons triggered geographically broader blood safety challenges. To mitigate transfusion‐transmitted Chagas (TTC), transfusion services implemented approaches including risk factor questions and serologic testing. We sought to understand and compare strategies in non‐endemic countries.

Materials and Methods

Transfusion services in International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT)‐affiliated organizations and members of the ISBT Working Party on Transfusion‐Transmitted Infectious Diseases were invited to complete an online survey on T. cruzi mitigation strategies. The survey queried about cases of TTC, risk factors, testing methodology, educational materials, pathogen reduction, donor/product management, donor deferral and perceived public health concerns surrounding TTC.

Results

Responses were received from 27 institutions in 22 countries. Most countries (77.3%) reported no historical TTC cases, while 18.2% reported 1–5 cases and 4.5% reported 6–10 cases. Concern about Chagas among the general public and public health authorities was low, but 12 of 25 blood centres reported moderate/high concern. Overall, 17 countries mitigated for TTC: 15 used risk factor questions and 10tested for T. cruzi antibodies. Ten countries used pathogen reduction but not specifically to prevent TTC.

Conclusion

While Chagas is rarely cited as a public health concern, blood centres in many non‐endemic countries, including those outside the Americas, implemented measures to mitigate risk. Mitigation focussed on risk factors associated with Latin American immigrants and serologic testing. Thus, despite the rarity of TTC, many non‐endemic countries continue to address it as an ongoing blood safety risk.
Dynamic Gait Parameters in Patients With Nonunion of the Tibia Following Treatment With the Ilizarov Method
Authors: Pajchert Kozłowska Andżelika , Pawik Łukasz , Szelerski Łukasz , Żarek Sławomir , Górski Radosław , Pawik Malwina , Fink-Lwow Felicja , Urbański Wiktor , Morasiewicz Piotr
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was a comprehensive assessment of the dynamic parameters of gait in patients who underwent Ilizarov treatment for nonunion of the tibia. The experimental group consisted of 24 individuals treated with the Ilizarov method for nonunion of the tibia. The control group comprised 31 healthy individuals, matched for BMI, sex, and age. The dynamic gait parameters in patients and in the control group were measured with a Zebris pedobarographic platform. The treatment group and the control group showed statistically significant differences in terms of the following gait parameters: maximum force during braking nonoperated-limb (NOL), time maximum force during braking operated-limb (OL), time maximum force during braking NOL, maximum force during push-off NOL, time maximum force during push-off OL, and maximum force forefoot OL. Most of the evaluated gait parameters were bilaterally similar in patients group. The only significant differences between the operated and nonoperated limb were seen in terms of Time maximum force during push-off and Maximum force forefoot. The most pronounced abnormalities in dynamic gait parameters were observed in the forefoot (maximum force forefoot OL was 13.3% lower than in the control group, maximum force forefoot OL was 12.4% lower than in NOL). The patients treated with the Ilizarov method did not achieve a complete normalization of dynamic gait parameters, as their gait parameters did not equal those measured in the control group. The Ilizarov method for the treatment of tibial nonunion helps restore a symmetrical distribution of gait parameter values between the affected limb and the healthy limb. Patients continue to show the following abnormalities in their dynamic gait parameters after treatment: higher values maximum force during braking NOL, Time maximum force during braking OL, time maximum force during braking NOL, maximum force during push-off NOL, contact time forefoot NOL, contact time midfoot NOL, contact time heel NOL and smaller values of time maximum force during push-off OL.