bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of liver cirrhosis on theophylline trough concentrations: A comparative analysis of organ impairment using Child–Pugh and MELD scores
Authors: Kurata Yasuo , Muraki Shota , Hirota Takeshi , Araki Hiroshi , Ieiri Ichiro
Published: March 2022

Aims

Theophylline clearance is known to be reduced in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as chronic hepatitis (CH) and liver cirrhosis (LC). The Child–Pugh (CP) score is generally used for pharmacokinetic evaluation, whilst a model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) has not yet been fully evaluated. This study aimed to predict theophylline clearance in patients with LC classified based on CP and MELD scores by population pharmacokinetic (PPK) analysis.

Methods

PPK analysis included 433 steady‐state trough concentrations from 192 Japanese bronchial asthma patients with and without CLDs and was performed using NONMEM. The severity of LC was assessed by CP and MELD scores.

Results

The final CP and MELD models which described apparent theophylline clearance (CL/F) were obtained. The CP model showed that the mean CL/F in patients without CLDs, CH patients and LC patients with CP class A, B and C was 0.0473, 0.0413, 0.0330, 0.0280 and 0.0209 L/h kg−1, respectively. The MELD model predicted that CL/F in patients without CLDs, CH patients and LC patients with MELD scores of <10, 10–14, 15–19, 20–24 and ≥25 was 0.0472, 0.0413, 0.0324, 0.0268, 0.0230, 0.0197 and 0.0155 L/h kg−1, respectively.

Conclusions

CL/F in various stages of LC was evaluated, and a change in CL/F was highly dependent on the severity of CLDs in both models. The MELD model provided a more accurate and precise description of theophylline clearance in LC than the CP model, which may be due to the wider dynamic range of the MELD score.
Effects of temperature and precipitation on litterfall phenology in four evergreen broad‐leaved forests of southern China
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Chen Xiaoqiu , Kim Jin‐Soo , Williams Mathew
Published: March 2022

Vegetative and reproductive growth of subtropical and tropical forests plays an important role in regulating carbon cycle and maintaining food web dynamic balance. Here, we used litterfall and climatic data during 1998–2017 at four evergreen forest sites in southern China to analyze temporal variations of community phenology and their climate drivers. Results show that two southwest forests have unimodal patterns with leaf litterfall peaks during dry season, while two southeast forests have bimodal patterns with the first peaks during rainy season and the second peaks during rainy and dry seasons respectively. Peaks of flower litterfall for the four forests occurred during the transitional period between dry and rainy seasons, while peaks of fruit litterfall appeared either at the end of the rainy season at the two southern sites or in the dry season at the two northern sites. Leaf litterfall correlates significantly positively with preseason maximum temperature at the four sites, but significantly negatively with preseason precipitation at two southwest sites. By contrast, flower and fruit litterfall correlates significantly positively with preseason temperature and precipitation at only three and two sites. Moreover, leaf, flower, and fruit litterfall exhibits a 12‐month cycle, which is consistent with the 12‐month cycle of monthly temperature and precipitation. Flower and fruit litterfall displays also multiyear cycles between 18 and 48 months, however, it is inconsistent with the multiyear cycles of monthly temperature and precipitation. Our study highlights that temperature and precipitation are key factors affecting litterfall variations in different time scales in southern China.

Abstract in Chinese is available with online material.
LRRFIP1, an epigenetically regulated gene, is a prognostic biomarker and predicts malignant phenotypes of glioma
Authors: Ma Wenping , Bao Zhaoshi , Qian Zenghui , Zhang Kenan , Fan Wenhua , Xu Jianbao , Ren Changyuan , Zhang Ying , Jiang Tao
Published: March 2022

Aims

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant brain tumor with an adverse prognosis in the central nervous system. Traditional histopathological diagnosis accompanied by subjective deviations cannot accurately reflect tumor characteristics for clinical guidance. DNA methylation plays a critical role in GBM genesis. The focus of this project was to identify an effective methylation point for the classification of gliomas, the interactions between DNA methylation and potential epigenetic targeted therapies for clinical treatments.

Methods

Three online (TCGA, CGGA, and REMBRANDT) databases were employed in this study. T‐test, Venn analysis, univariate cox analysis, and Pearson's correlation analysis were adopted to screen significant prognostic methylation genes. Clinical samples were collected to determine the distributions of LRRFIP1 (Leucine Rich Repeat of Flightless‐1 Interacting Protein) protein by immunohistochemistry assay. Kaplan–Meier survival and Cox analysis were adopted to evaluate the prognostic value of LRRFIP1. Nomogram model was used to construct a prediction model. GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway were performed to explore functions and related mechanisms of LRRFIP1 in gliomas.

Results

Our results showed that 16 genes were negatively connected with their methylation level and correlated with clinical prognosis of GBM patients. Among them, LRRFIP1 expression showed the highest correlation with its methylation level. LRRFIP1 was highly expressed in WHO IV, mesenchymal, and IDH wild‐type subtype. LRRFIP1 expression was an independent risk factor for OS (overall survival) in gliomas.

Conclusion

LRRFIP1 is an epigenetically regulated gene and a potential prognostic biomarker for glioma. Our research may be beneficial to evaluate clinical efficacy, assess the prognosis, and provide individualized treatment for gliomas.
Higher serum occludin after successful reperfusion Is associated with early neurological deterioration
Authors: Li Weili , Yuan Shuhua , Sui Xueqin , Bian Hetao , Wei Ming , Chen Zhiying , Shao Haitao , Shi Wenjuan , Shi Shuhai , Ji Xunming
Published: March 2022

Aims

Early neurological deterioration (END) is an important factor that affects prognosis in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We explored the relationship between serum occludin levels after successful reperfusion and END in patients treated with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 120 stroke patients who underwent EVT with successful reperfusion. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the serum occludin levels on admission and within 1 h after successful reperfusion. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) and regression analysis were used to compare the relationship between serum occludin and END after thrombectomy.

Results

Among the 120 patients, 36 (30%) experienced END. The END group had higher serum occludin levels than the non‐END group after successful reperfusion [4.31 (3.71–5.38) vs 6.32 (5.88–6.99), p < 0.001]. The ROC curve showed that postoperative serum occludin levels had a significant prediction value for END (AUC: 0.86, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed that serum occludin was an independent risk factor for END in EVT patients (adjusted odds ratio: 4.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.92–10.32; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The higher serum occludin levels were strongly related to END after successful reperfusion. Serum occludin may be an independent risk factor for END in EVT patients.
The greatest threats to species
Authors: Hogue Aaron S. , Breon Kathryn
Published: March 2022

The growing human population is responsible for a massive decline in species, biodiversity, and ecosystems across the globe. If we are to significantly slow these losses, the attention and resources devoted to individual causes should be commensurate with the magnitude of their contribution to the problem. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative magnitude of five major threats to species identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as threatened with extinction. Specifically, we analyzed the entire IUCN Red List database to determine the percentage of threatened species affected by overexploitation, climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species, diseases, and genes. We also randomly sampled a portion of the database to estimate the percentage of species for which each threat was the dominant threat placing them at risk of extinction. Of the 20,784 species for which data were available, 88.3% were impacted by habitat destruction, 26.6% by overexploitation, 25% by invasives, 18.2% by pollution, and 16.8% by climate change and weather. Focusing on dominant threats, the percentage of species for which a given threat was the main factor pushing them toward extinction was as follows: habitat destruction 71.3%, overexploitation 7.4%, invasives 6.8%, pollution 4.7%, climate change, and weather 1.8%. Regardless of how percentages are calculated, habitat destruction threatens more species than all other categories combined, climate change the fewest. From the perspective of species and biodiversity conservation, these data suggest that a significant change in global environmental priorities is needed. Habitat destruction should become a greater focus of global environmental efforts and receive the attention and resources appropriate to the extraordinary magnitude of its impact. Moreover, while it is important to address all environmental problems, given the disproportionate impact habitat destruction has on species, care should be taken to avoid solutions to other problems that exacerbate this destruction.
Evaluation of CYP1A2 activity: Relationship between the endogenous urinary 6‐hydroxymelatonin to melatonin ratio and paraxanthine to caffeine ratio in dried blood spots
Authors: Magliocco Gaëlle , Desmeules Jules , Samer Caroline Flora , Thomas Aurélien , Daali Youssef
Published: March 2022

The suitability of the endogenous 6‐hydroxymelatonin/melatonin urinary metabolic ratio as a surrogate for the paraxanthine/caffeine ratio to predict cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) activity was assessed in this study. Twelve healthy volunteers completed four study sessions spread over 1 month (including overnight urine collection with first morning voids collected separately). Except for the third session, volunteers were asked to abstain from methylxanthine‐containing beverages and foods at least 24 h before urine collection. At the end of urine collection, subjects were given a caffeinated beverage and capillary blood samples were collected 2 h after the drink administration. A significant linear relationship between the 6‐hydroxymelatonin/melatonin ratios from 12‐h urine samples and first morning voids was observed (R2 = 0.876, p < 0.0001). In contrast to the paraxanthine/caffeine ratio, consumption of methylxanthine‐containing beverages during session three did not significantly influence the 6‐hydroxymelatonin/melatonin ratios compared with the other sessions requiring abstinence from caffeine. A larger intra‐ and interindividual variability in the 6‐hydroxymelatonin/melatonin ratios compared with the paraxanthine/caffeine ratio was also observed. A very weak correlation was observed between the paraxanthine/caffeine ratio and both of the endogenous 6‐hydroxymelatonin/melatonin ratios (Pearson r < 0.35, p < 0.05). All these results question whether this endogenous metric could adequately reflect CYP1A2 activity or substitute for the probe caffeine. Additional studies with larger study samples are needed to examine this endogenous metric in more details.
Combining development, capacity building and responsible innovation in GCRF‐funded medical technology research
Authors: Bezuidenhout Louise , Stirling Julian , Sanga Valerian L. , Nyakyi Paul T. , Mwakajinga Grace A. , Bowman Richard
Published: March 2022

Development‐oriented funding schemes such as the UK Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) have opened up opportunities for collaborations between low‐middle income countries (LMICs) and high‐income country (HIC) researchers. In particular, funding for medical technology research has seen a rise in previously under‐represented disciplines such as physics and engineering. These collaborations have considerable potential to advance healthcare in LMICs, yet can pose challenges experienced to researchers undertaking these collaborations. Key challenges include a lack of tradition of HIC/LMIC collaborations within participating departments, lack of experience with development agendas, designing contextually‐appropriate technologies and ensuring long‐term viability of research outputs. This paper reflects on these key challenges, using the experiences of the authors on the Open Laboratory Instrumentation (OLI) project as a focalizing lens. This project was a GCRF‐funded collaboration between physicists in the UK and engineers in Tanzania to develop an open‐source, 3D‐printed, fully‐automated laboratory microscope. The paper highlights key ethics lessons learnt.
Optimization of CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated gene disruption in Xenopus laevis using a phenotypic image analysis technique
Authors: Tanouchi Mikio , Igawa Takeshi , Suzuki Nanoka , Suzuki Makoto , Hossain Nusrat , Ochi Haruki , Ogino Hajime
Published: March 2022

The CRISPR/Cas9 method has become popular for gene disruption experiments in Xenopus laevis. However, the experimental conditions that influence the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 remain unclear. To that end, we developed an image analysis technique for the semi‐quantitative evaluation of the pigment phenotype resulting from the disruption of tyrosinase genes in X. laevis using a CRISPR/Cas9 approach, and then examined the effects of varying five experimental parameters (timing of the CRISPR reagent injection into developing embryos; amount of Cas9 mRNA in the injection reagent; total injection volume per embryo; number of injection sites per embryo; and the culture temperature of the injected embryos) on the gene disruption efficiency. The results of this systematic analysis suggest that the highest possible efficiency of target gene disruption can be achieved by injecting a total of 20 nL of the CRISPR reagent containing 1500 pg of Cas9 mRNA or 4 ng of Cas9 protein into two separate locations (10 nL each) of one‐cell stage embryos cultured at 22°C. This study also highlights the importance of balancing the experimental parameters for increasing gene disruption efficiency and provides valuable insights into the optimal conditions for applying the CRISPR/Cas9 system to new experimental organisms.
The cognitive–phenomenological assessment of delusions and hallucinations at the early intervention in psychosis service stage: The results of a quality improvement project
Authors: Isaacson Maria , Hazell Cassie M. , Cape John , Hickson Emily , Islam Faaizah , Gill Amber , Simon Kathleen , Patel Ruchit , Souray Jonathan , Raune David
Published: March 2022

Aim

Clinical assessments are vital for gaining an understanding of a patients' presenting problem. A priority for Early Intervention in Psychosis Service staff is understanding and supporting their patients' experiences of hallucinations and/or delusions. We aimed to identify what cognitive–phenomenology dimensions of hallucinations and delusions EIPS staff were assessing with their patients.

Methods

We developed a brief checklist of cognitive–phenomenological dimensions of hallucinations and delusions called the Lived Experience Symptom Survey (LESS) based on relevant literature. As part of a Quality Improvement Project, we reviewed the health records of a sub‐sample of EIPS patients using the LESS identifying whether each dimension was present or absent.

Results

We found that all patients had been asked about the content of their hallucinations and/or delusions, and the majority had been asked about the valence of this content. Despite patients having experienced psychosis for almost 2 years on average, less than half of patients were asked about the potential or actual harm associated with these symptoms. All other cognitive–phenomenological dimensions were assessed inconsistently.

Conclusions

The assessment of hallucination and delusions in our EIPS was inconsistent and incomprehensive. These findings require replication in other EIPS' but may point to a need for guidelines and training around how to conduct a thorough assessment of hallucinations and delusions for current and future EIPS staff. Improved assessment of these symptoms will aid the development of risk assessments and treatment plans.
Moving beyond supply‐side arguments to explain over‐qualification: The ability to absorb graduates in different models of capitalism
Authors: Marques Paulo , Suleman Fátima , Costa João Maria
Published: March 2022

This study examines how the rise in the share of higher education graduates leads to over‐qualification, by focusing on the demand‐side drivers. We propose that the benefits of investments in higher education depend on the levels of innovation and economic growth in each national economy. We use a configurational method (Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis) to identify combinations of factors that lead to a high incidence of over‐qualification in 17 European countries. The results show that over‐qualification is greater in countries in which an increase in the number of graduates is accompanied by a failure to transition to a knowledge‐based economy and poor economic growth. Furthermore, a low weight of high‐tech manufacturing sectors in the GDP is a necessary condition for over‐qualification to occur. These arguments explain the more pronounced mismatch in Southern Europe and Austria compared to other European countries. As for policy implications, this study shows that investment in education did not lead to expected benefits in some countries because this investment did not boost competitiveness in high‐tech sectors. Thus, alternative policies must be implemented. Besides investment in education, some kind of industrial policy seems necessary in a number of European countries.
Associations between cerebrospinal fluid markers and cognition in ageing and dementia: A systematic review
Authors: Saunders Tyler S. , Gadd Danni A. , Spires‐Jones Tara L. , King Declan , Ritchie Craig , Muniz‐Terrera Graciela
Published: March 2022

A biomarker associated with cognition in neurodegenerative dementias would aid in the early detection of disease progression, complement clinical staging and act as a surrogate endpoint in clinical trials. The current systematic review evaluates the association between cerebrospinal fluid protein markers of synapse loss and neuronal injury and cognition. We performed a systematic search which revealed 67 studies reporting an association between cerebrospinal fluid markers of interest and neuropsychological performance. Despite the substantial heterogeneity between studies, we found some evidence for an association between neurofilament‐light and worse cognition in Alzheimer's diseases, frontotemporal dementia and typical cognitive ageing. Moreover, there was an association between cerebrospinal fluid neurogranin and cognition in those with an Alzheimer's‐like cerebrospinal fluid biomarker profile. Some evidence was found for cerebrospinal fluid neuronal pentraxin‐2 as a correlate of cognition across dementia syndromes. Due to the substantial heterogeneity of the field, no firm conclusions can be drawn from this review. Future research should focus on improving standardization and reporting as well as establishing the importance of novel markers such as neuronal pentraxin‐2 and whether such markers can predict longitudinal cognitive decline.
Role of NIMA‐related kinase 2 in lung cancer: Mechanisms and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Shah Darshak , Joshi Mit , Patel Bhoomika M.
Published: March 2022

The second most common cancer in both males and females is lung cancer. Chemotherapeutic resistance is the main problem associated with the treatment of lung cancer. Radiation therapy and surgery also produce recurrence in lung cancer patients; this shows the need to develop novel agents acting on new targets. A never in mitosis (NIMA)‐related kinase 2 (NEK2) is a serine/threonine kinase associated with the family of NIMA‐related kinase (NEK). NEK2 plays an important role in the regulating mitotic processes, such as centrosome duplication and separation, kinetochore attachment, spindle assembly checkpoint, and microtubule stabilization. Several in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies have confirmed the overexpression of NEK2 in various types of cancers including lung cancer. Overexpression of NEK2 in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells increased cell proliferation and chromosomal instability. The overexpression of NEK2 results in the activation of its downstream proteins such as β‐catenin, MAD2, Hec1, rootletin, C‐Nap1, CDC20, Cep68, and Sgo1. Activation of the Akt, β‐catenin, and Wnt pathways could promote growth and metastasis of lung cancer cells. Such confirmation suggests that NEK2 is a novel target for treating many cancers including lung cancer. The current review provides an idea about functions and regulation of NEK2 and emphasizes about the role of NEK2 in lung cancer by discussing in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies pertaining to the same.
Analysis of spatiotemporal variations and effects of regional functions in rural China
Authors: Wen Qi , Shen Caiting , Xia Siyou , Wang Yongsheng
Published: March 2022

This study analyzes the spatiotemporal evolution and effects of regional functions in rural China and summarizes the spatiotemporal characteristics of rural Chinese regional functions from 2005 to 2015. The results of this study are as follows. (a) The values of the regional functions of rural China generally exhibit a “V‐shaped” distribution such that these values are high in eastern and western China and low in central China, and are high in northern China and low in southern China. (b) The overall functions of rural Chinese regions vary distinctly by region across northeastern China, eastern China, central China, and western China. (c) The spatial variation of regional production function values in rural China also exhibits a gradually declining trend, with the highest values in eastern China, followed by northeastern, central, and western China. This pattern exhibits a relatively strong coupling relationship with the spatial variation principles governing China's natural environment, resource carrying capacity, and economic development level. Overall, regional ecological function values do not exhibit any significant variation, but they do exhibit a gradually declining trend, starting from western and northern China and moving to eastern and southern China. (d) The degree of spatial spillover received by a given region from a neighboring region's production, living, or ecological function is stronger than the effect of the error shock from the corresponding function of the neighboring region. The effects of influencing factors on different regions exhibit significant variation.
Fighting on the frontlines: Intersectional organizing in educators' social justice unions during COVID‐19
Authors: Maton Rhiannon M.
Published: March 2022

This article explores a growing trend in the politics of education: the intersectional frontline organizing work of educators' social justice unions on behalf of a woman‐dominated workforce and local students, families, and communities, many of whom experience racial and economic disparity. I show that educators' social justice unions have tended to coherently employ intersectional language to articulate student, family, and community need along racial and class lines during the COVID‐19 crisis, but have struggled to explicitly tie a gendered analysis of educators' working conditions to the raced and classed public school experiences of the populations they serve. In the spirit of supporting the growth of educators' social justice unions in the educational justice movement, I bring together the theoretical work of Angela Davis, David McNally and Nancy Fraser to argue that long‐term movement growth requires enhanced intentionality in naming systemic identity‐based linkages across worker and student experiences of public schooling while highlighting how “advanced neoliberalism” co‐opts identity‐based rhetoric to maximize capitalist accumulation for the few while limiting educational equity for the many. In other words, I assert that movement growth requires intentional articulation of the systemic identity‐based relations linking working with learning conditions in late‐stage capitalism.
Political contestation and the Second Great Divergence
Authors: John Richard R.
Published: March 2022

This essay considers Piketty's characterization of U.S. economic development inCapital and Ideologyin the decades between 1860 and 1900, a period that historians have begun to call the “Second Great Divergence.” It contends that Piketty's characterization of this period rests on outdated assumptions about the relationship between economic development and political contestation, and that Piketty's neglect of historical writing on this topic raises questions about his policy proposals. To highlight the limitations of Piketty's approach, it includes case studies of the telegraph industry and the telephone industry. For all of its erudition, range, and literary panache, Piketty'sCapital and Ideologyis, at its most persuasive, an updated restatement for a twenty‐first century audience of the Polanyian critique of nineteenth‐century economic liberalism. This is a worthy project, yet it is less novel in its conception and more problematic in its execution than might at first appear.
Present status and future directions: vertical root fractures in root filled teeth
Authors: Patel Shanon , Bhuva Bhavin , Bose Rahul
Published: March 2022

Vertical root fracture (VRF) is a common reason for the extraction of root filled teeth. The accurate diagnosis of VRF may be challenging due to the absence of clinical signs, whilst conventional radiographic assessment is often inconclusive. However, an understanding of the aetiology of VRFs, and more importantly, the key predisposing factors, is crucial in identifying teeth that may be susceptible. Thorough clinical examination with magnification and co‐axial lighting is essential in identifying VRFs, and although CBCT is unable to reliably detect VRFsper se, the pattern of bone loss typically associated with VRF can be fully appreciated, and therefore, increases the probability of correct diagnosis and management. The prevalence of VRFs in root filled teeth is significantly greater than in teeth with vital pulps, demonstrating that the combination of loss of structural integrity, presence of pre‐existing fractures and biochemical effects of loss of vitality is highly relevant. Careful assessment of the occlusal scheme, presence of deflective contacts and identification of parafunctional habits are imperative in both preventing and managing VRFs. Furthermore, anatomical factors such as root canal morphology may predispose certain teeth to VRF. The influence of access cavity design and root canal instrumentation protocols should be considered although the impact of these on the fracture resistance of root filled teeth is not clearly validated. The post‐endodontic restoration of root filled teeth should be expedient and considerate to the residual tooth structure. Posts should be placed ‘passively’ and excessive ‘post‐space’ preparation should be avoided. This narrative review aims to present the aetiology, potential predisposing factors, histopathology, diagnosis and management of VRF and present perspectives for future research. Currently, there are limited options other than extraction for the management of VRF, although root resection may be considered in multi‐rooted teeth. Innovative techniques to ‘repair’ VRFs using both orthograde and surgical approaches require further research and validation. The prevention of VRFs is critical; identifying susceptible teeth, utilizing conservative endodontic procedures, together with expedient and appropriate post‐endodontic restorative procedures is paramount to reducing the incidence of terminal VRFs.
SPICe—Determinants of consumer green innovation adoption across domains: A systematic review of marketing journals and suggestions for a research agenda
Authors: Flores Phil Justice , Jansson Johan
Published: March 2022

Over the last decade, the growth in demand for green innovations has become apparent. This can be linked to increased consumer awareness of the environmental problems that the world is facing. This review presents the determinants of consumer green innovation adoption across domains identified in marketing literature. We included and synthesized 47 articles published between 2010 and July 2021 in top marketing journals. After identifying the determinants, we grouped them into four categories: (1) Social, (2) Personal, (3) Innovation, and (4) Contextual and external level determinants, or what we refer to as the SPICe determinants. This categorization is based on the source of the motivation, which is social, individual, innovation‐related, or contextual. We found a lack of focus on the consumer aspects in green innovation adoption studies, highlighting the need for more research regarding what motivates consumers to adopt these new environmental products. Furthermore, we showed that no sole determinant could predict green innovation adoption alone. Consequently, we outlined several agendas and questions that future studies could tackle and explore.
Effect of the combination of low temperature vacuum heating with tea polyphenol on AGEs in sturgeon fillets
Authors: Wei Jianling , Wu Zhengyang , Chai Tingting , He Fanyu , Chen Yuewen , Dong Xiuping , Shi Yugang
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to elucidate the information mechanism of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in sturgeon fillets, and its inhibition by polyphenol. The results revealed that LTVH fillets (processed using low temperature vacuum heating method, LTVH) did not have lower values of AGEs than those treated using TC method (a typical thermal procedure using boiling water at 100 °C). The addition of tea polyphenol, on the other hand, drastically reduced the AGEs levels in LTVH fillets. An in vitro model including sturgeon myofibrillar protein and glucose was employed in this work to evaluate the inhibition of AGEs by tea polyphenol. The results showed that free Arginine was susceptible to interaction with glucose, which caused the development of AGEs. However, the addition of tea polyphenol competed with glucose for binding to free Arginine, leading to a substantial decrease in free Arginine concentration and an increase of free amino loss rate, resulting in the inhibition of AGEs generation. The LTVH technique, in combination with tea polyphenol, can be used to prevent the production of AGEs on fillets during the thermal treatment.
Service integration: The perspective of Australian alcohol and other drug (AOD) nurses
Authors: Searby Adam , Burr Dianna , James Russell , Maude Phil
Published: March 2022

The recently released Victorian Mental Health Royal Commission report has recommended a shift to integrated treatment, defined as treatment for alcohol and substance use disorders and mental ill health occurring in parallel, rather than distinct systems catering to each need. However, little work has sought to determine the perceptions of nurses working in alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment towards integrating with mental health services. In this study, we explore the perspectives of specialist AOD nurses towards the integration of mental health and AOD treatment services. Secondary analysis of semi‐structured interviews with Australian specialist AOD nurses (n = 46) conducted as part of a wider workforce study in 2019. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and reported using the COREQ guidelines. Of the interviews analysed, six were AOD nurses working in an Australian state that had recently undergone service integration; however, many participants expressed perceptions of service integration. Two key themes are reported in this paper: (i) perceptions of service integration, where AOD nurses participating in our study were concerned that integration would result in the model of care they worked under being replaced by a mental health‐based model that was felt to be highly risk averse, and (ii) experiences of service integration. Concerns about the focus of care as well as the complexity of care differing between the two services demonstrated a contrast in both philosophical approaches to work with consumers and legislative difference in voluntary versus compulsory care provision.
Synthesis, structural evolution, and dielectric properties of a new perovskite solid solution (Pb0.5Sr0.5)(Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3–PbTiO3
Authors: Dong Wenhan , Wang Bi‐Xia , Yuan Yi , Wu Hua , Bokov Alexei A. , Ye Zuo‐Guang
Published: March 2022

To explore lead‐reduced dielectric materials in the SrTiO3–PbTiO3–PbZrO3 ternary system, a novel solid solution between relaxor ferroelectric (Pb0.5Sr0.5)(Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3 and ferroelectric PbTiO3, namely (1 − x)(Pb0.5Sr0.5) (Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3–xPbTiO3 (lead–strontium–zirconate–titanate [PSZT]–PT), has been synthesized in the perovskite structure by high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method in the form of ceramics. The crystal structure and phase symmetry of the materials synthesized were analyzed and resolved based on X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) data through both the Pawley and Rietveld refinements. The results of the structural refinements indicate that at low PT‐concentration end of the solid solution system, for example, x = 0.05, the PSZT–PT solid solution exhibits a cubic structural symmetry (with the space group Pm‐3m). As the PT concentration (x) increases, the structure of (1 − x)PSZT–xPT gradually transforms from the cubic to a tetragonal (P4mm) phase. In the composition range of x = 0.10–0.25, a mixture of the cubic and tetragonal phases was identified. As the concentration of PT increases, the proportion of the tetragonal phase increases at the expense of the cubic phase. For a composition of x > 0.25, a pure tetragonal phase is observed. The dielectric properties of the materials were studied by measuring the permittivity as a function of temperature at various frequencies. For the composition of x = 0.05, the temperature dependence of dielectric constant shows typical relaxor behavior. For x = 0.35, the dielectric peaks indicate a normal ferroelectric phase transition. Overall, a structural transformation from a central‐symmetric, nonpolar cubic phase to a non‐centrosymmetric, polar tetragonal phase is induced by the substitution of PT for PSZT in the pseudo‐binary solid solution of (1 − x)PSZT–xPT, which also reveals an interesting relaxor to ferroelectric crossover phenomenon.
Activity of poly(methacrylic acid)-silver nanoparticles on fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans strains: Synergistic and cytotoxic effects
Authors: Falcão Cecília Maria Cruz , Andrade Audrey , Holanda Vanderlan Nogueira , de Figueiredo Regina Celia Bressan Queiroz , Ximenes Eulália Azevedo , Gomes Anderson Stevens Leonidas
Published: March 2022

Aims

To synthesize and evaluate the antifungal activity of poly(methacrylic acid)-silver nanoparticles (PMAA-AgNPs) against nine Candida albicans isolated from clinical specimens.

Methods and Results

The effects of PMAA-AgNPs-fluconazole combination was analysed by checkerboard methodology. The synergistic potential of PMAA-AgNPs-fluconazole was determined by the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI). The inhibition of germ tube formation and the determination of PMAA-AgNPs cytotoxicity were also performed. All C. albicans strains were susceptible to PMAA-AgNPs and resistant to fluconazole. PMAA-AgNPs at subinhibitory concentrations restored the susceptibility of resistant C. albicans to fluconazole, whose FICI ranged from 0.3 to 0.5. The synergistic interaction of the combination was observed in eight of nine strains. The PMAA-AgNPs-fluconazole combination was also able to inhibit the germ tube formation. PMAA-AgNPs showed a dose-dependent decrease in viability for cells tested, with 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) values of 6.5, 4.9 and 6.8 μg ml−1 for macrophages, fibroblasts and Vero cells, respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that, in general, PMAA-AgNPs acts synergistically in combination with fluconazole, inhibiting fluconazole-resistant C. albicans strains. PMAA-AgNPs-fluconazole combination was also able to inhibit germ tube formation, an important virulence factor. Inhibitory effect of PMAA-AgNPs alone or in combination was higher in C. albicans than in mammalian cells.

Significance and Impact of Study

This study shows the potential of PMAA-AgNPs combined with fluconazole to inhibit fluconazole-resistant C. albicans strains.
Novel “late potential map” algorithm: Abnormal potentials and scar channels detection for ventricular tachycardia ablation
Authors: Cortez‐Dias Nuno , Lima da Silva Gustavo , Nunes‐Ferreira Afonso , Nakar Elad , Francisco Raquel , Pereira Mariana , Carpinteiro Luís , Pinto Fausto J. , de Sousa João
Published: March 2022

Background

Automated systems for substrate mapping in the context of ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation may annotate far‐field rather than near‐field signals, rendering the resulting maps hard to interpret. Additionally, quantitative assessment of local conduction velocity (LCV) remains an unmet need in clinical practice. We evaluate whether a new late potential map (LPM) algorithm can provide an automatic and reliable annotation and localized bipolar voltage measurement of ventricular electrograms (EGMs) and if LCV analysis allows recognizing intrascar conduction corridors acting as VT isthmuses.

Methods

In 16 patients referred for scar‐related VT ablation, 8 VT activation maps and 29 high‐resolution substrate maps from different activation wavefronts were obtained. In offline analysis, the LPM algorithm was compared to manually annotated substrate maps. Locations of the VT isthmuses were compared with the corresponding substrate maps in regard to LCV.

Results

The LPM algorithm had an overall/local abnormal ventricular activity (LAVA) annotation accuracy of 94.5%/81.1%, which compares to 83.7%/23.9% for the previous wavefront algorithm. The resultant maps presented a spatial concordance of 88.1% in delineating regions displaying LAVA. LAVA median localized bipolar voltage was 0.22 mV, but voltage amplitude assessment had modest accuracy in distinguishing LAVA from other abnormal EGMs (area under the curve: 0.676; p < .001). LCV analysis in high‐density substrate maps identified a median of two intrascar conduction corridors per patient (interquartile range: 2–3), including the one acting as VT isthmus in all cases.

Conclusion

The new LPM algorithm and LCV analysis may enhance substrate characterization in scar‐related VT.
Agonistic behaviour of wild eels and depressed survival and growth of farmed eels in mixed rearing experiments
Authors: Wakiya Ryoshiro , Itakura Hikaru , Imayoshi Yuji , Kaifu Kenzo
Published: March 2022

To contribute to improving eel stocking procedures, the survival, growth and behaviour of farmed Japanese eels reared together with wild individuals were evaluated to learn about possible encounters of farmed‐ and stocked eels with wild eels. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the (a) effect of the presence of wild eels on survival and growth of farmed eels in experimental ponds and (b) behavioural differences between wild and farmed eels placed in a small tank. In the survival and growth experiment, significantly lower survival and growth rates of farmed eels reared with wild eels were observed compared with farmed eels reared without wild eels (control). In the behavioural observations, the authors observed significantly higher occupation rates of a refuge and more frequent biting for wild eels, indicating a dominance of wild eels over farmed eels. Because wild and farmed eels used in the current experiments belong to the same genetic population, these differences resulted within one generation through the aquaculture rearing process.
Temperature, meal size and body size effects on the gastric evacuation of rainbow trout: modelling optimum and upper thermal limits
Authors: Dürrani Ömerhan
Published: March 2022

This study examined the rate and course of gastric evacuation (GE) in rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in relation to meal size, body size and temperature. The GE experiments were performed on small (mean ± 95% C.I., 17.7 ± 0.5 cm total length), medium (22. 9 ± 0.2 cm) and large (28.3 ± 0.3 cm) rainbow trout fed meals of different sizes using commercial food pellets at water temperatures T ranging from 7.8°C to 19.2°C. Estimating the shape parameter of a general power function suggested that the square root function adequately described the GE in rainbow trout independently of meal size. The effects of total body length L and weight W on gastric evacuation rate (GER) were described by simple power functions. The square root function was further expanded by a temperature function with temperature optimum to describe the effect of temperature. The expanded square root function revealed a considerable effect of body size and temperature on the GER of rainbow trout. The GER increased exponentially with rising temperature, reached an optimum at c. 18.5°C and then declined abruptly to zero at c. 21°C. The GER of rainbow trout could thus be described by (g h−1) or (g h−1), where St is the current stomach content mass (g), and at post‐prandial time t (h). These functions should prove useful to calculate total GE time as well as stomach fullness at different post‐prandial times and therefore provide valuable information to develop optimal feeding strategies for farming of rainbow trout.
Research progress on nondestructive testing technology for aquatic products freshness
Authors: Li Xinxing , Wang Biao , Xie Tianhua , Stankovski Stevan , Hu Jinyou
Published: March 2022

As one of the vital food, aquatic products help to improve diet structure and alleviate food pressure. Aquatics food has a tender taste, with protein, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and other nutrients. At the same time, aquatic products are highly susceptible to spoilage due to their properties in processing, transportation, and storage, which damages the economic efficiency of producers and may pose a threat to the dietary safety of consumers. Therefore, researchers have been working to developing an efficient, nondestructive, and practical technology to detect the freshness of aquatic products in real‐time and easily. This article describes the representative techniques applied in recent years for the nondestructive inspection of aquatic products' freshness in terms of working principles, application examples, and characteristics. It summarizes each technique's development prospects and challenges.

Practical Applications

In this article, the analysis of different nondestructive testing techniques in aquatic products inspection leads to several conclusions conducive to improving the effectiveness of the application. It is necessary to establish a long‐term cooperation mechanism and develop the technologies and equipment of aquatic products detection used in specific production links. New detection technologies should also be developed, with joint analysis of several detection technologies and the comprehensive characterization of multiple indicators. Finally, it leads to the establishment of an intelligent real‐time detection system for measuring aquatic products' freshness based on network and integration.
Factors that influence hospital nurses’ escalation of patient care in response to their early warning score: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Burke Catherine , Conway Yvonne
Published: March 2022

Background

The Early Warning Score (EWS) is a validated tool that has improved patient outcomes internationally. This scoring system is used within the hospital setting to identify potentially deteriorating patients, thus expediting referral to appropriate medical personnel. It is increasingly recognised that there are other influencing factors along with EWS, which impact on nurses’ decisions to escalate care.

Aim

The aim of this review was to identify and synthesise data from qualitative studies, which examined factors influencing nurses’ escalation of care in response to patients’ EWS.

Methods

The systematic search strategy and eligibility criteria were guided by the SPIDER (Sample Phenomenon of Interest Design Evaluation Type of Research) framework. Eleven databases and five grey literature databases were searched. Titles and abstracts were independently screened in line with pre‐established inclusion and exclusion criteria using the cloud‐based platform, Rayyan. The selected studies underwent quality appraisal using CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, 2017, https://www.casp‐uk.net/casp‐toolschecklists) and subsequently synthesised using Thomas and Harden's thematic analysis approach. GRADE–CERQual (Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation–Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) was used to assess confidence in results. The EQUATOR listed guideline ENTREQ (Tong et al., 2012, BMC Medical Research Methodology, 12) was used to synthesise and report findings.

Results

Eighteen studies from seven countries including 235 nurses were identified. Following synthesis, four analytical themes were generated with eighteen derived consequent findings. The four themes identified were as follows:

1) Marrying nurses’ clinical judgement with EWS 2) SMART communication 3) EWS Protocol: Blessing and a Curse 5) Hospital Domain.

Conclusion

Nurses strive to find balance by simultaneously navigating within the boundaries of both the EWS protocol and the hospital domain. They view the EWS as a valid essential component in the system but one that does not give a definitive answer and absolute direction. They value the protocols’ ability to identify deteriorating patients and convey the seriousness of a situation to their multidisciplinary colleagues but also find it somewhat restrictive and frustrating and wish to have credence given to their own intuition and clinical judgement.
Psychological impact of COVID‐19 pandemic in Brazil: Adaptation and validation of mental impact and distress screening instrument and the sociodemographic profile of impact
Authors: Coscioni Vinicius , Silva‐Ferraz Brenda Fernanda , Siegmund Gerson , Lins Araújo Costa Luiza , Chang Kay
Published: March 2022

The Mental Impact and Distress Scale: COVID‐19 (MIDc) was constructed and validated by one of the first pandemic‐impact research teams in February 2020 and aims to assess psychosocial impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The purpose of the present research was to determine the psychometric properties of the MIDc's Brazilian form and outline a sociodemographic profile of the pandemic's psychosocial impact in a Brazilian sample. Altogether, 1004 Brazilians living in different regions of Brazil completed an online survey. The adapted Brazilian version presented significant validity and reliability as assessed by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach alpha and Spearman‐Brown coefficients, and associations with related psychological measures. Even though the Brazilian version differs from a previous (Macau) version, it contains both anticipation (i.e., the mental engagement processes of managing the unknowns) and modulation (i.e., the mental processes of insulation being activated to maintain a sense of normalcy) factors. Findings indicate greater vulnerability to modulation among younger and female participants. Black participants and those with lower family income were more prone to be economically impacted. Participants living in isolation were more vulnerable to anticipation. Thus, the COVID‐19 pandemic was found to differentially affect gender, ethnic, and social groups in Brazil.