bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yttrium‐Catalyzed Intermolecular Hydroamination of Norbornene with Simple Amines
Authors: Polak Lara H. , Hultzsch Kai C.
Published: February 2024

The intermolecular hydroamination of norbornene with simple amines was achieved using silyl‐substituted ortho‐terphenoxide yttrium complexes. Excellent conversion was obtained for both benzylic and aliphatic amines. For benzyl and linear aliphatic amines, the highest activity was observed for the sterically more encumbered methyldiphenylsilyl‐substituted complex, whereas the trimethylsilyl‐substituted complex was more active for sterically encumbered primary amines.
Who benefits the most? Teacher expectations and their relation with students’ achievement in mathematics in primary school
Authors: Hollenstein Lena , Brühwiler Christian , König Johannes
Published: February 2024

Over the past 50 years, many studies have investigated the impact of teacher expectations on student achievement and indicated small to moderate effects. Currently, it is still unclear which student‐related factors (e.g. socioeconomic status, or gender) moderate the expectation effect. There is still a need to gain a better understanding of the relation between teacher expectations and students' characteristics. The present study aims to examine the accuracy of teacher expectations as well as student‐related moderators of the expectation effects on students' achievement. The analyses are based on data from a longitudinal study including 28 primary school teachers and their students (N = 509). The results show that high expectations of teachers correlated positively with student achievement in mathematics, although no significant moderating effects were found. These findings strengthen the importance of ensuring high teacher expectations for all students.
Electric manipulation on deformation of ionic ferrofluid sessile droplets
Authors: Zhu Gui‐ping , Li Xun‐an , Wang Qi‐yue , Fang Mei‐hua , Ding Yan‐chao
Published: February 2024

Active electric‐driven droplet manipulation in digital microfluidics constitutes a promising domain owing to the unique and programmable wettability inherent in sessile ionic droplets. The coupling between the electric field and flow field enables precise control over wetting characteristics and droplet morphology. This study delves into the deformation phenomena of ionic sessile ferrofluid droplets in ambient air induced by uniform electric fields. Under the assumption of a pinned mode throughout the process, the deformation is characterized by variations in droplet height and contact angle in response to the applied electric field intensity. A numerical model is formulated to simulate the deformation dynamics of ferrofluid droplets, employing the phase field method for tracking droplet deformation. The fidelity of the numerical outcomes is assessed through the validation process, involving a comparison of droplet geometric deformations with corresponding experimental results. The impact of the electric field on the deformation of dielectric droplets is modulated by parameters such as electric field strength and droplet size. Through meticulously designed experiments, the substantial influence of both field strength and droplet size is empirically verified, elucidating the behavior of ionic sessile droplets. Considering the interplay of electric force, viscous force, and interfacial tension, the heightened field intensity is observed to effectively reduce the contact angle, augment droplet height, and intensify internal droplet flow. Under varying electric field conditions, droplets assume diverse shapes, presenting a versatile approach for microfluidic operations. The outcomes of this research hold significant guiding implications for microfluidic manipulation, droplet handling, and sensing applications.
Analysis of feeding and eating disorders in 191 children according to psychiatric or gastroenterological recruitment: The PEDIAFED cohort study
Authors: Bertrand Valérie , Tavolacci Marie‐Pierre , Bargiacchi Anne , Leblanc Véronique , Déchelotte Pierre , Stordeur Coline , Bellaïche Marc
Published: February 2024

Objective

The DSM‐5 classification introduced new Feeding and Eating Disorders (FED) diagnostic categories, notably Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), which, like other FED, can present psychiatric and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, paediatric clinical research that focuses on children below the age of 12 years remains scarce. The aim of this study was first to investigate the clinical features of FED in a cohort of children, second to compare them according to their recruitment (gastroenterology or psychiatry unit).

Method

This non‐interventional retrospective cohort study analysed 191 patients in a French paediatric tertiary care centre (gastroenterology n = 100, psychiatry n = 91). The main outcome variables were clinical data (type of FED, BMI, nutritional support, chronic diseases, psychiatric comorbidities, sensory, sleep, language disorders, gastrointestinal complaints, adverse life events, family history). The outcome was defined by a Clinical Global Impression of Change‐score.

Results

FED diagnoses were ARFID (n = 100), Unspecified FED (UFED, n = 57), anorexia nervosa (AN, n = 33) and one pica/rumination. Mean follow‐up was 3.28 years (SD 1.91). ARFID was associated with selective and sensory disorders (p < 0.001); they had more anxiety disorders than patients with UFED (p < 0.001). Patients with UFED had more chewing difficulties, language disorder (p < 0.001), and more FED related to chronic disease (p < 0.05) than patients with ARFID and AN. Patients with AN were female, underweight, referred exclusively to the psychiatrist, and had more depression than patients with ARFID and UFED (p < 0.001). The gastroenterology cohort included more UFED, while the psychiatry cohort included more psychiatric comorbidities (p < 0.001). A worse clinical outcome was associated with ARFID, a younger age at onset (p < 0.001), selective/sensory disorders and nutritional support (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

ARFID and UFED children were diagnosed either by gastroenterologists or psychiatrists. Due to frequently associated somatic and psychiatric comorbidities, children with FED should benefit from a multidisciplinary assessment and care.
Lessons learned from the spatiotemporal analysis of long‐term and time‐variable young water fractions of large central European river basins
Authors: Stockinger Michael Paul , Stumpp Christine
Published: February 2024

The transit time of precipitation entering a catchment and leaving it as streamflow spatiotemporally varies according to the flow paths that precipitation takes. However, investigating influences of hydrometeorological variables and catchment characteristics on time‐variable transit times is challenging due to the complex water flow through heterogeneous landscapes. Recent studies investigated the fraction of streamflow younger than approximately 3 months (Fyw) using multi‐year data (long‐term Fyw) or one‐year calculation windows to investigate its time‐variability (time‐variable Fyw). Nonetheless, it is still unclear if the inter‐annual variability of one‐year Fyw is due to hydrological influences or its uncertainty, and no minimum time series length for the long‐term Fyw was defined yet. Here, we investigated the impact of catchment characteristics and hydrometeorological variables on the long‐term Fyw, the time‐variable Fyw, and the Fyw depending on discharge of nine river basins in Central Europe. All methods of estimating Fyw led to similar results, with Fyw depending on discharge deemed unreliable due to the monthly sampling interval of streamflow isotopes. Danube and Rhine had the lowest Fyw (0.06), medium Fyw (0.20) were found in eastern basins (e.g., Oder), and the western ones (e.g., Mosel) had the highest Fyw (0.33). Spatial analysis indicated a negative relationship between Fyw and altitude. Contradicting or lacking spatiotemporal relationships to other variables pointed to unknown influential factors controlling the runoff process. Using flow duration curves, it was found that basins with a low flow variability had low Fyw, indicating that the old water of their runoff stems from large subsurface storage. With increasing calculation window size, the within‐basin variability of time‐variable Fyw decreased. Long‐term Fyw depended on the method used to define ‘long‐term’ and the time series length and start and end date. We thus recommend future studies to calculate long‐term and time‐variable Fyw to facilitate comparability between different catchments, and to account for this source of uncertainty. Further, more studies are needed in diverse catchments to investigate the hydrometeorological impacts on Fyw and thus on runoff generation processes.
Thermal conductivity in a vadose zone: A novel spectral solution and application by the implication of significant coherence of thermal condition in the shallow soil water layer
Authors: Shih David Ching‐Fang
Published: February 2024

In the context of the heterogeneity in the unsaturated or vadose zone, accurately representing the analytical mechanisms and in‐situ water content within the soil layer poses a significant challenge. Particularly in shallow layers, thermal conditions exhibit rapid changes in response to evolving surface temperatures. This study proposes a hypothesis suggesting that the in situ heat mechanism may notably impact the soil water layer. The research introduces an innovative approach to theoretically uncover thermal conditions, including soil temperature, soil temperature gradients, and heat flux, within the shallow Quaternary gravel layer at various depths through spectral analysis of temporal observations. The study presents a stochastic inverse solution to estimate thermal conductivity by leveraging spectral analysis of soil heat flux and temperature gradients. The findings reveal that thermal conditions exhibit the most prominent periodic fluctuations during the diurnal process over a 24‐hour cycle. The soil temperature gradients and heat flux measurements at depths of 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 m demonstrate their ability to capture changes in soil temperature and air temperature to a certain extent within the frequency domain. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the intrinsic uncertainty and sensitivity of estimating thermal conductivity in heterogeneous soil environments. The wide variability observed in thermal conductivity values, coupled with their dependence on soil type and environmental conditions, underscores the need for careful consideration of these factors in future studies and modeling efforts. Applying the derived inverse spectral solution allows for determining thermal conductivity throughout the soil‐water system across depths ranging from 0.1 to 1.2 m. As a result, this research demonstrates the feasibility and practicality of assessing the thermal conductivity of the soil layer in conjunction with heat flux and temperature gradients through spectral analysis.
Evidence for variations in cryogenic extraction deuterium biases of plant xylem water across foundational northeastern US trees
Authors: Sobota Matthew , Li Kevin , Hren Michael , Knighton James
Published: February 2024

Measurements of oxygen and hydrogen isotopes in plant xylem water (2H, 18O) have helped to redefine conceptual and numerical models of the hydrological cycle and understand how plants compete for subsurface water. Recent experiments have shown that Cryogenic Vacuum Extraction (CVE) of plant xylem water can result in a δ2H bias. We tested if CVE δ2H‐biases varied significantly across seven foundational northeastern US forest trees with a series of tree core rehydration experiments. Our analysis demonstrated that CVE δ2H‐biases were well predicted by sample gravimetric water content and varied significantly with tree species identity. We show that species‐level δ2H‐bias corrections can result in substantially different understandings of plant water uptake and transpiration versus uncorrected data or generic bias corrections. This research demonstrates an urgent need for the critical evaluation of CVE for plant water extraction. In the absence of a stronger understanding of CVE δ2H‐biases, we recommend that xylem water δ2H observations should not be used in plant water uptake studies.
The implications of non‐synchronous trading in G‐7 financial markets
Authors: Dimitriou Dimitrios , Kenourgios Dimitris , Simos Theodore , Tsioutsios Alexandros
Published: February 2024

We investigate the effects of non‐synchronous trading on volatility spillover for the G‐7 equity markets during the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis (ESDC) and the Covid‐19 pandemic crisis. For data synchronisation we utilise ΜΑ(1) adjusted return series to estimate the Baba‐Engle‐Kraft‐Kroner (BEKK) and the dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) models. We also consider the use of realised kernels as explanatory variables in the variance equation. In this set up, the contagion effects during crises periods are more perceptible, as the spikes are easier to interpret. We also check the robustness of our main results by applying, wavelet coherence analysis to G‐7 major equity indices with realised kernels, as well as local Gaussian correlations (LGC). Our findings suggest the empirical significance of the synchronisation effects for the US and the other G‐7 equity markets. We also conclude that realised kernels is an effective tool for mitigating non‐synchronous effects. These results underline the significance of quantifying the synchronisation effects in equity markets as well as international portfolio diversification strategies.
Palmitoylation is required for Sept8‐204 and Sept5 to form vesicle‐like structure and colocalize with synaptophysin
Authors: Liu Huicong , Tan Rong , Tong Jia , Wen Shuo , Wu Can , Rao Muding , Zhu Jiangli , Qi Shiqian , Kong Eryan
Published: February 2024

Sept8 is a vesicle associated protein and there are two typical transcriptional variants (Sept8‐204 and Sept8‐201) expressed in mice brain. Interestingly, the coexpression of Sept8‐204/Sept5 induces the formation of small sized vesicle‐like structure, while that of the Sept8‐201/Sept5 produces large puncta. Sept8 is previously shown to be palmitoylated. Here it was further revealed that protein palmitoylation is required for Sept8‐204/Sept5 to maintain small sized vesicle‐like structure and colocalize with synaptophysin, since either the expression of nonpalmitoylated Sept8‐204 mutant (Sept8‐204‐3CA) or inhibiting Sept8‐204 palmitoylation by 2‐BP with Sept5 produces large puncta, which barely colocalizes with synaptophysin (SYP). Moreover, it was shown that the dynamic palmitoylation of Sept8‐204 is controlled by ZDHHC17 and PPT1, loss of ZDHHC17 decreases Sept8‐204 palmitoylation and induces large puncta, while loss of PPT1 increases Sept8‐204 palmitoylation and induces small sized vesicle‐like structure. Together, these findings suggest that palmitoylation is essential for the maintenance of the small sized vesicle‐like structure for Sept8‐204/Sept5, and may hint their important roles in synaptic functions.
Characterization of a biosurfactant produced by Peruvian strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6K‐11
Authors: Obregon‐Maldonado Pepe Martin , Merino‐Rafael Fernando Abilio , Gutiérrez‐Moreno Susana Mónica
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The oil industry has a big impact on the environment by itself and by using chemically synthesized surfactants. Biosurfactants are an ecofriendly alternative, especially rhamnolipids produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Rhamnolipids in a determined concentration decrease the liquid surface tension, and this allows access oil hydrocarbon to be degraded. The objective of this research is to characterize the biosurfactant produced by the native strain P. aeruginosa 6K‐11 by determining its critical micelle concentration (CMC), Krafft point, and emulsifying activity.

RESULTS

Experiments were initially performed with rhamnolipid produced by P. aeruginosa 6K‐11 growing on Siegmund‐Wagner medium with 1% of waste oil as carbon source and at 31.26 °C, 186 rpm after 42 h of incubation. After that, the biosurfactant was purified according to acid precipitation methodology. The first conductivity measurement, 34 μS/cm, was obtained with 12.5 g/L of rhamnolipid by using an APERA conductivity meter. The rhamnolipid CMC was 5.86 g/L due to the conductivity measurements graph and 0.49 was the dissociation degree. The equations of both lines were found by the method of least squares. The rhamnolipid has produced 1.97 Units of Emulsifying Activity (UEA) and 50% stability was observed based on the E24 Index. The highest conductivity achieved under 39 °C, as calculated from a conductivity against temperature graph, was the Krafft point.

CONCLUSION

These findings give important parameters to characterize the P. aeruginosa 6K‐11 biosurfactant activity that can be used to accelerate oil biodegradation in bioremediation processes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Anterior Cruciate Ligament‐Return to Sport after Injury (ACL‐RSI) subcategories are affected by subjective running ability and medial single‐leg hop distance in postreconstruction patients at 6 months
Authors: Aizawa Jun‐ya , Hirohata Kenji , Ohji Shunsuke , Mitomo Sho , Ohmi Takehiro , Koga Hideyuki , Yagishita Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the intricate relationship between physical function factors and each subcategory score of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament‐Return to Sport after Injury (ACL‐RSI) scale among patients following ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Participants comprised 59 patients who had undergone primary ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendon. The ACL‐RSI was completed 6 months after reconstruction and five physical functions were measured in patients on the same day. Simple linear regression was performed multiple times to investigate the relationship between ACL‐RSI subcategory scores as a dependent variable and each independent variable (knee strength, leg anterior reach distance, single‐leg hop [SLH] distances, side bridge endurance, and subjective running ability). Multiple regression analysis was performed using a stepwise method, with factors showing a risk rate <0.05 in simple linear regression analyses as independent variables and the ACL‐RSI in each subcategory score as the dependent variable.

Results

Multiple regression analysis showed that subjective running ability affected all subcategories (p ≤ 0.001), and that the limb symmetry index of medial SLH distance affected both the Emotions (p = 0.047) and Confidence (p = 0.009) subcategories. Higher subjective running ability and greater limb symmetry in the medial SLH were thus positively associated with each dimension of psychological readiness.

Conclusions

This study highlights the differential impact of physical function factors on specific subcategories of the ACL‐RSI scale, providing clinicians with insights for designing targeted rehabilitation strategies. This original paper suggests the importance of analysing factors related to subcategory scores in addition to total ACL‐RSI score, and could contribute to the understanding of determinants for a successful return to sport following ACL reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Measuring the therapeutic bond in genetic counseling: Testing measurement error in the bond subscale of the Working Alliance Inventory
Authors: Broadbridge Elizabeth , Roter Debra L. , Persky Susan , Erby Lori H.
Published: February 2024

The therapeutic relationship is a key component of successful genetic counseling. In psychotherapy, a strong therapeutic relationship can improve patient health outcomes and a poor relationship can worsen psychological functioning. Investigation of the therapeutic relationship in genetic counseling has shown evidence for a similar pattern. Reliable measurement of the therapeutic relationship is necessary for consistency across studies in the genetic counseling context. One measure that has been adapted for use in genetic counseling is the Working Alliance Inventory (WAI). However, there have been no studies of the factor structure or item‐level method bias analyses for the genetic counseling‐adapted version of the WAI. The goal of this study was to test the factor structure of the WAI observer version (WAI‐O) bond subscale and assess method bias in a genetic counseling context. We hypothesized that differences in factor structures would exist for items that were positively (n = 9) versus negatively (n = 3) worded (reverse coded). Secondary data analysis was performed on two data sets that utilized the WAI‐O in genetic counseling contexts. Data set 1 used simulated genetic counseling sessions that were judged by analog clients recruited through crowdsourcing platforms (N = 861). Data set 2 was conducted with genetic counseling clients, and sessions were evaluated by a research team (N = 120). Principal axis factor analysis with oblique oblimin rotation supported a two‐factor solution for the WAI‐O bond subscale across data sets. Items factored based on wording, with the positively worded items loading together and the negatively worded items loading on the second factor. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the removal of all negatively worded items from the instrument across data sets. Results suggest that the negatively worded items on the WAI‐O may be capturing a construct inconsistent with the positively worded items and support rewording and/or excluding them from use for a more reliable measure of the therapeutic bond.
Emerging strategies and therapeutic innovations for combating drug resistance in Staphylococcus aureus strains: A comprehensive review
Authors: Gopikrishnan Mohanraj , Haryini Sree , C George Priya Doss
Published: February 2024

In recent years, antibiotic therapy has encountered significant challenges due to the rapid emergence of multidrug resistance among bacteria responsible for life‐threatening illnesses, creating uncertainty about the future management of infectious diseases. The escalation of antimicrobial resistance in the post‐COVID era compared to the pre‐COVID era has raised global concern. The prevalence of nosocomial‐related infections, especially outbreaks of drug‐resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, have been reported worldwide, with India being a notable hotspot for such occurrences. Various virulence factors and mutations characterize nosocomial infections involving S. aureus. The lack of proper alternative treatments leading to increased drug resistance emphasizes the need to investigate and examine recent research to combat future pandemics. In the current genomics era, the application of advanced technologies such as next‐generation sequencing (NGS), machine learning (ML), and quantum computing (QC) for genomic analysis and resistance prediction has significantly increased the pace of diagnosing drug‐resistant pathogens and insights into genetic intricacies. Despite prompt diagnosis, the elimination of drug‐resistant infections remains unattainable in the absence of effective alternative therapies. Researchers are exploring various alternative therapeutic approaches, including phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, photodynamic therapy, vaccines, host‐directed therapies, and more. The proposed review mainly focuses on the resistance journey of S. aureus over the past decade, detailing its resistance mechanisms, prevalence in the subcontinent, innovations in rapid diagnosis of the drug‐resistant strains, including the applicants of NGS and ML application along with QC, it helps to design alternative novel therapeutics approaches against S. aureus infection.
Could the aroma of spices produce a cross‐modal enhancement of food saltiness and contribute to reducing salt intake?
Authors: Segura‐Borrego M. Pilar , Ubeda Cristina , Pastor Olga , Callejón Raquel M. , Morales M. Lourdes
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

As a result of its correlation with cardiovascular diseases, salt intake must be reduced. According to multi‐sensory integration, aroma plays an important role in saltiness enhancement; this could enable a food's salt content to be reduced without losing acceptance. We therefore studied the effect of three spices, Curcuma longa, Laurus nobilis L. and Petroselinum crispum L., on saltiness enhancement through sensory tests on consumers. This was followed by olfactometric analysis with the aim of relating the effect to the spices’ aromatic composition.

RESULTS

According to the odour‐induced salty taste enhancement (OISE) mean values, bay leaf and turmeric had the highest effect on saltiness enhancement, at a similar level to dry‐cured ham aroma, wherwas parsley had a significantly lower OISE value. Only one odour‐active compound (OAC), eugenol, showed a direct correlation with the spices' OISE values. Turmeric primarily had OACs with sweet aroma, whereas bay leaf had more OACs belonging to the spicy‐aroma category.

CONCLUSION

The three spices, turmeric, bay leaf and parsley, investigated in the present study appear to enhance the salty taste of mashed potato with a low salt content. The results suggest that an interaction effect among OACs with different aromatic ranges may exist. Therefore, when the global OAC modified frequency value, grouped according to aroma range, was considered, the sweet range appears to counteract the effect of the spicy aroma on saltiness. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Integrative metabolome and transcriptome profiling provide insights into elucidation of the synthetic mechanisms of phenolic compounds in Yunnan hulled wheat (Triticum aestivum ssp. yunnanense King)
Authors: Zhang Chuanli , Sha Yun , Wang Qianchao , Liu Junna , Zhang Ping , Cheng Shunhe , Qin Peng
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Yunnan hulled wheat grains (YHWs) have abundant phenolic compounds (PCs). However, a systematic elucidation of the phenolic characteristics and molecular basis in YHWs is currently lacking. The aim of the study, for the first time, was to conduct metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of YHWs at different developmental stages.

RESULTS

A total of five phenolic metabolite classes (phenolic acids, flavonoids, quinones, lignans and coumarins, and tannins) and 361 PCs were identified, with flavonoids and phenolic acids being the most abundant components. The relative abundance of the identified PCs showed a dynamic decreasing pattern with grain development, and the most significant differences in accumulation were between the enlargement and mature stage, which is consistent with the gene regulation patterns of the corresponding phenolic biosynthesis pathway. Through co‐expression and co‐network analysis, PAL, HCT, CCR, F3H, CHS, CHI and bZIP were identified and predicted as candidate key enzymes and transcription factors.

CONCLUSION

The results broaden our understanding of PC accumulation in wheat whole grains, especially the differential transfer between immature and mature grains. The identified PCs and potential regulatory factors provide important information for future in‐depth research on the biosynthesis of PCs and the improvement of wheat nutritional quality. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Enhancement mechanism of glycation with l‐arabinose and xylose on texture properties of silver carp mince gel
Authors: Liu Junya , Zhu Xueshen , Shi Wenzheng
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Glycation is a green processing technology. Based on our previous studies, glycation with l‐arabinose and xylose was beneficial to enhance the texture properties of silver carp mince (SCM) gels. However, the possible enhancement mechanism remained unclear. Therefore, in this study, SCM gels with different types of reducing sugar (glucose, l‐arabinose, and xylose) were prepared based on our previous study. The possible mechanism of texture enhancement of SCM gels was analyzed by investigating the changes in water distribution, protein structures, and microstructure in the gel system.

RESULTS

The glycation of l‐arabinose and xylose enhanced the hardness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience of SCM gels. Hardness increased from 1883.04 (control group) to 3624.54 (l‐arabinose group) and 4348.18 (xylose group). Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) showed that glycation promoted the tight binding of immobilized water to proteins. Raman spectroscopic analysis showed that glycation increased the surface hydrophobicity and promoted the formation of disulfide bonds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that glycation promoted the formation of uniform and dense three‐dimensional network structure in SCM gels.

CONCLUSION

In summary, glycation enhanced the binding ability of immobilized water to proteins, improved the surface hydrophobicity, promoted the formation of disulfide bonds, and led to a more uniform and dense gel network structure of proteins, thus enhancing the texture properties of SCM gels. This research provided a theoretical basis for a better understanding of the mechanism of the effect of glycation on the quality of gel products and also provided technical support for the application of l‐arabinose and xylose in new functional gel foods. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Studies on the degradation pattern of wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase on wheat‐derived arabinoxylans
Authors: Fan Jingxiao , Jin Yuhong , Liu Junhan , Fei Ximing
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase is a key enzyme for arabinoxylan degradation, but its wheat‐derived arabinoxylan degradation pattern is unclear.

RESULTS

Water‐extractable arabinoxylan (WEAX) of 300–750 kDa and 30–100 kDa were the two components with the highest degradation efficiency of wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase, followed by > 1000 kDa WEAX, but 100–300 kDa WEAX showed the lowest degradation efficiency. The main enzymatic products were the 5–30 kDa WEAX, which accounted for 57.57%, 68.15%, and 52.28% of WAXH, WAXM, and WAXL products, respectively. The enzymatic efficiency of wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase was relatively high, and the continuity of enzymatic efficiency was good, especially since the enzymatic reaction was the most intense in 1–3 h. WEAX of > 300 kDa was highly significant and positively correlated with viscosity. In comparison, WEAX of < 30 kDa was highly significant and negatively correlated with viscosity. As the enzymatic degradation proceeded, there were fewer and fewer macromolecular components but more and more small molecule components, and the system viscosity became smaller and smaller.

CONCLUSION

In this study, it was found that wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase degraded preferentially 300–750 kDa and 30–100 kDa WEAX, not in the order of substrate size in a sequential enzymatic degradation. Wheat malt endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanase was most efficient within 3 h, primarily generating < 30 kDa WEAX ultimately. The main products were highly significantly negatively correlated with the system viscosity, so that the system viscosity gradually decreased as the enzymatic hydrolysis proceeded. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Embracing nutritional, physical, pasting, textural, sensory and phenolic profile of functional muffins prepared by partial incorporation of lyophilized wheatgrass, fenugreek and basil microgreens juice powder
Authors: Kumar Arun , Singh Narpinder
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Muffins are delightful baked food products that have earned a prominent place in the daily diet of a majority of people around the world. The incorporation of microgreens juice powder (MJP) into muffins boosts their nutritional value. The influence of the incorporation of wheatgrass, fenugreek and basil MJP at 1.5% and 3.0% levels on the nutritional composition, physical properties, pasting, sensory, textural and phenolic profile of functional muffins was evaluated.

RESULTS

The results indicated a significant increase in the protein content, ash content, dietary fiber and total phenolic content of MJP incorporated muffins. The incorporation of MJP to the muffins led to a gradual reduction in the L*, a* and b* values. Baking characteristic such as bake loss decreased significantly as a result of MJP incorporation. Furthermore, the incorporation of various MJPs resulted in a significant decrease in the peak viscosity of the flour‐MJP blends. Regarding texture, the hardness and chewiness of the muffins increased progressively with an increase in the level of MJP incorporation. The highest hardness (10.15 N) and chewiness (24.45 mJ) were noted for 3% fenugreek MJP incorporated muffins (FK 3.0). The sensory score of MJP incorporated muffins was acceptable and satisfactory. Additionally, 3% basil MJP incorporated muffins (BL 3.0) marked the dominant presence of majority of the detected phenolic acids such as ferulic acid, sinapic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin, cinnamic acid, isothymosin and rosamarinic acid. The highest concentration of p‐coumaric acid (11.95 mg kg−1), vanillic acid (26.07 mg kg−1) and kaempferol (8.04 mg kg−1) was recorded for FK 3.0 muffin.

CONCLUSION

MJP incorporated muffins revealed the pool of phenolic acids and the reduced bake loss is of industrial interest. The present study concludes that wheatgrass, fenugreek and basil MJP can be incorporated by up to 3% into baked products as a source of functional ingredients for health benefits. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Challenges and potential for detecting and quantifying titanium dioxide in food
Authors: Djekic Ilija , Lević Steva , Smigic Nada , Bouleau Arthur , Ilijević Konstantin , Roganović Jovana , Rakic Vesna
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is banned in some countries but its use is still permitted in others. The global food supply chain is therefore challenged with the need to use rapid and reliable testing methods to either detect the presence of TiO2 or to quantify its concentration. The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of using color, texture profile analysis, Raman microscopy, and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy to detect and quantify TiO2 in fillings used in the pastry and confectionery industry. In this study, two types of fillings were investigated: vanilla based and chocolate based. All fillings were prepared in four different variations – without TiO2 and with three concentrations as follows: 0.25 g*kg‐1, 0.5 g*kg‐1, or 0.75 g*kg‐1 TiO2 per sample. The methods were selected for their ability to analyze the samples in a short period of time.

RESULTS

All of the methods showed moderate to high potential for detecting TiO2 in the samples. The results reveal how TiO2 affects the food matrix color and texture. Use of Raman microscopy confirms its detectability, although concentrations of TiO2 do not follow a pattern. X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy showed the greatest potential as it can not only detect TiO2 but can also quantify its concentration in the samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The highest potential for quantifying the concentration of this food additive was achieved with XRF. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Presentation, Management, and Outcomes of Pathologic Scars Within a Pediatric Otolaryngology Practice
Authors: Zaccardelli Alessandra , Harb Jennifer L. , Papathanasiou Evangelos , Scott Andrew R.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aims to review the spectrum of scarring that may present to an urban, pediatric otolaryngology practice and determine if associations exist between race, scar location, treatment modality, and outcomes following interventions for scarring.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study among 115 pediatric patients with 138 unique keloids or hypertrophic scars (HTS), and 141 children presenting for tonsillectomy at Tufts Medical Center. Age at presentation and sex assigned at birth were collected for both populations. For those presenting for pathologic scars, income quintile, self‐identified race/ethnicity, anatomical location, treatment number and type, and clinical outcome were also analyzed. Multivariate analyses calculated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals to assess associations between scar subsite, intervention type, and persistence after treatment.

Results

Compared to individuals presenting for tonsillectomy, a disproportionate percentage of patients presenting for scarring identified as Black (26.6% vs. 13.5%) or Asian (17.4% vs. 7.1%, p = 0.016) or were male (61.7% vs. 49.7%, p = 0.053). Individuals identifying as Black or Asian were more likely to present with ear lobe and neck scars, respectively (50.0% vs. 45.5%, p = <0.001). Ear scars were significantly more likely to receive excision at initial treatment (aOR = 5.86 [1.43–23.96]) compared to other subsites, and were more likely to require >1 treatment (aOR = 5.91 [1.53–22.75]).

Conclusion

Among pediatric patients presenting with keloids or HTS, children who identified as Black or Asian were more likely to present with ear and neck scars, respectively. Ear scars were frequently treated with excision and appear more likely to require adjuvant treatments and multiple interventions.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3127–3135, 2024
Impact of Early Research Productivity on Future Academic Output Among Head and Neck Fellows
Authors: Samaha Nadia L. , Gwynne Kaelyn , Habib Andy M. , Randolph Jackson , Walsh Amanda R. , Boyd David A. , Maxwell Jessica H.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To examine the impact of pre‐fellowship publications on future research productivity and career placement among head and neck (H&N) surgery fellowship graduates.

Methods

H&N surgery fellowship graduates between 2014 and 2022 were identified from publicly available data. Timing of fellowship graduation, number of publications during each stage of education and training, and number of first authorship publications were analyzed for association with scholarly productivity and academic career placement.

Results

In our analysis of 409 H&N fellowship graduates, there was a strong positive correlation between the year of fellowship graduation and the average number of publications in residency (R2 = 0.82) and fellowship (R2 = 0.79). Graduates producing more than the average of 2.37 publications prior to residency had a significantly higher average number of publications during residency and fellowship compared to those who published below average (p < 0.001). A higher number of publications prior to and during residency were both independently associated with a higher likelihood of academic career placement (p = 0.015 and p = 0.002, respectively). More first‐author publications prior to residency were associated with a higher number of publications during residency and fellowship (p = 0.015). In sub‐analyses, gender did not impact the average number of publications during residency and fellowship. Similarly, the COVID‐19 pandemic did not significantly impact the average number of publications during the fellowship when comparing the classes of 2020–2022 to 2017–2019.

Conclusion

Research productivity among H&N fellowship graduates has increased in recent years. Research productivity in medical school and residency is associated with scholarly output in later stages of training and academic career placement.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3165–3169, 2024
Water aging and the quality of organic carbon sources drive niche partitioning of the active bathypelagic prokaryotic microbiome
Authors: Sebastián Marta , Sánchez Pablo , Salazar Guillem , Álvarez‐Salgado Xosé A. , Reche Isabel , Morán Xosé Anxelu G. , Sala Maria Montserrat , Duarte Carlos M. , Acinas Silvia G. , Gasol Josep M.
Published: February 2024

Due to the scarcity of organic matter (OM) sources in the bathypelagic (1000–4000 m depth), prokaryotic metabolism is believed to be concentrated on particles originating from the surface. However, the structure of active bathypelagic prokaryotic communities and how it changes across environmental gradients remains unexplored. Using a combination of 16S rRNA gene and transcripts sequencing, metagenomics, and substrate uptake potential measurements, here we aimed to explore how water masses aging and the quality of OM influence the structure of the active microbiome, and the potential implications for community function. We found that the relative contribution of taxa with a free‐living lifestyle to the active microbiome increased in older water masses that were enriched in recalcitrant OM, suggesting that these prokaryotes may also play a substantial role in the bathypelagic metabolism of vast areas of the ocean. In comparison to particle‐associated prokaryotes, free‐living prokaryotes exhibited lower potential metabolic rates, and harbored a limited number of two‐component sensory systems, suggesting they have less ability to sense and respond to environmental cues. In contrast, particle‐associated prokaryotes carried genes for particle colonization and carbohydrate utilization that were absent in prokaryotes with a free‐living lifestyle. Consistently, we observed that prokaryotic communities inhabiting older waters displayed reduced abilities to colonize particles, and higher capabilities to use complex carbon sources, compared to communities in waters with a higher proportion of labile OM. Our results provide evidence of regionalization of the bathypelagic active prokaryotic microbiome, unveiling a niche partitioning based on the quality of OM.
Associations of Lifestyle Patterns with Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Finnish Adults at Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Manninen Suvi , Tilles‐Tirkkonen Tanja , Aittola Kirsikka , Männikkö Reija , Karhunen Leila , Kolehmainen Marjukka , Schwab Ursula , Lindström Jaana , Lakka Timo , Pihlajamäki Jussi ,   the Stop Diabetes study group
Published: February 2024

Scope

Various lifestyle and sociodemographic factors have been associated with risk factors for type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, their combined associations with T2D risk factors have been studied much less.

Materials and results

This study investigates cross‐sectional associations of lifestyle patterns with T2D risk factors among 2925 adults at increased risk participating in the Stop Diabetes study. Lifestyle patterns are determined using principal component analysis (PCA) with several lifestyle and sociodemographic factors. The associations of lifestyle patterns with measures of glucose and lipid metabolism and serum metabolites analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are studied using linear regression analysis. “Healthy eating” pattern is associated with better glucose and insulin metabolism, more favorable lipoprotein and fatty acid profiles and lower serum concentrations of metabolites related to inflammation, insulin resistance, and T2D. “High socioeconomic status and low physical activity” pattern is associated with increased serum concentrations of branched‐chain amino acids, as are “Meat and poultry” and “Sleeping hours” patterns. “Snacks” pattern is associated with lower serum concentrations of ketone bodies.

Conclusions

Our results show, in large scale primary care setting, that healthy eating is associated with better glucose and lipid metabolism and reveal novel associations of lifestyle patterns with metabolites related to glucose metabolism.
Clinical reference dosimetry for the 0.5 T inline rotating biplanar Linac‐MR
Authors: Yip Eugene , Tari Shima Y , Reynolds Michael W , Sinn David , Murray Brad R , Fallone B Gino , Oliver Patricia AK
Published: February 2024

Background

The world's first clinical 0.5 T inline rotating biplanar Linac‐MR system is commissioned for clinical use. For reference dosimetry, unique features to device, including an SAD = 120 cm, bore clearance of 60 cm × 110 cm, as well as 0.5 T inline magnetic field, provide some challenges to applying a standard dosimetry protocol (i.e., TG‐51).

Purpose

In this work, we propose a simple and practical clinical reference dosimetry protocol for the 0.5T biplanar Linac‐MR and validated its results.

Methods

Our dosimetry protocol for this system is as follows: tissue phantom ratios at 20 and 10 cm are first measured and converted into %dd10x beam quality specifier using equations provided and Kalach and Rogers. The converted %dd10x is used to determine the ion chamber correction factor, using the equations in the TG‐51 addendum for the Exradin A12 farmer chamber used, which is cross‐calibrated with one calibrated at a standards laboratory. For a 0.5 T parallel field, magnetic field effect on chamber response is assumed to have no effect and is not explicitly corrected for. Once the ion chamber correction factor for a non‐standard SAD (kQ,msr) is determined, TG‐51 is performed to obtain dose at a depth of 10 cm at SAD = 120 cm. The dosimetry protocol is repeated with the magnetic field ramped down.

To validate our dosimetry protocol, Monte Carlo (EGSnrc) simulations are performed to confirm the determined kQ,msr values. MC Simulations and magnetic Field On versus Field Off measurements are performed to confirm that the magnetic field has no effect. To validate our overall dosimetry protocol, external dose audits, based on optical simulated luminescent dosimeters, thermal luminescent dosimeters, and alanine dosimeters are performed on the 0.5 T Linac‐MR system.

Results

Our EGSnrc results confirm our protocol‐determined kQ,msr values, as well as our assumptions about magnetic field effects (kB = 1) within statistical uncertainty for the A‐12 chamber. Our external dosimetry procedures also validated our overall dosimetry protocol for the 0.5 T biplanar Linac‐MR hybrid. Ramping down the magnetic field has resulted in a dosimetric difference of 0.1%, well within experimental uncertainty.

Conclusion

With the 0.5 T parallel magnetic field having minimal effect on the ion chamber response, a TPR20,10 approach to determine beam quality provides an accurate method to perform clinical dosimetry for the 0.5 T biplanar Linac‐MR.
Investigating apparent differences between standard DKI and axisymmetric DKI and its consequences for biophysical parameter estimates
Authors: Oeschger Jan Malte , Tabelow Karsten , Mohammadi Siawoosh
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to identify differences between axisymmetric diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and standard DKI, their consequences for biophysical parameter estimates, and the protocol choice influence on parameter estimation.

Methods

Noise‐free and noisy, synthetic diffusion MRI human brain data is simulated using standard DKI for a standard and the fast “199” acquisition protocol. First the noise‐free “baseline” difference between both DKI models is estimated and the influence of fiber complexity is investigated. Noisy data is used to establish the signal‐to‐noise ratio at which the baseline difference exceeds noise variability. The influence of protocol choices and denoising is investigated. The five axisymmetric DKI tensor metrics (AxTM), the parallel and perpendicular diffusivity and kurtosis and mean of the kurtosis tensor are used to compare both DKI models. Additionally, the baseline difference is also estimated for the five parameters of the WMTI‐Watson model.

Results

The parallel and perpendicular kurtosis and all of the WMTI–Watson parameters had large baseline differences. Using a Westin or FA mask reduced the number of voxels with large baseline difference, that is, by selecting voxels with less complex fibers. For the noisy data, precision was worsened by the fast “199” protocol but adaptive denoising can help counteract these effects.

Conclusion

For the diffusivities and mean of the kurtosis tensor, axisymmetric DKI with a standard protocol delivers similar results as standard DKI. Fiber complexity is one main driver of the baseline differences. Using the “199” protocol worsens precision in noisy data but adaptive denoising mitigates these effects.