bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of different tests used in mapping the Greek virgin olive oil production for the determination of its total antioxidant capacity
Authors: Minioti Katerina S. , Georgiou Constantinos A.
Published: December 2009

This study aims to map the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of 50 Greek olive oil samples from the 2005-2006 season according to production region and cultivar and to compare the 2, 2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6- sulfonic acid (ABTS), 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and Folin-Ciocalteu tests for use with olive oil. Antioxidant capacities determined in the hydrophilic fraction range between 5.42 - 22.5 mM gallic acid Kg-1 olive oil for the ABTS method and 1.29 - 9.95 mM Kg-1 for the DPPH method while in total, olive oil TAC ranges between 77 - 177 mM Kg-1 as assessed by the DPPH method. The results of total phenol content range between 3.8 and 29.4 mM Kg-1 olive oil. Total phenol content correlates with total antioxidant capacity assessed in the hydrophilic fraction through the DPPH (r = 0.89) and the ABTS (r = 0.69) assays. The hydrophilic fraction DPPH values correlate significantly with the ABTS values (r = 0.81). However, the DPPH values for total olive oil correlate poorly with the ABTS assay, the Folin-Ciocalteu method and the DPPH assay in hydrophilic fraction. Although total phenolic content shows good correlation with ABTS and DPPH values and could serve as a useful indicator for olive oil antioxidant capacity, the use of a battery of tests contributes to better characterization of the antioxidant capacity of olive oil.
Effect of natural antioxidants on the stability of ostrich meat during storage
Authors: Abou-Arab Esmat A. , Abu-Salem Ferial M.
Published: December 2009

Meat from the ostrich is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of different antioxidants such as ascorbic acid (AA), α-tocopherol (Toc) and rosemary herb (Ros) on the stability of ostrich meat during storage. The chemical composition of ostrich meat showed low fat content (1.5 %) combined with high protein content (22.4 %). The combination of AA + Ros, Toc + Ros and AA + Toc was more effective in reducing the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) and peroxide values. The antioxidant showed insignificant effects on acidity as oleic acid. The addition of the efficient role of AA, Toc and Ros showed an improvement in the color stability of ostrich steaks and the combined treatment was more effective in color stability. In conclusion, the addition of AA, Toc and Ros had a positive effect on aroma quality, rancidity and discoloration of refrigerated ostrich meat.
Influence of the deep fat frying process on the lipid profile of the fat contained in the “french” type fried potato using palm olein
Authors: Marcano J. , La Rosa Y. , Salinas N.
Published: December 2009

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of certain variables of the process of deep fat frying on the lipid profile of the fat fraction of the potato type “french” (Solanum tuberosum) using palm oil. This marked the first fat fraction of both the processing type and the oil used, through the evaluation of various physicochemical parameters, using the method of AOAC and the Standard COVENIN. We identified variables that influenced the process during frying of potatoes, using an experimental design of type 3 * 22, evaluating factors such as the reuse of the matrix fat (1st, the 4th and the 8th fry), temperature (150° and 180 °C) and method of food peeling (chemical and manual), studying the content of polar compounds as an indicator of the deterioration of the fat present in the potato, finding that oil reuse and peeling method significantly influenced in a positive manner, and that the temperature has a negative influence on the absorption of polar compounds in potato chips (α: 0.05).
Physicochemical characterization and thermal behavior of guanabana (Annona muricata) seed “almond” oil
Authors: Solís-Fuentes J. A. , Amador-Hernández C. , Hernández-Medel M. R. , Durán-de-Bazúa M. C.
Published: December 2009

In this work some physicochemical properties and the thermal behavior and stability of sour sop or guanabana (Annona muricata) seed “almond” oil were studied by means of chemical, DSC and TG analysis. The results showed that the almond has 2.5% ash, 17.9% crude fiber, 15.7% protein, 26.0% de carbohydrates and 37.7% oil (dry base). The composition of almond oil showed 68.5% unsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic and linoleic, and some palmitoleic acids, and 31.5% saturated, principally palmitic and stearic fatty acids; refraction index was 1.468 and saponification and iodine value were 168.2 and 87.0, respectively. DSC thermal analysis showed that oil crystallization initiates at -4.5 °C and ends at -79.0 °C with a crystallization enthalpy of 48.2 J/g; the oil melts in a temperature range from -42.4 to +16.9 °C, with a maximum peak at -15 °C and a fusion enthalpy of 80.5 J/g. The oil remained liquid at refrigeration temperatures with minimal SFC and free of crystals at temperatures over 10 °C. TG analysis showed that the thermal decomposition of the oil in a N2 atmosphere starts at 380 °C and ends at 442 °C, with a maximum decomposition rate at 412 °C. Under oxidizing conditions its decomposition begins at 206 °C and concludes at 567 °C. In accordance with this study, sour sop almond seed contains large amounts of an oil that possesses similar characteristics to those of salad and cooking oils.
Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of kaff maryam (Anastatica hierochuntica) and doum palm (Hyphaene thebaica)
Authors: Mohamed Amal A. , Khalil Ashraf A. , El-Beltagi Hossam E. S.
Published: December 2009

The widespread use of medicinal plants for health purposes has increased dramatically due to their great importance to public health. In this study, the levels of phenolic, flavonoid, β-carotene and lycopene compounds of Anastatica hierochuntica and Hyphaene thebaica were determined. The plant extracts were evaluated for their antioxidant activities using various antioxidant methodologies: (i) scavenging of free radicals using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, (ii) metal ion chelating capacity, and (iii) scavenging of superoxide anion radical. The antimicrobial activity of both plant extracts was evaluated against a panel of microorganisms using the agar disc diffusion method. The total phenolic content (51.97 and 64.9 mg/g dry weight in A. hierochuntica and H. thebaica, respectively) was significantly (p < 0.05) different. The antioxidant activity increased with an increase in concentration. The plant extracts were more active against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. Also, the antimicrobial activity of H. thebaica was higher than that of A. hierochuntica methanolic extracts. This study reveals that the consumption of these plants would exert several beneficial effects by virtue of their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
Chemical changes in silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) minced muscle during frozen storage: Effect of a previous washing process
Authors: Asgharzadeh Afsaneh , Shabanpour Bahareh , Aubourg Santiago P. , Hosseini Hedayat
Published: December 2009

Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) has acquired great attention because of its increasing farming production and application in the surimi-product commercialization. This work focuses on the effect of a washing process followed by frozen storage (6 months; -18 °C) on the quality of minced silver carp muscle. A previous washing step has led to a positive effect on fish quality according to marked content decreases in expressible moisture, volatile amines, free fatty acids and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances; such quality performances were maintained throughout the frozen storage. On the other hand, most indexes tested showed quality losses throughout the frozen storage in both washed and unwashed fish material; however, water holding capacity (WHC) remained unchanged in washed fish throughout the frozen storage. Among quality indexes, a special attention should be given to the expressible moisture value and accordingly the WHC, as being closely related to the gelforming ability in order to obtain surimi-type commercial products.
Clima e incendios forestales en Cantabria: evolución y tendencias recientes
Authors: Carracedo Martín V. , Diego Liaño C. , García Codrón J. C. , Rasilla Álvarez D. F.
Published: December 2009

Los incendios son un fenómeno frecuente en Cantabria, pero su estacionalidad no se corresponde con el típico máximo estival característico del resto de España. La mayoría se concentran a fines del invierno y comienzos de la primavera y su origen son unas prácticas ganaderas (principalmente la quema de matorral para mantenimiento de pastos) que aprovechan las favorables condiciones atmosféricas originadas por un tipo de temporal de viento conocido localmente como “surada”. En este artículo se analizan las tendencias de algunas variables climáticas, desde 1961, durante el periodo de máximo riesgo de incendios para determinar en qué medida la aparición de incendios forestales ha estado condicionada por la evolución climática reciente. Los resultados muestran que el clima regional ha experimentado un calentamiento y un desecamiento, debido al efecto combinado del incremento de la temperatura y de la reducción de humedad relativa y precipitación, variables que juegan un papel determinante en la aparición de este fenómeno. Sin embargo, la frecuencia de “suradas” ha disminuido. Esta evolución climática regional está estrechamente vinculada con la evolución de la circulación atmosférica a escala sinóptica y hemisférica; la mayor frecuencia de células anticiclónicas sobre la Península Ibérica a fines del invierno y comienzo de la primavera, y la reducción del número de perturbaciones atlánticas concuerdan en gran medida con la evolución de la Oscilación del Atlántico Norte.
Evaluación del conocimiento florístico de la cordillera Cantábrica (España) a partir de bases de datos de biodiversidad
Authors: Jiménez-Alfaro B.
Published: December 2009

La valoración de la biodiversidad es un requisito fundamental para la conservación de cualquier región, y las bases de datos biológicas representan una herramienta básica para la estimación de medidas de diversidad. Sin embargo, muchas regiones biogeográficas fragmentadas administrativamente suelen estar caracterizadas por bases de datos heterogéneas realizadas desde diferentes instituciones y a diferentes escalas. En este trabajo se evalúa el conocimiento florístico de plantas vasculares aportado por bases de datos regionales en la Cordillera Cantábrica (España). Se utilizaron los datos georeferenciados de bases de datos no superpuestas, provenientes de una colección de herbario y de un atlas completado con información bibliográfica, los cuales fueron comparados en función de los patrones temporales y espaciales (cuadrículas UTM de 10x10 km) de riqueza florística, utilizando estimadores no paramétricos (ICE, Chao2, Jack1 y Jack2) para medir el grado de conocimiento que las bases de datos reflejan. Ambas fuentes fueron también comparadas con una base de datos nacional con información sobre todo el área de estudio. Las bases de datos regionales detectaron unos patrones similares de prospección histórica y espacial, y los valores de riqueza florística observada estuvieron altamente correlacionados con la base de datos nacional, si bien se detectó una elevada heterogeneidad en la riqueza conocida por UTM. Las estimaciones de riqueza florística indicaron que ambas bases de datos están incompletas, aunque permitieron realizar una estimación de la riqueza total de la Cordillera Cantábrica (en torno a 3590 especies y subespecies). Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que bases de datos incompletas, parciales y de diferente naturaleza pueden aportar información similar para la detección de áreas poco prospectadas, aunque la incorporación de referencias bibliográficas a las bases de datos de herbarios puede ofrecer mejores estimaciones de riqueza florística. Sin embargo, una valoración completa y efectiva en costes de la biodiversidad de zonas biogeográficas caracterizadas por diferentes bases de datos debería sólo concluirse mediante la unión de todos los datos disponibles. En conclusión, se recomienda realizar esfuerzos serios para la unificación de bases de datos regionales y de otro tipo en áreas de montaña.
Método específico para la evaluación medioambiental de los lagos de origen glaciar pirenaicos y su aplicación al lago de Sabocos
Authors: Arruebo T. , Pardo A. , Rodríguez C. , Lanaja F. J. , Del Valle J.
Published: December 2009

En este trabajo se propone un nuevo método para la evaluación medioambiental de los lagos pirenaicos de origen glaciar a partir de la Directiva Marco del Agua, fundamentado en el concepto de estado ecológico e inspirado en metodologías ampliamente contrastadas. Partiendo de un estado ecológico de referencia se identifican y caracterizan todas las presiones e impactos antropogénicos mediante el empleo de una serie de matrices adaptadas. Los impactos más significativos son contrastados por un panel de expertos. Finalmente, los resultados se expresan mediante matrices ICPA de Impactos, Consecuencias, Propuestas de medidas correctoras y Aplicabilidad. Este método de evaluación medioambiental se ha aplicado al lago de Sabocos. Los resultados obtenidos muestran una calidad ecológica inferior a la esperada y que algunos de los impactos identificados son severos. Con el objetivo de mitigar tales afecciones, se han propuesto una serie de medidas correctoras y evaluado su aplicabilidad.
Evaluación de riesgos de colisión y electrocución de los tendidos eléctricos de las ZEPAs del ámbito de aplicación del plan de recuperación del quebrantahuesos (Gypaetus barbatus) en Aragón
Authors: Gil J. A.
Published: December 2009

En los últimos 30 años (1979-2008) se han registrado 18 casos de mortalidad de quebrantahuesos (Gypaetus barbatus) por electrocución y colisión con líneas eléctricas en los Pirineos (España-Francia). Los resultados de la evaluación sobre los riesgos de colisión y electrocución de los tendidos eléctricos de las Zonas de Especial Protección para las Aves (ZEPAs) del ámbito de aplicación del Plan de Recuperación del Quebrantahuesos en Aragón proponen la corrección de 138 líneas eléctricas, 1127 kilómetros y 4804 apoyos.
Inflation and Long-Term Maintenance of CD8 T Cells Responding to a Latent Herpesvirus Depend upon Establishment of Latency and Presence of Viral Antigens
Authors: Lang Anna , Brien James D. , Nikolich-Žugich Janko
Published: December 2009

Following the priming and contraction phases of the T cell response, latent persistent herpesviruses lead to an accumulation of large pools of virus-specific CD8 T cells, also known as memory inflation (MI). The mechanism of this inflation is incompletely understood, largely because the molecular reactivation of these viruses in vivo and its impact upon T cell biology have not been resolved in mice, and because the relevant observations in humans remain, by necessity, correlative. Understanding these processes is essential from the standpoint of the proposed critical role for latent herpesviruses in aging of the immune system. We studied the causes of memory CD8 T cell accumulation following systemic HSV-1 administration as a model of widespread latent viral infection in humans. A direct role of viral latency and Ag-specific restimulation in driving the accumulation and maintenance of inflated CD8 T cells and a strongly suggested role of viral reactivation in that process were shown by the following: 1) lack of MI in the absence of established latency; 2) prevention or delay of MI with drugs that curtail viral replication; and 3) abrogation of MI by the transfer of inflated T cells into a virus-free environment. These results strongly suggest that periodic, subclinical reactivations of a latent persistent virus cause dysregulation of memory CD8 T cell homeostasis, similar to the one in humans. Moreover, results with antiviral drugs suggest that this approach could be considered as a treatment modality for maintaining T cell diversity and/or function in old age.
A Dual Action of Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblast IL-15 Expression on the Equilibrium between CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells and CD4+CD25− Responder T Cells
Authors: Benito-Miguel Marta , García-Carmona Yolanda , Balsa Alejandro , Pérez de Ayala Carlos , Cobo-Ibáñez Tatiana , Martín-Mola Emilio , Miranda-Carús María-Eugenia
Published: December 2009

We previously described that fibroblast-like cells from the synovium of rheumatoid arthritis patients (RASFib) constitutively express intracellular and surface IL-15, which induces activation of cocultured T cells. Our objective was to study the effect of RASFib IL-15 expression on the function of human CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg). RASFib, through their constitutive IL-15 expression, were able to induce the proliferation of human Tregs stimulated through their TCR, and at the same time potentiated their suppressive action on the cytokine secretion of CD4+CD25− responder T cells (Tresp). In parallel, constitutive RASFib IL-15 expression mediated an up-regulated response of Tresp. Subsequently, total CD4+ T cells, containing natural proportions of Treg and Tresp, secreted an increased amount of pathogenic cytokines when cocultured with RASFib despite the presence of proliferating Treg with superior regulatory potency. In summary, RASFib IL-15 exerts a dual action on the equilibrium between Treg and Tresp by potentiating the suppressive effect of Treg while augmenting the proinflammatory action of Tresp; the result is a shift of the Treg/Tresp balance toward a proinflammatory state. This alteration of the Treg/Tresp equilibrium is not observed in the presence of osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts or dermal fibroblasts, which do not constitutively express surface IL-15. Additionally, Treg with superior suppressive potency were present in the peripheral blood and the synovial fluid of RA patients, but this enhanced immunoregulatory activity was not able to overcome the increased secretion of pathogenic cytokines by RA-Tresp, indicating that rheumatoid arthritis patients demonstrate an altered Treg/Tresp equilibrium in vivo.
IL-13Rα2 Membrane and Soluble Isoforms Differ in Humans and Mice
Authors: Chen Weiguo , Sivaprasad Umasundari , Tabata Yasuhiro , Gibson Aaron M. , Stier Matthew T. , Finkelman Fred D. , Hershey Gurjit K. Khurana
Published: December 2009

Although mice have nanogram per milliliter serum levels of soluble (s) IL-13Rα2, humans lack sIL-13Rα2 in serum. Our data provide a mechanism for this biological divergence. In mice, discrete transcripts encoding soluble and membrane forms of IL-13Rα2 are generated by alternative splicing. We used small interfering RNA to specifically deplete the transcript encoding membrane (mem) IL-13Rα2 (full-length) or sIL-13Rα2 (ΔEx10) in murine cells. Depletion of the full-length transcript decreased memIL-13Rα2 but had no effect on the level of sIL-13Rα2 in cell supernatants at baseline or following cytokine stimulation. Depletion of the ΔEx10 transcript decreased sIL-13Rα2 in supernatants at baseline and following stimulation. In contrast to mice, we were unable to find a transcript encoding sIL-13Rα2 in humans and siRNA-mediated depletion of full-length IL-13Rα2 decreased both sIL-13Rα2 and memIL-13Rα2 in human cells. Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)/MMP-8 abolished production of sIL-13Rα2 from human cells. Thus, sIL-13Rα2 is derived exclusively from the memIL-13Rα2 transcript in humans through MMPs/MMP-8 cleavage of memIL-13Rα2, supporting a limited role for sIL-13Rα2 in humans and highlighting the potential importance of memIL-13Rα2 in human immunity. These observations require consideration when results of murine IL-13 studies are applied to humans.
ERK-Dependent T Cell Receptor Threshold Calibration in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Singh Karnail , Deshpande Pratima , Pryshchep Sergey , Colmegna Inés , Liarski Vladimir , Weyand Cornelia M. , Goronzy Jörg J.
Published: December 2009

Immune responses to citrullinated neoantigens and clinical efficacy of costimulation blockade indicate a general defect in maintaining T cell tolerance in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To examine whether TCR threshold calibration contributes to disease pathogenesis, signaling in RA T cells was quantified. RA patients had a selective increase in ERK phosphorylation compared with demographically matched controls due to a mechanism distal of Ras activation. Increased ERK responses included naive and memory CD4 and CD8 T cells and did not correlate with disease activity. The augmented ERK activity delayed SHP-1 recruitment to the TCR synapse and sustained TCR-induced Zap70 and NF-κB signaling, facilitating responses to suboptimal stimulation. Increased responsiveness of the ERK pathway was also a characteristic finding in the SKG mouse model of RA where it preceded clinical symptoms. Treatment with subtherapeutic doses of a MEK-1/2 inhibitor delayed arthritis onset and reduced severity, suggesting that increased ERK phosphorylation predisposes for autoimmunity and can be targeted to prevent disease.
Transplant psychiatry
Authors: Potts SG
Published: December 2009

Transplant units increasingly recognise a need for assistance from psychiatrists and psychologists in the assessment and management of potential transplant recipients and live donors. This arises from the various known associations between mental disorder and the need for transplantation; the intensifying requirement to select carefully among the potential recipients and donors of scarce human organs; and the drive to maximise transplant outcomes by optimising all aspects of treatment after surgery. There is good evidence that careful, protocol-guided selection among potential candidates for transplantation with alcoholic liver disease helps ensure outcomes at least as good as for other forms of liver disease. The evidence base in other areas is less robust, but the principles guiding the psychiatric assessment are broadly the same. There is an increasing need for psychiatric assessment of potential live organ donors, in order to minimise the risks they run, and in the case of altruistic donation this is now mandatory in UK law.
Depression in physical illness
Authors: Smyth R
Published: December 2009

Depressive illnesses are common in the general population and are significantly more common in those with physical illnesses. The symptoms of depression may go unrecognised in medical patients, with consequent underdiagnosis and under-treatment. Co-morbid depression is associated with increased morbidity, poorer function, increased healthcare costs and increased mortality. Depressive illnesses are amenable to treatment by both pharmacological and psychological means. Successful treatment can result in improved quality of life as well as improved function, mortality and overall outcome in the physical disorder. It is therefore important that medical doctors are aware of the symptoms, diagnosis and management of depressive illness.
Henry Matthew: The father of modern clinical toxicology
Authors: Proudfoot AT , Prescott LF
Published: December 2009

Henry Matthew was appointed a consultant in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh in 1955, by which time he was a highly regarded general physician with an interest in cardiology. In 1964 he agreed, almost certainly reluctantly, to head the recently designated Regional Poisoning Treatment Centre, which he did until his retirement ten years later. Matthew quickly established himself as an authority in clinical toxicology, mainly from an unrivalled experience of treating poisoned patients, day-in and day-out, but also by publishing original research, letters and books. Such were his contributions that he is regarded as the father of clinical toxicology.
Dioxin, diet and disease on St Kilda
Authors: Stride P
Published: December 2009

The inhabitants of St Kilda are well known for their susceptibility to infection. Low herd immunity, limited genetic biodiversity, malnutrition and poor social conditions have been incriminated as the major predisposing factors, but the clinical evidence for the effect of malnutrition and the clinical relevance of the more recent discovery of heavy metal and dioxin pollution on infectious diseases have not been scrutinised from a medical perspective.
A single-centre audit of junior doctors’ diagnostic activity in medical admissions
Authors: Bhandari S
Published: December 2009

Practising doctors are distinguished from other healthcare staff by their role in making a clinical diagnosis. Huge changes in training and working practice in the past 15 years may have left many junior doctors ill equipped or preferring not to synthesise information to conclude a clerking with a diagnosis or differential diagnosis. This report details a retrospective study of acute medical admissions (AMU) first seen in the emergency department (A&E) and the diagnostic activity of junior doctors in both settings. The documented diagnostic conclusion and reported differential diagnosis was compared with that of the relevant admission consultant. The aim was to see if doctors completed their clinical assessment by establishing a ‘reasonable differential diagnosis’ or simply used the presenting complaint (a symptom) of the patient as the ‘diagnosis’.

One hundred patients’ records (66 male and 34 female of mean age 57.4 years [20–94 years]) were studied. The majority of cases came from the cardiac and neurology domains of diagnosis. A total of 53% of cases seen in A&E by clinicians were given a clinical ‘symptom’ as a final diagnosis or differential diagnosis. A further 18% referred to the wrong clinical domain in their assessment, and 22% of cases were concordant with the eventual consultant diagnosis. In the AMU 20% of cases were given a symptom as a final diagnosis and 11% the wrong domain; 45% of diagnoses were concordant. The grade of the doctor, from foundation year (FY1) to specialty registrar (ST3), led to an expected improvement in the assessment and documentation of a possible diagnosis rather than a symptom for both A&E and AMU settings. In summary, junior doctors did not routinely document a clinical diagnosis or differential diagnosis at the conclusion of their clerking, regardless of experience. The reasons for this deferred activity are considered.
Statins: in the beginning
Authors: Lyons KS , Harbinson M
Published: December 2009

Since the first human trial of a hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase inhibitor in 1978, the growth in importance of this drug class, both financially and medically, has been staggering. The aim of this paper is to summarise how this drug class was developed, highlighting the role of Akira Endo.
Ethanol Ablation of Ranulas and Risk Factor Analysis for Recurrence
Authors: Suh Pae Sun , Lee Jeong Hyun , Roh Yun Hwa , Moon Hye Hyun , Chung Sae Rom , Kwon Min Su , Choi Young Jun , Lee Yoon Se , Baek Jung Hwan , Choi Seung-Ho
Published: May 2024

Importance

Ethanol ablation (EA) was shown to be safe and effective for treating ranula, but few studies have assessed long-term outcomes and recurrence of ranula after EA.

Objective

To evaluate the long-term outcomes and the risk factors for recurrence and receipt of subsequent surgery in patients who underwent treatment with EA for ranula.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-series study was conducted at a single tertiary hospital and assessed patients who were treated with EA between July 2009 and March 2021. Among 70 consecutive patients, those with follow-up loss or who were followed up for less than 24 months were excluded.

Exposures

EA for ranula.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was recurrence at last follow-up after single or multiple EA sessions. Secondary outcomes included receipt of subsequent surgery and the recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate after initial EA. Factors possibly associated with outcomes included patient age and sex; ranula site, type, diameter, volume, and echogenicity; the presentation-to-EA interval; parapharyngeal space extension; and sublingual gland herniation. Risk factors were identified on logistic regression analyses. Two-year RFS rates were analyzed for the initial cohort using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by log-rank tests.

Results

A total of 57 patients (mean [SD] age, 26.4 [12.1] years; 24 female individuals [42%]) who were followed up for a median of 57 months (range, 24-167 months) were included. The recurrence rate was 33% (n = 19), and 11 (19%) underwent subsequent surgery. Among patients with recurrence, 86% (31 of 36) experienced first recurrence within 12 months after initial EA. A presentation-to-EA interval of 12 months or longer was associated with an increased risk of recurrence (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.74; 95% CI, 1.01-13.82). No risk factors were significantly associated with subsequent surgery (highest OR in parapharyngeal space extension: adjusted OR, 4.96; 95% CI, 0.94-26.35). Among the initial cohort of 70 patients, 2-year RFS was lower in a maximum diameter of ranula of 5 cm or greater than less than 5 cm (24% [95% CI, 7%-41%] vs 50% [95% CI, 34%-66%]; difference, 26% [95% CI, −4% to 56%]; log-rank test, P = .02).

Conclusions and Relevance

This case-series study found that the recurrence rate of ranula after EA was 33%. A presentation-to-EA interval of 12 months or longer may be a risk factor for recurrence, suggesting that early intervention with EA might minimize recurrence. Most first recurrences occurred within 12 months after EA, with a maximum diameter of ranula of 5 cm or greater being a possible risk factor.
High‐Capacity Photochromic Rotary Encoder for Information Encryption and Storage
Authors: Li Xiyang , Liu Meng , Shao Jie , Sun Haiqin , Zhang Qiwei , Peng Dengfeng , Liu Fuchi
Published: May 2024

Photochromic materials are widely used in optical data storage, data encryption, and anti‐counterfeiting because of their ability to be written, erased, and read repeatedly. However, conventional information encryption and storage capabilities based on a “matrix” pattern in a 2D plane are limited to fewer storage dimensions, making information less secure. Here, a new concept of expanding the storage dimensions is presented by manipulating the rotation angle in 2D photochromic encoding disks based on the principle of the absolute encoder. For this purpose, a novel photochromic material, NaNbO3:xEu3+ is developed, with highly efficient red emission, a large luminescence switching contrast, and antithermal quenching behavior. The designed photochromic rotary encoder made with the NaNbO3‐based material exhibits higher‐level data encryption than that of conventional encoders and unlimited storage capability. This study presents exciting opportunities for information storage and encryption using luminescent photochromic materials.
Chiral Arginine Modified Electrospun Membrane for Enhancing Tendon Healing
Authors: Wang Hui , Sun Ziyang , Wang Shikun , Li Juehong , Yan Zhiwen , Hu Jiacheng , Chen Shuai , Zhou Chao , Fan Cunyi
Published: May 2024

Tendon injury is a common motor system disease, impairing joint mobility, and lowering quality of life. Once damaged, tendon has a limited capacity for regeneration. Clinically, available therapeutic strategies have not achieved satisfactory outcomes. Chiral biomaterials can effectively regulate cell behaviors and tissue healing, but have not been applied to injured tendon yet. Here, chiral arginine is attached to electrospun membrane to fabricate chiral scaffolds. L‐chiral scaffold, rather than D‐chiral or R‐chiral scaffold, promotes cell adhesion, proliferation, and tenogenic differentiation. The vinculin/FAK/YAP pathway is discovered to have a significant impact on the processes mentioned above. Additionally, L‐arginine efficiently eliminates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and generates nitric oxide (NO), safeguarding tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs) against oxidative stress. The use of L‐chiral scaffold in a rat model of Achilles tendon injury increases the expression of markers related to tendons and the deposition of collagen. Moreover, L‐chiral scaffold improves tendon structural, functional, and mechanical properties. This L‐chiral scaffold comprehensively enhances tendon healing, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for tendon injury. As a simple and effective method, modification by chiral molecules enriches biomaterial functions and offers a novel option for tissue regeneration.
Environmental Stability Stretchable Organic Hydrogel Humidity Sensor for Respiratory Monitoring with Ultrahigh Sensitivity
Authors: Ni Yimeng , Zang Xuerui , Yang Yue , Gong Zehua , Li Huaqiong , Chen Jiajun , Wu Che , Huang Jianying , Lai Yuekun
Published: May 2024

Real‐time monitoring of respiration plays a very important role in human health assessment, especially in monitoring and analyzing respiration during exercise and sleep. However, traditional humidity sensors still have problems in flexibility, sensitivity, and durability, so there is an urgent need to develop humidity sensors with high sensitivity, stretchability, and environmental resistance as respiratory monitoring applications. Here, based on the double network hydrogel structure of polyvinyl alcohol and polyacrylamide, a highly sensitive, highly stretchable, and environmentally stable organic hydrogel humidity sensor has been manufactured by using the synergistic effect of lithium chloride and MXene. The hydrogel humidity sensor shows rapid response in the humidity range of 40–85% RH, and has a high sensitivity of −103.4%/% RH. In addition, it exhibits more than 3000% mechanical strain and excellent environmental resistance, which is attributed to the chemical cross‐linking in the hydrogel network and the synergistic effect of multiple hydroxyl groups in glycerol forming rich hydrogen bonds with water and polymer chains. The hydrogel humidity sensor is used for real‐time monitoring of breathing and sleep processes. This work provides a new strategy for preparing high‐performance, extensibility, and environmental stability hydrogel‐based sensors for respiratory monitoring.
Bioinspired Slippery Surfaces for Liquid Manipulation from Tiny Droplet to Bulk Fluid
Authors: Wang Gang , Ma Fuliang , Zhu Lijing , Zhu Ping , Tang Lei , Hu Hongyi , Liu Luqi , Li Shuangyang , Zeng Zhixiang , Wang Liping , Xue Qunji
Published: May 2024

Slippery surfaces, which originate in nature with special wettability, have attracted considerable attention in both fundamental research and practical applications in a variety of fields due to their unique characteristics of superlow liquid friction and adhesion. Although research on bioinspired slippery surfaces is still in its infancy, it is a rapidly growing and enormously promising field. Herein, a systematic review of recent progress in bioinspired slippery surfaces, beginning with a brief introduction of several typical creatures with slippery property in nature, is presented. Subsequently,this review gives a detailed discussion on the basic concepts of the wetting, friction, and drag from micro‐ and macro‐aspects and focuses on the underlying slippery mechanism. Next, the state‐of‐the‐art developments in three categories of slippery surfaces of air‐trapped, liquid‐infused, and liquid‐like slippery surfaces, including materials, design principles, and preparation methods, are summarized and the emerging applications are highlighted. Finally, the current challenges and future prospects of various slippery surfaces are addressed.
Piezo‐Turned Magnet Rotation for ELF/SLF Cross‐Medium Communication in Omni‐Direction
Authors: Zhu Ronglei , Cheng Zhi , Lv Xiangmeng , Wu Qiong , Wang Bing , Chang Jianglei , Ci Penghong , Dong Shuxiang
Published: May 2024

Extremely/super low frequency (ELF/SLF) electromagnetic (EM) waves offer efficient propagation in challenging cross‐medium environments. However, conventional coil antennas, when emitting ELF/SLF EM waves, face constraints related to size, radiation efficiency, and high power consumption. To overcome these limitations, a disc‐rod structured piezoelectric rotating resonator is proposed, which can turn a NdFeB permanent magnet disc into rotation with an impressive high‐speed up to 10 000 r min−1via wobbling motion of the rod tip, effectively generating ELF/SLF magnetic field radiation via rotational oscillation other than common linear and swinging oscillation of the magnetic dipole moments. The piezo‐turned magnetic rotation (PTMR) method leads to a two to five‐fold enhancement in magnetic field emission compared to existing piezo‐actuated acoustic resonant antennas, and a 370 times higher emitting efficiency compared to the traditional coil antenna with a comparable size. In contrast to unidirectional EM wave radiation at their solely resonant frequencies, the PTMR antenna showcases omnidirectional B‐field radiation with continuous tunability in a dual frequency band spanning from 10 to 100 Hz. Moreover, an air–seawater cross‐medium magnetic field communication is successfully demonstrated. With outstanding performance metrics, the PTMR antenna emerges as a promising solution for efficient long‐distance ELF/SLF cross‐medium communication.
Brain Metastasis from EGFR‐Mutated Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer: Secretion of IL11 from Astrocytes Up‐Regulates PDL1 and Promotes Immune Escape
Authors: Tang Mengyi , Xu Mingxin , Wang Jian , Liu Ye , Liang Kun , Jin Yinuo , Duan Wenzhe , Xia Shengkai , Li Guohui , Chu Huiying , Liu Wenwen , Wang Qi
Published: May 2024

Patients who have non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are more prone to brain metastasis (BM) and poor prognosis. Previous studies showed that the tumor microenvironment of BM in these patients is immunosuppressed, as indicated by reduced T‐cell abundance and activity, although the mechanism of this immunosuppression requires further study. This study shows that reactive astrocytes play a critical role in promoting the immune escape of BM from EGFR‐mutated NSCLC by increasing the apoptosis of CD8+ T lymphocytes. The increased secretion of interleukin 11(IL11) by astrocytes promotes the expression of PDL1 in BM, and this is responsible for the increased apoptosis of T lymphocytes. IL11 functions as a ligand of EGFR, and this binding activates EGFR and downstream signaling to increase the expression of PDL1, culminating in the immune escape of tumor cells. IL11 also promotes immune escape by binding to its intrinsic receptor (IL11Rα/glycoprotein 130 [gp130]). Additional in vivo studies show that the targeted inhibition of gp130 and EGFR suppresses the growth of BM and prolongs the survival time of mice. These results suggest a novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations.
Nanoarchitectonics and electrocatalytic properties of platinum nanoparticles in weak polyelectrolytes‐based multilayer thin films
Authors: Yoon Min‐Ho , Jeon Jaesam , Chang Ikwhang , Cho Chungyeon
Published: May 2024

In this study, the electrocatalytic behavior of platinum (Pt) nanoparticles (NPs) in a novel multilayered thin film is investigated for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) applications. The multilayer thin films are assembled by the alternate deposition of branched polyethylenimine (BPEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) from aqueous solutions through a layer‐by‐layer (LbL) technique. Two extreme assembly pH conditions critically influence the films' physical and morphological characteristics, subsequently affecting their electrochemical behavior. Manipulation of the assembly pH modifies the charge density of the weak polyelectrolytes (BPEI and PAA), leading to variations in physical, structural, and electrochemical properties. The LbL thin films assembled at a pH of 9.5 for BPEI and 4.5 for PAA exhibit significantly greater thickness compared to the same film with all components deposited at pH 4.5. This is attributed to in‐and‐out diffusion of the partially charged polyelectrolytes with coiled polymeric conformation (BPEI at pH 9.5 and PAA at pH 4.5). As‐assembled LbL thin films are used as nanoreactors for the deposition of Pt NPs. The nanoscale control over polymeric conformation and charge density significantly influences electrocatalytic performance. 9.5BPEI/4.5PAA thin films exhibit higher electrocatalytic activity relative to 4.5BPEI/4.5PAA systems. This improved performance in 9.5BPEI/4.5PAA multilayers is ascribed to the fact that more carboxylic acid groups of PAA are coated in an exponentially grown behavior, which provides more active sites available for Pt NPs to be deposited. The multilayer thin films containing uniformly dispersed Pt NPs can be an attractive and advanced hybrid electrode material with great promise for the proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
Enhanced High Voltage Stability of Spinel‐Type Structured LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Electrodes: Targeted Octahedral Crystal Site Modification
Authors: Zou Jinshuo , Liang Gemeng , Zhang Shilin , Thomsen Lars , Fan Yameng , Pang Wei Kong , Guo Zaiping , Peterson Vanessa K.
Published: May 2024

High‐voltage spinel‐type structured LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) shows promise as a next‐generation high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion battery cathode material, however, capacity decay on extended cycling hinders its widespread adoption, underscoring an urgent need for further development. In this work, we introduce Zn at octahedral 16c crystal sites in LNMO with Fd
m space group to improve rate capability and reduce the rapid capacity decay otherwise experienced during extended cycling. The current work resolves the detailed influence of isolated modification at octahedral 16c crystal sites, unveiling the mechanism for these performance improvements. We show that occupation of Zn at previously empty 16c sites prevents the migration of Ni/Mn to adjacent 16c sites, eliminating transformation to a rock‐salt type structured Ni0.25Mn0.75O2 phase above 4.8 V, preventing structure degradation and suppressing voltage polarization. This study provides insights into the fundamental structure‐function relationship of the LNMO battery cathode, pointing to pathways for the crystal structure engineering of materials with superior performance.
Impact of introducing a new biological matrix into a validated bioanalytical method: Focus on matrix protein content
Authors: Brown Stacy D.
Published: May 2024

International guidance on bioanalytical method validation recommends the practice of partial validation when introducing a new matrix from the same species into a previously fully validated assay. Planning the partial validation protocol should include an evaluation of analyte chemistry, consideration of sample container materials, and a comparison of properties between the relevant biological matrices. Transition of a serum/plasma‐validated bioanalytical method to analysis from a low‐protein matrix, such as urine, cerebral spinal fluid, or oral fluid can result in inconsistent analyte recovery. The low recovery can potentially be mistaken for signal suppression or lack of drug stability and may be more pronounced in low‐concentration or low‐volume samples. In addition, adsorption and absorption interactions with containers may be exacerbated in low‐protein matrices. Several possibilities exist for mitigating the impact of non‐specific binding and low‐protein matrices, including surfactants, bovine serum albumin, and β‐cyclodextrin. Finally, higher matrix protein can facilitate analyte stability. Given all this, matrix protein content should not be overlooked when anticipating a partial bioanalytical method validation.
How generative AI is (will) change consumer behaviour: Postulating the potential impact and implications for research, practice, and policy
Authors: Mogaji Emmanuel , Jain Varsha
Published: May 2024

This article sheds light on the profound impact of technology on consumer behavior, specifically focusing on the rise of generative AI tools. It highlights how these advancements have revolutionized consumer engagement, purchase decision‐making, and technology interaction. The article underscores the transformative potential of generative AI in shaping consumer behavior through personalized recommendations and interactive shopping experiences. It emphasizes the need for continued research and exploration to comprehend and effectively navigate the ever‐evolving landscape of consumer behavior influenced by generative AI. Additionally, the article identifies implications for research and practice, offers valuable strategies for brands, and presents a comprehensive research agenda to delve deeper into this field. Ultimately, it provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI in consumer behavior, serving as a guiding resource for advancing theory, practice, and policy in this domain.
Removal of Co(II) and various metal ions from the residue of the zinc plant through solvent extraction using both acid and neutral extractants
Authors: Maleki Fatemeh , Torkaman Rezvan , Asadollahzadeh Mehdi
Published: May 2024

The recovery of cobalt from secondary sources is a crucial issue in technology development, particularly for its numerous applications in various industries. Solvent extraction has proven an effective method for metallic ions separation from secondary sources. The main goal of this work was to study the separation of metals by solvent extraction technique from zinc plant leach waste. Initially, several extractants, including Cyanex 272, Cyanex 301, LIX 5640 H, Alamine 336, and tri‐n‐octylamine (TOA), were tested to treat the leach solution. It was discovered that the saponified extractant di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) (10%) + tri‐n‐butyl phosphate (TBP) (10%) effectively eliminated interfering elements such as manganese, zinc, and iron, with extraction efficiencies of 95%, 98%, and 99.9%, respectively. To increase the concentration of cobalt in the purified solution, the cobalt recovery step was performed using various acids on the loaded organic phase. The best outcome was achieved using ammonium sulphate salt (1 M), which recovered about 50% of the cobalt present in the organic phase. The recovered cobalt was then subjected to the electrowinning process to produce cobalt metal of high purity. A cathodic current density of 100 A/m2 was determined to be the optimal current for the electrolyte solution. Lastly, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were carried out to examine the structure and purity of the resulting metallic cobalt, which was found to have a purity of 99.5%.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Karl Fischer titration
Authors: Rivera‐Quintero Paula , Patience Gregory S. , Patience Nicolas A. , Boffito Daria C. , Banquy Xavier , Schieppati Dalma
Published: May 2024

Karl Fischer titration (KF) measures the water content in organic and inorganic compounds. Water reacts with a titrant solution containing iodine and a sulphurous monoalkyl ester to produce a monoalkyl sulphate ester and HI. In volumetric titrators, a burette injects the titrant directly into a cell while coulometric titrators generate titrant in situ. Regardless of the volume of the sample, volumetric titration is limited to 100 mg, while coulometric titration is best suited for . KF is fast (), considered accurate (), and precise (). However, factors such as humidity, non‐standard analytes (hexane, isopropanol, ethylene glycol), tritrant composition, and temperature compromise its repeatability: the % sample standard deviation, (), varied from 2% to 60% (). This high variability is, in part, due to the experimental design that included samples and conditions ill‐suited for the technique. However, even for the tests for which KF is suitable, . Certain compounds react with the titrant, which increases the variability. The main sources of error affecting the analysis are ambient moisture, pH, solvent, sample handling, and titration speed. As of 2023, the Web of Science has indexed 1332 articles with Karl Fischer as a key word (Topic), but more than 3600 mentioning the technique (All fields). A bibliometric analysis classifies these contributions into five clusters: spectroscopy, stability, temperature, solubility, and mixtures.