bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whey protein isolate‐oligosaccharides conjugates as encapsulants improving stability of L. lactis
Authors: Yu Xiaohong , Zhang Yiwen , Shao Jiayi , Li Kaiqi , Su Xinyu , Yin Shuai , Chen Xiaodong , Li Wei
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study is to prepare Maillard reaction products (MRPs) with low Browning intensity for microencapsulation of Lactococcus lactis and to improve its processing stability and anti‐digestive ability. In this study, whey protein isolate (WPI) was combined with xylose oligosaccharides (XOS) and feruloyl oligosaccharides (FOs) at 90 °C for 90 min to prepare two Maillard reaction products (MRPs), which were applied to the construction of L. lactis microcapsules. The results showed that WPI‐FOs had a lower Browning intensity and slightly lower intermediate content than WPI‐XOS. Both MRPs showed strong inhibitory effects on the pathogens and probiotics effect on L. lactis. In addition, L. lactis coated with MRPs showed significantly enhanced resistance to heat and mechanical stress. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the Maillard conjugation of WPI with oligosaccharides has the potential to be the encapsulant for probiotic microcapsules.
Effects of different packaging method on oxidation stability and tenderness of chicken breast injected with different types of kiwifruit during storage
Authors: Kim Haeun , Chin Koo Bok
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and protease activities of red kiwifruit (RK), green kiwifruit (GRK), and gold kiwifruit (GOK) and determine the effects of various packaging methods on the quality of chicken breast injected with various kiwifruit types during storage. The physicochemical and textural properties of chicken breasts containing various kiwifruit types were evaluated. Chicken breasts were injected with brine solution containing 5% kiwifruit powder, and their product quality was measured every 3 days until day 9. GOK and RK addition to chicken breast delayed oxidation during storage. Adding GOK and GRK to chicken breast was found to increase tenderness. Modified‐atmosphere packaging (MAP) delayed microbial growth more effectively than over‐wrap packaging (OWP). These findings suggest that the combination of GOK and MAP potentially extends shelf‐life without deteriorating quality.
Microencapsulation of tomato oleoresin using tomato waste fibre and its application for orange juice fortification
Authors: Hosseini Haniyeh S. , Fathi Milad , Maleky Farnaz
Published: July 2024

Food waste by‐products contain many bioactive compounds, such as proteins, carbohydrates, polyphenols and carotenoids. The purposes of this study was to extract oleoresin from tomato waste, apply tomato pomace powder (TPP) as a new shell material for encapsulation of oleoresin and to fortify orange juice using the developed microcapsules. Microencapsulation was carried out based on different TPP (2% and 3%) and oleoresin (20% and 30%) concentrations by spray drying at two temperatures (130 and 140 °C). Different features of microcapsules such as the encapsulation load, encapsulation efficiency, moisture content, hygroscopicity, bulk and tapped densities and the Hausner ratio were analysed. Based on properties of microcapsules, samples containing 3% TPP and 30% oleoresin dried at 130 °C were selected as the best treatment and their characteristics such as morphology, chemical structure and thermal behaviour were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that spherical micron‐size particles were formed and their crack‐free fine surface showed their potential for encapsulation of anti‐oxidants to reduce oxygen diffusion. Microencapsulated oleoresin was then added to the orange juice and the samples' pH, acidity, total soluble solids and colour were evaluated and compared with pure orange juice. Free radical scavenging method was used to investigate the anti‐oxidant properties of orange juice during storage. The results indicated that at the end of the 30 days of storage the fortified orange juice had anti‐oxidant activity equal to pure fresh orange juice on day one. Sensory evaluation results showed no significant differences between appearance, colour, thickness and overall acceptance of fresh and the fortified juices (P < 0.05). The results of this study showed the potential application of food and agricultural waste in production of value‐added ingredients to be used as natural additives in food industries.
Development of evaluation model for texture of gel‐like foods using mechanical properties and sensory evaluation
Authors: Yang Jiamin , Kijima Naoko , Monta Kana , Masaka Akiyoshi , Ishikawa Daitaro , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study is to clarify the essential means of describing the characteristics of foods represented by texture terms using a model based on the mechanical properties of foods. Seven texture terms were identified, and the mechanical properties of gel‐like samples were determined using elasticity and rupture tests. The Blatz, Sharda and Tschoegl (BST) equation was applied to the stress‐strain curve of the samples, and the elastic parameter E and the nonlinear index n were calculated. The evaluation model of the score obtained from the sensory test for each texture term was developed using E and n, rupture stress, and rupture depth. The model demonstrated the contribution of each variable to the texture term. Moreover, a single correlation was investigated between each specific term for the texture and each mechanical parameter, respectively. These results confirmed that some of the impressions given by the texture terms did not match the actual mechanical properties of foods.
The right educational environment: Oral tolerance in early life
Authors: Cheifetz Talia R. , Knoop Kathryn A.
Published: July 2024

Oral tolerance promotes the suppression of immune responses to innocuous antigen and is primarily mediated by regulatory T cell (Tregs). The development of oral tolerance begins in early life during a “window of tolerance,” which occurs around weaning and is mediated by components in breastmilk. Herein, we review the factors dictating this window and how Tregs are uniquely educated in early life. In early life, the translocation of luminal antigen for Treg induction is primarily dictated by goblet cell‐associated antigen passages (GAPs). GAPs in the colon are negatively regulated by maternally‐derived epidermal growth factor and the microbiota, restricting GAP formation to the “periweaning” period (postnatal day 11–21 in mice, 4–6 months in humans). The induction of solid food also promotes the diversification of the bacteria such that bacterially‐derived metabolites known to promote Tregs—short‐chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolites, and bile acids—peak during the periweaning phase. Further, breastmilk immunoglobulins—IgA and IgG—regulate both microbial diversity and the interaction of microbes with the epithelium, further controlling which antigens are presented to T cells. Overall, these elements work in conjunction to induce a long‐lived population of Tregs, around weaning, that are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in adults.
Malmö International Brother Study (MIBS): An International Survey of Brother Pairs with Haemophilia
Authors: Astermark Jan , Berntorp Erik
Published: July 2024

Malmö International Brother Study (MIBS) was initiated in 1996 in order to set up an international registry of twins and non‐twin brothers with haemophilia and to search for genetic and compound factors predisposing for inhibitor development. As of July, 1997, 178 brother pairs are registered (143 haemophilia A and 35 haemophilia B patients). Sixteen of these pairs are twins. In 48 of the brother pairs (27%) there is a history of inhibitors, in 25 of them involving only one of the brothers. Immune tolerance induction has been attempted in 13 brother pairs (27%) and in four pairs the inhibitor has been eradicated. Additional demographic data need to be collected and, if possible plasma, IgG and DNA samples will be taken from inhibitor patients to serve as a tool for basic inhibitor experiments.
The potential role of Staphylococcus aureus superantigens in atopic eczema
Authors: Skov Lone , Baadsgaard Ole
Published: July 2024

Aim

To study the effect of skin testing with Staphylococcus aureus superantigen.

Subject

Atopic dermatitis and superantigens.

Methods

Patch testing.

Results

Atopic eczema is a multifactorial genetic skin disorder. Staphylococcus aureus is often present on the skin of patients with atopic eczema and recently it has been shown that the majority of these staphylococci secrete superantigens. Superantigens are bacterial and viral proteins characterized by their capacity to stimulate a large number of T cells. Superantigens bind directly to the major histocompatibility complex class 11 molecule on the antigen presenting cell and cross‐link the antigen presenting cell with T cells expressing certain T cell receptors leading to polyclonal T cell activation. Both Langerhans cells and major histocompatibility complex class II positive keratinocytes contain the capacity to activate T cells in the presence of superantigens.

Conclusion

Superantigen applied on intact human skin or on uninvolved atopic skin induces eczema. Thus, superantigens may play a role in the exacerbation of atopic eczema.
Evolutionary behavior of thermal and optical properties of fluoride fiberglass with Er3+ doping
Authors: Liu Ruite , Hu Linjia , Wang Zaiyang , Zhao Wenkai , Zhang Longfei , Jiang Yiguang , Zhang Long
Published: July 2024

Er3+‐doped fluoride glass and fiber have been widely used in multiple fields such as mid‐infrared laser, visible laser, and amplifier. However, there is no unified conclusion on the thermal and optical properties with respect to varying concentrations of Er3+ doping. Furthermore, this is a paucity of systematic guidance on the preparation of Er3+‐doped fluoride glass and fiber. In this study, fluorozirconate fiberglass with Er3+ doping is systematically examined. Additionally, a preliminary explanation of the evolutionary behavior of glass devitrification, thermal properties, and fluorescence properties is provided. Energy transition models were built for 1.5 and 2.7 µm emissions in Er3+‐doped fluorozirconate at room temperature. Moreover, a suitable doping concentration is proposed based on the evolutionary behavior of thermal and optical properties. In this study, guidance on appropriate Er3+ doping concentration levels in fluorozirconate glass is provided and potential applications are explored.
‘In our culture, we come when you die’: Qualitative descriptive analysis of end‐of‐life perspectives in a reservation‐based community
Authors: Nelson Katie E. , Adams Kathleen , Kahn‐John Michelle , Davidson Patricia M. , Ferrell Betty , Meah Mumtahana , Petchler Claire , Ricker Adriann , Runsabove Kassie , Werk Alicia , Wright Rebecca , Brockie Teresa N.
Published: July 2024

Aim

To explore (1) perspectives and attitudes of Native Americans regarding transitions from serious illness to death, and (2) awareness about hospice and palliative care service models in a Great Plains reservation‐based community.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Community members and clinicians were invited to participate in a semi‐structured focus group or interview by Tribal Advisory Board members. Analysis involved three phases: (1) qualitative descriptive analysis of preliminary themes using the Addressing Palliative Care Disparities conceptual model; (2) a cultural review of the data; and (3) reflexive thematic analysis to synthesize findings.

Results

Twenty‐six participants engaged in two focus groups (n = 5–6 participants in each) and interviews (n = 15). Four themes were derived from their stories: (1) family connectedness is always priority; (2) end‐of‐life support is a community‐wide effort; (3) everyone must grieve in their own way to heal; and (4) support needs from outside the community.

Conclusion

Findings highlight cultural considerations spanning the life course. Clinicians, researchers and traditional wisdom keepers and practitioners, particularly those working in rural and/or reservation‐based settings, must provide culturally safe care. This must include acknowledging and prioritizing the needs and preferences of Native American patients and the impact on their families and communities.

Impact and Implications for the Profession

Leveraging community assets, such as family and social networks, is key for supporting Native American patients with serious illnesses. Additionally, facilitating greater family and caregiver involvement along a patient's care trajectory may be a pathway for easing health care workers' caseloads in reservation‐based areas, where resources are limited.

Reporting Method

The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guideline was used.

Patient/Public Contribution

The study was ideated based on community insight. Tribal Advisory Board members oversaw all aspects including recruitment, data acquisition, interpretation of findings and tribal data dissemination.
Leading through the COVID‐19 pandemic: Experiences of UK Executive Nurse Directors
Authors: James Alison H. , Dimond Rebecca , Jones Aled , Watkins Dianne , Kelly Daniel
Published: July 2024

Aim

To explore the challenges experienced by Executive Nurse Directors during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and to inform future nursing leadership strategies.

Design

A qualitative research project involving interviews with 21 Executive Nurse Directors from England and Wales.

Methods

Participants were purposively sampled and recruited through Chief Nursing Officers and nursing leadership networks. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted and recorded online via Teams. Braun and Clarke's approach to thematic reflexive analysis was applied to data analysis.

Results

Executive Nurse Directors played a critical role during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Six themes are explored: tensions, and adaptive response to personal leadership styles; uncertainty and support at the board level; responding to national political decision‐making; the personal and emotional impact of the role and the sources of effective support; the voice and public profile of nursing; lessons learnt and strategies for future leadership development. Enablers of decision‐making included effective multidisciplinary working, freedom from normal organizational constraints, support for innovation, and the development of stronger bonds with colleagues. Barriers to decision‐making included limited knowledge of the virus and its impact and lack of guidance, particularly at a national level. Priorities, strategies and actions for recovery include recognizing the emotional impact of being in a high‐level decision‐making role, protecting staff from burnout and understanding the long‐term implications of pandemic work for nurse leaders.

Conclusion

Future strategies for nursing leadership during public health, national and global emergencies are recommended.

Impact

This study contributes to the literature exploring the Executive Nurse Director role and their experiences of leading through the COVID‐19 pandemic, and identifies priorities, strategies and actions for recovery and learning for the future of senior leadership.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
A network analysis of self‐compassion and burnout in a sample of nurses
Authors: Liu Chunqin , Zhou Ying , Luo Qing , Song Liqin , Xiao JiaJian , Tan Wenying , Miao Chuyuan , Smith Graeme Drummond
Published: July 2024

Background

In the nursing profession, the concept of self‐compassion has been associated with burnout. However, to date, the fine‐grained relationships between different dimensions of self‐compassion and symptoms of burnout have not been investigated. Network analysis provides a new avenue for exploring the fine‐grained correlation paths of two related variables.

Aim

To analyse the nuanced associations between self‐compassion and burnout using network analysis in a large cohort of Chinese nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional multi‐centre survey design study.

Methods

Participants were recruited from 30 hospitals in China between April and May 2022. These nurses completed the Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory‐General Survey (C‐MBI‐GS) and Self‐Compassion Scale‐Short Form (SCS‐SF). Network analysis was performed to illustrate the complex nuanced relationships between self‐compassion and burnout.

Results

A total of 1467 nurses (age 32.2 [18–56] years; 89.9% were female) participated in the study. Nodes Mindfulness and Isolation had the highest centralities measured by strength. Nodes Mindfulness, reduced personal accomplishment and Isolation were the most negative and positive influential nodes that bridged self‐compassion and burnout. There were no differences in terms of gender, age, professional title and job tenure in the structure or connectivity of the self‐compassion and burnout network.

Conclusion

Different components of self‐compassion were specifically associated with different dimensions of burnout in registered nurses. Among these, Mindfulness, Isolation and Reduced personal accomplishment were the three most important components of self‐compassion for burnout symptoms.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Impact

Understanding the intricate connections between self‐compassion and burnout will allow hospital administrators to prioritize the elements of Mindfulness and Isolation within self‐compassion and the dimension of Reduced personal accomplishment within burnout when designing preventative measures and interventions aimed at reducing nurse burnout.
Hydrogen alleviates hypoxic–ischaemic brain damage in neonatal rats by inhibiting injury of brain pericytes
Authors: Li Hui , Sun Hao , Li Shiping , Huang Lingyi , Zhang Mingfu , Wang Shaopu , Liu Qian , Ying Junjie , Zhao Fengyan , Su Xiaojuan , Mu Dezhi , Qu Yi
Published: July 2024

Hypoxia‐ischaemia (HI) can induce the death of cerebrovascular constituent cells through oxidative stress. Hydrogen is a powerful antioxidant which can activate the antioxidant system. A hypoxia‐ischaemia brain damage (HIBD) model was established in 7‐day‐old SD rats. Rats were treated with different doses of hydrogen‐rich water (HRW), and brain pericyte oxidative stress damage, cerebrovascular function and brain tissue damage were assessed. Meanwhile, in vitro‐cultured pericytes were subjected to oxygen–glucose deprivation and treated with different concentrations of HRW. Oxidative injury was measured and the molecular mechanism of how HRW alleviated oxidative injury of pericytes was also examined. The results showed that HRW significantly attenuated HI‐induced oxidative stress in the brain pericytes of neonatal rats, partly through the Nrf2‐HO‐1 pathway, further improving cerebrovascular function and reducing brain injury and dysfunction. Furthermore, HRW is superior to a single‐cell death inhibitor for apoptosis, ferroptosis, parthanatos, necroptosis and autophagy and can better inhibit HI‐induced pericyte death. The liver and kidney functions of rats were not affected by present used HRW dose. This study elucidates the role and mechanism of hydrogen in treating HIBD from the perspective of pericytes, providing new theoretical evidence and mechanistic references for the clinical application of hydrogen in neonatal HIE.
Conform and Oppose through Numbers: Quantifying Hybrid Organizations at the International Cooperative Alliance
Authors: Huybrechts Benjamin , Nelson Dylan , Nelson Teresa , O'Shea Noreen , Dufays Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Collectives of hybrid organizations have emerged with the aim of promoting the plural goals and values embodied by their member organizations. Doing so, however, often requires simultaneous conformity and opposition to dominant institutional norms, such as those underlying mainstream market activity. We examine how hybrid collectives navigate this ‘conform‐and‐oppose’ tension as they seek to promote their members' hybrid form through quantification – i.e., the use of numbers to label, count, and describe members. Analyzing the case of the International Cooperative Alliance, we identify four interrelated dimensions (valorization, validity, reactivity, and retroaction) through which a hybrid collective can harness quantification to manage differing commitments to market and social goals and values within and beyond the collective – a process we name formative quantification. Core to this process are two filtering mechanisms – validity searching and values queuing – through which a hybrid collective integrates stakeholder perceptions of truth (validity) and value (valorization) to navigate hybrid tensions. Our work extends theory on hybrid tension management to the inter‐organizational level, while shifting the view of organizational quantification from a tool of conformity‐enhancing evaluation towards a collective search for numbers that both conform to and oppose taken‐for‐granted norms.
Ultrasonographic characteristics of myogenous temporomandibular disorders: A scoping review
Authors: De Nordenflycht Diego , Figueroa Katherine , Muñoz Jaime , De la Torre Canales Giancarlo
Published: July 2024

Objective

To identify the available evidence on the ultrasonographic characteristics of masticatory muscles in subjects with myogenous TMD, as well as the potential use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic and treatment assessment outcomes tool.

Method

An electronic search of the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases was performed using the following terms: ‘ultrasonography’, ‘ultrasound’, ‘masseter’, ‘temporal’, ‘masticatory muscles’, ‘temporomandibular disorders’, ‘temporomandibular joint disorders’. Full‐text articles were obtained from the records after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Results

Thirteen articles were included for analysis: one comparative cross‐sectional study, five case–control studies, six clinical trials and one randomised clinical trial. Main ultrasonographic characteristic assessed were local cross‐sectional dimension and intramuscular ultrasonographic appearance. Retrieved studies reported the use ultrasonography for diagnosis or treatment assessment purposes showing heterogeneous results. For diagnosis purposes, the results of local cross‐sectional dimension are not consistent; therefore, its diagnostic value for myogenous TMD diagnosis is weak. However, more homogeneous results were observed for intramuscular ultrasonographic appearance showing a higher prevalence of type‐II pattern in myogenous TMD subjects than non‐TMD subjects. On the other hand, for treatment assessment purposes, muscles were observed thinner after treatment compared to pre‐treatment. Also, results of intramuscular ultrasonographic appearance show disappearance or reduction of anechoic areas, higher prevalence of type‐II pattern and significant distinction of echogenic bands were observed after treating TMD subjects.

Conclusion

Ultrasonography cannot be considered as a diagnostic instrument, but maybe as a complementary tool for treatment assessment of myogenous TMD subjects, even though future research is required to confirm its utility.
Sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors: Will these drugs benefit non‐diabetic veterinary patients with cardiac and kidney diseases?
Authors: Elliott Jonathan , Oyama Mark A.
Published: July 2024

Sodium glucose transporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been introduced into human medicine where their beneficial effects go beyond the expected improvement in blood glucose control. These drugs appear to prevent progression of both cardiovascular and kidney diseases, not only in diabetic but also in non‐diabetic human patients. As these drugs have received conditional approval for use in diabetic cats and are being used in other veterinary species, the intriguing question as to whether they will have similar cardioprotective and nephroprotective effects in dogs and cats is being asked. The primary mechanism(s) by which SGLT2 inhibitors are cardio‐ and nephroprotective remain to be fully characterized. This paper reviews these suggested mechanisms in the context of the pathophysiology of progressive cardiovascular and kidney diseases in dogs and cats with the goal of predicting which categories of non‐diabetic veterinary patients these drugs might be of most benefit.
Dietary inflammation, sleep and mental health in the United Kingdom and Japan: A comparative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hepsomali Piril , Kagami‐Katsuyama Hiroyo , Coxon Christle , Honma Naoyuki , Kinoshita Koki , Hattori Hiroki , Nishihira Jun
Published: July 2024

Diet has been repeatedly shown to affect mental and sleep health outcomes. However, it is well known that there are cross‐cultural differences in dietary practices as well as the prevalence of mental and sleep health outcomes. Given that the dietary inflammatory potential of diets has been linked to mental and sleep health outcomes, in the current study we sought to assess the inflammatory status of habitual diets and examine its relationship with mental and sleep health outcomes in both the United Kingdom and Japan. Our aim was to determine if the associations between the dietary inflammation index (DII) score and these health outcomes could elucidate any potential cross‐cultural differences in health. Online survey data was collected from 602 participants (aged 18–40 years) in the United Kingdom (n = 288) and Japan (n = 314). Participants self‐reported their dietary intakes, as well as current mental health and sleep patterns. The DII score was calculated (score range − 2.79 to 3.49) We found that although participants in the United Kingdom reported better overall mental wellbeing, participants in Japan reported less severe depression, anxiety and stress and better subjective sleep quality, less sleep disturbances and daytime dysfunction, despite sleeping shorter, and a better adherence to an anti‐inflammatory diet. Moreover, across the United Kingdom and Japan, adherence to more anti‐inflammatory diets predicted higher levels of subjective sleep quality, fewer sleep disturbances, less use of sleep medicine and less daytime dysfunction. In conclusion, there are several differences between mental and sleep health outcomes in the United Kingdom and Japan, which could be attributable to the inflammatory potential of respective regional diets. Future studies are warranted to examine the mental and sleep health benefits of adhering to anti‐inflammatory traditional Japanese diets in clinical and subclinical cohorts.
Embracing the ambiguity: Tracing climate response diversity in urban water management
Authors: Deslatte Aaron , Koebele Elizabeth A. , Wiechman Adam
Published: July 2024

Climate change is a management and governance challenge requiring diverse potential responses. This article highlights the critical role public managers play in navigating the response diversity of such governance systems. Response diversity is the rule‐based set of options available for responding to unexpected service disruptions and is distinguished from ambiguity, which holds a negative valence within public administration. We first develop theoretical propositions about how institutions influence response diversity, drawing on public administration, resilience, and cognitive science research. Then, we use the Institutional Grammar and Institutional Network Analysis tools to empirically trace the rate‐making processes in two U.S. urban water utilities. We conclude that institutional designs do distinctively influence response diversity and are therefore key for evaluating the climate adaptability of heavily engineered infrastructure systems. Specifically, we identify important differences in the diversity of information, participation, and heuristics used for selecting investment strategies.
Cotton BOP1 mediates SUMOylation of GhBES1 to regulate fibre development and plant architecture
Authors: Wang Bingting , Wang Zhian , Tang Ye , Zhong Naiqin , Wu Jiahe
Published: July 2024

The Arabidopsis BLADE‐ON‐PETIOLE (BOP) genes are primarily known for their roles in regulating leaf and floral patterning. However, the broader functions of BOPs in regulating plant traits remain largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the role of the Gossypium hirsutum BOP1 gene in the regulation of fibre length and plant height through the brassinosteroid (BR) signalling pathway. Transgenic cotton plants overexpressing GhBOP1 display shorter fibre lengths and reduced plant height compared to the wild type. Conversely, GhBOP1 knockdown led to increased plant height and longer fibre, indicating a connection with phenotypes influenced by the BR pathway. Our genetic evidence supports the notion that GhBOP1 regulates fibre length and plant height in a GhBES1‐dependent manner, with GhBES1 being a major transcription factor in the BR signalling pathway. Yeast two‐hybrid, luciferase complementation assay and pull‐down assay results demonstrated a direct interaction between GhBOP1 and GhSUMO1, potentially forming protein complexes with GhBES1. In vitro and in vivo SUMOylation analyses revealed that GhBOP1 functions in an E3 ligase‐like manner to mediate GhBES1 SUMOylation and subsequent degradation. Therefore, our study not only uncovers a novel mechanism of GhBES1 SUMOylation but also provides significant insights into how GhBOP1 regulates fibre length and plant height by controlling GhBES1 accumulation.
Adolescent health‐risk behaviours in Uruguay: Patterns from national cross‐sectional school surveys conducted in 2006, 2012 and 2019
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl , Rodríguez María José
Published: July 2024

Background

There are no trend studies on various health risk behaviours among adolescents in Uruguay. Therefore, this study looked at trends in a number of health‐risky behaviours among adolescents in Uruguay from three separate surveys.

Methods

Data from 9272 adolescents (age range: 11–16 years), who took part in three cross‐sectional national in‐school surveys in Uruguay in 2006, 2012 and 2019 were analysed. A self‐administered survey was used to evaluate 24 health risk behaviours. By using logistic regression analyses to treat the study year as a categorical variable and adjusting food insecurity and age, linear trends were examined.

Results

We found a significant increase in the prevalence of being overweight, having obesity, inadequate fruit intake, sedentary behaviour in leisure‐time, physical inactivity, bullying victimisation, loneliness, suicidal ideation, and sexual activity. We found a significant decrease in current cigarette use, physical fighting and current alcohol use. Among males, a significant increase of non‐condom use, and a decrease in current other tobacco use (other than cigarettes), being physically attacked and the number of sexual partners. Among females, we found an increase in food insecurity, trouble from alcohol use, multiple sexual partners, and sleep problems.

Conclusion

Overall, from 2006 to 2019, there was a decrease in seven health risk behaviours among boys and/or girls. Among boys, there was an increase in 10 health risk behaviours and among girls, 15 health risk behaviours increased, highlighting adolescent girls' greater vulnerability, thereby perpetuating further gendered health inequalities. In Uruguay, school health programmes for adolescents are recommended.
How do we conduct a national transfusion related lookback program?
Authors: Priddee Nicole , Pietrek Tiffany , McLintock Lorna , Masterson Elizabeth , Rowley Megan , Roy Kirsty , Yeung Alan , Anya Ike , Carter Daniel , Barclay Stephen , Jackson Celia , Hawkins Gill , Steedman Nicola
Published: July 2024

Background

Lookback investigations are conducted by blood services when a risk of transmission of infection from a donor to a recipient has been identified. They involve tracing transfusion recipients and offering them testing for the relevant infectious agent. Results are relayed to the recipient to provide reassurance that there has been no transmission or to ensure appropriate treatment and care if required, and blood services are able to learn lessons from the planning, delivery, and outcomes of the investigation.

A national lookback exercise was conducted in Scotland following the introduction of a test to identify occult hepatitis B infection, as recommended by the UK Advisory Committee for the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO) in 2021.

Methods and Materials

This paper outlines the development and delivery of a national lookback program. It discusses the logistical, economic, ethical, regulatory, and scientific issues that were considered during the planning and delivery of the lookback exercise.

Results

Development and delivery of a national lookback required robust governance, engagement of all relevant stakeholders and a shared understanding of aims, effective communication, systems, resources, limitations, and project management. Outcomes included a high testing uptake, low levels of reported anxiety, and a comprehensive data set.

Conclusion

Key aspects for delivery of a successful large‐scale lookback program include a patient‐centered approach, clear and accessible communication, and whole‐systems multiagency collaboration. Major challenges include stakeholder engagement and capacity.
Evaluation of the Quality of Online Information About Perinatal Depression in China
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Wan Abas Wan Anita , Ma’rof Aini Azeqa , Wang Peng , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: July 2024

This study assessed the quality of Chinese-language websites that provide information about perinatal depression, focusing on their compliance with recognized quality standards, the impact of information content providers on information quality, and the correlation between search engine ranking and quality. We conducted a systematic search on the Baidu search engine and screened 55 relevant websites. The quality of these websites was assessed using the DISCERN instruments. Our findings suggest that the quality of information on websites about perinatal depression is predominantly 'poor', with commercial sites constituting the entirety of the sample, although health information content provided by non-profit organizations demonstrating significantly higher quality. There was a significant negative correlation between search engine rankings and the quality of information on perinatal depression, suggesting that higher quality content is less likely to be searched for and may hinder access to reliable information. This study highlights the urgent need for mechanisms to prioritize the display of high-quality information in search engine results to provide better assistance to Chinese patients with perinatal depression.
EPIC-CP pilot trial study protocol: a multicentre, randomised controlled trial investigating the feasibility and acceptability of social prescribing for Australian children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Ostojic Katarina , Karem Isra , Paget Simon , Berg Alison , Burnett Heather , Scott Timothy , Martin Tanya , Dee-Price Betty-Jean , McIntyre Sarah , Smithers-Sheedy Hayley , Mimmo Laurel , Masi Anne , Scarcella Michele , Azmatullah Sheikh , Calderan Jack , Mohamed Masyitah , Olaso Anne , van Hoek Matthew , van Hoek Debbie , Woodbury Mackenzie , Wilkinson Alunya , Chambers Georgina , Zwi Karen , Dale Russell , Eapen Valsamma , Lingam Raghu , Strnadová Iva , Woolfenden Susan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The social determinants of health contribute to poorer health outcomes for children with cerebral palsy (CP) and are barriers to families accessing health services. At an individual level, social determinants of health are experienced as unmet social needs, for example, unsafe housing conditions. There is emerging evidence that clinical pathways for the systematic identification and referral to services for unmet social needs can support families to address these needs. These clinical pathways have not been implemented for children with CP. The objectives are to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of two co-designed social needs clinical pathways for parents/caregivers of children with CP—social prescribing (ie, Community Linker plus resource pack) compared with resource pack only.

Methods and analysis

This pilot randomised controlled trial will run at the three tertiary paediatric rehabilitation services in New South Wales, Australia. A total of 120 participants will be recruited, with randomisation stratified by study site. A survey tool will be used to identify families experiencing unmet social needs. Parents/caregivers who report one or more unmet social need/s and consent will be eligible. The active control group will receive a resource pack containing information on community services to support unmet social needs. The social prescribing intervention group will receive one-on-one Community Linker support, in addition to the resource pack. The survey tool, intervention, logic model, and resource pack were co-designed with patient families and their healthcare workers. Feasibility of the research design and the clinical pathways will be evaluated using the number/proportion of parents/caregivers who complete the survey tool, consent, engage with the intervention, and complete research measures. Acceptability will be evaluated using questionnaires and qualitative interviews.

Ethics and dissemination

Human research ethics approval was granted by the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Human Research Ethics Committee (2022/ETH01688). Participants and stakeholders will receive updates and findings via regular communication channels including meetings, presentations, and publications.

Trial registration number

Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: 12622001459718.
Asian Neonatal Network Collaboration (AsianNeo): a study protocol for international collaborative comparisons of health services and outcomes to improve quality of care for sick newborn infants in Asia – survey, cohort and quality improvement studies
Authors: Isayama Tetsuya , Miyake Fuyu , Rohsiswatmo Rinawati , Dewi Rizalya , Ozawa Yuri , Tomotaki Seiichi , Morisaki Naho , Chee Seok Chiong , Neoh Siew Hong , Imperial Ma Lourdes S , Velasco Belen Amparo E , Chang Yun Sil , Cho Su Jin , Youn YoungAh , Quek Bin Huey , Poon Woei Bing , Amin Zubair , Jayaratne Kapila , Kumara Saman , Lin Yuh-Jyh , Chang Jui-Hsing , Lin Hsiang Yu , Lin Ming-Chih , Nuntnarumit Pracha , Ngerncham Sopapan , Prempunpong Chatchay , Prempraphan Pathaporn , Supapannachart Sarayut , Kusuda Satoshi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Reducing neonatal deaths in premature infants in low- and middle-income countries is key to reducing global neonatal mortality. International neonatal networks, along with patient registries of premature infants, have contributed to improving the quality of neonatal care; however, the involvement of low-to-middle-income countries was limited. This project aims to form an international collaboration among neonatal networks in Asia (AsianNeo), including low-, middle- and high-income countries (or regions). Specifically, it aims to determine outcomes in sick newborn infants, especially very low birth weight (VLBW) infants or very preterm infants, with a view to improving the quality of care for such infants.

Methods and analysis

Currently, AsianNeo comprises nine neonatal networks from Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand. AsianNeo will undertake the following four studies: (1) institutional questionnaire surveys investigating neonatal intensive care unit resources and the clinical management of sick newborn infants, with a focus on VLBW infants (nine countries/regions); (2) a retrospective cohort study to describe and compare the outcomes of VLBW infants among Asian countries and regions (four countries/regions); (3) a prospective cohort study to develop the AsianNeo registry of VLBW infants (six countries/regions); and (4) implementation and evaluation of educational and quality improvement projects in AsianNeo countries and regions (nine countries/regions).

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Board of the National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan (reference number 2020–244, 2022–156). The study findings will be disseminated through educational programmes, quality improvement activities, conference presentations and medical journal publications.
Chasing cancer: does the social-to-medical spending ratio relate to cancer incidence and mortality in Canadian provinces? A retrospective cohort study
Authors: MacLellan Cameron , Kershaw Paul , Kneebone Ronald D , McLaren Lindsay , Reiman Tony , Urquhart Robin , Dutton Daniel J
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada, and cases are expected to rise by 83% between 2012 and 2042. Jurisdictions with higher ratios of social-to-medical spending exhibit better population health outcomes; however, the connection between the ratio and both cancer incidence and mortality is not well established. We aim to determine the association between the ratio and both age-standardised cancer incidence and mortality.

Methods

Using linear regressions with provincial and yearly fixed effects, we measured associations between the ratio and incidence of the four most common cancers in Canada (ie, lung and bronchus, colorectal, breast and prostate cancer), and mortality from any cancer, from 1992 to 2017 (incidence) and 2000 to 2019 (mortality).

Results

A one-cent increase in social spending for each dollar spent on medical services was significantly associated with a decrease in colorectal (−0.2%), breast (−0.1%), and prostate cancer (−0.6%). The relationship is statistically insignificant and negligible for lung cancer incidence and cancer mortality.

Conclusion

The ratio was significantly associated with a decrease in three out of four cancer incidence categories, but not mortality. This implies that, consistent with the social determinants of health, preventing cancer incidence might be a function of social spending, whereas medical spending is more relevant for individuals already diagnosed with cancer. This analysis points to the importance of a health-in-all-policies perspective, as social spending might be more important for population health than spending on the medical care system. We provide evidence that morbidity measures are responsive to the ratio, building on a literature focused on mortality.
Self-performed Rh typing: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dethier Divya , Tschann Mary , Roman Meliza , Chen John J , Soon Reni , Kaneshiro Bliss
Published: July 2024

Objective

To evaluate whether patients are capable and willing to self-administer and interpret an EldonCard test to determine their Rh status.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study in Honolulu, HI, USA of pregnancy-capable people aged 14–50 years who did not know their blood type and had never used an EldonCard. Participants independently completed EldonCard testing, determined their Rh type and answered a survey on feasibility and acceptability. Separately, a blinded clinician recorded their interpretation of the participant’s EldonCard. When available, we obtained blood type from the electronic health record (EHR). We measured Rh type agreement between participant, clinician and EHR, as well as participant comfort and acceptability of testing.

Results

Of the 330 total participants, 288 (87.3%) completed testing. Patients and clinicians had 94.0% agreement in their interpretation of the EldonCard for Rh status. Patient interpretation had 83.5% agreement with EHR while clinician and EHR had 92.3% agreement. Sensitivity of EldonCard interpretation by patient and clinician was 100%. Specificity was 83.2% for patients and 92.2% for clinicians. Two patients (of 117) had Rh-negative blood type in the EHR. The vast majority of participants found the EldonCard testing easy (94.4%) and felt comfortable doing the testing (93.7%). Participants with lower education levels felt less confident (p=0.003) and less comfortable with testing (p=0.038); however, their ability to interpret results was similar to others (p=0.051).

Conclusions

Patient-performed Rh typing via the EldonCard is an effective and acceptable option for patients, and could be used as a primary screening test for Rh status.
Vitamin D affects the risk of disease activity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Giordano Antonino , Clarelli Ferdinando , Pignolet Béatrice , Mascia Elisabetta , Sorosina Melissa , Misra Kaalindi , Ferrè Laura , Bucciarelli Florence , Manouchehrinia Ali , Moiola Lucia , Martinelli Vittorio , Rocca Maria A , Liblau Roland , Filippi Massimo , Esposito Federica
Published: July 2024

Background

Vitamin D (VitD) affects the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS), but the impact on disease activity is controversial. We assessed whether VitD is associated with the No-Evidence of Disease Activity-3 (NEDA-3) status at 2 years from disease-modifying treatment (DMT) start, and whether this association is causal or the result of confounding factors. Furthermore, we explored if a genetic predisposition to higher VitD levels affects the risk of disease activity.

Methods

230 untreated relapsing-remitting MS patients underwent serum 25-OH-vitamin-D measurement, and the association between seasonally adjusted VitD and disease activity was tested. Modelling a Polygenic Risk Score from a Genome-Wide Association Study on ~400 000 individuals, we studied the impact of genetic predisposition to higher VitD on the NEDA-3 status in 1408 independent MS patients. Two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) was used to assess causality.

Results

Lower baseline VitD was associated with decreased probability of NEDA-3 at 2 years (p=0.019). Particularly, VitD levels <20 ng/mL conferred an over twofold risk of disease activity (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.30 to 3.88, p=0.0037). Genetic predisposition to higher VitD levels was associated with delayed age at MS onset (p=0.018) and with a higher probability of NEDA-3 status (p=0.034). MR confirmed causality between VitD and the risk of disease activity (p=0.041).

Conclusions

VitD levels before DMT start affect the risk of disease activity in MS. Genetic predisposition to higher VitD levels confers a lower risk of disease activity and is associated with delayed MS onset. Our work prompts future prospective studies regarding VitD supplementation and lifestyle interventions to hamper disease activity in MS.