bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of porcine decomposition and total body score (TBS) in a central European temperate forest
Authors: Indra Lara , Giles Stephanie , Alfsdotter Clara , Errickson David , Lösch Sandra
Published: February 2024

The total body score (TBS) is a visual scoring method to scale the succession of decomposition stages. It compares decomposition between cadavers, to connect it with external taphonomic factors and estimate the post‐mortem interval. To study decomposition in various climatic environments, pigs are often used as human proxies. Currently, there is one TBS system by Keough et al. (J Forensic Sci. 2017;62:986) for surface‐deposited domestic pigs, coming from South Africa. Our study aims to evaluate this method and analyze porcine decomposition in Central Europe to inform forensic research and casework. We conducted an experiment studying six 50 kg pig carcasses in a temperate Swiss forest. Three observers documented decomposition patterns and rated the decomposition stages from photographs based on the porcine TBS model by Keough et al. (J Forensic Sci. 2017;62:986). We documented discrepancies between the carcass decomposition of our specimens and those in the South African study, especially related to the high insect activity in our experiment. Furthermore, we noted factors complicating TBS scoring, including rainfall and scavengers. The agreement between TBS observers from photographs was in the highest agreement category apart from one “substantial agreement” category. Our study is the first in Europe to systematically test the Keough et al. (J Forensic Sci. 2017;62:986) method. The results evidence that regional adaptations are required to be applicable for other environments. We present a modified approach based on experimental observations in a Swiss temperate forest. The identification of regional decomposition patterns and drivers will inform future taphonomy research as well as forensic casework in comparable contexts in Central Europe.
An integrated transcriptomics and network pharmacology approach to explore the mechanism of Wang‐Bi tablet against SAPHO syndrome
Authors: Wang Ting , Gong Xun , Xia Congmin , Kong Weijia , Geng Shaohui , Jiang Haixu , Xiao Enfan , Wang Hesong , Yu Yingcai , Li Chen , Yuan Kai
Published: February 2024

Background

SAPHO syndrome is recognized as a rare entity with damage to skin and bones due to inflammation. Currently, the treatment for SAPHO syndrome is still a challenge in clinical practice. In this study, an integrated transcriptomics and network pharmacology approach was applied to explore the therapeutic effect and mechanism of Wang‐Bi tablet (WBT) on SAPHO syndrome.

Methods

The main components of WBT and their targets, as well as the targets of SAPHO syndrome, were collected from databases. Network visualization was performed using Cytoscape software. The GO and KEGG enrichment analysis was executed by David dataset. Then, the molecular mechanism of WBT improving SAPHO syndrome was validated by transcriptomics of peripheral blood neutrophils in SAPHO syndrome. Finally, the above results were validated by molecular docking.

Results

The Network Pharmacology results showed there are 152 core targets for WBT treatment on SAPHO syndrome. RNA‐seq data showed 442 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in peripheral blood neutrophils of SAPHO patients. Intriguingly, NIK/NF‐kappaB‐, MyD88‐dependent toll‐like receptor‐, and MAPK pathway were included in the enrichment results of network pharmacology and RNA‐seq. Moreover, we verified that the core components of WBT have good affinity with the core targets of NIK/NF‐kappaB‐, MyD88‐dependent toll‐like receptor‐, and MAPK pathway by molecular docking.

Conclusions

This study illustrated that the possible mechanisms of WBT against SAPHO syndrome may be related to NIK/NF‐kappaB‐, MyD88‐dependent toll‐like receptor‐, and MAPK pathway, and further experiments are needed to prove these predictions.
Small bowel obstruction secondary to barbed sutures in bariatric surgery: a cautionary tale
Authors: Santucci Walter , Choy Audrey , Cheng Qiuye , Ward Salena , Winter Nicole , Hii Michael W
Published: February 2024

Background

Laparoscopic bariatric surgery relies on technically challenging intracorporeal suturing for critical parts of the operation. Barbed sutures have been developed to provide an alternative to suturing for certain manoeuvres within a procedure. Barbed sutures theoretically negate the need for knot tying and allow for continuous application of tension; however the barbs can unintentionally adhere to surrounding tissues. We describe a case series of three patients who developed V‐Loc™ (barbed) suture related small bowel obstruction (SBO) to promote awareness of this unusual but preventable complication.

Methods

Medical records of patients diagnosed with V‐Loc™ related SBO between 2018 and 2021 at a tertiary centre were reviewed. Data regarding presentation, diagnosis, management and outcomes were obtained.

Results

Three patients were identified where V‐Loc™ sutures were aetiologically related to early post‐surgical small bowel obstruction secondary to small bowel adherence to barbed suture tail or adhesions between barbed suture tail and unintended viscera. In these cases, non‐absorbable V‐Loc™ sutures were used to close the small bowel mesenteric defect at Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery. All patients required adhesiolysis at re‐look laparoscopy prior to resolution. All patients were discharged home well after relook laparoscopy.

Conclusion

Overly long or exposed V‐Loc™ suture tails can result in SBO following laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Cutting the suture tail as close as practical to the final throw of the suture and/or covering exposed suture ends may prevent this complication.
‘I wouldn't change my flat for anything’. Is there scope for more people with learning disabilities to rent their own homes?
Authors: Quilgars Deborah , Leishman Eppie , Abbott David , Clarke Samantha , Cooper Becca , Hodgkins Stephen , Scarrott Paul , Pollin Andy , Beech Lois
Published: February 2024

Background

Policy, research, and people's own experience in the UK consistently highlight the central importance of a home of choice for people with learning disabilities. Yet attention is mainly focused on the development of specialist as opposed to generic housing options for people with learning disabilities.

Methods

This article reviews the findings from a major research study looking at the rented housing sector for people with learning disabilities. The study comprised of a review of local authority learning disability strategies; a ‘national conversation’ with key stakeholders; and thirty‐five, qualitative interviews with people with learning disabilities who rent their own homes.

Findings

The research found that local learning disability strategies are lacking in information on rented housing for people. A national consultation identified a range of challenges in accessing rented housing for people wishing to do so. Interviews with people with learning disabilities renting their own place confirmed some of these problems but also, crucially, highlighted the success for most who rented their own home. People liked renting and were managing their tenancies well with relatively modest support.

Conclusions

The evidence points to the possible benefits of a greater focus on renting for people with learning disabilities.
Lower limb blood flow occlusion increases systemic pressor response without increasing brachial arterial blood flow redistribution in women
Authors: Fleming Abby R. , MacDonald Hayley V. , Buckner Samuel L. , Winchester Lee J.
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the systemic hemodynamic and vascular changes in women during and after two commonly used clinical blood flow restriction (BFR) pressures at rest. There are minimal data regarding the independent effects of BFR on hemodynamic and systemic vascular changes due to pressor response, particularly among women. Therefore, this study investigated BFR‐induced alterations in pressor response and systemic flow redistribution at rest during two commonly used pressures (50% and 80% limb occlusion pressure [LOP]). Fifteen women (22.1 ± 4.2 years) completed two randomised sessions involving 8‐min of bilateral, lower limb restriction at 50% or 80% LOP followed by 8‐min of recovery post‐deflation. Changes in vascular (arterial diameter [DIA], time‐averaged mean velocity [TAMV], volume flow [VF], and area) and hemodynamic (heart rate [HR] and blood pressure) measures over time (pre‐, during, post‐occlusion) and by session (50% vs. 80% LOP) were tested using repeated measures analysis of variance. Repeated measures correlations (rrm) quantified common intraindividual associations between BFR‐induced hemodynamic and vascular responses. HR increased from baseline during 50% LOP and remained elevated during recovery (p < 0.05). HR increased from baseline during 80% LOP, while tibial VF and TAMV decreased (p < 0.03 for all). HR and TAMV values returned to baseline during recovery, while brachial artery VF decreased (p < 0.05). Changes in HR, brachial VF, and brachial TAMV were similar between 50% and 80% LOP (rrm = 0.32–0.70,p < 0.05 for all). At 80% LOP, changes in HR were positively correlated with brachial VF (rrm = 0.38) and TAMV (rrm = 0.43) and negatively correlated with tibial VF (rrm = −0.36) and TAMV (rrm = −0.30) (p < 0.05 for all). Results suggest that BFR at 80% LOP elicits an acute systemic pressor reflex without concomitant increases in brachial arterial flow, while 50% LOP elicits a subdued response.
Reaction of organic phosphates with oxides: Effects on pH, the equation used to describe the reaction, and on desorption
Authors: Barrow N. J. , Asif Sk. Md. , Debnath Abhijit
Published: February 2024

Organic phosphates are an important component of soil phosphate reserves. We studied the sorption of three organic phosphates by goethite and by aluminium oxide and compared them with the sorption of inorganic phosphate (Pi). The organic phosphates were inositol hexa‐phosphate (IHP), glycerol phosphate (GlyP), and glucose‐6‐phosphate (G6P). We used five different initial pH values and 10 different initial concentrations. We measured both sorption and desorption. We used an equation which we call the Sibbesen‐Langmuir equation to successfully describe the observations over a 10,000 fold concentration range. Sorption increased the pH. The effects were largest at low pH and low initial concentration and were in the sequence Pi > IHP > G6P > GlyP. This sequence was a consequence of differences in ion size and mean charge. The different feedback effects of the different ions affected the shape of plots of sorption against concentration; similarity to the Langmuir shape was in the opposite sequence. Desorption curves always fell to the left of sorption curves; that is, there was always hysteresis. Part of this was an experimental artefact because desorption was measured at lower pH than sorption, but we provide evidence that this caused only part of the effect. The effects were greatest for Pi and least for IHP. We think that this hysteresis occurs because the adsorbed molecules diffuse into faults in the reacting medium. This would be more difficult for organic phosphate than for inorganic phosphate. Although hysteresis was smaller for organic phosphates, it was nevertheless substantial. We suggest that this is an important factor in their stability in soils.
Genomic architecture controls multivariate adaptation to climate change
Authors: Terasaki Hart Drew E. , Wang Ian J.
Published: February 2024

As climate change advances, environmental gradients may decouple, generating novel multivariate environments that stress wild populations. A commonly invoked mechanism of evolutionary rescue is adaptive gene flow tracking climate shifts, but gene flow from populations inhabiting similar conditions on one environmental axis could cause maladaptive introgression when populations are adapted to different environmental variables that do not shift together. Genomic architecture can play an important role in determining the effectiveness and relative magnitudes of adaptive gene flow and in situ adaptation. This may have direct consequences for how species respond to climate change but is often overlooked. Here, we simulated microevolutionary responses to environmental change under scenarios defined by variation in the polygenicity, linkage, and genetic redundancy of two independent traits, one of which is adapted to a gradient that shifts under climate change. We used these simulations to examine how genomic architecture influences evolutionary outcomes under climate change. We found that climate‐tracking (up‐gradient) gene flow, though present in all scenarios, was strongly constrained under scenarios of lower linkage and higher polygenicity and redundancy, suggesting in situ adaptation as the predominant mechanism of evolutionary rescue under these conditions. We also found that high polygenicity caused increased maladaptation and demographic decline, a concerning result given that many climate‐adapted traits may be polygenic. Finally, in scenarios with high redundancy, we observed increased adaptive capacity. This finding adds to the growing recognition of the importance of redundancy in mediating in situ adaptive capacity and suggests opportunities for better understanding the climatic vulnerability of real populations.
Bio‐ORACLE v3.0. Pushing marine data layers to the CMIP6 Earth System Models of climate change research
Authors: Assis Jorge , Fernández Bejarano Salvador Jesús , Salazar Vinícius W. , Schepers Lennert , Gouvêa Lidiane , Fragkopoulou Eliza , Leclercq Frederic , Vanhoorne Bart , Tyberghein Lennert , Serrão Ester A. , Verbruggen Heroen , De Clerck Olivier
Published: February 2024

Motivation

Impacts of climate change on marine biodiversity are often projected with species distribution modelling using standardized data layers representing physical, chemical and biological conditions of the global ocean. Yet, the available data layers (1) have not been updated to incorporate data of the Sixth Phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6), which comprise the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios; (2) consider a limited number of Earth System Models (ESMs), and (3) miss important variables expected to influence future biodiversity distributions. These limitations might undermine biodiversity impact assessments, by failing to integrate them within the context of the most up‐to‐date climate change projections, raising the uncertainty in estimates and misinterpreting the exposure of biodiversity to extreme conditions. Here, we provide a significant update of Bio‐ORACLE, extending biologically relevant data layers from present‐day conditions to the end of the 21st century Shared Socioeconomic Pathway scenarios based on a multi‐model ensemble with data from CMIP6. Alongside, we provide R and Python packages for seamless integration in modelling workflows. The data layers aim to enhance the understanding of the potential impacts of climate change on biodiversity and to support well‐informed research, conservation and management.

Main Types of Variable Contained

Surface and benthic layers for, chlorophyll‐a, diffuse attenuation coefficient, dissolved iron, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, ocean temperature, pH, phosphate, photosynthetic active radiation, total phytoplankton, total cloud fraction, salinity, silicate, sea‐water direction, sea‐water velocity, topographic slope, topographic aspect, terrain ruggedness index, topographic position index and bathymetry, and surface layers for air temperature, mixed layer depth, sea‐ice cover and sea‐ice thickness.

Spatial Location and Grain

Global at 0.05° resolution.

Time Period and Grain

Decadal from present‐day to the end of the 21st century (2000–2100).

Major Taxa and Level of Measurement

Marine biodiversity associated with surface and epibenthic habitats.

Software Format

A package of functions developed for Python and R software.
Prolonged grief, reconstruction of meaning, and posttraumatic growth in nursing home residents who have lost loved ones
Authors: Duran Songül , Altun Aydın
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, prolonged grief, meaning reconstruction, and posttraumatic growth of elderly individuals who have lost loved ones.

Methods

A total of 122 elderly individuals who had lost loved ones were included in the research conducted in a nursing home.

Results

The levels of Prolonged Grief Inventory (PG‐13), Grief and Meaning Reconstruction Inventory (GMRI), and Posttraumatic Growth (PTG) scale were found to be high among the individuals in the study. While the PG‐13 scores of single individuals who have lost their spouses are statistically significantly higher compared to married individuals, the scores for GMRI are higher for elderly individuals with chronic illness and expected death compared to those who have experienced sudden loss. A significant negative correlation was also determined between PG‐13, GMRI, and PTG scores.

Conclusion

Counseling to reconstruct grief and meaning is recommended for at‐risk groups. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 364–370.
Comparison between the GastroPanel test and the serum pepsinogen assay interpreted with the ABC method—A prospective study
Authors: Lee Sun‐Young , Ahn Yeon‐Sun , Moon Hee‐Won
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

This study aimed to validate Helicobacter pylori serological and pepsinogen (PG) assays for detecting infection and gastric neoplasm.

Methods

Individuals who underwent serum Chorus H. pylori and HBI PG assays were included from May to September 2023. The GastroPanel test was performed using the same blood sample. HBI assay findings were interpreted with the ABC method using the criteria of corpus atrophy (PG I ≤ 70 ng/mL & I/II ≤3) and advanced corpus atrophy (PG I ≤ 30 ng/mL & I/II ≤2).

Results

A total of 144 H. pylori‐infected and 184 non‐infected Koreans were analyzed. The Chorus test (sensitivity 97.2%, specificity 89.1%) showed higher area under the curve (0.993 vs. 0.972, p = 0.003) than the GastroPanel test (sensitivity 95.8%, specificity 86.4%). Using the GastroSoft application, the incidence of gastric neoplasms was highest in the corpus atrophy group (50%), followed by the low acid‐output (25.8%), H. pylori infection (11.6%), and antral atrophy (9.1%) groups. There were no gastric neoplasms in the normal and high acid output groups. Using the ABC method, the incidence of gastric neoplasms was highest in the corpus atrophy groups (23.8% in Groups C and D), followed by Group B (12.3%) and Group A (2.4%). Corpus atrophy interpreted with the GastroSoft showed poor agreement (k = 0.225) with corpus atrophy interpreted with the ABC method, whereas it showed excellent agreement (k = 0.854) with advanced corpus atrophy.

Conclusions

Although the Chorus test was more accurate than the GastroPanel test, both assays discriminated high‐risk individuals by detecting atrophy or infection. There were no gastric neoplasms in the normal or high acid‐output groups (GastroSoft application), and gastric neoplasm incidence was lowest in Group A (ABC method). Corpus atrophy determined by GastroSoft application is more consistent with advanced corpus atrophy determined by the ABC method than is corpus atrophy.
Clinical, epidemiological, and therapeutic hallmarks of pyoderma gangrenosum: a case series of 35 patients
Authors: Caldarola Giacomo , Traini Daniele O. , Falco Gennaro M. , Chiricozzi Andrea , De Luca Eleonora , Mannino Maria , Pellegrino Luca , Peris Ketty , De Simone Clara
Published: February 2024

Background

Over the past few decades, advances in medical research and diagnostic tools have shed light on some aspects of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG). Nevertheless, the multifactorial etiology, pathogenesis, and optimal management strategies for PG need to be further investigated.

To address these knowledge gaps and contribute to a better understanding of this complex dermatological disorder, we collected epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of a case series of PG patients occurring in our department over the past 10 years.

Methods

We performed a single‐centered, retrospective, observational study analyzing all cases with a diagnosis of PG observed at the Dermatology clinic of the Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS Catholic University from January 1, 2013, to January 1, 2023. For each case, we retrieved demographic data, the presence of other skin and systemic conditions, and the histopathological and clinical characteristics of PG, such as clinical variant, number of lesions, disease localization, previous therapy, response to treatment, and occurrence of relapse.

Results

We included 35 patients, 22 females and 13 males with a mean age of 40.0 years. Twenty patients (57.1%) had multiple localizations of disease, and the most commonly involved site was the lower limbs (85.7%). The lesions were mainly associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (51.4%) and hidradenitis suppurativa (37.1%). Clinical resolution with complete re‐epithelialization was achieved in 25 patients (71.4%) with an average time of 20.8 months. On average, patients who underwent therapy with biological drugs had better outcomes.

Conclusions

PG is a severe, rare, and pleomorphic disease associated with a broad spectrum of conditions. Corticosteroids remain the primary first‐line approach for severe forms, but using biological immunosuppressants is promising.
Temperature‐responsive palm oil‐based‐oleogels for encapsulation of D‐limonene: effect of fat crystallisation and melting point
Authors: Liu Yanping , Zhou Wei , Gao Hongxia , Chen Mianhong , Li Ruyi , Dai Yaping , Zou Ying , Yuan Yuan , Zhang Chenghui , Li Jihua
Published: February 2024

D‐limonene is an important flavouring ingredient with a wide range of applications. However, its high volatility and low stability have severely impacted its application in the food industry. To address these limitations, temperature‐flavour release control system is expected to be established to reduce the loss of D‐limonene during processing and storage, as well as to control its release by temperature. The aim of the current study is to construct an oleogel system to encapsulate D‐limonene using carnauba wax as a gelling agent and palm oils (POs) as the base oil. POs with 24 °C, 38 °C, 42 °C, 48 °C, and 52 °C melting points were selected to systematically investigate the effects of the base oil melting point on the crystal morphology, interactions, physicochemical properties, microstructure, and D‐limonene release of the oleogels. The enthalpy of melting, enthalpy of crystallisation, hardness, stickiness, and gel strength increased in oleogels prepared using POs with a higher melting point. In addition, the oil‐binding capacity (OBC) (>95%) of the oleogels increased with the base oil melting point, while the fat crystal distribution became more homogeneous and denser. Based on the influence that extraction temperature has on the concentration of released D‐limonene (a lower concentration of aroma was released from high‐melting‐point POs oleogels at low temperatures (<1.9 mg mL−1), whereas the control group released >2.5 mg mL−1), suitable POs can be selected to achieve the release or retention of the aroma. These results demonstrate that a temperature‐responsive flavour delivery system can be prepared with different PO melting points. The molecular dynamics of flavour release revealed that storage temperature and fat crystalline state impact the cumulative release rate of D‐limonene.
Using LAB‐fermented whey for developing bioactive edible films based on purple sweet potato flour/potato starch
Authors: Macías‐González Antonio , Hernández‐Carranza Paola , Ruiz‐López Irving Israel , Ochoa‐Velasco Carlos Enrique
Published: February 2024

During edible film production, several processes are carried out to maintain the probiotic viability, increasing its cost. However, fermentation to culture probiotics that will be later used for edible film production may increase their resistance during production, application and storage. Therefore, this study aimed to develop edible films based on potato starch or sweet potato flour and non‐fermented or fermented (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) whey solution. Edible films were evaluated for their physical, probiotic survival, antioxidant capacity and structural characteristics after 28 days of storage (4 and 20 °C). Selected films were used for covering commercial surimi to evaluate their effect on some quality properties. The edible films presented a moisture content of 12.68–18.97%, colour characteristics according to the powder used in their formulation, and a probiotic count higher than 9‐log cycles. The fermentation process improved the stability of antioxidant compounds in edible films during storage and gastrointestinal simulation. According to the handling characteristics, edible films based on potato starch (100%) and potato starch/sweet potato (90/10% and 80/20%) were formulated and applied. Although the consumers well‐accepted covered surimi, the probiotic counts were lower than 6‐log after storage, values below the threshold required to exert its beneficial effects in humans.
Action of structural proteins in textural deterioration of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) fillets during refrigerated storage
Authors: Shen Jiandong , Zhong Bijiang , Xia Wenshui , Xu Yanshun
Published: February 2024

Textural deterioration is a severe problem in fish industry. In order to study the role of structural proteins in refrigerated grass carp, myofibrillar proteins and collagen degradation were investigated at different stages. Results revealed that connective tissues of fish muscle disintegrated from day 1, failing to hold muscle myotomes together, with a decrease of shear force. Meanwhile, collagen solubility increased from day 1 and degradation of nebulin was observed after 3 days, while there was no obvious change in the bands of myosin heavy chain and actin. Furthermore, Pearson coefficient analysis revealed that insoluble collagen (ISC) and nebulin were significantly correlated with shear force. Negative correlation was established between drip loss and contributing factors (ISC, titin and nebulin). All results suggested that textural loss of post‐mortem grass carp fillets was mainly mediated by the degradation of collagen and to a lesser extent by myofibrillar proteins at the early storage.
Prevalence, identification and antimicrobial resistance ofListeria monocytogenesandListeriaspp. isolated from poultry and pork meat
Authors: Martinez‐Laorden Alba , Arraiz‐Fernandez Celia , Cantalejo M. Jesús , Gonzalez‐Fandos Elena
Published: February 2024

The aim of this work was to evaluate the prevalence ofListeria monocytogenesand otherListeriaspp. in chicken, duck, quail, turkey and pork meat, including the antibiotic resistance of isolated strains. A total of 184 meat samples were collected from different retailers in La Rioja (Spain). The presence ofListeriaspp. andL. monocytogeneswere detected in 24.46% and 10.32% of the meat samples respectively.L. monocytogeneswas the predominantListeriaspp. found in chicken, quail and pork meat, whileL. innocuaandL. welshimeriwere the predominant species in duck and turkey meat respectively. A total of thirty‐three strains (55.93%) ofListeriaspp. were found to be multi‐resistant (resistant to ≥3 families of antibiotics). The highest multi‐resistant rates were observed inL. monocytogenes(73.68%) and L. innocua(70.59%), followed byL. ivanovii(50%). Resistance to ampicillin and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole were found inL. monocytogenesstrains isolated from chicken, being of special concern, since these antibiotics are used in the treatment of listeriosis. Special measures should be taken to reduce meat contamination such as adequate handling, correct preparation (cooking) and cleaning and disinfection in order to avoid cross‐contamination.
Recent processing of peanut protein in food industry: a molecular structure perspective
Authors: Zhang Huayang , Xia Yunze , Li Wenhao , Ma Xia , Chen Liang , Wang Dianxuan , Qu Chenling
Published: February 2024

Peanuts produce millions of tons of high‐protein peanut meal (after oil extraction) annually that can be used for food. Peanut protein, as a plant‐based protein, is a great alternative to animal protein to address protein deficiencies and rising health problems in the world. It has a high nutritional value, while the globular structure results in poor functional properties, limiting its application. Better functional properties can be obtained through processing and modification. This paper elaborates the nutritional and functional properties of peanut protein and highlights the application of peanut protein in food industry in recent years. Applications for peanut protein include meat and milk substitutes, edible films, nanoparticles, and some new technologies such as electrostatic spinning and three‐dimensional (3D) printing in recent years. This paper could improve people's understanding of the molecular structure of peanut protein and the physicochemical properties associated with the structure changes during processing. It could also contribute to better utilisation of peanut protein, providing more varieties of peanut protein products for the food industry.
The significance of G8 and other geriatric assessments in urologic cancer management: A comprehensive review
Authors: Yajima Shugo , Masuda Hitoshi
Published: February 2024

In urologic oncology, which often involves older patients, it is important to consider how to manage their care appropriately. Geriatric assessment (GA) is a method that can address the specific needs of older cancer patients. The GA encompasses various assessment domains, but these domains exhibit variations across the literature. Some of the common items include functional ability, nutrition, comorbidities, cognitive ability, psychosocial disorders, polypharmacy, social and financial support, falls/imbalance, and vision/hearing. Despite the diversity of domains, there is limited consensus on reliable measurement methods. This review discusses the role of GA in managing urologic cancer in unique scenarios, such as those necessitating temporary or permanent urinary catheters or stomas due to urinary diversion. A comprehensive GA is time and human‐resource‐intensive in real‐world clinical practice. Hence, simpler tools such as the Geriatric‐8 (G8), capable of identifying high‐risk patients requiring a detailed GA, are also under investigation in various contexts. Therefore, we conducted a systematic literature review on the G8. Our findings indicate that patients with low G8 scores encounter difficulties with stoma self‐care after urinary diversion and have higher risks of urinary tract infections and ileus after radical cystectomy. The utilization of G8 as a screening tool for urologic cancer patients may facilitate the delivery of appropriate and personalized treatment and care.
Tumour‐associated neutrophils: Potential therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Qihang , Mao Han , Jiang Zhengting , Tang Dong
Published: February 2024

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant tumour of the digestive system with poor therapeutic response and low survival rates. Immunotherapy has rapidly developed in recent years and has achieved significant outcomes in numerous malignant neoplasms. However, responses to immunotherapy in PC are rare, and the immunosuppressive and desmoplastic tumour microenvironment (TME) significantly hinders their efficacy in PC. Tumour‐associated neutrophils (TANs) play a crucial role in the PC microenvironment and exert a profound influence on PC immunotherapy by establishing a robust stromal shelter and restraining immune cells to assist PC cells in immune escape, which may subvert the current status of PC immunotherapy. The present review aims to offer a comprehensive summary of the latest progress in understanding the involvement of TANs in PC desmoplastic and immunosuppressive functions and to emphasise the potential therapeutic implications of focusing on TANs in the immunotherapy of this deleterious disease. Finally, we provide an outlook for the future use of TANs in PC immunotherapy.
Effectiveness of educational interventions in reducing the stigma of healthcare professionals and healthcare students towards mental illness: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wong John Chee Meng , Chua Joelle Yan Xin , Chan Pao Yi , Shorey Shefaly
Published: February 2024

Aim

To examine the effectiveness of educational interventions in reducing stigma among healthcare professionals and students towards people with mental illness.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs.

Data Sources

Articles published from database inception to October 2023 were systematically searched from seven databases (CINAHL, Embase, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines.

Methods

Random‐effect meta‐analyses were conducted. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistics and Cochran's Q chi‐squared test. A quality appraisal conducted at the study level used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and an outcome‐level quality assessment utilized the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation Approach. Publication bias was assessed using the funnel plot.

Results

Twenty‐five articles were included in this review. Meta‐analysis reported statistically significant medium and small effect sizes for attitudes towards mental illness and attitudes towards people with mental illness respectively, showing the association between educational interventions and improved attitudes among healthcare professionals and students. However, a statistically non‐significant effect was reported for knowledge of mental illness. Subgroup analyses indicated that face‐to‐face and contact‐based interventions were particularly effective at reducing stigma. Notably, single‐session interventions were just as effective as multiple sessions, suggesting a potential for resource‐efficient approaches.

Conclusion

Educational interventions demonstrate promise in fostering more positive attitudes towards mental health issues. Future research should aim to determine the long‐term effects of these interventions and include patient feedback on the stigmatizing behaviours of healthcare professionals and students, to holistically evaluate the effect of interventions.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study is a secondary review and does not require relevant contributions from patients or the public.

What Does this Paper Contribute to the Wider Global Clinical Community?

Face‐to‐face contact‐based educational sessions have proven to be the most effective. Reinforcing learning may be achieved through a series of repeated single‐session interventions.
Coercive mating has no impact on spatial learning, cognitive flexibility, and fecundity in female porthole livebearers (Poeciliopsis gracilis)
Authors: Ernst Tiffany R. , Hogers R. M. H. W. , Korosi A. , van Leeuwen J. L. , Kotrschal A. , Pollux Bart J. A.
Published: February 2024

Coercive mating is a sexual selection strategy that is likely to influence female cognition. Female harassment levels have been linked to altered brain gene expression patterns and brain size evolution, suggesting females may respond to coercive mating by investing energy into “outsmarting” males. However, females exposed to coercive males have decreased foraging efficiency and likely increased stress levels, suggesting their brain function might instead be impaired. While it is therefore likely that coercive mating impacts female cognitive abilities, a direct test of this idea is currently lacking. In this study, we investigate the impact of coercive mating on female spatial memory and cognitive flexibility in a species with prevalent coercive mating. We compared the performance of female porthole livebearers (Poeciliopsis gracilis), which had been previously housed alone or with a coercive male, in both a spatial food localization task and a reversal learning task. While we found that both single and paired fish exhibited high proficiency in learning both tasks, we found no differences in learning ability between females that had or had not experienced coercive mating. In addition, our study found that the presence of a coercive male had no impact on female fecundity, but did influence female mass and standard length. Several studies have assumed that the presence of males, particularly coercive males, may affect the cognitive performance of female fish. However, our study shows that for some species females adapted to coercive mating regimes may be unaffected by male presence with regards to some cognitive tasks.
Serine protease inhibitor 3 (Serpin3) from Penaeus vannamei selectively interacts with Vibrio parahaemolyticusPirAvp
Authors: Le Thanh‐Nguyen , Dinh Thuan‐Thien , Mai‐Hoang Thuy‐Dung , Razzazi‐Fazeli Ebrahim , Tran‐Van Hieu
Published: February 2024

Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) represents a significant challenge in the field of shrimp aquaculture. This disease is primarily caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains harbouring the pVA1 plasmid encoding the PirAvp and PirBvp toxins. To combat this epidemic and mitigate its devastating consequences, it is crucial to identify and characterize the receptors responsible for the binding of these pathogenic toxins. Our studied discovered that Penaeus vannamei's Serine protease inhibitor 3 (PvSerpin3) derived from shrimp hepatopancreatic tissues could bind to recombinant PirAvp, confirming its role as a novel PirAvp‐binding protein (PABP). Through comprehensive computational methods, we revealed two truncated PirAvp–binding proteins derived from PvSerpin3 called Serpin3(13) and Serpin3(22), which had higher affinity to PirAvp than the full‐length PvSerpin3. The PABP genes were amplified from a cDNA library that was reversed from total RNA extracted from shrimp, cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Three PABP inclusion bodies were refolded to obtain the soluble form, and the recovery efficacy was found to be 100% for Serpin3 and Serpin3(13), while Serpin3(22) had a recovery efficacy of roundly 50%. Co‐Immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) and dot blot assays substantiated the interaction of these recombinant PABPs with both recombinant PirAvp and VPAHPND (XN89)‐producing natural toxins.
Oral intake of solid medications in patients with post‐stroke dysphagia. A challenge for nurses?
Authors: Trapl‐Grundschober Michaela , Schulz Steffen , Sollereder Simon , Schneider Lea , Teuschl Yvonne , Osterbrink Jürgen
Published: February 2024

Aim

To provide a comprehensive overview of how stroke nurses manage solid medication (SM) delivery to patients with post‐stroke dysphagia.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A self‐administered online survey was carried out among nurses in German‐speaking countries between September and December 2021.

Results

Out of a total of 754 responses, analysis was conducted on 195 nurses who reported working on a stroke unit. To identify swallowing difficulties in acute stroke care, 99 nurses indicated routinely administering standardised screenings, while 10 use unvalidated screenings, and 82 are waiting for a specialist evaluation. Regardless of whether screening methods are used or not, most preferred a non‐oral route of medication administration for patients with suspected dysphagia. None of the respondents reported administering whole SMs orally to patients. If screening methods indicate dysphagia, approximately half of the respondents would modify SMs. Participants who stated to use the Gugging Swallowing Screen managed the SM intake guided by its severity levels. One‐third of the group who awaited assessment by the dysphagia specialist provided modified medication before the consultation.

Conclusion

Most of the nurses on stroke units use swallowing screens and avoid the administration of whole SMs in post‐stroke dysphagia. In addition to the non‐oral administration, SMs are modified if dysphagia is suspected. Precise guidance on the administration of SM is needed, based on screening tests and prior to expert consultation.

Trial and Protocol Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: Registration ID: NCT05173051/ Protocol ID: 11TS003721.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

The present paper serves to alert nurses to the issue of patient safety when administering medication for acute stroke‐induced dysphagia.

Impact

SM delivery after acute stroke‐induced dysphagia is often neglected. While nurses are aware of the risk associated with dysphagia and would not give whole SMs to patients, the modification of tablets and their administration with semisolids are common.

Reporting Method

This study was reported according to the Checklist for Reporting of Survey Studies (CROSS).
Expression of TNF‐α, omentin‐1, and IL‐6 before and after adjunctive treatment with a bioactive antimicrobial peptide periodontal gel
Authors: Zhang Bo , Wang Lulu , Liu Chang
Published: February 2024

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the expression levels of TNF‐α, omentin‐1, and IL‐6 in periodontitis patients before and after treatment with biological antimicrobial peptide (AMP) periodontal gel.

Methods

There involved 86 periodontitis patients admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to March 2021. They were equally and randomly distributed into the study group and the control group. The efficacy and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups after treatment, Additionally, the sulcus bleeding index (SBI), plaque index (PLI), gingival index (GI), periodontal probing depth (PD), and levels of TNF‐α, omentin‐1, and IL‐6 were measured before and after treatment.

Results

After treatment, the total effective rate of the study group was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05), while the scores of four indicators (SBI, PLI, GI, and PD) and the levels of TNF‐α, omentin‐1, and IL‐6 in the study group were evidently lower than the control group (p < 0.05). The study group had 1 case of mild irritant reaction, with an adverse reaction rate of 2.33% (1/43). And the control group had 1 case of nausea and 1 case of allergy, with an adverse reaction rate of 4.65% (2/43). The adverse reactions demonstrated no statistical difference between the two groups (χ2 = 0.345, p = 0.557).

Conclusions

The levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6 were highly expressed before the auxiliary therapy of biological AMP periodontal gel for periodontitis, alongside low expression of omentin‐1. Subsequently, the biological antibacterial polypeptide periodontal gel demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of periodontitis.
Melatonin inhibits the stemness of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by modulating HA synthesis via the FOSL1/HAS3 axis
Authors: Luo Xinyue , Wang Jingjing , Chen Yang , Zhou Xiaocheng , Shao Zhe , Liu Ke , Shang Zhengjun
Published: February 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan and the main component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which has been reported to interact with its receptor CD44 to play critical roles in the self‐renewal and maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) of multiple malignancies. Melatonin is a neuroendocrine hormone with pleiotropic antitumor properties. However, whether melatonin could regulate HA accumulation in the ECM to modulate the stemness of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unknown. In this study, we found that melatonin suppressed CSC‐related markers, such as CD44, of HNSCC cells and decreased the tumor‐initiating frequency of CSCs in vivo. In addition, melatonin modulated HA synthesis of HNSCC cells by downregulating the expression of hyaluronan synthase 3 (HAS3). Further study showed that the Fos‐like 1 (FOSL1)/HAS3 axis mediated the inhibitory effects of melatonin on HA accumulation and stemness of HNSCC in a receptor‐independent manner. Taken together, melatonin modulated HA synthesis through the FOSL1/HAS3 axis to inhibit the stemness of HNSCC cells, which elucidates the effect of melatonin on the ECM and provides a novel perspective on melatonin in HNSCC treatment.
Tropical bloom‐forming mesoalgae Cladophoropsis sp. and Laurencia sp.—responses to ammonium enrichment and a simulated heatwave
Authors: Fricke Anna , Bast Felix , Moreira‐Saporiti Agustín , Martins Bussanello Giovanni , Msuya Flower E. , Teichberg Mirta
Published: February 2024

Algal blooms are increasing worldwide, driven by elevated nutrient inputs. However, it is still unknown how tropical benthic algae will respond to heatwaves, which are expected to be more frequent under global warming. In the present study, a multifactorial experiment was carried out to investigate the potential synergistic effects of increased ammonium inputs (25 μM, control at 2.5 μM) and a heatwave (31°C, control at 25°C) on the growth and physiology (e.g., ammonium uptake, nutrient assimilation, photosynthetic performance, and pigment concentrations) of two bloom‐forming algal species, Cladophoropsis sp. and Laurencia sp. Both algae positively responded to elevated ammonium concentrations with higher growth and chlorophyll a and lutein concentrations. Increased temperature was generally a less important driver, interacting with elevated ammonium by decreasing the algaes' %N content and N:P ratios. Interestingly, this stress response was not captured by the photosynthetic yield (Fv/Fm) nor by the carbon assimilation (%C), which increased for both algae at higher temperatures. The negative effects of higher temperature were, however, buffered by nutrient inputs, showing an antagonistic response in the combined treatment for the concentration of VAZ (violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, zeaxanthin) and thalli growth. Ammonium uptake was initially higher for Cladophoropsis sp. and increased for Laurencia sp. over experimental time, showing an acclimation capacity even in a short time interval. This experiment shows that both algae benefited from increased ammonium pulses and were able to overcome the otherwise detrimental stress of increasingly emerging temperature anomalies, which provide them a strong competitive advantage and might support their further expansions in tropical marine systems.
Untangling the origin and diversification of the Carthamus–Carduncellus complex (Cardueae, Compositae) in the Mediterranean basin
Authors: Vilatersana Roser , Calleja Juan Antonio , Herrando‐Moraira Sonia , Garcia‐Jacas Núria , Susanna Alfonso
Published: February 2024

Understanding the richness and diversification processes in the Mediterranean basin requires both knowledge of the current environmental complexity and paleogeographic and paleoclimate events and information from studies that introduce the temporal dimension. The Carthamus–Carduncellus complex (Cardueae, Compositae) constitutes a good case study to investigate the biogeographic history of this region because it evolved throughout the basin. We performed molecular dating, ancestral area estimation, and diversification analyses based on previous phylogenetic studies of a nearly complete taxon sampling of the complex. The main aims were to determine the role of tectonic and climatic events in the disjunction of the complex and the expansion route of the two main lineages, Carduncellus s.l. and Carthamus. Our results suggest that the main lineages in the complex originated during the Miocene. Later, all main paleogeographic and paleoclimatic events during the Neogene and Pleistocene in the Mediterranean basin had an important imprint on the evolutionary history of the complex. The Messinian Salinity Crisis facilitated the dispersion of the genus Carduncellus from North Africa to the Iberian Peninsula and the split of the genera Phonus and Femeniasia from the Carduncellus lineage. The onset of the Mediterranean climate in the Pliocene together with some orogenic processes could be the main causes of the diversification of the genus Carduncellus. In contrast, Pleistocene glaciations played a key role in the species diversification of Carthamus. In addition, we emphasize the problems derived from secondary dating and the existing differences between two previous dating analyses of the tribe Cardueae.