bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with development of post‐operative reflux in horses with large colon volvulus and association with complications and outcomes
Authors: Watrobska Natalia , Gough Rachel , Hallowell Gayle , Haugaard Simon , McGovern Kate F.
Published: April 2024

Background

Post‐operative reflux (POR) is rare following large colon volvulus (LCV) but does occur despite the absence of a small intestinal lesion. The prevalence, risk factors and association with survival of POR after LCV are currently unknown.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of POR in horses with an LCV and its association with survival. A further objective was to assess factors which may predict POR. The hypothesis was that horses with POR following LCV surgery have a worse outcome for survival compared to those without POR.

Study design

A retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Clinical data of client owned horses which underwent colic surgery at a single UK referral hospital between 2008 and 2021, where LCV was the primary finding, were retrieved from hospital records. Statistical analyses included chi‐squared, t‐tests and odds ratios (ORs). Horses with concurrent lesions, and those that did not survive past anaesthetic recovery, were excluded from analysis. POR was defined as ≥2 L of gastric reflux on at least one occasion.

Results

A total of 128 horses were included in the study, 23 of which had POR (18%). Overall survival to hospital discharge was 86%, 95% in the non‐POR and 44% in the POR group. Horses with POR were less likely to survive to discharge than those without (OR = 26, 95% confidence interval [CI] [7.68–88.0], p < 0.001), and less likely to be alive 3 years after surgery (OR = 13.4, 95% CI [2.78–64.8], p < 0.001).

Main limitations

Due to the retrospective study design, full data sets were not available for every case because clinical records were incomplete or, at that time, certain tests were not performed or clinical variables were not measured.

Conclusions

POR in LCV cases is a negative prognostic indicator for survival.
Symptomatic brain metastases in melanoma
Authors: Knox Andrea , Wang Tim , Shackleton Mark , Ameratunga Malaka
Published: April 2024

Although clinical outcomes in metastatic melanoma have improved in recent years, the morbidity and mortality of symptomatic brain metastases remain challenging. Response rates and survival outcomes of patients with symptomatic melanoma brain metastases (MBM) are significantly inferior to patients with asymptomatic disease. This review focusses upon the specific challenges associated with the management of symptomatic MBM, discussing current treatment paradigms, obstacles to improving clinical outcomes and directions for future research.
Mapping cutaneous field carcinogenesis of nonmelanoma skin cancer using mesoscopic imaging of pro‐inflammation cues
Authors: Shugar Andrea L. , Konger Raymond L. , Rohan Craig A. , Travers Jeffrey B. , Kim Young L.
Published: April 2024

Nonmelanoma skin cancers remain the most widely diagnosed types of cancers globally. Thus, for optimal patient management, it has become imperative that we focus our efforts on the detection and monitoring of cutaneous field carcinogenesis. The concept of field cancerization (or field carcinogenesis), introduced by Slaughter in 1953 in the context of oral cancer, suggests that invasive cancer may emerge from a molecularly and genetically altered field affecting a substantial area of underlying tissue including the skin. A carcinogenic field alteration, present in precancerous tissue over a relatively large area, is not easily detected by routine visualization. Conventional dermoscopy and microscopy imaging are often limited in assessing the entire carcinogenic landscape. Recent efforts have suggested the use of noninvasive mesoscopic (between microscopic and macroscopic) optical imaging methods that can detect chronic inflammatory features to identify pre‐cancerous and cancerous angiogenic changes in tissue microenvironments. This concise review covers major types of mesoscopic optical imaging modalities capable of assessing pro‐inflammatory cues by quantifying blood haemoglobin parameters and hemodynamics. Importantly, these imaging modalities demonstrate the ability to detect angiogenesis and inflammation associated with actinically damaged skin. Representative experimental preclinical and human clinical studies using these imaging methods provide biological and clinical relevance to cutaneous field carcinogenesis in altered tissue microenvironments in the apparently normal epidermis and dermis. Overall, mesoscopic optical imaging modalities assessing chronic inflammatory hyperemia can enhance the understanding of cutaneous field carcinogenesis, offer a window of intervention and monitoring for actinic keratoses and nonmelanoma skin cancers and maximise currently available treatment options.
Dynamic marine spatial planning for conservation and fisheries benefits
Authors: Vigo Maria , Hermoso Virgilio , Navarro Joan , Sala‐Coromina Joan , Company Joan B. , Giakoumi Sylvaine
Published: April 2024

The increasing global demand for marine resources raises concerns about sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation. Spatial closures, such as marine protected areas, can be valuable tools for maintaining and restoring exploited populations. When these spatial closures adopt a dynamic nature being adapted to the changing environment, they can effectively account for factors such as shifting species distributions, which enhances their potential to achieve ecological and socio‐economic objectives. Here, we adapted a decision‐support tool (the software Marxan), typically used for selecting static and permanent areas, to produce management recommendations that integrate permanent and temporal closures to fisheries. Our aim was to compare the outputs of a static network of permanent no‐take reserves with four other dynamic scenarios, including permanent and temporal closures that account for seasonal variations in the populations of species. All scenarios prioritized sites for the conservation of one of the most valuable European fishing stocks, the Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus). Additionally, we considered 12 other commercially exploited species captured by the Norway lobster fishery. The assessed outputs included retained biomass, area extent, closure type (permanent and seasonal) and opportunity costs within each scenario. We observed that all dynamic scenarios required fewer management areas permanently closed than the static scenario. This resulted in a lower opportunity cost for fisheries but also a higher capacity for biodiversity conservation. Therefore, complementing permanent with temporal closures could enhance biodiversity conservation and fisheries management. The novel dynamic planning method presented here could be applicable to other species, ecosystems and socio‐economic contexts.
Carbon fluxes of China's coastal wetlands and impacts of reclamation and restoration
Authors: Lu Weizhi , Xiao Jingfeng , Gao Haiqiang , Jia Qingyu , Li Zhengjie , Liang Jie , Xing Qinghui , Mao Dehua , Li Hong , Chu Xiaojing , Chen Hui , Guo Haiqiang , Han Guangxuan , Zhao Bin , Chen Luzhen , Lai Derrick Y. F. , Liu Shuguang , Lin Guanghui
Published: April 2024

Coastal wetlands play an important role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations and contribute significantly to climate change mitigation. However, climate change, reclamation, and restoration have been causing substantial changes in coastal wetland areas and carbon exchange in China during recent decades. Here we compiled a carbon flux database consisting of 15 coastal wetland sites to assess the magnitude, patterns, and drivers of carbon fluxes and to compare fluxes among contrasting natural, disturbed, and restored wetlands. The natural coastal wetlands have the average net ecosystem exchange of CO2 (NEE) of −577 g C m−2 year−1, with −821 g C m−2 year−1 for mangrove forests and −430 g C m−2 year−1 for salt marshes. There are pronounced latitudinal patterns for carbon dioxide exchange of natural coastal wetlands: NEE increased whereas gross primary production (GPP) and respiration of ecosystem decreased with increasing latitude. Distinct environmental factors drive annual variations of GPP between mangroves and salt marshes; temperature was the dominant controlling factor in salt marshes, while temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation were co‐dominant in mangroves. Meanwhile, both anthropogenic reclamation and restoration had substantial effects on coastal wetland carbon fluxes, and the effect of the anthropogenic perturbation in mangroves was more extensive than that in salt marshes. Furthermore, from 1980 to 2020, anthropogenic reclamation of China's coastal wetlands caused a carbon loss of ~3720 Gg C, while the mangrove restoration project during the period of 2021–2025 may switch restored coastal wetlands from a carbon source to carbon sink with a net carbon gain of 73 Gg C. The comparison of carbon fluxes among these coastal wetlands can improve our understanding of how anthropogenic perturbation can affect the potentials of coastal blue carbon in China, which has implications for informing conservation and restoration strategies and efforts of coastal wetlands.
Noble Gas Analyses to Distinguish Between Surface and Subsurface Brine Releases at a Legacy Oil Site
Authors: Segal Daniel C. , Visser Ate , Bridge Cas
Published: April 2024

Attributing the sources of legacy contamination, including brines, is important to determine remediation options and to allocate responsibility. To make sound remediation decisions, it is necessary to distinguish subsurface sources, such as leaking oil and gas (“O&G”) wells or natural upward fluid migrations, from surface releases. While chemical signatures of surface and subsurface releases may be similar, they are expected to imprint specific dissolved noble gas signatures, caused by the accumulation of terrigenic noble gases in subsurface leaks or re‐equilibration of noble gases following surface releases. We demonstrate that only a historic surface release influenced the dissolved noble gas signature of groundwater in monitoring wells contaminated with brine near an abandoned O&G well, rather than subsurface leakage from the well. Elevated brine concentrations were associated with lower terrigenic helium concentrations, indicating re‐equilibration with atmospheric helium at the surface during the release. Geophysical surveying indicating elevated salinity in surficial soils upgradient of the wells further supported the interpretation of the noble gas data. Eliminating the possibility that subsurface leakage was the source of the plume was critical to selecting the proper remedial action at the site, which otherwise may have included an unnecessary and costly well re‐abandonment. This study demonstrates the use of noble gas analysis to compare potential sources of brine contamination in groundwater and to exclude subsurface leakage as a potential source in an oilfield.
‘It's Powerful’ The impact of involving children and young people in developing paediatric research agendas: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Postma Laura , Luchtenberg Malou L. , Verhagen A. A. Eduard , Maeckelberghe Els L. M.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

There is a growing consensus that children and young people (CYP) should be involved in matters that concern them. Progress is made in involving CYP in developing pediatric research agendas (PRAs), although the impact of their involvement remains unknown. We aimed to evaluate the impact of involving CYP in developing PRAs and assess the extent to which postpatient and public involvement (post‐PPI) activities were planned.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using in‐depth interviews to identify and gain an in‐depth understanding of the impact of involving CYP in developing PRAs. The transcripts were uploaded to Atlas.ti to be coded and organised. Dutch‐language interviews were analysed and interpreted together with vocational education and training (VET) students. These students were aged between 14 and 18 years and were training to become nurses.

Results

Three CYP and 15 researchers decided to participate. We focused on three categories of impact: agenda‐setting impact, individual impact and academic impact. Involving CYP creates a more enriched and clarified agenda. It ensured that both CYP and researchers underwent personal or professional growth and development, it created a connection between the people involved, awareness about the importance of involving CYP and it ensured that the people involved had a positive experience. The participants were unable to indicate the academic impact of their PRAs, but they did understand the key factors for creating it. In addition, the need to measure impact was highlighted, with a particular focus on assessing individual impact.

Discussion

Our study outlines the diverse subthemes of impact that arise from involving CYP in developing PRAs. Despite the potential of research agendas to amplify CYP voices, only a minority of researchers strategized post‐PPI activities ensuring impactful outcomes, prompting the need for thorough evaluation of various impact forms and consistent alignment with the overarching goal of transforming the research field.

Patient or Public Contribution

We involved VET students in the data analysis and interpretation phase by forming a young person advisory group. The data analysis of the interviews analysed by the VET students revealed four distinct themes: 1. Learnt new knowledge. 2. Learnt to collaborate. 3. Learnt to listen. 4. Assessment of the individual impact.
Community health worker outreach to farmworkers in rural North Carolina: Learning from adaptations to the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: LePrevost Catherine E. , Cofie Leslie E. , Nieuwsma Julianna , Harwell Emery L. , Rivera Natalie D. , Acevedo Paula A. , Lee Joseph G. L.
Published: April 2024

Background

Community health workers represent a critical part of the health outreach and services for migrant and seasonal farmworkers (‘farmworkers’) in rural areas of the United States.

Purpose

We sought to identify adaptations to farmworker patient engagement and health outreach made by community health workers during the first 18 months of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

In this qualitative study, we used semi‐structured interviews with community health workers from August 2020 to February 2022 (n = 21). Two coders used thematic analysis to identify three themes related to the experiences of community health workers in conducting health education and outreach to farmworkers prior to and following the onset of the pandemic.

Findings

We found themes related to pre‐pandemic outreach efforts to provide health education resource sharing with farmworkers and pandemic‐related outreach efforts that included adoption of porch drops and distanced delivery of health education, adaptation of modes of health education and communication through technology and the internet, and taking on new roles related to COVID‐19. Finally, we identified changes that reverted after the pandemic or will continue as adaptations.

Conclusions

Community health workers created practice‐based innovations in outreach in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. These innovations included new COVID‐19 related roles and new modes of health education and outreach, including the use of digital resources. The changes developed for emergency use in COVID‐19, particularly related to internet and technology, have likely altered how community health workers conduct outreach in North Carolina going forward. Funders, community health worker training programs, and researchers should take note of these innovations.

Patient or Public Contribution

Community health workers who typically come from patient populations and provide critical navigation and connection with the health care system advised on the design and creation of this research project, including serving on an advisory board. Two authors have experience working as community health workers.
E‐learning successes with English language teachers in under‐resourced non‐WEIRD contexts
Authors: Golzar Jawad , Yacoub Omar , McKinley Jim
Published: April 2024

While e‐learning has gained prominence globally over the past several years, little is known about the successes English language teachers (ELTs) experience in e‐learning environments in non‐WEIRD (western, educated, industrialized, rich, democratic) contexts where teacher support is limited or unavailable. This two‐stage, primarily qualitative multi‐method study specifically aimed to examine the extent to which ELTs found success through e‐learning in Afghanistan and Egypt. Survey (N = 82) and interview (N = 15) data showed that the teachers reported daunting challenges, including institutional malfunctioning, ineffective policies, absence of facilities and technical knowledge, large heterogeneous classes, students' low emotional investment, negative perceptions, and absence of rigorous and systematic assessment. The teachers also narrated their effective coping strategies to resolve the existing tensions, described how they incorporated the success elements, and how they improved student engagement and learning outcomes. The study provides surprising insights about how the move to emergency online teaching in under‐resourced non‐WEIRD contexts has changed and can inform teaching delivery. We conclude with implications for teachers to develop more effective e‐learning environments in such contexts.
Janus kinase inhibitors and the changing landscape of vitiligo management: a scoping review
Authors: Utama Amelia , Wijesinghe Ruki , Thng Steven
Published: April 2024

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition caused by an autoimmune response that results in the progressive loss of melanocytes and recent studies have suggested that Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) are emerging as a promising new treatment modality. Therefore, to assess and understand the extent of knowledge in the emerging field of JAKi use in vitiligo, a scoping review of the literature was undertaken. The reviewed articles explored a wide variety of JAKi administered either orally or topically for vitiligo. There were no injectable JAKi studied. Tofacitinib was the most commonly studied oral JAKi in 16 of the 35 studies selected for review, followed by baricitinib (n = 3), and one study each with ritlecitinib, ruxolitinib, and upadacitinib. Ruxolitinib (n = 6) and tofacitinib (n = 6) were the most often studied topical JAKi, followed by delgocitinib (n = 1). Potential benefits may vary between JAKi based on their receptor selectivity profile and coexistent autoimmune diseases. A topical JAKi would be advantageous in limited body area involvement and in adolescents. Concurrent use of JAKi with phototherapy or sun exposure appears beneficial. Most studies permitted the use of other topical agents. Acne‐related events, though frequent yet mild, were reported with both oral and topical JAKi. Nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and headaches were the most common adverse effects seen in the larger trials with JAKi. No serious or clinically meaningful hematology or thromboembolic events were detected. Treatment of vitiligo with oral or topical JAKi seems to be promising and the growing evidence shows a favorable risk‐benefit profile.
Effect of roasting on the oil content, bioactive components, fatty acid composition and mineral content of purslane seeds
Authors: AlJuhaimi Fahad , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Karrar Emad
Published: April 2024

In this study, the effect of microwave on oil contents, bioactive components, antioxidant activity, polyphenols, tocopherols, fatty acid compositions and nutrients of purslane seeds was investigated. The moisture amount of the purslane seeds decreased significantly, while the oil and bioactive properties of the seeds increased compared to the control. Raw (control) and purslane seeds roasted in microwave contained 24.72 and 26.27 mg/100 g gallic acid, 34.12 and 38.30 mg/100 g 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, 111.57 and 118.55 mg/100 g catechin, 8.70 and 3.46 caffeic acid, 5.95 and 5.09 mg/100 g syringic acid, 18.73 and 8.34 mg/100 g rutin and 3.07 and 2.26 mg/100 g quercetin, respectively. Stearic, linoleic, arachidic, linolenic, behenic and erucic acid results of the oils of raw and purslane seeds roasted in microwave were partially increased compared to raw seed oil. The applied heat treatment had a positive effect on the tocopherol results of the purslane seed oils, and the tocopherol contents of the oils obtained from the roasted seeds increased compared to the control. In general, the protein and mineral values of heat‐treated purslane seeds increased (except Ca, Fe and Mn).
Metabolite perturbations in fermented legumes as elucidated using metabolomics: a review
Authors: Akanni Gabriel Bidemi , Adebo Oluwafemi Ayodeji
Published: April 2024

Legumes are vital food sources in global diets, especially in developing nations, offering affordability, nutrition, and sustainability. Legumes are rich bioactive compounds as well as in macro‐ and micro‐nutrients and help combat protein‐energy malnutrition. Fermentation is a food processing technique that enhances nutritional content, digestibility and overall composition, rendering fermented legumes like dawadawa, natto, tempeh, and kinema dietary sources worldwide. This simple process leads to significant perturbations in the numerous metabolites contained in legumes and subsequent fermented products. Such metabolites including bioactive constituents, vitamins, minerals, volatile compounds, lipids, amino acids, among others contribute to the flavour, aroma, nutritional value and health beneficial properties of fermented legume products. Modifications in these complex constituents might be somewhat challenging to investigate and understand thus necessitating a robust technique such as metabolomics. Metabolomics as an analytical approach can elucidate how fermentation alters the composition of fermented legumes revealing compositional changes, nutritional enhancements, and impacts of fermentation conditions and microbial metabolism. This review emphasises fermented legumes' dietary importance, the transformative role of fermentation, and the effectiveness of metabolomics in unravelling complex biochemical changes during legume fermentation, providing insights into nutritional, sensory and safety aspects of fermented legumes.
The effect of hydrosol types on phytochemical properties, phenolic compounds, fatty acid profiles and sensory properties of ‘Ayvalık’ olive fruits fermented in few spice hydrosols
Authors: Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Al‐Juhaimi Fahad Yahya , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Karrar Emad
Published: April 2024

In this study, the changes in oil content, bioactive components, radical scavenging activity, phenolic profiles, fatty acid components and sensory characteristics of ‘Ayvalık’ olive fruits fermented in brine thyme, sage and rosemary hydrosols were investigated. Total carotenoid and total phenolic results of olives were recorded between 0.02 (thyme hydrosol) and 0.24 μg g−1 (control (only brine 10%)) to 213.92 (rosemary hydrosol) and 432.54 mg GAE per 100 g (fresh ‘Ayvalık’ olive), respectively. Total flavonoids of olive fruits fermented in different hydrosols were reported between 755.87 mg per 100 g (rosemary hydrosol) and 1404.76 mg per 100 g (fresh ‘Ayvalık’ olive). Radical scavenging capacity of fermented ‘Ayvalık’ olive fruits was reported between 10.20 (control) and 10.55 mmol kg−1 (rosemary hydrosol). Verbascoside results of fresh and fermented ‘Ayvalık’ olive fruits in brine and hydrosols were identified between 107.00 mg per 100 g (sage hydrosol) and 167.20 mg per 100 g (fresh ‘Ayvalık’ olive). Oleic and linoleic acid values of olive oils changed to be between 67.07% (rosemary hydrosol) and 68.71% (control) to 10.89% (control) and 11.86% (rosemary hydrosol), respectively. Overall, ‘Ayvalık’ olive fruit fermented in brine was most appreciated by the panellists, followed in descending order by olives fermented in thyme, sage, and rosemary hydrosols.
Food type, human physiology, and psychology factors affect food intake, perceived satiation, and satiety differently – an exploratory study
Authors: Ni Dongdong , Smyth Heather E. , Mayr Hannah , Gunness Purnima , Cozzolino Daniel , Gidley Michael J.
Published: April 2024

Numerous investigations have studied relationships between satiation, satiety, or food intake and single factors like food composition and resting metabolic rate. However, a comprehensive framework connecting food, physiological, and psychological factors together has not previously been reported. As an exploratory study with a trained panel consisting of nine participants, the contributions of twenty‐eight variables (seven food, seven psychological, and fourteen physiological factors) to satiation, satiety, and food intake of a mid‐morning snack were investigated. Both human factors and foods had contributions to perceived satiation and satiety, but with large differences in loadings, especially for metabolic factors. Food factors, including nutrient and energy contents, were major determinants of food intake, with only small contributions from human factors. Investigating diverse factors together provides a comprehensive approach linking appetite to both food and human factors. This study suggests the potential to guide manipulation of satiation, satiety, and food intake depending on individual psychological and physiological profiles.
Effects of different spices on the bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and sensory qualities of kale crisps
Authors: Draszanowska Anna , Starowicz Małgorzata , Czarnowska‐Kujawska Marta , Olszewska Magdalena Anna
Published: April 2024

The study investigated the effect of different spices–cardamom, chilli, ginger, and turmeric on the bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, colour, and sensory attributes of kale crisps. Specifically, the antioxidant capacity was ranked as follows: kale crisps with turmeric > chilli ≈ ginger > cardamom ≈ control crisps. The analysis using HPLC‐MS/MS focused on 15 specific compounds. Kale crisps contained predominantly chlorogenic and isochlorogenic acids, with turmeric crisps having the highest levels. Turmeric kale crisps exhibited the best sensory properties for overall appearance and crispness. The study found that kale crisps have a high folate content, with ginger crisps containing the highest amounts. Cardamom kale crisps preserved high folate content but had a strong aroma and bitter flavour. The study found lightness (L*) positively correlated with aroma desirability, while redness (a*) negatively correlated with flavour desirability. The chilli kale crisps had a strong flavour and lost their green colour the most, resulting in a lower panel ranking despite high antioxidant potential. This study indicates that kale crisps, especially those with turmeric, may represent a valuable source of bioactive compounds and functional properties. Sensory evaluation indicated their high levels of acceptability.
Effect of enriching with fermented green olive pulp on bioactive compounds, antioxidant activities, phenolic compounds, fatty acids and sensory properties of wheat bread
Authors: Al‐Juhaimi Fahad , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Albakry Zainab
Published: April 2024

In this study, the effect of bread enriched with fermented green olive pulp at different concentrations (control (0%), 5%, 10%, 20%) on bioactive properties, phenolics and sensory properties were investigated. Total phenol and flavonoid quantities of the wheat bread incorporated with fermented green olive pulp were assigned between 41.79 (control) and 81.31 mg GAE/100 g (with 20% olive pulp) to 57.38 (control) and 139.76 mg/100 g (with 20% olive pulp), respectively. The antioxidant capacity results of the breads fortified with olive pulp ranged from 0.24 (control) to 2.45 mmol kg−1 (with 20% olive pulp). L* results of bread varied between 58.34 and 66.79. Gallic acid and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid results of the bread enriched with olive pulp were assessed within the range of 10.46 (control) and 51.91 mg/100 g (with 20% olive pulp). Also, while catectin values of the bread fortified with olive pulp varied between 6.00 (control) and 68.03 mg/100 g (with 20% olive pulp), rutin values of the bread ranged from 11.52 (control) to 22.45 mg/100 g (with 20% olive pulp). While the concentrations of oleic acid in the bread change between 46.27 (control) and 69.07% (with 20% olive pulp), linoleic acid results of the bread enriched with olive pulp ranged from 7.00% (with 5% olive pulp) to 31.63% (control). In general, as a result of the sensory evaluation, the 20% olive‐added bread sample was most appreciated by the panellists, followed by the control, 5% and 10% olive‐added bread samples in descending order. Since olive pulp is rich in phenolic compounds, they are potentially promising ingredients for valuable food applications by adding them to bakery products. The bread enriched with olive pulps showed the highest firmness and crunchiness compared to the control.
Exploring the potential of high hydrostatic pressure and ionic polysaccharides in improving interfacial stability of sweet potato protein hydrolysate emulsions
Authors: Khan Nasir Mehmood , Sun Hong‐Nan , Zhang Miao , Mu Tai‐Hua , Ahmad Shujaat , Liu Hui
Published: April 2024

This study aims to explore the potential of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP, 300–500 MPa) and ionic polysaccharides (sodium alginate, SA; chitosan, CH) in improving interfacial stability of sweet potato protein hydrolysate (SPPH) emulsions. HHP markedly improved emulsifying performance of SPPH with SA and CH at different concentrations (0.02% and 0.06%, w/v) and enhanced the apparent viscosities of their emulsions. SPPH‐CH0.02% at 400 MPa showed the highest emulsifying stability index (ESI, 255.96 min) and zeta potential absolute value (54.13 mV), and its emulsion exhibited the highest adsorbed peptide and CH at interface (31.72% and 1.51%, respectively) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value of interfacial layer (264.56 μg TE mL−1). Additionally, multiple potential antioxidant peptides were obtained from interfacial layer of emulsion stabilised with SPPH‐CH0.02% at 400 MPa through LC‐MS/MS, and the relationship between their structure and emulsion stability was analysed. Therefore, HHP has great application potential in production of SPPH‐CH emulsion with enhanced stability.
Investigating the impact of boiling and pressure cooking on resistant starch levels in food
Authors: Karunarathna Sankha , Wickramasinghe Indira , Brennan Charles , Truong Tuyen , Navaratne Seneviratne , Chandrapala Jayani
Published: April 2024

Resistant starch (RS) has been shown to manipulate food digestion and nutrient metabolism as well as being important in promoting gut health. However, the presence of RS varies across diverse food systems depending upon process conditions. To investigate this, chickpeas, potatoes, arrowroots, unripe bananas and oats were subjected to boiling and pressure cooking at various cooking durations and the RS% was determined. After 45 min of boiling and 15 min of pressure cooking, RS% of chickpeas increased by ~29% and ~41%, respectively. Increasing the cooking time, together with boiling and pressure cooking, led to higher RS% in chickpeas, mainly due to the retrogradation of starch after gelatinisation. In contrast, boiling and pressure cooking led to a reduction in RS% for potatoes, arrowroots, unripe bananas and oats, while a further decrease was encountered with the increase in processing time. After 45 min of boiling, RS% of potatoes, arrowroots, unripe bananas, and oats were reduced by 58%, 22%, 80% and 70%, respectively. After 15 min of pressure cooking, RS% of potatoes, arrowroots and unripe bananas were reduced by 41%, 22% and 83%, respectively. This was mainly due to the disruption of the ordered structure of starch molecules during thermal processing in the presence of water. This study clearly elucidates the impact of boiling and pressure cooking on RS% as a function of processing time and type of RS source.
Physicochemical, microstructural, and functional properties of Cicer arietinum okara flour–a chickpea beverage by‐product
Authors: Sharma Neha , Yeasmen Nushrat , Orsat Valérie
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the physicochemical, microscopical, and functional properties of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) okara flours. The flours were prepared from chickpea okara obtained as a by‐product following the preparation of chickpea beverages using conventional, microwave, and ultrasound processing. The assessment of the okara flours focused on evaluating the influence of the processing methods on their physicochemical, functional, and microstructural characteristics. Through comprehensive analyses, the study examined how the different processing techniques affected the composition and properties of the resulting okara flours. Furthermore, the study included a comparative mass balance analysis to assess the extraction efficiency of the three processing methods. The findings revealed significant variations in the composition and properties of the okara flours among the different processing methods. Each method exhibited unique effects on the physicochemical, functional, and microstructural attributes of the resulting flours. Consequently, it was not possible to identify a single “best” processing method for obtaining optimal okara flour characteristics since all flours had interesting and unique properties. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the effects of different processing methods on chickpea okara flour. The findings highlight the importance of selecting an appropriate processing technique based on the desired properties and applications of the flour. The results can contribute to the development of tailored processing approaches for enhancing the utilisation of chickpea okara flour in various food formulations, thereby promoting sustainability and reducing waste in the food industry.
The characterisation of cornstarch‐based chlorophyllin composite film for preservation of shrimp under photodynamic irradiation
Authors: Ukwatta Ruchika Hansanie , Zheng Yalu , Ma Yan , Xue Feng , Xiong Xiaohui , Li Chen
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effectiveness of a composite film made of cornstarch (CS) and chlorophyllin (Chl) in preserving wrapped and irradiated shrimp for 5 days at 4 °C. The study found that adding Chl powder increased moisture content, water solubility, water vapour permeability and water contact angle but reduced thermal stability and crystallinity. Notably, higher Chl concentration caused rougher surface and looser structure, while lower concentration resulted in better dispersion. Moreover, increased Chl concentration and longer irradiation time led to higher singlet oxygen production, while hydroxide radical and hydrogen peroxide production peaked at 30.57 and 1.92 μg g−1 respectively. Shrimps wrapped in 5% Chl‐incorporated CS films presented acceptable levels of nitrogen and bacterial count for up to 4 days. Hence, the study suggests that Chl powder inclusion in CS films could be a viable preservation method in the food packaging industry, especially when combined with photodynamic therapy.
Green extraction of phenolic compounds from strawberry waste based on natural deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Oliva Eleonora , Mir‐Cerdà Aina , Sergi Manuel , Granados Mercè , Sentellas Sonia , Saurina Javier
Published: April 2024

The increase in ecological sensitivity and the interest in ‘green chemistry’ are leading to a decrease in the use of environmentally harmful substances in chemical processes. Replacing traditional solvents with NaDES (Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents) is an excellent green alternative to extract bioactive compounds from agri‐food industry wastes, as these solvents bring numerous advantages and are environmentally friendly. In this work, the performance of traditional organic solvents and NaDES were compared for the extraction of phenolic compounds (PCs), with different physicochemical characteristics, from strawberry residues. For this reason, numerous combinations of NaDES have been evaluated, optimising the experimental conditions of the process. The samples were analysed using HPLC–MS/MS, which allowed the identification and quantification of numerous PCs in the samples. The best extraction efficiencies were obtained using choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and lactic acid (LA) as hydrogen bond donor, in a ratio of 1:5 and containing 30% of water. Isoquercetin, hesperidin and catechin were the phenolic compounds most remarkable in samples, with a content of ca. 43%, 26% and 11% of total polyphenols, respectively. Finally, the evaluation of the method through the Analytical GREEness calculator showed how NaDES can satisfactorily replace traditional extractions with a great performance and reduced impact on the environment.
Analysis of bioactive compounds in Cordyceps militaris fruiting bodies and dietary supplements: in vitro bioaccessibility determination in artificial digestive juices
Authors: Jędrejko Karol , Kała Katarzyna , Sułkowska‐Ziaja Katarzyna , Krakowska Agata , Szewczyk Agnieszka , Guśpiel Karolina , Muszyńska Bożena
Published: April 2024

In recent years, Cordyceps militaris has garnered increased attention in both scientific research and popular culture, exemplified by references in the entertainment industry, such as ‘The Last Of Us’. This study aims to investigate the qualitative and quantitative composition of bioactive compounds (such as cordycepin, ergothioneine, L‐phenylalanine, lovastatin, sterols, indole and phenolic compounds) in various samples. These samples encompass commercially available dietary supplements (in the form of capsules or powder), featuring standardised extracts or non‐standardised C. militaris material. Additionally, fruiting bodies cultivated in Poland and China were examined. The bioactive compounds were subsequently analysed after extraction into artificial digestive juices. Each sample underwent extraction, evaporation and dissolution in methanol, followed by qualitative and quantitative analyses using RP‐HPLC (with UV and DAD detectors) for the determination of bioactive compounds. The results of this analysis revealed that extracts with cordycepin contents of 7% and 1% exhibited the highest cordycepin concentrations, as well as significant ergothioneine levels (4405 and 928 mg/100 g d.w. and 234 and 77.6 mg/100 g d.w. respectively). However, on analysis of simulated digestive juices, it became evident that the fruiting bodies of C. militaris are superior sources of bioactive compounds. Consequently, this study underscores the efficacy of unprocessed material, such as fruiting bodies, as the preferred form of supplementation for potential consumers of C. militaris.
Influence of coconut pulp on bioactive properties, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, nutrients and sensory evaluation of wheat flour bread
Authors: AlJuhaimi Fahad , Ahmed Isam Ali Mohamed , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Albakry Zainab
Published: April 2024

In this study, the changes in the total phenol, flavonoid, antioxidant capacity, phenolics, fatty acids, minerals and sensory properties of bread by using coconut flesh at different concentrations were investigated. With the increase in the coconut level added to the bread dough, the fat content of the bread increased in parallel. L* colour values of bread increased up to 15% coconut concentration and decreased with the subsequent concentration addition (25%). While the total phenol and flavonoid quantities of bread made by adding coconut pulp at 5% and 25% concentrations were higher compared to the control, they partially decreased in bread with 15% coconut pulp. Antioxidant capacity values of bread were recorded to be between 1.18 (control) and 2.12 mmol/kg (25%). Gallic acid quantities of bread were assigned between 5.03 (control) and 20.97 mg/100 g (25%). The amounts of lauric and myristic acids of the oils obtained from bread with coconut were recorded between 4.37% (control) and 53.53% (25%)–2.31% (control) and 21.17% (25%) respectively. While the amounts of lauric and myristic fatty acids in the bread produced as a result of adding coconut pulp to the bread dough increased compared to the control, the palmitic, oleic and linoleic acid contents of the bread decreased. P, Ca, S, Mg, Fe, Mn and Zn were predominant minerals of bread samples.
Uridine diphosphate glucosyltransferase is vital for fenpropathrin resistance in Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Zheng Kai‐yi , Zhang Xiao‐ying , Lisan Fasihul , Lai Wen‐Qin , Zhang Qiang , Lv Jun‐li , Lu Zhan‐peng , Qin Sheng , Sun Xia , Zhang Shang‐zhi , Wang Xue‐yang , Dai Li‐shang , Li Mu‐wang
Published: April 2024

The silkworm (Bombyx mori) is an important model lepidopteran insect and can be used to identify pesticide resistance‐related genes of great significance for biological control of pests. Uridine diphosphate glucosyltransferases (UGTs), found in all organisms, are the main secondary enzymes involved in the metabolism of heterologous substances. However, it remains uncertain if silkworm resistance to fenpropathrin involves UGT. This study observes significant variations in BmUGT expression among B. mori strains with variable fenpropathrin resistance post‐feeding, indicating BmUGT's role in fenpropathrin detoxification. Knockdown of BmUGT with RNA interference and overexpression of BmUGT significantly decreased and increased BmN cell activity, respectively, indicating that BmUGT plays an important role in the resistance of silkworms to fenpropathrin. In addition, fenpropathrin residues were significantly reduced after incubation for 12 h with different concentrations of a recombinant BmUGT fusion protein. Finally, we verified the conservation of UGT to detoxify fenpropathrin in Spodoptera exigua: Its resistance to fenpropathrin decreased significantly after knocking down SeUGT. In a word, UGT plays an important role in silkworm resistance to fenpropathrin by directly degrading the compound, a function seen across other insects. The results of this study are of great significance for breeding silkworm varieties with high resistance and for biological control of pests.
Bridging the gap: How investing in advanced practice nurses could transform emergency care in Africa
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Shaban Marwa M. , Kamugisha John Bosco
Published: April 2024

Aim

This paper aims to highlight the vital importance of investing in advanced practice nursing (APN) for enhancing emergency care throughout Africa.

Background

APN's role is increasingly recognized as pivotal in optimizing healthcare, particularly in emergency settings in Africa. It offers improved patient care quality and strengthens the healthcare workforce.

Sources of evidence

Evidence is drawn from successful implementations of APN in various healthcare environments. This includes the development of APN‐specific curricula and training, mentorship initiatives, clinical supervision, and defining advanced nursing roles within healthcare organizations. Investing in APNs in emergency care in Africa can lead to improved quality and access to care, cost‐effectiveness, enhanced patient outcomes and satisfaction, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement in the healthcare workforce.

Discussion

Despite facing barriers in implementation, APN in emergency care presents innovative solutions. Investing in APN can help healthcare entities and policymakers surmount these challenges, providing specialized patient care and improving health outcomes. The discussion emphasizes the benefits such as enhanced access to care, reduced healthcare costs, and improved patient outcomes, alongside bolstering the healthcare workforce.

Conclusion

The necessity and benefits of investing in APN for emergency care in Africa are clear. It is crucial for improving healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Implications for nursing practice

APN investment leads to a more competent and efficient nursing workforce, capable of addressing complex emergencies and improving patient care.

Implications for nursing policy and health/social policy

The paper advocates for policies that support APN development and integration into the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for research to assess APN's long‐term impact and establish best practices for its implementation in emergency care across Africa.
Diagnosis and initial management of children presenting with premature loss of primary teeth associated with a systemic condition: A scoping review and development of clinical aid
Authors: Heggie Claudia , Al‐Diwani Hiba , Arundel Paul , Balmer Richard
Published: April 2024

Background

Premature loss of primary teeth (PLPT) can be a rare presentation of systemic medical conditions. Premature loss of primary teeth may present a diagnostic dilemma to paediatric dentists.

Aims

To identify systemic conditions associated with PLPT and develop a clinical aid.

Design

OVID Medline, Embase and Web of Science were searched up to March 2023. Citation searching of review publications occurred. Exclusion occurred for conference abstracts, absence of PLPT and absence of English‐language full text.

Results

Seven hundred and ninety‐one publications were identified via databases and 476 by citation searching of review articles. Removal of 390 duplicates occurred. Following the exclusion of 466 records on abstract review, 411 publications were sought for retrieval, of which 142 met inclusion criteria. Thirty‐one systemic conditions were identified. For 19 conditions, only one publication was identified. The majority of publications, 91% (n = 129), were case reports or series. Most publications, 44% (n = 62), were related to hypophosphatasia, and 25% (n = 35) were related to Papillon–Lefèvre. Diagnostic features were synthesised, and a clinical aid was produced by an iterative consensus approach.

Conclusions

A diverse range of systemic diseases are associated with PLPT. Evidence quality, however, is low, with most diseases having a low number of supporting cases. This clinical aid supports paediatric dentists in differential diagnosis and onward referral.