bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE SELECTIVE USE OF FINE CATHETER PERITONEAL CYTOLOGY AND LAPAROSCOPY REDUCES THE UNNECESSARY APPENDICECTOMY RATE
Authors: Baigrie R J , Scott‐Coombes D , Saidan Z , Vipond M N , Paterson‐Brown S , Thompson J N
Published: April 2023

The effect of a management protocol incorporating the selective use of fine catheter peritoneal cytology (FCPC) and laparoscopy on the unnecessary appendicectomy rate was studied in adult patients (≥16 years) treated at one district general hospital over an 11 ‐month period. Appendicectomy was performed on 62 adult patients managed according to this protocol, six (10%) of whom had a histologically normal appendix and no other acute condition requiring surgery. A further 57 patients underwent appendicectomy after standard clinical assessment and investigation without the use of FCPC or laparoscopy. Nineteen (33%) of these patients had a histologically normal appendix removed, with no other acute condition requiring surgical treatment. The selective use of FCPC and laparoscopy significantly reduced the unnecessary appendicectomy rate from 33% to 10% (χ2 = 10.0, P<0.005). The more widespread use of these techniques in patients with suspected appendicitis is therefore recommended.
AUTOLOGOUS BLOOD TRANSFUSION TODAY
Authors: Slater N G P
Published: April 2023

Autologous blood transfusion — the transfusion to a patient of his or her own blood — is increasingly being recognised as a useful adjunct to traditional transfusion practice. The reasons include fears of disease transmission, the potential adverse effects on the recipient's immune system of transfused donor blood, and logistical factors. The three main techniques of autologous transfusion are: (i) pre‐deposit, in which patients donate blood over a period of time in preparation for elective surgery; (ii) pre‐operative isovolaemic haemodilution, in which blood is removed immediately before surgery and volume replacement is given, the blood being reinfused post‐operatively; and (iii) salvage transfusion – the collection of blood shed at surgery or in similar circumstances, which is reinfused immediately or after concentration and purification. All three techniques can help to improve the safety of transfusion and economise on scarce supplies of donor blood.
TORSION OF A MALIGNANT UNDESCENDED TESTIS MIMICKING APPENDICITIS
Authors: Radford P J , Greatorex R A
Published: April 2023

Testicular maldescent is known to be associated with later development of malignancy.1 The maldescended testis is prone to other complications — in particular, torsion.1 We report an unusual coincidence of both malignancy and torsion of an intra‐abdominal testis which closely simulated a ruptured appendix abscess. This case demonstrates that an intra‐abdominal testis can develop acute life‐threatening complications which should be considered in any patient with acute abdominal symptoms who has an ‘absent’ testis.
MALIGNANT MELANOMA OF THE PAROTID GLAND
Authors: Roberts C , Jayaramachandran S
Published: April 2023

We report a case which demonstrates pitfalls in the management of a parotid gland mass and highlights behaviour of malignant melanoma that is not widely appreciated. The danger of assuming a benign histological diagnosis of such a mass and the subsequent delay of definitive surgery is demonstrated. Metastases within the parotid gland are not uncommon, melanoma being one of the commonest sources. A search should always be made for a primary tumour in the head, neck and chest. This can be made exceptionally difficult by the uncommon phenomenon of spontaneous regression of the primary melanoma.
TOLERANCE AND LONG‐TERM EFFICACY OF A FIXED COMBINATION OF ATENOLOL AND NIFEDIPINE IN THE TREATMENT OF ANGINA PECTORIS
Authors: Saul P A , Oliver I M , Russell W A ,   Stuart Clinical Research Group
Published: April 2023

To monitor the tolerance and long‐term efficacy of a low‐dose fixed combination of 50 mg atenolol and 20 mg nifedipine (slow release formulation) in patients with stable angina pectoris, 157 patients received treatment twice daily in a multi‐centre, open‐label fashion for periods up to 12 months following a four week run‐in period on atenolol 50 mg twice daily. A total of 122 patients completed the study and had data from all treatment visits. In these patients the median number of weekly anginal attacks was halved, compared to the run‐in period on atenolol alone following one month's fixed combination treatment, and this benefit was maintained throughout the 12‐month study period. In addition, GTN consumption similarly declined on the fixed combination in comparison with the run‐in period.

Treatment with the fixed combination was not associated with any long‐term increase in the frequency of reported side‐effects or adverse biochemical changes compared to run‐in. The fixed combination of atenolol 50 mg and nifedipine 20 mg reduced anginal frequency and GTN consumption compared to atenolol alone without causing any increase in adverse effects.
A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF IN‐PATIENT NEUROLOGICAL SERVICES IN A SUBREGIONAL CENTRE
Authors: Clarke C E , Shepherd D I , Yuill G M
Published: April 2023

A computer database was established for the medical audit of admissions to the North Manchester General Hospital neurology unit. Over a six‐month period, 277 patients completed 300 hospital stays. A higher proportion of patients were admitted from the North Manchester District compared with the peripheral districts served by the unit, suggesting that more neurology in these areas was performed by general physicians. This supports claims for an increase in the number of neurologists to improve the quality of service at district level. The introduction of a programmed investigation unit, closed at weekends, would allow financial savings since 60% of cases did not require a bed at the weekend. It would also allow more efficient pre‐booking of investigations.

The diagnostic yields from routine B12 and folate levels, syphilis serology, thyroid function tests, chest radiography and electrocardiography were low and should be replaced by more selective investigations. Savings might also be made by performing the 38% of myelograms restricted to the lumbar region in the out‐patient department. The introduction of out‐patient magnetic resonance imaging will make significant savings by obviating the need for many of the inpatient myelograms which were required in 55 patients.

The simple and relatively inexpensive technology used in this study provided medical staff with valuable information on which to base changes in practice and evaluate their consequences.
SEVERE ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION IN CARCINOMA OF THE PANCREAS
Authors: Ashraf W , Farrow L J
Published: April 2023

Autonomic dysfunction has been described in patients with advanced forms of cancer.1–10 We report a case of severe orthostatic hypotension in a patient with carcinoma of the pancreas in whom there was no clinical evidence of autonomic failure to account for the severity of the hypotension. Despite normal circulating levels of nor‐adrenalin and an appropriate rise in the erect position, the vascular system appeared unresponsive.

We suggest that in this patient the orthostatic hypotension was due to a paraneoplastic complication of the pancreatic tumour.
A NOVEL SUSTAINED‐RELEASE FORMULATION OF IBUPROFEN PROVIDES EFFECTIVE ONCE‐DAILY THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS
Authors: O'Connor T P , Anderson A M R , Lennox B , Muldoon C
Published: April 2023

The efficacy and safety of a novel sustained‐release formulation of ibuprofen given once‐daily was compared with conventional‐release ibuprofen tablets 400 mg given four times daily, in a single‐blind, parallel‐group study. This study was conducted at 84 general practice centres throughout the UK among patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. An unequal randomisation in the ratio of 4:1 was carried out, with 463 patients who received sustained‐release and 115 who received conventional‐release ibuprofen providing evaluable data.

In this study sustained‐release ibuprofen was shown to be a more effective alternative to conventional ibuprofen therapy for the treatment of arthritic diseases in general practice, offering the convenience of once‐daily dosing and the associated potential benefit of improved patient compliance.
SYDENHAM'S CHOREA: A NEW LOOK AT AN OLD DISEASE
Authors: Al‐Eissa A
Published: April 2023

Eight children with Sydenham's chorea were studied to illustrate the clinical characteristics and the outcome of the disease. Their ages ranged from 8 to 13 years and the male to female ratio was 1.7:1. Most of them had hemichorea, which frequently affected the right side of the body. The common presenting manifestations were involuntary movements, facial grimacing, clumsiness, and emotional instability. The duration of chorea ranged from one week to three years, with a median of 11 weeks. One half of the patients had associated mild carditis. Recurrences of chorea occurred only among patients who were not maintained on continuous penicillin prophylaxis. Haloperidol seemed to be an effective and tolerable agent in controlling the motor manifestations of the disease.
THE NEED FOR THREE STOOL SPECIMENS IN ROUTINE LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS FOR INTESTINAL PARASITES
Authors: Nazer H , Greer W , Donnelly K , Mohamed A E , Yaish H , Kagalwalla A , Pavillard R
Published: April 2023

This study was designed to test whether three sequential stool specimens are necessary for reliable detection of intestinal parasites in routine laboratory examinations. There were 175 patients in whom a single species of intestinal parasite or ova was identified on at least one occasion when three stool specimens were examined over a period of 14 days from the first recorded specimen. Examination of a first stool specimen detected parasites and/or ova in 102/175 patients (58.3%); examination of a second specimen identified an additional 36 positive patients (20.6%) and examination of a third specimen yielded a final 37 previously undetected patients (21.1%).

These findings indicate that at least three stool specimens should be examined to confirm the presence of intestinal parasites. Even with such practice, it is not possible to guarantee that there is no infestation, but examination of fewer specimens would run a definite risk of false negative results.
INTRALESIONAL VINBLASTINE IN THE TREATMENT OF ORAL KAPOSI'S SARCOMA
Authors: Moyle G , Youle M , Barton S
Published: April 2023

Kaposi's sarcoma is a common tumour in HIV‐infected patients, frequently involving the oropharynx. Conventional treatment with radiotherapy is efficacious, but causes considerable discomfort. This paper illustrates a new technique of local injection of vinblastine into oral lesions, which combines satisfactory palliation with high patient acceptability.
ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Authors: Joiner C
Published: April 2023

George Payling Wright was Professor of Pathology at Guy's Hospital when I went there as a student in 1941 and I came to know him in 1943. He was a great man, a great scholar and an inspired teacher. Of unimpressive appearance, it was only when he began to lecture or to explain or to demonstrate that his great abilities became apparent. He influenced his students profoundly, and wholly for the good. None suffered and all who could benefited from his teaching. Much of what he said was prophetic and I have seen it emerge as truth over the last 40 years.

He spoke of the blood supply to the tissues, of the structure and function of the vessels which convey the blood to the body cells — the arteries, the arterioles, the capillaries. He said that future generations of doctors would do well to consider in more detail the decisive influence of adequate supply of blood to the tissues on the functions (and indeed the structure) of organs. He mentioned the work of Poisseuille (1843) who had studied the factors that influenced the flow of liquids through tubes. He detailed the formula relating the pressure forcing it onwards, its viscosity, the length of the tube and its radius on the volume that passed in a given time. And of these factors he showed the supreme importance of the bore of the tube, for the flow was found to vary with the fourth power of the radius. What does this mean? A glance at Figure 1 shows the dramatic effect of reduction of the diameter of the vessel on the flow.

With increasing age in the population, reduced blood supply has become a problem second only to neoplasia in importance as a cause of morbidity and death. And of the pathological processes causing the reduction it is atheroma that is paramount.
A COMPARISON OF BECLOMETHASONE DIPROPIONATE AND BUDESONIDE IN THE TREATMENT OF ASTHMA
Authors: Davies B
Published: April 2023

Several reports have claimed that beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) and budesonide (BUD) differ with regard to therapeutic efficacy and associated adverse effects, based either upon clinical data, or upon theoretical considerations.

Although long‐term comparisons are lacking, the consensus of numerous studies is that these drugs are of equivalent therapeutic efficacy. Assessment of pharmacological data suggests that beclomethasone 17‐monopropionate (17‐BMP), the active bronchial metabolite of BDP, has a greater glucocorticoid receptor affinity than BUD and thus theoretical claims for greater efficacy of BUD based on comparison with the receptor affinity of unchanged BDP are inaccurate. Similarly, clinical experience has not revealed any significant differences between the adverse effect profiles of BDP and BUD, in terms of adrenal suppression, changes in bone metabolism and growth, or cataract formation. Critical examination reveals that those reports describing differences in efficacy or safety profile between the two drugs have study design flaws which may undermine the validity of their conclusions. Current evidence indicates that, in terms of therapeutic efficacy and safety profile, BDP and BUD are effectively indistinguishable.
SPONTANEOUS RUPTURE OF THE LEFT EXTERNAL ILIAC VEIN
Authors: Majeed S M K , Pheils P J
Published: April 2023

A case of spontaneous rupture of the left external iliac vein is reported and the possible aetiology, treatment and role of anticoagulants in the early post‐operative management is discussed.
HYPOTHYROIDISM IN THE ELDERLY: CLINICAL ASSESSMENT VERSUS ROUTINE SCREENING
Authors: Barnes D J , O'Connor J D , Bending J J
Published: April 2023

A total of 304 patients aged 65 years or over were prospectively studied over a four‐month period to assess whether clinical findings or routine screening were more helpful in diagnosing biochemical hypothyroidism.

The most useful symptom relevant to a possible diagnosis of hypothyroidism in the elderly was found to be dry skin. Dermatological signs and certain ECG abnormalities (especially atrial fibrillation) were helpful when querying a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Almost 50% of patients receiving amiodarone had abnormal thyroid function tests (TFTs). Routine screening for hypothyroidism does not seem justifiable from our available data although this conclusion may have been different had hospital clinicians and general practitioners followed their patients up more closely after an initial abnormal result was obtained.
ACAROSAN AND THE ACAREX TEST IN THE CONTROL OF HOUSE DUST MITE ALLERGENS IN THE HOME
Authors: Ridout S , Twiselton R , Matthews S , Stevens M , Matthews L , Arshad S H , Hide D W
Published: April 2023

House dust mites are believed to be major triggers for allergic disease in atopic individuals. As part of a programme controlling dietary and aero‐allergen exposure in high‐risk infants, an acaricidal foam and powder (Acarosan) was applied to bedroom and main living room carpets, as well as upholstered furniture, on four occasions in the first year of life. Dust was assayed for mite antigen (Der p1) and these results compared with the semi‐quantitative assay of guanine content (Acarex Test). After nine months mean Der p1 levels had decreased by 70% in the treatment group. Proportionally, the greatest fall occurred in those items that had the highest initial mite antigen content. The Acarex score does show a correlation with Der p1 levels, but cannot replace antigen assay when accurate data is required. A chemical acaricide may help reduce house dust mite antigen levels, but is not by itself sufficient to reduce levels below that considered critical for sensitisation.
A SURVEY OF ASPIRIN USE IN THE PRE‐HOSPITAL TREATMENT OF SUSPECTED ACUTE CARDIAC CHEST PAIN
Authors: Bland R , Vaidya K , Deodhar H
Published: April 2023

Recent large studies have demonstrated the value of early intervention with aspirin and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction for patients reaching hospital alive. Management of patients with suspected myocardial infarction prior to hospitalisation is an important area of acute cardiac care. Guidelines for good practice suggest the early administration of aspirin should be considered when an infarct seems likely. We have found aspirin less commonly used than other interventions prior to hospital admission in patients with suspected acute cardiac pain.
SEVERE LARGE AND SMALL BOWEL FIBROSIS CLINICALLY MIMICKING GROSS SPLENOMEGALY
Authors: Olubodun J O B , Ikerionwu S E , Kuti J A , Jaiyesimi A E A , Talabi O A , Adefuye B O
Published: April 2023

The case of an 18‐year‐old female, with mild left hypochondrial pain and an abdominal mass mimicking gross splenomegaly, with severe small and large bowel fibrosis and adhesions and numerous mononuclear cellular infiltrate on histology, is presented. A clear picture of intestinal obstruction only unfolded terminally. She died within 48 hours of presentation.

Our patient illustrates the fact that severe intestinal adhesions may present with very mild symptoms and signs and therefore a high index of suspicion is necessary, to reduce the attendant high mortality in intestinal obstruction in our environment.
On merchandise return policy, entrepreneurial internet retail, and customer reviews – Insights from an observational study
Authors: García‐Dastugue Sebastián J. , Nilakantan Rahul , Wallenburg Carl Marcus , Rao Shashank
Published: April 2023

The rapid growth of Internet retail platforms (e.g., Shopify and Wix) and marketplaces (e.g., Amazon, eBay, and Etsy) has given rise to a new wave of entrepreneurship. These are platform entrepreneurs—individuals who establish micro‐retail businesses on third‐party platforms. While there are now millions of such entrepreneurs worldwide, there has been limited scholarly investigation regarding the role of Logistics and Supply Chain Management (LSCM) policies that they can adapt to benefit their small businesses. Because the success of such businesses is intricately driven by the reviews they receive, we deem it essential to investigate how such reviews may be related to their LSCM policies. We conduct an observational field study at one such small platform seller. By investigating items sold under varying merchandise return policies (MRPs), we seek to isolate the relationship between MRP, and the likelihood, positivity, and depth of the reviews left by shoppers. Based on the concept of contractuality, rooted in Sociometer Theory, our results reveal that a more lenient MRP may serve as a perk that may positively impact the customer's review writing. However, the relationship is not monotonic. Instead, there is evidence that the effect of extended MRP leniency on reviews tapers off beyond a certain point.
Social preferences and sales performance
Authors: Essl Andrea , von Bieberstein Frauke , Kosfeld Michael , Kröll Markus
Published: April 2023

We use an incentivized experimental game to uncover heterogeneity in social preferences among salespeople in a large Austrian retail chain. Our results show that the majority of agents take the welfare of others into account but a significant fraction reveal selfish behavior. Matching individual behavior in the game with firm data on sales performance shows that agents with social preferences achieve a significantly higher revenue per customer. However, at the same time, they achieve fewer sales per day. Both effects offset each other, so that the overall association with total sales revenue becomes insignificant. Our findings highlight the nuanced role of selfish versus social preferences in sales contexts with important implications for economic research.
Development of cryo‐desiccated whey and soy protein conglomerates; effect of maltodextrin on their functionality and digestibility
Authors: Bebartta Ram Prasad , Umar Muhammad , Ruktanonchai Uracha Rungsardthong , Anal Anil Kumar
Published: April 2023

This study aims at enhancing the thermal stability, functional properties, and digestibility of the protein isolates by addition of maltodextrin. Higher total soluble solid content, less cohesiveness, and high hygroscopicity of maltodextrin allow the protein isolates to show better thermal and functional stability along with improved digestibility. The functionality of powders depends on their particle size, the structure of particles, shape, flowability, and wettability, etc. The effect of maltodextrin (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) on the functional properties of WPI, SPI, and the mixture of these proteins (1:1 ratio) was evaluated in this study. The samples were prepared in distilled water (10 w/v % solution of SPI and WPI), cryo‐desiccated (freeze‐dried), and then further dried using a fluidized bed drier (at 80, 90, 100°C) to improve the functional properties. The addition of 15% maltodextrin was obtained as an optimum condition as it provides good functional properties (flowability such as cohesiveness, compressibility index, angle of repose, wettability, solubility, color, and water activity) with maximum thermal stability (113 ± 2°C for WPI, 115 ± 0.5°C for SPI and 118 ± 0.1°C for mixture) studied using differential scanning calorimetry. The powders were further characterized using FTIR, SEM, and SDS‐PAGE to evaluate the effect of in‐vitro digestibility on the protein conglomerates. The in vitro digestibility of the conglomerates containing WPI, SPI, and the mix was 91.24% ± 2.5, 56.48% ± 3.9, and 80.71% ± 3.1, respectively, and show good stability in the gastric phase (pH < 3), which depicts the resistance of conglomerates due to maltodextrin. These protein conglomerates can be ingested orally to gain the benefits of plant and animal proteins simultaneously and can also be incorporated in functional beverages and food items to improve the nutritional value.

Practical applications

The functional properties of animal protein (WPI) and plant protein (SPI) were improved by the addition of maltodextrin. The maltodextrin improves the gastric digestibility and pH stability of the protein conglomerates. These animal and plant‐based protein conglomerates can be utilized in diets or functional foods as a good source of protein constituents. Higher protein content with good solubility can be attractive to food manufacturers in preparing semi‐solid and liquid novel food systems. Alternatively, these powders can be consumed as dietary supplement to increase the protein uptake and for better digestibility.
On presentation of the human cerebral sulci from inside of the cerebrum
Authors: Nowinski Wieslaw L.
Published: April 2023

The human cerebral cortex is highly convoluted forming patterns of gyri separated by sulci. The cerebral sulci and gyri are fundamental in cortical anatomy as well as neuroimage processing and analysis. Narrow and deep cerebral sulci are not fully discernible either on the cortical or white matter surface. To cope with this limitation, I propose a new sulci presentation method that employs the inner cortical surface for sulci examination from the inside of the cerebrum. The method has four steps, construct the cortical surface, segment and label the sulci, dissect (open) the cortical surface, and explore the fully exposed sulci from the inside. The inside sulcal maps are created for the left and right lateral, left and right medial, and basal hemispheric surfaces with the sulci parcellated by color and labeled. These three‐dimensional sulcal maps presented here are probably the first of this kind created. The proposed method demonstrates the full course and depths of sulci, including narrow, deep, and/or convoluted sulci, which has an educational value and facilitates their quantification. In particular, it provides a straightforward identification of sulcal pits which are valuable markers in studying neurologic disorders. It enhances the visibility of sulci variations by exposing branches, segments, and inter‐sulcal continuity. The inside view also clearly demonstrates the sulcal wall skewness along with its variability and enables its assessment. Lastly, this method exposes the sulcal 3‐hinges introduced here.
Aesthetic considerations for treating the Asian patient: Thriving in diversity international roundtable series
Authors: Fabi Sabrina Guillen , Park Je‐Young , Ho Wilson W. S. , Vachiramon Vasanop , Dayan Steve
Published: April 2023

Background

The unique anatomy of the Asian face, along with the influence of cultural forces and regional preferences, has led to the development of specialized approaches to rejuvenation and beautification that are applicable to the aesthetic practice within Asia as well as those who serve these patients internationally.

Aims

To discuss similarities and differences in anatomy and treatment preferences of Asian patients and explore how these differences may influence aesthetic practices.

Patients/Methods

In support of clinicians who wish to serve a diverse patient population, a six‐part international roundtable series focused on diversity in aesthetics was conducted from August 24, 2021 to May 16, 2022.

Results

The results of the sixth and final roundtable in the series, the Asian Patient, are described here. Anatomical differences and their influence on treatment preferences are discussed, and specific procedural information provided for management of facial shape and projection, including advanced injection techniques for the eyelid‐forehead complex.

Conclusions

The continued exchange of ideas and treatment techniques support not only optimal aesthetic outcomes for a diverse range of patients within a given practice, but also the evolution of aesthetic medicine. The expert approaches detailed here may be used to inform treatment plans tailored to the Asian population.
Personality dynamics: Regulatory mechanisms and processes
Authors: Fajkowska Małgorzata , Quirin Markus , Rauthmann John
Published: April 2023

Personality dynamics have recently revived interest as a subject of systematic investigation in personality science. Personality dynamics theories and research refer to nonstatic phenomena related to personality, such as the regulatory mechanisms and processes involved in the control of behavior and experience related to personality and their interactions with situations. Such research is not only important to understand personality but also important to explain the large amount of variability in behavior and experience in an individual that can hardly be explained by a few personality traits. This introduction to a special issue of the Journal of Personality outlines the contributions of 11 articles tackling four emerging trends in the field: (1) personality dynamics and levels of regulation; (2) personality dynamics and the motivational dimension of regulation; (3) dynamics and regulatory potentials of structural personality components; and (4) personality dynamics and timescales. Moreover, we add recommendations for future exploration. Together, we believe that our special issue advances personality science in conceptualizing and examining personality dynamics as well as drawing attention to unanswered issues.
A retrospective study on bone metastasis in dogs with advanced‐stage solid cancer
Authors: Agnoli C. , Sabattini S. , Ubiali A. , Battisti E. , Rossi F. , Diana A. , Camerino M. T. , Perfetti S. , Ciammaichella L. , Stefanello D. , Papa M. , Zaccone R. , Marconato L.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To review clinical characteristics, treatment, outcome and prognostic factors in dogs with solid cancer‐bearing bone metastases.

Materials and Methods

Records were reviewed from dogs with histologically‐proven solid cancer and bone metastases. Clinicopathologic variables, bone metastases characteristics and skeletal‐related events were recorded. Endpoints were time to bone metastases and survival.

Results

Fifty dogs were included, 20 of them with synchronous and 30 of them with metachronous bone metastases. In the latter group, median time to diagnosis of bone metastases was 210 days (range, 30 to 1835). Most common primary cancer locations included mammary gland (n=6), spleen (n=5) and tonsil (n=5). Most common histotypes were carcinoma (n=32) and hemangiosarcoma (n=10). Nineteen dogs had multiple bones involvement, with humeri and vertebrae more commonly affected. Twenty‐four dogs received antitumoural therapy, five symptomatic treatment and 21 were not treated. Overall median survival after bone metastases diagnosis was 30 days (range, 11 to 49); 83% of dogs died because of skeletal‐related events. Lack of antitumoural therapy was significantly associated with shorter survival (hazard ratio: 2.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.3 to 5.6) and with increased risk of skeletal‐related death (hazard ratio: 3.3; 95% confidence interval: 1.4 to 7.4). Dogs with endocrine/neuroendocrine tumours (odds ratio: 8.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.2 to 63.9), without appendicular metastases (odds ratio: 5.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.0 to 25.8), without extra‐skeletal metastases (odds ratio: 5.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 24.5) and receiving antitumoural therapy (odds ratio: 14.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.7 to 131.4) had an increased chance of surviving more than 100 days.

Clinical Significance

Bone metastases in dogs with solid cancers are associated with poor prognosis and a high risk of skeletal‐related events. Treatment appears to have an impact on survival.
Studying structural and rheological properties of alginate‐whey protein isolate cold‐set hybrid emulgels at various pH levels
Authors: Zare Mahdieh , Golmakani Mohammad‐Taghi , Hosseini Seyed M. H.
Published: April 2023

Effects of different pH values (4–7) and whey protein isolate (WPI) concentrations (0.5–1.5%) were evaluated on physical, mechanical, and rheological properties of cold‐set alginate‐based soybean oil hybrid emulgels. The pH value changes were more effective than WPI concentration changes on emulgel properties. According to syneresis and texture profile analysis results, 1% WPI was selected as the optimum concentration. The XRD analysis showed that calcium alginate (CA) emulgel at pH 6 had a different peak at 2θ of 14.8°, likely indicating the highest amount of ion‐bridging and maximum number of junction zones. The homogeneity of CA and CA + WPI emulgels (determined by image entropy analysis) decreased by pH reduction from 7 to 4, which can be related to acid‐induced intermolecular interactions between alginate chains. The rheological properties of CA and CA + WPI emulgels revealed predominant elastic character (G′ > G′′) at different pH values. Creep test results showed that the relative recovery of emulgel prepared at pH 7 and 5 was 18.10 and 63.83%, respectively, suggesting pH reduction contributed to increase in the elastic component of material. The findings of this study can be applied for developing structured cold‐set emulgels as solid fat replacers in meat and dairy products.
Evaluation of an enzyme immunoassay and immunodiffusion for detection ofanti‐Histoplasmaantibodies in serum from cats and dogs
Authors: Tims Rebecca , Hanzlicek Andrew S. , Nafe Laura , Durkin Michelle M. , Smith‐Davis Jennifer , Wheat L. Joseph
Published: April 2023

Background

Histoplasmaantigen and anti‐Histoplasmaantibody detection are used to support the diagnosis of histoplasmosis. There is a paucity of published data on antibody assays.

Objectives

Our primary hypothesis was that anti‐Histoplasmaimmunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody detection using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) will be more sensitive as compared to immunodiffusion (ID).

Animals

Thirty‐seven cats and 22 dogs with proven or probable histoplasmosis; 157 negative control animals.

Methods

Residual stored sera were tested for anti‐Histoplasmaantibodies using EIA and ID. Results of urine antigen EIA were reviewed retrospectively. Diagnostic sensitivity was calculated for all three assays and compared between immunoglobulin G (IgG) EIA and ID. The diagnostic sensitivity of urine antigen EIA and IgG EIA, interpreted in parallel, was reported.

Results

Sensitivity of IgG EIA was 30/37 (81.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 68.5%‐93.4%) in cats and 17/22 (77.3%; 95% CI, 59.8%‐94.8%) in dogs. Diagnostic sensitivity of ID was 0/37 (0%; 95% CI, 0%‐9.5%) in cats and 3/22 (13.6%; 95% CI, 0%‐28.0%) in dogs. Immunoglobulin G EIA was positive in all animals (2 cats and 2 dogs) with histoplasmosis but without detectable antigen in urine. Diagnostic specificity of IgG EIA was 18/19 (94.7%; 95% CI, 74.0%‐99.9%) in cats and 128/138 (92.8%; 95% CI, 87.1%‐96.5%) in dogs.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Antibody detection by EIA can be used to support the diagnosis of histoplasmosis in cats and dogs. Immunodiffusion has an unacceptably low diagnostic sensitivity and is not recommended.
Biosecurity: Reducing the burden of disease
Authors: Subasinghe Rohana , Alday‐Sanz Victoria , Bondad‐Reantaso Melba G. , Jie Huang , Shinn Andrew P. , Sorgeloos Patrick
Published: April 2023

The challenges and problems of managing good biosecurity are wide‐ranging and multifactorial with many compounding factors to pre‐dispose farmed stocks to an increased risk of infection with consequential stock losses. Many challenges are anthropogenic in origin and may be the result of the physical location (site) and/or the poor design of the production facility (i.e., water re‐use; lack of zoning based on biosecurity risk, etc.) as well as from inappropriate decisions and practices made once the site is in production (i.e., pushing the system for increased biomass production). There is a need for better regulation and health legislation across aquaculture—an industry that embraces the culture of >500 species. In the absence of regulatory frameworks and culture guidelines, it is difficult for farmers to apply certain measures such as maximum stocking densities and maximum allowed biomass, conduct disease surveillance and regular health checks, and report diseases to relevant authorities for advice. In this review, we have identified several issues which are continuing to challenge the design and implementation of efficient and effective biosecurity strategies and protocols at all levels, requiring attention over the coming decade. They are, not in any order of priority: (a) healthy seed, (b) emergency preparedness and response, (c) diagnostics, (d) microbial management at the production level, (e) disease and pathogen surveillance, (f) trade in aquatic species, (g) policies and regulatory framework, (h) welfare, (i) research and technology development, (j) antimicrobial resistance, (k) non‐conventional ways of pathogen transfer, and (l) Progressive Management Pathway.
Labor mobility agreements and exit of migrants: Evidence from Europe
Authors: Bazillier Rémi , Magris Francesco , Mirza Daniel
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we study how free labor mobility agreements in Europe, usually thought to favor inward migration, might actually create good incentives for already settled migrants to exit their host country. Using outmigration data between 1990 and 2011, a period of observation where some countries entered the EU and especially a period during which Schengen agreements have been progressively implemented by a large number of European countries, we could test this conjecture. While the evidence for EU is mixed, we find very strong evidence that Schengen did increase migrations outflows by 40 to 53%. The effect appears to be even higher for outmigrants originating from Eastern Europe after their countries' accession to Schengen. Also, and consistent with the hypothesis of preferences for living at home or in a country with a close culture to home, the effect of Schengen on outmigration happens to be smaller when the countries of origin and of residence of the outmigrants are close in terms of their cultural traits. Also, we document that the Schengen effect is significantly higher for outmigration flows than for immigration flows by almost 20 percentage points.
What is next for patients and medical students in longitudinal integrated clerkships?
Authors: Sephien Andrew , Kumar Ambuj
Published: April 2023

Reflecting on the benefits and risks associated with LICs, the authors outline the evidence required to ensure promotion of competent and compassionate skill sets that are needed to ultimately improve patient care.
Lomatogonium madhmaheshwariansis, a new species of Gentianaceae from Himalaya, India
Authors: Singh Sunit , Thakur Sajan , Singh Bikarma , Prakash Mehta Jagat
Published: April 2023

Lomatogonium madhmaheshwariansis (Gentianaceae), a new species from Himalaya, Uttarakhand state, India is described and illustrated. This species is similar to L. carinthiacum, but differs mainly in having a robust habit, quadrangular stems, cordate leaves, bracts absent, erect pedicel, calyx lobe with entire margin, corolla light purple with no striations, few fimbriae appendages and a biangular stigma. It is growing in specific environments of temperate to sub‐alpine regions. A population mapping and threat assessment for L. madhmaheshwariansis has been undertaken and using IUCN criteria it is classified as endangered (EN) in Himalaya. A key to all Indian species of Lomatogonium is provided for easy identification.
Mechanical overload induces TMJ disc degeneration via TRPV4 activation
Authors: Cui Sheng‐Jie , Yang Fu‐Jia , Wang Xue‐Dong , Mao Ze‐Bin , Gu Yan
Published: April 2023

Objective

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc cushions intraarticular stress during mandibular movements. While mechanical overloading is related to cartilage degeneration, the pathogenesis of TMJ disc degeneration is unclear. Here, we determined the regulatory role of mechanoinductive transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) in mechanical overload‐induced TMJ disc degeneration.

Methods

We explored the effect of mechanical overload on the TMJ discs in a rat occlusal interference model in vivo, and by applying sustained compressive force in vitro. TRPV4 inhibition was delivered by small interfering RNA or GSK2193874; TRPV4 activation was delivered by GSK1016790A. The protective effect of TRPV4 inhibition was validated in the rat occlusal interference model.

Results

Occlusal interference induced TMJ disc degeneration with enhanced extracellular matrix degradation in vivo and mechanical overload promoted inflammatory responses in the TMJ disc cells via Ca2+ influx with significantly upregulated TRPV4. TRPV4 inhibition reversed mechanical overload‐induced inflammatory responses; TRPV4 activation simulated mechanical overload‐induced inflammatory responses. Moreover, TRPV4 inhibition alleviated TMJ disc degeneration in the rat occlusal interference model.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest TRPV4 plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of mechanical overload‐induced TMJ disc degeneration and may be a promising target for the treatment of degenerative changes of the TMJ disc.
Regional network‐building for complexity: A region‐oriented policy response to increasing and varied demands for older person care in the Netherlands
Authors: van der Woerd Oemar , Wallenburg Iris , van der Scheer Wilma , Bal Roland
Published: April 2023

Networks are increasingly seen as promising generic solutions to complex public problems. This article analyzes network‐building in action within a specific regional setting as an attempt to cope with increasing and varied demands for older person care, studying everyday organizational and policy activities of actors. Drawing on a qualitative in‐depth case study of a regional network in Zeeland—the most aging region in the Netherlands—our findings illuminate how this network is created, nurtured, and sustained, and the particularities and complexities this involves. Our practice‐based approach demonstrates that network‐building requires the ongoing work of many agents within organizational contexts, as well as the outside interference of stakeholders to make the network “work” within the wider population of networks, institutional context, and geographical place. This highlights to network literature the importance of place‐based interventions that characterize how a network develops and pursues opportunities to come up with suitable responses to local needs.
Temporal population structure of rubber tree powdery mildew pathogen Erysiphe quercicola in Hainan, China
Authors: Cao Xueren , Xiao Ying , Han Qiaohui , West Jonathan S. , Daquan Luo
Published: April 2023

Rubber tree powdery mildew, caused by the obligate pathogen Erysiphe quercicola, is a major threat to rubber tree plantations worldwide. To investigate the temporal changes in the population structure of E. quercicola, diseased samples were collected at three disease epidemic stages (overwinter, early epidemic and late epidemic) from three counties in Hainan, China. Population structure was assessed using 16 polymorphic microsatellite markers. Both permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that there were significant differences among the population structure of E. quercicola at different epidemic stages. Furthermore, the late epidemic populations had higher genetic diversity than the other two stages. Discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) and STRUCTURE analysis showed that E. quercicola samples grouped into four clusters. One of the clusters included only samples from the late epidemic stage, while the other three clusters included samples from all three sample stages. Further analysis confirmed that there were significant (p = 0.001) genetic differences among these four clusters. As the teleomorph stage of E. quercicola has not yet been reported on rubber tree, these findings suggest that the epidemic of rubber tree powdery mildew is not only established by local inoculum sources, but also may be by inoculum drifting from other plantations or through host jumps from other hosts.
Regulation of proteolysis in bovine cumulus cells with possible inclusion of proton pump activators
Authors: Coruhlu Ipek , Tepekoy Filiz
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to reveal the effects of V‐ATPase proton pump activation on lysosomal acidity and protein degradation in cultured cumulus cells. Cumulus cells from bovine ovaries were cultured in the presence of 10 and 50 μM doses of V‐ATPase proton pump activators PIP2, PMA and DOG for 12 and 24 h. At the end of the culture period, the level of protein degradation was evaluated through DQ‐Red‐BSA analysis and the lysosomes were detected through a fluorescent probe. In addition, total and phosphorylated MAPK1/3 and AKT protein levels of cumulus cells were determined through Western blotting. PIP2 and PMA were shown to increase protein degradation and lysosomal acidity in cultured bovine cumulus cells, whereas DOG did not have any significant effects on these cells. Total and phosphorylated MAPK and AKT protein levels were higher in PIP2 and PMA groups compared with the control and DOG. It was concluded that particular proton pump activators can enhance protein degradation and lysosomal acidification in cultured bovine cumulus cells without having detrimental effects on cell signalling members required for cell viability and proper functioning. Due to the cellular interactions, increasing the lysosomal activity in cumulus cells in the culture environment could also affect the removal of protein aggregates in the oocytes. This strategy could be effective for improving in vitro maturation of the oocytes by providing proteostasis.
Measuring climate change adaptation policy output: Toward a two‐dimensional approach
Authors: Schulze Kai , Schoenefeld Jonas J.
Published: April 2023

As jurisdictions across the globe step up their efforts to adapt to climate change, it is important to assess progress by taking stock of and comparing adaptation policy. However, scholars and practitioners are struggling to conceptualize and measure adaptation policy. In this article, we propose a new two‐dimensional framework to measure public adaptation policy output, namely, the Climate Adaptation Policy Index (CAPI). The index combines multiple indicators from two core interdependent dimensions, namely, an institutionalization dimension focusing on strategic plans and administrative capacities for adaptation; and a measures dimension capturing concrete adaptation measures in relevant action areas such as in green and open spaces, transport infrastructure, buildings, public education, and disaster management. Our approach is extensive but feasible and may be adjusted for use in different contexts and policy areas. We probe our approach at the local level using original survey data from a diverse sample of 211 municipalities located in the state of Hessen in central Germany. A factor analysis suggests that the two dimensions constitute a meaningful measurement of municipal adaptation policy output. A cluster analysis identifies five groups of municipalities representing different stages of adaptation policy progress in Hessen. Finally, a regression analysis examines potential determinants of local adaptation policy making such as the size and wealth of municipalities. The results highlight the potential of the CAPI for analyzing both the state and the making of municipal adaptation policy.
A continuous analog of the binary Darboux transformation for the Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Rybkin Alexei
Published: April 2023

In the Korteweg–de Vries equation (KdV) context, we put forward a continuous version of the binary Darboux transformation (aka the double commutation method). Our approach is based on the Riemann–Hilbert problem and yields a new explicit formula for perturbation of the negative spectrum of a wide class of step‐type potentials without changing the rest of the scattering data. This extends the previously known formulas for inserting/removing finitely many bound states to arbitrary sets of negative spectrum of arbitrary nature. In the KdV context, our method offers same benefits as the classical binary Darboux transformation does.
Educational strategies for oral assistance for the disabled and their effects on dentistry students’ formation: A systematic review
Authors: Silva Fernanda Luiza , Tavares Sandro Junio de Oliveira , Silveira Flávia Maia , Antunes Leonardo Santos , Antunes Lívia Azeredo Alves , Assaf Andréa Videira
Published: April 2023

Aims

This systematic review aimed to analyze the influence of educational strategies for oral health care for Persons with disabilities (PwDs) on the technical, ethical, and social training of undergraduate dental students.

Methods and results

An extensive search was performed in the following databases: Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS/BBO and OpenGrey database. Observational, nonrandomized, and quantitative comparisons before and after some type of educational strategy in undergraduate dentistry was included. The risk of bias was assessed using the risk of bias in nonrandomized intervention studies (ROBINS‐I) tool. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. Nine were included and suggested that a significant improvement was observed in the technical training of undergraduate dental students although there was no consensus on the acquisition of ethical/social competences after the application of educational strategies. The included studies presented a moderate to serious risk of bias, and the certainty of evidence for both, technical and ethical/social evaluative constructs, as very low.

Conclusion

Although studies show that awareness regarding PwD significantly increases technical skills in dental students, the evidence is poor due to the high risk of bias and inconsistency observed in both the technical and ethical/social constructs; further studies on this topic are therefore essential. Prospero: (CRD42021288463).