bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction between curcumin and ultrafiltered casein micelles or whey protein, and characteristics of their complexes
Authors: Wu Hao , Qin Juanjuan , Ji Wei , Palupi Niken Widya , Yang Min
Published: February 2024

This work evaluated the interaction between micellar casein (MC) or whey protein (WP) in ultrafiltration retentate with curcumin (Cur), as well as the physicochemical and functional properties of Cur–MC and Cur–WP complexes. The MC had a higher affinity for Cur than WP, shown by higher binding constants of Cur–MC at various temperatures. Thermodynamic analysis of the binding process indicated that the interaction between Cur and MC or WP was hydrophobic in nature. Cur promoted the size and polydispersity index of MC and WP at 4 mM but did not alter the morphology of spray‐dried MC and WP. The Cur–MC complexes showed better aqueous solubility at pH 2–3 and 6–10 compared to free MC. Combination with MC or WP improved the 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonate) radical scavenging activity of Cur. In addition, combination with MC and WP promoted cumulative release of Cur during simulated gastrointestinal digestion, especially for WP. Thus, MC and WP in retentates can be good alternative protein‐based carriers for Cur delivery, whereas their complexes in powder form have good functional properties that could be used as active food ingredients in several food formulations.

Practical Application

Microfiltration is a cheap and convenient approach that can be used to easily produce micellar casein (MC), with whey protein (WP) as one byproduct. In this study, we proved that MC and WP in retentates have strong interaction with curcumin (Cur), whereas their complexes have good functional properties. Thus, spray‐dried MC–Cur or WP–Cur complexes could be used as active food ingredients in several food formulations.
Retronasal sensory characterization of aroma compounds in Baijiu by detection threshold measurement, retronasal OAVs, and time‐intensity evaluation
Authors: Yu Yamin , Yan Yan , Wu Lan , Nie Yao , Chen Shuang , Xu Yan
Published: February 2024

The retronasal aroma of Baijiu is closely related to its quality and consumer preference. Retronasal detection thresholds (RDTs) of 44 aroma compounds were determined in 46% v/v ethanol using a three‐alternative forced‐choice procedure, which varied widely and ranged from less than 0.02 to over 1,000,000 µg/L. Nineteen aroma compounds, including β‐phenylethanol, 2,3,5,6‐tetramethylpyrazine, dimethyl trisulfide, and 2‐methyl‐3‐(methyldisulfanyl)furan, had RDTs lower than their orthonasal detection thresholds. Power function curves were used to establish correlations between RDTs and partition coefficients for five esters and four pyrazines (R2 = 0.9575, 0.9969, respectively). Twenty‐nine aroma compounds had retronasal odor activity values >1 in a soy sauce aroma type Baijiu. Additionally, time‐intensity (TI) results suggested that hexanoic acid, ethyl hexanoate, isoamyl acetate, 3‐methyl‐butanal, and nonanal contributed to a “burst‐aroma” of Baijiu. Conversely, TI results attributed the “after‐odor” of Baijiu to dimethyl trisulfide, methional, 2,3,5,6‐tetramethylpyrazine, β‐phenylethanol, and other compounds.

Practical Application

This manuscript provides comprehensive information on the retronasal sensory characteristics of aroma compounds in Baijiu. The results obtained may help understand the contribution of aroma compounds to retronasal aroma perception during Baijiu tasting and give helpful information to the Baijiu industry regarding quality control.
Hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate in chicken–vegetable bone broth delay osteoporosis progression
Authors: Seki Yuka , Ohkuma Risako Chiba , Miyakawa Yuri , Karakida Takeo , Yamamoto Ryuji , Yamakoshi Yasuo
Published: February 2024

Bone broth has recently gained worldwide recognition as a superfood that supplements several nutrients lacking in modern human diets; however, little is known of its efficacy on osteoporosis. Therefore, we aimed to identify the components of chicken–vegetable bone broth (CVBB) that are associated with osteoporosis prevention and verified the efficacy of these components using in vivo studies. In biochemical and cell biological experiments, CVBB was fractionated using ion exchange chromatography (IEC), and the effect of each IEC fraction on osteoclast differentiation was evaluated based on tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, TRAP staining, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis using mouse macrophage‐like cells (RAW264 cell). In animal experiments, an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model was generated, followed by whole bone broth (OVX/CVBB) or IEC fraction (OVX/CVBB‐Ext) administration and bone structural parameter characterization of OVX rat tibia based on micro‐CT. Four CVBB fractions were obtained using IEC, and the fraction containing both hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate (CVBB‐Ext) led to the maximum inhibition of RAW264 cell differentiation. CVBB‐Ext downregulated the expression of osteoclast differentiation marker genes. In animal experiments, the OVX group showed a clear decrease in bone density compared to that in the Sham operation group. The OVX/CVBB and OVX/CVBB‐Ext groups showed increased bone mineral density and bone volume/tissue volume values compared to those in the OVX/control group. These results suggested that CVBB and CVBB‐Ext slowed osteoporosis progression. Therefore, we conclude that hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate in CVBB are key substances that impede osteoporosis progression.

Practical Application

This study provides practical information on the effects of bone broth ingredients on osteoporosis to expand the current knowledge on the efficacy of bone broth, which is a widely consumed food. These results may help in the future development of bone broth as a dietary supplement for managing osteoporosis.
Chinese expert consensus on diagnosis and treatment strategies for novel coronavirus infection in immunocompromised populations (2023 edition)
Authors: Ju ChunRong , Wang Meiying , Yuan Jing , Xu Yonghao , Xue Wujun , Lu Hongzhou , Li Yimin , Li Shiyue ,   China Committee on Diagnosis and Treatment of Immunodeficiency
Published: February 2024

Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) was identified in 2019, it has caused more than 664 million confirmed cases and more than 6.7 million deaths globally by January 20, 2023. So far, the novel coronavirus has undergone mutations from the original, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron strains. Omicron was first detected in South Africa in November 2021 and has since spread rapidly to more than 100 countries around the world, leading the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify it as a “variant of concern” for COVID‐19. Due to its stronger infectivity, faster transmission, and higher reinfection rate, it is more likely to cause immune evasion and infection breakthrough in the vaccinated population. Omicron has replaced Delta strain as the main epidemic strain imported from overseas and in China. People with immunodeficiency are more susceptible to the novel coronavirus due to abnormal immune function, and viral infections tend to be more lasting and severe. In addition, due to the existence of underlying diseases, most people with immunodeficiency have been taking immunosuppressants and other related drugs for a long time, and there are different degrees of interaction between novel coronavirus treatment drugs and original drugs, which brings great challenges to the diagnosis and treatment of people with immunodeficiency after infection with novel coronavirus. According to the Novel Coronavirus Infection Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol (Trial 10th Edition) issued by the National Health Commission, which emphasizes “strengthening the protection of key groups,” people with immune deficiency belong to the high‐risk groups of severe or critical disease. Based on the evidence of evidence‐based medicine and after many discussions by experts from multiple disciplines (Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Department of Organ Transplantation, Department of Rheumatology, Department of Hematology, Department of Infection, Department of Critical Care Medicine, etc.), 13 recommendations are summarized to provide theoretical and practical reference for the diagnosis and treatment strategy of this special population.
Targeting Fli‐1 and chemokine axis CXCL10/CXCL13/CXCR3 in systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis
Authors: Zhu Da‐Yong
Published: February 2024

Fli‐1 is a critical factor involved in hematopoietic stem cells, vascular endothelial cells apoptosis, and differentiation. Similarly, Fli‐1 regulates immune cell proliferation and differentiation, such as T cells, B cells, and monocytes. Regarding T/B cell dysfunction, SLE including LN is recognized to be associated with abnormal expression and function of Fli‐1. Moreover, three ligands of Fli‐1 including CXCL10 (C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 10), CXCR3 (C‐X‐C motif chemokine receptor 3), CXCL13 are widely discussed in SLE/LN. In this comprehensive review, we not only discussed Fli‐1 within SLE/LN pathogenesis, but also discussed the effects of CXCL10, CXCR3, and CXCL13 on SLE/LN development. Furthermore, we discussed how Fli‐1 regulates CXCL10, CXCR3, and CXCL13, and then involved in lupus development. It is possible that the Fli‐1 axis might be a potential target in SLE and LN.
A retrospective analysis of optimal timing of thoracic radiotherapy for driver gene‐negative metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wang Yanan , Gao Zhenhua , Zhao Wen , Li Hongxin , Meng Xue , Li Jisheng
Published: February 2024

Background

The optimal timing of thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) in driver‐gene‐negative metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) patients was retrospectively investigated based on survival and safety profile.

Methods

The efficacy and safety data of driver‐gene‐negative mNSCLC patients treated with TRT during maintenance after first‐line therapy was collected. Patients whose primary tumor and metastatic lesions remained no progression during maintenance and then received TRT were categorized as the NP (no progression) group, while patients who experienced slow progression during maintenance without reaching progressive disease and then received TRT were categorized as the SP (slow progression) group. The efficacy and adverse events of TRT were analyzed.

Results

In total, 149 driver‐gene‐negative mNSCLC patients treated with TRT during maintenance were enrolled into the study, with 119 in the NP group and 30 in the SP group. After a median follow‐up of 30.83 (range: 26.62–35.04) months, the median progression‐free survival (PFS) in the NP group was 11.13 versus 9.53 months in the SP group (HR 0.599, p = 0.017). The median overall survival (OS) in the NP group was 32.27 versus 25.57 months in the SP group (HR 0.637, p = 0.088). The median PFS after radiotherapy (rPFS) was 6.33 versus 3.90 months (HR 0.288, p < 0.001). The adverse events were tolerable and manageable in both groups without significant difference (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The addition of TRT during the pre‐emptive no progression phase was associated with a significantly longer PFS than during the delayed slow progression phase and had an acceptable safety profile. Our results might support the earlier initiation of TRT after induction therapy for some patients with driver‐gene‐negative mNSCLC.
Text, tone, and legal language: Analyzing mutual fund disclosure sentiment
Authors: Tucker Anne M. , Xia Yusen , Smelcer Susan Navarro
Published: February 2024

Mutual fund disclosures must include information about a fund's strategies and risks to comply with the letter of the law. But funds should also honor the spirit of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, including informing ordinary investors. Disclosure language creates impressions that can be just as important as the content. But evaluating these soft aspects of disclosures is hard. In this article, we propose using disclosure tone—how positive or negative the language is—to empirically capture these impressions. This measure provides an additional tool to assess compliance with the spirit of disclosure laws. Building on finance research on company disclosures, we develop customized dictionaries specific to mutual fund disclosures. We then introduce a novel sentiment‐scoring framework that generates transparent sentence‐ and disclosure‐level scores for our sample of 164,602 mutual fund summary prospectuses (497k) from 2010 to 2020. Our descriptive analysis validates our dictionary by showing meaningful and statistically significant differences across disclosure sections, fund type, and time. Funds' statements of their principal risks are more negative (and uniformly so) across time than funds' descriptions of their investment strategies. We further explore these relationships using a fixed‐effects regression model. These analyses reveal statistically significant relationships between mutual fund disclosure tone and fund attributes, performance, and disclosure characteristics. These relationships are consistent with SEC requirements that anchor risk discussions in more negative language than strategy discussions. The findings also highlight the role of legal language in setting the overall disclosure tone. Our context‐sensitive approach provides a path to regulate compliance more effectively with both the letter and the spirit of the law. Our framework, which we have made publicly available, provides a robust tool to allow researchers and regulators to assess not only what funds say, but how they say it.
Assessment and management of delirium in a tertiary hospital—Improvements in cognitive screening and use of non‐pharmacological strategies with a multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Clarke Emily , Newman Ellie , Dravid Madhu , Ricciardello Michael , Jones Emma , Caudle Katherine , Kilshaw Lucy , Hilmi Samantha , Flicker Leon
Published: February 2024

Objective

This series of audits aimed to determine current best practice in delirium management in a tertiary teaching hospital and to identify strategies to improve the quality of care in delirium with a focus on prevention.

Methods

We completed a series of audits following the formation of the Cognitive Impairment Reference Group, a multidisciplinary team that was created to implement delirium management guidelines and monitor compliance. Audit 1 focused on antipsychotic use in patients aged 66 years and older. Audit 2 reviewed delirium care in the Acute Medical Ward. Audit 3 included ethnographic data and investigated the use of non‐pharmacological methods to prevent and manage delirium in the Geriatric Ward. Two years on, Audit 4 is a repeat of Audit 1.

Results

There were improved rates of cognitive screening between Audits 2 and 3 from 65% n = 40 to 86% n = 102, respectively. Most patients had one form of non‐pharmacological strategy in place to prevent delirium however few had a multicomponent approach. Fewer patients were prescribed benzodiazepines alongside antipsychotics 28.57% n = 35 in Audit 1 compared to Audit 4 12.5% n = 32.

Conclusions

Improved quality of care in delirium management is achievable via a co‐ordinated multidisciplinary approach. These audits demonstrated improvements in both rates of cognitive screening, and use of non‐pharmacological strategies prior to antipsychotic medication use and better adherence to guidelines for antipsychotic prescribing. Areas for further development in delirium prevention include the uptake of screening and individualised non‐pharmacological strategies.
Dupilumab‐associated ocular surface disease is characterized by a shift from Th2/Th17 toward Th1/Th17 inflammation
Authors: Thormann Kathrin , Lüthi Anne‐Sophie , Deniau Felix , Heider Anja , Cazzaniga Simone , Radonjic‐Hoesli Susanne , Lehmann Mathias , Schlapbach Christoph , Herzog Elio L. , Kreuzer Marco , Zinkernagel Martin S. , Akdis Cezmi A. , Zysset‐Burri Denise C. , Simon Hans‐Uwe , Simon Dagmar
Published: February 2024

Background

Dupilumab is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). Approximately one third of AD patients develop a dupilumab‐associated ocular surface disease (DAOSD), of which the pathomechanism is poorly understood. This study aimed at investigating inflammatory markers in tear fluids of patients on dupilumab therapy.

Methods

Tear fluids were collected from AD patients with DAOSD (ADwDAOSD), AD patients without DAOSD (ADw/oDAOSD), and non‐AD patients before and during dupilumab therapy, and analyzed using a specialized proteomic approach quantifying inflammatory markers. The ocular surface microbiome was determined by next generation sequencing technology.

Results

Upon dupilumab therapy, an upregulation of 31 inflammatory markers was observed in DAOSD tear fluids compared to baseline in AD patients. While IL‐12B was upregulated in both ADwDAOSD and ADw/oDAOSD groups, the pattern of inflammatory markers significantly differed between groups and over time. In the ADwDAOSD group, a shift from a mixed Th2/Th17 pattern at baseline toward a Th1/Th17 profile under dupilumab was observed. Furthermore, an upregulation of remodeling and fibrosis markers was seen in DAOSD. Semantic map and hierarchical cluster analyses of baseline marker expression revealed four clusters distinguishing between AD and non‐AD as well as ADwDAOSD and ADw/oDAOSD patient groups. In a pilot study, dupilumab therapy was associated with a decrease in richness of the ocular surface microbiome.

Conclusions

DAOSD is characterized by a Th1/Th17 cytokine profile and an upregulation of markers known to promote remodeling and fibrosis. The expression pattern of inflammatory markers in tear fluids at baseline might serve as a prognostic factor for DAOSD.
A model for delivery of extracorporeal life support in a stand‐alone veterans affairs medical center
Authors: Seadler Benjamin D. , Melamed Joshua , Sow Mami , Rogers Austin L. , Syed Ali , Linsky Paul L. , Ubert H. Adam , Schena Stefano , Durham Lucian A. , Almassi G. Hossein
Published: February 2024

Introduction

For the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to continue to perform complex cardiothoracic surgery, there must be an established pathway for providing urgent/emergent extracorporeal life support (ECLS). Partnership with a nearby tertiary care center with such expertise may be the most resource‐efficient way to provide ECLS services to patients in post‐cardiotomy cardiogenic shock or respiratory failure. The goal of this project was to assess the efficiency, safety, and outcomes of surgical patients who required transfer for perioperative ECLS from a single stand‐alone Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) to a separate ECLS center.

Methods

Cohort consisted of all cardiothoracic surgery patients who experienced cardiogenic shock or refractory respiratory failure at the local VAMC requiring urgent or emergent institution of ECLS between 2019 and 2022. The primary outcomes are the safety and timeliness of transport.

Results

Mean time from the initial shock call to arrival at the ECLS center was 2.8 h. There were no complications during transfer. Six patients (86%) survived to decannulation.

Conclusion

These results suggest that complex cardiothoracic surgery can be performed within the VHA system and when there is an indication for ECLS, those services can be safely and effectively provided at an affiliated, properly equipped center.
BMP6 and VDR gene polymorphisms are associated with osteonecrosis in a sickle cell anaemia cohort
Authors: Arcanjo Gabriela S. , Souza Mariana B. , Domingos Igor F. , Pereira‐Martins Diego A. , Falcão Diego A. , Batista Jessica V. , Hatzlhofer Betania L. , Diniz Madi V. , Silva Alexsandro P. , Guaraná Werbson L. , Hazin Manuela F. , Araujo Aderson S. , Cunha Anderson F. , Saad Sara O. , Costa Fernando F. , Lucena‐Araujo Antonio R. , Bezerra Marcos André C.
Published: February 2024

The occurrence and severity of osteonecrosis in sickle cell anaemia (SCA) vary due to risk factors, including genetic modifiers. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), particularly BMP6, and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) play key roles in cartilage and bone metabolism, making them potential contributors to orthopaedic outcomes in SCA. Here, we evaluated the association of polymorphisms in BMP6 (rs3812163, rs270393 and rs449853) and VDR (FokI rs2228570 and Cdx2 rs11568820) genes with osteonecrosis risk in a Brazilian SCA cohort. A total of 177 unrelated SCA patients were selected. The AA genotype of BMP6 rs3812163 was independently associated with a lower osteonecrosis risk (p = 0.015; odds ratio (OR): 0.38; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18–0.83) and with the long‐term cumulative incidence of osteonecrosis (p = 0.029; hazard ratio: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.34–0.94). The VDR rs2228570 TT genotype was independently associated with a lower osteonecrosis risk (p = 0.039; OR: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02–0.90). In summary, our results provide evidence that BMP6 rs3812163 and the VDR rs2228570 might be implicated in osteonecrosis pathophysiology in SCA and might help identify individuals at high risk.
Clonal haematopoiesis: A common progenitor for cytotoxic peripheral T‐cell lymphoma and angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Vogelsberg Antonio , Harland Lennart , Borgmann Vanessa , Otto Franziska , Weller Jan F. , Nann Dominik , Quintanilla‐Martinez Leticia , Fend Falko
Published: February 2024

Recent studies have shown that follicular helper T‐cell lymphoma of angioimmunoblastic type (AITL), the most common nodal peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL), frequently arises in a background of clonal haematopoiesis (CH), a preneoplastic condition affecting up to 40% of elderly individuals. Data on a potential CH association are limited for other PTCL. We report a unique patient who sequentially developed both cytotoxic PTCL, not otherwise specified and AITL with distinct T‐cell receptor rearrangements but shared somatic mutations originating from the same CH clone, thus providing convincing evidence that CH can give rise to T‐cell neoplasms of different lineage.
Is participation always appropriate? Social workers' perspectives on when to exclude children from conversations about contact visits
Authors: Huseby‐Lie Iselin , Ulvik Oddbjørg Skjær , Aamodt Hilde Anette
Published: February 2024

Previous studies suggest a widespread notion among social workers that children should be involved in child protection processes. Nevertheless, children are found to be unsatisfied with the degree to which they feel involved and heard in those processes. This study explored social workers' reasons to exclude children from conversations about contact visits. It applied a social constructivist approach, in which the dominant understandings of children—‘child constructions’—in the social workers' responses were identified and then used to discuss the concepts of ‘participation’ and ‘conversation’. Findings reveal that social workers' reasons to exclude children from conversations about contact visits align with prevailing notions of children as rights holders, as vulnerable and as mentally immature. This study suggests that broadening the concept of conversations could provide social workers with the latitude to explore innovative approaches to conversing with children. Furthermore, conversations about contact visits should be performed to be as a tool that empowers children to influence and make meaning of their lives.
Long‐term monitoring highlights the positive responses of the seabird community to rat eradication at Tromelin Island, Western Indian Ocean
Authors: Saunier Merlène , Amy Maxime , Baumann Michaël , Bignon Florent , Cartraud Audrey , d'Orchymont Quentin , Gazal Julien , Goguelat Antoine , Lemenager Marc , Marinesque Sophie , Orlowski Sabine , Manuelian Pierre Etienne , Le Corre Matthieu
Published: February 2024

The eradication of rats (Rattus norvegicus, R. exulans and R. rattus) on islands is essential for the preservation of island ecosystems, including seabird populations, which are particularly vulnerable to rat predation. However, the long‐term positive effects of rat eradication on seabird colonies and populations are often understudied. Brown rats (R. norvegicus) were eradicated from Tromelin Island in 2005. No other significative active restoration actions (such as artificial social attraction, translocation or habitat manipulations) have been implemented, which provides a unique opportunity to investigate natural seabird recolonization and recovery processes after rat eradication. We used seabird annual nest counts conducted from 2005 to 2022 and georeferenced data of occupied nests, to precisely describe the rebuilding of the seabird community of Tromelin Island. Despite the lack of any active restoration actions after the eradication of rats, and the remoteness of the island, 17 years after rat eradication, the seabird community increased from two to seven breeding species, and from 353 to 4758 breeding pairs (total for all species). The recovery of masked and red‐footed booby populations was mostly due to the improved breeding success and in fine to auto‐recruitment. Inter‐ and intra‐specific social attraction accelerated the arrival of new species and boosted their population growth. On a finer spatial scale, recolonizing species showed different patterns of colony settlement linked to intra‐specific attraction. The dynamics of the community of Tromelin Island after rat eradication can be regarded as a natural experiment that informs the processes of colony settlement, population dynamics and connectivity in tropical seabirds. Our results demonstrate the huge benefits of eradicating rats from seabird islands, even when no additional active restoration actions are feasible.
Flexibility in coral–algal symbiosis is positively correlated with the host geographic range
Authors: Zarate Daniel , Gary Jaclyn , Li Jingchun
Published: February 2024

Generalists are thought to adapt to broader ecological conditions compared to less flexible specialists. However, few studies have systematically tested what ecological or life‐history traits are associated with organisms' ecological flexibility. Here, we used stony corals to test the relative effects of host traits and ecological factors on corals' flexibility to form photosymbioses with algae. We analysed data from 211 stony coral species to test if coral's geographic distribution, depth range, symbiont transmission mode or colony morphology predict coral–algal flexibility. We report a novel positive correlation between coral–algal flexibility and coral species' geographic range. Symbiont transmission mode was also a predictor of flexibility, albeit the result is less robust against sampling bias. Coral depth range and morphology did not show significant effects. We highlight that host–symbiont dispersal abilities, interactions and evolutionary histories likely contribute to the observed patterns. We urge conservation efforts to consider the ecological implications of coral–algal flexibility.
Women's Experiences in Interreligious Leadership
Authors: Lohre Kathryn Mary
Published: February 2024

Women are providing significant leadership across the interfaith movement in the US context. While their leadership is increasingly acknowledged, this article will explore how women experience interreligious leadership. What are the challenges and opportunities they face? How do they view and engage their work and their networks? What is the vision they hold for transformed and transformative interreligious relations? How is women's interreligious leadership both an indicator of and a means for contributing to gender justice? This article will feature primary sources – leaders living in the United States and serving in local, national, and global positions with impact in all spheres – along with analysis from secondary sociological and theological sources. Thus, this article will contribute a rare first‐person assessment of women's interreligious leadership to a growing, much‐needed body of research on this topic.
Evaluation of external surgical approaches used for fenestration of the dorsal and ventral conchal bullae in horses: An ex vivo study
Authors: Piñeros Diego Darley Velasquez , Mendes Rubens Peres , De Lima Aymara Eduarda , de Souza Anderson Fernando , De Zoppa André Luis do Valle , Lopes Correia da Silva Luis Cláudio , de Freitas Silvio Henrique , Corrêa Rodrigo Romero
Published: February 2024

Background

Empyema of the conchal bullae, which is a possible additional source of chronic unilateral nasal discharge, affects up to 56% of horses with paranasal sinus disease.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the external surgical approaches for the fenestration of the conchal bullae in horses.

Study design

Experimental study.

Methods

Six heads of horses were used for external surgical approaches in the maxillary region, and the bilateral ventral and dorsal conchal bullae were fenestrated. Radiographic projections were performed preoperatively, and a further radiographic examination was performed after the surgical procedure using a Steinmann pin inserted through the surgical approach as a radiopaque marker. The approach to the bullae was also assessed by rhinoscopy. Dissection, macroscopic evaluation and digital photographic records of the surgical approaches were performed.

Results

A total of 92% (22/24 bullae) of the evaluated conchal bullae were fenestrated. The approach allowed the fenestration of 11/12 dorsal conchal bullae and 11/12 ventral conchal bullae. The postoperative radiographic evaluation allowed identification of the surgical approach and fenestration positioning by observing the location of the radiopaque pin within the conchal bullae. The dissection showed that the surgical approach to the dorsal conchal bulla was 3 cm dorsal to the infraorbital foramen and dorsal to the levator nasolabialis muscle, with no damage to the vascular or neural structures.

Main limitation

The surgical approach to the ventral conchal bulla, when performed 1 cm rostral to the infraorbital foramen, was very close to the branches of the infraorbital nerve, which were identified and moved away from the trephination site. This was an ex vivo study and it is possible that nasal haemorrhage would affect the usefulness in clinical cases.

Conclusion

The surgical approaches described in this study allow the fenestration of dorsal and ventral conchal bullae in adult horses in a simple way without the need for specific equipment.
Enhanced translocation of TRIM32 to mitochondria sensitizes dopaminergic neuronal cells to apoptosis during stress conditions in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Goyani Shanikumar , Shinde Anjali , Shukla Shatakshi , Saranga M. V. , Currim Fatema , Mane Minal , Singh Jyoti , Roy Milton , Gohel Dhruv , Chandak Nisha , Vasiyani Hitesh , Singh Rajesh
Published: February 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of dopamine‐producing neurons from the substantia nigra region of the brain. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the major causes of oxidative stress and neuronal cell death in PD. E3 ubiquitin ligases such as Parkin (PRKN) modulate mitochondrial quality control in PD; however, the role of other E3 ligases associated with mitochondria in the regulation of neuronal cell death in PD has not been explored. The current study investigated the role of TRIM32, RING E3 ligase, in sensitization to oxidative stress‐induced neuronal apoptosis. The expression of TRIM32 sensitizes SH‐SY5Y dopaminergic cells to rotenone and 6‐OHDA‐induced neuronal death, whereas the knockdown increased cell viability under PD stress conditions. The turnover of TRIM32 is enhanced under PD stress conditions and is mediated by autophagy. TRIM32 translocation to mitochondria is enhanced under PD stress conditions and localizes on the outer mitochondrial membrane. TRIM32 decreases complex‐I assembly and activity as well as mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ATP levels under PD stress. Deletion of the RING domain of TRIM32 enhanced complex I activity and rescued ROS levels and neuronal viability under PD stress conditions. TRIM32 decreases the level of XIAP, and co‐expression of XIAP with TRIM32 rescued the PD stress‐induced cell death and mitochondrial ROS level. In conclusion, turnover of TRIM32 increases during stress conditions and translocation to mitochondria is enhanced, regulating mitochondrial functions and neuronal apoptosis by modulating the level of XIAP in PD.
Intervention to reduce loneliness among older adults in the community: Making friends with volunteers
Authors: Hsu Hui‐Chuan , Chang Shu‐Ching , Liang Chun‐Yu , Ting Jie‐Rong
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to examine the effects of providing a program that introduced volunteers to make friends with older adults to reduce loneliness and increase loneliness literacy.

Methods

Eight community development associations in Taiwan participated in the study. In the first stage, older people living alone or with only a spouse, or those with a family, but without substantial interactions, were screened for loneliness. Older adults with a higher risk of loneliness were given priority to be invited to participate in this intervention. This 3‐month intervention program was designed by each community development association and delivered at the older adults' homes. A total of 87 older persons completed both waves of the interviews.

Results

Loneliness was reduced (UCLA‐6 Loneliness Scale scores decreased from 13.5 to 11.6), and loneliness literacy improved (loneliness literacy scores increased from 38.9 to 42.0) compared with what it was before the program. In a generalized linear model, when controlling for covariates, loneliness was reduced, but not significantly (B = −0.934, P > 0.05), whereas loneliness literacy improved significantly for older participants (B = 2.088, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Making friends with older adults who are lonely might improve their loneliness literacy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 240–245.
Comparative analysis on corrosion behavior of lightweight and dense mullite–corundum refractories: Role of Si‐rich phase
Authors: Liu Yuchi , Gao Yunqin , Yin Hongfeng , Xin Yalou , Tang Yun , Yuan Hudie , Sun Kewei
Published: February 2024

The corrosion resistance of lightweight and dense mullite–corundum refractories to cement materials was examined. The specimens following static crucible treatment were investigated using phase analysis, microstructure, and thermodynamic simulation. The results reveal that diffusion of the silica‐rich phase enhances alumina saturation solubility in the slag, reducing the corrosion resistance of the mullite–corundum refractories. The large proportion of closed pores and the continuous net‐like structure of anorthite created by the corrosion reaction in the matrix, on the other hand, prevent further slag penetration into the lightweight mullite–corundum refractories. As a result, the presence of the silica‐rich phase assures better slag penetration resistance of lightweight mullite–corundum refractories.
The relationship between electronic word of mouth and brand: A systematic review and future research agenda
Authors: Maru Chahat , Sai Vijay T.
Published: February 2024

Consumers often rely on electronic word‐of‐mouth (eWOM) interaction as a source of information about brands. It helps them in making decisions about their purchases. This study aimed to assess electronic word of mouth and identifies its relationship with various brand characteristics. 279 research articles examining eWOM and brand relationship were systematically identified and extracted from Scopus‐based and peer‐reviewed literature. A bibliometric analysis was conducted on these articles using bibliometrix‐R and VOSviewer. This review highlighted the most frequently cited and co‐cited articles in the domain and evolution of research in the domain using the SPAR‐4‐SLR methodology. Additionally, based on the Antecedent–Decisions–Outcome (ADO) framework, a comprehensive review was done which highlighted the most‐studied brand attributes as antecedents, decisions, and outcomes in the eWOM literature. This investigation revealed that the brand attitude was studied the most followed by brand image, brand engagement, and so forth. Further, the ADO framework is used to summarize this study's scholarly contributions, practical applications, and future research prospects. Furthermore, brand hate, authenticity, activism, congruence, and personality, co‐creation, and identity were deduced as future trends in this domain.
Edible coatings for enhancing osmodehydration process of pears using glucose solution: a study on mass transfer kinetics and quality assessment
Authors: Campañone Laura , Soteras Edgar , Rodriguez Anabel
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the combined application of edible coatings (alginate or pectin) and the osmotic dehydration process (glucose solution at 40 °Brix and 60 °Brix, solution temperatures of 20 and 40 °C, and process times of 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 h) on mass transfer kinetics and physicochemical parameters (weight reduction (WR), water loss (WL), solids gain (SG), and optical and mechanical properties) of pear cubes. The best dehydration performance was observed in the coated samples treated at 60 °Brix‐40 °C. At the end of this process, the coated samples showed higher values of WR (77.30% and 75.13%) and WL (77.39%; 74.38%) and lower values of SG (1.69% and 1.24%) than the uncoated samples (WR: 65.97%, WL: 68.38%, and SG: 4.12%). Additionally, optimal retention of optical and mechanical properties was achieved in the coated samples exposed to the 40 °Brix‐40 °C condition.
Sleep quality assessment of adults in care settings using non‐wearable sleep trackers: Scoping review
Authors: Yamakawa Miyae , Kang Hee Sun , Wang Huiting , Konno Rie
Published: February 2024

Aims

This review aimed to explore and map the literature on sleep quality assessments of adults in care settings using non‐wearable sleep trackers.

Background

Sleep‐monitoring technology is advancing, and sleep quality assessments using non‐wearable sleep trackers can provide objective evidence for quality care.

Design

This was a scoping review.

Data sources

Four electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Embase) were searched on 23 September 2022.

Review methods

This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology and used the PRISMA‐ScR checklist.

Results

Thirty studies met our inclusion criteria. Sleep quality was assessed at home and in acute, non‐acute and long‐term care facilities. Physiological (heart rate and respiratory rate) and sleep parameters were assessed alone or in combination during patient care using non‐wearable sleep trackers. Sleep parameters representing sleep quality varied across studies. Real‐time monitoring with non‐wearable sleep‐tracking devices effectively shortened the length of hospital stay. However, studies investigating caregivers and nursing outcomes are lacking in the literature.

Conclusion

Sleep quality assessments using non‐wearable sleep trackers may facilitate the provision of quality care in home‐based and clinical care settings. Future studies should focus on caregivers and care outcomes that could contribute to evidence‐based nursing practice for sleep care in adults.
Prevalence and management of proteinuria associated with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment in advanced renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and thyroid cancer
Authors: Kato Taigo , Mizuno Ryuichi , Miyake Hideaki
Published: February 2024

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR‐TKIs) are often used for treatment of several types of cancer; however, they are associated with an increased risk of proteinuria, sometimes leading to treatment discontinuation. We searched PubMed and Scopus to identify clinical studies examining the incidence and risk factors for proteinuria caused by VEGFR‐TKIs in patients with renal cell carcinoma, thyroid cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The global incidence of proteinuria ranged from 6% to 34% for all grades of proteinuria, and from 1% to 10% for grade ≥3 proteinuria. The incidence of proteinuria did not differ significantly by cancer type, but in all three cancer types, there was a trend toward a higher incidence of proteinuria with lenvatinib than with other VEGFR‐TKIs. In terms of risk factors, the incidence of proteinuria was significantly higher among Asians (including Japanese) compared with non‐Asian populations. Other risk factors included diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and previous nephrectomy. When grade 3/4 proteinuria occurs, patients should be treated according to the criteria for dose reduction or withdrawal specified for each drug. For grade 2 proteinuria, treatment should be continued when the benefits outweigh the risks. Referral to a nephrologist should be considered for symptoms related to decreased renal function or when proteinuria has not improved after medication withdrawal. These management practices should be implemented universally, regardless of the cancer type.
Efficacy and safety of combination therapy with telmisartan, rosuvastatin, and ezetimibe in patients with dyslipidemia and hypertension: A randomized, double‐blind, multicenter, therapeutic confirmatory, phase III clinical trial
Authors: Lee Chan Joo , Kang Woong Chol , Ihm Sang Hyun , Sohn Il Suk , Woo Jong Shin , Kim Jin Won , Hong Soon Jun , Choi Jung Hyun , Suh Jung‐Won , Seo Jae‐Bin , Doh Joon‐Hyung , Son Jung‐Woo , Park Jae‐Hyeong , Lee Ju‐Hee , Hong Young Joon , Heo Jung Ho , Shin Jinho , Kang Seok‐Min
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to compare and evaluate the efficacy of the blood pressure (BP) control and cholesterol‐lowering effects and safety of combination therapy with telmisartan, rosuvastatin, and ezetimibe versus rosuvastatin and ezetimibe double therapy or telmisartan single therapy in dyslipidemia patients with hypertension. After a wash‐out/therapeutic lifestyle change period of ≥4 weeks, a total of 100 eligible patients were randomized and received one of three treatments for 8 weeks: (1) telmisartan 80 mg/rosuvastatin 20 mg/ezetimibe 10 mg (TRE), (2) rosuvastatin 20 mg/ezetimibe 10 mg (RE), or (3) telmisartan 80 mg (T). The primary endpoint was the efficacy evaluation of TRE by comparing changes in mean sitting systolic blood pressure (msSBP) and mean percentage change in low‐density lipoprotein‐C (LDL‐C) from baseline after 8 weeks of treatment.

The least square (LS) mean (SE) changes in msSBP at 8 weeks compared with baseline were −23.02 (3.04) versus −7.18 (3.09) mmHg in the TRE and RE groups, respectively (p < .0001), and −25.80 (2.74) versus −14.92 (2.65) mmHg in the TRE and T groups, respectively (p = .0005). The percentage changes in the mean (SD) LDL‐C at 8 weeks compared with baseline were −54.97% (3.49%) versus −0.17% (3.23%) in the TRE and T groups, respectively (p < .0001). No serious adverse events occurred, and no statistically significant differences in the incidence of overall AEs and adverse drug reactions occurred among the three groups.

TRE therapy significantly decreased msSBP and LDL‐C compared to RE or T therapy with comparable safety and tolerability profiles.
Tooth loss mediates the association between smoking and an increased risk of dementia among older adults: The JAGES prospective cohort study
Authors: Kusama Taro , Takeuchi Kenji , Kiuchi Sakura , Tamada Yudai , Tabuchi Takahiro , Osaka Ken
Published: February 2024

Aim

Tooth loss has various causes; however, its cause‐specific effects on health outcomes remain unclear. This study evaluated whether the association between past/current smoking and risk of dementia was mediated by tooth loss.

Materials and Methods

This 9‐year‐follow‐up prospective cohort study targeted adults aged ≥65 years. Dementia incidence during 2013–2019, smoking status (never, past/current) in 2010 and the number of remaining teeth (≤19, ≥20) in 2013 were the outcome, exposure and mediator, respectively. We used causal mediation analysis to fit the Cox proportional hazards model and estimated the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the natural indirect effect (NIE) of smoking on dementia incidence through tooth loss and their mediated proportions.

Results

Among 32,986 participants (mean age 72.6 years [1 SD = 5.4]; men 48.4%), the dementia incidence during follow‐up was 2.11/100 person‐years. Tooth loss significantly mediated the association between past/current smoking and dementia incidence; the NIE of fewer remaining teeth for past/current smokers compared to never smokers was HR = 1.03 (95% CI: 1.02–1.05), and the mediated proportion was 18.0%.

Conclusions

Tooth loss significantly mediates the association between past/current smoking and an increased risk of dementia among older adults.
Finite element modeling in heat and mass transfer of potato slice dehydration, nonisotropic shrinkage kinetics using arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian algorithm and artificial neural network
Authors: Das Rahul , Prasad Kamlesh
Published: February 2024

The present study optimized the drying temperature (50–80°C) for potato slices based on color, texture, and visual observations. At an optimized temperature (60°C), a 2D axisymmetric finite element method (FEM) was developed in COMSOL Multiphysics to predict the heat and mass transfer (HMT) in a disk‐shaped potato slice. The nonisotropic shrinkage was predicted for the potato slice by the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian approach. The experimental dehydration results revealed that axial shrinkage (27.44%) was 2.5 times higher than radial shrinkage (67.39%). The simulated outcomes based on FEM revealed the realistic visualization of spatial heat transfer, moisture migration, and nonisotropic slice deformation. The predicted moisture content, surface temperature, and shrinkage properties were in good agreement with the experimental results. The shrinkage behavior was further validated using artificial neural network (ANN) to simulate the slice shrinkage. Results showed that both the COMSOL and ANN approaches can precisely predict the shrinkage‐dependent HMT model. The ANN model outperformed the COMSOL determined by mean absolute error, mean square error (MSE), root MSE, and Chi‐square (χ2) values. The successful application of the presented approach for determining dehydration characteristics may have potential for quality assessment and management of different fruits and vegetables.

Practical applications

This journal article explores the practical industrial applications of combining finite element method (FEM)‐based heat and mass transfer model and artificial neural networks (ANNs) to improve the efficiency and quality of food drying processes. FEM is employed to simulate and predict the realistic visualization of heat and mass transfer phenomena along with non‐isotropic shrinkage, while ANN serves as a data‐driven modeling tool for process control and prediction. The integration of these two technologies offers significant advantages in the food industry, including quantification of precise temperature and moisture content, as well as to monitor the drying process of various food products, reduced energy consumption, and time.