bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipase‐catalyzed preparation of deacidified Buah Merah (Pandanus conoideus) oil
Authors: Aum Jeeae , Hwang Jihyun , Choi Eunji , Shin Jung‐Ah , Shin Eui‐Cheol , Kim In‐Hwan , Kim Byung Hee
Published: June 2023

Buah Merah oil (BMO) is unrefined edible oil containing a high level of free fatty acids (FFA; ∼30% w/w). This study was aimed at preparing deacidified BMO from BMO via lipase‐catalyzed esterification of FFA in BMO with added glycerol, using Duolite A568‐immobilized Eversa Transform 2.0 (Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase) as biocatalyst. BMO containing 2.4% w/w FFA and 94.6% w/w triacylglycerol was obtained under optimal reaction conditions (temperature, 70°C; FFA‐to‐glycerol molar ratio, 3:1; enzyme loading based on the protein quantity, 3.75 mg/g BMO, and reaction time, 48 h). No significant difference was found in the contents of β‐carotene, tocopherols, and phytosterols between raw and deacidified BMO. The induction period of oxidation was significantly longer in deacidified BMO (16.37 h) than in raw BMO (0.03 h). These results suggest that deacidified BMO could be enzymatically prepared without the loss of health‐beneficial minor components while enhancing the oxidative stability.

Practical Application

Although BMO has recently received much attention for its potential biological activities, the commercial use of BMO as a healthy oil has been limited due to its high FFA content. Unlike conventional alkali and steam refining, enzymatic deacidification of BMO employed in this study might help the commercialization of BMO, because this procedure enables the improvement of oil yield and the retaining of health‐beneficial minor components.
A third century ad rhymed hymn from Yemen: The origins of Arabic poetry and literature?
Authors: Daum Werner , ‘Abdullāh Yūsuf b. Muḥammad , ‘Alī al‐Iryānī Muṭahhar b.
Published: June 2023

This article is a tribute to Muṭahhar al‐Iryānī and Yūsuf ‘Abdullāh—two of the most outstanding Yemeni savants of all times. Sadly, both are no longer with us. Muṭahhar passed away in 2016, and Yūsuf in 2021. In what follows, I present—through my renderings—their last scholarly achievements. They concern a well‐known Sabaean inscription found in 1951 in Mārib. The text is written consecutively and was therefore not recognisable as a poem. In 2005, Muṭahhar al‐Iryānī published the first convincing presentation of this hymn, revealing its poetic structure. His final take on the subject is the strophe and verse arrangement offered in the present article. Yūsuf ‘Abdullāh is the discoverer of another rhymed Sabaean hymn. Both authors are convinced that these are the antecedents of the poetry of the Arabs. Substance‐wise, the two scholars hold different views. In al‐Iryānī's opinion, the hymn describes a battle of the Sabaean army. Victory is achieved through the intervention of the Sabaean high god Almaqah. On the other hand, Yūsuf ‘Abdullāh interprets the hymn as a rain rogation myth. He parallels it with the traditional rain processions of the Yemeni countryside, which he sees as a ritual survival from pre‐Islamic times. If accepted, a central element of the pre‐Islamic religion has been brought to light.
Resolution of Small and Medium‐Sized Deposit‐Taking Institutions: Back to Basics?
Authors: Peihani Maziar
Published: June 2023

Following the 2008 Great Financial Crisis, financial policy makers have refocused their attention on bank resolution, prompting the creation of new resolution tools and regime reforms. As a result, the focus has mainly been on large, systemically important banks. Less attention has been paid to a broader range of financial institutions, namely small and medium deposit‐taking institutions. That tendency limits the applicability of these tools, which are imperfectly adapted to the unique issues faced by these smaller institutions. This article will assess both the successful applications and the limitations of resolution tools to small and medium deposit‐taking institution failures, focusing on three tools in particular: the bail‐in, the bridge bank, and purchase and assumption. In doing so, the benefits and challenges of each of these tools will be examined through the lens of recent resolution examples in the United States, Canada, and the European Union. This article also argues for the availability of public funds to achieve a successful resolution, taking the view that moral hazard concerns are overstated and that rigid bans of public funds are counterproductive to the goals of resolution. Lastly, this article seeks to develop a broad understanding of the systemic importance that accounts for the essential role of small and medium deposit‐taking institutions in their communities.
The case for studying tadpole autecology, with comments on strategies to study other small,fast‐movinganimals in nature
Authors: Annibale Fabiane S. , Wassersug Richard J. , Rossa‐Feres Denise de C. , Nomura Fausto , Brasileiro Cinthia A. , Sabbag Ariadne F. , Zeng Yu , Phillips Jackson R.
Published: June 2023

Two of the most fundamental questions in tadpole biology, also applicable to most small, under‐studied organisms are: (1) ‘Why are they built the way they are?’ and (2) ‘Why do they live where they do?’ Regrettably, despite significant progress in most aspects of tadpole biology, the answers to these questions are not much better now than they were in the last century. We propose that an autecological approach, that is the careful observation of individuals and how they interact with the environment, is a potential path towards a fuller understanding of tadpole ecomorphology and evolution. We also discuss why more attention should be given to studying atypical tadpoles from atypical environments, such as torrential streams, water‐filled cavities of terrestrial plants and wet rock surfaces neighbouring streams. Granted, tadpoles are rare in these settings, but in those unusual habitats the physical environments can be well described and characterized. In contrast, the more common ponds where tadpoles are found are typically too structurally complex to be easily delineated. This makes it difficult to know exactly what individual tadpoles are doing and what environmental parameters they are responding to. Our overall thesis is that to understand tadpoles we must see exactly what they are doing, where they are doing it, and how they are doing it. This takes work, but we suggest it is feasible and could greatly advance our understanding of how anuran larvae have evolved. The same strategies for studying tadpoles that we encourage here can be applied to the study of many other small and fast‐moving animals.
Effects of Ramadan fasting on fetal health: A systematic review
Authors: Ong Andrew Khai Weyn , Yee Anne Li , Fong Adrian Jing Hong , Arasoo Valliammai Jayanthi Thirunavuk , Ramadas Amutha
Published: June 2023

Background

Ramadan fasting (RF) is mandatory for all healthy Muslims in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Although pregnant women are exempt from fasting, many make the decision to practise it. Concerns that fasting during pregnancy harms the fetus remain, as there are no firm recommendations regarding its safety.

Objectives

To provide a systematic review on the effects of RF on fetal health.

Search Strategy

We conducted a literature search for peer‐reviewed articles through Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) until 31 December 2021.

Selection Criteria

All case–control and observational cohort studies that reported on fetal outcomes of pregnant women who underwent RF for at least one day during pregnancy are included.

Data Collection and Analysis

Two researchers independently reviewed the eligibility of all studies. A third researcher resolved any conflict between researchers. Findings are extracted from eligible papers and presented as narratives.

Main Results

Fourteen articles are included based on eligibility criteria, with a total sample size of 2889. Studies demonstrate negative associations between RF and neonatal weight, amniotic fluid index, preterm birth and growth parameters mainly during the second and third trimesters. However, the evidence is not strongly supported.

Conclusion

There is limited data to elucidate the relationship between RF and fetal health, hence the need for more studies to provide a better understanding.
Cell‐type‐specific determination of reactive oxygen species by flow cytometry
Authors: Hajnal Agnes , Bogdandi Noemi , Marokházi Judit , Guba Dorina , Mikus Endre G.
Published: June 2023

Background

Seminal leukocyte‐generated reactive oxygen species may have a significant impact on sperm intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, therefore contributing to oxidative damage and consequent functional impairment of spermatozoa. This relationship may be utilized for male urogenital inflammation‐driven oxidative stress diagnostics.

Objective

To obtain seminal cell‐specific, reactive oxygen species‐related fluorescence intensity cut‐off values to differentiate leukocytospermic samples displaying reactive oxygen species overproduction (oxidative burst) from normozoospermic seminal samples.

Material and methods

Ejaculates gained by masturbation were obtained from patients in the framework of andrology consultations. The results published in this paper were generated from samples for which the attending physician requested spermatograms and seminal reactive oxygen species laboratory tests. Routine seminal analyses were performed according to World Health Organization guidelines. Samples were divided into normozoospermic “non‐inflamed,” and leukocytospermic groups. The semen was stained by 2′,7′‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and the reactive oxygen species‐related fluorescence signal and the percentage of reactive oxygen species‐positive spermatozoa within the living population were quantified by flow cytometry.

Results

Reactive oxygen species‐related mean fluorescence intensity was higher in both spermatozoa and leukocytes from leukocytospermic samples than in those from normozoospermic samples. Mean fluorescence intensity in spermatozoa was positively and linearly correlated with mean fluorescence intensity measured in leukocytes in both groups.

Discussion

The capacity of spermatozoa to generate reactive oxygen species is at least three log lower than that of granulocytes. The question is whether the reactive oxygen species‐producing machinery of spermatozoa is capable of causing autologous oxidative stress or whether leukocytes are the predominant source of seminal oxidative stress. Based on our observations, the reactive oxygen species production of leukocytes may have a significant impact on the overall reactive oxygen species levels measured in spermatozoa.

Conclusion

Reactive oxygen species‐overproducing leukocytospermic and normozoospermic seminal samples can reliably be differentiated based on reactive oxygen species mean fluorescence intensity measurement.
Does religious atmosphere promote corporate green innovation performance? Evidence from China
Authors: She Maoyan , Hu Die , Wang Zhiwei , Zhao Xuan
Published: June 2023

Green innovation has been attracting much attention from academia and practice, but the influence of religion as an important informal institutional factor has not been fully investigated in existing studies. Taking Chinese listed companies from 2008 to 2019 as a sample, this study attempts to examine the relationship between religious atmosphere and corporate green innovation performance. The empirical results indicate that a religious atmosphere (Buddhism and Taoism as a whole) can significantly improve corporate green innovation performance, particularly high‐quality green innovation. The positive association between religion and green innovation performance is attenuated by pervasive formal institutions (i.e., environmental regulation), indicating that there is a substitutive effect between religion and formal institutions. We also find that Taoism mainly supports these results, while Buddhism has a limited impact, showing that there is a heterogeneous effect between different religions. We further find that the positive impact of religious atmosphere on green innovation performance is more pronounced in low‐governance enterprises and low‐polluting industries. This study contributes to research on the antecedents of corporate green innovation and the consequence of religion, which is of great significance to the value of religion in business practice.
Left atrial dyssynchrony in veteran endurance athletes with and without paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sørensen Eivind , Myrstad Marius , Solberg Magnar Gangås , Øie Erik , Platonov Pyotr G. , Carlson Jonas , Tveit Arnljot , Aarønæs Marit
Published: June 2023

Background

Prolonged endurance exercise increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in men. Functional parameters may help separate physiological from pathological atrial remodeling in athletes. LA mechanical dispersion (LA MD) is associated with AF in the general population, but the associations between prolonged exercise, LA MD and AF are not known.

Purpose

To describe LA MD in veteran athletes with and without paroxysmal AF (pAF) and to investigate LA MD's ability to identify veteran athletes with pAF.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety‐three men, skiers with (n = 57) and without (n = 87) pAF, and controls with (n = 61) and without pAF (n = 88) underwent an echocardiographic exam in sinus rhythm. LA reservoir strain (LASr) was measured, and LA MD defined as the standard deviation of time‐to‐peak strain (SD‐TPS).

Results

Skiers (mean age 70.7 ± 6.7 years) reported an average of 40–50 years of endurance exercise. LA volumes were associated with pAF and athletic status (p < .001). SD‐TPS was associated with pAF (p < .001) but not athletic status (p = .173). We found no significant trend between years of exercise and SD‐TPS in individuals without AF (p = .893). SD‐TPS did not add incremental value in identifying athletes with pAF in addition to clinical markers, QRS width, LA volume, and LASr (p = .056).

Conclusion

LA MD was associated with pAF regardless of athletic status but not related to years of endurance exercise, suggesting LA MD could be a promising marker of pathological atrial remodeling in athletes. However, we found no incremental value of LA MD identifying athletes with pAF when LASr was included in the model.
Excessive salt intake reduces bone density in the general female population
Authors: Takase Hiroyuki , Takeuchi Yuki , Fujita Tomotada , Ohishi Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2023

Background

Osteoporosis is a multifactorial disorder in which nutrition is associated with its onset and progression. Excessive salt intake is closely associated with the onset and progression of various diseases, such as osteoporosis and hypertension. We investigated the effects of dietary salt intake on bone density in the general female population.

Methods

In 884 female participants (60.1 ± 10.1 years old) who visited our hospital for an annual physical checkup, salt intake (g/day) was assessed using a spot urine sample, and bone density was evaluated as a speed of sound (m/s) of ultrasonic pulses in a calcaneus by quantitative ultrasound. We investigated the relationship between bone density and salt intake and the differences in bone density or salt intake between the presence and absence of lifestyle‐related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia.

Results

The average bone density and salt intake were 1497 ± 26 m/s and 8.5 ± 1.8 g/day, respectively. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses revealed that bone density was significantly negatively associated with salt intake. Bone density was lower, and salt intake was higher in participants with hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia than in those without. After adjusting for age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia, bone density was negatively correlated with salt intake.

Conclusions

We confirmed that excessive salt intake reduces bone density independently of age and lifestyle‐related diseases in the general female population. Since dietary salt intake is a modifiable factor, osteoporosis can be prevented by dietary intervention, including salt reduction.
Soil degradation and mitigation in agricultural lands in the Indian Anthropocene
Authors: Bhattacharyya Ranjan , Bhatia Arti , Ghosh Birendra N. , Santra Priyabrata , Mandal Debashis , Kumar Gopal , Singh Raman Jeet , Madhu Madegowda , Ghosh Avijit , Mandal Arup K. , Paul Ranjan , Datta Ashim , Sharma Parbodh C. , Mandal Uttam K. , Jha Pramod , Anil Kokkuvayil S. , Lalitha Manickam , Kumar Mahesh , Panwar Nav R. , Sarkar Dibyendu , Patra Ashok K. , Kundu Sumanta , Fullen Michael A. , Poesen Jean , Das Bhabani Sankar , Reddy Nagarjuna N. , Chaudhari Suresh K.
Published: June 2023

Current widespread and intensive soil degradation in India has been driven by unprecedented levels of population growth, large‐scale industrialization, high‐yield agriculture, urban sprawl and the spread of human infrastructure. The damage caused to managed and natural systems by soil degradation threatens livelihoods and local services and leads to national socio‐economic disruption. Human‐induced soil degradation results from land clearing and deforestation, inappropriate agricultural practices, improper management of industrial effluents and wastes, careless management of forests, surface mining, urban sprawl, and ill‐planned commercial and industrial development. Of these, inappropriate agricultural practices, including excessive tillage and use of heavy machinery, over‐grazing, excessive and unbalanced use of inorganic fertilizers, poor irrigation and water management techniques, pesticide overuse, inadequate crop residue and/or organic carbon inputs, and poor crop cycle planning, account for nearly 40% (121 Mha) of land degradation across India. Globally, human activities related to agriculture contribute to the transgression of four of the nine Planetary Boundaries proposed by Rockström et al. (2009): Climate Change, Biodiversity Integrity, Land‐system Change, and altered Phosphorus and Nitrogen Biogeochemical Flows. This review focuses on how knowledge of soil processes in agriculture has developed in India over the past 10 years, and the potential of soil science to meet the objectives of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger (End hunger, achieve food security, improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture), using the context of the four most relevant Planetary Boundaries as a framework. Solutions to mitigate soil degradation and improve soil health in different regions using conservation agricultural approaches have been proposed. Thus, in this review we (1) summarize the outputs of recent innovative research in India that has explored the impacts of soil degradation on four Planetary Boundaries (Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, Land‐system Change, and altered Biogeochemical Flows of Phosphorus and Nitrogen) and vice‐versa; and (2) identify the knowledge gaps that require urgent attention to inform developing soil science research agendas in India, to advise policy makers, and to support those whose livelihoods rely on the land.
Preclinical examination of early‐onset thalamic‐cortical seizures after hemispheric stroke
Authors: García‐Peña Pablo , Ramos Milagros , López Juan M. , Martinez‐Murillo Ricardo , de Arcas Guillermo , Gonzalez‐Nieto Daniel
Published: June 2023

Objective

Ischemic stroke is one of the main causes of death and disability worldwide and currently has limited treatment options. Electroencephalography (EEG) signals are significantly affected in stroke patients during the acute stage. In this study, we preclinically characterized the brain electrical rhythms and seizure activity during the hyperacute and late acute phases in a hemispheric stroke model with no reperfusion.

Methods

EEG signals and seizures were studied in a model of hemispheric infarction induced by permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (pMCAO), which mimics the clinical condition of stroke patients with permanent ischemia. Electrical brain activity was also examined using a photothrombotic (PT) stroke model. In the PT model, we induced a similar (PT group‐1) or smaller (PT group‐2) cortical lesion than in the pMCAO model. For all models, we used a nonconsanguineous mouse strain that mimics human diversity and genetic variation.

Results

The pMCAO hemispheric stroke model exhibited thalamic‐origin nonconvulsive seizures during the hyperacute stage that propagated to the thalamus and cortex. The seizures were also accompanied by progressive slowing of the EEG signal during the acute phase, with elevated delta/theta, delta/alpha, and delta/beta ratios. Cortical seizures were also confirmed in the PT stroke model of similar lesions as in the pMCAO model, but not in the PT model of smaller injuries.

Significance

In the clinically relevant pMCAO model, poststroke seizures and EEG abnormalities were inferred from recordings of the contralateral hemisphere (noninfarcted hemisphere), emphasizing the reciprocity of interhemispheric connections and that injuries affecting one hemisphere had consequences for the other. Our results recapitulate many of the EEG signal hallmarks seen in stroke patients, thereby validating this specific mouse model for the examination of the mechanistic aspects of brain function and for the exploration of the reversion or suppression of EEG abnormalities in response to neuroprotective and anti‐epileptic therapies.
Fretting fatigue tests and microstructure analysis of bridge stay cable wires
Authors: Chehrazi Ali , Liang Wanhua , Huda Nazmul , Walbridge Scott
Published: June 2023

Saddle systems are a popular method for supporting the cables at the pylons of cable‐stayed bridges. Fretting fatigue failure of bridge stay cables is a major design consideration for saddle systems. Current design provisions require large‐scale tests of these anchoring systems. However, such tests are costly and time‐consuming. With this in mind, the current paper presents a small‐scale fretting fatigue setup to evaluate the fretting fatigue behavior of bridge stay cable wires at saddle supports. In this paper, fretting tests are conducted on bare and galvanized wires. Hourglass samples are then used to evaluate the material properties and plain fatigue performance of the studied wires. Finally, the microstructure of the wires is evaluated, and the influence of defects on the fretting fatigue life of the wires is discussed.
Lower soil nitrous oxide emissions by a high lipid genetically modified perennial ryegrass line compared to its wild type
Authors: Bowatte Saman , Newton Paul , Hoogendoorn Coby , Winichayakul Somrutai , Roberts Nick , Brock Shona , Theobald Phil , Thompson Danica , Xue Hong , Luo Dongwen
Published: June 2023

We describe an experiment where cattle urine was applied at a rate of 420 kg N ha−1, equivalent to 10 L m−2, to mesocosm swards of a high lipid genetically modified perennial ryegrass line (HME) and its wild type (WT). We measured N pools and fluxes in the plant and soil, soil microbial populations and N2O production. HME plants produced 21% greater biomass than WT (p = .02), resulting in greater N uptake (27% higher in HME, p = .05). Urine N recovery in total plant biomass during the experiment in HME and WT swards were 54.7% and 33.9% respectively. The nitrification potential of soil was significantly lower (p = .01) in HME than WT. Partial least square‐discriminant analysis using microbial gene abundance data indicated that HME and WT plant growth induced distinct microbial populations in the soil. These differences in plant soil microbial interactions between HME and WT swards resulted in significantly lower N2O emissions from the HME sward. Total N2O emissions over the 4 weeks after urine application was 38% lower (p < .03) in HME swards than in WT swards. The next step in this work is to identify the specific changes in HME traits that drive the reduction in N2O.
‘To be Informed and Involved’: Women's insights on optimising childbirth care in Lithuania
Authors: Širvinskienė Giedrė , Grincevičienė Švitrigailė , Pranskevičiūtė‐Amoson Rasa , Kukulskienė Milda , Downe Soo
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The user expectations and experiences of healthcare services are acknowledged as components of the quality of healthcare evaluations. The aim of the study is to analyse women's experiences and views on childbirth care in Lithuania.

Methods

The study used the Babies Born Better (B3) online survey as the data collection instrument. The B3 is an ongoing longitudinal international project, examining the experiences of intrapartum care and developed as part of EU‐funded COST Actions (IS0907 and IS1405). Responses to open‐ended questions about (1) the best things about the care and (2) things in childbirth care worth changing are included in the current analysis. The participants are 373 women who had given birth within 5 years in Lithuania. A deductive coding framework established by the literature review was used to analyse the qualitative data. The framework involves three main categories: (1) the service, (2) the emotional experience and (3) the individually experienced care, each further divided into subcategories.

Results

Reflecting the experience and views regarding theserviceat birthplace women wished empowerment, support for their autonomy and to be actively involved in decisions, the need for privacy, information and counselling, especially about breastfeeding. In terms ofemotional experience, women highlighted the importance of comprehensibility/feeling of safety, positive manageability of various situations and possibilities for bonding with the newborn.Individually experienced carewas described by feedback on specific characteristics of care providers, such as competence, personality traits, time/availability and encouragement of esteem in women in childbirth. The possibilities of homebirth were also discussed. The findings reflected salutogenic principles.

Key Conclusions

The findings suggest that the Lithuanian healthcare system is in a transition from paternalistic attitude‐based practices to a shift towards patient‐oriented care. Implementation of the improvements suggested for women in childbirth care in Lithuania would require some additional services, improved emotional and intrapersonal aspects of care and a more active role for women.

Patient/Public Contribution

Patients and the public contributed to this study by spreading information about surveys and research findings through their involvement in service user groups that have an interest in maternity care. Members of the patients' groups and the public were involved in the discussion of the results.
Large‐scale fabrication of TiC@C powders and its effect on the properties of Al2O3‐MgO‐C castables
Authors: Zhao Li , Yin Yicheng , Li Yong , Ma Haoxuan , Liu Xinhong , Zhang Shaowei , Jia Quanli
Published: June 2023

High performance carbon containing castables have always been pursued by researchers and steelmaking producers, unfortunately, poor water‐wettability of graphite flakes was greatly limited their application in castables. To respond this, we proposed a large‐scale and low‐cost modified molten salt shielding synthesis technique for fabricating TiC coated graphite in air atmosphere using graphite flake and Ti powder as raw materials. Microstructure, wettability and oxidation resistance of TiC@C powders, and effect of TiC@C powders on the properties of Al2O3‐MgO‐C castables were investigated. The results demonstrate that TiC coated graphite was synthesized via modified molten salt shielding synthesis route in air atmosphere. A uniform and continuous TiC layer was formed on the surface of graphite, thereby significantly improving the water‐wettability and oxidation resistance of graphite flakes. The castables with 5% TiC@C powders possessed lower apparent porosity, higher cold strength, good oxidation resistance, and slag resistance in comparison with the castables with graphite flakes, and slag resistance were also better than Al2O3‐MgO castables. The as‐fabricated TiC@C powders have good water‐wettability and oxidation resistance, making them as a prime carbon source for producing carbon containing castables for steel ladle linings.
Preoperative risk classification for intravesical recurrence after laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma in a multi‐institutional cohort
Authors: Somiya Shinya , Kobori Go , Ito Katsuhiro , Nakagawa Hiromichi , Takahashi Toshifumi , Koterazawa Shigeki , Takaoka Naoto , Haitani Takao , Nagahama Kanji , Ito Masaaki , Megumi Yuzuru , Higashi Yoshihito , Moroi Seiji , Akao Toshiya , Yamada Hitoshi , Kanno Toru
Published: June 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to identify preoperative risk factors and create a risk classification for intravesical recurrence of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma only after laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy in a multi‐institutional cohort.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 283 patients who had undergone laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy for nonmetastatic upper tract urothelial cancer between March 2002 and March 2020. The cumulative incidence of intravesical recurrence for 224 patients without previous or concomitant bladder cancer was examined using multivariate Fine‐Gray competing risks proportional hazards models. A risk stratification model was created to predict subsequent patient outcomes based on the results.

Results

The median follow‐up duration was 33.3 months, and 71 (31.7%) patients experienced intravesical recurrence. The estimated cumulative incidence of intravesical recurrence at one and 5 years was 23.5% and 36.4%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the presence of ureter tumors and multiple tumors were shown to be independently significant predictive factors for intravesical recurrence. Based on the results, we classified patients into three risk groups. The cumulative incidence rates of intravesical recurrence within 5 years after surgery were 24.4%, 42.5%, and 66.7% in the low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐risk groups, respectively.

Conclusions

We identified risk factors and created a risk classification model for intravesical recurrence of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma only after laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy. Based on this model, an individualized surveillance protocol or adjuvant therapy could be provided.
Why do we evaluate 30‐day readmissions in general medicine? A historical perspective and contemporary data
Authors: James Jonathan , Tan Sheryn , Stretton Brandon , Kovoor Joshua G. , Gupta Aashray K. , Gluck Samuel , Gilbert Toby , Sharma Yogesh , Bacchi Stephen
Published: June 2023

Reducing preventable readmissions is important to help manage current strains on healthcare systems. The metric of 30‐day readmissions is commonly cited in discussions regarding this topic. While such thresholds have contemporary funding implications, the rationale for individual cut‐off points is partially historical in nature. Through the examination of the basis for the analysis of 30‐day readmissions, greater insight into the possible benefits and limitations of such a metric may be obtained.
DKA/HHS insulin infusion protocol adherence and patient outcomes in Shellharbour Hospital
Authors: Khor Amanda , Mohiuddin Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS) are medical emergencies requiring prompt assessment and management to avoid complications.

Aims

To examine adherence to the hospital DKA/HHS insulin infusion protocol, assess outcomes in patients admitted with DKA or HHS, and determine if improvements have been observed from a similar audit in 2016.

Methods

An audit was conducted on 40 patients admitted to Shellharbour Hospital with DKA or HHS. Protocol adherence was assessed in the domains of fluid replacement, potassium replacement, use of the correct insulin infusion schedule, timing of commencement of dextrose infusion and appropriate transition to subcutaneous insulin. The outcomes assessed included length of hospital stay, duration of insulin infusion, time to euglycaemia, intensive care unit (ICU) transfer, overlap between insulin infusion and subcutaneous insulin, diabetes team review and incidence and management of hypoglycaemia.

Results

The proportion of cases that adhered to the components of the insulin infusion protocol is as follows: fluid replacement (40%), potassium replacement (72.5%), correct insulin schedule (82.5%), appropriate commencement of intravenous dextrose (80%) and appropriate transition to subcutaneous insulin (87.5%). Appropriate overlap between insulin infusion and subcutaneous insulin occurred in 62.5% of patients. Eighty‐five per cent of patients were reviewed by the diabetes team. Three per 40 patients experienced hypoglycaemia, and none of the three patients was treated as per protocol. Compared to the 2016 audit, there was a significant improvement in potassium replacement but a decrease in appropriate fluid replacement.

Conclusion

This audit highlights areas in DKA/HHS management requiring improvement. These include fluid and potassium replacement and appropriate overlap between subcutaneous insulin and insulin infusion.
Philosophical health andwuxingontology
Authors: Bâtcă Veronica , Simionescu‐Panait Andrei
Published: June 2023

Introduction

In recent years, a new form of health has emerged, namely philosophical health. This novel concept is part of the philosophical counseling movement and relies on the philosophical method called the SMILE‐PH interview, which draws heavily from continental philosophy, including phenomenology. Reflecting on the link between health and philosophy brings us to an ancient healthcare tradition that actively relies on philosophy: Chinese healthcare and its founding wuxing, or five phases ontology.

Objective

The aim of this study is to interpret philosophical health from the standpoint of wuxing ontology.

Methods

We used the multiple meanings of the five phases to interpret the six concepts of SMILE‐PH interview method. Then, we monitored how applying the SMILE‐PH involves a parent phase triggering for the counselee. Last, we focused our analysis on the triggered phase and conceptualized them into philosophical health.

Results

The SMILE‐PH topics are located in a specific phase, namely the Metal phase (xin), which is described by the concepts of connection, existence, identity, meaning in one's life, and spirituality. The one‐phase structure of SMILE‐PH fosters the triggering of its parent phase: the predominant Metal phase character of the SMILE‐PH interview will promote the appearance of Earth phase answers. Conceptualizing the Earth phase into philosophical health adds the following aspects to the latter: emotional stability, the feeling of plenitude, and sharing without a transactional mindset.

Conclusion

We obtained a clear perspective of the place of SMILE‐PH in wuxing ontology and added a new layer to philosophical health. The other phases of wuxing ontology remain to be tested and integrated into philosophical health.
Radiographic measurements of the hind limbs in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.)
Authors: de Souza Siragusi Rafael H. , Rahal Sheila C. , Moresco Anneke , da Silva Jeana P. , Mamprim Maria J. , Mayrink Cardoso Eduardo B.
Published: June 2023

Background

Radiographic measurements are a useful tool to assess skeletal health and development in primates. This study aimed to perform radiographic measurements of hind limbs in capuchin monkeys.

Methods

Twelve Sapajus spp. were used; ten adults and two sub‐adults, nine females and three males.

Results and conclusions

The pelvimetry showed that the pelvic inlet area presented mean values of 7.63, 10.23, and 5.43 cm2 for adult males, adult females, and sub‐adult females, respectively. The mean inclination angle was 129.45° and the mean values for the mechanical lateral proximal and distal femoral angles were 102.32° and 90.93°, respectively. The mean values for the anatomic lateral proximal and distal femoral angles were 104.59° and 85.98°, respectively. In conclusion, the radiographic measurements proved feasible for hind limb evaluation in Sapajus spp. and can be used for comparison with animals presenting orthopedic lesions.
Nodes of Ranvier in health and disease
Authors: Eshed‐Eisenbach Yael , Brophy Peter J. , Peles Elior
Published: June 2023

Action potential propagation along myelinated axons depends on the geometry of the myelin unit and the division of the underlying axon to specialized domains. The latter include the nodes of Ranvier (NOR), the paranodal junction (PNJ) flanking the nodes, and the adjacent juxtaparanodal region that is located below the compact myelin of the internode. Each of these domains contains a unique composition of axoglial adhesion molecules (CAMs) and cytoskeletal scaffolding proteins, which together direct the placement of specific ion channels at the nodal and juxtaparanodal axolemma. In the last decade it has become increasingly clear that antibodies to some of these axoglial CAMs cause immune‐mediated neuropathies. In the current review we detail the molecular composition of the NOR and adjacent membrane domains, describe the function of different CAM complexes that mediate axon‐glia interactions along the myelin unit, and discuss their involvement and the underlying mechanisms taking place in peripheral nerve pathologies. This growing group of pathologies represent a new type of neuropathies termed “nodopathies” or “paranodopathies” that are characterized by unique clinical and molecular features which together reflect the mechanisms underlying the molecular assembly and maintenance of this specialized membrane domain.
Consumers' use of ambiguous product cues: The case of “regionality” claims
Authors: Herz Marc , Diamantopoulos Adamantios , Riefler Petra
Published: June 2023

Ambiguous product cues—cues with multiple interpretation options—may impact consumer decision making. One such ambiguous cue is the designation of a product as “regional” without specifying the exact origin of the product. Here, consumers typically equate “regional” with spatial proximity, yet legally the use of regional labels does not necessarily reflect such proximity. A potential mismatch can occur between consumers' interpretation of regionality and firms' use of regional communication claims, leading to potential consumer deception and harmed consumer welfare. Drawing upon the accessibility‐diagnosticity‐framework and Elaboration‐Likelihood‐Model, this paper examines consumers' responses to different regionality cues. Across two studies, we find that communicated regionality cues heighten consumers' product evaluations resulting from (mis)perceived spatial proximity. Informing consumers about the true product results in unfavorable evaluations if that origin is spatially distant. Our findings call for regulation of regional product labels and highlight the need for communication standards in consumer markets.
Barriers and enablers to providing evidence‐based in‐hospital urinary continence care: A cross‐sectional survey informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Boyle Kerry , Marsden Dianne Lesley , Waller Amy , Duff Jed
Published: June 2023

Aims

To identify the barriers and enablers perceived by hospital‐based clinicians to providing evidence‐based continence care to inpatients.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study of inpatient clinicians using a questionnaire.

Methods

Acute care and rehabilitation clinicians from 15 wards that admit patients after stroke at 12 hospitals (NSW = 11, Queensland =1, metropolitan = 4, regional = 8) were invited to complete an online questionnaire. The 58 questions (answered on a 5‐point Likert scale) were aligned to 13 of the 14 domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework. Results were dichotomized into ‘strongly agree/agree’ and ‘unsure/disagree/strongly disagree’ and proportions were calculated. Data collection occurred between January 2019 and March 2019.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 291 participants with 88% being nurses. Barriers were found in nine domains including knowledge; skills; memory attention and decision making; emotion; environmental context and resources; behavioural regulation; social professional role; intensions, social influences; and beliefs about capabilities. Enablers were found in seven domains including goals; social influences; knowledge; skills; social, professional role and identity; reinforcement and beliefs about consequences.

Conclusion

This multi‐site, multi‐professional study that included predominantly nurses highlights the barriers and enablers to inpatient continence care. Future implementation studies in inpatient continence management should address these identified barriers and enablers to improve effectiveness of implementation of evidence‐based care.

Implications for the profession

This study highlights that although there are many barriers to ward nurses providing evidence‐based continence care, there are also several enablers. Both should be addressed to improve practice.

Reporting method

We adhered to the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E‐Surveys (CHERRIES) (Supplementary File 1).

Relevance to clinical practice

Establishing barriers to practice gives a broader understanding of why practice does not occur and establishes areas where researchers and clinicians need to address in order to change behaviour.
Lip and tongue pressure and the functionality of oro‐facial structures in healthy individuals
Authors: Ramos Verônica Fernandes , Silva Anderson Francisco , Degan Viviane Veroni , Celeste Letícia Correa , Picinato‐Pirola Melissa
Published: June 2023

Background

With the ageing process changes in the musculature of oro‐facial structures take place, consequently there is a reduction in the strength and mobility of the lips, tongue and cheeks.

Objective

The aim of this study was to correlate oro‐facial structures and chewing and swallowing functions among a group of senior citizens and young adults and check the influence of lip and tongue pressure of these functions.

Methods

This is an observational, cross‐sectional and analytical study. Thirty seniors with an average age of 67.13 years and 30 young adults with an average age of 22.03 years participated in the study. The Oro‐facial Myofunctional Assessment Protocol with Scores for the Elderly and the Oro‐facial Myofunctional Assessment Protocol with Expanded Scores were also used. The evaluation of the force of pressure of the lips and tip and dorsum of the tongue was carried out using the Biofeedback device Pró‐Fono: Lip and Tongue Pressure.

Results

Young adults had a higher evaluation score for the aspect/posture of the face, cheeks, lips, mentalis muscle, tongue, mobility of lips, tongue, jaw and cheeks, chewing and swallowing functions, total time and chewing strokes, and tip pressure and dorsum of tongue. According to the Structural Equation Modelling, a direct relationship was found between the tongue dorsum pressure force and the swallowing function.

Conclusion

With healthy ageing changes occurring in the appearance, posture and mobility of the lips, tongue, jaw and cheeks, with the seniors and reduced performance of chewing and swallowing functions.
Human immunodeficiency virus coinfection differentially impacts hepatitis B virus viral markers based on hepatitis Be antigen status in patients with suppressed viremia
Authors: Lisker‐Melman Mauricio , King Wendy C. , Ghany Marc G. , Chung Raymond T. , Hinerman Amanda S. , Cloherty Gavin A. , Khalili Mandana , Jain Mamta K. , Sulkowski Mark , Sterling Richard K.
Published: June 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA and hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg), reflecting transcriptional activity of covalently closed circular DNA, are gaining traction as important markers to assess viral activity. Whether their expression differs under viral suppression by HIV co‐infection status is unknown. Among adults with chronic HBV on antiviral therapy, we sought to determine if the expression of HBV markers (specialized and well‐established) differs between HBV‐HIV co‐infection vs. HBV mono‐infection. We compared HBV marker levels among 105 participants in the Hepatitis B Research Network (HBRN) HBV‐HIV Ancillary Study and 105 participants in the HBRN mono‐infected Cohort Study, matched for HBeAg status and HBV DNA suppression on therapy. Among HBeAg+ participants (N = 58 per group), after adjusting for age, sex, race, ALT and HBV DNA, viral markers were higher (p < .05) in the HBV‐HIV versus the HBV‐only sample (HBeAg: 1.05 vs. 0.51 log10 IU/mL; HBsAg: 3.85 vs. 3.17 log10 IU/mL; HBV RNA: 5.60 vs. 3.70 log10 U/mL; HBcrAg: 6.59 vs. 5.51 log10 U/mL). Conversely, among HBeAg(−) participants (N = 47 per group), HBsAg (2.00 vs. 3.04 log10 IU/mL) and HBV RNA (1.87 vs. 2.66 log10 U/mL) were lower (p < .05) in HBV‐HIV vs. HBV‐only; HBcrAg levels were similar (4.14 vs. 3.64 log10 U/mL; p = .27). Among adults with chronic HBV with suppressed viremia on antiviral therapy, viral markers tracked with HIV co‐infection status and associations differed inversely by HBeAg status. The greater sensitivity and specificity of HBV RNA compared to HBcrAg allows for better discrimination of transcriptional activity regardless of HBeAg status.
Body size predicts prey preference but not diet breadth in pythons
Authors: Barends J. M. , Naik H.
Published: June 2023

For gape‐limited predators like snakes that swallow their prey whole, large‐bodied species with wide gapes should theoretically be able to consume a more diverse range of prey than smaller species with narrow gapes and, therefore, may have broader diets. However, in cases where large‐bodied species exclude small prey, their diets may not necessarily be more taxonomically diverse compared to smaller species. Thus, while body size can potentially predict broad dietary preferences, it cannot always predict diet breadth. We explored the relationship between body size and diet within the Pythonidae—a morphologically diverse clade of dwarf and giant snakes. We gathered ecological data of pythons and tested if python body lengths correlated with diet breadth and diet preferences respectively within a phylogenetic framework. Next, we reconstructed ancestral diets (as proportional use of ectothermic prey in their diets) and body lengths across a phylogeny of 36 species of pythons to explore the evolutionary relationship between these traits. We demonstrate that among extant pythons, body size is not linearly associated with diet breadth but linearly correlates with proportional use of ectothermic (and inversely endothermic) prey. Small‐bodied pythons more often have specialized diets dominated by the use of ectotherm prey whereas large‐bodied pythons tend to have diets dominated by the use of endotherm prey. We further show that the most recent common ancestor of pythons was likely large‐bodied and fed on a diet comprised mostly of endothermic prey. Shifts in diet towards greater proportional use of endothermic prey coincided with increases in body size. Conversely, shifts in diet towards greater proportional use of ectothermic prey coincided with decreases in body size. Our findings contribute to the growing body of work investigating the ecomorphological determinants of snake diets and thus provide further insight into our understanding of these animals' ecology and evolution.