bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Widespread habitat loss leads to ecosystem‐scale decrease in trophic function
Authors: James W. Ryan , Furman Bradley T. , Rodemann Jonathan R. , Costa Sophia V. , Fratto Zachary W. , Nelson James A. , Rehage Jennifer S. , Santos Rolando O. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractNatural and anthropogenic disturbances have led to rapid declines in the amount and quality of available habitat in many ecosystems. Many studies have focused on how habitat loss has affected the composition and configuration of habitats, but there have been fewer studies that investigate how this loss affects ecosystem function. We investigated how a large‐scale seagrass die‐off altered the distribution of energetic resources of three seagrass‐associated consumers with varied resource use patterns. Using long‐term benthic habitat monitoring data and resource use data from Bayesian stable isotope mixing models, we generated energetic resource landscapes (E‐scapes) annually between 2007 and 2019. E‐scapes link the resources being used by a consumer to the habitats that produce those resources to calculate a habitat resource index as a measurement of energetic quality of the landscape. Overall, our results revealed that following the die‐off there was a reduction in trophic function across all species in areas affected by the die‐off event, but the response was species‐specific and dependent on resource use and recovery patterns. This study highlights how habitat loss can lead to changes in ecosystem function. Incorporating changes in ecosystem function into models of habitat loss could improve understanding of how species will respond to future change.
Improvement of the antifreeze activity of tilapia skin collagen peptides through enzymatic supramolecular assembly approach
Authors: Ouyang Jijin , Han Mei , Majura Julieth Joram , Chen Xiujuan , Tan Mingtang , Chen Zhongqin , Gao Jialong , Zheng Huina , Lin Haisheng , Cao Wenhong 
Published: April 2024

SummaryEnzymatic supramolecular assembly was applied to increase the thermal hysteresis activity (THA) of tilapia skin collagen peptides and their applicability as cryoprotectants. The THA value of the glutamine‐assembled product increased by 61.5% and its ice crystal content dropped by 33.93% compared to the collagen peptides. Following initial separation and purification, the THA of Gln‐AFPs was further elevated by 28.6%. After five freeze–thaw cycles, tilapia surimi treated with 8% Gln‐AFPs had high levels of salt‐soluble protein, total sulfhydryl content, Ca2+‐ATPase activity, and water‐holding capacity. Additionally, the cryoprotective effect of Gln‐AFPs on the surimi was found to be superior to that of commercial antifreeze. The majority of the Gln‐AFPs turns folded, according to FTIR analysis, and ‐helices were produced. After supramolecular assembly, the Gln‐AFPs structure also smoothed out. As a result, the enzymatic supramolecular assembly drastically increased the antifreeze activity of the tilapia skin‐collagen peptides, which could eventually be developed into a novel antifreeze additive in the food industry.
Brown rice protein–dietary fibre conjugate improves bioaccessibility of minerals via modifying gelling structure of yoghurt
Authors: Akalan Merve , Karakuş Mehmet Şükrü , Özaslan Zeynep Tuğba , Başyiğit Bülent , Karaaslan Asliye , Karaaslan Mehmet 
Published: April 2024

SummaryThe present study aims to provide an overview of the impact of brown rice protein (BRP) conjugated with microcrystalline cellulose via the Maillard reaction on characteristic features of yoghurt and the bioaccessibility of essential minerals in this dairy product. The confirmation of conjugation was conducted using FTIR spectroscopy. Adding BRP or Maillard conjugate (MC) proved beneficial in enhancing the water‐holding capacity and decreasing the syneresis of samples. Additionally, yoghurt (MCY) containing the Maillard conjugate demonstrated superior performance in these properties. A lower number of pores and a stronger gel network (structural integrity) were identified in MCY compared to the other samples (BRPY: yoghurt containing BRP and PY: plain yoghurt). On the other hand, in general, supplementation of BRP and MC led to slight alteration in the concentration of aroma compounds. Similarly, the impact of BRP and MC on changes in the molecular weight distribution of proteins during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was negligible. Bioaccessibility values of Ca and Mg in PY were 53.72% and 10.72%, respectively. The improvement in these values was observed in BRPY (Ca: 57.33% and Mg: 15.60%). Moreover, adding MC to yoghurt led to a tighter interface structure (indicating rigid gel), which allowed more minerals to bind, increasing mineral bioaccessibility (Ca: 64.40% and Mg: 31.14%). A higher general acceptability in sensory evaluation was scored for PY followed by MCY and BRPY. Ultimately, the positive effect of ingredients (especially MC) on yoghurt quality was obvious.
Meat‐reduced sausage substituted with germinated mung bean flour: proximate composition, physicochemical properties, and sensory acceptability
Authors: Le Thi Kim Yen , Nguyen Kieu Diem , Hoang Kim Anh 
Published: April 2024

SummaryThe effects of substituting meat with germinated mung bean flour (GMF) was evaluated as a possible way to reduce the meat content of sausages. Replacement ratios of 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% were used and the proximate composition, amino acid profile, physicochemical properties (cooking yield and emulsion stability, instrumental texture, and colour), microstructure (by scanning electron microscopy), and overall liking of the sausage products were evaluated. The results showed that elevating the meat substitution ratio from 0% to 25% using GMF increased the protein, carbohydrate, and ash content by 1.14, 2.49, and 1.16 times, while reducing moisture and fat content by 1.16 and 1.2 times. Simultaneously, the total phenolic content (TPC) increased by 46%, accompanied by a 20% rise in antioxidant capacity. Incorporating GMF into the meat‐reduced sausages not only increased the amount of total amino acid and ratio of essential amino acid (EAA) but also enhanced their emulsion stability and cooking yield. The 10%–15% meat substitute samples had the closest colour and textural characteristics to the control and were accepted by the consumers.
Radiation‐induced fibrosis: Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies from an immune microenvironment perspective
Authors: Zheng Mengting , Liu Zhonglong , He Yue 
Published: April 2024

AbstractRadiation‐induced fibrosis (RIF) is a severe chronic complication of radiotherapy (RT) manifested by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components deposition within the irradiated area. The lung, heart, skin, jaw, pelvic organs and so on may be affected by RIF, which hampers body functions and quality of life. There is accumulating evidence suggesting that the immune microenvironment may play a key regulatory role in RIF. This article discussed the synergetic or antagonistic effects of immune cells and mediators in regulating RIF's development. Several potential preventative and therapeutic strategies for RIF were proposed based on the immunological mechanisms to provide clinicians with improved cognition and clinical treatment guidance.
An innovative low‐cost breast pump‐hire program to enhance breastfeeding rates in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Sweet Linda , Hughes Jessica , Rasheed Asiyath , Vasilevski Vidanka 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAimTo evaluate the outcomes of a low‐cost hospital‐grade breast pump hire program for women experiencing financial hardship with infants in neonatal intensive care.DesignA multi‐method evaluation including data audits and surveys.MethodsTwenty‐four electric breast pumps were purchased and rented to mothers at a cost of $1/day. To be eligible, mothers needed to have given birth to an infant <32 weeks and/or <1500 g and self‐identified as experiencing financial hardship. Data were collected by (1) a retrospective audit to evaluate infant feeding and clinical outcomes at hospital discharge; (2) prospective telephone surveys to evaluate women's satisfaction with the program; and (3) analysis of the breast pump register to determine any loss or damages.ResultsTwenty‐four mothers of 26 infants participated in the program. More than half of the infants were exclusively breastmilk fed at hospital discharge, and more than three‐quarters were fed a combination of breastmilk and formula. Women who intended to formula feed were supported to provide breastmilk to their infants in the first few weeks of life.Most participants were highly satisfied with the program. Women reported that accessibility to a hospital‐grade breast pump improved their ability to provide expressed breastmilk to their infants. Most participants were ‘extremely satisfied’ with the performance of the breast pump. One‐quarter of the women reported that they would have exclusively formula‐fed if they did not have access to the breast pump hire program. The audit of the equipment register showed no reported technical issues, loss or damages.ConclusionThe findings suggested that the low‐cost breast pump hire program supported equitable care, increasing women's ability to provide expressed breastmilk for their infants.ImpactProviding access to low‐cost hospital‐grade breast pumps to mothers of vulnerable infants is likely to prevent poor infant clinical outcomes and improve women's care satisfaction.Public or Patient ContributionNil.
Raise‐up technique for the creation of left atrial roof lesion: A useful technique with cryoballoon for persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kujiraoka Hirofumi , Suzuki Atsushi , Kawaguchi Naohiko , Amemiya Miki , Sakai Eiko , Setoguchi Mirei , Kawamoto Shiho , Sato Kuniyoshi , Ochida Mie , Watanabe Shingo , Nakajima Jun , Yoshikawa Shunji , Usui Michio , Sasano Tetsuo , Yamauchi Yasuteru 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIntroductionRecent studies have reported the efficacy of the cryoballoon (CB)‐guided left atrial roof block line (LARB) creation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, it can be technically challenging to attach the balloon to the left atrial (LA) roof due to its anatomical variations. We designed a new procedure called the “Raise‐up Technique,” which may facilitate the firm adhesion of the CB to the LA roof during freezing. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Raise‐up technique in LARB creation.Methods and ResultsIn total, 100 consecutive patients with persistent AF who underwent CB‐LARB creation were enrolled. Fifty‐seven patients underwent LARB creation using the Raise‐up technique (Raise‐up group), and the remaining 43 did not use it (control group). The Raise‐up technique was performed as follows: An Achieve catheter was inserted as deeply as possible into the upper branch of the right superior pulmonary vein to anchor the CB. The balloon was placed below the targeted site on the LA roof and frozen. When the temperature of the CB reached approximately −10°C and the CB was easier to attach to the LA tissue, the CB was raised and pressed against the LA roof immediately by sheath advancement. Then the balloon could be in firm contact with the target site on the roof. If necessary, additional sheath advancement after sufficient freezing (−20°C to −30°C) was allowed the CB to have more firm and broad contact with the target site. LARB creation without touch‐up ablation was achieved in 54 of 57 patients (94.7%) in the Raise‐up group and 33 of 43 patients (76.7%) in the control group (p < .05). The lesion size of the LARB in the Raise‐up group was significantly larger than that in the control group (15.2 cm2 vs. 12.8 cm2, p < .05). Moreover, the width of the LARB lesion in the Raise‐up group was wider than that in the control group (32.0 mm vs. 26.6 mm, p < .05).ConclusionThe Raise‐up technique enabled the creation of seamless and thick LARB lesions with a single stroke. In addition, the CB‐LARB lesions created using the Raise‐up technique tended to be large, resulting in extensive debulking of the LA posterior wall arrhythmia substrates. In CB ablation for persistent AF, the Raise‐up technique can be considered one of the key strategies for LARB creation.
New shark in the park: Tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier observations in the remote South Pacific
Authors: Coghlan Amy Rose , Morales Naiti 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe present the first photographic records of the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) at the remote Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the south‐east Pacific. Previous anecdotal sightings exist for tiger sharks in this region; however these records have not been reported within the scientific domain. The present sighting occurred in a period of unusually warm sea surface temperature, which has been shown to influence tiger shark range extensions elsewhere. Novel and historic species occurrence records are valuable for determining and predicting species' environmental tolerances, migratory routes, and distributional limits.
Study on heat and moisture transfer of nonspherical rice during hot‐air drying in thin‐layer grain pile
Authors: Li Xin , Yang Kaimin , Wang Yuancheng , Du Xinming 
Published: April 2024

AbstractTo investigate fluid flow and coupled heat‐moisture transfer in the hot‐air drying of grain piles, this study integrated the discrete‐element method with computational fluid dynamics. A model for a thin‐layer grain pile, consisting of nonspherical rice particles represented by 13 spheres, was developed. Using a heat‐moisture transfer model based on fluid–solid coupling, the drying process with hot air was simulated and validated against experimental data. Finally, by controlling the drying temperature and the initial moisture content of rice, the variations in temperature and moisture content during the hot‐air drying process were explored. The numerical results indicated that the nonuniform pore structure within the grain pile, gaps on the surface of nonspherical rice, and the wall effect led to complex airflow patterns, resulting in the formation of dead zones within the grain pile. The oscillation frequency and amplitude of radial porosity near the wall were relatively large, and the minimum porosity occurred at a radial distance of 1/2dg. Heat and moisture transfer rates between the rice and drying air were influenced by the temperature and moisture concentration differences. During the drying process, variations in temperature and moisture content were observed among rice particles. Limited by the moisture diffusion coefficient, there existed a notable disparity in moisture content between the interior and surface of the rice. The results also showed that the curvature of the drying curve in the grain pile varied and was influenced by the drying conditions, especially under the high‐temperature drying condition of 60°C.Practical ApplicationsIn this study, a grain pile model for nonspherical rice particles composed of 13 spheres was developed based on the discrete‐element method and computational fluid dynamics. Furthermore, in accordance with the heat and mass transfer mechanism of fluid–solid coupling, a heat‐moisture transfer model for the hot‐air drying of the grain pile was constructed. This was done to deeply explore the internal fluid dynamic characteristics and the heat‐moisture transfer within the grain pile during the drying process. The newly established model can be widely applied to numerical simulation studies of drying and also has reference value for the design of drying systems.
Should product‐specific advertisement be regulated in pharmaceutical markets?
Authors: Ishida Junichiro , Takahara Tsuyoshi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis paper examines the optimal content regulation of direct‐to‐consumer advertisement (DTCA) by comparing two forms of DTCA—product‐specific and category‐specific—and identifies a key tradeoff which underlies this policy debate. Our analysis suggests that the optimal form of DTCA depends crucially on the cost effectiveness of DTCA and the market‐size distortion induced by DTCA. When the cost of advertisement is high, there often exists a Pareto‐improving policy choice: category‐specific DTCA is preferred when the market‐size distortion is more severe while produce DTCA is preferred when it is less so. As the cost decreases, however, a conflict emerges between pharmaceutical firms and patients: firms are worse off under product‐specific DTCA while patients are better off. We also find that the physician's reluctance to persuade misinformed patients can actually alleviate the market‐size distortion and hence be welfare‐enhancing.
Homeobox gene‐encoded transcription factors in development and mature circadian function of the rodent pineal gland
Authors: Rath Martin F. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractHomeobox genes encode transcription factors that are widely known to control developmental processes. This is also the case in the pineal gland, a neuroendocrine brain structure devoted to nighttime synthesis of the hormone melatonin. Thus, in accordance with high prenatal gene expression, knockout studies have identified a specific set of homeobox genes that are essential for development of the pineal gland. However, as a special feature of the pineal gland, homeobox gene expression persists into adulthood, and gene product abundance exhibits 24 h circadian rhythms. Recent lines of evidence show that some homeobox genes even control expression of enzymes catalyzing melatonin synthesis. We here review current knowledge of homeobox genes in the rodent pineal gland and suggest a model for dual functions of homeobox gene‐encoded transcription factors in developmental and circadian mature neuroendocrine function.
Robot‐assisted Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Osteoid Osteomas
Authors: Li Ka , Li Jianmin , Li Zonghao , Yang Zhiping , Li Xin , Yang Qiang , Liu Yuantong , Li Zhenfeng 
Published: April 2024

ObjectivePercutaneous CT‐guided radiofrequency ablation (CT‐RFA) is a widely accepted procedure for treatment of osteoid osteomas. However, the application of CT‐RFA was restricted as a result of some drawbacks, such as radiation exposure, and inconvenience in general anesthesia. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra‐operative TiRobot‐assisted percutaneous RFA of osteoid osteomas.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 21 medical files of patients who were treated with percutaneous RFA of osteoid osteomas guided by the TiRobot system in our institution between March 2021 and April 2022. The three‐dimensional images obtained by a 3D C‐arm intra‐operatively were sent to the TiRobot system. The puncture point and trajectory were designed. Then the guide pin was positioned to the lesion with the assistance of TiRobot and the biopsy sheath was inserted into the lesion through the guide pin. The tumor was biopsied for pathological examination. Then the RFA needle was inserted into the nidus through the biopsy sheath for thermal ablation. Data were extracted on the associated complications, the reduction in pain at 1 month and 1 year postoperatively assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS). A paired t‐test was used to compare the pre‐operative and post‐operative VAS scores.ResultsThe patients included 17 males and four females with a mean age of 19.5 ± 10.4 years (range 3–45 years). Lesions were located on the femur in nine cases, on the tibia in nine cases, on the humerus in one case, on the calcaneus in one case, and on the acetabulum in one case. TiRobot‐assisted percutaneous RFA was successfully performed on all 21 patients. There was no intra‐operative or post‐operative complications observed. Pathological diagnosis of osteoid osteoma was obtained in 11 patients, but the other 10 cases were not pathologically diagnosed. The mean follow‐up time was 18.8 months (range: 12–26 months).Post‐operative VAS scores were reduced significantly in all cases. The mean VAS score decreased from 6.5 pre‐operatively to 0.5 at 1 month post‐operatively and to 0.1 at 1 year post‐operatively.ConclusionAs a reliable technique for localizing and resection of nidus, TiRobot‐assisted percutaneous RFA is a safe and effective option for the treatment of osteoid osteomas.
Clinical Outcomes Following Incomplete Arthroscopic Iliotibial Band Release for External Snapping Hip Syndrome: An Observational Study
Authors: Lim Eic Ju , Kim Ji Wan , Doh Chang Hyun , Kim Chul‐Ho 
Published: April 2024

ObjectivesArthroscopic treatment is indicated for external snapping hip (ESH) syndrome in patients refractory to conservative treatment, but snapping does not disappear completely in some case. No previous studies have described the clinical course of ESH syndrome in patients who presented with persistent snapping after an arthroscopic procedure. We demonstrated the clinical outcomes following an incomplete arthroscopic iliotibial band (ITB) release for ESH syndrome.MethodsThis retrospective observational study was performed at two teaching hospitals between October 2015 and December 2021. We reviewed the data of 33 patients (34 hips) aged ≥18 years, diagnosed with ESH syndrome, who were treated with arthroscopic ITB release. Patients who presented with persistent snapping despite sufficient arthroscopic ITB release following systematic order were defined as having an incomplete release. We collected the data for recurrent symptomatic snapping hip as the primary outcome after a minimum 2‐year follow‐up. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and modified Harris hip (mHHS) scores were measured as secondary outcome.Results“Incomplete release” was identified in three of the 34 hips (8.9%). Cases of recurrent symptomatic snapping or conversion to open surgery were not observed. The symptoms of residual snapping spontaneously disappeared in all cases following routine postoperative rehabilitation within a 3‐month follow‐up period. The VAS (4 ± 1) and mHHS (17 ± 6) scores of all the patients improved.ConclusionWhen refractory ESH syndrome is identified during arthroscopic surgery, appropriate ITB release and removal of the major lesion causing snapping are expected to lead to resolution of residual symptoms without conversion to open surgery.
TaGSK3 regulates wheat development and stress adaptation through BR‐dependent and BR‐independent pathways
Authors: Guo Xiaolong , Zhang Jialiang , Sun Shuyang , Huang Liuying , Niu Yaxin , Zhao Peng , Zhang Yuanfei , Shi Xue , Ji Wanquan , Xu Shengbao 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe GSK3/SHAGGY‐like kinase plays critical roles in plant development and response to stress, but its specific function remains largely unknown in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). In this study, we investigated the function of TaGSK3, a GSK3/SHAGGY‐like kinase, in wheat development and response to stress. Our findings demonstrated that TaGSK3 mutants had significant effects on wheat seedling development and brassinosteroid (BR) signalling. Quadruple and quintuple mutants showed amplified BR signalling, promoting seedling development, while a sextuple mutant displayed severe developmental defects but still responded to exogenous BR signals, indicating redundancy and non‐BR‐related functions of TaGSK3. A gain‐of‐function mutation in TaGSK3‐3D disrupted BR signalling, resulting in compact and dwarf plant architecture. Notably, this mutation conferred significant drought and heat stress resistance of wheat, and enhanced heat tolerance independent of BR signalling, unlike knock‐down mutants. Further research revealed that this mutation maintains a higher relative water content by regulating stomatal‐mediated water loss and maintains a lower ROS level to reduces cell damage, enabling better growth under stress. Our study provides comprehensive insights into the role of TaGSK3 in wheat development, stress response, and BR signal transduction, offering potential for modifying TaGSK3 to improve agronomic traits and enhance stress resistance in wheat.