bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical and sensorial properties of tomato leathers at different drying conditions
Authors: Basdemir Eren , Ince Alev Emine , Kizgin Sakine , Ozel Baris , Ozarda Ozlem , Sumnu Servet Gulum , Oztop Mecit Halil 
Published: April 2024

AbstractTomato leather as a healthy alternative to traditional fruit leathers was formulated. A tray dryer with changing temperature (50, 60, and 70°C) and relative humidity (5%, 10%, and 20%) was used to achieve the best product in terms of color, water distribution, lycopene content, mechanical, and sensorial properties. Color change was the highest at 70°C due to the Maillard reaction. Lycopene content was also the highest at 70°C. Time domain‐NMR relaxometry showed that water distribution of all samples was homogeneous and similar to each other. Processing conditions affected mechanical properties significantly. The highest tensile strength was observed at 70°C, possibly due to the denatured proteins. Sensory analysis indicated better flavor development at 70°C, whereas overall acceptability of samples was higher at 50°C. The results of this study showed the main processing parameters of tomato leather with a minimal amount of ingredients, with acceptable mechanical and sensorial properties.Practical ApplicationTomato leather was produced by using minimal amount of ingredients. Taste of the leather was found acceptable, as a salty snack food. Therefore, this product can be produced economically and it has a high potential to be consumed as an alternative to conventional fruit leathers.
Ultrasound assisted hot water extraction of polysaccharides from Taraxacum mongolicum: Optimization, purification, structure characterization, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Xue Hongkun , Nima Lamu , Wang Shuhe , Tan Jiaqi 
Published: April 2024

AbstractUltrasound assisted hot water extraction (UAHWE) was applied to extraction of polysaccharides from Taraxacum mongolicum with hot water as extract solvent. Experimental factors in UAHWE process were optimized by response surface methodology. The optimal extraction parameters to achieve the highest Taraxacum mongolicum polysaccharides (TMPs) yield (12.08 ± 0.14)% by UAHWE were obtained under the ultrasound power of 200 W, extraction temperature of 62°C, solid‐to‐liquid ratio of 1:20 g/mL, and extraction time of 40 min, and then the crude TMPs were further purified by DEAE‐52 and Sephadex G‐100 chromatography to obtain a homogenous polysaccharide fraction (TMPs‐1‐SG). Subsequently, the structure of TMPs‐1‐SG was characterized by UV‐vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR), high performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Congo red test. The results display that TMPs‐1‐SG with an average molecular weight of 5.49 × 104 Da was comprised of mannose (Man), galactose (Gal), xylose (Xyl), and arabinose (Ara) with a molar ratio of 39.85:52.61:27.14:6.30. Moreover, TMPs‐1‐SG did not contain a triple helix structure. Furthermore, TMPs‐1‐SG and TEM presented a sheet‐like, rod‐shaped, and irregular structure. Finally, the antioxidant activity of TMPs‐1‐SG was evaluated by in vitro experiment. The IC50 values of scavenging DPPH and OH radicals for TMPs‐1‐SG achieved 0.71 mg/mL and 0.75 mg/mL, respectively. The findings can provide an effective method for extracting polysaccharides from natural resources.
Collecting baleen whale blow samples by drone: A minimally intrusive tool for conservation genetics
Authors: O'Mahony Éadin N. , Sremba Angela L. , Keen Eric M. , Robinson Nicole , Dundas Archie , Steel Debbie , Wray Janie , Baker C. Scott , Gaggiotti Oscar E. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn coastal British Columbia, Canada, marine megafauna such as humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus velifera) have been subject to a history of exploitation and near extirpation. While their populations have been in recovery, significant threats are posed to these vulnerable species by proposed natural resource ventures in this region, in addition to the compounding effects of anthropogenic climate change. Genetic tools play a vital role in informing conservation efforts, but the associated collection of tissue biopsy samples can be challenging for the investigators and disruptive to the ongoing behaviour of the targeted whales. Here, we evaluate a minimally intrusive approach based on collecting exhaled breath condensate, or respiratory ‘blow’ samples, from baleen whales using an unoccupied aerial system (UAS), within Gitga'at First Nation territory for conservation genetics. Minimal behavioural responses to the sampling technique were observed, with no response detected 87% of the time (of 112 UAS deployments). DNA from whale blow (n = 88 samples) was extracted, and DNA profiles consisting of 10 nuclear microsatellite loci, sex identification and mitochondrial (mt) DNA haplotypes were constructed. An average of 7.5 microsatellite loci per individual were successfully genotyped. The success rates for mtDNA and sex assignment were 80% and 89% respectively. Thus, this minimally intrusive sampling method can be used to describe genetic diversity and generate genetic profiles for individual identification. The results of this research demonstrate the potential of UAS‐collected whale blow for conservation genetics from a remote location.
Prevalence of frailty according to the Hospital Frailty Risk Score and related factors in older patients with acute coronary syndromes in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Tan Van , Tran Huy Minh , Trinh Ha Bich Thi , Vu Vu Hoang , Bang Vien Ai 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObjectives(1) To investigate the prevalence of frailty defined by the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS), a new scale for assessing frailty, in older patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS); (2) To identify associations between frailty and the prescriptions of cardiovascular medications, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and in‐hospital adverse outcomes.MethodsAn observational study was conducted in patients aged older than 60 years with ACS at Thong Nhat Hospital from August to December 2022. The Hospital Frailty Risk Score is retrospectively calculated for all participants based on ICD‐10 codes, and those with HFRS scores ≥5 were defined as frail. Logistic regression models were applied to examine the relationship between frailty and the study outcomes.ResultsThere were 511 participants in the study. The median age was 72.7, 60% were male and 29% were frail. Frailty was associated with lower odds of beta‐blocker use at admission (OR .49 95% CI .25–.94), treatment with PCI during hospitalisation (OR .48, 95% CI .30–.75), but did not show an association with prescriptions of cardiovascular drugs at discharge. Frailty was significantly associated with increased odds of adverse outcomes, including major bleeding (OR 4.07, 95% CI1.73–9.54), hospital‐acquired pneumonia (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.20–5.42), all‐cause in‐hospital mortality (OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.37–7.20) and non‐cardiovascular in‐hospital mortality (OR 10.73, 95% CI 1.93–59.55).ConclusionsThe HFRS was an effective tool for stratifying frailty and predicting adverse health outcomes in older patients with ACS. Further research is needed to compare the HFRS with other frailty assessment tools in this population.
Extending the new era of genomic testing into pregnancy management: A proposed model for Australian prenatal services
Authors: Rogers Alice , De Jong Lucas , Waters Wendy , Rawlings Lesley H. , Simons Keryn , Gao Song , Soubrier Julien , Kenyon Rosalie , Lin Ming , King Rob , Lawrence David M. , Muller Peter , Leblanc Shannon , McGregor Lesley , Sallevelt Suzanne C. E. H. , Liebelt Jan , Hardy Tristan S. E. , Fletcher Janice M. , Scott Hamish S. , Kulkarni Abhi , Barnett Christopher P. , Kassahn Karin S. 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundTrio exome sequencing can be used to investigate congenital abnormalities identified on pregnancy ultrasound, but its use in an Australian context has not been assessed.AimsAssess clinical outcomes and changes in management after expedited genomic testing in the prenatal period to guide the development of a model for widespread implementation.Materials and methodsForty‐three prospective referrals for whole exome sequencing, including 40 trios (parents and pregnancy), two singletons and one duo were assessed in a tertiary hospital setting with access to a state‐wide pathology laboratory. Diagnostic yield, turn‐around time (TAT), gestational age at reporting, pregnancy outcome, change in management and future pregnancy status were assessed for each family.ResultsA clinically significant genomic diagnosis was made in 15/43 pregnancies (35%), with an average TAT of 12 days. Gestational age at time of report ranged from 16 + 5 to 31 + 6 weeks (median 21 + 3 weeks). Molecular diagnoses included neuromuscular and skeletal disorders, RASopathies and a range of other rare Mendelian disorders. The majority of families actively used the results in pregnancy decision making as well as in management of future pregnancies.ConclusionsRapid second trimester prenatal genomic testing can be successfully delivered to investigate structural abnormalities in pregnancy, providing crucial guidance for current and future pregnancy management. The time‐sensitive nature of this testing requires close laboratory and clinical collaboration to ensure appropriate referral and result communication. We found the establishment of a prenatal coordinator role and dedicated reporting team to be important facilitators. We propose this as a model for genomic testing in other prenatal services.
Phosphoproteomic analysis of the adaption of epididymal epithelial cells to corticosterone challenge
Authors: Skerrett‐Byrne David A. , Stanger Simone J. , Trigg Natalie A. , Anderson Amanda L. , Sipilä Petra , Bernstein Ilana R. , Lord Tessa , Schjenken John E. , Murray Heather C. , Verrills Nicole M. , Dun Matthew D. , Pang Terence Y. , Nixon Brett 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe epididymis has long been of interest owing to its role in promoting the functional maturation of the male germline. More recent evidence has also implicated the epididymis as an important sensory tissue responsible for remodeling of the sperm epigenome, both under physiological conditions and in response to diverse forms of environmental stress. Despite this knowledge, the intricacies of the molecular pathways involved in regulating the adaptation of epididymal tissue to paternal stressors remains to be fully resolved.ObjectiveThe overall objective of this study was to investigate the direct impact of corticosterone challenge on a tractable epididymal epithelial cell line (i.e., mECap18 cells), in terms of driving adaptation of the cellular proteome and phosphoproteome signaling networks.Materials and methodsThe newly developed phosphoproteomic platform EasyPhos coupled with sequencing via an Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer, was applied to survey global changes in the mECap18 cell (phospho)proteome resulting from sub‐chronic (10‐day) corticosterone challenge.ResultsThe imposed corticosterone exposure regimen elicited relatively subtle modifications of the global mECap18 proteome (i.e., only 73 out of 4171 [∼1.8%] proteins displayed altered abundance). By contrast, ∼15% of the mECap18 phosphoproteome was substantially altered following corticosterone challenge. In silico analysis of the corresponding parent proteins revealed an activation of pathways linked to DNA damage repair and oxidative stress responses as well as a reciprocal inhibition of pathways associated with organismal death. Corticosterone challenge also induced the phosphorylation of several proteins linked to the biogenesis of microRNAs. Accordingly, orthogonal validation strategies confirmed an increase in DNA damage, which was ameliorated upon selective kinase inhibition, and an altered abundance profile of a subset of microRNAs in corticosterone‐treated cells.ConclusionsTogether, these data confirm that epididymal epithelial cells are reactive to corticosterone challenge, and that their response is tightly coupled to the opposing action of cellular kinases and phosphatases.
Seeing the forest for the trees: A response to commentaries on job insecurity conceptualizations, processes and social context
Authors: Klug Katharina , Selenko Eva , Van Hootegem Anahí , Sverke Magnus , De Witte Hans 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe are grateful for the two commentaries on our lead article on job insecurity, its psychological repercussions and broader social context, which provide important additions, as well as impetus to refine and clarify our arguments. In this rejoinder, we respond to the most important points raised by the commentators: we refine our conceptualization of job insecurity, challenge the idea of job insecurity as a motivator and discuss the role of employees' immediate social context at the meso‐level, as well as theoretical explanations for the fundamental mechanisms of job insecurity. We conclude by emphasizing once more the political significance of job insecurity, as well as the need for evidence‐based interventions to address its root causes.
Monocytic microRNAs—Novel targets in atherosclerosis therapy
Authors: Euler Gerhild , Parahuleva Mariana 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAtherosclerosis is a chronic proinflammatory disease of the vascular wall resulting in narrowing of arteries due to plaque formation, thereby causing reduced blood supply that is the leading cause for diverse end‐organ damage with high mortality rates. Monocytes/macrophages, activated by elevated circulating lipoproteins, are significantly involved in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaques. The imbalance between proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory macrophages, arising from dysregulated macrophage polarization, appears to be a driving force in this process. Proatherosclerotic processes acting on monocytes/macrophages include accumulation of cholesterol in macrophages leading to foam cell formation, as well as dysfunctional efferocytosis, all of which contribute to the formation of unstable plaques. In recent years, microRNAs (miRs) were identified as factors that could modulate monocyte/macrophage function and may therefore interfere with the atherosclerotic process. In this review, we present effects of monocyte/macrophage‐derived miRs on atherosclerotic processes in order to reveal new treatment options using miRmimics or antagomiRs.LINKED ARTICLESThis article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
Assisted reproduction and congenital malformations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Veeramani Meenakshi , Balachandren Neerujah , Hong Yong Hwa , Lee Jiyoon , Corno Antonio F. , Mavrelos Dimitrios , Kastora Stavroula L. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPrior studies have explored the links between congenital anomalies and assisted reproduction techniques, among other factors. However, it remains unclear whether a particular technique harbors an inherent risk of major congenital anomalies, either cumulatively or in an organ‐specific manner. A meta‐analysis was conducted using relevant studies from inception to February 2023 using six databases and two appropriate registers. Sources of heterogeneity were explored using sub‐group analysis, using study weight, risk of bias and geographical location of original studies. Neonates conceived through assisted reproduction appear to have a higher risk of major congenital anomalies compared to naturally conceived neonates, OR 0.67 [95% CI 0.59, 0.76], I2 = 97%, p < 0.00001, with neonates conceived through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) at a 9% higher chance of being affected in comparison to neonates conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The increase in cardiac, gastrointestinal (GI), and neurological congenital anomalies appears to be independent of the assisted reproduction technique, while urogenital and musculoskeletal (MSK) anomalies were found to be increased in ICSI compared with IVF, OR 0.83 [95% CI 0.69, 0.98]; p = 0.03, I2 = 0%, and OR 0.65 [95% CI 0.49, 0.85]; p = 0.002, I2 = 80%, respectively. Neonates conceived using assisted reproduction techniques appear to be at higher risk of major congenital anomalies, with a higher risk attributable to conception using ICSI. The increase in cardiac, neurological, and GI congenital anomalies does not appear to be technique‐specific, while the opposite held true for urogenital and MSK anomalies.
The effect of school grants on test scores: experimental evidence from Mexico
Authors: Romero Mauricio , Bedoya Juan , Yanez‐Pagans Monica , Silveyra Marcela , de Hoyos Rafael 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe use a randomized experiment (across 200 public primary schools in Puebla, Mexico) to study the impact of providing schools with cash grants on student test scores. Treated schools received on average 16 USD per student each year for two years, an increase of 20% in public spending per child, after teacher salaries. Overall, the grants had no impact on student test scores. Lack of a treatment effect does not seem to be driven by poor implementation or a substitution away from other inputs (e.g. household expenditure).
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in kidney transplantation
Authors: Kanbay Mehmet , Copur Sidar , Mizrak Berk , Mallamaci Francesca , Zoccali Carmine 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe fundamental role of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system in the pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension and proteinuria is well established in pre‐clinical and clinical studies. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are among the primary options for renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system blockage, along with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers.MethodsIn this narrative review, we aim to evaluate the efficiency and safety of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in kidney transplant recipients, including the potential underlying pathophysiology.ResultsThe efficiency and safety of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in managing chronic kidney disease and proteinuria, either non‐nephrotic or nephrotic range, have been demonstrated among nontransplanted patients, though studies investigating the role of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists among kidney transplant recipients are scarce. Nevertheless, promising results have been reported in pre‐clinical and clinical studies among kidney transplant recipients regarding the role of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in terms of ischaemia–reperfusion injury, proteinuria, or calcineurin inhibitor‐mediated nephrotoxicity without considerable adverse events such as hypotension, hyperkalaemia or worsening renal functions.ConclusionEven though initial results regarding the role of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist therapy for kidney transplant recipients are promising, there is clear need for large‐scale randomized clinical trials with long‐term follow‐up data.
Measurement of the major ignored burden of multiple myeloma, pernicious anaemia and of other haematological conditions on partners and family members: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shah R. , Finlay A. Y. , Ali F. M. , Allen H. , Nixon S. J. , Nixon M. , Otwombe K. , Ingram J. R. , Salek M. S. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundHaving a haematological condition can adversely affect the quality of life (QoL) of family members/partners of patients. It is important to measure this often ignored burden in order to implement appropriate supportive interventions.ObjectiveTo measure current impact of haematological conditions on the QoL of family members/partners of patients, using the Family Reported Outcome Measure‐16 (FROM‐16).MethodsA cross‐sectional study, recruited online through patient support groups, involved UK family members/partners of people with haematological conditions completing the FROM‐16.Results183 family members/partners (mean age = 60.5 years, SD = 13.2; females = 62.8%) of patients (mean age = 64.1, SD = 12.8; females = 46.4%) with 12 haematological conditions completed the FROM‐16. The FROM‐16 mean total score was 14.0 (SD = 7.2), meaning ‘a moderate effect on QoL’. The mean FROM‐16 scores of family members of people with multiple myeloma (mean = 15.8, SD = 6.3, n = 99) and other haematological malignancies (mean = 13.9, SD = 7.8, n = 29) were higher than of people with pernicious anaemia (mean = 10.7, SD = 7.5, n = 47) and other non‐malignant conditions (mean = 11, SD = 7.4, n = 56, p < .01). Over one third (36.1%, n = 183) of family members experienced a ‘very large effect’ (FROM‐16 score>16) on their quality of life.ConclusionsHaematological conditions, in particular those of malignant type, impact the QoL of family members/partners of patients. Healthcare professionals can now, using FROM‐16, identify those most affected and should consider how to provide appropriate holistic support within routine practice.
Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy evidence of cognitive–motor interference in different dual tasks
Authors: Ou Zi‐tong , Ding Qian , Yao Shan‐tong , Zhang Lei , Li Ya‐wen , Lan Yue , Xu Guang‐qing 
Published: April 2024

AbstractDual tasks (DTs) combining walking with a cognitive task can cause various levels of cognitive–motor interference, depending on which brain resources are recruited in each case. However, the brain activation and functional connectivity underlying cognitive–motor interferences remain to be elucidated. Therefore, this study investigated the neural correlation during different DT conditions in 40 healthy young adults (mean age: 27.53 years, 28 women). The DTs included walking during subtraction or N‐Back tasks. Cognitive–motor interference was calculated, and brain activation and functional connectivity were analysed. Portable functional near‐infrared spectroscopy was utilized to monitor haemodynamics in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), motor cortex and parietal cortex during each task. Walking interference (decrease in walking speed during DT) was greater than cognitive interference (decrease in cognitive performance during DT), regardless of the type of task. Brain activation in the bilateral PFC and parietal cortex was greater for walking during subtraction than for standing subtraction. Furthermore, brain activation was higher in the bilateral motor and parietal and PFCs for walking during subtraction than for walking alone, but only increased in the PFC for walking during N‐Back. Coherence between the bilateral lateral PFC and between the left lateral PFC and left motor cortex was significantly greater for walking during 2‐Back than for walking. The PFC, a critical brain region for organizing cognitive and motor functions, played a crucial role in integrating information coming from multiple brain networks required for completing DTs. Therefore, the PFC could be a potential target for the modulation and improvement of cognitive–motor functions during neurorehabilitation.