bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translating habitat class to land cover to map area of habitat of terrestrial vertebrates
Authors: Lumbierres Maria , Dahal Prabhat Raj , Di Marco Moreno , Butchart Stuart H. M. , Donald Paul F. , Rondinini Carlo
Published: October 2021

Area of habitat (AOH) is defined as the “habitat available to a species, that is, habitat within its range” and is calculated by subtracting areas of unsuitable land cover and elevation from the range. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Habitats Classification Scheme provides information on species habitat associations, and typically unvalidated expert opinion is used to match habitat to land‐cover classes, which generates a source of uncertainty in AOH maps. We developed a data‐driven method to translate IUCN habitat classes to land cover based on point locality data for 6986 species of terrestrial mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. We extracted the land‐cover class at each point locality and matched it to the IUCN habitat class or classes assigned to each species occurring there. Then, we modeled each land‐cover class as a function of IUCN habitat with (SSG, using) logistic regression models. The resulting odds ratios were used to assess the strength of the association between each habitat and land‐cover class. We then compared the performance of our data‐driven model with those from a published translation table based on expert knowledge. We calculated the association between habitat classes and land‐cover classes as a continuous variable, but to map AOH as binary presence or absence, it was necessary to apply a threshold of association. This threshold can be chosen by the user according to the required balance between omission and commission errors. Some habitats (e.g., forest and desert) were assigned to land‐cover classes with more confidence than others (e.g., wetlands and artificial). The data‐driven translation model and expert knowledge performed equally well, but the model provided greater standardization, objectivity, and repeatability. Furthermore, our approach allowed greater flexibility in the use of the results and uncertainty to be quantified. Our model can be modified for regional examinations and different taxonomic groups.
Cardiovascular risk profiles: A cross‐sectional study evaluating the generalizability of the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist cardiovascular outcome trials REWIND, LEADER and SUSTAIN‐6 to the real‐world type 2 diabetes population in the United Kingdom
Authors: Webb Joanne , Mount Julie , von Arx Lill‐Brith , Rachman Jonathan , Spanopoulos Dionysis , Wood Robert , Tritton Theo , Massey Olivia , Idris Iskandar
Published: October 2021

Aims

To determine the proportion of UK patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who meet the cardiovascular (CV) or combined CV/core eligibility criteria used for the CV outcome trials (CVOTs) of UK‐marketed glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) showing CV benefit (dulaglutide in REWIND, liraglutide in LEADER and injectable semaglutide in SUSTAIN‐6).

Materials and Methods

Adults with T2D on/before June 2018 were identified from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD primary care database and linked to Hospital Episode Statistics data (Protocol 19_262). Patient CV and clinical data were evaluated against the CVOT eligibility criteria. Data were analysed descriptively.

Results

The study cohort (N = 33 118 patients with T2D) had a mean (standard deviation) age of 66.0 (13.3) years and 56.6% were male. Almost two‐thirds (64.5%) of the study cohort met the CV criteria for REWIND, versus 43.0% for both LEADER and SUSTAIN‐6. The proportions of the study cohort who met the CVOT criteria of “established CV disease” and “CV risk factors only” for REWIND were 22.4% and 42.1%, respectively, versus 38.7% and 4.3%, respectively, for both LEADER and SUSTAIN‐6. The proportions of patients satisfying both CV and core criteria were 44.4% for REWIND, 13.3% for LEADER and 13.5% for SUSTAIN‐6. Study findings remained consistent when restricted to GLP‐1RA users.

Conclusions

REWIND captured a trial population more representative of the real‐world T2D population in the United Kingdom than LEADER or SUSTAIN‐6 with regard to both CV and combined CV/core eligibility criteria.
Early inventory management practices in the foreign exchange market: Insights from sixteenth‐century Lyon
Authors: Matringe Nadia
Published: October 2021

Studies of the early modern exchange market have usually focused on the strategies of traders who made profits from differences in exchange rates. This article instead focuses on the inventory management practices of exchange dealers, who traded almost exclusively on behalf of third parties while acting as market makers in the Lyon fairs in the sixteenth century. Using evidence from 1 937 transactions performed by one of the major Lyon banks (Salviati), it uncovers a specific rebalancing technique based on the use of the bill of exchange as a netting instrument. Thanks to a system of limit orders, the Lyon exchange dealers were able to offset order flows, thus minimizing their credit risk while remaining exposed to reputational risk. Such a rebalancing mechanism involved multiple clients and markets and contributed to the clearing of international payments once bills reached maturity. Double‐entry bookkeeping both facilitated and limited the use of the bill of exchange as a multilateral netting instrument.
Stay home and be unfair: The amplification of inequalities among families with young children during COVID‐19
Authors: Pitzalis Marco , Spanò Emanuela
Published: October 2021

This article focuses on the educational practices and strategies mobilised by Italian families with children aged six years and younger, during the health crisis caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic in Italy, in 2020. Specifically, we analyse practices and strategies mobilised by families from different social milieus living in rural or urban contexts. We argue that the shift in childcare practices and needs during the pandemic promoted the reaffirmation of traditional gender stereotypes and patterns of gendered labour division through the blurring of temporal and spatial boundaries between paid work, domestic labour and childcare. Our findings shed light on how differences in household circumstances, such as the availability of space in the home, have impacted disparities in childcare. Specifically, how different housing conditions have profoundly influenced the coping mechanisms of both children and parents during school closures. We conclude by discussing teachers' attempts to realise educational activities for supporting continuity in the pedagogical relationship, in a context of different family conditions and educational patterns.
Steady‐state visual evoked potential responses predict visual discomfort judgements
Authors: O'Hare Louise , Hird Emily , Whybrow Mercedes
Published: October 2021

It has been suggested that aesthetically pleasing stimuli are processed efficiently by the visual system, whereas uncomfortable stimuli are processed inefficiently. This study consists of a series of three experiments investigating this idea using a range of images of abstract artworks, photographs of natural scenes, and computer‐generated stimuli previously shown to be uncomfortable. Subjective judgements and neural correlates were measured using electroencephalogram (EEG) (steady‐state visual evoked potentials, SSVEPs). In addition, global image statistics (contrast, Fourier amplitude spectral slope and fractal dimension) were taken into account. When effects of physical image contrast were controlled, fractal dimension predicted discomfort judgements, suggesting the SSVEP response is more likely to be influenced by distribution of edges than the spectral slope. Importantly, when effects of physical contrast and fractal dimension were accounted for using linear mixed effects modelling, SSVEP responses predicted subjective judgements of images. Specifically, when stimuli were not matched for perceived contrast, there was a positive relationship between SSVEP responses and how pleasing a stimulus was judged to be, and conversely a negative relationship between discomfort and SSVEP response. This is significant as it shows that the neural responses in early visual areas contribute to the subjective (un)pleasantness of images, although the results of this study do not provide clear support for the theory of efficient coding as the cause of perceived pleasantness or discomfort of images, and so other explanations need to be considered.
Doing family: Nicaraguan transnational families’ narratives on motherhood
Authors: DePalma Renée , Pérez‐Caramés Antía , Verdía Varela Verónica
Published: October 2021

This article explores transnational motherhood from the perspective of Nicaraguan migrant workers in Spain and Nicaraguan family members caring for migrant women's children. Our sample included families with children who have special needs, to explore how economically disadvantaged families draw upon migration as a strategy to address educational and physical needs not provided by a weak ‘exclusionary’ social policy regime. Applying the notion of the family display to migrant mothers and their families, our research reveals how gendered expectations of parenting shape their experience and the ways in which they explain and justify the migratory project. Migrants and family members, with certain reservations and limitations, actively reinvent motherhood by (re)constructing financial contribution as a type of caring. Our research also unsettles the classic notion of the ‘other mother’, as respondents describe caring as distributed over extended kin networks.
Analysis of water distribution in delipidated human hair by small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS)
Authors: Ishihara Aya , Tsukamoto Yoshiaki , Inoue Hiroyuki , Noda Yohei , Koizumi Satoshi , Joko Kyohei
Published: October 2021

Objective

It is known that damaged hair has a part of its internal structure damaged, and its water absorption and desorption behavior are different. In recent years, it has been reported that internal lipids play an important role in the adsorption and desorption of water to the hair. Therefore, we investigate whether the water distribution in hair and the amount of internal lipids are related.

Methods

To investigate the effect of internal lipid on water distribution, we prepare human hair samples with and without a partial lack of internal lipids. Internal lipids have been removed using formic acid. The distribution of D2O in the hair is investigated using small angle neutron scattering (SANS) under the wet and dry conditions of each hair sample.

Results

It is found from the obtained SANS data that formic acid‐treated hairs tended to have fewer 40Å‐sized water clusters that were periodically present along the fibre axis in the wet condition. On the other hand, in the dry condition, there were no differences in water distribution between samples.

Conclusion

These observations are believed to have been caused by the reduction of 40Å‐sized water clusters existing on the constituents removed by formic acid treatment, especially the hydrophobic (lipid) constituent tissues. Consequently, it is clarified that internal lipids are deeply involved in the state of water distribution on hair in wet conditions.
Application of Raman spectroscopy in a correlation study between protein oxidation/denaturation and conformational changes in beef after repeated freeze–thaw
Authors: Chen Qingmin , Xie Yunfei , Yu Hang , Guo Yahui , Cheng Yuliang , Yao Weirong
Published: October 2021

Knowledge of protein properties is vital for quality assessment in meat systems. This study applied Raman spectroscopy to investigate the relationship between protein oxidation/denaturation and conformational changes in beef during repeated freeze–thaw (RFT). A lower α‐helix and higher β‐sheet content was observed after RFT. The I850 cm−1/I830 cm−1 intensity ratio of tyrosine indicates that tyrosine residues were exposed to the polar environment during RFT. Further, RFT led to increased carbonyl content and surface hydrophobicity, with decreased total sulphydryl content, Ca2+‐ATPase activity and enthalpy of myosin (ΔH1). Subsequently, correlation analysis showed that carbonyl content, Ca2+‐ATPase activity and ΔH1 in beef protein have good correlations with secondary protein structure data, especially ΔH1, which has a strong negative correlation (r = −0.906) with the β‐sheet/α‐helix ratio. Therefore, protein secondary conformation information during RFT has the potential to be used as a parameter for studying the thermal properties of myosin.
Improving moisture barrier and functional properties of active film from genipin‐crosslinked chitosan/astaxanthin film by heat curing
Authors: Inthamat Patthrare , Lee Youn Suk , Boonsiriwit Athip , Siripatrawan Ubonrat
Published: October 2021

This research aimed to improve moisture barrier and functional properties of genipin‐crosslinked chitosan/astaxanthin film by heat curing. The effect of heat curing (25, 80 and 105 °C) on film properties was investigated by measuring water vapour permeability (WVP), contact angle, tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EAB), Young’s modulus (YM), opacity, chemical structure and antioxidant activity. Results showed that genipin‐crosslinked chitosan/astaxanthin film and heat cured at 105 °C (CAG‐105) have the lowest (P < 0.05) WVP value which decreased by 55% while a contact angle increased from 50.2° to 74.6°, when compared to CAG‐25 film. Heat curing affected the chemical‐crosslinked interaction between chitosan and genipin with the establishment of new chemical bonds, leading to the improvement of TS and YM by 55% and 42%, respectively, for CAG‐105 film. However, EAB and antioxidant activity of the CAG‐105 slightly decreased. Moreover, heat curing changed the colour of genipin‐crosslinked chitosan/astaxanthin film from light brown to reddish brown and increased the film opacity which can lower light transmission through the film. The developed film not only had better water barrier, TS and YM but, due to its opacity, could also provide light protection, and thus would be appropriate for packaging material of foods that degrade when exposed to moisture or light.
Effect of wheat pearling process on composition and nutritional profile of flour and its bread‐making performance
Authors: Navarro José L. , Biglione Camila , Paesani Candela , Moiraghi Malena , León Alberto E. , Steffolani María Eugenia
Published: October 2021

Pearling process on wheat grains was evaluated as a strategy to reduce their adverse effect on whole‐wheat bread (WWB) quality and simultaneously preserve part of the nutrients of the whole grain. The grains were pearled applying different times (25, 125, 225 and 250 s) before milling. Characteristic, nutritional composition and rheology of the pearled wheat flour (P), and their bread‐making performance, were analysed. Whole‐wheat flour and refined flour (RF) were used as control. P125s, P225s and P250s exhibited a superior nutritional profile concerning RF. P had lower water absorption and led to higher volume bread with lighter crust and crumb compared to WWB. P125s, P225s and P250s bread showed characteristics similar to those of white bread, but their hardness was lower. The improvement resulted from the extraction of the outermost bran layers, a decrease in insoluble dietary fibre, an increase in the proportion of water‐soluble pentosans and a lower protein weakening.
Usefulness of clinical factors for diagnosing and differentiating types of testicular malposition in boys: A retrospective study
Authors: Hori Shunta , Aoki Katsuya , Tachibana Akira , Nishimura Nobutaka , Tomizawa Mitsuru , Morizawa Yosuke , Gotoh Daisuke , Fukui Shinji , Nakai Yasushi , Miyake Makito , Torimoto Kazumasa , Yoneda Tatsuo , Tanaka Nobumichi , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: October 2021

Objective

To investigate useful objective variables and factors supporting the diagnosis of retractile testis and cryptorchidism by primary care providers, including urologists.

Methods

This retrospective study included 512 boys diagnosed with retractile testis or cryptorchidism at our institute. Boys with retractile testis were followed up and underwent orchiopexy once the testis became undescended, while boys with cryptorchidism underwent orchiopexy immediately. We investigated trends in the prevalence of testicular malposition and explored useful diagnostic factors for retractile testis and cryptorchidism.

Results

Of 512 boys, 199 were diagnosed with retractile testis and 313 were diagnosed with cryptorchidism. Comparison of clinical information between retractile testis and cryptorchidism showed that age at diagnosis, laterality, and location of the testis were significantly different between the groups (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, and P < 0.0001, respectively). The comparison of surgical information also showed that epididymal abnormality and state of processus vaginalis is patency or closure were significantly different between the groups (P = 0.0088 and P = 0.0003, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that diagnosis at age 0–1 years, unilaterality, and canalicular testis were predictive factors for cryptorchidism (P = 0.001, P < 0.0001, and P < 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions

Age at diagnosis, laterality, and location of the testis could be factors to aid the diagnosis of retractile testis and cryptorchidism.
Tolerance induction by liposomes targeting a single CD8 epitope IGRP206–214 in a model of type 1 diabetes is impeded by co‐targeting a CD4+ islet epitope
Authors: Buckle Irina , Loaiza Naranjo Jeniffer D , Bergot Anne‐Sophie , Zhang Vivian , Talekar Meghna , Steptoe Raymond J , Thomas Ranjeny , Hamilton‐Williams Emma E
Published: October 2021

The autoimmune disease type 1 diabetes is predominantly mediated by CD8+ cytotoxic T‐cell destruction of islet beta cells, of which islet‐specific glucose‐6‐phosphatase catalytic subunit‐related protein (IGRP)206–214 is a dominant target antigen specificity. Previously, we found that a liposome‐based antigen‐specific immunotherapy encapsulating the CD4+ T‐cell islet epitope 2.5mim together with the nuclear factor‐κB inhibitor calcitriol induced regulatory T cells and protected from diabetes in NOD mice. Here we investigated whether the same system delivering IGRP206–214 could induce antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell‐targeted immune regulation and delay diabetes. Subcutaneous administration of IGRP206–214/calcitriol liposomes transiently activated and expanded IGRP‐specific T‐cell receptor transgenic 8.3 CD8+ T cells. Liposomal co‐delivery of calcitriol was required to optimally suppress endogenous IGRP‐specific CD8+ T‐cell interferon‐γ production and cytotoxicity. Concordantly, a short course of IGRP206–214/calcitriol liposomes delayed diabetes progression and reduced insulitis. However, when IGRP206–214/calcitriol liposomes were delivered together with 2.5mim/calcitriol liposomes, disease protection was not observed and the regulatory effect of 2.5mim/calcitriol liposomes was abrogated. Thus, tolerogenic liposomes that target either a dominant CD8+ or a CD4+ T‐cell islet epitope can delay diabetes progression but combining multiple epitopes does not enhance protection.
On the role of commodity futures in portfolio diversification
Authors: Lean Hooi Hooi , Nguyen Duc Khuong , Sensoy Ahmet , Uddin Gazi Salah
Published: October 2021

The last two decades have witnessed major financial crises that led investors to seek alternative assets and investment strategies to reduce their portfolio risk. In this article, we provide information on the role of commodity futures in designing portfolios and managing risk based on an appealing operational framework. Using more than 20 years of sample data, we first investigate the conditional mean and volatility dynamics of equity and commodity futures markets within a dynamic conditional correlation model setup. We then form alternative equity‐commodity futures portfolios by changing the weights of commodity futures and examine if the diversified commodity‐equity portfolios perform superior to the all‐equity portfolios and four well‐known investment strategies that suit most practitioners. Stochastic dominance approach shows that including commodity futures in diversified portfolios does not always improve the risk‐return performance, except for gold in some particular portfolio setups. Accordingly, commodity assets have behaved like financial assets (stocks) and tend to be driven by the same pricing factors in general, which reduces the benefits of diversification.
Characterization and identification of a novel microbial consortium M2 and its effect on fermentation quality and enzymatic hydrolysis of sterile rice straw
Authors: Li Junfeng , Ding Hao , Zhao Jie , Wang Siran , Dong Zhihao , Shao Tao
Published: October 2021

Aims

To isolate and enrich lignocellulolytic microbial consortia from yak (Bos grunniens) rumen and evaluate their effects on the fermentation characteristics and enzymatic hydrolysis in rice straw silage.

Methods and Results

A novel microbial consortium M2 with high CMCase and xylanase activities was enriched and observed to be prone to use natural carbon sources. Its predominant genus was Enterococcus, and most carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) genes belonged to the glycosyl hydrolases class. The consortium M2 was introduced with or without combined lactic acid bacteria (XA) to rice straw silage for 60 days. Inoculating the consortium M2 notably decreased the structural carbohydrate contents and pH of rice straw silages. Treatment that combines consortium M2 and XA resulted in the highest levels of lactic acid and lignocellulose degradation. The consortium M2 alone or combined with XA significantly (p < 0.01) increased water-soluble carbohydrates (WSCs), mono- and disaccharides contents compared with the XA silage. Combined addition obviously improved the enzymatic conversion efficiency of rice straw silage with higher glucose and xylose yields (23.39 and 12.91 w/w% DM, respectively).

Conclusions

Ensiling pretreatment with the microbial consortium M2 in sterile rice straw improved fermentation characteristics. The combined application of consortium M2 with XA had synergistic effects on promoting the degradation of structural carbohydrates and enzymatic hydrolysis.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Rice straw is difficult to ensile because of its low WSC and high structural carbohydrate contents. The microbial consortium M2 identified herein exhibits great potential for degrading fibrous substrates, and their combination with XA provides a faster and more effective synergistic strategy for biorefinery of lignocellulosic biomass.
Electrocardiography of cardiac resynchronization therapy: Pitfalls and practical tips
Authors: Manolis Antonis S. , Manolis Antonis A. , Manolis Theodora A. , Melita Helen
Published: October 2021

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been established as an effective mode of therapy in patients with heart failure and concurrent cardiac dyssynchrony, principally in the form of left bundle branch block (LBBB). The widespread use of CRT has ushered in a new landscape in 12‐lead electrocardiography (ECG). ECG readings in these patients are most important to guide troubleshooting and also appropriate device programming, as well as discerning and managing nonresponders. A set of four ECG recordings need to accompany each patient with a CRT device, including a baseline ECG and recordings from monochamber (right and left ventricular) and biventricular pacing, which can be compared against a new recording to facilitate the evaluation of proper versus problematic biventricular pacing. Precordial ECG leads V1/2 acquired at the fourth intercostal space and limb leads, I and III, together with a quick assessment of perpendicular leads I and aVF to determine the quadrant of the QRS axis in the hexaxial diagram, may provide the framework for proper ECG interpretation in these patients. This important issue of 12‐lead ECG in CRT patients is herein reviewed, pitfalls are pointed out and practical tips are provided for ECG reading to help recognize and manage problems with CRT device function. Furthermore, several pertinent ECG recordings and tabulated data are provided, and an algorithm is suggested that integrates prior algorithms and relevant information from current literature.
Catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia in patients with postinfarction left ventricular aneurysm
Authors: Amin Mustapha , Farwati Medhat , Hilaire Emilie , Siontis Konstantinos C. , Madhavan Malini , Kapa Suraj , Mulpuru Siva K. , Deshmukh Abhishek J. , Cha Yong‐Mei , Friedman Paul A. , Munger Thomas , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Killu Ammar M.
Published: October 2021

Background

While ventricular tachycardia (VT) in the setting of postmyocardial infarction left ventricular aneurysms (LVA) is not uncommonly encountered, there is a scarcity of data regarding the safety, efficacy, and outcomes of ablation of VT in this subset of patients.

Methods

Our study included consecutive patients aged 18 years or older with postmyocardial infarction LVA who presented to Mayo Clinic for catheter ablation of VT between 2002 and 2018.

Results

Of 34 patients, the mean age was 70.4 ± 9.1 years; 91% were male. Mean LVEF was 29 ± 9.7% and left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension was 64.9 ± 6.6 mm. The site of the LVA was apical in 21 patients (62%). Fifteen patients (44%) presented with electrical storm or incessant VT. Nine patients (26%) had a history of intracardiac thrombus. All except for one patient had at least one VT originating from the aneurysm. The mean number of VTs was 2.9 ± 1.7. All patients underwent ablation at the site of the aneurysm. Ablation outside the aneurysm was performed in 13 patients (38%). Low‐voltage fractionated potentials and/or late potentials at the aneurysmal site were present in all cases. Complete elimination of all VTs was achieved in 18 (53%), while the elimination of the clinical VT with continued inducibility of nonclinical VTs was achieved in a further 11 patients (32%). Two patients developed cardiac tamponade requiring pericardiocentesis. During a mean follow‐up period of 2.3 ± 2.4 years, 11 patients (32%) experienced VT recurrence. Freedom from all‐cause mortality at 1‐year follow‐up was 94%.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency catheter ablation targeting the aneurysmal site is a feasible and reasonably effective management strategy for clinical VTs in patients with postinfarction LVA.
Assessment of vaginal and endometrial microbiota by real‐time PCR in women with unexplained infertility
Authors: Sezer Ozlem , Soyer Çalışkan Canan , Celik Samettin , Kilic Suleyman Sirri , Kuruoglu Tuba , Unluguzel Ustun Goksenin , Yurtcu Nazan
Published: October 2021

Aim

Microbiota of the reproductive tract may be associated with unexplained infertility in women. We aimed to determine the derangements of vaginal and endometrial microbiota related to unexplained infertility by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (real‐time PCR) microbiota analyses of vaginal and endometrial samples of the unexplained infertility patients and fertile women.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐six women with unexplained infertility and 26 age‐matched fertile women were included. Vaginal and endometrial samples were obtained in the mid‐menstrual cycle for analysis by quantitative real‐time PCR method.

Results

The proportion of lactobacilli‐impaired microbiota was significantly higher in the vaginal samples of unexplained infertility patients (76.9% vs. 26.9%; p < 0.001). Those with impaired lactobacilli microbiota of vaginal samples had an increased risk of 9.048 times for infertility than those with normal lactobacilli microbiota. In addition, the mean lactobacilli/total bacterial mass (TBM) ratio in the vaginal samples was significantly lower in the unexplained infertility patients (38.2% vs.76.3%; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The present study results supported the role of vaginal and endometrial microbiota derangements in unexplained infertility. Many time‐consuming and invasive methods are currently used in the diagnosis of infertility. Our study showed that the quantitative determination of lactobacilli/TBM ratio in vaginal specimens, a less invasive and easily obtainable method, could be used as a diagnostic test during the workup of couples with unexplained infertility.
Examination of fetal well‐being evaluation metrics for fetal growth restriction as seen from Japan Obstetric Compensation Cause Analysis Report data
Authors: Sugihara Mika , Unno Nobuya , Suzuki Hideaki , Sekizawa Akihiko , Tanaka Hiroaki , Fujimori Keiya , Ikeda Tomoaki , Shimoya Koichiro ,   Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology Perinatal Committee, Committee on Evaluation of Perinatal Brain Disorders and Fetal Health
Published: October 2021

Advances in perinatal care have improved the prognoses of both mothers and neonates; however, cerebral palsy continues to occur. In this study, we examined methods for the intragestational evaluation of the health of infants who later developed cerebral palsy. A retrospective review was conducted on light‐for‐dates cases among the 2113 cause analysis reports issued by the Japan Obstetric Compensation System between January 2009 and September 2018. In our examination, we determined that non‐stress tests and ultrasonic Doppler tests were used to evaluate fetal well‐being. Moreover, we observed cases in which additional testing was not performed even when fetal growth restriction (FGR) was identified. Appropriate management of FGR may help reduce the incidence of cerebral palsy.
Temporomandibular joint involvement in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis—Symptoms, clinical signs and radiographic findings
Authors: Collin Malin , Hagelberg Stefan , Ernberg Malin , Hedenberg‐Magnusson Britt , Christidis Nikolaos
Published: October 2021

Background

Although many children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) develop arthritis and deformity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), many go undetected.

Objective

This study investigates whether findings from patient history and clinical examination using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) can be used to diagnose TMJ involvement.

Methods

As a part of the screening program, 59 consecutive JIA patients age 7–14 years underwent a clinical examination according to RDC/TMD including self‐reported orofacial pain and pain related to jaw function, and cone beam computer tomography (CBCT). Data were obtained from the patient's medical charts. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of TMJ deformities on CBCT.

Results

Self‐reported TMJ symptoms before inclusion were reported by 57% of children with and 14% of children without TMJ deformities on CBCT (p = 0.036). On a group level, the maximum unassisted (mouth) opening (MUO) with and without pain was within the normal range, but children with TMJ deformities showed a significantly smaller MUO with pain (p = 0.018). A diagnosis of osteoarthritis and osteoarthrosis were more prevalent in children with TMJ deformities.

Conclusion

Although there were few differences between children with and without radiographic TMJ deformities, self‐reported previous TMJ symptoms and reduced MUO with pain could indicate the presence of TMJ involvement. However, radiographic examinations are needed to confirm TMJ involvement. Thus, this study indicates that the RDC/TMD protocol is a blunt tool when targeting TMJ involvement in JIA.
Serum α‐fetoprotein level at treatment completion is a useful predictor of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence more than one year after hepatitis C virus eradication by direct‐acting antiviral treatment
Authors: Kuwano Akifumi , Yada Masayoshi , Nagasawa Shigehiro , Tanaka Kosuke , Morita Yusuke , Masumoto Akihide , Motomura Kenta
Published: October 2021

Direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) have recently been developed to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and interferon‐free DAA treatment has improved liver function of HCV patients. The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence following HCV eradication has been previously reported, but HCC may have been missed following imaging diagnosis before DAA administration in previous studies. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify definite predictors of HCC occurrence ≥1 year after DAA treatment. Among 956 patients receiving DAAs for HCV infection, 567 patients who achieved sustained virologic response with no history of HCC treatment were enrolled in this study between September 2014 and July 2021. The incidence of HCC in HCV‐infected patients ≥1 year following DAA treatment, and the predictors contributing to HCC occurrence were identified using clinical characteristics and blood test results. In the present study, 25 patients developed HCC. The incidence of HCC was 1.4%, 3.2%, 4.9% and 6.8% at 2, 3, 4 and 5 years, respectively, from the end of treatment with DAAs. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed serum α‐fetoprotein level at end of treatment (EOT‐AFP) >3.8 ng/ml ≥1 year following treatment with DAAs (HR, 9.7; p < .0001) as an independent factor that may contribute to HCC occurrence following DAA treatment. In conclusion, serum EOT‐AFP level may serve an important role in determining the risk of HCC occurrence ≥1 year after DAA treatment. Regular examinations are required even if serum EOT‐AFP level is low at treatment completion.
Role of peer support in a hepatitis C elimination programme
Authors: Jugnarain Davina Varsha , Halford Rachel , Smith Stuart , Hickman Matthew , Samartsidis Pantelis , Foster Graham R.
Published: October 2021

Many people with chronic hepatitis C infection don't engage in treatment. To eliminate hepatitis C and avoid health inequalities therapy must be provided to everyone. In other diseases peers with lived experience of the condition have improved care but, for hepatitis C, studies have not shown unequivocal benefit. We completed a retrospective analysis of the English National Health Service treatment registry comparing treatment networks with and without peers using Bayesian Poisson (for count outcomes) or Bayesian Binomial (for proportion outcomes) mixed effects models with time fixed effects. For each outcome, we estimated relative ratio (RR‐Poisson model) or odds ratio (Odds Ratio (OR)‐Binomial model) between peer and non‐peer networks. We analysed 30,729 patients within 20 operational delivery networks. In networks with peers there was an increase in the number of people initiating therapy (RR 1.12 95%, credible interval 1.02–1.21) and an increase in the proportion completing therapy (OR 2.45 95%, credible interval 1.49–3.84). However, we saw no change in proportions of people using drugs who initiated therapy nor any significant change in virological response (OR 1.14 95% credible interval 0.979–1.36). We repeated the analysis looking at the impact of peers two months after they had been introduced, when they had established networks of contacts, and saw an increase in the proportion of people treated in addiction services. In treating patients with chronic hepatitis C infection the inclusion of peer supporters may increase the number of people who initiate and complete antiviral therapy.
Long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetases activate fatty acids for lipid synthesis, remodeling and energy production in Chlamydomonas
Authors: Bai Fan , Yu Lihua , Shi Jianan , Li‐Beisson Yonghua , Liu Jin
Published: October 2021

Long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetases (LACSs) play many roles in mammals, yeasts and plants, but knowledge on their functions in microalgae remains fragmented. Here via genetic, biochemical and physiological analyses, we unraveled the function and roles of LACSs in the model microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

In vitro assays on purified recombinant proteins revealed that CrLACS1, CrLACS2 and CrLACS3 all exhibited bona fide LACS activities toward a broad range of free fatty acids.

The Chlamydomonas mutants compromised in CrLACS1, CrLACS2 or CrLACS3 did not show any obvious phenotypes in lipid content or growth under nitrogen (N)‐replete condition. But under N‐deprivation, CrLACS1 or CrLACS2 suppression resulted in c. 50% less oil, yet with a higher amount of chloroplast lipids. By contrast, CrLACS3 suppression impaired oil remobilization and cell growth severely during N‐recovery, supporting its role in fatty acid β‐oxidation to provide energy and carbon sources for regrowth. Transcriptomics analysis suggested that the observed lipid phenotypes are likely not due to transcriptional reprogramming but rather a shift in metabolic adjustment.

Taken together, this study provided solid experimental evidence for essential roles of the three Chlamydomonas LACS enzymes in lipid synthesis, remodeling and catabolism, and highlighted the importance of lipid homeostasis in cell growth under nutrient fluctuations.
Tree allocation dynamics beyond heat and hot drought stress reveal changes in carbon storage, belowground translocation and growth
Authors: Rehschuh Romy , Rehschuh Stephanie , Gast Andreas , Jakab Andrea‐Livia , Lehmann Marco M. , Saurer Matthias , Gessler Arthur , Ruehr Nadine K.
Published: October 2021

Heatwaves combined with drought affect tree functioning with as yet undetermined legacy effects on carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) allocation.

We continuously monitored shoot and root gas exchange, δ13CO2 of respiration and stem growth in well‐watered and drought‐treated Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) seedlings exposed to increasing daytime temperatures (max. 42°C) and evaporative demand. Following stress release, we used 13CO2 canopy pulse‐labeling, supplemented by soil‐applied 15N, to determine allocation to plant compartments, respiration and soil microbial biomass (SMB) over 2.5 wk.

Previously heat‐treated seedlings rapidly translocated 13C along the long‐distance transport path, to root respiration (Rroot; 7.1 h) and SMB (3 d). Furthermore, 13C accumulated in branch cellulose, suggesting secondary growth enhancement. However, in recovering drought‐heat seedlings, the mean residence time of 13C in needles increased, whereas C translocation to Rroot was delayed (13.8 h) and 13C incorporated into starch rather than cellulose. Concurrently, we observed stress‐induced low N uptake and aboveground allocation.

C and N allocation during early recovery were affected by stress type and impact. Although C uptake increased quickly in both treatments, drought‐heat in combination reduced the above–belowground coupling and starch accumulated in leaves at the expense of growth. Accordingly, C allocation during recovery depends on phloem translocation capacity.
The crucial roles of mitochondria in supporting C4 photosynthesis
Authors: Fan Yuzhen , Asao Shinichi , Furbank Robert T. , von Caemmerer Susanne , Day David A. , Tcherkez Guillaume , Sage Tammy L. , Sage Rowan F. , Atkin Owen K.
Published: October 2021

C4 photosynthesis involves a series of biochemical and anatomical traits that significantly improve plant productivity under conditions that reduce the efficiency of C3 photosynthesis. We explore how evolution of the three classical biochemical types of C4 photosynthesis (NADP‐ME, NAD‐ME and PCK types) has affected the functions and properties of mitochondria. Mitochondria in C4 NAD‐ME and PCK types play a direct role in decarboxylation of metabolites for C4 photosynthesis. Mitochondria in C4 PCK type also provide ATP for C4 metabolism, although this role for ATP provision is not seen in NAD‐ME type. Such involvement has increased mitochondrial abundance/size and associated enzymatic capacity, led to changes in mitochondrial location and ultrastructure, and altered the role of mitochondria in cellular carbon metabolism in the NAD‐ME and PCK types. By contrast, these changes in mitochondrial properties are absent in the C4 NADP‐ME type and C3 leaves, where mitochondria play no direct role in photosynthesis. From an eco‐physiological perspective, rates of leaf respiration in darkness vary considerably among C4 species but does not differ systematically among the three C4 types. This review outlines further mitochondrial research in key areas central to the engineering of the C4 pathway into C3 plants and to the understanding of variation in rates of C4 dark respiration.
What has become of the audit explosion? Analyzing trends in oversight activities in the Canadian government
Authors: Liston‐Heyes Catherine , Juillet Luc
Published: October 2021

Since the 1980s, many governments expanded their administrative oversight systems, such as auditing and evaluation, in order to improve the efficiency, performance and accountability of their administration. Yet few studies empirically examine this “audit explosion.” Our study investigates its more recent manifestation. Using Canada as an exploratory case, we first assess whether the level of these oversight activities contracted or expanded in the last two decades. We then analyze the contents of 3245 audit reports published between 2000 and 2019 to track changes in the focus of auditing. Results suggest that, while the overall level of administrative oversight is much higher now than in 2000, it grew only in the first decade of the millennium and was confined to internal functions, namely departmental audits and evaluations, as opposed to the country's Supreme Audit Institution. Meanwhile, auditors' attention to financial matters declined, while their focus on compliance, performance, and risk increased.
The jasmonic acid‐amino acid conjugates JA‐Val and JA‐Leu are involved in rice resistance to herbivores
Authors: Fu Wenjie , Jin Gaochen , Jiménez‐Alemán Guillermo H. , Wang Xinjue , Song Jiajin , Li Suhua , Lou Yonggen , Li Ran
Published: October 2021

The phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) plays a core role in plant defence against herbivores. When attacked by herbivores, JA and its bioactive derivatives are accumulated at the damage site, and subsequently perceived by the jasmonate co‐receptors COI1 and JAZ proteins. The (+)‐7‐iso‐jasmonoyl‐L‐isoleucine (JA‐Ile) is known to be the main active JA derivative controlling vascular plant responses to herbivores as well as other JA‐regulated processes. However, whether other endogenous JA‐amino acid conjugates (JA‐AAs) are involved in herbivore‐induced defence responses remain unknown. Here, we investigated the role of herbivore‐elicited JA‐AAs in the crop plant rice. The levels of five JA‐AAs were significantly increased under the armyworm, leaf folder and brown planthopper attack. Of the elicited JA derivatives, JA‐Ile, JA‐Val and JA‐Leu could serve as ligands to promote the interaction between rice COI1 and JAZs, inducing OsJAZ4 degradation in vivo. JA‐Val or JA‐Leu treatment increased the expression of JA‐ and defence‐related pathway genes but not JA‐Ile levels, suggesting that these JA‐AAs may directly function in JA signalling. Furthermore, the application of JA‐Val or JA‐Leu resulted in JA‐mediated plant growth inhibition, while enhancing plant resistance to herbivore attack. This study uncovers that JA‐Val and JA‐Leu also play a role in rice defence against herbivores.
Control of crop diseases through Integrated Crop Management to deliver climate‐smart farming systems for low‐ and high‐input crop production
Authors: Richard Benjamin , Qi Aiming , Fitt Bruce D. L.
Published: October 2021

Crop diseases affect crop yield and quality and cause significant losses of total food production worldwide. With the ever‐increasing world population and decreasing land and water resources, there is a need not only to produce more food but also to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to mitigate climate change and avoid land use change and biodiversity loss. Thus, alternative climate‐smart farming systems need to adapt to produce more food per hectare in a more sustainable way than conventional high‐input farming systems. In addition to breeding new high‐yielding cultivars adapted to future climates, there is a need to deploy Integrated Crop Management (ICM) strategies, relying less on synthetic inputs for fertilization and crop protection and less on fossil fuel‐powered machinery to decrease yield losses due to pest and pathogens and guarantee food security. In this review, we compare some low‐input farming systems to conventional agricultural systems with a focus on ICM solutions being developed to reduce synthetic inputs; these include crop genetic resistance to pathogens, intercropping, canopy architecture manipulation, and crop rotation. These techniques have potential to decrease crop disease frequency and severity by decreasing amounts and dispersal of pathogen inoculum and by producing microclimates that are less favourable for pathogen development, while decreasing GHG emissions and improving environmental sustainability. More research is needed to determine the best deployment of these ICM strategies in various cropping systems to maximize yield, crop protection, and other ecosystem services to address trade‐offs between climate change and food security.
Does the road to land degradation neutrality in India is paved with restoration science?
Authors: Singh Kripal , Tewari Shri Krishna
Published: October 2021

The land in India is under severe threat of degradation. According to the 2016 Atlas of Land Degradation and Desertification, 29.3% of the total geographical area of India has been degraded or converted to deserts. To maximize ecological and economical benefits through the restoration of degraded ecosystems, India became a party to Bonn Challenge and United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030 and has pledged to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 during conference of parties 14 of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification at Delhi. In Paris Agreement 2015, India has also pledged to increase forest tree cover through reforestation and afforestation initiatives, bringing degraded ecosystems under restoration, and sequester additional 2.5–3 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2030. These positive commitments are encouraging, but developing effective strategies for implementation of ecological restoration on the ground we need to understand (1) distribution of differently degraded ecosystems; (2) the status of scientific thoughtfulness and practices of restoration; and (3) review of empirical studies those can scientifically guide to pave the road to land degradation neutrality in India. Therefore, this study briefs about the distribution of degraded ecosystems, development of the science of restoration ecology, and its understanding and provide a synthesis of appropriate case studies on different degraded ecosystems, including forests, mined areas, and degraded and/or abandoned lands.