bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronospaces: An R package for the statistical exploration of divergence times promotes the assessment of methodological sensitivity
Authors: Mongiardino Koch Nicolás , Milla Carmona Pablo
Published: August 2024

Much of our understanding of the history of life hinges upon time calibration, the process of assigning absolute times to cladogenetic events. Bayesian approaches to time‐scaling phylogenetic trees have dramatically grown in complexity, and depend today upon numerous methodological choices. Arriving at objective justifications for all of these is difficult and time‐consuming. Thus, divergence times are routinely inferred under only one or a handful of parametric conditions, often times chosen arbitrarily. Progress towards building robust biological timescales necessitates the development of better methods to visualize and quantify the sensitivity of results to these decisions.

Here, we present an R package that assists in this endeavour through the use of chronospaces, that is, graphical representations summarizing variation in the node ages contained in time‐calibrated trees. We further test this approach by estimating divergence times for three empirical datasets—spanning widely differing evolutionary timeframes—using the software PhyloBayes.

Our results reveal large differences in the impact of many common methodological decisions, with the choice of clock (uncorrelated vs autocorrelated) and loci having strong effects on inferred ages. Other decisions have comparatively minor consequences, including the use of the computationally intensive site‐heterogeneous model CAT‐GTR, whose effect might only be discernible for exceedingly old divergences (e.g. the deepest eukaryote nodes).

The package chronospace implements a range of graphical and analytical tools that assist in the exploration of sensitivity and the prioritization of computational resources in the inference of divergence times.
Prescribed burning beneficial or neutral for native herbaceous vegetation in an invader dominated commercially grazed savanna
Authors: Radford Ian J. , Abbott Brett N. , Nicholas David M. , Whiteman Lindsay , Grice Anthony C.
Published: August 2024

Prescribed burning is frequently used in savanna vegetation in Australia and worldwide. In north‐east Queensland savanna burning has been proposed for the control of woody weeds including Cryptostegia grandiflora (rubbervine), an invasive shrub/vine of riparian savanna. However, burning as a management tool can have non‐target impacts on ecosystems, particularly where associated with additional invasive species, such as the exotic stoloniferous grass species Bothriochloa pertusa (Indian couch). For this reason, an experiment was established to test for non‐target impacts of prescribed burning on herbaceous vegetation. The experiment consisted of wet and dry season burning, and single and double burning treatments during a 4 year study. Annual herbaceous surveys were conducted, both before treatments applied, and then annually. We addressed alternative hypotheses, that (i) burning would exacerbate grazing impacts resulting in negative outcomes for native herbaceous vegetation, or alternatively (ii) burning would be neutral or beneficial to native herbaceous assemblages due to savanna co‐evolution with fire. Burning treatments resulted in subtle but beneficial responses for native herbaceous vegetation. Native legume biomass, percent composition and percent frequency, and forb species richness, increased 4–5 months following wet season burning with above average rainfall. There was a delayed (8–18 months) positive response of burning (both wet and dry season) in percent composition of native grazing sensitive perennial grasses. There was a slight short‐term decline in introduced perennial grass percent composition and biomass following treatment. Results were consistent with predominantly positive or neutral responses to prescribed burning. There was no evidence to support the hypothesis that invaded native savanna herbaceous assemblages declined with burning treatment applications. These results are discussed in relation to other savanna studies in northern Australia and to the role of fire in the maintenance of herbaceous vegetation in savanna biomes.
Double cropping as an adaptation to climate change in the United States
Authors: Gammans Matthew , Mérel Pierre , Ortiz‐Bobea Ariel
Published: August 2024

A warming climate expands the frost‐free season, plausibly allowing for increased cropping intensity in temperate regions. This paper assesses the potential of multiple cropping to offset the projected negative effects of climate change on agricultural yields in the United States. We use cross‐sectional variation in observed land cover, soil characteristics, and climate to estimate farmers' propensity to double‐crop winter wheat with soybeans. Our estimates imply that under current economic conditions, a 3°C warming would result in an increase of 2.1 percentage points in the share of current soybean area double cropped, primarily driven by expansions in cooler regions. A fixed‐effects panel model of county yields further indicates that yields of double‐cropped soybeans are about 12% lower than those of single‐cropped soybeans. Accounting for changes in cropping intensity and attendant effects on soybean yields, we project that at current prices, a 3°C warming would induce a shift in cropping intensity that increases revenue from soy systems by 1.3% overall, offsetting only a small fraction of the revenue impacts of predicted yield declines.
Impact of steroid hormone levels on estradiol‐mediated regulation of cytochrome P450 2B6 compared to 1B1 in breast cancer cells
Authors: Hoffmann Marco , Müller Julian Peter , Maurer Jochen , Folliot Anne‐Marie , Yamoune Sabrina , Stingl Julia Carolin
Published: August 2024

Pharmacogenetic variants of the steroid hormone‐metabolizing enzyme cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) were reported to be associated with breast cancer (BC) risk and prognosis. CYP2B6 expression is inducible by estradiol (E2) but induction was demonstrated only under steroid hormone‐deprived medium conditions. Physiological conditions, however, even under endocrinological BC treatment, do not correspond to complete steroid hormone depletion. The aim of this study was to investigate the E2‐mediated CYP2B6 and CYP1B1 regulation under various steroid hormone conditions, including physiological concentrations, in human oestrogen receptor positive (T47D, MCF‐7) and negative (MDA‐MB‐231) BC cell lines. We confirm that steroid‐deprived pre‐cultivation led to CYP2B6 upregulation in T47D, but not in MCF‐7. However, when pre‐cultivated with steroid‐containing medium CYP2B6 was downregulated in T47D and MCF‐7, while the addition of physiological E2 concentrations to steroid‐deprived medium resulted in a downregulation in T47D. In contrast, CYP1B1 was never downregulated in any culture condition. Thus, we show that E2‐mediated CYP2B6 regulation in BC cells depends on steroid hormone exposure in a cell line‐specific manner. Our data indicates the importance of being careful with conclusions drawn from CYP2B6 induction findings in vitro, as we demonstrate potential influences of hormonal changes on CYP2B6 expression, which could impact steroid hormone homeostasis and, consequently, BC risk.
Learning at university
Authors: Huxley Gervas , Peacey Mike W.
Published: August 2024

Much of the economic literature on education models the process of acquiring human capital as a “black box.” While such models have many interesting uses, they are of little use when a student is considering how much teaching she needs and how her time at university is allocated between study and attending class. Considering such questions requires us to “open up” the black box. Our paper shows what one such model would look like by explicitly modeling how students choose to learn. We believe that this framework can inform the current debate about teaching in higher education.
Landscape‐scale predictions of future grassland conversion to cropland or development
Authors: Barnes Kevin W. , Niemuth Neal D. , Iovanna Rich
Published: August 2024

Grassland conservation planning often focuses on high‐risk landscapes, but many grassland conversion models are not designed to optimize conservation planning because they lack multidimensional risk assessments and are misaligned with ecological and conservation delivery scales. To aid grassland conservation planning, we developed landscape‐scale models at relevant scales that predict future (2021–2031) total and proportional loss of unprotected grassland to cropland or development. We developed models for 20 ecoregions across the contiguous United States by relating past conversion (2011–2021) to a suite of covariates in random forest regression models and applying the models to contemporary covariates to predict future loss. Overall, grassland loss models performed well, and explanatory power varied spatially across ecoregions (total loss model: weighted group mean R2 = 0.89 [range: 0.83–0.96], root mean squared error [RMSE] = 9.29 ha [range: 2.83–22.77 ha]; proportional loss model: weighted group mean R2 = 0.74 [range: 0.64–0.87], RMSE = 0.03 [range: 0.02–0.06]). Amount of crop in the landscape and distance to cities, ethanol plants, and concentrated animal feeding operations had high variable importance in both models. Total grass loss was greater when there were moderate amounts of grass, crop, or development (∼50%) in the landscape. Proportional grass loss was greater when there was less grass (∼<30%) and more crop or development (∼>50%). Some variables had a large effect on only a subset of ecoregions, for example, grass loss was greater when ∼>70% of the landscape was enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program. Our methods provide a simple and flexible approach for developing risk layers well suited for conservation that can be extended globally. Our conversion models can support conservation planning by enabling prioritization as a function of risk that can be further optimized by incorporating biological value and cost.
Photopatch testing: Clinical characteristics, test results, and final diagnoses from the North American Contact Dermatitis Group, 2009–2020
Authors: DeLeo Vincent A. , Adler Brandon L. , Belsito Donald V. , Pratt Melanie D. , Sasseville Denis , Reeder Margo J. , Warshaw Erin M. , Atwater Amber R. , Taylor James S. , Storrs Frances , Marks James G. , DeKoven Joel G. , Silverberg Jonathan , Yu JiaDe , Botto Nina , Houle Marie‐Claude , Mowad Christen M. , Dunnick Cory A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Photoallergic contact dermatitis (PACD) is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to allergens only in the presence of ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. Photopatch testing (PhotoPT) is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of PACD. There are few published studies of PhotoPT in North America.

Objective

To summarise the results of patients photopatch tested by members of the North American Contact Dermatitis Group (NACDG), 2009–2020.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patient characteristics and PhotoPT results to 32 allergens on the NACDG Photopatch Test Series.

Results

Most of the 454 tested patients were female (70.3%), 21–60 years old (66.7%) and White (66.7%). There were a total of 119 positive photopatch tests. Sunscreen agents comprised 88.2% of those, with benzophenones responsible for over half of them. Final diagnoses included PACD in 17.2%, allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in 44.5%, polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) in 18.9% and chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) in 9.0% of patients.

Conclusions

In 454 patients with suspected photosensitivity referred for photopatch testing in North America, approximately one‐fifth had PACD. Sunscreen agents, especially benzophenones, were the most common photoallergens. Other common diagnoses included ACD, PMLE and CAD. Photopatch testing is an important tool for differentiating these conditions.
Management lessons from a long‐term captive‐breeding program for a critically endangered species, Leadbeater's possum, Gymnobelideus leadbeateri
Authors: Steventon Chloe , Wicker Leanne , Dobson Elizabeth , Legione Alistair , Devlin Joanne , Harley Dan
Published: August 2024

Leadbeater's possums (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri) are a critically endangered marsupial found in a restricted area of cold, wet forest in South‐Eastern Australia. The majority of Leadbeater's possums inhabit highland forest, with one outlying lowland population. In 2012, a breeding program was established for the lowland Leadbeater's possums when this genetically distinct population faced imminent extinction. Successful reproduction by highland Leadbeater's possums in the international zoo‐based population between 1970 and 2010 led to the widespread belief that the species bred readily in captivity. Lowland possums have not bred in the 2012–2021 contemporary captive conservation breeding program. This study reviewed the historic captive‐breeding data and found that of the 84% (162/194) that reached reproductive maturity; 37% of males (n = 30) and 39.5% of females (n = 32) bred, and this success was highly skewed towards a subset of highly fecund individuals (14% of females and 15% of males produced 75% and 80% of all offspring). Although lack of reproductive output in the captive lowland animals could be explained if age at mortality was lower than that of highlands possums, comparison of the longevity of highland and lowland animals had no significant difference. Conservation objectives that specify how captive breeding may support in situ recovery of wild populations are integral to the success of captive programs. A lack of reflective analysis of past husbandry records allowed misconceptions of success and approaches implemented in the management of the breeding program, reducing the benefits for the conservation of this high profile threatened species. This case study provides a lesson for the management of conservation breeding programs and illustrates the importance of well‐defined conservation objectives, integration of in situ and ex situ strategies, and the importance of objective, systematic and timely analysis of available evidence to inform management objectives and improve conservation outcomes in real time.
Predicting progression‐free survival from measurable residual disease in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Tettamanti Florencia A. , Kimko Holly , Sharma Shringi , Di Veroli Giovanni
Published: August 2024

Association between measurable residual disease (MRD) and survival outcomes in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has often been reported. However, limited quantitative analyses over large datasets have been undertaken to establish the predictive power of MRD. Here, we provide a comprehensive assessment of published MRD data to explore the utility of MRD in the prediction of progression‐free survival (PFS). We undertook two independent analyses, which leveraged available published data to address two complimentary questions. In the first, data from eight clinical trials was modeled via a meta‐regression approach, showing that median PFS can be predicted from undetectable MRD rates at 3–6 months of post‐treatment. The resulting model can be used to predict the probability of technical success of a planned clinical trial in chemotherapy. In the second, we investigated the evidence for predicting PFS from competing MRD metrics, for example baseline value and instantaneous MRD value, via a joint modeling approach. Using data from four small studies, we found strong evidence that including MRD metrics in joint models improves predictions of PFS compared with not including them. This analysis suggests that incorporating MRD is likely to better inform individual progression predictions. It is therefore proposed that systematic MRD collection should be accompanied by modeling to generate algorithms that inform patients' progression.
Can the THC concentration predict the number of patients with cannabis‐related diagnoses?
Authors: Manthey Jakob , Rosenkranz Moritz , Jonas Benjamin , Schwarzkopf Larissa
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The use of high‐potency cannabis products is associated with an increased risk of mental disorders. This study investigates whether the rising THC concentration in Germany is associated with an increase in cannabis‐related diagnoses.

Methods

The number of insured persons with at least one cannabis‐related ICD‐10 F12 diagnosis (e.g., harmful use, dependence) in outpatient care was provided by statutory health insurance funds between 2009 and 2021. The dependent variable is the ratio of (a) the number of insured persons with at least one F12 diagnosis to (b) all insured persons who have used cannabis in the last year. Information on THC concentration in cannabis flower was provided by law enforcement agencies. Using generalised mixed linear models, the dependent variable was predicted by the median THC concentration in cannabis flower.

Results

The regression results show that an increase in THC concentration by one percentage point is significantly associated with an increase in the proportion of diagnoses (women: +0.17; men: +0.42). THC concentration positively predicted the proportion of diagnoses in all 16 federal states for men and in 15 federal states for women.

Discussion and Conclusions

Compared to low‐potency products, using high‐potency products may pose additional health risks, which may be particularly pronounced in men. Acknowledging the limitations of the ecological study design and uncertainties inherent to the analysed data, further investigations on the sex‐specific impact of THC exposure are required. Limiting the THC concentration in cannabis products and closely monitoring THC consumption in the population appears necessary.
Characteristics of consumers of alcohol‐free and low‐alcohol drinks in Great Britain: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Perman‐Howe Parvati R. , Holmes John , Brown Jamie , Kersbergen Inge
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The impact of alcohol‐free and low‐alcohol (no/lo) drinks on public health and health inequalities depends on who consumes them and how they are consumed. This study aimed to estimate: (i) the proportions of adults in Great Britain who consume no/lo drinks at different frequencies and in different settings; and (ii) the associations between no/lo drink consumption and individual characteristics.

Method

Pooled data (N = 7691) from four waves of a repeat cross‐sectional survey on alcohol use completed in 2022–2023 by adults (16+) resident in Great Britain were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models.

Results

In all, 31.3% of adults reported ever consuming no/lo drinks and 9.8% reported drinking them weekly. Ever consumption of no/lo drinks was associated with: being an increasing risk drinker of alcohol relative to not drinking (ORadj: 3.96, 95% CI 3.27–4.80), being aged 16–24 compared with 65+ (ORadj:1.29, 95% CI 1.07–1.57), having previously smoked compared with having never smoked (ORadj:1.19, 95% CI 1.05–1.34) and living in a rural rather than urban area (ORadj:1.14, 95% CI 1.00–1.29). It was less likely among those in lower social grades or with lower educational qualifications; those living in Yorkshire and the Humber, and Scotland, compared with the South‐East of England; and those using nicotine products.

Discussion and Conclusions

A third of adults in Great Britain have consumed no/lo drinks and approximately one in 10 do so weekly. Consumption is more common among riskier drinkers of alcohol and among more advantaged social groups, which may contribute to the sustaining or widening of health inequalities.
Long‐term safety and efficacy of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists in individuals with obesity and without type 2 diabetes: A global retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Yu‐Nan , Liao Wen‐Ling , Huang Jing‐Yang , Lin Yu‐Jung , Yang Shun‐Fa , Huang Chieh‐Chen , Wang Chung‐Hsing , Su Pen‐Hua
Published: August 2024

Aim

We aimed to investigate the long‐term impact of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) on thyroid function, cardiovascular health, renal outcomes and adverse events in individuals with obesity and without type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods

In this observational cohort study, we used propensity score matching to construct comparable cohorts of individuals with obesity and without T2D who were new to GLP‐1 RA treatment and those who did not receive glucose‐lowering medications. In total, 3,729,925 individuals with obesity were selected from the TriNetX Global Network, with an index event between 1 January 2016 and 31 March 2024. The primary outcomes were safety, cardiovascular, thyroid and clinical biochemical profile outcomes occurring within 5 years following the index event.

Results

After propensity score matching, the study included 12,123 individuals in each group. GLP‐1 RA treatment was associated with a significantly lower risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio 0.23; 95% confidence interval 0.15–0.34) and several cardiovascular complications, including ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, hypertension, stroke and atrial fibrillation (all p < 0.05). GLP‐1 RAs were also associated with a lower risk of acute kidney injury and allergic reactions. These protective effects were consistent across various subgroups and regions.

Conclusions

In this large observational study, GLP‐1 RAs showed long‐term protective effects on cardiovascular health, renal outcomes and adverse events in individuals with obesity and without T2D. Our findings suggest that GLP‐1 RAs may offer a comprehensive approach to managing obesity and its related comorbidities, potentially improving overall health and survival in this population.
Spatial distribution of Azospirillum brasilense in 2D flow cell: Effect of irrigation and inoculation regimes
Authors: Chen Fengxian , Ronen Zeev , Arye Gilboa
Published: August 2024

Recent advances in the use of plant growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPB) have highlighted their potential to significantly enhance crop yield and plant health. In desert areas with sandy soil, employing drip irrigation systems to inoculate PGPB serves as an efficient method that saves both time and labour. This study examined the absorption, transport and spatial distribution of two strains of Azospirillum brasilense (Sp7 and Cd) under two‐dimension (2D) unsaturated transient water flow. We used sand as a substitute for sandy soil and evaluated bacterial surface characteristics, adsorption isotherms and transport under different irrigation and inoculation regimes. The research determined that, owing to its smaller size and lower adsorption, A. brasilense Cd exhibited enhanced mobility and occupied an inoculated area 33% larger than that of A. brasilense Sp7. Moreover, subsurface drip irrigation (SSDI) exhibited a 29% higher inoculation area than surface drip irrigation (SDI). The sequence of introducing PGPB suspension and irrigation water impacted the distribution, particularly for A. brasilense Sp7. The attachment/detachment numerical model adequately described the 2D bacterial distribution (R2 ranged from 0.75 to 0.99), providing a useful tool for predicting bacterial distribution in soils and optimizing agricultural practices to enhance crop productivity. Overall, smaller bacteria, SSDI inoculation and inoculation before irrigation could enhance the extent of inoculation. This study provides novel insights into optimizing PGPB inoculation strategies in agricultural settings, highlighting the importance of considering bacterial physical properties, irrigation techniques and inoculation sequences to improve PGPB distribution within the rhizosphere.
Efficacy of steroid therapy for improving native liver survival after pediatric acute liver failure with immune activation
Authors: Oue Hiroshi , Hiejima Eitaro , Okajima Hideaki , Okamoto Tatsuya , Ogawa Eri , Uebayashi Elena Yukie , Hatano Etsuro , Suga Takenori , Hanami Yotaro , Ashina Kazushige , Kai Shinichi , Sogo Tsuyoshi , Inui Ayano , Matsubara Takeshi , Sakai Kaoru , Yanagita Motoko , Haga Hironori , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Yamada Yosuke , Nihira Hiroshi , Izawa Kazushi , Yasumi Takahiro , Takita Junko
Published: August 2024

Aim

Recent evidence suggests that acute liver failure (ALF) in some patients may reflect a dysregulated immune response, and that corticosteroids improve survival of the native liver in ALF patients with high serum alanine aminotransferase levels, which are an indication of liver inflammation. However, it is unclear whether steroids are effective for pediatric acute liver failure (PALF). The aim of this retrospective case–control study is to examine whether steroid therapy for PALF accompanied by immune activation improves the survival of native liver and to identify factors that predict responses to steroid treatment.

Methods

Of 38 patients with PALF treated at Kyoto University Hospital from February 2006 to August 2022, 19 receiving steroids who met the specific criteria for identifying the pathophysiology of immune activity in the liver (the “Steroid group”), and seven steroid‐free patients who also met the criteria (“Nonsteroid group”) were enrolled. Patients in the “Steroid group” were categorized as “responders” or “nonresponders” according to treatment outcome. Clinical and histological data were analyzed.

Results

Survival of the native liver in the Steroid group was significantly higher than that in the Nonsteroid group (68% vs. 0%, respectively; p = 0.0052). Nonresponders were significantly younger, with higher Model for End‐stage Liver Disease and pediatric end‐stage liver disease scores, higher prothrombin time – international normalized ratio, and higher serum ferritin levels than responders. Massive hepatic necrosis was more common in nonresponders.

Conclusion

Steroid therapy is effective for PALF patients with liver inflammation; however, liver transplantation should be prioritized for young children with ALF accompanied by severe coagulopathy or massive hepatic necrosis.
Energetic and Tense Arousal as Drivers of Willingness to Buy: Mediating Effects of Visual Attention
Authors: Ladeira Wagner , Gandolfi Peterson Elizandro , Tana Warlei , Gonçalves Carlos Alberto , Bertarini Pedro Luiz Lima , Santini Fernando de Oliveira , Azhar Mohd , Amaral Laurence Rodrigues do , Gomes Matheus de Souza
Published: August 2024

This research aims to analyze the effects of orthogonal arousal systems (energetic vs. tense) on willingness to buy. We conducted two experimental studies using eye‐tracking technologies. This article introduces the measurement of arousal effects through visual cognitive processing. This approach demonstrates that energetic and tense arousal interferes with the gaze‐cascade impact differently. The results indicate that energetic arousal generates a higher willingness to buy than tense arousal. Furthermore, the relationship between arousal and willingness to buy is mediated by shelf attention and visual product comparison. This study is significant for scholars and marketers as it demonstrates that consumers with high levels of energetic arousal can process more information and compare different products than consumers with high levels of tense arousal.
Investigation of the dehydration and rehydration behavior of osmotic pretreated paneer slices (Indian cottage cheese) and its modeling approach
Authors: Arulkumar M. , Karpoora Sundara Pandian N. , Murugan B. , Eyarkai Nambi V. , Sivaranjani S. , Yogeshwari R. , Baskaran D. , Ganga Kishore S. , Pandiselvam R.
Published: August 2024

The study aimed to investigate the impact of the osmotic effect on the drying and rehydration of paneer. The paneer slices were pre‐treated with salt at seven different concentrations and surface treatments. The osmotic solution and product ratio was taken as 1:4 and the pretreatment time was fixed as 12 h. Weight loss (WL), solute gain (SG), and weight reduction (WR) of paneer were evaluated during osmotic pretreatment. The pretreated paneer was dried at 50°C in a tray dryer. The equilibrium moisture content of dried slices varied from 14.12% to 15.86% and the moisture diffusivity of the osmotic treated samples had a better result with maximum value of 4.76 × 10−8 m2/s. The osmotic pretreatment minimized the drying time of paneer. The Midilli model revealed the best fit for drying paneer slices with R2 value >.99. Rehydration was carried out at three different temperatures at 4, 28, and 100°C. The samples rehydrated at 28°C showed better results in terms of the rehydration ratio with a maximal value of 1.85. In model investigation, the Peleg, Exponential, and Weibull model was found good fit for samples rehydrated at 4, 28, and 100°C. The osmotic pretreatment impacted positively on the quality matrices such as color retention, drying time, nutritional profile, and rehydration ratio of paneer slices. However, the higher osmotic pretreatments above 12% recorded unacceptable salty flavor.

Practical applications

The stability of paneer is limited and it requires refrigeration facility to store the paneer which is a frailty factor in supply chain cycle of dairy industries. In current practices, the high‐cost freeze drying technique was used to dry the paneer to make as shelf stable. The conventional drying techniques would not suit for drying the paneer, that alters the characteristics of paneer. The research findings will improve the characteristics of dried paneer in conventional dryer and hence, it is viable to make the shelf stable paneer at low cost. This research would make an alternative approach to manufacture the shelf stable and ready to eat paneer.
Process optimization and kinetic modeling of ultrasound assisted lactic acid production
Authors: Kanimozhi N. V. , Sukumar M.
Published: August 2024

The impact of ultrasound‐assisted fermentation using Lactobacillus species was investigated, for enhanced lactic acid production. The different ultrasound frequencies of 20, 30, and 40 Hz, with time intervals of 3, 4, and 5 min, and with corn steep liquor concentrations of 1%–3% were examined using response surface methodology‐Box–Behnken design. The growth of lactic acid production was modeled by Contois model (linear) and Baranyi–Roberts model (nonlinear), assessing the suitability of Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus acidophilus for industrial processes. At 34 h, the maximal lactic acid generation of L. paracasei, L. plantarum, and L. acidophilus was 85.2%, 82.1%, and 79.4%, respectively. The R2, μmax, and Ks values for L. paracasei and L. plantarum were found to be 0.9158, 0.574 h−1, 54.27 g/L and 0.9426, 0.294 h−1, 22.66 g/L, respectively, using Contois model. The observed R2 values of Baranyi–Roberts model for the strains L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, and L. plantarum were 0.9947, 0.9954, and 0.9998, respectively.

Practical Applications

Lactic acid is crucial in the fermentation process for products like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles, enhancing flavor, texture, and shelf life. As a precursor to biodegradable plastics, lactic acid contributes to the development of sustainable packaging materials and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. Utilizing waste corn steep liquor (CSL) as a growth medium presents a sustainable and cost‐effective solution for lactic acid production, capitalizing on its rich nutrient profile to enhance microbial growth. As a byproduct of corn wet milling, using CSL for fermentation processes promotes waste valorization and contributes to a circular economy. The optimization of fermentation conditions using the Box–Behnken design ensures maximum yield and efficiency by systematically evaluating the effects of key process variables. Integrating advanced growth curve models like the Contois and Baranyi models further refines the understanding and prediction of microbial dynamics, enabling precise control over the fermentation process. This comprehensive approach not only promotes the efficient use of industrial by‐products but also advances the development of environmentally friendly and economically viable bioprocesses.
The plant terpenes DMNT and TMTT function as signaling compounds that attract Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis) to maize plants
Authors: Zhao Mengjie , Huang Shijie , Zhang Qingyang , Wei Yuming , Tao Zhen , Wang Chuanhong , Zhao Yibing , Zhang Xinqiao , Dong Jinghui , Wang Ling , Chen Chen , Wang Tengyue , Li Peijin
Published: August 2024

During their co‐evolution with herbivorous insects, plants have developed multiple defense strategies that resist pests, such as releasing a blend of herbivory‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) that repel pests or recruit their natural enemies. However, the responses of insects to HIPVs in maize (Zea mays L.) are not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that the Asian corn borer (ACB, Ostrinia furnacalis), a major insect pest of maize, shows a preference for maize pre‐infested with ACB larvae rather than being repelled by these plants. Through combined transcriptomic and metabolomics analysis of ACB‐infested maize seedlings, we identified two substances that explain this behavior: (E)‐4,8‐dimethylnona‐1,3,7‐triene (DMNT) and (3E,7E)‐4,8,12‐trimethyltrideca‐1,3,7,11‐tetraene (TMTT). DMNT and TMTT attracted ACB larvae, and knocking out the maize genes responsible for their biosynthesis via gene editing impaired this attraction. External supplementation with DMNT/TMTT hampered the larvae's ability to locate pre‐infested maize. These findings uncover a novel role for DMNT and TMTT in driving the behavior of ACB. Genetic modification of maize to make it less detectable by ACB might be an effective strategy for developing maize germplasm resistant to ACB and for managing this pest effectively in the field.
The OsAGO2–OsNAC300–OsNAP module regulates leaf senescence in rice
Authors: Zheng Shaoyan , Chen Junyu , He Ying , Lu Jingqin , Chen Hong , Liang Zipeng , Zhang Junqi , Liu Zhenlan , Li Jing , Zhuang Chuxiong
Published: August 2024

Leaves play a crucial role in the growth and development of rice (Oryza sativa) as sites for the production of photosynthesis. Early leaf senescence leads to substantial drops in rice yields. Whether and how DNA methylation regulates gene expression and affects leaf senescence remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that mutations in rice ARGONAUTE 2 (OsAGO2) lead to premature leaf senescence, with chloroplasts in Osago2 having lower chlorophyll content and an abnormal thylakoid structure compared with those from wild‐type plants. We show that OsAGO2 associates with a 24‐nt microRNA and binds to the promoter region of OsNAC300, which causes DNA methylation and suppressed expression of OsNAC300. Overexpressing OsNAC300 causes the similar premature leaf senescence as Osago2 mutants and knocking out OsNAC300 in the Osago2 mutant background suppresses the early senescence of Osago2 mutants. Based on yeast one‐hybrid, dual‐luciferase, and electrophoresis mobility shift assays, we propose that OsNAC300 directly regulates transcription of the key rice aging gene NAC‐like, activated by APETALA3/PISTILLATA (OsNAP) to control leaf senescence. Our results unravel a previously unknown epigenetic regulatory mechanism underlying leaf senescence in which OsAGO2–OsNAC300–OsNAP acts as a key regulatory module of leaf senescence to maintain leaf function.
Qualitative evaluation of a package of implementation strategies codesigned to support the introduction of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women in Bamako, Mali
Authors: Ba Aissata , Fox Monica J. , Keita Adama Mamby , Hurley Kristen M. , King Shannon E. , Sow Samba , Diarra Kounandji , Djiteye Mahamane , Kanté Baba Seydou , Coulibaly Moussa , Dembele Ousmane , Noguchi Lisa M. , Sripad Pooja , Winch Peter J.
Published: August 2024

Mali national policy recommends that women take iron and folic acid supplements (IFA) from the time of the first antenatal care (ANC) visit, throughout pregnancy and during the first 3 months after delivery. In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated their ANC guidelines to recommend the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP) formulation of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) in the context of rigorous research, including implementation research. In Bamako, Mali, a codesign process was used to tailor antenatal care MMS packaging and counselling materials aimed at optimizing delivery and uptake of and adherence to MMS. This paper presents the codesign process along with the results of a post‐intervention qualitative assessment to evaluate the behaviour change intervention. At the conclusion of the intervention, we conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 24 women who had received the intervention and six pharmacy managers from the six health centres participating in the study. We conducted two focus groups with midwives who had delivered the intervention and two group discussions with family members of women who had received the intervention. Respondent perspectives reveal an easy experience transitioning from previously used IFA. Women and providers concur that the intervention counselling materials and visual aids were instrumental in influencing the perceived benefit and uptake of MMS. Family members play an influential role in pregnant women's decision‐making regarding MMS uptake. MMS and the associated implementation strategies developed through the codesign process were found to be a highly acceptable intervention.
Monetary policy, income distribution and semi‐autonomous demand in the US
Authors: Avritzer Joana David , Barbieri Goes Maria Cristina
Published: August 2024

We empirically explore the role of monetary and distribution shocks on semi‐autonomous demand under a supermultiplier framework. We use quarterly data for the United States from 1968 to 2022 and apply a SVAR model to investigate the effect of changes in financial and distributive variables on autonomous expenditure. We find that: (i) the federal funds rate has a negative and statistically significant effect on autonomous expenditure; (ii) a positive shock in the wage share (WS) has a negative effect on non‐revolving consumer credit (CC) and a transitory positive effect on induced consumption; (iii) a positive shock in aggregated autonomous demand has a positive, persistent, and significant effect on induced consumption and, output, as well as on the adjusted WS; (iv) a positive shock in private residential investment has a positive, persistent and statistically significant effect on other autonomous components of demand and output; (v) while residential investment positively influences CC and durable consumption, the inverse does not hold.
Synaptic gene expression changes in frontotemporal dementia due to the MAPT 10 + 16 mutation
Authors: Dando Owen , McGeachan Robert , McQueen Jamie , Baxter Paul , Rockley Nathan , McAlister Hannah , Prasad Adharsh , He Xin , King Declan , Rose Jamie , Jones Phillip B. , Tulloch Jane , Chandran Siddharthan , Smith Colin , Hardingham Giles , Spires‐Jones Tara L.
Published: August 2024

Aims

Mutations in the MAPT gene encoding tau protein can cause autosomal dominant neurodegenerative tauopathies including frontotemporal dementia (often with Parkinsonism). In Alzheimer's disease, the most common tauopathy, synapse loss is the strongest pathological correlate of cognitive decline. Recently, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging with synaptic tracers revealed clinically relevant loss of synapses in primary tauopathies; however, the molecular mechanisms leading to synapse degeneration in primary tauopathies remain largely unknown. In this study, we examined post‐mortem brain tissue from people who died with frontotemporal dementia with tau pathology (FTDtau) caused by the MAPT intronic exon 10 + 16 mutation, which increases splice variants containing exon 10 resulting in higher levels of tau with four microtubule‐binding domains.

Methods

We used RNA sequencing and histopathology to examine temporal cortex and visual cortex, to look for molecular phenotypes compared to age, sex and RNA integrity matched participants who died without neurological disease (n = 12 FTDtau10 + 16 and 13 controls).

Results

Bulk tissue RNA sequencing reveals substantial downregulation of gene expression associated with synaptic function. Upregulated biological pathways in human MAPT 10 + 16 brain included those involved in transcriptional regulation, DNA damage response and neuroinflammation. Histopathology confirmed increased pathological tau accumulation in FTDtau10 + 16 cortex as well as a loss of presynaptic protein staining and region‐specific increased colocalization of phospho‐tau with synapses in temporal cortex.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that synaptic pathology likely contributes to pathogenesis in FTDtau10 + 16 caused by the MAPT 10 + 16 mutation.
Antiviral potential of extracts from Myriogloea major against herpes simplex type 1, 2 and bovine coronavirus
Authors: Conesa Ana Lucía , Dellatorre Fernando Gaspar , Latour Ezequiel , Ponce Nora Marta Andrea , Stortz Carlos A. , Scolaro Luis Alberto , Álvarez Vera Alejandra , Lassalle Verónica Leticia , Ayala‐Peña Victoria Belen
Published: August 2024

Fucose‐rich sulfated polysaccharides such as fucoidans are primarily found in brown algae. These compounds possess interesting pharmacological perspectives for antiviral and antioxidant drug development. The brown alga Myriogloea major (Chordariaceae, Ectocarpales) is an endemic brown alga from Argentine Patagonia similar to other members of the Chordariaceae family used as a commercial source of fucoidans. In the present study, M. major was extracted with diluted hydrochloric acid (pH 2) solution in a protocol usually utilized for obtaining fucoidans. The dry weight from two extracts at different extraction stages (E1 and E2) represented 42% of the extracted dried biomass. Chemical analysis showed that the extracts contained between 15% (E2) and 20% (E1) of sulfate esters and approximately 80% of fucose constituents on their polysaccharides. The total phenolic content was lower than 1% (gallic acid equivalents). We analyzed the antioxidant activity of these extracts against the anti‐herpes simplex virus (HSV)‐1, HSV‐2 and bovine coronavirus. The antioxidant activity was lower than 50% at a concentration of 1 mg mL−1 in both extracts. Our findings demonstrate that, in the presence of these extracts, the viral adsorption and internalization were reduced by up to 75%. By applying its antiviral action to block the viral infection, the progeny virus released from host cells was significantly restricted, without affecting cell‐to‐cell spread of virus or virus viability.
Cutoff for a class of auto‐regressive models with vanishing additive noise
Authors: Gerencsér Balázs , Ottolini Andrea
Published: August 2024

We analyze the convergence rates for a family of auto‐regressive Markov chains on Euclidean space depending on a parameter , where at each step a randomly chosen coordinate is replaced by a noisy damped weighted average of the others. The interest in the model comes from the connection with a certain Bayesian scheme introduced by de Finetti in the analysis of partially exchangeable data. Our main result shows that, when n gets large (corresponding to a vanishing noise), a cutoff phenomenon occurs.
Participation in a daily diary study about suicide ideation yields no iatrogenic effects: A mixed method analysis
Authors: Love H. A. , Morgan P. , Smith P. N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Despite evidence that participation in suicide research is not associated with worsening ideation, behaviors, or intent, the rise of intensive longitudinal methods to assess ideation and behaviors necessitates further investigation for potential iatrogenic effects. The present study assessed rates of change in suicide ideation (SI) in a 10‐day daily diary study.

Methods

Seventy‐two adult participants with ongoing SI participated in 10 daily diary surveys and three follow‐up assessments. One open‐ended item was included to address participant experiences in the study.

Results

A multilevel piecewise growth model revealed steady declines in SI for participants over the 10 days. However, rates of SI increased during the follow‐up assessments, indicating that participation in the daily surveys was associated with general reductions in SI. Further, qualitative analyses of experiences in the study revealed the following themes: Useful (n = 34), Heightened Awareness (n = 21), Functional (n = 6), Not Useful (n = 6), and Beneficence (n = 4).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that participation in suicide research, including intensive longitudinal methods such as daily diary studies, did not have iatrogenic effects on participants with SI. Qualitative results demonstrated the numerous benefits participants derived while taking part in this study.
Large‐Scale Formation and Long‐Term Culture of Hepatocyte Organoids From Streamlined In Vivo Genome‐Edited GGTA1−/− Pigs for Bioartificial Liver Applications
Authors: He Yuting , Gao Mengyu , Zhu Xinglong , Peng Wanliu , Zhou Yanyan , Cheng Jingqiu , Bai Lang , Bao Ji
Published: August 2024

Hepatocyte transplantation and bioartificial liver (BAL) systems hold significant promise as less invasive alternatives to traditional transplantation, providing crucial temporary support for patients with acute and chronic liver failure. Although human hepatocytes are ideal, their use is limited by ethical concerns and donor availability, leading to the use of porcine hepatocytes in BAL systems due to their functional similarities. Recent advancements in gene‐editing technology have improved porcine organ xenotransplantation clinical trials by addressing immune rejection issues. Gene‐edited pigs, such as alpha‐1,3‐galactosyltransferase (GGTA1) knockout pigs, offer a secure source of primary cells for BAL systems. Our research focuses on optimizing the safety and functionality of porcine primary hepatocytes during large‐scale cultivation. We achieved this by creating GGTA1 knockout pigs through one‐step delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 to pig zygotes via oviduct injection of rAAV, and enhancing hepatocyte viability and function by co‐culturing hepatocytes with Roof plate‐specific spondin 1 overexpressing HUVECs (R‐HUVECs). Using a Rocker culture system, approximately 1010 primary porcine hepatocytes and R‐HUVECs rapidly formed organoids with a diameter of 92.1 ± 28.1 µm within 24 h. These organoids not only maintained excellent functionality but also supported partial hepatocyte self‐renewal during long‐term culture over 28 days. Gene‐edited primary porcine hepatocyte organoids will significantly advance the applications of hepatocyte transplantation and BAL systems.