bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pervasive changes to the lower aquatic food web following Nitellopsis obtusa establishment in a large, shallow lake
Authors: Harrow‐Lyle Tyler J. , Kirkwood Andrea E.
Published: December 2021

Nitellopsis obtusa was first reported in North America in 1974. The overall ecological threat that N. obtusa poses towards freshwater ecosystems in its non‐native range is thought to be similar to other invasive macrophyte species. However, few studies have evaluated the impacts to aquatic communities upon successful establishment of this species in North America. Despite N. obtusa being a non‐native invasive species in North America, it is considered a beneficial macrophyte within its native range in Eurasia

We evaluated the impacts associated with the non‐native invasive charophyte N. obtusa on the lower aquatic food web (LAFW) communities (phytoplankton, macroinvertebrates, and macrophytes) in a large, shallow lake in Ontario, Canada. To tease apart abiotic and biotic factors that influence LAFW species assemblages, a generalised linear latent variable model (GLLVM) was used.

Over the course of the 4‐year study period, N. obtusa abundance significantly increased throughout the lake (pairwise comparison, p < 0.001) and notable shifts in community composition occurred across years (PERMANOVA, p < 0.001), especially for the phytoplankton and macrophyte communities.

Nitellopsis obtusa was also found to be associated with a decline in diversity, where Simpson's diversity indices across all LAFW communities decreased as a function of increasing N. obtusa biomass. The GLLVM analysis revealed significant negative associations between N. obtusa and the majority of LAFW taxa. Most notably, there was a significant (p < 0.001) negative relationship between Myriophyllum spicatum, a previously established non‐native invasive macrophyte, and N. obtusa. The GLLVM model also demonstrated that N. obtusa had positive co‐occurrence relationships with other members of the macrophyte community including Utricularia vulgaris, Najas flexilis, Potamogeton crispus, and Stuckenia pectinata.

These results show for the first‐time significant impacts to the LAFW in an invaded ecosystem, which raises major concerns for fish communities that depend on the LAFW for food and habitat. Further studies are necessary to confirm the extent of these impacts in other invaded lakes.
Core microbiota drive functional stability of soil microbiome in reforestation ecosystems
Authors: Jiao Shuo , Chen Weimin , Wei Gehong
Published: December 2021

Revealing the ecological roles of core microbiota in the maintenance of the functional stability of soil microbiomes is crucial for sustainable ecosystem functioning; however, there is a dearth of whole‐soil profile studies on the fundamental topic in microbial ecology, especially in the context of ecological restoration. Here, we explored whether core microbiota influence the temporal changes in the functional stability of soil microbiomes throughout the soil profile (i.e., soil depths of 0–300 cm) during natural succession in restored ex‐arable ecosystems, via high‐throughput amplicon and metagenomic sequencing. We revealed that core microbiota were essential for the maintenance of the functional stability of soil microbiomes in reforestation ecosystems. Specifically, the core taxa within one cluster of soil network, which had similar ecological preferences, had major contributions to functional stability. Reforestation significantly decreased the functional stability of soil microbiomes, which exhibited significant variations along the vertical soil profile in the reforested soils. Overall, the findings enhance our understanding of the factors driving functional stability in soil microbiomes, and suggests that core microbiota should be considered a key factor and integrated in policy and management activities targeting the enhancement and maintenance of functional stability and ecosystem sustainability in ecological restoration programs.
Water diversion and pollution interactively shape freshwater food webs through bottom‐up mechanisms
Authors: de Guzman Ioar , Altieri Paula , Elosegi Arturo , Pérez‐Calpe Ana Victoria , von Schiller Daniel , González Jose M. , Brauns Mario , Montoya José M. , Larrañaga Aitor
Published: December 2021

Water diversion and pollution are two pervasive stressors in river ecosystems that often co‐occur. Individual effects of both stressors on basal resources available to stream communities have been described, with diversion reducing detritus standing stocks and pollution increasing biomass of primary producers. However, interactive effects of both stressors on the structure and trophic basis of food webs remain unknown. We hypothesized that the interaction between both stressors increases the contribution of the green pathway in stream food webs. Given the key role of the high‐quality, but less abundant, primary producers, we also hypothesized an increase in food web complexity with larger trophic diversity in the presence of water diversion and pollution. To test these hypotheses, we selected four rivers in a range of pollution subject to similar water diversion schemes, and we compared food webs upstream and downstream of the diversion. We characterized food webs by means of stable isotope analysis. Both stressors directly changed the availability of basal resources, with water diversion affecting the brown food web by decreasing detritus stocks, and pollution enhancing the green food web by promoting biofilm production. The propagation of the effects at the base of the food web to higher trophic levels differed between stressors. Water diversion had little effect on the structure of food webs, but pollution increased food chain length and trophic diversity, and reduced trophic redundancy. The effects at higher trophic levels were exacerbated when combining both stressors, as the relative contribution of biofilm to the stock of basal resources increased even further. Overall, we conclude that moderate pollution increases food web complexity and that the interaction with water abstraction seems to amplify this effect. Our study shows the importance of assessing the interaction between stressors to create predictive tools for a proper management of ecosystems.
Environmental regulation and the supply efficiency of environmental public services: Evidence from environmental decentralization of 289 cities in China
Authors: Yan Chunrong , Di Danyang , Li Guoxiang , Wang Jianmei
Published: December 2021

Environmental regulation is an important tool for local governments to intervene in environmental governance. Based on 2008–2017 panel data on 289 cities in China, this paper analyzes the impact of environmental regulation on the supply efficiency of environmental public services and explores whether environmental decentralization changes the effect of environmental regulation. The results show that environmental regulation can significantly improve the supply efficiency of environmental public services, and this finding still holds after a series of robustness tests. The main reason is the improvement in green technology innovation capabilities caused by environmental regulation. Environmental regulation has a more significant positive effect on the supply efficiency of environmental public services in regions with a higher local government governance capacity, lower levels of fiscal decentralization, and a higher pollutant emission intensity. A moderate level of environmental decentralization helps to better promote the supply efficiency of environmental public services through environmental regulation. When the level of environmental decentralization lies between 0.362 and 1.353, environmental regulation effectively improves the supply efficiency of environmental public services.
“How did they protect you?” The lived experience of race and gender in the post‐colonial English university
Authors: Salmon Udeni
Published: December 2021

With this article, I seek to contribute to understandings of how racial and gender hierarchies are reproduced through organizational processes. Using an autoethnographic method, I seek to demonstrate the workings of Mill's Racial Contract Theory and Ahmed's concepts of raced and gendered encounters through the implementation of a university diversity initiative: the Race Equality Charter. My findings demonstrate how the “doing” of diversity work results “undoing” the non‐white diversity worker, as their lived experiences catastrophically diverge from the sunny promise of the diversity project. Furthermore, the Race Equality Charter's is revealed that the Charter is a factual, rather than normative type of contract, which enshrines a socio‐political reality in which colonialism continues to shape white over non‐white domination. Scholars and activists have long been naming the secret weapons of white supremacy in order to expose how anti‐racist practice is co‐opted by institutions. In this article, I theorize my lived experience to expose how policy and organizational processes fail to protect me, a non‐white woman early career academic. I conclude that the Race Equality Charter, far from being a tool of social justice, enforces raced and gendered privileges in academic settings.
Geostatistical Mapping of Salinity Conditioned on Borehole Logs, Montebello Oil Field, California
Authors: Terry Neil , Day‐Lewis Frederick , Landon Matthew K. , Land Michael , Stanton Jennifer , Lane John W.
Published: December 2021

We present a geostatistics‐based stochastic salinity estimation framework for the Montebello Oil Field that capitalizes on available total dissolved solids (TDS) data from groundwater samples as well as electrical resistivity (ER) data from borehole logging. Data from TDS samples (n = 4924) was coded into an indicator framework based on falling below four selected thresholds (500, 1000, 3000, and 10,000 mg/L). Collocated TDS‐ER data from the surrounding groundwater basin were then employed to produce a kernel density estimator to establish conditional probabilities for ER data (n = 8 boreholes) falling below the selected TDS thresholds within the Montebello Oil Field area. Directional variograms were estimated from these indicator coded data, and 500 TDS realizations from conditional indicator simulation were generated for the subsurface region above the Montebello Oil Field reservoir. Simulations were summarized as 3D maps of median TDS, most likely salinity class, and probability for exceeding each of the specified TDS thresholds. Results suggested TDS was below 500 mg/L in most of the study area, with a trend toward higher values (500 to 1000 mg/L) to the southwest; consistent with the average regional groundwater flow direction. Discrete localized zones of TDS greater than 1000 mg/L were observed, with one of these zones in the greater than 10,000 mg/L range; however, these areas were not prevalent. The probabilistic approach used here is adaptable and is readily modified to include additional data and types and can be employed in time‐lapse salinity modeling through Bayesian updating.
Acute and chronic management of posttraumatic headache in children: A systematic review
Authors: Patterson Gentile Carlyn , Shah Ryan , Irwin Samantha L. , Greene Kaitlin , Szperka Christina L.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The goal of this paper is to provide a compilation of the evidence for the treatment of posttraumatic headache (PTH) in the pediatric population. Headache features and timing of therapy were considered.

Background

Headache is the most common symptom following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), affecting more than 80% of children and adolescents. It is unclear whether treatment for PTH should be tailored based on headache characteristics, particularly the presence of migraine features, and/or chronicity of the headache.

Methods

Systematic literature searches of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases (1985–2021, limited to English) were performed, and key characteristics of included studies were entered into RedCAP®(Prospero ID CRD42020198703). Articles and conference abstracts that described randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, retrospective analyses, and case series were included. Participants included youth under 18 years of age with acute (<3 months) and persistent (≥3 months) PTH. Studies that commented on headache improvement in response to therapy were included.

Results

Twenty‐seven unique studies met criteria for inclusion describing abortive pharmacologic therapies (9), preventative pharmacotherapies (5), neuromodulation (1), procedures (5), physical therapy and exercise (6), and behavioral therapy (2). Five RCTs were identified. Studies that focused on abortive pharmacotherapies were completed in the first 2 weeks post‐mTBI, whereas other treatment modalities focused on outcomes 1 month to over 1‐year post‐injury. Few studies reported on migrainous features (7), personal history of migraine (7), or family history of migraine (3).

Conclusions

There is limited evidence on the timing and types of therapies that are effective for treating PTH in the pediatric population. Prospective studies that account for headache characteristics and thoughtfully address the timing of therapies and outcome measurement are needed.
Clinical characteristics and perfusion‐computed tomography alterations in a series of patients with migraine with aura attended as stroke code
Authors: Gonzalez‐Martinez Alicia , Trillo Senín Santiago , Benavides Bernaldo de Queirós Carmen , Casado Fernández Laura , Barbosa del Olmo Antonio , Manzanares López Rafael , Gago‐Veiga Ana Beatriz , Vivancos José
Published: December 2021

Objective

The aim of the current study was to determine the clinical characteristics of migraine with aura (MA) as well as the frequency and patterns of perfusion‐computed tomography (PCT) alterations, in a series of patients with MA mimicking acute ischemic stroke.

Background

MA is one of the most frequent stroke mimics, following seizures and psychiatric disorders. Previous case reports and short series have reported abnormal PCT patterns in patients with MA.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study including all consecutive patients presenting with focal neurological symptoms during complete multimodal CT including baseline CT, angio‐CT, and PCT with a final diagnosis of MA. We collected demographic data and clinical information about MA variables using the hospital electronic database.

Results

We found 25 patients with a final diagnosis of MA among 1761 patients who attended our stroke center with complete multimodal CT (1.4% [95% CI: 0.9–2.1]). Among them, 14/25 (56%) were women, average age 38.7 years (SD 12.5), and 16/25 (64%) had a previous history of migraine. The most frequent type of aura was sensory. The median time elapsed between the onset of symptoms and CT was 171 min (IQR: 119–244). PCT alteration was found in 3/25 (12%) consisting of a hypoperfusion pattern not restricted to a vascular territory. The three patients had aphasia as the presenting symptom.

Conclusion

This is, to the best of our knowledge, the largest series of patients with MA managed as presumed stroke with clinical characteristics and PCT. In our study, most patients were young and had a prior history of migraine. PCT was normal in 88% of cases, with patients being still symptomatic by the time they were scanned. Further research will clarify the presence and type of PCT alterations in this entity.
Characterization of a high strength hydroxyapatite cement with dual chelate‐setting using phytic acid and citric acid
Authors: Nie Yunpeng , Wang Tao , Wu Meng , Qi Yan , Wei Wenchao , Wang Qi
Published: December 2021

With the development of biomaterials, a hydroxyapatite (HA) bone cement based on chelation has gradually attracted attention. This paper presents an investigation on the micromorphology and mechanical property of HA bone cement prepared by HA powders modified by inositol hexaphosphate (IP6, phytic acid). With the citric acid monohydrate (CA) solution used as setting liquid, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and universal testing machine were employed to investigate the influence of parameters including concentrations of CA as well as powder–liquid ratio on the properties of HA bone cement. In addition, the setting mechanism of chelating cement was analyzed. The results showed that when CA concentration was more than 20 wt.%, the curing products of IP6/CA dual chelating HA cement contained calcium citrate tetrahydrate and tricalcium phosphate (TCP) besides HA. The compressive strength of dual chelated cement increased with the CA concentration. With 10 000 ppm‐IP6‐HA used as the starting powder, the maximum compressive strength of bone cement prepared with 40 wt.% CA as the setting liquid was up to 57 MPa. Furthermore, the temperature, pH, antibacterial activity measurement, and cell studies in vitro were carried on, suggesting that chelate‐setting HA cement has potential development in orthopedic materials.
Evaluation of air‐dried soy protein isolate‐rice noodles prepared via combined treatment with microbial transglutaminase and glucono‐δ‐lactone
Authors: Ojukwu Moses , Ahaotu Ndidiamaka , Mat Easa Azhar
Published: December 2021

In this study, the effects of steaming treatments during the preparation of structurally enhanced air‐dried rice noodles were investigated. Soy protein isolate‐rice noodles (RNS) were combined (COM) with microbial transglutaminase (MTG) and glucono‐δ‐lactone (GDL), and steamed for 5 (S5) or 10 (S 10) min followed by air‐drying to yield air‐dried RNS‐COM‐S5 and RNS‐COM‐S10, respectively. Control samples were air‐dried rice flour noodles (ADRN), steamed for 5 or 10 min before air‐drying (ADRN‐S5 and ADRN‐S10). Compared to other air‐dried RNS prepared without steaming, RNS‐COM‐S5 and RNS‐COM‐S10 showed a reduction in cooking time (5.35 min) and cooking loss (7.11%) and increased cooking yield (125%), supposedly due to low gelatinisation enthalpy, while retaining textural and mechanical properties, significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the controls. The scanning electron micrographs showed that all steamed air‐dried noodles also had larger hollows, which could be responsible for the improved cooking qualities. In general, the relative order of starch crystallinity resulting from steaming treatment decreased in all steamed noodles, and RNS‐COM1‐S10 showed the highest order. The treatment of RNS with MTG and GDL yielded air‐dried noodles with a more compact structure. Steaming is necessary to improve the rehydration characteristics of the air‐dried noodles without sacrificing textural and mechanical qualities.
The miR‐282‐5p regulates larval moulting process by targeting chitinase 5 in Bombyx mori
Authors: Wang Yun , Zou Hongbin , Lai Juan , Zhang Ze , Sun Wei
Published: December 2021

Moulting is critical for growth, development and survival in insects. As the main components of cuticle, dynamic change of chitin is consistent with the moulting process. Chitinase is the main enzyme to mediate chitin metabolism in the old cuticle. To avoid over‐degrading chitin from the new cuticle, the expression of chitinase must be precisely regulated. In this study, we performed microRNA‐sequencing to investigate expression change of microRNAs in silkworm epidermis during the moulting process. A comparative microRNA transcriptomic analysis from different moulting stages and 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) treatment identified bmo‐miR‐282‐5p as a candidate. By the bioinformatic analysis, chitinase 5 (BmCht5) was predicted to be a target of bmo‐miR‐282‐5p. Meanwhile, a temporal expression analysis revealed that BmCht5 only expressed at moulting D3 stage, whereas bmo‐miR‐282‐5p showed a converse pattern, in which its transcript signal disappeared at this time point. Furthermore, a luciferase assay and agomir treatment demonstrated that bmo‐miR‐282‐5p suppressed transcript of BmCht5 in vivo. As a result, injection of 282‐5p agomir triggered 40% death due to moulting failure. In addition, RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated silencing of BmCht5 caused 30% developmental defect. Taken together, our data demonstrate the coordinated regulation of chitinase 5 by conserved miR‐282‐5p, and the 20E signalling pathway is essential for the normal moulting process in the domesticated silkworm.
Optimization of investments in labor productivity in supply chain networks
Authors: Nagurney Anna
Published: December 2021

Labor is an essential resource in the functionality of supply chains. The COVID‐19 pandemic has demonstrated the varied impacts of disruptions to supply chains because of labor issues. Shortages of labor continue even now as economies begin to open up with progress on vaccinations. Investing in labor productivity is a possible mechanism in moderating shortfalls in labor. This paper constructs a supply chain network optimization model, whose solution yields optimal product path flows to demand markets, the optimal investments in link labor productivity, as well as labor hours needed, and the optimal wages of the workers in production, transportation, storage, and distribution. The model includes a budget constraint on the investments, along with maximum bounds on investments on the supply chain network links. The theoretical framework, which includes Lagrange analysis and the computational approach, are based on the theory of variational inequalities. Managerial insights are provided obtained via the Lagrange analysis and a series of numerical examples, which demonstrate that such investments can help both the firm and the consumers.
Water‐assisted sintering of silica: Densification mechanisms and their possible implications in biomineralization
Authors: Li Hongkun , Zhong Jing , Shen Junda , Liu Jiahua , Li Bo , Tang Xinxue , Pan Jie , Xu Zhengtao , Lu Jian , Li Yang Yang
Published: December 2021

Taking silica as an exemplary material system, we studied water‐assisted densification behaviors of different crystallinities (quartz, glass, and vitreous silica). To avoid the complexity in data interpretation, we adopted a simple procedure similar to those used for pressing salt pellets for IR: compressing silica powders in a mold with pure water under ambient conditions. It is discovered that crystalline silica is compacted through liquid lubrication, while amorphous silica's densification behaviors contradict the widely regarded dissolution‐reprecipitation mechanism. Another mechanism is thus proposed: stress‐driven water incorporation into the solid structures produces hydrated silica of considerable plasticity for deformation and fusion. Inspired by this water‐assisted mechanism, a more effective sintering method is developed via repetitive stressing/destressing treatments at room temperature, enabling dramatically boosted densities (e.g., over 90% with transparent appearance for silica glass) and enhanced mechanical performance. This generic strategy may apply to a wide range of materials. Furthermore, the hydration‐enabled deformation/sintering mechanism proposed in this work offers fresh insights into the biomineralization puzzles, particularly those on how life accomplishes some of the most challenging tasks faced by humans in modern ceramic technology, for example, to fuse, mend or reshape the rigid brittle ceramic objects in aqueous environments under ambient conditions. This purely inorganic biomineralization mechanism may be particularly important for life at its early stage of evolution on earth.
On the pyrolysis of a methyl‐silsesquioxane in reactive CO2 atmosphere: A TG/MS and FT‐IR study
Authors: Campostrini Renzo , Zambotti Andrea , Biesuz Mattia , Sorarù Gian Domenico
Published: December 2021

Polymer‐derived SiOC‐C composites are typically obtained through pyrolysis of a polysiloxane precursor in inert atmosphere. Recent studies have shown that novel SiOC microstructures and compositions can be obtained when the pyrolysis is carried out in a reactive environment, as CO2, which leads to a selective oxidation of the Si─C bonds leaving a microstructure constituted by a nano‐dispersed sp2 carbon phase within an SiO2 matrix. However, little is known about the reaction mechanisms between CO2 and the preceramic polymer to date. In this work, we investigated the pyrolysis of a methyl‐silsesquioxane in reactive (CO2) and inert (Ar or He) atmosphere by combining TG/MS and FT‐IR analysis. The results showed that CO2 starts to react with the preceramic polymer from ≈750°C when the Si─CH3 groups start to form Si─CHx‐Si units. The reaction breaks the Si─C bond increasing the amount of the free carbon phase and releasing water vapor, detected by MS, even at temperatures exceeding 900°C. At higher temperatures (≈950°C), CO2 reacts with the free carbon phase leading to a weight loss and the formation of CO.
Reactions of metal chlorides with hexamethyldisilazane: Novel precursors to aluminum nitride and beyond
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Yu Mengjie , Indris Sylvio , Laine Richard M.
Published: December 2021

Metal nitrides are intensely investigated because they can offer high melting points, excellent corrosion resistance, high hardness, electronic and magnetic properties superior to the corresponding metals/metal oxides. Thus, they are used in diverse applications including refractory materials, semiconductors, electronic devices, and energy storage/conversion systems. Here, we present a simple, novel, scalable and general route to metal nitride precursors by reactions of metal chlorides with hexamethyldisilazane [HMDS, (Me3Si)2NH] in tetrahydrofuran or acetonitrile at low temperatures (ambient to 60°C/N2). Such reactions have received scant attention in the literature.

The work reported here focuses primarily on the Al‐HMDS precursor produced from the reaction of AlCl3 with HMDS (mole ratio = 1:3) characterized by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis‐differential thermal analysis, and multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMRs) for chemical and structural analyses. The Al‐HMDS precursor heated to 1600°C/4 h/N2 produces aluminum nitride, characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and magic‐angle spinning NMR. On heating to 800–1200°C/4 h/N2, the precursor transforms to an amorphous, oxygen‐sensitive powder with very high surface areas (>200 m2/g) indicating nanosized particles, which can be used as additives to polymer matrices to modify their thermal stabilities. Al2O3 is also presented in the final product after heating, due to its high susceptibility to oxidation.

This approach was extended via proof‐of‐concept studies to other metal chloride systems, including Zn‐HMDS, Cu‐HMDS, Fe‐HMDS, and Bi‐HMDS. The formed precursors are volatile, offering the potential utility as gas‐phase deposition precursors for their corresponding metal nitrides.
Effects of nanoscale abrasive agglomeration on material removal in magnetorheological finishing
Authors: Li Qikai , Li Xiaoyuan , Ye Zuoyan , Wang Lili , Pan Jinlong , Zhang Yunfei , Ye Minheng , Wang Chao
Published: December 2021

Magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is a main technology to achieve super smooth surfaces of ultra‐precision optics. Although the nanoscale abrasives in MRF fluid are agglomerated to various extents, such effects on material removal in MRF are seldom discussed. Herein, the agglomeration of the nanodiamond (ND) abrasive on material removal rate (MRR) of MRF is studied by both experimental and molecular dynamic simulation (MDS) pathways. The agglomeration degrees of ND abrasives are being characterized by the hydrodynamic scattering method. The number of removed atoms by a single agglomerated ND abrasive is calculated by the MDS. Then by using a novel active abrasive contact sites model, the simulated MRR of fused silica (FS) can be obtained. Theoretical calculated MRRs compare well with the experimental MRF results. This work provides an insight into controlled nanoscale material removal and atomic adhesion friction mechanism in MRF.
Fermentation of chickpea flour with selected lactic acid bacteria for improving its nutritional and functional properties
Authors: Sáez Gabriel D. , Sabater Carlos , Fara Agustina , Zárate Gabriela
Published: December 2021

Aims

To improve the nutri-functional quality of chickpea flour by fermentation with selected lactic acid bacteria (LAB) to formulate functional legume-derived products.

Methods and Results

A Randomized Complete Block Design was carried out to assess the influence of experimental conditions (presence/absence of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CRL2211 and/or Weissella paramesenteroides CRL2182, temperature, time and dough yield) on LAB population, acidification, antinutritional factors and total phenolic contents (TPCs) of chickpea flour. Fermentation with both strains for 24 h at 37°C produced an increase in LAB (up to 8.9 log CFU/g), acidity (final pH 4.06), TPC (525.00 mg GAE/100 g) and tannin and trypsin inhibitor removal (28.80 mg GAE/100 g and 1.60 mg/g, respectively) higher than the spontaneously fermented doughs. RAPD and Rep-PCR analysis revealed that fermentation was dominated by L. plantarum CRL2211. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations were useful to explain LAB enzyme behaviour during fermentation highlighting the chemical affinity of LAB tannases and proteinases to gallocatechin and trypsin inhibitors. Compared with other processing methods, fermentation was better than soaking, germination and cooking for increasing the techno-functional properties of chickpea flour. Fermented doughs were applied to the manufacture of crackers that contained 81% more TPC and 64% more antioxidant activity than controls.

Conclusions

Fermentation for 24 h at 37°C with selected autochthonous LAB was the best method for improving the quality of chickpea flour and derived crackers type cookies.

Significance and Impact of Study

Chickpea is suitable for the development of novel functional foods. Fermentation with selected LAB would improve the final product quality and bioactivity. The combination of experimental and simulation approaches can lead to a better understanding of the fermentation processes to enhance the properties of a food matrix.
Epac‐2 ameliorates spontaneous colitis in Il‐10−/− mice by protecting the intestinal barrier and suppressing NF‐κB/MAPK signalling
Authors: Song Xue , Wen Hexin , Zuo Lugen , Geng Zhijun , Nian Jing , Wang Luyao , Jiang Yifan , Tao Jing , Zhu Zihan , Wu Xiaopei , Wang Zhikun , Zhang Xiaofeng , Yu Liang , Zhao Hao , Xiang Ping , Li Jing , Shen Lin , Hu Jianguo
Published: December 2021

Intestinal barrier dysfunction and intestinal inflammation interact in the progression of Crohn's disease (CD). A recent study indicated that Epac‐2 protected the intestinal barrier and had anti‐inflammatory effects. The present study examined the function of Epac‐2 in CD‐like colitis. Interleukin‐10 gene knockout (Il‐10−/−) mice exhibit significant spontaneous enteritis and were used as the CD model. These mice were treated with Epac‐2 agonists (Me‐cAMP) or Epac‐2 antagonists (HJC‐0350) or were fed normally (control), and colitis and intestinal barrier structure and function were compared. A Caco‐2 and RAW 264.7 cell co‐culture system were used to analyse the effects of Epac‐2 on the cross‐talk between intestinal epithelial cells and inflammatory cells. Epac‐2 activation significantly ameliorated colitis in mice, which was indicated by reductions in the colitis inflammation score, the expression of inflammatory factors and intestinal permeability. Epac‐2 activation also decreased Caco‐2 cell permeability in an LPS‐induced cell co‐culture system. Epac‐2 activation significantly suppressed nuclear factor (NF)‐κB/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling in vivo and in vitro. Epac‐2 may be a therapeutic target for CD based on its anti‐inflammatory functions and protective effects on the intestinal barrier.
Not in education, employment and training: pathways from toddler difficult temperament
Authors: Wu Tom C.‐H. , Maughan Barbara , Moreno‐Agostino Dario , Barker Edward D.
Published: December 2021

Background

Youths disengaged from the education system and labour force (i.e. ‘Not in Education, Employment, or Training’ or ‘NEET’) are often at reduced capacity to flourish and thrive as adults. Developmental precursors to NEET status may extend back to temperamental features, though this – and possible mediators of such associations such as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) symptoms and antisocial behaviours (ASB) – have yet to be directly tested. This study investigates if i) difficult temperament in toddlerhood associates with NEET status in adulthood and ii) different subdomains of ADHD (i.e. hyperactivity‐impulsivity vs. inattention) in late childhood and ASB in adolescence partially explain this pathway.

Methods

Participants were 6,240 mother‐child dyads (60.7% female) from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Mothers reported on their child’s (a) difficult temperament (i.e. mood, intensity and adaptability) at age 2 and (b) ADHD symptoms at ages 8 and 10. Participants reported their own ASB at age 14 and NEET status in adulthood (ages 18, 20, 22 and 23).

Results

First, higher levels of difficult temperament in toddlerhood directly associated with an increased probability of being NEET in adulthood. Second, this effect was carried through hyperactivity‐impulsivity, but not inattention, in late childhood, and ASB in adolescence; this demonstrates differential contribution to the pathway between the ADHD dimensions, with symptoms of hyperactivity‐impulsivity playing a prominent role.

Conclusions

Early difficult temperament is a vulnerability factor for NEET status in adulthood. Our findings suggest that one developmental pathway for this vulnerability manifests through increased hyperactivity‐impulsivity in childhood and ASB in adolescence. Of note, difficult temperament, as measured here, reflects difficulties in emotional and behavioural self‐control (e.g. low adaptability and high intensity negative emotional expressions). Our results, therefore, suggest a prominent developmental role for lack of self‐control from toddlerhood onwards in increasing risk for NEET.
Incidence and remission rates of self‐reported hidradenitis suppurativa ‐ A prospective cohort study conducted in Danish blood donors
Authors: Kjærsgaard Andersen R. , Loft I.C. , Hansen T. , Hjalgrim H. , Rostgaard K. , Banasik K. , Bruun M. , Nielsen K. , Dinh K.M. , Sørensen E. , Burgdorff K. , Erikstrup C. , Ullum H. , Saunte D.M. , Pedersen O.B. , Jemec G.B.E.
Published: December 2021

Background

A large discrepancy between physician‐diagnosed and self‐reported Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) exists. Knowledge regarding incidence and remission rates of self‐reported HS is missing, but may help bridge the gap in understanding between these two phenotypes.

Objectives

To determine the incidence and remission rates of self‐reported HS, and to what degree these are affected by sex, smoking and BMI.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 23 930 Danish blood donors. Information on self‐reported HS, symptom‐localisation, sex, age, BMI and smoking status was collected at baseline and study termination. Self‐reported HS fulfilled clinical obligatory diagnostic criteria. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were conducted for both incidence and remission rates providing a hazard ratio (HR) of risk for each variable in the regression.

Results

Incidence rate of self‐reported HS was 10.8/1000 person‐years (95% confidence interval (CI): 9.9–11.7), decreasing as a function of numbers of areas affected. Female BMI points above 25 (HR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.09–1.13), male BMI points above 25 (HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.04–1.11), active smoking (HR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.15–2.57), male sex (HR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.45–0.67) and years of age above 25 (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.96–0.97) were all statistically associated with the development of self‐reported HS. Remission rate of self‐reported HS was 256.7/1000 person‐years (95% CI: 223.9–292.6), decreasing as a function of numbers of affected areas. Symptoms in ≥3 areas (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.34–0.85), active smoking (HR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.32–0.76) and female weight loss (every percentage drop in BMI: HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.05–1.11) all significantly affected the remission rate.

Conclusions

Both incidence and remission rates of self‐reported HS are high, indicating that many with self‐reported HS are unlikely to be diagnosed, as they to a higher degree experience mild transient HS symptoms.
Global meta‐network of legume crops and floral visitors reveals abundance of exotic bees
Authors: Paulino Cristiane de Souza , Souza Camila Silveira , Santa‐Martinez Emmanuel , Almeida Natan Messias , Castro Cibele Cardoso
Published: December 2021

Legume crops (family Fabaceae, order Fabales) constitute a relevant component of the human food supply. In view of the global decline in crop production, as a result of increasing threats (such as habitat fragmentation and land use change) to pollinators, knowledge concerning legume floral visitors can contribute to world food security. In this study, a synthesis was performed of global data on interactions between legume crops and their floral visitors, in order to improve understanding of the structure of crop‐floral visitor interactions and the roles of different species. A literature review was conducted using three databases, considering 15 legumes of economic importance, enabling the construction of a meta‐network of plant‐floral visitor interactions. Soybean, alfalfa and common bean received the highest numbers of floral visitor species. A total of 208 floral visitor species were recorded, distributed in eight orders. The most diverse group was Hymenoptera (mainly bees), followed by Lepidoptera. The European honeybee Apis mellifera interacted with the highest number of plant species. Modularity analysis identified eight modules that included more than one order of floral visitors. Most species were classified as peripherals, with few links restricted to their own module. The three connector species were the bees Bombus pascuorum, B. terrestris and Megachile rotundata. The only network hub was A. mellifera. The predominance of bees seemed to be related to the predominant floral morphology among the crops. The connector and hub species were typically generalists, and all except one species (B. pascuorum) were used as managed pollinators. The crops studied have an important role in global pollination resilience, maintaining a diversified fauna of pollinators other than bees.
Highly efficient, genotype‐independent transformation and gene editing in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) using a chimeric ClGRF4‐GIF1 gene
Authors: Feng Qin , Xiao Ling , He Yizhen , Liu Man , Wang Jiafa , Tian Shujuan , Zhang Xian , Yuan Li
Published: December 2021

Efficient genetic transformation has the potential to advance research and breeding in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), but regeneration from tissue culture remains challenging. Previous work showed that expressing a fusion of two interacting transcription factors, GROWTH‐REGULATING FACTOR4 (GRF4) and GRF‐INTERACTING FACTOR1 (GIF1), improved regeneration in wheat (Triticum aestivum). By overexpressing a chimeric fusion of ClGRF4 and ClGIF1, we achieved highly efficient transformation in watermelon. Mutating the mi396 microRNA target site in ClGRF further boosted the transformation efficiency up to 67.27% in a genotype‐independent manner. ClGRF4‐GIF1 can also be combined with clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9) genome editing tools to achieve highly efficient gene editing in watermelon, which we used to successfully create diploid seedless watermelon. This research thus puts forward a powerful transformation tool for future watermelon research and breeding.
Heterogeneous Effects of Unconventional Monetary Policy on the Bond Yields across the Euro Area
Authors: DEMİR İSHAK , EROĞLU BURAK A. , YILDIRIM‐KARAMAN SEÇİL
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates the impact of the European Central Bank's unconventional monetary policies (UMP) between 2008 and 2019 on European government bond yields. It adopts a novel econometric approach that combines a data‐rich factor analysis and Vector autoregression (VAR) with heteroskedastic‐based identification. The results identify a significant and substantial impact for all countries and maturities, but stronger and persistent impact for the periphery. When we decompose the impact into separate components, we find that UMP decreases the market component for all countries. It decreases the risk‐mutualization component for the periphery permanently at the cost of a small increase for the core countries, which provides evidence for risk‐mutualization in the EMU.
Association of temporomandibular disorders and tinnitus with health‐related quality of life: A cross‐sectional study using the Fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Kong Geon‐Sik , Lee Sook‐Hyun , Park Kyoung Sun , Cho Jae‐Heung , Kim Koh‐Woon , Ha In‐Hyuk
Published: December 2021

Background

Few studies have examined the associations of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and tinnitus with health‐related quality of life on a national level.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the associations of TMDs, tinnitus and quality of life among the Korean population, aged 19 years or older.

Methods

Data were obtained from the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2012; N = 5786). TMDs, tinnitus and health‐related quality of life were assessed using self‐report data from EuroQol‐5 Dimension. Participants were divided into four groups: no TMD and no tinnitus, TMD present but no tinnitus, no TMD but tinnitus present and both TMD and tinnitus present.

Results

Among the participants, 21.88% had TMD, 24.93% had tinnitus, and 7.74% had both. The prevalence of most TMD and all types of tinnitus was higher among females than among males. The group with both TMD and tinnitus reported the highest percentage of problems in the usual activity, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression dimensions. Moreover, the odds ratio (OR) for lower quality of life was significantly higher in the group with both TMD and tinnitus compared to the group without TMD and tinnitus: mobility (OR = 1.527, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.014–2.300), pain/discomfort (OR = 2.072, 95% CI: 1.570–2.735), anxiety/depression (OR = 1.692, 95% CI: 1.034–2.767), EQ‐5D score (OR = 1.651, 95% CI: 1.121–2.431) and EQ‐VAS (OR = 1.682, 95% CI: 1.246–2.269).

Conclusion

The presence of both TMD and tinnitus has a considerable impact on HRQoL in the Korean population. In our study, the group with both TMD and tinnitus showed lower HRQoL than without TMD and tinnitus group. These results emphasise the need for a multilateral and comprehensive approach to address these disorders and provide baseline data for developing appropriate interventions.
The Within‐Person Effect of Psychological Distress on Social Self‐Efficacy: A Random Intercept Cross‐Lagged Panel Model
Authors: Kristensen Sara Madeleine , Danielsen Anne G. , Jeno Lucas Matias , Larsen Torill M. B. , Urke Helga Bjørnøy
Published: December 2021

This study investigated the temporal relationship between social self‐efficacy and psychological distress during 3 years in middle to late adolescence. The sample comprised 1508 participants (60.7% female; baseline mean age = 16.33, SD = .62; 52.9% high perceived family wealth; 70.6% born in Norway). We used a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model to investigate the concurrent and subsequent associations between the two constructs. The results indicated (1) small to moderate and negative associations between the trait‐like components and within‐person fluctuations of social self‐efficacy and psychological distress, (2) positive and significant carry‐over stability effects on both constructs across time, and (3) that psychological distress predicted subsequent social self‐efficacy more consistently across four time points, than social self‐efficacy predicted later psychological distress.
Different components of excessive daytime sleepiness and the change with positive airway pressure treatment in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: Results from the Icelandic Sleep Apnea Cohort (ISAC)
Authors: Thorarinsdottir Elin H. , Janson Christer , Aspelund Thor , Benediktsdottir Bryndis , Júlíusson Sigurður , Gislason Thorarinn , Kuna Samuel T. , Pack Allan I. , Keenan Brendan T.
Published: December 2021

Excessive daytime sleepiness includes both an inability to stay awake during the day and a general feeling of sleepiness. We describe different dimensions of daytime sleepiness in adults with moderate–severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) before and after 2 years of positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment. Using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (score >10 defined as “risk of dozing”) and Basic Nordic Sleep Questionnaire (feeling sleepy ≥3 times/week defined as “feeling sleepy”), participants were categorised into sleepiness phenotypes labelled non‐sleepy, risk of dozing only, feeling sleepy only, or both symptoms. Participants repeated baseline assessments and PAP adherence was evaluated after 2 years. PAP‐adherent subjects with sleepiness symptoms at both baseline and follow‐up were considered persistently sleepy. Of the 810 participants, 722 (89%) returned for follow‐up. At baseline, 17.7% were non‐sleepy, 7.7% were at risk of dozing only, 24.7% were feeling sleepy only, and 49.9% had both symptoms. PAP adherence did not differ by baseline sleepiness phenotype. Patients with risk of dozing demonstrated greater PAP benefits for sleepiness symptoms than non‐sleepy and feeling sleepy only phenotypes. Using these phenotypes, 42.3% of PAP users had persistent sleepiness; they had less severe OSA (p < 0.001), more persistent OSA symptoms and more often had symptoms of insomnia than patients in whom sleepiness resolved. Our present results, therefore, suggest that measuring the risk of dozing and the feeling of sleepiness reflect different sleepiness components and may respond differently to PAP. Patients feeling sleepy without risk of dozing may need more thorough evaluation for factors contributing to sleepiness before initiating treatment.
In vivo joint synovial fluid disposition of a novel sustained‐release formulation of diclofenac and hyaluronic acid in horses
Authors: Rhodin Marie , Haubro Andersen Pia , Holm Forsström Karin , Ekstrand Carl
Published: December 2021

Intra‐articular administration of sustained‐release anti‐inflammatory drugs is indicated in horses suffering from joint inflammation, but no such drugs are labelled for veterinary use. To obtain initial data on synovial disposition and safety of a new sustained‐release formulation of diclofenac (SYN321) in the joints of horses, an experimental interventional study of elimination and side effects of intra‐articular administration of SYN321 was conducted. Nine clinically sound horses were included in the study, and SYN321 was administered by the intra‐articular route. Dose ranges and sampling intervals were established in a pilot study with two horses, and then applied in a main study involving seven horses treated in the fetlock joint. Diclofenac was detected above lower limit of quantification (LOQ: 0.5 ng/ml) in synovial fluid throughout the study period (14 days), and below LOQ (0.1 ng/ml) in plasma after 4 days and in urine after 14 days. No obvious clinical side effects were detected. Clinical examination and objective lameness evaluation suggested that SYN321 has potential as a local joint NSAID treatment with sustained release in horses, but further studies on synovial fluid exposure, safety and clinical efficacy are warranted.