bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of new anthracene‐substituted calix[4]triazacrown‐5 as highly sensitive fluorescent chemosensor and extractant against hazardous dichromate anion
Authors: Sayin Serkan
Published: June 2021

A new fluorogenic anthracene functionalized calix[4]triazacrown‐5 (Ant‐AzClx) was successfully synthesized using a simple Schiff’s base reaction. The 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, ESI‐MS, and elemental analysis techniques were performed to characterize its structure. Excited at 370 nm, Ant‐AzClx reveals excimer emission at 418 nm. Therefore, its anion binding properties were investigated against F−, HCO3−, H2PO4−, NO3−, Cr2O72−, and SO42− ions. When hazardous dichromate anion was introduced into medium, the fluorescence intensity of Ant‐AzClx was markedly quenched. The binding constant, stoichiometry, the detection limits and Stern–Volmer equation for the complex formed between Ant‐AzClx and Cr2O72− ion were determined. Furthermore, the 1H‐NMR technique was also performed to assess the mechanism of the complex (Ant‐AzClx@Cr2O72−). Apart from its excellent fluorescent chemosensor properties for selective and sensitive recognition of Cr2O72− ion, Ant‐AzClx was used as an efficient extractant towards dichromate anion. The extraction results indicated that Ant‐AzClx exhibited high extraction capability, leading to it being a promising extractant for the removal of dichromate anions from water.
A motivational framework of acculturation
Authors: Vishkin Allon , Horenczyk Gabriel , Ben‐Nun Bloom Pazit
Published: June 2021

A key distinction in motivational processes is between motivations and the means for pursuing motivations. Despite being a motivated process, existing models of acculturation do not make this distinction, neither empirically nor theoretically. A motivational framework that is informed by theories of goal constructs to understand the process of acculturation is proposed. This model is tested in two distinct samples comprising immigrants from the former Soviet Union to Israel (N = 239) as well as immigrants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh to Britain (N = 236). Results revealed that the motivation to preserve one's heritage culture and the motivation to adopt one's host culture were each uniquely associated with the respective means for doing so. Furthermore, outcomes in acculturation were determined by the match between acculturation motivations and acculturation means. These findings demonstrate the theoretical and practical implications of analyzing the process of acculturation using a motivational framework.
Advancing to the era of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Yun , Wang Min , Wu Hao‐Xiang , Xu Rui‐Hua
Published: June 2021

Cancer greatly affects the quality of life of humans worldwide and the number of patients suffering from it is continuously increasing. Over the last century, numerous treatments have been developed to improve the survival of cancer patients but substantial progress still needs to be made before cancer can be truly cured. In recent years, antitumor immunity has become the most debated topic in cancer research and the booming development of immunotherapy has led to a new epoch in cancer therapy. In this review, we describe the relationships between tumors and the immune system, and the rise of immunotherapy. Then, we summarize the characteristics of tumor‐associated immunity and immunotherapeutic strategies with various molecular mechanisms by showing the typical immune molecules whose antibodies are broadly used in the clinic and those that are still under investigation. We also discuss important elements from individual cells to the whole human body, including cellular mutations and modulation, metabolic reprogramming, the microbiome, and the immune contexture. In addition, we also present new observations and technical advancements of both diagnostic and therapeutic methods aimed at cancer immunotherapy. Lastly, we discuss the controversies and challenges that negatively impact patient outcomes.
Remodeling of the Fibrillation Pathway of α‐Synuclein by Interaction with Antimicrobial Peptide LL‐III
Authors: Oliva Rosario , Mukherjee Sanjib K. , Ostermeier Lena , Pazurek Lilli A. , Kriegler Simon , Bader Verian , Prumbaum Daniel , Raunser Stefan , Winklhofer Konstanze F. , Tatzelt Jörg , Winter Roland
Published: June 2021

Liquid‐liquid phase separation (LLPS) has emerged as a key mechanism for intracellular organization, and many recent studies have provided important insights into the role of LLPS in cell biology. There is also evidence that LLPS is associated with a variety of medical conditions, including neurodegenerative disorders. Pathological aggregation of α‐synuclein, which is causally linked to Parkinson's disease, can proceed via droplet condensation, which then gradually transitions to the amyloid state. We show that the antimicrobial peptide LL‐III is able to interact with both monomers and condensates of α‐synuclein, leading to stabilization of the droplet and preventing conversion to the fibrillar state. The anti‐aggregation activity of LL‐III was also confirmed in a cellular model. We anticipate that studying the interaction of antimicrobial‐type peptides with liquid condensates such as α‐synuclein will contribute to the understanding of disease mechanisms (that arise in such condensates) and may also open up exciting new avenues for intervention.
A ball fight, the law of mass action and the Le Chatelier Principle – a sustainable analogy to teach the dynamic equilibrium. Invitation to discussion and further development
Authors: von Borstel Gregor , Böhm Andreas
Published: June 2021

Vorgestellt wird eine weitreichende Analogie als hilfreiche Verknüpfung von makroskopischer und mathematisch‐symbolischer Betrachtungsebene. Die modellhafte Darstellung der Bälleschlacht im Kinderzimmer ist mehrfach erfolgreich in Unterrichtsreihen zur Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit sowie zur Einstellung, Störung und Veränderung von Gleichgewichten eingesetzt worden, um den Lernenden ein vernetztes Verständnis über alle drei Betrachtungsebenen nach Johnstone zu ermöglichen. Gerne möchten wir eine Diskussion und Weiterentwicklung anregen und stellen alle Materialien dazu unter CC‐BY‐SA 4.0 zur Verfügung.
Utilizing Zebrafish Embryos to Reveal Disruptions in Dorsoventral Patterning
Authors: Dasgupta Subham , Cheng Vanessa , Volz David C.
Published: June 2021

Dorsoventral (DV) patterning is a key landmark of embryonic development that is primarily regulated by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. Disruption of DV patterning can result in downstream effects on cell specification and organogenesis. Zebrafish embryos have been extensively used to understand signaling pathways that regulate DV patterning because zebrafish embryos develop ex utero and, in contrast to mammalian embryos, which develop in utero, can be observed in real time using brightfield and fluorescence microscopy. Embryos with disrupted DV patterning are either dorsalized or ventralized, with lack of development of head or trunk/tail structures, respectively. Although these phenotypes are typically accompanied by effects on BMP signaling, exceptions exist where some drugs or environmental chemicals can disrupt DV patterning in the absence of effects on BMP signaling. Therefore, assessments of DV patterning should be accompanied by BMP signaling–specific readouts to confirm the role of BMP disruption. Here, we describe an exposure paradigm and steps for phenotyping zebrafish embryos for two types of DV defects, dorsalization and ventralization, with a range of severities. In addition, we describe a strategy for whole‐mount immunohistochemistry of zebrafish embryos with an antibody specific for phospho‐SMAD 1/5/9 (pSMAD 1/5/9), as disruption in pSMAD 1/5/9 localization is indicative of an effect on BMP signaling. Taken together, these protocols describe an initial strategy for evaluating DV patterning defects under various experimental conditions and confirming BMP‐mediated DV patterning disruptions, which can be followed by additional studies that aim to uncover mechanisms leading to these adverse phenotypes. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 2 August 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: Phenotyping for dorsalization and ventralization

Basic Protocol 2: Whole‐mount immunohistochemistry with antibody to phospho‐SMAD 1/5/9
A Stable High‐Capacity Lithium‐Ion Battery Using a Biomass‐Derived Sulfur‐Carbon Cathode and Lithiated Silicon Anode
Authors: Marangon Vittorio , Hernández‐Rentero Celia , Olivares‐Marín Mara , Gómez‐Serrano Vicente , Caballero Álvaro , Morales Julián , Hassoun Jusef
Published: June 2021

A full lithium‐ion‐sulfur cell with a remarkable cycle life was achieved by combining an environmentally sustainable biomass‐derived sulfur‐carbon cathode and a pre‐lithiated silicon oxide anode. X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry of the cathode evidenced the disordered nature of the carbon matrix in which sulfur was uniformly distributed with a weight content as high as 75 %, while scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed the micrometric morphology of the composite. The sulfur‐carbon electrode in the lithium half‐cell exhibited a maximum capacity higher than 1200 mAh gS−1, reversible electrochemical process, limited electrode/electrolyte interphase resistance, and a rate capability up to C/2. The material showed a capacity decay of about 40 % with respect to the steady‐state value over 100 cycles, likely due to the reaction with the lithium metal of dissolved polysulfides or impurities including P detected in the carbon precursor. Therefore, the replacement of the lithium metal with a less challenging anode was suggested, and the sulfur‐carbon composite was subsequently investigated in the full lithium‐ion‐sulfur battery employing a Li‐alloying silicon oxide anode. The full‐cell revealed an initial capacity as high as 1200 mAh gS−1, a retention increased to more than 79 % for 100 galvanostatic cycles, and 56 % over 500 cycles. The data reported herein well indicated the reliability of energy storage devices with extended cycle life employing high‐energy, green, and safe electrode materials.
The Storymaker Wheel: An investigation into how teachers and pupils can use a counter‐culture assessment tool to evaluate creative writing in the classroom
Authors: Elliott Jenny , Southern Alex
Published: June 2021

This paper outlines the processes of creating a ‘Storymaker Wheel’, a creativity evaluation tool conceptualised with input from a children's book author, a children's book illustrator, academics and teachers, for teachers and pupils to use to support and develop their creative writing. It documents the ways in which teachers and pupils engaged with the Wheel in three schools in England: a primary pupil referral unit, a primary school and a secondary school. Interviews with teachers and pupils about the Storymaker Wheel, and classroom observations of the Wheel in use, expose some challenges of teaching creative writing within the current English educational context, which we discuss.
Multidecadal effects of fire in a grassland biodiversity hotspot: Does pyrodiversity enhance plant diversity?
Authors: Gordijn Paul J. , O'Connor Timothy G.
Published: June 2021

Native grasslands have been vastly transformed with the expansion of human activities. Applied fire regimes offer conservation‐based management an opportunity to enhance remaining grassland biodiversity and secure its persistence into the future. Fire regimes have complex interactions with abiotic and biotic ecosystem components that influence environmental heterogeneity and biodiversity. We examined the pyrodiversity–biodiversity hypothesis, which suggests that more species are supported where pyrodiversity, that is, the level of environmental heterogeneity associated with different fire regimes, is greater. A mesocosm‐type field experiment, maintained for 38 yr, was used to determine the response of plant diversity to 1‐, 2‐, 5‐ and 12‐yr fire‐return interval treatments, with early‐dormant, middormant and early–growing season burns. Our sampling regime was designed to assess the influence of fire treatments and combinations thereof, over spatial scale, on plant diversity. Pyrodiversity was maximized where fire regime diversity, simulated by varying the size of patches with different fire treatments, was greatest. Species richness was predicted to be reduced at short and long extremes of fire‐return interval, as suggested by the intermediate‐disturbance hypothesis. The influence of fire treatments on alpha and beta diversity, and plant functional groups, were tested using multivariate and Bayesian models. Multilevel models of plant height and growth form, with fire‐return interval, reflected the strong indirect influence of fire‐return interval on sward structure and the plant environment. The pyrodiversity–biodiversity and intermediate‐disturbance hypotheses were only partially supported and depended on the plant group and spatial scale of assessment. Although both frequent and infrequent burns made important contributions to overall species richness, richness peaked where 20–40% of the area was protected from frequent fires. The larger contribution of frequent burning to diversity was due to an interaction with scale and forb turnover over the trial area. Extremes in fire‐return intervals reduced forb richness, supporting the predictions of the intermediate‐disturbance hypothesis. Spring burns had a weak negative influence on forb alpha diversity, but only at small scales. For a meaningful contribution of management to plant diversity, traditional fixed biennial burns need to be supplemented with smaller patches burned with longer fire‐return intervals, and extremes in fire‐return intervals avoided.
Internalization of body shape ideals and body dissatisfaction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Paterna Adrian , Alcaraz‐Ibáñez Manuel , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew , Sicilia Álvaro
Published: June 2021

Objective

The present meta‐analysis summarizes existing evidence on the relationship between the internalization of body shape ideals (IBSI) and body dissatisfaction.

Method

Pooled effect sizes (r) were computed using a random‐effects model. The robustness of the results was examined using influence analyses. Potential predictors of effect heterogeneity were examined using subgroup analysis and univariable/multivariable meta‐regressions. Publication bias was examined using the three‐parameter selection model (3PSM).

Results

A total of 141 effect‐sizes from 78 studies (N = 39,491) were retrieved. Results revealed medium (r = .25; muscular/athletic‐ideal internalization) to very large (r = .43, general attractiveness‐ideal internalization; and r = .45, thin‐ideal internalization) relationships, all these being largely similar in male and female individuals.

Discussion

IBSI and body dissatisfaction were strongly linked: (a) in younger individuals (general attractiveness‐ideal internalization); (b) when IBSI was operationalized in terms of endorsement rather than mere awareness of appearance ideals; (c) in studies of lower methodological quality (muscular/athletic‐ideal internalization); and (d) when IBSI was assessed using instruments involving social comparisons. Given the largely cross‐sectional nature of data included in this meta‐analysis, further testing in prospective and experimental studies is needed to confirm hypotheses about causality of observed associations. Such findings would have impact for prevention and intervention studies.
Damselfly eggs alter their development rate in the presence of an invasive alien cue but not a native predator cue
Authors: Antoł Andrzej , Sniegula Szymon
Published: June 2021

Biological invasions are a serious problem in natural ecosystems. Local species that are potential prey of invasive alien predators can be threatened by their inability to recognize invasive predator cues. Such an inability of prey to recognize the presence of the predator supports the naïve prey hypothesis. We exposed eggs of a damselfly, Ischnura elegans, to four treatments: water with no predator cue (control), water with a native predator cue (perch), water with an invasive alien predator cue (spinycheek crayfish) that is present in the damselfly sampling site, and water with an invasive alien predator cue (signal crayfish) that is absent in the damselfly sampling site but is expected to invade it. We measured egg development time, mortality between ovipositing and hatching, and hatching synchrony. Eggs took longer to develop in the signal crayfish group (however, in this group, we also observed high green algae growth), and there was a trend of shorter egg development time in the spinycheek crayfish group than in the control group. There was no difference in egg development time between the perch and the control group. Neither egg mortality nor hatching synchrony differed between groups. We suggest that egg response to signal crayfish could be a general stress reaction to an unfamiliar cue or an artifact due to algae development in this group. The egg response to the spinycheek crayfish cue could be caused by the predation of crayfish on damselfly eggs in nature. The lack of egg response to the perch cue could be caused by perch predation on damselfly larvae rather than on eggs. Such differences in egg responses to alternative predator cues can have important implications for understanding how this group of insects responds to biological invasions, starting from the egg stage.
Fitness comparison of Plutella xylostella on original and marginal hosts using age‐stage, two‐sex life tables
Authors: Yang Fei‐Ying , Chen Jun‐Hui , Ruan Qian‐Qian , Wang Bei‐Bei , Jiao Lu , Qiao Qing‐Xuan , He Wei‐Yi , You Min‐Sheng
Published: June 2021

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, is an important agricultural pest that severely damages cruciferous vegetables. Although previously considered a threat only to Brassica species, P. xylostella has been observed to feed on noncruciferous vegetables. Here, we established a population of P. xylostella on the pea Pisum sativum (PxP population). We compared this PxP population's performance on the pea host plant to a population (PxR) reared on the original host plant radish (Raphanus sativus) for several generations using an age‐stage, two‐sex life table and analyzed the correlations between different fitness parameters. In the 1st generation of the PxP population, survival rate of immature stage was 17%, while the survival rate of PxR was 68%; the duration of the 4th larval instar (5.30 d) and mortality (25%) of this generation were significantly longer (2.8 d) and higher (1%) than that of PxR, respectively (both p < .001). Upon long‐term acclimation, the PxP fitness improved significantly, especially that the survival rate of immature stages increased to approximately 60% in the 15th, 30th, and 45th generations. However, PxP feeding on pea exhibited poorer fitness with longer larval developmental time, shorter total life span, lighter pupa, and lower fecundity in different generations compared with PxP feeding on radish. PxP feeding on pea also showed a significantly lower intrinsic rate of increase (r), net reproduction rate (R0), finite increase rate (λ), and longer mean generation time (T) than PxP feeding on radish in all generations tested. Significant positive correlations were observed between pupal weight and female fecundity in pea‐fed populations, and between female longevity and female fecundity in pea‐fed and radish‐fed populations. Our findings suggest that P. xylostella adaptation to pea does not improve overall fitness compared with the original host radish, making pea a marginal host for P. xylostella.
Utility of environmental DNA analysis for effective monitoring of invasive fish species in reservoirs
Authors: Jo Toshiaki , Ikeda Saki , Fukuoka Arisa , Inagawa Takashi , Okitsu Jiro , Katano Izumi , Doi Hideyuki , Nakai Katsuki , Ichiyanagi Hidetaka , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: June 2021

Dam‐mediated biological invasions are a serious problem all over the world. Once established in reservoirs, the invasive species have catastrophic impacts on the river ecosystems downstream, and thus, rapid monitoring of invasive species is an urgent issue for the effective removal of them and the conservation management of native ecosystems. Here, we verified the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis as a tool to effectively monitor three invasive fish species (bluegill, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass) in reservoirs using multiplex real‐time PCR. First, to determine the optimal sampling location and season to detect eDNA from these species, we analyzed the eDNA in water samples from shore and offshore sites in three reservoirs all year around. We found that eDNA detection rates either did not differ between sampling locations or were higher for shore than offshore sites. In addition, eDNA detection rates were higher in spring (breeding season of target species) and/or summer than winter. Second, we extensively surveyed the distribution of the three species in 30 reservoirs in Japan using eDNA analysis. Consequently, a single eDNA‐based surveillance in summer allowed to match approximately 90% of the presence/absence of the invasive fish species known from 27 yr of administrative capture‐based surveillances. Given these results, we recommend collecting the replicated water samples from shore sites in summer or the breeding season for the effective detection of invasive fish eDNA in reservoirs. Our eDNA assays with multiplex real‐time PCR enable the rapid and sensitive monitoring of invasive fish distribution in reservoirs.
How do noncompetent hosts cause dilution of parasitism? Testing hypotheses for native and invasive mosquitoes
Authors: McIntire Kristina M. , Chappell Kasie M. , Juliano Steven A.
Published: June 2021

Parasite dilution occurs in varied systems, via multiple potential mechanisms. We used laboratory manipulation and field surveys to test for invader‐induced parasite dilution via two specific mechanisms: host–host competition and encounter reduction. In the laboratory, single Aedes triseriatus larvae were exposed to one of eight combinations of: parasitic Ascogregarina barretti, +/−1 cohabiting Aedes albopictus larva during parasite exposure, and +/−1 cohabiting A. albopictus larva after infectious parasite removal. Larval infection intensity (predicted to decrease via dilution by encounter reduction) was not significantly affected by A. albopictus. Adult infection prevalence and intensity (predicted to decrease via dilution by host–host competition) were significantly greater with A. albopictus, suggesting parasite amplification by interspecific competition, an effect potentially mediated by competition increasing A. triseriatus development time. In the field, we tested for effects of potential dilution host abundances on prevalence and abundance of A. barretti in A. triseriatus larvae. Piecewise path analysis yielded no evidence of host–host competition impacting parasitism in the field, but instead indicated a significant direct negative effect of Aedes spp. abundance on parasite abundance in A. triseriatus, which is consistent with dilution via encounter reduction in the field, but only in tree holes, not in man‐made containers. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that a noncompetent invader can alter the native host–parasite relationship, but our laboratory and field data yield differing results. This difference is likely due to laboratory experiment testing for per capita effects of dilution hosts on parasitism, but field analysis testing for effects of dilution host abundance on parasitism. Individually, host–host competition with the invader amplifies, rather than dilutes, parasite success. In contrast, our path analysis is consistent with the hypothesis that dilution of parasitism results from increased abundance of noncompetent hosts in the field.
Trophic differences regulate grassland food webs: herbivores track food quality and predators select for habitat volume
Authors: Prather Rebecca M. , Welti Ellen A. R. , Kaspari Michael
Published: June 2021

The impacts of altered biogeochemical cycles on ecological systems are likely to vary with trophic level. Predicting how these changes will affect ecological food webs is further complicated by human activities, which are simultaneously altering the availability of macronutrients like nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), and micronutrients such as sodium (Na). Here we contrast three hypotheses that predict how increasing nutrient availability will shape grassland food webs. We conducted a distributed factorial fertilization experiment (N and P crossed with NaCl) across four North American grasslands, quantifying the responses of aboveground plant biomass and volume, plant tissue and soil elemental concentrations, as well as the abundance of five arthropod functional groups. Fertilization with N and P increased plant biomass and foliar N and P concentrations in grasses but not forbs. Fertilization with Na had no effect on plant biomass but increased foliar Na concentrations. Consistent with the nutrient limitation hypothesis, we found strong evidence of nutrient limitation for insect herbivores across the four sites with sucking (phloem and xylem feeding) herbivores increasing in abundance with NP fertilization and chewing herbivores increasing in response to both Na and NP fertilization, and a trend for increased response of arthropods to lower plant nutrient availability. We found no evidence for an interaction of NaCl and NP on arthropod abundance as predicted by the serial colimitation hypothesis. Finally, consistent with the ecosystem size hypothesis, predator and parasitoid abundances increased with plant volume, but not fertilization. Our results suggest these functional group‐specific responses to changes in plant nutrients and structure are key to predicting the future of grassland food webs in an era with increasing use of N and P fertilizers, and increasing terrestrial inputs of Na from road salt, saline irrigation water, and aerosols due to rising sea levels.
Voltammetric Method for Determining Ferric Ions with Quercetin
Authors: Olgaç Nursel , Karakuş Erman , Şahin Yücel , Liv Lokman
Published: June 2021

A novel, simple, rapid, inexpensive, highly sensitive voltammetric method developed for determining ferric ions with quercetin in water samples and iron supplements using a disposable bare pencil graphite electrode is described. The limit of detection and analytical ranges for the ferric ions were 3.6 nM and 17.9–716.0 nM, respectively. The results with the water samples were compared with those obtained from a potentiometric auto‐titration system, and the method's accuracy was tested using certified reference material. The complex stoichiometry and electrode reaction were also systematically investigated with UV‐visible spectrophotometry, 1H‐NMR spectroscopy and voltammetry.
HS‐GC‐IMS detection of volatile organic compounds in Acacia honey powders under vacuum belt drying at different temperatures
Authors: Feng Duo , Wang Jing , He Yue , Ji Xiao‐jiao , Tang Hui , Dong Yong‐mei , Yan Wen‐jie
Published: June 2021

Honey is a commodity of great nutritional value, but deep‐processed honey products are uncommon. Herein, we used vacuum belt dryer to dry Acacia honey at 60°C, 70°C, and 80°C, prepared it into powder, and analyzed its volatile compound differences. We established HS‐GC‐IMS method to detect the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of these three Acacia honey powders (AHPs). In total, 77 peaks were detected, and 23 volatile compounds were identified, including eight aldehydes, six ketones, three furans, one alcohol, one phenol, one lactone, one ester, one acid, and one nitrile. Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA) and fingerprint similarity analysis based on the Euclidean distance distinguished the three heating temperature treatments. Clearly, it was concluded that there are significant differences in volatile substances at different tested temperatures, and when the AHP was incubated at 80°C, more volatile compounds were detected.
Ganoderma applanatum mushroom provides new insights into the management of diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hepatic degeneration: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Shahadat , Barua Anik , Tanim Mohammad Akramul Hoque , Hasan Mohammad Sharif , Islam Mohammad Jahedul , Hossain Md. Rabiul , Emon Nazim Uddin , Hossen S M Moazzem
Published: June 2021

This study was undertaken to evaluate the antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective effects of methanol and aqueous extracts of Ganoderma applanatum (MEGA, AEGA) in alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. The antidiabetic study was implemented by the induction of alloxan to the rats. The analysis of the hypolipidemic and liver‐protective effects of fungus extracts was studied by estimating the lipid profile and the liver marker enzymes. Besides, in silico screening of the compounds of Ganoderma applanatum has been incorporated thus to check the binding affinity of compounds and enzymes affinity. The Discovery Studio 2020, UCSF Chimera, and PyRx AutoDock Vina have been used to implement the docking analysis. Nine days of oral feeding of MEGA and AEGA of Ganoderma applanatum resulted in a significant (p < .001) reduction in blood glucose, lipid profile, and liver marker enzymes. Besides, Myrocin C scored the highest score in the docking study. The biological and computational approaches suggested the MEGA and AEGA could be a potential source for antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective effects.
Quality, physicochemical, and textural properties of dairy products containing fruits and vegetables: A review
Authors: Salehi Fakhreddin
Published: June 2021

Due to the high utilization rate of dairy products, enrichment of these products will successfully decrease or prevent diseases related with nutrition deficiencies. Fruits and vegetables in different forms (i.e., fresh, juices, powder, puree, and extract) are excellent sources for the enrichment of dairy products because of their desired taste, color, aroma, fibers, and vitamins content. So, this manuscript reviews the effect of some fruits and vegetables on the rheological behavior, physicochemical attributes, color parameters, sensorial and quality properties of dairy products including cheeses, ice creams, and yogurts. The physicochemical, color, texture, and sensorial properties of dairy products were affected with addition of fruits or vegetables. Also, the addition of these products contributes to the higher content of vitamins, natural colorants, minerals, polyphenols, crude fiber, and carotenoids. In addition, some fruits and vegetables are considered as potential dairy products stabilizing agent due to their desirable functional properties, such as water binding and holding, gelling and thickening ability. In summary, enrichment of cheeses, ice creams, and yogurts with fruits and vegetables increase the market share of these products due to the high demand for goods for an improved diet, rich in compounds with antioxidant activity and biological properties.
Investigation of antimicrobial susceptibility and virulence factor genes in Trueperella pyogenes isolated from clinical mastitis cases of dairy cows
Authors: Ashrafi Tamai Iradj , Mohammadzadeh Abdolmajid , Zahraei Salehi Taghi , Mahmoodi Pezhman , Pakbin Babak
Published: June 2021

Trueperella pyogenes is an opportunistic pathogen causing important diseases including mastitis and metritis in domestic animals such as dairy cows leading to prominent economic losses in food production industry. The aim of this study was to investigate bacterial species, antimicrobial susceptibility, and presence of virulence factor genes and genotyping of T. pyogenes isolates associated with summer mastitis cases from 22 different farms around Tehran, Iran. Fifty‐five percent of dairy cows with clinical mastitis symptoms was infected by T. pyogenesis indicated that this pathogen is the most important contributor to clinical mastitis in dairy cows in the present study. A significant correlation was illustrated between presence of virulence factor genes of isolated pathogen, biochemical patterns, and the utter infected types. Multidrug resistance susceptibility observed between isolates indicated the important need for prudent use of antimicrobials in treatment of mastitis caused by T. pyogenes and increased concerning of consumer health associated with recent problems of antimicrobial resistance. The categorization of isolates was implemented into seven different clonal related types by COX‐PCR at 80% of similarity cutoff with significance relationship to clonal types, CAMP test result and sampling time and biochemical profile. Regarding to the results obtained at the present study, T. pyogenes can be considered as an important typically cause of purulent and acute form of clinical bovine mastitis and loss of dairy productivity. Further studies with more sample size and high‐throughput omic methods in various sampling time and areas are suggested for study of this pathogen precisely.
Mast Cells Regulate Ductular Reaction and Intestinal Inflammation in Cholestasis Through Farnesoid X Receptor Signaling
Authors: Meadows Vik , Kennedy Lindsey , Ekser Burcin , Kyritsi Konstantina , Kundu Debjyoti , Zhou Tianhao , Chen Lixian , Pham Linh , Wu Nan , Demieville Jennifer , Hargrove Laura , Glaser Shannon , Alpini Gianfranco , Francis Heather
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims

Cholestasis is characterized by increased total bile acid (TBA) levels, which are regulated by farnesoid X receptor (FXR)/FGF15. Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) typically present with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Mast cells (MCs) (i) express FXR and (ii) infiltrate the liver during cholestasis promoting liver fibrosis. In bile‐duct‐ligated (BDL) MC‐deficient mice (B6.Cg‐KitW‐sh
/HNihrJaeBsmJ [KitW‐sh
]), ductular reaction (DR) and liver fibrosis decrease compared with BDL wild type, and MC injection exacerbates liver damage in normal mice.

Approach and Results

In this study, we demonstrated that MC‐FXR regulates biliary FXR/FGF15, DR, and hepatic fibrosis and alters intestinal FXR/FGF15. We found increased MC number and biliary FXR expression in patients with liver injury compared with control. Histamine and FGF19 serum levels and small heterodimer partner expression increase in patients PSC and PSC‐IBD compared with healthy controls. MC injection increased liver damage, DR, inflammation, biliary senescence/senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), fibrosis, and histamine in KitW‐sh
mice. Inhibition of MC‐FXR before injection reduced these parameters. BDL and KitW‐sh
mice injected with MCs displayed increased TBA content, biliary FXR/FGF15, and intestinal inflammation, which decreased in BDL KitW‐sh
and KitW‐sh
mice injected with MC‐FXR. MCs increased ileal FXR/FGF15 expression in KitW‐sh
mice that was reduced following FXR inhibition. BDL and multidrug resistance 2/ATP‐binding cassette family 2 member 4 knockout (Mdr2
−/−) mice, models of PSC, displayed increased intestinal MC infiltration and FXR/FGF15 expression. These were reduced following MC stabilization with cromolyn sodium in Mdr2
−/− mice. In vitro, MC‐FXR inhibition decreased biliary proliferation/SASP/FGF and hepatic stellate cell activation.

Conclusions

Our studies demonstrate that MC‐FXR plays a key role in liver damage and DR, including TBA regulation through alteration of intestinal and biliary FXR/FGF15 signaling.
Assessing the responses of smokers to requests to stop smoking on hospital grounds
Authors: Giles Luke , Bauer Lyndon , Batchelor Samantha
Published: June 2021

Issue addressed

Fear of aggression is often cited as an issue for health service staff in approaching smokers who are breaching smoke‐free policies. This study collected data to quantify the interactions between Health Promotion Service staff and smokers. The aim was to trial de‐escalation based protocols for Authorised Inspectors and one for general staff with regards to the aggression risk to staff when approaching smokers within hospital grounds.

Methods

The study design was a non‐randomised trial with no control group. A standard protocol was developed, based on de‐escalation techniques. The primary outcomes of the study were measures of aggression and smokers’ compliance with instructions to extinguish their cigarette. Aggression was recorded using the Modified Overt Aggression Scale (MOAS). Two hundred interactions were conducted with smokers during business hours by Health Promotion Service staff. The first 100 interactions were based on an enforcement methodology typically delivered by Authorised Inspectors, while the second 100 interactions were based on an information and assistance methodology to reflect those that could be delivered by general health service staff.

Results

Only four instances of aggression were experienced, representing 2% of all interactions. Each of these was limited to verbal aggression. No self‐aggression, aggression against property, or physical aggression was encountered. Smokers were significantly more compliant to instructions to extinguish their cigarette in the enforcement method (64%) than the information and assistance method (45%) (P < .001). Groups of smokers were more compliant than individual smokers in the enforcement method (76.3% compared to 56.5%, P < .05).

Conclusions

This study quantifies the risk of aggression to health service staff conducting smoking compliance interactions using two methodologies. By following de‐escalation‐based protocols, staff can approach smokers in a low‐risk manner and support smoke‐free policy implementation and compliance. For general staff, the emphasis of interactions must be on providing information and assistance to smokers, not enforcement, as indicated by the reduced rate of immediate compliance, introducing an increased risk of escalation if enforcement is attempted.

So what?

These protocols could be implemented by other health services or organisations that are seeking to optimise the involvement of staff in supporting smoke‐free policies.
Parameterizing a hydrological model using a short‐term observational dataset to study runoff generation processes and reproduce recent trends in streamflow at a remote mountainous permafrost basin
Authors: Nesterova Nataliia , Makarieva Olga , Post David Andrew
Published: June 2021

Recent decades have seen a change in the runoff characteristics of the Suntar River basin in the mountainous, permafrost, hard‐to‐reach region of Eastern Siberia. This study aims to investigate and simulate runoff formation processes, including the factors driving recent changes in hydrological response of the Suntar River, based on short‐term historical observations of a range of hydrological, climatological and landscape measurements conducted in 1957–1959. The hydrograph model is applied as it has the advantage of using observed physical properties of landscapes as its parameters. The developed parametrization of the goltsy landscape (rocky‐talus) is verified by comparison of the results of simulations of variable states of snow and frozen ground with observations carried out in 1957–1959. Continuous simulations of streamflow on a daily time step are conducted for the period 1957–2012 in the Suntar River (area 7680 km2, altitude 828–2794 m) with mean and median values of Nash–Sutcliff criteria reaching 0.58 and 0.67, respectively. The results of simulations have shown that the largest component of runoff (about 70%) is produced in the high‐altitude area which comprises only 44% of the Suntar River basin area. The simulated streamflow reproduces the patterns of recently observed changes, including the increase in low flows, suggesting that the increase in the proportion of liquid precipitation in autumn due to air temperature rise is an important factor in driving streamflow changes in the region. The data presented are unique for the vast mountainous parts of North‐Eastern Eurasia which play an important role in the global climate system. The results indicate that parameterizing a hydrological model based on observations allows the model to be used in studying the response of river basins to climate change with greater confidence.
Determination of the herbicide paraquat using the new Ag‐GO/CuO/GCE‐modified glassy carbon electrode by differential pulse voltammetry
Authors: Savary Abdolrahman , Yari Abdollah
Published: June 2021

Finding the synergistic electrochemical effect of cuprous oxide nanoparticle (CuO‐NP), Ag‐nanoparticle (Ag‐NP) on graphene oxide (GO) encouraged us to provide a novel modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for the determination of the herbicide paraquat (PQ) in solution. The necessary compounds were prepared by simple methods and characterized by scanning electronic microscopy, UV/Vis spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The sensor showed good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of PQ. The cyclic voltammetric and DPV results showed that the oxidation and reduction processes of PQ are reversible and the Ag‐GO/CuO composition had good electrocatalytic performances in the determination of PQ. The responses of the electrochemical Ag‐GO/CuO/GCE were investigated for pH, type of supporting electrolyte, scan rate, and the response reproducibility of the system. Under the optimized conditions, a linear response over the concentration range of 0.40–650.0 μM of PQ was observed with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.999 and a detection limit of 0.07 μM. Reasonable recoveries between 99.2 and 105.0% were obtained for river water PQ content.
Variation in hydrogen sulfide emissions from a U.S. Midwest anaerobic dairy lagoon
Authors: Grant Richard H. , Mangan Mary R. , Boehm Matthew T.
Published: June 2021

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emissions from midwestern United States dairy anaerobic waste lagoons are episodic and seasonal. Emissions were modeled using an inverse diffusion model in conjunction with measured concentrations and turbulence. The potential for lagoon mixing was estimated by the Brunt frequency using a theoretical Fourier series temperature profile model constructed from measured air and lagoon temperatures. Annual H2S emissions from the dairy parlor and holding area liquid waste, based on 318 d of measurement, were 212 g m–2 or 807 g head of cattle–1. Hydrogen sulfide emissions were highest in the spring and the fall. Eleven days with emissions >7 g d–1 head–1 accounted for 25% of the annual emissions. Shear mixing appeared to dominate the mixing in the lagoon when the lagoon was estimated to be nearly isothermal. Wind shear correlated with significantly greater daily mean emissions. The H2S emissions from this lagoon appeared to result from a series of processes; biogenic production of H2S in the sludge, H2S‐enriched bubbles rise through the lagoon by buoyancy and wind shear induced mixing, and bubbles bursting at the surface either due to desiccation of the bubbles or surface disturbances induced by wind and precipitation.
Association between HLA alleles and Epstein–Barr virus Zta‐IgA serological status in healthy males from southern China
Authors: Yuan Lei‐Lei , Deng Chang‐Mi , Xue Wen‐Qiong , He Yong‐Qiao , Wang Tong‐Min , Zhang Jiang‐Bo , Yang Da‐Wei , Zhou Ting , Wu Zi‐Yi , Liao Ying , Zheng Mei‐Qi , Li Dan‐Hua , Cao Lian‐Jing , Jia Yi‐Jing , Zhang Wen‐Li , Xiao Ruo‐Wen , Luo Lu‐Ting , Tong Xia‐Ting , Wu Yan‐Xia , Huang Jing‐Wen , Jia Wei‐Hua
Published: June 2021

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), an Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) associated cancer, exhibits an extremely high incidence in southern Chinese. Given that human leukocyte antigen (HLA) plays critical roles in antigen presentation and relates to NPC susceptibility, it is speculated that certain HLA variants may affect EBV reactivation, which is a key pathogenic factor of NPC. Therefore, we attempted to identify HLA alleles associated with the indicator of EBV reactivation, Zta‐IgA, in healthy males from NPC endemic area.

Methods

HLA alleles of 1078 healthy males in southern China from the 21‐RCCP study were imputed using genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism data. EBV Zta‐IgA in blood samples were measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of HLA allele on Zta‐IgA serological status and its potential joint association with smoking. The binding affinity for Zta‐peptide was predicted using NetMHCIIpan 4.0.

Results

HLA‐DRB1*09:01 was found to be associated with a higher risk of Zta‐IgA seropositivity (odds ratio = 1.80, 95% confidence interval = 1.32–2.45; p = 1.82 × 10−4). Compared with non‐smokers without HLA‐DRB1*09:01, the effect size increased to 2.19‐ and 3.70‐fold for the light and heavy smokers carrying HLA‐DRB1*09:01, respectively. Furthermore, HLA‐DRB1*09:01 showed a stronger binding affinity to Zta peptide than other HLA‐DRB1 alleles.

Conclusions

Our study highlighted the pivotal role of genetic HLA variants in EBV reactivation and the etiology of NPC. Smokers with HLA‐DRB1*09:01 have a significantly higher risk of being Zta‐IgA seropositive, which indicates the necessity of smoking cessation in certain high‐risk populations and also provide clues for further research on the etiology of NPC.
Prevalence and factors associated with common mental disorders in young people living with HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Too Ezra K , Abubakar Amina , Nasambu Carophine , Koot Hans M , Cuijpers Pim , Newton Charles RJC , Nyongesa Moses K
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Common mental disorders (CMDs) particularly depression and anxiety, are highly comorbid with HIV also in young people living with HIV (YLWH). In sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) where most YLWH reside, there are limited summary data on CMDs among these youths, yet there are previous systematic reviews summarizing data on CMDs among adults living with HIV. We conducted a systematic literature review on the prevalence and correlates of CMDs among YLWH, aged 10 to 24 years, from SSA.

Methods

We searched African Index Medicus, African Journals Online and five other electronic databases (from database inception up to 31 December 2020) for relevant studies published in English. The key search terms applied were as follows: “Depression OR Anxiety”, “Young people”, “HIV infections” and “sub‐Saharan Africa”.

Results and discussion

Out of 3989 articles, 31 studies were included in the review. The prevalence of CMDs in YLWH widely varied ranging between 16.0% and 40.8% for major depression, 4.4% and 52.6% for depressive symptoms and 2.2% and 25.0% for anxiety symptoms. Anxiety disorder was estimated at 45.6%. Four of the five included studies with a comparison group of HIV‐negative young people reported significantly higher prevalence estimates of depressive disorders among YLWH. Several sociodemographic, psychosocial and HIV‐related correlates of CMDs were reported but most lacked consensus across studies. Nevertheless, female sex, older age, fewer schooling years, HIV‐positive status, bullying, sexual abuse, HIV‐related stigma, social support and poor antiretroviral therapy adherence were frequently reported (in ≥2 studies) as significant correlates of depressive symptoms among YLWH. Higher social support was the only frequent significant correlate of anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions

The burden of CMDs among YLWH from SSA is substantial and appears to be significantly higher when compared with HIV‐negative peers, particularly for depressive disorders. However, more comparative research is needed. Importantly, screening for CMDs at the youth HIV‐clinics should be prioritized especially for YLWH at high risk of CMDs, to facilitate early management or referral for treatment. Furthermore, youth‐friendly psychological interventions addressing CMDs in YLWH should urgently be piloted in SSA, incorporating contextual components that may directly or indirectly reduce symptoms of CMDs among YLWH, such as social support.