bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment of highly efficient transgenic system for black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens)
Authors: Kou Zongqing , Luo Xingyu , Jiang Yuguo , Chen Bihui , Song Yu , Wang Yaohui , Xu Jun , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , Huang Yongping
Published: November 2022

The black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens, is a promising insect for mitigating solid waste problems as its larvae are able to bioconvert organic waste into valuable biomass. We recently reported a high‐quality genome assembly of the BSF; analysis of this genome sequence will further the understanding of insect biology and identify genes that can be manipulated to improve efficiency of bioconversion. To enable genetic manipulation of the BSF, we have established the first transgenic methods for this economically important insect. We cloned and identified the ubiquitous actin5C promoter (Hiactin5C‐p3k) and 3 endogenous U6 promoters (HiU6:1, HiU6:2, and HiU6:3). The Hiactin5C promoter was used to drive expression of a hyperactive variant of the piggyBac transposase, which exhibited up to 6‐fold improvement in transformation rate when compared to the wild‐type transposase. Furthermore, we evaluated the 3 HiU6 promoters using this transgenic system. HiU6:1 and HiU6:2 promoters provided the highest knockdown efficiency with RNAi and are thus promising candidates for future Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) development. Overall, our findings provide valuable genetic engineering toolkits for basic research and genetic manipulation of the BSF.
Pathologically noninvasive cancer predictors and surgical procedure for peripheral lung cancer
Authors: Tsuchida Hiroyuki , Tanahashi Masayuki , Suzuki Eriko , Yoshii Naoko , Watanabe Takuya , Yobita Shogo , Uchiyama Suiha , Iguchi Kensuke , Nakamura Minori , Endo Takumi
Published: November 2022

Background

In this retrospective study, based on recent studies reporting the superiority of sublobar resection to lobectomy for peripheral small size non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we investigated the optimal pathological factors for predicting noninvasive cancer and the selection of operative procedure.

Methods

Patients with peripheral NSCLC of ≤2 cm who underwent surgery at our hospital between January 2010 and June 2020 were included in this study. We evaluated the relationship between pathologically noninvasive cancer and predictive factors according to the area under the curve (AUC) and accuracy, and the cutoff value was set to investigate indications for sublobar resection.

Results

The comparison of the AUCs revealed that the maximum standardized uptake value and consolidation to tumor (C/T) volume ratio were better predictors than the C/T ratio. Among the three factors, the C/T volume ratio showed the best accuracy. The patients were divided into two groups (low and high) using the cutoff value of the C/T volume ratio and compared according to the surgical procedure (lobectomy vs. segmentectomy). In the low‐group, there was no significant difference in the prognosis. In the high‐group, the 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rate of the patients who received lobectomy was 87.8%, while that of patients who received segmentectomy was 75.8% (p = 0.08).

Conclusions

The C/T volume ratio was the best preoperative pathologically noninvasive predictive factor. Sublobar resection should be performed with caution in cases with significant solid components on three‐dimensional images.
Lipoxin A4 depresses inflammation and promotes autophagy via AhR/mTOR/AKT pathway to suppress endometriosis
Authors: Huang Zhi‐Xiong , He Xiao‐Rong , Ding Xin‐Yu , Chen Jia‐Hao , Lei Yi‐Hong , Bai Jian‐Bing , Lin Dian‐Chao , Hong Yi‐Huang , Lan Jian‐Fa , Chen Qiong‐Hua
Published: November 2022

Background

Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease with the feature of estrogen dependence and inflammation. The function of autophagy and the correlation with inflammation were not yet revealed.

Methods

Autophagosomes were detected by transmission electron microscopy. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was referred to analyze the expression of autophagy‐related genes. Quantification of mRNA and protein expression was examined by qRT‐PCR and Western Blot. Immunohistochemistry was performed to explore the expression of proteins in tissues. The mouse model of endometriosis was performed to analyze the autophagic activity and effect of LXA4.

Results

The expression of autophagy‐related genes in endometriotic lesions were unusually changed. The number of autophagosomes and LC3B‐II expression was diminished, and p62 was increased in ectopic lesions from both patients and mice. Interleukin 1β (IL1β) attenuated the expression of LC3B and promoted the level p62. The autophagy activator MG‐132 upregulated the expression of LC3B and reduced IL1β, IL6, and p62. LXA4 reversed the inhibitory effect of IL1β on the expression of LC3B and p62, and blocking the receptor of LXA4 AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) resulted in the incapacitation of LXA4 to influence the effect of IL1β. LXA4 depressed the phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR to against IL1β, and blocking AhR negatively regulated the effect of LXA4 on AKT/mTOR pathway. LXA4 reduced the ectopic lesions and the expression of IL1β and p62, but enhanced LC3B‐II in endometriotic mouse models.

Conclusion

In endometriosis, increased inflammation of ectopic lesions prominently depresses autophagy. LXA4 could regulate autophagy by suppressing inflammatory response through AhR/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Immune predictors of hepatitis B surface antigen seroconversion in patients with hepatitis B reactivation
Authors: Islam Mojahidul , Sevak Jayesh Kumar , Sharma Manoj Kumar , Jindal Ankur , Vyas Ashish Kumar , Bajpai Meenu , Ramakrishna Gayatri , Sarin Shiv Kumar , Trehanpati Nirupma
Published: November 2022

Background

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroconversion is sometimes observed in hepatitis B reactivation (rHBV), probably due to immune resetting and differentiation.

Aims

To investigate sequential immune differentiation and abrogation of tolerance in patients with rHBV who achieved HBsAg seroconversion.

Methods

We included 19 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHBV; HBV DNA log103‐8), 67 with rHBV (raised ALT [>5XULN], HBV DNAlog104‐8) and 10 healthy controls. Immune differentiation, tolerance and functional status of CD4, CD8, T regulatory cells (Tregs), B cells and follicular T helper (Tfh) cells were assessed at baseline and 24 weeks.

Results

At 24 weeks, 81% rHBV (n = 67) lost HBV DNA and HBeAg (41%), and 12 (19%) lost HBsAg and made anti‐HBs titers >10 IU/ml. rHBV patients had higher Th1/17, TEM, Tfh, Tfh1/17, plasma and ATM B cells, and lower Tregs, Th2, Th17 and TEMRA expression. rHBV showed lower PD1, TIM3, LAG3, SLAM and TOX compared to CHBV. There was a significant increase in CD8, CD8EM, Tfh, Tfh1/17 and plasma B cells in seroconverters than non‐seroconverters. At 24 weeks, we also observed increased plasma B cell frequency in seroconverters. While non‐seroconverters showed higher expression of PD1, TIM3, LAG3, SLAM and TOX on CD4/CD8 T cells, blockade of PD1, TIM3, LAG3 and CTLA4 significantly enhanced IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐4 and IL‐21 expression on CD4/CD8 and Tfh cells in non‐seroconverters.

Conclusions

Non‐seroconverters have increased inhibitory markers on CD4/CD8 T cells. There is a critical play of CD8, Tfh and B cells and subsets in seroclearance, along with checkpoint molecules as a potential therapy for non‐seroconverters in HBV infection.
The kampung, the city and the nation: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in the everyday urban life of Kampung Peneleh, Surabaya, Indonesia
Authors: Perkasa Adrian , Padawangi Rita , Farida Eka Nurul
Published: November 2022

Interpreted as ‘unity in diversity’, Indonesia's national politicians appropriated the slogan Bhinneka Tunggal Ika from a fourteenth century poem to legitimise one nation‐state for the diverse archipelago. As Indonesia becomes a rapidly urbanising country, the concepts of ‘unity’ and ‘diversity’ intertwine with changing landscapes and societies. With the growth of cities as centres of population and economic activities, the intensity of development in the city has transformed urban spaces, social interactions, economies and aspirations. Much of these urban transformations have affected urban kampung, early forms of urban settlement. Urban kampung has a historical role in the making of ‘unity in diversity’ as a national concept, but official discourses rarely associate kampung with the slogan, even when concerns on tolerance and diversity increase in urbanising Indonesia. Using urban kampung as a viewpoint in city‐ and nation‐building, we conduct archival and ethnographic research to interpret everyday practices of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. To what extent does the slogan play a role in the social construction of city neighbourhoods? How do everyday realities in an urban kampung relate to the national slogan? As kampung remains relatively autonomous but also stigmatised in the city, taking kampung as a viewpoint allows insights into city‐ and nation‐building knowledge that integrate everyday practice and conceptualization of the city and the nation.
Efficient Targeted Learning of Heterogeneous Treatment Effects for Multiple Subgroups
Authors: Wei Waverly , Petersen Maya , van der Laan Mark J , Zheng Zeyu , Wu Chong , Wang Jingshen
Published: November 2022

In biomedical science, analyzing treatment effect heterogeneity plays an essential role in assisting personalized medicine. The main goals of analyzing treatment effect heterogeneity include estimating treatment effects in clinically relevant subgroups and predicting whether a patient subpopulation might benefit from a particular treatment. Conventional approaches often evaluate the subgroup treatment effects via parametric modeling and can thus be susceptible to model mis-specifications. In this paper, we take a model-free semiparametric perspective and aim to efficiently evaluate the heterogeneous treatment effects of multiple subgroups simultaneously under the one-step targeted maximum-likelihood estimation (TMLE) framework. When the number of subgroups is large, we further expand this path of research by looking at a variation of the one-step TMLE that is robust to the presence of small estimated propensity scores in finite samples. From our simulations, our method demonstrates substantial finite sample improvements compared to conventional methods. In a case study, our method unveils the potential treatment effect heterogeneity of rs12916-T allele (a proxy for statin usage) in decreasing Alzheimer's disease risk.
Clinical utility of haematological inflammatory biomarkers in predicting 30‐day mortality in hospitalised adult patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Embaby Ahmed , Hamed Mohamed Gaber , Ebian Huda , El‐Korashi Lobna A. , Walaa Mohammad , Abd el‐Sattar Eman M. , Hanafy Amr Shaaban , Abdelmoneem Shimaa
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a multisystem disease affecting respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, immunological and haematological systems. The most important indices that have been studied are platelet (PLT) indices in addition to the PLT count and red blood cell distribution width (RDW). This retrospective study included 95 patients with COVID‐19 and was conducted at the Hospital Isolation, Scientific and Medical Research Centre and Clinical Pathology Department at Zagazig University Hospitals, Egypt over 6 months from March to August 2021. All patients on admission had a full blood count, which included white blood cell (WBC) count, haemoglobin, RDW, PLT count and its indices in addition to PLT‐to‐WBC ratio (PWR) and PLT‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), which were calculated for all the study patients. There were significant linear correlations for higher levels of the PLR, PWR and RDW and mortality rate (p = 0.03, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001 respectively). Moreover, on multivariable analysis the RDW, PLT count and PWR levels were independent prognostic predictors for mortality with a hazard ratio [HR] of 1.25 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.44, p = 0.002), 1.00 (95% CI 0.99–1.00, p = 0.03) and 2.3 (95% CI 1.21–4.48, p = 0.01) respectively. The RDW and PLT indices are accessible predictors that can be valuable prognostic factors for survival assessment and risk stratification of COVID‐19.
The trace metal economy of the coral holobiont: supplies, demands and exchanges
Authors: Reich Hannah G. , Camp Emma F. , Roger Liza M. , Putnam Hollie M.
Published: November 2022

The juxtaposition of highly productive coral reef ecosystems in oligotrophic waters has spurred substantial interest and progress in our understanding of macronutrient uptake, exchange, and recycling among coral holobiont partners (host coral, dinoflagellate endosymbiont, endolithic algae, fungi, viruses, bacterial communities). By contrast, the contribution of trace metals to the physiological performance of the coral holobiont and, in turn, the functional ecology of reef‐building corals remains unclear. The coral holobiont's trace metal economy is a network of supply, demand, and exchanges upheld by cross‐kingdom symbiotic partnerships. Each partner has unique trace metal requirements that are central to their biochemical functions and the metabolic stability of the holobiont. Organismal homeostasis and the exchanges among partners determine the ability of the coral holobiont to adjust to fluctuating trace metal supplies in heterogeneous reef environments. This review details the requirements for trace metals in core biological processes and describes how metal exchanges among holobiont partners are key to sustaining complex nutritional symbioses in oligotrophic environments. Specifically, we discuss how trace metals contribute to partner compatibility, ability to cope with stress, and thereby to organismal fitness and distribution. Beyond holobiont trace metal cycling, we outline how the dynamic nature of the availability of environmental trace metal supplies can be influenced by a variability of abiotic factors (e.g. temperature, light, pH, etc.). Climate change will have profound consequences on the availability of trace metals and further intensify the myriad stressors that influence coral survival. Lastly, we suggest future research directions necessary for understanding the impacts of trace metals on the coral holobiont symbioses spanning subcellular to organismal levels, which will inform nutrient cycling in coral ecosystems more broadly. Collectively, this cross‐scale elucidation of the role of trace metals for the coral holobiont will allow us to improve forecasts of future coral reef function.
has_circ_0070512 promotes prostate cancer progression by regulating the miR‐338‐3p/hedgehog signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Pingxin , Gao Hang , Yan Ruping , Yu Lu , Xia Chengxing , Yang Delin
Published: November 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of non‐coding RNA that plays a vital role in biology. circRNAs appear to have a role in the development and progression of several malignancies, according to research. However, circRNAs that regulate prostate cancer (PCa) progression are still largely unknown and deserve further exploration. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hsa_circ_0070512 on the function and mechanism of PCa. hsa_circ_0070512 was increased in PCa tissues and cells and was mostly found in the cytoplasm of PCa cells. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0070512 considerably increased PCa cell proliferation and migration, whereas silencing of hsa_circ_0070512 greatly decreased PCa cell proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, we show that hsa_circ_0070512 acts as a “molecular sponge” for miR‐338‐3p and that the miR‐338‐3p mimics partially block the pro‐tumor effects of hsa_circ_0070512. RNA sequencing analysis of PC3 cells stably overexpressing hsa_circ_0070512 revealed that hedgehog was downstream of the signaling pathways of hsa_circ_0070512 and miR‐338‐3p. Our results implied that hsa_circ_0070512 regulated the hedgehog signaling pathways through miR‐338‐3p to enhance PCa growth and migration, providing a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for PCa.
Meta‐analysis of Antarctic phylogeography reveals strong sampling bias and critical knowledge gaps
Authors: Liu Xiaoyue P. , Duffy Grant A. , Pearman William S. , Pertierra Luis R. , Fraser Ceridwen I.
Published: November 2022

Much of Antarctica's highly endemic terrestrial biodiversity is found in small ice‐free patches. Substantial genetic differentiation has been detected among populations across spatial scales. Sampling is, however, often restricted to commonly‐accessed sites and we therefore lack a comprehensive understanding of broad‐scale biogeographic patterns, which could impede forecasts of the nature and impacts of future change. Here, we present a synthesis of published genetic studies across terrestrial Antarctica and the broader Antarctic region, aiming to identify current biogeographic patterns, environmental drivers of diversity and future research priorities. A database of all published genetic research from terrestrial fauna and flora (excl. microbes) across the Antarctic region was constructed. This database was then filtered to focus on the most well‐represented taxa and markers (mitochondrial COI for fauna, and nuclear ITS for flora). The final dataset comprised 7222 records, spanning 153 studies of 335 different species. There was strong taxonomic bias towards flowering plants (52% of all floral data sets) and springtails (54% of all faunal data sets), and geographic bias towards the Antarctic Peninsula and Victoria Land. Recent connectivity between the Antarctic continent and neighbouring landmasses, such as South America and the Southern Ocean Islands (SOIs), was inferred for some groups, but patterns observed for most taxa were strongly influenced by sampling biases. Above‐ground wind speed and habitat heterogeneity were positively correlated with genetic diversity indices overall though environment was a generally poor predictor of genetic diversity. The low resolution and variable coverage of data may also have reduced the power of our comparative inferences. In the future, higher‐resolution data, such as genomic SNPs and environmental modelling, alongside targeting sampling of remote sites and under sampled taxa, will address current knowledge gaps and greatly advance our understanding of evolutionary processes across the Antarctic region.
Mind the gap: Intended versus perceived human resource practices and knowledge sharing of line managers and employees
Authors: Andreeva Tatiana , Kabalina Veronika , Muratbekova‐Touron Maral
Published: November 2022

Understanding how human resource (HR) management can stimulate knowledge sharing among employees has received considerable attention recently. However, the extant research has focused predominantly on which HR practices are used and has paid little attention to how they are implemented. Building on both perspectives, we explore the nature of the gaps between intended and perceived HR practices and the effects of these gaps on knowledge‐sharing behaviours. Based on a survey of 198 respondents from a high‐tech company, we found that the gaps between intended and perceived HR practices (a) can be multidirectional, that is, both underestimation and overestimation of HR practices exist; (b) differ in their magnitude between line managers and employees; and (c) have varied effects on knowledge‐sharing behaviours—they can be positive, negative or have no impact, and these effects differ between line managers and employees. We discuss a range of conceptual, methodological and practice implications of these findings.
“The ethos expected from a management professor forces us to act straight”: Heterosexist harassment against gay professors in Brazil
Authors: de Freitas Oleto Alice , Palhares José Vitor
Published: November 2022

This study aims to analyze how gay Brazilian professors experience heterosexist harassment and the implications of this type of violence for the interpersonal relationships of these professors and for the teaching‐learning process in the academic environment. To this end, we conducted an exploratory study with a qualitative approach. The data were collected through an online survey using the Google Forms platform based on cases reported by 13 gay Brazilian professors working in a technological or higher education institution at the time of the harassment. Our data suggest that most respondents suffered heterosexist harassment in the workplace with violence being more explicit when the professor is more effeminate. Furthermore, we found that the naturalization of games considered harmless and homophobic jokes in the workplace can compromise the fight against heterosexist harassment in organizations. As a result, respondents report behavioral and workplace changes to fit into social norms and to be socially accepted, physical and psychological problems, professional and interpersonal relationships, adversely affecting educational experiences.
NTRK‐rearranged spindle cell neoplasms are ubiquitous tumours of myofibroblastic lineage with a distinct methylation class
Authors: Tauziède‐Espariat Arnault , Duchesne Mathilde , Baud Jessica , Le Quang Mégane , Bochaton Dorian , Azmani Rihab , Croce Sabrina , Hostein Isabelle , Kesrouani Carole , Guillemot Delphine , Pierron Gaëlle , Bourdeaut Franck , Cardoen Liesbeth , Hasty Lauren , Lechapt Emmanuèle , Métais Alice , Chrétien Fabrice , Puget Stéphanie , Varlet Pascale , Le Loarer François
Published: November 2022

Aims

NTRK gene fusions have been described in a wide variety of central nervous system (CNS) and soft tissue tumours, including the provisional tumour type ‘spindle cell neoplasm, NTRK‐rearranged’ (SCN–NTRK), added to the 2020 World Health Organisation Classification of Soft Tissue Tumours. Because of histopathological and molecular overlaps with other soft tissue entities, controversy remains concerning the lineage and terminology of SCN–NTRK.

Methods and results

This study included 16 mesenchymal tumours displaying kinase gene fusions (NTRK fusions and one MET fusion) initially diagnosed as infantile fibrosarcomas (IFS), SCN–NTRK and adult‐type fibrosarcomas from the soft tissue, viscera and CNS. We used immunohistochemistry, DNA methylation profiling, whole RNA‐sequencing and ultrastructural analysis to characterise them. Unsupervised t‐distributed stochastic neighbour embedding analysis showed that 11 cases (two CNS tumours and nine extra‐CNS) formed a unique and new methylation cluster, while all tumours but one, initially diagnosed as IFS, clustered in a distinct methylation class. All the tumours except one formed a single cluster within the hierarchical clustering of whole RNA‐sequencing data. Tumours from the novel methylation class co‐expressed CD34 and S100, had variable histopathological grades and frequently displayed a CDKN2A deletion. Ultrastructural analyses evidenced a myofibroblastic differentiation.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm that SCN‐NTRK share similar features in adults and children and in all locations combine an infiltrative pattern, distinct epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles, and ultrastructural evidence of a myofibroblastic lineage. Further studies may support the use of new terminology to better describe their myofibroblastic nature.
Pregnancy outcomes and pharmacokinetics in pregnant women living with HIV exposed to long‐acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine in clinical trials
Authors: Patel Parul , Ford Susan L. , Baker Mark , Meyer Claudia , Garside Louise , D'Amico Ronald , Van Solingen‐Ristea Rodica , Crauwels Herta , Polli Joseph W. , Seal Ciara , Yagüe Muñoz Itziar , Thiagarajah Shanker , Birmingham Eileen , Spreen William R. , Baugh Bryan , van Wyk Jean , Vannappagari Vani
Published: November 2022

Background

Limited data exist on pregnant women living with HIV exposed to cabotegravir + rilpivirine (CAB + RPV). Outcomes in pregnant participants exposed to CAB + RPV, and pharmacokinetic washout data in those exposed to CAB + RPV long‐acting (LA) with live births, are presented.

Methods

Women exposed to one or more doses of CAB + RPV (oral/LA) from ViiV Healthcare‐sponsored phase 2b/3/3b clinical trials and the compassionate use programme who became pregnant were included. Upon pregnancy in the trial programme, CAB + RPV was discontinued, an alternative antiretroviral regimen was initiated, and quarterly pharmacokinetic sampling for 52 weeks post‐last injection was obtained. CAB + RPV continuation or alternative antiretroviral regimen initiation was decided by pregnant compassionate use programme participants and their treating physicians.

Results

As of 31 March 2021, 25 pregnancies following CAB + RPV exposure at conception were reported (five oral, 20 LA), including four who conceived during pharmacokinetic washout following treatment discontinuation. There were eight elective abortions, six miscarriages (five in first trimester), one ectopic pregnancy, and 10 live births (one oral, nine LA), including one infant born with congenital ptosis. Among participants exposed to CAB + RPV LA at conception with live births, plasma CAB and RPV washout concentrations during pregnancy were within the range of those observed in non‐pregnant women.

Conclusion

In this first analysis of pregnancy outcomes following CAB + RPV exposure at conception, 10 live births, including one with congenital anomaly, were reported. Plasma CAB and RPV washout concentrations during pregnancy were within the range of those in non‐pregnant women. Pregnancy surveillance within ViiV Healthcare‐sponsored clinical trials is ongoing, with dedicated pregnancy studies planned.
Clinical analysis of skin lesions in livedoid vasculopathy: a study of 46 Chinese patients
Authors: Zhao Chenjing , Jing Ke , Feng Suying
Published: November 2022

Background

Clinical data regarding cutaneous manifestations in Chinese patients with livedoid vasculopathy (LV) are limited.

Objectives

To assess clinical features of skin lesions in LV, especially the characteristics of extensive livedo reticularis and pigmented purpuric dermatosis‐like lesions in these patients.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective study of 46 Chinese patients with LV between March 2021 and July 2021. The characteristics of skin lesions in LV were described in detail.

Results

A total of 29 females and 17 males were included in this study, with a mean age of 27.7 years (ranging from 13 to 51 years). Twenty (43.5%) patients developed their first skin lesions before age 18. Among 46 patients, 33 presented livedo reticularis with 78.8% (n = 26) of these patients whose livedo reticularis was extensive. Seven patients had lesions simulating pigmented purpuric dermatosis, including four cases of pigmented purpura and three cases of telangiectatic purpura. Numbness was found in 16 patients, mainly in the lower limbs (62.5%), ankles (31.3%), and dorsum of the feet (18.8%).

Conclusions

For patients with symptoms of extensive livedo reticularis, retiform purpura, or numbness, it is necessary to make a differential diagnosis.
A trapdoor spider, Latouchia typica (Araneae: Halonoproctidae), uses vibrational cues as a trigger for predatory behavior
Authors: Nakamura Shoyo , Mukai Hiromi , Tokuda Makoto
Published: November 2022

Spiders are one of the most dominant predators in terrestrial ecosystems. Although cues triggering predatory behavior in web‐building and wandering spiders are well investigated, studies concerning burrowing species, the most ancestral group of spiders, are relatively limited. To clarify critical cues affecting the predatory behavior in burrowing species, we conducted vibration‐reducing experiments with the trapdoor spider Latouchia typica (Araneae: Halonoproctidae) and nymphs of the speckled cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea (Blattodea: Blaberidae), as prey. Spiders achieved a high success rate of prey capture even when blinded (with paint on the eyes). However, the use of a rubber mat to reduce vibrations significantly decreased predation success rate. In addition, the presence or absence of the blindfold did not affect the predation rates under the reducing vibration condition. These results indicate that substrate vibrations emitted from prey are critically important to trigger the predatory behavior in L. typica, but visual and chemical stimuli are not used even in the case when vibration cues are unavailable. This is the first study to use vibration‐reducing experiments to experimentally demonstrate the critical cues for predation in trapdoor spiders.
Enhancement of keratinocyte growth factor potential in inducing adipose‐derived stem cells differentiation into keratinocytes by collagen‐targeting
Authors: Amidzadeh Zahra , Yasami‐Khiabani Setayesh , Rahimi Hamzeh , Bonakdar Shahin , Shams Davoud , Habibi‐Anbouhi Mahdi , Golkar Majid , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2022

Different growth factors can regulate stem cell differentiation. We used keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) to direct adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) differentiation into keratinocytes. To enhance KGF bioavailability, we targeted KGF for collagen by fusing it to collagen‐binding domain from Vibrio mimicus metalloprotease (vibrioCBD‐KGF). KGF and vibrioCBD‐KGF were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity. Both proteins displayed comparable activities in stimulating proliferation of HEK‐293 and MCF‐7 cells. vibrioCBD‐KGF demonstrated enhanced collagen‐binding affinity in immunofluorescence and ELISA. KGF and vibrioCBD‐KGF at different concentrations (2, 10, and 20 ng/ml) were applied for 21 days on ASCs cultured on collagen‐coated plates. Keratinocyte differentiation was assessed based on morphological changes, the expression of keratinocyte markers (Keratin‐10 and Involucrin), and stem cell markers (Collagen‐I and Vimentin) by real‐time PCR or immunofluorescence. Our results indicated that the expression of keratinocyte markers was substantially increased at all concentrations of vibrioCBD‐KGF, while it was observed for KGF only at 20 ng/ml. Immunofluorescence staining approved this finding. Moreover, down‐regulation of Collagen‐I, an indicator of differentiation commitment, was more significant in samples treated with vibrioCBD‐KGF. The present study showed that vibrioCBD‐KGF is more potent in inducing the ASCs differentiation into keratinocytes compared to KGF. Our results have important implications for effective skin regeneration using collagen‐based biomaterials.
Shelf‐life prediction of milk‐millet powders
Authors: Pasagadi Aditya Sukumar , Prakash Arun Kumar , Harthikote Veerendrasimha Vikram Simha , Geethambika Seethu Bhasi , Franklin Magdaline Eljeeva Emerald , Pushpadass Heartwin A.
Published: November 2022

Migration of moisture and oxygen into packages during storage lead to deteriorative reactions such as nonenzymatic browning (NEB), stickiness, caking, and oxidation. Actual shelf‐life testing of milk‐millet powders is tedious and time‐consuming as they have long storage stability. The aim of this study was to predict the shelf‐life of spray‐dried milk‐millet powders based on deteriorative reactions due to moisture and oxygen uptake, and evaluate whether the prediction models could be applied as an alternative to accelerated or normal shelf‐life testing. Fresh cow milk was standardized, concentrated to 22% total solids (TS), blended with millet wort of 22% TS in 1:1 ratio, and dried into powder using a lab‐scale co‐current type spray dryer. The predicted shelf‐life of milk‐malted foxtail millet powder based on stickiness and NEB caused by moisture gain was 17 and 30 days in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE), 41 and 58 days in EVOH laminate (LDPE/EVOH/LDPE), and 96 and 134 days in polyethylene‐terephthalate (PET) laminate (PET/Al foil/PET/LDPE) pouches, respectively. The corresponding shelf‐life of milk‐barnyard millet powder based on stickiness and NEB was 18 and 30 days, 66 and 96 days, and 90 and 102 days, in HDPE, EVOH laminate, and PET laminate, respectively. Similarly, the predicted oxygen limiting shelf‐life based on thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was found to be 40, 75, and 86 days for milk‐foxtail millet powder and 32, 72, and 93 days for milk‐barnyard millet powder in HDPE, EVOH laminate, and PET laminate, respectively. The rate of deteriorative reactions was the lowest in PET laminate pouches because of its excellent barrier properties over that of HDPE and EVOH even at the adverse accelerated storage conditions. The simulation model was adequate and reliable in predicting the shelf‐life of milk‐millet powders in packaging materials with wide range of barrier properties.

Practical Applications

Deteriorative reactions such as caking and nonenzymatic browning induced by moisture, and oxidative reactions induced by ingress of oxygen into the package, affect the shelf‐life of milk‐millet powders. For such food powders having long shelf‐life, regular and accelerated shelf‐life testing are cumbersome and sometimes untenable. Simulation and mathematical modeling of shelf‐life is an alternative to long‐term shelf‐life tests. In this study, models for predicting the shelf‐life of milk‐millet powders based on moisture gain and oxygen uptake were developed. Prediction of shelf‐life will be helpful to monitor the product stability against spoilage by deteriorative reactions. The models could also be used for evaluation of shelf‐life of millet‐ and other food powders in flexible packaging materials. The prediction model not only required less time and resources but also was adequately reliable.
Process optimization for the extraction of bioactive compounds from defatted flaxseed cake (Linum usitatissimu) using ultrasound‐assisted extraction method and its characterization
Authors: Singh Shikhangi , Shahi Navin Chandra , Lohani Umesh Chandra , Bhat Mohd Ishfaq , Sirohi Ranjna , Singh Shikha
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to use an ultrasound‐assisted approach to maximize the extraction of polyphenols from defatted flaxseed cake. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the power intensity (757, 1010, 1262 W/cm2), solid–liquid ratio (1: 10, 1:20, and 1:30 g/ml), and sonication time (15, 20, and 25 min), using a three‐factor Box–Behnken design. The optimization was done on the basis of different responses viz. extract yield, total phenolics content (TPC), and DPPH radical scavenging activity. The linear effect of power intensity was significant (p < .01) on all the responses. However, TPC assay and DPPH radical scavenging activity was only significantly affected by power intensity in a negative linear fashion. The interactive effect of power intensity with sonication time was also significant (p < .05) on all the responses. The optimized values obtained for extract yield, TPC assay, and DPPH antioxidant activity were 19.126%, 51.984 mg GAE/g, and 72.149%, respectively, under the optimal condition of power intensity 1013.69 W/cm2, solid–liquid ratio 22.83 g/ml, and sonication time 22.22 min. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that ultrasound‐assisted extraction effectively disrupted the defatted flaxseed cake powder, thereby improving polyphenol yield.

Practical Application

Defatted flaxseed cakes are normally used as fodder in animal nutrition or as fuel in industries. Economically, the potentiality of the defatted flaxseed cake seems to be ignored as they can be the good source of raw materials in pharmaceutical or act as functional food ingredient. Most of the antioxidants used in foods are synthetic ones which and have been restricted recently due to some major health issues. Therefore, nowadays there is interest in finding natural sources of antioxidants. Enrichment of defatted flaxseed cake extract into food not only increases it stability but also the nutritional value.
Infrared drying of apple (Malus domestica) slices: Effect on drying and color kinetics, texture, rehydration, and microstructure
Authors: Aradwad Pramod P. , Thirumani Venkatesh Arun Kumar , Mani Indra
Published: November 2022

In this study, apple slices were dried using infrared (IR) and hot air techniques and comprehensively analyzed in terms of drying and product characteristics. The influence of IR power level (450–650 W) and hot air temperature (60–75°C) on mass transfer, color kinetics, product texture, microstructure, and rehydration characteristics was studied. The results indicated that drying time, color change, and energy requirement were lower in IR drying than in hot air drying. Moisture diffusivity was observed to increase with IR power (3.367 × 10−9–5.579 × 10−9 m2/s) and hot air temperature (1.288 × 10−9–2.387 × 10−9 m2/s). The activation energies of apple slices in IR and hot air drying were 11.94 and 21.90 kJ/mol, respectively. IR‐dried apple slices were more crispy, with a porous structure and higher rehydration ability. Experimental data were fitted to nine different thin‐layer drying and four‐color kinetic models using nonlinear regression analysis. The results of regression analysis indicated that the Midilli–Kucuk model is the best model to describe the drying behavior in both techniques. The color characteristics (L, a, and b) can be best explained by the modified color model and total color change by fraction conversion model for both IR and hot air drying of apple slices. This study revealed that IR drying of apple slices results in a better quality product in less time and energy as compared to hot air drying.

Practical applications

Drying is a vital food processing and preservation technique based on the principle of reducing the water content of the product. Although several drying techniques are available, there have been continuous efforts to improve drying methods in terms of energy efficiency and product quality attributes. The present work has been carried out considering the dearth of information on the influence of infrared power/intensity on the drying behavior and product quality of apple slices. Mass and color kinetics have been studied for a better understanding of the process, along with texture, microstructure, and rehydration properties. Our results showed that the process is superior, in terms of energy and product quality, as compared to other published work. It is concluded that infrared drying can be effectively used in the dehydration of apple slices on an industrial scale and can be promoted as a healthy alternative to fried snacks.
Partial melting and reaction along deformation features in plagioclase
Authors: Incel Sarah , Baïsset Marie , Labrousse Loïc , Schubnel Alexandre
Published: November 2022

Geological processes involving deformation and/or reactions are highly influenced by the rock grain size, especially if diffusion‐controlled processes take place such as metamorphic reactions and diffusion creep. Although many processes, inducing grain‐size reduction, are documented and understood at relatively high stresses and low temperatures (e.g., cataclasis) as well as at lower stress and higher temperature conditions (e.g., bulging and subgrain rotation), deformation twinning, a plastic deformation mechanism active in various minerals at lower temperatures, has been neglected as nucleation site for melting and reaction and thus as a cause for grain‐size reduction so far. We conducted experiments on natural plagioclase‐bearing aggregates at 2.5 to 3 GPa confining pressure and temperatures of 700°C to 950°C using two different deformation apparatus, a deformation multianvil apparatus (DDIA) and a Griggs press, as well as a piston‐cylinder apparatus. Regardless of the apparatus type, we observe the breakdown of plagioclase into an eclogite‐facies paragenesis, which is associated with partial melting in the high temperature domain of the eclogite facies. Partial melting mostly takes place along the grain and interphase boundaries. However, several melt patches or plagioclase decomposition products coincide with the occurrence of deformation twins and grain‐scale microcracking in plagioclase indicating intracrystalline melting and reaction in addition to melting and reaction along grain and interphase boundaries. In the present study, we demonstrate how the interplay between brittle microcracking and plastic deformation twinning can cause intracrystalline melting and/or reaction, which has the potential to lower the effective grain size of plagioclase‐rich rocks and thus impacts their reactivity and deformation behaviour.
Stress, social support, and racial differences: Dominant drivers of exclusive breastfeeding
Authors: Isiguzo Chinwoke , Mendez Dara D. , Demirci Jill R. , Youk Ada , Mendez Gabriella , Davis Esa M. , Documet Patricia
Published: November 2022

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for 6 months; however, many childbearing people wean their infants before 6 months. Psychosocial factors such as stress, social support and race are significant determinants of breastfeeding; however, few studies have longitudinally explored the effect of perceived stress and various forms of social support on exclusive breastfeeding. We used quantitative methodologies to examine exclusive breastfeeding, perceived stress and social support among 251 participants from the Postpartum Mothers Mobile Study. Participants between 18 and 44 years were recruited during pregnancy (irrespective of parity) and completed surveys in real‐time via Ecological Momentary Assessment up to 12 months postpartum from December 2017 to August 2021. We measured perceived stress with the adapted Perceived Stress Scale and perceived social support with the Multi‐dimensional Social Support Scale. Received social support was measured using a single question on breastfeeding support. We conducted a mixed‐effects logistic regression to determine the effect of stress, race and social support on exclusive breastfeeding over 6 months. We examined the moderation effect of perceived social support and breastfeeding support in the relationship between perceived stress and exclusive breastfeeding. Black, compared with White, participants were less likely to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months. Participants who reported higher perceived stress were less likely to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months. Perceived social support moderated the relationship between perceived stress and exclusive breastfeeding (odds ratio: 0.01, 95% confidence interval: 0.001–0.072). However, breastfeeding support directly increased the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding over 6 months. Perceived stress is negatively associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Birthing people who intend to breastfeed may benefit from perinatal support programs that include components to buffer stress.
Maize seed endophytes
Authors: Wallace Jason G.
Published: November 2022

Maize is a vital global crop, and each seed (kernel) hosts an ecosystem of microbes living inside it. However, we know very little about these endophytes and what their role is in plant production and physiology. In this Microreview, I summarize the major questions around maize seed endophytes, including what organisms are present, how they get there, whether and how they transmit across generations, and how they and the plant affect each other. Although several studies touch on each of these areas, ultimately there are far more questions than answers. Future priorities for research on maize seed endophytes should include understanding what adaptations allow microbes to be seed endophytes, how the host genetics and the environment affect these communities, and how maize seed endophytes ultimately contribute to the next generation of plants.
The cost of self‐promotion: ecological and demographic implications of the mentor effect in natural plant populations
Authors: Lynn Austin M. , Sullivan Lauren L. , Galen Candace
Published: November 2022

Under the mentor effect, compatible heterospecific pollen transfer induces self‐pollen germination in otherwise self‐incompatible plants. The mentor effect could be considered a novel mode of reproductive interference if it negatively impacts fitness. Yet to date, this phenomenon has predominately been investigated under experimental conditions rather thanin situ. We address this gap in natural populations of the self‐incompatible native dandelion,Taraxacum ceratophorum, where selfing only occurs in association with hybridization from exoticTaraxacum officinale.

We tested whether self‐fertilization rate increases in the hybrid zone, as predicted due to the mentor effect. Using results from these investigations, we created an exponential growth model to estimate the potential demographic impacts of the mentor effect onT. ceratophorumpopulation growth.

Our results demonstrate that the strength of the mentor effect inTaraxacumdepends on the prevalence of pollinator‐mediated outcross pollen deposition rather than self‐pollination. Demographic models suggest that reduced outcrossing inT. ceratophorumunder exotic invasion could negatively impact population growth through inbreeding depression.

We demonstrate the mentor effect is rare in natural populations ofT. ceratophorumdue to masking by early life cycle inbreeding depression, prevalent outcrossing, and ovule usurpation by heterospecific pollen.
System mapping with adolescents: Using group model building to map the complexity of obesity
Authors: Savona Natalie , Brown Andrew , Macauley Talia , Aguiar Anaely , Hayward Josh , Ayuandini Sherria , Habron Janetta , Grewal Navnit Kaur , Luszczynska Aleksandra , Mendes Sofia , Klepp Knut‐Inge , Rutter Harry , Allender Steven , Knai Cécile
Published: November 2022

Public health research and practice is increasingly employing systems thinking to help grapple with complex issues, from obesity to HIV treatment. At the same time, there is growing recognition that to address a given problem it is essential collaborate with those most at risk of or affected by it. Group model building (GMB), a process grounded in system dynamics, combines systems thinking and participatory methods to structure and address complex issues. As part of the CO‐CREATE project we conducted GMB sessions with young people in six countries to create causal loop diagrams showing the factors that they believe drive obesity. This paper describes the background to GMB and the process we used to construct causal loop diagrams; it discusses how GMB contributed to generating noteworthy and useful findings, and the strengths and limitations of the method. Using GMB, we identified areas of concern to adolescents in relation to obesity that have so far had little attention in obesity research and policy: mental health and online activity. In using GMB, we also helped answer calls for a more participatory approach to youth involvement in research and policy development.