bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New observations of the endangered giant freshwater whipray, Urogymnus polylepis, provide further evidence for its distribution and breeding in the north‐east coast of India
Authors: Sen Swatipriyanka , Thomas Sujitha , Joe Kizhakudan Shoba , Dash Gyanaranjan , Pradhan Rajesh Kumar , Ghosh Shubhadeep , Das Madhumita , Dash Biswajit , Zacharia Pariyappanal Ulahannan
Published: September 2022

The present study reports observations of 13 giant freshwater whipray (Urogymnus polylepis) from commercial fish landings along the north‐east coast of India and updates existing records based on field observations and local social media reports. The disc width of the landed specimens ranged from 120 to 223 cm and they weighed 95–300 kg. All 13 specimens observed were mature (nine females and four males) and three females were pregnant, with embryo numbers ranging between 4 and 15. Globally, U. polylepis is listed as ‘Endangered’, and greater protection measures are needed in India to assist in reversing current population declines.
Functional utilization of mango waste for improving the nutritional and sensorial properties of multigrain cookies
Authors: Aamir Muhammad , Saleem Ayesha , Rakha Allah , Nadeem Muhammad , Ateeq Huda , Saeed Farhan , Asghar Aasma , Shah Yasir Abbas , Afzaal Muhammad , Javed Ahsan , Tufail Tabussam , Qamar Aiza
Published: September 2022

Present study was conducted to investigate the functional properties of multigrain cookies with the addition of mango waste as a source of bioactive compounds. Purposely, fortified cookies were prepared using mango peel and kernel powder in 2%, 4%, and 6% ratio in simple wheat flour along with 10% oat and 10% barley flour. The prepared cookies were analyzed for proximate, antioxidant, physical, and sensory characteristics. The results revealed that mango peel powder had high content of antioxidant and crude fiber, whereas mango kernel powder had a high content of moisture (6.62 ± 0.15%), ash (2.17 ± 0.13%), protein (8.17 ± 0.05%), and fat (1.67 ± 0.02%) as compared with mango peel powder. However, 4% mango peel and 2% mango kernel powder did not impact the texture or color of the cookies while substituting up to 6% resulted in color differences that were disliked. In cookies, phenolic and flavonoid content increased due to addition of mango peel and mango kernel that boosted their antioxidant activity. The sensory evaluation revealed that substituting up to 4% mango peel and 2% mango kernel powder resulted in cookies with acceptable mango taste and flavor; however, cookies prepared with the addition of 2% peel powder and 2% kernel powder resulted in highest sensory score and showed better results for physicochemical as well as antioxidant analysis. It is concluded that 2% mango peel and kernel were found to play a vital impact in improving the nutritional characteristics of fortified cookies.

Practical applications

It is observed that the waste from fruit and vegetables is a rich source of biologically active compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, having strong antioxidant potential. Current study is conducted to not only validate the nutritional characterization and sensory evaluation of multigrain mango peel and kernel cookies but also enhance significance of fruit waste by its utilizing in different food products especially in baked products.
Single and combined use of isomalt, polydextrose, and inulin as sugar substitutes in production of pectin jelly
Authors: Ünal Meltem H. , Arslan Derya
Published: September 2022

In this study, 60% of the total sugar (sucrose and corn syrup) in pectin jellies was substituted by using single or various combinations of the bulking agents: isomalt, polydextrose, and inulin. Substitution with isomalt resulted in lower hardness and flexibility and lower moisture content; it ended up with an opaque and rough appearance on the outer surface, thus causing lower sensory acceptability and shorter storage stability than conventional product. Substitution of sugars with inulin was found to be successful in terms of lowering water activity, improving sensory characteristics, and supporting the prebiotic activity (B. clausii). Polydextrose was also successful, while bringing with the handicap of a softness perception in the jelly due to high hygroscopicity. Besides, it was the most effective bulking agent for growth of both the beneficial probiotic bacteria tested (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bacillus clausii). The highest colony counts of L. acidophilus was found in Inulin+Polydextrose jelly (220 × 104 CFU/g); however, this synergistic effect of inulin and polydextrose was not observed for B. clausii. Substitution of sugars with only inulin gave the best results for taste, at the same time scored high for color and appearance. In relation to this, 90% of panelists preferred the inulin jelly as “I would definitely buy.” The lowest energy values were achieved in jellies developed by the addition of polydextrose, inulin+polydextrose, and isomalt+polydextrose with 43.1% 39.9%, and 38.8% reductions in calorie, respectively, compared with the conventional product. The results demonstrated many aspects of the successful use of polydextrose and inulin alone or in combination as sugar substitutes in the production of pectin jelly.

Practical applications

The awareness for the consumption of functional foods, which contain ingredients that provide additional health benefits beyond the basic nutritional requirements, is in increasing demand. In order to meet this demand of consumers, nutritious, functional, and alternative foods have started to take their place in the market. Confectionery products have an important place among these food groups. As a market that has consumers from all age groups apart from basic nutritional needs, the confectionery sector has a diverse product group and large consumer base in the world. Prebiotics are included in confectionery products in order to give mouthfeel, texture, functional attributes, and some act as bulking agent. We investigated the combined use of prebiotics such as polydextrose, inulin, and isomalt as bulking agents in soft pectin jellies, and significant improvement was achieved in terms of low‐energy product development. The low‐energy soft‐type pectin jellies were characterized, and the samples using prebiotics showed various advantages in terms of physical properties.
Extraction and characterization of chitin and chitosan from Nile tilapia scale in Lake Chamo, Arba Minch and their application in clarification of apple juice
Authors: Lare Tadewos , Hirpaye Belete Yilma , Eeranna Ballekallu Chinna , Srinivasan Babuskin
Published: September 2022

Fish and seafood processing industries generate large quantities of waste, which are at the origin of several environmental, economic and social problems. However, fish waste contains high value‐added substances such as collagen, gelatin, chitin and chitosan. In Ethiopia, Arba Minch is one of the leading areas of fish production zone, and hence, everyday lot of fish waste has been generated due to this. This work has focused on the extraction and characterization of chitin and chitosan from fish wastes (Nile tilapia). The chitin and chitosan extracted were characterized by analyzing parameters such as percentage yield, moisture and ash content, solubility, degree of deacetylation, water binding capacity, fat binding capacity, intrinsic viscosity and Molecular weight (Mw). The results obtained from this study show that the yield of chitin and chitosan was 29.88 ± 0.01% and 15.87 ± 0.14%, respectively. The moisture and ash content, DD, solubility, FBC, WBC, intrinsic viscosity and Mw of the extracted chitosan were found to be 6.79 ± 0.40%, 1.22 ± 0.16%, 85.25 ± 0.28%, 94.3 ± 0.99%, 391.17 ± 0.13%, 461.34 ± 0.42%, 6.832 ± 0.0101 and 3514.730 ± 1.1 g/mol, respectively. The chitosan was then employed for apple juice clarification and the reduction in total soluble solids value from (12.67 to 9.20), titratable acidity (2.38 to 1.61) and turbidity (320.2 to 86.6) after treatments have confirmed their effectiveness on apple juice clarification. The reduction in titratable acidity has been supported by increase in pH value (3.19 to 4.29). The sensory evaluation of control juice and chitosan‐added juice samples was performed, and it has been observed that chitosan concentration of up to 0.25 g/L was well accepted by the consumers.

Novelty impact statement

The current study is the first kind of attempt to analyze the different physicochemical properties of chitin and chitosan obtained from Nile tilapia fish scale wastes, from Lake Chamo, Arba Minch.

It also throws light on how fish scale wastes can be converted into useful products like chitin and chitosan.

The application of extracted chitosan in apple juice clarification has been successfully demonstrated in the study.
Impact of germination on the proximate composition, functional properties, and structural characteristics of black soybean (Glycine max L. Merr)
Authors: Mitharwal Swati , Chauhan Komal
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to investigate the impact of germination on the quality of black soybean flour (BSF). The black soybeans were germinated for different time period (24, 48, and 72 h), and the impact on proximate composition, functional, structural, and antioxidant properties of the obtained flour was evaluated. Germination process resulted in significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in protein (39.46 ± 0.08–43.30 ± 0.05 g/100 g), crude fiber (7.55 ± 0.15–10.31 ± 0.16 g/100 g), and ash (5.95 ± 0.04–6.28 ± 0.01 g/100 g) content as compared with raw black soybean flour (RBSF). Further, significant variation in color attributes, functional properties, and pasting characteristics of raw and germinated black soybean flour (GBSF) was observed. Significant increase in total phenolic content (6.76 ± 0.05 to 9.30 ± 0.04 mg GAE/g), total flavonoid content (2.45 ± 0.04 to 4.32 ± 0.02 mg QE/g), and DPPH radical scavenging activity (41.31%–60.20%) was observed post germination (24–72 h). Scanning electron micrographs (SEMs) showed that germination resulted in microstructural changes in starch and protein matrix owing to activation of hydrolytic enzymes. Further, X‐ray diffraction patterns elucidate significant reduction in crystallinity of GBSF (42.54%–44.48% for 24–72 h) in comparison to RBSF (45.75%).
A comparative study on the emulsifying and foaming aspects of Gleditsia caspica galactomannan (as a new source of hydrocolloid), fenugreek galactomannan, and xanthan gum mixtures
Authors: Niknam Rasoul , Mousavi Mohammad , Kiani Hossein
Published: September 2022

Emulsifying and foaming aspects of samples containing three hydrocolloids (Gleditsia caspica (GG) galactomannan, xanthan gum (XG), and fenugreek galactomannan (FG)) were comprehensively investigated. By elevating the concentration of biopolymers, the values of emulsifying capacity, emulsion stability, zeta potential, and foaming stability were significantly raised. Contrarily, the values of foaming capacity, z‐average, and PDI were reduced. Among the utilized hydrocolloids, the samples containing FG especially when blended with XG had higher emulsifying capacity and emulsion stability values in comparison with other samples. Also, samples containing XG had higher foaming capacity and those containing FG had higher foaming stability values compared with other samples. The samples containing FG had higher zeta potential and lower z‐average and PDI values compared with other samples. Due to the obtained results, Gleditsia galactomannan could be considered as stabilizing agent in food formulations.

Novelty impact statement

Introducing new sources of hydrocolloids (in current research, galactomannan obtained from Gleditsia caspica seed) with appropriate emulsifying and foaming properties is known as vital issue for researchers in food industry. Also, using mixture of hydrocolloids especially when G. caspica galactomannan was used in formulation of emulsions resulted in improved emulsifying and foaming aspects particularly emulsifying capacity, emulsion stability, and foaming stability.
Effect of milling on proximate composition, γ‐oryzanol, vitamin B1, polyphenolic, and bioaccessibility of phenolic of brown rice
Authors: Jiang Ping , Li Ren , Tian Xiao‐Hong , Liu Yan‐Xiang , Zhang Du‐Qin , Ren Fei , Liu Ming , Tan Bin
Published: September 2022

The effect of milling treatment on the nutrients of brown rice and the release of polyphenols during in vitro digestion were studied in this paper. As the milling degree increased, the protein, fat, and total dietary fiber content of brown rice decreased and the total starch content increased, the changes in fat and dietary fiber contents were more significant. The contents of γ‐oryzanol, vitamin B1, total phenolic, and total flavonoids all decreased to varying degrees with different milling times. The contents of 11 phenolic acids in brown rice were significantly reduced (p < .05). Additionally, the results of simulated digestion in vitro showed that the content of phenolic in gastric juice and intestinal juice all decreased with the increasing milling degree. The phenolic in brown rice are mainly released during gastric digestion, and the total phenolic in gastric juice and intestinal juice are 1.79–2.04 times and 2.24–2.71 times of those before digestion, respectively. These results suggest that it is indispensable to advocate reducing milling degrees to improve the edible value of rice. It will also provide data support and theoretical guidance for promoting moderate rice processing, reducing grain loss, and developing whole grain in China.

Practical applications

In this paper, the changes in main nutrients (total starch, protein, fat, dietary fiber) and bioactive substances (γ‐oryzanol, vitamin B1, total phenolic and profile of phenolic, total flavonoids) of brown rice with different milling degrees produced by the actual process in the factory were analyzed, and the effect of milling on the bioaccessibility of phenols in brown rice through simulated digestion experiments in vitro was also investigated. The results of this paper suggest that it is indispensable to advocate reducing milling degrees to improve the edible value of rice. It will also provide data support and theoretical guidance for promoting moderate rice processing, reducing grain loss, and developing whole grain in China.
Effects of hydroxyl radical oxidation on physicochemical properties and degradation of chicken myofibrillar protein
Authors: Wei Yabo , Hu Ling , Zhang Zhiwei , Guo Xin , Zhao Yunfeng , Wang Zhouping , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2022

The most significant issue influencing the preservation and sale of chicken is its oxidative behavior. The effect of hydroxyl radical oxidation on the hydrolysis of myofibrillar protein by μ‐calpain in vitro was explored in this work, which looked at the alteration of chicken myofibrillar protein by hydroxyl radical oxidation. The carbonyl, dimerized tyrosine content and surface hydrophobicity of myofibrillar protein increased significantly as H2O2 concentration increased, tryptophan fluorescence intensity and total sulfhydryl content decreased. Compared with the control group, the carbonyl content of 10 mmol/L H2O2 treatment group increased to 1.7 nmol/mg protein, the surface hydrophobicity and the dimer tyrosine content increased 32.41% and 14.73%, respectively, the total sulfhydryl content decreased to 67.93 nmol/mg protein. The protein cross‐linked and aggregated, and the oxidative modification of chicken myofibrillar protein promoted degradation. Desmin degradation by μ‐calcinase is inhibited by MHC, actin, and troponin‐T. The findings revealed that oxidation influenced the hydrolysis of myofibrillar protein and the tenderness of chicken after slaughter.

Novelty impact statement

The chicken myofibrillar proteins were cross‐linked and aggregated by hydroxyl radical oxidation.

The oxidative modification of hydroxyl radical changes the sensitivity of protein to μ‐calpain.

The oxidative modification of chicken myofibrillar protein improved the tenderness of postmortem chicken by promoting the degradation of MHC, actin, and troponin‐T caused by μ‐calcium‐activating enzyme.
Horizontal transmission of endemic viruses among rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): Implications for human cytomegalovirus vaccine/challenge design
Authors: Yee JoAnn L. , Strelow Lisa I. , White Jessica A. , Rosenthal Ann N. , Barry Peter A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Rhesus macaques are natural hosts to multiple viruses including rhesus cytomegalovirus (RhCMV), rhesus rhadinovirus (RRV), and Simian Foamy Virus (SFV). While viral infections are ubiquitous, viral transmissions to uninfected animals are incompletely defined. Management procedures of macaque colonies include cohorts that are Specific Pathogen Free (SPF). Greater understanding of viral transmission would augment SPF protocols. Moreover, vaccine/challenge studies of human viruses would be enhanced by leveraging transmission of macaque viruses to recapitulate expected challenges of human vaccine trials.

Materials and Methods

This study characterizes viral transmissions to uninfected animals following inadvertent introduction of RhCMV/RRV/SFV‐infected adults to a cohort of uninfected juveniles. Following co‐housing with virus‐positive adults, juveniles were serially evaluated for viral infection.

Results

Horizontal viral transmission was rapid and absolute, reaching 100% penetrance between 19 and 78 weeks.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into viral natural histories with implications for colony management and modeling vaccine‐mediated immune protection studies.
The applicability of scarcity, originality, and transaction tracking characteristics of the dermatological industry and non‐fungible token
Authors: Koo Hyejeong , Kwon Ki Han
Published: September 2022

Background

The K‐beauty industry has entered the global market and encompasses the global economy. In the future, it is necessary to recognize the need for rapid recognition and application of digital technologies such as non‐fungible token (NFT) in a continuously changing and shared society.

Objectives

This literature review presents various examples of ways to increase the value of beauty brands according to the latest digital trends. The potential value of blockchain technology was reviewed while understanding the current usage status of NFT.

Methods

As of July 2022, NFT's brand application cases can be confirmed, and comparisons and cases can be applied to how much it can contribute to the rise in the value of beauty brands in the future. The 41 references were finally selected using PRISMA flow diagram.

Results

In a rapidly changing time, the beauty industry pays attention to the NFT market that can develop economically. Therefore, the parts that various industries are preemptively trying were prepared by confirming the cases.

Conclusion

The beauty industry should pay attention to the NFT market, which is an issue, and by creating a brand with scarcity value, it can apply economic activities in the beauty industry to the trend by releasing products that both consumers and sellers can satisfy.
Functional evaluation of jaw and suprahyoid muscle activities during chewing
Authors: Sasa Anna , Kulvanich Sirima , Hao Naohito , Ita Reiko , Watanabe Masahiro , Suzuki Taku , Magara Jin , Tsujimura Takanori , Inoue Makoto
Published: September 2022

Background

It has not yet been clarified how the type of the chewing task affects related muscle activity and how the suprahyoid muscles contribute to masticatory function in humans.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the difference in the suprahyoid muscle activity between the freely and unilaterally chewing tasks and between the working and non‐working sides during chewing.

Materials and Methods

Twenty healthy volunteers were instructed to chew peanuts and two different types of rice crackers in two ways: freely and unilaterally while surface electromyograms of the masseter and suprahyoid muscles were recorded. The chewing duration, number of chewing cycles and chewing rate were compared between the tasks. Furthermore, the masseter and suprahyoid muscle activities per chewing cycle were compared between the sides.

Results

The chewing duration was significantly longer, and the chewing rate was significantly higher during unilaterally chewing than freely chewing. The chewing duration differed significantly among the different foods; the harder the food, the longer the duration. Chewing rate and suprahyoid activity were significantly higher during soft rice cracker chewing. Masseter activity was higher on the chewing side than on the non‐chewing side while there was no difference in suprahyoid activity between the sides.

Conclusion

The current results demonstrate a difference in the masticatory efficacy between the chewing tasks and a functional role of the suprahyoid muscles during chewing, which does not differ between the chewing and non‐chewing sides.
Sexual desire, mood disorders and sleep disturbances in female BMS patients: A controlled study
Authors: Leuci Stefania , Coppola Noemi , Adamo Daniela , Crocetto Felice , Barone Biagio , Baldares Stefania , Canfora Federica , Mignogna Michele Davide
Published: September 2022

Background

Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic orofacial pain with intraoral burning and other oral dysaesthetic symptoms that significantly affects the quality of life. The aim of this study is to evaluate the sexual desire in women with BMS and to investigate the possible related factors.

Methods

A case–control study was performed. BMS patients were enrolled according to the International Classification of OroFacial Pain criteria. Demographic variables were collected. We evaluated pain with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Total Pain Rating Index (T‐PRI), anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS‐A e HADS‐D), sleep disturbances with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and sexual desire using Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI).

Results

A total of 50 BMS women and 50 healthy controls were enrolled. Compared with the controls, the BMS patients showed higher scores in the NRS (7,81 ± 1,71 vs. 0,14 ± 0.40; p < 0.0001), TPR‐I (10,50 ± 4,86 vs. 0,36 ± 1,06; p < 0.0001), HADS‐A (11,86 ± 2,85 vs. 3,90 ± 2,81; p < 0.0001), HADS‐D (8,04 ± 3,18 vs. 1,42 ± 1,86; p < 0.0001) and PSQI (9,04 ± 2,62 vs. 4,64 ± 3,27; p < 0.0001). The mean SDI in the study group was significantly lower compared to healthy controls (32,36 ± 14,45 vs. 69,70 ± 19,94; p < 0.0001). No correlation was found between SDI and others items explored.

Conclusion

In line with previous studies, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances are more common in BMS patients than in healthy population. This pilot study demonstrates for the first time an association between BMS and low sexual desire.
Untying a Gordian knot: Exploring the nomological network of resilience
Authors: Modafferi Cinzia , Passarelli Marcello , Chiorri Carlo
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study investigates the relations of resilience with coping, personality traits, emotional intelligence, sense of coherence and maladaptive personality traits.

Method

The study employs network analysis techniques to the study of resilience, showcasing how these methods can estimate a model that is simple to interpret while still retaining the most important relations and that can even suggest the direction of causality despite using a cross‐sectional design (N = 305).

Results

The results highlight several important variables that should be considered for fostering resilience, foremost among them the use of positive reappraisal coping, sense of coherence, and the social management aspect of emotional intelligence.

Conclusions

The results successfully replicated known associations between resilience and other psychological constructs (emotional intelligence, personality, sense of coherence, coping) and shed light on relations between resilience and maladaptive personality traits. Network analysis considered all these constructs together, so as to take into account the complex pattern of relations between them and offer a bird's eye view of the whole network of associations centred on resilience. The resulting model is parsimonious and easy to interpret while still striving to preserve the complexity of the variables' interrelations.
“Let the strongest survive”: Ageism and social Darwinism as barriers to supporting policies to benefit older individuals
Authors: Kanık Betül , Uluğ Özden Melis , Solak Nevin , Chayinska Maria
Published: September 2022

The World Health Organization (WHO) identified +65 individuals as one of the most vulnerable populations in the current pandemic. Previous research has shown a robust association between ageism and derogatory attitudes and behaviors targeting older people. We proposed that reluctance of people under age 65 to endorse the policies that benefit older adults can be further explained by their adherence to social Darwinism. We tested a mediation model to examine whether social Darwinism would predict support for policies directly and indirectly through the endorsement of ageist attitudes. We conducted two correlational studies in Turkey (Study 1;N= 1261) and the United States (Study 2;N= 210). In Study 1, we collected data through social media and messaging platforms in April 2020. In Study 2, participants were recruited via Prolific Academic in May 2020. In both studies, we found that adherence to social Darwinist beliefs negatively predicted support for policies. We also found that this association was positively mediated by ageist attitudes. Overall, our research contributes to the scholarly effort to identify the social‐psychological barriers to public support for legal initiatives aimed to secure a healthy and productive future for older people.
Compellingness and the search for truth in scientific practice: Einstein showing realities of light and vacuums
Authors: Wagner Paul A.
Published: September 2022

This paper warns against destructive effects of subjectivist thinking. Subjectivist accounts, as Alan Sokal exposed, promote a distorted view of scientific practice. For example, Einstein's 1905 special theory of relativity relied on data produced by Fizeau, a physicist trained in classical mechanics. Einstein's use of Fizeau's results shows that the ontological foundation of uncontroversial data transcends conventional speculations. Einstein's employment of Fizeau's results mitigates against ideas such as paradigm shifts and revolutionary science. Instead, the ontology of shared horizons of fact remains largely unadulterated. The descriptions scientists use accommodate received view shifts, but the horizon of fact remains unimpeachably the same. The apt performance of science shows what it means to move further away from error. The only direction away from error is toward truth. To deny the reality of this directionality flies in the face of common sense and prudent science.
New insights into the Tat protein transport cycle from characterizing the assembled Tat translocon
Authors: Alcock Felicity , Berks Ben C.
Published: September 2022

The twin‐arginine protein translocation (Tat) system transports folded proteins across the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane and the thylakoid membrane of chloroplasts. The Tat translocation site is transiently assembled by the recruitment of multiple TatA proteins to a substrate‐activated TatBC receptor complex in a process requiring the protonmotive force. The ephemeral nature of the Tat translocation site has so far precluded its isolation. We now report that detergent solubilization of membranes during active transport allows the recovery of receptor complexes that are associated with elevated levels of TatA. We apply this biochemical analysis in combination with live cell fluorescence imaging to Tat systems trapped in the assembled state. We resolve sub‐steps in the Tat translocation cycle and infer that TatA assembly precedes the functional interaction of TatA with a polar cluster site on TatC. We observe that dissipation of the protonmotive force releases TatA oligomers from the assembled translocation site demonstrating that the stability of the TatA oligomer does not depend on binding to the receptor complex and implying that the TatA oligomer is assembled at the periphery of the receptor complex. This work provides new insight into the Tat transport cycle and advances efforts to isolate the active Tat translocon.
An F‐box protein attenuates fungal xylanase‐triggered immunity by destabilizing LRR‐RLP NbEIX2 in a SOBIR1‐dependent manner
Authors: Wang Nan , Yin Zhiyuan , Zhao Yaning , Wang Jinghao , Pei Yong , Ji Peiyun , Daly Paul , Li Zhengpeng , Dou Daolong , Wei Lihui
Published: September 2022

Receptor‐like proteins (RLPs) lacking the cytoplasmic kinase domain play crucial roles in plant growth, development and immunity. However, what remains largely elusive is whether RLP protein levels are fine‐tuned by E3 ubiquitin ligases, which are employed by receptor‐like kinases for signaling attenuation. Nicotiana benthamiana NbEIX2 is a leucine‐rich repeat RLP (LRR‐RLP) that mediates fungal xylanase‐triggered immunity.

Here we show that NbEIX2 associates with an F‐box protein NbPFB1, which promotes NbEIX2 degradation likely by forming an SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, and negatively regulates NbEIX2‐mediated immune responses.

NbEIX2 undergoes ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation in planta. Interestingly, NbEIX2 without its cytoplasmic tail is still associated with and destabilized by NbPFB1. In addition, NbPFB1 also associates with and destabilizes NbSOBIR1, a co‐receptor of LRR‐RLPs, and fails to promote NbEIX2 degradation in the sobir1 mutant.

Our findings reveal a distinct model of NbEIX2 degradation, in which an F‐box protein destabilizes NbEIX2 indirectly in a SOBIR1‐dependent manner.
EDS1 complexes are not required for PRR responses and execute TNL‐ETI from the nucleus in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Zönnchen Josua , Gantner Johannes , Lapin Dmitry , Barthel Karen , Eschen‐Lippold Lennart , Erickson Jessica L. , Villanueva Sergio Landeo , Zantop Stefan , Kretschmer Carola , Joosten Matthieu H. A. J. , Parker Jane E. , Guerois Raphael , Stuttmann Johannes
Published: September 2022

Heterodimeric complexes incorporating the lipase‐like proteins EDS1 with PAD4 or SAG101 are central hubs in plant innate immunity. EDS1 functions encompass signal relay from TIR domain‐containing intracellular NLR‐type immune receptors (TNLs) towards RPW8‐type helper NLRs (RNLs) and, in Arabidopsis thaliana, bolstering of signaling and resistance mediated by cell‐surface pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Increasing evidence points to the activation of EDS1 complexes by small molecule binding.

We used CRISPR/Cas‐generated mutant lines and agroinfiltration‐based complementation assays to interrogate functions of EDS1 complexes in Nicotiana benthamiana.

We did not detect impaired PRR signaling in N. benthamiana lines deficient in EDS1 complexes or RNLs. Intriguingly, in assays monitoring functions of SlEDS1‐NbEDS1 complexes in N. benthamiana, mutations within the SlEDS1 catalytic triad could abolish or enhance TNL immunity. Furthermore, nuclear EDS1 accumulation was sufficient for N. benthamiana TNL (Roq1) immunity.

Reinforcing PRR signaling in Arabidopsis might be a derived function of the TNL/EDS1 immune sector. Although Solanaceae EDS1 functionally depends on catalytic triad residues in some contexts, our data do not support binding of a TNL‐derived small molecule in the triad environment. Whether and how nuclear EDS1 activity connects to membrane pore‐forming RNLs remains unknown.
Group 1 and 3 innate lymphoid cells are increased in oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions
Authors: Pan Lei , Feng Minghua , Chen Junjun , Deng Shu , Han Xiaozhe , Wang Yufeng , Tang Guoyao
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are vital innate immune cells cooperating with T cells. While their phenotypes and functions in oral mucosa kept unclear yet. In the present study, the relative proportions and distribution of different ILC subsets in oral mucosa of oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLL), and controls were compared.

Subjects and Methods

Oral mucosal samples were collected from control (n = 29), OLP (n = 20), and OLL (n = 22) donors. ILCs subsets were characterized in single‐cell suspensions by flow cytometry. Immunohistochemistry was performed to locate the CD127+ cells in situ.

Results

ILCs were present in healthy and increased infiltration in OLP/OLL (p = 0.0092, p = 0.0216). Infiltration of ILC1 increased in OLP/OLL mucosa (p = 0.0225, p = 0.0399), as did the infiltration of ILC3 increase in OLL mucosa (p = 0.0128). The ILC2/ILCs ratio was significantly reduced in OLP and OLL (p = 0.0124, p = 0.0346). CD127+ cells were mainly located closely at the basement membrane.

Conclusions

The results of increased ILC1, decreased ILC2, and increased ILC3 suggested that changes of ILC distributions in oral mucosa may be relevant to persistent inflammation in local tissues, by promoting immune factors and weakening repair capacity.
Gender differences in lateral pterygoid muscle in patients with anterior disk displacement
Authors: Wang Shuo , Chen Yu , Guo Wei , She Dejun , Liao Yunyang , Xing Zhen , Huang Nan , Huang Hongjie , Cao Dairong
Published: September 2022

Objective

To use quantitative MRI to assess gender differences in lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) characteristics in patients with anterior disk displacement (ADD).

Methods

Lateral pterygoid muscle of 51 patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) who underwent T1‐weighted Dixon and T1‐mapping sequences were retrospectively analyzed. There were 34 female patients (10 with bilateral normal position disk [NP]; 24 with bilateral ADD) and 17 male patients (eight with bilateral NP; nine with bilateral ADD) among them. After controlling for age, differences in fat fraction, T1 value, volume and histogram features related to gender and disk status were tested with 2‐way ANCOVA or Quade ANCOVA with Bonferroni correction.

Results

Volume of LPM in NP was significantly smaller than that of ADD (p < 0.001). Fat fraction of LPM in females with NP was significantly higher than males with NP (p < 0.05). Females with ADD showed a significantly higher T1 value (p < 0.05), and higher intramuscular heterogeneity than males with ADD.

Conclusions

Lateral pterygoid muscle in female TMD patients presented more fatty infiltration in the NP stage and might present more fibrosis in the ADD stage compared with males. Together, this leads to more serious intramuscular heterogeneity during the pathogenesis of ADD in females.
Vertical gradients in photosynthetic physiology diverge at the latitudinal range extremes of white spruce
Authors: Schmiege Stephanie C. , Griffin Kevin L. , Boelman Natalie T. , Vierling Lee A. , Bruner Sarah G. , Min Elizabeth , Maguire Andrew J. , Jensen Johanna , Eitel Jan U. H.
Published: September 2022

Light availability drives vertical canopy gradients in photosynthetic functioning and carbon (C) balance, yet patterns of variability in these gradients remain unclear. We measured light availability, photosynthetic CO2 and light response curves, foliar C, nitrogen (N) and pigment concentrations, and the photochemical reflectance index (PRI) on upper and lower canopy needles of white spruce trees (Picea glauca) at the species' northern and southern range extremes. We combined our photosynthetic data with previously published respiratory data to compare and contrast canopy C balance between latitudinal extremes. We found steep canopy gradients in irradiance, photosynthesis and leaf traits at the southern range limit, but a lack of variation across canopy positions at the northern range limit. Thus, unlike many tree species from tropical to mid‐latitude forests, high latitude trees may not require vertical gradients of metabolic activity to optimize photosynthetic C gain. Consequently, accounting for self‐shading is less critical for predicting gross primary productivity at northern relative to southern latitudes. Northern trees also had a significantly smaller net positive leaf C balance than southern trees suggesting that, regardless of canopy position, low photosynthetic rates coupled with high respiratory costs may ultimately constrain the northern range limit of this widely distributed boreal species.
Verrucous epidermal nevus as a manifestation of a type 2 mosaic PTEN mutation in Cowden syndrome
Authors: Plana‐Pla Adrià , Condal Laura , Jaka Ane , Blanco Ignacio , Castellanos Elisabeth , Bielsa Isabel
Published: September 2022

Linear Cowden nevus, also known as linear PTEN nevus, is a type of epidermal nevus, first described in 2007, which is seen in patients with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome. It is considered to be a type 2 form of segmental mosaicism, and we suggest that it has certain clinical features that distinguish it from epidermal nevi seen in similar conditions, such as Proteus syndrome. We present a case of linear Cowden nevus in a 4‐year‐old boy and review the literature.
Exploring epigenetic variation for breeding climate resilient apple crops
Authors: Lempe Janne , Flachowsky Henryk , Peil Andreas
Published: September 2022

Climate change with warmer winter and spring temperatures poses major challenges to apple fruit production. Long‐term observations confirm the trend toward earlier flowering, which leads to an increased risk of frost damage. New breeding strategies are needed to generate cultivars that are able to stay largely unaffected by warmer temperatures. Recently, epigenetic variation has been proposed as a new resource for breeding purposes and seems suitable in principle for apple breeding. However, to serve as a new resource for apple breeding, it is necessary to clarify whether epigenetic variation can be induced by the environment, whether it can create phenotypic variation, and whether this variation is stable across generations. In this brief review, we summarize the impact of climate change on the timing of apple phenology, highlight how epigenetic variation can potentially support novel breeding strategies, and point out important features of epigenetic variation that are required for its application in breeding programs.
Seasonal adjustment of leaf embolism resistance and its importance for hydraulic safety in deciduous trees
Authors: Sorek Yonatan , Greenstein Smadar , Hochberg Uri
Published: September 2022

Embolism resistance is often viewed as seasonally stable. Here we examined the seasonality in the leaf xylem vulnerability curve (VC) and turgor loss point (ΨTLP) of nine deciduous species that originated from Mediterranean, temperate, tropical, or sub‐tropical habitats and were growing on the Volcani campus, Israel. All four Mediterranean/temperate species exhibited a shift of their VC to lower xylem pressures (Ψx) along the dry season, in addition to two of the five tropical/sub‐tropical species. In three of the species that exhibited VC seasonality, it was critical for avoiding embolism in the leaf. In total, seven out of the nine species avoided embolism. The seasonal VC adjustment was over two times higher as compared with the seasonal adjustment of ΨTLP, resulting in improved hydraulic safety as the season progressed. The results suggest that seasonality in the leaf xylem vulnerability is common in species that originate from Mediterranean or temperate habitats that have large seasonal environmental changes. This seasonality is advantageous because it enables a gradual seasonal reduction in the Ψx without increasing the danger of embolism. The results also highlight that measuring the minimal Ψx and the VC at different times can lead to erroneous estimations of the hydraulic safety margins. Changing the current hydraulic dogma into a seasonal dynamic in the vulnerability of the xylem itself should enable physiologists to understand plants' responses to their environment better.
Exploring the metabolome of seminal plasma in two different horse types: Light versus draft stallions
Authors: Bazzano Marilena , Zhu Chenglin , Laus Fulvio , Giambattista Andrea Di , Laghi Luca
Published: September 2022

The application of the ‘omics’ studies in the field of animal reproduction has been aimed at identifying novel biomarkers of fertility since the last few years. When assessing reproductive efficiency in horses, breed should also be taken into account as it can influence semen quality and fertility. Considering the growing interest in metabolomic analysis to evaluate male fertility, we aimed to investigate the metabolomic profile of seminal plasma in two different horse breeds. Twelve healthy stallions, n.6 American Quarter Horse (AQH) and n.6 Italian Draft Horse (IDH) stallions, regularly used for artificial insemination, were included in the study. Two semen collections, performed 30‐day apart, were considered for the assessment of semen parameters including gel‐free volume, spermatozoa (spz) concentration, spz progressive motility and seminal plasma analysis by 1H‐NMR.Semen characteristics differed between IDH and AQH (p < .05) as well as the first cycle conception rate that was higher in AQH than IDH (p = .001). Metabolomic analysis quantified 56 molecules in equine seminal plasma, with 11 metabolites showing different concentrations in IDH compared to AQH (p < .05).This study provided evidence of differences in seminal plasma metabolites' concentrations between studied horse types, highlighting specific metabolomic fingerprints characterizing AQH and IDH sperm.
Foreign corporate accountability: The contested institutionalization of mandatory due diligence in France and Germany
Authors: Gustafsson Maria‐Therese , Schilling‐Vacaflor Almut , Lenschow Andrea
Published: September 2022

In the recent past, European states have adopted mandatory due diligence (MDD) laws for holding companies accountable for the environmental and human rights impacts of their supply chains. The institutionalization of the international due diligence norm into domestic legislation has, however, been highly contested. Our contribution analyzes the discursive struggles about the meaning of due diligence that have accompanied the institutionalization of MDD in Germany and France. Based on document analysis and legal analysis of laws and law proposals, we identify a state‐centric, a market‐based, and a polycentric‐governance discourse. These discourses are based on fundamentally different understandings of how the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights should be translated into hard law. By outlining these discourses and comparing the related policy preferences, we contribute with a better understanding of different ways in which MDD is institutionalized, with important consequences for the possibilities to enhance corporate accountability in global supply chains.
Unpacking Nuances in Mechanisms Linking Religion and Socioeconomic Standing: An Empirical, Mixed‐Effects, and Cross‐National Analysis
Authors: Auguste Daniel
Published: September 2022

Recent research linking religion to various socioeconomic standing indicators has substantially increased our understanding of the processes by which religion creates and reproduces social inequalities. Yet, the bulk of empirical analyses in this literature estimate the link between religious affiliation and socioeconomic standing, while holding at the theoretical level personal religious beliefs that often shape the behaviors leading to differential socioeconomic standing. Drawing on the World Values Survey data collected over 2010–2014 and mixed‐effects regressions that account for country‐specific effects, I demonstrate that personal and exclusive religious beliefs are negatively associated with socioeconomic standing, independent of religious affiliation and 20 other competing explanatory factors. Results also show that religious exclusivism weakens positive associations between social capital and socioeconomic standing. I discuss the implication of these findings, emphasizing the need for empirical research to pay greater attention to personal religious beliefs when examining mechanisms linking religion and social inequalities.
Including migrant skills in a knowledge economy: The politics of recognition of foreign qualifications, work experience and industry courses
Authors: Aerne Annatina , Trampusch Christine
Published: September 2022

The lack of skilled labour pushes mature knowledge economies towards importing skills. Previous studies have shown that migrants' economic and social integration in their host societies depend on the recognition of their skills. Yet, the degree to which the certificates of migrants and their practical experience are recognised and additional training is offered, is contested. Interests conflict not only between unions and employers, but also among employers and unions themselves. We argue that social partners' preferences on foreign qualification recognition (FQR), recognition of experience and industry‐wide training (in the following: FQR and related measures) are mainly determined by the existence of occupational labour markets. An occupational labour market segments the labour market and subsequently restricts access to these segments. FQR and related measures constitute a regulated avenue into these occupational labour markets, protecting these labour markets from an uncontrolled influx of workers. Empirically, this contribution compares whether and how hospitality and construction industries—two sectors that depend heavily on migrants and difficult to organise due to seasonal activity—recognise and remunerate foreign skills. The construction sector recognises and remunerates foreign skills to a much larger extent than the hospitality industry. Adopting the method of difference and based on expert interviews, the paper shows that the more social partners protect their domestic occupational labour market, the more they also support FQR and related measures. The article discusses the implications for migrants' wages and social inclusion, contributing to the analysis of socio‐economic tensions in mature knowledge economies.
Faculty perceptions on one‐best MCQ development
Authors: Adnan Samira , Sarfaraz Shaur , Nisar Muhammad Kashif , Jouhar Rizwan
Published: September 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the perception of faculty of undergraduate medical and dental programmes in various private and public sector institutes regarding their Readiness, Attitude and Institutional support for developing high‐quality one‐best MCQs.

Methods

A validated questionnaire was designed for recording demographic data and responses related to Readiness, Attitude and Institutional support based on 5‐point Likert scale and multiple options. Scores for items on Likert scale were categorised (Readiness: poor 0–12, good 13–24, Attitude: negative 0–12, positive 13–24, Institutional support: no support 0–12, highly supportive 13–24). The individual and overall scores related to Readiness, Attitude and Institutional support were compared to demographic characteristics using Independent samples and Paired samples t‐test as appropriate. Data was analysed using SPSS version 25.0. P‐value of <0.05 (two‐sided) was considered significant.

Results

With a response rate of 87.5%, the mean scores for Institutional support were higher (14.45 ± 4.73) compared to those for Readiness (13.39 ± 4.51) and Attitude (12.54 ± 4.59). Responses to multiple choice items revealed that faculty considered MCQ writing workshops to be effective while facing most difficulty in formulating scenario and homogenous options. Most faculty reported no commitment issues but desired on‐job protected time for item development. No significant association was found between the scores and age group, gender, qualification, institute type, department and designation of participants.

Conclusion

Overall, the faculty were found to be motivated and committed to developing high‐quality one‐best MCQs. With continued institutional support, faculty can be expected to further engage in writing such items.