bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geography, Host Genetics, and Cross‐Domain Microbial Networks Structure the Skin Microbiota of Fragmented Brazilian Atlantic Forest Frog Populations
Authors: Belasen Anat M. , Riolo Maria A. , Bletz Molly C. , Lyra Mariana L. , Toledo L. Felipe , James Timothy Y.
Published: June 2021

The host‐associated microbiome plays a significant role in health. However, the roles of factors such as host genetics and microbial interactions in determining microbiome diversity remain unclear. We examined these factors using amplicon‐based sequencing of 175 Thoropa taophora frog skin swabs collected from a naturally fragmented landscape in southeastern Brazil. Specifically, we examined (1) the effects of geography and host genetics on microbiome diversity and structure; (2) the structure of microbial eukaryotic and bacterial co‐occurrence networks; and (3) co‐occurrence between microeukaryotes with bacterial OTUs known to affect growth of the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). While bacterial alpha diversity varied by both site type and host MHC IIB genotype, microeukaryotic alpha diversity varied only by site type. However, bacteria and microeukaryote composition showed variation according to both site type and host MHC IIB genotype. Our network analysis showed the highest connectivity when both eukaryotes and bacteria were included, implying that ecological interactions may occur among domains. Lastly, anti‐Bd bacteria were not broadly negatively co‐associated with the fungal microbiome and were positively associated with potential amphibian parasites. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering both domains in microbiome research and suggest that for effective probiotic strategies for amphibian disease management, considering potential interactions among all members of the microbiome is crucial.
Consistent functional clusters explain the effects of biodiversity on ecosystem productivity in a long‐term experiment
Authors: Jaillard Benoît , Deleporte Philippe , Isbell Forest , Loreau Michel , Violle Cyrille
Published: June 2021

Biomass production in ecosystems is a complex process regulated by several facets of biodiversity and species identity, but also species interactions such as competition or complementarity between species. For studying these different facets separately, ecosystem biomass is generally partitioned in two biodiversity effects. The composition effect is a simple, linear effect, and the interaction effect is a more subtle, nonlinear effect. Here we used a clustering approach (1) to separately and comprehensively capture all linear and nonlinear effects induced by both biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning, and (2) to determine the functional composition at the origin of each biodiversity effect. We used data from the long‐term Cedar Creek BioDIV experiment carried out over 22 yr, and we partitioned multiplicatively the biomass in composition and interaction effects. Both biodiversity effects were weakly correlated. Our clustering approach accurately explains and predicts each diversity effect over time: each one is modeled by a different functional composition. Even if environmental conditions and the strength of interaction effect strongly varied over time, the functional clusters of species that govern the interaction effect do not change over the 22 yr of the experiment. The functional composition governing the interaction effect is therefore very robust. In contrast, the functional clusters of species that govern the composition effect are less robust and change with environmental conditions. Understanding ecosystem functioning therefore requires that ecological properties are first partitioned by type, then each type of property is analyzed and modeled separately. Approaches without a priori groupings of species, such as functional clustering, appear particularly efficient and robust to unravel the web of species interactions, and identify the role played by species on biodiversity effects.
Consequences of phenological shifts and a compressed breeding period in Magellanic penguins
Authors: Cappello Caroline D. , Boersma P. Dee
Published: June 2021

Phenological shifts may ameliorate negative effects of climate change or create carryover effects and mismatches that decrease fitness. Identifying how phenological shifts affect performance is critical for understanding how individuals and populations will respond to climate change, but requires long‐term, longitudinal data. Using 34 yr of data from the Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) colony at Punta Tombo, Argentina, we examined the consequences of the delayed onset of breeding (i.e., arrival and egg‐laying dates) that has occurred at the colony since 1983. To understand how the delay propagates through the rest of the reproductive cycle, we identified phenological trends in hatch and fledge dates. Median hatch dates were 0.29 d later each year, amounting to a 10‐d shift over the course of the study. Median fledge dates did not shift over the 34‐yr period, however, thus shortening the median nestling period duration by 14%. We tested several predictions regarding performance outcomes of the compressed nestling period, finding that later‐hatched chicks fledged significantly younger than earlier‐hatched chicks, and that younger fledglings left the colony with smaller bills and with more chick down. Interestingly, although younger chicks fledged significantly lighter and in worse body condition than older fledglings early in the study, this trend reversed over time, with younger chicks actually fledging heavier and in better body condition in more recent years. Smaller and lighter fledglings were less likely to recruit to the colony as adults. We find that delayed breeding has significantly compressed nestling periods at Punta Tombo, influencing chick growth and fledgling condition. These findings highlight the importance of studying phenology across multiple life events to understand the consequences of phenological shifts for organismal fitness.
Eligibility for mechanical circulatory support devices based on current and past randomised cardiogenic shock trials
Authors: Schrage Benedikt , Beer Benedikt N. , Savarese Gianluigi , Dabboura Salim , Yan Isabell , Sundermeyer Jonas , Becher Peter M. , Grahn Hanno , Seiffert Moritz , Bernhardt Alexander , Thiele Holger , Møller Jacob E. , Kluge Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Kirchhof Paulus , Blankenberg Stefan , Westermann Dirk
Published: June 2021

Aims

Mechanical circulatory support devices (MCS) are potentially effective treatments for cardiogenic shock (CS) and are thus evaluated in several randomised controlled trials (RCTs). However, it is not clear how enrolment criteria of these RCTs apply to a real‐world CS population. This study aimed to shed light on eligibility to these trials.

Methods and results

Pragmatic enrolment criteria for the IABP‐SHOCK II, the DanGer‐SHOCK, the ECLS‐SHOCK and the EURO‐SHOCK trials were retrospectively applied to 1305 CS patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital between 2009 and 2019. Based on this, major enrolment criteria were identified and outcome between eligible and ineligible patients was assessed. In this study, 415 (31.8%) patients were eligible for any study. Lowest eligibility was observed for DanGer‐SHOCK (11.9%) and the highest for IABP‐SHOCK II (26.9%). Over all trials, inclusion criteria were more restrictive than exclusion criteria and absence of CS caused by acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was the primary reason for non‐eligibility. However, even in CS caused by AMI, enrolment criteria were only met in 65.4% of patients. Importantly, 30‐day mortality was high across all patients/trials, irrespective of eligibility or non‐eligibility.

Conclusion

The present study highlights that current and past RCTs only reflect about a third of the overall CS population. While enrolment criteria are a necessary aspect of RCTs, their application limits generalisability of the trials' findings. More trials on CS sub‐populations not represented by current or past trials, e.g. CS not caused by AMI, are needed, especially as mortality is high irrespective of eligibility status.
Aspirin and left ventricular assist devices: rationale and design for the international randomized, placebo‐controlled, non‐inferiority ARIES HM3 trial
Authors: Mehra Mandeep R. , Crandall Daniel L. , Gustafsson Finn , Jorde Ulrich P. , Katz Jason N. , Netuka Ivan , Uriel Nir , Connors Jean M. , Sood Poornima , Heatley Gerald , Pagani Francis D.
Published: June 2021

Aims

Over decades, left ventricular assist device (LVAD) technology has transitioned from less durable bulky pumps to smaller continuous‐flow pumps which have substantially improved long‐term outcomes and quality of life. Contemporary LVAD therapy is beleaguered by haemocompatibility‐related adverse events including thrombosis, stroke and bleeding. A fully magnetically levitated pump, the HeartMate 3 (HM3, Abbott, USA) LVAD, has been shown to be superior to the older HeartMate II (HMII, Abbott, USA) pump by improving haemocompatibility. Experience with the HM3 LVAD suggests near elimination of de‐novo pump thrombosis, a marked reduction in stroke rates, and only a modest decrease in bleeding complications. Since the advent of continuous‐flow LVAD therapy, patients have been prescribed a combination of aspirin and anticoagulation therapy on the presumption that platelet activation and perturbations to the haemostatic axis determine their necessity. Observational studies in patients implanted with the HM3 LVAD who suffer bleeding have suggested a signal of reduced subsequent bleeding events with withdrawal of aspirin. The notion of whether antiplatelet therapy can be avoided in an effort to reduce bleeding complications has now been advanced.

Methods

To evaluate this hypothesis and its clinical benefits, the Antiplatelet Removal and Hemocompatibility Events with the HeartMate 3 Pump (ARIES HM3) has been introduced as the first‐ever international prospective, randomized, double‐blind and placebo‐controlled, non‐inferiority trial in a patient population implanted with a LVAD.

Conclusion

This paper reviews the biological and clinical role of aspirin (100 mg) with LVADs and discusses the rationale and design of the ARIES HM3 trial.
Natural killer cell engagers in cancer immunotherapy: Next generation of immuno‐oncology treatments
Authors: Demaria Olivier , Gauthier Laurent , Debroas Guilhaume , Vivier Eric
Published: June 2021

Immuno‐oncology is revolutionizing the treatment of cancers, by inducing the recognition and elimination of tumor cells by the immune system. Recent advances have focused on generating or unleashing tumor antigen‐specific T‐cell responses, leading to alternative treatment paradigms for many cancers. Despite these successes, the clinical benefit has been limited to a subset of patients and certain tumor types, highlighting the need for alternative strategies. One innovative approach is to broaden and amplify antitumoral immune responses by targeting innate immunity. Particularly, the aim has been to develop new antibody formats capable of stimulating the antitumor activity of innate immune cells, boosting not only their direct role in tumor elimination, but also their function in eliciting multicellular immune responses ultimately resulting in long‐lasting tumor control by adaptive immunity. This review covers the development of a new class of synthetic molecules, natural killer cell engagers (NKCEs), which are built from fragments of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and are designed to harness the immune functions of NK cells in cancer. As currently shown in preclinical studies and clinical trials, NKCEs are promising candidates for the next generation of tumor immunotherapies.
Team resilience emergence: Perspectives and experiences of military personnel selected for elite military training
Authors: Chapman Michael T. , Temby Philip , Crane Monique , Ntoumanis Nikos , Quested Eleanor , Thøgersen‐Ntoumani Cecilie , Parker Sharon K. , Ducker Kagan J. , Peeling Peter , Gucciardi Daniel F.
Published: June 2021

We conducted a longitudinal (3‐month) qualitative study to examine elite military personnel's (N = 32) experiences and perspectives of team resilience emergence following two team‐oriented training courses within an 18‐month high‐stakes training programme where personnel are required to operate in newly formed tactical teams for extended periods. Our thematically informed interpretations of the participants’ subjective experiences of reality were constructed according to five key themes: (i) adversity is an enduring, shared experience of an event; (ii) individuals recognise adversity through physiological and/or behavioural states; (iii) social resources bind together individual self‐regulatory capacities when confronted with adversity to support team functioning; (iv) shared experiences of adversity and collective structures strengthen social bonds and mental models needed for resilience emergence; and (v) behavioural processes and shared states are how collectives turn individual and team capacities into performance under adversity. These findings provide novel insights that supplement our current understanding of team resilience emergence, including the varying means by which adversity may be collectively experienced, synergies between specific forms of adversity and resilience processes or protective factors, and the unique influence of performance context (e.g., task type).
Application of the novel pH‐catalytic‐magnetic tri‐functionalities augmented bead for removal of organic dye pollutants
Authors: Yee Li Ying , Ng Qi Hwa , Shuit Siew Hoong , Enche Ab Rahim Siti Kartini , Mohammad Nawi Dalila , Low Siew Chun
Published: June 2021

A tri‐functionality magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are crucial for environmental remediation. This research focused on the synthesis of pH‐catalytic‐magnetic polymer beads for dye removal by using phase inversion technique. In 15 wt% of polyethersulfone (PES) polymer possessed the highest porosity (80%) was used in the synthesis of MNPs‐PES beads. The methylene blue (MB) removal efficiency of MNPs‐PES beads and PES beads was 72.94% and 62.67%, respectively. Similarly, the removal efficiency of methyl orange (MO) dye is higher for MNPs‐PES beads (38.56%) compared to PES beads (34.16%). Besides, the removal efficiency for MB dye by MNPs‐PES beads increased from 77.59% to 96.90% when solution pH increased from 3 to 9 while removal of MO dye increased from 61.14% to 74.35% when solution pH decreased from 9 to 3. Moreover, the removal efficiency for MB dye increased from 72.94% to 93.43% when H2O2 is added. Additionally, MNPs‐PES beads were recollected successfully using external magnet. These indirectly proved that the MNPs‐PES beads were responsive towards the tri‐functionalities of pH‐catalytic‐magnetic. Lastly, the adsorption of MB dye onto MNPs‐PES beads were fitted well to Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo‐second‐order model with both correlations R2 of more than 0.98.
Hybrid geotechnical and structural seismic isolation: Shake table tests
Authors: Yuan Kang , Gan Dan , Guo Junlin , Xu Wenjie
Published: June 2021

This paper proposes a hybrid seismic isolation system composed of geotechnical (a layer of sand or gravel as foundation soil) and structural isolation (a low‐friction foundation sliding layer), aiming to effectively improve the seismic performance of rural buildings with an economical solution. The isolation system is most suitable for low‐rise buildings in high‐seismic areas. It is also effective in colder climates as replacing sand or gravel as the foundation soil eliminates frost heave. Shake table testing of three 1/4 scale models of two‐story masonry buildings was carried out: an unreinforced brick masonry structure (model MA, without isolation), an identical structure with geotechnical isolation (model MS, with a layer of gravel as the foundation soil), and an identical structure with hybrid geotechnical and structural isolation (model MC). The dynamic characteristics and responses of the three structures were assessed and compared. Test results showed that shear failure of brick walls of model MA occurred at the first story when the input peak ground acceleration reached 0.44g. For model MS, a similar shear failure mode occurred when the acceleration reached 1.02g. Model MC relied on the layer of gravel for isolation before 0.44g, and then several cracks occurred at the foundation sliding layer, which was a sign of sliding. The plastic damage was mainly concentrated in the second story, and model MC showed bending‐dominated deformation when the acceleration increased to 1.24g. This study clearly demonstrates the improved seismic performance and technical feasibility of the cost‐effective hybrid isolation system.
Increased Temperature Influenced Growth and Development of Lithobates pipiens Tadpoles Exposed to Leachates of the Invasive Plant European Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) and a Triclopyr Herbicide
Authors: Curtis Amanda N. , Bidart Maria Gabriela
Published: June 2021

Multiple factors including habitat loss, pollutants, invasive species, and disease have contributed to the global decline of amphibians, and further declines can be expected as a result of climate change. Warming temperatures may allow for range expansion of invasive plants, and because herbicides are the primary method to control invasive plants, chemical use may increase. A laboratory experiment was performed to examine the individual and combined effects of leachates from the invasive plant European buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica, L.) and a triclopyr herbicide (Renovate® 3; 0.21 mg/L), which is commonly used to manage R. cathartica, on northern leopard frog (Lithobates pipiens, Schreber) tadpoles at 2 temperature regimes (20 and 25 °C). We measured tadpole growth weekly and body and intestine morphology at the conclusion of the experiment after 8 wk. In the presence of R. cathartica leachates, tadpole growth increased at 25 °C, but only during the first 3 to 4 wk of the experiment. From week 5 until the end of the experiment, tadpoles were significantly smaller at 25 °C compared with 20 °C, but had more developed limb buds at the end of the experiment (except in the triclopyr treatment). Triclopyr had minimal effects on tadpole growth at the low dose used in this study. These results encourage further examination of potential effects of global climate changes in combination with other environmental factors that may impact amphibian populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2547–2558. © 2021 SETAC
A survey on the blockchain techniques for the Internet of Vehicles security
Authors: Kumar Sathish , Velliangiri Sarveshwaran , Karthikeyan Periyasami , Kumari Saru , Kumar Sachin , Khan Muhammad Khurram
Published: June 2021

Recently, The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) concept is becoming very popular due to sharing of the data between vehicles and the infrastructure. The sharing of data is very important for enhancing vehicular services, but at the same time makes IoV vulnerable for security and privacy issues. The smart and interconnected vehicles produce sophisticated services for transport authorities, car manufacturers, vehicle owners, and other service providers. IoV are very vulnerable to malicious attacks due to its self‐organizing nature and the open source nature of its implementations. This exposes the smart and interconnected vehicles to a variety of privacy and security threats, such as a remote hijacking or location tracking of vehicles. Thus, the security for IoV environment is critical. Blockchain technology has been recently used for cybersecurity due to the robustness and integrity preserving nature of its design. This review article provides a detailed survey of existing work in the literature to secure IoV through blockchain techniques such as security, privacy, reputation, distributed, decentralized, data sharing, authentication, and trust‐based approaches. The paper presents the detailed discussion and analysis of these blockchain techniques to secure IoV. In addition, we present the gaps and research challenges identified from the existing research works. This provides work directions for future research in blockchain techniques to secure IoV.
Antidiabetic effects of the ethanolic extract of Allium saralicum R.M. Fritsch on streptozotocin‐induced diabetes in a mice model
Authors: Fazelipour Simin , Hadipour Jahromy Mahsa , Tootian Zahra , Goodarzi Nader
Published: June 2021

Medicinal plants can protect different organs against diabetes‐induced oxidative stress due to their antioxidant compounds. The present study was designed to investigate the potential of Allium saralicum R.M. Fritsch (A. saralicum) ethanolic extract to alleviate the adverse effects of streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes in male BALB/c mice. Seventy male mice were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10). Diabetes was experimentally induced by STZ (60 mg/kg bw). A. saralicum ethanolic extract with doses 5, 20, 80, and 320 mg/kg was administrated for 20 consecutive days in diabetic animals. Based on the obtained results, the untreated diabetic mice showed high blood glucose level, cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), white blood cells count (WBC), and platelets, as well as liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine. Administration of different doses of A. saralicum extract significantly reduced blood glucose level similar to glibenclamide. Also, the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes restored toward normal level. All hepatic and renal function parameters as well as hematological parameters were improved following treatment with A. saralicum extract particularly at high doses. Histopathological studies showed a decrease in hepatic, renal, and pancreatic damage after treatment with A. saralicum extract. The results of the present work indicate that A. saralicum ethanolic extract can attenuate diabetic hepato‐renal, pancreatic, and hematological damages.
Unraveling the metabolic network of organic acids in solid‐state fermentation of Chinese cereal vinegar
Authors: Wu Yanfang , Xia Menglei , Zhang Xiaofeng , Li Xiaowei , Zhang Rongzhan , Yan Yufeng , Lang Fanfan , Zheng Yu , Wang Min
Published: June 2021

Shanxi aged vinegar (SAV) is fermented by multispecies microorganism with solid‐state fermentation (SSF) technology, which contains a variety of organic acids. However, the metabolic network of them in SSF is still unclear. In this study, metagenomics technology was used to reveal the microbial community and functional genes in SAV fermentation. The metabolic network of key organic acids with taste active value higher than 1 was reconstructed for the first time, including acetate, lactate, malate, citrate, succinate, and tartrate. The results show pyruvate is the core compound in the metabolic network of organic acids. Metabolic pathway of acetate plays a pivotal role in this network, and acetate has regulatory function on metabolism of other organic acids. Acetobacter and Lactobacillus are the predominant genera for organic acid metabolism in SSF of SAV. This is also the first report on metabolic network of organic acids in cereal vinegar, adding new knowledge on the flavor substance metabolism during multispecies fermentation of traditional fermented food.
The asymmetric experience of gains and losses in job security on health
Authors: Lepinteur Anthony
Published: June 2021

Is workers' health more sensitive to losses than gains in job security? I address this question using the 1999 rise in the French Delalande tax as a quasi‐natural experiment. The tax design allows to separately identify the causal impact of exogenous gains and losses in job security on workers' health. Difference‐in‐differences estimation results show that a greater job insecurity reduces significantly self‐reported health. At the same time, more job security does not translate into a higher level of self‐reported health.
The Path to Natural Bond Orbitals
Authors: Weinhold Frank
Published: June 2021

Some elements of the mathematical logic and the contributions of key characters involved in development of Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) concepts, as well as their numerical implementation in successive NBO program versions, are recounted in retrospective historical fashion.
Machine learning model for predicting excessive muscle loss during neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in oesophageal cancer
Authors: Yoon Han Gyul , Oh Dongryul , Noh Jae Myoung , Cho Won Kyung , Sun Jong‐Mu , Kim Hong Kwan , Zo Jae Ill , Shim Young Mog , Kim Kyunga
Published: June 2021

Background

Excessive skeletal muscle loss during neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) is significantly related to survival outcomes of oesophageal cancer. However, the conventional method for measuring skeletal muscle mass requires computed tomography (CT) images, and the calculation process is labour‐intensive. In this study, we built machine‐learning models to predict excessive skeletal muscle loss, using only body mass index data and blood laboratory test results.

Methods

We randomly split the data of 232 male patients treated with NACRT for oesophageal cancer into the training (70%) and test (30%) sets for 1000 iterations. The naive random over sampling method was applied to each training set to adjust for class imbalance, and we used seven different machine‐learning algorithms to predict excessive skeletal muscle loss. We used five input variables, namely, relative change percentage in body mass index, albumin, prognostic nutritional index, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio over 50 days. According to our previous study results, which used the maximal χ2 method, 10.0% decrease of skeletal muscle index over 50 days was determined as the cut‐off value to define the excessive skeletal muscle loss.

Results

The five input variables were significantly different between the excessive and the non‐excessive muscle loss group (all P < 0.001). None of the clinicopathologic variables differed significantly between the two groups. The ensemble model of logistic regression and support vector classifier showed the highest area under the curve value among all the other models [area under the curve = 0.808, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.708–0.894]. The sensitivity and specificity of the ensemble model were 73.7% (95% CI: 52.6%–89.5%) and 74.5% (95% CI: 62.7%–86.3%), respectively.

Conclusions

Machine learning model using the ensemble of logistic regression and support vector classifier most effectively predicted the excessive muscle loss following NACRT in patients with oesophageal cancer. This model can easily screen the patients with excessive muscle loss who need an active intervention or timely care following NACRT.
Effects of chlordiazepoxide on pausing during rich‐to‐lean transitions
Authors: Langford Jeremy S. , Batchelder Sydney R. , Haste D. Austin , Thuman Elizabeth P. , Pitts Raymond C. , Hughes Christine E.
Published: June 2021

Extended pausing during discriminable transitions from rich‐to‐lean conditions can be viewed as escape (i.e., rich‐to‐lean transitions function aversively). Thus, an anxiolytic drug would be predicted to mitigate the aversiveness and decrease pausing. In the current experiment, pigeons' key pecking was maintained by a multiple fixed‐ratio fixed‐ratio schedule of rich (i.e., larger) or lean (i.e., smaller) reinforcers. Intermediate doses (3.0‐10.0 mg/kg) of chlordiazepoxide differentially decreased median pauses during rich‐to‐lean transitions. Relatively small decreases in pauses occurred during lean‐to‐lean and rich‐to‐rich transitions. Effects of chlordiazepoxide on pausing occurred without appreciable effects on run rates. These findings suggest that signaled rich‐to‐lean transitions function aversively.
Explanatory models for the cause of Fragile X Syndrome in rural Cameroon
Authors: Kengne Kamga Karen , De Vries Jantina , Nguefack Séraphin , Munung Nchangwi Syntia , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: June 2021

Among the myriad causes of intellectual disability (ID), Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the leading genetic cause. Yet, little is known of how people affected by this condition make sense of it. The present study aimed to investigate the explanatory models for the causes of FXS in an extended family mainly affected by this condition and members of the village from which they originated in Cameroon. Using an ethnographic approach, 92 participants were interviewed (59 females and 33 males) through 10 focus group discussions and 23 in‐depth interviews between April 2018 and February 2020. Data analysis revealed four explanatory models regarding the etiologies of FXS in the community. Firstly, the curse model described a curse from the chief because of the belief that his wives did not mourn his intellectually disabled servant. Secondly, the spiritual model relates FXS to a punishment from God. Thirdly, the socioeconomic model attributes FXS to events in the prenatal and perinatal periods. Finally, the genetic model describes the pattern of inheritance of the disease in the family. This paper helps to understand the explanatory disease models that exist for FXS in rural Cameroon and could inform genetic counseling practices, community genetic education, and policymakers when drafting protocols for public engagement activities.
Diversity of Balbiani body formation in internally and externally fertilizing representatives of Osteoglossiformes (Teleostei: Osteoglossomorpha)
Authors: Dymek Anna M. , Pecio Anna , Piprek Rafal P.
Published: June 2021

During the early stages of oogenesis, the Balbiani body is formed in the primary oocytes. It consists of the Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and numerous mitochondria aggregated with germ plasm, but its form may differ among animals. Hypothetically, during oogenesis oocytes become adapted to future development in two different environments depending on internal or external fertilization. We aimed to investigate, using light and transmission electron microscopy, the development of the Balbiani body during oogenesis in representatives of Osteoglossiformes, one of the most basal Teleostei groups. We analyzed the structure of oogonia and primary oocytes in the internally fertilizing butterflyfish Pantodon buchholzi and the externally fertilizing Osteoglossum bicirrhosum and Arapaima gigas to compare formation of the Balbiani body in relation to modes of fertilization. We demonstrated that the presence of the germ plasm as well as the fusion and fission of mitochondria are the conserved features of the Bb. However, each species exhibited also some peculiar features, including the presence of three types of ooplasm with different electron density and mitochondria‐associated membranes in P. buchholzi; annulate lamellae, complexes of the Golgi apparatus, ER network, and lysosome‐like bodies in O. bicirrhosum; as well as karmellae and whorls formed by the lamellae of the ER in A. gigas. Moreover, the form of the germ plasm observed in close contact with mitochondria differed between osteoglossiforms, with a “net‐like” structure in P. buchholzi, the presence of numerous strings in O. bicirrhosum, and irregular accumulations in A. gigas. These unique features indicate that the extreme diversity of gamete structure observed so far only in the spermatozoa of osteoglossiforms is also characteristic for oocyte development in these basal teleosts. Possible reason of this variability is a period of about 150 million years of independent evolution of the lineages.
Temperature dependence of a Raman CO2 densimeter from 23°C to 200°C and 7.2 to 248.7 MPa: Evaluation of density underestimation by laser heating
Authors: Hagiwara Yuuki , Kawano Tetsuma , Takahata Kohei , Torimoto Junji , Yamamoto Junji
Published: June 2021

Unintended local temperature enhancement by excitation laser might change Raman spectral features and potentially lead to misinterpretation of the data. To evaluate robustness of Raman CO2 densimeters in the presence of laser heating, we investigate the relation between temperature (T, °C), density (ρ, g/cm3), and Fermi diad split (Δ, cm−1) using a high‐pressure optical cell at 23°C to 200°C and 7.2–248.7 MPa. Results indicate that Δ decreases concomitantly with increasing temperature for a constant density in all density regions investigated. This result suggests that the density estimated based on Δ might be underestimated if the fluid is heated locally by the laser. Combining results of earlier studies with those of the present study indicates that the temperature dependence of Δ (|(∂Δ/∂T)ρ|) has a maximum value around 0.6–0.7 g/cm3. Consequently, at very high densities such as 1.1–1.2 g/cm3, |(∂Δ/∂T)ρ| is small. Thus, Δ at such densities is less affected by laser heating. However, at densities below approximately 0.7 g/cm3, although |(∂Δ/∂T)ρ| becomes smaller at lower densities, the relative density decrease becomes larger even for a small density decrease because the density itself becomes smaller. Therefore, at such densities, a density decrease of more than 10% was observed for some fluid inclusions, even at typical laser powers for inclusion analysis. Finally, to accurately estimate the density even in the presence of laser heating, we show that it is effective to estimate the intercept Δ from the correlation between Δ and laser power and substitute it into Δ–ρ relations.
New insights into metabolomics profile generation in fermented tea: the relevance of bacteria and metabolites in Fuzhuan brick tea
Authors: Xia Fei , Hu Song , Zheng Xue , Wang Meng‐Wen , Zhang Chu‐Chu , Wu Zi‐Ning , Sun Yu‐Jiao
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The contribution of bacteria to fermented tea is not clear and the associated research is relatively limited. To reveal the role of microorganisms in fermented tea processing, the microbial community and metabolites of Fuzhuan brick tea (FBT), a Chinese traditional fermented tea, were revealed via high‐throughput sequencing and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS).

RESULTS

In FBT, bacterial communities had a higher abundance and diversity, Lactococcus and Bacillus were the main bacteria, and Eurotium was the predominant fungus. The predictive metabolic function indicated the pathways of cellular growth, environmental information, genetics and material metabolism of bacterial communities were abundant, whereas the fungal community predictive metabolic function was almost saprotroph. Using LC‐MS, 1143 and 536 metabolites were defined in positive and negative ion mode, respectively. There were essential correlations between bacterial populations and metabolites, such that Bacillus was correlated significantly with 44 metabolites (P < 0.05) and Enterococcus was significantly associated with 15 metabolites (P < 0.05). Some of the main active components were significantly correlated with the bacteria, such as Enterococcus, Lactococcus and Carnobacterium.

CONCLUSION

Not only Eurotium, but also the bacteria were involved in the changes of metabolomics profile in fermented FBT. The present study assists in providing new insights into metabolomics profile generation in fermented tea. The present research lays a foundation for controlling the FBT fermentation by artificial inoculation to improve quality. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploration of water–nitrogen coupling effects in paddy field based on ORYZA (v3) model
Authors: Tan Junwei , Liu Fangping , Xu Tao , Tan Xiao
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Nitrogen and water are two major factors in rice production. Due to the lack of ample evidence and much uncertainty in field experiments, the coupling effects of water and nitrogen in paddy fields have remained debatable over recent years.

RESULTS

A fine‐calibrated ORYZA (v3) model was applied to simulate rice growth and development under different nitrogen (N) rates and irrigation regimes for a double rice‐cropping system in South China. We designed a numerical experiment of 504 treatments, consisting of seven nitrogen rates (0–300 kg ha−1), eight irrigation thresholds (30–100%, presented as the percentage of saturated soil water content) and nine irrigation quotas (20–100 mm), and each treatment was simulated for 30 years. Yield varied greatly with different water–nitrogen conditions, particularly in the scenario of frequently alternate wetting and drying irrigation and low‐N rates. The coupling effects had a negligible influence on water input and water loss, which were found to be sensitive only to the irrigation regime and rainfall distribution. Based on the results, the N fertilizer for early rice growing in the wet season is suggested as 150–200 kg ha−1, and 200–250 kg ha−1 for late rice growing in the dry season. The irrigating threshold and irrigation quota for early rice are suggested as lower than 70% and 30–40 mm, respectively, and, for late rice, 70–80% and 40–60 mm.

CONCLUSION

Remarkable water–nitrogen coupling effects were found in the paddy field, and integrative water–nitrogen management strategies were suggested for both early rice and late rice in South China. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of bentonite and calcium chloride on apple wine
Authors: Han Yingying , Du Jinhua , Wang Yan
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Apple wine is a popular alcoholic beverage for its nutrition and fresh taste. However, the methanol existing in apple wine restricts its quality. Unfortunately, there are no methods to reduce the methanol content in fruit wine. To this end, bentonite (B), calcium chloride (CC) and their combination (B&CC) were added into apple juice in this study. The treated juice (0) and supernatant obtained by standing the juice at 25 °C for 24 h were fermented at 25 °C and 10 °C, respectively.

RESULTS

Bentonite was an excellent methanol interrupter, a pectin retainer and a wine quality defender both at 25 and 10 °C. The lowest methanol content of 1.41 mg L−1 and higher pectin content of 84.74 mg L−1 were reached in the finished wine by B0 at 10 °C. Calcium chloride decreased pectin content, elevated methanol content and changed the profile of individual organic acids. In fact, the wine by B&CC0 at 25 °C showed dramatic changes in individual organic acids. The content of l‐malic acid and succinic acid was only 2.22% and 6.29% of the control, respectively, while the lactic acid content was 17.72 times that of the control.

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that B0 and fermented at 10 °C was the most effective way to decrease methanol content, retain pectin content and defend wine quality. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Reversible changes in galactolipid saturation level and head group composition are associated with tolerance to postharvest chilling in tomato fruit
Authors: Sossi María L , Valle Estela M , Boggio Silvana B
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Chilling injury (CI) is a physiological disorder that results in a limitation for cold storage (CS) of many fruits and vegetables. The low temperature‐induced changes in the properties and composition of cell membranes are involved in the response to chilling temperature and in the mechanism of CI and tolerance.

RESULTS

We compared the changes in the lipid composition by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry before, immediately after CS, as well as during a 3‐day subsequent period, of tomato fruits with different chilling‐sensitivity: Micro‐Tom (tolerant) and Minitomato (susceptible). The changes in linolenic acid content, double bond index and digalactosyldiacylglycerol/monogalactosyldiacylglycerol ratio (DGDG/MGDG) showed membrane fluidity adjustment, depending on the temperature. By a database search, we identified 18 membrane‐bound fatty acid desaturase (FAD) genes and five DGDG synthases (DGD) genes that phylogenetically clustered into four and two subfamilies, respectively. The FAD and DGD genes were differentially expressed in response to CS, as determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analysis.

CONCLUSION

The data strongly suggest that reversion of CS‐induced changes during the recovery period is important for the proper function of the membrane and tolerance to postharvest CI in tomato fruit. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The History of Pediatric and Adult Hearing Screening
Authors: Ruben Robert J.
Published: June 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To document the history of hearing seeing in children and adults.

Study Design

A literature search in all languages was carried out with the terms of hearing screening from the following sources: Pub Med, Science Direct, World Catalog, Index Medicus, Google scholar, Google Books, National Library of Medicine, Welcome historical library and The Library of Congress.

Methods

The primary sources consisting of books, scientific reports, public documents, governmental reports, and other written material were analyzed to document the history of hearing screening.

Results

The concept of screening for medical conditions that, when found, could influence some form of the outcome of the malady came about during the end of 19th century. The first applications of screening were to circumscribe populations, schoolchildren, military personnel, and railroad employees. During the first half of the 20th century, screening programs were extended to similar populations and were able to be expanded on the basis of the improved technology of hearing testing. The concept of universal screening was first applied to the inborn errors of metabolism of newborn infants and particularly the assessment of phenylketonuria in 1963 by Guthrie and Susi. A limited use of this technique has been the detection of genes resulting in hearing loss. The use of a form of hearing testing either observational or physiological as a screen for all newborns was first articulated by Larry Fisch in 1957 and by the end of the 20th century newborn infant screening for hearing loss became the standard almost every nation worldwide.

Conclusions

Hearing screening for newborn infants is utilized worldwide, schoolchildren less so and for adults many industrial workers and military service undergo hearing screening, but this is not a general practice for screening the elderly.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:S1–S25, 2021
Prevalence of Tympanostomy Tube Placement in Relation to Cleft Width and Type
Authors: Schwarz Steffen Jochen , Brandenburg Leonard Simon , Weingart Julia Vera , Schupp Wiebke , Füssinger Marc Anton , Pantke Chiara‐Fabienne , Beck Rainer Linus , Metzger Marc Christian
Published: June 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

The prevalence of tympanostomy tube surgery (TTS) in patients with a cleft deformity was investigated, in relation to cleft width and cleft type.

Study Design

Retrospective review of medical health records.

Methods

Retrospective review of medical health records. Seventy‐eight patients with non‐syndromic cleft deformity of the palate and/or alveolus and lip between 2003 and 2017 were investigated. All available medical documents were analyzed. The study group was divided into subgroups: 1) patients with isolated cleft palate (CP) and patients with a cleft palate with cleft lip and alveolus (CLP). 2) According to Veau's classification (I–IV), further subgroups were defined. Cleft width was measured using plaster cast models.

Results

TTS was performed in 55% of the patients (n = 43). Considering Veau's classification, TTS was conducted as follows: Veau I 65.2% (n = 15/23), Veau II 55.0% (n = 11/20), Veau III 47.6% (n = 10/21), and Veau IV 50.0% (n = 7/14). Cleft classifications, maxillary arch width, and absolute/relative cleft width had no statistical impact on TTS occurrence. Although no significant correlation could be found, patients in our study group with CP (Veau I and II) underwent TTS more often (60.5%, n = 26/43) than patients with CPL (Veau III and IV; 48.6%, n = 17/35) during a three‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

None of the cleft characteristics examined had a significant impact on the proportion of patients who received TTS. Nevertheless, patients with lower Veau classification and CP received tympanostomy tubes more often. Therefore, otolaryngologists and pediatricians treating children with cleft palate should maintain a high level of suspicion for chronic middle ear effusion, even in patients with small clefts.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2764–E2769, 2021
Analysis of coastal storm damage resistance in successional mangrove species
Authors: van Hespen Rosanna , Hu Zhan , Peng Yisheng , Borsje Bas W. , Kleinhans Maarten , Ysebaert Tom , Bouma Tjeerd J.
Published: June 2021

Use of mangrove ecosystems for coastal flood protection requires reliable predictions of mangrove wave attenuation, especially if this capacity lessens due to storm‐induced forest damage. Quantifying and understanding the variation in drag forces and mechanical properties of mangrove vegetation can improve assessment of mangrove protective capacity. We studied five mangrove species common in the subtropical Pearl River Delta, south China. The studied species range from typically landward‐occurring to more seaward‐occurring pioneer species. We sampled across seven sites in the delta to study the impact of salinity on mechanical properties. We quantified strength and flexibility of branches (branch strength and flexibility related to branch diameter, modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity), leaf strength (leaf attachment strength related to leaf size, and leaf mass per area) and drag properties (drag force related to surface area and drag coefficient). For all tested species, larger branch diameters resulted in higher mechanical strength. Larger leaf size resulted in larger peak pulling forces and larger branch surface area resulted in stronger drag forces. Notably, species that generally occur lower in the intertidal zone, where exposure to wind and waves is higher, had relatively stronger branches but more easily detachable leaves. This may be regarded as a damage‐avoiding strategy. Across the seven field sites, we found no clear effect of salinity on mangrove mechanical properties. This study provides a mechanistic insight in the storm damage process for individual mangrove trees and a solid base for modeling storm (surge) damage at the forest scale.
Decreased calcium concentration interferes with life history defense strategies of Ceriodaphnia cornuta in response to fish kairomone
Authors: Huang Jing , Xu Xiaoqing , Li Da , Sun Yunfei , Gu Lei , Zhang Lu , Lyu Kai , Yang Zhou
Published: June 2021

Declining calcium in freshwater lakes has become a serious threat to aquatic organisms, which may affect the anti‐fish defense of cladocerans with high calcium demand. To evaluate the effects of low calcium on life history strategies of cladocerans for defending against fish predation, we exposed Ceriodaphnia cornuta to eight concentrations of calcium ranging from 0.5 to 50.0 mg L−1 in the absence and presence of fish kairomone, and observed the changes in body surface, recorded the key life‐history traits, and calculated the degree of its induced defense response. Results showed that, on average, low calcium (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 mg L−1) significantly reduced survival, maternal body size at maturation, and total offspring per female by 66.7%, 8.0%, and 48.8%, respectively, compared with those exposed to normal calcium level (10.0 mg L−1). At the normal calcium level, fish kairomone shortened the time to maturation, reduced maternal body size at maturation, and increased total offspring by 15.7%, 11.0%, and 29.6%, respectively, compared with those not exposed to fish kairomone. In the presence of fish kairomone, the reproduction of C. cornuta was affected by a narrower range of calcium concentrations. Calcium concentrations and fish kairomone showed a significant interaction on maternal body size at maturation, total offspring, and body size of neonates, i.e., low calcium impaired the life history defenses involved in maternal development, but enhanced the defense traits involved in reproductive performance, which indicated the diversified interference effects of decreased calcium on the life history defense strategies of C. cornuta against fish predators.