bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tofacitinib improved peripheral endothelial dysfunction and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor levels in the rat adjuvant‐induced arthritis model
Authors: Totoson Perle , Peyronnel Célian , Quirié Aurore , Pédard Martin , Cefis Marina , Bermont Laurent , Prigent‐Tessier Anne , Prati Clément , Tournier Maude , Wendling Daniel , Marie Christine , Demougeot Céline
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to explore the effect of Tofacitinib on endothelial dysfunction and cerebral levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. Tofacitinib (10 mg/kg twice a day) or vehicle was administered from the first signs of inflammation. Arthritis scores were daily monitored while other parameters including endothelial function assessed from aortic rings, radiographic scores, blood pressure, heart rate, circulating levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), IL‐17A, and cerebral BDNF levels were determined after 3 weeks of treatment. A group of non‐AIA rats served as controls. In AIA rats, as compared with vehicle, Tofacitinib significantly reduced arthritis and radiographic scores, decreased total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), but changed neither blood pressure nor heart rate and proinflammatory cytokines levels. It also fully restored acetylcholine (Ach)‐induced relaxation (p < 0.05) through increased nitric oxide (NO) synthase activity, reduced BH4 deficiency and O2−° production, decreased cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2)/arginase activities, and enhanced endothelium‐derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) production. These effects translated into a decrease in atherogenic index and an elevation of BDNF levels in the prefrontal cortex (p < 0.05) and hippocampus (p < 0.001). The present study identified Tofacitinib as an efficient therapeutic option to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve BDNF‐dependent cognition in arthritis.
Cellular resource allocation strategies for cell size and shape control in bacteria
Authors: Serbanescu Diana , Ojkic Nikola , Banerjee Shiladitya
Published: October 2021

Bacteria are highly adaptive microorganisms that thrive in a wide range of growth conditions via changes in cell morphologies and macromolecular composition. How bacterial morphologies are regulated in diverse environmental conditions is a long‐standing question. Regulation of cell size and shape implies control mechanisms that couple the growth and division of bacteria to their cellular environment and macromolecular composition. In the past decade, simple quantitative laws have emerged that connect cell growth to proteomic composition and the nutrient availability. However, the relationships between cell size, shape, and growth physiology remain challenging to disentangle and unifying models are lacking. In this review, we focus on regulatory models of cell size control that reveal the connections between bacterial cell morphology and growth physiology. In particular, we discuss how changes in nutrient conditions and translational perturbations regulate the cell size, growth rate, and proteome composition. Integrating quantitative models with experimental data, we identify the physiological principles of bacterial size regulation, and discuss the optimization strategies of cellular resource allocation for size control.
Balancing life and death: BCL‐2 family members at diverse ER–mitochondrial contact sites
Authors: Means Robert E. , Katz Samuel G.
Published: October 2021

The outer mitochondrial membrane is a busy place. One essential activity for cellular survival is the regulation of membrane integrity by the BCL‐2 family of proteins. Another critical facet of the outer mitochondrial membrane is its close approximation with the endoplasmic reticulum. These mitochondrial‐associated membranes (MAMs) occupy a significant fraction of the mitochondrial surface and serve as key signaling hubs for multiple cellular processes. Each of these pathways may be considered as forming their own specialized MAM subtype. Interestingly, like membrane permeabilization, most of these pathways play critical roles in regulating cellular survival and death. Recently, the pro‐apoptotic BCL‐2 family member BOK has been found within MAMs where it plays important roles in their structure and function. This has led to a greater appreciation that multiple BCL‐2 family proteins, which are known to participate in numerous functions throughout the cell, also have roles within MAMs. In this review, we evaluate several MAM subsets, their role in cellular homeostasis, and the contribution of BCL‐2 family members to their functions.
Joint effects of climate, tree size, and year on annual tree growth derived from tree‐ring records of ten globally distributed forests
Authors: Anderson‐Teixeira Kristina J. , Herrmann Valentine , Rollinson Christine R. , Gonzalez Bianca , Gonzalez‐Akre Erika B. , Pederson Neil , Alexander M. Ross , Allen Craig D. , Alfaro‐Sánchez Raquel , Awada Tala , Baltzer Jennifer L. , Baker Patrick J. , Birch Joseph D. , Bunyavejchewin Sarayudh , Cherubini Paolo , Davies Stuart J. , Dow Cameron , Helcoski Ryan , Kašpar Jakub , Lutz James A. , Margolis Ellis Q. , Maxwell Justin T. , McMahon Sean M. , Piponiot Camille , Russo Sabrina E. , Šamonil Pavel , Sniderhan Anastasia E. , Tepley Alan J. , Vašíčková Ivana , Vlam Mart , Zuidema Pieter A.
Published: October 2021

Tree rings provide an invaluable long‐term record for understanding how climate and other drivers shape tree growth and forest productivity. However, conventional tree‐ring analysis methods were not designed to simultaneously test effects of climate, tree size, and other drivers on individual growth. This has limited the potential to test ecologically relevant hypotheses on tree growth sensitivity to environmental drivers and their interactions with tree size. Here, we develop and apply a new method to simultaneously model nonlinear effects of primary climate drivers, reconstructed tree diameter at breast height (DBH), and calendar year in generalized least squares models that account for the temporal autocorrelation inherent to each individual tree's growth. We analyze data from 3811 trees representing 40 species at 10 globally distributed sites, showing that precipitation, temperature, DBH, and calendar year have additively, and often interactively, influenced annual growth over the past 120 years. Growth responses were predominantly positive to precipitation (usually over ≥3‐month seasonal windows) and negative to temperature (usually maximum temperature, over ≤3‐month seasonal windows), with concave‐down responses in 63% of relationships. Climate sensitivity commonly varied with DBH (45% of cases tested), with larger trees usually more sensitive. Trends in ring width at small DBH were linked to the light environment under which trees established, but basal area or biomass increments consistently reached maxima at intermediate DBH. Accounting for climate and DBH, growth rate declined over time for 92% of species in secondary or disturbed stands, whereas growth trends were mixed in older forests. These trends were largely attributable to stand dynamics as cohorts and stands age, which remain challenging to disentangle from global change drivers. By providing a parsimonious approach for characterizing multiple interacting drivers of tree growth, our method reveals a more complete picture of the factors influencing growth than has previously been possible.
Windows of opportunity: Ocean warming shapes temperature‐sensitive epigenetic reprogramming and gene expression across gametogenesis and embryogenesis in marine stickleback
Authors: Fellous Alexandre , Wegner K. Mathias , John Uwe , Mark Felix C. , Shama Lisa N. S.
Published: October 2021

Rapid climate change is placing many marine species at risk of local extinction. Recent studies show that epigenetic mechanisms (e.g. DNA methylation, histone modifications) can facilitate both within and transgenerational plasticity to cope with changing environments. However, epigenetic reprogramming (erasure and re‐establishment of epigenetic marks) during gamete and early embryo development may hinder transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. Most of our knowledge about reprogramming stems from mammals and model organisms, whereas the prevalence and extent of reprogramming among non‐model species from wild populations is rarely investigated. Moreover, whether reprogramming dynamics are sensitive to changing environmental conditions is not well known, representing a key knowledge gap in the pursuit to identify mechanisms underlying links between parental exposure to changing climate patterns and environmentally adapted offspring phenotypes. Here, we investigated epigenetic reprogramming (DNA methylation/hydroxymethylation) and gene expression across gametogenesis and embryogenesis of marine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) under three ocean warming scenarios (ambient, +1.5 and +4°C). We found that parental acclimation to ocean warming led to dynamic and temperature‐sensitive reprogramming throughout offspring development. Both global methylation/hydroxymethylation and expression of genes involved in epigenetic modifications were strongly and differentially affected by the increased warming scenarios. Comparing transcriptomic profiles from gonads, mature gametes and early embryonic stages showed sex‐specific accumulation and temperature sensitivity of several epigenetic actors. DNA methyltransferase induction was primarily maternally inherited (suggesting maternal control of remethylation), whereas induction of several histone‐modifying enzymes was shaped by both parents. Importantly, massive, temperature‐specific changes to the epigenetic landscape occurred in blastula, a critical stage for successful embryo development, which could, thus, translate to substantial consequences for offspring phenotype resilience in warming environments. In summary, our study identified key stages during gamete and embryo development with temperature‐sensitive reprogramming and epigenetic gene regulation, reflecting potential ‘windows of opportunity’ for adaptive epigenetic responses under future climate change.
Diversity of ground‐dwelling ants across three severely threatened South American subtropical forests: are diversity patterns influenced by spatial or climatic variables?
Authors: Calcaterra Luis A. , Chifflet Lucila , Cuezzo Fabiana , Sánchez‐Restrepo Andrés F.
Published: October 2021

Understanding the spatial distribution of species sheds light on the biogeographical history, offers clues to the drivers of biodiversity and helps guide conservation strategies. In southern South America, Andean, Chaco and Atlantic forests drastically decreased their coverage in the last decades mainly by changes in land use.

Ants represent an excellent model for macro‐ecological studies that support evidence‐based management policies. Unfortunately, little is known about ant distribution, diversity patterns and drivers in the southernmost portion of these three biomes.

We surveyed ground‐dwelling ants using baits and leaf‐litter sieves in 38 sites across these subtropical forests in Argentina. We analysed ant species richness, turnover and composition within and between forests, and whether spatial and climatic variables explain diversity patterns.

We collected 161 species belonging to 38 genera. The Atlantic forest had the highest cumulative species richness (91 species), followed by the Chaco (60) and Andean (52) forests. Neither mean species richness nor beta diversity differed significantly between forests, though both indicators tended to increase from west to east.

Seven spatial and climatic variables differentiated forests. Aridity index, and variables associated with seasonal rainfall, moderately influenced a tendency to increase species richness from west to east.

We identified five shared species between the Andean and Atlantic forests, which are candidates to test biogeographic hypotheses. The high level of species replacement across and among forests resulted in unique assemblages (with at least 29 species that seem to be exclusive to one forest), indicating the importance of conserving the biodiversity of the three forests.
Metabolites of the Soy Sauce Koji Making with Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Hu Wenkang , Liu Zeping , Fu Bin , Zhang Xiaolong , Qi Yonggang , Hu Yong , Wang Chao , Li Dongsheng , Xu Ning
Published: October 2021

Koji making comprises multi‐microbial interactions and is an important part of soy sauce production. The aim of this study was to determine interactions and investigate metabolites in koji by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q/TOF‐MS). Differential metabolites between groups of single strain (Aspergillus oryzae) and mixed strains (Aspergillus niger and A. oryzae) koji making were screened and identified using an untargeted metabolomics approach to evaluate microbial interaction. A. oryzae was the dominant strain in koji mixed fermentation. Growth of both fungal species occurred rapidly during the initial 24 h of fermentation and then stabilised. Inoculation of A. niger led to changes in the contents of dipeptides, flavonoids, unsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, phenols and indoles in koji. These differences could be attributed to glycerophospholipid and glycerolipid m4etabolism, as well as to pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis of A. niger.
Sequential Fermentation with Torulapora delbrueckii and selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae for aroma enhancement of Longyan dry white Wine
Authors: Wang Suwen , Lu Yao , Fu Xiaofang , Wang Meiqi , Wang Wenxiu , Wang Jie , Wang Huanxiang , Liu Yaqiong
Published: October 2021

In order to evaluate the effects of yeast starter on the quality and flavour profile of Longyan dry white wine, pure fermentation and sequential fermentation of selected Torulaspora delbrueckii and selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae (VL2, DELTA, X5) were performed in industrial‐scale fermentation of this work. Compared with pure fermentation, sequential fermentation improved the fermentative aroma concentrations, especially the treatment of T. delbrueckii/DELTA increased the content of ethyl butyrate, ethyl caprylate and ethyl decanoate, which may be related to a strong citrus fruity aroma. Principal component analysis revealed a significant difference in aromatic feature of co‐fermentation of T. delbrueckii/DELTA and T. delbrueckii/VL2 from their respective pure fermentation. These may be related to amino acid metabolism and further affected the formation of volatile compounds according to correlation analysis. Overall, sequential fermentation using DELTA and T. delbrueckii strengthened the aroma characteristics and improved the complex of wines. It will provide a new strategy to regulate the flavour and improve the quality of Longyan dry white wine.
Estimating the burden of adult hospital admissions due to RSV and other respiratory pathogens in England
Authors: Sharp Ashley , Minaji Mehdi , Panagiotopoulos Nikolaos , Reeves Rachel , Charlett Andre , Pebody Richard
Published: October 2021

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common seasonal respiratory virus and an important cause of illness among infants, but the burden of RSV disease is not well described among the older population. The objective of this study was to estimate the age‐specific incidence of hospital admission among over 65 s due to respiratory illnesses attributable to RSV in England to inform optimal vaccine and therapeutic interventions.

We used linear multiple regression to examine the effect of changes in weekly counts of respiratory pathogens on the weekly counts of respiratory hospital admissions. The study population was all patients aged 65 years or over admitted to English hospitals between 2nd August 2010 and 30th July 2017.

RSV was estimated to account for a seasonal annual average of 71 (95% CI 52–90) respiratory admissions per 100 000 in adults age 65–74 and 251 (95% CI 186–316) admissions per 100,000 adults age 75+. Pneumococcus was the pathogen responsible for highest annual average respiratory admission with 448 (95% CI 310–587) admissions per 100,000 adults age 65–74 and 1010 (95% CI 527–1493) admissions per 100,000 adults aged 75+.

This study shows that RSV continues to exert a significant burden of disease among older adults in England. These findings will support development of policy for the use of RSV therapeutics and vaccines in this age group.
Relationship between surgeon volume and the risk of deep surgical site infection (DSSI) following open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intra‐articular calcaneal fracture
Authors: Qin Shiji , Zhu Yanbin , Meng Hongyu , Zhang Junzhe , Li Junyong , Zhao Kuo , Zhang Yingze , Chen Wei
Published: October 2021

It is well established that the postoperative results were affected by the surgeon volume in a variety of elective and emergent orthopaedic surgeries; however, by far, no evidences have been available as for surgically treated displaced intra‐articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs). We aimed at investigating the relationship between surgeon volume and deep surgical site infection (DSSI) following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of DIACFs. This was a further analysis of prospectively collected data from a validated database. Patients with DIACFs stabilised by ORIF between 2016 and 2019 were identified. Surgeon volume was defined as the number of surgically treated calcaneal fractures within one calendar year and was dichotomised based on the optimal cut‐off value. The outcome measure was DSSI within 1 year postoperatively. Multivariate logistics regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship, adjusting for confounders. Among 883 patients, 19 (2.2%) were found to have a DSSI. The DSSI incidence was 6.5% in surgeons with a low volume (<6/year), 5.5 times as that in those with a high volume (≥6/year) (incidence rate, 1.2%; P < 0.001). The multivariate analyses showed a low volume <6/year was associated with a 5.8‐fold increased risk of DSSI (95% confidence interval, 2.2‐16.5, P < 0.001). This value slightly increased after multiple sensitivity analyses, with statistical significances still unchanged (OR range, 6.6‐6.9; P ≤ 0.001). The inverse relationship indicates a need for at least six cases/year for a surgeon to substantially reduce the DSSIs following the ORIF of DIACFs.
Independent nurse medication provision: A mixed method study assessing impact on patients' experience, processes, and costs in sexual health clinics
Authors: Black Adam , Courtenay Molly , Norton Christine , Dean Franklin Bryony , Murrells Trevor , Gage Heather
Published: October 2021

Background

Local services in the United Kingdom National Health Service enable autonomous provision of medication by nurses, supporting individual nurses to gain prescribing qualifications or by introducing local patient group directions.

Aim

To compare nurse prescribing and patient group directions about clinic processes, patients' experiences, and costs from the perspectives of providers, nurses, and patients.

Design

Mixed methods, comparative case study in five urban sexual health services in the United Kingdom.

Methods

Data were collected from nurse prescribers, patient group direction users and their patients July 2015 to December 2016. Nurse questionnaires explored training (funding and methods). Nurses recorded consultation durations and support from other professionals in clinical diaries. Patient notes were reviewed to explore medication provision, appropriateness and safety; errors were judged by an expert panel. Patients completed satisfaction questionnaires about consultations and information about medications.

Results

Twenty‐eight nurse prescribers and 67 patient group directions users took part; records of 1682 consultations were reviewed, with 1357 medications prescribed and 98.5% therapeutically appropriate. Most medication decisions were deemed safe (96.0% nurse prescribers, 98.7% patient group directions, Fisher's Exact Test p = .55). Errors were predominantly minor (55.6% nurse prescribers, 62.4% patient group directions) and related to documentation omissions (78.0%); no patients were harmed. Consultation durations and unplanned re‐consultations were similar for both groups. Nurse prescribers sought assistance from colleagues less frequently (chi‐squared = 46.748, df = 1, p < .001) but spent longer discussing cases. Nurse prescribing training required more resources from providers and nurses, compared with patient group directions. Nurse prescribers were on higher salary bands. Patient satisfaction was high in both groups (>96%).

Conclusions

Nurse medication provision by both nurse prescribers and patient group direction users is safe and associated with high patient satisfaction; effects on clinic processes and costs are similar. Undertaking the prescribing qualification involves independent study but may bring longer‐term career progression to nurses.
Prolactin and endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer: The next potential hope for breast cancer treatment
Authors: Li Yuan , Kong Xiangyi , Xuan Lixue , Wang Zhongzhao , Huang Yen‐Hua
Published: October 2021

Breast cancer, a hormone‐dependent tumour, generally includes four molecular subtypes (luminal A, luminal B, HER2 enriched and triple‐negative) based on oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor‐2. Multiple hormones in the body regulate the development of breast cancer. Endocrine therapy is one of the primary treatments for hormone‐receptor‐positive breast cancer, but endocrine resistance is the primary clinical cause of treatment failure. Prolactin (PRL) is a protein hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, mainly promoting mammary gland growth, stimulating and maintaining lactation. Previous studies suggest that high PRL levels can increase the risk of invasive breast cancer in women. The expression levels of PRL and PRLR in breast cancer cells and breast cancer tissues are elevated in most ER+ and ER− tumours. PRL activates downstream signalling pathways and affects endocrine therapy resistance by combining with prolactin receptor (PRLR). In this review, we illustrated and summarized the correlations between endocrine therapy resistance in breast cancer and PRL, as well as the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical practices. The study on PRL and its receptor would help explore reversing endocrine therapy‐resistance for breast cancer.
Axes of multivariate sexual signal divergence among incipient species: Concordance with selection, genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Oh Kevin P. , Shaw Kerry L.
Published: October 2021

Sexual signalling traits are often observed to diverge rapidly among populations, thereby playing a potentially key early role in the evolution of reproductive isolation. While often assumed to reflect divergent sexual selection among populations, patterns of sexual trait diversification might sometimes be biased along axes of standing additive genetic variation and covariation among trait components. Additionally, theory predicts that environmentally induced phenotypic variation might facilitate rapid trait evolution, suggesting that patterns of divergence between populations should mirror phenotypic plasticity within populations. Here, we evaluate the concordance between observed axes of multivariate sexual trait divergence and predicted divergence based on (1) interpopulation variation in sexual selection, (2) additive genetic variances and (3) temperature‐related phenotypic plasticity in male courtship song among geographically isolated populations of the Hawaiian swordtail cricket, Laupala cerasina, which exhibit sexual isolation due acoustic signalling traits. The major axis of multivariate divergence, dmax, accounted for 76% of variation among population male song trait means and was moderately correlated with interpopulation differences in directional sexual selection based on female preferences. However, the majority of additive genetic variance was largely oriented away from the direction of divergence, suggesting that standing genetic variation may not play a dominant role in the patterning of signal divergence. In contrast, the axis of phenotypic plasticity strongly mirrored patterns of interpopulation phenotypic divergence, which is consistent with a role for temperature‐related plasticity in facilitating instead of inhibiting male song evolution and sexual isolation in these incipient species. We propose potential mechanisms by which sexual selection might interact with phenotypic plasticity to facilitate the rapid acoustic diversification observed in this species and clade.
The Craft of Generalism clinical skills and attitudes for whole person care
Authors: Lynch Johanna M. , van Driel Mieke , Meredith Pamela , Stange Kurt C. , Getz Linn , Reeve Joanne , Miller William L. , Dowrick Christopher
Published: October 2021

Rationale, aims and objectives

Generalists manage a broad range of biomedical and biographical knowledge as part of each clinical encounter, often in multiple encounters over time. The sophistication of this broad integrative work is often misunderstood by those schooled in reductionist or constructivist approaches to evidence. There is a need to describe the practical and philosophically robust ways that understanding about the whole person is formed. In this paper we describe first principles of generalist approaches to knowledge formation in clinical practice. We name the Craft of Generalism.

Methods

The newly described methodology of Transdisciplinary Generalism is examined by skilled generalist clinicians and translated into skills and attitudes useful for everyday generalist person‐centred practice and research.

Results

The Craft of Generalism defines the required scope, process, priorities, and knowledge management skills of all generalists seeking to care for the whole person. These principles are Whole Person Scope, Relational Process, Healing Orientation, and Integrative Wisdom. These skills and attitudes are required for whole person care. If any element of these first principles is left out, the resultant knowledge is incomplete and philosophically incoherent.

Conclusions

Naming the Craft of Generalism defines the generalist gaze and protects generalism from the colonization of a narrowed medical gaze that excludes all but reductionist evidence or constructivist experience. Defining the Craft of Generalism enables clear teaching of the sophisticated skills and attitudes of the generalist clinician. These philosophically robust principles encourage and defend the use of generalist approaches to knowledge in settings across the community – including health policy, education, and research.
Dynamics of cell death across growth stages and the diel cycle in the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis
Authors: Gao Yida , Erdner Deana L.
Published: October 2021

Recent evidence suggests that programmed cell death (PCD) can play a role in stress‐induced decline and termination of harmful algal blooms. However, components of the PCD cascade, i.e. reactive oxygen species (ROS) and caspase‐like activity, have also been observed in the absence of exogenous stress, where their activities and functions remain unclear. Here, we characterized the variability of prevalence of cell death, ROS, and caspase‐like activity at different growth phases and diel cycles in cultures of dinoflagellate Karenia brevis. Results show that ROS percentages increased with culture age and fluctuated in a phasing diel pattern, while caspase‐like activity was observed throughout growth. In actively growing K. brevis cells, PCD components may be involved in key metabolic processes, while in stationary phase they may relate to stress acclimation. The circadian diel pattern of ROS may be explained by the balance between the metabolic generation of ROS and circadian rhythmicity of antioxidant enzymes. Overall, this work highlights not only the involvement of PCD components in the growth of marine phytoplankton, but the importance of understanding mechanisms controlling their accumulation, which would help to better interpret their presence in the field.
Impact of thermal processing time on various quality attributes of meatballs (rista) during storage
Authors: Mir Sajad Ahmad , Wani Shoib Mohmad , Masoodi Farooq Ahmad
Published: October 2021

Meatballs (rista) being processed traditionally suffer loss in nutrient, textural, and sensory value. This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of thermal processing time on texture, cooking attributes, collagen solubility, and proximate composition of meatballs. Meatballs were processed at 121°C for 20 min (T1), 25 min (T2), and 30 min (T3). Meatballs hot‐filled at 100°C acted as control (C). The values for conjugated dienes ranged from 0.43 to 2.12 μmol/mg over a period of 12 months of storage in the case of T1 sample. However, the value of collagen solubility varied from 12.17 to 26.16% and carbonyl content from 0.19 to 9.14 nmol/mg protein, respectively. The tyrosine value at the 12th month of storage for T1, T2, and T3 was 1.53, 1.28, and 0.92 mg/kg, respectively, which was significantly (p ≤ .05) higher than the initial values. The overall quality attributes of T1 were significantly (p ≤ .05) higher among all samples.

Practical applications

The traditional meatballs (rista) are among the commonly consumed processed meat products. These meatballs are preferred over raw meat and stored for a longer duration when abundantly available. A need was felt to standardize the time of processing in order to avoid the undesirable changes during the processing of meatballs at a higher temperature for a longer period. Processing meatballs (rista) for a longer time at a higher temperature not only causes quality degradation but also results in loss of nutritive value. The standardized time–temperature combination will result in retaining the quality attributes of the processed meat when stored for a longer duration. This method can be applicable at the local and industrial levels.
Effect of whey protein isolate addition on thermoplasticized pectin packaging properties
Authors: de Oliveira Ana Carolina Salgado , de Oliveira Begali Danielly , Ferreira Laura Fonseca , Ugucioni Julio Cesar , de Sena Neto Alfredo Rodrigues , Yoshida Maria Irene , Borges Soraia Vilela
Published: October 2021

Pectin is a natural polysaccharide from plants and the peel of some fruits and is available as a byproduct from the fruit juice industry. Whey protein isolate (WPI) is available as a byproduct of cheese production. Both the pectin and WPI are biodegradable polymers, atoxic, biocompatible, and not expensive. The aim of this article was the study the effect of the WPI addition (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) on thermoplasticized extruded/thermo‐compressed pectin film (TPP). The films were compact and homogenous and did not present statistical differences in mechanical properties, independent of WPI concentration. Furthermore, infrared spectra of the samples with WPI presented an indication of Maillard reaction by the characteristic presence of melanoidin, which was also observed in colorimetric results. Thermogravimetric results indicated the samples were thermal stable with the increase of WPI amount. Moreover, the barrier properties and contact angles suggested the films presented major barrier properties and hydrophilic surfaces for samples with WPI. Finally, the addition of WPI in TPP resulted in a potential material for applications in several industries.

Practical applications

Pectin and whey protein isolate (WPI) are biodegradable polymers and byproducts of the food industry. The aim of this article was the study the effect of the WPI addition on thermoplasticized extruded/thermo‐compressed pectin film (TPP), in other words, packagings produced by the industrial method. The samples with WPI presented an indicative of Maillard reaction by the presence of melanoidin, which was also observed in color. The addition of WPI in TPP resulted in a potential material for applications in several industries.
Carbonated wollastonite – An effective supplementary cementitious material?
Authors: Leemann Andreas , Winnefeld Frank , Münch Beat , Läng Florian
Published: October 2021

Carbonated wollastonite clinker (CS) may be suitable as supplementary cementitious material (SCM) for mortar and concrete. The microstructure of unground CS clinker, carbonated CS slurry and a mortar blended with carbonated CS are investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, a reference mortar with pure Portland cement and one with a cement replacement level of 30 mass‐% by carbonated CS are produced to assess its contribution to compressive strength development. The calcium silicates are decalcified during carbonation resulting in CaCO3 and amorphous SiO2. The latter reacts when used as SCM in mortar influencing the Ca/Si ratio of calcium‐silicate‐hydrate and contributing to compressive strength development.
Contexts of reproduction: Gender dynamics and unintended birth in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Bras Hilde , Smits Jeroen
Published: October 2021

Objective

This study examines how women's chances of having an unintended birth is related to gender inequalities in education, employment, intra‐household decision‐making, and norms at individual, household, and community levels in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA).

Background

Women in SSA have the highest rates of unintended births in the world, often with severe implications for the health and well‐being of families. A comprehensive understanding of how gender dynamics are associated with their chances of unintended birth is however lacking.

Method

Multilevel binomial logistic regression models of unintended birth were estimated with harmonized data from 123 Demographic and Health Surveys including 534,533 married women living in 43,136 communities within 39 SSA countries over the period 1992–2019.

Results

The odds of unintended birth are higher among higher‐educated women, women with a small age difference with their husband, and women living in communities with more higher‐educated women, and better (reproductive) health facilities. These women are more willing to acknowledge a birth as unintended. In communities where women are relatively more educated than their husband and in households where husbands and wives are equal in terms of education, higher occupational status, and fertility preferences, odds of unintended birth are lower.

Conclusion

Unintended birth is a complex reproductive experience related to local gender systems, women's relative position in intra‐household power relations, and their willingness to acknowledge a birth as unintended.

Implications

Improving gender equality at household level may result in women's improved reproductive health. However, outcomes are also strongly shaped by the local gender system.
Posaconazole treatment of refractory coccidioidomycosis in dogs
Authors: Shubitz Lisa F. , Schlacks Sallianne , Vishkautsan Polina , Butkiewicz Christine D. , Worthing Kate A.
Published: October 2021

Background

The majority of dogs with coccidioidomycosis recover with administration of fluconazole or itraconazole, although some cases are refractory or the dogs do not tolerate administration of these medications.

Objectives

The objective was to describe the treatment outcomes and therapeutic monitoring of 8 dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis treated with posaconazole.

Animals

Eight dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis.

Methods

Retrospective case series. Medical records from Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson were searched to identify dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis that were treated with posaconazole. Clinical information and the results of monitoring trough serum posaconazole concentrations were retrieved.

Results

Eight dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis were treated with 2.5 to 10 mg/kg per day of posaconazole. Six of 8 dogs recovered or developed clinical remission while administered posaconazole. Thirteen serum concentrations from 8 dogs tested were >1 μg/mL (range, 1.52 to >6 μg/mL) and the drug was well‐tolerated by 7 dogs. One dog required dosage reductions and treatment was ultimately discontinued because of hepatotoxicosis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Posaconazole should be considered as a treatment option for dogs with refractory coccidioidomycosis. Monitoring of indicators of liver function or injury along with therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended to tailor dosage in the event of hepatic toxicosis.
Spatial mapping memory: methods used to determine the existence and type of cognitive maps in arboreal mammals
Authors: Rolland Eléonore , Trull Sam
Published: October 2021

Researchers have used multiple methods to understand spatial mapping memory used by arboreal mammals for orientation: the change‐point test, measures of path tortuosity, field experiments with feeding platforms, nearest‐neighbour feeding tree methods, complex calculations of travel route parameters, and theoretical models.

This literature review provides details of all of these methods, highlights previous results from spatial mapping memory studies, and discusses perspectives for future studies.

Previous studies have shown that various arboreal mammals, mostly in the order Primates, can memorise spatial environments using a cognitive map. Two types of maps are characterised: the topological map, based on landmarks and reused routes, and the Euclidean map, including the ability to create shortcuts by measuring distances and distinguishing between directions. Most of the studies showed that mammals do not travel randomly but, due to the difficulty of determining which spatial map is used, the use of cognitive maps remains hypothetical.

When studying spatial mapping memory, data collection and analysis should account for the species’ characteristics, such as the home‐range size, food preferences, and types of movements. The role of sensory cues (visual, auditory, olfactory) is crucial to understanding spatial orientation. The most relevant way to determine how arboreal mammals orientate themselves in space is by using a mix of methods: random theoretical models, collecting data in a controlled environment, measuring different parameters of travel patterns, and considering the use of sensory cues and environmental factors of the study sites.

Research pertaining to spatial mapping memory in arboreal mammals and forest‐dwelling mammals is important for understanding cognitive abilities in mammal species, and more studies are needed in mammals of various orders.
Defence by duplication: The relation between phenotypic glyphosate resistance and EPSPS gene copy number variation in Amaranthus palmeri
Authors: Yakimowski Sarah B. , Teitel Zachary , Caruso Christina M.
Published: October 2021

Gene copy number variation (CNV) has been increasingly associated with organismal responses to environmental stress, but we know little about the quantitative relation between CNV and phenotypic variation. In this study we quantify the relation between variation in EPSPS (5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase) copy number using digital drop PCR and variation in phenotypic glyphosate resistance in 22 populations of Amaranthus palmeri (Palmer Amaranth), a range‐expanding agricultural weed. Overall, we detected a significant positive relation between population mean copy number and resistance. The majority of populations exhibited high glyphosate resistance yet maintained low‐resistance individuals, resulting in bimodality in many populations. We also investigated threshold models for the relation between copy number and resistance, and found evidence for a threshold of ~15 EPSPS copies: there was a steep increase in resistance below the threshold, followed by a much shallower increase. Across 924 individuals, as copy number increased the range of variation in resistance decreased, yielding an increasing frequency of high phenotypic resistance individuals. Among populations we detected a decline in variation (s.d.) as mean phenotypic resistance increased from moderate to high, consistent with the prediction that as phenotypic resistance increases in populations, stabilizing selection decreases variation in the trait. Our study demonstrates that populations of A. palmeri can harbour wide variation in EPSPS copy number and phenotypic glyphosate resistance, reflecting the history of, and template for future, resistance evolution.
Results from a national survey on COVID‐19‐associated mucormycosis in Germany: 13 patients from six tertiary hospitals
Authors: Seidel Danila , Simon Michaela , Sprute Rosanne , Lubnow Matthias , Evert Katja , Speer Claudius , Seeßle Jessica , Khatamzas Elham , Merle Uta , Behrens Christopher , Blau Igor Wolfgang , Enghard Philipp , Haas Christian S. , Steinmann Joerg , Kurzai Oliver , Cornely Oliver A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Most COVID‐19‐associated mucormycosis (CAM) cases are reported from India and neighbouring countries. Anecdotally cases from Europe have been presented.

Objective

To estimate the disease burden and describe the clinical presentation of CAM in Germany.

Methods

We identified cases through German mycology networks and scientific societies, and collected anonymised clinical information via FungiScope®.

Results

We identified 13 CAM cases from six tertiary referral hospitals diagnosed between March 2020 and June 2021. Twelve patients had severe or critical COVID‐19, eleven were mechanically ventilated for a median of 8 days (range 1‐27 days) before diagnosis of CAM. Eleven patients received systemic corticosteroids. Additional underlying medical conditions were reported for all but one patient, five were immunocompromised because of malignancy or organ transplantation, three were diabetic. Eleven patients developed pneumonia. Mortality was 53.8% with a median time from diagnosis of mucormycosis to death of 9 days (range 0–214 days) despite treatment with liposomal amphotericin B and/or isavuconazole in 10 of 13 cases. CAM prevalence amongst hospitalised COVID‐19 patients overall (0.67% and 0.58% in two centres) and those admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) (1.47%, 1.78% and 0.15% in three centres) was significantly higher compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients (P < .001 for respective comparisons).

Conclusion

COVID‐19‐associated mucormycosis is rare in Germany, mostly reported in patients with comorbidities and impaired immune system and severe COVID‐19 treated in the ICU with high mortality compared to mainly rhino‐orbito‐cerebral CAM in patients with mild COVID‐19 in India. Risk for CAM is higher in hospitalised COVID‐19 patients than in other patients.
Affliction And Resignation in George Herbert: Reflections on Human Agency In A Global Pandemic
Authors: Myers Ben
Published: October 2021

This paper reflects on the context of lockdown in a global pandemic, where entire populations have experienced severe curtailments of the opportunity to exercise agency. The experience has made me notice the surprisingly large role that resignation has played in Christian moral thinking in earlier ages. This paper takes the devotional poetry of George Herbert as a case study, since Herbert had a particular preoccupation with the psychology of religious belief in circumstances where the will cannot be deployed to any end. Herbert reflects on the predicament in which the moral life has to continue even though opportunities for the exercise of agency have collapsed. After examining Herbert's poems of affliction, I conclude by setting out a brief case for understanding resignation as a moral practice – a practice that centres not on the will but on imagination and the emotions.
Modeling and control of Mongolian forest utilization: Impact of illegal logging
Authors: Gompil Battur , Tseveen Batchuluun , Almasbek Janerke
Published: October 2021

Depletion and deforestation of forest resources are mainly due to industrialization, population, pollution, forest fire, improper commercial logging, and illegal logging in the world. In this paper, we consider two dynamic models. A mathematical Model 1 is proposed considering the forest biomass density , the density of wood‐based industries with unknown parameter . Model 2 is an extension of Model 1 with the density of illegal logging with unknown parameter . It is assumed that the density of forest biomass grows logistically in the absence of wood‐based industries and illegal logging. In the proposed models, the controlling parameters and are crucial parameters for the local stable conditions of the equilibrium points and system control. We also show in this paper that it is possible to control illegal logging by increasing the level of logging by selecting system parameters efficiently and effectively.

Recommendations for Resource Managers

Depletion and deforestation of Mongolian forest resource are mainly due to forest fire, illegal logging. We consider mathematical models of forest depletion due to forest operation and illegal logging.

Mongolian forest's current situation is that the rate of illegal logging is higher than the wood‐based industries. We show that this situation can be changed by changing the parameters.

Based on the mathematical modeling and statistical analysis, we define the upper bound of the rate of resources of the wood‐based industries.

We also presented that it is possible to control the parameters efficiently. The result suggests that to approximate the limit of wood utilized for the nationwide supply from the government it is necessary to increase the current amount of forest utility considering the actual forest resources and demands.
Plastidic pyruvate dehydrogenase complex E1 component subunit Alpha1 is involved in galactolipid biosynthesis required for amyloplast development in rice
Authors: Lei Jie , Teng Xuan , Wang Yongfei , Jiang Xiaokang , Zhao Huanhuan , Zheng Xiaoming , Ren Yulong , Dong Hui , Wang Yunlong , Duan Erchao , Zhang Yuanyan , Zhang Wenwei , Yang Hang , Chen Xiaoli , Chen Rongbo , Zhang Yu , Yu Mingzhou , Xu Shanbin , Bao Xiuhao , Zhang Pengcheng , Liu Shijia , Liu Xi , Tian Yunlu , Jiang Ling , Wang Yihua , Wan Jianmin
Published: October 2021

Starch accounts for over 80% of the total dry weight in cereal endosperm and determines the kernel texture and nutritional quality. Amyloplasts, terminally differentiated plastids, are responsible for starch biosynthesis and storage. We screened a series of rice mutants with floury endosperm to clarify the mechanism underlying amyloplast development and starch synthesis. We identified the floury endosperm19 (flo19) mutant which shows opaque of the interior endosperm. Abnormal compound starch grains (SGs) were present in the endosperm cells of the mutant. Molecular cloning revealed that the FLO19 allele encodes a plastid‐localized pyruvate dehydrogenase complex E1 component subunit α1 (ptPDC‐E1‐α1) that is expressed in all rice tissues. In vivo enzyme assays demonstrated that the flo19 mutant showed decreased activity of the plastidic pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. In addition, the amounts of monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG) were much lower in the developing flo19 mutant endosperm, suggesting that FLO19 participates in fatty acid supply for galactolipid biosynthesis in amyloplasts. FLO19 overexpression significantly increased seed size and weight, but did not affect other important agronomic traits, such as panicle length, tiller number and seed setting rate. An analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism data from a panel of rice accessions identified that the pFLO19L haplotype was positively associated with grain length, implying a potential application in rice breeding. In summary, our study demonstrates that FLO19 is involved in galactolipid biosynthesis which is essential for amyloplast development and starch biosynthesis in rice.