bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of everolimus‐based drug regimens on CMV‐specific T‐cell functionality after renal transplantation: 12‐month ATHENA subcohort‐study results
Authors: Hauser Ingeborg A. , Marx Stefanie , Sommerer Claudia , Suwelack Barbara , Dragun Duska , Witzke Oliver , Lehner Frank , Schiedel Christiane , Porstner Martina , Thaiss Friedrich , Neudörfl Christine , Falk Christine S. , Nashan Björn , Sester Martina
Published: December 2020

Post‐transplant cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections and increased viral replication are associated with CMV‐specific T‐cell anergy. In the ATHENA‐study, de‐novo everolimus (EVR) with reduced‐exposure tacrolimus (TAC) or cyclosporine (CyA) showed significant benefit in preventing CMV infections in renal transplant recipients as compared to standard TAC + mycophenolic acid (MPA). However, immunomodulatory mechanisms for this effect remain largely unknown. Ninety patients from the ATHENA‐study completing the 12‐month visit on‐treatment (EVR + TAC n = 28; EVR + CyA n = 19; MPA + TAC n = 43) were included in a posthoc analysis. Total lymphocyte subpopulations were quantified. CMV‐specific CD4 T cells were determined after stimulation with CMV‐antigen, and cytokine‐profiles and various T‐cell anergy markers were analyzed using flow cytometry. While 25.6% of MPA + TAC‐treated patients had CMV‐infections, no such events were reported in EVR‐treated patients. Absolute numbers of lymphocyte subpopulations were comparable between arms, whereas the percentage of regulatory T cells was significantly higher with EVR + CyA versus MPA + TAC (p = 0.019). Despite similar percentages of CMV‐specific T cells, their median expression of CTLA‐4 and PD‐1 was lower with EVR + TAC (p < 0.05 for both) or EVR + CyA (p = 0.045 for CTLA‐4) compared with MPA + TAC. Moreover, mean percentages of multifunctional CMV‐specific T cells were higher with EVR + TAC (27.2%) and EVR + CyA (29.4%) than with MPA + TAC (19.0%). In conclusion, EVR‐treated patients retained CMV‐specific T‐cell functionality, which may contribute to enhanced protection against CMV infections.
Transition metal/carbon hybrids for oxygen electrocatalysis in rechargeable zinc‐air batteries
Authors: Douka Abdoulkader Ibro , Yang Huan , Huang Lei , Zaman Shahid , Yue Ting , Guo Wei , You Bo , Xia Bao Yu
Published: December 2020

Zinc‐air batteries (ZABs) could be an ideal candidate for challenging energy conversion and storage technology. Usually, the crucial oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction are naturally lethargic and require efficient catalysts to kinetically boost the energy conversion processes to achieve the practicable ZABs application. Transition‐metal/carbon hybrid catalysts show excellent potentials in electrocatalysis, and they have been developed into cost‐effective and scalable oxygen electrocatalyst alternatives for expensive and scarcer noble metal ones in rechargeable ZABs. Herein we summarize recent achievements in transition metal/carbon hybrids for oxygen electrocatalysis. These catalysts mainly fall into two categories by the integrated metal/metal oxides nanoparticles and atomically dispersed transition metal/carbon matrix. We focus on the relationship between structure and performance with their synthesis strategies. Their application in rechargeable ZABs are also comprehensively discussed. Finally, the perspectives on transition metal/carbon hybrids for oxygen electrocatalysis are presented for the future challenges in rechargeable ZABs.

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Heterogeneous Signcryption Scheme Supporting Equality Test from PKI to CLC toward IoT
Authors: Hou Yingzhe , Huang Xin , Chen Yanan , Kumar Sachin , Xiong Hu
Published: December 2020

The prosperity of Internet of Things (IoT) has brought numerous advantages to individuals and organizations. Since the transmission channel is usually considered as untrusted, the notion of signcryption seems to be the desired method to ease the defect. Nevertheless, this primitive inevitably faces the new obstacle that how to search the required data without decrypting it. Therefore, inheriting the excellence of signcryption and equality test, we present a heterogeneous signcryption protocol supporting the equality test from public key infrastructure (PKI) to certificateless cryptosystem (CLC) toward IoT environment (PK‐CLET). In this way, the introduced construction not only preserves the integrity, confidentiality and unforgeability of data, but also allows the cloud server to perform the equality test on different ciphertexts. Moreover, the security of PK‐CLET as well as the performance evaluation are both shown that it is more suitable for IoT.
Variations in the association of grade with survival across the head and neck cancer landscape
Authors: Anderson Eric M. , Luu Michael , Balzer Bonnie L. , Scher Kevin S. , Mita Alain C. , Lu Diana J. , Shiao Stephen L. , Clair Jon Mallen‐St. , Ho Allen S. , Zumsteg Zachary S.
Published: December 2020

Background

Although pathologic tumor grade is a well‐established prognostic risk factor that impacts staging and treatment decisions across multiple cancer types, its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is less certain.

Methods

HNSCC patients diagnosed from 2010 to 2015 and undergoing primary surgery in the National Cancer Data Base were identified. Propensity score matching and multivariable Cox regression were performed.

Results

Among 27 041 HNSCC patients, 13 941 had oral cavity cancers (OCC). Intermediate‐grade (hazard ratio [HR] 1.16, 95% CI 1.07‐1.26, P < .001) and high‐grade (HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.26‐1.52, P < .001) tumors had worse survival than low‐grade tumors. This magnitude was comparable to other well‐established prognostic factors, including margin positivity, extranodal extension, and lymphovascular invasion. By contrast, there was no association between grade and survival in larynx/hypopharynx or HPV(−) oropharynx cancer.

Conclusions

The prognostic impact of pathologic grade is highly variable across head and neck subsites and is the strongest among OCC patients.
Long‐term stable water isotope and runoff data for the investigation of deforestation effects on the hydrological system of the Wüstebach catchment, Germany
Authors: Bogena Heye R. , Stockinger Michael P. , Lücke Andreas
Published: December 2020

The Wüstebach catchment belongs to the German TERENO (Terrestrial Environmental Observatories) network and was partially deforested (~21%) by the Eifel National Park in 2013. In this data paper, we provide 11‐year precipitation and stream water isotope data and the corresponding runoff discharge rates recorded in the Wüstebach catchment (from 2009 to 2019). In addition, we provide an overview of available datasets and access information for environmental data of the Wüstebach catchment that are discoverable with associated metadata at the Web‐based TERENO data portal. We anticipate that this comprehensive data set will give new insights in how deforestation influences the hydrological system, for exampole, in terms of transit time distribution, fraction of young water and water flow paths at the catchment scale.
On the relations between the hydrological dynamical systems of water budget, travel time, response time and tracer concentrations
Authors: Rigon Riccardo , Bancheri Marialaura
Published: December 2020

Using previous results on extended Petri Nets (EPN), we present the relations between various hydrological dynamical systems (HDSys) derived from the water budget. Once the water budget has been implemented, there is a consistent way of getting the equations for backward travel time distributions, for forward response time distributions and for the concentration of a solute or tracer. We show that the water budget has a correspondence of one to many with the backward travel time distributions. In fact, to any one of the water budget equations there correspond as many equations as there are input precipitation events. The backward travel time distributions are related to the response time distributions by Niemi's relationship and, if there are n outputs, by the definition of n − 1 partition functions. These determine what fraction of the water volume injected into the control volume at a specific time tin goes asymptotically to a specific output. Given the backward travel time distributions, the output concentration of a solute or tracer also depends on the input concentration. The paper clarifies the complicated relations described above by taking [Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, 20, 299–328] as an example from literature. Once the appropriate information is presented, it is shown how these HDSys can be solved simultaneously without duplicating calculations. Then, it is also shown that, under the hypothesis of uniform mixing of water ages within each reservoir, these systems can be solved exactly.
COVID‐19 infection in pregnant women: Review of maternal and fetal outcomes
Authors: Salem Deemah , Katranji Fawzi , Bakdash Talah
Published: December 2020

Pregnant women, their fetuses, and newborns are likely to represent a high‐risk population during the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Literature on the outcomes of COVID‐19 infections during pregnancy is slowly building up. The aim of the present review was to gather evidence from relevant articles published in English from January to August 2020 in Medline and Google Scholar. The review revealed that pregnant women who become COVID‐19‐positive are usually either asymptomatic or mild‐to‐moderately symptomatic, similar to non‐pregnant women. Pneumonia is one of the most common outcomes in pregnant women with COVID‐19. However, it cannot be conclusively said that SARS‐CoV‐2 infection increases the risk of maternal, fetal, and neonatal complications. Pregnant women with COVID‐19 with co‐morbidities have increased risks of complications: there are regional variations in the rates of adverse outcomes reported. Though uncommon, the review shows that vertical transmission is possible. Additionally, the third trimester seems to be the most vulnerable period of infection. This aspect needs to be researched further to activate surveillance programs at the end of second trimester. Overall, it is necessary to monitor pregnant women before and after delivery, and their infants, during this pandemic.
Evidence for Relationships Between Hope, Resilience, and Mental Health Among Youth
Authors: Lenz A. Stephen
Published: December 2020

Predictive modeling was used to evaluate the associations between hope, resilience, happiness, and mental health in 449 middle and high school students. Model results indicated large effect sizes for middle school (R2 = .28) and high school (R2 = .36) participants, with hope and resilience tending to predict self‐reported mental health symptoms. These findings and their application to counseling practice are explained.
A New Model for Social Justice Supervision
Authors: Dollarhide Colette T. , Hale Shiloh C. , Stone‐Sabali Steve
Published: December 2020

Social justice supervision honors the identities of the supervisee and the client, teaches social justice skills to the supervisee, and prioritizes social justice counseling outcomes in the supervisee's counseling work. The purpose of this article is to describe a comprehensive model for social justice supervision that mandates supervisor self‐evaluation, explores supervisees' identities and strengths, emphasizes the social justice needs of clients, and uses social justice outcomes for clients as a measure of counseling success. Implications are explored.
Protein secondary structure motifs: A kinematic construction
Authors: Hassan Mosavverul , Coutsias Evangelos A.
Published: December 2020

The kinematic geometry of protein backbone structures, constrained by either single or multiple hydrogen bonds (H‐bonds), possibly in a periodic array, is discussed. These structures include regular secondary structure elements α‐helices and β‐sheets but also include other short H‐bond stabilized irregular structural elements like β‐turns. The work here shows that the variations observed in such structures have simple geometrical correlations consistent with constrained motion kinematics. A new classification of the ideal helices is given, in terms of the parameter α, the angle at a Cα atom to its two neighboring Cα's along the helix, and shown how it can be generalized to include nonideal helices. Specifically, we derive an analytical expression of the backbone dihedrals, (ϕ, ψ), in terms of the parameter α subject to the constraint that the peptide planes are parallel to the helical axis. Helices constructed in this way exhibit near‐vertical alignment of the C = O and N − H units and are the canonical objects of this study. These expressions are easily modifiable to include perturbations of parameters relevant to nonplanar peptide units and noncanonical angles. The addition of a second parameter, ε0, inclination of successive peptide planes along a helix with respect to the helical axis leads to a generalization of the previous expression and provides an efficient parametrization of such structures in terms of coordinates consistent with H‐bond parameters. An analogs parametrization of β‐turns, using inverse kinematic methods, is also given. Besides offering a unifying viewpoint, our results may find useful applications to protein and peptide design.
Orbital energies and nuclear forces in DFT: Interpretation and validation
Authors: Laplaza Rubén , Cárdenas Carlos , Chaquin Patrick , Contreras‐García Julia , Ayers Paul W.
Published: December 2020

The bonding and antibonding character of individual molecular orbitals has been previously shown to be related to their orbital energy derivatives with respect to nuclear coordinates, known as dynamical orbital forces. Albeit usually derived from Koopmans' theorem, in this work we show a more general derivation from conceptual DFT, which justifies application in a broader context. The consistency of the approach is validated numerically for valence orbitals in Kohn–Sham DFT. Then, we illustrate its usefulness by showcasing applications in aromatic and antiaromatic systems and in excited state chemistry. Overall, dynamical orbital forces can be used to interpret the results of routine ab initio calculations, be it wavefunction or density based, in terms of forces and occupations.
Particle size distribution as a major characteristic of domestic wastewater: implications for the modeling and design of membrane bioreactors
Authors: Doğruel Serdar , Orhon Derin
Published: December 2020

This study reviews the evolution of the concept and the methodology of particle size distribution (PSD) analysis for sewage. Evaluation of experimental data indicated that the analytical approach started with an empirical identification of soluble, colloidal and supra‐colloidal organic matter. Then, it evolved into a sequential filtration and ultrafiltration methodology, yielding results useful enough to be an integral complement of respirometric chemical oxygen demand (COD) fractionation based on biodegradation characteristics. Default values could be defined for the distribution of COD fractions in terms of both size and biodegradation characteristics, which practically showed similar profiles, suggesting that PSD of COD could be directly used for model evaluation and design of activated sludge configurations. Size distribution of COD in sewage should be regarded as a prerequisite for activated sludge systems with a membrane module, mainly to assess the fate of COD fractions that would be entrapped and recycled back to the reactor by membrane filtration. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrastructural features of the double capsulated connective tissue around silicone prostheses
Authors: Calderan Laura , Panettiere Pietro , Accorsi Danilo , Marchi Alessandra , Bernardi Paolo , Benati Donatella , Conti Giamaica , Chirumbolo Salvatore , Zingaretti Nicola , Parodi Pier Camillo , Cisterna Barbara , Sbarbati Andrea
Published: December 2020

The implantation of breast prostheses for both aesthetic and reconstructive purposes has been growing exponentially in the last 20 years. Safety and prosthesis lifespan are majorly debated issues in relation to the correlated long‐term complications. Mainly the periprosthetic capsule that develops around the implant is often the cause of complications and particularly for macrotextured silicone breast implants. Some reports have tried to elucidate the mechanism by which macrotextured silicone implants undergo damage and cause double capsule formation. In this study, we investigated the morphological characteristics of double capsule of macrotextured implants surgically removed from patients. With the use of microscopy techniques, this work analyzed the newly formed tissue observed in the interaction between synthetic and biological surfaces.
Usefulness of half‐covered metallic stent placement in preventing acute cholecystitis complication in pancreatic cancer‐induced distal biliary stricture
Authors: Takaoka Makoto , Shimatani Masaaki , Ikeura Tsukasa , Mitsuyama Toshiyuki , Miyamoto Sachi , Masuda Masataka , Ito Takashi , Nakamaru Koh , Miyoshi Hideaki , Okazaki Kazuichi , Naganuma Makoto
Published: December 2020

Background and Aim

A self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is commonly used for biliary stricture caused by pancreatic cancer. Covered SEMS may obstruct the cystic duct, causing acute cholecystitis. This study aimed to determine the outcomes of using a half‐covered SEMS with an offset covered portion for preventing cystic duct obstruction.

Methods

Among 80 patients with half‐covered SEMS placement for the treatment of pancreatic cancer‐induced distal biliary stricture, 74 were followed up. The half‐covered SEMS has a total length of 6 or 7 cm, and the offset covered part was 0.5–4.5 or 0.5–5.5 cm, respectively. Intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) and endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) were performed during the initial endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). IDUS findings and ENBD tube cholangiogram confirmed the cystic duct confluence. SEMS placement was performed on the second ERCP or several weeks after the initial tube stent placement.

Results

Half‐covered SEMS placement was successful in all patients. However, four (5.4%) patients exhibited early complications, including acute cholecystitis in one patient and stent displacement in another. Over 30 days, cholangitis, tumor growth, and stent displacement occurred in nine (11.3%), five (6.3%), and two (2.5%) patients, respectively. The median stent patency was 71.1 weeks, and the median overall survival in patients with and without chemotherapy was 31.8 and 12.2 weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

With confirmation of the cystic duct confluence, half‐covered SEMS placement may become a treatment option for distal biliary stricture caused by pancreatic cancer to prevent acute cholecystitis. Half‐covered SEMS patency was comparable with that of covered SEMS.
Prevalence and risk indicators of peri‐implant diseases in a group of Moroccan patients
Authors: Kissa Jamila , El Kholti Wafa , Chemlali Sihame , Kawtari Hajar , Laalou Younes , Albandar Jasim M.
Published: December 2020

Background

To report the prevalence of peri‐implant diseases in a North African patient population, and to assess the concurrent associations of patient‐ and implant‐level characteristics with probing depth and bone loss around dental implants

Methods

A total of 642 implants in 145 subjects were followed up for a mean 6.4 years. At the last follow‐up visit the subjects were examined clinically and radiographically to assess the status of peri‐implant tissues and teeth. Data analysis used the generalized linear mixed models

Results

The prevalence of peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis were 82.1% and 41.4% at the subject level, and 68.4% and 22.7% at the implant level, respectively. Inadequate plaque control, peri‐implant inflammation, history of previous implant failures, and pain/discomfort at the implant site were significantly associated with both outcomes (increased probing depth and bone loss). Diabetes mellitus, inadequate implant restoration, single restorations (versus multi‐unit), cement‐retained restorations, and presence of occlusal wear facets on teeth were significantly associated with one of the two outcomes. Implants placed in the lower anterior jaw region had the most favorable outcome. Smoking, history of periodontitis, and type of implant surface did not show significant associations with higher frequency of peri‐implant diseases in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Peri‐implant diseases are prevalent in this North African patient population. Multiple subject‐ and implant‐level variables were associated with peri‐implant diseases. Risk assessment of these effects should consist of a concurrent inclusion of these factors in multivariable analyses that also adjust for the complex variance structure of the oral environment.
Carboxymethyl cellulose/okara protein influencing microstructure, rheological properties and stability of O/W emulsions
Authors: Cai Yongjian , Huang Lihua , Tao Xia , Su Jiaqi , Chen Bifen , Zhao Mouming , Zhao Qiangzhong , Van der Meeren Paul
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

The role of protein–polysaccharide interactions and their mixtures has been a vital factor affecting the formation and stability of food emulsions. Okara protein (OP), which is extracted from the by‐product of soybean processing, has received much attention because of its abundant sources and potential attributes with respect to food formulation. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), a well‐known food‐grade polysaccharide additive, has been widely utilized in the protein–polysaccharide system, whereas, among the proteins, the role of OP has not yet been explored.

RESULTS

The present study first assessed the ζ‐potential and hydrodynamic diameter of aqueous mixtures containing OP (1.0 wt%) and CMC (0–0.5 wt%), followed by the investigation of OP‐CMC mixtures stabilized O/W emulsions. As CMC increased, oil droplet size, surface protein adsorption, apparent viscosity and storage modulus increased, whereas the loss tangent decreased.

CONCLUSION

CMC resulted in emulsion destabilization compared to emulsions without CMC, whereas a higher concentration of CMC promoted emulsion stability against creaming for emulsions in the presence of CMC. The results provide information with respect to OP and CMC being incorporated into food formulations and also strengthen our understanding of the related mechanism, in addition to facilitating the further utilization of OP. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Biostimulating effect of l‐tryptophan on the yield and chemical and microbiological quality of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) herbage and silage for ruminant
Authors: Przemieniecki Sebastian W , Purwin Cezary , Mastalerz Jędrzej , Borsuk Marta , Lipiński Krzysztof , Kurowski Tomasz
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of l‐tryptophan (l‐TRP) used in the cultivation of Lolium perenne on the yield, and chemical and microbiological quality of its herbage and silage. l‐Tryptophan was applied in doses of 5, 0.5, 0.05 kg ha−1. The experiment was conducted with a control group (C) and a comparative control group (C+) with higher nitrogen fertilization.

RESULTS

The dose of 5 kg ha−1 had a significant effect on herbage yield, which increased by 15% compared to group C and approximated the value achieved in group C+. The treatment with l‐TRP caused a significant increase in water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content only in Tr5 (165 g kg−1 DM), which was reflected in a more beneficial course of fermentation, lower pH (4.59), and a higher sum of fermentation acids, including lactic acid (94.7 g kg−1 DM). Ryegrass treatment with a high l‐TRP dose effectively reduced the loads of Clostridium spp. and fungi, and increased the count of Bacillus spp. The l‐TRP significantly reduced N‐NH3 content in Tr05 (98.6 g kg−1 TN) compared with C+ (123 g kg−1 TN) and butyric acid content in Tr05 (from 1.35 g kg−1 DM in the C to 0.38 g kg−1 DM).

CONCLUSION

The most effective dose turned out to be a dose of 5 kg ha−1, which allowed a higher yield and a better fermentation course to be achieved. This work presents the feasibility of using l‐TRP to optimize nutrient consumption by Lolium perenne and ultimately to affect the quality of its silage as a feedstuff. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
How olive washing and storage affect fruit ethanol and virgin olive oil ethanol, ethyl esters and composition
Authors: Beltran Gabriel , Hueso Antonio , Bejaoui Mohamed A , Gila Abraham M , Costales Raquel , Sánchez‐Ortiz Araceli , Aguilera Maria P , Jimenez Antonio
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Olives are stored for a short time after harvesting pending processing in the oil mills. Furthermore, olives are often washed prior to fruit storage. In this work we study how washing and storage affect fruit ethanol content and the effect on virgin olive oil ethanol content and quality.

RESULTS

Olive storage produced an increase in the fruit ethanol content, achieving values six times higher when storage was in silos. Washing the olives resulted in an increase in fruit ethanol content, although when washed olives were processed immediately no difference was found. The increase in fruit ethanol content during storage was reflected in higher oil ethanol concentration. Similarly, olive washing resulted in oils with higher ethanol concentration. Industrial conditions gave more important increases in oil ethanol content than that from olives processed by hand. For quality parameters all the olive oils were classified as ‘extra virgin’. In general, oils showed a slight decrease in some sensory attributes. At industrial scale after 24 h storage oils were classified as ‘virgin’ because sensory defects were found.

CONCLUSION

Olive storage should be avoided or reduced to less than 12 h; if possible, olives should not be washed before storage since this practice favors losses in sensory characteristics and the synthesis of ethanol, a precursor of ethyl esters. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary fibers fractionated from gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) husk: structure and in vitro hypoglycemic effect
Authors: Meng Xianghe , Wu Congcong , Liu Haizhen , Tang Qiwen , Nie Xiaohua
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) husk rich in dietary fiber is a byproduct of fructus processing, and commonly discarded as waste. The husk was fractionated by sequential extraction into four fractions: water‐soluble fiber (W‐SF), acid‐soluble fiber (Ac‐SF), alkali‐soluble fiber (Al‐SF) and insoluble residue fiber (IRF). The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in structure and in vitro hypoglycemic effect of these fibers.

RESULTS

Monosaccharide composition and Fourier transform infrared spectra showed that the major component might be pectin for W‐SF and Ac‐SF, xylan as well as pectin for Al‐SF and cellulose for IRF. These fibers offered excellent water‐holding capacity and swelling capacity, except that IRF was only slightly swellable in water. W‐SF exhibited significantly higher capacities to adsorb glucose (2.408 mmol g−1 at a glucose concentration of 200 mmol L−1) and inhibit α‐amylase activity (29.48–49.45% inhibition rate at a concentration of 4–8 mg mL−1), probably caused by the higher viscosity and hydration properties; while Ac‐SF, Al‐SF and IRF (especially Al‐SF) were more effective in retarding the glucose diffusion across a dialysis membrane (34.97–41.67% at 20–30 min), which might be attributed to particle size and specific surface area. All the fibers could quench the intrinsic fluorescence of α‐amylase to some degree.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary fiber from gardenia husk, especially W‐SF, can be used as a potential hypoglycemic ingredient in diabetic functional foods. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Improvement of the yield‐related response of mycorrhized Lallemantia iberica to salinity through sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria
Authors: Heydari Shabnam , Pirzad Alireza
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

To investigate the effects of salinity as a serious environmental limiter of productivity on the yield‐related traits of Lallemantia iberica, a split‐plot experiment was performed for 2 years (2017–2018) based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at Urmia University (37°33′09″N, 45°05′53″E). The main plots included salinity stress at two levels (6.72 dS m−1, and 0.91 dS m−1 as control), and subplots were inoculants at four levels (Funneliformis mosseae, Thiobacillus sp., F. mosseae + Thiobacillus sp., and no inoculation).

RESULTS

In the saline condition, serious reductions in yield and yield components (numbers of capsules per plant, seeds per capsule, and seeds per plant, 1000‐seed weight, seed and biological yields), concentrations of leaf phosphorus and potassium, and relative mycorrhizal dependency were observed, but against the harvest index the leaf sulfur and sodium contents were increased. Moreover, all morphological traits (plant height, number of branches and leaves, leaf weight, stem weight, and ratio of leaf weight to stem weight) were decreased under salinity conditions. Mycorrhizal inoculation enhanced the salinity‐induced reduction of yield and morphological traits to some extent. Inoculation with Thiobacillus had superiority in some of the yield and morphological characteristics compared with those in the non‐inoculated plants.

CONCLUSION

Salinity stress can significantly affect the yield, morphological characteristics, nutrients content, and mycorrhizal dependency of L. iberica plants. This study exhibited the significant effects of single and simultaneous applications of F. mosseae and Thiobacillus on plant growth and yield in saline soils. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Field phenotyping and quality traits of grass pea genotypes in South Italy
Authors: Sellami Mohamed houssemeddine , Pulvento Cataldo , Amarowicz Ryszard , Lavini Antonella
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Grass pea (Laithyrus sativusL.) is a rustic plant whose seeds are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, and it has been consumed as food by human beings since ancient times. This study was conducted in Italy between 2017and 2019 to evaluate, under field conditions, the stability of seed yield, biomass and 1000‐seed weight (THS) and to assess the antioxidant composition and activity of 11 grass pea accessions.

RESULTS

Analysis of variance revealed significant effects of the environment, accession and accession × environment (A × E) on the yield, above‐ground biomass and THS. We found that the environment (year) and A × E explained 52.61% and 23.76% of the total seed yield variation, respectively. No relationship was observed between the yield and the total protein of seeds. Most grass pea accessions showed sensitivity to frost conditions that occurred in the third growing season. The total phenolic content ranged from 50.51 to 112.78 mg 100 g−1seeds and antioxidant activity ranged from 0.576 to 0.898 mmol Trolox equivalents 100 g−1seeds and from 0.91 to 1.6 mmol Fe2+ 100 g−1seeds in 2,20‐azinobis‐3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid and ferric‐reducing antioxidant power, respectively. Among the accessions, the ‘Campi Flegrei’ and ‘di Castelcività’ showed the best performance with the highest yield and stability, phenolic content and superior antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that the yield of grass pea was mainly influenced by different climate conditions. This variability in yield, phenolic content and antioxidant activity among different accessions could help breeders and farmers select high‐performance accessions for cultivation. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Shelf‐life extension of pomegranate arils using chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Satureja hortensis essential oil
Authors: Amiri Azam , Ramezanian Asghar , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Hassan , Hosseini Seyed Mohammad Hashem , Yahia Elhadi
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted in two parts to improve the antimicrobial activity and stability of Satureja hortensis essential oil (SEO) and its impacts on the quality of pomegranate arils. In the first part, SEO was encapsulated by an ionic gelation technique into 142.2–267.7 nm chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs). In the second part of the experiment, the CSNPs and CSNPs‐SEO were applied to improve storability of pomegranate arils. Arils were dipped in water (control), CSNPs and CSNPs‐SEO for 5 min. After superficial water removal, arils were packed into polystyrene boxes and stored at 5 °C for 18 days.

RESULTS

Based on spectrophotometry analysis, the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of SEO‐loaded CSNPs (CSNPs‐SEO) decreased from 26.57% to 7.41% and their loading capacity (LC) increased from 4.72% to 6.17%, respectively, upon increasing the initial SEO content from 0.125 to 0.5 g g−1 of chitosan. Phytochemicals and water content were maintained, and microbial counts were reduced in the coated arils during storage. Total phenol and antioxidant activity decreased during storage. At the end of storage, the highest total phenol content (2980.0 mg gallic acid equivalents L−1) was found in arils treated with CSNPs‐SEO, whereas ascorbic acid content was maximal (6.32 mg L−1) in arils treated with CSNPs. The encapsulation of savory essential oil in chitosan nanoparticles did not have undesirable effects in pomegranate arils.

CONCLUSION

Pre‐storage treatment of pomegranate arils with CSNPs‐SEO could be considered a beneficial treatment to better maintain the biochemical and sensorial quality during storage. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of salt stress on the growth, mineral contents, and metabolite profiles of spinach
Authors: Kim Bo‐Min , Lee Hyeon‐Jeong , Song Yeong H , Kim Hyun‐Jin
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Increased soil salt concentration decreases productivity and changes the physiological and chemical properties of plants. Various omics technologies have been used to understand the salt response in plants but overall changes in the metabolite profiles of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) under salt stress have not been studied. In this article, therefore, the changes in mineral and metabolite profiles of spinach plants cultivated with different NaCl concentrations of 0–200 mmol L–1 in the irrigation water were analyzed to investigate the effect of salt stress on nutritional quality.

RESULTS

Increasing NaCl concentration decreased plant growth due to mineral imbalance. The amounts of minerals (K+, Ca2+, and Fe2+) were reduced with increasing NaCl concentration, resulting in altered ratios of Na+:K+ and Na+:Ca2+. The change in the mineral ratios due to NaCl irrigation led to a decrease in the height and an increase in the weight of spinach. Moreover, the profiles of 32 metabolites, including flavonoids, amino acids, acidic compounds, sugars, and lipid‐related compounds, were altered by NaCl irrigation; most of them showed decreased levels. In particular, at 200 mmol L–1 NaCl, the levels of sucrose, glutamic acid, hexose sugars, and acidic compounds significantly decreased upon NaCl irrigation. Based on these metabolites, a salt‐stress‐related spinach metabolomic pathway was proposed.

CONCLUSION

Sodium chloride irrigation increased mineral imbalance, resulting in decreased plant growth, and the levels of most metabolites involved in energy production, sensory quality, and health benefits decreased with NaCl irrigation. The results suggest that NaCl irrigation negatively affects the nutritional quality of spinach. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of geographical origin of concentrated apple juice through analysis of stable isotopic and mineral elemental fingerprints: preliminary results
Authors: Liu Xiaohan , Zhao Yan , Mu Jian , Zhang Jinjie , Zhang Ang
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

With increasing attention being paid to food authenticity, the geographic origin of food has become a topic of interest for both consumers and producers. As far as we know, there are relatively few studies on the origin traceability of concentrated apple juice. The most commonly used methods of origin tracing research is by using stable isotopes and mineral elements technology, because these indicators are directly related to local geographical environment.

RESULTS

In this study, a discriminant model was established by determining the content of the stable isotopes (δ13C, δ18O) and 13 mineral elements (B, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Sr, V, Ba, Fe, Mg, Na, Ca and Cr) in concentrated apple juice. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA), principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) were employed for regional classification of samples. After data conversion and correlation analysis, spatial and quantitative prediction models were established using multiple linear regressions. Finally, the experimental results showed that the eight key variables(δ
13
C, δ
18
O, B, Ca, Mg, Cu, Sr and Na) selected by the analysis can be used to further characterize the production area.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that the carbon and oxygen isotopes combined with certain mineral elements can be used to indicate the origin of concentrated apple juice. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Distinguishing the Effects of Life Threat, Killing Enemy Combatants, and Unjust War Events in U.S. Service Members
Authors: Krauss Stephen W. , Zust Jeffrey , Frankfurt Sheila , Kumparatana Pam , Riviere Lyndon A. , Hocut Joy , Sowden Walter J. , Adler Amy B.
Published: December 2020

Although previous studies have identified behavioral health risks associated with combat exposure, it is unclear which types of combat events are associated with these risks, particularly regarding contrasts among the risks associated with life‐threatening experiences, killing combatants, and exposure to unjust war events, such as killing a noncombatant or being unable to help civilian women and children. In the present study, we examined surveys from 402 soldiers following deployment (i.e., baseline) and again 13 months later (i.e., Year 1). Regression analyses were conducted across a range of behavioral health (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, somatic, insomnia, aggression) and benefit‐finding measures, each controlling for two combat event categories while assessing the predictive utility of a third. The results suggested that life‐threatening events were associated with poor behavioral health at baseline, relative risk (RR) = 10.00, but not at Year 1,RR= 2.67. At both baseline and Year 1, killing enemy combatants was not associated with behavioral health,RRs = 1.67–3.33, but was positively associated with benefit‐finding,RRs = 26.67–40.00. Exposure to unjust war events was associated with a transdiagnostic pattern of behavioral health symptoms at baseline,RR= 40.00, and Year 1,RR= 23.33. Overall, the results suggest unjust war event exposure is particularly injurious, above and beyond exposure to other combat‐related events. Future research can build on these findings to develop clearer descriptions of the combat events that might place service members at risk for moral injury and inform the development of assessment and treatment options.
Widespread Lead Exposure in Golden Eagles Captured in Montana
Authors: Domenech Robert , Shreading Adam , Ramsey Philip , McTee Michael
Published: December 2020

Lead poisoning threatens many species of raptors, including golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos). Much of this lead likely comes from bullet fragments that remain in the carcasses of animals killed by hunters. The likelihood of lead exposure may peak during fall hunting seasons and early winter until carcasses from hunting become scarce. From 2011 to 2018 in western Montana, USA, we captured 91 golden eagles in winter, tested their blood lead levels (BLL), and outfitted a subset of birds (n = 29) with global positioning system [GPS] transmitters. Nearly all golden eagles (94.5%) had elevated BLL (≥10 μg/dL), and 8 of them had BLL above clinical exposure (>60 μg/dL), where they may lose coordination and experience a host of other neurological and physiological disorders. Golden eagles caught late in winter tended to have lower BLL than those caught earlier. At least 69% of the golden eagles equipped with GPS transmitters migrated northward, spending the summer throughout Alaska, USA, and northwestern Canada. Blood lead levels did not differ between migratory and nonmigratory golden eagles. Overall, elevated BLL are widespread among golden eagles throughout winter in western Montana. Promoting nonlead hunting ammunition in areas with high densities of golden eagles will reduce the birds' lead exposure. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Expression of apolipoprotein C1 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma: An oncogenic gene and a prognostic marker
Authors: Wang Hai‐Jun , Ma Yong‐Xiang , Wang Ai‐Hua , Jiang Yuan‐Shun , Jiang Xian‐Zhou
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to explore whether APOC1 expression has a function in the biological behavior of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cells and its possible mechanism. Bioinformatics analysis of data TCGA and OnComine was conducted to explore the expression pattern and prognostic value of APOC1, as well as the relationship between APOC1 expression and clinical indicators. Loss‐ and gain‐ of APOC1 function assays were carried out to assess the biological functions of APOC1. Western blotting was applied to detect protein expression. We revealed that APOC1 was upregulated in ccRCC tissues. APOC1 expression was related to gender, grade, pathologic‐T, pathologic‐stage, and pathologic‐M in patients with ccRCC. Meanwhile, Kaplan–Meier analysis evidenced that the high APOC1 expression indicated unfavorable outcomes of ccRCC. Functional experiments in vitro revealed that upregulation of APOC1 in UT33A cells promoted cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, while downregulation of APOC1 in 786‐O cells had the opposite effect. Furthermore, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) was activated in cells with upregulated APOC1 but inhibited in cells with down‐regulated APOC1. Collectively, our data suggested that APOC1 was overexpressed in ccRCC cells and promoted the malignant biological behaviors and EMT of ccRCC cells.
Health Literacy and Hearing Healthcare Use
Authors: Tran Emma D. , Vaisbuch Yona , Qian Z. Jason , Fitzgerald Matthew B. , Megwalu Uchechukwu C.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To assess whether health literacy is associated with: 1) degree of hearing loss at initial presentation for audiogram and 2) hearing aid adoption for hearing aid candidates.

Methods

We identified 1376 patients who underwent audiometric testing and completed a brief health literacy questionnaire at our institution. The association between health literacy and degree of hearing loss at initial presentation was examined using linear regression, adjusted for age, gender, marital status, education level, race, language, employment status, and insurance coverage. The association between health literacy and hearing aid adoption was examined in the subset of patients identified as hearing aid candidates using logistic regression, adjusted for demographic factors and insurance coverage.

Results

Patients with inadequate health literacy were more likely to present with more severe hearing loss (adjusted mean pure‐tone average [PTA] difference, 5.38 dB, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.75 to 8.01). For hearing aid candidates (n = 472 [41.6%]), health literacy was not associated with hearing aid adoption rate (odds ratio [OR] 0.85, 95% CI 0.40 to 1.76). Hearing aid coverage through Medicaid (OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.13 to 4.37), and moderate (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.58 to 4.69) or moderate–severe (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.19 to 4.16) hearing loss were associated with hearing aid adoption.

Conclusions

In our population, patients with low health literacy are more likely to present with higher degrees of hearing loss, but no less likely to obtain hearing aids compared with patients with adequate health literacy. Hearing loss severity and hearing aid coverage by insurance appear to be the main drivers of hearing aid adoption.

Level of Evidence

3Laryngoscope, 131:E1688–E1694, 2021
Absent Posterior Belly of Digastric Muscle
Authors: Yuen Sonia N. , Gengler Isabelle , Badhey Arvind K. , Tang Alice L. , Zender Chad
Published: December 2020

Objective

Report a unique case of absent posterior belly of digastric muscle, with a literature review and discussion of its clinical importance.

Methods

Present a case report and review the current literature including PUBMED search terms; “absent posterior digastric”, “digastric muscle”, “posterior belly”.

Results

While there were multiple reports of accessory anterior and posterior bellies and absence of anterior belly, there is a paucity of literature on absence of posterior belly of digastric muscle.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of an absent posterior belly of the digastric muscle. The posterior belly of the digastric muscle is an important landmark in neck dissection, and its absence makes knowledge of other anatomic landmarks critically important. Laryngoscope, 131:1501–1502, 2021
Soil seed bank characteristics in relation to different shrub species in semiarid regions
Authors: Hadinezhad Mahbubeh , Erfanzadeh Reza , Ghelichnia Hassan
Published: December 2020

Little information is available about the effects of different species of shrubs on the composition of the soil seed bank (SSB) in the semiarid regions. We determined the role of three dominant shrub species on SSB characteristics and evaluated their potential for their possible use in rangeland restoration projects. Fifteen sites, each containing three shrub species (Amygdalus scoparia, Daphne mezereum and Ebenus stellata) and a herbaceous patch (control) in close proximity, were sampled and their SSB density, species richness and diversity at 0–10 cm depth were determined. The results showed that the density of the SSB was highest under A. scoparia and lowest in the control. The highest SSB density of grasses was found under A. scoparia, while the highest SSB density of forbs was found under E. stellata. Species diversity of the SSB was significantly greater under E. stellata than under the other shrubs and control. This study revealed that the extent to which shrubs affected SSB characteristics did not only depend on the presence of shrubs, but also on the species of shrubs. These different roles of different species of shrubs on SSB are advised to be considered in the restoration of degraded areas through the SSB in the semiarid areas. In the case of changing management type from intensive grazing to extensive grazing or non‐grazing, the role of different shrub species in the conservation herbaceous species through their SSB can be different.