bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spring precipitation amount and timing predict restoration success in a semi‐arid ecosystem
Authors: Denton Elsie M. , Sheley Roger L. , Hardegree Stuart P. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Successful restoration of semi‐arid ecosystems remains a challenging problem. Many studies have tried to elucidate the factors that limit seedling establishment so that mitigating actions can be taken during restoration. However, most studies have been plot‐based trials on individual sites that encompass only 1 or 2 years of meteorological variation. This limits the inferences that can be drawn.

To move beyond short‐term research, we examined seedling establishment after the first growing season on 48 public lands sites undergoing restoration in the sagebrush steppe of the northern Great Basin over the course of 5 years (2016–2020), while simultaneously accounting for a broad suite of biotic (five), abiotic site (six), management (five) and weather variables (29). All these variables have been previously identified as influencing successful restoration.

Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and a random forest algorithm, we identified nine variables associated with surviving seedlings at the end of the first growing season. Seedling establishment averaged 9.6 (±10.2 SD) individuals m−2.

Precipitation variables accounted for 75% of the explained variation in seedling survival. April precipitation was the largest contributor and accounted for 27% of explained variation. Average length of dry period in February and number of rainfall events >5 mm March–May were also important predictors of survival, accounting for 13% and 10% of the explained variation, respectively. Only one biotic variable (annual grass density) and one management variable (drill seeding) accounted for more than 5% of the explained variance by the model.

While temperature may be important in many models of seedling establishment, water availability during the emergence period (February–April) appeared to play the most important role determining the number of seedlings surviving at the end of the first growing season in this study.

Synthesis and applications. The importance of April precipitation in predicting seedling establishment densities makes it a variable that should be included in restoration success forecasting models. Similarly, since dry periods and precipitation frequency combined explain nearly as much variation in establishment, efforts should be made to improve seasonal forecasting to include predictions of frequency and event size.
Medicalising agents? Teachers’ uncertainty and emerging expertise in the age of inclusion policy and medicalisation in Israel
Authors: Plotkin‐Amrami Galia , Feniger Yariv , Umansky Yam 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a paradigmatic case for childhood medicalisation. Critical studies of medicalisation have pointed to the increasing clinical role of schools, with teachers tending to rely on medical treatment of students with ADHD and are perceived as a primary source of diagnostic information. Based on 27 semi‐structured interviews with teachers working in two Israeli elementary and middle schools, this research explored how teachers mediate the medicalisation process and understand their responsibilities in the classroom amidst the emphasis on inclusion in contemporary Israel. We found that teachers offer a wide range of explanations of the disorder and its prevalence, and their attitudes to medication are ambivalent. We argue that teachers develop pedagogical (lay) expertise in the field of ADHD in parallel with and in opposition to medical solutions. Such expertise is based on practical experience and close interaction with students. A top‐down ideological imperative of inclusion, combined with uncertainty about ADHD, has generated a bottom‐up set of preformative practices of ‘containment’ of troubled students. Teachers’ emerging knowledge and practices raise questions about the relationship between medicalisation, policy, expertise and the pragmatic value of medical categories when applied outside the medical establishment.
PAX1/SOX1 DNA Methylation Versus Cytology and HPV16/18 Genotyping for the Triage of High‐Risk HPV‐Positive Women in Cervical Cancer Screening: Retrospective Analysis of Archival Samples
Authors: Chan Karen K. L. , Liu Stephanie S. , Lau Lesley S. K. , Ngu Siew Fei , Chu Mandy M. Y. , Tse K. Y. , Cheung Annie N. Y. , Ngan Hextan Y. S. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo compare the performance of cytology, HPV16/18 genotyping and PAX1/SOX1 methylation for the triage of high‐risk HPV‐positive cervical samples.DesignRetrospective analyses of archival samples collected from a large‐scale prospective randomised controlled trial.Setting/SampleHPV‐positive women recruited from the general cervical screening population.Methods403 HPV‐positive samples including 113 normal, 173 low‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (LG‐CIN), 114 HG‐CIN and three cervical cancers. All samples were assessed by liquid‐based cytology, HPV genotyping and PAX1/SOX1 methylation.Main Outcome MeasuresAUC (area under the curve), sensitivity and specificity for cytology, HPV16/18 genotyping and PAX1/SOX1 methylation for high‐grade (HG) premalignant cervical lesions.ResultsPAX1 was more sensitive than cytology and HPV16/18 genotyping in detecting a HG lesion (CIN2+). The sensitivity for PAX1, SOX1, cytology and HPV16/18 were 73.5% (95% CI: 65.5–81.5), 41.9% (95% CI: 32.9–50.8), 48.7% (95% CI: 39.7–57.8) and 36.8% (95% CI: 28.0–45.5), respectively, and their respective specificities were 70.3% (95% CI: 65.0–75.6), 83.6% (95% CI: 79.3–87.9), 77.6% (95% CI: 72.8–82.5) and 67.1% (95% CI: 61.7–72.6), respectively. Overall, PAX1 gave the best AUC at 0.72. Adding SOX1 to PAX1 did not improve the AUC (0.68). Three hundred and twenty‐two women who did not have a HG lesion at baseline were followed up for two rounds of screening. Fewer women developed a HG lesion with a normal baseline PAX1 compared to women with a normal baseline cytology or negative HPV16/18 (8.4% vs. 14.5% and 17.5%, respectively).ConclusionPAX1 triage for referral to colposcopy in HPV‐positive women may be superior to cytology and HPV16/18 genotyping.
Review article: A primer for clinical researchers in the emergency department: Part XIII. Strategies to engage staff and enhance participant recruitment in emergency department research
Authors: O'Brien Sharon , Wilson Catherine , Duck Megan , Nieva Gaby , Rao Medhawani P , Haskell Libby 
Published: September 2024

AbstractConducting research in ED is important and necessary to improve emergency care. Effective recruitment is an essential ingredient for the success of a research project and must be carefully monitored. Research coordinators are focused on optimising recruitment to research studies while also ensuring that the needs of participants and their families are met, and the research is acceptable to ED staff. In this paper, a group of experienced research coordinators from Australia and New Zealand have shared their strategies to engage staff and enhance recruitment of participants in emergency research. Although this paper is from a paediatric research network, the findings are applicable for EDs in general, both in Australasia and elsewhere.
Plant‐based egg washes for use in baked goods: Machine learning and visual parameter analysis
Authors: Benbow Kara , Helmick Harrison , Kokini Jozef L. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPea protein is one potential environmentally sustainable way of recreating the functionality of eggs in coatings for baked goods. These coatings are commonly applied to enhance visual properties of baked goods that consumers desire, especially color and gloss. This project used a simplified pie crust formulation (flour, shortening, and water) as a model baked good system to investigate color and gloss properties of pea protein coatings comprising three pea protein glycerol ratios, prepared at 2 pH values, and applied at three different weights, baked for either 15 or 30 min. Pictures were also taken and used to estimate L*, a*, and b* colorimeter values from images using random forest and artificial neural network models developed using SciKit‐Learn. Image acquisition was also conducted at different lighting conditions and the results are corrected utilizing a principal component analysis (PCA) weighting approach. Results show that pea protein glycerol solutions are all glossier than egg washes, and the 80%/20% ratio gives the highest glossiness. Furthermore, there are not significant differences in any of the colorimeter values at any concentration when applying 1 g of protein. The artificial neural network model coupled with PCA weighting led to reasonable estimates of color at different lighting conditions. Together, these results offer an alternative for the use of pea protein/glycerol in lieu of egg washes.
Microencapsulation of total saponins from stem and leaf of Panax notoginseng by freeze and spray drying: Process optimization, physicochemical properties, structure, antioxidant activity, and stability
Authors: Hu Yunfei , Zhang Hui , Lu Yan , Ao Donghui , Liang Zhengwei , Zhao Ming , Yang Shengchao , Tang Qingyan 
Published: September 2024

AbstractGinsenosides are the primary active substance in ginseng plants and have a variety of benefits. However, its light and heat stability are weak and easy to decompose. This study used gum arabic (GA) and maltodextrin (MD) as wall materials, and 1% Tween 80 was used as emulsifier. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the preparation process of total saponins in the stems–leaves of Panax notoginseng (SLPNs) (SSLP) microcapsules by spray drying and freeze drying techniques. Under optimal process conditions, the two microcapsules have better solubility and lower moisture content (MC). The color of spray‐dried SSLP microcapsules was greener and bluer, and the color was brighter. In morphology, the spray‐dried SSLP microcapsules were spherical with a slightly shrunk surface, whereas the freeze‐dried ones were lamellar and porous. The two microcapsules have strong stability under different storage conditions and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion simulation. In addition, both microcapsules and free SSLP contained multiple ginsenosides. At the same time, both microcapsules had good free radical scavenging ability. These results indicate that the microencapsulation technology could improve the stability and bioavailability of SSLP, which is expected to provide a reference for the intensive processing of the SLPN.Practical ApplicationAfter microencapsulation, the stem and leaf extract of Panax notoginseng improved its stability and taste, which laid a foundation for making more nutritious and better tasting food of the stem and leaf of P. notoginseng.
Assessment of the effect of lactic acid bacteria fermentation on IgE‐/IgG‐binding ability and nutritional properties of cow milk
Authors: Liang Xiaona , Qu Yezhi , Yan Shuangping , Wang Jing , Sha Yicheng , Zhang Meng , Sun Yufei , Xie Xianxiang , Song Huwei , Zhao Shanshan , Hu Li 
Published: September 2024

AbstractCow milk (CM) is an important food source for humans, and food allergy caused by CM has attracted attention worldwide. To our knowledge, systematic studies about the effects of Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Pediococcus pentosaceus on the IgE‐/IgG‐binding ability and nutritional properties of CM are very rare. In this study, L. paracasei, L. plantarum, and P. pentosaceus fermentation on the IgE‐/IgG‐binding ability was determined by Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and the protein quality, amino acid profile, and color were systematically evaluated. The results showed that these LAB strains exhibited higher protein degradation ability, and the IgE reactivity reduction rate was 41.03%–60.00% and the IgG reduction rate was 29.86%–67.20%, respectively. Additionally, the nutritional value was improved obviously, and the color was altered significantly, which was conductive to develop dairy products. These findings provided a theoretical foundation for the development of hypoallergenic dairy products.Practical ApplicationIn this study, L. paracasei, L. plantarum and P. pentosaceus could be considered as good potential candidates for solving cow milk allergy owing to their decreased IgE/IgG binding ability andimproved nutritional and sensory properties, which provide a promising strategy to develop hypoallergenic dairy products.
Exploring the genetic variability, virulence factors, and antibiotic resistance of Listeria monocytogenes from fresh produce, ready‐to‐eat hummus, and food‐processing environments
Authors: Toit Samantha Anne du , Rip Diane 
Published: September 2024

AbstractListeria monocytogenes is ubiquitous in nature and persistent in food‐processing facilities, farms, retail stores, and home and restaurant kitchens. Current research suggests ready‐to‐eat (RTE) products (including RTE hummus and fresh produce) to be of increasing interest and concern. These foods are typically stored at refrigeration temperatures suited to the survival of L. monocytogenes and are consumed without further processing. Since L. monocytogenes is ubiquitous in agricultural environments, the cultivation of fresh produce predisposes it to contamination. The contamination of RTE foods originates either from raw ingredients or, more commonly, from cross‐contamination within food‐processing facilities. Research on the food‐processing environment has been recommended to reduce the incidence of L. monocytogenes in foods. The consumption of contaminated foods by immunocompromised individuals causes invasive listeriosis, with a 20% to 30% fatality rate despite treatment. The emergence of antibiotic‐resistant strains has reduced the effectiveness of modern medicine and may increase morbidity and mortality. Without epidemiological surveillance and identifying trends in disease determinants, no action can be taken to improve food safety and mitigate the risk of such outbreaks.
Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.) seed extract on glycemic index, in vitro digestibility, and physical characterization of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) starch
Authors: Mate Payal S. , Verma Vivek Chandra , Agrawal Sanjeev , Jaiswal Jai Prakash , Kumari Venugopalan Visha , Kumar Rajeev , Kumari Mala , Gaber Ahmed , Hossain Akbar 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDiabetes is a major health concern and is approaching epidemic proportions worldwide. In 2021, diabetes mellitus was responsible for 6.7 million deaths across the globe. Mortality due to diabetes is predicted to rise nearly 10‐fold by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. Wheat starch, which constitutes about 70% of the endosperm, is a key component of wheat grain. The rapid hydrolysis of wheat starch can result in elevated postprandial glucose levels, leading to diabetes. The increase in blood glucose levels is primarily due to carbohydrate hydrolysis, catalyzed by the enzymes α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase. Although various medications are available for treating diabetes, most of them are costly and may lead to adverse effects. Natural herbs like fenugreek are recommended in traditional medicine for regulating blood glucose levels. This investigation aimed to study the effect of fenugreek seed extract (FSE) on in vitro starch hydrolysis by pancreatic α‐amylase and the ultrastructure of starch. Wheat cultivars were characterized for their total starch, amylose content, and resistant starch content, and were screened for their predicted glycemic index. Microscopic studies were conducted to analyze the size and shape of starch granules and to compare native starch with starch treated with FSE. Significant inhibition of enzymatic starch hydrolysis was observed with FSE, with the maximum inhibitory effect caused by 0.2% FSE. These findings suggest that fenugreek could play a role in controlling blood glucose levels by reducing wheat starch hydrolysis and could be effective in managing diabetes.
Voucher‐based contingency management to promote treatment engagement in comorbid alcohol use disorder and alcohol‐related liver disease: A pilot theory‐informed qualitative study with service users
Authors: Hemrage Sofia , Parkin Stephen , Kalk Nicola , Shah Naina , Deluca Paolo , Drummond Colin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundEffective interventions for the management of alcohol‐related liver disease (ARLD) remain a gap in clinical practice, and patients' engagement with alcohol services is suboptimal. Based upon the principles of operant conditioning, contingency management (CM) is a psychosocial intervention th	at involves gradual, increasing incentives upon completion of treatment‐related goals such as treatment attendance.MethodsA pilot feasibility trial was conducted with 30 adult patients recruited from an inpatient clinical setting. Consecutive sampling was used to recruit patients presenting comorbid alcohol use disorder (AUD) and ARLD. Participants were randomized to integrated liver care (ILC), receiving hepatology and AUD care, or ILC with a voucher‐based CM intervention (intervention arm). A longitudinal qualitative approach was adopted to explore anticipated (Stage 1) and experienced acceptability (Stage 2). The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) guided semi‐structured in‐depth interviews and deductive analysis.ResultsThirty participants were enrolled in the pilot trial, and interviews were conducted with 24 participants at Stage 1 and seven at Stage 2. Over half of the cohort (54.2%, n = 13) presented decompensated liver disease, and an average of 179 units of alcohol were consumed per week. Overall positive views toward voucher‐based CM were noted, and explanatory data emerged across five TFA domains (intervention coherence, ethicality, self‐efficacy, perceived effectiveness, and affective attitude). The core aspects of the voucher‐based CM intervention matched participants' preferences and needs. Participants regarded CM as having a symbolic value and strengthening the therapeutic alliance with healthcare providers.ConclusionThe data support the scope of voucher‐based CM intervention to promote engagement with treatment services, and its potential to address the gaps in the care continuum in ARLD. The findings are of practical significance for developing person‐centered, tailored interventions for this clinical population. The outcomes of this investigation can inform decision‐making among stakeholders and healthcare providers and improve health outcomes for this clinical population.
Regulatory T cells and their role in allergic disease
Authors: Conrad Melanie L. , Barrientos Gabriela , Cai Xuejun , Mukherjee Saikat , Das Mrinmoy , Stephen‐Victor Emmanuel , Harb Hani 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe incidence of allergic diseases has been rising over the past decades, and this troubling trend coincides with environmental changes such as shifts in diet and increased antibiotic use, both of which can impact our immune system. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances, and it is known that regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a major role in immune system suppression and the generation of tolerance. However, new research suggests that Tregs can malfunction in environments that promote allergies. This review delves into Treg function, and how environmental factors can influence their ability to maintain immune homeostasis. Specifically, we explore the origins of Treg cells, as well as the mechanisms used for suppression of inflammation and tissue healing, with a concentration on food allergies, atopic dermatitis and asthma. Understanding Treg function in the context of a changing environment is crucial for developing new strategies to prevent and treat allergies.
Effects of parity, calving season, and previous lactation's milk yield on fertility of dairy cows on a commercial farm
Authors: Sasaki Yosuke , Kaneda Seishiro , Minamino Tomoya , Honkawa Kazuyuki , Horii Yoichiro 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis study investigated the effects of parity, season, and the previous lactation's milk yield on fertility in dairy cows. A total of 5,514 calving records for Holstein cows that calved between 2016 and 2018 on a single large dairy farm in Japan were used for analysis. The proportion of cows that get pregnant by 360 days after calving was defined as the percentage of all cows eligible for breeding that became pregnant. In the all‐cow model, pregnancy probability associated with both parity and calving season (p < 0.05). Pregnancy probability decreased with an increase in parity, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.75 (1.58–1.94) for parity 1, 1.25 (1.13–1.39) for parity 2, 1.15 (1.04–1.29) for parity 3, and 1.13 (1.00–1.27) for parity 4, relative to parity ≥5. In terms of calving season, the lowest pregnancy probability was found in spring, and the HRs relative to spring were 1.16 (1.07–1.26) for summer, 1.35 (1.24–1.47) for autumn, and 1.17 (1.07–1.27) for winter. In the multiparous‐cow model, pregnancy probability associated with the previous lactation's milk yield (p < 0.05), but not with parity or calving season. Cows with high and middle previous milk yields had lower pregnancy probabilities than those with low milk yields.
Time to lymphoma treatment within 24 months in ‘watch and wait’ follicular lymphoma is associated with inferior outcomes: A multicentre analysis
Authors: Liu Jing , Gao Fenghua , Zhang Tingting , Wang Jiesong , Li Zhiming , Liu Lihong , Zhou Hui , Zhang Xudong , Sun Xiuhua , Zhang Wei , Xu Bing , Su Liping , Wen Shujuan , Tao Rong , Bai Ou , Zou Liqun , Li Lanfang , Qiu Lihua , Qian Zhengzi , Zhou Shiyong , Song Yuqin , Zhang Qingyuan , Wang Xianhuo , Zhang Huilai 
Published: September 2024

SummarySome ‘watch and wait’ (W&W) FL patients suffer from rapid progression in a short term. Herein, we sought to identify these patients and also develop a risk score to screen them at diagnosis. Between 2008 and 2022, a total of 411 FL patients managed by the W&W strategy from 16 cancer centres were retrospectively enrolled in this study, and their time to lymphoma treatment (TLT) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were evaluated. Thirty‐five percent of W&W FL patients experienced TLT within 24 months (TLT24) after diagnosis. Their 5‐year PFS rate was significantly lower than those without treatment at 24 months (62.3% vs. 89.5%). In multivariable analysis, five factors were identified as independent predictors of TLT24: stages III–IV, β2 microglobulin ≥3 mg/L, lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio <3.8, bone marrow involvement and spleen enlargement (above umbilical line). Their AUCs for TLT24 were 0.76 (95% CI, 0.70–0.82) in the training cohort and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.67–0.85) in the validation cohort respectively. Risk groups were also associated with PFS (p < 0.001). In FL patients initially managed by W&W, TLT24 was associated with poor outcomes. This multivariable model helps screening for predicting TLT24, which may be useful to identify candidates for early interventional treatment.