bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Regulation of uric acid and glyoxylate metabolism by UgmR protein in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Xu Xuejie , Yan Yunfang , Huang Jiadai , Zhang Zihao , Wang Zhihan , Wu Min , Liang Haihua 
Published: June 2022

SummaryThe opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa has evolved several systems to adapt to complex environments. The GntR family proteins play important roles in the regulation of metabolic processes and bacterial pathogenesis. In this study, we uncovered that the gene clusters of PA1513‐PA1518 and PA1498‐PA1502 in P. aeruginosa are required for uric acid and glyoxylate metabolism respectively. We also identified a GntR family regulator UgmR that is involved in regulation of uric acid and glyoxylate metabolism. Promoter activity measurement and biochemical assays revealed that the UgmR directly represses the transcriptional activity of PA1513‐PA1518 and PA1498‐PA1502, and this inhibition was relieved by the addition of uric acid. Importantly, further experiments showed that UgmR also participates in the glyoxylate shunt. Collectively, these findings contribute to a better understanding of the UgmR factor involved in uric acid and glyoxylate metabolism, which provide insights into the complex metabolic pathways in P. aeruginosa.
Evaluation of the close degree of the spatial relationship between natural enemies of tea gardens and Frankliniella intonsa based on variance analysis of cluster samples
Authors: Honghao Cheng , Shiyan Chen , Xiaomeng Wu , Yue Xu , Lin Zhang , Jiazhao Sun , Xiazhi Zhou , Yunding Zou , Shoudong Bi 
Published: June 2022

AbstractThe aim of this paper is to clarify the difference of spatial closeness between natural enemies and Frankliniella intonsa, and to provide a scientific basis for rational protection and utilization of natural enemies. This paper applied the block‐sample square difference analysis method, Gray correlation degree method, the aggregation intensity index method and
index method to study the difference in the closeness of the spatial relationship between F. intonsa and natural enemies when the number of F. intonsa and their natural enemies was the highest and the minimum area occupied by F. intonsa individuals and colonies in five tea plantations in Hefei, Anhui province in 2021 and four tea plantations in 2020. The results were as follows: 1) Tetragnatha squamata Karsch, Xysticus ephippiafus, Erigonidium graminicolum and Theridion Octomaculatum were the top four natural enemies closely related to F. intonsa in 2021. The top three natural enemies closely related to F. intonsa in 2020 were Tetragnatha squamata Karsch, Xysticus ephippiafus and Theridion Octomaculatum. Two years ago, Tetragnatha squamata Karsch and Xysticus ephippiafus were the same. 2) Cluster size did not change the distribution patterns of natural enemies and F. intonsa. 3) The aggregation of F. intonsa was caused by their own causes or some environmental factors, and the aggregation of natural enemies was caused by environmental factors. 4) In 2021, the minimum area occupied by individuals and groups of F. intonsa in tea gardens was 2m2, and in 2020, it was 8 m2.
Peppermint essential oil‐loaded solid lipid nanoparticle in gelatin coating: Characterization and antibacterial activity against foodborne pathogen inoculated on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillet during refrigerated storage
Authors: Laein Sara Safaeian , Khanzadi Saeid , Hashemi Mohammad , Gheybi Fatemeh , Azizzadeh Mohammad 
Published: June 2022

AbstractThe present study was conducted to determine the characterization and antibacterial activity of peppermint essential oil‐loaded solid lipid nanoparticle (PEO–SLN) and its impact on the quality of trout fillet stored at 4 ± 1°C for 12 days. The SLNs were prepared through a bath sonication technique. PEO–SLNs contained 0.2% (w/v) PEO in 2% of lipid phase glycerol monostearate (GMS) and tween 80 (1% w/v) used as a surfactant in the aqueous phase. The characterization parameter of PEO–SLN was evaluated, and the antibacterial activity of PEO–SLNs was conducted under in vitro conditions. Trout samples were analyzed for inoculatedPseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, andEscherichia coliO157:H7 during refrigerated storage. The mean particle size of PEO–SLNs was 154.83 ± 1.21 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.35 ± 0.01 and zeta potential was about −24.16 ± 0.51 mV. The results indicated that PEO–SLN had higher antibacterial activity than the free form of PEO and also when used in combination with gelatin coating (gel + PEO–SLN) had a significant effect on preventing microbial growth in trout fillets (p < 0.05). The most decreasing rate ofP. aeruginosa(1.92 log CFU/g),E. coliO157:H7 (0.71 log CFU/g), andL.monocytogenescount (1.69 log CFU/g) was seen in gel + PEO–SLN. These findings illustrated that PEO–SLNs could potentially be utilized in the food industry to increase the shelf life of fish fillets.
Acceptability of orange corn‐common bean as an alternative to corn–soybean complementary porridge in Malawi
Authors: Gama Aggrey Pemba , Matumba Limbikani , Munthali Justice , Namaumbo Sydney , Chimbaza Monica , Ngoma Theresa , Kammwamba Kondwani , Chisapo Gift , Chilembo Madalitso , Meleke Nyadani , Chirwa Rowland , Fungo Robert 
Published: June 2022

AbstractThis study assessed the acceptability of porridge from a corn‐common bean flour blend to increase the diversity of complementary foods in Malawi. Porridges prepared using commercial corn–soybean flour (C‐CSB), homemade orange corn–soybean flour (H‐CSB), and orange corn‐common bean flour (CCBB) were evaluated by 101 pairs of mothers and their respective children aged from 6 to 24 months. A home use test (HUT) setup was used in this study, and the flours were given sequentially to participating households following a randomized complete block design. Each sample type was evaluated for 3 days in a row followed by a 1‐day break (washout period) between sample types. Based on aggregate mean scores, all the samples were liked by both the children and their mothers. However, clustering results revealed two distinct consumer segments for mothers as well as for children. Most of the mothers (59.4% in cluster 1) liked all the samples, while the minority (cluster 2) were neutral (neither like nor dislike) regarding the H‐CSB porridge. Likewise, most children (66.3% in cluster 2) liked all the samples, while the rest in cluster 1 did not like CCBB porridge. Infants (≤12 months) and those from food‐insecure households, respectively, were 5.42 and 6.75 times more likely to like the CCBB porridge than their counterparts. The study has demonstrated the potential of introducing CCBB complementary porridge in Malawi and possibly in other countries with similar food preferences and socioeconomic stature.Practical ApplicationThe study provides a solution to the limited diversity of complementary foods in sub‐Saharan Africa and Malawi in particular. The findings can help food scientists, nutritionists, marketers, and policymakers develop strategies for promoting the consumption of orange corn‐common bean porridge. Furthermore, the findings can inform decisions on commercializing orange corn‐common bean flour by flour processors.
Evaluating Soil Conservation Effectiveness: An Investigation of Spatial Targeting, Conservation Adoption, and Financial Incentives
Authors: Fowler Ames F. , Boll Jan , Beall King Allyson 
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACTIdentifying and treating erosion‐prone, critical source areas (CSA) presents the opportunity to effectively address erosion at a watershed scale. Social and financial drivers of conservation adoption, however have buffered implementation. An integrated systems understanding is needed to identify internal feedbacks and potential synergistic conservation policies. We simulate the physical, social, and financial incentive interactions with a high‐level system dynamics model to understand the conservation adoption and subsequent erosion behavior of the system. A Bass diffusion model integrated with physical modeling results enables the simulation of CSA, the diffusion of innovations, and payment for conservation practices. Land retirement and tillage reduction best management practices are assessed for the dryland wheat farming region in the Inland Pacific Northwest of the United States. Model utility was confirmed with quantitative land management data and qualitative local expertise. Historical, voluntary‐based efforts to reduce erosion suffer marginal returns. We conclude that: (1) All targeting of CSA reduces long‐term erosion rates; (2) The most effective use of conservation funds, however, occurs when the diffusion of innovation mechanism is reinforced by broad‐scale payments for tillage reduction; and (3) By identifying and utilizing positive feedback, our simulations suggest large gains in erosion reduction and conservation fund efficiency are possible.
A mixed‐methods approach to improve the measurement of alcohol‐induced blackouts: ABOM‐2
Authors: Boness Cassandra L. , Gatten Natalie , Treece Mc Kenna , Miller Mary Beth 
Published: June 2022

AbstractBackgroundAlcohol‐induced blackouts describe memory loss resulting from alcohol consumption. Approximately half of college students report experiencing a blackout in their lifetime. Blackouts are associated with an increased risk for negative consequences, including serious injury. Research has documented two types of blackouts, en bloc (EB) and fragmentary (FB). However, research is limited by the lack of a validated measure that differentiates between these two forms of blackout. This study used a mixed‐methods approach to improve the assessment of FB and EB among young adults. Specifically, we sought to improve the existing Alcohol‐Induced Blackout Measure (ABOM), which was derived from a relatively small pool of items that did not distinguish FB from EB.MethodsStudy 1 used three rounds of cognitive interviewing with U.S. college students (N = 31) to refine existing assessment items. Nineteen refined blackout items were retained for Study 2. Study 2 used face validity, factor analysis, item response theory, and external validation analyses to test the two‐factor blackout model among U.S. heavy‐drinking college students (N = 474) and to develop and validate a new blackout measure (ABOM‐2).ResultsIterative factor analyses demonstrated that the items were well represented by correlated EB and FB factors, consistent with our hypothesis. External validation analyses demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity. These analyses also provided preliminary evidence for the two factors having differential predictive validity (e.g., FB correlated with enhancement drinking motives, while EB correlated with coping and conformity motives).ConclusionsThe Alcohol‐Induced Blackout Measure‐2 (ABOM‐2) improves the measurement of blackout experiences among college students. Its use could facilitate the examination of EB and FB as differential predictors of alcohol‐related outcomes in future studies.
African agricultural development: How are we contributing?
Authors: Vink Nick 
Published: June 2022

AbstractA database of journal articles and conference papers that cover the economics of agricultural development in Africa during the period 2016–2020 was compiled. These papers are first described in terms of demographic and bibliometric criteria, followed by a network analysis of the main centers of origin and of influence of this research. Finally, three different processes were used to test the policy relevance of the work. These include a simple enumeration of the policy recommendations in a sample of the papers, a megatrend analysis, and a comparison of their focus with the standard narrative of the role of agriculture in economic development. The results show that a large proportion of the literature is not forward‐looking, and is weak on policy relevance. We ignore a number of issues that engage the attention of those concerned with implementing structural change in agriculture across the many very different but very real natural resource, political, social, economic, and technological environments around the continent.
Observer‐driven pseudoturnover in vegetation monitoring is context‐dependent but does not affect ecological inference
Authors: Boch Steffen , Küchler Helen , Küchler Meinrad , Bedolla Angéline , Ecker Klaus T. , Graf Ulrich H. , Moser Tobias , Holderegger Rolf , Bergamini Ariel 
Published: June 2022

AbstractAimsResurveys of vegetation plots are prone to several errors that can result in misleading conclusions. Minimizing such errors and finding alternative approaches for analyzing resurvey data are therefore important. We focused on inter‐observer error and excluded other sources of variation. Our main questions were: How large is the inter‐observer error (i.e. pseudoturnover) in vegetation surveys, and can it be reduced by simple data aggregation approaches? Which factors are affecting pseudoturnover and does it vary between morphological species groups or change over time? Is ecological inference robust against inter‐observer differences?LocationSwitzerland.MethodsOver seven years, we double‐surveyed a total of 224 plots that were marked once in the field and then sampled by two observers independently on the same day. Both observers conducted full vegetation surveys, recording all vascular plant species, their cover, and additional plot information. We then calculated mean ecological indicator values and pseudoturnover.ResultsAverage pseudoturnover was 29% when raw species lists were compared. However, by applying simple aggregation steps to the species list, pseudoturnover was reduced to 17%. Pseudoturnover further varied among habitat types and declined over the years, indicating a training effect among observers. Most overlooked taxa, responsible for pseudoturnover, had low cover values. Mean ecological indicator values were robust against inter‐observer differences.ConclusionsTo minimize pseudoturnover, we suggest continuous training of observers and species‐list aggregation prior to analysis. As mean ecological indicator values were robust against inter‐observer differences, we conclude that they can provide a reliable estimate of temporal vegetation and ecological changes.
Phase IIb study of pembrolizumab combined with S‐1 + oxaliplatin or S‐1 + cisplatin as first‐line chemotherapy for gastric cancer
Authors: Yamaguchi Kensei , Minashi Keiko , Sakai Daisuke , Nishina Tomohiro , Omuro Yasushi , Tsuda Masahiro , Iwagami Shiroh , Kawakami Hisato , Esaki Taito , Sugimoto Naotoshi , Oshima Takashi , Kato Ken , Amagai Kenji , Hosaka Hisashi , Komine Keigo , Yasui Hisateru , Negoro Yuji , Ishido Kenji , Tsushima Takahiro , Han Shirong , Shiratori Shinichi , Takami Tomoko , Shitara Kohei 
Published: June 2022

AbstractThe KEYNOTE‐659 study evaluated the efficacy and safety of first‐line pembrolizumab plus S‐1 and oxaliplatin (SOX) (cohort 1) or S‐1 and cisplatin (SP) (cohort 2) for advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer in Japan. Herein, we update the results of cohort 1 and describe the results of cohort 2. This open‐label phase IIb study enrolled patients with advanced programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1)‐positive (combined positive score ≥ 1) human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐negative G/GEJ adenocarcinoma. The primary end‐point was the objective response rate (ORR). Other end‐points were duration of response (DOR), disease control rate (DCR), progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety. One hundred patients were enrolled. In cohorts 1 and 2, median follow‐up time was 16.9 and 17.1 months; ORR (central review), 72.2% and 80.4%; DOR, 10.6 and 9.5 months; DCR (central review), 96.3% and 97.8%; median PFS (central review), 9.4 and 8.3 months; and median OS, 16.9 and 17.1 months, respectively. Treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in all patients, including peripheral sensory neuropathy (94.4%, cohort 1), decreased neutrophil count (82.6%, cohort 2), nausea (59.3% and 60.9% in cohorts 1 and 2), and decreased appetite (61.1% and 60.9% in cohorts 1 and 2). Grade 3 or higher TRAEs were reported by 59.3% (cohort 1) and 78.3% (cohort 2), including decreased platelet count (14.8%, cohort 1) and decreased neutrophil count (52.2%, cohort 2). Pembrolizumab in combination with SOX or SP showed favorable efficacy and safety in patients with PD‐L1‐positive, HER2‐negative G/GEJ adenocarcinoma.
High‐resolution hippocampal diffusion tensor imaging of mesial temporal sclerosis in refractory epilepsy
Authors: Chau Loo Kung Gustavo , Chiu Andrew , Davey Zach , Mouchawar Nicole , Carlson Mackenzie , Moein Taghavi Hossein , Martin Douglas , Graber Kevin , Razavi Babak , McNab Jennifer , Zeineh Michael 
Published: June 2022

AbstractObjectiveWe explore the possibility of using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) to discern microstructural abnormalities in the hippocampus indicative of mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) at the subfield level.MethodsWe analyzed data from 57 patients with refractory epilepsy who previously underwent 3.0‐T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including DTI as a standard part of presurgical workup. We collected information about each subject's seizure semiology, conventional electroencephalography (EEG), high‐density EEG, positron emission tomography reports, surgical outcome, and available histopathological findings to assign a final diagnostic category. We also reviewed the radiology MRI report to determine the radiographic category. DTI‐ and NODDI‐based metrics were obtained in the hippocampal subfields.ResultsBy examining diffusion characteristics among subfields in the final diagnostic categories, we found lower orientation dispersion indices and elevated axial diffusivity in the dentate gyrus in MTS compared to no MTS. By similarly examining among subfields in the different radiographic categories, we found all diffusion metrics were abnormal in the dentate gyrus and CA1. We finally examined whether diffusion imaging would better inform a radiographic diagnosis with respect to the final diagnosis, and found that dentate diffusivity suggested subtle changes that may help confirm a positive radiologic diagnosis.SignificanceThe results suggest that diffusion metric analysis at the subfield level, especially in dentate gyrus and CA1, maybe useful for clinical confirmation of MTS.
A possible role for river restoration enhancing biodiversity through interaction with wildfire
Authors: Pugh Brittany E. , Colley Megan , Dugdale Stephen J. , Edwards Patrick , Flitcroft Rebecca , Holz Andrés , Johnson Matthew , Mariani Michela , Means‐Brous Mickey , Meyer Kate , Moffett Kevan B. , Renan Lisa , Schrodt Franziska , Thorne Colin , Valman Samuel , Wijayratne Upekala , Field Richard 
Published: June 2022

AbstractBackgroundHistorically, wildfire regimes produced important landscape‐scale disturbances in many regions globally. The “pyrodiversity begets biodiversity” hypothesis suggests that wildfires that generate temporally and spatially heterogeneous mosaics of wildfire severity and post‐burn recovery enhance biodiversity at landscape scales. However, river management has often led to channel incision that disconnects rivers from their floodplains, desiccating floodplain habitats and depleting groundwater. In conjunction with predicted increases in frequency, intensity and extent of wildfires under climate change, this increases the likelihood of deep, uniform burns that reduce biodiversity.Predicted synergy of river restoration and biodiversity increaseRecent focus on floodplain re‐wetting and restoration of successional floodplain habitat mosaics, developed for river management and flood prevention, could reduce wildfire intensity in restored floodplains and make the burns less uniform, increasing climate‐change resilience; an important synergy. According to theory, this would also enhance biodiversity. However, this possibility is yet to be tested empirically. We suggest potential research avenues.Illustration and future directionsWe illustrate the interaction between wildfire and river restoration using a restoration project in Oregon, USA. A project to reconnect the South Fork McKenzie River and its floodplain suffered a major burn (“Holiday Farm” wildfire, 2020), offering a rare opportunity to study the interaction between this type of river restoration and wildfire; specifically, the predicted increases in pyrodiversity and biodiversity. Given the importance of river and wetland ecosystems for biodiversity globally, a research priority should be to increase our understanding of potential mechanisms for a “triple win” of flood reduction, wildfire alleviation and biodiversity promotion.
High toughness transparent glass‐ceramics with petalite and β‐spodumene solid solution as two major crystal phases
Authors: Luo Ye , Qu Conghang , Mauro John C. 
Published: June 2022

AbstractLithium aluminosilicate glass‐ceramics are well known for good transparency, high fracture toughness, low thermal expansion, and good ion exchange ability. In this study, new transparent Li2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 (LAS) glass‐ceramics with petalite and β‐spodumene solid solution as the major crystalline phases were invented for favorable mechanical properties and potential for application in the hollowware, tableware, container, and plate glass industries. Crystal phases are mainly influenced by the ratio of Al2O3 to SiO2 concentrations. The concentration of SiO2 required to form specific crystalline phases in the glass‐ceramics is higher than that inferred from the ternary phase diagram. Al2O3 content is required to be sufficiently high for the formation of crystals, instead of balancing excess amounts of Li2O in the glass. The average transmittances of 2.0 ± 0.1 mm thickness samples in visible light regions (400–700 nm) can reach more than 80% with crystal sizes of 20–40 nm. Transmittance is significantly decreased for heat treatments around 710°C, due to the high growth rate of β‐spodumene solid solution crystals. Vickers hardness, indentation toughness, and crack probabilities of transparent LAS glass‐ceramics are significantly improved compared with standard soda lime silicate glass, due to the crack bridging and deflection of crystal grains.