bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biodiversity maintains soil multifunctionality and soil organic carbon in novel urban ecosystems
Authors: Schittko Conrad , Onandia Gabriela , Bernard‐Verdier Maud , Heger Tina , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Kowarik Ingo , Maaß Stefanie , Joshi Jasmin 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Biodiversity in urban ecosystems has the potential to increase ecosystem functions and support a suite of services valued by society, including services provided by soils. Specifically, the sequestration of carbon in soils has often been advocated as a solution to mitigate the steady increase in CO2 concentration in the atmosphere as a key driver of climate change. However, urban ecosystems are also characterized by an often high level of ecological novelty due to profound human‐mediated changes, such as the presence of high numbers of non‐native species, impervious surfaces or other disturbances. Yet it is poorly understood whether and how biodiversity affects ecosystem functioning and services of urban soils under these novel conditions.

In this study, we assessed the influence of above‐ and below‐ground diversity, as well as urbanization and plant invasions, on multifunctionality and organic carbon stocks of soils in non‐manipulated grasslands along an urbanization gradient in Berlin, Germany. We focused on plant diversity (measured as species richness and functional trait diversity) and, in addition, on soil organism diversity as a potential mediator for the relationship of plant species diversity and ecosystem functioning.

Our results showed positive effects of plant diversity on soil multifunctionality and soil organic carbon stocks along the entire gradient. Structural equation models revealed that plant diversity enhanced soil multifunctionality and soil organic carbon by increasing the diversity of below‐ground organisms. These positive effects of plant diversity on soil multifunctionality and soil fauna were not restricted to native plant species only, but were also exerted by non‐native species, although to a lesser degree.

Synthesis. We conclude that enhancing diversity in plants and soil fauna of urban grasslands can increase the multifunctionality of urban soils and also add to their often underestimated but very valuable role in mitigating effects of climate change.
Assessing the potential of amino acid δ13C and δ15N analysis in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Besser Alexi C. , Elliott Smith Emma A. , Newsome Seth D. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Understanding the structure and dynamics of food webs requires accurate estimates of energy flow among organisms. Bulk tissue carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis is often used to this end; however, the limitations of this technique can outweigh the benefits. The isotope analysis of individual amino acids is being increasingly employed to trace energy flow and estimate consumer trophic level. Central to this compound‐specific approach are the concepts of essential amino acid (AAESS) δ13C fingerprinting and amino acid (AA) δ15N β‐values, both of which have been understudied and are poorly constrained in terrestrial and freshwater producers.

We present AAESS δ13C data for 112 terrestrial and freshwater producers collected from two aridland habitats in the northern Chihuahuan Desert (New Mexico, USA) and AA δ15N data for a subset (n = 28) of these samples. We characterized AAESS δ13C fingerprints by performing linear discriminant analysis on the δ13C values of isoleucine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine and valine for four producer groups—C3 plants, C4 plants, CAM plants and filamentous green algae. We explored potential biochemical mechanisms underlying these AAESS δ13C fingerprints by calculating differences between the δ13C values of AAESS products and their AA precursors. This allowed us to estimate and compare isotopic discrimination for specific AAESS synthesis pathways across producer groups.

We found a near‐perfect separation of AAESS δ13C fingerprints among producer groups; all groups reclassified with >95% success within our multivariate framework. We also found varied isotopic discrimination for specific AAESS synthesis pathways among producer groups. Contrary to previous studies, we found no differences in β‐values between terrestrial C3 and C4 plants for any trophic‐source AA pairing. Furthermore, we found that Lys δ15N values were less variable and more closely related to bulk tissue δ15N values than Phe δ15N values in terrestrial and freshwater producers.

Synthesis. We conclude that AAESS δ13C fingerprints are a higher resolution tracer for freshwater food webs, where instream algae have overlapping bulk tissue δ13C values with terrestrial C3 plants. Additionally, βGlx‐Lys and βPro‐Lys are the best for AA δ15N‐based consumer trophic‐level estimates in freshwater food webs containing both terrestrial and aquatic resources.
The role of pathogen‐mediated insect superabundance in the East African emergence of a plant virus
Authors: Donnelly Ruairí , Gilligan Christopher A. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

One of the major crops for food security is cassava. Superabundant Bemisia tabaci whitefly, comprising unusually high landscape populations of the insect, have been implicated in cassava virus emergence. Studies have been unable to select from several hypotheses, however, as to the dynamic drivers of superabundant whitefly associated with the emergence in East Africa of severe cassava mosaic disease. One possibility is that pathogenic modification of infected plants can itself increase the growth of insect vector colonies on infected plants.

Through the modelling of population processes at the landscape scale we introduce a framework for analysing patterns in the association of disease and insect waves.

Our analyses demonstrate the role of pathogen‐mediated insect superabundance in a plant disease invasion.

Synthesis. An elevated abundance of insects at the landscape scale is frequently implicated in invasions of the plant pathogens that they carry. We advance ecological understanding of plant disease invasions by showing how landscape data can be used to investigate the causes of insect vector superabundance.
Sensory descriptors for pulses and pulse‐derived ingredients: Toward a standardized lexicon and sensory wheel
Authors: Chigwedere Claire M. , Wanasundara Janitha P. D. , Shand Phyllis J. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe organoleptic quality of pulses and their derived ingredients is fundamental in human utilization and evolution of food. However, the widespread use of pulses is hindered by their inherent sensorial aspects, which are regarded as atypical by the consumers who are unfamiliar to them. In most studies involving sensory assessment of pulses and pulse‐ingredients using classical descriptive analysis methods, assessors establish their own lexica. This review is a synthesis of descriptive terms by which sensations emanating from pea, chickpea, lentil, faba bean, dry bean, bambara groundnut, lupin, pigeon pea and cowpea, and their derived ingredients have been described in the literature. Studies involving sensory assessment of processed whole seeds, slurries of raw flour, slurries of protein extracted from raw flour, and food products containing components of pulses were considered. The terms are categorized into those denoting basic taste, aroma, flavor, and trigeminal sensations. Bitterness is the most widely perceived basic taste. Beany, which is broad and complex with subcharacter notes, is predominantly used to describe aroma and flavor. The frequency of use of the collated terms in the reviewed studies was used to establish a sensory wheel. Inconsistency in the use of descriptive terms in the literature necessitates establishment of a standard lexicon that can be applied in both classical and increasingly popular rapid descriptive methods (e.g., check‐all‐that‐apply) throughout the pulse value chain. This review is timely considering the dominance of pulses in plant‐based foods and their increasing appeal to the food industry.
Machine learning‐based modeling in food processing applications: State of the art
Authors: Khan Md. Imran H. , Sablani Shyam S. , Nayak Richi , Gu Yuantong 
Published: February 2022

AbstractFood processing is a complex, multifaceted problem that requires substantial human interaction to optimize the various process parameters to minimize energy consumption and ensure better‐quality products. The development of a machine learning (ML)‐based approach to food processing applications is an exciting and innovative idea for optimizing process parameters and process kinetics to reduce energy consumption, processing time, and ensure better‐quality products; however, developing such a novel approach requires significant scientific effort. This paper presents and evaluates ML‐based approaches to various food processing operations such as drying, frying, baking, canning, extrusion, encapsulation, and fermentation to predict process kinetics. A step‐by‐step procedure to develop an ML‐based model and its practical implementation is presented. The key challenges of neural network training and testing algorithms and their limitations are discussed to assist readers in selecting algorithms for solving problems specific to food processing. In addition, this paper presents the potential and challenges of applying ML‐based techniques to hybrid food processing operations. The potential of physics‐informed ML modeling techniques for food processing applications and their strategies is also discussed. It is expected that the potential information of this paper will be valuable in advancing the ML‐based technology for food processing applications.
Hangings in Newfoundland and Labrador: A 40‐year retrospective analysis of medical examiner data
Authors: Komar Debra , Denic Nebojsa , Marsh Bryan , Rumbolt Niki 
Published: February 2022

AbstractA comprehensive review of medical examiner data was undertaken of all hanging deaths in the Canadian Maritime province of Newfoundland and Labrador from 1982 to 2021. A total of 811 cases were identified representing suicidal, accidental, and undetermined manners of death. Variables examined included age; sex; seasonality; ligature type; location; time since death; prior attempts/suicidal ideation; presence/absence of a suicide note; and presence/absence of alcohol and drugs. Data subsets were generated, and additional analysis was conducted for hangings involving females; suicidal hangings occurring in the region of Labrador; and those who hanged themselves outdoors. Results indicate that females are choosing to kill themselves by hanging in rapidly increasing numbers. Outdoor suicides by hanging were more common in Newfoundland and Labrador (22.1%) than previously reported in Alberta (11.5%), Texas (5%), and Turkey (12–13%). Unique trends in seasonality were revealed, as were repeated incidents of suicidal clusters. The age distribution was skewed strongly toward youths (10 to 22 years of age), particularly in Labrador. Although Labrador represents only 5% of the total provincial population, it produced 20.1% of the total suicidal hangings in the study. The suicide rate in Canada has decreased by 24% over the past 40 years, yet the rates of suicidal hangings nationally and in Newfoundland and Labrador have increased during the same time period. With a better understanding of the circumstances under which people commit suicide by hanging within the province, it may be possible to target at‐risk groups to prevent future cases.
Impact of chemical modification by immersion with malic acid on the physicochemical properties and resistant starch formation in rice
Authors: Kim Ha Ram , Jeong Gyeong A. , Bae Ji‐Eun , Hong Jung Sun , Choi Hee‐Don , Lee Chang Joo 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe effects of immersion time on the physicochemical properties and resistant starch (RS) formation of malic acid‐treated rice were investigated. Malic acid treatment decreased the frequency of cracks within the rice kernel. The color (lightness) was significantly affected by the immersion time, reflecting the browning of rice. The degree of substitution gradually increased with the immersion time and reached a plateau after 12 h, and the intensity of the C=O bond peak detected in the Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy showed a similar trend. However, the crystallinity of rice decreased as the immersion time increased, which was confirmed by the X‐ray diffraction and thermal transition properties. A gradual increase in RS was observed as the immersion time and DS increased, ranging from 44.5% to 73.3%, reaching a maximum after 12 h of immersion. Therefore, 12 h was determined to be the optimal immersion time for maximizing RS content. This information about the structural characteristics and heat‐stable properties of malic acid‐treated rice in starch digestion can be used to develop a low‐digestible food ingredient and lead to further application of the study.Practical ApplicationThis study reported the preparation and physicochemical properties of malic acid‐treated resistant starch with different immersion times. This information could contribute to the structural characterization of resistant starch and the development of low‐calorie processed rice products.
Improving neuromuscular monitoring and reducing residual neuromuscular blockade via e‐learning: A multicentre interrupted time‐series study (INVERT study)
Authors: Thomsen Jakob Louis Demant , Mathiesen Ole , Hägi‐Pedersen Daniel , Skovgaard Lene T. , Østergaard Doris , Gätke Mona R. ,   the INVERT collaborator group
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundNeuromuscular monitoring should be applied routinely to avoid residual neuromuscular block. However, anaesthetists often refrain from applying it, even when the equipment is available. We aimed to increase neuromuscular monitoring in six Danish anaesthesia departments via e‐learning.MethodsInterrupted time series study, with baseline data from a previous study and prospective data collection after implementation of the module, which was available for 2 weeks from 21 November 2016. We included all patients receiving general anaesthesia with muscle relaxants until 30 April 2017. Main outcome was application of acceleromyography, grouped as succinylcholine only and non‐depolarising relaxants. Secondary outcomes were last recorded train‐of‐four ratio (non‐depolarising) relaxants and score on a ten‐question pre‐ and post‐course multiple‐choice test.ResultsThe post‐intervention data consisted of 6525 cases (3099 (48%) succinylcholine only, 3426 (52%) non‐depolarising relaxants). Analysing all departments, we found a positive pre‐intervention trend in application of acceleromyography for both groups, of estimated 7.5% and 4.8% per year, respectively (p < .001). The monitoring rate increased significantly for succinylcholine in two departments post‐intervention (p = .045 and .010), and for non‐depolarising relaxants in one department (p = .041), but followed by a negative trend of −37.0% per year (p = .041). The rate was already close to 90% at the time of the intervention and the mean last recorded train‐of‐four ratio was 0.97 (SD 0.21), also without a significant change. The median score on the post‐course test increased from 7 (IQR 5–8) to 9 (IQR 8–10) (p < .001, Wilcoxon Signed‐Ranks Test).ConclusionWe found no overall effect of the e‐learning module on application of neuromuscular monitoring, although the post‐course test indicated an effect on anaesthetists’ knowledge in this field.Trial registrationTrial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02925143. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02925143
Impact of the 2020 New Zealand COVID‐19 lockdown on participants in a community‐based, peer‐led fall prevention program
Authors: Smith Jim , Whittington Finn , Ackermann Charlotte , Clarke Regan , Hoten‐Walker Georgia , Kubba Yezen , Low Chin , Partridge Karina , Wang Chris , Dockerty John D. , Robertson Linda , Hale Leigh , Waters Debra L. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractObjectivesTo explore the impacts of the 2020 New Zealand COVID‐19 lockdown on peer‐led Steady as You Go (SAYGO) fall prevention exercise classes and members, and to develop recommendations for mitigating impacts during future lockdowns.MethodsSemi‐structured phone interviews were conducted with 20 SAYGO program participants and managers following the first COVID‐19 lockdown in New Zealand. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the General Inductive Approach.ResultsParticipants were between 67 and 88 years of age, predominantly female (90%) and NZ European (80%), with one participant identifying as NZ Māori. Three themes were constructed from the analysis: Personal Function and Well‐Being, Class Functioning and Logistics, and Future Strategies for Classes During Prospective Lockdowns. Participants used a range of strategies to stay connected with each other and continue the SAYGO exercises at home. Most participants and peer‐leaders reported that they maintained physical function during lockdown, although some had feelings of psychological distress and social isolation. Contact systems and resource distribution varied substantially between groups. Classes resumed post‐lockdown with only minor modifications and slightly decreased attendance.ConclusionsOverall, members of this peer‐led model of fall prevention classes demonstrated resilience during the COVID‐19 lockdown, despite some challenges. We propose three recommendations to address the challenges of maintaining existing peer‐led exercise classes in the context of prospective lockdowns: (1) develop a comprehensive contact detail register and plans for each group; (2) delivery of modified exercise classes remotely over lockdown; and (3) implementation of a nationwide IT education and resource program for older adults.
Activation of succinate receptor 1 boosts human mast cell reactivity and allergic bronchoconstriction
Authors: Tang Xiao , Rönnberg Elin , Säfholm Jesper , Thulasingam Madhuranayaki , Trauelsen Mette , Schwartz Thue W. , Wheelock Craig E. , Dahlén Sven‐Erik , Nilsson Gunnar , Haeggström Jesper Z. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundSUCNR1 is a sensor of extracellular succinate, a Krebs cycle intermediate generated in excess during oxidative stress and has been linked to metabolic regulation and inflammation. While mast cells express SUCNR1, its role in mast cell reactivity and allergic conditions such as asthma remains to be elucidated.MethodsCord blood‐derived mast cells and human mast cell line LAD‐2 challenged by SUCNR1 ligands were analyzed for the activation and mediator release. Effects on mast cell‐dependent bronchoconstriction were assessed in guinea pig trachea and isolated human small bronchi challenged with antigen and anti‐IgE, respectively.ResultsSUCNR1 is abundantly expressed on human mast cells. Challenge with succinate, or the synthetic non‐metabolite agonist cis‐epoxysuccinate, renders mast cells hypersensitive to IgE‐dependent activation, resulting in augmented degranulation and histamine release, de novo biosynthesis of eicosanoids and cytokine secretion. The succinate‐potentiated mast cell reactivity was attenuated by SUCNR1 knockdown and selective SUCNR1 antagonists and could be tuned by pharmacologically targeting protein kinase C and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase. Both succinate and cis‐epoxysuccinate dose‐dependently potentiated antigen‐induced contraction in a mast cell‐dependent guinea pig airway model, associated with increased generation of cysteinyl‐leukotrienes and histamine in trachea. Similarly, cis‐epoxysuccinate aggravated IgE‐receptor‐induced contraction of human bronchi, which was blocked by SUCNR1 antagonism.ConclusionSUCNR1 amplifies IgE‐receptor‐induced mast cell activation and allergic bronchoconstriction, suggesting a role for this pathway in aggravation of allergic asthma, thus linking metabolic perturbations to mast cell‐dependent inflammation.
Does metformin affect outcomes in COVID‐19 patients with new or pre‐existing diabetes mellitus? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ganesh Adithan , Randall Michael D. 
Published: February 2022

AimsThe COVID‐19 pandemic is a global public health emergency and patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are disproportionately affected, exhibiting more severe outcomes. Recent studies have shown that metformin is associated with improved outcomes in patients with COVID‐19 and DM and may be a potential candidate for drug repurposing. We aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on outcomes in patients with COVID‐19 and DM.MethodsDatabases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, Clinicaltrials.gov and Cochrane library) were searched up to 10 April 2021 for studies reporting data on metformin use in COVID‐19 patients with DM. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Certainty of evidence was rated using the GRADE approach. The primary outcome was mortality reported as odds ratio (OR). A random‐effects meta‐analysis was carried out on both unadjusted and adjusted ORs. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42020221842.ResultsIn total, 2 916 231 patients from 32 cohort studies were included in the quantitative and qualitative synthesis. The meta‐analysis showed that metformin was significantly associated with lower mortality in COVID‐19 patients with DM in both unadjusted (OR 0.61 [95% confidence interval: 0.53–0.71], P < .00001, I2 = 70%) and adjusted (OR 0.78 [95% confidence interval: 0.69–0.88], P < .00001, I2 = 67%) models.ConclusionPoor outcomes in COVID‐19 patients with DM can be attributed to inadequate glycaemic control and weakened immune responses. Metformin has multiple effects that can improve outcomes in patients with DM and our findings highlight a possible role of its use. However, robust randomised trials are needed to thoroughly assess its use.
The dynamics of working hours and wages under implicit contracts
Authors: Guerrazzi Marco , Giribone Pier Giuseppe 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this paper, we explore the dynamics of working hours and wages in a model economy where a firm and its workforce are linked to each other by an implicit contract. Specifically, we develop a deterministic and a stochastic framework in which the firm sets its level of labor utilization by considering that workers' earnings tend to adjust in the direction of a fixed level. Without any uncertainty about firm's profitability, we show that the existence and the properties of stationary solutions rely on the factors that usually determine the enforceability of contracts and we demonstrate that wages move countercyclically towards the allocation preferred by the firm. Moreover, we show that adding uncertainty does not overturn the countercyclical pattern of wages but is helpful in explaining their dynamic behavior in response to demand shocks as well as their typical stickiness observed at the macrolevel.