Drivers and hazards of consumption of unpasteurised bovine milk and milk products in high-income countries
Introduction The consumption of dairy products contributes to health, nutrition, and livelihoods globally. However, dairy products do not come without microbiological food safety risks for consumers. Despite this risk, common hygiene measures in high-income countries, particularly pasteurisation, ensures that milk is safe, and is indeed frequently mandated by law. Nevertheless, over the past two decades, there has been a global increase in the number of consumers in high-income developed countries actively seeking out unpasteurised milk in liquid and product forms for perceived nutritional and health benefits, and improved taste. The often-anecdotal claims upon which consumers make such choices are not all supported by scientific evidence; however, some recent research studies have investigated (and in some cases demonstrated) the positive impact of unpasteurised milk consumption on the prevalence of asthma, atopy, rectal cancer and respiratory illness. Methods To investigate the significance of unpasteurised milk and milk product consumption for human health in high-income countries, outbreak data between the years 2000 and 2018 were obtained for the United States of America, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand and Australia, which were then categorized into three World Health Organisation subregions: AMR A, EUR A and WPR A. Outbreak dynamic variables such as pathogens, the place of consumption, numbers of outbreaks and deaths per million capita, the average number of cases per outbreak and regulations were described and analysed using R Studio. To provide an overview of unpasteurised milk-related disease outbreaks, a rapid evidence review was also undertaken to establish an overview of what is known in the current literature about hazards and drivers of consumption. Results Foodborne outbreaks associated with unpasteurised dairy consumption have risen in high-income countries over the period 2000 to 2018, with Campylobacter spp. being the most common aetiological agent responsible, followed by Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. The most common places of consumption are on farms or in households, indicating individuals choose to drink unpasteurised milk, rather than a widespread distribution of the product, for example, at social events and in schools. Further study is needed to better understand contributing factors, such as cultural differences in the consumption of dairy products. Conclusion There are several observable health benefits linked to consuming raw milk, but outbreaks associated with unpasteurised milk and milk products are on the rise. It cannot be definitively concluded whether the benefits outweigh the risks, and ultimately the decision lies with the individual consumer. Nevertheless, many countries have regulations in place to protect consumer health, acknowledging the definite risks to human health that unpasteurised dairy foods may pose, particularly from microbial hazards.
de Klerk et al. (2022) Drivers and hazards of consumption of unpasteurised bovine milk and milk products in high-income countries. PeerJ 10:e13426 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13426
Search for morphological indicators that predict implantation by principal component analysis using images of blastocyst
Background Although the current evaluation of human blastocysts is based on the Gardner criteria, there may be other notable parameters. The purpose of our study was to clarify whether the morphology of blastocysts has notable indicators other than the Gardner criteria. Methods To find such indicators, we compared blastocysts that showed elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels after transplantation (hCG-positive group; n = 129) and those that did not (hCG-negative group; n = 105) using principal component analysis of pixel brightness of the images. Results The comparison revealed that the hCG-positive group had grainy morphology and the hCG-negative group had non-grainy morphology. Classification of the blastocysts by this indicator did not make a difference in Gardner score. Interestingly, all embryos with ≥20% fragmentation were non-grainy. The visual classification based on this analysis was significantly more accurate than the prediction of implantation using the Gardner score ≥3BB. As graininess can be used in combination with the Gardner score, this indicator will enhance current reproductive technologies.
Mashiko et al. (2022) Search for morphological indicators that predict implantation by principal component analysis using images of blastocyst. PeerJ 10:e13441 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13441
Malformations in Late Devonian brachiopods from the western Junggar, NW China and their potential causes
Although malformations are found in both extant organisms and the fossil record, they are more rarely reported in the fossil record than in living organisms, and the environmental factors causing the malformations are much more difficult to identify for the fossil record. Two athyrid brachiopod taxa from the Upper Devonian Hongguleleng Formation in western Junggar (Xinjiang, NW China) show distinctive shell malformation. Of 198 Cleiothyridina and 405 Crinisarina specimens, 18 and 39 individuals were malformed, respectively; an abnormality ratio of nearly 10%. Considering the preservation status and buried environment of the abnormal specimens, and analysis of trace elements and rare earth elements from whole-rock and brachiopod shells, we conclude that the appearance of malformed athyrids is likely related to epi/endoparasites, or less likely the slightly higher content of heavy metal in the sea.
Zong et al. (2022) Malformations in Late Devonian brachiopods from the western Junggar, NW China and their potential causes. PeerJ 10:e13447 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13447
Genome-wide identification and response stress expression analysis of the BES1 family in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.)
Brassinolide (BR) plays an important role in plant growth, development, and the adaptation adversity process. Moreover, BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESSOR 1 (BES1) genes are crucial transcription factors (TFs) in the BR signaling pathway. To realize the function of HbBES1 family is helpful to improve genetic resources for rubber tree breeding. Based on the rubber tree database, we used bioinformatics to characterize physicochemical properties, gene structure, cis-elements, and expression patterns. These results indicated that there were nine BES1 members in rubber tree, which we named HbBES1-1 to HbBES1-9 and divided into two groups (I and II) based on their genetic relationships. HbBES1 genes in the same group shared similar gene structures and motifs. Cis-acting element analysis showed that the promoter sequences of HbBES1 genes contained many regulator elements that were related to hormone and stress, indicating that HbBES1 genes might be involved in the regulation of hormone and stress signal pathways. Our analysis of tissue specificity revealed that all of the nine HbBES1 members expressed highly in branches. Gene expression profiles under different hormone treatments showed that the HbBES1 gene family was induced to varying degrees under different hormones, HbBES1-3 and HbBES1-9 were extremely induced by ethylene (ETH). These results lay the foundation for further exploration of the molecular mechanism of the BES1 gene family, especially HbBES1-3 and HbBES1-9, regulating plant stress tolerance in rubber tree.
Guo et al. (2022) Genome-wide identification and response stress expression analysis of the BES1 family in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.). PeerJ 10:e13189 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13189
Anatomical indicators of Eucalyptus spp. resistance to Glycaspis brimblecombei (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae)
The total area of forest crops in Brazil is 9.55 million hectares, of which 7.5 million hectares are Eucalyptus. These crops are the most productive in the world, but may suffer losses due to exotic pests, including Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) found in Brazil since 2003. Interactions between Eucalyptus plants and insect pests may led to the selection of resistant genotypes. Eucalyptus species are either susceptible or resistant to this pest group, but the damage they suffer needs to be evaluated. The objective was to determine possible leaf anatomy indicators of different Eucalyptus species associated with G. brimblecombei infestations, focusing on plant resistance to this pest. The study was carried out with Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus saligna and Eucalyptus urophylla saplings infested or not by G. brimblecombei eggs and nymphs. Eighteen anatomical characteristics of the leaves of these plants were analyzed. The number of stomata on the adaxial and abaxial sides and the glandular area in the central leaf vein are associated with greater or lesser infestation by G. brimblecombei in the Eucalyptus genotypes.
Fernando Henrique Moreno de Oliveira Del Piero
Del Piero et al. (2022) Anatomical indicators of Eucalyptus spp. resistance to Glycaspis brimblecombei (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae). PeerJ 10:e13346 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13346
Genome-wide identification and expression profile of GhGRF gene family in Gossypium hirsutum L.
Background Cotton is the primary source of renewable natural fiber in the textile industry and an important biodiesel crop. Growth regulating factors (GRFs) are involved in regulating plant growth and development. Methods Using genome-wide analysis, we identified 35 GRF genes in Gossypium hirsutum. Results Chromosomal location information revealed an uneven distribution of GhGRF genes, with maximum genes on chromosomes A02, A05, and A12 from the At sub-genome and their corresponding D05 and D12 from the Dt sub-genome. In the phylogenetic tree, 35 GRF genes were divided into five groups, including G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. The majority of GhGRF genes have two to three introns and three to four exons, and their deduced proteins contained conserved QLQ and WRC domains in the N-terminal end of GRFs in Arabidopsis and rice. Sequence logos revealed that GRF genes were highly conserved during the long-term evolutionary process. The CDS of the GhGRF gene can complement MiRNA396a. Moreover, most GhGRF genes transcripts developed high levels of ovules and fibers. Analyses of promoter cis-elements and expression patterns indicated that GhGRF genes play an essential role in regulating plant growth and development by coordinating the internal and external environment and multiple hormone signaling pathways. Our analysis indicated that GhGRFs are ideal target genes with significant potential for improving the molecular structure of cotton.
Liu et al. (2022) Genome-wide identification and expression profile of GhGRF gene family in Gossypium hirsutum L.. PeerJ 10:e13372 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13372
Prevalence of hyperglycemia in masters athletes
Background Ageing is associated with decreased physical activity, obesity and subsequently an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2dm). Master athletes (MA) have initiated exercise or sport later in life or pursued a physically active lifestyle for an extended period. Subsequently, MAs have been proposed as a model of successful ageing as this active lifestyle is associated with health benefits including decreased health risk of chronic diseases and a reduction in premature mortality. Given long-term physical activity/exercise has previously been shown to be protective against hyperglycemia, a risk factor for T2dm, it is plausible that MA may have protective benefit against developing hyperglycemia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hyperglycemia via fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in MAs competing at the World Masters Games (WMG). Methods This cross-sectional, observational survey utilized an online survey using open-source web-based software was used to investigate MAs physiological and medical-related parameters. Over 28,000 MAs competed in the WMG, of which 8,072 MAs completed the survey. Of these MAs, a total of 486 (males 277, females 209; range 27 to 91 years, mean age 55.1 ± 10.2 years) attained recent pathology results which included FPG which was subsequently analyzed for this study. FPG and other outcome variables were compared between genders and to the Australian and United States general population. Results Mean FPG for MAs was 5.03 mmol (±1.2, 95% CI [4.9–5.1] mmol) with majority (75.5%) of MAs reporting a normal (<5.5 mmol) FPG, followed by pre-diabetes (20.2%, >5.51 to <5.99 mmol) and abnormal (4.3%, >7.0 mmol). There was no significant difference (P = 0.333) in FPG between genders however, males had a slightly higher (+2.1%) FPG as compared to females (5.08 ± 1.2 mmol (95% CI [4.9–5.22] mmol) versus 4.98 ± 1.1 mmol (95% CI 4.8-5.1 mmol)). The majority of males (71.8%) and females (80.3%) were classified with a normal FPG. With regard to an abnormal FPG level, only 4.0% of males and 4.9% of females were classified abnormal which was suggestive of undiagnosed T2dm. With regard to age by decade, there was no significant difference (P = 0.06–1.00) between age groups and no relationship between the MAs’ age and FPG (r = .054, P = 0.24). As a group, MAs had a significantly lower FPG as compared to the Australian (−3.2%, P = 0.005) and United States general populations (−13.9%, P < 0.001). Conclusions Most, however not all, MAs were found to have normal glycaemia, with only a small percentage indicating a risk of developing T2dm (i.e., impaired fasting glucose) and a smaller percentage identified with an abnormal FPG, suggestive of T2dm. These findings suggest MAs appear to be at low metabolic risk for developing T2dm based upon FPG and the physical activity/exercise they complete as MAs may indeed be protective against hyperglycemia whilst maintaining an active lifestyle.
Climstein et al. (2022) Prevalence of hyperglycemia in masters athletes. PeerJ 10:e13389 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13389
Comparative evaluation of the effect of two pulpal medicaments on pain and bleeding status of mandibular molars with irreversible pulpitis post-failure of inferior alveolar nerve block: a double-blind, randomized, clinical trial
Background Complete relief of pain due to irreversible pulpitis is challenging to obtain with analgesic medications. The high incidence of an inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) failure makes it difficult for practitioners to perform endodontic treatment without implementing other anesthetic techniques, especially mandibular molars. The aim of this study was to compare efficacies of two different quantities of paraformaldehyde based pulpal medicaments to relieve the pain and control hyperemic pulp post-failure of IANB and supplementary technique in patients experiencing this symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in the permanent mandibular tooth. Method Eighty-two participants with severe pain pre-operatively (Heft Parker Visual Analogue Scale, VAS > 114 mm) were enrolled, and pain responses were recorded at different time intervals using the Heft Parker visual analogue scale. To the patients experiencing pain even after the administration of the standard IANB and supplemental intraligamentary injection, one of the two paraformaldehyde based pulpal medicaments was placed in the pulp chamber and sealed. Participants were recalled after 24–48 h (second visit) to assess pain and bleeding reduction. Results Results showed a significant decrease in pain severity and bleeding score post medicament placement (p < .05). Hence judicious use within a recommended period, pulpal medicaments can be considered safe. Conclusion Paraformaldehyde based pulpal medicament can be used as an alternative to manage pain in patients having severe irreversible pulpitis and hyperalgesia.
Singh et al. (2022) Comparative evaluation of the effect of two pulpal medicaments on pain and bleeding status of mandibular molars with irreversible pulpitis post-failure of inferior alveolar nerve block: a double-blind, randomized, clinical trial. PeerJ 10:e13397 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13397
Tracing RNA viruses associated with Nudibranchia gastropods
Background Nudibranchia is an under-studied taxonomic group of gastropods, including more than 3,000 species with colourful and extravagant body shapes and peculiar predatory and defensive strategies. Although symbiosis with bacteria has been reported, no data are available for the nudibranch microbiome nor regarding viruses possibly associated with these geographically widespread species. Methods Based on 47 available RNA sequencing datasets including more than two billion reads of 35 nudibranch species, a meta-transcriptome assembly was constructed. Taxonomic searches with DIAMOND, RNA-dependent-RNA-polymerase identification with palmscan and viral hallmark genes identification by VirSorter2 in combination with CheckV were applied to identify genuine viral genomes, which were then annotated using CAT. Results A total of 20 viral genomes were identified as bona fide viruses, among 552 putative viral contigs resembling both RNA viruses of the Negarnaviricota, Pisuviricota, Kitrinoviricota phyla and actively transcribing DNA viruses of the Cossaviricota and Nucleocytoviricota phyla. The 20 commonly identified viruses showed similarity with RNA viruses identified in other RNA-seq experiments and can be putatively associated with bacteria, plant and arthropod hosts by co-occurence analysis. The RNA samples having the highest viral abundances showed a heterogenous and mostly sample-specific distribution of the identified viruses, suggesting that nudibranchs possess diversified and mostly unknown viral communities.
Rosani (2022) Tracing RNA viruses associated with Nudibranchia gastropods. PeerJ 10:e13410 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13410
Exploring the spatiotemporal changes in carbon storage under different development scenarios in Jiangsu Province, China
Carbon storage (CS) is closely linked to the global challenge of climate change. Land use/cover (LULC) change is the main factor driving changes in CS, and evaluating the impact of LULC changes on CS is important for carbon balance. Taking Jiangsu Province as an example, we used the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs model to analyze the spatiotemporal changes in CS during 2000–2015. Then we coupled it with the patch-generating land use simulation model to simulate and predict LULC and CS in 2050 under four different development plans. The results showed that LULC change in Jiangsu Province was manifested mainly as transformation of cropland to construction land (3,485 km2) and cropland to water body (470 km2). The high value area for CS was concentrated mainly in forest land, water body and grassland, whereas the low value area was concentrated mainly in construction land. During 2000–2015, CS decreased by 0.23 Tg, and during 2015–2050, CS was predicted to decrease by 0.16, 1.69, 0.02, and 0.10 Tg under the baseline, fast, slow and harmonious development scenarios. The conversion of a large amount of cropland to construction land was the main cause of CS loss. In all scenarios, the carbon loss was the largest in southern Jiangsu and lowest in central Jiangsu. It is necessary to balance the conflict between economic development and ecological protection during the process of urbanization. This study can provide an important reference for decision makers during the formulation of regional development models and ecological management strategies.
Spatial and Geographic Information Science
Zhang et al. (2022) Exploring the spatiotemporal changes in carbon storage under different development scenarios in Jiangsu Province, China. PeerJ 10:e13411 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13411