bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic diversity and population structure of critically endangered Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo from North-Western Himalayas and implications for conservation
Authors: Sharma Shilpa , Chhabra Meenu , Singh Sunil Kumar , Parmar Rajni , Kapila R. K.
Published: July 2022

Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo is medicinally important herb, which is widely used in ayurveda, unani, and folk/traditional medicine system to cure diseases. Due to its immense ethno-botanical properties, the trade of D. hatagirea is estimated to be USD 1 billion/year in India. Unfortunately, due to overexploitation of the herb from the wild, has resulted in dwindling of its populations in their natural habitats, which has led to its critically endangered status. Molecular genetic studies are still scarce in D. hatagirea, therefore, in current study, genetic diversity and population structure analysis was carried out of 10 populations (48 individuals) collected from three cold desert regions (2527 m–3533 m amsl) of Himachal Pradesh. Mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) was recorded 0.185 and 0.158. The maximum values for Fst (fixation index) and Nm (gene flow) were recorded 0.945 at locus KSSR14 and 1.547 at locus KSSR 4 respectively. Mean genetic differentiation (Fst) coefficient was estimated to 0.542. Overall, low levels of genetic diversity was recorded in the populations of D. hatagirea, might be due to habitat specificity (alpine meadows ecosystem; humid laden undulating habitat), restricted distribution and high anthropogenic activities. However, two populations viz., Bathad and Rangrik were recorded with high diversity and largest number of private alleles, stipulates that these populations might have high evolutionary significance and response to selection. Dendrogram analysis revealed that the populations of D. hatagirea were clustered into four major clusters, which was supported by Bayesian based STRUCTURE predictions. Clustering pattern of majority individuals of different populations revealed consistency with their geographic origin. Outcomes of current study reveals the status of genetic diversity and population structure of endangered D. hatagirea, which can be futuristically utilised for appropriate planning of conservation strategies.
A pilot study of nailfold capillaroscopy in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Kim Dayoung , Oh Jeeyoung , Min Hong Ki , Kim Hae-Rim , Choi Kyomin
Published: July 2022

Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a safe and non-invasive imaging tool for evaluating microvascular abnormalities. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the NFC outcomes and clinical characteristics in patients and an asymptomatic carrier with transthyretin (TTR) gene mutation. The participants consist of eight patients with genetically and clinically confirmed hereditary amyloidogenic transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis and one asymptomatic carrier. The TTR gene mutant forms of six male and three female participants from six families were Asp38Ala (five patients), Lys35Asn (three patients), and Ala36Pro (one patient). All participants showed decreased capillary density, dilatated capillaries, and destructed architecture in NFC. Early progression identification of a carrier to patients with symptoms is a major concern from a therapeutic viewpoint in ATTRv amyloidosis. Therefore, further studies with a larger number of subjects will be needed to determine the use of NFC as an early detection tool.
Synthesis of nano-sized lead sulfide thin films from Avocado (Glycosmis cochinchinensis) Leaf extracts to empower pollution remediation
Authors: Saka Abel , Gudata Lamessa , Jule Leta Tesfaye , Seeivasan Venkatesh , N Nagaprasad , Ramaswamy Krishnaraj
Published: July 2022

The translucent and nano-crystalline PbS films were equipped with the CBD techniques on metal substrates by the temperature of 90 °C through aqueous solutions of Lead Nitrate and Thiourea. The XRD phases verify the crystalline property of synthesized thin films that the shape falls in the cubic structures with favourite orientations. It revealed that the prepared material is cubic crystal oriented as (111), (110), (100) and (101) crystal planes. The crystalline size varied between 0.4 and 0.7 nm. The band gap was assessed using UV–vis captivation spectra and Tau relations. The average energy band gap was found to be 2.43 eV which is greater than bulk materials of PbS; because of quantum confinements of Lead Sulfide Nano Crystalline thin films, and PL also confirms this result. The variation in band gap with Leaf extracts and particle sizes displayed blue shifts characteristic of electrons quantum confinements. SEM micrograph shows extremely uniform and adherent PbS films are found at higher PH values. It was evidently observed that the viscosity of the synthesized thin films reduced from 563 to 111 nm with a rise in pH value. The sample prepared at pH 4 shows good performance, and thin films deposited from Avocado (Glycosmis cochinchinensis) leaf extracts are a promising method to empower pollution remediation and future energy.
Dynamic characterization of breast cancer response to neoadjuvant therapy using biophysical metrics of spatial proliferation
Authors: Bowers Haley J. , Douglas Emily , Ansley Katherine , Thomas Alexandra , Weis Jared A.
Published: July 2022

Current tools to assess breast cancer response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy cannot reliably predict disease eradication, which if possible, could allow early cessation of therapy. In this work, we assessed the ability of an image data-driven mathematical modeling approach for dynamic characterization of breast cancer response to neoadjuvant therapy. We retrospectively analyzed patients enrolled in the I-SPY 2 TRIAL at the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center. Patients enrolled on the study received four MR imaging examinations during neoadjuvant therapy with acquisitions at baseline (T0), 3-weeks/early-treatment (T1), 12-weeks/mid-treatment (T2), and completion of therapy prior to surgery (T3). We use a biophysical mathematical model of tumor growth to generate spatial estimates of tumor proliferation to characterize the dynamics of treatment response. Using histogram summary metrics to quantify estimated tumor proliferation maps, we found strong correlation of mathematical model-estimated tumor proliferation with residual cancer burden, with Pearson correlation coefficients ranging from 0.88 and 0.97 between T0and T2, representing a significant improvement from conventional assessment methods of change in mean apparent diffusion coefficient and functional tumor volume. This data shows the significant promise of imaging-based biophysical mathematical modeling methods for dynamic characterization of patient-specific response to neoadjuvant therapy with correlation to residual disease outcomes.
Activation of the Hepcidin-Ferroportin1 pathway in the brain and astrocytic–neuronal crosstalk to counteract iron dyshomeostasis during aging
Authors: Mezzanotte Mariarosa , Ammirata Giorgia , Boido Marina , Stanga Serena , Roetto Antonella
Published: July 2022

During physiological aging, iron accumulates in the brain with a preferential distribution in regions that are more vulnerable to age-dependent neurodegeneration such as the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In the brain of aged wild-type mice, alteration of the Brain Blood Barrier integrity, together with a marked inflammatory and oxidative state lead to increased permeability and deregulation of brain-iron homeostasis. In this context, we found that iron accumulation drives Hepcidin upregulation in the brain and the inhibition of the iron exporter Ferroportin1. We also observed the transcription and the increase of NCOA4 levels in the aged brain together with the increase of light-chain enriched ferritin heteropolymers, more efficient as iron chelators. Interestingly, in cerebral cortex and hippocampus, Ferroportin1 is mainly expressed by astrocytes, while the iron storage protein ferritin light-chain by neurons. This differential distribution suggests that astrocytes mediate iron shuttling in the nervous tissue and that neurons are unable to metabolize it. Our findings highlight for the first time that Hepcidin/Ferroportin1 axis and NCOA4 are directly involved in iron metabolism in mice brain during physiological aging as a response to a higher brain iron influx.
Syntrichia caninervis adapt to mercury stress by altering submicrostructure and physiological properties in the Gurbantünggüt Desert
Authors: Mao Yuqing , Liu Weiguo , Yang Xiaodong , Chang Yaobao , Yang Tao , Wang Xiyuan , Chen Yinguang
Published: July 2022

Sewage and industrial waste discharges have been found to have a deleterious effect on plant growth and environmental safety through the accumulation of trace metal mercury (Hg) in soils. Although the effects of Hg on vascular plants have been reported in terms of enzyme activity, oxidative damage and physiology, few studies have been done on non-vascular plants. A simulation experiment including 7 Hg concentrations (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 75 µM) was conducted to investigate the influence of Hg stress on ultrastructure and physiological properties of biocrust moss Syntrichia. caninervis across 7 consecutive days. The results showed that the lowest lethal concentration of S. caninervis was 30 µM Hg. The mortality rate of the plants increased significantly with Hg concentrations. The ultrastructure did not change significantly at Hg concentration ≤ 20 µM, while exceeding which, cell walls began to separate, nuclei began to blur, and chloroplasts began to expand. The soluble sugars (SS), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities increased initially and then decreased with the increase of concentration in the time gradient, with the largest values at 20 µM. The contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline (Pro) increased with the increase of Hg concentration, both reached peak value at 50 µM. However, chlorophyll (Chl) contents continued to decrease along both the concentration and time gradients. Pearson correlation and principal component analysis showed that two principal components (PC1 and PC2) explained 73.9% of the variance in plant adaptation to Hg stress. SOD, POD, Chl, SS, and Pro all responded well to Hg in S. caninervis. Our study showed that Hg stress caused changes in ultrastructure and physiological metabolism of S. caninervis. 20 µM was the maximum concentration of Hg that biocrust moss S. caninervis can tolerate. S. caninervis mainly adopted two adaptation strategies related to exclusion and accumulation to reduce Hg stress.
Impact of chronic hepatitis on cardiovascular events among type 2 diabetes patients in Taiwan pay-for-performance program
Authors: Sheen Yi-Jing , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Kung Pei-Tseng , Chiu Li-Ting , Tsai Wen-Chen
Published: July 2022

To investigate the impact of chronic hepatitis on cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This nationwide retrospective cohort study included 152,709 adult patients (> 20 years) with T2DM enrolled in the National Health Insurance Diabetes Pay-for-Performance Program from 2008 to 2010 and followed up until the end of 2017. Patients were categorized into groups with hepatitis B, hepatitis C, fatty liver disease, and patients without chronic hepatitis. The incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with T2DM and hepatitis C (79.9/1000 person-years) was higher than that in patients with diabetes combined with other chronic hepatitis, or without chronic hepatitis. After adjusting for confounding factors, T2DM with fatty liver (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–1.13) and hepatitis C (adjusted HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.03–1.12) demonstrated a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events. The adjusted visit-to-visit coefficient of variation of HbA1c and fasting blood glucose were associated with a high risk of cardiovascular events (HRs of the highest quartile were 1.05 and 1.12, respectively). Chronic hepatitis affects cardiovascular events in adult patients with T2DM. Glucose variability could be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events in such patients.
The optimized jugular vein catheterization reinforced cocaine self-administration addictive model for adult male Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Li Yang , Qu Liang , Li Nan , Wang Xin , Wang Ping , Ge Shun-nan , Wang Xue-lian
Published: July 2022

The self-administration (SA) model represents one of the most important and classic methods for drug addiction, and jugular vein catheterization is one of the most critical techniques in this animal model. We aimed to explore an optimized scheme to improve the success rate of rat jugular vein catheterization and SA model. Our experiment provided an optimized scheme which including numerous details, materials, approaches, updated techniques and protocols. Our experimental group consisted of 120 adult male Sprague–Dawley rats, which were divided into the Traditional Operation group (TO group) and the Optimized Operation group (OO group) by the random number table method and then further individually divided into the Saline Training group and the Cocaine Training group for the following SA training. Our results showed that the success rate of the jugular vein catheterization in the OO group was significantly greater than that in the TO group (93.33% vs 46.67%, χ2 = 31.11, P < 0.001). The optimized jugular vein catheterization could make the SA model more stable, reliable and efficient than the traditional operation. Compared with traditional methods, our optimized scheme made numerous improvements in materials and techniques including uniformity, individualized variability of the S-type positioning nail, the length and connection matching, the shape of the end and low cost. Our optimized scheme could provide a more stable and efficient tool for basic research on drug addiction. Several subtle improvements under our personal experience are usually important for augmenting operational efficiency.
Comparing amorphous silica, short-range-ordered silicates and silicic acid species by FTIR
Authors: Ellerbrock Ruth , Stein Mathias , Schaller Jörg
Published: July 2022

There is increased interest in the terrestrial silicon cycle in the last decades as its different compounds and species have large implications for ecosystem performance in terms of soil nutrient and water availability, ecosystem productivity as well as ecological aspects such as plant–microbe and plant-animal feedbacks. The currently existing analytical methods are limited. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis is suggested being a promising tool to differentiate between the different Si species. We report here on the differentiation of varying Si-species/Si-binding (in synthetic material) using FTIR-analyses. Therefore, we collected FTIR-spectra of five different amorphous silica, Ca-silicate, sodium silicate (all particulate), a water-soluble fraction of amorphous silica and soil affected by volcanic activity and compared their spectra with existing data. A decrease of the internal order of the materials analyzed was indicated by peak broadening of the Si–O–Si absorption band. Peak shifts at this absorption band were induced by larger ions incorporated in the Si–O–Si network. Additionally, short-range ordered aluminosilicates (SROAS) have specific IR absorption bands such as the Si–O–Al band. Hence, SROAS and Si phases containing other ions can be distinguished from pure amorphous Si species using FTIR-analyses.
Risk factors for glaucoma are reflected in abnormal responses to frequency-doubling technology screening in both normal and glaucoma eyes
Authors: Iwase Aiko , Tsutsumi Tae , Fujii Makoto , Sawaguchi Shoichi , Araie Makoto
Published: July 2022

The frequency-doubling technology (FDT) screening test (FDT-C-20-1) has adopted in many recent population-based glaucoma surveys, but factors associated with false-positive (FP) responses to FDT-C-20-1 in normal eyes and false-negative (FN) responses in glaucoma eyes were not known. These factors were investigated in a population-based setting using the data from 3805 normal eyes (2381 subjects) and 272 eyes with definite glaucoma (215 subjects) in the Kumejima Study participants with reliable FDT-C-20-1 results. Considering the presence of at least one abnormal test point (P < 0.01) as abnormal, the specificity and sensitivity of FDT-C-20-1 for glaucoma were 91.8% (95% confidence interval, 91.1 ~ 92.5) and 56.3% (47.0 ~ 62.5), respectively. Multivariate linear mixed-model logistic regression analysis showed correlations with older age, worse visual acuity, greater β-peripapillary area (P < 0.001 for all comparisons) and more myopic refraction (P = 0.030) with the FP responses in normal eyes, and normal-tension glaucoma (P = 0.043), a better mean deviation value of Humphrey perimetry (P = 0.001), larger rim area (P = 0.041), and absence of disc hemorrhage (P = 0.015) with the FN responses in glaucoma eyes. In a population-based setting, abnormal responses to FDT-C-20-1 indicate the presence of a risk factor for glaucoma in normal eyes and risk factors for more rapid progression in glaucoma eyes.
Transcriptome analysis reveals cell cycle-related transcripts as key determinants of varietal differences in seed size of Brassica juncea
Authors: Dhaka Namrata , Jain Rubi , Yadav Abhinandan , Yadav Pinky , Kumar Neeraj , Sharma Manoj Kumar , Sharma Rita
Published: July 2022

Brassica junceais an important oilseed crop, widely grown as a source of edible oil. Seed size is a pivotal agricultural trait in oilseed Brassicas. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying seed size determination are poorly understood. To elucidate the transcriptional dynamics involved in the determination of seed size inB. juncea, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis using developing seeds of two varieties, small-seeded Early Heera2 (EH2) and bold-seeded Pusajaikisan (PJK), at three distinct stages (15, 30 and 45 days after pollination). We detected 112,550 transcripts, of which 27,186 and 19,522 were differentially expressed in the intra-variety comparisons and inter-variety comparisons, respectively. Functional analysis using pathway, gene ontology, and transcription factor enrichment revealed that cell cycle- and cell division-related transcripts stay upregulated during later stages of seed development in the bold-seeded variety but are downregulated at the same stage in the small-seeded variety, indicating that an extended period of cell proliferation in the later stages increased seed weight in PJK as compared to EH2. Further, k-means clustering and candidate genes-based analyses unravelled candidates for employing in seed size improvement ofB. juncea. In addition, candidates involved in determining seed coat color, oil content, and other seed traits were also identified.
A flexible IrO2 membrane for pH sensing
Authors: Chou Shih-Cheng , Hsieh Yi-Chieh , Cheang Wai-Hong , Sun Bo-Yao , Chu Chao-Yi , Chen San-Yuan , Chiao Jung-Chih , Wu Pu-Wei
Published: July 2022

An optimized mixture of polydopamine (PDA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is employed as the surface functionalizing agent and reducing agent to encapsulate individual polypropylene (PP) fibers of polypropylene micromembrane (PPMM). The functionalized PPMM becomes hydrophilic to allow the formation of Au nuclei for subsequent electroless Au deposition. The metalized PPMM is further deposited with IrO2 nanoparticles, and evaluated as a flexible and porous pH sensor. Images from scanning electron microscope confirms the uniform formation of IrO2 nanoparticles on Au-coated PP fibers. For pH-sensing performance, the IrO2-decorated metalized PPMM reveals a super-Nernstian response for a sensing slope of -74.45 mV/pH in aqueous solutions with pH value ranging between 2 and 12. In addition, the pH-sensing performance is properly maintained after 5000 bending cycles and hysteresis is modest in an acidic environment. The cell viability test indicates a negligible bio-toxicity. Our strategy of using a conductive polymeric membrane decorated with IrO2 nanoparticles enables possible sensing applications in wearable and implantable electronics.
Attitude toward leisure, satisfaction with leisure policy, and happiness are mediated by satisfaction with leisure activities
Authors: Yoo Jieun
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the effect of attitude toward leisure and satisfaction with leisure policy on satisfaction with leisure activities and level of happiness in Korean caregivers for young children. Data were collected from 864 participants (397 men and 467 women) using the 2018 National Leisure Activity Survey (NLAS). The results showed that there were no significant differences between male and female caregivers in terms of satisfaction with leisure policy, satisfaction with leisure activities, and level of happiness. Women had more positive attitudes toward leisure. Satisfaction with leisure activities mediated the relationship between attitude toward leisure, satisfaction with leisure policy, and level of happiness; there were no significant differences between men and women with regard to the variables. The study suggests that attitude toward leisure and satisfaction with leisure policy promote the happiness of Korean caregivers for young children.
Assessment of physiological and electrochemical effects of a repurposed zinc dithiocarbamate complex on Acinetobacter baumannii biofilms
Authors: Yang Qing , Olaifa Kayode , Andrew Fartisincha P. , Ajibade Peter A. , Ajunwa Obinna M. , Marsili Enrico
Published: July 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii is an infectious agent of global proportion and concern, partly due to its proficiency in development of antibiotic resistance phenotypes and biofilm formation. Dithiocarbamates (DTC) have been identified as possible alternatives to the current antimicrobials. We report here the evaluation of several DTC-metal complexes against A. baumannii planktonic cells and biofilms. Among the DTC-metal complexes and DTCs tested, ZnL1 (N-methyl-1-phenyldithiocarbamato-S,S′ Zn(II)), originally designed as an antitumor agent, is effective against biofilm forming A. baumannii. A MIC value of 12.5 µM, comparable to that of Gentamicin (5 µM) was measured for planktonic cells in tryptic soy broth. Spectroscopy, microscopy and biochemical analyses reveal cell membrane degradation and leakage after treatment with ZnL1. Bioelectrochemical analyses show that ZnL1 reduces biofilm formation and decreases extracellular respiration of pre-formed biofilms, as corroborated by microscopic analyses. Due to the affinity of Zn to cells and the metal chelating nature of L1 ligand, we hypothesize ZnL1 could alter metalloprotein functions in the membranes of A. baumannii cells, leading to altered redox balance. Results indicate that the DTC-Zn metal complex is an effective antimicrobial agent against early A. baumannii biofilms under laboratory conditions.
Clinical feasibility of an advanced neonatal epidermal multiparameter continuous monitoring technology in a large public maternity hospital in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Ginsburg Amy Sarah , Zandi Nia Sahar , Chomba Dorothy , Parsimei Millicent , Dunsmuir Dustin , Waiyego Mary , Coleman Jesse , Ochieng Roseline , Zhou Guohai , Macharia William M. , Ansermino J. Mark
Published: July 2022

Clinically feasible multiparameter continuous physiological monitoring technologies are needed for use in resource-constrained African healthcare facilities to allow for early detection of critical events and timely intervention for major morbidities in high-risk neonates. We conducted a prospective clinical feasibility study of a novel multiparameter continuous physiological monitoring technology in neonates at Pumwani Maternity Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. To assess feasibility, we compared the performance of Sibel’s Advanced Neonatal Epidermal (ANNE) technology to reference technologies, including Masimo’s Rad-97 pulse CO-oximeter with capnography technology for heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurements and Spengler’s Tempo Easy non-contact infrared thermometer for temperature measurements. We evaluated key performance criteria such as up-time, clinical event detection performance, and the agreement of measurements compared to those from the reference technologies in an uncontrolled, real-world setting. Between September 15 and December 15, 2020, we collected and analyzed 503 h of ANNE data from 109 enrolled neonates. ANNE’s up-time was 42 (11%) h more for HR, 77 (25%) h more for RR, and 6 (2%) h less for SpO2 compared to the Rad-97. However, ANNE’s ratio of up-time to total attached time was less than Rad-97’s for HR (0.79 vs 0.86), RR (0.68 vs. 0.79), and SpO2 (0.69 vs 0.86). ANNE demonstrated adequate performance in identifying high and low HR and RR and high temperature events; however, showed relatively poor performance for low SpO2 events. The normalized spread of limits of agreement were 8.4% for HR and 52.2% for RR and the normalized root-mean-square deviation was 4.4% for SpO2. Temperature agreement showed a spread of limits of agreement of 2.8 °C. The a priori-identified optimal limits were met for HR and temperature but not for RR or SpO2. ANNE was clinically feasible for HR and temperature but not RR and SpO2 as demonstrated by the technology’s up-time, clinical event detection performance, and the agreement of measurements compared to those from the reference technologies.
Identifying socio-ecological drivers of common cold in Bhutan: a national surveillance data analysis
Authors: Tsheten Tsheten , Penjor Kinley , Tshering Chachu , Clements Archie C. A. , Gray Darren J. , Wangdi Kinley
Published: July 2022

The common cold is a leading cause of morbidity and contributes significantly to the health costs in Bhutan. The study utilized multivariate Zero-inflated Poisson regression in a Bayesian framework to identify climatic variability and spatial and temporal patterns of the common cold in Bhutan. There were 2,480,509 notifications of common cold between 2010 and 2018. Children aged < 15 years were twice (95% credible interval [CrI] 2.2, 2.5) as likely to get common cold than adults, and males were 12.4% (95 CrI 5.5%, 18.7%) less likely to get common cold than females. A 10 mm increase in rainfall lagged one month, and each 1 °C increase of maximum temperature was associated with a 5.1% (95% CrI 4.2%, 6.1%) and 2.6% (95% CrI 2.3%, 2.8%) increase in the risk of cold respectively. An increase in elevation of 100 m and 1% increase in relative humidity lagged three months were associated with a decrease in risk of common cold by 0.1% (95% CrI 0.1%, 0.2%) and 0.3% (95% CrI 0.2%, 0.3%) respectively. Seasonality and spatial heterogeneity can partly be explained by the association of common cold to climatic variables. There was statistically significant residual clustering after accounting for covariates. The finding highlights the influence of climatic variables on common cold and suggests that prioritizing control strategies for acute respiratory infection program to subdistricts and times of the year when climatic variables are associated with common cold may be an effective strategy.
Sero-epidemiological study of arbovirus infection following the 2015–2016 Zika virus outbreak in Cabo Verde
Authors: Ward Daniel , Gomes Ana Rita , Tetteh Kevin K. A. , Sepúlveda Nuno , Gomez Lara Ferrero , Campino Susana , Clark Taane G.
Published: July 2022

In November 2015, cases of Zika virus infection were recorded in Cabo Verde (Africa), originating from Brazil. The outbreak subsided after seven months with 7580 suspected cases. We performed a serological survey (n = 431) in Praia, the capital city, 3 months after transmission ceased. Serum samples were screened for arbovirus antibodies using ELISA techniques and revealed seroconverted individuals with Zika (10.9%), dengue (1–4) (12.5%), yellow fever (0.2%) and chikungunya (2.6%) infections. Zika seropositivity was predominantly observed amongst females (70%). Using a logistic model, risk factors for increased odds of Zika seropositivity included age, self-reported Zika infection, and dengue seropositivity. Serological data from Zika and dengue virus assays were strongly correlated (Spearman’s rs = 0.80), which reduced when using a double antigen binding ELISA (Spearman’s rs = 0.54). Overall, our work improves an understanding of how Zika and other arboviruses have spread throughout the Cabo Verde population. It also demonstrates the utility of serological assay formats for outbreak investigations.
Global warming leads to larger bats with a faster life history pace in the long-lived Bechstein’s bat (Myotis bechsteinii)
Authors: Mundinger Carolin , Fleischer Toni , Scheuerlein Alexander , Kerth Gerald
Published: July 2022

Whether species can cope with environmental change depends considerably on their life history. Bats have long lifespans and low reproductive rates which make them vulnerable to environmental changes. Global warming causes Bechstein’s bats (Myotis bechsteinii) to produce larger females that face a higher mortality risk. Here, we test whether these larger females are able to offset their elevated mortality risk by adopting a faster life history. We analysed an individual-based 25-year dataset from 331 RFID-tagged wild bats and combine genetic pedigrees with data on survival, reproduction and body size. We find that size-dependent fecundity and age at first reproduction drive the observed increase in mortality. Because larger females have an earlier onset of reproduction and shorter generation times, lifetime reproductive success remains remarkably stable across individuals with different body sizes. Our study demonstrates a rapid shift to a faster pace of life in a mammal with a slow life history.
The clove (Syzygium aromaticum) genome provides insights into the eugenol biosynthesis pathway
Authors: Ouadi Sonia , Sierro Nicolas , Goepfert Simon , Bovet Lucien , Glauser Gaetan , Vallat Armelle , Peitsch Manuel C. , Kessler Felix , Ivanov Nikolai V.
Published: July 2022

The clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is an important tropical spice crop in global trade. Evolving environmental pressures necessitate modern characterization and selection techniques that are currently inaccessible to clove growers owing to the scarcity of genomic and genetic information. Here, we present a 370-Mb high-quality chromosome-scale genome assembly for clove. Comparative genomic analysis between S. aromaticum and Eucalyptus grandis—both species of the Myrtaceae family—reveals good genome structure conservation and intrachromosomal rearrangements on seven of the eleven chromosomes. We report genes that belong to families involved in the biosynthesis of eugenol, the major bioactive component of clove products. On the basis of our transcriptomic and metabolomic findings, we propose a hypothetical scenario in which eugenol acetate plays a key role in high eugenol accumulation in clove leaves and buds. The clove genome is a new contribution to omics resources for the Myrtaceae family and an important tool for clove research.
DeepBacs for multi-task bacterial image analysis using open-source deep learning approaches
Authors: Spahn Christoph , Gómez-de-Mariscal Estibaliz , Laine Romain F. , Pereira Pedro M. , von Chamier Lucas , Conduit Mia , Pinho Mariana G. , Jacquemet Guillaume , Holden Séamus , Heilemann Mike , Henriques Ricardo
Published: July 2022

This work demonstrates and guides how to use a range of state-of-the-art artificial neural-networks to analyse bacterial microscopy images using the recently developed ZeroCostDL4Mic platform. We generated a database of image datasets used to train networks for various image analysis tasks and present strategies for data acquisition and curation, as well as model training. We showcase different deep learning (DL) approaches for segmenting bright field and fluorescence images of different bacterial species, use object detection to classify different growth stages in time-lapse imaging data, and carry out DL-assisted phenotypic profiling of antibiotic-treated cells. To also demonstrate the ability of DL to enhance low-phototoxicity live-cell microscopy, we showcase how image denoising can allow researchers to attain high-fidelity data in faster and longer imaging. Finally, artificial labelling of cell membranes and predictions of super-resolution images allow for accurate mapping of cell shape and intracellular targets. Our purposefully-built database of training and testing data aids in novice users’ training, enabling them to quickly explore how to analyse their data through DL. We hope this lays a fertile ground for the efficient application of DL in microbiology and fosters the creation of tools for bacterial cell biology and antibiotic research.
Aion is a bistable anion-conducting channelrhodopsin that provides temporally extended and reversible neuronal silencing
Authors: Rodriguez-Rozada Silvia , Wietek Jonas , Tenedini Federico , Sauter Kathrin , Dhiman Neena , Hegemann Peter , Soba Peter , Wiegert J. Simon
Published: July 2022

Optogenetic silencing allows to reveal the necessity of selected neuronal populations for various neurophysiological functions. These range from synaptic transmission and coordinated neuronal network activity to control of specific behaviors. An ideal single-component optogenetic silencing tool should be switchable between active and inactive states with precise timing while preserving its activity in the absence of light until switched to an inactive state. Although bistable anion-conducting channelrhodopsins (ACRs) were previously engineered to reach this goal, their conducting state lifetime was limited to only a few minutes and some ACRs were not fully switchable. Here we report Aion, a bistable ACR displaying a long-lasting open state with a spontaneous closing time constant close to 15 min. Moreover, Aion can be switched between the open and closed state with millisecond precision using blue and orange light, respectively. The long conducting state enables overnight silencing of neurons with minimal light exposure. We further generated trafficking-optimized versions of Aion, which show enhanced membrane localization and allow precisely timed, long-lasting all-optical control of nociceptive responses in larvae of Drosophila melanogaster. Thus, Aion is an optogenetic silencing tool for inhibition of neuronal activity over many hours which can be switched between an active and inactive state with millisecond precision.
Lilac (Syringa oblata) genome provides insights into its evolution and molecular mechanism of petal color change
Authors: Ma Bo , Wu Jing , Shi Tian-Le , Yang Yun-Yao , Wang Wen-Bo , Zheng Yi , Su Shu-Chai , Yao Yun-Cong , Xue Wen-Bo , Porth Ilga , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Leng Ping-Sheng , Hu Zeng-Hui , Mao Jian-Feng
Published: July 2022

Color change during flower opening is common; however, little is understood on the biochemical and molecular basis related. Lilac (Syringa oblata), a well-known woody ornamental plant with obvious petal color changes, is an ideal model. Here, we presented chromosome-scale genome assembly for lilac, resolved the flavonoids metabolism, and identified key genes and potential regulatory networks related to petal color change. The genome assembly is 1.05 Gb anchored onto 23 chromosomes, with a BUSCO score of 96.6%. Whole-genome duplication (WGD) event shared within Oleaceae was revealed. Metabolome quantification identified delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside (Dp3Ru) and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside (Cy3Ru) as the major pigments; gene co-expression networks indicated WRKY an essential regulation factor at the early flowering stage, ERF more important in the color transition period (from violet to light nearly white), while the MBW complex participated in the entire process. Our results provide a foundation for functional study and molecular breeding in lilac.
Iron limitation in M. tuberculosis has broad impact on central carbon metabolism
Authors: Theriault Monique E. , Pisu Davide , Wilburn Kaley M. , Lê-Bury Gabrielle , MacNamara Case W. , Michael Petrassi H. , Love Melissa , Rock Jeremy M. , VanderVen Brian C. , Russell David G.
Published: July 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the cause of the human pulmonary disease tuberculosis (TB), contributes to approximately 1.5 million deaths every year. Prior work has established that lipids are actively catabolized by Mtb in vivo and fulfill major roles in Mtb physiology and pathogenesis. We conducted a high-throughput screen to identify inhibitors of Mtb survival in its host macrophage. One of the hit compounds identified in this screen, sAEL057, demonstrates highest activity on Mtb growth in conditions where cholesterol was the primary carbon source. Transcriptional and functional data indicate that sAEL057 limits Mtb’s access to iron by acting as an iron chelator. Furthermore, pharmacological and genetic inhibition of iron acquisition results in dysregulation of cholesterol catabolism, revealing a previously unappreciated linkage between these pathways. Characterization of sAEL057’s mode of action argues that Mtb’s metabolic regulation reveals vulnerabilities in those pathways that impact central carbon metabolism.
Shell thickness of Nucella lapillus in the North Sea increased over the last 130 years despite ocean acidification
Authors: Mayk Dennis , Peck Lloyd S. , Backeljau Thierry , Harper Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2022

Ocean acidification and global climate change are predicted to negatively impact marine calcifiers, with species inhabiting the intertidal zone being especially vulnerable. Current predictions of organism responses to projected changes are largely based on relatively short to medium term experiments over periods of a few days to a few years. Here we look at responses over a longer time span and present a 130-year shell shape and shell thickness record from archival museum collections of the marine intertidal predatory gastropodNucella lapillus. We used multivariate ecological models to identify significant morphological trends through time and along environmental gradients and show that, contrary to global predictions, localN. lapilluspopulations built continuously thicker shells while maintaining a consistent shell shape throughout the last century.
Diminished carbon and nitrate assimilation drive changes in diatom elemental stoichiometry independent of silicification in an iron-limited assemblage
Authors: Maniscalco Michael A , Brzezinski Mark A , Lampe Robert H , Cohen Natalie R , McNair Heather M , Ellis Kelsey A , Brown Matthew , Till Claire P , Twining Benjamin S , Bruland Kenneth W , Marchetti Adrian , Thamatrakoln Kimberlee
Published: July 2022

In the California Current Ecosystem, upwelled water low in dissolved iron (Fe) can limit phytoplankton growth, altering the elemental stoichiometry of the particulate matter and dissolved macronutrients. Iron-limited diatoms can increase biogenic silica (bSi) content >2-fold relative to that of particulate organic carbon (C) and nitrogen (N), which has implications for carbon export efficiency given the ballasted nature of the silica-based diatom cell wall. Understanding the molecular and physiological drivers of this altered cellular stoichiometry would foster a predictive understanding of how low Fe affects diatom carbon export. In an artificial upwelling experiment, water from 96 m depth was incubated shipboard and left untreated or amended with dissolved Fe or the Fe-binding siderophore desferrioxamine-B (+DFB) to induce Fe-limitation. After 120 h, diatoms dominated the communities in all treatments and displayed hallmark signatures of Fe-limitation in the +DFB treatment, including elevated particulate Si:C and Si:N ratios. Single-cell, taxon-resolved measurements revealed no increase in bSi content during Fe-limitation despite higher transcript abundance of silicon transporters and silicanin-1. Based on these findings we posit that the observed increase in bSi relative to C and N was primarily due to reductions in C fixation and N assimilation, driven by lower transcript expression of key Fe-dependent genes.
Comparative analyses of eighteen rapid antigen tests and RT-PCR for COVID-19 quarantine and surveillance-based isolation
Authors: Wells Chad R. , Pandey Abhishek , Moghadas Seyed M. , Singer Burton H. , Krieger Gary , Heron Richard J. L. , Turner David E. , Abshire Justin P. , Phillips Kimberly M. , Michael Donoghue A. , Galvani Alison P. , Townsend Jeffrey P.
Published: July 2022

Background

Rapid antigen (RA) tests are being increasingly employed to detect SARS-CoV-2 infections in quarantine and surveillance. Prior research has focused on RT-PCR testing, a single RA test, or generic diagnostic characteristics of RA tests in assessing testing strategies.

Methods

We have conducted a comparative analysis of the post-quarantine transmission, the effective reproduction number during serial testing, and the false-positive rates for 18 RA tests with emergency use authorization from The United States Food and Drug Administration and an RT-PCR test. To quantify the extent of transmission, we developed an analytical mathematical framework informed by COVID-19 infectiousness, test specificity, and temporal diagnostic sensitivity data.

Results

We demonstrate that the relative effectiveness of RA tests and RT-PCR testing in reducing post-quarantine transmission depends on the quarantine duration and the turnaround time of testing results. For quarantines of two days or shorter, conducting a RA test on exit from quarantine reduces onward transmission more than a single RT-PCR test (with a 24-h delay) conducted upon exit. Applied to a complementary approach of performing serial testing at a specified frequency paired with isolation of positives, we have shown that RA tests outperform RT-PCR with a 24-h delay. The results from our modeling framework are consistent with quarantine and serial testing data collected from a remote industry setting.

Conclusions

These RA test-specific results are an important component of the tool set for policy decision-making, and demonstrate that judicious selection of an appropriate RA test can supply a viable alternative to RT-PCR in efforts to control the spread of disease.
Detection of low numbers of bacterial cells in a pharmaceutical drug product using Raman spectroscopy and PLS-DA multivariate analysis
Authors: Grosso R. A. , Walther A. R. , Brunbech E. , Sørensen A. , Schebye B. , Olsen K. E. , Qu H. , Hedegaard M. A. B. , Arnspang E. C.
Published: July 2022

Fast and non-invasive approach to detect drug product (DP) samples with low numbers of bacteria within the primary packaging. The method combines Raman spectroscopy and partial least squared discriminant analysis (RS-PLS-DA).
Synthesis of a Zr4(embonate)6–cobalt based superstructure for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Teng Qian , He Yan-Ping , Chen Shu-Mei , Zhang Jian
Published: July 2022

A novel Zr4(embonate)6–Co based photocatalyst was constructed by a stepwise assembly strategy, and exhibited notable photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution in the absence of a photosensitizer.
Integrating hollow spherical covalent organic frameworks on NH2–MIL-101(Fe) as high performance heterogeneous photocatalysts
Authors: Wan Yuqi , Yang Huaizhi , Shang Qigao , Cheng Qingrong , Zhou Hong , Pan Zhiquan
Published: July 2022

Integrating hollow spherical SNW-1 on NH2–MIL-101(Fe) photocatalysts forming a unique interfacial structure for efficient photocatalytic degradation and hydrogen evolution under solar light.
Fabrication of a recyclable magnetic halloysite-based cobalt nanocatalyst for the efficient degradation of bisphenol A and malachite green
Authors: Arora Bhavya , Sharma Shivani , Dutta Sriparna , Yadav Sneha , Rana Pooja , Priyanka  , Sharma R. K.
Published: July 2022

A covalently modified, surface engineered Co(II)@2-BPy@APTES@MHNTs nanocatalyst has been fabricated which showed impressive catalytic potency in accelerating degradation of BPA and MG.
The green design of corncob cellulose/reduced graphene oxide-derived hierarchical porous aerogels for efficient dye adsorption
Authors: An Yupeng , Luo Qing , Zhong Yinyan , Ma Xiaozhen , Li Shuqi , Wu Jialong , Na Haining , Sun Zhong , Zhu Jin , Chen Jing
Published: July 2022

The preparation of cellulose/rGO composite aerogels was carried out.
Solid-phase peptide synthesis on disulfide-linker resin followed by reductive release affords pure thiol-functionalized peptides
Authors: Bognar Zsolt , Mothukuri Ganesh K. , Nielsen Alexander L. , Merz Manuel L. , Pânzar Peter M. F. , Heinis Christian
Published: July 2022

Synthesis of peptides on a disulfide linker resin and release by the volatile reducing agent 1,4-butanedithiol offer efficient access to thiol-functionalized peptides needed for peptide labeling, immobilization and cyclization.
Vibsanoids A–D, four new subtypes of vibsane diterpenoids with a distinctive tricyclo[8.2.1.02,9]tridecane core fromViburnum odoratissimum
Authors: Li Shi-Fang , Lv Tian-Ming , Li Ya-Ling , Yu Xiao-Qi , Yao Guo-Dong , Lin Bin , Huang Xiao-Xiao , Song Shao-Jiang
Published: July 2022

Four highly rearranged tetranorvibsane-type diterpenoids, vibsanoids A–D, with an unprecedented tricyclo[8.2.1.02,9]tridecane skeleton were isolated fromViburnum odoratissimum.
Phosphine-catalyzed divergent reactivity of alkynoates with acid anhydrides: chemo- and stereoselective synthesis of polysubstituted olefins and dienes
Authors: Li Yunxia , Du Yunfeng , Liu Yiming , Liu Rongfang , Zhou Rong
Published: July 2022

Unprecedented phosphine-catalyzed chemoselective acylesterification, tandem addition and Michael type reaction between alkynoates and acid anhydrides have been developed, enabling efficient synthesis of either the polysubstituted olefins or the multifunctional dienes.
Phenothiazine-based covalent organic frameworks with low exciton binding energies for photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Weitao , Wang Haotian , Tang Xiaohui , Huo Jinlei , Su Yan , Lu Chuangye , Zhang Yujian , Xu Hong , Gu Cheng
Published: July 2022

We report the construction of phenothiazine-based covalent organic frameworks, which exhibited diverse structures, the feasibility of bandgap engineering, and unprecedented ultralow exciton binding energy of ∼50 meV for photocatalytic polymerization.
Laser synthesis of amorphous CoSxnanospheres for efficient hydrogen evolution and nitrogen reduction reactions
Authors: Zhao Lili , Chang Bin , Dong Tianjiao , Yuan Haifeng , Li Yue , Tang Zhenfei , Liu Zhen , Liu Hong , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhou Weijia
Published: July 2022

Laser-induced amorphous CoSxnanospheres anchored on carbon fiber cloths are reported. Profiting from the amorphous nature of CoSx, the enhanced electrocatalytic HER and NRR performance with good proton activation and nitrogen adsorption abilities were obtained.
Phase transition with in situ exsolution nanoparticles in the reduced Pr0.5Ba0.5Fe0.8Ni0.2O3−δ electrode for symmetric solid oxide cells
Authors: Tian Yunfeng , Yang Caichen , Wang Yuhao , Xu Min , Ling Yihan , Pu Jian , Ciucci Francesco , Irvine John T. S. , Chi Bo
Published: July 2022

A novel, highly active perovskite catalyst Pr0.5Ba0.5Fe0.8Ni0.2O3−δ was developed. Thanks to its phase transition and exsolved nanoparticles, the quasi symmetric solid oxide cells show favorable electrochemical performance and stability.
Highly efficient multi-site synergistic catalysis of a polyoxovanadate-based metal–organic framework for benzylic C–H bond oxidation
Authors: Dang Tian-Yi , Li Run-Han , Tian Hong-Rui , Guan Wei , Lu Ying , Liu Shu-Xia
Published: July 2022

Multi-active site synergy in a polyoxovanadate-based mixed-valence copper metal–organic framework for efficient catalysis of C–H bond oxidation of benzylic compounds.
Rational molecular design of TADF emitters towards highly efficient yellow electroluminescence with a nearly 30% external quantum efficiency and low roll-off
Authors: Xie Honghui , Huang Zhongyan , Li Nengquan , Hua Tao , Miao Jingsheng , Yang Chuluo
Published: July 2022

A boron-based thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitter was developed for highly efficient yellow organic light-emitting diodes by employing a strong donor with large steric hindrance.