bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of violet-to-blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters based on “CH/N” and “H/CN” substitutions at diphenylsulphone acceptor. A DFT study
Authors: Hussain Aftab , Irfan Ahmad , Kanwal Farah , Afzal Muhammad , Chaudhry Aijaz Rasool , Hussien Mohamed , Ali Muhammad Arif
Published: November 2023

The violet-to-blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters were created employing several substituents based on 5,5-dimethyl-5,10-dihydropyrido [2,3-b][1,8] naphthyridine-diphenylsulphone (DMDHPN-DPS) called 1a via “CH/N” and “H/CN” substitutions at the diphenylsulphone acceptor (DPS) moiety. The parent compound 1a was selected from our former work after extensive research employing “CH/N” substitution on Dimethyl-acridine (DMAC) donor moiety. There is a little overlap amid the highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) and lowest un-occupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) due to the distribution of HOMOs and LUMOs primarily on the DMDHPN donor and the DPS acceptor moieties, respectively. It resulted in a narrower energy gap (∆EST) between the lowest singlet (S1) and triplet (T1) excited state. In nearly all derivatives, the steric hindrance results in a larger torsional angle (85°–98°) between the plane of the DMDHPN and the DPS moieties. The predicted ΔEST values of the compounds with “H/CN” substitution were lower than those of the comparable “CH/N” substituents, demonstrating the superiority of the reversible inter-system crossing (RISC) from the T1 → S1 state. All derivatives have emission wavelengths (λem) in the range of 357–449 nm. The LUMO → HOMO transition energies in the S1 states are lowered by the presence of –CN groups or –N = atoms at the ortho or meta sites of a DPS acceptor unit, causing the λem values to red-shift. Furthermore, the λem showed a greater red-shift as there were more–CN groups or –N = atoms. Three of the derivatives named 1b, 1g, and 1h, emit violet (394 nm, 399 nm, and 398 nm, respectively), while two others, 1f and 1i, emit blue shade (449 nm each) with reasonable emission intensity peak demonstrating that these derivatives are effective violet-to-blue TADF nominees. The lower ΔEST value for derivative 1i (0.01 eV) with λem values of 449 nm make this molecule the finest choice for blue TADF emitter amongst all the studied derivatives. We believe our research might lead to the development of more proficient blue TADF-OLEDs in the future.
Novel maleic anhydride derivatives: liquid crystalline materials with enhanced mesomorphic and optical characteristics
Authors: Ahmed Hoda A. , Abolibda Tariq Z. , Ismail Yasser A. M. , Almohammedi Abdullah , Aly K. A. , Ibrahim Mohamed S. , Gomha Sobhi M.
Published: November 2023

A new class of liquid crystalline materials, 4-(2,5-dioxo-2,5-dihydro-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)phenyl 4-(alkoxy)benzoates (Mn), derived from maleic anhydride, was synthesized and studied for mesomorphic and optical properties. These materials consist of three derivatives with varying terminal flexible chain lengths (6–12 carbons) linked to the phenyl ring near the ester bond. The study employed differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy (POM) to characterize the mesomorphic properties. Molecular structures were elucidated using elemental analysis, FT-IR, and NMR spectroscopy. The findings reveal that all the synthesized maleic anhydride derivatives exhibit enantiotropic nematic (N) mesophases. The insertion of the heterocyclic maleic anhydride moiety into the molecular structure influences the stability and range of the N phase. Additionally, entropy changes during N-isotropic transitions are of small magnitude and exhibit non-linear trends independent of the terminal alkoxy chain length (n). This suggests that the ester linkage group does not significantly promote molecular biaxiality, and the clearing temperature values are relatively high. By comparing the investigated materials with their furan derivatives found in existing literature, it was established that the substitution examined in this study induces the formation of nematic phases.
NMR studies of polymeric sodium ion conductors—a brief review
Authors: Zheng Allen , Greenbaum Steven G.
Published: November 2023

Sodium has long been considered an alternative active battery cation to lithium because of the chemical similarity and the overwhelming natural abundance of Na compared to Li. In the “early days” of poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) and alkali metal salt complexes proposed as polymer electrolytes, studies of Na-salt/PEO materials were nearly as prevalent as those of lithium analogues. Fast forwarding to the present day, there is growing interest in sodium battery chemistry spurred by the challenges of continued advancement in lithium-based batteries. This article reviews the progress made in sodium-based polymer electrolytes from the early days of PEO to the present time. Other polymeric electrolytes such as gel polymer electrolytes (GPE), including formulations based on ionic liquids (ILs), are also discussed.
Different origins and processing methods affect the intrinsic quality of ginger: a novel approach to evaluating ginger quality
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Yujie , Zuo Chijing , Zhang Jing , Liang Wanhui , Liu Yan , Yu Weidong , Yu Hao , Peng Can
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roce.) is a widely consumed food item and a prominent traditional Chinese medicinal herb. The intrinsic quality of ginger may differ due to variations in its origin and processing techniques. To evaluate the quality of ginger, a straightforward and efficient discriminatory approach has been devised, utilizing 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, and 10-gingerol as benchmarks.

Methods: In order to categorize ginger samples according to their cultivated origins with different longitude and latitude (Shandong, Anhui, and Yunnan provinces in China) and processing methods (liquid nitrogen pulverization, ultra-micro grinding, and mortar grinding), similarity analysis (SA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed. Furthermore, there was a quantitative determination of the significant marker compounds gingerols, which has considerable impact on maintaining quality control and distinguishing ginger products accurately. Moreover, discrimination analysis (DA) was utilized to further distinguish and classify samples with unknown membership degrees based on the eigenvalues, with the aim of achieving optimal discrimination between groups.

Results: The findings obtained from the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) data revealed that the levels of various gingerols present in all samples exhibited significant variations. The study confirmed that the quality of ginger was primarily influenced by its origin and processing method, with the former being the dominant factor. Notably, the sample obtained from Anhui province and subjected to liquid nitrogen pulverization demonstrated the highest content of gingerols.

Conclusion: The results obtained from the analysis of SA, HCA, PCA, and DA were consistent and could be employed to evaluate the quality of ginger. As such, the combination of HPLC fingerprints and chemo metric techniques provided a dependable approach for comprehensively assessing the quality and processing of ginger.
Unveiling the nexus of postoperative fever and delirium in cardiac surgery: identifying predictors for enhanced patient care
Authors: Wang Ya-peng , Shen Bei-bei , Zhu Cui-cui , Li Li , Lu Shan , Wang Dong-jin , Jin Hua , Liu Qi , Wang Zhe-yun , Ge Min
Published: November 2023

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a significant complication observed in cardiac surgery patients, characterized by acute cognitive decline, fluctuating mental status, consciousness impairment, and confusion. Despite its impact, POD often goes undiagnosed. Postoperative fever, a common occurrence after cardiac surgery, has not been comprehensively studied in relation to delirium. This study aims to identify perioperative period factors associated with POD in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, with the potential for implementing preventive interventions.

Methods

In a prospective observational study conducted between February 2023 and April 2023 at the Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, a total of 232 patients who underwent cardiac surgery were enrolled. POD assessment utilized the Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM-ICU), while high fever was defined as a bladder temperature exceeding 39°C. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate analyses, logistic regression, nomogram development, and internal validation.

Result

The overall incidence of postoperative delirium was found to be 12.1%. Multivariate analysis revealed that postoperative lactate levels [odds ratio (OR) = 1.787], maximum temperature (OR = 11.290), and cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR = 1.015) were independent predictors of POD. A predictive nomogram for POD was developed based on these three factors, demonstrating good discrimination and calibration. The prediction model exhibited a C-statistic value of 0.852 (95% CI, 0.763–0.941), demonstrating excellent discriminatory power. Sensitivity and specificity, based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve, were 91.2% and 67.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study underscores the high prevalence of POD in cardiac surgery patients and identifies postoperative lactate levels, cardiopulmonary bypass duration, and postoperative fever as independent predictors of delirium. The association between postoperative fever and POD warrants further investigation. These findings have implications for implementing preventive strategies in high-risk patients, aiming to mitigate postoperative complications and improve patient outcomes.
Impact of route of access and stenosis subtype on outcome after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Maier Julian , Lambert Thomas , Senoner Thomas , Dobner Stephan , Hoppe Uta Caroline , Fellner Alexander , Pfeifer Bernhard Erich , Feuchtner Gudrun Maria , Friedrich Guy , Semsroth Severin , Bonaros Nikolaos , Holfeld Johannes , Müller Silvana , Reinthaler Markus , Steinwender Clemens , Barbieri Fabian
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Previous analyses have reported the outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for patients with low-flow, low-gradient (LFLG) aortic stenosis (AS), without stratifying according to the route of access. Differences in mortality rates among access routes have been established for high-gradient (HG) patients and hypothesized to be even more pronounced in LFLG AS patients. This study aims to compare the outcomes of patients with LFLG or HG AS following transfemoral (TF) or transapical (TA) TAVR.

Methods

A total of 910 patients, who underwent either TF or TA TAVR with a median follow-up of 2.22 (IQR: 1.22–4.03) years, were included in this multicenter cohort study. In total, 146 patients (16.04%) suffered from LFLG AS. The patients with HG and LFLG AS were stratified according to the route of access and compared statistically.

Results

The operative mortality rates of patients with HG and LFLG were found to be comparable following TF access. The operative mortality rate was significantly increased for patients who underwent TA access [odds ratio (OR): 2.91 (1.54–5.48), p = 0.001] and patients with LFLG AS [OR: 2.27 (1.13–4.56), p = 0.02], which could be corroborated in a propensity score-matched subanalysis. The observed increase in the risk of operative mortality demonstrated an additive effect [OR for TA LFLG: 5.45 (2.35–12.62), p < 0.001]. LFLG patients who underwent TA access had significantly higher operative mortality rates (17.78%) compared with TF LFLG (3.96%, p = 0.016) and TA HG patients (6.36%, p = 0.024).

Conclusions

HG patients experienced a twofold increase in operative mortality rates following TA compared with TF access, while LFLG patients had a fivefold increase in operative mortality rates. TA TAVR appears suboptimal for patients with LFLG AS. Prospective studies should be conducted to evaluate alternative options in cases where TF is not possible.
Towards an understanding of global brain data governance: ethical positions that underpin global brain data governance discourse
Authors: Ochang Paschal , Eke Damian , Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The study of the brain continues to generate substantial volumes of data, commonly referred to as “big brain data,” which serves various purposes such as the treatment of brain-related diseases, the development of neurotechnological devices, and the training of algorithms. This big brain data, generated in different jurisdictions, is subject to distinct ethical and legal principles, giving rise to various ethical and legal concerns during collaborative efforts. Understanding these ethical and legal principles and concerns is crucial, as it catalyzes the development of a global governance framework, currently lacking in this field. While prior research has advocated for a contextual examination of brain data governance, such studies have been limited. Additionally, numerous challenges, issues, and concerns surround the development of a contextually informed brain data governance framework. Therefore, this study aims to bridge these gaps by exploring the ethical foundations that underlie contextual stakeholder discussions on brain data governance.

Method

In this study we conducted a secondary analysis of interviews with 21 neuroscientists drafted from the International Brain Initiative (IBI), LATBrain Initiative and the Society of Neuroscientists of Africa (SONA) who are involved in various brain projects globally and employing ethical theories. Ethical theories provide the philosophical frameworks and principles that inform the development and implementation of data governance policies and practices.

Results

The results of the study revealed various contextual ethical positions that underscore the ethical perspectives of neuroscientists engaged in brain data research globally.

Discussion

This research highlights the multitude of challenges and deliberations inherent in the pursuit of a globally informed framework for governing brain data. Furthermore, it sheds light on several critical considerations that require thorough examination in advancing global brain data governance.
Identifying the need to institutionalize digital equity among faculty: the experience of the Kenya Medical Training College
Authors: Gicheru Wagaki , Mwangi Nyawira
Published: November 2023

Background

The use of digital tools and applications in health professions education is increasing exponentially, however this has the potential to increase the digital inequities with the resulting effect of vulnerable groups facing an increased risk of digital exclusion. It is therefore important to approach digitalization with contextual determinants of the intended and unintended impact in mind. We present a perspective paper on digital equity, informed by lessons learnt at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC).

Methods

Using a case description methodology, we examined routine educational data collected from faculty at KMTC in November 2022. This included quantitative and qualitative data on access, ownership, utilization, confidence and skills to create, share, and exchange knowledge on the institution’s learning management system. We used these factors as the conceptual framework for understanding how faculty adopt digitalization in health professions education.

Results

306 faculty responded to the survey (response rate 27.8%) of whom 90.8 and 75.2% had personal laptops at home and at work and 75.9% had internet at work. 53.4% (n = 163) knew they had accounts created on the institution’s learning management system (LMS) majority of whom had basic skills and were able to perform skills such as logging in and accessing learning resources. However, a minority had advanced skills needed for teaching and learning in the LMS.

Conclusion

Medical education institutions in LMICs need to adopt programs to enhance digital literacy and monitoring of access, utilization and self-efficacy across all learner and faculty groups, to ensure that digital technologies reduce rather than exacerbate existing inequities.
Research on wearable technologies for learning: a systematic review
Authors: Chu Sharon Lynn , Garcia Brittany M. , Rani Neha
Published: November 2023

A good amount of research has explored the use of wearables for educational or learning purposes. We have now reached a point when much literature can be found on that topic, but few attempts have been made to make sense of that literature from a holistic perspective. This paper presents a systematic review of the literature on wearables for learning. Literature was sourced from conferences and journals pertaining to technology and education, and through an ad hoc search. Our review focuses on identifying the ways that wearables have been used to support learning, and provides perspectives on that issue from a historical dimension, and with regards to the types of wearables used, the populations targeted, and the settings addressed. Seven different ways of how wearables have been used to support learning were identified. We propose a framework identifying five main components that have been addressed in existing research on how wearables can support learning, and present our interpretations of unaddressed research directions based on our review results.
Mapping the path towards novel treatment strategies: a bibliometric analysis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis research from 1990 to 2023
Authors: Guo Manping , Li Qingna , Liu Xingfang , Wang Yiming , Yang Qiaoning , Li Rui , Zhao Yang , Li Chenfei , Sheng Song , Ma Hangkun , Li Zhenghong , Gao Rui
Published: November 2023

Background

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), a common form of thyroid autoimmunity, is strongly associated with deteriorating clinical status and impaired quality of life. The escalating global prevalence, coupled with the complexity of disease mechanisms, necessitates a comprehensive, bibliometric analysis to elucidate the trajectory, hotspots, and future trends in HT research.

Objective

This study aims to illuminate the development, hotspots, and future directions in HT research through systematic analysis of publications, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords. Particular emphasis is placed on novel treatment strategies for HT and its complications, highlighting the potential role of genetic profiling and immunomodulatory therapies.

Methods

We retrieved 8,726 relevant documents from the Web of Science Core Collection database spanning from 1 January 1990 to 7 March 2023. Following the selection of document type, 7,624 articles were included for bibliometric analysis using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and R software.

Results

The temporal evolution of HT research is categorized into three distinct phases: exploration (1990-1999), rapid development (1999-2000), and steady growth (2000-present). Notably, the United States, China, Italy, and Japan collectively contributed over half (54.77%) of global publications. Among the top 10 research institutions, four were from Italy (4/10), followed by China (2/10) and the United States (2/10). Recent hotspots, such as the roles of gut microbiota, genetic profiling, and nutritional factors in HT management, the diagnostic dilemmas between HT and Grave’s disease, as well as the challenges in managing HT complicated by papillary thyroid carcinoma and type 1 diabetes mellitus, are discussed.

Conclusion

Although North America and Europe have a considerable academic impact, institutions from emerging countries like China are demonstrating promising potential in HT research. Future studies are anticipated to delve deeper into the differential diagnosis of HT and Grave’s disease, the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and HT pathogenesis, clinical management of HT with papillary thyroid carcinoma or type 1 diabetes, and the beneficial effects of dietary modifications and micronutrients supplementation in HT. Furthermore, the advent of genetic profiling and advanced immunotherapies for managing HT offers promising avenues for future research.
Detection of false data injection attacks on power systems based on measurement-eigenvalue residual similarity test
Authors: Zhu Yihua , Liu Ren , Chang Dongxu , Guo Hengdao
Published: November 2023

Existing False data injection attack (FDIA) detection methods based on measurement similarity testing have difficulty in distinguishing between actual power grid accidents and FDIAs. Therefore, this paper proposes a detection method called the measurement-eigenvalue residual similarity (MERS) test, which can accurately detect FDIAs in AC state estimationof power system and effectively distinguish them from actual power grid accidents. Simulation results on the IEEE 39-bus system demonstrate that the proposed method achieves higher detection rates and lower false alarm rates than traditional methods under various operation conditions.
Science citizen: shifting to a “science-first” approach and recognising the trade-offs between objectives in a long-term citizen science program
Authors: O’Reilly Woo , Starrs Danswell
Published: November 2023

Citizen science is a powerful force for scientific enquiry, allowing volunteers to collect data over broader spatial and temporal scales than could be achieved using traditional methods. Many citizen science programs, however, have suffered from a lack of confidence in the data due to a range of both real and perceived issues, resulting in low recognition and a lack of data uptake by researchers and policymakers. This in turn can threaten the very existence of citizen science programs that are dependent on external funding. In this paper, we explore the shift to a ‘science-first’ approach undertaken by a long-term citizen science program, Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch. The ‘science-first’ approach has enabled Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch to better partition and appropriately manage the program’s key areas of data collection, education and awareness raising. Moving towards a contributory typology, whilst recognising the positive elements that come with the original collaborative model, has enabled more strategic data collection and better data quality. This has resulted in greater data uptake in catchment management decision-making as well as secure, long-term funding for the program.
Evaluating the impact of multi scenario land use change simulation on carbon storage at different scales: a case study of Pearl River Delta Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Wen Ding , Li Xiaona , Wang Xiuming , Hong Man , Zhou Wen , Xu Naizhong
Published: November 2023

Carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems is crucial to advance carbon neutrality and support sustainable development. Extensive studies have explored the effect of land use change on carbon storage, especially urban expansion. As one of the world’s top urban agglomerations, the Pearl River Delta Urban Agglomeration (PRDUA) is facing a dramatic loss of carbon storage along with urbanization. Coordinating economic development and ecological protection and achieving low-carbon green development are urgently needed to alleviate the decline in urban carbon storage. Here, we quantified land use change in the historical period (2000, 2010, 2020) and in 2030 and then estimated carbon storage dynamics at different scales by combining the PLUS model and the InVEST model. We found that: (1) Construction land significantly increased simultaneously with considerable losses of farmland (2273.29 km2) and forestland (949.98 km2) from 2010–2020. In 2030, construction land will expand by 997.83 km2 (12.51%), 1419.97 km2 (17.79%), and 238.60 km2 (2.99%) under the natural growth (NG), urban expansion (UE), and low carbon development (LCD) scenarios, respectively. (2) Compared to 2020, carbon storage under the LCD will reach 6.51×108 Mg, with the lowest decline rate (0.35%). (3) At the city level, Shenzhen had the highest decline rate under various scenarios, followed by Zhuhai and Guangzhou. At the county scale, carbon storage followed the order NG > UE > LCD in 2000–2030. At the grid scale, carbon storage showed a declining trend from the central PRDUA region to marginal areas. Thus, comprehensive considering the multiscale effects of land use change on carbon storage was beneficial to formulate reasonable measures for specific areas. Differentiated development categories at different scales and low-carbon industrial upgrading should be implemented to maintain ecosystem services and achieve sustainable development.
Reduced growth sensitivity to water availability as potential indicator of drought-induced tree mortality risk in a Mediterranean Pinus sylvestris L. forest
Authors: Herrero Asier , González-Gascueña Raquel , González-Díaz Patricia , Ruiz-Benito Paloma , Andivia Enrique
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Drought-associated tree mortality has been increasing worldwide since the last decades, impacting structure and functioning of forest ecosystems, with implications for energy, carbon and water fluxes. However, the understanding of the individual vulnerability to drought-induced mortality is still limited.

Methods

We aimed to identify the factors that triggered the mortality of the widely distributed Pinus sylvestris L. in an extensive forest area in central Spain. We compared radial growth patterns in pairs of alive and recently dead individuals that co-occur in close proximity and present similar age and size, thereby isolating the effects of size and environment from the mortality process. Temporal dynamics of growth, growth synchrony, and growth sensitivity to water availability (precipitation minus potential evapotranspiration) were compared between alive and recently dead trees.

Results and discussion

Over the last 50 years, although we did not detect significant differences in growth between alive and dead trees, an increase in the growth synchrony and sensitivity to water availability (i.e. slope of the climatic water balance in the growth model) was observed in all trees as drought intensity increased. 20 years before mortality, dead individuals showed lower growth synchrony and growth sensitivity to water availability than alive ones, without significant differences in growth. Recorded reduction in growth synchrony and growth sensitivity to water availability in dead trees suggests a decoupling between tree growth and climate, which could increase the risk of hydraulic failure and/or carbon starvation under increasingly arid conditions. Thus, the use of reduced growth sensitivity to water availability as potential early-warning signal of tree mortality, together with reduced growth synchrony, should be further explored, particularly in pine species in seasonally dry areas.
Determining the biocontrol capacities of Trichoderma spp. originating from Turkey on Fusarium culmorum by transcriptional and antagonistic analyses
Authors: Sefer Özlem , Özsoy Esma , Yörük Emre , Özkale Evrim
Published: November 2023

In this study aiming to investigate potential fungal biocontrol agents for Fusarium culmorum, several isolates of Trichoderma spp. were evaluated for their antagonistic effects by means of transcriptional analyses. At first, 21 monosporic Trichoderma spp. isolates were obtained from natural wood debris and wood area soils in Manisa, Turkey. Trichoderma spp. Isolates were identified as belonging to four different species (T. atroviride, T. harzianum, T. koningii, and T. brevicompactum) by tef1-α sequencing. Then, the linear growth rate (LGR) of each species was calculated and determined to be in a range between 13.22 ± 0.71 mm/day (T. atroviride TR2) and 25.06 ± 1.45 mm/day (T. harzianum K30). Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) genotyping validated the tef1-α sequencing results by presenting two sub-clusters in the dendrogram. We determined the genetically most similar (TR1 & TR2; 97.77%) and dissimilar (K9 & K17; 40.40%) individuals belonging to the same and different species, respectively. Dual sandwich culture tests (which are useful for antagonism studies) revealed that T. harzianum K21 (the least suppressive) and T. brevicompactum K26 (the most suppressive) isolates suppressed F. culmorum with growth rates of 3% and 46%, respectively. Expressions of genes previously associated with mycoparasitism-plant protection-secondary metabolism (nag1, tgf-1, and tmk-1) were tested by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in both those isolates. While there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in expression that were present in the K21 isolate, those three genes were upregulated with fold change values of 2.69 ± 0.26 (p<0.001), 2.23 ± 0.16 (p<0.001), and 5.38 ± 2.01 (p<0.05) in K26, meaning that the presence of significant alteration in the physiological processes of the fungus. Also, its mycoparasitism potential was tested on Triticum aestivum L. cv Basribey in planta, which was infected with the F. culmorum FcUK99 strain. Results of the trials, including specific plant growth parameters (weight or length of plantlets), confirmed the mycoparasitic potential of the isolate. It can be concluded that (i) nag1, tgf-1, and tmk-1 genes could be approved as reliable markers for evaluation of BCA capacities of Trichoderma spp. and (ii) the T. brevicompactum K26 strain can be suggested as a promising candidate for combating in F. culmorum diseases following the necessary procedures to ensure it is non-hazardous and safe.
DASES: a database of alternative splicing for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Yilong , Kuang Yalan , Luan Siyuan , Yang Yongsan , Ying Zhiye , Li Chunyang , Gao Jinhang , Yuan Yong , Yu Haopeng
Published: November 2023

Esophageal carcinoma ranks as the sixth leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) being particularly prevalent among Asian populations. Alternative splicing (AS) plays a pivotal role in ESCC development and progression by generating diverse transcript isoforms. However, the current landscape lacks a specialized database focusing on alternative splicing events (ASEs) derived from a large number of ESCC cases. Additionally, most existing AS databases overlook the contribution of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in ESCC molecular mechanisms, predominantly focusing on mRNA-based ASE identification. To address these limitations, we deployed DASES (http://www.hxdsjzx.cn/DASES). Employing a combination of publicly available and in-house ESCC RNA-seq datasets, our extensive analysis of 346 samples, with 93% being paired tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissues, led to the identification of 257 novel lncRNAs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Leveraging a paired comparison of tumor and adjacent normal tissues, DASES identified 59,094 ASEs that may be associated with ESCC. DASES fills a critical gap by providing comprehensive insights into ASEs in ESCC, encompassing lncRNAs and mRNA, thus facilitating a deeper understanding of ESCC molecular mechanisms and serving as a valuable resource for ESCC research communities.
Genetic diversity, population structure, and selective signature of sheep in the northeastern Tarim Basin
Authors: Wang Jieru , Suo Jiajia , Yang Ruizhi , Zhang Cheng-long , Li Xiaopeng , Han Zhipeng , Zhou Wen , Liu Shudong , Gao Qinghua
Published: November 2023

Local sheep in the northeastern Tarim Basin can adapt to dry and low-rainfall regional environments. In this study, three local sheep breeds in the northeastern Tarim Basin, LOP (LOP) sheep, Bayinbuluke (BYK) sheep, and Kunlun (KUN, also known as the Qiemo sheep) sheep, and three introduced sheep breeds, Suffolk (SUF) sheep, Dorset (APD) sheep, and Texel (TEX) sheep, were analyzed for genetic diversity, population structure, and selective signature using the Illumina OvineSNP50K BeadChip. We found that LOP, BYK, and KUN had lower observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity than TEX, SUF, and ADP, which were differentiated based on geographic distribution. We performed fixation index (FST) analysis on three local sheep breeds in the northeastern Tarim Basin (LOP, BYK, and KUN) and introduced sheep breeds (TEX, SUF, and ADP) to measure genetic differentiation. Nucleotide diversity (PI) analysis was performed on single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data of LOP, BYK, and KUN. A total of 493 candidate genes were obtained by taking the intersection at a threshold of 5%. Among them, SMAD2, ESR2, and HAS2 were related to reproductive traits. PCDH15, TLE4, and TFAP2B were related to growth traits. SOD1, TSHR, and DNAJB5 were related to desert environmental adaptation. Analyzing the genetic patterns of local sheep in the northeastern Tarim Basin can protect the germplasm resources of local sheep and promote the development and utilization of sheep genetic resources.
The distribution of heterophilic antigens and their relationship with autoimmune diseases
Authors: Sun Lijun , Wang Nana , Feng Yangmeng , Huo Xueping , Feng Qing , Zhao Xiangrong , Li Yan , Yan Liting , Xie Xin , Hu Jun
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Microbial infections are associated with the occurrence of autoimmune diseases, but the mechanisms of microbial infection inducing autoimmune diseases are not fully understood. The existence of heterophilic antigens between microorganisms and human tissues may explain part of the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we investigate the distribution of heterophilic antigens and its relationship with autoimmune diseases.

Methods

Monoclonal antibodies against a variety of microorganisms were prepared. The titer, subclass and reactivity of antibodies with microorganisms were identified, and heterophilic antibodies that cross-reacted with human tissues were screened by human tissue microarray. The reactivity of these heterophilic antibodies with different individuals and different species was further examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In this study, 21 strains of heterophilic antibodies were screened. The results showed that these heterophilic antibodies were produced due to the existence of heterophilic antigens between microorganism and human body and the distribution of heterophilic antigens had individual, tissue and species differences.

Conclusion

Our study showed that heterophilic antigens exist widely between microorganisms and human body, and the heterophilic antigens carried by microorganisms may break the immune tolerance of the body through carrier effect and initiate immune response, which may be one of the important mechanisms of infection inducing autoimmune diseases.
Rationalizing Taiwan’s climate action based on oceans: ineffective governance, aspiring international participation, unrealized universal values, and a new window of blue carbon ecosystem measure
Authors: Tseng Hui-Yi Katherine , Kao Shih-Ming , Tseng Huan-Sheng
Published: November 2023

Characterized by unique practices of self-imposed voluntary commitment, the formulation of Taiwan’s climate action has been informed by the logic of appropriateness, which is norm-guided without regard to consequences. However, ineffective governance exhibited in the gap between governance incapability and overcommitted contribution, aspiring international participation, and realization of universal values hindered by a developmentalism mindset altogether reify that Taiwan’s climate action has turned out to be an unrealistic ideal. It requires due consideration of socially constructed roles and matching obligations (the appropriateness concern) on the one hand, and promulgation of actions made upon rational choice along with well-defined interests (calculation of consequences) on the other hand, to deliver Taiwan’s voluntary commitments while living up the name and substance of an earth citizen. Taiwan’s effort at developing the blue carbon ecosystem (BCE) measure may open a new window of opportunity, whereby a paradigm shift in transforming the appropriateness logic to the appropriateness-consequence compound is discernible. The key lies in integrating the developmentalist drive for growth and the rising environmentalist demand while engaging, substantially and extensively, members of those affected communities with more accessible and sustainable financing mechanisms.
A study on the preparation of superhydrophobic Silane-MXene modified melamine foam and its oil-water separation performance
Authors: Wang Wei , Song Xiangning , Xie Yan , Sheng Xuejia , Zhang Shucai
Published: November 2023

In recent years, oil spills and organic pollution have caused severe damage to the ecological environment. Therefore, the treatment of oily wastewater has become a serious challenge. Here, with the help of melamine foams as a substrate, MXene nano-rough structures were built, and cetyltrimethoxysilane was grafted onto their surfaces to create an oil-absorbing material that is both user-friendly and effective at oil-water separation. Due to the nano structures of MXene were constructed and the long-chain silanes were modified on the foam surface, the material became superhydrophobic. In addition to being able to selectively absorb oils from an oil/water mixture (including emulsified oils) up to 111 times its weight, the modified foam was found to have a water contact angle of 157 which could selectively absorb oil but not water. Furthermore, it demonstrated sustained hydrophobicity and lipophilicity after experiencing strong acid/alkali or prolonged high-temperature treatment, allowing for various scenarios where oil-water separation can be used in severe settings without compromising performance.
Effect of high-dose intravenous vitamin C therapy on the prognosis in patients with moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis: protocol of a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Sun Wenwu , Zhao Bing , Li Jiaoyan , Wang Yihui , Qi Xing , Ning Ning , Sun Silei , Li Mengjiao , Yao Yi , Ni Tongtian , Ma Li , He Juan , Huang Jun , Yang Zhitao , Chen Ying , Sheng Huiqiu , Mao Enqiang
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Acute pancreatitis is a common gastrointestinal disease. The mortality of patients affected by severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) remains high. It is unclear whether high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) therapy could improve the prognosis of these patients. The current prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study will explore the effect of high-dose intravenous vitamin C therapy on the prognosis in patients with moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis.

Methods and design

A total of 418 participants with moderately severe and severe acute pancreatitis who meet the eligible criteria will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive treatment with HDIVC (200 mg/kg/24 h) or placebo (saline) for a period of 7 days. The primary outcome is 28-day mortality in these patients. The secondary outcomes include organ functions and interventions, laboratory tests, healthcare, and 90-day mortality.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the institutional ethics board of the Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China (Registration Number: 2019-90). The report of the study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences, both nationally and internationally.

Clinical trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900022022). Version 1.5.
Breastmilk microbiome changes associated with lactational mastitis and treatment with dandelion extract
Authors: Jin Xinyan , Xiao Jinhe , Lu Chunli , Ma Wenxin , Fan Yingyi , Xue Xue , Xia Yaru , Chen Nana , Liu Jianping , Pei Xiaohua
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Dandelion (Pugongying) is one of the most frequently used Chinese herbs for treating lactational mastitis (LM). Pugongying granules, a patented medication primarily comprised of dandelion extract, have been approved by CFDA for LM treatment in China. The aims of this study were to investigate the etiology of LM and the mechanism by which Pugongying granules decrease LM symptoms, with a particular focus on the microbial communities found in breastmilk.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a previously performed randomized controlled trial (Identifier: NCT03756324, ClinicalTrials.gov). Between 2019 and 2020, women diagnosed with unilateral LM at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital were enrolled. In total, 42 paired breastmilk samples from the healthy and affected breasts of the participants were collected. Additionally, 37 paired pre- and post-treatment breastmilk samples from the affected breast were collected from women who received a 3-day course of either Pugongying granules (20 women) or cefdinir (17 women). Clinical outcomes [e.g., body temperature, visual analogue scale (VAS) score for breast pain, the percentage of neutrophils (NE%)] were analyzed pre- and post-treatment, and the breastmilk samples were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing to analyze the alpha and beta diversities and identify significant bacteria. Finally, the relationship between microorganisms and clinical outcomes was analyzed.

Results

There was no significant difference in fever and pain between the Pugongying group and cefdinir group. The most prevalent bacterial genera in breastmilk were Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. Compared to healthy breastmilk, microbial diversity was reduced in affected breastmilk, and there was a higher relative abundance of Streptococcus. After Pugongying treatment, there was an increase in microbial diversity with significantly higher abundance of Corynebacterium. A negative correlation was found between Corynebacterium, VAS score, and NE%. Treatment with cefdinir did not affect microbial diversity. Taken together, our results show a correlation between LM and reduced microbial diversity, as well as an increased abundance of Streptococcus in affected breastmilk.

Conclusion

Pugongying granules enhanced microbial diversity in breastmilk samples. Given the substantial variation in individual microbiomes, identifying specific species of Streptococcus and Corynebacterium associated with LM may provide additional insight into LM pathogenesis and treatment.
Genomic delineation and description of species and within-species lineages in the genus Pantoea
Authors: Crosby Katherine C. , Rojas Mariah , Sharma Parul , Johnson Marcela A. , Mazloom Reza , Kvitko Brian H. , Smits Theo H. M. , Venter Stephanus N. , Coutinho Teresa A. , Heath Lenwood S. , Palmer Marike , Vinatzer Boris A.
Published: November 2023

As the name of the genus Pantoea (“of all sorts and sources”) suggests, this genus includes bacteria with a wide range of provenances, including plants, animals, soils, components of the water cycle, and humans. Some members of the genus are pathogenic to plants, and some are suspected to be opportunistic human pathogens; while others are used as microbial pesticides or show promise in biotechnological applications. During its taxonomic history, the genus and its species have seen many revisions. However, evolutionary and comparative genomics studies have started to provide a solid foundation for a more stable taxonomy. To move further toward this goal, we have built a 2,509-gene core genome tree of 437 public genome sequences representing the currently known diversity of the genus Pantoea. Clades were evaluated for being evolutionarily and ecologically significant by determining bootstrap support, gene content differences, and recent recombination events. These results were then integrated with genome metadata, published literature, descriptions of named species with standing in nomenclature, and circumscriptions of yet-unnamed species clusters, 15 of which we assigned names under the nascent SeqCode. Finally, genome-based circumscriptions and descriptions of each species and each significant genetic lineage within species were uploaded to the LINbase Web server so that newly sequenced genomes of isolates belonging to any of these groups could be precisely and accurately identified.
Balanced biogeographic and local environmental effects determine the patterns of microbial diversity in biocrusts at multi-scales
Authors: Li Yuanlong , Wang Fengdi , Yang Haijian , Li Hua , Hu Chunxiang
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Biodiversity maintenance and its underlying mechanisms are central issues of ecology. However, predicting the composition turnovers of microbial communities at multiple spatial scales remains greatly challenging because they are obscured by the inconsistent impacts of climatic and local edaphic conditions on the assembly process.

Methods

Based on the Illumina MiSeq 16S/18S rRNA sequencing technology, we investigated soil bacterial and eukaryotic communities in biocrusts with different successional levels at a subcontinental scale of Northern China.

Results

Results showed that irrespective of spatial scale, bacterial α diversity increased but eukaryotic diversity decreased with the primary succession, whereas both β diversities decreased at the subcontinental scale compared with smaller scales, indicating that the biogeographic pattern of soil microorganisms was balanced by successional convergence and distance decay effect. We found that the convergence of bacterial and eukaryotic communities was attributed to the turnovers of generalist and specialist species, respectively. In this process, edaphic and climatic factors showed unique roles in the changes of diversity at local/subcontinental scales. Moreover, the taxonomic diversity tended to be more susceptible to climatic and edaphic conditions, while biotic factors (photosynthesis and pigments) were more important to phylogenetic diversity.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study provided comprehensive insights into understanding the pattern of microbial diversity at multiple spatial scales of drylands.
Collaborative cytometric inter-laboratory ring test for probiotics quantification
Authors: Jordal Peter Lüttge , Diaz Marcos González , Morazzoni Carlotta , Allesina Serena , Zogno Daniele , Cattivelli Daniela , Galletti Serena , Guidesi Elena , Warzée Jean-Pol , Pane Marco
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. From this definition, accurate enumeration of probiotic products is a necessity. Nonetheless, this definition does not specify the methods for assessing such viability. Colony forming units is the de facto gold standard for enumerating viable in probiotic products. The notion of microbial viability has been anchored in the concept of cultivability, which refers to a cell’s capacity to replicate and form colonies on agar media. However, there is a growing consensus that the term “viability” should not be exclusively tied to the ability to cultivate cells. For example, bacterial cells can exist in a Viable But Non-Culturable (VBNC) state, characterized by the maintenance of characteristics such as membrane integrity, enzymatic activity, pH gradients, and elevated levels of rRNA, despite losing the ability to form colonies.

Methods

Herein we present the results of a collaborative inter-laboratory ring test for cytometric bacterial quantification. Specifically, membrane integrity fluorescence flow cytometry (FFC) method and the newer impedance flow cytometry (IFC) method have been used. Both methods interrogate single cells in solution for the presence of intact membranes. FFC exploits fluorochromes that reflect the presence or absence of an intact membrane. IFC probes membrane integrity in a label-free approach by detecting membrane-induced hindrances to the propagation of electricity.

Results

A performance ring-test and comparison design on the FFC method showed that the method is robust against the exchange of equipment, procedures, materials, and operators. After initial method optimization with assessments of rehydration medium, wake-up duration, and phase shift gating on the individual strains, the IFC method showed good agreement with the FFC results. Specifically, we tested 6 distinct species of probiotic bacteria (3 Lactobacillus and 3 Bifidobacterium strains) finding good agreement between FFC and IFC results in terms of total and live cells.

Discussion

Together, these results demonstrate that flow cytometry is a reliable, precise, and user-friendly culture-independent method for bacterial enumeration.