bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genetic snapshot before extinction: Museomics reveals the phylogenetic position of a critically endangered freshwater gastropod
Authors: Stelbrink Björn , Kehlmaier Christian , Clewing Catharina , Wilke Thomas , Albrecht Christian
Published: July 2024

Island species are particularly vulnerable to various anthropogenic impacts. Because several island endemics are rare and not accessible, obtaining genetic information and reconstructing their biogeographical and evolutionary history becomes increasingly difficult. In the present study, we investigated the endangered freshwater gastropod Paludomus ajanensis (family Paludomidae) endemic to the Seychelles (Mahé and Silhouette) in the western Indian Ocean. By analysing historical DNA of this species, we were able to place this species in the family Paludomidae and to uncover its Asian affinity. The patchy distribution plus the documented recent population decline suggests this species should be considered ‘Critically Endangered’.
Integration of Genetic and Clinical Risk Factors for Risk Classification of Uveitis in Patients With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Tordoff Melissa , Smith Samantha L. , Lawson‐Tovey Saskia , Dick Andrew D. , Beresford Michael W. , Ramanan Athimalaipet V. , Hyrich Kimme L. , Morris Andrew P. , Eyre Stephen , Wedderburn Lucy R. , Bowes John ,   the CLUSTER Consortium
Published: July 2024

Objective

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)–associated uveitis (JIAU) is a serious JIA comorbidity that can result in vision impairment. This study aimed to identify genetic risk factors within the major histocompatibility complex for JIAU and evaluate their contribution for improving risk classification when combined with clinical risk factors.

Methods

Data on single nucleotide polymorphisms, amino acids, and classical HLA alleles were available for 2,497 patients with JIA without uveitis and 579 patients with JIAU (female 2,060, male 1,015). Analysis was restricted to patients with inferred European ancestry. Forward conditional logistic regression identified genetic markers exceeding a Bonferroni‐corrected significance (6 × 10−6). Multivariable logistic regression estimated the effects of clinical and genetic risk factors, and a likelihood ratio test calculated the improvement in model fit when adding genetic factors. Uveitis risk classification performance of a model integrating genetic and clinical risk factors was estimated using area under the receiver operator characteristic curve and compared with a model of clinical risk factors alone.

Results

Three genetic risk factors were identified, mapping to HLA‐DRB1, HLA‐DPB1, and HLA‐A. These markers were statistically independent from clinical risk factors and significantly improved the fit of a model when included with clinical risk factors (P = 3.3 × 10−23). The addition of genetic markers improved the classification of JIAU compared with a model of clinical risk factors alone (area under the curve 0.75 vs 0.71).

Conclusion

Integration of a genetic and clinical risk prediction model outperforms a model based solely on clinical risk factors. Future JIAU risk prediction models should include genetic risk factors.
White Light Emission from Zn(II) and DMSO‐Induced Copper Nanocluster Assembly
Authors: Barnwal Neha , Nandi Nilanjana , Sarkar Priyanka , Sahu Kalyanasis
Published: July 2024

An assembly of metal nanoclusters driven by appropriate surface ligands and solvent environment may engender entirely new photoluminescence (PL). Herein, we first synthesize histidine (His) stabilized copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and, subsequently, copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) from it using 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) as an etchant. The CuNCs originally emit bluish‐green (λem=470 nm) PL with a low quantum yield (QY∼1.8 %). However, it transformed into a dual‐emissive nanocluster assembly (Zn‐CuNCs) in the presence of Zn(II) salt, having a distinct blue emission band (λem=420 nm) and a red emission band (λem=615 nm) with eight times QY (∼9.1 %) enhancement. The temperature‐dependent emission spectra of Zn‐CuNCs depicted that the blue emission band persists for all the temperature ranges (0–80 °C) while the red emission band vanishes at high temperatures (70–80 °C). Thus, the blue emission may originate from the locally excited state (LES) emission of the nanoclusters, while the red emission originates from through‐space interaction (TSI) and Cu(I)…Cu(I) interaction within the assembly. Adding dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) further modifies the emission intensities; the red band was amplified four times, while the blue band was diminished by 2.5 times. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images unveiled that the Zn‐CuNCs are a large assembly of tiny nanoclusters, which become more compact in DMSO. The blue emission possesses steady‐state fluorescence anisotropy, while the red emission shows no anisotropy. Further, near‐perfect white light emission(WLE) was rendered with CIE coordinates of (0.33, 0.32) by combining the dual emission of the Zn‐CuNCs with the original green emission of the CuNCs.
Concentration‐dependent luminescence characterization of terbium‐doped strontium aluminate nanophosphors
Authors: Thomas Neenu Mary , Safeera Thevaruparambil Abdul Basheer , Vanchipurackal Ison Varkey , Anila Edathottiyil Issac
Published: July 2024

The present investigation describes the synthesis of luminescent terbium‐doped strontium aluminate nanoparticles emitting bright green light, which were synthesized through a solid‐state reaction method assisted by microwave radiation. Various samples containing different concentrations of Tb were synthesized, and an analysis of their structural and morphological features was conducted using powder x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The band gaps of the samples were determined utilizing the Kubelka–Munk method. The quenching mechanism observed was identified to be due to dipole–dipole interaction using the Dexter theory. The optimized sample with a terbium concentration of 4 at.% has a luminescence lifetime of 1.05 ms with 20.62% quantum efficiency. The results of this study indicate that the terbium‐doped strontium aluminate fluorescent nanoparticles exhibit promising potential for a wide range of applications, including bioimaging, sensing and solid‐state lighting.
Magnetic resonance imaging‐based radiomics nomogram for the evaluation of therapeutic responses to neoadjuvant chemohormonal therapy in high‐risk non‐metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Hui , Ruan Zhong‐Tian , Ke Zhi‐Bin , Lin Fei , Chen Jia‐Yin , Xue Yu‐Ting , Lin Bin , Chen Shao‐Hao , Chen Dong‐Ning , Zheng Qing‐Shui , Xue Xue‐Yi , Wei Yong , Xu Ning
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the potential application of a radiomics features‐based nomogram for predicting therapeutic responses to neoadjuvant chemohormonal therapy (NCHT) in patients with high‐risk non‐metastatic prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

Clinicopathologic information was retrospectively collected from 162 patients with high‐risk non‐metastatic PCa receiving NCHT and radical prostatectomy at our center. The postoperative pathological findings were used as the gold standard for evaluating the efficacy of NCHT. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was conducted to develop radiomics signature. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the predictors of a positive pathological response to NCHT, and a nomogram was constructed based on these predictors.

Results

Sixty‐three patients (38.89%) experienced positive pathological response to NCHT. Receiver operating characteristic analyses showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of periprostatic fat (PPF) radiomics signature was 0.835 (95% CI, 0.754–0.898), while the AUC of intratumoral radiomics signature was 0.822 (95% CI, 0.739–0.888). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PSA level, PPF radiomics signature and intratumoral radiomics signature were independent predictors of positive pathological response. A nomogram based on these three predictors was constructed. The AUC was 0.908 (95% CI, 0.839–0.954). The Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness‐of‐fit test showed that the nomogram was well calibrated. Decision curve analysis revealed the favorable clinical practicability of the nomogram. The nomogram was successfully validated in the validation cohort. Kaplan–Meier analyses showed that nomogram and positive pathological response were significantly related with survival of PCa.

Conclusion

The radiomics–clinical nomogram based on mpMRI radiomics features exhibited superior predictive ability for positive pathological response to NCHT in high‐risk non‐metastatic PCa.
Gain insight into important updates in finalized Title IX regulations
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2024

They’re here — the long‐awaited updated Title IX regulations have finally been issued. These rules are a major development in higher education law and differ from previous iterations of Title IX rules in significant ways. This article explains the most salient updates to the law and discusses procedural information related to the rules.
Seeking greater success with expert opinions
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: July 2024

As you read this article, we are all likely in the midst of beginning the important work of supporting a successful launch to a new academic year. And as we do so, we may find ourselves challenged by new or more pressing demands and needs of our department and changing campus dynamics.
Take proactive steps to limit risks, liability related to court‐storming incidents
Authors: O’Brien Timothy
Published: July 2024

Reports of court‐storming incidents after upset victories or championships tend to renew the focus on event security, safety, and injury prevention. This is especially true this year with the high‐profile incidents of fans colliding with star players such as Caitlin Clark of Iowa and Kyle Filipowski of Duke, as exuberant fans ran wild at the end of their respective games. Although serious injuries were fortunately avoided, there could easily have been a different result in both cases. Indeed, just the video replays of these headline‐making stories clearly underscore the potential for a season‐ending injury in both of these situations.
Alpha‐Glucosidase Inhibitory Effects of Flavonoids, Phenolic Acids and Iridoids Isolated From Vinca Soneri: In Vitro and In Silico Perspectives
Authors: Uyanır Eliz , Šoral Michal , Seyhan Gökçe , Akkaya Didem , Barut Burak , Sari Suat , Duman Hayri , Renda Gülin , Şöhretoğlu Didem
Published: July 2024

Various Vinca species have been traditionally used for their antihypertensive, sedative, and hemostatic properties, as well as for treating diabetes. In this study, some flavonoids, phenolic acids and iridoids were isolated from an endemic Vinca species, Vinca soneri for the first time. α‐Glucosidase inhibitory effects of the isolates were tested and kaempferol‐3‐O‐α‐rhamnopyranosyl (1→6) β‐galactopyranoside (1) was found to be the most active one with an IC50 value of 285.73 ±7.35 μM. Enzyme kinetic assay revealed that it inhibited α‐glucosidase in competitive manner. Molecular geometry of 1 was predicted and Frontier molecular orbital analysis was performed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. Molecular docking and MM‐GBSA calculations predicted good fit for 1 in the enzyme active site and key interactions with the catalytic residues. As a result, current study identifies 1 as a promising competitive α‐glucosidase inhibitor to be developed as a potential antidiabetic drug candidate.
Recent Advances in Confined Pt‐Based Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Chenhao , Yang Junhao , Yang Chang , Hu Hanyu , Zhang Qian , Luo Guanyu , Kong Weijie , Chen Yingquan , Yang Haiping , Wang Deli
Published: July 2024

Developing advanced electrocatalysts toward the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction is essential for the large‐scale application of fuel cells. Pt‐based catalysts have been known to exhibit optimal ORR performance compared with other metal‐based counterparts. However, their long‐term stability and toxic tolerance still need further improvement. Numerous optimization strategies have been employed in the past few years to enhance the ORR comprehensive performance of Pt‐based electrocatalysts, and tremendous progress has been achieved. Among various optimization strategies, the confinement strategy can not only inhibit the coalescence of catalysts during high‐temperature preparation but also mitigate the aggregation, detachment, and dissolution during the electrochemical process, which motivates this review. After addressing the fundamental ORR mechanism and the superiority of confined strategies, we categorize and review various Pt‐based catalysts confined by different materials, including organic compounds, inorganic oxides and carbon materials. Their synthesis routes are discoursed first, then their structure and performance optimization are highlighted. Subsequently, the principle of confinement strategy to enhance the catalyst ORR performance is also discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives on the materials selection, synthesis design, technology improvement, and practical application of confined Pt‐based catalysts are proposed.
Catalytic Atroposelective Construction of Furan‐Based Axially Chiral Scaffolds
Authors: Tan Wei , Wu Xin‐Yue , Shi Feng
Published: July 2024

Axially chiral furan‐based scaffolds have been recognized as a class of important five‐membered heteroaryl atropisomers, and developing catalytic atroposelective reactions for constructing this class of scaffolds is highly desirable. However, the catalytic atroposelective construction of such scaffolds is rather underdeveloped due to the existence of great challenges such as remote ortho‐substituents and weak configurational stability. To overcome these challenges, synthetic chemists have recently paid great attention to this research field, and a number of axially chiral furan‐based scaffolds have been constructed via catalytic atroposelective reactions using different strategies. This concept summarized these advances in this field and pointed out the remaining challenges, which will promote the further development of this emerging field.
Recent Advances of Monolithic Metal Mesh‐Based Catalysts for CO Oxidation
Authors: Yang Liu , Li Jing , Liu Baodan
Published: July 2024

This review systematically evaluates the research and applications of metal mesh‐based catalysts for CO oxidation. CO is a hazardous gas that affects human health and the environment. Traditional cordierite‐based catalysts have drawbacks such as complex preparation, high costs, poor stability, and limited catalytic activity, necessitating exploration of alternative solutions. Monolithic metal mesh‐based catalysts, using metal substrates like Ti, Cu, Fe, FeCrAl, stainless steel, Al and Ni, could address these problems effectively. Generally, each metal mesh requires specific pretreatments to roughen surface and facilitate the loading of active species. Plasma electrolytic oxidation is particularly effective for Ti and Al mesh. This results in a monolithic metal mesh‐based catalyst with uniform surface distribution and fully exposed active species. The review also summarizes in‐situ preparation strategies for metal mesh‐based catalysts and their progress in CO oxidation. Finally, the development potential of metal mesh‐based catalysts is discussed, emphasizing the significant challenges and future prospects for industrial applications.
Correspondence on “Beyond the Dimer and Trimer: Tetraspiro[2.1.25.1.29.1.213.13]hexadecane‐1,3,5,7‐tetraone – the Cyclic Tetramer of Carbonylcyclopropane”
Authors: Thimmakondu Venkatesan S.
Published: July 2024

The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name given in the title is incorrect. The correct IUPAC name for this molecule is tetraspiro[2.1.25.1.29.1.213.13]hexadecane‐4,8,12,16‐tetraone. The incorrect name given in the title, unfortunately, makes the carbon atom hexavalent at two different (3 and 5) positions. In addition, the two other keto groups (at positions 1 and 7) would appear on two of the cyclopropane rings if one adopts to the incorrect name. Nevertheless, this wrong name is a good example to discuss the importance of IUPAC nomenclature in the classroom with students.
Relevance and Potential Applications of C2‐Carboxylated 1,3‐Azoles
Authors: Janssen Kerrin , Kirchmair Johannes , Proppe Jonny
Published: July 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an economically viable and abundant carbon source that can be incorporated into compounds such as C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles relevant to the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and pesticide industries. Of the 2.4 million commercially available C2‐unsubstituted 1,3‐azole compounds, less than 1 % are currently purchasable as their C2‐carboxylated derivatives, highlighting the substantial gap in compound availability. This availability gap leaves ample opportunities for exploring the synthetic accessibility and use of carboxylated azoles in bioactive compounds. In this study, we analyze and quantify the relevance of C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles in small‐molecule research. An analysis of molecular databases such as ZINC, ChEMBL, COSMOS, and DrugBank identified relevant C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles as anticoagulant and aroma‐giving compounds. Moreover, a pharmacophore analysis highlights promising pharmaceutical potential associated with C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles, revealing the ATP‐sensitive inward rectifier potassium channel 1 (KATP) and Kinesin‐like protein KIF18 A as targets that can potentially be addressed with C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles. Moreover, we identified several bioisosteres of C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles. In conclusion, further exploration of the chemical space of C2‐carboxylated 1,3‐azoles is recommended to harness their full potential in drug discovery and related fields.
Solving the Puzzle of the Carbonic Acid Vibrational Spectrum – an Anharmonic Story
Authors: Schlagin Jonas , Dinu Dennis F. , Bernard Jürgen , Loerting Thomas , Grothe Hinrich , Liedl Klaus R.
Published: July 2024

Against the general belief that carbonic acid is too unstable for synthesis, it was possible to synthesize the solid[1,2] as well as gas‐phase carbonic acid.[3] It was suggested that solid carbonic acid might exist in Earth's upper troposphere and in the harsh environments of other solar bodies,[4] where it undergoes a cycle of synthesis, decomposition, and dimerization.[5] To provide spectroscopic data for probing the existence of extraterrestrial carbonic acid,[2,6] matrix‐isolation infrared (MI–IR) spectroscopy has shown to be essential.[3,4,6–8] However, early assignments within the harmonic approximation using scaling factors impeded a full interpretation of the rather complex MI–IR spectrum of H2CO3. Recently, carbonic acid was detected in the Galactic center molecular cloud,[9] triggering new interest in the anharmonic spectrum.[10] In this regard, we substantially reassign our argon MI–IR spectra based on accurate anharmonic calculations. We calculate a four‐mode potential energy surface (PES) at the explicitly correlated coupled‐cluster theory using up to triple‐zeta basis sets, i. e., CCSD(T)‐F12/cc‐pVTZ−F12. On this PES, we perform vibrational self‐consistent field and configuration interaction (VSCF/VCI) calculations to obtain accurate vibrational transition frequencies and resonance analysis of the fundamentals, first overtones, and combination bands. In total, 12 new bands can be assigned, extending the spectral data for carbonic acid and thus simplifying detection in more complex environments. Furthermore, we clarify disputed assignments between the cc‐ and ct‐conformer.
B‐Site Doping Boosts the OER and ORR Performance of Double Perovskite Oxide as Air Cathode for Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Ozgur Cagla , Erdil Tuncay , Geyikci Uygar , Yildiz Ilker , Lokcu Ersu , Toparli Cigdem
Published: July 2024

Double perovskite oxides are key players as oxygen evolution and oxygen reduction catalysts in alkaline media due to their tailorable electronic structures by doping. In this study, we synthesized B‐site doped NdBaCoaFe2‐aO5+δ (a=1.0, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8) electrocatalysts, systematically probed their bifunctionality and assessed their performance in zinc‐air batteries as air cathodes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis reveals a correlation between iron reduction and increased oxygen vacancy content, influencing electrocatalyst bifunctionality by lowering the work function. The electrocatalyst with highest cobalt content, NdBaCo1.8Fe0.2O5+δ exhibited a bifunctionality value of 0.95 V, outperforming other synthesized electrocatalysts. Remarkably, NdBaCo1.8Fe0.2O5+δ, demonstrated facilitated charge transfer rate in oxygen evolution reaction with four‐electron oxygen reduction reaction process. As an air cathode in a zinc‐air battery, NdBaCo1.8Fe0.2O5+δ demonstrated superior performance characteristics, including maximum capacity of 428.27 mA h at 10 mA cm−2 discharge current density, highest peak power density of 64 mW cm−2, with an enhanced durability and stability. It exhibits lowest voltage gap change between charge and discharge even after 350 hours of cyclic operation with a rate capability of 87.14 %.
Fine Structural Analysis of Degummed Fibroin Fibers Reveals Its Superior Mechanical Capabilities
Authors: Eliaz D. , Kellersztein I. , Miali M. E. , Benyamin D. , Brookstein O. , Daraio C. , Wagner H. D. , Raviv U. , Shimanovich U.
Published: July 2024

Bombyx mori silk fibroin fibers constitute a class of protein building blocks capable of functionalization and reprocessing into various material formats. The properties of these fibers are typically affected by the intense thermal treatments needed to remove the sericin gum coating layer. Additionally, their mechanical characteristics are often misinterpreted by assuming the asymmetrical cross‐sectional area (CSA) as a perfect circle. The thermal treatments impact not only the mechanics of the degummed fibroin fibers, but also the structural configuration of the resolubilized protein, thereby limiting the performance of the resulting silk‐based materials. To mitigate these limitations, we explored varying alkali conditions at low temperatures for surface treatment, effectively removing the sericin gum layer while preserving the molecular structure of the fibroin protein, thus, maintaining the hierarchical integrity of the exposed fibroin microfiber core. The precise determination of the initial CSA of the asymmetrical silk fibers led to a comprehensive analysis of their mechanical properties. Our findings indicate that the alkali surface treatment raised the Young′s modulus and tensile strength, by increasing the extent of the fibers’ crystallinity, by approximately 40 % and 50 %, respectively, without compromising their strain. Furthermore, we have shown that this treatment facilitated further production of high‐purity soluble silk protein with rheological and self‐assembly characteristics comparable to those of native silk feedstock, initially stored in the animal′s silk gland. The developed approaches benefits both the development of silk‐based materials with tailored properties and the proper mechanical characterization of asymmetrical fibrous biological materials made of natural building blocks.
Impacts of climate change on the potential distribution of Pulex simulans and Polygenis gwyni
Authors: Wang Zihao , Chang Nan , Li Hongyun , Wei Xiaohui , Shi Yuan , Li Ke , Li Jinyu , Guo Chenran , Liu Qiyong
Published: July 2024

Pulex simulans and Polygenis gwyni are vectors of many flea‐borne diseases. They were widely recorded in the United States and Mexico between 1970 and 2000. Maximum entropy models were used to explore the habitats of both fleas under different climate scenarios to provide the scientific basis for the surveillance and control of flea‐borne diseases. We screened climate variables by principal component analysis and Pearson's correlation test and evaluated model performance by ROC curve. ArcMap was used to visualize expressions. Under current climatic conditions, the medium and highly suitable areas for P. simulans are estimated to be 9.16 × 106 km2 and 4.97 × 106 km2, respectively. These regions are predominantly located in South America, along the Mediterranean coast of Europe, the southern part of the African continent, the Middle East, North China, and Australia. For P. gwyni, the medium and highly suitable areas under current climatic conditions are approximately 4.01 × 106 and 2.04 × 106 km2, respectively, with the primary distribution in North China extending to the Himalayas, near the Equator in Africa, and in a few areas of Europe. Under future climate scenarios, in the SSP3‐7.0 scenario for the years 2081–2100, the area of high suitability for P. simulans is projected to reach its maximum. Similarly, in the SSP2‐4.5 scenario for 2061–2080, the area of high suitability for P. gwyni is expected to reach its maximum. Under global climate change, there is a large range in the potential distribution for both fleas, with an overall upward trend in the area of habitat under future climate scenarios. Governments should develop scientific prevention and control measures to prevent the invasive alien species flea.
Associations among MHC genes, latitude, and avian malaria infections in the rufous‐collared sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis)
Authors: Rivero de Aguilar Juan , Barroso Omar , Bonaccorso Elisa , Cadena Hector , Hussing Lucas , Jorquera Josefina , Martinez Javier , Martínez‐de la Puente Josué , Marzal Alfonso , León Miranda Fabiola , Merino Santiago , Matta Nubia E. , Ramenofsky Marilyn , Rozzi Ricardo , Valeris‐Chacín Carlos E. , Vásquez Rodrigo A. , Vianna Juliana A. , Wingfield John C.
Published: July 2024

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is a genetic region in jawed vertebrates that contains key genes involved in the immune response. Associations between the MHC and avian malaria infections in wild birds have been observed and mainly explored in the Northern Hemisphere, while a general lack of information remains in the Southern Hemisphere. Here, we investigated the associations between the MHC genes and infections with Plasmodium and Haemoproteus blood parasites along a latitudinal gradient in South America. We sampled 93 rufous‐collared sparrows (Zonotrichia capensis) individuals from four countries, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, and estimated MHC‐I and MHC‐II allele diversity. We detected between 1–4 (MHC‐I) and 1–6 (MHC‐II) amino acidic alleles per individual, with signs of positive selection. We obtained generalized additive mixed models to explore the associations between MHC‐I and MHC‐II diversity and latitude. We also explored the relationship between infection status and latitude/biome. We found a non‐linear association between the MHC‐II amino acidic allele diversity and latitude. Individuals from north Chile presented a lower MHC genetic diversity than those from other locations. We also found an association between deserts and xeric shrublands and a lower prevalence of Haemoproteus parasites. Our results support a lower MHC genetic in arid or semi‐arid habitats in the region with the lower prevalence of Haemoproteus parasites.
Evaluating host diet effects on microparasites by measuring the stoichiometry of infrapopulations one cell at a time
Authors: Narr Charlotte F. , Binger Scott , Sedlacek Erin , Anderson Bianca , Shoemaker Grace , Stanley Adrienne , Stokoski Madison , Hall Ed
Published: July 2024

Progress in the field of ecological stoichiometry has demonstrated that the outcome of ecological interactions can often be predicted a priori based on the nutrient ratios (e.g., carbon: nitrogen: phosphorus, C:N:P) of interacting organisms. However, the challenges of accurately measuring the nutrient content of active parasites within hosts has limited our ability to rigorously apply ecological stoichiometry to host–parasite systems. Traditional nutrient analyses require high parasite biomasses, often preventing individual‐level analyses. This prevents researchers from estimating variation in the nutrient content of individual parasites within a single host infrapopulation, a critical factor that could define how the ecology of the parasite affects the host–parasite interaction. Here, we explain how energy dispersive technology, a technique currently used to measure the elemental content of free‐living microbes, can be adapted for parasitic microbial infrapopulations. We demonstrate the power of accurately quantifying the biomass stoichiometry of individual microbial parasites sampled directly from individual hosts. Using this approach, we show that the stoichiometric composition of two microbial parasites capable of infecting the same host are stoichiometrically distinct and respond to host diet quality differently. We also demonstrate that characteristics of the stoichiometric trait distributions of these infrapopulations were important predictors of host fecundity, a proxy for virulence in this system, and better predictors of parasite load than the mean parasite stoichiometry or our parasite and diet treatments alone. EDS provides a rigorous tool for applying ecological stoichiometry to host–parasite systems and enables researchers to explore the nutritional physiology of host–parasite interactions at a scale that is more relevant to the ecology and evolution of the system than traditional nutrient analyses. Here we demonstrate that this level of resolution provides useful insights into the diet‐dependent physiology of microbial parasites and their hosts. We anticipate that this improved level of resolution has the potential to elucidate a range of eco–evo interactions in host–parasite systems that were previously unobservable.
Risk of invasive waterfowl interaction with poultry production: Understanding potential for avian pathogen transmission via species distribution models
Authors: Jackson Reilly T. , Marshall Percival M. , Burkhart Chris , Schneck Julia , Kelly Grant , Roberts Caleb P.
Published: July 2024

Recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza have devastated poultry production across the United States, with more than 77 million birds culled in 2022–2024 alone. Wild waterfowl, including various invasive species, host numerous pathogens, including highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV), and have been implicated as catalysts of disease outbreaks among native fauna and domestic birds. In major poultry‐producing states like Arkansas, USA, where the poultry sector is responsible for significant economic activity (>$4 billion USD in 2022), understanding the risk of invasive waterfowl interactions with domestic poultry is critical. Here, we assessed the risk of invasive waterfowl‐poultry interaction in Arkansas by comparing the density of poultry production sites (chicken houses) to areas of high habitat suitability for two invasive waterfowl species, (Egyptian Goose [Alopochen aegyptiaca] and Mute Swan [Cygnus olor]), known to host significant pathogens, including avian influenza viruses. The percentage of urban land cover was the most important habitat characteristic for both invasive waterfowl species. At the 95% confidence interval, chicken house densities in areas highly suitable for both species (Egyptian Goose = 0.91 ± 0.11 chicken houses/km2; Mute Swan = 0.61 ± 0.03 chicken houses/km2) were three to five times higher than chicken house densities across the state (0.17 ± 0.01 chicken houses/km2). We show that northwestern and western Arkansas, both areas of high importance for poultry production, are also at high risk of invasive waterfowl presence. Our results suggest that targeted monitoring efforts for waterfowl‐poultry contact in these areas could help mitigate the risk of avian pathogen exposure in Arkansas and similar regions with high poultry production.
De‐novo assembly of four rail (Aves: Rallidae) genomes: A resource for comparative genomics
Authors: Gaspar Julien , Trewick Steve A. , Gibb Gillian C.
Published: July 2024

Rails are a phenotypically diverse family of birds that includes 130 species and displays a wide distribution around the world. Here we present annotated genome assemblies for four rails from Aotearoa New Zealand: two native volant species, pūkeko Porphyrio melanotus and mioweka Gallirallus philippensis, and two endemic flightless species takahē Porphyrio hochstetteri and weka Gallirallus australis. Using the sequence read data, heterozygosity was found to be lowest in the endemic flightless species and this probably reflects their relatively small populations. The quality checks and comparison with other rallid genomes showed that the new assemblies were of good quality. This study significantly increases the number of available rallid genomes and will enable future genomic studies on the evolution of this family.
The evolutionary adaptation of wood‐decay macrofungi to host gymnosperms differs from that to host angiosperms
Authors: Zhang Xuetong , Dong Yuran , Li Yuying , Wu Xiuping , Chen Siyu , Wang Mingyuan , Li Yao , Ge Zhiwei , Zhang Min , Mao Lingfeng
Published: July 2024

Wood‐decay macrofungi play a vital role in forest ecosystems by promoting nutrient cycling and soil structure, and their evolution is closely related to their host plants. This study investigates the potential evolutionary adaptation of wood‐decay macrofungi to their host plants, focusing on whether these relationships differ between gymnosperms and angiosperms. While previous research has suggested non‐random associations between specific fungi and plant deadwood, direct evidence of evolutionary adaptation has been lacking. Our study, conducted in a subtropical region, utilized metabarcoding techniques to identify deadwood species and associated fungi. We found significant evidence of evolutionary adaptation when considering all sampled species collectively. However, distinct patterns emerged when comparing angiosperms and gymnosperms: a significant evolutionary adaptation was observed of wood‐decay macrofungi to angiosperms, but not to gymnosperms. This variation may be due to the longer evolutionary history and more stable species interactions of gymnosperms, as indicated by a higher modularity coefficient (r = .452), suggesting greater specialization. In contrast, angiosperms, being evolutionarily younger, displayed less stable and more coevolving interactions with fungi, reflected in a lower modularity coefficient (r = .387). Our findings provide the first direct evidence of differential evolutionary adaptation dynamics of these fungi to angiosperms versus gymnosperms, enhancing our understanding of forest ecosystem carbon cycling and resource management.
Pine trees structure plant biodiversity patterns in savannas
Authors: Crandall Raelene M. , Chew Yingen M. , Fill Jennifer M. , Kreye Jesse K. , Varner J. Morgan , Kobziar Leda N.
Published: July 2024

Overstory trees serve multiple functions in grassy savannas. Past research has shown that understory species can vary along gradients of canopy cover and basal area in savannas. This variation is frequently associated with light availability but could also be related to other mechanisms, such as heterogeneity in soil and litter depth and fire intensity. Several savanna studies have found differences in understory plant functional groups within the local environment near trees versus away from them in canopy openings. Although small‐scale variation is known to be high in southeastern U.S. pine savannas, patterns in understory species diversity have not been examined at the scale of individual overstory pine trees in this system. We conducted an observational study of the relationship between understory plant communities and proximity to individual pine trees in xeric and mesic pine savannas in frequently burned sites (1–3 year intervals). We recorded the plant community composition in plots adjacent to tree boles (basal) or outside crown driplines (open). Within each environment, raw species richness was significantly greater in open locations, where light transmittance was greater. In contrast, rarified species richness did not differ. Multivariate analyses showed that community composition differed significantly between basal and open plots. One native, woody species in each environment, Serenoa repens (W. Bartram) Small in mesic and Diospyros virginiana L. in xeric, was more abundant in basal plots. In mesic environments, eight species had greater occurrence in open plots. In xeric environments, four understory forbs were more abundant in open plots. Our results support previous research indicating that individual pine trees are associated with significant variation in understory vegetation in pine savannas.
Trade‐offs in habitat use and occupancy of bats across the gradient of urbanization and seasons
Authors: Dwyer Jessie M. , Moore Marianne S. , Lewis Jesse S.
Published: July 2024

Urbanization that occurs across a gradient from low‐ to high‐density development, is a primary driver of landscape change that can affect biodiversity. Animals balance trade‐offs in obtaining resources and avoiding anthropogenic disturbances across the gradient of urbanization to maximize their fitness. However, additional research is necessary to understand seasonal variations in how animals respond to urbanization, particularly in arid regions, where resource availability shifts drastically across seasons. Our objective was to evaluate the response of a suite of bat species to urbanization and whether species shift their response to urbanization across seasons. We predicted that the response of bats to urbanization would differ among species, with some species being more sensitive to urbanization than others. We also predicted that bat species would increase the use of moderate and highly urbanized areas in the summer season where food and water resources were assumed to be greater compared with wildland areas. To evaluate these predictions, we used a stratified random sampling design to sample 50 sites with stationary acoustic bat monitors across the gradient of urbanization in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Arizona, USA during four seasons. We identified a total of 14 bat species during 1000 survey nights. Consistent with predictions, bat species exhibited different responses to urbanization, with most species exhibiting a negative relationship with urbanization, and some species exhibiting a quadratic or positive relationship with urbanization. Counter to predictions, most species did not appear to shift their response to urbanization across seasons. Consistent with predictions, plant productivity and water were important for some species in the summer season. Differences in the response of bat species to urbanization was likely related to species traits (e.g., wing morphology and echolocation call characteristics) and behavioral strategies that influence a species' sensitivity to anthropogenic disturbances and ability to access available resources in urbanized areas. Ultimately, to promote the management and conservation of bats, it is likely important to maintain resources in urbanized areas for bats that are more tolerant of urbanization and to conserve areas of undeveloped high‐quality habitat with low anthropogenic disturbance in wildland areas for bats that are sensitive to urbanization.
Obesity paradox in patients with reduced ejection fraction eligible for device implantation – an observational study
Authors: Merkel Eperke D. , Behon Anett , Masszi Richard , Schwertner Walter R. , Kuthi Luca , Veres Boglárka , Osztheimer István , Papp Roland , Molnár Levente , Zima Endre , Gellér László , Kosztin Annamária , Merkely Béla
Published: July 2024

Aims

Patients with obesity have an overall higher cardiovascular risk, at the same time obesity could be associated with a better outcome in a certain subgroup of patients, a phenomenon known as the obesity paradox. Data are scarce in candidates for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We aimed to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and all‐cause mortality in patients eligible for CRT.

Methods

Altogether 1,585 patients underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy between 2000–2020 and were categorized based on their BMI, 459 (29%) patients with normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2), 641 (40%) patients with overweight (BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2) and 485 (31%) with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality, heart transplantation, and left ventricular assist device implantation. We assessed periprocedural complications and 6‐month echocardiographic response.

Results

Normal‐weight patients were older compared to patients with overweight or obesity (70 years vs. 69 years vs. 68 years; P ‹0.001), respectively. Sex distribution, ischaemic aetiology, and CRT‐D implantation rates were similar in the three patient groups. Diabetes mellitus (BMI < 25 kg/m2 26% vs. BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 37% vs. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 48%; P ‹0.001) and hypertension (BMI < 25 kg/m2 71% vs. BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 74% vs. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 82%; P ‹0.001) were more frequent in patients with overweight and obesity.

During the mean follow‐up time of 5.1 years, 973 (61%) reached the primary endpoint, 66% in the BMI < 25 kg/m2 group, 61% in the BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 group and 58% in the BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 group (log‐rank P‹0.05). Patients with obesity showed mortality benefit over normal‐weight patients (HR 0.78; 95%CI 0.66–0.92; P = 0.003). The obesity paradox was present in patients free from diabetes, atrial fibrillation, and ischemic events. Periprocedural complication rates did not differ in the three groups (BMI < 25 kg/m2 25% vs. BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 28% vs. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 26%; P = 0.48). Left ventricular ejection fraction improved significantly in all patient groups (BMI < 25 kg/m2 median
‐LVEF 7% vs. BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 median
‐LVEF 7.5% vs. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 median
‐LVEF 6%; P < 0.0001) with a similar proportion of developing reverse remodeling (BMI < 25 kg/m2 58% vs. BMI 25‐ < 30 kg/m2 61% vs. BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 57%; P = 0.48); P = 0.75).

Conclusions

The obesity paradox was present in our HF cohort at long‐term, patients underwent CRT implantation with obesity and free of comorbidities showed mortality benefit compared to normal weight patients. Patients with obesity showed similar echocardiographic response and safety outcomes compared to normal weight patients.
Pulmonary artery banding for cardiomyopathy in young children: First trial in China
Authors: Dou Zheng , He Qiyu , Ma Kai , Wang Xu , Zeng Min , Pang Kunjing , Zhang Benqing , Rui Lu , Mao Fengqun , Yuan Jianhui , Wu Dongdong , Liu Yuze , Schranz Dietmar , Li Shoujun
Published: July 2024

Aims

Heritable dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) or DCM associated with congenital or acquired left ventricular diseases carries a significant mortality risk. Pulmonary artery banding (PAB) has been proposed as an alternative to heart transplantation. This study aimed to delineate the clinical development, ventricular reverse remodelling, and functional regeneration of the dilated left ventricle, presenting as a pioneering approach in China.

Methods and results

This prospective study was initiated in November 2021, involving paediatric patients with a significant dilated left ventricle and preserved right ventricle who underwent surgical PAB. The baseline characteristics and clinical information during follow‐up were collected. Seven patients (five boys) with a median age of 240 (148, 1028) days have been included thus far. No procedural or follow‐up mortality was observed. The modified Ross functional class improved from treatment to follow‐up of 348 (200, 629) days, and the median left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 27.0 (15.0, 34.0) % before surgery to 61.0 (52.0, 68.0) % (P < 0.05); the median left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter and corresponding Z‐scores decreased from 43.0 (40.0, 55.0) mm [+9.4 (+7.7, +11.7)] to 33.0 (29.0, 39.0) mm [+1.8 (+1.3, +3.8)] (P < 0.05). Functional regeneration of the left ventricle was observed in five patients. Three of them underwent balloon dilation of the PAB to relieve excessively elevated right ventricular pressures.

Conclusions

The application of PAB should adhere to strict criteria. Initial results are promising for infants and even toddlers with a dilated left ventricle and limited probability of spontaneous recovery. PAB can be an alternative when there is a shortage of donor transplants and assist devices, especially for low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Tridecylcyclohexane in incomplete Freund's adjuvant is a critical component in inducing experimental autoimmune diseases
Authors: Iijima Norifumi , Hayashi Tomoya , Niino Masaaki , Miyamoto Yoichi , Oka Masahiro , Ishii Ken J
Published: July 2024

Incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) has been used for many years to induce autoimmune diseases in animal models, including experimental autoimmune encephalitis and collagen‐induced arthritis. However, it remains unclear why it is necessary to emulsify autoantigen and heat‐killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis (HKMtb) with IFA to induce experimental autoimmune diseases. Here, we found that immunization with self‐antigen and HKMtb was insufficient to induce autoimmune diseases in mice. Furthermore, IFA or one of its components, mineral oil, but not mannide monooleate, was required for the development of experimental autoimmune disease. Immunization with autoantigen and HKMtb emulsified in mineral oil facilitated innate immune activation and promoted the differentiation of pathogenic CD4+ T cells, followed by their accumulation in neuronal tissues. Several water‐soluble hydrocarbon compounds were identified in mineral oil. Of these, immunization with HKMtb and autoantigen emulsified with the same amount of hexadecane or tridecylcyclohexane as mineral oil induced the development of experimental autoimmune encephalitis. In contrast, immunization with HKMtb and autoantigen emulsified with tridecylcyclohexane, but not hexadecane, at doses equivalent to those found in mineral oil, resulted in neuronal dysfunction. These data indicate that tridecylcyclohexane in mineral oil is a critical component in the induction of experimental autoimmune disease.
In vitro evaluation of milk incorporated with Eryngium billardieri Delar alcoholic extract for antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials
Authors: Haghani Mohadeseh , Fadaei Vajiheh , Salehifar Mania
Published: July 2024

The present study evaluates the effect of Eryngium billardieri alcoholic extract (EBAE) at weight/volume levels of 0.5% and 1% on some physicochemical, sensory, and microbial properties of cow milk. Results showed that adding EBAE reduced the samples' pH, lightness index (L*), and whitening index (WI). Besides, it increased the levels of acidity, dry matter, viscosity, color indices a* and b*, total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activity (AA), and enzyme inhibitory activity (EIA) of the fortified milk samples than the control sample (p < .05). During the storage period, a decrease in TPC, TFC, AA, and EIA was observed in all samples (p < .05). There was a positive direct relationship between the health activity of EBAE and its concentration. Moreover, EBAE was able to reduce the total microbial count (TMC) in the milk samples (p < .05). The sample containing 1% w/v of EBAE had the highest TPC, TFC, AA, and EIA but the lowest TMC, and it was highly acceptable in terms of sensory evaluation. Therefore, this sample was selected as the best treatment in this study. The results of this study confirm that EBAE may be used to improve antioxidant activity and beneficial effects in milk.