bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the Extraction of Total Flavonoids and Antioxidant Activity from Lippia multiflora Moldenke (Verbenaceae) Leaves using Experimental Design
Authors: N’Dri Koffi Emmanuel , François Kouakou Yeboue Koffi , Yves Nyamien Bleouh , Deli Roland Kouadoueu , Anin Louise Atchibri
Published: December 2021

The leaves of Lippia multiflora contain secondary metabolites including flavonoids which have an important antioxidant activity. This study aims to optimize the extraction conditions of total flavonoids and the antioxidant activity of these leaves. To achieve this, the Plackett-Burman design was used for the screening of the factors influencing the extraction, then the central composite design was implemented for the optimization itself. The effects of five factors, such as the plant-to-solvent ratio, the nature of the extraction solvent, the extraction time, the extraction method and the size of the L. multiflora leaves, on the extraction of total flavonoids and the antioxidant activity were studied. Results of Plackett-Burman design indicated that factors influencing both flavonoids extraction and antioxidant activity were the solid-liquid ratio and extraction time. The predicted optimal conditions for the highest flavonoids content from  L. multiflora leaf with better antioxidant activity were found with aqueous decoction for 30 min with 3.5 g of cut leaves in 100 mL of distilled water. Using the predicted conditions, experimental responses were 87.18 ± 1.03 mg/g QE and 372.34 ± 4.04 µmol/g TE for total flavonoids and antioxidant capacity, respectively. Under the above-mentioned conditions, the experimental results are very close to predicted one. Thus, L. multiflora leaf can be considered as a natural source of flavonoids content with good antioxidant activity.
Yield and Total Nutrient Uptake Influenced by Soil Salinity, Phosphorus Sources and Biofertilizers in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Authors: Aechra Sushila , Yadav B. L. , Doodhwal Kiran , Bhinda Rashmi , Jat Lali
Published: December 2021

A pot experiment was laid out at Sri Karan Narendra College of Agriculture, Jobner in 2015 during kharif season using cowpea as a test crop to study the influence of soil salinity, phosphorus sources and biofertilizers on yield and total nutrient uptake by cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.). The experiment was tested in completely randomized design in which three levels of each salinity (EC 1.22, 4.0 and 6.0 dS/m), phosphorus (single super phosphate, di ammonium phosphate and phosphorus rich organic manure) and biofertilizers (control, phosphorus solubilizing bacteria and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza) were used with three replications. The experimental data showed that soil salinity (EC 1.22 dS/m) recorded significantly higher yield and total nutrient uptake by cowpea in comparison to other treatments. But nitrogen content lowest recorded at EC 1.22 dS/m. Result further revealed that phosphorus source phosphorus rich organic manure recorded significantly maximum yield and total nutrient uptake by cowpea over rest of the treatments. Furthermore, seed inoculation with phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza recorded the maximum yield and nutrient uptake by cowpea over rest of the treatments. It’s concluded that combination of EC 1.22 dS/m + phosphorus rich organic manure + Biofertilizers (phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza) found superior in all these parameters over the control.
Comparison of the Psychological Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Saudi Nationals Arriving from Abroad During Institutional Quarantine and a Year Later: An Analytical Cross-Sectional and Follow-Up Study
Authors: Alaujan Fahad Yousef , Ghamdi Amal Hassan A. l.
Published: December 2021

Aim: To assess the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic and estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress on individuals during institutional quarantined in 2020 and reassess a year later to compare outcomes and investigates different associated factors.

Study Design: An analytical cross-sectional and a follow-up study

Place and Duration of Study: An institutional COVID-19 quarantine center, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between May 2020 and July 2021

Methodology: A sample of 138 participants were recruited. After obtaining the participants demographics date and consent, an electronic questionnaire was distributed to assess participants psychological well-being using the 42-item depression, anxiety, and stress scales (DASS) twice, at the end of quarantine period and one year later, to compare outcomes and associated factors.

Results: Out of all the sample (n=138), male represented 64.5% while female accounted for 35.5%. Half the participants (50.7%) were married comparing to 40.6% single and bachelor’s or higher degrees holders accounted for 61.6% while 26.8% had high school degree. The psychological health was assessed for all participants twice, resulting with prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress during quarantine period of 34%, 33%, and 22% respectively and a decreased prevalence a year late (20%, 13%, and 9, respectively). The differences between the two psychological assessments were significant (depression: P = .02, anxiety: P< .001, stress: P = .005). Educational level was associated with stress at time of quarantine (P = .03). Marital status and employment status were significantly associated with participants depression levels a year after quarantine (P = .03, P = .04, respectively).

Conclusion and Recommendations: The psychological well-being of quarantined participants was negatively impacted during this unlikable experience. Numerous demographic factors were significantly associated with the undesirable effects. We propose implementing a psychological assessment program in future quarantine centers to prevent further mental health impacts.
Awareness of Mosquito Bite and Preventive Methods Adopted against their Bites
Authors: Rajini S. , Kannan K. , Selvi Tamil
Published: December 2021

Mosquitoes are the utmost common disease vectors worldwide. Newly in India mosquito borne diseases have revealed as a big threat to public health specially disease like Dengue, Malaria and Chikungunya. Puducherry is said to be endemic zone for malarial spreading and other such kinds of diseases. Anopheles, Aedes and Culex are commonly seen in Puducherry. Therefore, considerable effects are taken to create the awareness against such kinds of insect- borne particularly, on mosquito bites made together for local citizens. The present study aimed to spread such kind of awareness and related practices on disposing mosquitoes’ supporting places, their eggs for maximum prevention in Puducherry rural areas. A pilot study was conducted among the small group of people and based on it, the study questioner was prepared. The objective of the survey was to study the awareness, attributes and practices about mosquito borne diseases in urban areas and it explore various myths about mosquito borne diseases.
A rock-carving from Westerton, Angus district
Authors: Barclay Gordon J , Halliday Stratford P
Published: December 2021

In March 1978, as part of a survey of the Lunan Valley, Angus district, carried out by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland's fieldworkers (RCAMS 1978) in conjunction with the Central Excavation Unit of the Scottish Development Department, a previously unrecorded carving was discovered on a standing stone at Westerton (NGR no 5364 5210), a cottage about 8 km E of Forfar.
Excavation of a promontory fort and a palisaded homestead at Lower Greenyards, Bannockburn, Stirling, 1982–5
Authors: Rideout James S , Barclay Gordon J , Barnetson L , Birnie J , Clarke A , Clydesdale A , Fairweather A , Finlayson B , Gibson A , Hall D , Henderson J , Jordan D , Lee J , McCullagh R , McLellan V J , MacSween A , Russell-White C , Shiels J , Tavener P N
Published: December 2021

Excavations undertaken in 1982,1984 and 1985 on cropmark sites of a promontory fort and nearby palisaded homestead revealed structural remains mainly of the Iron Age and evidence of occupation or other activity from the Mesolithic to the present day. The palisaded homestead was paralleled by a similar homestead phase of the occupation of the promontory, later replaced by a fort with three periods of defence construction. The project was organized and funded by Historic Scotland (former SDD/HMB).
Claish, Stirling
Authors: Barclay Gordon J , Brophy Kenneth , MacGregor Gavin , Foster S M , Hogg D J , Miller J , Ramsay S , Saville A , Sheridan J A , Smith C , Stevenson J B
Published: December 2021

The excavation of a long timber-built structure of the early Neolithic near Callander (formerly Perthshire, now Stirling Council area) is described. The remains appear to be those of a structure measuring a maximum of c 24m by 8.5m with roughly straight sides and curved terminals, both of which have entrance gaps. About 1m in from both terminals is an arc of five posts; the interior is divided into between five and seven sections by these arcs and by a further three to five transverse screens or lines of posts. The pattern of division closely resembles that observed at the Neolithic site at Balbridie, Aberdeenshire, and it is argued that Claish, like Balbridie, was a roofed building. At both sites a central area unencumbered by many posts was created, and a relatively greater density of posts in the southern part of the structure perhaps indicates the presence of an upper floor. The relatively clear area contained two pits in which fires had been set, in one case on a layer of pot sherds. Similarities to other, but probably un-roofed, timber structures of the Neolithic of Perthshire and Fife are noted and it is suggested that there was an architectural ‘vocabulary’ in use in the early Neolithic in east-central Scotland.
Glutamate dehydrogenase enables Salmonella to survive under oxidative stress and escape from clearance in macrophages
Authors: Huang Xi , Lao Wenji , Zhou Youci , Sun Yunwei , Wang Qijun
Published: December 2021

Oxidative stress and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a biological threat to bacteria, which induce the synthesis of proteins and production of antioxidants to combat it. Herein, we report that glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) of Salmonella can assimilate ammonium into glutamate and promote the generation of glutathione (GSH) to combat oxidative damage. Oxidation induces the transcription of gdhA, which encodes GDH, and activates the enzymatic activity of GDH. The ΔgdhA mutant Salmonella strain showed decreased levels of GSH and reduced survival in macrophages, and this growth deficiency could be partially restored by overexpression of GDH and complementation with its downstream metabolites. Therefore, GDH plays a critical role in the growth of Salmonella in oxidative environments, especially under low energy supply.
Pan‐cancer multi‐omics analyses reveal crosstalk between the Hippo and immune signaling pathways in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Wang Chengyu , Zhu Tong , Zhao Zhangxiang , Chen Bo , Chen Tingting , Dong Qi , Liu Mingyue , Zhuang Shuping , Yang Fan , Liu Yaoyao , Yang Min , Gu Yunyan , Liang Haihai
Published: December 2021

The Hippo signaling pathway is critical for carcinogenesis. However, the roles of the Hippo signaling pathway in the tumor immune microenvironment have been rarely investigated. This study systematically analyzed the relationship between the Hippo signaling pathway and immune cell infiltration across 32 cancer types. Both bioinformatics analyses and biological experiments revealed that the downstream effector of Hippo signaling YAP1 might inhibit CD8+ T cell infiltration by upregulating the expression of the transcription factor CREB1 in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma. In addition, esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) patients were classified into three subtypes based on the Hippo–immune gene panel. The subtypes of ESCA had distinct characteristics in immune cell infiltration, immune pathways, and prognosis. Thus, this study also reveals a new classification of the immune subtypes with prognostic characteristics in ESCA.
Dual inhibition of TGF‐β and PD‐L1: a novel approach to cancer treatment
Authors: Gulley James L. , Schlom Jeffrey , Barcellos‐Hoff Mary Helen , Wang Xiao‐Jing , Seoane Joan , Audhuy Francois , Lan Yan , Dussault Isabelle , Moustakas Aristidis
Published: December 2021

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) initiate signaling pathways with complementary, nonredundant immunosuppressive functions in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the TME, dysregulated TGF‐β signaling suppresses antitumor immunity and promotes cancer fibrosis, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. Meanwhile, PD‐L1 expression inactivates cytotoxic T cells and restricts immunosurveillance in the TME. Anti‐PD‐L1 therapies have been approved for the treatment of various cancers, but TGF‐β signaling in the TME is associated with resistance to these therapies. In this review, we discuss the importance of the TGF‐β and PD‐L1 pathways in cancer, as well as clinical strategies using combination therapies that block these pathways separately or approaches with dual‐targeting agents (bispecific and bifunctional immunotherapies) that may block them simultaneously. Currently, the furthest developed dual‐targeting agent is bintrafusp alfa. This drug is a first‐in‐class bifunctional fusion protein that consists of the extracellular domain of the TGF‐βRII receptor (a TGF‐β ‘trap’) fused to a human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody blocking PD‐L1. Given the immunosuppressive effects of the TGF‐β and PD‐L1 pathways within the TME, colocalized and simultaneous inhibition of these pathways may potentially improve clinical activity and reduce toxicity.
Integrative investigation of the TF–miRNA coregulatory network involved in the inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation by resveratrol
Authors: Zhou Yongfeng , Zhang Jing , Li Wei , Zhang Daoyu , Wang Zhengzhu , Zhai Yanhui , Yu Hao , Li Ziyi
Published: December 2021

Resveratrol is a polyphenol with antiaging and anticancer effects. Most previous studies used a single analysis to determine the key functions of resveratrol in inhibiting cancer progression. However, most of the signal transmission pathways in biological processes are multilevel. We used bioinformatics to elucidate the mechanism of resveratrol inhibition of breast cancer development. The mRNA expression profile of GSE25412 from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and the microRNA (miRNA) expression profile of PubMed identifier (PMID) 26890143 were integrated. De novo motifs were used to obtain predicted transcription factor (TF) motifs for differentially expressed genes. The regulatory effect of resveratrol on key nodes in the comprehensive analysis results was verified. The TF–miRNA–mRNA interaction network based on the STITCH and miRDB databases showed that resveratrol exerted a dual inhibitory effect by activating inhibitory TFs to block the cell cycle and inhibit miRNAs from upregulating apoptosis. However, these two processes did not work completely independently. TP53 is the dominant hub gene associated with the cell cycle and apoptosis throughout the TF–miRNA network. Kaplan–Meier plotter analysis found that resveratrol‐induced expression changes in key RNAs, such as E2F2, JUN, FOS, BRCA1, CDK1, CDKN1A, TNF, and hsa‐miR‐34a‐5p, significantly improved the prognosis of breast cancer patients, which was further verified using real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and western blotting. This study constructed a TF–miRNA regulatory network with TP53 and E2F as the main central genes to elucidate the molecular mechanism of resveratrol in the treatment of breast cancer.
Fabrication and evaluation of bilateral Helmholtz radiofrequency coil for thermo‐stable breast image with reduced artifacts
Authors: Lee Young Han , Song Kyu‐Ho , Yang Jaemoon , Kang Won Jun , Lee Keum Sil , Kim Min Jung , Kim Eun‐Kyung , Heo Dan , Choe Bo‐Young , Suh Jin‐Suck
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The positron emission tomography (PET)‐magnetic resonance (MR) system is a newly emerging technique that yields hybrid images with high‐resolution anatomical and metabolic information. With PET‐MR imaging, a definitive diagnosis of breast abnormalities will be possible with high spatial accuracy and images will be acquired for the optimal fusion of anatomic locations. Therefore, we propose a PET‐compatible two‐channel breast MR coil with minimal disturbance to image acquisition which can be used for simultaneous PET‐MR imaging in patients with breast cancer.

Materials and Methods

For coil design and construction, the conductor loops of the Helmholtz coil were tuned, matched, and subdivided with nonmagnetic components. Element values were optimized with an electromagnetic field simulation. Images were acquired on a GE 600 PET‐computed tomography (CT) and GE 3.0 T MR system. For this study, we used the T1‐weighted image (volunteer; repetition time (TR), 694 ms; echo time (TE), 9.6 ms) and T2‐weighted image (phantom; TR, 8742 ms; TE, 104 ms) with the fast spin‐echo sequence.

Results

The results of measuring image factors with the proposed radiofrequency (RF) coil and standard conventional RF coil were as follows: signal‐to‐noise ratio (breast; 207.7 vs. 175.2), percent image uniformity (phantom; 89.22%–91.27% vs. 94.63%–94.77%), and Hounsfield units (phantom; ‐4.51 vs. 2.38).

Conclusions

Our study focused on the feasibility of proposed two‐channel Helmholtz loops (by minimizing metallic components and soldering) for PET‐MR imaging and found the comparable image quality to the standard conventional coil. We believe our work will help significantly to improve image quality with the development of a less metallic breast MR coil.
I‐containing Polymer/Alloy Layer‐Based Li Anode Mediating High‐Performance Lithium–Air Batteries
Authors: Guo Ziyang , Zhang Qingwei , Wang Chen , Zhang Yaojian , Dong Shanmu , Cui Guanglei
Published: December 2021

Lithium (Li)–air batteries with super‐high energy density have attracted wide attention, but they usually exhibit poor performance due to dendrite/passivation on anode and insoluble discharge products on cathode. Many recent works have just designed highly efficient catalysts or only prepared stable anodes to solve one aspect of the above issues. Herein, an iodine (I)‐containing polymer/alloy layer‐based Li (IPA‐Li) via the replacement reaction of zinc iodide (ZnI2) and Li and subsequent polymerization of ethyl α‐cyanoacrylate (ECA) is designed to tackle both the anode and cathode problems. The homogeneous polymer layer and LiZn alloy in IPA‐Li not only suppress the passivation caused by attack of O2/H2O, but also guide uniform Li plating/stripping behavior to inhibit dendrite formation. Moreover, soluble I‐containing species in IPA‐Li obviously promote decomposition of discharge products at low voltages. Compared with bare Li, IPA‐Li shows a longer lifespan (1200 h at 1 mA cm−2) in the symmetric cell. Hence, the electrochemical performance of IPA‐Li‐based Li–O2 batteries is also much better than Li‐based cells. Moreover, IPA‐Li‐based Li–air battery operates stably >120 cycles with low‐overpotential of <1.6 V in ambient air, while the Li–air battery fast decays only after 25 cycles. This strategy provides a new way to construct high‐performance Li–air batteries.
Study on the Interfacial Mechanism of Bisalt Polyether Electrolyte for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wen Ziyue , Zhao Zhikun , Li Li , Sun Zhaoyang , Chen Nan , Li Yuejiao , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: December 2021

Solid‐state batteries are considered a new avenue for storing high‐energy and safe electrochemical energy in both traditional and niche applications. However, the inferior tolerance under high voltage as well as poor interfacial contact has become the bottleneck for its application in high‐energy‐density Li metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, a bisalt polyether electrolyte (BSPE) is designed via in situ polymerization process for quasi‐solid LMBs. In particular, the BSPE exhibited a wide electrochemical stability window (4.4 V versus Li+/Li), and in situ Fourier transform infrared spectrocopy combined with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy technology revealed the oxidation mechanism of BSPE at high voltage. Benefiting from this design, the Li|Li symmetric cells with BSPE are stable over 1200 h with low overpotential. Additionally, Li|LiFePO4 (LFP), Li|Li4Ti5O12 (LTO), and Li|LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) LMBs delivered excellent cycling performance at ambient temperature. Therefore, it is believed that the BSPE can be a promising gel polymer electrolyte candidate for high‐energy‐density LMBs.
A Plasmonic Supramolecular Nanohybrid as a Contrast Agent for Site‐Selective Computed Tomography Imaging of Tumor
Authors: Bindra Anivind Kaur , Sreejith Sivaramapanicker , Prasad Rajendra , Gorain Mahadeo , Thomas Rijil , Jana Deblin , Nai Mui Hoon , Wang Dongdong , Tharayil Abhimanyu , Kundu Gopal C. , Srivastava Rohit , Thomas Sabu , Lim Chwee Teck , Zhao Yanli
Published: December 2021

Design of organic–inorganic hybrids by anchoring of plasmonic materials such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on self‐assembled organic substrates is useful but challenging. Herein, in situ anchoring of plasmonic nanoparticles on the surface of a designed spherical assembly via AuS bond formation is presented. First, a thiol tailed pyrene derivative (2) undergoes solvent dependent self‐assembly, transforming into an organic spherical aggregate (2agg). The thiol (‐SH) rich surface of the organic assembly allows cumulative anchoring of AuNPs on the surface to form an organic–inorganic hybrid (Au@2agg). Further coating of biocompatible polyethylene glycol (PEG) leads to the construction of the final multicomponent system (PEG‐Au@2agg) exhibiting morphological and spectroscopic features. The potential of PEG‐Au@2agg as a bioprobe and a contrast agent is investigated by X‐ray computed tomography (CT) experiments in vivo. High X‐ray attenuation of directly anchored AuNP clusters on the surface of this supramolecular nanohybrids enhances the X‐ray CT contrast and allows tracing of site‐selective accumulation in mouse 4T1 breast tumor. Thus, this approach of designing organic–inorganic nanohybrids paves the way for developing future intelligent multifunctional nanosystems capable of cancer detection and imaging.
Recent Advances on Designs and Applications of Hydrogel Adhesives
Authors: Liu Xiaowei , Yu Haojie , Wang Li , Huang Zhikun , Haq Fazal , Teng Lisong , Jin Meijin , Ding Binbin
Published: December 2021

In virtue of extracellular features, hydrogels have been used in various areas such as tissue repair, artificial skins, and biological electronics, etc. Intact contact of tough hydrogels to targeted surfaces is usually required to avoid blood or body fluids leakage or inaccurate signals of sensors. The collaboration of high interactive energy between interfaces and high fracture toughness of the constituent hydrogels can effectively prevent relatively macroscopic motions of adhesives from substrates under deformation. Nevertheless, variations in surface microenvironment like moisture, roughness, and functional groups can lead to the scission of bonds between bulk hydrogel and surfaces. Accordingly, to prevent detachment of adhesives, specific tactics should be utilized to reach a targeted surface based on substrates’ physical and chemical properties. This review concentrates on various hydrogel adhesives in the near‐decade, from design strategies, including physical interactions, chemical bonds, and bio‐inspired ways, to eventual applications, like wound closure, sensors, soft robots, and tissue repair. Meanwhile, it is anticipated that these approaches could spur sparks for fabricating appropriate tough adhesives under different circumstances.
Effect of SiO2 Interlayer Thickness in Au/SiO2/Si Multilayer Systems on Si Sources and the Formation of Au‐Based Nanostructures
Authors: Li Feitao , Oliva‐Ramírez Manuel , Wang Dong , Schaaf Peter
Published: December 2021

Si sources involved in the growth of Au–SiOx nanostructures are investigated through the rapid thermal annealing of gold thin films on SiO2/Si substrates with various SiO2 layer thicknesses (3, 25, 100, 500 nm) in a reducing atmosphere. This method reveals three Si sources whose involvement depends on the thickness of the SiO2 layers, i.e., Si diffusion from the substrate, and SiO from SiO2 decomposition and from Si active oxidation. Increasing thicknesses of the SiO2 layer hampers the Si diffusion and the decomposition of regions of the SiO2 layer, which decreases the concentrations of discovered regions weakening the Si active oxidation. These discovered regions appear in systems with a SiO2 layer of 25 or 100 nm, while they are absent for a 500 nm layer. Furthermore, Au–SiOx nanostructures of different shapes form in each system. Both behaviors indicate that the influence and transport mechanisms of the different Si sources are largely dependent on the thicknesses of the SiO2 layers and that they control the evolution of the Au–SiOx nanostructures. A clear understanding of the relationship between these thicknesses and the possible Si sources and their roles in the evolution of the nanostructures makes the tailored fabrication of nanostructures possible.
Unique Features of Polarization in Ferroelectric Ionic Conductors
Authors: O'Hara Andrew , Balke Nina , Pantelides Sokrates T.
Published: December 2021

Ferroelectrics that are also ionic conductors offer possibilities for novel applications with high tunability, especially if the same atomic species causes both phenomena. In particular, at temperatures just below the Curie temperature, polarized states may be sustainable as the mobile species is driven in a controlled way over the energy barrier that governs ionic conduction, resulting in unique control of the polarization. This possibility is recently demonstrated in CuInP2S6, a layered ferroelectric ionic conductor in which Cu ions cause both ferroelectricity and ionic conduction. Here, it is shown that the commonly used approach to calculate the polarization of evolving atomic configurations in ferroelectrics using the modern theory of polarization, namely concerted (synchronous) migration of the displacing ions, is not well suited to describe the polarization evolution as the Cu ions cross the van der Waals gaps. An asynchronous Cu‐migration scheme is introduced, which reflects the physical process by which Cu ions migrate, resolves the difficulties, and describes the polarization evolution both for normal ferroelectric switching and for transitions across the van der Waals gaps, providing a single framework to discuss ferroelectric ionic conductors.
Male fattening is related to increased seminal quality of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri collinsi): Implications for sperm competition
Authors: Vasconcelos Sampaio Wlaisa , Leite Leão Danuza , da Cunha Sousa Patrícia , Lima de Queiroz Helder , Farhayldes Souza Domingues Sheyla
Published: December 2021

Saimiri are neotropical primates with seasonal reproduction, males develop a seasonal fattening condition that has been suggested as a pre‐copulatory sexual selection strategy. Furthermore, females mate with multiple males in the same season. This could also favor the evolution of a postcopulatory sexual strategy by sperm competition. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that there is a relationship between the fatted condition and advantageous seminal characteristics in Saimiri collinsi and evaluated its implications for sperm competition. Adult males (N = 10), aged 5–15 years, housed in mixed or only‐male groups, were analyzed from June, 2015 to July, 2016. Measurements of weight, axilla, and arm skinfold, and testicular volume were taken monthly, and semen was collected by electroejaculation. A fattening index was developed to quantify and identify fatted males, biometrics, and seminal parameters were compared between the non‐fatted and fatted conditions. The fatted males present a larger testicular volume. This is related to the increase in spermatogenic activity necessary to sustain a high ejaculation frequency during the mating season. An increase in seminal volume and in frequency of semen coagulation were detected in fatted males, advantages related to sperm protection in the female reproductive tract. Age and social context were not significant sources of variation for both morphological and seminal traits. A decrease in response from the fatted males in obtaining semen and an increase in the frequency of azoospermic ejaculates were observed. These unexpected results may be due to intense reproductive activities in a short period. The fattening phenomenon has many implications in the sexual selection of squirrel monkeys, and they are still not entirely unveiled. Our results corroborate the idea that, in S. collinsi, the fatted male condition is related to sexual selection, and we found evidence suggesting it may be also expressed by a post‐copulatory component, sperm competition.
Investigating factors of metabolic bone disease in baboons (Papio spp.) using museum collections
Authors: Sadhir Srishti , Eller Andrea R. , Canington Stephanie L. , Sholts Sabrina B.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To assess manifestations of metabolic bone disease (MBD) and their potential environmental and phenotypic factors in captive and non‐captive baboon (Papio spp.) specimens.

Materials and methods

Our sample consisted of 160 baboon specimens at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History accessioned from 1890 to 1971. Combining cranial indicators of MBD and the museum's historical data, we examined factors contributing to likely instances of MBD. We used binomial‐family generalized linear models to assess differences in MBD frequency by environment (captive, non‐captive), specimen accession year, and skin color (light, medium, dark).

Results

Indicators of MBD were most frequently observed in captive baboons, with a decrease in MBD frequency over time. Fifteen non‐captive individuals showed indicators of MBD, which are the first published cases of MBD in non‐captive nonhuman primates (NHPs) to our knowledge. The most common MBD indicators were bone porosity (n = 35) and bone thickening/enlargement (n = 35). Fibrous osteodystrophy was observed frequently in our sample, likely relating to nutritional deficiencies. We found no association between exposed facial skin color variation and MBD.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with historical accounts of MBD prevalence in captive facilities, especially earlier in the 20th century. A decrease in MBD prevalence later in the 20th century likely reflects improvements in housing, diet, and veterinary care in captive settings. Causes of MBD development in non‐captive baboons should be further explored, as understanding the potential health impacts that anthropogenic environments impose on NHPs is imperative as humans increasingly alter the natural world in the 21st century.
Preferential formation of mono‐dimethyl disulfide adducts for determining double bond positions of poly‐unsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Liao Sian , Huang Yongsong
Published: December 2021

Determination of double bond positions of unsaturated lipids is fundamental for understanding their biofunctions and biosynthetic pathways. Derivatizing unsaturated lipids with dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) represents a convenient method to yield characteristic ions for determining double bond positions. However, DMDS adduction of poly‐unsaturated lipids often leads to the formation of poly‐ and/or cyclized DMDS adducts, which yield complex mass spectra that are difficult to interpret in terms of double bond positions. Here, we report a room‐temperature, convenient experimental procedure to preferentially form mono‐DMDS adducts for poly‐unsaturated fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) with two to five double bonds (c9, c12‐C18:2, t9, t12‐C18:2, c5, c9, c12‐C18:3, c7, c10, c13, c16‐C22:4 and c5, c8, c11, c14, c17‐C20:5). Electron‐impact ionization mass spectra of these mono‐DMDS adducts provide highly diagnostic ions for determining positions of all double bonds. Our approach overcomes the limit of traditional DMDS derivatization methods which are generally limited to mono‐unsaturated molecules. In addition, we show gas chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses of mono‐DMDS adducts can also provide useful information about double bond geometry, as cis double bonds are prone to isomerize to trans isomers.
Ethical dilemmas in skeletal collection utilization: Implications of the Black Lives Matter movement on the anatomical and anthropological sciences
Authors: Williams Shanna E. , Ross Ann H.
Published: December 2021

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has brought to the public eye longstanding issues of social and racial injustice which have permeated the experiences of individuals of African ancestry in the United States and abroad for centuries. Motivated by a desire to disassemble a framework of systemic racism, the BLM movement has infiltrated numerous social and political arenas including the sciences, demanding change. The impact of the BLM movement is evident in the attention recently garnered by protests of museum skeletal collections' acquisition and handling of African/African American human remains. It is from this vantage point that we explore the ethical issues pervasive within United States skeletal collections and forensically relevant issues surrounding the unclaimed decedents of marginalized populations; colonial/imperial ideological formations, which construct and sustain power differentials in anatomization; and conceive of a path forward that prioritizes personhood.
Developmental features of the canid proximocaudal femur
Authors: Lawler Dennis F. , Tangredi Basil P. , Owens Jerry M. , Widga Christopher C. , Martin Terrance J. , Kohn Luci A.‐P.
Published: December 2021

We continued direct morphological studies of the canid coxofemoral joint, considering early‐life spatial relationships around the locus of the proximocaudal joint capsule insertion. Our primary goal was to elucidate the postnatal developmental gross anatomy of the proximocaudal femur, among juveniles across Canidae. From an original database of 267 independent (museum) specimens from 11 canid taxa and 1 hybrid taxon, we identified 29 ancient or modern candidate juvenile specimens (nine taxa and one hybrid taxon). Based on optimal ability to recognize landmarks, the best photographic data were categorized into five groups of four each (n = 20). The data groups approximated early juvenile, early‐mid juvenile, mid‐juvenile, mid‐late juvenile; and young adult stages. In this descriptive photographic essay, we demonstrate the developmental spatial proximity among (a) the dorsal meeting of the respective lateral and medial extensions from the growth centers of the femoral head and greater trochanter; (b) the caudodorsal aspect of the coxofemoral joint capsule attachment; (c) a segment of the proximocaudal femoral shaft physis; and (d) an eventual associated mineralized prominence. The latter occurs frequently but not universally, suggesting natural population variability across taxa. Across taxa and juvenile age categories, the morphology thus supports developmental conservation among ancient and modern Canidae. The biomechanical and biological cause‐effect implications are not yet clear. For zoological purposes, we apply the term postdevelopmental mineralized prominence to the residual caudolateral surface feature. We extend the original anatomical work of Morgan in zoological and phylogenic arenas, using direct observation of cleared skeletal specimens.
Shift to emergency remote preclinical medical education amidst the Covid‐19 pandemic: A single‐institution study
Authors: Nikas Ilias P. , Lamnisos Demetris , Meletiou‐Mavrotheris Maria , Themistocleous Sophia C. , Pieridi Chryso , Mytilinaios Dimitrios G. , Michaelides Constantinos , Johnson Elizabeth O.
Published: December 2021

The Covid‐19 pandemic disrupted medical education, shifting it towards emergency remote delivery. This cross‐sectional study aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on preclinical medical education and identify predictors of the virtual learning experience and perceived stress. An anonymous survey was delivered electronically to the students of the authors' medical school that attended either histology or pathology. This survey contained two scales, the virtual learning experience (VLE) and the perceived stress scale‐10 (PSS‐10). A total of 173/255 (68%) responded, showing a positive perception towards the remote delivery of both courses. An exploratory factor analysis was performed on the VLE scale items and four new dimensions were formed: “course quality and learning outcomes”, “student motivation”, virtual against F2F learning”, and “virtual laboratory sessions”. The following significant predictors of enhanced VLE, in at least one dimension, were identified: female gender, pathology course, final examination grade >80%, lower perceived stress levels, studying in home country, and holding of another degree before medical school. In addition, the following predictors were significantly associated with higher levels of student perceived stress: female gender, pathology course, studying away from home, and suboptimal internet connection. Notably, the quality of internet connection was significantly associated with the students' final examination performance. Concerning the best mode for future delivery of both courses, most students proposed a blended, rather than an entirely on‐campus or online approach. In conclusion, despite its problems, a high‐quality remote preclinical medical education was possible in the authors' school and offered tremendous opportunities for future improvement.
Exosomal lnc‐AFTR as a novel translation regulator of FAS ameliorates Staphylococcus aureus‐induced mastitis
Authors: Chen Yu , Yang Jing , Huang Zhi , Jing Hongyuan , Yin Baoyi , Guo Shuai , Deng Ganzhen , Guo Mengyao
Published: December 2021

Although the specific expression of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in mastitis tissue has been reported, few studies have involved the differential expression of lncRNA in mastitis exosomes (Exo) and its mechanism and function. We screened an lncRNA associated with FAS translational regulation (lnc‐AFTR) through exosomal RNA sequencing, and clarified its function and molecular mechanism. Lnc‐AFTR is markedly downregulated in Staphylococcus aureus‐Exo and S. aureus‐induced MAC‐T cell as well as mastitis tissue. Overexpression of lnc‐AFTR exosomes (oe‐AFTR‐Exo) significantly improves cell damage induced by S. aureus, including inhibiting apoptosis, promoting proliferation, and increasing the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor‐α [TNF‐α] and interleukin‐1β [IL‐1β]). Oe‐AFTR‐Exo also suppressed the activation of Caspase‐8, Caspase‐3, and JNK. Dual‐luciferase report analysis confirmed that lnc‐AFTR interacts with FAS mRNA directly to hinder translation process, but does not degrade FAS mRNA. Overexpression of lnc‐AFTR in MAC‐T cells obviously reduced S. aureus‐induced apoptosis and inflammation. Knockdown of lnc‐AFTR significantly increased FAS and promoted the activation of Caspase‐8, Caspase‐3, and JNK caused by S. aureus. In summary, these results revealed the mechanism by which lnc‐AFTR directly bound FAS mRNA to prevent translation, and confirmed that the exosomal lnc‐AFTR exerted anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic effects by inhibiting the activation of TNF signaling pathway and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway.
Converting a formerly in‐person biochemistry course based undergraduate research experience to online teaching during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ashkanani Alia , Ashkanani Ghalya , Bayraktar Nuran , Subhash Esha , Chaari Ali
Published: December 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a significant impact on the delivery of undergraduate courses around the world, and this was no different for the Biochemistry Capstone course offered to Weill Cornell Medicine‐Qatar's second year pre‐medical students during the 2021 spring semester. The course, which was previously delivered in‐person and offered an opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with research and laboratory techniques, had to be modified to be delivered online. The online delivery of the course mainly consisted of “Zoom” sessions, “Canvas” materials, and data analysis using Microsoft Excel raw data sheets. The final assessment of the course consisted of a research report encompassing the procedures discussed, the results of the literature search, and data analysis carried out for the duration of the course. At the end of the course, students completed a survey on the online delivery of the course. It was evident that the majority of students preferred either a combination of in‐person and online delivery or in‐person delivery only, rather than a fully online course. Students' feedback as well as other literature on the online delivery of courses were considered in order to potentially improve the course for the upcoming years.
Highly sensitive and selective detection of cytochrome P450 46A1 activity by a ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method
Authors: Wang Shujuan , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Zhe , Wang Zhen , Jiang Lili , Liu Jing , Wu Jingjing , Liu Yong
Published: December 2021

Cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1) is a key enzyme responsible for metabolizing cholesterol to 24‐hydroxycholesterol in the brain, and thus might serve as a therapeutic target for several neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. However, an applicable, sensitive and reliable method for the precise measurement of CYP46A1 activities in complex biological samples remains limited. In this study, a novel ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method for highly sensitive and selective determination of 24‐hydroxycholesterol was developed to characterize CYP46A1 activity. The mass spectrometric detection was performed using multiple reaction monitoring for 24‐hydroxcholesterol at m/z 385.2 → 367.2. The limit of quantification for 24‐hydroxycholesterol using this UPLC–MS/MS method was as low as 10 nM, which is lower than those reported previously. The method also showed favorable accuracy and precision. Meanwhile, the short‐ and long‐term stability of this method was fully validated. In addition, the method was successfully applied to investigate the kinetic properties of 24‐hydroxycholesterol formation by CYP46A1.
Effects of platelet‐rich plasma on the memory impairment, apoptosis, and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in a rat model of hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Bayat Mahnaz , Khalili Azadeh , Bayat Gholamreza , Akbari Somayeh , Yousefi Nejad Amirhossein , Borhani Haghighi Afshin , Haghani Masoud
Published: December 2021

Objectives

In the present study, we aimed to determine whether intraperitoneal injection of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) could have a neuroprotective effect on learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity impairment as well as hippocampal apoptosis in rats with hepatic encephalopathy induced by bile duct ligated (BDL).

Methods

The rats were divided into four groups: the control, sham, BDL+ V (vehicle), and BDL+ PRP. The BDL rats were treated with PRP immediately after the surgery, and the injection was done every 3 days for 30 days. The passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests were used for the evaluation of learning and memory. The long‐term potentiation (LTP), basal‐synaptic transmission, and paired‐pulse ratio, as an index for measurement of neurotransmitter release probability, were evaluated by field‐potential recording. After taking a blood sample for assessment of the liver enzymes, the animals were sacrificed and their hippocampus was removed for evaluation of cleaved caspase‐3 by Western blot.

Results

Serological assessment of the liver function showed that BDL severely impaired the liver function. Also, PRP treatment could partially improve the liver dysfunction along with recovery in fear memory and spatial learning memory performance, LTP, basal‐synaptic transmission, and neurotransmitter release probability. PRP‐treated rats also showed a significant reduction in neuronal apoptosis in the CA1 area.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that PRP improves cognitive performance and synaptic plasticity in BDL rats via direct neuroprotective property and/or indirectly by improvement of hepatic dysfunction.
Ferrostatin‐1‐loaded liposome for treatment of corneal alkali burn via targeting ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Kai , Jiang Li , Zhong Yueyang , Zhang Yin , Yin Qichuan , Li Su , Zhang Xiaobo , Han Haijie , Yao Ke
Published: December 2021

Alkali burn is a potentially blinding corneal injury. During the progression of alkali burn‐induced injury, overwhelmed oxidative stress in the cornea triggers cell damage, including oxidative changes in cellular macromolecules and lipid peroxidation in membranes, leading to impaired corneal transparency, decreased vision, or even blindness. In this study, we identified that ferroptosis, a type of lipid peroxidation‐dependent cell death, mediated alkali burn‐induced corneal injury. Ferroptosis‐targeting therapy protected the cornea from cell damage and neovascularization. However, the specific ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‐1 (Fer‐1) is hydrophobic and cannot be directly applied in the clinic. Therefore, we developed Fer‐1‐loaded liposomes (Fer‐1‐NPs) to improve the bioavailability of Fer‐1. Our study demonstrated that Fer‐1‐NPs exerted remarkable curative effects regarding corneal opacity and neovascularization in vivo. The efficacy was comparable to that of dexamethasone, but without appreciable side effects. The significant suppression of ferroptosis (induced by lipid peroxidation and mitochondria disruption), inflammation, and neovascularization might be the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of Fer‐1‐NPs. Moreover, the Fer‐1‐NPs treatment showed no signs of cytotoxicity, hematologic toxicity, or visceral organ damage, which further confirmed the biocompatibility. Overall, Fer‐1‐NPs provide a new prospect for safe and effective therapy for corneal alkali burn.
Lignin degradation by microorganisms: A review
Authors: Atiwesh Ghada , Parrish Christopher C. , Banoub Joseph , Le Tuyet‐Anh T.
Published: December 2021

Lignin is an abundant plant‐based biopolymer that has found applications in a variety of industries from construction to bioethanol production. This recalcitrant branched polymer is naturally degraded by many different species of microorganisms, including fungi and bacteria. These microbial lignin degradation mechanisms provide a host of possibilities to overcome the challenges of using harmful chemicals to degrade lignin biowaste in many industries. The classes and mechanisms of different microbial lignin degradation options available in nature form the primary focus of the present review. This review first discusses the chemical building blocks of lignin and the industrial sources and applications of this multifaceted polymer. The review further places emphasis on the degradation of lignin by natural means, discussing in detail the lignin degradation activities of various fungal and bacterial species. The lignin‐degrading enzymes produced by various microbial species, specifically white‐rot fungi, brown‐rot fungi, and bacteria, are described. In the end, possible directions for future lignin biodegradation applications and research investigations have been provided.