bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioluminescence – The Vibrant Glow of Nature and its Chemical Mechanisms
Authors: Schramm Stefan , Weiß Dieter
Published: March 2024

Bioluminescence, the mesmerizing natural phenomenon where living organisms produce light through chemical reactions, has long captivated scientists and laypersons alike, offering a rich tapestry of insights into biological function, ecology, evolution as well as the underlying chemistry.

This comprehensive introductory review systematically explores the phenomenon of bioluminescence, addressing its historical context, geographic dispersion, and ecological significance with a focus on their chemical mechanisms.

Our examination begins with terrestrial bioluminescence, discussing organisms from different habitats. We analyze thefireflies of Central Europe's meadows and the fungi in the Atlantic rainforest of Brazil. Additionally, we inspect bioluminescent species in New Zealand, specifically river–dwelling snails and mosquito larvae found in Waitomo Caves. Our exploration concludes in the Siberian Steppes, highlighting the area‘s luminescent insects and annelids.

Transitioning to the marine realm, the second part of this review examines marine bioluminescent organisms. We explore this phenomenon in deep–sea jellyfish and their role in the ecosystem. We then move to Toyama Bay, Japan, where seasonal bioluminescence of dinoflagellates and ostracods present a unique case study. We also delve into the bacterial world, discussing how bioluminescent bacteria contribute to symbiotic relationships.

For each organism, we contextualize its bioluminescence, providing details about its discovery, ecological function, and geographical distribution. A special focus lies on the examination of the underlying chemical mechanisms that enables these biological light displays. Concluding this review, we present a series of practical bioluminescence and chemiluminescence experiments, providing a resource for educational demonstrations and student research projects.

Our goal with this review is to provide a summary of bioluminescence across the diverse ecological contexts, contributing to the broader understanding of this unique biological phenomenon and its chemical mechanisms serving researchers new to the field, educators and students alike.
Routine preprocedural ultrasound in palpation versus ultrasound guided radial access for cardiac catheterization
Authors: Toledano Bryan Rene F. , Garganera Kristy B. , Prado Jose Paolo A. , Sabas Michelangelo L.
Published: March 2024

Background

The radial first approach in cardiac catheterization is preferred for its benefits in patient comfort and recovery time. Yet, challenges persist due to characteristics like small, deep, calcified, and mobile radial arteries. Utilizing ultrasound before and during procedures can improve success rates. However, the adoption of its use is still limited and subject to debate.

Aim

To utilize routine preprocedural ultrasound (US) and compare US guided with palpation guided radial access, focusing on operator efficiency and outcomes.

Methods and Results

Consenting adult patients undergoing elective radial cardiac catheterization were divided into palpation and US groups. Routine preprocedural assessment of radial artery characteristics was performed using handheld US. Baseline data, US findings, procedural outcomes, and clinical outcomes were compared in 182 participants (91 in each group). US guided radial access had significantly higher first pass success rates (76.92% vs. 49.45%, p 0.0001), fewer number of attempts (1.46 ± 1 vs. 1.99 ± 1.46, p 0.004), and shorter amount of time (93.62 ± 44.04 vs. 120.44 ± 67.1, p 0.002) compared with palpation guidance. The palpation group had significantly higher incidence of spasm (15.38% vs. 3.3%, p 0.0052). Subgroup analysis indicated consistent benefits of US guidance, especially in calcified radial arteries.

Conclusion

This prospective, nonrandomized, single‐center study demonstrated that real‐time procedural US improved the operator's time and effort and enhanced patient comfort compared with palpation. US guidance use was particularly favorable in the presence of calcifications observed on baseline preoperative US.
A rare case of chikungunya encephalitis and its management: A case report and literature review
Authors: Inban Pugazhendi , Chandrasekaran Sai Harini , Yadav Preeti Kumari , Vijayakumar Roshini , Elavia Zenia , Singh Mansi
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Chikungunya encephalitis, though rare, warrants clinical attention due to its severe complications. Early identification and appropriate management are crucial for improved outcomes in patients with this rare manifestation of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection.

CHIKV infection is commonly associated with fever and joint pains, but neurological complications such as encephalitis are rare. Here, we present a unique case of confirmed chikungunya encephalitis in a 12‐year‐old male exhibiting atypical neurological symptoms. The diagnostic journey involved comprehensive neuroimaging and serological investigations, revealing intriguing findings on magnetic resonance imaging and positive CHIKV RNA in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. We discuss the clinical presentation, radiological characteristics, and management strategies, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this uncommon neurological manifestation of CHIKV infection.
Improved management of the bermudagrass stem maggot
Authors: Baxter Lisa L. , Anderson William F. , Hudson William G. , Rios Esteban F. , Bowling Cody H. , Hancock Dennis W. , Gates Roger N. , Burt Justin C.
Published: March 2024

The bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura Villeneuve) continues to damage bermudagrass [Cynodon dactlyon (L.) Pers.] pastures and hayfields throughout the southeastern United States each season. This management guide describes how to identify the damage to the forage and the bermudagrass stem maggot as a larva, pupa, and fly. Strategically timed pyrethroid applications reduce adult BSM populations and yield loss, but ongoing efforts are focused on developing integrated pest management plans that include cultural, physical, and biological suppression efforts. Research is ongoing to improve the effectiveness of insecticide applications and screen new modes of action to prevent resistance to the pyrethroids. However, long‐term solutions will require development and release of tolerant bermudagrass cultivars to reduce the reliance on pesticides. Fine‐stem bermudagrass lines are more susceptible to bermudagrass stem maggot damage than lines with thicker stem diameters. While ‘Tifton 85’ is still considered the standard to which we compare all other bermudagrass lines for BSM tolerance, there is still room for improvement. Genotypes currently under evaluation maintain the positive attributes of Tifton 85 while overcoming these challenges.
pH‐Responsive Aminobenzocoumarins as Fluorescent Probes for Biological Acidity
Authors: Schniererová Karin , Janeková Hana , Joniak Jakub , Putala Martin , Štacko Peter , Stankovičová Henrieta
Published: March 2024

Regulation of pH plays an essential role in orchestrating the delicate cellular machinery responsible for life as we know it. Its abnormal values are indicative of aberrant cellular behavior and associated with pathologies including cancer progression or solid tumors. Here, we report a series of bent and linear aminobenzocoumarins decorated with different substituents. We investigate their photophysical properties and demonstrate that the probes display strong pH‐responsive fluorescence “turn on” behavior in highly acidic environments, with enhancement up to 300‐fold. In combination with their low cytotoxicity, this behavior enabled their application in bioimaging of acidic lysosomes in live human cells. We believe that these molecules serve as attractive lead structures for future rational design of novel biocompatible fluorescent pH probes.
Magnetic‐Field‐Induced Spin Regulation in Electrocatalytic Reactions
Authors: Huang Qing , Sheng Hua
Published: March 2024

The utilization of a magnetic field to manipulate spin states has emerged as a novel approach to enhance efficiency in electrocatalytic reactions, distinguishing from traditional strategies that focus on tuning activation energy barriers. Currently, this approach is specifically tailored to reactions where spin states change during the catalytic process, such as the oxidation of singlet H2O to triplet O2. In the magnetically enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) procedure, the parallel spin alignment on the ferromagnetic catalyst was induced by the external magnetic field, facilitating the triplet O−O bonding, which is the rate limiting step in OER. This review centers on recent advancements in harnessing external magnetic fields to enhance OER performance, delving into mechanistic approaches for this magnetic promotion. Additionally, we provide a summary of magnetic field application in other electrocatalytic reactions, including oxygen reduction, methanol oxidation, and CO2 reduction.
Laminar mixing of Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluids in SMX static mixer
Authors: Gayen Neelabja , Swamy Srikanth , Hari Sridhar , Sonawane Shirish H.
Published: March 2024

This report is focused on understanding the mixing performance of Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluids in an SMX static mixer through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study in Simcenter STAR‐CCM+. For this, the standard SMX mixer with four mixer elements of radius 26 mm was chosen. The aspect ratio (L/D) was taken as 1. The model constructed was compared using pressure drop ratio values available in literature. First, the design was validated for Newtonian fluid, then for shear‐thinning fluid (non‐Newtonian). Mixing patterns produced through particle tracking approach revealed how blending improved as the fluid moved downstream and interacted with increasing number of mixer elements. A sensitivity study was undertaken to investigate the effect of particle injection mechanism on the mixing process. Two injection methods, vertical and horizontal, were explored to check the influence of injection position on mixing. The results indicate that for the given configuration irrespective of the injection location, at least four mixing elements are needed to achieve good mixing for both Newtonian and shear‐thinning fluids investigated in this study. Statistical reports were used to quantify mixing to understand the mixing behaviour for Newtonian and non‐Newtonian fluids with change in Reynolds number. At high Reynolds number, non‐Newtonian fluids exhibited better mixing abilities. Further, efforts were taken to optimize the various design parameters to produce the most optimum solution with a single mixer element for Newtonian fluid.
Improving lifestyle behaviors during chemotherapy for breast cancer: The Lifestyle, Exercise, and Nutrition Early After Diagnosis (LEANer) Trial
Authors: Puklin Leah S. , Ferrucci Leah M. , Harrigan Maura , McGowan Courtney , Zupa Michelle , Cartmel Brenda , Li Fang‐Yong , Ligibel Jennifer A. , Spiegelman Donna , Sharifi Mona , Sanft Tara , Irwin Melinda L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Little is known about improving physical activity (PA) and diet during and after chemotherapy for breast cancer. This secondary analysis examines changes in PA and diet quality during a yearlong intervention for patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy and evaluates factors associated with these changes.

Methods

Newly diagnosed patients with breast cancer (N = 173) undergoing chemotherapy were randomized to a year‐long nutrition and exercise intervention (n = 87) or usual care (UC, n = 86). Mixed models compared 1‐year changes in PA and diet quality via the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)‐2015 by study arm. Among the intervention group, baseline factors associated with change in PA and diet were assessed with multivariable linear and logistic regression.

Results

At 1 year, compared with UC, the intervention arm increased PA more (mean difference = 136.1 minutes/week; 95% CI, 90.2–182.0), participated in more strength training (56% vs. 15%; p < .001), and had suggestive improvements in HEI‐2015 (mean difference = 2.5; 95% CI, –0.3 to 5.3; p = .08). In the intervention arm, lower fatigue was associated with improved PA (p = .04) and higher education was associated with improved HEI‐2015 (p = .001) at 1 year. Higher HEI‐2015 (p = .04) and married/living with someone (p = .05) were associated with higher odds of participating in strength training at 1 year.

Conclusions

This year‐long lifestyle intervention for patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy resulted in increases in PA and suggestive improvements in diet quality. Behavior change was associated with baseline fatigue, diet quality, education, and married/living with someone. Addressing these factors in interventions may improve uptake of lifestyle behaviors in trials during and after chemotherapy.
EPREKM: ElGamal proxy re‐encryption‐based key management scheme with constant rekeying cost and linear public bulletin size
Authors: Sharma Payal , B. R. Purushothama
Published: March 2024

A vast body of literature is filled with many key management schemes constructed using different cryptographic primitives. They aim toward either security goals or improvement in performance efficiency. However, the key management schemes based on proxy re‐encryption suffer from massive communication and computational costs. We propose an ElGamal proxy re‐encryption‐based construction for the key management scheme to resolve this. The proposed scheme involves constant computational and communication costs in rekeying operations and linear public bulletin size. We achieve essential security requirements of forward and backward secrecy in this scheme. The scheme is also secure against the collusion attack. In addition, we address the importance of adequately managing missed rekeying updates for offline users. The existing schemes trivially keep track of each rekeying message on the public bulletin board, which increases the size of the public bulletin with every join/leave operation. However, the proposed scheme uses the public bulletin board so that the handling of offline users is built into the scheme itself, which manages it efficiently. Also, the public bulletin size in the proposed scheme is not dependent on the number of rekeying operations but linear in the number of users.
Impact of Treatment Modality and Route of Administration on Cytokine Release Syndrome in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Soltantabar Pooneh , Sharma Sheena , Wang Diane , Lon Hoi‐Kei , Czibere Akos , Hickmann Anne , Elmeliegy Mohamed
Published: March 2024

B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA)‐targeting immunotherapies (e.g., chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR‐T) and bispecific antibodies (BsAbs)) have achieved remarkable clinical responses in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Their use is accompanied by exaggerated immune responses related to T‐cell activation and cytokine elevations leading to cytokine release syndrome (CRS) in some patients, which can be potentially life‐threatening. However, systematic evaluation of the risk of CRS with BCMA‐targeting BsAb and CAR‐T therapies, and comparisons across different routes of BsAb administration (intravenous (i.v.) vs. subcutaneous (s.c.)) have not previously been conducted. This study utilized a meta‐analysis approach to compare the CRS profile in BCMA‐targeting CAR‐T vs. BsAb immunotherapies administered either i.v. or s.c. in patients with RRMM. A total of 36 studies including 1,560 patients with RRMM treated with BCMA‐targeting CAR‐T and BsAb therapies were included in the analysis. The current analysis suggests that compared with BsAbs, CAR‐T therapies were associated with higher CRS incidences (88% vs. 59%), higher rates of grade ≥ 3 CRS (7% vs. 2%), longer CRS duration (5 vs. 2 days), and more prevalent tocilizumab use (44% vs. 25%). The proportion of CRS grade ≥ 3 may also be lower (0% vs. 4%) for BsAb therapies administered via the s.c. (3 studies, n = 311) vs. i.v. (5 studies, n = 338) route. This meta‐analysis suggests that different types of BCMA‐targeting immunotherapies and administration routes could result in a range of CRS incidence and severity that should be considered while evaluating the benefit–risk profiles of these therapies.
Photoinduced Tandem C−O Bond Reduction/Ketyl Radical Addition Reactions of α‐Keto‐N,O‐Acetals Enabled by Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfer
Authors: Seefeldt Paul , Edelmann Luisa , Prudlik Adrian , Villinger Alexander , Francke Robert , Brasholz Malte
Published: March 2024

The C10a‐acetoxylated tetrahydroazepino[1,2‐a]indole‐6,11‐diones are a class of tricyclic oxindoles that feature an α‐keto‐N,O‐acetal substructure, rendering them highly susceptible to SET reduction followed by fragmentation. In protic medium, they undergo a PCET‐assisted two‐step reduction including an interposed C−O bond cleavage that can be initiated photocatalytically as well as by cathodic reduction, and which generates nucleophilic ketyl radicals. In the presence of acrylonitrile and DIPEA as additional reactants, the photoinduced reaction unfolds as a tandem C−O bond reduction/ketyl radical conjugate addition, to furnish C10a‐reduced, C11‐cyanoethyl‐substituted tricyclic azepino‐[1,2‐a]indole derivatives with high stereoselectivity.
Risk and return efficiency of manufacturing firms: Integrating corporate social responsibility performance
Authors: Martínez‐Victoria MCarmen , Lansink Alfons Oude
Published: March 2024

This paper uses Data Envelopment Analysis to assess the performance of stocks in terms of return on assets, risk and their Environmental‐Social‐Governance score. Next, latent class analysis (LCA) is used to determine groups with similar performances and relates group membership to a set of covariates. The empirical application employs a set of 139 European manufacturing companies from 2016 to 2021 period. The results suggest stocks on average perform 25% below their potential in each of the three dimensions. The LCA suggests five groups and membership of lower performance classes significantly relates with lower size, R&D expenses and Tobin's Q.
Characteristic parameter model and circuit‐level simulation of gate‐controlled dual direction SCR for on‐chip ESD protection
Authors: Liu Yujie , Wang Yang , Yang Jian , Jin Xiangliang
Published: March 2024

Dual‐directional SCR (DDSCR) with bidirectional discharge paths and high robustness is widely employed for electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in integrated circuits. However, the design and simulation of on‐chip ESD protection circuits for dual‐directional paths remain challenging due to a lack of relevant device models. This paper designs a Gate‐Controlled Dual‐Direction SCR (GDDSCR) for providing electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in industry‐level temperature sensors. Furthermore, a new behavioral model is developed based on the GDDSCR for simulating ESD protection circuits along both forward and reverse paths. Experimental results demonstrate that the GDDSCR behavioral model accurately reproduces the IV characteristics observed in bidirectional transmission line pulse (TLP) tests. In addition, the equivalent circuit based on human body model (HBM) is used for transient simulation, and the accuracy of the model is verified by relevant HBM experiments. The proposed model allows the direct extraction of parameters such as trigger voltage (Vt1), holding voltage (Vh), and on‐state resistance (Ron) through TLP testing, facilitating easy application to other types of DDSCR devices.
Unlocking the potential of T‐cell metabolism reprogramming: Advancing single‐cell approaches for precision immunotherapy in tumour immunity
Authors: Huang Lihaoyun , Li Haitao , Zhang Cangang , Chen Quan , Liu Zaoqu , Zhang Jian , Luo Peng , Wei Ting
Published: March 2024

As single‐cell RNA sequencing enables the detailed clustering of T‐cell subpopulations and facilitates the analysis of T‐cell metabolic states and metabolite dynamics, it has gained prominence as the preferred tool for understanding heterogeneous cellular metabolism. Furthermore, the synergistic or inhibitory effects of various metabolic pathways within T cells in the tumour microenvironment are coordinated, and increased activity of specific metabolic pathways generally corresponds to increased functional activity, leading to diverse T‐cell behaviours related to the effects of tumour immune cells, which shows the potential of tumour‐specific T cells to induce persistent immune responses. A holistic understanding of how metabolic heterogeneity governs the immune function of specific T‐cell subsets is key to obtaining field‐level insights into immunometabolism. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying the interplay between T‐cell metabolism and immune functions will pave the way for precise immunotherapy approaches in the future, which will empower us to explore new methods for combating tumours with enhanced efficacy.
Asynchronous multiuser detection for sparse code multiple access with unknown delays: A compressed sensing approach
Authors: Wheeler Dylan , Tripp Erin E. , Natarajan Balasubramaniam
Published: March 2024

Despite being the subject of a growing body of research, nonorthogonal multiple access has failed to garner sufficient support to be included in modern standards. One of the more promising approaches to nonorthogonal multiple access is sparse code multiple access, which seeks to utilize nonorthogonal, sparse spreading codes to share bandwidth among users more efficiently than traditional orthogonal methods. Nearly all of the studies regarding sparse code multiple access assume synchronization at the receiver, which may not always be a practical assumption. In this work, we aim to bring this promising technology closer to a practical realization by dropping the assumption of synchronization. We therefore propose a compressed sensing‐based delay estimation technique developed specifically for an uplink sparse code multiple access system. The proposed technique can be used with nearly all of the numerous decoding algorithms proposed in the existing literature, including the popular message passing approach. Furthermore, we derive a theoretical bound regarding the recovery performance of the proposed technique and use simulations to demonstrate its viability in a practical uplink system.
A preliminary investigation of epigenome‐wide DNA methylation and temperament during infancy
Authors: Leri John , Liu Jingwen , Kelly Maria , Kertes Darlene A.
Published: March 2024

This study provides preliminary evidence for an epigenetic architecture of infant temperament. At 12 months of age, blood was collected and assayed for DNA methylation and maternally reported infant temperament was assessed using the Infant Behavior Questionnaire in 67 mother–infant dyads. Epigenome‐wide analyses showed that the higher order temperament dimensions Surgency and Negative Affect were associated with DNA methylation. The epigenetic signatures of Surgency and Negative Affect were situated at genes involved in synaptic signaling and plasticity. Although replication is required, these results are consistent with a biologically based model of temperament, create new avenues for hypothesis‐driven research into epigenetic pathways that underlie individual differences in temperament, and demonstrate that infant temperament has a widespread epigenetic signature in the methylome.
Development status and research recommendations for thermal extraction technology in deep hot dry rock reservoirs
Authors: Li Diquan , Li Ning , Jia Jing , Yu Hongguang , Fan Qinghu , Wang Lichang , Mohsen Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Based on a comprehensive review of domestic and foreign literature, this article discusses the technical difficulties and development status of enhanced geothermal system (EGS) concerning the thermal energy extraction of deep hot dry rock (HDR) reservoirs and proposes suggestions for the research focus of numerical simulation of HDR reservoir stimulation. Additionally, it summarizes the existing methods and mainstream working fluids for HDR reservoir stimulation. The article emphasizes the significance of factors such as well location, production well depth, artificial fracture orientation, and complexity in optimizing the thermal production efficiency of the EGS. Furthermore, this article delves into a detailed discussion on the influence of fracture spacing, fracture permeability, fracture length, fluid injection rate, and injected fluid temperature on the performance of the EGS. In light of the thermo‐hydro‐mechanical coupling challenges associated with high‐temperature reservoirs, it is suggested that future research efforts should focus on investigating the impact of thermo‐induced stresses on the stability of the artificial fracture network within the EGS during long‐term (>30 years) circulation of hot and cold fluids.
Plant responses to elevated CO2 under competing hypotheses of nitrogen and phosphorus limitations
Authors: Zhu Qing , Riley William J. , Tang Jinyun , Bouskill Nicholas J.
Published: March 2024

The future ecosystem carbon cycle has important implications for biosphere‐climate feedback. The magnitude of future plant growth and carbon accumulation depends on plant strategies for nutrient uptake under the stresses of nitrogen (N) versus phosphorus (P) limitations. Two archetypal theories have been widely acknowledged in the literature to represent N and P limitations on ecosystem processes: Liebig's Law of the Minimum (LLM) and the Multiple Element Limitation (MEL) approach. LLM states that the more limiting nutrient controls plant growth, and commonly leads to predictions of dramatically dampened ecosystem carbon accumulation over the 21st century. Conversely, the MEL approach recognizes that plants possess multiple pathways to coordinate N and P availability and invest resources to alleviate N or P limitation. We implemented these two contrasting approaches in the E3SM model, and compiled 98 in situ forest N or P fertilization experiments to evaluate how terrestrial ecosystems will respond to N and P limitations. We find that MEL better captured the observed plant responses to nutrient perturbations globally, compared with LLM. Furthermore, LLM and MEL diverged dramatically in responses to elevated CO2 concentrations, leading to a two‐fold difference in CO2 fertilization effects on Net Primary Productivity by the end of the 21st century. The larger CO2 fertilization effects indicated by MEL mainly resulted from plant mediation on N and P resource supplies through N2 fixation and phosphatase activities. This analysis provides quantitative evidence of how different N and P limitation strategies can diversely affect future carbon and nutrient dynamics.
Cu/Co binary‐transition metal glycerolates as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Wu Wenwen , Liang Jianneng , Ye Shenghua , Chen Zhida , Chen Wenda , Zhao Xiaojuan , Zheng Lirong , Zhang Qianling , Liu Jianhong
Published: March 2024

The energy density of Lithium‐ion batteries (LiBs) fails to keep pace with the growing demand for long‐driving range EVs. Developing novel anode materials with high specific capacities is one of the most effective ways to increase the energy density of LiBs. Herein, a series of Cu and Co binary‐transition metal glycerolates (labeled as CuxCoy/G) were prepared as the anodes for LiBs. It was observed that CuxCoy/G exhibited a distinctive yolk‐shell architecture, which significantly differed from the solid spherical structure of Cu/G and Co/G counterparts. X‐ray powder diffraction and Scanning electron microscope studies suggested that Cu element existed as Cu2+1O in CuxCoy/G, and the Co element was in the form of amorphous glycerolates. Electrochemical studies showed that Cu0.4Co1/G delivered a high capacity over 1000 mAh g−1 at the first discharge, and it exhibited the most stable cycling performance over 200 cycles. Mechanism study suggested both Cu and Co elements contributed to lithium storage capacities in CuxCoy/G at the initial discharging process. Experimental results revealed that Co exhibited reversible capacity while Cu element was reduced to metallic Cu which contributed to the electronic conductivity, rendering Cu0.4Co1/G exhibited a better long‐term cycling stability than Co/G. This work explored a new type of anode material with high specific capacity for LiBs, paving the way to high energy density LiBs.
A pooled‐sample draft genome assembly provides insights into host plant‐specific transcriptional responses of a Solanaceae‐specializing pest, Tupiocoris notatus (Hemiptera: Miridae)
Authors: Goldberg Jay K. , Allan Carson W. , Copetti Dario , Matzkin Luciano M. , Bronstein Judith
Published: March 2024

The assembly of genomes from pooled samples of genetically heterogenous samples of conspecifics remains challenging. In this study, we show that high‐quality genome assemblies can be produced from samples of multiple wild‐caught individuals. We sequenced DNA extracted from a pooled sample of conspecific herbivorous insects (Hemiptera: Miridae: Tupiocoris notatus) acquired from a greenhouse infestation in Tucson, Arizona (in the range of 30–100 individuals; 0.5 mL tissue by volume) using PacBio highly accurate long reads (HiFi). The initial assembly contained multiple haplotigs (>85% BUSCOs duplicated), but duplicate contigs could be easily purged to reveal a highly complete assembly (95.6% BUSCO, 4.4% duplicated) that is highly contiguous by short‐read assembly standards (N50 = 675 kb; Largest contig = 4.3 Mb). We then used our assembly as the basis for a genome‐guided differential expression study of host plant‐specific transcriptional responses. We found thousands of genes (N = 4982) to be differentially expressed between our new data from individuals feeding on Datura wrightii (Solanaceae) and existing RNA‐seq data from Nicotiana attenuata (Solanaceae)‐fed individuals. We identified many of these genes as previously documented detoxification genes such as glutathione‐S‐transferases, cytochrome P450s, and UDP‐glucosyltransferases. Together our results show that long‐read sequencing of pooled samples can provide a cost‐effective genome assembly option for small insects and can provide insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying interactions between plants and herbivorous pests.
Host size matters for reproduction: Evolution of spawning preference and female reproductive phenotypes in mussel‐symbiotic freshwater bitterling fishes
Authors: Choi Hee‐kyu , Lee Hyuk Je
Published: March 2024

Bitterling fishes evolve an idiosyncratic symbiosis with freshwater mussels, in which they are obligated to spawn in the gills of mussels for reproduction. In recent years, freshwater mussel populations have been drastically diminishing, due to accelerating anthropogenic impacts, which can be large threats to the risk of bitterling's extinction cascade (i.e. ‘coextinction’). The host mussel size may be an important factor driving the adaptation and evolution of bitterling's reproductive phenotypes. Here we examined the host size preference and morphological adaptation of female bitterling to the host size from 17 localities at the Han River in Korea. Using our developed molecular‐based species identification for bitterling's eggs/larvae inside the mussels, we further determined the spawning patterns of seven bitterling species. Mean length of spawned mussels (N = 453) was significantly larger than that of unspawned mussels (N = 1814), suggesting that bitterling prefers to use larger hosts as a spawning ground. Spawning probability was clearly greater as mussel size increases. Results of our reciprocal transplant experiments do provide some evidence supporting the ‘bitterling's larger host preference’ hypothesis. Interspecific competition appeared to be intense as two fish species often spawned eggs in the same mussel individuals simultaneously. Longer ovipositor and more elongated egg may evolve in females of Tanakia signifer in response to larger host environments. The observed bitterling's spawning preference for large‐sized mussels may evolve perhaps because of the fitness advantage in relation to the offspring survival. Our findings further inform on the development of effective conservation and management strategy for the endangered bitterling fishes.
Proteasome composition in immune cells implies special immune‐cell‐specific immunoproteasome function
Authors: Inholz Katharina , Anderl Janet L. , Klawitter Moritz , Goebel Heike , Maurits Elmer , Kirk Christopher J. , Fan R. Andrea , Basler Michael
Published: March 2024

Immunoproteasomes are a special class of proteasomes, which can be induced with IFN‐γ in an inflammatory environment. In recent years, it became evident that certain immune cell types constitutively express high levels of immunoproteasomes. However, information regarding the basal expression of proteolytically active immunoproteasome subunits in different types of immune cells is still rare. Hence, we quantified standard proteasome subunits (β1c, β2c, β5c) and immunoproteasome subunits (LMP2, MECL‐1, LMP7) in the major murine (CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD19+ B cells, CD11c+ dendritic cells, CD49d+ natural killer cells, Ly‐6G+ neutrophils) and human immune cell (CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD19+ B cells, CD1c+CD141+ myeloid dendritic cells, CD56+ natural killer cells, granulocytes) subsets. The different human immune cell types were isolated from peripheral blood and the murine immune cell subsets from spleen. We found that proteasomes of most immune cell subsets mainly consist of immunoproteasome subunits. Our data will serve as a reference and guideline for immunoproteasome expression and imply a special role of immunoproteasomes in immune cells.
Beishan exploration tunnel surrounding rock discontinuity identification based on structure from motion photogrammetry technology
Authors: Xuan Chengqiang , Zhang Yangsong , Xu Wentao , Li Xiaozhao , Zhang Ning
Published: March 2024

The Beishan Exploration Tunnel (BET) is a facility built to develop technologies associated with the safety of China's first high‐level radioactive nuclear waste(HLW) disposal. The surrounding rock discontinuity identification is a key research topic in BET, which could provide essential geological data for future HLW disposal stability and integrity research. This article presents the rock discontinuity identification research progress in BET based on Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry technology. The discontinuity identification algorithm is improved by introducing the region‐growing algorithm to optimize the candidate subplane. This algorithm automatically picks the seed, avoids human intervention, and thus increases the work efficiency of the discontinuity identification. The FCM method is improved by embedding with the CFSFDP algorithm in the discontinuity sets grouping. The CFSFDP algorithm coincides well with the Fisher distribution of discontinuity orientations, which is suitable for the Beishan situation. A parallel scheme is used when implementing the method, which accelerates the discontinuity calculation. This improved rock discontinuity identification method was tested on a slope above the BET and applied in the BET. The discontinuity identification results were compared with the results from the manual field measurement and the open‐source software DSE. The results show that the improved discontinuity identification method obtains reliable discontinuity data and costs less time and human workload than the other two methods. The surrounding rock discontinuity identification research provides a powerful tool for the Beishan HLW disposal geological investigation.
Optimization of hydrogen purification from biomass‐derived syngas via water gas shift reaction integrated with vacuum pressure swing adsorption for energy storage
Authors: Chen Wei‐Hsin , Chen Wei‐Hao , Chein Rei‐Yu , Manatura Kanit , Ghorbani Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Biomass is one of the promising sources to produce green H2, which can be considered an energy storage medium. To produce high‐purity H2 from biomass‐derived syngas, this study implemented a two‐stage H2 purification process. In the first stage, a water gas shift reaction (WGSR) was performed to enhance the H2 concentration in the syngas. The Taguchi method was employed to analyze the influence of the operating conditions and maximize the H2 concentration in the water gas shift reaction product. The results suggested that reaction temperature is a more dominant factor for enhancing the H2 concentration than the molar steam/carbon monoxide (S/CO) ratio. In the second stage, vacuum pressure swing adsorption was employed to obtain the high‐concentration H2 using the product from the water gas shift reaction having the optimum H2 concentration. Using the adsorption pressure as the primary parameter, it was found that high H2 purity and recovery could be obtained from vacuum pressure swing adsorption operated at low adsorption pressures. Based on this study's results, the vacuum pressure swing adsorption unit's best outcome occurs during an adsorption pressure of 2 kg·cm−2 and a flow rate of 17 L·min−1. Under these conditions, 93.61% H2 purity, 31.63% H2 recovery, 4.86 mol H2·(kgads·h)−1 productivity, and 448.14 kJ·(kg H2)−1 energy consumption are obtained.
A federated learning privacy framework for missing data inference in environmental crowd sensing
Authors: Marchang Ningrinla
Published: March 2024

Federated learning (FL) is an attractive solution which holds promise to efficiently realize intelligent privacy‐preserving IoT systems. It does so by training local models at the IoT devices using locally collected data and aggregating these models at the server. First, user privacy is achieved as no data is shared with the server. Second, the traffic generated reduces significantly as only the model updates are exchanged between the server and the devices. The first part of this study examines the validity of using FL for provisioning user data privacy in the context of missing data inference in environmental MCS. Using a representative machine language (ML) model, namely, neural network (NN), it is found through simulations with the help of an existing dataset that FL performs as good as traditional ML, while maintaining user privacy. The second part of the study is the design of a privacy‐aware framework for FL sharing (sharing of model updates) so as to ensure privacy of model updates. The proposed framework is economical w.r.t. computational and communication overhead as it uses: (a) a single asymmetric key shared among the FL clients with the help of threshold cryptography, and (b) partial homomorphic encryption (PHE) for sharing the model updates. Additionally, security analysis of the framework supports its validity.
Association between Mediterranean‐dietary approaches to stop hypertension intervention for neurodegenerative delay diet and biomarkers of oxidative stress, metabolic factors, disease severity, and odds of disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Safaei Mahdieh , Kheirouri Sorayya , Alizadeh Mohammad , Pirovi Amir‐Hossein
Published: March 2024

This research aimed to examine the association between the following Mediterranean‐DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) dietary pattern and oxidative stress indicators, metabolic factors, disease activity, and the odds of disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this cross‐sectional study, we included 101 patients with RA and 101 healthy individuals. The MIND diet score was measured using a semi‐quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) with 147 food items. Total capacity antioxidant (TCA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) serum concentrations were evaluated by ELISA, and the disease severity was measured regarding the disease activity score 28 (DAS‐28) criteria. The average score of the MIND diet was substantially lower in the RA subjects than in the healthy people (p < .001). Individuals with a higher MIND diet score had lower odds of RA than those with a low score (p < .001). There was no remarkable link between the MIND diet and oxidative stress factors (p > .05). A reverse association was found between the MIND diet score and disease activity (p < .05). The MIND diet was significantly and negatively correlated with triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, and hemoglobin A1C. There was a positive association between the diet and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The findings indicate that following the MIND diet may decrease disease activity and the odds of RA. Also, high adherence to the MIND diet may improve the lipid profile and blood glucose status in RA patients.
Survival and complications after carotid resection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Pace Gian Marco , Morales‐Olavarría Carolina , Costantino Andrea , Festa Bianca Maria , Russo Elena , Iannella Giannicola , Carnevale Claudio , Di Maio Pasquale , Sampieri Claudio , Accorona Remo , De Virgilio Armando
Published: March 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to analyze oncologic outcomes and complications rate after common or internal carotid artery (CCA/ICA) resection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

This study was conducted in conformity with the PRISMA statement. A systematic review and pooled analysis was performed for overall survival (OS), disease specific survival (DSS) (primary outcomes), and perioperative death rate (secondary outcome).

Results

A total of 276 patients (males: 76.7%, n = 191/249) with a median age of 59 years (n = 239/276; 95% CI 55.0–61.7) who underwent CCA/ICA resection for HNSCC were included. The median follow‐up time was 11 months (n = 276). Estimated pooled OS rates (95% CI) at 1 and 2 years were 52.7% (46.9–59.2) and 29.8% (24.3–36.5), respectively. The median OS (95% CI) was 14 months (12–17). Estimated pooled DSS rates (95% CI) at 1 and 2 years were 58.6% (52.7–65.2) and 34.6% (28.5–41.9), respectively. The median DSS (95% CI) was 16 months (14–19). The perioperative death rate was 6.9% (n = 19/276).

Conclusions

CCA/ICA resection should be considered as a treatment option for accurately selected patients. Multicentric prospective studies are recommended to develop a predictive score guiding the decision‐making process.
IGF2BP2 modulates autophagy and serves as a prognostic marker in glioma
Authors: Li Ning , Deng Limei , Zhang Yuming , Tang Xilian , Lei Bingxi , Zhang Qingyu
Published: March 2024

Glioma, a malignant brain tumor originating from neural glial cells, presents significant treatment challenges. However, the underlying mechanisms of glioma development are not fully understood, and effective targets are lacking. This study provides insights into the role of insulin‐like growth factor 2 messenger RNA‐binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) in glioma progression and its therapeutic potential. Our analysis illustrated that elevated IGF2BP2 expression associated with significantly shorter survival among patients with low‐grade glioma (LGG) in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. IGF2BP2 depletion led to compromised cell viability, G0/G1 phase arrest, and reduced colony‐formation ability. Furthermore, ultrastructural analysis and mCherry‐GFP‐LC3 reporter assay revealed an increased abundance of autophagosomes upon IGF2BP2 knockdown. Western blot analysis corroborated these findings by showing reduced p62 levels coupled with increased LC3‐ІІ/LC3‐I ratio upon IGF2BP2 knockdown. A multicolor immunohistochemistry assay demonstrated the positive correlation between IGF2BP2 and p62 expression in glioma patient samples. Additionally, our analysis suggested a link between IGF2BP2 expression and drug‐resistant markers in TCGA‐LGG samples, and Cell Counting Kit‐8 cell viability assay revealed that knockdown of IGF2BP2 sensitized cells to temozolomide treatment. This comprehensive exploration unveils the role of IGF2BP2 in glioma progression, shedding light on autophagy modulation and chemosensitization strategies for glioma therapy.
The gut microbiota‐aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) axis mediates the anticolitic effect of polyphenol‐rich extracts from Sanghuangporus
Authors: Zhong Shi , Sun Yu‐Qing , Huo Jin‐Xi , Xu Wen‐Yi , Yang Ya‐Nan , Yang Jun‐Bo , Wu Wei‐Jie , Liu Yong‐Xin , Wu Chong‐Ming , Li You‐Gui
Published: March 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a significant global health concern. The gut microbiota plays an essential role in the onset and development of IBD. Sanghuangporus (SH), a traditional Chinese medicinal mushroom, has excellent anti‐inflammatory effects and is effective at modulating the gut microbiota. Despite these attributes, the specific anticolitic effects of SH and the mechanisms through which the gut microbiota mediates its benefits remain unclear. Herein, we demonstrated that polyphenol‐rich extract from SH effectively alleviated the pathological symptoms of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice by modulating the gut microbiota. Treatment with SH distinctly enriched Alistipes, especially Alistipes onderdonkii, and its metabolite 5‐hydroxyindole‐3‐acetic acid (5HIAA). Oral gavage of live A. onderdonkii or 5HIAA potently mitigated DSS‐induced colitis in mice. Moreover, both 5HIAA and SH significantly activated the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), and the administration of an AhR antagonist abrogated their protective effects against colitis. These results underscore the potent efficacy of SH in diminishing DSS‐induced colitis through the promotion of A. onderdonkii and 5HIAA, ultimately activating AhR signaling. This study unveils potential avenues for developing therapeutic strategies for colitis based on the interplay between SH and the gut microbiota.
GINS1 promotes ZEB1‐mediated epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis via β‐catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liang Junjie , Yao Nan , Deng Bo , Li Jinying , Jiang Yuchuan , Liu Tongzheng , Hu Youzhu , Cao Mingrong , Hong Jian
Published: March 2024

GINS1 regulates DNA replication in the initiation and elongation phases and plays an important role in the progression of various malignant tumors. However, the role of GINS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains largely unclear. In this study, we investigated the role and underlying mechanisms of GINS1 in contributing to HCC metastasis. We found that GINS1 was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines, especially in HCC tissues with vascular invasion and HCC cell lines with highly metastatic properties. Additionally, high expression of GINS1 was positively correlated with the progressive clinical features of HCC patients, including tumor number (multiple), tumor size (>5 cm), advanced tumor stage, vascular invasion and early recurrence, suggesting that GINS1 upregulation was greatly involved in HCC metastasis. Moreover, Kaplan−Meier survival analysis revealed that high GINS1 expression predicted a poor prognosis. Both in vitro and in vivo, silencing of GINS1 inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis, while overexpression of GINS1 induced opposite effects. Mechanistically, we found that ZEB1 was a crucial regulator of GINS1‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and GINS1 promoted EMT and tumor metastasis through β‐catenin signaling. Overall, the present study demonstrated that GINS1 promoted ZEB1‐mediated EMT and tumor metastasis via β‐catenin signaling in HCC.