bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient and precise control of gene expression in Geobacter sulfurreducens through new genetic elements and tools for pollutant conversion
Authors: Liu Jia‐Qi , Min Di , He Ru‐Li , Cheng Zhou‐Hua , Wu Jie , Liu Dong‐Feng
Published: May 2023

Geobacter species, exhibiting exceptional extracellular electron transfer aptitude, hold great potential for applications in pollution remediation, bioenergy production, and natural elemental cycles. Nonetheless, a scarcity of well‐characterized genetic elements and gene expression tools constrains the effective and precise fine‐tuning of gene expression in Geobacter species, thereby limiting their applications. Here, we examined a suite of genetic elements and developed a new genetic editing tool in Geobacter sulfurreducens to enhance their pollutant conversion capacity. First, the performances of the widely used inducible promoters, constitutive promoters, and ribosomal binding sites (RBSs) elements in G. sulfurreducens were quantitatively evaluated. Also, six native promoters with superior expression levels than constitutive promoters were identified on the genome of G. sulfurreducens. Employing the characterized genetic elements, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats interference (CRISPRi) system was constructed in G. sulfurreducens to achieve the repression of an essential gene‐aroK and morphogenic genes‐ftsZ and mreB. Finally, applying the engineered strain to the reduction of tungsten trioxide (WO3), methyl orange (MO), and Cr(VI), We found that morphological elongation through ftsZ repression amplified the extracellular electron transfer proficiency of G. sulfurreducens and facilitated its contaminant transformation efficiency. These new systems provide rapid, versatile, and scalable tools poised to expedite advancements in Geobacter genomic engineering to favor environmental and other biotechnological applications.
Different patterns of spreading direction and motor neurons involvement in a cohort of limb‐onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients from Southern Italy: Potential implication on disease course or progression?
Authors: Milella Giammarco , Zoccolella Stefano , Urso Daniele , Nigro Salvatore , Tamburrino Ludovica , Gnoni Valentina , Filardi Marco , Logroscino Giancarlo
Published: May 2023

Background

Currently, there is a lack of knowledge concerning where the pathological process starts and how the neurodegeneration spreads during the course of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the spreading direction of the disease and the corresponding clinical characteristics in a cohort of patients with limb‐onset ALS.

Patients and methods

Consecutive incident ALS patients referring to an ALS tertiary center from Southern Italy, between 2015 and 2021, were recruited in the study. According to the initial directions of spread, patients were dichotomized into horizontal spreading pattern (HSP) or vertical spreading pattern (VSP) groups.

Results

Among 137 newly diagnosed ALS, 87 presented a spinal onset. Ten patients with pure LMN were not included in the study. All cases reported a clear spread direction. The frequency of HSP and VSP spreading was similar overall (47 vs. 30). The prevalence of HSP was higher (74% vs. 50%) in patients with upper limb‐onset (UL‐ALS), compared to patients with lower limb‐onset (LL‐ALS; p < .05). Conversely, the occurrence of VSP spread was threefold higher in patients with LL‐ALS, compared to UL‐ALS (p < .05). Patients with VSP showed a wider upper motor neuron impairment, whereas the involvement of LMN resulted greater in patients with HSP. Patients with HSP exhibited a greater drop of ALSFRS‐r sub‐score in the region of onset, while VSP showed a slighter but more diffuse reduction of ASLFRS‐r subscore in more body districts beyond the site of onset. Patients with VSP were also characterized by a higher median progression rate and an earlier median bulbar involvement, compared to HSP.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested investigating the spreading direction of ALS among patients with spinal onset, to better delineate the clinical profiles of patients with ALS, and predict an earlier impairment of bulbar muscle and a more rapid progression of the disease
Downregulation of TRPM7, TRPM8, and TRPV1 channels modulate apoptotic parameters and neurodegenerative markers: Focus on neuronal differentiation and Parkinson's disease model
Authors: Öz Ahmi , Çelik Ömer
Published: May 2023

The transient receptor potential channel (TRP) channels are expressed in neuronal tissues and involved in neurological diseases such as pain, epilepsy, neuronal apoptosis, and neurodegenerative diseases. Formerly, we have investigated how neuronal differentiation changes TRP channels expression profile and how Parkinson's disease model is related with this expression levels. We have found that transient receptor potential channel melastatin subtype 7 (TRPM7), transient receptor potential channel melastatin subtype 8 and transient receptor potential channel vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) channels have pivotal effects on differentiation and 1‐Methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+)‐induced Parkinson's disease model in SH‐SY5Y cells. In this study, we have investigated that downregulation of the TRP channels to evaluate how differentiation status changes to Parkinson's disease pathological hallmarks. We have also performed to other analyses to elucidate these TRP channels' function in MPP+‐induced neurotoxicity related apoptosis, cell viability, caspase 3 and 9 enzyme activities, intracellular reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial depolarization levels, Ca2+ signaling, Alpha‐synuclein and Dopamine levels, mono amino oxidase A and B enzymatic activities, both in differentiated and undifferentiated neuronal cells. Herein we have concluded that especially TRPM7 and TRPV1 channels have distinct role in Parkinson's disease pathology via their activity changings in pathological state, and downregulation of these channels or specific antagonists can be useful for the possible treatment strategy for Parkinson's disease and related markers.
Circular RNA hsa_circ_0005239 contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by targeting the miR‐34a‐5p/PD‐L1 axis
Authors: He Tingting , Huang Jintao , Liang Hansi , Zhong Binyan , Xu Guili , Zhu Xiaoli
Published: May 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) may be involved in tumorigenesis. Recently, the role of circRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has drawn wide attention. Herein, we aimed to explore the regulation and function of hsa_circ_0005239 in the malignant biological behavior and angiogenesis of HCC, as well as the link between hsa_circ_0005239 and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in HCC. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) assays revealed that hsa_circ_0005239 was upregulated in HCC tumor samples and cell lines. Furthermore, a series of in vitro and in vivo assays explored the effects of hsa_circ_0005239 on biological processes involved in the development of HCC. Knockdown of hsa_circ_0005239 significantly inhibited cell migration, cell invasion, and angiogenesis in HCC, while overexpression showed the opposite effect. In the in vivo assays, hsa_circ_0005239 downregulation suppressed the growth of xenograft tumors in nude mice, which supported that hsa_circ_0005239 is a tumor promoter in HCC. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0005239 binds to miR‐34a‐5p and functions as a competing endogenous RNA to modulate the expression of PD‐L1. Further experiments revealed that the hsa_circ_0005239/PD‐L1 axis regulates the malignant phenotypes of HCC cells through the phosphoinositide‐3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway. These results revealed the role of hsa_circ_0005239 and the hsa_circ_0005239/miR‐34a‐5p/PD‐L1 axis in HCC, providing a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
Structural Conversion of Supramolecular Assembly in Solution by Thermally Induced Intramolecular Electron Transfer of [Co2Fe2] Complex
Authors: Mihara Nozomi , Shimamura Tomonari , Takayama Ryo , Shiga Takuya , Nihei Masayuki
Published: May 2023

Combining metal complexes with amphiphilic molecules leads to a wide variety of functional self‐assembled nanostructures. Metal complexes exhibiting spin transitions can be good candidates as the trigger to cause structural conversion of such assembly because they respond to various external stimuli. In this work, we studied a structural conversion of a supramolecular assembly containing a [Co2Fe2] complex through a thermally induced electron transfer‐coupled spin transition (ETCST). With an amphiphilic anion, the [Co2Fe2] complex formed reverse vesicles in solution and showed thermal ETCST. In contrast, thermal ETCST in the presence of a bridging hydrogen‐bond donor caused structural conversion from the reverse vesicle structure to entangled one‐dimensional chains through hydrogen bond formation.
On Water Growth of Continuous Thin Films of Two‐Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks with Large Single‐Crystal Domains
Authors: Liang Zihao , Liang Baokun , Gong Li , Yang Yonghang , Deng Fengpiao , Wang Xinyu , Xia Yuanjun , Zhou Zhipeng , Dong Xin , Lu Jiaxing , Liu Wei , Yuan Zhongke , Qi Haoyuan , Zheng Zhikun
Published: May 2023

Comprehensive Summary

A core feature of two‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks is crystallinity, but it remains challenging to gain their thin films with high crystallinity. Here, we presented growth of thin films of two‐dimensional covalent organic frameworks with an average domain size of ~2.83 μm2 and maximum domain size of up to ~26.19 μm2 using amphiphilic glycine derivatives on water surface. We envisage that this work will inspire the growth of a wide variety of organic two‐dimensional materials with high crystallinity and boost their structure property investigations.
Current challenges and future opportunities in patient‐focused management of hereditary angioedema: A narrative review
Authors: Grumach Anete S. , Gadir Noga , Kessel Aharon , Yegin Ashley , Martinez‐Saguer Inmaculada , Bernstein Jonathan A.
Published: May 2023

Patients with hereditary angioedema (HAE) experience a high burden of disease due to unpredictable, painful, disfiguring, and potentially life‐threatening HAE attacks. Multiple HAE‐specific medications for the on‐demand treatment, short‐term and long‐term prophylaxis of HAE attacks have entered the market in recent years; however, the availability and access to these medications may vary between different countries. For this review, PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for guidelines, consensus statements, and other publications on HAE management as well as publications on quality of life in patients with HAE. The current guidelines and recent literature on HAE management in specific countries are summarized with the aim to highlight the similarities and differences between guideline recommendations and the country‐specific clinical practice. Improvement in quality of life, which is a key goal in HAE management, is also discussed and the country‐specific trends are highlighted. Finally, the ways to achieve a more patient‐centric approach to HAE management within the framework set by the clinical management guidelines are examined.
Dynamic adaptive moving mesh finite‐volume method for the blood flow and coagulation modeling
Authors: Terekhov Kirill M. , Butakov Ivan D. , Danilov Alexander A. , Vassilevski Yuri V.
Published: May 2023

In this work, we develop numerical methods for the solution of blood flow and coagulation on dynamic adaptive moving meshes. We consider the blood flow as a flow of incompressible Newtonian fluid governed by the Navier–Stokes equations. The blood coagulation is introduced through the additional Darcy term, with a permeability coefficient dependent on reactions. To this end, we introduce moving mesh collocated finite‐volume methods for the Navier–Stokes equations, advection–diffusion equations, and a method for the stiff cascade of reactions. A monolithic nonlinear system is solved to advance the solution in time. The finite volume method for the Navier–Stokes equations features collocated arrangement of pressure and velocity unknowns and a coupled momentum and mass flux. The method is conservative and inf‐sup stable despite the saddle point nature of the system. It is verified on a series of analytical problems and applied to the blood flow problem in the deforming domain of the right ventricle, reconstructed from a time series of computed tomography scans. At last, we demonstrate the ability to model the coagulation process in deforming microfluidic capillaries.
Clay Nanotube Coating on Cotton Fibers for Enhanced Flame‐Retardancy and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Lama Nisha , Wilhite John , Lvov Yuri , Konnova Svetlana , Fakhrullin Rawil
Published: May 2023

Cotton and its blends are among the most common textiles used. Although cotton is a highly flammable material, its flammability may be reduced with a retardant coating. We developed an architectural build of organic/inorganic coating with layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly of the cationic polyethyleneimine (PEI) and anionic halloysite clay nanotubes (HNT) on raw cotton. The biocompatible SiO2/Al2O3 HNTs have a 50‐nm diameter hollow structure that can carry chemicals and ensures safe interactions of treated textiles with living organisms. The treated cotton was characterized using TGA, SEM, TEM, and IR spectroscopy for optimization of the finishing process. The nanoclay‐coated cotton was burned to determine the extent of fire protection and resulted in the flame self‐extinguishing. Adding only two bilayers of PEI/HNT coating, which accounted for ca 7 wt.% of the tissue, was shown to give an optimal level of flame retardancy to the processed cotton; further nanoclay layering increased flame retardancy at a diminishing rate and may not be necessary in industrial processes. These clay nanotubes were also loaded with color‐enhancing dyes, antimicrobial chloramphenicol or silver, providing architectural coatings with complex functionality. This proposed green technology combines natural cotton fibers, and abundantly available halloysite clay in this new nanocomposite textile product.
Creation and characteristics of tetraploid and mixoploid centipedegrass
Authors: Sapkota Suraj , Kaur Ravneet , Harris‐Shultz Karen , Wang Hongliang , Koo Dal‐Hoe , Nabukalu Pheonah , Jespersen David
Published: May 2023

Ploidy manipulation has been used in many crop improvement programs to develop plant species with wider adaptability and desirable traits. The objectives of this study were to create stable tetraploid centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides [Munro] Hack.) lines and evaluate them for beneficial traits. To generate polyploid lines, “TifBlair” (2n = 2x = 18) seeds were exposed to gamma radiation and callus was generated using tissue culture, exposed to glyphosate and regenerated into plantlets. After 5 years of continuous propagation, two lines, Hongliang Wang (HW)16 and HW123, were found to be tetraploid, and one line, HW61, was found to be a mixoploid using flow cytometry and chromosome counts. Nuclear DNA contents for diploid and tetraploid lines ranged from 1.97 to 2.10 and 4.14 to 4.30 pg 2C−1, respectively. Ten centipedegrass lines were genotyped using seven simple sequence repeat markers and clustered by origin (derived from TifBlair or the University of Georgia breeding program). Six lines were evaluated for morphological and physiological traits under greenhouse conditions. Trait evaluation showed that tetraploid lines had larger stomata and leaf width and reduced stomatal density. For all other traits evaluated under greenhouse conditions, although significant differences were observed between lines, no consistent differences separated diploid and tetraploid lines. Between the tetraploid lines, HW16 had higher evapotranspiration, percentage green cover, and relative water content than HW123, whereas HW123 had a higher average clipping yield and root width than HW16. In conclusion, irradiation and tissue culture are valuable techniques for the generation of stable polyploid lines, and an increased ploidy level led to larger vegetative structures in centipedegrass.
Genetic diversity and population structure among Ugandan shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. nilotica) accessions based on DarTSeq markers
Authors: Odoi Juventine Boaz , Adjei Emmanuel Amponsah , Hendre Prasad , Nantongo Judith Ssali , Ozimati Alfred Adibo , Badji Arfang , Nakabonge Grace , Edema Richard , Gwali Samson , Odong Thomas Lapaka
Published: May 2023

Molecular markers such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and SilicoDArT are important in dissecting the genetic diversity of a population at DNA level. The two marker types were analyzed using the same genotyping platform. Although the two marker types were analyzed using the same genotyping platform, they were filtered using a different marker stringency. We determined the genetic diversity of 623 half‐sibs of shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa a C. F. Gaertn. nilotica) assembled from five geographical locations (Katakwi, Otuke, Amuru, Moyo, and Arua) in Uganda's shea parklands. A total of 27,063 Diversity Arrays Technology (DArT) SNP and 9018 SilicoDArT markers were used to assess genetic diversity and population structure. The populations showed a low genetic diversity (Gst = 0.21), very low population differentiation (FST = 0.02), low‐to‐moderate linkage disequilibrium (r = 0.2), and Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE = 0.1982). The study further revealed a higher genetic diversity within population (0.26) than among the population (0.21). A high level of heterozygosity was observed within individuals (0.26) and markers (0.32) revealing a high non‐random association of alleles at different loci that offer opportunities to design association studies and allele transfer in marker‐assisted selection in the population. The markers varied in their polymorphic information content values (SilicoDArT = 0.11) and (SNPs = 0.15) on genetic diversity. This study reveals the importance of genetic diversity and population structure analysis using high‐density DArT‐Seq SilicoDaRT and SNP makers in the conservation and breeding of shea tree in Uganda.
Promotive effects of endophytic rhizobacteria on tiller and root growth in creeping bentgrass during drought stress and post‐stress recovery involving regulation of hormone and sugar metabolism
Authors: Errickson William , Zhang Ning , Huang Bingru
Published: May 2023

Stress‐induced accumulation of ethylene exacerbates drought damages in plants and suppressing stress induction of ethylene may promote plant tolerance to drought stress. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of endophytic bacteria (Paraburkholderia aspalathi) with 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase enzymes in suppressing ethylene production on plant tolerance to drought stress and post‐stress recovery and the underlying physiological mechanisms of P. aspalathi‐regulation in creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.). A novel strain of P. aspalathi, "WSF23," with ACC deaminase activity was used to inoculate the roots of creeping bentgrass plants (cv. "Penncross") subjected to drought stress for 35 days and rewatered for 15 days (post‐stress recovery) in controlled‐environment growth chambers. Inoculation with WSF23 bacteria resulted in an increased number of tillers, tillering production rate, root viability, and root growth (quantified in length, surface area, volume, and dry weight) during drought stress or rewatering. Inoculation of plants with WSF23 bacteria increased cytokinin (CK) (c‐Zeatin and tZ‐riboside) and jasmonate (JA‐Ile) content and reduced ACC and abscisic acid (ABA) content in roots during drought or rewatering. Sugar accumulation in crowns was promoted by inoculation during drought stress. The differential changes in ACC, CK, ABA, and JA‐Ile and sugar accumulation due to the bacterial inoculation could contribute to ACC deamination bacteria‐improved drought tolerance and post‐stress recovery in terms of tiller production and root proliferation and elongation in creeping bentgrass.
Constructing A Solar Evaporator by Stacking Exhausted Wood Sponges for Freshwater Generation and Fertilizer Recovery
Authors: Li Meng , Xu Mengwen , Wang Haotian , Liu Sichen , Xiao Yumeng , Wang Lidong , James Tony D.
Published: May 2023

Solar water evaporation is an efficient and sustainable technology. To reduce energy consumption and improve cost efficiency, the surface modification of wood sponge by polypyrrole‐glutathione (PGWS) was achieved using an in‐situ synthetic method. The PGWS exhibits excellent adsorption efficiency for Hg(II) ions with adsorption capacity of 330.8 mg g−1 at 25 °C. Following Hg(II) absorption, the PGWS could be upcycled for solar steam generation. A stackable device was constructed by placing two wood sponges under a Hg(II) saturated PGWS [PGWS‐Hg(II)], this system exhibited the highest water evaporation rate of 2.14 kg m−2 h−1 under 1 kW m−2. Moreover, collecting paper was inserted between the stacked PGWS‐Hg(II) and wood sponge for the collection of salts. As such salt can be successfully collected from simulated fertilizer plant effluent and then used as a nutrient for growing plants using a hydroponic system. The facile design of stackable evaporation provides an opportunity for wastewater utilization by harvesting solar energy.
Design analysis and control of step‐up converter with reduced switch stress
Authors: Jagtap Nilesh , Pattnaik Swapnjeet
Published: May 2023

In light of the increasing share of renewable energy sources (RES) in electricity generation, the research community is directing their attention toward developing highly efficient DC‐DC high‐gain step‐up converters. These converters are designed to exhibit reduced voltage stress on the switching devices (semiconductors). This paper presents a comprehensive study of a switch voltage stress‐reduced step‐up converter that offers a range of additional features, including the availability of a common ground point, continuous input current, simple two‐mode continuous conduction mode (CCM) operation, wide duty cycle range, and quadratic boosting factor. To achieve the aforementioned features, the converter utilizes two switches with the same operating modes, eliminating the need for complex switching circuitry. Operational modes, steady‐state analysis, and design considerations have been presented in detail. Comparative analysis indicates that the voltage conversion ratio per number of devices in the proposed topology is significantly higher than that of similar topologies. In addition, the voltage stress of switches is considerably less than the topologies addressed in the literature. The study further includes detailed mathematical and experimental analyses, small signal analysis, and hardware implementation to support the theoretical findings. The converter's efficiency has been thoroughly analyzed along with thermal analysis to ensure its reliability.
Resolving 31 colors on a standard 3‐laser full spectrum flow cytometer for immune monitoring of human blood samples
Authors: Hammerich Linda , Shevchenko Yaroslava , Knorr Jana , Werner Wiebke , Bruneau Alix , Tacke Frank
Published: May 2023

Immune monitoring of patients on a single‐cell level is becoming increasingly important in various diseases. Due to the often very limited availability of human specimens and our increased understanding of the immune systems there is an increasing demand to analyze as many markers as possible simultaneously in one panel. Full spectrum flow cytometry is emerging as a powerful tool for immune monitoring since 5‐laser instruments enable characterization of 40 parameters or more in a single sample. Nevertheless, even if only machines with fewer lasers are available, development of novel fluorophore families enables increasing panel sizes. Here, we demonstrate that careful panel design enables the use of 31‐color panels on a 3‐laser Cytek® Aurora cytometer for analyzing human peripheral blood leukocytes, without the need for custom configuration and using only commercially available fluorochromes. The panel presented here should serve as an example of a 31‐fluorochrome combination that can be resolved on a 3‐laser full spectrum cytometer and that can be adapted to comprise other (and possibly more) markers of interest depending on the research focus.
Diabetes, COVID‐19, and questions unsolved
Authors: D’Souza Felecia , Buzzetti Raffaella , Pozzilli Paolo
Published: May 2023

Recent evidence suggests a role for Diabetes Mellitus in adverse outcomes from COVID‐19 infection; yet the underlying mechanisms are not clear. Moreover, attention has turned to prophylactic vaccination to protect the population from COVID‐19‐related illness and mortality. We performed a comprehensive peer‐reviewed literature search on an array of key terms concerning diabetes and COVID‐19 seeking to address the following questions: 1. What role does diabetes play as an accelerator for adverse outcomes in COVID‐19?; 2. What mechanisms underlie the differences in outcomes seen in people with diabetes?; 3. Are vaccines against COVID‐19 efficacious in people with diabetes? The current literature demonstrates that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes from COVID‐19 infection, and post‐COVID sequelae. Potential mechanisms include dysregulation of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2, Furin, CD147, and impaired immune cell responses. Hyperglycaemia is a key exacerbator of these mechanisms. Limited studies are available on COVID‐19 vaccination in people with diabetes; however, the current literature suggests that vaccination is protective against adverse outcomes for this population. In summary, people with diabetes are a high‐risk group that should be prioritised in vaccination efforts. Glycaemic optimisation is paramount to protecting this group from COVID‐19‐associated risk. Unsolved questions remain as to the molecular mechanisms underlying the adverse outcomes seen in people with diabetes; the functional impact of post‐COVID symptoms on people with diabetes, their persistence, and management; how long‐term vaccine efficacy is affected by diabetes, and the antibody levels that confer protection from adverse outcomes in COVID‐19.
First breeding record of the black‐headed penduline tit (Remiz macronyx) in China
Authors: Wang Hui , Mei Yu , Que Pinjia , Zhang Zhengwang , Chen De
Published: May 2023

Black‐headed penduline tit (Remiz macronyx) is a poorly known bird species mainly distributed in Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan. The distribution of black‐headed penduline tit is disjointed and fragmented, and it occurs only along lakes or rivers surrounded by extensive reedbeds. Four subspecies of R. macronyx have been recognized (macronyx, neglectus, nigricans, and ssaposhnikowi). The ssaposhnikowi subspecies was previously known to occur only around lakes in southeastern Kazakhstan. In this study, we reported the first confirmed breeding record of R. m. ssaposhnikowi in the Nalati wetland, Ili, Xinjiang, China, extending the distribution range of the black‐headed penduline tit by 350 km to the east. We also obtained new information about the morphology and breeding behavior of R. m. ssaposhnikowi, which can be useful for the taxonomy of penduline tits, especially in distinguishing black‐headed penduline tits from Eurasian penduline tits (R. pendulinus).
Parasite‐mediated selection on host phenology
Authors: MacDonald Hannelore , Brisson Dustin
Published: May 2023

The timing of seasonal activity, or phenology, is an adaptive trait that maximizes individual fitness by timing key life events to coincide with favorable abiotic factors and biotic interactions. Studies on the biotic interactions that determine optimal phenology have focused on temporal overlaps among positively‐interacting species such as mutualisms. Less well understood is the extent that negative interactions such as parasitism impact the evolution of host phenology. Here, we present a mathematical model demonstrating the evolution of host phenological patterns in response to sterilizing parasites. Environments with parasites favor hosts with shortened activity periods or greater distributions in emergence timing, both of which reduce the temporal overlap between hosts and parasites and thus reduce infection risk. Although host populations with these altered phenological patterns are less likely to mature and reproduce, the fitness advantage of parasite avoidance can be greater than the cost of reduced reproduction. These results illustrate the impact of parasitism on the evolution of host phenology and suggest that shifts in host phenology could serve as a strategy to mitigate the risk of infection.
Shrub density effects on the presence of an endangered lizard of the Carrizo Plain National Monument, California
Authors: Zuliani Mario , Ghazian Nargol , Owen Malory , Westphal Michael F. , Butterfield H. Scott , Lortie Christopher J.
Published: May 2023

Positive associations between animals and foundational shrub species are frequent in desert ecosystems for shelter, resources, refuge, and other key ecological processes. Herein, we tested the impact of the density of the shrub species Ephedra californica on the presence and habitat use of the federally endangered lizard species, Gambelia sila. To do this, we used a 3‐year radio telemetry dataset and satellite‐based counts of shrub density across sites at the Carrizo Plain National Monument in San Luis Obispo County, CA. The effect of shrub density on lizard presence was contrasted with previous shrub cover analyses to determine whether measures of shrub density were superior to shrub cover in predicting lizard presence. Increasing shrub density increased lizard presence. As shrub density increased, lizards were located more frequently “above ground” versus “below ground” in burrows. Male lizards had significantly larger home ranges than females, but both sexes were similarly associated with increasing shrub densities. Shrub density and shrub cover models did not significantly differ in their prediction of lizard presence. These findings suggest that both habitat measures are effective analogs and that ecologically, both cover and the density of foundation shrub species are key factors for some desert lizards.
Evaluating climate change effects on hydrological functionality and water‐related ecosystem services
Authors: El Jeitany Jerome , Pacetti Tommaso , Caporali Enrica
Published: May 2023

The paper investigates the effects of climate change on riverine ecosystems in the Upper Arno River basin, adopting a hybrid methodology relating the changes in streamflow to its related water ecosystem services. Twenty hydrological models were run using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), under their respective climate model and emission scenario. The streamflow variable obtained was analysed according to the method of Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration (IHA). The development of spatial maps of IHA allowed us to represent the spatial of the results according to the three river subbasins studied, with a focus on the presence of hotspots. Using IHA allowed to capture of the streamflow quantity and dynamics, through groups of magnitude, timing and rates, where the potential effect could be then linked to the concept of water ecosystem services. Finally, the results obtained were presented as a proxy that can be integrated into the existing Driver, Pressure, State, Impact, Response (DPSIR) management framework to eventually move towards an ecosystem‐based management methodology. The main results, induced from the Mann–Kendall trend analysis of the IHA, suggested that provisioning and regulating services are to be affected by climate change where the quantity of flows shows a decreasing trend under several emission scenarios, in addition to an intensification of the extreme events. This shift is accompanied by a change in the dynamics of flow, which holds the potential of affecting habitat suitability. With the emergence of studies directed towards ecosystem‐based management, the study refers to well‐established hydrological modelling to evaluate climate change as a driver and provide screening results to ensure a proactive response planning that converges with the idea of ecosystems.
New boundaries: Redefining the geographical range of a threatened fish through environmental DNA survey
Authors: Kalogianni Eleni , Zogaris Stamatis , Leris Ioannis , Laschou Sofia , Zimmerman Brian , Meek Sarah , Sargeant Stephanie , Weldon Laura , Steer Mark D.
Published: May 2023

Accurate data on the distribution and population status of threatened fish species are fundamental for effective conservation planning and management. In this work, in order to reassess the distribution of the globally threatened Evia barbel, Barbus euboicus, we undertook an environmental DNA (eDNA) survey coupled with conventional electrofishing, focusing on major river basins in Evia Island in proximity to its known occurrence in a single Evian basin (Manikiatiko stream). For comparison purposes, we conducted eDNA sampling in several locations in the geographically closest continental river basin, the Sperchios basin (Central Greece) which hosts the closely related Barbus sperchiensis. Our results expand the known range of the Evia barbel on Evia adding four new river basins, apart from its type locality (Manikiatiko stream (EV3)). In a single Evian River, where the species had never been located before, there was also a positive eDNA signal for Barbus sperchiensis within the same basin. The research confirms the occurrence of Evia barbel in a wider geographical area, highlighting however the sensitive conservation status of the species due to its still very narrow geographical distribution. The biogeographical implications of our study, as well as potential conservation interventions, are discussed.
The effect of materials used in office building envelope on the capacity and performance of a solar‐assisted cooling heating and power system
Authors: Heydari Ali , Sadati Seyed Esmaeil
Published: May 2023

The calculation of heating and cooling loads to office buildings is different due to the presence of many people and also their activity at certain times of the day. In this research, a model office building is first simulated in Semnan, Iran using Design Builder software. After applying the necessary assumptions about the presence of people and building activation time, the heating and cooling loads of the base sample building are calculated with the specified envelope configuration. In the next step, some changes are applied to the thermal insulation of the envelope and the roof as well as the configuration of the windows. Then, for obtained heating and cooling loads for each case, hybrid solar‐assisted cooling heating and power (CCHP) system are designed. Thus, for different envelope configurations, the best case for the capacity of the power generation unit (PGU), the ratio of PGU‐generated energy to solar energy, and fuel consumption saving of the solar‐assisted CCHP system is determined. Results show that the use of appropriate window configuration and the suitable insulation of the walls and roof can save 24.8% of PGU capacity and 53.48% of fuel consumption in the solar‐assisted CCHP system.
A review on microbial fuel cell technology for Brewery industry wastewater treatment – From fundamentals to pilot scale studies
Authors: Niju Subramaniapillai , Priyadharshini K.
Published: May 2023

Industries play an important role in the economic growth of any nation, whereas they release pollutants, which impact our environment seriously. Owing to the rapid climate change and global warming, our earth is searching for different sustainable energy technologies. Microbial fuel cell technology is emerging as one of the most versatile sustainable energy technology, with their ability to tap the energy stored in the wastewater and convert it directly into electrical energy. Though MFC research is still in its nascent stage, its theoretical superiority makes it a unique technology, which can be developed into a self‐sufficient system for wastewater treatment in the near future. Brewery industries consume large quantities of water for beer production and hence release large quantities of wastewater. The chemical energy stored in the brewery wastewater could be converted into useful bioelectricity by MFC technology compared to other traditional wastewater treatment technologies, which are all energy intensive. Brewery wastewater, rich in biodegradable organic matter with their non‐toxic nature, makes it a highly suitable substrate for MFC. It is one of the few substrates that have made it to pilot‐scale studies worldwide. This study aims to review the microbial fuel cells with brewery wastewater as their substrate. It will elaborate the different configurations of MFCs employed for brewery wastewater so far, their power producing ability and wastewater treatment efficiency. The critical factors that influence these MFC systems will also be discussed. Finally, this article also identifies and suggests different strategies to improve the performance of such MFC systems.
Haunch retrofit of RC beam–column joints: Linear stress field analysis and Strut‐and‐Tie method application
Authors: Marchisella Angelo , Muciaccia Giovanni
Published: May 2023

This paper addresses the stress field of reinforced concrete (RC) beam–column joints retrofitted with haunches. Design of such solution currently assumes internal forces evaluated by the so called β‐factor approach, which was originally conceived targeting the enhancement of steel moment‐resisting frames. Extension to RC is subsequent as it emerges from the literature survey. The analytical model is first critically rediscussed. Inconsistencies of the adopted structural scheme, with respect to the actual mechanical behavior, may lie on the compatibility conditions which are imposed between the haunch and concrete beam (or column). In this regard, two‐dimensional finite element models (FEM), using linear‐elastic materials, are employed to study the stress field of two benchmark specimens derived from literature. A partial validation is carried out against experimentally derived internal forces. Results show that, for haunches with extended flat plates and stiff diagonals, compressive diffusion affects the entire haunch region. Consequently, beam's kinematic hypothesis of linear strains is no longer valid. The predicted joint shear demand resulted underestimated by β‐factor approach by 50%. Since 2D FEM may be not efficient for many practical circumstances, an application of Strut‐and‐Tie is alternatively proposed. Finally, both the limitations and possible extensions of the proposed approaches are stated transparently.
A baseline comparison of three diagnostic groups using the Progress Monitoring Tool for Eating Disorders
Authors: Harris Bethany A. , Boswell James F. , Hormes Julia M. , Espel‐Huynh Hallie , Thompson‐Brenner Heather
Published: May 2023

Utilisation of intensive inpatient treatment for eating disorders (EDs) has climbed in the last decade, illuminating a need for better consensus on what constitutes effective treatment and context‐appropriate progress/outcome monitoring during residential stays. The novel Progress Monitoring Tool for Eating Disorders (PMED) measure is specifically designed for inpatient settings. Previous research supports the factorial validity and internal consistency of the PMED; however, additional work is needed to determine its appropriateness for complex patient populations. This study used measurement invariance (MI) testing to determine if the PMED administered at programme admission measures the same items in similar ways across patients with anorexia nervosa restricting‐ and binge‐purge subtypes (AN‐R; AN‐BP) and bulimia nervosa (BN, N = 1121; Mage = 24.33 years, SD = 10.20; 100% female). Progressively constrained models were used to determine the level of invariance upheld between the three groups. Results indicated that, while the PMED meets configural and metric MI, it does not display scalar invariance. Said otherwise, the PMED similarly assesses constructs and items across AN‐R, AN‐BP, and BN, however the same score overall may reflect different levels of psychopathology for patients in one diagnostic category versus another. Comparisons of severity between different EDs should be made with caution, however the PMED appears to be a sound tool for understanding the baseline functioning of patients with EDs in an inpatient setting.
Evaluating success in a changing academic landscape
Authors: Schillereff Daniel , Clarke Lucy , Shuttleworth Emma , Alderson Danielle
Published: May 2023

How one individual characterises another successful individual varies widely. At a time when work–life balance and the use of metrics are key concerns within the academic landscape, Early Career Academics (ECAs) are voicing particular worries about the opacity with which we discuss and define success in academia, which influences recruitment and progression in unseen ways. Drawing on the results of a survey of 92 geomorphologists, earth and environmental scientists (96% from Europe or North America) and textual analysis of 54 job advertisements for early career positions at UK institutions spanning 2010–2021, we posit that there is a divergence between the perceptions, expectations and realities of academic success and that this has widened over the last decade. We find limited evidence of gendered differences in how academics define success, in stark contrast to employment and promotion outcomes within universities. We also find notable differences in how individual, more senior academics value publications and grant capture, which is at odds with advice usually given to ECAs. This mismatch is reinforced by the steady rise in the total number of essential job criteria listed on job advertisements for early career positions. Strong applicants are expected to excel in more areas than a decade ago. We put forward a series of recommendations implementable at local levels (e.g., research groups, learned society committees, departments) to help ensure markers of success are defined, valued and implemented in more appropriate and consistent ways. These include: the necessity of establishing clear guidelines for recruitment, promotion and awards, and ensuring these are visible and accessible; greater transparency around the weightings given to different criteria in a job advert; and a call to the community to reflect on how our individual markers of success match our career advice and the decisions taken by hiring or promotion panels we sit on.
Dietary protein intake affects the association between urinary iodine and clinically relevant depression: Evidence from NHANES 2007–2018
Authors: Kong Xue , Shen Xia , Yang Long , Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Gu Xue , Kong Yan
Published: May 2023

Both iodine concentration and protein intake are important nutritional factors that may influence the development of depressive symptoms. However, there are no studies on the effect of protein intake on the relationship between iodine concentration and the risk of depression. The study aimed to explore the relationship between iodine and the risk of clinically relevant depression (CRD) according to protein intake. This study analyzed the adults (≥18 years) who participated in the 2007–2018 National Health and Nutrition Cross‐sectional Survey (N = 10,462). CRD was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9). Protein intake was assessed using two 24‐h dietary recalls and urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured using inductively coupled plasma dynamic response cell mass spectrometry. Weighted multivariate logistic regression and restrictive cubic splines were performed to assess the relationship between UIC and CRD according to protein category (low protein intake <0.8 g/kg/day; high protein intake: ≥0.8 g/kg/day). After controlling for sociodemographic, behavioral, chronic diseases, and dietary factors, a positive correlation was observed between UIC (log10) and CRD (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.026, 1.795). Low UIC (<100 μg/L) was associated with a lower prevalence of CRD (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.533, 0.995) in high protein intake individuals, whereas this relationship did not exist in those with low protein intake. Moreover, restrictive cubic splines confirmed a near L‐shaped relationship between UIC and CRD in the low‐protein group (nonlinear p = .042) and a linear relationship between them in the high‐protein group (nonlinear p = .392). This study illustrates that protein intake affects the relationship between UIC and CRD. Combining lower UIC and high protein intake may help reduce the prevalence of CRD, which would have significant implications for managing patients with depressive CRD in the clinical setting.
Chronic demyelination and myelin repair after spinal cord injury in mice: A potential link for glutamatergic axon activity
Authors: Pukos Nicole , Marion Christina M. , Arnold W. David , Noble Benjamin T. , Popovich Phillip G. , McTigue Dana M.
Published: May 2023

Our prior work examining endogenous repair after spinal cord injury (SCI) in mice revealed that large numbers of new oligodendrocytes (OLs) are generated in the injured spinal cord, with peak oligodendrogenesis between 4 and 7 weeks post‐injury (wpi). We also detected new myelin formation over 2 months post‐injury (mpi). Our current work significantly extends these results, including quantification of new myelin through 6 mpi and concomitant examination of indices of demyelination. We also examined electrophysiological changes during peak oligogenesis and a potential mechanism driving OL progenitor cell (OPC) contact with axons. Results reveal peak in remyelination occurs during the 3rd mpi, and that myelin generation continues for at least 6 mpi. Further, motor evoked potentials significantly increased during peak remyelination, suggesting enhanced axon potential conduction. Interestingly, two indices of demyelination, nodal protein spreading and Nav1.2 upregulation, were also present chronically after SCI. Nav1.2 was expressed through 10 wpi and nodal protein disorganization was detectable throughout 6 mpi suggesting chronic demyelination, which was confirmed with EM. Thus, demyelination may continue chronically, which could trigger the long‐term remyelination response. To examine a potential mechanism that may initiate post‐injury myelination, we show that OPC processes contact glutamatergic axons in the injured spinal cord in an activity‐dependent manner. Notably, these OPC/axon contacts were increased 2‐fold when axons were activated chemogenetically, revealing a potential therapeutic target to enhance post‐SCI myelin repair. Collectively, results show the surprisingly dynamic nature of the injured spinal cord over time and that the tissue may be amenable to treatments targeting chronic demyelination.