bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Minimalist Pathogen‐Like Sugar Nanovaccine for Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Miao Yu , Niu Le , Lv Xinying , Zhang Qiang , Xiao Zhisheng , Ji Zhaoxin , Chen Linfu , Liu Yi , Liu Nanhui , Zhu Junjie , Yang Yang , Chen Qian
Published: August 2024

Pathogen‐mimicking nanoparticles have emerged at the forefront of vaccine delivery technology, offering potent immune activation and excellent biocompatibility. Among these innovative carriers, mannan, a critical component of yeast cell walls, shows promise as an exemplary vaccine carrier. Nevertheless, it faces challenges like unpredictable immunogenicity, rapid elimination, and limited antigen loading due to high water solubility. Herein, mannan with varying carbon chain ratios is innovatively modified, yielding a series of dodecyl chains modified mannan (Mann‐C12). Through meticulous screening, a mannan variant with a 40% grafting ratio is pinpointed as the optimal vaccine carrier. Further RNA sequencing confirms that Mann‐C12 exhibits desired immunostimulatory characteristics. Coupled with antigen peptides, Mann‐C12/OVA257‐280 nanovaccine initiates the maturation of antigen‐presenting cells by activating the TLR4 and Dectin‐2 pathways, significantly boosting antigen utilization and sparking antigen‐specific immune responses. In vivo, experiments utilizing the B16‐OVA tumor model underscore the exceptional preventive capabilities of Mann‐C12/OVA257‐280. Notably, when combined with immune checkpoint blockade therapy, it displays a profound synergistic effect, leading to marked inhibition of tumor growth. Thus, the work has yielded a pathogen‐like nanovaccine that is both simple to prepare and highly effective, underscoring the vast potential of mannan‐modified nanovaccines in the realm of cancer immunotherapy.
Dual Nozzle‐Assisted Deterministic Encapsulation of Triple Particles for Screening NK‐Cell Cytotoxicity Against Circulating Tumor Cell Clusters
Authors: Park Junhyun , Kim Seong‐Eun , Kim Jaejeung , Yoon Minjung , Doh Junsang , Hyun Kyung‐A , Jung Hyo‐Il
Published: August 2024

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) clusters represent formidable precursors of cancer metastasis due to their heightened immune resistance against natural killer (NK) cells. Despite this, the cytotoxicity of NK cells against CTC clusters, particularly their interaction with other immune cells such as neutrophils, remains inadequately examined. This study introduces a dual‐nozzle integrated droplet microfluidic chip (dual‐nozzle chip) designed to facilitate the deterministic encapsulation of three distinct cell types—CTCs, NK cells, and neutrophils—to monitor the dynamic cytotoxicity between immune cells and target cells. The dual‐nozzle chip comprises double‐spiral channels and a serpentine channel for inertial cell focusing, alongside dual‐nozzle oil phases employed to generate monodisperse droplets at high flow rates. Utilizing Rayleigh–Plateau instability, the focused cell streams, characterized by high inertia, undergo pinching off into monodisperse droplets at the flow‐focusing junction, where dual‐nozzle oil phases are introduced. Consequently, triple cells are paired at the desired ratios, overcoming the intrinsic challenge posed by the Poisson distribution. A droplet‐based assay demonstrates that NK cell‐mediated cytotoxicity varies depending on the type of cancer cells and the presence of suppressor cells. The design strategy of the dual‐nozzle chip exhibits promises for broader applications, emphasizing its potential for analyzing diverse cell‐to‐cell interactions.
3D Printing of Ultrastretchable and Tough Double‐Network Hydrogel for Strain Sensor
Authors: Tiston Karl Albright , Tipachan Chuenkhwan , Yimnoi Tawanrat , Cheacharoen Rongrong , Hoven Voravee P. , Narupai Benjaporn
Published: August 2024

Stretchable conductive hydrogels have garnered considerable recognition due to their uses in strain sensors, electronic skins, soft robotics, and actuators. However, many hydrogels have poor mechanical properties limiting widespread implementation. While the development of ultrastretchable and mechanically robust hydrogels remains a challenge, the fabrication of these materials with customized designs is also highly desirable. Herein, a direct‐ink write 3D printable double‐network (DN) hydrogel is reported by integrating a physically cross‐linked κ‐carrageenan and a chemically cross‐linked poly(acrylamide‐co‐hydroxyethyl acrylate‐co‐Pluronic F127‐bisurethane methacrylate) with an ionically cross‐linked coordination between κ‐carrageenan and Fe3+ ions in water–glycerol binary solvent. The DN hydrogel demonstrates excellent stretchability (1770% strain), remarkable toughness (6.24 MJ m−3), high ionic conductivity (1.55 S m−1), biocompatibility, and nondrying behavior. A variety of 3D printed constructs including auxetic structures are fabricated and used as a strain sensor. The sensor exhibited real‐time electrical response to strain to detect human motions demonstrating the practicality of this system. These 3D printable DN hydrogels show great potential for on‐demand fabrication of flexible health‐monitoring devices.
Exploring the Substrate Scope and Catalytic Promiscuity of Nitroreductase‐Like Enzymes
Authors: Luján Alejandro Prats , Bhat Mohammad Faizan , Saravanan Thangavelu , Poelarends Gerrit J.
Published: August 2024

Flavin‐dependent nitroreductases are gaining attention as biocatalysts for the synthesis of pharmaceutically active compounds and their precursors. Here, we examined a panel of nitroreductase‐like flavoenzymes for their reductase activity towards a wide variety of aromatic and aliphatic nitro compounds, nitroolefins, and α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds. Several of these flavoenzymes displayed high reductase activity and achieved excellent conversion of diverse nitroarenes, nitroolefins and α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds, accomplishing good product yields in semi‐preparative scale reactions (up to 97%). In addition to the catalytic promiscuity of several of these flavoenzymes, being able to perform the reduction of nitro groups (nitroreductase activity) as well as C=C groups (ene‐reductase activity), this study also revealed that some flavoenzymes exhibit high chemo‐, regio‐ and/or enantioselectivity, making them attractive enzymes for use in organic synthesis.
Design of Gradient Porosity Architecture with Through‐Hole Carbon Spheres to Promoting Fast Charging and Low‐Temperature Workable Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jiang Qianrong , Cao Ruoyu , Luo Jin , Fang Yongjin , Chen Zhongxue , Cao Yuliang
Published: August 2024

The reduced surface porosity of highly compacted graphite anode after calendering is one of the major obstacles restraining the fast‐charging capability and low‐temperature adaptability of lithium‐ion batteries. In this work, through‐hole carbon spheres (THCS) synthesized by coaxial electrospinning and the following template sacrifice method are employed as a pore‐forming agent on graphite surfaces for the first time. The established gradient porosity architecture endows graphite anode with interconnected conductive networks and abundant Li+ transport channels. Therefore, the THCS pouch cell exhibits fast charging capability (charging efficiency of 49.2% at 5 C), superior cycling stability (96% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 1 C), and low‐temperature adaptability (high lithium plating resistance at −10 °C). By contrast, severe lithium‐plating behavior is observed in the blank pouch cell under the same testing conditions. It is believed that the facile and scalable gradient pore structure manufacturing technology will succeed in promoting the fast‐charging capability and low‐temperature adaptability of commercial Li‐ion batteries.
Synergetic efficiency of eco‐friendly inoculants on yield and yield parameters of Abyssinian field pea (Pisum sativum var. abyssinicum)
Authors: Meressa Aklil Gebremedhin , Teka Molla Hadiss , Gebru Daniel Berhe
Published: August 2024

Many research findings stated that field pea was phenotypically diverse and symbiotically effective. However, limited studies were conducted on field pea (Pisum sativum var. abysinicum) regarding biological nitrogen fixation with local varieties and races. Therefore, the current study was conducted on the synergetic efficiency of locally available inoculums on yield and yield components of Dekoko. Randomized complete block design with three replications was used at farmers field level as an experimental design. The analysis of variance result revealed that, locally isolated Rhizobium inoculants significantly influence the agronomic parameters such as plant height, number of tillers, number of seeds, grain yield, and 1000‐seed weight at p < 0.05. The highest plant height (81.87 and 87.49 cm), pod number (19.53 and 20.93 NP/P), grain yield (633.2 and 790.2 kg ha−1) and 1000‐seed weight (97.33 and 92.42 g) were recorded from field condition. The rhizobial population count of the study sites varied, and experimental site number 1 had higher population count (2.33 × 108) compared to the second experimental site (1.23 × 108). Soils having various rhizobial population have different capability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Since Ethiopian soils harbor rhizobial populations in the soil Rhizosphere. Therefore, the authors concluded that, prior to field experimentation, assessing the microbial diversity of the study area is a primary agenda.
Low‐Solvent‐Coordination Solvation Structure for Lithium‐Metal Batteries via Electric Dipole‐Dipole Interaction
Authors: Kang Cong , Zhu Jiaming , Kong Fanpeng , Xiao Xiangjun , Huo Hua , Ma Yulin , Xiong Yueping , Luo Ying , Lv Taolin , Xie Jingying , Yin Geping
Published: August 2024

Unveiling inherent interactions among solvents, Li+ ions, and anions are crucial in dictating solvation‐desolvation kinetics at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Developing an electrolyte with a low ion‐transport barrier and minimal solvent coordination in its interfacial solvation structure is essential for forming an anion‐derived solid‐electrolyte interface, a key component for high‐performance Li‐metal batteries. In this study, we harness electric dipole‐dipole synergistic interactions to formulate an electrolyte with significantly reduced interfacial solvent coordination. Operando characterization and theoretical analysis reveal that 2‐fluoropyridine (FPy) with high dipole preferentially adsorbs onto the Li metal surface. The adsorbed FPy molecule squeezes succinonitrile in the primary solvation sheath through steric hindrance, leading to the formation of an inorganic‐rich interphase. Consequently, the introduction of FPy enhances the reversible capacity of the LiCoO2||Li cell, which maintains a capacity of 143 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a 1 C rate. Moreover, the cycle life of LiCoO2 batteries with a limited supply of lithium extends from 120 cycles to over 200 cycles. These findings offer a strategy that can be applied broadly to design interfacial solvation structures for various metal‐ion/metal‐based batteries.
Gold Coordination‐Accelerated Multi‐Resonance TADF Emission for Efficient Solution‐Processible Ultrapure Deep‐Blue OLEDs
Authors: Song Xiu‐Fang , Luo Sai , Li Nengquan , Wan Xintong , Miao Jingsheng , Zou Yang , Li Kai , Yang Chuluo
Published: August 2024

Multi‐resonance (MR) type emitters have emerged as highly promising candidates for high‐resolution organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emissions with simultaneous short excited state lifetimes and ultrapure blue color (a CIEy close to 0.046 and an emission peak >440 nm) have rarely been obtained for MR emitters. Herein, we report a design of dual gold‐coordinated MR molecules to achieve efficient and short‐lived ultrapure blue TADF emission. The dinuclear Au(I) complex, namely iPrAuBN, shows a narrowband deep‐blue emission with a peak maximum of 448 nm and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 29 nm in doped film. The coordination with two Au atoms significantly shortens the delayed fluorescence lifetime to 7.8 μs in comparison to 60.6 μs for the parental organic analogue. Solution‐processed OLED doped with iPrAuBN demonstrates an ultrapure blue electroluminescence with a peak maximum of 442 nm, a FWHM of 19 nm, CIE coordinates of (0.154, 0.036), and a maximum external quantum efficiency of 14.8 %.
Coupling Manipulation of Interfacial Chemistry and Coordination Structure in Vanadium Oxides Enables Rapid Magnesium Ion Diffusion Kinetics
Authors: Wang Weixiao , Wang Wenwen , Xiong Fangyu , Meng Jiashen , Wu Jinsong , Yang Wei , Long Juncai , Chen Jinghui , Chen Jiajun , An Qinyou
Published: August 2024

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) are a highly promising energy storage system due to their high volumetric capacity and intrinsic safety. However, the practical development of RMBs is hindered by the sluggish Mg2+ diffusion kinetics, including at the cathode‐electrolyte interface (CEI) and within the cathode bulk. Herein, we propose an efficient strategy to manipulate the interfacial chemistry and coordination structure in oligolayered V2O5 (L−V2O5) for achieving rapid Mg2+ diffusion kinetics. In terms of the interfacial chemistry, the specific exposed crystal planes in L−V2O5 possess strong electron donating ability, which helps to promote the degradation dynamics of C−F/C−S bonds in the electrolyte, thereby establishing the inorganic‐organic interlocking CEI layer for rapid Mg2+ diffusion. In terms of the coordination structure, the straightened V−O structure in L−V2O5 provides efficient ions diffusion path for accelerating Mg2+ diffusion in the cathode. As a result, the L−V2O5 delivers a high reversible capacity (355.3 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1) and an excellent rate capability (161 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1). Impressively, the interdigital micro‐RMBs is firstly assembled, exhibiting excellent flexibility and practicability. This work gives deeper insights into the interface and interior ions diffusion for developing high‐kinetics RMBs.
Polyvinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene polymer gel electrolyte‐enabled dye‐sensitized solar cell for sustainable energy
Authors: Asghar Hafza , Riaz Tabinda , Mannan Hafiz Abdul
Published: August 2024

Developed specifically to address leakage and stability concerns inherent in liquid electrolytes, this study presents a significant advancement in polymer gel electrolyte (PGE) formulation by combining potassium iodide (KI), ammonium iodide (AI) salts, and polyvinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐co‐HFP) as a host polymer. The tape casting method was employed to deposit the standard TiO2 paste as the photoanode and platinum paste as the counter electrode. N3 dye was incorporated, and PVDF‐co‐HFP was used as the PGE between the electrodes. The conductivity of PGE was measured by using a digitized conductivity meter. The quasi solid‐state solar cell (QS‐DSSC) assembled using single salts (KI, and AI), and mixed cations PGE was examined via photocurrent–voltage characteristics, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The augmented ionic conductivity directly influences the efficiency of DSSCs. Notably, incorporating a mixed salt (KI + AI) within the PGE enhances ionic conductivity compared to single‐salt‐based counterparts. The resultant DSSCs using mixed salt PGE exhibit a Voc of 600 mV, Jsc of 1.01 mA/cm2, FF of 0.6089, and an efficiency of 0.369%, outperforming those using KI or AI. This highlights the perceptible advantages of employing this innovative electrolyte composition to enhance solar cell performance.
When Methodological Innovation Changes the Game: A 10‐Year Review of Environmental DNA (eDNA) Applied to Crayfish
Authors: Baudry Thomas , Vasselon Valentin , Delaunay Carine , Sweet Michael , Grandjean Frédéric
Published: August 2024

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) as a tool for monitoring represents a major innovative advance in environmental science, one that enables the detection of species without the need to observe or capture them. This article assesses the state of play of eDNA research targeting crayfish. We found a total of 41 peer‐reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2023 on both native and invasive species. Most studies focused on invasive species (or a native/invasive species co‐detection assessment) (65.8%). There was also a clear geographical bias across studies, with more than half conducted in Europe (51.2%) and a quarter in the United States (26.8%). In contrast, there were none conducted in Africa. The relatively large number of published studies has led to an interesting diversity of protocols designed or utilized, with most favouring the development of their own assays (69.33%). That said, filtration (as an eDNA capture method) was common (80.5%), along with the use of commercially available eDNA extraction kits (69.8%). The COI gene also appeared to be the preferred target region (89.33%). Such range of protocols is interesting, but is it optimal? Are the best protocols always being utilized? Or is the chance for novel application hampering our ability to explore larger trends across studies?
Croatian Brackish Karst Spring Lake Jezero Blaca in Pelješac Peninsula Reveals Interesting Truncatelloid Gastropods Assemblage
Authors: Jaszczyńska Aleksandra , Grego Jozef , Hofman Sebastian , Ozimec Roman , Osikowski Artur , Falniowski Andrzej
Published: August 2024

Jezero Blaca is a unique spring lake situated at the northern coast of the Pelješac Peninsula near the village Duba Pelješka in South Dalmatia, Croatia. The lake supported by a karstic spring located near the Adriatic seashore is inhabited by unusually rich brackish water truncatelloid assemblage. The position of the lake near seashore evokes a model of sea invertebrate gradual adaptation to freshwater spring head allowing them to further invade the stygobiont karst conduits. Similar lakes could be the marine gateways of the extraordinarily rich Dinaric stygobiont fauna. The main aim of this study was to sample and barcode the aquatic snails found in this locality to check their species affiliation and describe conservation needs. The results confirmed that the locality hosts four interesting representatives of the gastropod superfamily Truncatelloidea, which has never been found syntopically so far. One of the species characterized by unique COI sequences and was described herein as Truncatella dalmatica new sp. The conservation need of this unique and understudied habitat type is discussed.
Maternal Exposure to Tap Water Disinfection By‐Products and Risk of Selected Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Michalski Adrian M. , Luben Thomas J. , Zaganjor Ibrahim , Rhoads Anthony , Romitti Paul A. , Conway Kristin M. , Langlois Peter H. , Feldkamp Marcia L. , Nembhard Wendy N. , Reefhuis Jennita , Yazdy Mahsa M. , Lin Angela E. , Desrosiers Tania A. , Hoyt Adrienne T. , Browne Marilyn L. ,   The National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: August 2024

Background

The use of chlorine to treat drinking water produces disinfection by‐products (DBPs), which have been associated with congenital heart defects (CHDs) in some studies.

Methods

Using National Birth Defects Prevention Study data, we linked geocoded residential addresses to public water supply measurement data for DBPs. Self‐reported water consumption and filtration methods were used to estimate maternal ingestion of DBPs. We estimated adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals using logistic regression controlling for maternal age, education, body mass index (BMI), race/ethnicity, and study site to examine associations between CHDs and both household DBP level and estimated ingestion of DBPs.

Results

Household DBP exposure was assessed for 2717 participants (1495 cases and 1222 controls). We observed a broad range of positive, null, and negative estimates across eight specific CHDs and two summary exposures (trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids) plus nine individual DBP species. Examining ingestion exposure among 2488 participants (1347 cases, 1141 controls) produced similarly inconsistent results.

Conclusions

Assessing both household DBP level and estimated ingestion of DBPs, we did not find strong evidence of an association between CHDs and DBPs. Despite a large study population, DBP measurements were available for less than half of participant addresses, limiting study power.
Ceramides involve sugarcane defense response to Sporisorium scitamineum
Authors: Li Jian , Wu Dan‐Xia , Fang Zhi‐Qiang , Xia Kuai‐Fei , Bao He‐Nan , Huang Li‐Qun , Li Yong‐Jia , Shen Wan‐Kuan , Zhang Ming‐Yong , Zeng Xuan
Published: August 2024

Sugarcane smut, a widespread and destructive disease induced by Sporisorium scitamineum, has a significant effect on sugarcane cultivation. Sphingolipids, crucial components of membranes, play a role in plant resistance regulation. However, the specific function of sphingolipids in sugarcane smut resistance has not been understood. This study revealed that following the S. scitamineum infection, ceramide (Cer) and hydroxyceramide (hCer) levels specifically increased in the sugarcane variety ROC22, along with significant alterations in plant hormone levels. Analysis of lipid composition in S. scitamineum‐sensitive and ‐resistant sugarcane varieties indicated that the resistant variety YT93‐159 had lower Cer and hCer levels compared to the sensitive variety ROC22. Additionally, YT93‐159 displayed an increased level of jasmonoyl‐isoleucine (JA‐Ile) and upregulated the expression of genes linked to the pathway of jasmonic acid (JA). Through experiments using the sugarcane protoplast system, it was observed that exogenous ceramide could influence the expression of genes associated with the salicylic acid and JA pathways. This research was the initial examination into the lipidomics‐based molecular mechanisms underlying sugarcane's resistance to S. scitamineum, offering a theoretical foundation for enhancing sugarcane resistance through genetic engineering.
Ferrocenyl Dithiophosphonate Ag(I) Complexes: Synthesis, Structures, Luminescence, and Electrocatalytic Water Splitting Tuned by Nuclearity and Ligands
Authors: Kumar Jangid Dilip , Dastider Saptarshi G. , Mandal Srayee , Kumar Pankaj , Kumari Priti , Kanta Haldar Krishna , Mondal Krishnakanta , Singh Dhayal Rajendra
Published: August 2024

The heterometallic [Ag(I)/Fe(II)] molecular electrocatalysts for hydrogen production were introduced here to recognize the mutual role of metallic nuclearity and ligand engineering. A series of ferrocenyl dithiophosphonate stabilized mononuclear [Ag(PPh3)2{S2PFc(OR)}] {where R=Me (1), Et (2), nPr (3), iPr (4), iAmyl (5); Fc=Fe (ɳ5‐C5H4) (ɳ5‐C5H5)} and dinuclear [Ag(PPh3){S2PFc(OR}]2 {where R=Et (2 a), and nPr (3 a)} complexes were synthesized and characterized by SCXRD, NMR (31P and 1H), ESI‐MS, UV‐Vis, and FT‐IR spectroscopy. The comparative electrocatalytic HER behavior of 1–5 and 2 a–3 a showed effective current density of 1 mA/cm2 with overpotentials ranging from 772 to 991 mV, demonstrating the influence of extended and branched carbon chains in dithiophosphonates and metallic (mono‐/di−) nuclearity, which correlates with documented tetra‐nuclear [Ag4(S2PFc(OnPr)4], 6. DFT study suggests the coordinated (μ1‐S) site of ligands is the reactivity center and the adsorption energy of intermediate [H*‐SM] varies with the engineering of ligand and nuclearity. A catalytic mechanism using mononuclear (1) and di‐nuclear (2 a) was proposed with the assistance of DFT. Each complex, being the first example of Ag(I) dithiophosphonates, exhibits intense photoluminescence with high quantum yields ranging from 33 % to 67 %. These results link the lower nuclearity structures to their physical and catalytic properties.
Validation of the Danish Version of the Overall Depression Severity and Impairment Scale (ODSIS): A Reliable Instrument for Assessing Depression Symptoms and Functional Impairment
Authors: Madsen Christina , Reinholt Nina , Arendt Mikkel , Eskildsen Anita , Bryde Anne , Hvenegaard Morten , Poulsen Stig , Arnfred Sidse
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In psychotherapy, having a reliable tracking tool is vital for effective treatment. We have validated the Danish version of the ‘Overall Depression Severity and Impairment Scale’ (ODSIS), which is used in the Unified Protocol for Emotional Disorders (UP) and other cognitive behavioural therapies. This five‐item self‐rating scale is expected to correspond closely to the gold‐standard Beck Depression Inventory‐II (BDI‐II), but also to self‐rating scales addressing daily functioning and well‐being.

Methods

Internal consistency is assessed using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega. Criterion validity is explored through Pearson's correlation coefficient with BDI‐II, the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), the Five‐Item World Health Organization Well‐Being Index (WHO‐5) and scatter plots, and an optimal cut‐off score is determined using a receiver operating characteristic curve. The study included 340 respondents: 234 from a recent clinical trial, 56 psychiatric patients from inpatient/outpatient units and 50 healthy volunteers.

Results

ODSIS demonstrates strong internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.887–0.956, McDonald's omega: 0.888–0.957). Correlations with BDI‐II, WSAS and WHO‐5 highlight its strong criterion validity (BDI‐II: 0.847, WSAS: 0.751, WHO‐5: 0.771). The optimal cut‐off score (> 7.5) for detecting depression shows great sensitivity (0.862) and specificity (0.731).

Conclusion

The Danish version of ODSIS proves to be a reliable instrument for quantification of a combination of depression level and functional impairment from the symptoms. Its high correlation with established BDI‐II makes it a brief and handy tool for repeated measurement in clinical and research settings.
Phylogeographic analysis reveals multiple origins of the desert shrub Reaumuria songarica in northern Xinjiang, involving homoploid and tetraploid hybrids
Authors: Fan Xingke , Yan Xia , Qian Chaoju , Awuku Ibrahim , Zhao Pengshu , Liao Yuqiu , Li Zhijun , Li Xinrong , Ma Xiao‐Fei
Published: August 2024

Hybrid speciation plays an important role in species diversification. The establishment of reproductive isolation is crucial for hybrid speciation, and the identification of diverse types of hybrids, particularly homoploid hybrid species, contributes to a comprehensive understanding of this process. Reaumuria songarica is a constructive shrub widespread in arid Central Asia. Previous studies have inferred that the R. songarica populations in the Gurbantunggut Desert (GuD) originated from homoploid hybridizations between its eastern and western lineages and may have evolved into an incipient species. To further elucidate the genetic composition of different hybrid populations and to determine the species boundary of this hybrid lineage, we investigated the overall phylogeographic structure of R. songarica based on variation patterns of five cpDNA and one nrITS sequences across 32 populations. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that within the GuD lineage, the Wuerhe population evolved directly from ancestral lineages, whereas the others originated from hybridizations between the eastern and western lineages. PCoA and genetic barrier analysis supported the subdivision of the GuD lineage into the southern (GuD‐S) and northern (GuD‐N) groups. Populations in the GuD‐S group had a consistent genetic composition and the same ancestral female parent, indicating that they belonged to a homoploid hybrid lineage. However, the GuD‐N group experienced genetic admixture of the eastern and western lineages on nrITS and cpDNA, with some populations inferred to be allopolyploid based on ploidy data. Based on cpDNA haplotypes, BEAST analyses showed that the GuD‐S and GuD‐N groups originated after 0.5 Ma. Our results suggest that multiple expansions and contractions of GuD, driven by Quaternary climatic oscillations and the Kunlun‐Yellow River tectonic movement, are important causes of the complex origins of R. songarica populations in northern Xinjiang. This study highlights the complex origins of the Junggar Basin flora and the underappreciated role of hybridization in increasing its species diversity.
Phylogeography of a herbal Pinellia ternata reveals repeated range expansions and inter/postglacial recolonization routes on the fragmented distribution pattern in China
Authors: Jiang Chunxue , Wu Ming , He Shanshan , Lu Yuxia , Zhao Cai
Published: August 2024

Most plant phylogeographic studies in China have focused on the importance of genetic divergence and where should the shelter be located. Little attention has been paid to range expansion and recolonization routes in this region. In this study, two cpDNA fragments (psbK‐psbI and trnL‐F), two pairs of nuclear gene sequences (ITS and ETS), and nine pairs of SSR molecular markers were used, combined with Bayesian Skyline Plot method, gene barrier analysis, and species distribution models to explore the phylogeographical pattern, potential expansion routes and population dynamic history of Pinellia ternata from 22 population. The results showed that phylogeograhical pattern and genetic structure for P. ternata are effected by environmental heterogeneity and climate fluctuation, and it can be divided into two groups (Southwest group, Central and Eastern group) and thus there are at least two glacial refugia in China. Three expanding routes within groups were explored to contribute to the phylogeogrephic pattern of P. ternata based on the geographical distribution and network analysis of haplotypes. In a word, our study reveals repeated range expansions and inter/postglacial recolonization routes on the fragmented distribution pattern in China and resolves the refugia distributing in China and has also certain reference value for the protection of the medicinal plant P. ternata.
Effect of the ten‐year fishing ban on change of phytoplankton community structure: Insights from the Gan River
Authors: Ye Peng , Lu Xinwen , Xia Wenxin , Wang Yating , Zhou Chunhua , Liu Xiongjun , Ouyang Shan , Wu Xiaoping
Published: August 2024

The Yangtze River is one of the largest riverine ecosystems in the world and is a biodiversity hotspot. In recent years, this river ecosystem has undergone rapid habitat deterioration due to anthropogenic disturbances, leading to a decrease in freshwater biodiversity. Owing to these anthropogenic impacts, the Chinese government imposed a “Ten‐year fishing ban” (TYFB) in the Yangtze River and its tributaries. Ecological changes associated with this decision have not been documented to evaluate the level of success. This study evaluates the success of the TYFB by analyzing the changes in phytoplankton communities and comparing them to periods before the TYFB was imposed. A total of 325 phytoplankton species belonging to 7 phyla and 103 genera dominated by Chlorophyceae and Bacillariophyceae were identified. Species diversity according to the Shannon–Wiener ranged between 1.19 and 3.00. The results indicated that phytoplankton diversity increased, while both density and biomass decreased after the TYFB. The health of the aquatic ecosystem appeared to have improved after the TYFB, as indicated by the phytoplankton‐based index of biotic integrity. Significant seasonal and spatial differences were found among the number of species, density, and biomass of phytoplankton, where these differences were correlated with pH, water depth, chlorophyll‐a, permanganate index, transparency, copper, ammonia nitrogen, and total phosphorus based on redundancy analysis. Results from this study indicate that the TYFB played an important role in the restoration of freshwater ecosystem in the Yangtze River and its tributaries.
Assessing abundance–suitability models to prioritize conservation areas for the dwarf caimans in South America
Authors: Rodriguez‐Cordero Andrés L. , Balaguera‐Reina Sergio A. , Gross Brandon A. , Munn Margaret , Densmore Llewellyn D.
Published: August 2024

Species–environment relationships have been extensively explored through species distribution models (SDM) and species abundance models (SAM), which have become key components to understand the spatial ecology and population dynamics directed at biodiversity conservation. Nonetheless, within the internal structure of species' ranges, habitat suitability and species abundance do not always show similar patterns, and using information derived from either SDM or SAM could be incomplete and mislead conservation efforts. We gauged support for the abundance–suitability relationship and used the combined information to prioritize the conservation of South American dwarf caimans (Paleosuchus palpebrosus and P. trigonatus). We used 7 environmental predictor sets (surface water, human impact, topography, precipitation, temperature, dynamic habitat indices, soil temperature), 2 regressions methods (Generalized Linear Models—GLM, Generalized Additive Models—GAM), and 4 parametric distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Negative binomial, Gamma) to develop distribution and abundance models. We used the best predictive models to define four categories (low, medium, high, very high) to plan species conservation. The best distribution and abundance models for both Paleosuchus species included a combination of all predictor sets, except for the best abundance model for P. trigonatus which incorporated only temperature, precipitation, surface water, human impact, and topography. We found non‐consistent and low explanatory power of environmental suitability to predict abundance which aligns with previous studies relating SDM‐SAM. We extracted the most relevant information from each optimal SDM and SAM and created a consensus model (2,790,583 km2) that we categorized as low (39.6%), medium (42.7%), high (14.9%), and very high (2.8%) conservation priorities. We identified 279,338 km2 where conservation must be critically prioritized and only 29% of these areas are under protection. We concluded that optimal models from correlative methods can be used to provide a systematic prioritization scheme to promote conservation and as surrogates to generate insights for quantifying ecological patterns.
Comparison of quality characteristics of reconstituted glutinous rice flour and sweet dumplings with various beans
Authors: Qiangqiang Sun , Xuhua Liu , Rong Yan , Junying Wang , Liping Yang , Qiyun Dong , Ligong Zhai
Published: August 2024

This study blended five types of beans—florid kidney bean, red adzuki bean, chickpea, black bean, and white kidney bean—with glutinous rice flour (GRF) to create a synergistic heat–moisture treatment (HMT). We investigated the effects of this combination on the digestibility of the glutinous rice mixture and the quality of sweet dumplings. The inclusion of beans, along with HMT, altered the granular morphology, adhesive qualities, thermal characteristics, crystallinity, and protein secondary structure of the blended powders compared to GRF. Notably, the starch granules in the glutinous rice flour with red adzuki bean (R‐GRF) were more complete in morphology, compact in structure, and exhibited higher heat stabilization and crystallinity, with significant changes in protein secondary structure. These modifications resulted in a low expected glycemic index (eGI) value of 52.01. Additionally, the quality assessment of the fast‐frozen sweet dumplings showed that those made with red adzuki bean mixed with glutinous rice flour (R‐SD) had superior texture, reduced cracking, and less water loss compared to those made with GRF (G‐SD), while maintaining similar color and odor to G‐SD. The eGI value of 52.21 for R‐SD also fell within the low eGI range, indicating its potential for developing low‐eGI foods for patients with T2DM and other special populations.
Computed tomography angiography‐guided analysis of morphologic properties of the thoracic aorta and arch branches among the adult population: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Ahmad , Tajaddini Ali , Jafari Seyed Hamed , Mohammadi Zahra , Dalfardi Farzad , Fatemian Hossein , Shahriarirad Reza
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Before performing any surgical or endovascular procedure, the anatomical classification of the patient is essential for treatment planning. Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTA) is a standard method to evaluate thoracic aortic anatomy and associated variations.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, descriptive study was performed among adult participants without any peripheral vascular diseases undergoing thoracic CTA. Demographic data were collected along with factors retrieved from the patients CTA, such as the type of aortic arch, length, and diameter of ascending and descending aorta, the diameter of the main branches and the distance between branches, the angles by which the main arteries rise from their origins, and left anterior oblique angle of the aortic arch.

Results

164 patients, with a mean age of 57 ± 19.3 years, entered the study. 53 (33.8%) had a bovine arch, which was mostly observed among males. A decrease in the frequency of type I arch and also an increase in the frequency of type 2 and 3 arches was observed with the increase in age (p < 0.001). The BCT diameter had a direct association with both left common carotid artery diameter (r = 0.478, p < 0.001) and left subclavian artery diameter (r = 0.470, p < 0.001). The length of the descending aorta had a direct correlation (r = 0.294, p < 0.001) with the length of the ascending aorta.

Conclusion

Complex endovascular interventions are vital method in treating aorta, head, and neck pathologies. Accurate knowledge of thoracic aortic anatomy is becoming crucial for diagnosis and intervention planning.
Knowledge attitude and practice of antibiotic use among medical students in Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bonna Atia Sharmin , Mazumder Sinthia , Manna Ridwana Maher , Pavel Shahed Rafi , Nahin Sabrina , Ahmad Istiak , Nabilah Nujhat , Ali Mohammad , Amin Mohammad Ashraful
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Antibiotic misuse represent a significant global health challenge, with medical students positioned as key figures in promoting responsible antibiotic usage. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use among medical students in Bangladesh, aiming to identify areas for targeted educational and policy interventions.

Methods

This cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 501 medical students across various years of study in Bangladesh, collecting data over a 3‐month period. The survey assessed antibiotic knowledge, usage practices, and attitudes towards misuse, employing descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analyses to explore associations between students’ demographic characteristics and their KAP towards antibiotics. Significance was assigned at p‐value < 0.05.

Results

In our study involving 501 medical students from four medical colleges in Bangladesh, we achieved a 76% response rate. Among the participants, 78.24% correctly identified antibiotics’ effectiveness against bacterial infections, but 45.71% were uncertain about their efficacy against viral infections. Notably, 21.20% reported self‐prescribing antibiotics, predominantly sourced from physician prescriptions (54.89%). The most common reason for antibiotic use was fever (19.02%). Senior students were less likely to have good knowledge compared to junior students, and urban students demonstrated a higher likelihood of good knowledge and positive attitude towards antibiotic resistance.

Conclusion

This study highlights the critical need for educational reforms and antimicrobial stewardship among medical students in Bangladesh to combat antibiotic misuse and mitigate antimicrobial resistance.
Urodynamic findings and vibegron effects on neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction caused by human T‐cell leukemia virus type I‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis
Authors: Kumekawa Tomoyuki , Akaihata Hidenori , Natsuya Hiroki , Harigane Yuki , Imai Hitomi , Matsuoka Kanako , Tanji Ryo , Hata Junya , Ogawa Soichiro , Kojima Yoshiyuki
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type 1 infection can cause HTLV‐1‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis, characterized by spastic paralysis of both lower limbs. More than 90% of HAM/TSP patients show lower urinary tract symptoms and dysfunction.

Case presentation

A 27‐year‐old woman diagnosed with HAM/TSP presented with overactive bladder. A urodynamic study revealed detrusor overactivity. OAB remained despite improvements in spastic paralysis of the lower limbs after starting prednisolone. The addition of solifenacin likewise failed to improve OAB or DO in this patient. Switching from solifenacin to vibegron improved OAB symptoms.

Conclusion

In patients for whom OAB and DO do not improve with steroid treatment and solifenacin, treatment with vibegron may improve OAB symptoms.
Zwei neue Alchemilla‐Arten vom Alpen‐Ostrand
Authors: Fröhner Sigurd
Published: August 2024

Von den in jüngster Zeit am Ostrand der Alpen aufgefundenen kritischen Alchemilla‐Sippen werden zwei als neue Arten beschrieben, die am nächsten verwandt mit westalpischen Arten sind: Alchemilla philonotis Fröhner, sp. nov. (verwandt mit A. inconcinna Buser) und A. cataractarum Fröhner, sp. nov., (verwandt, mit A. sinuata Buser). Anhand neuer Funde auch von anderen Arten wird die Chorologie dieser beiden neuen Arten besonders besprochen.
Die Eigenschaftsvalorisation bei Bestimmung der Lebensformen der Pflanzen am Beispiel psammopbiler Gattungen
Authors: Łukasiewicz Aleksander
Published: August 2024

Zahlreiche bisher erarbeitete Systeme der Lebensformen der Pflanzen haben in hohem Maße zum Verständnis dieses Problems beigetragen. Trotz großer Leistungen auf diesem Gebiet sind wir noch sehr weit von der vollen Kenntnis der Lebensformen der Pflanzen entfernt. Das betrifft nicht nur die Lebensformen im Bereich der einzelnen systematischen Gruppen, sondern auch ihre Änderung unter dem Einfluß der verschiedensten ökologischen Faktoren. Wie bekannt, können die letzleren die Ursachen für die Entstehung besonderer Lebensformen, sogar im Bereich derselben Arten bilden, vor allem, wenn ungeeignete Kriterien angewendet werden. — Am Beispiel psammopbiler Gattungen werden drei Artengruppen von Lebensformen vorgestellt.
Solid‐State NMR Exploration of Factors for Enhancement of Hole Mobility by Introduction of Poly(styrene) Into Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)
Authors: Takahashi Riku , Tomita Eri , Mukadeyama Shinpei , Kanehashi Shinji , Ogino Kenji
Published: August 2024

Solid‐state cross‐polarization magic angle spinning (CPMAS) 13C NMR is employed to examine the morphological factors that contribute to the enhanced hole mobility observed in poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) by the introduction of electrically inert poly(styrene) (PSt). Chain mobilities of crystalline and amorphous phases in the P3HT domain are evaluated utilizing T1C (13C spin‐lattice relaxation time in the laboratory frame). The crystallinity of P3HT component is estimated based on the spectral editing method through T1ρH (1H spin‐lattice relaxation time in the rotating frame) filtered CPMAS. Moreover, the miscibility of P3HT crystalline and P3HT amorphous domains is estimated. These results suggest the formation of the rigid amorphous (short‐range ordered amorphous) in a block copolymer (P3HT‐block‐PSt). An increase in the proportion of the crystallite and proximate presence of each crystallite in a blend sample of P3HT with PSt (P3HT‐blend‐PSt) are also indicated. Enhanced mobility is attributed to the larger portion of rigid amorphous domain for P3HT‐block‐PSt, and to higher crystalline content for P3HT‐blend‐PSt.
Multiplicity results for critical p$p$‐biharmonic problems
Authors: Manouni Said El , Perera Kanishka
Published: August 2024

We prove new multiplicity results for some critical growth ‐biharmonic problems in bounded domains. More specifically, we show that each of the problems considered here has arbitrarily many solutions for all sufficiently large values of a certain parameter . In particular, the number of solutions goes to infinity as . We also give an explicit lower bound on in order to have a given number of solutions. This lower bound will be in terms of an unbounded sequence of eigenvalues of a related eigenvalue problem. Our multiplicity results are new even in the semilinear case . The proofs are based on an abstract critical point theorem.
Persistence of the solution to the Euler equations in an end‐point critical Triebel–Lizorkin space
Authors: Hwang JunSeok , Pak Hee Chul
Published: August 2024

Local stay of the solutions to the Euler equations for an ideal incompressible fluid in the end‐point Triebel–Lizorkin space
with
is clarified.
Lebenswissenschaften: Longevity ‐ ein neues Buzz‐Word
Authors: Festel Gunter
Published: August 2024

Die Non‐Profit‐Organisation Swiss Institute of Longevity fördert auf Forschungsprojekten basierende Start‐ups im Frühstadium insbesondere in Europa. Der Autor hat sie vor drei Jahren gegründet, um die Forschungsergebnisse junger Unternehmen zu kommerzialisieren.
Patentwesen: Trend‐Foods richtig anmelden
Authors: Bettermann Alexandra , Strehlke Ingo K.
Published: August 2024

Der Trend zu pflanzlichem Fleischersatz verfestigt sich. Diese Entwicklung bietet die Chance, an einem weltweit wachsenden Markt teilzuhaben. Schutzrechte für eigene Techniken helfen dabei, Marktpositionen zu definieren, zu festigen und auszubauen.
26. Steinheimer Gespräche: Datenwissenschaften in der Chemie
Authors: Lang Lucas , Schneidewind Jacob
Published: August 2024

Im Juni fanden die 26. Steinheimer Gespräche des Verbandes der Chemischen Industrie (VCI) in Mainz statt. Dazu trafen sich auf Einladung des Fonds der Chemischen Industrie (FCI) Liebig‐Stipendiat:innen sowie Vertreter:innen aus Industrie und Wissenschaft. Sie diskutierten die zukünftige Rolle von Datenwissenschaften in der Chemie.
Schokolade kann noch besser
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: August 2024

Forschende entschlüsseln die Mikroorganismen und die Moleküle, die Schokolade zu dem Produkt machen, das wir so mögen. Neue Verarbeitungsprozesse und schnelle, umfassende Analytik sollen dabei helfen, die kakaohaltige
Pro & Contra Hochverarbeitete Lebensmittel
Authors: Rohn Sascha
Published: August 2024

Hochverarbeitete Lebensmittel – es spricht vieles für sie, es gibt aber auch gute Gründe, vorsichtig zu sein. Sascha Rohn, Professor für Lebensmittelchemie und Analytik, übernimmt bei diesem Pro & Contra nacheinander sowohl die Rolle des Fürsprechers als auch die des Mahners.
Betrügen im Praktikum
Authors: Tambornino Frank
Published: August 2024

Was werten Studierende als wissenschaftliches Fehlverhalten?
Maternal obesogenic diet during pregnancy and its impact on fetal hepatic function in baboons
Authors: Meakin Ashley S. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Li Cun , Huber Hillary F. , Clifton Vicki L. , Wiese Michael D. , Morrison Janna L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Maternal obesity (MO) increases the risk of later‐life liver disease in offspring, especially in males. This may be due to impaired cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activity driven by an altered maternal‐fetal hormonal milieu. MO increases fetal cortisol concentrations that may increase CYP activity; however, glucocorticoid receptor (GR)‐mediated signaling can be modulated by alternative GR isoform expression. We hypothesized that MO induces sex‐specific changes in GR isoform expression and localization that contribute to reduced hepatic CYP activity.

Methods

Nonpregnant, nulliparous female baboons were assigned to either an ad libitum control diet or a high‐fat, high‐energy diet (HF‐HED) at 9 months pre pregnancy. At 165 days' gestation (term = 180 days), fetal liver samples were collected (n = 6/sex/group). CYP activity was quantified using functional assays, and GR was measured using quantitative RT‐PCR and Western blot.

Results

CYP3A activity was reduced in the HF‐HED group, whereas CYP2B6 activity was reduced in HF‐HED males only. Total GR expression was increased in the HF‐HED group. Relative nuclear expression of the antagonistic GR isoform GRβ was increased in HF‐HED males only.

Conclusions

Reduced CYP activity in HF‐HED males may be driven in part by dampened hepatic‐specific glucocorticoid signaling via altered GR isoform expression. These findings highlight targetable mechanisms that may reduce later‐life sex‐specific disease risk.