bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Squandering water in drylands: the water‐use strategy of the phreatophyte Ziziphus lotus in a groundwater‐dependent ecosystem
Authors: Torres‐García M. Trinidad , Salinas‐Bonillo María J. , Gázquez‐Sánchez Fernando , Fernández‐Cortés Ángel , Querejeta José I. , Cabello Javier
Published: February 2021

Premise

Water is the most limiting factor in dryland ecosystems, and plants are adapted to cope with this constraint. Particularly vulnerable are phreatophytic plants from groundwater‐dependent ecosystems (GDEs) in regions that have to face water regime alterations due to the impacts of climate and land‐use changes.

Methods

We investigated two aspects related to the water‐use strategy of a keystone species that dominates one of the few terrestrial GDEs in European drylands (Ziziphus lotus): where it obtains water and how it regulates its use. We (1) evaluated plants’ water sources and use patterns using a multiple‐isotope approach (δ2H, δ18O, and Δ13C); (2) assessed the regulation of plant water potential by characterizing the species on an isohydric–anisohydric continuum; and (3) evaluated plants’ response to increasing water stress along a depth‐to‐groundwater (DTGW) gradient by measuring foliar gas exchange and nutrient concentrations.

Results

Ziziphus lotus behaves as a facultative or partial phreatophyte with extreme anisohydric stomatal regulation. However, as DTGW increased, Z. lotus (1) reduced the use of groundwater, (2) reduced total water uptake, and (3) limited transpiration water loss while increasing water‐use efficiency. We also found a physiological threshold at 14 m depth to groundwater, which could indicate maximum rooting length beyond which optimal plant function could not be sustained.

Conclusions

Species such as Z. lotus survive by squandering water in drylands because of a substantial groundwater uptake. However, the identification of DTGW thresholds indicates that drawdowns in groundwater level would jeopardize the functioning of the GDE.
Nanoparticle‐Stabilized Oxygen Microcapsules Prepared by Interfacial Polymerization for Enhanced Oxygen Delivery
Authors: Wu Baiheng , Sun Zhu , Wu Jiangchao , Ruan Jian , Zhao Peng , Liu Kai , Zhao Chun‐Xia , Sheng Jianpeng , Liang Tingbo , Chen Dong
Published: February 2021

Most tumors have more severe hypoxia levels than normal tissue; tumor hypoxia is thus a useful target for cancer treatment. Here, we develop an effective oxygen delivery vehicle of polydopamine‐nanoparticle‐stabilized oxygen microcapsules by interfacial polymerization. The oxygen microcapsules have excellent biocompatibility. Oxygen could easily diffuse out from the microcapsules, thus increasing and maintaining the microenvironment at an oxygen‐rich state. In vitro cell cultures confirm that oxygen microcapsules could effectively improve the hypoxia microenvironment, showing the lowest fluorescent intensity of hypoxia‐green‐labeled cells. When injected subcutaneously in vivo, oxygen microcapsules could also improve the tumor's hypoxia microenvironment, thus suppressing the growth of tumor. Synergetic therapy using oxygen microcapsules and gemcitabine drugs is an effective way for tumor treatment, showing the best performance in suppressing the tumor's growth.
Genome‐Mining‐Based Discovery of the Cyclic Peptide Tolypamide and TolF, a Ser/Thr Forward O‐Prenyltransferase
Authors: Purushothaman Mugilarasi , Sarkar Snigdha , Morita Maho , Gugger Muriel , Schmidt Eric W. , Morinaka Brandon I.
Published: February 2021

Cyanobactins comprise a widespread group of peptide metabolites produced by cyanobacteria that are often diversified by post‐translational prenylation. Several enzymes have been identified in cyanobactin biosynthetic pathways that carry out chemically diverse prenylation reactions, representing a resource for the discovery of post‐translational alkylating agents. Here, genome mining was used to identify orphan cyanobactin prenyltransferases, leading to the isolation of tolypamide from the freshwater cyanobacterium Tolypothrix sp. The structure of tolypamide was confirmed by spectroscopic methods, degradation, and enzymatic total synthesis. Tolypamide is forward‐prenylated on a threonine residue, representing an unprecedented post‐translational modification. Biochemical characterization of the cognate enzyme TolF revealed a prenyltransferase with strict selectivity for forward O‐prenylation of serine or threonine but with relaxed substrate selectivity for flanking peptide sequences. Since cyanobactin pathways often exhibit exceptionally broad substrate tolerance, these enzymes represent robust tools for synthetic biology.
A Multifunctional Dysprosium‐Carboxylato 2D Metall–Organic Framework
Authors: González Jonay , Sevilla Pablo , Gabarró‐Riera Guillem , Jover Jesús , Echeverría Jorge , Fuertes Sara , Arauzo Ana , Bartolomé Elena , Sañudo E. Carolina
Published: February 2021

We report the microwave assisted synthesis of a bidimensional (2D) MOF of formula [Dy(MeCOO)(PhCOO)2]n (1) and its magnetically diluted analogue [La0.9Dy0.1(MeCOO)(PhCOO)2] (1 d). 1 is a 2D material with single‐ion‐magnet (SIM) behaviour and 1 d is a multifunctional, magnetic and luminescent 2D material. 1 can be exfoliated into stable nanosheets by sonication.
Boosting Electroreduction Kinetics of Nitrogen to Ammonia via Tuning Electron Distribution of Single‐Atomic Iron Sites
Authors: Li Yan , Li Junwei , Huang Junheng , Chen Junxiang , Kong Yan , Yang Bin , Li Zhongjian , Lei Lecheng , Chai Guoliang , Wen Zhenhai , Dai Liming , Hou Yang
Published: February 2021

Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) plays a vital role for next‐generation electrochemical energy conversion technologies. However, the NRR kinetics is still limited by the sluggish hydrogenation process on noble‐metal‐free electrocatalyst. Herein, we report the rational design and synthesis of a hybrid catalyst with atomic iron sites anchored on a N,O‐doped porous carbon (FeSA‐NO‐C) matrix of an inverse opal structure, leading to a remarkably high NH3 yield rate of 31.9 μg
 h−1 mg−1cat. and Faradaic efficiency of 11.8 % at −0.4 V for NRR electrocatalysis, outperformed almost all previously reported atomically dispersed metal‐nitrogen‐carbon catalysts. Theoretical calculations revealed that the observed high NRR catalytic activity for the FeSA‐NO‐C catalyst stemmed mainly from the optimized charge‐transfer between the adjacent O and Fe atoms homogenously distributed on the porous carbon support, which could not only significantly facilitate the transportation of N2 and ions but also effectively decrease the binding energy between the isolated Fe atom and *N2 intermediate and the thermodynamic Gibbs free energy of the rate‐determining step (*N2 → *NNH).
Elevated Urate Levels Do Not Alter Bone Turnover Markers: Randomized Controlled Trial of Inosine Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Dalbeth Nicola , Horne Anne , Mihov Borislav , Stewart Angela , Gamble Gregory D. , Merriman Tony R. , Stamp Lisa K. , Reid Ian R.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Observational studies have consistently demonstrated that serum urate level positively correlates with bone mineral density (BMD). We undertook this study to determine whether moderate hyperuricemia induced by inosine supplements influences bone turnover markers in postmenopausal women over a 6‐month period.

Methods

One hundred twenty postmenopausal women were recruited for a 6‐month randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Key exclusion criteria were osteoporosis, previous fragility fracture, bisphosphonate therapy, gout, kidney stones, and a urine pH level of ≤5.0. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive placebo or inosine. The coprimary end points were change in levels of N‐propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) and change in levels of β‐C‐telopeptide of type I collagen (β‐CTX). Change in BMD, as measured by dual x‐ray absorptiometry, was an exploratory end point.

Results

Administration of inosine led to a significant increase in serum urate concentration over the study period (P < 0.0001 for all follow‐up time points). At week 26, the mean change in serum urate concentration was +0.13 mmoles/liter (+2.2 mg/dl) in the inosine group and 0.00 mmoles/liter (0 mg/dl) in the placebo group. There was no difference in PINP or β‐CTX levels between groups over the 6 months. There were no significant changes in bone density between groups over the 6 months. Adverse events and serious adverse events were similar between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

This clinical trial shows that although inosine supplementation leads to sustained increases in serum urate levels over a 6‐month period, it does not alter markers of bone turnover in postmenopausal women. These findings do not support the concept that urate has direct biologic effects on bone turnover.
Heavier Tetrylenes as Single Site Catalysts
Authors: Sen Nilanjana , Khan Shabana
Published: February 2021

An overview of the development of compounds with heavier low‐valent group 14 elements (known as tetrylenes) as single component catalyst for organic transformation has been provided. Compounds with heavier group 14 elements possess stereochemically active lone pairs and energetically accessible π‐antibonding orbitals, thereby resembling the electronic configuration of transition‐metal compounds. Such compounds with low‐valent group 14 elements has been known for small molecule activation since Power's report of dihydrogen activation by a digermyne, but their utilization in catalysis remained as a “Holy Grail” in main group chemistry. In recent years, numerous methodologies have been discovered epitomizing the use of Si(II), Ge(II) and Sn(II) compounds as single site catalysts for hydroboration of aldehydes, ketones, pyridines, cyanosilylation of aldehydes and ketones, N‐formylations aromatic amines, dehydrocoupling reactions. This mini‐review highlights these significant developments with an emphasis on the mechanistic investigation.
Fundamental parameters and non‐local thermodynamic equilibrium abundances of key light elements for nine bright and nearby K giants
Authors: Lyubimkov Leonid S. , Korotin Sergey A. , Petrov Dmitry V. , Poklad Dmitry B. , Mkrtichian David E. , Han Inwoo , Lee Byeong‐Cheol
Published: February 2021

For nine bright K giants within 100 pc of the sun, the fundamental parameters and the non‐local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) abundances of three key light elements (Li, C, and O) are accurately determined. These stars are of special interest due to the planets detected around them. Their fundamental parameters are found to be typical for K giants; in particular, these stars have effective temperatures Teff = 3,920–4,830 K, surface gravities log g = 1.20–2.85, masses M = 1.2–2.8 M⊙, and ages t = 0.4–5.4 Gyr (the pronounced anticorrelation between ages t and masses M exists). The microturbulent parameter Vt derived from Fe I lines varies between 1.2 and 1.9 km s−1; the metallicity index [Fe/H] forfive stars is close to the normal (zero) value, for other four stars it varies between −0.3 and −0.4 dex. All the giants are on the red giant branch stage and passed the first‐dredge‐up (FDU) phase. This conclusion is confirmed by the published low isotope ratios 12C/13C and 16O/17O. Basing on the non‐LTE analysis of Li I, C I, and O I lines, we determined abundances of lithium, carbon, and oxygen, three tracers of stellar evolution. The carbon deficiency −0.3 dex is found for the giants, which is quite expectable for these post‐FDU objects. The oxygen abundance is likely to be unchanged, whereas for the C/O ratio we obtained (after correction due to galactic chemical evolution) the mean value [C/O]cor = −0.22 ± 0.10 that is in very good agreement with the theory. The lithium abundance is not detected for seven of nine program giants; this result is quite expectable for the post‐FDU stars. We determined the Li abundance with the confidence only for two giants, namely, log ϵ(Li) = 0.92 for β Gem and log ϵ(Li) = 0.45 for μ Leo; this result contradicts the standard theory. Hypothetical engulfment by a star of a giant planet could solve the problem.
Tracing production instability in a clonally derived CHO cell line using single‐cell transcriptomics
Authors: Tzani Ioanna , Herrmann Nicholas , Carillo Sara , Spargo Cathy A. , Hagan Ryan , Barron Niall , Bones Jonathan , Shannon Dillmore W. , Clarke Colin
Published: February 2021

A variety of mechanisms including transcriptional silencing, gene copy loss, and increased susceptibility to cellular stress have been associated with a sudden or gradual loss of monoclonal antibody (mAb) production in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines. In this study, we utilized single‐cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq) to study a clonally derived CHO cell line that underwent production instability leading to a dramatic reduction of the levels of mAb produced. From the scRNA‐seq data, we identified subclusters associated with variations in the mAb transgenes and observed that heavy chain gene expression was significantly lower than that of the light chain across the population. Using trajectory inference, the evolution of the cell line was reconstructed and was found to correlate with a reduction in heavy and light chain gene expression. Genes encoding for proteins involved in the response to oxidative stress and apoptosis were found to increase in expression as cells progressed along the trajectory. Future studies of CHO cell lines using this technology have the potential to dramatically enhance our understanding of the characteristics underpinning efficient manufacturing performance as well as product quality.
Extraction Yield, Chemical Composition, Preliminary Toxicity of Bignonia nocturna (Bignoniaceae) Essential Oil and in Silico Evaluation of the Interaction
Authors: Santana de Oliveira Mozaniel , Pereira da Silva Valdeline Maria , Cantão Freitas Lucas , Gomes Silva Sebastião , Nevez Cruz Jorddy , de Aguiar Andrade Eloisa Helena
Published: February 2021

Bignonia nocturna (Bignoniaceae) is a plant used for medicinal purposes by the Amazonian indigenous peoples. To date, there have been no reported studies on its toxicity. The present study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of essential oils obtained from Bignonia nocturna by different extraction techniques. In addition, an in silico study of the molecular interactions was performed using molecular docking and molecular dynamics. The extractions were carried out by hydrodistillation, simultaneous distillation‐extraction, and steam distillation, using samples collected from the Amazon in summer and winter. The chemical composition was analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS, and the cytotoxic activity in Artemia salina Leach was evaluated. The maximum yield (1.38 % w/w) was obtained by hydrodistillation. The results indicated that benzaldehyde predominated in all the fractions of both the volatile concentrate and the essential oils. In addition, the oil proved to be highly toxic to Artemia salina. The computer simulation results indicated that benzaldehyde strongly interacts with acetylcholinesterase, which is the likely interaction mechanism responsible for the cytotoxicity.
Effect of Drag Models on the Numerical Simulations of Bubbling and Turbulent Fluidized Beds
Authors: Varghese Mona Mary , Vakamalla Teja Reddy , Mantravadi Bhargav , Mangadoddy Narasimha
Published: February 2021

Granular option enabled two‐fluid model coupled with different homogeneous and heterogeneous drag correlations, i.e., Gidaspow, Syamlal and O'Brien, Beetstra, Brucato, Gibilaro, energy minimization multiscale method (EMMS), and Tenneti, are employed for the prediction of bubbling and turbulent fluidized‐bed characteristics. Numerically predicted results are validated against the literature data in terms of bubble shape and diameter, axial and radial variation of time‐averaged void fraction, pressure drop, and bed expansion. The Gidaspow, Syamlal and O'Brien drag model‐predicted mean void fraction and bubble shapes are close to the experiments in bubbling and turbulent fluidized beds with both the 2D and 3D geometries. All drag models overpredicted the pressure drop at low superficial gas velocities in a turbulent fluidized bed.
Acid‐Thermally Modified Merremia vitifolia for the Removal of 2,4‐Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Authors: Aswani Meethale Theruvinthalakkal , Kumar Malladi Venkata Pavan
Published: February 2021

An acid‐thermally modified Merremia vitifolia biosorbent (ATMVB) was used for the removal of 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) from its aqueous solution. The characteristics of ATMVB were found to be superior to that of the unmodified Merremia vitifolia biosorbent (UMMVB). Batch biosorption experimental data under the optimal treatment conditions for ATMVB best fitted to a pseudo‐first‐order kinetics model and Langmuir adsorption isotherm with a defined maximum biosorption capacity. The mechanism of biosorption was explained with two intraparticle diffusion models, namely, Weber and Boyd. The biosorption is exothermic as per the thermodynamic studies. The ATMVB can be considered as a potential biosorbent for the removal of 2,4‐D from its aqueous solution.
A DNA‐Encoded Chemical Library Based on Peptide Macrocycles
Authors: Onda Yuichi , Bassi Gabriele , Elsayed Abdullah , Ulrich Franziska , Oehler Sebastian , Plais Louise , Scheuermann Jörg , Neri Dario
Published: February 2021

The synthesis and characterization of a novel DNA‐encoded library of macrocyclic peptide derivatives are described; the macrocycles are based on three sets of proteinogenic and non‐proteinogenic amino acid building blocks and featuring the use of copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction for ring closure. The library (termed YO‐DEL) which contains 1 254 838 compounds, was encoded with DNA in single‐stranded format and was screened against target proteins of interest using affinity capture procedures and photocrosslinking. YO‐DEL selections yielded specific binders against serum albumins, carbonic anhydrases and NKp46, a marker of activated Natural Killer cells.
Isolation and Structural Determination of a Hexacoordinated Antimony(V) Dication
Authors: Sakabe Masato , Sato Soichi
Published: February 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue are Masato Sakabe and Soichi Sato at Tokyo Metropolitan University. The image depicts the new hexacoordinated dicationic antimony species reported in this work. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202004659.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Coumarin–Indomethacin Hybrids as COX‐2 Targeting Probes for Cancer Imaging
Authors: Wet‐osot Sirawit , Pewklang Thitima , Chansaenpak Kantapat , Chudapongse Nuannoi , Lai Rung‐Yi , Kamkaew Anyanee
Published: February 2021

Facile synthesis of 6‐ or 7‐substituted coumarin‐indomathacin hybrids (Coum‐IDM) has been developed for specific cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) binding along with their intrinsic fluorescent properties. A mild and rapid condensation/dehydrative cyclization of 2‐hydroxy benzaldehyde with activated indomethacin was carried out in one step under ultrasound irradiation. Coum‐IDM4 was found to be the best of this series as it presented significant binding to COX‐2 and exhibited higher fluorescent intensity in cancer cells than in normal cells. Therefore, in the light of drug development tools, this new hybrid system could be a potential targeted probe for COX‐2‐overexpressed inflammation and cancer‐cell tracking.
Opening the proverbial ‘can of worms’ on trauma‐specific treatment in prison: The association of adverse childhood experiences to treatment outcomes
Authors: Messina Nena Portia , Schepps Mitchell
Published: February 2021

A large body of research has shown that incarcerated populations have a high prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), increasing their risk for associated mental health problems and violent and aggressive behaviours. Emerging research on treatment for trauma survivors shows evidence that incarcerated women and men, with the most complex histories of trauma and abuse, can be responsive to trauma‐specific treatment. Current research assessing two gender‐responsive and trauma‐specific brief interventions (e.g., Healing Trauma for Women and Exploring Trauma for Men) have demonstrated feasibility, consistency and efficacy among incarcerated populations. The current study uses secondary data analysis to explore the relationship between cumulative ACEs and the impact of the Healing Trauma and Exploring Trauma on participant's (682 women and 624 men) mental health, aggression and anger outcomes. The mixed‐method regression results show that the impact of ACEs on treatment outcomes is strong and cumulative (i.e., greater exposure to childhood traumatic events increased the likelihood of participant programme gain on all the mental health and aggression outcomes, ranging from .13 to 1.2 for women and .15 to .77 for the men). The lowest significant coefficient for both women and men was for verbal anger and the largest was for current trauma symptoms. The association of ACEs on anger outcomes varied between women and men (revealing more association among the men). The findings show a strong positive impact for the trauma‐specific brief interventions, particularly for those with the highest levels of trauma, whom otherwise might not have been ineligible for any programme participation.
Photodriven Charge Accumulation and Carrier Dynamics in a Water‐Soluble Carbon Nitride Photocatalyst
Authors: Li Chunyu , Hofmeister Elisabeth , Krivtsov Igor , Mitoraj Dariusz , Adler Christiane , Beranek Radim , Dietzek Benjamin
Published: February 2021

Charge accumulation in photoactive molecules and materials holds great promise in solar energy conversion as it allows for decoupling solar‐driven charging from (dark) redox reactions. In this contribution, light‐driven charge accumulation was investigated for a recently reported novel water‐soluble carbon nitride [K,Na‐poly(heptazine imide); K,Na‐PHI] photocatalyst, which exhibits excellent activity and stability in highly selective photocatalytic oxidation of alcohols and concurrent reduction of dioxygen to H2O2 under quasi‐homogeneous conditions. An excellent charge storage ability of the K,Na‐PHI material was demonstrated, showing an optimal density of accumulated electrons (32.2 μmol of electrons per gram) in the presence of 10 vol % MeOH as a sacrificial electron donor. The long‐lived electrons accumulated under anaerobic conditions as K,Na‐PHI.− radical ions were utilized in interfacial electron transfer to O2 or methyl viologen in a subsequent dark reaction. Ultrafast time‐resolved spectroscopy was employed to reveal the kinetics of charge‐carrier recombination and methanol oxidation. Geminate recombination of electrons and holes within approximately 100 ps was followed by trap‐assisted recombination. The presence of methanol as a sacrificial electron donor accelerated the decay of the transient absorption signal when a static sample was used. This behavior was ascribed to the faster charge recombination in the presence of the radical anions generated after hole extraction. The work suggests that photodriven electron storage in the water‐soluble carbon nitride is enabled by localized trap states, and highlights the importance of the effective electron donor for creating long‐lived photo‐generated carbon nitride radicals.
Design Strategies of Non‐Noble Metal‐Based Electrocatalysts for Two‐Electron Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhao Hui , Yuan Zhong‐Yong
Published: February 2021

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a highly value‐added and environmentally friendly chemical with various applications. The production of H2O2 by electrocatalytic 2e− oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) has drawn considerable research attention, with a view to replacing the currently established anthraquinone process. Electrocatalysts with low cost, high activity, high selectivity, and superior stability are in high demand to realize precise control over electrochemical H2O2 synthesis by 2e− ORR and the feasible commercialization of this system. This Review introduces a comprehensive overview of non‐noble metal‐based catalysts for electrochemical oxygen reduction to afford H2O2, providing an insight into catalyst design and corresponding reaction mechanisms. It starts with an in‐depth discussion on the origins of 2e−/4e− selectivity towards ORR for catalysts. Recent advances in design strategies for non‐noble metal‐based catalysts, including carbon nanomaterials and transition metal‐based materials, for electrochemical oxygen reduction to H2O2 are then discussed, with an emphasis on the effects of electronic structure, nanostructure, and surface properties on catalytic performance. Finally, future challenges and opportunities are proposed for the further development of H2O2 electrogeneration through 2e− ORR, from the standpoints of mechanistic studies and practical application.
Detection of LongR3‐IGF‐I, Des(1‐3)‐IGF‐I, and R3‐IGF‐I using immunopurification and high resolution mass spectrometry for antidoping purposes
Authors: Mongongu Cynthia , Coudoré François , Domergue Valérie , Ericsson Magnus , Buisson Corinne , Marchand Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) and its analogs LongR3‐IGF‐I, Des(1‐3)‐IGF‐I, and R3‐IGF‐I are prohibited substances in sport. Although they were never approved for use in humans, they are readily available as black market products for bodybuilding and can be used to enhance physical performance. This study's aims were to validate a fast and sensitive detection method for IGF‐I analogs and to evaluate their detectability after intramuscular administration in rats. The sample preparation consisted of an immunopurification on MSIA™ microcolumns using a polyclonal anti‐human‐IGF‐I antibody. The target substances were then directly analyzed by nano‐liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Abundant signs of lower quality, oxidized peptide forms were found in black market products, justifying the need to monitor at least both the native and mono‐oxidized forms. The analytical performance of this method (linearity, carry over, detection limits, precision, specificity, recovery, and matrix effect) was studied by spiking the analogs into human serum. Following a single intramuscular administration (100 μg/kg) in rats, detection was evaluated up to 36 h after injection. While unchanged Des(1‐3)‐IGF‐I and R3‐IGF‐I were detected until 24 h after administration, LongR3‐IGF‐I disappeared rapidly after 4 h. Des(1)‐LongR3‐IGF‐I, a new N‐terminal Long‐R3‐IGF‐I degradation product, was detected in addition to Des(1‐10)‐LongR3‐IGF‐I and Des(1‐11)‐LongR3−IGF‐I: the latter was detected up to 16 h. The same products were found after in vitro incubation of the analogs in human whole blood, suggesting that observations in rats may be extrapolated to humans and that the validated method may be applicable to antidoping testing.
Developmental dyslexia and creativity: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Majeed Nadyanna M. , Hartanto Andree , Tan Jacinth J. X.
Published: February 2021

Despite difficulties in reading and writing, some research suggests that dyslexia may be related to higher levels of creativity. However, this pattern is not consistently observed. The current research sought to ascertain whether individuals with clinically diagnosed dyslexia exhibit higher creativity than controls through a meta‐analysis. Fourteen studies that assessed the creativity of 397 individuals with clinically diagnosed dyslexia and 453 controls were reviewed. Random‐effects meta‐analysis revealed an overall non‐significant difference in creativity scores between those with dyslexia and controls. Additionally, method factors such as the type of creativity task and whether intelligence was controlled for, as well as sample‐related factors such as gender, did not explain differences in the dyslexia–creativity relationship. Nonetheless, individuals with dyslexia significantly outperformed controls in creativity scores in adult samples, but not in younger child/adolescent samples. Overall, the current findings provide limited support for the idea that individuals with dyslexia are more creative, and that past evidence of this relationship may be limited to adult samples.
Predator‐ and competitor‐induced responses in amphibian populations that evolved different levels of pesticide tolerance
Authors: Jones Devin K. , Hua Jessica , Mattes Brian M. , Cothran Rickey D. , Hoverman Jason T. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: February 2021

Exposure to agrochemicals can drive rapid phenotypic and genetic changes in exposed populations. For instance, amphibian populations living far from agriculture (a proxy for agrochemical exposure) exhibit low pesticide tolerance, but they can be induced to possess high tolerance following a sublethal pesticide exposure. In contrast, amphibian populations close to agriculture exhibit high, constitutive tolerance to pesticides. A recent study has demonstrated that induced pesticide tolerance appears to have arisen from plastic responses to predator cues. As a result, we might expect that selection for constitutive pesticide tolerance in populations near agriculture (i.e., genetic assimilation) will lead to the evolution of constitutive responses to natural stressors. Using 15 wood frog (Rana sylvatica) populations from across an agricultural gradient, we conducted an outdoor mesocosm experiment to examine morphological (mass, body length, and tail depth) and behavioral responses (number of tadpoles observed and overall activity) of tadpoles exposed to three stressor environments (no‐stressor, competitors, or predator cues). We discovered widespread differences in tadpole traits among populations and stressor environments, but no population‐by‐environment interaction. Subsequent linear models revealed that population distance to agriculture (DTA) was occasionally correlated with tadpole traits in a given environment and with magnitudes of plasticity, but none of the correlations were significant after Bonferroni adjustment. The magnitudes of predator and competitor plasticity were never correlated with the magnitude of pesticide‐induced plasticity that we documented in a companion study. These results suggest that while predator‐induced plasticity appears to have laid the foundation for the evolution of pesticide‐induced plasticity and its subsequent genetic assimilation, inspection of population‐level differences in plastic responses show that the evolution of pesticide‐induced plasticity has not had a reciprocal effect on the evolved plastic responses to natural stressors.
Estimating predator functional responses using the times between prey captures
Authors: Coblentz Kyle E. , DeLong John P.
Published: February 2021

Predator functional responses describe predator feeding rates and are central to predator–prey theory. Ecologists have measured thousands of predator functional responses using the same basic experimental method. However, this design is ill‐suited to address many current questions regarding functional responses. We derive a new experimental design and statistical analysis that quantifies functional responses using the times between a predators’ feeding events requiring only one or a few trials. We examine the feasibility of the experimental method and analysis using simulations to assess the ability of the statistical model to estimate functional response parameters and perform a proof‐of‐concept experiment estimating the functional responses of two individual jumping spiders. Our simulations show that the statistical method reliably estimates functional response parameters. Our proof‐of‐concept experiment illustrates that the method provides reasonable estimates of functional response parameters. By virtue of the fewer number of trials required to measure a functional response, the method derived here promises to expand the questions that can be addressed using functional response experiments and the systems in which they can be measured. Thus, we hope that our method will refine our understanding of functional responses and predator–prey interactions more generally.
Plasticity and selection drive hump‐shaped latitudinal patterns of flowering phenology in an invasive intertidal plant
Authors: Chen Xincong , Liu Wenwen , Pennings Steven C. , Zhang Yihui
Published: February 2021

Patterns of flowering phenology can affect the success of plant invasions, especially when introduced species spread across a wide range of latitude into different climatic conditions. We combined a 4‐yr field survey and a 3‐yr common garden experiment with the invasive grassSpartina alterniflorathat is now widespread along the coast of China to document the latitudinal pattern of flowering phenology, determine if phenology was related to climate or oceanographic variables, and determine whether phenology patterns were fixed versus plastic. In the field, first flowering day displayed a hump‐shaped relationship with latitude, with low‐ and high‐latitude plants flowering 100 d and 10 d earlier than plants at middle latitudes, respectively. Peak flowering day showed a similar hump‐shaped relationship with latitude, with the interval between first and peak flowering day decreasing with increasing latitude. First flowering day had a hump‐shaped relationship with annual growing degree days but a linear positive relationship with tidal range. In the common garden, first flowering day decreased linearly with increasing latitude of origin, as did peak flowering day, and the interval between first and peak flowering day increased with increasing latitude. First flowering day in the common garden had weak or no relationships with abiotic variables at the sites of origin. In both the field and common garden, first flowering day was later in site years for which plants were taller. These results indicate a high degree of plasticity in flowering phenology, with plants flowering later in the field at sites with intermediate temperatures and high tide ranges. Common garden results indicate some selection for earlier flowering at sites with low temperatures, consistent with a shorter growing season. Consistent with life‐history theory, plants flowered later under conditions favoring vigorous growth. Earlier flowering and smaller size of plants at high and low latitudes suggests thatS. alterniflorahas already occupied much of the geographic range favorable for it on the East Coast of Asia.
Fatty Acids and Flavor Components in the Oil Extracted from Golden Melon Seeds
Authors: Chen Lihua , Li Dongna , Zhu Chuchu , Ma Xia , Rong Yuzhi
Published: February 2021

For complete utilization of raw materials and edible oil production, the oil from golden melon seeds (GSs) is extracted via the cold‐pressing, hot‐pressing, and ultrasound‐assisted aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE), and the fatty acid composition, and nutritional value of the extracted GS oils (GSOs) are analyzed. The volatile compounds present in the GSOs are determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The aroma profiles of different GSO samples are further distinguished by using an electronic nose. A total of 16 fatty acids are identified in the GSO samples, with atherogenic, thrombogenic, and nutritive value indices ranging from 0.142–0.151, 0.366–0.403, and 5.019–5.299, respectively. Moreover, 43 volatile compounds, including esters, hydrocarbons, alcohols, ketones, pyrazines, and aldehydes are identified. The cold‐pressed GSO presents fresh and fruity flavors, while the hot‐pressed GSO presents roasted, nutty, fatty, and fruity flavors, and the GSO obtained via AEE presents fatty and fruity flavors. The acid and peroxide contents of these oil samples are 0.69–079 mg g−1 and 5.17–5.79 mmol kg−1, respectively. The results indicate that the extraction method affects the fatty acid composition, flavor components, and physiochemical properties of the GSO. This study may help promote the development of edible GSO.

Practical applications: With high demand for edible oils, it is of great significance to find natural edible oils from different sources. The oil in golden melon seeds is extracted by different methods. Their fatty acid composition and flavor components are analyzed. The GSO extracted via AEE method is rich in fatty acids composition. This work would guide the development of an edible GSO and increase the value of golden melon.
Diagenesis and reservoir quality of the second member of the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation tight gas sandstones in the Western Sichuan Depression, southwest China
Authors: Pan Bo , Chen Hongde , Lin Liangbiao , Yu Yu , Wu Dong , Dong Yixin
Published: February 2021

The tight sandstones reservoir of the second member of the Xujiahe Formation (Xu2 member) is gradually becoming the main reservoir for natural gas exploration and exploitation in the Western Sichuan Basin. The tight sandstone is normally deeply buried, where it is controlled by complex diagenetic processes. To gain insights into reservoir exploration of the Xu2 member, the diagenetic history and the impacts of diagenesis on reservoir quality were established using several experimental methods. The sandstones were found to be mainly litharenite, sublitharenite, and feldspathic litharenite. The reservoir quality was characterized by low porosity (3.4% on average), low permeability (0.17 mD on average), low pore throat radius, and high displacement pressure. The tight sandstones experienced a series of significant diagenetic processes, including mechanical compaction, early dissolution, and precipitation of carbonate and siliceous cements during eodiagenesis. They also underwent chemical compaction, late dissolution, and transformation of clay minerals during mesodiagenesis. The silica cementation mainly resulted from chemical compaction, feldspar dissolution, and the transformation of clay minerals. A higher degree of compaction has a vital role in destroying most of the primary pores. Cementation had a significant impact on reducing the porosity and permeability, although chlorite preserved primary pores by slowing the compaction. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive insight into diagenesis and its impact on the reservoir quality of deeply buried sandstone, and provide insights into reservoir exploration and development in deeply buried tight sandstones.
Hydrological and meteorological data from research catchments at the Marcell Experimental Forest, Minnesota, USA
Authors: Sebestyen Stephen D. , Lany Nina K. , Roman Daniel Tyler , Burdick Jacob M. , Kyllander Richard L. , Verry Elon Sandy , Kolka Randall K.
Published: February 2021

The Marcell Experimental Forest (MEF) in northern Minnesota, USA, with hydrological research and monitoring of peatland catchments in a low‐topographic relief landscape, contrasts with the mountainous terrain that typifies most research catchments. Six research catchments were instrumented and hydrological and meteorological monitoring was initiated during 1960. Paired‐catchment studies, which started during 1969, have been used to assess land management and environmental change effects on forests, water availability, and biogeochemistry. Over the decades, the research and collaborations have proliferated to include new monitoring and ecosystem experiments. We provide an overview of available datasets and access information for hydrological and meteorological data. Data on streamflow, water table elevation, precipitation, snow, ground frost, air temperature, soil moisture, upland runoff, and water chemistry are discoverable with associated metadata and are archived through several Web‐based, community repositories. The research programme is ongoing and we anticipate updates on an annual or more frequent basis. Additionally, we aim to release other physical, chemical, and isotopic measurements associated with long‐term catchment monitoring and studies at the MEF.
Spatiotemporal patterns of ENSO‐precipitation relationships in the tropical Andes of southern Peru and Bolivia
Authors: Jonaitis Joseph A. , Perry L. Baker , Soulé Peter T. , Thaxton Christopher , Andrade‐Flores Marcos F. , Vargas Tania Ita , Ticona Laura
Published: February 2021

Precipitation in the outer tropical Andes is highly seasonal, exhibits considerable interannual variability, and is vital for regulating freshwater availability, flooding, glacier mass balance, and droughts. The primary driver of interannual variability is El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), with most investigations reporting that the El Niño (La Niña) results in negative (positive) precipitation anomalies across the region. Recent investigations, however, have identified substantial spatiotemporal differences in ENSO‐precipitation relationships. Motivated by the dissimilarity of these findings, this study examines a carefully selected data set (≥ 90% completeness) of ground‐based precipitation observations from 75 high‐elevation (≥ 2,500 m above sea level) meteorological stations in the tropical Andes of southern Peru and Bolivia for the period 1972–2016. Distinct groups of stations and associated variability in precipitation characteristics (e.g., total seasonal precipitation, wet season onset, and wet season length) are identified. Using no spatial constraints, the K‐Means algorithm optimally grouped stations into five easily identifiable groups. The groups farthest from the Amazon basin had significant negative (positive) precipitation anomalies (p < .05) during El Niño (La Niña), aligning with the traditional view of ENSO‐precipitation relationships while groups closest to the Amazon had opposite relationships. Additionally, though studies have reported delays in the wet season, years characterized by El Niño had an earlier wet season onset in all five groups. These findings may aid in improving seasonal climate prediction and managing water resources, and could allow for improved interpretation of tropical Andean ice cores.
Probabilistic assessment of crop yield loss to drought time‐scales in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Li Huawei , Li Yongping , Huang Guohe , Sun Jie
Published: February 2021

Frequent drought events under climate change are endangering food security and sustainable agricultural development. Quantitative assessment of crop yield anomalies under drought conditions is essential for effective water resources management and adaptative drought risk mitigation strategies. In this study, a copula‐based bivariate probabilistic framework model is developed to assess the impacts of drought events on crop yield, where the correlation of crop yield anomalies and standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) at multi‐month lags are quantified. This model has advantages in quantifying the impacts of drought scales on crop yield through the joint probability of the corresponding series. Then, the model is applied to Xinjiang Province in Northwestern China, an arid region with extensive agricultural activities. SPEI and yield anomalies of wheat, maize and cotton during 1984–2015 are firstly identified, and then copula‐based framework is constructed to quantify probabilistic crop yield losses caused by drought events. Finally, crop water amounts and irrigation requirements under different drought severity conditions are compared and analysed. Our findings are: (a) wheat and maize yield anomalies are vulnerable to long drought time‐scales, with exceedance probabilities of required yield anomalies returning to normal are 19.3% for wheat and 21.1% for maize, while cotton is susceptible to short drought time‐scales, with exceedance probability of 42.3% for drought recovery; (b) response of wheat crop yield anomalies to the SPEI at 1‐, 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month scales is the most sensitive, followed by maize, and cotton is the least; (c) under extreme drought conditions, the probability of cotton yield reduction is lower than that of wheat and maize. Results may enhance our understanding of the impacts of drought scales on crops during the growing season, thus providing general guidance for rational irrigation management of crops and incentives for irrigation to mitigate drought risk, ultimately promoting sustainable agricultural development.
Isomer separation and analysis of amphiphilic polysialogangliosides using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Park Jun Young , Shrestha Sarmila Amatya , Cha Sangwon
Published: February 2021

Gangliosides are amphiphilic, acidic glycosphingolipids possessing one or more sialic acid residues and several isobaric structural isomers with different abundances and bioactivities. Therefore, the distinction between these isomers is crucial for their proper profiling. Although liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry has been successfully employed for this purpose, the distinction process can still be improved, particularly regarding liquid chromatography. Recently, a reversed‐phase liquid chromatography method that could separate disialoganglioside isomers was reported; however, the distinction of trisialoganglioside isomers using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography has not been demonstrated. Here, we investigated the practicality of a reversed‐phase liquid chromatography with an octadecylsilane column for separating polysialoganglioside isomers and successfully achieved the isomer separation of disialogangliosides and trisialogangliosides for the first time. We also confirmed several crucial factors in the mobile‐phase composition, which affect the differential retention and mass spectral response of the isomers. First, an organic modifier, acetonitrile, exhibited superior selectivity against polysialogangliosides over methanol. Second, ammonium bicarbonate was the best ammonium salt additive among those tested, in terms of the separation efficiency and mass spectral response. Third, as the ammonium salt concentration increased, the negative electrospray ionization response was extensively suppressed, and the retention of gangliosides increased.
Morphological characterization of hepatic steatosis and Monte Carlo modeling of MRI signal for accurate quantification of fat fraction and relaxivity
Authors: Shrestha Utsav , van der Merwe Marie , Kumar Nirman , Jacobs Eddie , Satapathy Sanjaya K. , Morin Cara , Tipirneni‐Sajja Aaryani
Published: February 2021

Chemical‐shift‐based fat‐water MRI signal models with single‐ or dual‐R2* correction have been proposed for quantification of fat fraction (FF) and assessment of hepatic steatosis. However, there is a void in our understanding of which model truly mimics the underlying biophysical mechanism of steatosis on MRI signal relaxation. The purpose of this study is to morphologically characterize and build realistic steatosis models from histology and synthesize MRI signal using Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the accuracy of single‐ and dual‐R2* models in quantifying FF and R2*. Fat morphology was characterized by performing automatic segmentation on 16 mouse liver histology images and extracting the radius, nearest neighbor (NN) distance, and regional anisotropy of fat droplets. A gamma distribution function (GDF) was used to generalize extracted features, and regression analysis was performed to derive relationships between FF and GDF parameters. Virtual steatosis models were created based on derived morphological and statistical descriptors, and the MRI signal was synthesized at 1.5 T and 3 T. R2* and FF values were calculated using single‐ and dual‐R2* models and compared with in vivo R2*‐FF calibrations and simulated FFs. The steatosis models generated with regional anisotropy and NN distribution closely mimicked the true in vivo fat morphology. For both R2* models, predicted R2* values showed positive correlation with FFs, with slopes similar to those of the in vivo calibrations (P > 0.05), and predicted FFs showed excellent agreement with true FFs (R2 > 0.99), with slopes close to unity. Our study, hence, demonstrates the proof of concept for generating steatosis models from histologic data and synthesizing MRI signal to show the expected signal relaxation under conditions of steatosis. Our results suggest that a single R2* is sufficient to accurately estimate R2* and FF values for lower FFs, which agrees with in vivo studies. Future work involves characterizing and building steatosis models at higher FFs and testing single‐ and dual‐R2* models for accurate assessment of steatosis.