bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic and persistent bias against introduced species
Authors: Pereyra Patricio Javier , de la Barra Paula , Amione Ludmila Lucila Daniela , Arcángel Andrea , Marello Buch Barbara Macarena , Rodríguez Emiliano , Mazzolari Ana , Maldonado Mara Anahí , Hünicken Leandro , Wallach Arian D
Published: January 2024

Critics of invasion biology have argued that conservation science is biased against introduced species. We reviewed 300 randomly selected articles that described the ecological effects of introduced species and assessed whether they were framed negatively, neutrally, or positively. We then asked whether their framing was related to harms as defined by the conservation community; to knowledge about the introduced species, using the species’ taxonomy, habitat, and region as proxies; and to the journal’s focus and prestige and the author's country of affiliation. We also analyzed whether framing differed across space and time. If invasion biology is unbiased, one would expect that negative framing would be more common for introduced species associated with harm. We found that introduced species were framed negatively in two thirds of the articles. Introduced species were framed negatively regardless of attributed harms and across taxonomies, journals, the globe, and time. Our results support that introduced species are persistently regarded as harmful, a bias that raises questions about the validity of the claims made about them.
The dangers of “Chasing the dragon”: a fatal case of heroin-induced leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Bourekba Iliass , Halfi Ismail , Ech Cherif Kettani Najwa , Fikri Meryem , Jidane Mohamed , Touarsa Firdaous
Published: January 2024

Heroin-induced leukoencephalopathy (HLE) is a rare toxic encephalopathy associated primarily with heroin inhalation, commonly referred to as “chasing the dragon.” This study presents a clinical case of a 27-year-old polydrug user diagnosed with HLE during hospitalization for rapidly progressive flaccid tetraplegia and aphasia. The clinical manifestations encompassed cerebellar and bulbar dysfunction, coupled with motor impairment and altered consciousness. Based on the clinical data and MRI results, HLE was identified as the most likely cause. This article aims to provide insights into the clinical and radiological aspects of HLE, emphasizing the diagnostic significance of radiological findings. The gold standard examination for diagnosis is MRI, crucial due to the difficulties in obtaining histological confirmation for this rare condition.
Antenatal diagnosis of congenital pouch colon: a case report from the Indian subcontinent with insights into management
Authors: Sharma Jitendra , Malik Rajesh , Ahmed Reyaz
Published: January 2024

Congenital pouch colon (CPC) is highly uncommon congenital anorectal malformation where a distended pouch-like structure replaces either some part of the colon or the entire colon and communicates to the genitourinary tract through a fistula. Diagnosis of CPC is usually made after birth when neonate/infant presents with abdominal distension and absence of anal opening. Making antenatal diagnosis of CPC is difficult because of the lack of specific and verifiable signs on sonography. Hence, only a few cases of antenatal diagnosis of CPC have been reported.1,2 In our case, CPC was suspected on a routine antenatal growth scan ultrasound in the late third trimester, showing a hypoechoic tubular-shaped lesion in the pre-sacral region. With this suspicion, we suggested an institutional delivery at a tertiary level centre, and diagnosis of type III CPC was confirmed on post-delivery imaging and emergency primary surgery, done on the day 3 of life (pouch resection, division of fistula, and protective colostomy). The child also underwent further corrective surgeries in a staged manner in second year of life and recovered completely. Beforehand diagnosis prevented any unnecessary delay in operative care, reduced postoperative complications, and improved the overall outcome of this otherwise complex condition.
International postgraduate fellowships in radiology: the good, the bad, and the paperwork
Authors: Hadian Fatemeh , Din Farah , Butt Natasha , Stott Samantha , Navarro Oscar M
Published: January 2024

Postgraduate fellowships in clinical and interventional radiology are a well-recognized path to enhancing subspecialty skills and widening professional opportunities. They involve 1-2 years of higher-level intensive training in a chosen subspecialty and can aid in the transition from registrar to consultant. International fellowships combine this professional development with a unique exposure to new concepts, healthcare systems, and communities. However, they require careful planning, with applications opening up to 2 years in advance and various processes to navigate prior to commencing the fellowship. Understanding the benefits and considerations of international fellowships, choosing the right fellowship programme, and appreciating the steps to take prior to commencement are important in making an informed decision.
Improved synthesis of free bases of 5,10,15,20-tetraaryl-5,15-diazaporphyrinoid for conversion to silicon(IV) complexes
Authors: Suzuki Hiroya , Furukawa Ko , Minoura Mao , Nakano Haruyuki , Matano Yoshihiro
Published: January 2024

We report herein an improved method for the quantitative preparation of free bases of 5,10,15,20-tetraaryl-5,15-diazaporphyrinoid (TADAP) using Me3SiBr–MeOH to treat the corresponding zinc(II) complexes. Metallation of the free base with HSiCl3 followed by Si–X metathesis with SbF3 and redox reactions afforded difluorosilicon(IV) complexes of TADAP.
High efficiency removal of Congo red from wastewater by metal organic framework material UiO-66
Authors: Fu Qiuping , Yuan Hui , Lou Jie , Zha Lei
Published: January 2024

The Zr-based metal organic framework UiO-66 was synthesized using the solvothermal method. The adsorption properties of UiO-66 for organic dye Congo red (CR) were studied. The results showed the excellent adsorption performance of UiO-66 toward CR. The adsorption equilibrium data were consistent with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. The adsorption kinetics, thermodynamics, and mechanism of CR on UiO-66 were studied. The results of cyclic adsorption experiments showed that UiO-66 could be used repeatedly to adsorb CR.
Constitutional isomerization of cubane to semibullvalene via cuneane in hot water
Authors: Takebe Hiyori , Umemura Tomomi , Matsubara Seijiro
Published: January 2024

The construction of cage-type hydrocarbon scaffolds, potential bioisosteres for benzene, often involves multiple steps, making their selective syntheses challenging. However, by employing a scaffold editing technique that leverages the isomerization of the highly symmetrical cubane as a precursor, these can be synthesized more efficiently with fewer steps. In this study, we present a method for the selective synthesis of semibullvalene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid with a good yield, starting from dimethyl cubane-1,4-dicarboxylate, using a reaction in hot water.
Estimation of conformational entropy for ionic liquids from NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Sumida Hiroki , Kimura Yoshifumi , Endo Takatsugu
Published: January 2024

Conformational entropy (Sconf) plays a key role in the low melting points of ionic liquids. In this study, a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based approach was developed to experimentally estimate Sconf of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide. J-coupling constants from the 1D 1H NMR and 2D spectra of the butyl group in the cation were analyzed using the Karplus equation optimized by density functional theory calculations. The obtained conformational population and entropy values coincided reasonably well with previously reported results, indicating the usefulness of the NMR approach.
Preparation of silyl-functionalized double six-ring (D6R) siloxanes and unique assembly by hydrogen bonding of silanol groups
Authors: Sato Naoto , Wada Hiroaki , Kuroda Kazuyuki , Shimojima Atsushi
Published: January 2024

Cage-type silicate with a double six-ring (D6R) structure is successfully functionalized with dimethylsilyl and dimethylsilanol groups. The dimethylsilanol-functionalized cages are assembled to form a 1D structure through intermolecular hydrogen bonding of the silanol groups between the cages. These results will contribute to the development of a building-block approach for the creation of ordered siloxane-based nanomaterials.
Giant seebeck effect in an undoped single crystal of 2,5,8-triphenylbenzo[1,2-b:3,4-b':5,6-b'']trifuran
Authors: Okayama Katsunari , Kojima Hirotaka , Kawauchi Toshiki , Yamagishi Masakazu , Nakamura Masakazu , Tsuji Hayato
Published: January 2024

The application of 2,5,8-triphenylbenzo[1,2-b:3,4-bʹ:5,6-bʹʹ]trifuran (Ph3-BTF) as a thermoelectric generator is demonstrated. An undoped single crystal of Ph3-BTF exhibited a giant Seebeck effect (GSE) with a large negative Seebeck coefficient of up to −239 mV K−1 at a base temperature of 350 K. Ph3-BTF features a small reorganization energy and tight molecular packing in the single crystal (π–π stacking distance: 3.32 Å), which may contribute to the observed GSE.
Pasinetti on The Cambridge Keynesians
Authors: Velupillai K V
Published: January 2024

This is a review article of a book celebrating Pasinetti’s 90th birthday in 2020, Pasinetti and the Classical Keynesians: Nine Methodological Issues, edited by Enrico Bellino and Sebastiano Nerozzi. His demise in 2023 is, of course regrettable - but it is no excuse for giving a view of a book that was published in his lifetime. The view expressed in this article considers Pasinetti as a vintage member of the Cambridge Keynesian Group, which encompasses, in addition to those near Keynes, those second-generation scholars who also made a contribution—sometimes decisive—to various aspects of Keynesian Economics.
Afterword: memory and the past: fascism, spectacle, history
Authors: Falasca-Zamponi Simonetta
Published: January 2024

The Afterword addresses the efforts of Italian fascists to build an imaginary fascist community through the mythical appropriation of the past. It argues that fascism epitomized in a peculiarly contradictory and destructive manner the moderns’ reaction to what they perceived as the end of an era. The historical division between memory and history, established in the nineteenth century, engulfed the fascist movement and overlapped with other critical dichotomies that vexed Mussolini and his adepts as they pursued the revitalization of communal roots while simultaneously riding the train of change. The dualisms of community and society, tradition and modernity, and, at a more meta-level, sacred and profane confronted fascism with difficult dilemmas, eliciting responses that, as the contributors to this issue show, ultimately exposed fascism’s cultural incongruities and fallacies.
Introduction A Hellenic Modernism: Greek Theatre and Italian Fascism
Authors: Di Martino Giovanna , Ioannidou Eleftheria , Troiani Sara
Published: January 2024

The introduction to the special issue explores the central place of Greek theatre within the culture of Italian Fascism. Building on scholarship from the so-called cultural turn in the study of fascism, which variously identified fascism with a form of modernism, it demonstrates that a dialogue between modernism and classicism was fully at work in the performances of ancient drama occurring all over the Italian peninsula and in the colonies in North Africa. The term ‘Hellenic modernism’ is introduced here to underline the fusion of Greek theatre with distinctively modernist traits during the ventennio and provide an analytical tool for investigating the role of classical performances and spectacles within Fascism’s programme of cultural and national renewal.
Dental-dedicated MRI, a novel approach for dentomaxillofacial diagnostic imaging: technical specifications and feasibility
Authors: Greiser Andreas , Christensen Jennifer , Fuglsig João M C S , Johannsen Katrine M , Nixdorf Donald R , Burzan Kim , Lauer Lars , Krueger Gunnar , Hayes Carmel , Kettless Karen , Ulrici Johannes , Spin-Neto Rubens
Published: January 2024

MRI is a noninvasive, ionizing radiation-free imaging modality that has become an indispensable medical diagnostic method. The literature suggests MRI as a potential diagnostic modality in dentomaxillofacial radiology. However, current MRI equipment is designed for medical imaging (eg, brain and body imaging), with general-purpose use in radiology. Hence, it appears expensive for dentists to purchase and maintain, besides being complex to operate. In recent years, MRI has entered some areas of dentistry and has reached a point in which it can be provided following a tailored approach. This technical report introduces a dental-dedicated MRI (ddMRI) system, describing how MRI can be adapted to fit dentomaxillofacial radiology through the appropriate choice of field strength, dental radiofrequency surface coil, and pulse sequences. Also, this technical report illustrates the possible application and feasibility of the suggested ddMRI system in some relevant diagnostic tasks in dentistry. Based on the presented cases, it is fair to consider the suggested ddMRI system as a feasible approach to introducing MRI to dentists and dentomaxillofacial radiology specialists. Further studies are needed to clarify the diagnostic accuracy of ddMRI considering the various diagnostic tasks relevant to the practice of dentistry.
Color, pattern, and background contrast affect attraction of Euxesta eluta and Chaetopsis massyla (Diptera: Ulidiidae)
Authors: Allan Sandra A
Published: January 2024

Euxesta eluta Loew and Chaetopsis massyla Walker (Diptera: Ulidiidae) are primary pests of sweet corn in Florida. Attraction of adult flies to various visual stimuli was evaluated in the laboratory to provide insight into the potential development of enhanced trapping strategies. In assays evaluating different colored sticky traps, more E. eluta were collected on light blue, mid blue, lime green, and orange yellow traps, whereas attraction of C. massyla was greater to lime green and fluorescent green traps. In a comparison of yellow 3-dimensional shapes, more E. eluta were collected on yellow cylinders than on spheres or cubes; however, more C. massyla were collected on cylinders than on cubes or spheres. When colored traps were placed against a white background, more E. eluta were collected on lime green compared with yellow, blue, and orange traps; however, when placed against a black background, attraction to the lime green trap was reduced. Against the white background attraction of C. massyla, was strongest to yellow, then lime green and orange traps, followed by blue, but with a black background, differences between traps collections were reduced. The addition of ultraviolet (UV) reflectance to yellow increased the attraction of E. eluta, but C. massyla were more attracted to yellows without UV reflection or fluorescence. Black patterns on yellow traps affected attraction, with E. eluta more attracted to wide stripes, a large square, or many small squares, whereas C. massyla was more strongly attracted to stripes. Utilization of these visual attributes could be useful in improving surveillance for these species.
Volatiles from nutritional fungal symbiont influence the attraction of Anisandrus maiche (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to ethanol-baited traps
Authors: Tobin Kelsey N , Ethington Matthew W , Ginzel Matthew D
Published: January 2024

Anisandrus maiche Stark (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) is a non-native ambrosia beetle from central Asia that has been spreading throughout the eastern United States since 2005. Preferred hosts of A. maiche are not well characterized within its currently invaded range, but it is established in managed and natural forests throughout Indiana. Current monitoring and detection efforts for this beetle rely on ethanol-baited traps, but fungal volatiles may alter the attraction of A. maiche to ethanol. In this study, we conducted trapping experiments in Indiana to determine the extent to which a suite of common fungal alcohols influences the response of A. maiche to ethanol-baited traps. We then evaluated isoamyl and isobutyl alcohol as potential attractants for A. maiche and their ability to enhance attraction to ethanol. Lastly, we used SPME-GC-MS to identify volatiles from Ambrosiella cleistominuta (Mayers & Harr.), the fungal symbiont of A. maiche, grown for 7 and 14 days on malt extract agar. Benzyl alcohol, isobutyl alcohol, hexanol, methyl phenylacetate, phenethyl alcohol, and piperitone reduced the attraction of A. maiche to ethanol-baited traps in the field. Moreover, adding methyl benzoate and isoamyl alcohol individually to ethanol-baited traps did not further increase A. maiche capture. When paired with ethanol, isoamyl alcohol repelled beetles in the early flight period but did not significantly increase trap capture during the fall flight. These results represent a first step in understanding the role of fungal volatiles in the colonization behavior of A. maiche and may ultimately inform management strategies for this species.
Teacher and learner well-being in collaborative classroom research
Authors: Pinter Annamaria
Published: January 2024

This paper focuses on Seligman’s (2011) PERMA components (positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment) of well-being. Teachers’ reflection data have been analysed deductively to identify components of PERMA as relevant to themselves as well their perceptions of their learners’ well-being during and after a longitudinal classroom action research project in India. The original British Council study was not focused on well-being but instead on exploring the feasibility of working with children in partnership in classroom research. Teachers reported positive emotions, high levels of engagement, closer relationships with learners in their classes, and they also felt that their work became more meaningful and purposeful. Researching classrooms in partnership with children has the potential to promote many benefits for both learners and teachers, including increased levels of well-being. The paper argues therefore that working in partnership with learners may be an excellent starting point to promote well-being in any classroom.
Sympathetic dysfunction is associated with worse fatigue and early and subtle symptoms in heart failure: an exploratory sex-stratified analysis
Authors: Stutsman Nina , Habecker Beth , Pavlovic Noelle , Jurgens Corrine Y , Woodward William R , Lee Christopher S , Denfeld Quin E
Published: January 2024

Aims

Physical symptoms impact patients with heart failure (HF) despite treatment advancements; however, our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying HF symptoms remains limited, including sex differences therein. The objective of this study was to quantify associations between sympathetic markers [norepinephrine (NE) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG)] and physical symptoms in patients with HF and to explore sex differences in these associations.

Methods and results

We performed a secondary analysis of combined data from two studies: outpatients with HF (n = 111), and patients prior to left ventricular assist device implantation (n = 38). Physical symptoms were measured with the Heart Failure Somatic Perception Scale (HFSPS) dyspnoea and early/subtle symptom subscales and the Functional Assessment in Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) to capture dyspnoea, early symptoms of decompensation, and fatigue. Norepinephrine and DHPG were measured with high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Multivariate linear regression was used to quantify associations between symptoms and sympathetic markers. The sample (n = 149) was 60.8 ± 15.7 years, 41% women, and 71% non-ischaemic aetiology. Increased plasma NE and NE:DHPG ratio were associated with worse FACIT-F scores (P = 0.043 and P = 0.013, respectively). Increased plasma NE:DHPG ratio was associated with worse HFSPS early/subtle symptoms (P = 0.025). In sex-stratified analyses, increased NE:DHPG ratio was associated with worse FACIT-F scores (P = 0.011) and HFSPS early/subtle scores (P = 0.022) among women but not men.

Conclusion

In patients with HF, sympathetic dysfunction is associated with worse fatigue and early/subtle physical symptoms with associations stronger in women than men.
Electrocardiographic predictors of left ventricular scar in athletes with right bundle branch block premature ventricular beats
Authors: Sciarra Luigi , Golia Paolo , Scarà Antonio , Robles Antonio Gianluca , De Maio Melissa , Palamà Zefferino , Borrelli Alessio , Di Roma Mauro , D’Arielli Alberto , Calò Leonardo , Gallina Sabina , Ricci Fabrizio , Delise Pietro , Zorzi Alessandro , Nesti Martina , Romano Silvio , Cavarretta Elena
Published: January 2024

Aims

Right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology non-sustained ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) have been associated with the presence of non-ischaemic left ventricular scar (NLVS) in athletes. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify clinical and electrocardiogram (ECG) predictors of the presence of NLVS in athletes with RBBB VAs.

Methods and results

Sixty-four athletes [median age 39 (24–53) years, 79% males] with non-sustained RBBB VAs underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement in order to exclude the presence of a concealed structural heart disease. Thirty-six athletes (56%) showed NLVS at CMR and were assigned to the NLVS positive group, whereas 28 athletes (44%) to the NLVS negative group. Family history of cardiomyopathy and seven different ECG variables were statistically more prevalent in the NLVS positive group. At univariate analysis, seven ECG variables (low QRS voltages in limb leads, negative T waves in inferior leads, negative T waves in limb leads I–aVL, negative T waves in precordial leads V4–V6, presence of left posterior fascicular block, presence of pathologic Q waves, and poor R-wave progression in right precordial leads) proved to be statistically associated with the finding of NLVS; these were grouped together in a score. A score ≥2 was proved to be the optimal cut-off point, identifying NLVS athletes in 92% of cases and showing the best accuracy (86% sensitivity and 100% specificity, respectively). However, a cut-off ≥1 correctly identified all patients with NLVS (absence of false negatives).

Conclusion

In athletes with RBBB morphology non-sustained VAs, specific ECG abnormalities at 12-lead ECG can help in detecting subjects with NLVS at CMR.
Comparative metabolomics analysis of unique yellow hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) and red-skinned cultivars reveals a different polyphenol biosynthesis flux and antioxidative and antidiabetic potential
Authors: Liu Yilong , You Wenwen , Wang Ruoqi , Zeng Tao , Zhao Xiaoyong , Cao Yunlin , Zhang Wenna , Nie Zongxing , Yang Xiaochun , Li Xian
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This paper aims to investigate the polyphenol metabolite variation and bioactivities of different-colored hawthorn berries (Crataegus pinnatifida).

Materials and Methods

Comparative metabolomics analysis between peel and flesh of yellow hawthorn 'Jinruyi' (JRY) and red-skinned ones was carried out by UPLC-MS/MS. Antioxidant activities and α-glucosidase inhibition capacity were also tested among different colored hawthorn samples.

Results

A total of 453 polyphenols was characterized, among which phenolic acids and flavonoids were abundant, and were closely relevant to the antioxidant capacity of hawthorn fruits. Polyphenol profile showed accession-specific accumulation in peel or flesh of different colored hawthorn. The unique yellow hawthorn was found to have few anthocyanins but showed enhanced flux to synthesize flavones and flavonols, especially flavone C-glycosides and acylated flavonol glycosides. The specific acylation decoration included acetylation, p-coumaroylation, and malonylation. In addition, yellow hawthorn showed excellent α-glucosidase inhibitory effect, which might be associated with the high concentration of 8 polyphenols including 5 phenolic acids, 2 flavone C-glycosides, and an acylated flavonol glycoside, namely, quercetin-7-O-(6ʹʹ-malonyl)glucoside. Such acylated flavonol showed the strongest correlation with the inhibition effect of hawthorn fruits on α-glucosidase, and was predicted to have the lowest binding energy with the enzyme according to molecular docking analysis, indicating its great potential as a strong α-glucosidase inhibitor and an important antidiabetic ingredient in yellow hawthorn.

Conclusions

The acylated flavonol glycosides and C-glycosyl flavones might be chemotaxonomic markers differentiating varieties and bioactivities of yellow hawthorn from the traditional red-skinned ones. These findings complement the existing knowledge on the metabolite composition and nutritional properties of hawthorn fruits.
Forensic DNA database and criminal investigation in the Sahel region: a need to update the national security policy?
Authors: Zeye Moutanou M J , Ouedraogo Serge Y , Millogo Missa , Djigma Florencia W , Zoure Abdou A , Zeba Moctar , Palenfo Rachide , Dakio Noe , Zaongo Silvere D , Wu Xiang , Simpore Jacques
Published: January 2024

Ongoing terrorist attacks in the Sahel region call for strengthening the security system by using human DNA identification technology. In this context, public opinion must be considered when establishing solid standards and universal safeguards for one of the most invasive forms of surveillance and profiling. For this purpose, we gathered internet users’ opinions in Burkina Faso (a country located in the Sahel region) on the use of DNA technology to support criminal investigations. The results revealed that 91.7% (431) of the 470 participants believed that this technology is currently necessary for the Burkina Faso’s criminal justice system. However, the respondents expressed concerns about the custody and management of a national forensic DNA database. In this particular security setting, the public opinion of this study may provide leaders and political policymakers with clues for considering genetic fingerprints and implementing an national forensic DNA database to support criminal investigations in Burkina Faso whilst also considering the ethical implications.
Microbiome in Female Reproductive Health: Implications for Fertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Authors: Xiao Liwen , Zuo Zhenqiang , Zhao Fangqing
Published: January 2024

The microbiome plays a critical role in the process of conception and the outcomes of pregnancy. Disruptions in microbiome homeostasis in women of reproductive age can lead to various pregnancy complications, which significantly impact maternal and fetal health. Recent studies have associated the microbiome in the female reproductive tract (FRT) with assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes, and restoring microbiome balance has been shown to improve fertility in infertile couples. This review provides an overview of the role of the microbiome in female reproductive health, including its implications for pregnancy outcomes and ARTs. Additionally, recent advances in the use of microbial biomarkers as indicators of pregnancy disorders are summarized. A comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of the microbiome before and during pregnancy and its impact on reproductive health will greatly promote maternal and fetal health. Such knowledge can also contribute to the development of ARTs and microbiome-based interventions.
Individuals’ perceptions of reciprocal relationship maintenance in their marriage and its impact on communal orientation, relational load, and ability to flourish
Authors: Afifi Tamara D , Merolla Andy J , Afifi Walid A , Gonzales Chloe , Salehuddin Abdullah , Salmon Jade , Wilson Veronica
Published: January 2024

This study investigates individuals’ perceptions of reciprocal relationship maintenance in their marriage over time during the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19). Using a Qualtrics Panel, married individuals (N = 3,601) completed online surveys at four time points during the initial 3 months of the pandemic. Both the between- and within-person effects were consistent with the theory of resilience and relational load. On average, married individuals who reported giving greater relationship maintenance to their partners also reported receiving greater relationship maintenance from them, as well as reported greater communal orientation and flourishing and lower relational load. Giving relationship maintenance to one’s partner was a stronger predictor of receiving maintenance than the reverse, even though both influenced each other. Giving relationship maintenance to one’s partner was also a stronger and more consistent predictor of communal orientation, relational load, and flourishing than maintenance received. Finally, relational load in one’s marriage was the strongest predictor of flourishing.
Adaptive saturated two-bit-triggered bipartite consensus control for networked MASs with periodic disturbances: a low-computation method
Authors: Wu Wenjing , Zhang Liang , Wu Yuhang , Zhao Heng
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the bipartite tracking control problem for a family of networked multi-agent systems with periodic disturbances as well as input saturation. A low-computation two-bit-triggered adaptive control strategy is proposed to achieve precise trajectory tracking and maintain the boundedness of the closed-loop signals. Compared with the existing results, first, this paper considers the problems for the coexistence of cooperation and competition in multi-agent systems, which represents a more common situation; secondly, the explosion of complexity issue is avoided without introducing any auxiliary filters, making our result more applicable and less complex; thirdly, a function approximator incorporating Fourier series expansion and a radial basis function neural network is utilized to model time-varying periodic disturbance functions and lastly, unlike traditional event-triggered control, the issue of controlling signal transmission bits is further explored to conserve system transmission resources. The result from a comparative simulation illustrates the advantages of the proposed method.
Gut microbiota reflect adaptation of cave-dwelling tadpoles to resource scarcity
Authors: Zhu Wei , Chang Liming , Shi Shengchao , Lu Ningning , Du Simeng , Li Jiatang , Jiang Jianping , Wang Bin
Published: January 2024

Gut microbiota are significant to the host’s nutrition and provide a flexible way for the host to adapt to extreme environments. However, whether gut microbiota help the host to colonize caves, a resource-limited environment, remains unknown. The nonobligate cave frog Oreolalax rhodostigmatus completes its metamorphosis within caves for 3–5 years before foraging outside. Their tadpoles are occasionally removed from the caves by floods and utilize outside resources, providing a contrast to the cave-dwelling population. For both cave and outside tadpoles, the development-related reduction in their growth rate and gut length during prometamorphosis coincided with a shift in their gut microbiota, which was characterized by decreased Lactobacillus and Cellulosilyticum and Proteocatella in the cave and outside individuals, respectively. The proportion of these three genera was significantly higher in the gut microbiota of cave-dwelling individuals compared with those outside. The cave-dwellers’ gut microbiota harbored more abundant fibrolytic, glycolytic, and fermentative enzymes and yielded more short-chain fatty acids, potentially benefitting the host’s nutrition. Experimentally depriving the animals of food resulted in gut atrophy for the individuals collected outside the cave, but not for those from inside the cave. Imitating food scarcity reproduced some major microbial features (e.g. abundant Proteocatella and fermentative genes) of the field-collected cave individuals, indicating an association between the cave-associated gut microbiota and resource scarcity. Overall, the gut microbiota may reflect the adaptation of O. rhodostigmatus tadpoles to resource-limited environments. This extends our understanding of the role of gut microbiota in the adaptation of animals to extreme environments.
Nitrate-driven anaerobic oxidation of ethane and butane by bacteria
Authors: Wu Mengxiong , Li Jie , Lai Chun-Yu , Leu Andy O , Sun Shengjie , Gu Rui , Erler Dirk V , Liu Lian , Li Lin , Tyson Gene W , Yuan Zhiguo , McIlroy Simon J , Guo Jianhua
Published: January 2024

The short-chain gaseous alkanes (ethane, propane, and butane; SCGAs) are important components of natural gas, yet their fate in environmental systems is poorly understood. Microbially mediated anaerobic oxidation of SCGAs coupled to nitrate reduction has been demonstrated for propane, but is yet to be shown for ethane or butane—despite being energetically feasible. Here we report two independent bacterial enrichments performing anaerobic ethane and butane oxidation, respectively, coupled to nitrate reduction to dinitrogen gas and ammonium. Isotopic 13C- and 15N-labelling experiments, mass and electron balance tests, and metabolite and meta-omics analyses collectively reveal that the recently described propane-oxidizing “Candidatus Alkanivorans nitratireducens” was also responsible for nitrate-dependent anaerobic oxidation of the SCGAs in both these enrichments. The complete genome of this species encodes alkylsuccinate synthase genes for the activation of ethane/butane via fumarate addition. Further substrate range tests confirm that “Ca. A. nitratireducens” is metabolically versatile, being able to degrade ethane, propane, and butane under anoxic conditions. Moreover, our study proves nitrate as an additional electron sink for ethane and butane in anaerobic environments, and for the first time demonstrates the use of the fumarate addition pathway in anaerobic ethane oxidation. These findings contribute to our understanding of microbial metabolism of SCGAs in anaerobic environments.
Microbial metabolism influences microplastic perturbation of dissolved organic matter in agricultural soils
Authors: Qiu Xinran , Ma Sirui , Pan Jianrui , Cui Qian , Zheng Wei , Ding Ling , Liang Xujun , Xu Baile , Guo Xuetao , Rillig Matthias C
Published: January 2024

An estimated 258 million tons of plastic enter the soil annually. Joining persistent types of microplastic (MP), there will be an increasing demand for biodegradable plastics. There are still many unknowns about plastic pollution by either type, and one large gap is the fate and composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) released from MPs as well as how they interact with soil microbiomes in agricultural systems. In this study, polyethylene MPs, photoaged to different degrees, and virgin polylactic acid MPs were added to agricultural soil at different levels and incubated for 100 days to address this knowledge gap. We find that, upon MP addition, labile components of low aromaticity were degraded and transformed, resulting in increased aromaticity and oxidation degree, reduced molecular diversity, and changed nitrogen and sulfur contents of soil DOM. Terephthalate, acetate, oxalate, and L-lactate in DOM released by polylactic acid MPs and 4-nitrophenol, propanoate, and nitrate in DOM released by polyethylene MPs were the major molecules available to the soil microbiomes. The bacteria involved in the metabolism of DOM released by MPs are mainly concentrated in Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Bacteroidota, and fungi are mainly in Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Our study provides an in-depth understanding of the microbial transformation of DOM released by MPs and its effects of DOM evolution in agricultural soils.
Temporal colonization and metabolic regulation of the gut microbiome in neonatal oxen at single nucleotide resolution
Authors: Dong Quanbin , Hua Dongxu , Wang Xiuchao , Jiao Yuwen , Liu Lu , Deng Qiufeng , Wu Tingting , Zou Huayiyang , Zhao Chen , Wang Chengkun , Reng Jiafa , Ding Luoyang , Hu Shixian , Shi Jing , Wang Yifeng , Zhang Haifeng , Sheng Yanhui , Sun Wei , Shen Yizhao , Tang Liming , Kong Xiangqing , Chen Lianmin
Published: January 2024

The colonization of microbes in the gut is key to establishing a healthy host-microbiome symbiosis for newborns. We longitudinally profiled the gut microbiome in a model consisting of 36 neonatal oxen from birth up to 2 months postpartum and carried out microbial transplantation to reshape their gut microbiome. Genomic reconstruction of deeply sequenced fecal samples resulted in a total of 3931 metagenomic-assembled genomes from 472 representative species, of which 184 were identified as new species when compared with existing databases of oxen. Single nucleotide level metagenomic profiling shows a rapid influx of microbes after birth, followed by dynamic shifts during the first few weeks of life. Microbial transplantation was found to reshape the genetic makeup of 33 metagenomic-assembled genomes (FDR < 0.05), mainly from Prevotella and Bacteroides species. We further linked over 20 million microbial single nucleotide variations to 736 plasma metabolites, which enabled us to characterize 24 study-wide significant associations (P < 4.4 × 10−9) that identify the potential microbial genetic regulation of host immune and neuro-related metabolites, including glutathione and L-dopa. Our integration analyses further revealed that microbial genetic variations may influence the health status and growth performance by modulating metabolites via structural regulation of their encoded proteins. For instance, we found that the albumin levels and total antioxidant capacity were correlated with L-dopa, which was determined by single nucleotide variations via structural regulations of metabolic enzymes. The current results indicate that temporal colonization and transplantation-driven strain replacement are crucial for newborn gut development, offering insights for enhancing newborn health and growth.
Filamentous prophage Pf4 promotes genetic exchange in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Pei Tong-Tong , Luo Han , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Hao , Wang Xing-Yu , Zhang Yi-Qiu , An Ying , Wu Li-Li , Ma Junhua , Liang Xiaoye , Yan Aixin , Yang Liang , Chen Changbin , Dong Tao
Published: January 2024

Filamentous prophages are widespread among bacteria and play crucial functions in virulence, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm structures. The filamentous Pf4 particles, extruded by an important pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can protect producing cells from adverse conditions. Contrary to the conventional belief that the Pf4-encoding cells resist reinfection, we herein report that the Pf4 prophage is reciprocally and commonly exchanged within P. aeruginosa colonies, which can repair defective Pf4 within the community. By labeling the Pf4 locus with antibiotic resistance and fluorescence markers, we demonstrate that the Pf4 locus is frequently exchanged within colony biofilms, in artificial sputum media, and in infected mouse lungs. We further show that Pf4 trafficking is a rapid process and capable of rescuing Pf4-defective mutants. The Pf4 phage is highly adaptable and can package additional DNA doubling its genome size. We also report that two clinical P. aeruginosa isolates are susceptible to the Pf4-mediated exchange, and the Pf5 prophage can be exchanged between cells as well. These findings suggest that the genetic exchanging interactions by filamentous prophages may facilitate defect rescue and the sharing of prophage-dependent benefits and costs within the P. aeruginosa community.
Tissue-associated and vertically transmitted bacterial symbiont in the coral Pocillopora acuta
Authors: Maire Justin , Tsang Min Ching Sarah Jane , Damjanovic Katarina , Epstein Hannah E , Judd Louise M , Blackall Linda L , van Oppen Madeleine J H
Published: January 2024

Coral microhabitats are colonized by a myriad of microorganisms, including diverse bacteria which are essential for host functioning and survival. However, the location, transmission, and functions of individual bacterial species living inside the coral tissues remain poorly studied. Here, we show that a previously undescribed bacterial symbiont of the coral Pocillopora acuta forms cell-associated microbial aggregates (CAMAs) within the mesenterial filaments. CAMAs were found in both adults and larval offspring, suggesting vertical transmission. In situ laser capture microdissection of CAMAs followed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics produced a near complete metagenome-assembled genome. We subsequently cultured the CAMA bacteria from Pocillopora acuta colonies, and sequenced and assembled their genomes. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the CAMA bacteria belong to an undescribed Endozoicomonadaceae genus and species, which we propose to name Candidatus Sororendozoicomonas aggregata gen. nov sp. nov. Metabolic pathway reconstruction from its genome sequence suggests this species can synthesize most amino acids, several B vitamins, and antioxidants, and participate in carbon cycling and prey digestion, which may be beneficial to its coral hosts. This study provides detailed insights into a new member of the widespread Endozoicomonadaceae family, thereby improving our understanding of coral holobiont functioning. Vertically transmitted, tissue-associated bacteria, such as Sororendozoicomonas aggregata may be key candidates for the development of microbiome manipulation approaches with long-term positive effects on the coral host.
Episymbiotic Saccharibacteria induce intracellular lipid droplet production in their host bacteria
Authors: Dong Pu-Ting , Tian Jing , Kobayashi-Kirschvink Koseki J , Cen Lujia , McLean Jeffrey S , Bor Batbileg , Shi Wenyuan , He Xuesong
Published: January 2024

Saccharibacteria (formerly TM7) are a group of widespread and genetically diverse ultrasmall bacteria with highly reduced genomes that belong to Candidate Phyla Radiation, a large monophyletic lineage with poorly understood biology. Nanosynbacter lyticus type strain TM7x is the first Saccharibacteria member isolated from the human oral microbiome. With restrained metabolic capacities, TM7x lives on the surface of, and forms an obligate episymbiotic relationship with its bacterial host, Schaalia odontolytica strain XH001. The symbiosis allows TM7x to propagate but presents a burden to host bacteria by inducing stress response. Here, we employed super-resolution fluorescence imaging to investigate the physical association between TM7x and XH001. We showed that the binding with TM7x led to a substantial alteration in the membrane fluidity of XH001. We also revealed the formation of intracellular lipid droplets in XH001 when forming episymbiosis with TM7x, a feature that has not been reported in oral bacteria. The TM7x-induced lipid droplets accumulation in XH001 was confirmed by label-free Raman spectroscopy, which also unveiled additional phenotypical features when XH001 cells are physically associated with TM7x. Further exploration through culturing XH001 under various stress conditions showed that lipid droplets accumulation was a general response to stress. A survival assay demonstrated that the presence of lipid droplets plays a protective role in XH001, enhancing its survival under adverse conditions. In conclusion, our study sheds new light on the intricate interaction between Saccharibacteria and their host bacteria, highlighting the potential benefit conferred by TM7x to its host and further emphasizing the context-dependent nature of symbiotic relationships.
Courtship and mating behavior of Endoclita signifer (Hepialidae: Lepidoptera) and the male sex pheromones in hairbrushes
Authors: Chen Xiao , Su Xiaoyan , Qiu Zhisong , Xu Yuan , Yang Zhende , Hu Ping
Published: January 2024

Endoclita signifer Walker is the most destructive wood-boring pest of Eucalyptus in China, causing significant economic and ecological damage. As an insect of the primitive Lepidoptera family Hepialidae, E. signifer fly and mat for only 10−20 min at dusk. The courtship and mating behavior of E. signifer adults and whether male moths release sex pheromones are still unknown, especially since transitory flight survival strategies in primitive moths differ from advanced moths like noctuids. In this study, we first observed the courtship and mating behavior of E. signifer by considering the effects of space and then analyzed extracts of male hairbrushes using gas chromatography–electroantennogram detection. Our results indicated that during the courtship period, flying males form courtship fields, lekking, and chase flying females before mating with them; E. signifer were more successful in mating in larger spaces (Length × Width × Height = 9.6 × 7 × 4 m); 5 compounds in the hairbrushes of the male moths which elicited antennal responses of 2 sexes, despite at high concentrations. Combined with it, indicating that communication between male and female may rely on male sex pheromones. These findings can serve as a basis for studying the mechanisms of sex communication in E. signifer and developing sex pheromone-based trapping techniques.
Avadhūta: Examining the Emergence and Institutionalisation of an Antinomian Ascetic
Authors: Kanamarlapudi Sravani
Published: January 2024

In numerous historical and contemporary cases, and in various textual and lived traditions, several Hindu ascetics have been called avadhūtas. Yet, there is little scholarly research on this ascetic designation. Based on an ‘iterative’ textual search of early and medieval Hindu texts, this article examines the literary emergence and early reception of the avadhūta ascetic. I argue that the avadhūta label emerged in the late first-millennium CE and was institutionalised within the āśrama system in the early second-millennium CE. I further posit that the avadhūta’s emergence is probably connected to the systematisation of the jīvanmukti or liberation-while-living doctrine, and that the institutionalisation of the antinomian avadhūta ascetic as a legitimate saṃnyāsin or renouncer correlates with two interrelated factors: medieval advaitins defending the avadhūta from anti-jīvanmukti critics and the increasing theological importance of the āśrama system.
Performing/Informing Rights: Mixing Inclusive Dance and Human Rights Education for Disabled People in Sri Lanka and Nepal
Authors: Waldorf Lars , Marambio Helena-Ulrike , Blades Hetty
Published: January 2024

Over several years, the German/Sri Lankan NGO VisAbility has been pioneering a mix of inclusive dance with rights education and advocacy to empower persons with conflict-related, physical impairments, first in Sri Lanka and, more recently, in Nepal. This article captures both the benefits and challenges of using dance for more transformative human rights education in informal settings.
Genetic diversity and population structure of the Asian citrus psyllid in China
Authors: Huang Aijun , Ma Jiayu , Yang Jin , Chen Bo , Zhou Jun , Yi Long
Published: January 2024

The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) is the main vector of Citrus Huanglongbing, the most damaging citrus disease, causing significant financial losses in the citrus industry. Global warming has expanded the habitat of this pest, allowing it to continue its northward migration to China. Population genetic information of ACP is fundamentally essential for species management. This study investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of Chinese ACP using the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene by dataset comprised 721 sequences from 27 geographic sites in China. Low haplotype diversity (0.323 ± 0.022) and low nucleotide diversity (0.00071 ± 0.00007) were observed in the entire population, which may indicate recent founder events. Twenty-three haplotypes were identified and clustered into 2 haplogroups: haplogroup I and haplogroup II. Haplogroup II included only 2 unique haplotypes, which occurred exclusively in the Southwest China ACP population. Genetic differentiation analyses were also indicative of Southwest China population was significantly differentiated from the remaining populations. Demographic history analysis showed that ACP population in China has experienced demographic expansion. Our results provided a better understanding of the genetic distribution patterns and structures of ACP populations in China.