bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of well protected forests for the conservation genetics of West African colobine monkeys
Authors: Minhós Tânia , Borges Filipa , Parreira Bárbara , Oliveira Rúben , Aleixo‐Pais Isa , Leendertz Fabien H. , Wittig Roman , Fernandes Carlos Rodríguez , Marques Silva Guilherme Henrique Lima , Duarte Miguel , Bruford Michael W. , Ferreira da Silva Maria Joana , Chikhi Lounès
Published: December 2022

In tropical forests, anthropogenic activities are major drivers of the destruction and degradation of natural habitats, causing severe biodiversity loss. African colobine monkeys (Colobinae) are mainly folivore and strictly arboreal primates that require large forests to subsist, being among the most vulnerable of all nonhuman primates. The Western red colobusPiliocolobus badiusand the King colobusColobus polykomosinhabit highly fragmented West African forests, including the Cantanhez Forests National Park (CFNP) in Guinea‐Bissau. Both species are also found in the largest and best‐preserved West African forest—the Taï National Park (TNP) in Ivory Coast. Colobine monkeys are hunted for bushmeat in both protected areas, but these exhibit contrasting levels of forest fragmentation, thus offering an excellent opportunity to investigate the importance of well‐preserved forests for the maintenance of evolutionary potential in these arboreal primates. We estimated genetic diversity, population structure, and demographic history by using microsatellite loci and mitochondrial DNA. We then compared the genetic patterns of the colobines from TNP with the ones previously obtained for CFNP and found contrasting genetic patterns. Contrary to the colobines from CFNP that showed very low genetic diversity and a strong population decline, the populations in TNP still maintain high levels of genetic diversity and we found no clear signal of population decrease in Western red colobus and a limited decrease in King colobus. These results suggest larger and historically more stable populations in TNP compared to CFNP. We cannot exclude the possibility that the demographic effects resulting from the recent increase of bushmeat hunting are not yet detectable in TNP using genetic data. Nevertheless, the fact that the TNP colobus populations are highly genetically diverse and maintain large effective population sizes suggests that well‐preserved forests are crucial for the maintenance of populations, species, and probably for the evolutionary potential in colobines.
Associations among hypertension, dementia biomarkers, and cognition: The MEMENTO cohort
Authors: Lespinasse Jérémie , Chêne Geneviève , Mangin Jean‐Francois , Dubois Bruno , Blanc Frederic , Paquet Claire , Hanon Olivier , Planche Vincent , Gabelle Audrey , Ceccaldi Mathieu , Annweiler Cedric , Krolak‐Salmon Pierre , Godefroy Olivier , Wallon David , Sauvée Mathilde , Bergeret Sébastien , Chupin Marie , Proust‐Lima Cécile , Dufouil Carole ,   for the MEMENTO study group
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Approximately 40% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented acting on modifiable risk factors including hypertension. However, the mechanisms underlying the hypertension–dementia association are still poorly understood.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis in 2048 patients from the MEMENTO cohort, a French multicenter clinic‐based study of outpatients with either isolated cognitive complaints or mild cognitive impairment. Exposure to hypertension was defined as a combination of high blood pressure (BP) status and antihypertensive treatment intake. Pathway associations were examined through structural equation modeling integrating extensive collection of neuroimaging biomarkers and clinical data.

Results

Participants treated with high BP had significantly lower cognition compared to the others. This association was mediated by higher neurodegeneration and higher white matter hyperintensities load but not by Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers.

Discussion

These results highlight the importance of controlling hypertension for prevention of cognitive decline and offer new insights on mechanisms underlying the hypertension–dementia association.

Highlights

Paths of hypertension–cognition association were assessed by structural equation models.

The hypertension–cognition association is not mediated by Alzheimer's disease biomarkers.

The hypertension–cognition association is mediated by neurodegeneration and leukoaraiosis.

Lower cognition was limited to participants treated with uncontrolled blood pressure.

Blood pressure control could contribute to promote healthier brain aging.
Associations of phosphorylated tau pathology with whole‐hemisphere ex vivo morphometry in 7 tesla MRI
Authors: Sadaghiani Shokufeh , Trotman Winifred , Lim Sydney A. , Chung Eunice , Ittyerah Ranjit , Ravikumar Sadhana , Khandelwal Pulkit , Prabhakaran Karthik , Lavery Madigan L. , Ohm Daniel T. , Gabrielyan Marianna , Das Sandhitsu R. , Schuck Theresa , Capp Noah , Peterson Claire S. , Migdal Elyse , Artacho‐Pérula Emilio , Jiménez María del Mar Arroyo , Rabal Maria del Pilar Marcos , Sánchez Sandra Cebada , Prieto Carlos de la Rosa , Parada Marta Córcoles , Insausti Ricardo , Robinson John L. , McMillan Corey , Grossman Murray , Lee Edward B. , Detre John A. , Xie Sharon X. , Trojanowski John Q. , Tisdall M. Dylan , Wisse Laura E. M. , Irwin David J. , Wolk David A. , Yushkevich Paul A.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Neurodegenerative disorders are associated with different pathologies that often co‐occur but cannot be measured specifically with in vivo methods.

Methods

Thirty‐three brain hemispheres from donors with an Alzheimer's disease (AD) spectrum diagnosis underwent T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Gray matter thickness was paired with histopathology from the closest anatomic region in the contralateral hemisphere.

Results

Partial Spearman correlation of phosphorylated tau and cortical thickness with TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) and α‐synuclein scores, age, sex, and postmortem interval as covariates showed significant relationships in entorhinal and primary visual cortices, temporal pole, and insular and posterior cingulate gyri. Linear models including Braak stages, TDP‐43 and α‐synuclein scores, age, sex, and postmortem interval showed significant correlation between Braak stage and thickness in the parahippocampal gyrus, entorhinal cortex, and Broadman area 35.

Conclusion

We demonstrated an association of measures of AD pathology with tissue loss in several AD regions despite a limited range of pathology in these cases.

Highlights

Neurodegenerative disorders are associated with co‐occurring pathologies that cannot be measured specifically with in vivo methods.

Identification of the topographic patterns of these pathologies in structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may provide probabilistic biomarkers.

We demonstrated the correlation of the specific patterns of tissue loss from ex vivo brain MRI with underlying pathologies detected in postmortem brain hemispheres in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) spectrum disorders.

The results provide insight into the interpretation of in vivo structural MRI studies in patients with AD spectrum disorders.
Cerebrospinal fluid irisin and lipoxin A4 are reduced in elderly Brazilian individuals with depression: Insight into shared mechanisms between depression and dementia
Authors: Gonçalves Rafaella A. , Sudo Felipe K. , Lourenco Mychael V , Drummond Claudia , Assunção Naima , Vanderborght Bart , Ferreira Danielle D. P. , Ribeiro Felipe C. , Pamplona Fabricio A. , Tovar‐Moll Fernanda , Mattos Paulo , Ferreira Sergio T. , De Felice Fernanda G.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Depression is frequent among older adults and is a risk factor for dementia. Identifying molecular links between depression and dementia is necessary to shed light on shared disease mechanisms. Reduced brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neuroinflammation are implicated in the pathophysiology of depression and dementia. The exercise‐induced hormone, irisin, increases BDNF and improves cognition in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. Lipoxin A4 is a lipid mediator with anti‐inflammatory activity. However, the roles of irisin and lipoxin A4 in depression remain to be determined.

Methods

In the present study, blood and CSF were collected from 61 elderly subjects, including individuals with and without cognitive impairment. Screening for symptoms of depression was performed using the 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15).

Results

CSF irisin and lipoxin A4 were positively correlated and reduced, along with a trend of BDNF reduction, in elderly individuals with depression, similar to previous observations in patients with dementia.

Discussion

Our findings provide novel insight into shared molecular signatures connecting depression and dementia.
Ceria‐Supported Cobalt Catalyst for Low‐Temperature Methanation at Low Partial Pressures of CO2
Authors: Struijs Job J. C. , Muravev Valery , Verheijen Marcel A. , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Kosinov Nikolay
Published: December 2022

The direct catalytic conversion of atmospheric CO2 to valuable chemicals is a promising solution to avert negative consequences of rising CO2 concentration. However, heterogeneous catalysts efficient at low partial pressures of CO2 still need to be developed. Here, we explore Co/CeO2 as a catalyst for the methanation of diluted CO2 streams. This material displays an excellent performance at reaction temperatures as low as 175 °C and CO2 partial pressures as low as 0.4 mbar (the atmospheric CO2 concentration). To gain mechanistic understanding of this unusual activity, we employed in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and operando infrared spectroscopy. The higher surface concentration and reactivity of formates and carbonyls—key reaction intermediates—explain the superior activity of Co/CeO2 as compared to a conventional Co/SiO2 catalyst. This work emphasizes the catalytic role of the cobalt‐ceria interface and will aid in developing more efficient CO2 hydrogenation catalysts.
Diantimony Complexes [CpR2Mo2(CO)4(μ,η2‐Sb2)] (CpR=C5H5, C5H4tBu) as Unexpected Ligands Stabilizing Silver(I)n (n=1–4) Monomers, Dimers and Chains
Authors: Shelyganov Pavel A. , Elsayed Moussa Mehdi , Seidl Michael , Scheer Manfred
Published: December 2022

Synthesis and reactivity of transition metal compounds bearing “naked” pnictogen atoms is an active research area with remarkable bonding patterns observed in the formed compounds. Within this field, intense investigations on the coordination behavior of complexes possessing Pn and Asn (2≤n≤5) moieties have been conducted. However, studies on heavier analogues have been ignored so far due to arduous challenges related to low yields and moderate air stability. Herein, we present the first in‐depth study addressing the reactivity of organometallic complexes containing Sb‐donor atoms with several AgI salts. These reactions afforded twelve unprecedented aggregates as monomers, dimers as well as three‐ and four‐membered chains of AgI ions claimed in the literature to be inaccessible. Interatomic distances as well as computational evidence obtained with help of several different methods suggest the presence of Ag⋅⋅⋅Ag interactions in all complexes containing more than one AgI ion.
Cyanide Binding to [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Stabilizes the Alternative Configuration of the Proton Transfer Pathway
Authors: Duan Jifu , Hemschemeier Anja , Burr David J. , Stripp Sven T. , Hofmann Eckhard , Happe Thomas
Published: December 2022

Hydrogenases are H2converting enzymes that harbor catalytic cofactors in which iron (Fe) ions are coordinated by biologically unusual carbon monoxide (CO) and cyanide (CN−) ligands. Extrinsic CO and CN−, however, inhibit hydrogenases. The mechanism by which CN−binds to [FeFe]‐hydrogenases is not known. Here, we obtained crystal structures of the CN−‐treated [FeFe]‐hydrogenase CpI fromClostridium pasteurianum. The high resolution of 1.39 Å allowed us to distinguish intrinsic CN−and CO ligands and to show that extrinsic CN−binds to the open coordination site of the cofactor where CO is known to bind. In contrast to other inhibitors, CN−treated crystals show conformational changes of conserved residues within the proton transfer pathway which could allow a direct proton transfer between E279 and S319. This configuration has been proposed to be vital for efficient proton transfer, but has never been observed structurally.
Enhancement of ferroptosis by boric acid and its potential use as chemosensitizer in anticancer chemotherapy
Authors: Corti Alessandro , Dominici Silvia , Piaggi Simona , Pompella Alfonso
Published: December 2022

Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death (RCD) characterized by intracellular iron ion accumulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced lipid peroxidation. Ferroptosis in cancer and ferroptosis‐related anticancer drugs have recently gained interest in the field of cancer treatment. Boron is an essential trace element playing an important role in several biological processes. Recent studies have described contrasting effects of boric acid (BA) in cancer cells, ranging from protective/mitogenic to damaging/antiproliferative. Interestingly, boron has been shown to interfere with critical factors involved in ferroptosis—intracellular glutathione and lipid peroxidation in the first place. Thus, the present study was aimed to verify the ability of boron to modulate the ferroptotic process in HepG2 cells, a model of hepatocellular carcinoma. Our results indicate that—when used at high, pharmacological concentrations—BA can increase intracellular ROS, glutathione, and TBARS levels, and enhance ferroptosis induced by RSL3 and erastin. Also, high BA concentrations can directly induce ferroptosis, and such BA‐induced ferroptosis can add to the cytotoxic effects of anticancer drugs sorafenib, doxorubicin and cisplatin. These observations suggest that BA could be exploited as a chemo‐sensitizer agent in order to overcome cancer drug resistance in selected conditions. However, the possibility of reaching suitably high concentrations of BA in the tumor microenvironment will need to be further investigated.
De novo bio‐production of odd‐chain fatty acids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae through a synthetic pathway via 3‐hydroxypropionic acid
Authors: Qi Nailing , Ding Wentao , Dong Genlai , Wang Zhihui , Shi Shuobo
Published: December 2022

Odd‐chain fatty acids (OCFAs) and their derivatives have attracted increasing attention due to their wide applications in the chemical, fuel, and pharmaceutical industry. However, most natural fatty acids are even‐chained, and OCFAs are rare. In this work, a novel pathway was designed and established for de novo synthesis of OCFAs via 3‐hydroxypropionic acid (3‐HP) as the intermediate in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. First, the OCFAs biosynthesis pathway from 3‐HP was confirmed, followed by an optimization of the precursor 3‐HP. After combining these strategies, a de novo production of OCFAs at 74.8 mg/L was achieved, and the percentage of OCFAs in total lipids reached 20.3%, reaching the highest ratio of de novo‐produced OCFAs. Of the OCFAs produced by the engineered strain, heptadecenoic acid (C17:1) and heptadecanoic acid (C17:0) accounted for 12.1% and 7.6% in total lipid content, respectively. This work provides a new and promising pathway for the de novo bio‐production of OCFAs.
AMP‐activated protein kinase is a key regulator of obesity‐associated factors
Authors: Mohseni Roohollah , Teimouri Maryam , Safaei Mohsen , Arab Sadeghabadi Zahra
Published: December 2022

An imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure leads to obesity. Obesity is an important risk factor for the development of several metabolic diseases including insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. So, controlling obesity could be effective in the improvement of obesity‐related diseases. Various factors are involved in obesity, such as AMP‐activated protein kinases (AMPK), silent information regulators, inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress parameters, gastrointestinal hormones, adipokines, angiopoietin‐like proteins, and microRNAs. These factors play an important role in obesity by controlling fat metabolism, energy homeostasis, food intake, and insulin sensitivity. AMPK is a heterotrimeric serine/threonine protein kinase known as a fuel‐sensing enzyme. The central role of AMPK in obesity makes it an attractive molecule to target obesity and related metabolic diseases. In this review, the critical role of AMPK in obesity and the interplay between AMPK and obesity‐associated factors were elaborated.
Withdrawn: MicroRNA‐214‐3p protects against myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury by targeting demethylase lysine demethylase 3A
Authors: Wugeng Suya , Zan Shengju , Liu Yanmin , Bai Yuting , Hu Ailing , Wei Xiaojuan , Guo Cen , Su Xiaoling
Published: December 2022

The above article from Cell Biology International, published online on 5 December 2022, on Wiley Online Library (https://doi.org/10.1002/cbin.11920), has been withdrawn by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Sergio Schenkman, and John Wiley and Sons Ltd.

The withdrawal has been agreed due to a technical error at the publisher that caused the article to be mistakenly published online.
Withdrawn: Ticagrelor reduces myocardial cell injury induced by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion in diabetic rats by activating JAK2/STAT3
Authors: Xie Daqi , Chen Qiwang , Huang Jie , Huang Changshun , Li Yijing , Li Shuiying , Zhang Sisi , Fang Huan , Sang Shang , Cao Yin
Published: December 2022

The above article from Cell Biology International, published online on 5 December 2022, on Wiley Online Library (https://doi.org/10.1002/cbin.11940), has been withdrawn by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Sergio Schenkman, and John Wiley and Sons Ltd.

The withdrawal has been agreed due to a technical error at the publisher that caused the article to be mistakenly published online although it had been rejected due to evidence that the peer review process for this paper was manipulated.
Impact of extrusion processing on the nutritional and physicochemical properties of intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium)
Authors: Boakye Prince G. , Okyere Akua Y. , Annor George A.
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives

Intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium, IWG) is a perennial grain crop being explored for mainstream food applications. The impact of extrusion on the nutritional and physicochemical characteristics of IWG was investigated for the first time. Extrudates were produced using a corotating twin‐screw extruder.

Findings

Extrusion resulted in slight decreases in dietary fiber, fat, starch, and amylose contents of IWG, whereas protein and ash contents did not change. Significant increase in starch damage after extrusion led to significant increases in starch digestibility and hydration properties of IWG. Correspondingly, slowly digestible starches and resistant starches were significantly reduced after extrusion. Pasting profile studies showed significant decreases in all pasting parameters measured except for breakdown viscosity after extrusion. Higher antioxidant activity and phenolic acid levels, mainly due to ferulic acid, were observed even after extrusion. However, carotenoids content decreased significantly (up to 65.8% reduction in lutein and 50.4% reduction in zeaxanthin).

Conclusions

These findings show that extrusion cooking can improve the antioxidant activity and maintain high protein and dietary fiber levels in IWG, but it may not be suitable for preserving carotenoids in IWG.

Significance and Novelty

Extrusion cooking could potentially be used to produce extruded snacks from IWG with high protein and dietary fiber.
Effects of extruded wheat bran on the physicochemical properties and edible quality of stewing noodles
Authors: Li Yibo , Yao Guoqin , Zhao Kemeng , Shen Wangyang , Wang Zhan , Fan Kai , Jia Xiwu
Published: December 2022

Background and objectives

Adding untreated wheat bran directly to the stewing noodles will result in a poor flavor and rough taste. This study aims to improve the palatability and flavor of wheat bran stewing noodles by using extrusion treatment. Effects of the extrusion treatment on the physicochemical properties and edible quality of wheat bran stewing noodles were analyzed.

Findings

The results showed that the total dietary fiber (TDF) content, insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) content and lipase activity of wheat bran decreased by 3.01%, 4.75%, and 71.49% after extrusion, respectively. In contrast, the soluble dietary fiber (SDF) content and the water holding capacity (WHC) of wheat bran increased by 64.60% and 32.08%, respectively (p < .05). The tensile strength of raw stewing noodles increased by 17.02% in the extruded wheat bran over that in the non‐extruded wheat bran group (p < .05), but the breaking distance showed no significant difference. Also, water distribution and migration times (T21, T22, T23) decreased significantly (p < .05) and the color (L*, a*, b*) increased significantly (p < .05) in stewing noodles after extruded wheat bran was added. Furthermore, starch granules were better encapsulated in the gluten network, visible pores decreased, and more compact network structure formed in the stewing noodles after extruded wheat bran was added. Regarding the qualities of cooked stewing noodles, the hardness, gumminess, and chewiness decreased and the amount of unpleasant volatile compounds, such as cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, acetic acid, and 2‐Methylpropanoic acid were reduced in the extruded wheat bran group, compared with the non‐extruded wheat bran group. Conversely, the amount of some of the pleasant volatile compounds, such as 2‐Butoxyethanol, (E)−2‐Hexenal and (E)−2‐octenal, increased in the extruded wheat bran group. Furthermore, added extruded wheat bran to the flour improved the smoothness, elasticity, color, and taste of stewing noodles, and closely approximated the chewiness and taste of the high‐gluten group.

Conclusions

Extrusion treatment could improve the physicochemical properties and edible quality of bran‐fortified stewing noodles.

Significance and novelty

The wheat bran with extrusion is helpful for improving the physicochemical properties and edible quality of bran‐fortified stewing noodles. The results and discussion in this research may serve as reference for producers to guide quality improvement of stewing noodles enriched in wheat bran.
Water‐resistant organic thermoelectric generator with >10 μW output
Authors: Hata Shinichi , Maeshiro Kanto , Shiraishi Misaki , Yasuda Soichiro , Shiozaki Yuta , Kametani Koudai , Du Yukou , Shiraishi Yukihide , Toshima Naoki
Published: December 2022

Flexible p–n thermoelectric generator (TEG) technology has rapidly advanced with power enhancement and size reduction. To achieve a stable power supply and highly efficient energy conversion, absolute chemical stability of n‐type materials is essential to ensuring large temperature differences between device terminals and ambient stability. With the aim of improving the long‐term stability of the n‐type operation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in air and water, this study uses cationic surfactants, such as octylene‐1,8‐bis(dimethyldodecylammonium bromide) (12–8–12), a gemini surfactant, to stabilize the nanotubes in a coating, which retains the n‐doped state for more than 28 days after exposure to air and water in experiments. TEGs with 10 p–n units of 12–8–12/CNT (n‐type) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate/CNT (p‐type) layers are manufactured, and their water stability is evaluated. The initial maximum output of 16.1 µW (75 K temperature difference) is retained after water immersion for 40 days without using a sealant to prevent TEG module degradation. The excellent stability of these CNT‐based TEGs makes them suitable for underwater applications, such as battery‐free health monitoring and information gathering systems, and facilitates the development of soft electronics.
Deciphering the degradation discrepancy in Ni‐rich cathodes with a diverse proportion of [003] crystallographic textures
Authors: Qiu Lang , Zhang Mengke , Song Yang , Wu Zhenguo , Zhu Yan‐Fang , Zhang Jun , Wang Dong , Hu Hai‐Yan , Li Hong‐Wei , Liu Hang‐Rui , Jia Xin‐Bei , Peng Jian , Chen Shuangqiang , Yang Zuguang , Xiao Yao , Guo Xiaodong
Published: December 2022

The crystal plane plays a very important role in the properties of Ni‐rich cathodes. [003] crystallographic texture regulation has been proven to improve structural stability, and yet, the discrepancy of particles with different exposed ratios of [003] in structural attenuation has not been clarified. Herein, we have unraveled comprehensively the structural decay difference for Ni‐rich cathodes’ primary particles with the different percentages of exposed [003] by regulating the precursor coprecipitation process. The findings based on structural characterization, first‐principles calculations, finite element analysis, and electrochemical test reveal that the length and width of particles represent and [003] directions, respectively, and show that cathode particles with a higher /[003] ratio can effectively inhibit structure degradation and intergranular/intragranular crack formation owing to the low oxygen vacancy formation energy on (003) planes and the small local stress on secondary/primary particles. This study may provide guidance for the structural design of layered cathodes.
Facile Synthesis of Multifunctional Bioreducible Polymers for mRNA Delivery
Authors: Hickey James C. , Hurst Paul J. , Patterson Joseph P. , Guan Zhibin
Published: December 2022

Bioreducible polymeric mRNA carriers are an emerging family of vectors for gene delivery and vaccine development. A few bioreducible systems have been generated through aqueous‐phase ring‐opening polymerization of lipoic acid derivatives, however this methodology limits hydrophobic group incorporation and functionality into resulting polymers. Herein, a poly(active ester)disulfide polymer is synthesized that can undergo facile aminolysis with amine‐containing substrates under stoichiometric control and mild reaction conditions to yield a library of multifunctional polydisulfide polymers. Functionalized polydisulfide polymer species form stable mRNA‐polymer nanoparticles for intracellular delivery of mRNAs in vitro. Alkyl‐functionalized polydisulfide‐RNA nanoparticles demonstrate rapid cellular uptake and excellent biodegradability when delivering EGFP and OVA mRNAs to cells in vitro. This streamlined polydisulfide synthesis provides a new facile methodology for accessing multifunctional bioreducible polymers as biomaterials for RNA delivery and other applications.
Triple Thorpe–Ingold Effect in the Synthesis of 18‐Membered C3 Symmetric Lactams Stacking as Endless Supramolecular Tubes
Authors: Nazari Niousha , Bernard Sylvain , Fortin Daniel , Marmin Thomas , Gendron Louis , Dory Yves L.
Published: December 2022

Three C3 symmetric macrolactams were very efficiently cyclized from their linear precursors. Adequately located substituents are responsible for the enhancement of reactivity that is not observed in the unsubstituted parent. DFT calculations show that the properly folded cyclization precursor, the reactive conformer, is more populated than other conformers, leading to a decrease of free energy of activation. The crystal structure of the ring substituted with three very bulky esters indicates that tubular stacking is preserved.
Do phloem feeders affect gas exchange? A case study of Aphis gossypii (Glover) on cotton
Authors: Heimoana Simone C. , Wilson Lewis J. , Constable Greg A. , George Doug L.
Published: December 2022

Cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii Glover) is a worldwide pest of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). High aphid densities visibly damage cotton leaves, reducing leaf photosynthesis and yield. In contrast, lower aphid densities usually do not visibly damage leaves but their effect on photosynthesis is unknown, complicating the decisions on the need for their control. The effect of cotton aphid at lower densities on gas exchange of cotton leaves was investigated under field conditions in the Namoi Valley, Australia. Photosynthesis, leaf area, stomatal opening, and aphid density were assessed on the third mainstem leaf below the terminal of aphid infested and uninfested control plants. Photosynthesis was reduced by a maximum of 27% at a density of 27.6 aphids cm−2 of leaf tissue. Negative linear relationships were found between aphid density and relative photosynthesis, relative conductance and relative transpiration. The temperature of leaves infested with >5 aphids cm−2 was higher than control leaves. Stomatal conductance was reduced faster than photosynthesis, and 87% of stomata on aphid infested leaves were closed, compared to only 34% on control leaves. Closure of stomata was implicated as a cause of reduced photosynthesis in aphid infested cotton leaves. Stomatal closure may be a direct response to cell damage from aphid feeding, as a plant defense or as a response to aphid induced stress. The results suggest that low levels of aphids (e.g., <7 aphids cm−2) on leaves in the upper canopy of cotton crops may be tolerated with low risk to photosynthesis.
A new series of thiazole‐hydrazone hybrids for Akt‐targeted therapy of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Orujova Turana , Ece Abdulilah , Akalın Çiftçi Gülşen , Özdemir Ahmet , Altıntop Mehlika D.
Published: December 2022

In an attempt to identify potent antitumor agents for the fight against non‐small cell lung cancer, new thiazolyl hydrazones (2a–n) were synthesized and examined for their in vitro cytotoxic effects on A549 human lung adenocarcinoma and L929 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells by means of the MTT assay. Furthermore, the effects of the most potent anticancer agents on apoptosis and Akt inhibition were investigated. 2‐[2‐((Isoquinolin‐5‐yl)methylene)hydrazinyl]−4‐(4‐methylsulfonylphenyl)thiazole (2k) (IC50 = 1.43 ± 0.12 µM) and 2‐[2‐((isoquinolin‐5‐yl)methylene)hydrazinyl]−4‐(1,3‐benzodioxol‐5‐yl)thiazole (2l) (IC50 = 1.75 ± 0.07 µM) displayed more pronounced anticancer activity than cisplatin (IC50 = 3.90 ± 0.10 µM) on A549 cell lines; 2‐[2‐((isoquinolin‐5‐yl)methylene)hydrazinyl]−4‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)thiazole (2j) (IC50 = 3.93 ± 0.06 µM) showed anticancer activity close to cisplatin. These compounds were found to induce apoptosis in A549 cells. Compound 2j (IC50 = 3.55 ± 0.64 µM) showed stronger Akt inhibitory activity than GSK690693 (IC50 = 4.93 ± 0.06 µM), while compounds 2k and 2l did not cause Akt inhibition at IC50 concentrations (1.43 and 1.75 µM, respectively). To comprehensively elucidate the binding pose of compound 2j and to provide a detailed understanding on the ligand' binding mechanism, induced‐fit docking calculations were also conducted. Both in vitro and in silico studies suggest that compound 2j shows its cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on A549 cell lines via Akt inhibition. However, it is understood that compounds 2k and 2l exert their strong anticancer effects on A549 cells through different pathways.
A road traversing a protected area has little effect on feeding and foraging behaviour of yellow baboons
Authors: Kitegile Amani , Hassan Shombe N. , Norton Guy W.
Published: December 2022

The Tanzania–Zambia (TANZAM) Highway traversing Mikumi National Park (MINAPA) has been a concern for wildlife managers since it was first paved in 1973–1974. After its upgrade in 1989–1990, researchers have documented increasing traffic resulting in considerable animal injuries and mortalities. Yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus) in MINAPA use the road as the bridge to and from foraging areas, therefore in addition to the risk of mortality road use could potentially have significant influence on their feeding behavior. However, knowledge on the influences of the TANZAM highway in the feeding behavior of yellow baboons is sparse. Using focal animal sampling techniques, we collected data on feeding and foraging behavior of two habituated troops of yellow baboons to examine to what extent the TANZAM highway is important in their feeding and foraging behavior. Results showed that in relation to habitat availability, visitation to habitat types reflect actual habitat choice of baboons. In general, yellow baboons less frequently visit and spent less time on the highway than natural habitats. Whenever they were on the highway, adult females and subadult males engage more into feeding, resting and socializing, while adult males were more vigilant. The major dietary compositions were fruits, seeds, leaves, sap, and invertebrates, almost exclusively collected from natural habitats, foods from the highway were opportunistically consumed. This study provides empirical evidence and concludes that yellow baboons do not directly depend on the highway for food, rather they use the TANZAM highway as normal part of their home range. However, its location near sleeping sites may have significant impact on baboons' activity budget. With these findings, we recommend strict implementation of rules against park littering and animal feeding in protected areas traversed by highways.
Divergent responses of butterflies and bees to burning and grazing management in tallgrass prairies
Authors: Leone Julia B. , Pennarola Nora P. , Larson Jennifer L. , Oberhauser Karen , Larson Diane L.
Published: December 2022

Butterflies and bees contribute significantly to grassland biodiversity and play important roles as pollinators and herbivores. Grassland conservation and management must be seen through the lens of insect conservation and management if these species are to thrive. In North America, grasslands are a product of climate and natural disturbances such as fire and grazing. These natural disturbances have changed considerably since European colonization and subsequent landscape fragmentation. The aim of this study was to better understand the impacts of fire and grazing management on butterfly and bee communities in tallgrass prairie, enabling land managers and conservationists to better protect and manage remnant prairie. We examined butterfly and bee abundance, species richness, and diversity in Minnesota tallgrass prairies managed by grazing or fire. In 2016 and 2017, we surveyed butterflies, bees, vegetation, and surrounding land use at 20 remnant prairies (10 burned and 10 grazed) with known management histories. Butterfly and bee abundance at our study sites were significantly negatively correlated. Butterfly abundance, but not species richness, was higher in burned than grazed prairies, and prairie‐associated grass‐feeding butterflies were more abundant at sites with higher plant species richness. Bee abundance was unrelated to management type but was higher at sites with sandier soils; bee species richness was positively associated with forb frequency. These findings highlight the challenges of designing management plans tailored to wide groups of pollinators and the potential pitfalls of using one group of pollinators as indicators for another. They also point to the importance of a mosaic of management practices across the prairie landscape.
In silico evaluation of plant nitrification suppression effects on agroecosystem nitrogen loss
Authors: Hartman Melannie D. , Burnham Mark , Parton William J. , Finzi Adrien , DeLucia Evan H. , Yang Wendy H.
Published: December 2022

Nitrification regulates the potential for nitrogen (N) loss from ecosystems because it converts ammonium to nitrate, which is susceptible to leaching and gaseous emissions. Crops can suppress the microbes that perform nitrification by exuding nitrification‐inhibiting compounds from their roots and taking up available ammonium. However, the effect of nitrification suppression on agroecosystem N losses remains poorly characterized, and a lack of temporal synchrony between nitrification, N losses, and nitrification suppression by plants could limit the effect of nitrification suppression. We used the DayCent‐CABBI model to evaluate the effectiveness of the suppression of nitrification by sorghum to reduce N2O emissions and nitrate leaching in an energy sorghum/soybean rotation at the Energy Farm in Urbana‐Champaign, IL. We simulated nitrification suppression at the measured levels (MeasNS) and at the maximum measured level applied to the entire growing season (MaxNS), and we also explored ways to better utilize nitrification suppression by altering the timing of urea–ammonium–nitrate fertilizer applications. Model experiments showed that most nitrification occurred immediately after fertilizer was applied, whereas nitrification suppression began to ramp up more than a month after planting. On an annual basis, MeasNS experiments showed a 1%–2% reduction in annual N2O emissions relative to no nitrification suppression (NoNS), and MaxNS experiments showed a 4%–9% reduction in annual N2O emissions relative to NoNS. Both nitrification suppression levels showed <1% reduction in nitrate leaching. Altering the timing of fertilizer applications to better synchronize nitrification suppression with high soil ammonium levels had mixed effects on annual N2O emissions and nitrate leaching and sometimes resulted in increased N losses. The timing of simulated N2O emissions shifted with the timing of fertilization, and N2O emissions from denitrification increased when N2O emissions from nitrification decreased. Increasing N retention during the non‐growing season may be more effective than growing‐season nitrification suppression for reducing annual N losses in the rainfed Midwest.
Cu(OTf)2/NBS Promoted Cyclization of 1‐Cinnamyl Alcohol‐o‐Carboranes: An Efficient Approach for Synthesis ofo‐Carboranes Substituted Oxetanes
Authors: Zhang Cai‐Yan , Cao Ke , Yang Han‐Bo , Jiang Linhai , Li Bo , Yang Junxiao
Published: December 2022

The Cu(OTf)2/NBS promoted cyclization of 1‐cinnamyl alcohol‐o‐carboranes for synthesis ofo‐carborane substituted oxetanes has been developed. A series of substituted oxetanes has been synthesized with moderate to good yields, which would be an important synthon for design novel reactions in oxetane chemistry as well as carborane chemistry.
Green Approach for N−H Functionalization of Sulfoximines: An Access to Sulfoximinated‐Oxime Conjugates
Authors: Kour Harpreet , Sharma Alpa , Kour Jaspreet , Ahmed Mukhtar , Sawant Sanghapal D.
Published: December 2022

A simple, metal‐free, and green approach has been established for N−H functionalization of sulfoximines under mild reaction conditions to offer sulfoximinated‐oxime conjugates. The reaction works well in EtOH at room temperature and proceeds smoothly without using any base or expensive ligands. This protocol has been applied on various aryl‐, heteroaryl‐ sulfoximines as well as on variety of chloro‐oximes. Both the substrates tolerated a wide range of functional groups, resulting in good to excellent yields. It can serve as a directing group in organic synthesis, as a precursor or building block, demonstrating the product's applicability and importance in the field. The applications of the protocol have been demonstrated in the sulfoximination of some natural products. This strategy could be useful in drug discovery or medicinal chemistry for fine‐tuning the physicochemical properties of natural product scaffolds or lead candidates.
Data science applied to environmental sciences
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Canas , Carfagna Elisabetta
Published: December 2022

In recent years, immense amounts of data have been generated, from sensors to purchase transaction records, mobile GPS signals, digital satellite images, and social media. The raise of data collection has brought the need for quantitative minded professionals able to transform that data into information and decision making. In this opinion piece, we will share some of our views and experiences about the general role that data science plays nowadays, with a special interest in the field of environmetrics. We will include a limited number of examples that highlight the usefulness of data science in environmetrics, and a specific illustration of the behavior of the wildfires in Brazil between January and December of 2021.
Anemia in children aged 6–59 months was significantly associated with maternal anemia status in rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Mutonhodza Beaula , Dembedza Mavis P. , Lark Murray R. , Joy Edward J. M. , Manzeke‐Kangara Muneta G. , Njovo Handrea , Nyadzayo Tasiana K. , Kalimbira Alexander A. , Bailey Elizabeth H. , Broadley Martin R. , Matsungo Tonderayi M. , Chopera Prosper
Published: December 2022

Globally, anemia is a public health problem affecting mostly women of reproductive age (WRA, n = 452) and children aged 6–59 months (n = 452) from low‐ and lower‐middle‐income countries. This cross‐sectional study assessed the prevalence and determinants of anemia in WRA and children aged 6–59 months in rural Zimbabwe. The venous blood sample was measured for hemoglobin utilizing a HemoCue machine. Anthropometric indices were assessed and classified based on World Health Organization standards. Socioeconomic characteristics were assessed. The median (±inter quartile range (IQR)) age of WRA was 29 ± 12 years and that for children was 29 ± 14 months. The prevalence of anemia was 29.6% and 17.9% in children and WRA, respectively, while the median (±IQR) hemoglobin levels were 13.4 ± 1.8 and 11.7 ± 1.5 g/dl among women and children, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess determinants of anemia. Anemia in children was significantly associated with maternal anemia (odds ratio (OR) = 2.02; 95% CI 1.21–3.37; p = .007) and being a boy (OR = 0.63; 95% CI 0.41–0.95; p = .029), while anemia in WRA was significantly associated with the use of unimproved dug wells as a source of drinking water (OR = 0.36; 95% CI 0.20–0.66; p = .001) and lack of agricultural land ownership (OR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.31–0.85; p = .009). Anemia is a public health problem in the study setting. The positive association between maternal and child anemia reflects the possibility of cross‐generational anemia. Therefore, interventions that focus on improving preconceptual and maternal nutritional status may help to reduce anemia in low‐income settings.
Anodal cerebellar stimulation increases cortical activation: Evidence for cerebellar scaffolding of cortical processing
Authors: Maldonado Ted , Jackson Trevor Bryan , Bernard Jessica A.
Published: December 2022

While the cerebellum contributes to nonmotor task performance, the specific contributions of the structure remain unknown. One possibility is that the cerebellum allows for the offloading of cortical processing, providing support during task performance, using internal models. Here we used transcranial direct current stimulation to modulate cerebellar function and investigate the impact on cortical activation patterns. Participants (n = 74; 22.03 ± 3.44 years) received either cathodal, anodal, or sham stimulation over the right cerebellum before a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan during which they completed a sequence learning and a working memory task. We predicted that cathodal stimulation would improve, and anodal stimulation would hinder task performance and cortical activation. Behaviorally, anodal stimulation negatively impacted behavior during late‐phase sequence learning. Functionally, we found that anodal cerebellar stimulation resulted in increased bilateral cortical activation, particularly in parietal and frontal regions known to be involved in cognitive processing. This suggests that if the cerebellum is not functioning optimally, there is a greater need for cortical resources.
DREADD‐inactivation of dorsal CA1 pyramidal neurons in mice impairs retrieval of object and spatial memories
Authors: Cinalli David A. , Cohen Sarah J. , Calubag Mariah , Oz Goksu , Zhou Lylybell , Stackman Robert W.
Published: December 2022

The hippocampus, a medial temporal lobe brain region, is critical for the consolidation of information from short‐term memory into long‐term episodic memory and for spatial memory that enables navigation. Hippocampal damage in humans has been linked to amnesia and memory loss, characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Numerous studies indicate that the rodent hippocampus contributes significantly to long‐term memory for spatial and nonspatial information. For example, muscimol‐induced depression of CA1 neuronal activity in the dorsal hippocampus impairs the encoding, consolidation, and retrieval of nonspatial object memory in mice. Here, a chemogenetic designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) approach was used to test the selective involvement of CA1 pyramidal neurons in memory retrieval for objects and for spatial location in a cohort of male C57BL/6J mice. Activation of the inhibitory (hM4Di) DREADDs receptor expressed in CA1 neurons significantly impaired the retrieval of object memory in the spontaneous object recognition task and of spatial memory in the Morris water maze. Silencing of CA1 neuronal activity in hM4Di‐expressing mice was confirmed by comparing Fos expression in vehicle‐ and clozapine‐N‐oxide‐treated mice after exploration of a novel environment. Histological analyses revealed that expression of the hM4Di receptor was limited to CA1 neurons of the dorsal hippocampus. These results suggest that a common subset of CA1 neurons (i.e., those expressing hM4Di receptors) in mouse hippocampus contributed to the retrieval of long‐term memory for nonspatial and spatial information. Our findings support the view that the contribution of the rodent hippocampus is like that of the primate hippocampus, specifically essential for global memory. Our results further validate mice as a suitable model system to study the neurobiological mechanisms of human episodic memory, but also in developing treatments and understanding the underlying causes of diseases affecting long‐term memory, such as Alzheimer's disease.
The tumor microenvironment drives NK cell metabolic dysfunction leading to impaired antitumor activity
Authors: Tumino Nicola , Nava Lauson Carina B. , Tiberti Silvia , Besi Francesca , Martini Stefania , Fiore Piera Filomena , Scodamaglia Francesca , Mingari Maria Cristina , Moretta Lorenzo , Manzo Teresa , Vacca Paola
Published: December 2022

NK cells represent key players capable of driving antitumor immune responses. However, the potent immunosuppressive activity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) may impair their effector function. Here, we strengthen the importance of metabolic interactions between NK cells and TME and propose metabolic dysfunction as one of the major mechanisms behind NK failure in cancer treatment. In particular, we described that TME has a direct negative impact on NK cell function by disrupting their mitochondrial integrity and function in pediatric and adult patients with primary and metastatic cancer. Our results will help to design new strategies aimed at increasing the NK cell antitumor efficacy by their metabolic reprogramming. In this regard, we reveal an unprecedented role of IL15 in the metabolic reprogramming of NK cells enhancing their antitumor functions. IL15 prevents the inhibitory effect of soluble factors present in TME and restores both the metabolic characteristics and the effector function of NK cells inhibited by exposure to malignant pleural fluid. Thus, we propose here that IL15 may be exploited as a new strategy to metabolically reprogram NK cells with the aim of increasing the efficacy of NK‐based immunotherapy in a wide range of currently refractory adult and pediatric solid tumors.