bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agricultural practices influence foliar endophytic communities in coffee plants of different varieties
Authors: Castillo‐González Humberto , Bloomberg Joshua , Alvarado‐Picado Eduardo , Yarwood Stephanie , Chaverri Priscila
Published: February 2024

Fungal endophytes are pivotal components of a plant's microbiome, profoundly impacting its health and fitness. Yet, myriad questions remain concerning the intricate interactions between these microorganisms and their hosts, particularly in the context of agriculturally important plants such as Coffea arabica. To bridge this knowledge gap and provide a comprehensive framework, this study investigated how farming practices shape the taxonomic and functional diversity of phylloplane endophytes in coffee. Coffee plant leaves from two distinct producing regions in Costa Rica were sampled, ensuring the representation of various coffee varieties (Obatá, Catuaí, and Caturra), agricultural management methods (organic vs. conventional), sun exposure regimes (full sunlight/monoculture vs. natural shade/agroforestry), and leaf developmental stages (newly emerged asymptomatic vs. mature leaves). Fungal communities were characterized by employing both culture‐dependent and independent techniques (internal transcribed spacer 2 nuclear ribosomal DNA metabarcoding). The results showed a greater diversity of endophytes in mature leaves and conventionally managed plants, with coffee variety exerting an unclear influence. The effect of sun exposure was surprisingly negligible. However, data emphasize the benefits of agroforestry and organic farming, which are linked to reduced putative pathogens and heightened levels of potentially mutualistic fungi, fostering functionally diverse communities. Despite the role that plant microbiomes might play in agricultural production, the knowledge to shape endophytic communities through breeding or management is lacking. The results from this study provide a framework to understand how both plant and agricultural practices influence endophyte diversity within coffee crops. These insights hold promise for guiding future efforts to manipulate coffee microbial communities effectively.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Fused‐Cyclic Quinolines
Authors: Darbandizadeh Shahab A. , Balalaie Saeed
Published: February 2024

Fused quinolines have gained substantial attention due to their significant biological and wide‐spectrum synthetic applications. This review supplies an encyclopedic document regarding the approaches developed for the synthesis of fused‐cyclic quinolines based on ring volume size reported thus far. This collected information will be valuable for medicinal chemists to obtain knowledge regarding designing new approaches in order to access biological active compounds.
Arginase 1 does not affect RNA m6A methylation in mouse fetal lung
Authors: Sui Xuesong , Sui Yanyu , Long Peihua , Wang Yifei , Chen Yu , Zhai Wenjia , Gao Lu
Published: February 2024

Background

Arginase 1 (Arg1) encodes a key enzyme that catalyzes the metabolism of arginine to ornithine and urea. In our recent study, we found that knockdown of Arg1 in the lungs of fetal mice induces apoptosis of epithelial cells and dramatically delays initiation of labor. As the most abundant internal mRNA modification, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) has been found to play important roles in lung development and cellular differentiation. However, if the knockdown of Arg1 affects the RNA m6A modification in fetal lungs remains unknown.

Methods

In the current study, the RNA m6A levels and the expression of RNA m6A related enzymes were validated in 13.0 dpc fetal lungs that Arg1 was knocked down by adeno‐associated virus carrying Arg1‐shRNA, using western blot, immunofluorescence, and RT‐qPCR.

Results

No statistical differences were found in the expression of methyltransferase, demethylases, and binding proteins in the fetal lungs between AAV‐shArg1‐injected mice and AAV‐2/9‐injected mice. Besides, there is no significant change of overall RNA m6A level in fetal lungs from AAV‐shArg1‐injected mice, compared with that from AAV‐2/9‐injected mice.

Conclusions

These results indicate that arginase 1 does not affect RNA m6A methylation in mouse fetal lung, and the mechanisms other than RNA m6A modification underlying the effects of Arg1 knockdown on the fetal lung development and their interaction with labor initiation need to be further explored.
Fluorescent sensing platform based on polyethyleneimine‐protected copper nanoclusters for detection of chromium(VI) in real samples
Authors: Gan Mingyu , Wang Yingqi , Wang Fei , Tan Jie , Pei Yuheng , Wang Jianhua , Choi Martin M. F. , Bian Wei
Published: February 2024

A new type of polyethyleneimine‐protected copper nanoclusters (PEI‐CuNCs) is favorably developed by a one‐pot method under mild conditions. The obtained PEI‐CuNCs is characterized by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and other techniques. It is worth noting that the proposed PEI‐CuNCs demonstrate a selective response to chromium(VI) over other competitive species. Fluorescence quenching of PEI‐CuNCs is determined to be chromium(VI) concentrations dependence with a low limit of detection of 8.9 nM. What is more, the as‐developed PEI‐CuNCs is further employed in building a detection platform for portable recognition of chromium(VI) in real samples with good accuracy. These findings may offer a distinctive strategy for the development of methods for analyzing and monitoring chromium(VI) and expand their application in real sample monitoring.
Generation Z's green purchase behavior: Do green consumer knowledge, consumer social responsibility, green advertising, and green consumer trust matter for sustainable development?
Authors: Borah Prasad Siba , Dogbe Courage Simon Kofi , Marwa Nyankomo
Published: February 2024

Generation Z (Gen‐Z), representing a demographic cohort of persons born from 1995 to 2010, has demonstrated their concerns for environmental protection. On September 20, 2019, for example, millions of Gen‐Zs from over 150 different countries across the globe embarked on a protest to pressure decision‐makers and governments to help save the planet. Such campaigns have caused firms to rethink how they operate by adopting green operations in their production and distribution of products. The footwear industry is not left out. The problem this research sought to address is the assessment of the effect of green consumer knowledge on green purchase behavior among Gen‐Z consumers towards footwear while assessing the roles of consumer social responsibility, green advertising, and green consumer trust. The study was quantitative in nature and used an online questionnaire to survey 559 Chinese Gen‐Z consumers. Findings revealed that although green consumer knowledge had a direct effect on green purchase behavior, this effect was partially mediated by consumer social responsibility. The effect of consumer social responsibility on green purchase behavior was positively moderated by green advertising, and the moderating effect of green advertising was further strengthened by green consumer trust. Finally, the mediating effect of consumer social responsibility was conditional on the moderating effects of green advertising and green consumer trust. It was concluded that green consumer knowledge is an essential ingredient in enhancing Gen‐Z consumers' green purchase behavior towards footwear, as such, advocacy and pressure groups must increasingly conscientize consumers.
Multiple cutaneous myxofibrosarcoma on the right arm: Clinicopathological features and differential diagnosis
Authors: Ruan Shi‐Fan , Zhang Peng , Huang Jinwen , Gong Ting , Ji Chao
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The clinical presentations and pathological features of low‐grade myxofibrosarcoma can be misleading, frequently resulting in diagnostic errors. An accurate diagnosis requires the application of immunohistochemistry techniques and the discerning diagnostic acumen of experienced pathologists. A 62‐year‐old male patient visited our outpatient clinic with multiple painful and rapidly enlarging subcutaneous nodules on his right forearm. Initially, the condition was misdiagnosed as multiple lipomas. The final pathology revealed characteristics consistent with low‐grade myxofibrosarcoma.
Congenital lobar emphysema: A diagnostic dilemma with coexistent congenital heart defects
Authors: Thacker Jigar Prabhulal , Bhende Vishal Vinayak , Sharma Tanishq Shashikant
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Clinicians should think beyond pneumonia and left‐to‐right shunts when young children have persistent respiratory distress. Congenital lung anomalies, including congenital lobar emphysema, should be considered differential diagnoses. Chest X‐ray and CT imaging should be conducted to gain insight regarding and establish diagnosis, respectively.

Congenital lobar emphysema (CLE) is a rare and life‐threatening congenital lung anomaly that often poses a diagnostic dilemma. The issue can be further confused with coexistent congenital heart defects (CHDs) with left‐to‐right shunts. The clinical presentation of CLE during infancy is similar to that of CHD, with CHD being more common entity, gets detected early. The presence of underlying CLE may only be suspected after CHD repair. In our case, a 2‐month‐old infant presented with respiratory distress. On evaluation, a large ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus were detected. After successful cardiac defect repair, the infant continued to experience cough, respiratory distress, and failure to thrive. Furthermore, on radiological reanalysis, CLE was suspected on X‐ray and confirmed via computed tomography. CLE can be detected on chest X‐rays; however, at an early stage, it is often confusing and misleading.
Low‐Temperature CO Oxidation by the Pt/CeO2 Based Catalysts
Authors: Stadnichenko Andrey I. , Slavinskaya Elena M. , Stonkus Olga A. , Boronin Andrei I.
Published: February 2024

This review analyzes the literature data and the results of studies of the Pt/CeO2‐based catalysts that are capable of providing the low‐temperature CO oxidation (LTO CO). The review summarizes the catalytic characteristics and the main properties of Pt/CeO2‐based catalysts necessary for the low‐temperature oxidation at T<50 °C. Analysis of the literature data on the use of physical methods of investigation and their correlation with the activity of Pt/CeO2 catalysts allowed us to conclude that the main active forms of platinum are small metallic clusters, single atoms Pt2+‐SA and oxide clusters PtOx interacting with ceria nanoparticles. It has been established that the most active forms are PtOx clusters, which provide a high reaction rate in the temperature range from −50 to +50 °C. Forms of ionic Pt2+ with different coordination with oxygen ensure the activity of catalysts starting at temperatures above 100 °C. Finally, small metallic clusters occupy an intermediate position, providing activity above 0 °C, but their instability and gradual transition to the oxidized state Pt2+/PtOx are noted. At the conclusion of the review, the results of mathematical modeling demonstrate the correct kinetics description of the low‐temperature CO oxidation based on the Mars‐van Krevelen and associative mechanisms.
Temperature Control of the Self‐Assembly Process of 4‐Aminoquinoline Amphiphile: Selective Construction of Perforated Vesicles and Nanofibers, and Structural Restoration Capability
Authors: Hisamatsu Yosuke , Toriyama Go , Yamamoto Katsuhiro , Takase Hiroshi , Higuchi Tsunehiko , Umezawa Naoki
Published: February 2024

The construction of diverse and distinctive self‐assembled structures in water, based on the control of the self‐assembly processes of artificial small molecules, has received considerable attention in supramolecular chemistry. Cage‐like perforated vesicles are distinctive and interesting self‐assembled structures. However, the development of self‐assembling molecules that can easily form perforated vesicles remains challenging. This paper reports a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior‐triggered self‐assembly property of a 4‐aminoquinoline (4‐AQ)‐based amphiphile with a tetra(ethylene glycol) chain, in HEPES buffer (pH 7.4). This property allows to form perforated vesicles after heating at 80 °C (> LCST). The self‐assembly process of the 4‐AQ amphiphile can be controlled by heating at 80 °C (> LCST) or 60 °C (< LCST). After cooling to room temperature, the selective construction of the perforated vesicles and nanofibers was achieved from the same 4‐AQ amphiphile. Furthermore, the perforated vesicles exhibited slow morphological transformation into intertwined‐like nanofibers but were easily restored by brief heating above the LCST.
Mesoporous Metal Nanomaterials: Developments and Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Zhang Wuyong , Dai Lei
Published: February 2024

Mesoporous metal nanomaterials (MPMNs) are pivotal in nanotechnology, especially in electrochemical applications, due to their unique structure. Unlike traditional nanomaterials, MPMNs possess hierarchical and mesoporous characteristics, providing more active sites for improved mass and electron transfer. This distinctive composition offers dual benefits, enhancing activity, stability, and selectivity for specific reactions. The intricate architecture, featuring interconnected pores, amplifies surface area, ensuring efficient use of active sites and boosting reactivity in electrocatalytic processes. Additionally, the mesoporous nature promotes superior diffusion kinetics, facilitating better transport of reactants and products. This intricate interplay of structural elements contributes not only to the increased efficiency of electrochemical reactions but also to the extended durability of MPMNs during prolonged usage. This concept focus on the synthesis and design strategies of MPMNs, aligning with the dynamic requirements of diverse electrocatalytic applications. The synergy resulting from these advancements not only accentuates the intrinsic properties of MPMNs but also broadens their scope for practical implementation in emerging fields of electrochemistry.
Comparative Study of Fluid Dynamic Stress on Aspergillus niger and Model Systems
Authors: Waldherr Philipp , Bliatsiou Chrysoula , Böhm Lutz , Kraume Matthias
Published: February 2024

The productivity of Aspergillus niger cultivations is strongly linked to the pellet morphology. In this article, the agitation‐ and aeration‐induced stress on bio agglomerates is studied. To facilitate investigations, non‐biological particle systems are extensively used to model the actual biological matter. The literature lacks a direct comparison of model systems with the biological system of interest, leaving uncertainties in the applicability of such systems. This work shows that the results for the impellers' stress intensity of three A. niger strains agree qualitatively with the ones of four developed model systems of different nature (s/l, l/l). The findings justify the usage of model systems, despite certain limitations originating from their specific characteristic properties.
Phase 1 Healthy Volunteer Study of AL01211, an Oral, Non‐brain Penetrant Glucosylceramide Synthase Inhibitor, to Treat Fabry Disease and Type 1 Gaucher Disease
Authors: Babcock Michael , Zheng Jianhong , Gail Shurr Jessica , Li Li , Wang Bing , Huertas Pedro , Ryan Philip John , Shen Yuqiao , Garovoy Marvin
Published: February 2024

Glycosphingolipid (GSL) storage diseases are caused by deficiencies in the enzymes that metabolize different GSLs in the lysosome. Glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) inhibitors reduce GSL production and have potential to treat multiple GSL storage diseases. AL01211 is a potent, oral GCS inhibitor being developed for the treatment of Type 1 Gaucher disease and Fabry disease. AL01211 has minimal central nervous system penetration, allowing for treatment of peripheral organs without risking CNS‐associated adverse effects. AL01211 was evaluated in a Phase 1 healthy volunteer study with single ascending dose (SAD) and multiple ascending dose (MAD) arms, to determine safety, pharmacokinetics including food effect, and pharmacodynamic effects on associated GSLs. In the SAD arm, AL01211 showed a Tmax of approximately 3.5 hours, mean clearance (CL/F) of 130.1 L/h, and t1/2 of 39.3 hours. Consuming a high‐fat meal prior to dose administration reduced exposures 3.5‐5.5‐fold, indicating a food effect. In the MAD arm, AL01211 had an approximately 2‐fold accumulation, reaching steady‐state levels by 10 days. Increasing exposure inversely correlated with a decrease in GSL with plasma glucosylceramide and globotriacylceramide reduction from baseline levels, reaching 78% and 52% by day 14, respectively. AL01211 was generally well‐tolerated with no AL01211 associated serious adverse events, thus supporting its further clinical development.
Catalysis of Indium Ion Electroreduction in the Presence of Acetazolamide in Chlorates(VII) Solutions with Varied Water Activity
Authors: Nosal‐Wiercińska Agnieszka , Martyna Marlena , Szabelska Anna , Gołębiowska Beata
Published: February 2024

The influence of acetazolamide (ACT) on the kinetics and the mechanism of electroreduction of In(III) ions as a function of changes of the water activity was investigated using electrochemical methods (DC, SWV, CV and EIS, CV). The multi‐step mechanism of the electroreduction process should take into account the dehydration step of indium ions and the presence of In‐ACT (,,cap‐pair” effect) active complexes, mediating electron transfer, located in the adsorption layer. Differences in the electrode mechanism in the presence of ACT were observed for higher chlorates(VII) concentrations (above 4 mol ⋅ dm−3 chlorates(VII)) reflected by a lack of step wise nature of the electrode process. The highest catalytic activity was observed in 4 mol ⋅ dm−3 chlorates(VII).
Cellulose Nanostructures as Tunable Substrates for Nanocellulose‐Metal Hybrid Flexible Composites
Authors: Jiao Keran , Cao Wenxin , Yuan Wenwen , Yuan Hang , Zhu Jia , Gao Xiaowu , Duan Sixuan , Yong Ruiqi , Zhao Ziwei , Song Pengfei , Jiang Zhong‐Jie , Wang Yongjie , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: February 2024

Nanocomposite represents the backbone of many industrial fabrication applications and exerts a substantial social impact. Among these composites, metal nanostructures are often employed as the active constituents, thanks to their various chemical and physical properties, which offer the ability to tune the application scenarios in thermal management, energy storage, and biostable materials, respectively. Nanocellulose, as an emerging polymer substrate, possesses unique properties of abundance, mechanical flexibility, environmental friendliness, and biocompatibility. Based on the combination of flexible nanocellulose with specific metal fillers, the essential parameters involving mechanical strength, flexibility, anisotropic thermal resistance, and conductivity can be enhanced. Nowadays, the approach has found extensive applications in thermal management, energy storage, biostable electronic materials, and piezoelectric devices. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly correlate cellulose nanocomposites’ properties with different metallic fillers. This review summarizes the extraction of nanocellulose and preparation of metal modified cellulose nanocomposites, including their wide and particular applications in modern advanced devices. Moreover, we also discuss the challenges in the synthesis, the emerging designs, and unique structures, promising directions for future research. We wish this review can give a valuable overview of the unique combination and inspire the research directions of the multifunctional nanocomposites using proper cellulose and metallic fillers.
Scientific Review of the Proarrhythmic Risks of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics: Are Dedicated ICH S7B/E14 Studies Needed for Low‐Risk Modalities?
Authors: Qu Yusheng , Henderson Kim A. , Harper Tod A. , Vargas Hugo M.
Published: February 2024

Oligonucleotide therapeutics (ONTs) represent a new modality with unique pharmacological and chemical properties that modulate gene expression with a high degree of target specificity mediated by complementary Watson‐Crick base pair hybridization. To date, the proarrhythmic assessment of ONTs has been influenced by International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) E14 and S7B guidance. To document current hERG/QTc evaluation practices, we reviewed US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Approval Packages (source: PharmaPendium.com) and collated preclinical and clinical studies for 17 marketed ONTs. In addition, clinical QTc data from 12 investigational ONTs were obtained from the literature. Of the marketed ONTs, eight were tested in the hERG assay with no inhibitory effect identified at the top concentration (range: 34–3,000 μM) tested. Fourteen of the ONTs were evaluated in nonhuman primate cardiovascular studies with 11 of them in dedicated telemetry studies. No effect on QTc intervals were observed (at high exposure multiples) in all studies. Clinically, four ONTs were evaluated in TQT studies; an additional six ONTs were assessed by concentration‐QTc interval analysis, and six by routine safety electrocardiogram monitoring. None of the clinical studies identified a QTc prolongation risk; the same was true for the 12 investigational ONTs. A search of the FDA Adverse Event Database indicated no association between approved ONTs and proarrhythmias. Overall, the collective weight of evidence from 29 ONTs demonstrate no clinical proarrhythmic risk based on data obtained from ICH S7B/E14 studies. Thus, new ONTs may benefit from reduced testing strategies because they have no proarrhythmic risk, a similar cardiac safety profile as monoclonal antibodies, proteins, and peptides.
A Murine Model for Measuring Sebum Production That Can Be Used to Test Therapeutic Agents for the Management of Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Boris Kathryn , Faizan Muhammad , Bendesky Robert J. , Davis Erin , Reaume Andrew G. , Cong Wei‐na
Published: February 2024

Acne vulgaris (acne) effects nearly 90% of all Western teenagers, and the only pharmaceutical class of agents to treat severe forms of this skin condition are the retinoids, which are well‐described teratogens. Yet about 50% of the patients receiving this class of therapeutics are women of child‐bearing age, in their peak years of reproductive potential. On this basis, there is a significant unmet medical need for agents to treat severe forms of acne that do not carry this liability. As a means to assess potential agents of this type, here we describe methods for estimating the relative amount of sebum that a mouse produces based on the water retention on fur following a thorough wetting procedure. We have shown that a compound that is clinically effective in reducing sebum production demonstrates activity in this model. The method is therefore useful for evaluating therapeutic candidates for reducing sebum production, which would in turn be useful for treating acne. We have broken the entire procedure down into two phases/two protocols, as listed below. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Pre‐wash wet weight measurement

Basic Protocol 2: Post‐wash wet‐weight measurement
Tolerating CD47
Authors: Isenberg Jeffrey S. , Montero Enrique
Published: February 2024

Cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47) occupies the outer membrane of human cells, where it binds to soluble and cell surface receptors on the same and other cells, sculpting their topography and resulting in a pleiotropic receptor‐multiligand interaction network. It is a focus of drug development to temper and accentuate CD47‐driven immune cell liaisons, although consideration of on‐target CD47 effects remain neglected. And yet, a late clinical trial of a CD47‐blocking antibody was discontinued, existent trials were restrained, and development of CD47‐targeting agents halted by some pharmaceutical companies. At this point, if CD47 can be exploited for clinical advantage remains to be determined. Herein an airing is made of the seemingly conflicting actions of CD47 that reflect its position as a junction connecting receptors and signalling pathways that impact numerous human cell types. Prospects of CD47 boosting and blocking are considered along with potential therapeutic implications for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Fostering teacher agency in school‐based climate change education in England, UK
Authors: Rushton Elizabeth A. C. , Dunlop Lynda , Atkinson Lucy
Published: February 2024

Drawing on conceptualisations of teacher agency through the ecological approach, and in the context of recent policy activity, we explored primary and secondary school teachers' experiences of agency in relation to climate change education in England. Data collection occurred over two distinct but related phases. Firstly, we completed a series of interviews with the same three secondary geography teachers at the outset of their careers (15 interviews during 2020–2022) which included 1 year of Initial Teacher Education and 2 years as Early Career Teachers (ECTs). Secondly, we captured the experiences of further 24 in‐service science and geography teachers (with expertise beyond the ECT period) through two online workshops held in November 2022, the first for primary teachers (n = 10) and the second for secondary teachers (n = 10). Interviews were held with four teachers (two primary and two secondary) who could not attend the workshops (n = 4). Our findings underline the importance of structures (e.g. school leadership) and culture (e.g. ideas and values) in fostering teacher agency. Teachers across primary and secondary phases and at different career stages highlighted the value of curricular and extra‐curricular spaces for climate change education. If all children and young people are to access effective climate change education, researchers and policy makers will need to further consider ways to ensure teachers can achieve agency, including through access to transformative professional learning which fosters agency in relation to climate change education.
Personalized modeling of Alzheimer's disease progression estimates neurodegeneration severity from EEG recordings
Authors: Amato Lorenzo Gaetano , Vergani Alberto Arturo , Lassi Michael , Fabbiani Carlo , Mazzeo Salvatore , Burali Rachele , Nacmias Benedetta , Sorbi Sandro , Mannella Riccardo , Grippo Antonello , Bessi Valentina , Mazzoni Alberto
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Early identification of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is necessary for a timely onset of therapeutic care. However, cortical structural alterations associated with AD are difficult to discern.

METHODS

We developed a cortical model of AD‐related neurodegeneration accounting for slowing of local dynamics and global connectivity degradation. In a monocentric study we collected electroencephalography (EEG) recordings at rest from participants in healthy (HC, n = 17), subjective cognitive decline (SCD, n = 58), and mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 44) conditions. For each patient, we estimated neurodegeneration model parameters based on individual EEG recordings.

RESULTS

Our model outperformed standard EEG analysis not only in discriminating between HC and MCI conditions (F1 score 0.95 vs 0.75) but also in identifying SCD patients with biological hallmarks of AD in the cerebrospinal fluid (recall 0.87 vs 0.50).

DISCUSSION

Personalized models could (1) support classification of MCI, (2) assess the presence of AD pathology, and (3) estimate the risk of cognitive decline progression, based only on economical and non‐invasive EEG recordings.

Highlights

Personalized cortical model estimating structural alterations from EEG recordings.

Discrimination of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Healthy (HC) subjects (95%)

Prediction of biological markers of Alzheimer's in Subjective Decline (SCD) Subjects (87%)

Transition correctly predicted for 3/3 subjects that converted from SCD to MCI after 1y
Effects of landscape metrics on scorpion (Arachnida: Scorpiones) assemblage in a tropical urban ecosystem
Authors: Feitosa Matheus Leonydas Borba , Barbosa‐da‐Silva Hugo Rodrigo , Salomão Renato Portela , Desouza Adriano Medeiros , de Moura Geraldo Jorge Barbosa , Lira André Felipe de Araujo
Published: February 2024

Urban landscapes restrain the distribution of forest‐dwelling species, which may be related to challenging conditions that impair body condition. The dynamics in urban areas lead to the simplification of communities that inhabit forest patches in cities with the turnover of sensitive species for opportunistic ones. In this study, we investigated the effect of urbanization on the body condition and diversity of scorpions at the landscape scale. Sampling was carried out in 10 forest patches in an urban matrix in Brazil, originally covered by a tropical rainforest. The surroundings of the landscape of each forest patch were characterized through the amount of forest, agriculture, and urban land cover. Individual body length, dry, lipid, and muscular masses were used as proxies of Tityus pusillus body condition. In total, 147 scorpions were collected, belonging to the species Ananteris mauryi, T. pusillus, T. stigmurus, and T. neglectus. Forest cover explained 28% of species variation. There was a positive relationship between forest cover and T. pusillus and A. mauryi abundances, while T. stigmurus was negatively affected by forest cover. Species richness and total scorpion abundance were not influenced by landscape metrics. In terms of body condition, only females of T. pusillus were affected by landscape variables, with individuals showing higher body mass with an increase in forest cover. Our results suggest that urban forests can support scorpion assemblages. However, there is a turnover in specialist forest species for opportunistic species. Forest cover is a crucial factor in maintaining healthy scorpion populations in urban areas.
Geographic distribution of feather δ34S in Europe
Authors: Brlík Vojtěch , Procházka Petr , Bontempo Luana , Camin Federica , Jiguet Frédéric , Osváth Gergely , Stricker Craig A. , Wunder Michael B. , Powell Rebecca L.
Published: February 2024

Geographic distribution models of environmentally stable isotopes (the so‐called “isoscapes”) are widely employed in animal ecology, and wildlife forensics and conservation. However, the application of isoscapes is limited to elements and regions for which the spatial patterns have been estimated. Here, we focused on the ubiquitous yet less commonly used stable sulfur isotopes (δ34S). To predict the European δ34S isoscape, we used 242 feather samples from Eurasian Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus) formed at 69 European wetland sites. We quantified the relationships between sample δ34S and environmental covariates using a random forest regression model and applied the model to predict the geographic distribution of δ34S. We also quantified within‐site variation in δ34S and complementarity with other isotopes on both individual and isoscape levels. The predicted feather δ34S isoscape shows only slight differences between the central and southern parts of Europe while the coastal regions were most enriched in 34S. The most important covariates of δ34S were distance to coastline, surface elevation, and atmospheric concentrations of SO2 gases. The absence of a systematic spatial pattern impedes the application of the δ34S isoscape, but high complementarity with other isoscapes advocates the combination of multiple isoscapes to increase the precision of animal tracing. Feather δ34S compositions showed considerable within‐site variation with highest values in inland parts of Europe, likely attributed to wetland anaerobic conditions and redox sensitivity of sulfur. The complex European geography and topography as well as using δ34S samples from wetlands may contribute to the absence of a systematic spatial gradient of δ34S values in Europe. We thus encourage future studies to focus on the geographic distribution of δ34S using tissues from diverse taxa collected in various habitats over large land masses in the world (i.e., Africa, South America, or East Asia).
Structural diversity is better associated with forest productivity than species or functional diversity
Authors: Zhai Lu , Will Rodney E. , Zhang Bo
Published: February 2024

Understanding the relationship between biodiversity and productivity can be advanced by improving metrics used to quantify biodiversity. Structural diversity, that is, variation of size and form of plant organs, is an emerging biodiversity metric. However, compared with the other biodiversity metrics, its relative importance in specific components of forest productivity, for example, recruitment of new individuals, biomass net change after accounting for mortality, is largely unknown, particularly across a large spatial scale with multiple influential gradients. To address the knowledge gap, we used USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data across the southcentral USA from 2008 to 2017. We calculated forest biomass increments due to recruitment and growth and net change in biomass. Then, we quantified the effects of a range of abiotic and biotic variables on the biomass increments and net change. Our results showed that (1) Structural diversity was negatively associated with the two biomass increments and net change in biomass. The negative effects were supported by increased occurrences of insects and diseases with greater structural diversity. (2) Compared with species and functional diversity, structural diversity showed a better association with biomass increments and net change, suggested by its larger absolute values of standardized coefficients, and the effects of structural diversity were negative in contrast to species diversity. (3) The effects of structural diversity, stand age, and elevation differed between natural and planted forests that may stem from the differences in stand development and species composition between the two forest types. Together, structural diversity may represent an important dimension of biodiversity impacts on plant productivity, which could be related to the exacerbated disturbances with greater structural diversity.
Synthesis of 5,9‐Diaza Analogues of [5]‐ and [6]Helicene and their Chiroptic and Photophysical Characterization
Authors: Herzog Stefan , Rizzo Gianluca Giuseppe , Podlech Joachim
Published: February 2024

6,10‐Dipropyl‐5,9‐diaza[5]‐ and ‐[6]helicene were synthesized by ortho,ortho’ fusion of ortho‐teraryldicarboxamides. Key steps in the synthesis of the teraryls are azide formation with subsequent reduction and amidation followed by Suzuki cross couplings. The ortho fusions were achieved with phosphorus pentoxide and phosphoryl oxide. The total syntheses could be accomplished with 10 % and 3 %, respectively, in seven consecutive steps starting with meta‐dibromobenzene. The helicenes were investigated by UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy and by quantum chemical calculation of, inter alia, the HOMO‐LUMO gaps. Racemization barriers of the helicenes were calculated, whereupon the optical resolution of 5,9‐diaza[6]helicene was attempted and carried out successfully; ECD spectra were measured of its enantiomers.
Lanthanum–Catalyzed One–Pot Synthesis of Chromeno–Fused Pyridine/Quinolinone Derivatives
Authors: Siva Hariprasad Kurma , China Raju Bhimapaka
Published: February 2024

A novel one‐pot approach has been developed for the preparation of 5‐oxo‐5H‐chromeno[4,3‐b] pyridine‐3‐carboxylates and 6H‐chromeno[4,3‐b] quinolin‐6‐ones by reacting 2‐((benzylimino/phenylimino)‐methyl) phenols with ethyl/methyl propiolate in presence of La(OTf)3 under thermal conditions. The reactions proceeded through the formation C−O, C−N and C−C bonds to form the title compounds. The bio–active compound 6H‐chromeno[4,3‐b] quinolin‐6‐one has been prepared by this protocol.
Next‐generation sequencing reveals remarkable genetic stability in primary and corresponding recurrent intestinal‐type sinonasal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Riobello Cristina , Sánchez‐Fernández Paula , Córdoba María Camila Cubides , González‐Gutiérrez Maripaz , Vivanco Blanca , Cabal Virginia N. , Fernández Laura Suárez , García‐Marín Rocío , Codina‐Martínez Helena , Lorenzo‐Guerra Sara Lucila , López Fernando , Hermsen Mario A. , Llorente José Luis
Published: February 2024

Background

Recurrent intestinal‐type sinonasal adenocarcinoma (ITAC) can occur several years after primary treatment and with different histology. We aimed to clarify if such recurrences could be second primary tumors and to identify actionable mutations as targets for personalized treatment of recurrent ITAC.

Methods

Twelve pairs of primary and recurrent ITAC were histologically examined and analyzed by next‐generation sequencing.

Results

Histological differences between primary and recurrent tumor pairs were observed in five cases. Frequent mutations included TP53, APC, TSC2, ATM, EPHA2, BRCA2, LRP1B, KRAS, and KMT2B. There was 86% concordance of somatic mutations between the tumor pairs, while four cases carried additional mutations in the recurrence.

Conclusions

We found all cases to be clonal recurrences and not second primary tumors. Moreover, tumor pairs showed a remarkable genomic stability, suggesting that personalized treatment of a recurrence may be based on actionable molecular genetic targets observed in the primary tumor.
Professional societies of obstetrics and gynecology as agents of change in sexual and reproductive health:FIGO's 10‐country safe abortion advocacy project in Africa and Latin America
Authors: Morris Jessica L. , Armitage Sinéad , Davis Jema , Kaur Jameen , Pretty Matthew , Ea Sophie , Seok Jane , de Vries Irene
Published: February 2024

In 2019, FIGO started implementing its abortion project focusing on advocacy. The Advocacy for Safe Abortion (ASA) Project was conducted in partnership with 10 national professional societies of obstetrics and gynecology in Latin America and Africa. The project aimed to strengthen national societies, support them to be leaders in sexual and reproductive health, and enable them to obtain context‐specific advocacy goals that improve access to safe abortion. Innovative monitoring and evaluation methodology enabled tracking of outcomes, consideration of their contribution to success, and cross‐country evaluation. The project saw success through some key strategies: institutional capacity strengthening; enhanced work through collaborations; training to increase knowledge and reduce abortion‐related stigma with a broad array of stakeholders; and generation and use of evidence to influence decision‐makers. This article describes the project and methodology used and provides tangible examples of how societies have been agents of change in their countries and of the need for such important work to continue.
Decriminalization of abortion by the Mexican Supreme Court
Authors: Bonifaz Alfonzo Leticia , Mora Sierra Rosalba
Published: February 2024

In September 2021, the Mexican Supreme Court issued a decision disallowing any federal or local judicial authority to indict someone for the offense of voluntary or consensual abortion. This decision also declared unconstitutional penalties imposed on medical personnel who facilitate or assist such procedures. Furthermore, the Court decided that limiting access to abortion in cases of rape to a specific time frame was disproportionate. Later on, in September 2023, the Supreme Court confirmed that absolute criminalization of abortion was unconstitutional and declared that the rule supporting criminalization in the Federal Penal Code was without effects. Consequently, healthcare providers who work in public federal health institutions cannot be criminalized for guaranteeing the right to abortion. This article reviews the reasons advanced by the Supreme Court to guarantee the right of reproductive self‐determination, as well as the effects of both decisions beyond the decriminalization of abortion by Mexican federal and state legislatures. The paper also examines the scope and limitations of these rulings and identifies the remaining challenges regarding voluntary abortion procedures in Mexico.
Literary responses in Spanish adolescents: Adaptation, validation, and analysis of the Literary Response Questionnaire
Authors: Muela‐Bermejo Diana , Mendoza‐Cercadillo Irene , Hernández‐Heras Lucía
Published: February 2024

This study involves translating, cross‐culturally adapting, and validating the Literary Response Questionnaire (LRQ) for 413 Spanish adolescents. It explores the evolution of literary education in Spain and its alignment with the Reading Responses paradigm. The LRQ, adapted across various locations, is validated in Spanish through Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The research analyzes reading responses in dimensions like Leisure Escape, Insight, Empathy, Story‐driven Reading, Concern with Author, Imagery Vividness, and Rejecting Literary Values. Findings reveal widespread indifference and rejection toward literary reading among the adolescents, along with a clear disapproval of the historicist‐authorial approach to literary education. Significant variations were identified based on students' gender, enrollment in a bilingual program, and notably, the number of books read per year. This underscores the significance of introducing literary reading practices in secondary education that align with the leisure preferences of adolescents, encouraging personal and experiential engagement with texts. This could materialize in the classroom the shift from a historicist to a reader‐centered approach suggested by the current Spanish curriculum.
Pnictogen bond‐driven control of the molecular interaction between organophosphorus and acetylcholinesterase enzyme
Authors: Andolpho Gustavo A. , Ramalho Teodorico C.
Published: February 2024

This study addresses a comprehensive assessment of the interaction between chemical warfare agents (CWA) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) systems, focus on the intriguing pnictogen‐bond interaction (PnB). Utilizing the crystallographic data from the Protein Data Bank pertaining to the AChE‐CWA complex involving Sarin (GB), Cyclosarin (GF), 2‐[fluoro(methyl)phosphoryl]oxy‐1,1‐dimethylcyclopentane (GP) and venomous agent X (VX) agents, the CWA is systematically displaced by increments of 0.1 Å along the PO bond axis, extending its distance by 4 Å from the original position. The AIM analysis was carried out and consistently revealed the presence of a significant interaction along the PO bond. Investigating the intrinsic nature of the PnB, the NBO and the EDA analysis unearthed the contribution of orbital factors to the overall energy of the system. Strikingly, this observation challenges the conventional σ‐hole explanation commonly associated with such interactions. This finding adds a layer of complexity to understanding of PnB, encouraging further exploration into the underlying mechanisms governing these intriguing chemical phenomena.
Mechanistic Modeling of Empagliflozin: Predicting Pharmacokinetics, Urinary Glucose Excretion, and Investigating Compensatory Role of SGLT1 in Renal Glucose Reabsorption
Authors: Ping Xian , Wang Guopeng , Gao Dongmei
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to use a combination of physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and urinary glucose excretion (UGE) modeling to predict the time profiles of pharmacokinetics (PK) and UGE for the sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin (EMP). Additionally, the study aims to explore the compensatory effect of SGLT1 in renal glucose reabsorption (RGR) when SGLT2 is inhibited. The PBPK‐UGE model was developed using physicochemical and biochemical properties, renal physiological parameters, binding kinetics, glucose, and Na+ reabsorption kinetics by SGLT1/2. For area under the plasma concentration‐time curve, maximum plasma concentration, and cumulative EMP excretion in urine, the predicted values fell within a range of 0.5‐2.0 when compared to observed data. Additionally, the simulated UGE data also matched well with the clinical data, further validating the accuracy of the model. According to the simulations, SGLT1 and SGLT2 contributed approximately 13% and 87%, respectively, to RGR in the absence of EMP. However, in the presence of EMP at doses of 2.5 and 10 mg, the contribution of SGLT1 to RGR significantly increased to approximately 76%‐82% and 89%‐93%, respectively, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, the model supported the understanding that the compensatory effect of SGLT1 is the underlying mechanism behind the moderate inhibition observed in total RGR. The PBPK‐UGE model has the capability to accurately predict the PK and UGE time profiles in humans. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the specific contributions of SGLT1 and SGLT2 to RGR in the presence or absence of EMP.
Dental students’ perceptions of standardized patient experiences using Zoom: Dyadic factors
Authors: Desai Jhanvi P. , Young Lance Brendan , McQuistan Michelle R.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The COVID‐19 pandemic required a rapid transition to online education, including simulations. The current study identified students’ perceptions of communicating with standardized patients in a virtual setting.

Methods

This qualitative study thematically analyzed 485 reflections submitted by 248 students between Spring 2020 and Spring 2022. Statements describing both the virtual medium and dyadic interactions between students and patients were coded for emergent themes and also coded as positive (facilitative) or negative (critical).

Results

Four themes emerged from the data related to the virtual medium: impact on nonverbal communication, patient engagement/rapport, presentation aids, and listening. Within these broad themes, 13 subthemes were identified, nine of which were negative/critical. Technology problems were specifically identified as compromising both engagement and listening. Even when technology worked well, students noted that it reduced the number of message cues received from the patient and complicated the process of sending cues (e.g., by requiring students to look away from a patient's face to make “eye contact” through a camera).

Conclusions

Overall, students were critical of Zoom's impact on dyadic factors with standardized patients. However, they did acknowledge some positive aspects regarding the technology. These findings provide a foundation to consider when teaching students how to communicate effectively via teledentistry.
Anciently duplicated genes continuously recruited to heart expression in vertebrate evolution are associated with heart chamber increase
Authors: Zou Yangyun , Yang Jingwen , Zhou Jingqi , Liu Gangbiao , Shen Libing , Zhou Zhan , Su Zhixi , Gu Xun
Published: February 2024

Although gene/genome duplications in the early stage of vertebrates have been thought to provide major resources of raw genetic materials for evolutionary innovations, it is unclear whether they continuously contribute to the evolution of morphological complexity during the course of vertebrate evolution, such as the evolution from two heart chambers (fishes) to four heart chambers (mammals and birds). We addressed this issue by our heart RNA‐Seq experiments combined with published data, using 13 vertebrates and one invertebrate (sea squirt, as an outgroup). Our evolutionary transcriptome analysis showed that number of ancient paralogous genes expressed in heart tends to increase with the increase of heart chamber number along the vertebrate phylogeny, in spite that most of them were duplicated at the time near to the origin of vertebrates or even more ancient. Moreover, those paralogs expressed in heart exert considerably different functions from heart‐expressed singletons: the former are functionally enriched in cardiac muscle and muscle contraction‐related categories, whereas the latter play more basic functions of energy generation like aerobic respiration. These findings together support the notion that recruiting anciently paralogous genes that are expressed in heart is associated with the increase of chamber number in vertebrate evolution.