bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and Quantification of Proliferating Cells in Skeletal Muscle of Glutamine Supplemented Low- and Normal-Birth-Weight Piglets
Authors: Albrecht Elke , Zhao Yaolu , Sciascia Quentin L. , Metges Cornelia C. , Maak Steffen
Published: February 2023

One way to improve the growth of low-birth-weight (LBW) piglets can be stimulation of the cellular development of muscle by optimized amino acid supply. In the current study, it was investigated how glutamine (Gln) supplementation affects muscle tissue of LBW and normal-birth-weight (NBW) piglets. Longissimus and semitendinosus muscles of 96 male piglets, which were supplemented with 1 g Gln/kg body weight or alanine, were collected at slaughter on day 5 or 26 post natum (dpn), one hour after injection with Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU, 12 mg/kg). Immunohistochemistry was applied to detect proliferating, BrdU-positive cells in muscle cross-sections. Serial stainings with cell type specific antibodies enabled detection and subsequent quantification of proliferating satellite cells and identification of further proliferating cell types, e.g., preadipocytes and immune cells. The results indicated that satellite cells and macrophages comprise the largest fractions of proliferating cells in skeletal muscle of piglets early after birth. The Gln supplementation somewhat stimulated satellite cells. We observed differences between the two muscles, but no influence of the piglets’ birth weight was observed. Thus, Gln supplements may not be considered as effective treatment in piglets with low birth weight for improvement of muscle growth.
Transfer of Cardiac Mitochondria Improves the Therapeutic Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Preclinical Model of Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Vignais Marie-Luce , Levoux Jennyfer , Sicard Pierre , Khattar Khattar , Lozza Catherine , Gervais Marianne , Mezhoud Safia , Nakhle Jean , Relaix Frederic , Agbulut Onnik , Fauconnier Jeremy , Rodriguez Anne-Marie
Published: February 2023

Background: The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) appears to be a promising therapeutic approach for cardiac repair after myocardial infarction. However, clinical trials have revealed the need to improve their therapeutic efficacy. Recent evidence demonstrated that mitochondria undergo spontaneous transfer from damaged cells to MSCs, resulting in the activation of the cytoprotective and pro-angiogenic functions of recipient MSCs. Based on these observations, we investigated whether the preconditioning of MSCs with mitochondria could optimize their therapeutic potential for ischemic heart disease. Methods: Human MSCs were exposed to mitochondria isolated from human fetal cardiomyocytes. After 24 h, the effects of mitochondria preconditioning on the MSCs’ function were analyzed both in vitro and in vivo. Results: We found that cardiac mitochondria-preconditioning improved the proliferation and repair properties of MSCs in vitro. Mechanistically, cardiac mitochondria mediate their stimulatory effects through the production of reactive oxygen species, which trigger their own degradation in recipient MSCs. These effects were further confirmed in vivo, as the mitochondria preconditioning of MSCs potentiated their therapeutic efficacy on cardiac function following their engraftment into infarcted mouse hearts. Conclusions: The preconditioning of MSCs with the artificial transfer of cardiac mitochondria appears to be promising strategy to improve the efficacy of MSC-based cell therapy in ischemic heart disease.
Epigenetic Evaluation of the TBX20 Gene and Environmental Risk Factors in Mexican Paediatric Patients with Congenital Septal Defects
Authors: García-Flores Esbeidy , Calderón-Colmenero Juan , Borgonio-Cuadra Verónica Marusa , Sandoval Juan Pablo , García-Montes José Antonio , Cazarín-Santos Benny Giovanni , Miranda-Duarte Antonio , Gamboa-Domínguez Armando , Rodríguez-Pérez José Manuel , Pérez-Hernández Nonanzit
Published: February 2023

The TBX20 gene has a key role during cardiogenesis, and it has been related to epigenetic mechanisms in congenital heart disease (CHD). The purpose of this study was to assess the association between DNA methylation status and congenital septal defects. The DNA methylation of seven CpG sites in the TBX20 gene promoter was analyzed through pyrosequencing as a quantitative method in 48 patients with congenital septal defects and 104 individuals with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The average methylation was higher in patients than in PDA (p < 0.001). High methylation levels were associated with a higher risk of congenital septal defects (OR = 4.59, 95% CI = 1.57–13.44, p = 0.005). The ROC curve analysis indicated that methylation of the TBX20 gene could be considered a risk marker for congenital septal defects (AUC = 0.682; 95% CI = 0.58–0.77; p < 0.001). The analysis of environmental risk factors in patients with septal defects and PDA showed an association between the consumption of vitamins (OR = 0.10; 95% CI = 0.01–0.98; p = 0.048) and maternal infections (OR = 3.10; 95% CI = 1.26–7.60; p = 0.013). These results suggest that differences in DNA methylation of the TBX20 gene can be associated with septal defects.
Ceramide Nanoliposomes as Potential Therapeutic Reagents for Asthma
Authors: Sakae Harumi , Ogiso Yuri , Matsuda Masaya , Shimora Hayato , Deering Tye , Fox Todd E. , Kester Mark , Nabe Takeshi , Kitatani Kazuyuki
Published: February 2023

Ceramides are an emerging class of anti-inflammatory lipids, and nanoscale ceramide-delivery systems are potential therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of ceramide nanoliposomes (CNL) on type 2 inflammation-based asthma, induced by repeated ovalbumin (OVA) challenges. Asthmatic mice intratracheally treated with ceramide-free liposomes (Ghost) displayed typical airway remodeling including mucosal accumulation and subepithelial fibrosis, whereas, in CNL-treated mice, the degree of airway remodeling was significantly decreased. Compared to the Ghost group, CNL treatment unexpectedly failed to significantly influence formation of type 2 cytokines, including IL-5 and IL-13, known to facilitate pathogenic production of airway mucus predominantly comprising MUC5AC mucin. Interestingly, CNL treatment suppressed OVA-evoked hyperplasia of MUC5AC-generating goblet cells in the airways. This suggests that CNL suppressed goblet cell hyperplasia and airway mucosal accumulation independently of type 2 cytokine formation. Mechanistically, CNL treatment suppressed cell growth and EGF-induced activation of Akt, but not ERK1/2, in a human lung epithelial cell culture system recapitulating airway goblet cell hyperplasia. Taken together, CNL is suggested to have therapeutic effects on airway remodeling in allergic asthma by targeting goblet cell hyperplasia. These findings raise the potential of ceramide-based therapies for airway diseases, such as asthma.
TDP-43 Proteinopathy Specific Biomarker Development
Authors: Cordts Isabell , Wachinger Annika , Scialo Carlo , Lingor Paul , Polymenidou Magdalini , Buratti Emanuele , Feneberg Emily
Published: February 2023

TDP-43 is the primary or secondary pathological hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, half of frontotemporal dementia cases, and limbic age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy, which clinically resembles Alzheimer’s dementia. In such diseases, a biomarker that can detect TDP-43 proteinopathy in life would help to stratify patients according to their definite diagnosis of pathology, rather than in clinical subgroups of uncertain pathology. For therapies developed to target pathological proteins that cause the disease a biomarker to detect and track the underlying pathology would greatly enhance such undertakings. This article reviews the latest developments and outlooks of deriving TDP-43-specific biomarkers from the pathophysiological processes involved in the development of TDP-43 proteinopathy and studies using biosamples from clinical entities associated with TDP-43 pathology to investigate biomarker candidates.
Modeling Blast Crisis Using Mutagenized Chronic Myeloid Leukemia-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)
Authors: Imeri Jusuf , Desterke Christophe , Marcoux Paul , Telliam Gladys , Sanekli Safa , Barreau Sylvain , Erbilgin Yucel , Latsis Theodoros , Hugues Patricia , Sorel Nathalie , Cayssials Emilie , Chomel Jean-Claude , Bennaceur-Griscelli Annelise , Turhan Ali G.
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To model CML progression in vitro and generate a blast crisis (BC-CML) model in vitro in order to identify new targets. Methods: Three different CML-derived iPSC lines were mutagenized with the alkylating agent ENU on a daily basis for 60 days. Cells were analyzed at D12 of hematopoietic differentiation for their phenotype, clonogenicity, and transcriptomic profile. Single-cell RNA-Seq analysis has been performed at three different time points during hematopoietic differentiation in ENU-treated and untreated cells. Results: One of the CML-iPSCs, compared to its non-mutagenized counterpart, generated myeloid blasts after hematopoietic differentiation, exhibiting monoblastic patterns and expression of cMPO, CD45, CD34, CD33, and CD13. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed a delay of differentiation in the mutated condition as compared to the control with increased levels of MSX1 (mesodermal marker) and a decrease in CD45 and CD41. Bulk transcriptomics analyzed along with the GSE4170 GEO dataset reveal a significant overlap between ENU-treated cells and primary BC cells. Among overexpressed genes, CD25 was identified, and its relevance was confirmed in a cohort of CML patients. Conclusions: iPSCs are a valuable tool to model CML progression and to identify new targets. Here, we show the relevance of CD25 identified in the iPSC model as a marker of CML progression.
Metabolomics in Plant Research—From Ecometabolomics to Metabolotyping
Authors: Rinalducci Sara , Wienkoop Stefanie
Published: February 2023

In this Special Issue, a state-of-the-art review of the current knowledge of sample preparation and LC–MS techniques for the analyses of nucleosides and nucleotides in plants was published [...]
SINFONIA: Scalable Identification of Spatially Variable Genes for Deciphering Spatial Domains
Authors: Jiang Rui , Li Zhen , Jia Yuhang , Li Siyu , Chen Shengquan
Published: February 2023

Recent advances in spatial transcriptomics have revolutionized the understanding of tissue organization. The identification of spatially variable genes (SVGs) is an essential step for downstream spatial domain characterization. Although several methods have been proposed for identifying SVGs, inadequate ability to decipher spatial domains, poor efficiency, and insufficient interoperability with existing standard analysis workflows still impede the applications of these methods. Here we propose SINFONIA, a scalable method for identifying spatially variable genes via ensemble strategies. Implemented in Python, SINFONIA can be seamlessly integrated into existing analysis workflows. Using 15 spatial transcriptomic datasets generated with different protocols and with different sizes, dimensions and qualities, we show the advantage of SINFONIA over three baseline methods and two variants via systematic evaluation of spatial clustering, domain resolution, latent representation, spatial visualization, and computational efficiency with 21 quantitative metrics. Additionally, SINFONIA is robust relative to the choice of the number of SVGs. We anticipate SINFONIA will facilitate the analysis of spatial transcriptomics.
Immune Cells Are Differentially Modulated in the Heart and the Kidney during the Development of Cardiorenal Syndrome 3
Authors: Vernier Imara Caridad Stable , Neres-Santos Raquel Silva , Andrade-Oliveira Vinicius , Carneiro-Ramos Marcela Sorelli
Published: February 2023

Cardiorenal syndrome type 3 (CRS 3) occurs when there is an acute kidney injury (AKI) leading to the development of an acute cardiac injury. The immune system is involved in modulating the severity of kidney injury, and the role of immune system cells in the development of CRS 3 is not well established. The present work aims to characterize the macrophage and T and B lymphocyte populations in kidney and heart tissue after AKI induced by renal I/R. Thus, C57BL/6 mice were subjected to a renal I/R protocol by occlusion of the left renal pedicle (unilateral) for 60 min, followed by reperfusion for 3, 8 and 15 days. The immune cell populations of interest were identified using flow cytometry, and RT-qPCR was used to evaluate gene expression. As a result, a significant increase in TCD4+, TCD8+ lymphocytes and M1 macrophages to the renal tissue was observed, while B cells in the heart decreased. A renal tissue repair response characterized by Foxp3 activation predominated. However, a more inflammatory profile was shown in the heart tissue influenced by IL-17RA and IL-1β. In conclusion, the AKI generated by renal I/R was able to activate and recruit T and B lymphocytes and macrophages, as well as pro-inflammatory mediators to renal and cardiac tissue, showing the role of the immune system as a bridge between both organs in the context of CRS 3.
Francisella tularensis Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Is Relocalized during Intracellular Infection and Reveals Effect on Cytokine Gene Expression and Signaling
Authors: Pavkova Ivona , Kopeckova Monika , Link Marek , Vlcak Erik , Filimonenko Vlada , Lecova Lenka , Zakova Jitka , Laskova Pavlina , Sheshko Valeria , Machacek Miloslav , Stulik Jiri
Published: February 2023

Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is known for its multifunctionality in several pathogenic bacteria. Our previously reported data suggest that the GAPDH homologue of Francisella tularensis, GapA, might also be involved in other processes beyond metabolism. In the present study, we explored GapA’s potential implication in pathogenic processes at the host cell level. Using immunoelectron microscopy, we demonstrated the localization of this bacterial protein inside infected macrophages and its peripheral distribution in bacterial cells increasing with infection time. A quantitative proteomic approach based on stable isotope labeling of amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) combined with pull-down assay enabled the identification of several of GapA’s potential interacting partners within the host cell proteome. Two of these partners were further confirmed by alternative methods. We also investigated the impact of gapA deletion on the transcription of selected cytokine genes and the activation of the main signaling pathways. Our results show that ∆gapA-induced transcription of genes encoding several cytokines whose expressions were not affected in cells infected with a fully virulent wild-type strain. That might be caused, at least in part, by the detected differences in ERK/MAPK signaling activation. The experimental observations together demonstrate that the F. tularensis GAPDH homologue is directly implicated in multiple host cellular processes and, thereby, that it participates in several molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis.
Functional Analysis of a Multiple-Domain CTL15 in the Innate Immunity, Eclosion, and Reproduction of Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Wang Suisui , Ai Huayi , Zhang Yonglei , Bi Jingxiu , Gao Han , Chen Peng , Li Bin
Published: February 2023

C-type lectin X (CTL-X) plays critical roles in immune defense, cell adhesion, and developmental regulation. Here, a transmembrane CTL-X of Tribolium castaneum, TcCTL15, with multiple domains was characterized. It was highly expressed in the early and late pupae and early adults and was distributed in all examined tissues. In addition, its expression levels were significantly induced after being challenged with pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and bacteria. In vitro, the recombinant TcCTL15 could recognize bacteria through binding PAMPs and exhibit agglutinating activity against a narrow range of bacteria in the presence of Ca2+. RNAi-mediated TcCTL15-knockdown-larvae infected with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus showed less survival, had activated immune signaling pathways, and induced the expression of antimicrobial peptide genes. Moreover, silencing TcCTL15 caused eclosion defects by impairing ecdysone and crustacean cardioactive peptide receptors (CCAPRs). Suppression of TcCTL15 in female adults led to defects in ovary development and fecundity, accompanied by concomitant reductions in the mRNA levels of vitellogenin (TcVg) and farnesol dehydrogenase (TcFDH). These findings imply that TcCTL15 has extensive functions in developmental regulation and antibacterial immunity. Uncovering the function of TcCTL15 will enrich the understanding of CTL-X in invertebrates. Its multiple biological functions endow the potential to be an attractive target for pest control.
Subcutaneous Granuloma Annulare vs. Subcutaneous Vascular Malformations in Children: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Beqo Besiana P. , Gasparella Paolo , Flucher Christina , Tschauner Sebastian , Brcic Iva , Haxhija Emir Q.
Published: February 2023

Objectives. There are various subcutaneous lesions in children and often there is difficulty in obtaining an accurate diagnosis by non-invasive diagnostic procedures. Subcutaneous granuloma annulare (SGA) is a rare granulomatous disease that, even after imaging, is often mistaken for a low-flow subcutaneous vascular malformation (SVM). This study aimed to accurately identify clinical and imaging clues to distinguish SGA from low-flow SVM. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed complete hospital records of all children with a confirmed diagnosis of SGA and low-flow SVM who underwent MR imaging at our institution from January 2001 to December 2020. Their disease history, clinical and imaging findings, management, and outcome were evaluated. Results. Among 57 patients with granuloma annulare, we identified 12 patients (nine girls) with a confirmed SGA diagnosis who underwent a preoperative MRI. Their median age was 3.25 years (range 2–5 years). Of 455 patients diagnosed with vascular malformations, 90 had malformations limited to the subcutaneous area. Among them only 47 patients with low-flow SVM were included in the study and further analyzed. Our SGA cohort had a female predilection (75%) and a short history of lump appearance of 1.5 months. SGA lesions were immobile and firm. Before MRI, patients underwent initial evaluation by ultrasound (100%) and X-ray (50%). Surgical tissue sampling was performed in all SGA patients to establish a diagnosis. All 47 patients with low-flow SVM were diagnosed correctly by MRI. A total of 45 patients (96%) underwent surgical resection of the SVM. A careful retrospective review of imaging findings of patients with SGA and SVM showed that SGA present as homogenous lesions in the shape of an epifascial cap with a typical broad fascial base extending towards the subdermal tissue in the middle of the lesion. In contrast, SVMs always present with variable-sized multicystic or tubular areas. Conclusions. Our study shows clear clinical and imaging differences between low-flow SVMs and SGA. SGA presents characteristically in the shape of a homogenous “epifascial cap,” which distinguishes these lesions from multicystic heterogenous SVMs.
Assessment of the Relationship between Body Weight Status and Physical Literacy in 8 to 12 Year Old Pakistani School Children: The PAK-IPPL Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Liu Yinghai , Hadier Syed Ghufran , Liu Long , Hamdani Syed Muhammad Zeeshan Haider , Hamdani Syed Danish , Danish Shaista Shireen , Fatima Syeda Urooj , Guo Yanlan
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Physical literacy (PL) is a multidimensional concept, since it fosters lifetime engagement in physical activities and reduces obesity; however, empirical evidence is lacking to support this association. This study first aimed to establish PL levels stratified by normal weight children and children with overweight and obesity. Furthermore, this study determined a correlation between PL domains and BMI by weight status among South Punjab school children. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 1360 (Boys: 675 and Girls: 685) children aged 8 to 12, and was conducted using CAPL-2. T-tests and chi-square were used to determine the difference between categorical variables, with MANOVA used to compare weight statuses. Spearman correlation was employed to determine the correlation between variables; p < 0.05 was considered significant. (3) Results: Normal weight children had significantly higher PL and domain scores, except for the knowledge domain. Most children with normal weights were at the achieving and excelling levels, while children with overweight and obesity were at the beginning and progressing levels. The correlation among PL domains in normal and overweight and obese children ranged from weak to strong (r = 0.001 to 0.737), and the knowledge domain was inversely correlated with the motivation domain (r = −0.023). PL and domain scores were inversely correlated to BMI, except for the knowledge domain. (4) Conclusions: Children with normal weight tend to have higher PL and domain scores, while those with overweight or obesity tend to have lower scores. There was a positive relationship between normal weight and higher PL and domain scores, and an inverse relationship was observed between BMI and higher PL scores.
Red flags Presented in Children Complaining of Headache in Paediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Conti Rosaura , Marta Giorgia , Wijers Lotte , Barbi Egidio , Poropat Federico
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to determine how common are specific red flags of life-threatening headache (LTH) among children with complaints of headache in the emergency department. A retrospective study was conducted over five years, including all patients aged < 18 years who presented for a headache to a Pediatric Emergency Department. We identified patients with life-threatening headaches and compared the recurrence of the main red flags (occipital location, vomit, nocturnal wake-up, presence of neurological signs, and family history of primary headache) to the remaining sample. Two-thousand-fifty-one children (51% female, 49% male) were included. Seven patients (0.3%) were diagnosed with a life-threatening headache. In the analysis of red flags, only the presence of abnormal neurological evaluation and vomiting was found to be more common in the LTH sample. No statistically significant difference was found for nocturnal awakening or occipital localization of pain. Urgent neuroradiological examinations were performed in 72 patients (3.5% of cases). The most common discharge diagnosis was infection-related headache (42.4%), followed by primary headaches (39.7%). This large retrospective study confirms the most recent literature suggesting that night awakenings and occipital pain are common symptoms also associated with not-LTH. Therefore, if isolated, they should not be considered red flags.
A Comparison of Wave Spectra during Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon Tropical Cyclones under an Intense Positive IOD Year 2019
Authors: Sinha Mourani , Jha Somnath , Kumar Anupam
Published: February 2023

The impact of Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events on the generation and intensity of tropical cyclones under the influence of monsoons is explored. The standardized sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies are computed for the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon months for the Bay of Bengal (BOB) and Arabian Sea (AS) from 1971 to 2020 and relationships are analyzed with the frequency of tropical cyclones for the neutral, positive and negative IOD years. Ocean states are sensitive to cyclonic conditions exhibiting a complex spectral distribution of the wave energy. Due to a tropical cyclone, the surface waves remain under high wind forcing conditions for prolonged periods generating a huge amount of energy. The spectral wave model SWAN (Simulating WAves Nearshore) is used to generate the energy density spectra during FANI (26 April–5 May 2019), which was a pre-monsoon extreme severe cyclonic storm, and BULBUL (5–12 November 2019), which was a post-monsoon very severe cyclonic storm in the BOB region. This study aims to estimate the intensity of wave energy during tropical cyclones in the pre- and post-monsoon months for 2019 (an extremely positive IOD year).
Influence of the Biological Medium on the Properties of Magnesium Doped Hydroxyapatite Composite Coatings
Authors: Predoi Daniela , Ciobanu Steluta Carmen , Iconaru Simona Liliana , Predoi Mihai Valentin
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the stability of magnesium-doped hydroxyapatite/chitosan (MHC) suspension obtained with the sol-gel approach was evaluated using nondestructive ultrasound measurements. The MHC coatings obtained by the spin-coating technique were characterized before and after immersion for 7 and 14 days, respectively, in Dulbecco’s modified eagle medium (DMEM) by scanning electron microscopy, equipped with an EDAX detector. Also, the functional groups present on the MHC coatings surface were analyzed with the aid of attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The surface microstructure was evaluated using two commentary techniques, namely atomic force microscopy (AFM) and metallographic microscopy (MM). The influence of immersion in DMEM on the biological properties was studied with in vitro studies using primary osteoblast and HCT-8 cell lines. Our results revealed that both surface morphology and chemical composition of the MHC coatings allow rapid development of a new apatite layer on their surface after immersion in DMEM. Preliminary in vitro biological studies underlined the noncytotoxic effect of the studied samples on the proliferation of primary osteoblast and HCT-8 cell lines, which makes them a promising candidate for applications in fields such as orthopedics or dentistry. The antifungal assay of the MHC coatings was assessed using Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and their results showed a good inhibitory effect. The coatings made on the basis of the MHC composite could contribute to increasing the degree of success of implants by decreasing the risk of infections and postoperative inflammation.
Production and Characterization of Photocatalytic PEO Coatings Containing TiO2 Powders Recovered from Wastes
Authors: Pezzato Luca , Colusso Elena , Cerchier Pietrogiovanni , Settimi Alessio Giorgio , Brunelli Katya
Published: February 2023

In this work, the possibility of incorporating TiO2 titanium dioxide particles derived from the recycling process of photovoltaic panels into PEO coatings was investigated. These particles constitute the main filler of the polymer constituting the rear part of the panels, and are characterized by possessing photocatalytic properties. The particles were added in different quantities to the electrolyte (a basic solution containing sodium silicate). The incorporation into the PEO coating produced on an aluminum alloy 1050, and the possibility of conferring photocatalytic properties to the surface of the samples were studied. The different samples were first characterized by optical microscope analysis, SEM and XRD and from the point of view of corrosion resistance by means of potentiodynamic tests. The photocatalytic properties of the samples were evaluated by monitoring the degradation of aqueous solutions of methylene blue exposed to a UV lamp. The particles have been successfully incorporated into the coating, and their presence does not alter the corrosion properties, which are improved compared to the uncoated sample. The particles, initially composed of a mixture of rutile and anatase, are instead transformed into rutile after incorporation due to the locally very high temperatures that can occur during the PEO process. In the samples obtained with higher quantities of titanium dioxide particles (60 and 80 g/L), a significant photocatalytic effect is observed with a significant reduction of methylene blue.
The Influence of Assembly Unit of Fibers on the Mechanical and Long-Term Properties of Reactive Powder Concrete
Authors: Cai Zhangjie , Ren Jie , Shen Guangming , Jin Changhong , Gu Xingqing , Cheng Wenjie , Wang Hui
Published: February 2023

The corrosion of concrete structures by chloride salt is very significant in coastal environments. In order to improve the durability of marine concrete structures, cement-based materials with high durability need to be developed. In this investigation, the influence of NaCl freeze–thaw cycles (FT-C) and NaCl dry-wet alternations (DW-A) on the flexural and compressive strengths of reactive powder concrete (RPC) with an assembly unit of basalt fibers and steel fibers is studied. Additionally, the mass loss rate, the relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDEM), the chloride ion migration coefficient (CMC) and the impact toughness are measured after the NaCl FT-C and DW-A action. Our findings show that the RDEM, mass loss, and mechanical strength loss of RPC are increased by the ascending NaCl FT-C and DW-A. Meanwhile, the RDEM and the impact toughness are decreased by the NaCl FT-C and DW-A. The RPC with 0.5% basalt fibers and 1.5% steel fibers by volume of RPC shows the optimum mechanical performance and resistance to NaCl FT-C and DW-A. However, RPC with 3% steel fibers shows the worst resistance to NaCl erosion. The maximum mass loss rates, RDEM, flexural strength loss rate, compressive strength loss rate, CMC and impact toughness of all specimens after 300 NaCl FT-C and 30 NaCl DW-A are 4.5%, 91.7%, 28.1%, 29.3%, 3.2 × 10−12 (m2/s) and 2471 J. Meanwhile, the corresponding minimum values are 1.62%, 83.2%, 20.4%, 15.7%, 1.1 × 10−12 (m2/s) and 625 J. The researching findings will provide an optimum mix ratio of RPC with an assembly unit of basalt fibers and steel fibers, which can be applied in the marine engineering environment.
Boosting Water Oxidation Activity via Carbon–Nitrogen Vacancies in NiFe Prussian Blue Analogue Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Meng , Wu Wenjie , Wang Zhen , Xie Gang , Guo Xiaohui
Published: February 2023

The development of electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reactions (OERs) is of great significance for hydrogen production. Defect engineering is an effective strategy to improve the OER performance of electrocatalyst by regulating the local electronic and atomic structures of electrocatalysts. Here, we successfully synthesized defective Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) with rich CN vacancies (D-NiFe PBA) as efficient OER electrocatalysts. The optimized D-NiFe PBA exhibited an overpotential of 280 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a superior stability for over 100 h in KOH electrolytes. The formation of CN vacancies in the NiFe PBA could effectively inhibit the loss of Fe active sites, promote the reconstruction of the NiFe oxygen (hydroxide) active layer in the OER process, and further improve the electrocatalytic activity and stability of the VCN-NiFe PBA. This work presents a feasible approach for the wide application of vacancy defects in PBA electrocatalysts.
Preparation and Investigation of Ni–Co–P Alloy Coatings Using Jet Electrodeposition with Varying Pulse Parameters
Authors: Zhang Yin , Mbugua Nyambura Samuel , Jin Huawei , Chen Lingling
Published: February 2023

Ni–Co–P alloy coatings were successfully fabricated by jet electrodeposition with varying pulse frequencies and duty cycles in order to prolong the longevity of steel C1045 substrates. The results showed that the microstructures and properties of samples were significantly affected by pulse frequencies and duty cycles. All the samples with varying pulse frequencies and duty cycles exhibited a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. Additionally, the average grain size of the samples reached 20.6 nm. The microhardness of the coatings was observed to first increase, and then decrease, with a rise in pulse frequencies and duty cycles. The microhardness reached 656.2 HV0.1, and the wear scar width of the coatings reached 414.4 µm at 4 kHz pulse frequency and 80% duty cycle. Additionally, the corrosion current densities (Icorr) of samples reached a minimum value of 0.74 µA·cm−2, the corrosion rates (Rcorr) reached a minimum value of 8.9 µm·year−1, and the charge transfer resistance (Rct) reached a maximum value of 8.36 × 104 Ω·cm−2, which indicated the optimal seawater corrosion resistance of the deposited coatings.
Ultra-High-Risk Gestational Choriocarcinoma of the Ovary Associated with Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Malovrh Eva Pavla , Lukinovič Nuša , Bujas Tatjana , Sobočan Monika , Knez Jure
Published: February 2023

Gestational choriocarcinoma of the ovary is an exceptionally rare and highly aggressive tumor. Preoperative diagnosis of extrauterine choriocarcinoma is difficult due to nonspecific clinical presentation and its resemblance to ectopic pregnancy. Without molecular genetic analysis, it is not possible to reliably differentiate gestational from non-gestational choriocarcinoma. Here, we present a case of a 44-year-old woman who presented to our emergency department with complaints of pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and amenorrhea. Because of a recent history of conservatively managed ectopic pregnancy, the patient underwent emergency laparoscopy. Right-sided salpingo-oophorectomy was performed due to intraoperatively suspected ovarian ectopic pregnancy. Histopathology results revealed the diagnosis of ovarian choriocarcinoma of possible gestational origin. It was classified as FIGO stage IV and WHO ultra-high-risk, and she underwent multi-agent chemotherapy without major complications. She has remained in complete remission after a 12-month follow-up. Considering the rarity of this diagnosis, we conducted a literature review including all published cases of suspected gestational choriocarcinomas of the ovary. We conclude that due to the rarity of this entity, preoperative differentiating between ovarian ectopic pregnancy and ovarian choriocarcinoma is extremely challenging, and without molecular genetic analysis, it is not possible to identify the genetic origin of the tumor.
Environmental Drivers of Amphibian Breeding Phenology across Multiple Sites
Authors: Benard Michael F. , Greenwald Katherine R.
Published: February 2023

A mechanistic understanding of phenology, the seasonal timing of life history events, is important for understanding species’ interactions and the potential responses of ecological communities to a rapidly changing climate. We present analysis of a seven-year dataset on the breeding phenology of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica), tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum), blue-spotted salamanders (Ambystoma laterale), and associated unisexual Ambystoma salamanders from six wetlands in Southeast Michigan, USA. We assess whether the ordinal date of breeding migrations varies among species, sexes, and individual wetlands, and we describe the specific environmental conditions associated with breeding migrations for each species/sex. Breeding date was significantly affected by species/sex identity, year, wetland, and the interactions between species/sex and year as well as wetland and year. There was a great deal of variation among years, with breeding occurring nearly synchronously among groups in some years but widely spaced between groups in other years. Specific environmental triggers for movement varied for each species and sex and changed as the breeding season progressed. In general, salamanders responded to longer temperature lags (more warmer days in a row) than wood frogs, whereas wood frogs required longer precipitation lags (more rainy days in a row) than salamanders. Wood frogs were more likely to migrate around the time of a new moon, whereas in contrast, Ambystoma salamander migration was not associated with a moon phase. Ordinal day was an important factor in all models, suggesting that these amphibians require a latency period or similar mechanism to avoid breeding too early in the year, even when weather conditions appear favorable. Male wood frogs migrated earlier than female wood frogs, and male blue-spotted salamanders migrated earlier than female A. laterale and associated unisexual females. Larger unisexual salamanders migrated earlier than smaller individuals. Differences in species’ responses to environmental cues led to wood frogs and A. laterale breeding later than tiger salamanders in colder years but not in warmer years. This suggests that, as the climate warms, wood frog and A. laterale larvae may experience less predation from tiger salamander larvae due to reduced size differences when they breed simultaneously. Our study is one of few to describe the proximate drivers of amphibian breeding migrations across multiple species, wetlands, and years, and it can inform models predicting how climate change may shift ecological interactions among pond-breeding amphibian species.
Catalysis before Enzymes: Thiol-Rich Peptides as Molecular Diversity Providers on the Early Earth
Authors: Shalayel Ibrahim , Leqraa Naoual , Blandin Veronique , Vallée Yannick
Published: February 2023

The multiplicity of simple molecules available on the primitive Earth probably made possible the development of extremely diverse prebiotic chemistry. The importance of thiols is widely recognized in the community studying the origin of life. De Duve’s “thioester world” has been considered a major contribution in this regard, where thioester bonds have high energies and thus can contribute to several chemical reactions. Herein, we propose specific models of thiols that exhibit unique activities toward several chemical reactions. Thanks to aminothiol and aminonitrile behaviors, we were able to obtain thiol-rich peptides with interesting catalytic activities leading to the formation of structurally diverse molecules. In a broader context, such chemistry could be introduced into systems chemistry scenarios in which it would be associated with the chemistry of nucleic acids or their precursors, as well as that of fatty acids.
Pelagial Zooplankton Community in a Newly Established Reservoir during and after the Impoundment of a Hydropower Dam
Authors: Stamou Georgia , Katsiapi Matina , Demertzioglou Maria , Voutsa Dimitra , Kozari Argyri , Pantelaki Ioanna , Moustaka-Gouni Maria , Michaloudi Evangelia
Published: February 2023

The global increase in energy demand has triggered a global boom in the construction of hydropower dams worldwide affecting biological communities. Our objective is to study the zooplankton (Rotifera, Cladocera and Copepoda) community structure during and after the impoundment of a newly constructed reservoir, to provide valuable knowledge on species diversity, community structure and dynamics to be considered in future management plans. The impoundment period was characterized by increased species richness with high turnover because of the zooplankton’s high dispersal ability and reflected the inoculation of the reservoir with local fauna. Zooplankton during this period were also correlated negatively with depth and positively with total organic nitrogen and nitrate, highlighting the importance of trophic impact. The time following the impoundment reflected the colonization processes to more stable communities. The seasonality domination followed the Mediterranean pattern, with cold and warm periods being differentiated by changes in community structure, while abundance and biomass remained low throughout the studied period. Combined with the dominance of small-sized individuals, it resulted in low grazing pressure, indicating that zooplankton was not the factor controlling phytoplankton.
Checklist of the Fishes of the Kundelungu National Park (Upper Congo Basin, DR Congo): Species Diversity and Endemicity of a Poorly Known Ichthyofauna
Authors: Abwe Emmanuel , Snoeks Jos , Manda Bauchet Katemo , Mutambala Pacifique Kiwele , Kalumba Lewis Ngoy , Bragança Pedro H. N. , Kipanga Kamwanya , Mulelenu Christian Mukweze , Kayaba Micheline Kasongo Ilunga , Manda Auguste Chocha , Vreven Emmanuel J. W. M. N.
Published: February 2023

The fish diversity of the Kundelungu National Park (KNP), one of the seven national parks of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has never been thoroughly studied. This first checklist is presented based on a literature compilation and the study of historical (1939–1969) and recent collections (2012–2017). A total of 96 taxa are reported, including 64 native described species, one introduced species (Poecilia reticulata), 13 new species that await formal description and 18 possibly new species that require further investigation to verify their status. These taxa represent 39 genera and 17 families from the KNP including its Buffer Zone (BZ). Only six taxa, including five endemics, are known from the Core Zone on the Kundelungu Plateau (1300–1700 m alt.). At lower altitudes (800–1100 m), in the Annex Zone, 71 taxa, including 17 endemics, were found. Finally, 50 taxa, including 13 endemics and one introduced species, are known from its BZ. The fish fauna of the KNP is threatened by overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and habitat degradation due to mining pollution, and deforestation for agriculture on the river banks. The present study provides the much needed baseline data for the protection and conservation planning of this fish fauna, for which conservation suggestions are formulated.
Phylogeography and Genetic Diversity of Duck Mussel Anodonta anatina (Bivalvia: Unionidae) in Eurasia
Authors: Lyubas Artem A. , Tomilova Alena A. , Kondakov Alexander V. , Konopleva Ekaterina S. , Vikhrev Ilya V. , Gofarov Mikhail Yu. , Eliseeva Tatyana A. , Aksenova Olga V. , Bovykina Galina V. , Kryuk Darya V. , Gorbunova Tatyana L. , Munjiu Oxana , Pokrovsky Oleg S. , Bolotov Ivan N.
Published: February 2023

The duck mussel Anodonta anatina is widely distributed throughout the freshwater basins of Northern, Central, and Western Eurasia, and it has a comprehensive genetic structure. This study was devoted to the analysis of lineages, which are defined based on COI gene sequences. Our new dataset was expanded by samples from freshwater basins of Northern and Central Eurasia. It allowed us to reveal a high level of genetic diversity for the widely distributed trans-Eurasian lineage of A. anatina for the first time. As for results, representative samples from the Russian Plain, Southern Siberia, and the Ural region showed the presence of multiple interactions between duck mussel populations, indicating the existence of connections between freshwater basins in this region during the Late Quaternary. The genetic group from the freshwater basins of Northern Eurasia may be divided into two sub-lineages, which have differences in genetic structure and distribution patterns. It was revealed that there was a post-glacial expansion of duck mussels in the freshwater basins of Northern Eurasia after deglaciations of these territories and that the wide distribution of this species in this region was shaped via ancient connections between periglacial waterbodies. The lineage of A. anatina from the Ponto-Caspian region is a genetically rich and diverged group, which is present in the riverine basins of West-Central Asia related to the Caspian Sea.
The Effect of Salinity on the Egg Production Rate of the Sac-Spawning Calanoid Copepod, Pseudodiaptomus hessei, in a Temporarily Open/Closed Southern African Estuary
Authors: Froneman Pierre William
Published: February 2023

Global climate change is anticipated to be associated with changes in the salinity regimes of southern African estuaries as a result of the increased frequency of occurrences of extreme weather events (droughts and coastal storms) and the rise in sea level. The current investigation assessed the impact of salinity on the egg production rate (EPR) of the numerically important sac-spawning calanoid copepod, Pseudodiaptomus hessei, in a temporarily open/closed southern African estuary. The EPR of the copepod was determined using in vitro incubations during three distinct salinity regimes corresponding to the freshwater-deprived (hypersaline-salinity 38 PSU), freshwater-dominated (mesohaline-salinity 5 PSU), and polyhaline water phase (salinity 24 PSU). The egg production rate (EPR) and clutch size of P. hessei during the study ranged from 5.9 to 28.1 eggs F−1 d−1 and between 12 and 36 eggs sac−1, respectively. The EPR and clutch size of P. hessei during the polyhaline phase was significantly higher than during the freshwater-dominated and freshwater-deprived phases (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in prosome length, egg size, or the hatching success of P. hessei during the three salinity regimes (p > 0.05 in all cases). The results of the current study suggest that the salinity changes in TOCEs in response to global climate warming are likely to be associated with a decrease in the reproductive success of P. hessei along the southeastern coastline of South Africa.
Conservation of Host, Translocation of Parasites—Monitoring of Helminths during Population Reinforcement of the European Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus citellus)
Authors: Kachamakova Maria , Mutafchiev Yasen , Nikolov Pavel N. , Koshev Yordan
Published: February 2023

Gastrointestinal helminth parasites can be transferred during conservation translocations and impact their outcome. The current study applied non-invasive coprological sampling to investigate the helminth infection rates and dynamics in translocated and resident European ground squirrels, during and after a population reinforcement. The FLOTAC method was calibrated and applied for the first time for the target species. In the studied coprological samples, helminth eggs belonging to Acanthocephala and Nematoda were found; the latter were morphologically identified as belonging to the families Capillariidae (Enoplida) and Trichostrongylidae (Strongylida) and superfamily Spiruroidea (Spirurida). The overall helminth prevalence and their diversity were higher in the donor colony compared to the resident one before the reinforcement. Pronounced seasonal dynamics in the parasite prevalence and diversity were observed, and their values were considerably lower in spring than in summer in both translocated and resident hosts. A year after the start of the translocation, the helminth prevalence and number of species detected in the reinforced colony had increased significantly. This is in accordance with epidemiological models and other empirical studies that predict a positive relationship between the population density of a host and the prevalence and species richness of parasites.
Addressing Threats and Ecosystem Intactness to Enable Action for Extinct in the Wild Species
Authors: Dalrymple Sarah E. , Abeli Thomas , Ewen John G. , Gilbert Tania C. , Hogg Carolyn J. , Lloyd Natasha A. , Moehrenschlager Axel , Rodríguez Jon Paul , Smith Donal
Published: February 2023

The species listed as Extinct in the Wild (EW) in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species consist of 84 plants and animals that have been lost from their indigenous range. EW species are therefore restricted to ex situ conservation facilities and often have populations founded with few individuals. Our analysis demonstrates that 60% of EW species are associated with ecoregions that have very low proportions of intact habitat. Furthermore, threats such as invasive species, pollution, and climate change affect just over half of EW species and compound the obstacles facing their reinstatement to the wild. Despite these bleak assessments, there are various options for EW recovery. We present five scenarios that encapsulate the circumstances facing EW species and suggest potential conservation action for each of these situations. We illustrate these scenarios using case studies of EW species that demonstrate how the various options of ex situ management, reintroduction, and assisted colonisation to new habitat can be used to address the very exacting requirements of EW species. Our aim is to present a broad review of the obstacles facing the recovery of EW species whilst inspiring action to prevent the extinction of the most imperilled species on the planet.