bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dipyrromethane‐Based PGeP Pincer Germyl Rhodium Complexes
Authors: Cabeza Javier A. , Fernández‐Colinas José M. , García‐Álvarez Joaquín , García‐Álvarez Pablo , Laglera‐Gándara Carlos J. , Ramos‐Martín Marina
Published: May 2022

A family of germyl rhodium complexes derived from the PGeP germylene 2,2’‐bis(di‐isopropylphosphanylmethyl)‐5,5’‐dimethyldipyrromethane‐1,1’‐diylgermanium(II), Ge(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2(1), has been prepared. Germylene1reacted readily with [RhCl(PPh3)3] and [RhCl(cod)(PPh3)] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene) to give, in both cases, the PGeP‐pincer chloridogermyl rhodium(I) derivative [Rh{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeCl(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}(PPh3)] (2). Similarly, the reaction of1with [RhCl(cod)(MeCN)] afforded [Rh{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeCl(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}(MeCN)] (3). The methoxidogermyl and methylgermyl rhodium(I) complexes [Rh{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeR(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}(PPh3)] (R=OMe,4; Me,5) were prepared by treating complex2with LiOMe and LiMe, respectively. Complex5readily reacted with CO to give the carbonyl rhodium(I) derivative [Rh{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeR(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}(CO)] (6), with HCl, HSnPh3and Ph2S2rendering the pentacoordinate methylgermyl rhodium(III) complexes [RhHX{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeMe(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}] (X=Cl,7; SnPh3,8) and [Rh(SPh)2{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeMe(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}] (9), respectively, and with H2to give the hexacoordinate derivative [RhH2{κ3P,Ge,P‐GeMe(pyrmPiPr2)2CMe2}(PPh3)] (10). Complexes3and5are catalyst precursors for the hydroboration of styrene, 4‐vinyltoluene and 4‐vinylfluorobenzene with catecholborane under mild conditions.
Refractory nummular eczema in child successfully treated with NB‐UVB and topical delgocitinib
Authors: Kurokawa Ichiro , Ono Jun‐Ichiro
Published: May 2022

Refractory nummular eczema with atopic dermatitis in child successfully treated with narrowband ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) and topical delgocitinib was reported. The combination of NB‐UVB and topical delgicitinib can be one of alternative treatments for refractory nummular eczema in children.
Intra‐arterial chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced buccal mucosal cancer in an elderly patient with multiple comorbidities: A case report
Authors: Taniguchi Akito , Toyomasu Yutaka , Takada Akinori , Mase Takamitsu , Kurohara Kazuto , Omori Kazuki , Nanpei Yui , Kawamura Tomoko , Sakuma Hajime , Nomoto Yoshihito
Published: May 2022

Background

The management of locally advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (LA‐OCScc) in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities is difficult.

Case

We report the case of an elderly patient with buccal mucosal squamous cell carcinoma as well as chronic renal dysfunction, hepatic cirrhosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and metachronous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. We performed radiation therapy (a total dose of 70 Gy in 35 fractions) and six cycles of intra‐arterial chemotherapy with 40 mg/m2 cisplatin per week.

After treatment, the tumor completely disappeared, and there was no recurrence or deterioration of comorbidities during the 12‐month follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Intra‐arterial chemoradiotherapy may be a good treatment option for LA‐OCScc in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities.
Hybridization Chain Reaction for mRNA Localization in Single Cells from Mouse and Human Cryosections
Authors: May‐Zhang Aaron A. , Benthal Joseph T. , Southard‐Smith E. Michelle
Published: May 2022

In situ hybridization has been a robust method for detection of mRNA expression in whole‐mount samples or tissue sections for more than 50 years. Recent technical advances for in situ hybridization have incorporated oligo‐based probes that attain greater tissue penetration and signal amplification steps with restricted localization for visualization of specific mRNAs within single cells. One such method is third‐generation in situ hybridization chain reaction (V3HCR). Here, we report an optimized protocol for V3HCR detection of gene expression using sectioned frozen tissues from mouse and human on microscope slides. Our methods and modifications for cryosectioning, tissue fixation, and processing over a three‐day V3HCR protocol are detailed along with recommendations for aliquoting and storing V3HCR single‐stranded DNA probes and hairpin amplifiers. In addition, we describe a method for blocking background signal from lipofuscin, a highly autofluorescent material that is widespread in human neurons and often complicates imaging efforts. After testing multiple strategies for reduction of lipofuscin, we determined that application of a lipofuscin quencher dye is compatible with V3HCR, in contrast to other methods like cupric sulfate quenching or Sudan Black B blocking that cause V3HCR signal loss. This adaptation enables application of V3HCR for in situ detection of gene expression in human neuronal populations that are otherwise problematic due to lipofuscin autofluorescence. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Mouse and human fresh‐frozen tissue in situ hybridization chain reaction on microscope slides

Support Protocol: Aliquoting of HCR probes and hairpins
Using SPAdes, AUGUSTUS, and BLAST in an Automated Pipeline for Clustering Homologous Exome Sequences
Authors: Ishengoma Edson , Rhode Clint
Published: May 2022

Cross‐species exome sequencing approaches provide unprecedented avenues for obtaining genetic diversity, evolutionary relationships, and functional information from a variety of organisms including non‐model species. These approaches offer cost‐effective opportunities to study multiple individuals or species in parallel, but also create bioinformatics challenges in the application of multiple but powerful bioinformatics tools for the identification of homologous gene families across individual or species boundaries. Popular tools of this kind include SPAdes for sequence assembly, AUGUSTUS for ab initio gene prediction, and BLAST for building homologous sequence families. These tools can also be sophisticated in terms of installation and usage. Here, we present detailed steps on how to run these tools for the recovery and clustering of exon sequences from cross‐species raw exome‐capture data into homologous sequence families. We also present a utility pipeline, CODSEQCP, that automates these steps to cluster exon sequences, facilitating population genomics and evolutionary studies. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Reads assembly using SPAdes

Basic Protocol 2: Coding sequence extraction using AUGUSTUS

Basic Protocol 3: Sequence clustering using BLAST

Alternate Protocol: How to run CODSEQCP
Isolation of Giant Viruses of Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Machado Talita Bastos , de Aquino Isabella Luiza Martins , Abrahão Jônatas Santos
Published: May 2022

This article describes a practical method for prospecting and isolating giant viruses based on direct inoculation of environmental samples into amoeba cultures of Acanthamoeba castellanii. The giant viruses that infect amoebas have already been isolated from various environmental samples in several countries worldwide, including in extreme environments. Here we describe the methodologic procedures regarding the prospecting of giant viruses in A. castellanii, including the preparation of environmental samples, the culture of amoebas, and the observation of cytopathic effects that can indicate the presence and potential isolation of giant viruses. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Sample collection

Support Protocol: Propagation of Acanthamoeba castellanii

Basic Protocol 2: Prospecting of giant viruses in environmental samples by cytopathic effect analysis
Review of cool‐season turfgrass water use and requirements: II. Responses to drought stress
Authors: Braun Ross C. , Bremer Dale J. , Ebdon Jeffrey Scott , Fry Jack D. , Patton Aaron J.
Published: May 2022

Knowledge of drought resistance of cool‐season turfgrasses is important because drought stress can occur wherever they are grown even in humid regions with wet climates. This review is Part II of two companion papers that review water use and requirements in cool‐season turfgrasses. Part I presented the history of early water conservation and quantification methods in turfgrass and then summarized research results since 1980 on cool‐season turfgrass evapotranspiration and deficit irrigation. Part II presents a brief history of drought research and then summarizes studies completed since 1980 on cool‐season turfgrass drought resistance including interspecies and intraspecies differences. This overview of research regarding drought resistance covers >30 field experiments that evaluated drought response to irrigation amounts, length of dry down, and the influence of environmental and management factors. More cool‐season turf research has focused on intraspecies variation in drought resistance of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) or tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) than any other cool‐season turf species; therefore, more research is needed on other cool‐season turfgrass species, such as perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), bentgrasses (Agrostis L. ssp.), and fine fescues (Festuca L. spp.). Further study is warranted to investigate differences in drought resistance strategies among plants and management practices, shoot and root responses, subsequent recovery, and inter‐ and intraspecies variation in cool‐season turfgrasses especially in northern climatic regions where cool‐season turf species are adapted. Improvement of drought resistance in cool‐season turfgrasses will require focused breeding efforts with acute drought screening protocols.
How do customers' perceptions of corporate social responsibility contribute to sustainable customer citizenship behaviors? The mediating mechanisms of corporate brand pride and self‐brand connection
Authors: Jung Chang Mo , Hur Won‐Moo
Published: May 2022

This study extends previous research on corporate social responsibility (CSR) by including the mediating role of corporate brand pride and self‐brand connection from a relationship quality perspective. Based on the theoretical foundation of social identity theory, four hypotheses were established and tested using structural equation modeling. Data from 609 banking customers in Korea were collected via online questionnaire surveys. The results revealed the following: (1) Customers' perceptions of CSR are significant in enhancing customer citizenship behaviors. (2) Corporate brand pride mediates the positive relationship between customers' perceptions of CSR and customer citizenship behaviors. (3) Self‐brand connection mediates the positive relationship between customers' perceptions of CSR and customer citizenship behaviors. (4) Serial multiple mediation of corporate brand pride and self‐brand connection exist between customers' perceptions of CSR and customer citizenship behaviors. These results identified the mediating process related to the relationship quality between customers' perceptions of CSR and customer citizenship behavior.
Implementation of Izhikevich neuron based on stochastic computing using a novel inspired Omega‐Flip stochastic number generator
Authors: Hedayatpour Mohammad Ali , Karami Mohammad Azim , Shamsi Jafar
Published: May 2022

This paper presents an optimized stochastic multiplier to implement Izhikevich spiking neuron model. A novel stochastic number generator is used as the main block for stochastic computing to design a stochastic multiplier. The designed multiplier was used to describe and implement Izhikevich neuron model equation which is capable to produce variant responses of spiking neurons. To the best of the author's knowledge, this work is the pioneer using a designed multiplier for computing all of the multiplication expressions in spiking neuron equation. The effect of increasing number of bit streams on the accuracy of stochastic computing is studied. Furthermore, some numerical intervals that are more prone to the error are found and illustrated upon stochastic computing usage, and a method is proposed to improve the error prone numerical intervals. In addition, the response accuracy is optimized by changing time step parameter in solving ordinary differential Izhikevich neuron model equation using Euler's method. Hence, a 13‐bit stochastic multiplier is designed. It is found that variations in parameters a and b have a profound effect on the accuracy of recovery variable u and, consequently, on the responses. Out of 20 responses of Izhikevich neuron model, 11 responses are generated using the proposed stochastic computing method and compared with piecewise linear method and some previous architectures of Izhikevich neuron model implementations.
Joint‐label fusion brain atlases for dementia research in Down syndrome
Authors: Queder Nazek , Phelan Michael J. , Taylor Lisa , Tustison Nicholas , Doran Eric , Hom Christy , Nguyen Dana , Lai Florence , Pulsifer Margaret , Price Julie , Kreisl William C. , Rosas Herminia D. , Krinsky‐McHale Sharon , Brickman Adam M. , Yassa Michael A. , Schupf Nicole , Silverman Wayne , Lott Ira T. , Head Elizabeth , Mapstone Mark , Keator David B. ,   for the Alzheimer's Biomarkers Consortium
Published: May 2022

Research suggests a link between Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome (DS) and the overproduction of amyloid plaques. Using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) we can assess the in‐vivo regional amyloid load using several available ligands. To measure amyloid distributions in specific brain regions, a brain atlas is used. A popular method of creating a brain atlas is to segment a participant's structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. Acquiring an MRI is often challenging in intellectually‐imparied populations because of contraindications or data exclusion due to significant motion artifacts or incomplete sequences related to general discomfort. When an MRI cannot be acquired, it is typically replaced with a standardized brain atlas derived from neurotypical populations (i.e. healthy individuals without DS) which may be inappropriate for use in DS. In this project, we create a series of disease and diagnosis‐specific (cognitively stable (CS‐DS), mild cognitive impairment (MCI‐DS), and dementia (DEM‐DS)) probabilistic group atlases of participants with DS and evaluate their accuracy of quantifying regional amyloid load compared to the individually‐based MRI segmentations. Further, we compare the diagnostic‐specific atlases with a probabilistic atlas constructed from similar‐aged cognitively‐stable neurotypical participants. We hypothesized that regional PET signals will best match the individually‐based MRI segmentations by using DS group atlases that aligns with a participant's disorder and disease status (e.g. DS and MCI‐DS). Our results vary by brain region but generally show that using a disorder‐specific atlas in DS better matches the individually‐based MRI segmentations than using an atlas constructed from cognitively‐stable neurotypical participants. We found no additional benefit of using diagnose‐specific atlases matching disease status. All atlases are made publicly available for the research community.

Highlight

Down syndrome (DS) joint‐label‐fusion atlases provide accurate positron emission tomography (PET) amyloid measurements.

A disorder‐specific DS atlas is better than a neurotypical atlas for PET quantification.

It is not necessary to use a disease‐state–specific atlas for quantification in aged DS.

Dorsal striatum results vary, possibly due to this region and dementia progression.
Biogeography pattern of the marine angiosperm Cymodocea nodosa in the eastern Mediterranean Sea related to the quaternary climatic changes
Authors: Konstantinidis Ioannis , Gkafas Georgios A. , Papathanasiou Vasillis , Orfanidis Sotiris , Küpper Frithjof C. , Arnaud‐Haond Sophie , Exadactylos Athanasios
Published: May 2022

We investigated the population dynamics of a highly clonal marine angiosperm, Cymodocea nodosa, in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, to identify the historical dynamics, demography, and connectivity of the species in the area. Eighteen microsatellite loci were used in conjunction with coalescent methods to investigate the genetic structure and demographic history of C. nodosa meadows. Approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) modeling was used to examine the pattern of divergence over time in the context of environmental change over the course of the Quaternary period. ABC analysis revealed an initial split of the C. nodosa populations between the north‐western, northern, and north‐eastern Aegean Sea during the Pleistocene epoch, followed by a more recent divergence of the north‐western population and the central‐western part of the Aegean Sea. According to the results, the most parsimonious historical scenario is that of a pervasive genetic signature of the effects of the drop in sea level during the Pleistocene epoch. This scenario supports the isolation of the north‐western, north, and north‐eastern area, and the subsequent recolonization after post‐glaciation sea level rise that may explain the north‐western differentiation as well present‐day detected dispersion of C. nodosa.
Isotopic niche overlap between sympatric Australian snubfin and humpback dolphins
Authors: Parra Guido J. , Wojtkowiak Zachary , Peters Katharina J. , Cagnazzi Daniele
Published: May 2022

Ecological niche theory predicts the coexistence of closely related species is promoted by resource partitioning in space and time. Australian snubfin (Orcaella heinsohni) and humpback (Sousa sahulensis) dolphins live in sympatry throughout most of their range in northern Australian waters. We compared stable isotope ratios of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in their skin to investigate resource partitioning between these ecologically similar species. Skin samples were collected from live Australian snubfin (n = 31) and humpback dolphins (n = 23) along the east coast of Queensland in 2014–2015. Both species had similar δ13C and δ15N values and high (>50%) isotopic niche space overlap, suggesting that they feed at similar trophic levels, have substantial dietary overlap, and rely on similar basal food resources. Despite similarities, snubfin dolphins were more likely to have a larger δ15N value than humpback dolphins, indicating they may forage on a wider diversity of prey. Humpback dolphins were more likely to have a larger δ13C range suggesting they may forage on a wider range of habitats. Overall, results suggest that subtle differences in habitat use and prey selection are likely the principal resource partitioning mechanisms enabling the coexistence of Australian snubfin and humpback dolphins.
Mitogenomes provide new insights of evolutionary history of Boreheptagyiini and Diamesini (Diptera: Chironomidae: Diamesinae)
Authors: Lin Xiao‐Long , Liu Zheng , Yan Li‐Ping , Duan Xin , Bu Wen‐Jun , Wang Xin‐Hua , Zheng Chen‐Guang
Published: May 2022

Mitogenomes have been widely used for phylogenetic reconstruction of various Dipteran groups, but specifically for chironomid, they have not been carried out to resolve the relationships. Diamesinae (Diptera: Chironomidae) are important bioindicators for freshwater ecosystem monitoring, but its evolutionary history remains uncertain for lack of information. Here, coupled with one previously published and 30 new mitogenomes of Diamesinae, we carried out comparative mitogenomic analysis and phylogenetic analysis. Mitogenomes of Diamesinae were conserved in structure, and all genes arranged in the same order as the ancestral insect mitogenome. All protein‐coding genes in Diamesinae were under stronger purifying selection than those of other nonbiting midge species, which may exhibit signs of adaptation to life at cold living conditions. Phylogenetic analyses strongly supported the monophyly of Diamesinae, with Boreheptagyiini deeply nested within Diamesini. In addition, phylogenetic relationship of selected six genera was resolved, except Sympotthastia remained unstable. Our study revealed that the mitogenomes of Diamesinae are highly conserved, and they are practically useful for phylogenetic inference.
Time dynamics of stress legacy in clonal transgenerational effects: A case study on Trifolium repens
Authors: Quan Jiaxin , Münzbergová Zuzana , Latzel Vít
Published: May 2022

Stress can be remembered by plants in a form of stress legacy that can alter future phenotypes of previously stressed plants and even phenotypes of their offspring. DNA methylation belongs among the mechanisms mediating the stress legacy. It is however not known for how long the stress legacy is carried by plants. If the legacy is long‐lasting, it can become maladaptive in situations when parental–offspring environment do not match. We investigated for how long after the last exposure of a parental plant to drought can the phenotype of its clonal offspring be altered. We grew parental plants of three genotypes of Trifolium repens for five months either in control conditions or in control conditions that were interrupted with intense drought periods applied for two months in four different time slots. We also treated half of the parental plants with a demethylating agent (5‐azacytidine, 5‐azaC) to test for the potential role of DNA methylation in the stress memory. Then, we transplanted parental cuttings (ramets) individually to control environment and allowed them to produce offspring ramets for two months. The drought stress experienced by parents affected phenotypes of offspring ramets. The stress legacy resulted in enhanced number of offspring ramets originating from plants that experienced drought stress even 56 days before their transplantation to the control environment. 5‐azaC altered transgenerational effects on offspring ramets. We confirmed that drought stress can trigger transgenerational effects in T. repens that is very likely mediated by DNA methylation. Most importantly, the stress legacy in parental plants persisted for at least 8 weeks suggesting that the stress legacy can persist in a clonal plant Trifolium repens for relatively long period. We suggest that the stress legacy should be considered in future ecological studies on clonal plants.
Shorebird food energy shortfalls and the effectiveness of habitat incentive programs in record wet, dry, and warm years
Authors: Golet Gregory H. , Dybala Kristen E. , Reiter Matthew E. , Sesser Kristin A. , Reynolds Mark , Kelsey Rodd
Published: May 2022

Programs that incentivize private landowners to create habitats that offset losses due to conversion and climate change are increasingly being used to bolster sensitive wildlife populations. In the Central Valley of California, shorebird habitat incentive programs pay landowners to create additional habitat during the non‐breeding season by flooding their fields. However, it remains unclear how successful these programs have been in supporting baseline shorebird population needs or meeting established population goals, particularly in the face of changing environmental conditions. To address these questions, we used bioenergetics modeling to estimate shorebird food energy needs over four consecutive years that had the highest annual mean air temperatures ever recorded in California, and included years of extreme drought, as well as the second wettest winter on record. Our objectives were to (1) characterize annual variability in the timing and magnitude of shorebird food energy shortfalls, (2) estimate the contributions that incentive programs made to meeting these needs, and (3) develop recommendations for implementation of future habitat programs to advance shorebird conservation in the region. Overall, we found a high level of consistency in the timing and magnitude of habitat shortfalls, especially in fall, despite large differences in annual rainfall, a result that was unexpected, but that emphasizes how highly managed the hydrological system is in the Central Valley. We also found that the magnitude of both fall and spring energy shortfalls increased, relative to recent (2007–2014) estimates, perhaps due to aberrantly warm conditions. Incentive programs implemented to provide supplemental habitat were somewhat effective in reducing shortfalls for the assumed baseline population, but there were consistent unmet habitat needs when there were not enough shallow open water foraging areas available. Strategies to offset these remaining food energy deficits include scaling up habitat investments, adjusting the timing of habitat programs to better match the migration patterns of the birds, and adapting programs to new geographies. To the extent that there is variability in annual habitat need we recommend implementing a dynamic conservation approach. This involves scaling the amount of additional habitat created to match the shifting needs of the birds to maximize return on investment.
Microbial community composition, and not pH, influences lake sediment function
Authors: Bertolet Brittni L. , Louden Sydney I. , Jones Stuart E.
Published: May 2022

Lake sediment microbial communities vary across ecosystems and are often differentiated across pH. Additionally, these pH‐mediated differences in community composition are often correlated with changes in sediment functioning, such as methane and carbon dioxide production. However, few studies have experimentally tested pH effects on community assembly or considered how microbial community composition influences ecosystem function independent of differences in the environment. We used common garden experiments to test hypotheses about how pH influences microbial community assembly and function in lake sediments. Using inoculum from three acidic lakes and three near‐neutral lakes, we found that both pH environment and inoculum source significantly influenced sediment microbial community assembly. However, inoculum source had a larger effect size for both the sediment methanogen and nonmethanogen communities, indicating important roles of dispersal and drift. Additionally, inoculum source, but not pH environment, significantly influenced sediment methane and carbon dioxide production. This research is one of the first to experimentally test the influence of pH on sediment microbial community composition, and in doing so, we show the community composition significantly influences sediment function independent of pH. Understanding how lake sediment microbial communities are influenced by environment is the first step toward mechanistically linking changes in community composition to ecosystem function, and we provide critical evidence for how changes in microbial community assembly with environmental change will likely alter carbon cycling in lake sediments.
Unified understanding of intrinsic and extrinsic controls of dissolved organic carbon reactivity in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Berggren Martin , Guillemette François , Bieroza Magdalena , Buffam Ishi , Deininger Anne , Hawkes Jeffrey A. , Kothawala Dolly N. , LaBrie Richard , Lapierre Jean‐François , Murphy Kathleen R. , Al‐Kharusi Enass S. , Rulli Mayra P. D. , Hensgens Geert , Younes Hani , Wünsch Urban J.
Published: May 2022

Despite our growing understanding of the global carbon cycle, scientific consensus on the drivers and mechanisms that control dissolved organic carbon (DOC) turnover in aquatic systems is lacking, hampered by the mismatch between research that approaches DOC reactivity from either intrinsic (inherent chemical properties) or extrinsic (environmental context) perspectives. Here we propose a conceptual view of DOC reactivity in which the combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors controls turnover rates and determines which reactions will occur. We review three major types of reactions (biological, photochemical, and flocculation) from an intrinsic chemical perspective and further define the environmental features that modulate the expression of chemically inherent reactivity potential. Finally, we propose hypotheses of how extrinsic and intrinsic factors together shape patterns in DOC turnover across the land‐to‐ocean continuum, underscoring that there is no intrinsic DOC reactivity without environmental context. By acknowledging the intrinsic–extrinsic control duality, our framework intends to foster improved modeling of DOC reactivity and its impact on ecosystem services.
Andean non‐volant small mammals: A dataset of community assemblages of non‐volant small mammals from the high Andes
Authors: Rengifo Edgardo M. , Brito Jorge , Jayat J. Pablo , Cairampoma Raisa , Novillo Agustina , Hurtado Natali , Ferro Ignacio , Medina Cesar E. , Arguero Alfonso , Solari Sergio , Urquizo Jose , Villarreal Ariatna , Vivar Elena , Teta Pablo , Quiroga‐Carmona Marcial , D'Elía Guillermo , Percequillo Alexandre Reis
Published: May 2022

Information from diversity inventories was used to study patterns of biodiversity and species distribution, to identify potential priority areas for conservation, and to guide future sampling efforts. In this context, we compiled information on non‐volant small mammal communities from the high Andes (>2000 m). Here, we present an open source dataset containing information on diversity (species composition, number of individuals captured), inventory design (type of traps, sampling efforts), and environment (habitat) for both unpublished and published information. This study covers 630 mammalian communities, geographically distributed throughout the Andes in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile. We compiled a total of 26,412 individual records belonging to 240 species; the order with greatest number of records was Rodentia (n = 25,319, 96.06%), followed by Didelphimorphia (n = 373, 1.42%), Eulipotyphla (n = 358, 1.36%) and Paucituberculata, (n = 307, 1.16%). Andean non‐volant small mammal communities harbor a range from 1 to 17 species, with 93.06% of sites being composed of one to five species, 27.78% of sites with species richness varying from 6 to 10 species, and 4.17% sites composed of more than 10 species. Multiple sampling methods were used to survey non‐volant small mammals; the most representative methods were snap‐traps and Sherman traps, or a combination of both, in more than 81% of the studies. This data paper represents the first large dataset of faunal species inventories for the Andes. There are no copyright restrictions associated with the use of this dataset. Please cite this data paper when its data are used total or partially in research or teaching.
Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein indicates memory impairment in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Traub Jan , Otto Markus , Sell Roxane , Homola György A. , Steinacker Petra , Oeckl Patrick , Morbach Caroline , Frantz Stefan , Pham Mirko , Störk Stefan , Stoll Guido , Frey Anna
Published: May 2022

Aims

Cognitive dysfunction occurs frequently in patients with heart failure (HF), but early detection remains challenging. Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is an emerging biomarker of cognitive decline in disorders of primary neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's disease. We evaluated the utility of serum GFAP as a biomarker for cognitive dysfunction and structural brain damage in patients with stable chronic HF.

Methods and results

Using bead‐based single molecule immunoassays, we quantified serum levels of GFAP in patients with HF participating in the prospective Cognition.Matters‐HF study. Participants were extensively phenotyped, including cognitive testing of five separate domains and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Univariable and multivariable models, also accounting for multiple testing, were run. One hundred and forty‐six chronic HF patients with a mean age of 63.8 ± 10.8 years were included (15.1% women). Serum GFAP levels (median 246 pg/mL, quartiles 165, 384 pg/mL; range 66 to 1512 pg/mL) did not differ between sexes. In the multivariable adjusted model, independent predictors of GFAP levels were age (T = 5.5; P < 0.001), smoking (T = 3.2; P = 0.002), estimated glomerular filtration rate (T = −4.7; P < 0.001), alanine aminotransferase (T = −2.1; P = 0.036), and the left atrial end‐systolic volume index (T = 3.4; P = 0.004). NT‐proBNP but not serum GFAP explained global cerebral atrophy beyond ageing. However, serum GFAP levels were associated with the cognitive domain visual/verbal memory (T = −3.0; P = 0.003) along with focal hippocampal atrophy (T = 2.3; P = 0.025).

Conclusions

Serum GFAP levels are affected by age, smoking, and surrogates of the severity of HF. The association of GFAP with memory dysfunction suggests that astroglial pathologies, which evade detection by conventional MRI, may contribute to memory loss beyond ageing in patients with chronic HF.
Feasibility evaluation of an off‐grid solar‐biomass system for remote area electrification considering various economic factors
Authors: Mohseni Mohammad , Moosavian Seyed Farhan , Hajinezhad Ahmad
Published: May 2022

Off‐grid renewable energy systems are a solution for power generation in areas where access to the grid is not possible or cost‐effective; in particular, low population rural areas located far away from grid lines or in rugged terrains. Furthermore, over‐reliance on fossil fuels for supplying global energy demand has led to the depletion of nonrenewable resources and environmental issues. This paper presents a feasibility assessment of an off‐grid hybrid renewable energy system for a remote rural area in Kohgiluye and Boyer‐Ahmad Province in Iran. Regarding the available energy resources in the region, a photovoltaic (PV)‐biomass energy system is considered. HOMER Pro software is utilized to find the optimized sizing of the PV‐biomass system to fulfill this load demand. The objective function in this optimization is the system's total net present cost. Due to the rapid fluctuation of economic factors in the country, several rates of inflation and discount rate are considered to investigate their influence on the costs of the system. The optimization result for the current inflation rate of 40% and the discount rate of 18% in the country proposes a hybrid energy system consisting of a 3 kW biogas‐fueled generator, 4.74 kW PV, 10 kWh battery, and 2.07 kW converter to meet the 2.64 kW peak load and 14.53 kWh/day consumption of the community. The total net present cost and cost of energy are $93,057 and 0.0933 $/kWh, respectively. Finally, the environmental assessment of the proposed hybrid system shows an annual CO2 emission of 2.95 kg, which means 99.9% CO2 emissions mitigation compared to a conventional coal‐based electrical plant.
Therapeutic gas‐releasing nanomedicines with controlled release: Advances and perspectives
Authors: Opoku‐Damoah Yaw , Zhang Run , Ta Hang T. , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: May 2022

Nanoparticle‐based drug delivery has become one of the most popular approaches for maximising drug therapeutic potentials. With the notable improvements, a greater challenge hinges on the formulation of gasotransmitters with unique challenges that are not met in liquid and solid active ingredients. Gas molecules upon release from formulations for therapeutic purposes have not really been discussed extensively. Herein, we take a critical look at four key gasotransmitters, that is, carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and sulphur dioxide (SO2), their possible modification into prodrugs known as gas‐releasing molecules (GRMs), and their release from GRMs. Different nanosystems and their mediatory roles for efficient shuttling, targeting and release of these therapeutic gases are also reviewed extensively. This review thoroughly looks at the diverse ways in which these GRM prodrugs in delivery nanosystems are designed to respond to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli for sustained release. In this review, we seek to provide a succinct summary for the development of therapeutic gases into potent prodrugs that can be adapted in nanomedicine for potential clinical use.
Home gardening in sub‐Saharan Africa: A scoping review on practices and nutrition outcomes in rural Burkina Faso and Kenya
Authors: Hansen Lea‐Sophie , Sorgho Raissa , Mank Isabel , Nayna Schwerdtle Patricia , Agure Erick , Bärnighausen Till , Danquah Ina
Published: May 2022

Home gardening is promoted as an adaptation strategy to ameliorate the increasing food insecurity from climate change impacts among subsistence farming families in rural sub‐Saharan Africa. Yet, the geographic distribution of home gardens, their setup, management, and the effects on nutrition outcomes have not been fully described. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesize recent evidence on home gardening for two exemplar countries: Burkina Faso and Kenya. Between June and August 2020, we searched, screened, and extracted evidence about home garden projects in both countries, following the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Peer‐reviewed scientific publications, and gray literature in English and French that reported about subsistence horticulture in rural settings of Burkina Faso or Kenya were included. The characteristics of the documents and the data pertaining to our research objectives were extracted into predefined spreadsheets. The data were synthesized in the form of a narrative review. Our search yielded 949 documents, of which 20 documents were included in the synthesis (Burkina Faso: 8, Kenya: 12). While the gardens varied in composition and size, the majority provided green leafy vegetables and indigenous horticultural crops. The challenges for successful home garden implementation comprised unfavorable climatic conditions, access to and affordability of inputs, water and land, and lack of know‐how. We identified trends for improved food security, diet quality, and nutritional status among the target populations. This scoping review found that there is limited evidence on home garden practices in rural Burkina Faso and Kenya. To enhance the sustainability of home gardens, research and resources should be invested in codesigning context‐specific home gardening projects. Pending rigorous impact evaluation, home gardens appear to be a promising tool for climate change adaptation while simultaneously improving food security and the nutritional situation among women and young children in these two exemplar countries of sub‐Saharan Africa.
Primary mediastinal large B‐cell lymphoma is characterized by large‐scale copy‐neutral loss of heterozygosity
Authors: Tuveri Stefania , Debackere Koen , Marcelis Lukas , Dierckxsens Nicolas , Demeulemeester Jonas , Dimitriadou Eftychia , Dierickx Daan , Lefesvre Pierre , Deraedt Karen , Graux Carlos , Michaux Lucienne , Cools Jan , Tousseyn Thomas , Vermeesch Joris Robert , Wlodarska Iwona
Published: May 2022

Development of primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma (PMBL) is driven by cumulative genomic aberrations. We discovered a unique copy‐neutral loss of heterozygosity (CN‐LOH) landscape of PMBL which distinguishes this tumor from other B‐cell malignancies, including the biologically related diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Using single nucleotide polymorphism array analysis we identified large‐scale CN‐LOH lesions in 91% (30/33) of diagnostic PMBLs and both investigated PMBL‐derived cell lines. Altogether, the cohort showed 157 extra‐large (25.3–248.4 Mb) CN‐LOH lesions affecting up to 14 chromosomes per case (mean of 4.4) and resulting in a reduction of heterozygosity an average of 9.9% (range 1.3–51%) of the genome. Predominant involvement of terminal chromosomal segments suggests the implication of B‐cell specific crossover events in the pathogenesis of PMBL. Notably, CN‐LOH stretches non‐randomly clustered on 6p (60%), 15 (37.2%), and 17q (40%), and frequently co‐occurred with homozygous mutations in the MHC I (6p21), B2M (15q15), and GNA13 (17q23) genes, respectively, as shown by preliminary whole‐exome/genome sequencing data. Altogether, our findings implicate CN‐LOH as a novel and distinct mutational process contributing to the molecular pathogenesis of PMBL. The aberration acting as “second hit” in the Knudson hypothesis, ranks as the major mechanism converting to homozygosity the PMBL‐related driver genes. Screening of the cohort of 199 B cell leukemia/lymphoma whole‐genomes revealed significant differences in the CN‐LOH landscape of PMBL and other B‐cell malignancies, including the biologically related diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma.
Detrital zircon analysis of the Mesozoic strata in the northern Ordos Basin: Revealing the source‐to‐sink relationships and tectonic settings
Authors: Ao Cong , Cheng Yinhang , Tang Yuanhe , Wang Shaoyi , Teng Xueming , Jin Ruoshi , Zhang Tianfu , Xu Zenglian , Yang Jun , Zhang Chao , Wang Shanbo
Published: May 2022

The Geo‐chronology of the Mesozoic sequences from the northern Ordos Basin provides an excellent window for understanding the source‐to‐sink analysis and tectonic settings. In this study, nine groups of detrital zircon U–Pb ages from the Middle Triassic to Lower Cretaceous strata of the northern Ordos Basin are presented. Three dominant age groups are revealed through the kernal density estimation: ca. 2,300 ~ 2,500 Ma (Siderian), ca. 2,050 ~ 1,800 Ma (Orosirian), and ca. 358.9 ~ 298.9 Ma (Carboniferous). Significant differences are distinguished according to multidimensional scaling analysis and cumulative distribution function. The Middle Triassic sample is the closest to the Yin Mts and the upper Triassic and lower Jurassic samples have significant similarities with the Jining area. The samples YA‐1 and ZL‐1 from the Middle Jurassic sequences are the closest to the Daqing Mts (DQS) and Wula Mts (WLS), respectively. The sample ZL‐1 is the second closest to the DQS. The sample YJ‐1 from the Lower Cretaceous sequences has apparent affinities with multiple resources, including the DQS, WLS and samples EM‐1 and AD‐1, while the sample LH‐1 only resembles the sample YA‐1. Overall, the northern Ordos Basin experienced three stages of transformations in the source areas: (a) Southward migration during the Middle Triassic and the Early Jurassic; (b) Westward migration during the Early Jurassic and latest Middle Jurassic; (c) Southward migration during the latest Middle Jurassic, and multiple resources and recycled sediments for the Cretaceous sequences. The transition to the North China Craton's (NCC) extensional tectonic setting was closely related to the transformation from the Palaeo‐Asian Ocean's closure to the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate's subduction during the Early Jurassic. The multiple resources and recycled resources for the Lower Cretaceous sequences were related to the destruction of the NCC.
Decoding point‐light displays and fully visible hand grasping actions within the action observation network
Authors: Ziccarelli Settimio , Errante Antonino , Fogassi Leonardo
Published: May 2022

Action observation typically recruits visual areas and dorsal and ventral sectors of the parietal and premotor cortex. This network has been collectively termed as extended action observation network (eAON). Within this network, the elaboration of kinematic aspects of biological motion is crucial. Previous studies investigated these aspects by presenting subjects with point‐light displays (PLDs) videos of whole‐body movements, showing the recruitment of some of the eAON areas. However, studies focused on cortical activation during observation of PLDs grasping actions are lacking. In the present functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we assessed the activation of eAON in healthy participants during the observation of both PLDs and fully visible hand grasping actions, excluding confounding effects due to low‐level visual features, motion, and context. Results showed that the observation of PLDs grasping stimuli elicited a bilateral activation of the eAON. Region of interest analyses performed on visual and sensorimotor areas showed no significant differences in signal intensity between PLDs and fully visible experimental conditions, indicating that both conditions evoked a similar motor resonance mechanism. Multivoxel pattern analysis (MVPA) revealed significant decoding of PLDs and fully visible grasping observation conditions in occipital, parietal, and premotor areas belonging to eAON. Data show that kinematic features conveyed by PLDs stimuli are sufficient to elicit a complete action representation, suggesting that these features can be disentangled within the eAON from the features usually characterizing fully visible actions. PLDs stimuli could be useful in assessing which areas are recruited, when only kinematic cues are available, for action recognition, imitation, and motor learning.
Serum soluble CD23 levels are an independent predictor of time to first treatment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Piñeyroa Juan A. , Magnano Laura , Rivero Andrea , Rivas‐Delgado Alfredo , Nadeu Ferran , Correa Juan Gonzalo , Giné Eva , Villamor Neus , Filella Xavier , Colomer Dolors , López Mònica , López‐Oreja Irene , Costa Dolors , Aymerich Marta , Beà Sílvia , López‐Guillermo Armando , Campo Elías , Delgado Julio , Mozas Pablo
Published: May 2022

Serum soluble CD23 (sCD23) levels have been acknowledged as a prognostic factor in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), but their potential relevance has not been analyzed in recent times. We retrospectively studied 338 CLL, small lymphocytic lymphoma, or CLL‐type monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis patients from a single institution, with available sCD23 levels at diagnosis. Baseline features and outcomes were compared between patients with sCD23 ≤/>1000 UI/L. The 140 patients (41%) who had sCD23 > 1000 UI/L showed adverse‐risk clinical and biological characteristics. High sCD23 levels were predictive of a shorter time to first treatment (5‐year probability of requiring treatment: 60 vs. 20%, p < 0.0001; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.72, p = 0.003 in a multivariable model also including the CLL International Prognostic Index and the absolute lymphocyte count), and a poorer 5‐year overall survival (70 vs. 82%, p = 0.0009). These data suggest the potential of sCD23 to predict treatment‐free survival and to shed light on mechanisms of activity and resistance to CD23‐directed therapies.
Magnetohydrodynamic unsteady natural convective flow in a porous medium over a moving infinite cylinder
Authors: Paul Ashish
Published: May 2022

The effect of the magnetic field on the unsteady natural convective one‐dimensional laminar flow of an incompressible viscous and slightly electrically conducting fluid over a vertical cylinder is investigated analytically. The cylinder is assumed to be embedded in a porous medium, and it moves with a uniform velocity along the vertically upward direction. The boundary layer flow equations are converted to a non‐dimensional form using appropriate non‐dimensional parameters, and the closed‐form solutions are obtained using the Laplace transform method. Fluid velocity depends on radial distance, time, magnetic parameter, Grashof number, permeability parameter, and Prandtl number. Graphical and tabulated results of the fluid velocity profile and shear stress based on the analytical solutions are presented and discussed. The analytical solution reveals that the unsteady fluid velocity tends to a steady state at a large time. The present study demonstrates that increased porosity leads to enhancement in the fluid velocity, whereas the transverse magnetic field resists the fluid velocity. Furthermore, the absolute value of shear stress decreases with a decrease in porosity of the medium or an increase in magnetic field effect.