bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Moving Beyond the Phenotypic Correlation Between Anorexia Nervosa and Autism
Authors: Lundin Remnélius Karl , Bölte Sven 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe recent systematic review and meta‐analysis by Inal–Kaleli et al. is situated within a growing area of research, investigating the relationship between anorexia nervosa and autistic characteristics. Their synthesis of research within the topic finds support for elevated autistic characteristics and autism in individuals with anorexia nervosa and a small but significant correlation between autistic traits and level of eating disorder symptoms. In this commentary, we discuss the findings of Inal‐Kaleli and colleagues and propose further research to generate insights into the nature of this link. We focus on the potential origins of the observed relationship, specific mechanisms, and manifestation of anorexia nervosa in autistic populations, and the influence of sex and gender on the intersection of eating disorders and autism. By addressing these largely unexplored research avenues, future investigations can go beyond the phenotypic correlations and facilitate the development of prevention and intervention suited for individuals experiencing both disordered eating and elevated autistic traits.
Molecular Discovery of Filarial Nematode DNA in an Endangered Wild Pinniped (Galapagos Sea Lion, Zalophus wollebaeki)
Authors: Livingston Isabella G. , Gregory Taylor M. , Hawkins Eleanor C. , Cave Ashley , Loyola Andrea , Vaden Shelly L. , Deresienski Diane , Riofrío‐Lazo Marjorie , Lewbart Gregory A. , Páez‐Rosas Diego , Breen Matthew 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTRapidly changing environments are contributing to the spread of non‐native species and their associated pathogens into new and vulnerable ecosystems, such as the Galapagos archipelago. These pathogens represent a significant threat to emblematic species. The Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) (GSL) is an endangered and endemic pinniped that is increasingly at risk of acquiring infectious diseases due to interactions with introduced companion animals. Previously, we reported the first detection of antigens from Dirofilaria immitis, the parasite that causes canine heartworm disease, in the GSL. To investigate further, we developed a multifilarial PCR assay and successfully detected DNA from D. immitis and the closely related Dirofilaria repens in 10.7% of our sample cohort of juvenile GSLs. This assay, based on a conserved region in the filarial 28S gene, can be used in conjunction with restriction endonuclease digestion or Sanger sequencing to identify the species of the causative nematode. Our method proved effective without nonspecific amplification in a wide host range, and highly sensitive, detecting as little as one parasite. Further, this assay can be used in cases of immature, low‐worm burden, or all‐male infections. Our molecular approach offers a sensitive and specific method for detecting filarial parasites in wild animals. Further investigations are necessary to confirm the pathology of filarial nematodes in the GSL and their prevalence in the general population. Our identification of Dirofilarial species in the GSL underscores the urgent need for measures to manage the risk of pathogen transmission from introduced species to native wildlife.
Diversity of the Obligate Gut Bacteria Indicates Host–Symbiont Coevolution at the Population Level in the Plataspid Stinkbug Megacopta cribraria
Authors: Wang Yuan , Zhu Xiu‐Xiu , Xiao Bo‐Ren , Hou Xin‐Rui , Liu Yu‐Xin , Zhou Jia‐Yue , Ren Yi‐Peng , Bu Wen‐Jun , Xue Huai‐Jun 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIshikawaella is an obligate gut bacterium in stinkbugs that belong to Plataspidae family (Hemiptera: Heteroptera). It is vertically transmitted to newborn nymphs through capsules laid on eggs by maternal stinkbugs. Previous research has established a pattern of strict cospeciation between Plataspidae stinkbugs and Ishikawaella. However, the possibility of host–symbiont coevolution at the population level within Plataspidae stinkbugs has not been thoroughly explored. This study analyzed the samples of Megacopta cribraria from three phylogenetic clades to investigate host–symbiont coevolution in this insect species. We compared data from third‐generation sequencing (PacBio), next‐generation sequencing (Illumina), and first‐generation sequencing (Sanger), and the results indicated that Illumina sequencing most accurately represents the composition of gut bacterial communities. All stinkbug individuals shared a dominant amplicon sequence variant (ASV), which accounted for an average of 65.99% of Ishikawaella sequences (ranging from 58.68% to 87.01%). The top five ASVs (ASV0–ASV4) represented 99.82% of all Ishikawaella sequences. Among these, the number of base substitutions between any two ASVs ranged from 1 to 3, significantly lower than the number of substitutions between the main and minor ASVs. This finding suggests that closely related strains are likely to coexist in the same host. Beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences in Ishikawaella composition among the three phylogenetic clades, providing evidence for host–symbiont coevolution at the population level in Plataspidae stinkbugs.
The Unique Immune System of Bats: An Evolutionary Analysis and Bibliometric Study
Authors: Li Rui , Zhao Wenliang , Chen Apeng , Wu Zhiqiang , De Gejing 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBats exhibit a greater capacity to tolerate diverse viruses than other terrestrial mammals. To address these questions, we utilized evolutionary and bibliometric analyses to explore the immunological characteristics of bats and identify contemporary research hotspots in bat immunity. To investigate the historical interactions between bats and viral infections, we used tBLASTn software to identify the integrated endogenous retroviruses within the genomes of nine bat species and seven other mammals. To elucidate the immune characteristics of bats, we used the OrthoFinder, CAFE, and Gene Ontology analyses to identify the phylogenetic trees and homologous genes, expanded/contracted gene families, and associated signaling pathways of 28 mammalian genomes. We also used a bibliometric analysis of the “immune system of bats” to identify research hotspots and deepen our understanding of the immune mechanisms in bats. Significant integrations of Gammaretroviruses, Spumaretroviruses, and Deltaretroviruses were observed within bat genomes. Notable expansions in gene families included Type III interferon, heat‐shock protein 90 (HSP90), and members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). These expanded gene families are involved in signaling pathways related to “transcription and replication of influenza virus RNA,” “COVID‐19‐related pathways,” and “positive regulation of protein phosphorylation.” Notable contractions were observed in the “type I interferon” and “antibody‐related gene families.” Bibliometric analysis further underscored the several significance of critical immune genes, such as HSP90, Type I interferon, Type III interferon, and TNF. The exploration of research hotspots revealed two predominant themes: “efficient and varied antiviral responses” and “dampened inflammation to prevent excessive inflammatory reactions,” thereby elucidating the mechanisms underlying the immune adaptations of bats. Through the evolutionary and bibliometric analyses, we identified several critical immune genes and signaling pathways related to bat immunity. Currently, research on the immune system of bats primarily focuses on the themes of “efficient antiviral responses” and “inflammation suppression.”
The Phylogeography and Diversification of an Endemic Trapdoor Spider Genus, Stasimopus Simon 1892 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Stasimopidae) in the Karoo, South Africa
Authors: Brandt Shannon , Lyle Robin , Sole Catherine 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe genus Stasimopus is endemic to South Africa but has never undergone a phylogeographic review. This study aims to unravel the phylogeographic patterns and history of the many Stasimopus species which occur in the greater Karoo region. A fossil‐calibrated phylogeny was produced based on three gene regions (CO1, 16S and EF‐1ɣ) for Stasimopus (Cor‐k‐lid trapdoor spiders) specimens collected in the Karoo region, to infer dates of origin and diversification. Demographic analyses were performed on species with sufficient sample sizes (> 4). Haplotype networks were constructed for each gene region and plotted on a map to infer phylogeographic patterns. Lastly, Mantel tests were performed to test for isolation by distance. It was found that 15 species occur in the Karoo and that the genus radiation in the area is in the early Palaeocene. Most diversification occurred between the late Eocene and the Miocene, coinciding with significant changes in climate. Several species show signals of demographic expansions. Isolation by distance was detected, but only with a slight correlation. It is apparent that aridification has played a vital role in the diversification of the genus in the Karoo region. This is a shared biogeographic influence between the mygalomorph fauna of the Karoo and arid region of western Australia. Stasimopus has radiated from the late Eocene and through the Miocene resulting in 15 extant species in the region. The Tankwa Karoo has been identified as a possible Pleistocene glacial cycle refugia for the species S. leipoldti. Many of the species in the Karoo are short‐range endemics, making them of high conservation concern. This study provided vital information as the Karoo is undergoing further desertification due to factors such as climate change, which may affect the future of short‐range endemic spiders.
Linking Phylogeny and Morphology to Resource Assimilation Within Aquatic Assemblages
Authors: Lodato Matthew B. , van Ee Brian C. , Atkinson Carla L. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTNiche partitioning promotes species coexistence. Yet, it remains unclear how phylogeny and morphology influence the trophic niches of closely related aquatic species with shared feeding modes. Freshwater mussels (Family: Unionidae) are a group of filter‐feeding bivalves that are ideal for investigating mechanisms of niche partitioning. Particle size selection and patterns of ingestion are controlled by gill latero‐frontal cirri density (CD) and the number of cilia per cirrus (CC). We investigated trophic assimilation and niche area using stable isotope signatures (𝛿13C and 𝛿15N) and gill morphology with scanning‐electron microscopy for a diverse mussel assemblage from the Sipsey River, Alabama, USA. We predicted that (1) trophic niches and gill morphology would differ within and among species across sites; (2) co‐occurring species would partition food resources; (3) greater phylogenetic distances among species would result in increased trophic dissimilarity; (4) more CC and higher CD would result in a narrower trophic niche area, or more constrained range of food items assimilated. We found that (1) species identity and site influenced gill morphology and stable isotope signatures but that the trophic niche area of a species was only affected by species identity; (2) the average proportion of niche area overlap between co‐occurring species was low across sites (0.04 to 0.18); (3) trophic dissimilarity among species increased with phylogenetic distance; (4) CD but not the number of CC negatively related to trophic niche area. Our results indicate that gill morphology and evolutionary history are likely key factors governing the trophic niches of mussels. In addition, intraspecific variation in gill morphology across sites may either reflect a phenotypic response to differences in local resource availability or suggest that other mechanisms shape particle selection. Examining the interplay among the trophic niche, phylogeny, and morphology among functionally similar species further informs our understanding of the mechanisms facilitating their coexistence.
Preservation of Aquatic Environmental DNA Using Cationic Detergents
Authors: Thamke Viresh , Bezabhe Yared H. , Jass Jana , Olsson Per‐Erik 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTEnvironmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is a powerful tool for quantifying and assessing the diversity of organisms in the environment. Unfortunately, isolating eDNA from aquatic environments is challenging due to the difficulties associated with water collection, preservation of samples during transportation, and onsite filtration. These processes are expensive and time‐consuming and can lead to eDNA degradation. These difficulties can be addressed by preserving eDNA in the collected water. In this study, we assessed the effect of short‐ and long‐term water storage using three different cationic surfactants on the half‐life of zebrafish (Danio rerio) mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in mesocosm water. The surfactants used were benzalkonium chloride (BAC), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). We observed that CPC and CTAB treatment extended the half‐life of mtDNA by 3–5 times. Analysis by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) demonstrated a mtDNA retention rate of 17.6%, 26.3%, and 2.2% for CPC, CTAB, and BAC, respectively, compared to 0.1% in untreated water after 30 days. The preservation of mtDNA by cationic surfactants was attributed to their bactericidal and cytotoxic properties as well as their electrostatic interaction with DNA molecules, as observed by spectrofluorometric analysis and subsequent precipitation. Our results demonstrated an inexpensive and convenient method to protect eDNA in water and improve its extraction.
Functional beverage based on aguamiel pasteurized by ultrasound and microwaves with antihypertensive properties
Authors: Perales‐Serna Lucia , Cruz‐Casas Dora Elisa , Flores‐Gallegos Adriana C. , Rubio‐Ríos Anilú , Ascacio‐Valdes Juan Alberto , Sáenz‐Galindo Aidé , Rodríguez‐Herrera Raúl 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCurrently, microwaves, ultrasound, and ultrasound‐microwaves are technologies with several applications, one of which is their use as a method of pasteurization. So far, these techniques have not been used for the pasteurization of a functional aguamiel beverage. This beverage was pasteurized and enriched with probiotic LAB to generate an antihypertensive effect. The physicochemical characteristics (pH, total soluble solids, and color) of the aguamiel beverage were evaluated. Microbiological analysis of the product was also carried out. The probiotic LAB were added to the beverage with the selected pasteurization technique. The growth of LAB in the aguamiel beverage and the prebiotic effects that this product as well as the antihypertensive activity of the beverage were evaluated. It was shown that there is no significant effect of the techniques used on the physicochemical characteristics of the product. However, the storage time may be affected. Compared to traditional pasteurization, microwave, ultrasound, and ultrasound‐microwave techniques were found to reduce the concentration of some pathogenic microorganisms. The microwave technique was selected as the most effective for pasteurization. The probiotic LAB were able to grow in the pasteurized aguamiel beverage and produce an antihypertensive effect. In summary, a functional microwavable pasteurized aguamiel beverage with antihypertensive activity was produced.
Design, Synthesis and Preliminary In‐Vitro Activity of 6‐Hydroxyalkyl β‐Carboline Derivatives for the Development of Drug Conjugates Targeting MDM2
Authors: Arrigoni Federico , Prpić Helena , Ferrari Ana , Zambra Marco , Roscilli Giuseppe , Gazzola Silvia , Piarulli Umberto 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe mouse‐double‐minute‐2 (MDM2) protein, the main downregulator of the tumor suppressor p53 protein, represents a promising target for the development of novel anticancer therapies. However, the lack of selectivity and poor effectiveness in tumors bearing mutated‐p53 impaired the approval of several MDM2 inhibitors for the market. In this context, the possibility of generating drug‐conjugates within a MDM2 inhibitor is a growing research area aimed to overcome these drawbacks. Considering the promising MDM2 inhibition by the β‐carboline‐based 1, in this work we explored the introduction of a new functionalization on it for a future conjugation while preserving its anticancer properties. Based on preliminary docking studies, we synthesized derivatives 2 a–d having linear hydroxyalkyl chains with different lengths at the 6‐position of the β‐carboline core, which effectively preserved the submicromolar IC50 on wild‐type‐p53‐U87MG glioblastoma cell line observed with 1. Candidates 2 a, d showed the functionalization was tolerated with respect of bioactivity also on mutated‐p53‐U138MG glioblastoma cell line, and their hydroxyl groups proved to be easily accessible when coupled to 4‐pentynoic‐N,N’‐dimethylethylenediamine affording derivatives 10 a, d with high yields. In summary, our results led to generating novel 6‐hydroxyalkyl‐β‐carboline compounds displaying a suitable hydroxyl‐site useful to improve the efficacy and/or the tumor specificity of 1 through conjugation strategies.
Alkyne‐ and Azide‐Functionalised Cyclophellitol Derivatives for Selective Glucuronidase Targeting
Authors: Leona Ehren Helena , Jongkees Seino A. K. , Wennekes Tom 
Published: November 2024

AbstractHeparanase is an endo‐acting β‐glucuronidase responsible for the degradation of heparan sulfate structures in the extracellular matrix. The enzyme is found to be significantly upregulated in aggressive cancer types, aiding cell proliferation by liberation of growth factors, increasing angiogenesis and metastasis. Despite much interest in the development of inhibitors to control this activity, no compound targeting heparanase has yet been approved as a drug. While mechanism‐based inhibitors derived from the natural product cyclophellitol are very potent enzyme inactivators through their reactive epoxide, one challenge in their development is in achieving selectivity for heparanase over related glycosidases while also maintaining a balance of appropriate pharmacological properties. We present here the synthesis of three cyclophellitol scaffolds presenting azide and alkyne handles at key positions, which are amenable to facile elaboration via copper‐catalysed azide‐alkyne cycloadditions to aid in exploring the structure‐activity relationship for selective inhibitors of heparanase.
Application of Laser‐Generated Au‐Ag/Al2O3 Nanoparticle Catalysts for the Selective Catalytic Oxidation of 5‐(Hydroxymethyl) Furfural to 2,5‐Furan‐Dicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Shaikh Samrin , Esser Tobias , Söder Jan , Reichenberger Sven , Albert Jakob 
Published: November 2024

AbstractConversion of lignocellulosic biomass‐derived 5‐(Hydroxymethyl) furfural (HMF) into 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) has a high potential to replace petroleum‐based feedstocks for the production of plastics. In this study, a green synthesis strategy for the selective oxidation of HMF to FDCA is reported by using laser‐generated and specifically designed bimetallic AuAg nanoparticle catalysts supported on Al2O3 using molecular oxygen as oxidant and water as a solvent. Although supported AuAg catalysts are already known as suitable catalysts for this reaction, the optimal reaction conditions (type of base, reaction temperature, oxygen pressure), Au : Ag composition, role of metal‐support effects and origin of the active site still remain under debate. Interestingly, an Au9Ag1/Al2O3 catalyst exhibited the highest activity with a FDCA yield of up to 66 % at 80 % HMF conversion. Hereby, NaHCO3 (instead of NaOH) as a smoother base in 2 : 1 base:HMF ratio, low oxygen pressures of 5 bar, and a mild temperature of 150 °C were found optimal. The yield remained fairly stable on reuse of the catalyst for 3 cycles without hints of catalyst sintering or leaching. The titration of surficial hydroxyls on the AuxAgy/Al2O3 surface showed the highest density of acidic hydroxyls for the most active Au9Ag1/Al2O3 catalyst. The respective hydroxyls potentially originate from metal‐support interactions between the AuAg nanoparticles with the alumina support and act as Lewis acidic sites that oxidize the alcohol moiety of HMF to form FDCA with high selectively. In summary, this study shows that the catalytic activity of AuAg catalysts in HMF oxidation is not just linked to an alloying effect but also to a metal‐support effect where the AuAg nanoparticles appear to directly affect the local acidity of the support.
(3+3)‐Annulation of 2‐Mercaptobenzimidazoles With α‐(Trifluoromethyl)Styrene Under Ultrasonic Irradiation
Authors: Sohail Akbar , Ablajan Keyume , Khan Shahid Ali 
Published: November 2024

AbstractA rapid and facile sonochemical route for the [3+3] annulation of 2‐mercapto benzimidazoles with α‐(trifluoromethyl)styrene was reported for the synthesis of fluorinated benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3]thiazines. The reaction proceeds through the SN2/SNV pathway while the selective SN2 pathway is completely inhibited. The developed method is effective with a wide range of substrates, tolerating diverse functional groups. The pure products are obtained with high yield (up to 92 %) directly via recrystallization without column chromatography. Furthermore, applying sonochemical methodology reduces the reaction time and eliminates the need for expensive photocatalysts, ligands or oxidants.
Generating Rainfall IDF Curves Using IMD Reduction Formula and Choosing the Best Distribution for Babylon City, Iraq
Authors: Al‐Jalili Sajad Khalil , Zwain Haider M. , Hayder Ali Mohsen 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntensity‐duration‐frequency (IDF) models are considered one of the most important tools used in water resources projects, as well as the design and planning of hydraulic structures such as sewerage channels, bridges, culverts, and road networks. This study aims to generate IDF curves for the Iraqi city of Babylon based on the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) empirical reduction formula and to choose the optimal distribution that gives the greatest rainfall intensity among the three distributions used in this research (generalized extreme value, Log‐Pearson type III, and Gumbel). This study examined daily rainfall data collected from the Iraqi Authority of Meteorology and Seismic Monitoring for a period of 32 years, from 1991 to 2022. The IMD reduction formula was used to calculate rainfall intensity for shorter durations (5, 10, 20, 30, 60, 120, 360, 720, and 1440 min) and custom return periods (2, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 years). To determine the goodness of fit for the data distributions, the Easy Fit 5.6 program was applied with three tests (the χ2 test, the Anderson–Darling test, and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test). The results showed that all distributions were acceptable for both tests and all storm durations and that the rainfall intensity decreased with increasing duration of the rainstorm. It also showed that rainfall increases rainfall intensity during large return periods. Based on the criteria of AIC and BIC, the LP‐3 distribution was chosen as the best distribution to simulate rainfall in Babylon City using the IDM reduction formula.