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An acute bout of exercise in the moments after learning benefits the retention of new memories. This finding can be explained, at least partly, through a consolidation account: exercise provides a physiological state that is conducive to the early stabilisation of labile new memories, which supports their retention and subsequent retrieval. The modification of consolidation through non-invasive exercise interventions offers great applied potential. However, it remains poorly understood whether effects of exercise translate from the laboratory to naturalistic settings and whether the intensity of exercise determines the effect in memory. To this end, adult endurance runners were recruited as participants and completed two study sessions spaced two weeks apart. In each session, participants were presented with a list of words and asked to recall them on three occasions: (i) immediately following their presentation, (ii) after a 30-minute retention interval, and (iii) after 24 hours. Crucially, the 30-minute retention interval comprised our experimental manipulation: higher intensity exercise (running) in the first session and lower intensity exercise (walking) in the second, both completed in a naturalistic setting around participants' existing physical activity training programmes. Exertion was recorded through heart rate and rate of perceived exertion data. Alertness, mood, and arousal ratings were also collected before and after the 30-minute retention interval. Immediate memory for the two wordlists was matched, but participants retained significantly more words after 30 minutes and 24 hours when encoding was followed by higher than lower intensity exercise. Exertion data revealed that participants experienced vigorous and light exercise in the higher and lower intensity conditions, respectively. Significant improvements in alertness, mood, and arousal were observed following both exercise conditions, but especially in the higher intensity condition. These outcomes reveal that experiencing higher intensity physical activity in the field is conducive to declarative memory retention, possibly because it encourages consolidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the agreement between measurements of invasive blood pressure (IBP) and oscillometric blood pressure from the tongue (OBPton) using a multiparameter monitor. Unblinded, prospective, experimental study. A total of 12 female Large White crossbreed pigs. Pigs undergoing experimental procedures that required arterial cannula placement were recruited. A blood pressure cuff with the closest width to 40% of the circumference of the tongue was placed rostral to the lingual frenulum. Systolic, mean and diastolic IBP and OBPton were measured simultaneously at 5 minute intervals. Agreement between paired measurements was examined using Bland–Altman analysis. Mean bias, precision (standard deviation of mean bias), 95% limits of agreement, correlation coefficients and percentage of measurements within 10 and 20 mmHg of IBP were calculated. The total numbers of paired measurements recorded were 124, 126 and 124 for systolic, mean and diastolic blood pressures, respectively. The mean bias, precision and 95% limits of agreement for systolic OBPton were 11.5, 11.5 (–11.1 to 34.2), for mean OBPton 5.6, 5.7 (–5.7 to 16.8) and for diastolic OBPton 7.6, 10.1 (–12.1 to 27.4) mmHg. Correlation coefficients were greater than 0.9 for mean OBPton only. More than 50% of measurements were within 10 mmHg of IBP and 80% of measurements were within 20 mmHg of IBP for mean and diastolic OBPton only. The tongue as a cuff site for oscillometric blood pressure measurement is a useful site for measuring mean arterial, but not systolic or diastolic blood pressure in anaesthetized Large White crossbreed pigs. This technique fulfils the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine criteria for measuring mean arterial pressure but not systolic or diastolic arterial pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen, produced from renewable electricity, can be transported long distances in multiple mediums. In this paper, a Techno-economic model is proposed to show the economic viability of global green hydrogen transport along 15 major regional routes such as Australia to Asia and Europe for the first time. A Monte Carlo-based technique is presented to assess the levelised cost of green hydrogen for different regions for the next 30 years. Depending on the specific route, green hydrogen can be transported in different forms, including ammonia, Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC), Hydrogen Slush, compressed or liquefied hydrogen, etc. form and using different modes including shipping, truck, train, and pipeline. A linear programming analysis has been conducted for different regions, showing that among the global projected 300Mt of green hydrogen demand in 2050, 85% will need to be transported between regions to achieve the most economically optimal distribution. • Techno-economic analysis of green H 2 export via 15 worldwide regional trade routes. • Export model includes H2 generation, conversion, transport, and carbon prices. • In 2030, North America will be the largest exporter, followed by Australia. • Higher carbon prices allow for rapid growth in the green hydrogen industry. • Shipping is the most likely and cheapest H 2 export mode for distant transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the views of Canadian Masters athletes (MAs; Mage = 51, range 38–62; three men and five women) from 12 sports (10 individual and two team sports) on sport psychology for performance, experiential, and lifestyle enhancement. Using Braun and Clarke's procedures for thematic analysis, the authors interpreted data from semistructured interviews deductively in relation to five strategic themes in which psychological skills are applied for performance enhancement. Deductive results demonstrated MAs used goal setting, imagery, arousal regulation, concentration, and self-confidence to enhance performance and obtain competitive advantages. The authors also analyzed data inductively to reveal themes related to experiential and lifestyle factors. Inductive results showed that MAs "placed priorities on sport," which involved cognitively justifying the priority and framing sport as an outlet and as the embodiment of the authentic self. Social strategies associated with continued sport pursuit included cultivation of supportive social environments, social contracts/negotiations, social signaling, and social accountability. Strategies "to fit sport in" included integrating/twinning, scheduling, and managing commitment. Managing age-related concerns involved mindfulness and compensation strategies. Results show how MAs uniquely apply sport psychology to enhance their performance and to support sport adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To understand the importance of organising professional development for junior nurses • To learn how to formulate a leadership development programme for junior nurses • To count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers) • To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers) Lifelong learning is an expectation of all nurses and nursing associates. However, after preceptorship there is limited guidance on how junior nurses can progress in their careers. Formal training programmes were limited by pressures associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as long-term financial and resource restrictions across the NHS. Nurses' expectations of professional development and well-being have also been affected by their experiences during the pandemic. This article explores how nurses in management positions can create professional development opportunities for nurses, particularly in leadership. The author identifies how leaders can support their staff to broaden their skills and knowledge despite pressures on staffing and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovine psoroptic mange (sheep scab) is an infectious condition caused by an allergen-induced hypersensitivity response to the mite Psoroptes ovis. Infestation results in clinical disease, economic loss and welfare issues in many sheep-producing countries. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and spatial pattern of sheep scab on contiguous farms, using both self-reported clinical outbreak history (2012–2020) and serological testing with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (2021/2022). Methods: Farms included in the study were located in three regions of known high scab prevalence in North, Central and Southwest England. In total, 254 farms completed both a questionnaire, which provided the clinical scab history of the farm, and submitted results of serological testing with the ELISA. Results: A scab outbreak was reported by 17.4% (± confidence interval [CI]: 4.6%; n = 48) of farms in 2020 based on clinical diagnosis; scab was diagnosed by the ELISA on 25.6% (± 5.5%; n = 65) of farms in 2021/2022. Comparison of self-reported clinical scab cases with the ELISA test results identified a group of farms (n = 52) that did not report scab in 2020, or in some cases did not report having scab over the previous 8 years (n = 20), but whose flocks were nevertheless seropositive in 2021/2022. Conclusion: A small number of flocks, particularly those using common grazings in North England, where handling is infrequent, often comprising less susceptible sheep breeds, may have persistent scab infestations that are generally undetected by clinical inspection. The data highlight the advantages of serological testing to identify exposure to scab in flocks where clinical signs are less easily detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shoemaker, McLean, and Pratt (SMP) buffer pH method has been used historically in Oregon for estimating lime requirement, however concerns regarding hazardous waste disposal have caused increased interest in nonhazardous methods. The objective was to compare nonhazardous lime requirement estimate (LRE) methods to the SMP method for predicting incubation lime requirement (LRi) for Oregon soils. Twenty‐four soils (pH ≤ 5.5) were incubated with seven rates of CaCO3 ranging from 0 to 22.4 Mg ha–1 and incubated for 90 d at 19 °C. Seven different LRE methods were evaluated and regressed against LRi for pH targets of 5.6, 6.0, and 6.4 using linear regression. The Sikora (r2 =.91–.93), modified Mehlich (r2 =.87–.90), and Sikora‐2 (r2 =.82–.93) buffer methods showed potential as alternatives to SMP (r2 =.91–.93) based on accuracy. A multilinear model combining clay content, KCl‐extractable Al, soil organic matter (SOM), extractable Mg, and pH1:2 also effectively predicted LRi (R2 =.97). The Moore–Sikora method (r2 =.89–.93) showed precision issues due to high replication variability. The single addition of Ca(OH)2 method (r2 =.67–.74) was less accurate than other evaluated methods. In conclusion, there were several viable non‐hazardous LRE method alternatives to the SMP buffer method for Oregon soils, based on accuracy and precision. Core Ideas: The SMP, Sikora, Sikora‐2, and modified Mehlich methods accurately estimated lime requirement (LR).A multiparameter model including clay, SOM, Al, Mg, and pH also accurately estimated LR.The Ca(OH)2 and Moore–Sikora methods were relatively poor predictors of LR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sikora buffer pH method is a non-hazardous alternative to the Shoemaker, McLean, and Pratt (SMP) method for lime requirement estimation (LRE) for Oregon soils. Commercial soil testing laboratories may implement method modifications in order to streamline the method for large-scale testing, however the potential effects of these modifications on buffer pH results are currently unknown. Modifications that artificially increase buffer pH are of particular concern, as they could potentially result in under-application of lime and crop damage. The goal of this project was to evaluate and quantify five Sikora buffer pH method modifications for five Oregon agricultural soils. Soil type did not show a significant interaction effect with method modifications. Modifications related to mixing method, measurement in supernatant instead of slurry, and soil:water:buffer ratio were found to significantly increase Sikora buffer pH results by 0.063, 0.065, and 0.058 units, respectively, in comparison to the control. Mean Sikora buffer pH decreased by 0.02–0.05 units when equilibration time was increased from 0 to 180 min. Our findings show how even minor modifications can alter Sikora buffer pH results, illustrating the importance of avoiding deviations from the original method. Additionally, comparing results among labs may help minimize over- or under-recommending of lime to agricultural fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia synthesis chemistry with lithium–nitrogen–hydrogen materials is largely confined to pathways involving lithium hydride and lithium imide. Herein, we explore an alternate pathway featuring lithium nitride–hydride that shows more favorable characteristics from an activity, synthesis and cyclability perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Joyce's interest in disability has often been commented on, this is the first book-length study that takes Joyce's engagement with disability and non-normativity as its focus, making this link concrete and central as opposed to peripheral or secondary. Jeremy Colangelo (ed), Joyce Writing Disability (University Press of Florida, 2022), pp. xiv + 250, $85.00 (Kindle e-book), ISBN 9780813069135 I Joyce Writing Disability i is a fascinating and original collection of essays edited by Jeremy Colangelo. It is also important to note how this collection seeks to move away from the pathologised and diagnosis-focused model of disability and is extending disability studies to consider illness and trauma studies. [Extracted from the article]

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common intraocular tumor in adults. Nearly half of UM patients develop metastatic disease and often succumb within months because effective therapy is lacking. A novel therapeutic approach has been suggested by the discovery that UM cell lines driven by mutant constitutively active Gq or G11 can be targeted by FR900359 (FR) or YM-254890, which are bioavailable, selective inhibitors of the Gq/11/14 subfamily of heterotrimeric G proteins. Here, we have addressed the therapeutic potential of FR for UM. We found that FR inhibited all oncogenic Gq/11 mutants reported in UM. FR arrested growth of all Gq/11-driven UM cell lines tested, but induced apoptosis only in a few. Similarly, FR inhibited growth of, but did not efficiently kill, UM tumor cells from biopsies of primary or metastatic tumors. FR evoked melanocytic redifferentiation of UM tumor cells with low (class 1), but not high (class 2), metastatic potential. FR administered systemically below its LD50 strongly inhibited growth of PDX-derived class 1 and class 2 UM tumors in mouse xenograft models and reduced blood pressure transiently. FR did not regress xenografted UM tumors or significantly affect heart rate, liver function, hematopoiesis, or behavior. These results indicated the existence of a therapeutic window in which FR can be explored for treating UM and potentially other diseases caused by constitutively active Gq/11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the occurrences of Tramea lacerata (Black Saddlebags), Enallagma anna (River Bluet), and Epiaeschna heros (Swamp Darner) from localities in central and southwestern New Brunswick, Canada. The former 2 species are reported here for the first time from the province, and the Swamp Darner is reported for the second time, 118 years after the first known specimen was captured in 1899. Our record of a River Bluet represents a significant geographic range extension (~500 km east). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trombiculid mites are tiny arthropods with a high species diversity and global distribution. Although scrub typhus threatens over a billion people within the Asia Pacific, its ecology is poorly understood compared to other vector-borne diseases. Since trombiculid mites, the vector and reservoir of scrub typhus in the Asia Pacific, had never been documented in the Chilean region where scrub typhus was initially discovered, other vectors such as terrestrial leeches were suspected [[1]]. Although scrub typhus threatens more than 1 billion people worldwide [[10]], a recent "global brief on vector-borne diseases", published by the World Health Organization (WHO), does not include mites as vectors [[13]]. [Extracted from the article]

Since the 1990s, the international humanitarian system has developed approaches, tools, and standards for addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in emergencies premised on the survivor-centered approach (SCA). Utilizing critical discourse analysis, we explore how articulation of SCA within humanitarian discourse aligns with its stated intent to return control to survivors. The analysis reveals that humanitarian system power dynamics distort the application of SCA, leaving humanitarian service providers in charge of assessing the best course of action or severely limiting survivors’ choices. We propose a survivor led approach as more aligned with the feminist and transformative goals of humanitarian action against GBV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Liquid hydrogen carriers are considered to be attractive hydrogen storage options because of their ease of integration into existing chemical transportation infrastructures when compared with liquid or compressed hydrogen. The development of such carriers forms part of the work of the International Energy Agency Task 32: Hydrogen-Based Energy Storage. Here, we report the state-of-the-art for ammonia-based and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, with a particular focus on the challenge of ensuring easily regenerable, high-density hydrogen storage. Highlights • Ammonia and cyclic organic molecules can help overcome H 2 infrastructure issues. • Ease of storage and distribution are key advantages of liquid H 2 carriers. • Coupling NH 3 production to renewables for H 2 storage requires new catalysts/methods. • New approaches to low-temperature NH 3 synthesis and decomposition using M-N H systems. • Kinetic and thermodynamic methods for tailoring H 2 storage in cyclic organics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypothesis Colloidal polymer composites, in which polymer particles are blended with a filler, are widely used in applications including pharmaceuticals, crop protection, inks, and protective coatings. It is generally found that the presence of hard particulate fillers will increase the elastic modulus of a polymer colloid composite. However, the influence of the size of the filler particle on the large-strain deformation and fracture and on the viscoelastic characteristics, including creep, is not well explored. We hypothesize that the size ratio of the filler to the colloidal polymer will play a critical role in determining the properties of the composite. Experiments Colloidal composites were prepared by blending soft polymer colloids (as a binder) with calcium carbonate fillers having four different sizes, spanning from 70 nm to 4.5 μm. There is no bonding between the filler and matrix in the composites. The large-strain deformation, linear viscoelasticity, and creep were determined for each filler size for increasing the filler volume fractions ( ϕ CC ). Weibull statistics were used to analyze the distributions of strains at failure. Findings We find that the inclusion of nano-fillers leads to brittle fracture at a lower ϕ CC than when μm-size fillers are used. The data interpretation is supported by Weibull analysis. However, for a given ϕ CC , the storage modulus is higher in the rubbery regime, and the creep resistance is higher when nanoparticles are used. Using scanning electron microscopy to support our arguments, we show that the properties of colloidal composites are correlated with their microstructure, which can be altered through control of the filler:polymer particle size ratio. Hard nanoparticles pack efficiently around larger particles to provide reinforcement (manifested as a higher storage modulus and greater creep resistance), but they also introduce weak points that lead to brittleness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Adenosine triphosphate–sensitive potassium (K ATP ) channel openers have been found to be cardioprotective in multiple animal models via an unknown mechanism. Mouse models allow genetic manipulation of K ATP channel components for the investigation of this mechanism. Mouse Langendorff models using 30 min of global ischemia are known to induce measurable myocardial infarction and injury. Prolongation of global ischemia in a mouse Langendorff model could allow the determination of the mechanisms involved in K ATP channel opener cardioprotection. Methods Mouse hearts (C57BL/6) underwent baseline perfusion with Krebs-Henseleit buffer (30 min), assessment of function using a left ventricular balloon, delivery of test solution, and prolonged global ischemia (90 min). Hearts underwent reperfusion (30 min) and functional assessment. Coronary flow was measured using an inline probe. Test solutions included were as follows: hyperkalemic cardioplegia alone (CPG, n = 11) or with diazoxide (CPG + DZX, n = 12). Results Although the CPG + DZX group had greater percent recovery of developed pressure and coronary flow, this was not statistically significant. Following a mean of 74 min (CPG) and 77 min (CPG + DZX), an additional increase in end-diastolic pressure was noted (plateau), which was significantly higher in the CPG group. Similarly, the end-diastolic pressure (at reperfusion and at the end of experiment) was significantly higher in the CPG group. Conclusions Prolongation of global ischemia demonstrated added benefit when DZX was added to traditional hyperkalemic CPG. This model will allow the investigation of DZX mechanism of cardioprotection following manipulation of targeted K ATP channel components. This model will also allow translation to prolonged ischemic episodes associated with cardiac surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the nonaqueous synthesis of Cd(CN)2 by oxidation of cadmium metal with Hg(CN)2 in liquid ammonia. The reaction proceeds via an intermediate of composition Cd(NH3)2[Cd(CN)4], which converts to Cd(CN)2 on prolonged heating. Powder X-ray diffraction measurements allow us to determine the crystal structure of the previously-unreported Cd(NH3)2[Cd(CN)4], which we find to adopt a twofold interpenetrating PtS topology. We discuss the effect of partial oxidation on the Cd/Hg composition of this intermediate, as well as its implications for the reconstructive nature of the deammination process. Variable-temperature X-ray diffraction measurements allow us to characterise the anisotropic negative thermal expansion (NTE) behaviour of Cd(NH3)2[Cd(CN)4] together with the effect of Cd/Hg substitution; ab initio density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal a similarly anomalous mechanical response in the form of both negative linear compressibility (NLC) and negative Poisson's ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human onchocerciasis – commonly known as river blindness – is one of the most devastating yet neglected tropical diseases, leaving many millions in sub-Saharan Africa blind and/or with chronic disabilities. Attempts to eliminate onchocerciasis, primarily through the mass drug administration of ivermectin, remains challenging and has been heightened by the recent news that drug-resistant parasites are developing in some populations after years of drug treatment. Needed, and needed now, in the fight to eliminate onchocerciasis are new tools, such as preventive and therapeutic vaccines. This review summarizes the progress made to advance the onchocerciasis vaccine from the research laboratory into the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerciasis, a neglected tropical disease prevalent in western and central Africa, is a major health problem and has been targeted for elimination. The causative agent for this disease is the human parasite Onchocerca volvulus . Onchocerca ochengi and Litomosoides sigmodontis , infectious agents of cattle and rodents, respectively, serve as model organisms to study filarial nematode infections. Biomarkers to determine infection without the use of painful skin biopsies and microscopic identification of larval worms are needed and their discovery is facilitated by an improved knowledge of parasite-specific metabolites. In addition to proteins and nucleic acids, lipids may be suitable candidates for filarial biomarkers that are currently underexplored. To fill this gap, we present the phospholipid profile of the filarial nematodes O. ochengi , O. volvulus and L. sigmodontis. Direct infusion quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometry was employed to analyze the composition of phospholipids and their molecular species in the three nematode species. Analysis of the phospholipid profiles of plasma or serum of uninfected and infected hosts showed that nematode-specific phospholipids were below detection limits. However, several phospholipids, in particular ether lipids of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), were abundant in O. ochengi worms and in bovine nodule fluid, suggesting that these phospholipids might be released from O. ochengi into the host, and could serve as potential biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although of limited veterinary significance, Onchocerca ochengi has become famous as a natural model or ‘analogue’ of human onchocerciasis (river blindness), which is caused by Onchocerca volvulus . On the basis of both morphological and molecular criteria, O. ochengi is the closest extant relative of O. volvulus and shares several key natural history traits with the human pathogen. These include exploitation of the same group of insect vectors (blackflies of the Simulium damnosum complex) and formation of collagenous nodules with a similar histological structure to human nodules. Here, we review the contribution of this natural system to drug and vaccine discovery efforts, as well as to our basic biological understanding of Onchocerca spp., over the past quarter-century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessing the intrinsic hydrogen content within ammonia, NH 3 , has the potential to play a very significant role in the future of a CO 2 -free sustainable energy supply. Inexpensive light metal imides and amides are effective at decomposing ammonia to hydrogen and nitrogen (2NH 3 → 3H 2 + N 2 ), at modest temperatures, and thus represent a low-cost approach to on-demand hydrogen production. Building upon this discovery, this paper describes the integration of an ammonia cracking unit with a post-reactor gas purification system and a small-scale PEM fuel cell to create a first bench-top demonstrator for the production of hydrogen using light metal imides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ticks Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus are two of the most important vectors in Europe. Climate niche modelling has been used in many studies to attempt to explain their distribution and to predict changes under a range of climate change scenarios. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of different climate niche modelling approaches to explain the known distribution of I. ricinus and D. reticulatus in Europe. Methods: A series of climate niche models, using different combinations of input data, were constructed and assessed. Species occurrence records obtained from systematic literature searches and Global Biodiversity Information Facility data were thinned to different degrees to remove sampling spatial bias. Four sources of climate data were used: bioclimatic variables, WorldClim, TerraClimate and MODIS satellite-derived data. Eight different model training extents were examined and three modelling frameworks were used: maximum entropy, generalised additive models and random forest models. The results were validated through internal cross-validation, comparison with an external independent dataset and expert opinion. Results: The performance metrics and predictive ability of the different modelling approaches varied significantly within and between each species. Different combinations were better able to define the distribution of each of the two species. However, no single approach was considered fully able to capture the known distribution of the species. When considering the mean of the performance metrics of internal and external validation, 24 models for I. ricinus and 11 models for D. reticulatus of the 96 constructed were considered adequate according to the following criteria: area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve > 0.7; true skill statistic > 0.4; Miller's calibration slope 0.25 above or below 1; Boyce index > 0.9; omission rate < 0.15. Conclusions: This comprehensive analysis suggests that there is no single 'best practice' climate modelling approach to account for the distribution of these tick species. This has important implications for attempts to predict climate-mediated impacts on future tick distribution. It is suggested here that climate variables alone are not sufficient; habitat type, host availability and anthropogenic impacts, not included in current modelling approaches, could contribute to determining tick presence or absence at the local or regional scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disulfide bonds are valuable constraints in protein structure modeling. The Cys–Cys disulfide bond undergoes specific fragmentation under CID and, therefore, can be considered as a CID-cleavable crosslink. We have recently reported on the benefits of using non-specific digestion with proteinase K for inter-peptide crosslink determination. Here, we describe an updated application of our CID-cleavable crosslink analysis software and our crosslinking analysis with non-specific digestion methodology for the robust and comprehensive determination of disulfide bonds in proteins, using Orbitrap LC/ESI-MS/MS data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resolution and the fidelity of a protein structural model, constructed using crosslinking data, is dependent on the crosslinking distance constraints. Most of the popular amine-reactive NHS-ester crosslinkers are limited in their capacity to provide short distance constraints because of the rarity of lysine residues occurring in close proximity in the protein structure. To solve this problem, hetero-bifunctional crosslinkers containing both a photo-reactive functional group and an NHS-ester group can be used to enable non-specific crosslinking within the proximity of these lysine residues. Here we develop three such isotopically-coded hetero-bifunctional photo-reactive crosslinkers, bearing azido, diazirine or benzophenone photo-reactive groups (azido-benzoic-acid-succinimide (ABAS)- 12 C 6 / 13 C 6 , succinimidyl-diazirine (SDA)- 12 C 5 / 13 C 5 , and carboxy-benzophenone-succinimide (CBS)- 12 C 6 / 13 C 6 , respectively). These crosslinkers were validated using several model proteins/peptides and were then applied to study the structure of the native α-synuclein protein. In that case the ABAS crosslinker proved to be the most suitable, with 10 crosslinks being found in the native α-synuclein structure. Biological significance Structural proteomics can be used for studying protein structures which may be difficult to examine by traditional structural biology methods such as NMR or X-ray crystallography. Crosslinking in particular is used to provide distance constraints for molecular modeling of individual proteins and protein complexes. The shortest distance constraints are most valuable for the modeling process. To be able to provide such short distance constraints, non-specific photo-reactive chemistry can be used for crosslinking reactions. However, detection of such non-specific crosslinks is difficult because the signal from any particular crosslink is low due to the broad reactivity of the crosslinking reagents. To overcome this problem, we have employed isotopic labeling of these crosslinkers. In this paper, we have demonstrated their effectiveness for studying the native α-synuclein protein structure. The non-specific reactivity, in combination with isotopic coding of these crosslinkers, allowed for the formation and detection of short-range crosslinks, targeting a variety of amino acids. These reagents may prove useful for future applications to a variety of protein structural problems. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Protein dynamics in health and disease. Guest Editors: Pierre Thibault and Anne-Claude Gingras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of short, non-coding RNA can be found in a highly stable, cell-free form in mammalian body fluids. Specific miRNAs are secreted by parasitic nematodes in exosomes and have been detected in the serum of murine and dog hosts infected with the filarial nematodes Litomosoides sigmodontis and Dirofilaria immitis, respectively. Here we identify extracellular, parasite-derived small RNAs associated with Onchocerca species infecting cattle and humans. Methods: Small RNA libraries were prepared from total RNA extracted from the nodule fluid of cattle infected with Onchocerca ochengi as well as serum and plasma from humans infected with Onchocerca volvulus in Cameroon and Ghana. Parasite-derived miRNAs were identified based on the criteria that sequences unambiguously map to hairpin structures in Onchocerca genomes, do not align to the human genome and are not present in European control serum. Results: A total of 62 mature miRNAs from 52 distinct pre-miRNA candidates were identified in nodule fluid from cattle infected with O. ochengi of which 59 are identical in the genome of the human parasite O. volvulus. Six of the extracellular miRNAs were also identified in sequencing analyses of serum and plasma from humans infected with O. volvulus. Based on sequencing analysis the abundance levels of the parasite miRNAs in serum or plasma range from 5 to 127 reads/per million total host miRNA reads identified, comparable to our previous analyses of Schistosoma mansoni and L. sigmodontis miRNAs in serum. All six of the O. volvulus miRNAs identified have orthologs in other filarial nematodes and four were identified in the serum of mice infected with L. sigmodontis. Conclusions: We have identified parasite-derived miRNAs associated with onchocerciasis in cattle and humans. Our results confirm the conserved nature of RNA secretion by diverse nematodes. Additional species-specific small RNAs from O. volvulus may be present in serum based on the novel miRNA sequences identified in the nodule fluid. In our analyses comparison to European control serum illuminates the scope for false-positives, warranting caution in criteria that should be applied to identification of biomarkers of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of short, non-coding RNA can be found in a highly stable, cell-free form in mammalian body fluids. Specific miRNAs are secreted by parasitic nematodes in exosomes and have been detected in the serum of murine and dog hosts infected with the filarial nematodes Litomosoides sigmodontis and Dirofilaria immitis, respectively. Here we identify extracellular, parasite-derived small RNAs associated with Onchocerca species infecting cattle and humans. Methods Small RNA libraries were prepared from total RNA extracted from the nodule fluid of cattle infected with Onchocerca ochengi as well as serum and plasma from humans infected with Onchocerca volvulus in Cameroon and Ghana. Parasite-derived miRNAs were identified based on the criteria that sequences unambiguously map to hairpin structures in Onchocerca genomes, do not align to the human genome and are not present in European control serum. Results A total of 62 mature miRNAs from 52 distinct pre-miRNA candidates were identified in nodule fluid from cattle infected with Onchocerca ochengi of which 59 are identical in the genome of the human parasite Onchocerca volvulus. Six of the extracellular miRNAs were also identified in sequencing analyses of serum and plasma from humans infected with O. volvulus. Based on sequencing analysis the abundance levels of the parasite miRNAs in serum or plasma range from 5 to 127 reads/per million total host miRNA reads identified, comparable to our previous analyses of Schistosoma mansoni and L. sigmodontis miRNAs in serum. All six of the O. volvulus miRNAs identified have orthologs in other filarial nematodes and four were identified in the serum of mice infected with L. sigmodontis. Conclusions We have identified parasite-derived miRNAs associated with onchocerciasis in cattle and humans. Our results confirm the conserved nature of RNA secretion by diverse nematodes. Additional species-specific small RNAs from O. volvulus may be present in serum based on the novel miRNA sequences identified in the nodule fluid. In our analyses comparison to European control serum illuminates the scope for false-positives, warranting caution in criteria that should be applied to identification of biomarkers of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to agents of scrub typhus (Orientia spp.), several other bacterial and viral pathogens have been recorded from chiggers, some of which appear to be vertically transmitted. A number of arthropod symbionts have also been reported from trombiculid mites, and there is strong evidence for vertical transmission for approximately half of these taxa. Very few unbiased microbiome studies of chiggers have been conducted to date and have taken very different approaches (i.e., analysis of a mite colony or wild chiggers, whether fed or questing), rendering meaningful comparisons difficult; moreover, three of four studies were undertaken in the same country (Thailand). The vast majority of studies on pathogens or arthropod symbionts in chiggers have focused on bacteria, with no unbiased virome or mycobiome analyses performed to date. 'Chiggers' (trombiculid mite larvae) are best known as vectors of rickettsial pathogens, Orientia spp., which cause a zoonosis, scrub typhus. However, several other pathogens (e.g., Hantaan orthohantavirus, Dabie bandavirus, Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Borrelia spp., and Rickettsia spp.) and bacterial symbionts (e.g., Cardinium , Rickettsiella , and Wolbachia) are being reported from chiggers with increasing frequency. Here, we explore the surprisingly diverse chigger microbiota and potential interactions within this microcosm. Key conclusions include a possible role for chiggers as vectors of viral diseases; the dominance in some chigger populations of unidentified symbionts in several bacterial families; and increasing evidence for vertical transmission of potential pathogens and symbiotic bacteria in chiggers, suggesting intimate interactions and not simply incidental acquisition of bacteria from the environment or host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenosine triphosphate-sensitive (KATP) potassium channel opener diazoxide (DZX) maintains myocyte volume and contractility during stress via an unknown mechanism when administered at the onset of stress. This study was performed to investigate the cardioprotective potential of DZX when added after the onset of the stresses of hyperkalemic cardioplegia, metabolic inhibition, and hypo-osmotic stress.Study Design: Isolated mouse ventricular and human atrial myocytes were exposed to control Tyrode's solution (TYR) for 10 to 20 minutes, test solution for 30 minutes (hypothermic hyperkalemic cardioplegia [CPG], CPG + 100uM diazoxide [CPG+DZX], metabolic inhibition [MI], MI+DZX, mild hypo-osmotic stress [0.9T], or 0.9T + DZX), with DZX added after 10 or 20 minutes of stress, followed by 20 minutes of re-exposure to TYR (±DZX). Myocyte volume (human + mouse) and contractility (mouse) were compared.Results: Mouse and human myocytes demonstrated significant swelling during exposure to CPG, MI, and hypo-osmotic stress that was not prevented by DZX when administered either at 10 or 20 minutes after the onset of stress. Contractility after the stress of CPG in mouse myocytes significantly declined when DZX was administered 20 minutes after the onset of stress (p < 0.05 vs TYR). Contractility after hypo-osmotic stress in mouse myocytes was not altered by the addition of DZX.Conclusions: To maintain myocyte volume homeostasis and contractility during stress (hyperkalemic cardioplegia, metabolic inhibition, and hypo-osmotic stress), KATP channel opener diazoxide requires administration at the onset of stress in this isolated myocyte model. These data have potential implications for any future clinical application of diazoxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerciasis is a debilitating neglected tropical disease caused by infection with the filarial parasite Onchocerca volvulus. Adult worms live in subcutaneous tissues and produce large numbers of microfilariae that migrate to the skin and eyes. The disease is spread by black flies of the genus Simulium following ingestion of microfilariae that develop into infective stage larvae in the insect. Currently, transmission is monitored by capture and dissection of black flies and microscopic examination of parasites, or using the polymerase chain reaction to determine the presence of parasite DNA in pools of black flies. In this study we identified a new DNA biomarker, encoding O. volvulus glutathione S-transferase 1a (OvGST1a), to detect O. volvulus infection in vector black flies. We developed an OvGST1a-based loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay where amplification of specific target DNA is detectable using turbidity or by a hydroxy naphthol blue color change. The results indicated that the assay is sensitive and rapid, capable of detecting DNA equivalent to less than one microfilaria within 60 minutes. The test is highly specific for the human parasite, as no cross-reaction was detected using DNA from the closely related and sympatric cattle parasite Onchocerca ochengi. The test has the potential to be developed further as a field tool for use in the surveillance of transmission before and after implementation of mass drug administration programs for onchocerciasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new type of process for the cracking of ammonia (NH3) that is an alternative to the use of rare or transition metal catalysts. Effecting the decomposition of NH3 using the concurrent stoichiometric decomposition and regeneration of sodium amide (NaNH2) via sodium metal (Na), this represents a significant departure in reaction mechanism compared with traditional surface catalysts. In variable-temperature NH3 decomposition experiments, using a simple flow reactor, the Na/NaNH2 system shows superior performance to supported nickel and ruthenium catalysts, reaching 99.2% decomposition efficiency with 0.5 g of NaNH2 in a 60 seem NH3 flow at 530 °C. As an abundant and inexpensive material, the development of NaNH2-based NH3 cracking systems may promote the utilization of NH3 for sustainable energy storage purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palladium-catalyzedcross-coupling of aryl bromides with 2-aryl-1,3-dithianesis described. This methodology takes advantage of the relatively acidicbenzylic proton of the dithiane, allowing it to act as a competent,polarity-reversed transmetalation reagent. This unique approach affordsthe ability to employ an orthogonal deprotection strategy, and practicalroutes to both diaryl ketones and diarylmethanes are illustrated.Cross-coupling of a range of aryl dithianes with aryl bromides, includingscope and current limitations, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterans' associations after the Second World War have received very little attention from historians despite the insight they can provide into postwar societies. This article draws upon the literature published by national ex-prisoner of war (POW) associations formed in the aftermath of the Second World War, to examine the significance attached by different groups of British ex-POWs to their wartime incarceration. This literature shows how an early attempt to create one POW association for all who were captured failed. Associations subsequently founded for Far East ex-POWs successfully created an inclusive 'fictive kinship group' and their activities challenge recently established discourses that these prisoners were a 'forgotten army'. By contrast, kinship groups that developed among ex-POWs held in Italy and Germany were fostered by certain criteria in addition to the common one of having been held in captivity. The article concludes by identifying the conditions conducive to the formation of fictive kinship groups among POWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolbachia are common endosymbionts of terrestrial arthropods, and are also found in nematodes: the animal-parasitic filaria, and the plant-parasite Radopholus similis. Lateral transfer of Wolbachia DNA to the host genome is common. We generated a draft genome sequence for the strongyloidean nematode parasite Dictyocaulus viviparus, the cattle lungworm. In the assembly, we identified nearly 1 Mb of sequence with similarity to Wolbachia. The fragments were unlikely to derive from a live Wolbachia infection: most were short, and the genes were disabled through inactivating mutations. Many fragments were co-assembled with definitively nematode-derived sequence. We found limited evidence of expression of the Wolbachia-derived genes. The D. viviparus Wolbachia genes were most similar to filarial strains and strains from the host-promiscuous clade F. We conclude that D. viviparus was infected by Wolbachia in the past, and that clade F-like symbionts may have been the source of filarial Wolbachia infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]