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Fluorescent organotin compounds are useful in sensing, optoelectronic devices, and in vitro bioimaging. Although in vitro fluorescence bioimaging shows low resolution at room temperature, a better resolution is possible at cryotemperatures. Therefore, the search for new cryoluminescent materials with potential application in high-resolution fluorescence bioimaging remains a great challenge. Herein, we report the cryoluminescence properties of two fluorescent bis-organotin compounds, namely, BisNTHySnBu2 (5) and BisNTHySnPh2 (6), synthesized via microwave irradiation. All compounds were fully characterized using 1H, 13C, and 119Sn NMR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and HR-MS. The 119Sn δ and 3J(1H,119Sn) of 5 and 6 indicate that two Sn-ligands are chemically and electronically equivalent, as confirmed by cyclic voltammetry. The crystal structure of 6 showed pentacoordinate tin atoms with skeleton ligands. The study of self-assembled monolayers of both Sn-complexes via STM microscopy revealed a similar supramolecular packing in lamella-like patterns, adopting a face-on arrangement, where molecules stay flat lying on HOPG in accordance with the height profile of closely packed monolayers on graphite of about 0.33 nm thickness. However, only the Sn complex 6, which bears phenyls, covers large surface areas. The photophysical properties of bis-organotin compounds were also investigated in solution (room and low temperatures) and in the solid state. Good luminescence properties in solutions with fluorescence quantum yields (Φ) of approximately 35% and 50% were found. Despite this, Φ is quenched in the solid state because of aggregation, as supported by solvent/non solvent fluorescence studies, which is in agreement with STM and AFM investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tidal dwarf galaxies (TDGs) form in the debris of galaxy mergers, making them ideal testbeds for investigating star formation in an extreme environment. We present radio continuum EVLA observations spanning 1–2 GHz of the interacting system Arp 94, which contains the TDG J1023+1952. We detect extended radio continuum emission from the disc of the TDG's putative parent galaxy, the spiral NGC 3227. The TDG lies in front of the spiral disc, partially overlapping in projection. This challenging alignment complicates the separation of the respective contributions of radio emission from the TDG and disc. However, we show that the radio continuum appears more prominent around the TDG's location, suggesting the detection of emission from the TDG. Quantifying this argument, we derive an upper limit of 2.2 mJy for the whole TDG's emission. Our derived inband spectral index map of the system generally shows the expected behaviour of combined thermal and synchrotron radio emission in a galaxy disc, except for a region at the periphery of the disc and the TDG with a flat spectrum (spectral index |$\sim$| −0.4) unrelated to regions with high H  |$\alpha$| emission. We speculate that at this location – which coincides with the intersection of faint tidal tails – the collision of gas clouds produces shocks which re-accelerate cosmic ray electrons, and thereby enhance the radio emission. Overall, this study provides new insights about the Arp 94 system and expands the sample of TDGs studied at radio frequencies, with only two confirmed detections so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Taxonomic checklists used to verify published plant names and identify synonyms are a cornerstone of biological research. Four global authoritative checklists for vascular plants exist: Leipzig Catalogue of Vascular Plants, World Checklist of Vascular Plants, World Flora Online (successor of The Plant List, TPL), and WorldPlants. We compared these four checklists in terms of size and differences across taxa.We matched taxon names of these checklists and TPL against each other, identified differences across checklists, and evaluated the consistency of accepted names linked to individual taxon names. We assessed geographic and phylogenetic patterns of variance.All checklists differed strongly compared with TPL and provided identical information on c. 60% of plant names. Geographically, differences in checklists increased from low to high latitudes. Phylogenetically, we detected strong variability across families. A comparison of name‐matching performance on taxon names submitted to the functional trait database TRY, and a check of completeness of accepted names evaluated against an independent, expert‐curated checklist of the family Meliaceae, showed a similar performance across checklists.This study raises awareness on the differences in data and approach across these checklists potentially impacting analyses. We propose ideas on the way forward exploring synergies and harmonizing the four global checklists. This article is part of the Special Collection 'Global plant diversity and distribution'. See https://www.newphytologist.org/global-plant-diversity for more details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

to identify if antithombotics are risk factors for intracereral lesion in older adults with minimal-mild traumatic brain injury (m-mTBI) prospective cohort study We included 2,303 patients over 60 years arriving at our Emergency Department within 24 hours of an mTBI with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GSC) of 14–15. Data were gathered on clinical history, cranial CT scans, blood analyses. 91.1% had an admission GSC score of 15, and 23.6% developed intracranial complications. In bivariate analyses, statins were associated with a 1.28-fold lower risk of IC. Hemorrhagic progression was 29.76-fold higher in patients receiving anticoagulants, with no difference among anticoagulant types. Male sex, GSC of 14, alcohol consumption, and the presence of tumor were risk factors for IC. In multivariate analysis, GSC of 14, alcohol consumption, and malignancy emerged as risk factors for these complications, neurological disease and diabetes as protective factors. After exclusion of neurological disease and diabetes from the multivariate model, a GSC of 14 showed the highest predictive capacity. Antithrombotics intake are not risks factor for intracranial injury in minimal-mild brain injury trauma. Further research is needed taking account of their fragility and comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Treatment options for central precocious puberty (CPP) are important for individualization of therapy. Objective We evaluated the efficacy and safety of 6-month 45-mg leuprolide acetate (LA) depot with intramuscular administration. Methods LA depot was administered at weeks 0 and 24 to treatment-naïve (n = 27) or previously treated (n = 18) children with CPP in a phase 3, multicenter, single-arm, open-label study (NCT03695237). Week 24 peak-stimulated luteinizing hormone (LH) suppression (<4 mIU/mL) was the primary outcome. Secondary/other outcomes included basal sex hormone suppression (girls, estradiol <20 pg/mL; boys, testosterone <30 ng/dL), suppression of physical signs, height velocity, bone age, patient/parent-reported outcomes, and adverse events. Results All patients (age, 7.8 ± 1.27 years) received both scheduled study doses. At 24 weeks, 39/45 patients (86.7%) had LH suppressed. Six were counted as unsuppressed; 2 because of missing data, 3 with LH of 4.35−5.30 mIU/mL and 1 with LH of 21.07 mIU/mL. Through 48 weeks, LH, estradiol, and testosterone suppression was achieved in ≥86.7%, ≥97.4%, and 100%, respectively (as early as week 4 for LH and estradiol and week 12 for testosterone). Physical signs were suppressed at week 48 (girls, 90.2%; boys, 75.0%). Mean height velocity ranged 5.0 to 5.3 cm/year post-baseline in previously treated patients and declined from 10.1 to 6.5 cm/year at week 20 in treatment-naïve patients. Mean bone age advanced slower than chronological age. Patient/parent-reported outcomes remained stable. No new safety signals were identified. No adverse event led to treatment discontinuation. Conclusion Six-month intramuscular LA depot demonstrated 48-week efficacy with a safety profile consistent with other GnRH agonist formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demyelinating diseases alter myelin or the coating surrounding most nerve fibers in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The grouping of human central nervous system demyelinating disorders today includes multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) as distinct disease categories. Each disease is caused by a complex combination of genetic and environmental variables, many involving an autoimmune response. Even though these conditions are fundamentally similar, research into genetic factors, their unique clinical manifestations, and lesion pathology has helped with differential diagnosis and disease pathogenesis knowledge. This review aims to synthesize the genetic approaches that explain the differential susceptibility between these diseases, explore the overlapping clinical features, and pathological findings, discuss existing and emerging hypotheses on the etiology of demyelination, and assess recent pathogenicity studies and their implications for human demyelination. This review presents critical information from previous studies on the disease, which asks several questions to understand the gaps in research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archivos de Cardiología de México is the property of Publicidad Permanyer SLU and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Antimicrobial resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Concord (S. Concord) is known to cause severe gastrointestinal and bloodstream infections in patients from Ethiopia and Ethiopian adoptees, and occasional records exist of S. Concord linked to other countries. The evolution and geographical distribution of S. Concord remained unclear. Here, we provide a genomic overview of the population structure and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of S. Concord by analysing genomes from 284 historical and contemporary isolates obtained between 1944 and 2022 across the globe. We demonstrate that S. Concord is a polyphyletic serovar distributed among three Salmonella super-lineages. Super-lineage A is composed of eight S. Concord lineages, of which four are associated with multiple countries and low levels of AMR. Other lineages are restricted to Ethiopia and horizontally acquired resistance to most antimicrobials used for treating invasive Salmonella infections in low- and middle-income countries. By reconstructing complete genomes for 10 representative strains, we demonstrate the presence of AMR markers integrated in structurally diverse IncHI2 and IncA/C2 plasmids, and/or the chromosome. Molecular surveillance of pathogens such as S. Concord supports the understanding of AMR and the multi-sector response to the global AMR threat. This study provides a comprehensive baseline data set essential for future molecular surveillance. Authors carry out a longitudinal genomic analysis of Salmonella enterica serovar Concord isolates from various geographical locations, to reconstruct population diversity, evolution and antimicrobial resistance distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovine reproductive behavior depends on annual photoperiodic cycle and its impact on endogenous melatonin secretion. In this regard, exogenous melatonin administration previous to the physiological anestrus period could modify the reproductive performance of sheep in the northwest of Mexico. Two independent studies were performed to evaluate such hypothesis in hair sheep implanted with melatonin prior to the anestrus season in latitudes 24° and 25° of Mexico. Study 1 involved 15 rams assigned to one of three treatments receiving 0mg (n=5), 18mg (n=5), or 36mg (n=5) of melatonin subcutaneously. Study variables were measured monthly since implantation (d0) and included testosterone concentration, scrotal circumference, mass motility, individual motility, and sperm concentration. Study 2 included 50 ewes assigned to one of two treatments receiving 0mg (n=25) or 18mg (n=25) of melatonin subcutaneously. In ewes, progesterone concentration and the frequency of females in anestrus were measured during the implantation (−30d), as well as at the beginning (0d) and at the end (45d) of the mating period, while pregnancy rate was determined by ultrasonography 45d after. Continuous variables were analyzed using a mixed effects model considering treatment, time, and the treatment by time interaction as fixed effects. Animal nested within treatment was the random effect. Binary variables were analyzed using the chi-square test. In males, melatonin improved testosterone and sperm concentrations (P<0.05), while in females, a 28% higher pregnancy rate was observed in implanted ewes (P<0.05). Therefore, melatonin enhanced reproductive parameters in both sexes and its exogenous administration previous to the anestrus season in northwest Mexico could be more effective in rams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluorescence imaging technique is becoming a useful tool in the natural and life sciences. Commercial biomarkers are available; however, some disadvantages exist like high isolation cost, low-temperature storage, photodegradation, and low yields. Here two new fluorescent molecular rotors (SB-B 2 and SB-B2 3) derived from Boron Schiff bases (BOSCHIBAs) were synthesized and characterized by NMR (1H and 13C), UV/Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The crystal structure of SB-B2 3 by X-ray diffraction showed a binuclear complex and C2 symmetry. Both compounds showed viscochromic and thermochromic properties. The binuclear rotor 3 showed a greater luminescence intensity increase than the mononuclear one at the highest level of viscosity (90%). From the remarkable findings and to our best knowledge this is the first time low cytotoxicity BOSCHIBAs exhibit selective fluorescent staining of endoplasmic reticulum in HeLa cells and HUVECs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruagea (Meliaceae) comprises c. 15 species of small or medium-sized trees distributed in Central and South America, predominantly in montane rain forest and cloud forest of the Andes. The taxonomic position of Ruagea has changed several times in the past, and it was previously included in Guarea. Ruagea is currently accepted as a separate genus based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses at the family level. However, its monophyly has not been accurately tested, and phylogenetic relationships among species are still largely unknown. In addition, delimitation of species boundaries is not straightforward due to morphological diversity within species. Here, we present the first phylogenetic reconstruction of Ruagea based on two nuclear ribosomal (ITS, ETS) and two plastid DNA regions (rps4-trnT , psbA-trnH). Our results show that Ruagea is monophyletic and composed of four main clades (A, B, C and D). Clade D, comprising the Ecuadorian endemic R. membranacea and a potentially new species from Colombia, is sister to the rest of the genus. Our results demonstrate that R. membranacea and R. insignis are monophyletic and provide support for the recognition of two new species with divergent morphologies. The delimitation of the remaining species remains unresolved as they are recovered as either poly- or paraphyletic. Our results highlight the complexity of the taxonomy of Ruagea , as found in other rainforest taxa, and the need for further detailed analyses to delimit these taxa. This study provides the first and most extensive phylogenetic analysis of the genus so far, representing a contribution towards understanding the evolutionary history of Ruagea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indonesian Archipelago accommodates the largest mangrove area in Southeast Asia and possesses the world's richest composition of mangrove species. The archipelago comprises areas of the biogeographic regions Sunda and Wallacea, separated by Wallace's line. Here, we used the true mangrove species Lumnitzera littorea and Lumnitzera racemosa as a study case for understanding the effects of phylogeographic history, sea surface currents, and geographical distance on genetic diversity and genetic structure. We sampled 14 populations of L. littorea (N = 106) and 21 populations of L. racemosa (N = 152) from Indonesia and used 3122 and 3048 SNP loci, respectively, genotyped using the ddRADseq approach. We assessed genetic diversity, genetic structure, and effective dispersal of the populations and related them to geographical distance and sea surface currents. Our study revealed low levels of genetic variation at the population level in Lumnitzera. Pronounced genetic differentiation between populations indicated two phylogroups in both species. While in L. littorea the two phylogroups were largely separated by Wallace's line, L. racemosa showed a northwest vs. southeast pattern with strong mixture in Wallacea. Our findings provide novel insights into the phylogeography of the mangrove genus Lumnitzera and the role of sea surface currents in the Indonesian Archipelago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminium is the most abundant metal in the earth crust and so far, there is no evidence on an important role in the human body. However, the relation of aluminium exposure on human health and aluminium‐related diseases is well known. The aim of this review is to summarize the most recent advances on multidentate organic compounds such as naphthalene, coumarin, quinoline, Schiff bases, benzothiazole, benzimidazole, rhodamine, pyrene carbazole, and julolidine derivatives as Al3+ fluorescent sensor starting from an analytical viewpoint (sensibility, selectivity), their application in fluorescent bioimaging in vitro or/and in vivo, and photophysical mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Mexicana de Endocrinología, Metabolismo y Nutrición is the property of Publicidad Permanyer SLU and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Biological, physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of PVA-based electrospun wound dressings added with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and different concentrations of Hypericum perforatum ethanolic extract (EEHP) were studied. Membrane characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, barrier properties, scanning electron microscopy, image analysis (diameter and pore size), as well as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Results showed that the PVA/HC/EEHP materials, fabricated under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, generated fiber membranes with diameters between 140–390 nm, adequate porosity and pore size for cell growth (67–90% and 4–16 µm, respectively), and good barrier properties (0.005–0.032 g·m−2 s−1) to be used in the treatment of conditions on the skin, and was even better than some commercial products. Finally, they showed to have anti-inflammatory (>80%), and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. epiderm. Furthermore, higher crystalline structure was observed according to the EEHP concentration. In addition, this is the first report in which PVA/HC/EEHP membranes are successfully fabricated and characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organoboron compounds are attracting immense research interest due to their wide range of applications. Particularly, low-coordinate organoboron complexes are receiving more attention due to their improbable optical and nonlinear optical properties, which makes them better candidates for medical applications. In this review, we summarize the various synthetic methods including multicomponent reactions, microwave-assisted and traditional pathways of organoboron complexes, and their optical and nonlinear properties. This review also includes the usage of organoboron complexes in various fields including biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus licheniformis can cause foodborne intoxication due to the production of the surfactant lichenysin. The aim of this study was to measure the production of lichenysin by food isolates of B. licheniformis in LB medium and skimmed milk and its cytotoxicity for intestinal cells. Out of 11 B. licheniformis isolates tested, most showed robust growth in high salt (1M NaCl), 4% ethanol, at 37 or 55°C, and aerobic and anaerobic conditions. All strains produced lichenysin (in varying amounts), but not all strains were hemolytic. Production of this stable compound by selected strains (high producers B4094 and B4123, and type strain DSM13 T) was subsequently determined using LB medium and milk, at 37 and 55°C. Lichenysin production in LB broth and milk was not detected at cell densities < 5 log10 CFU/ml. The highest concentrations were found in the stationary phase of growth. Total production of lichenysin was 4–20 times lower in milk than in LB broth (maximum 36 μg/ml), and ∼10 times lower in the biomass obtained from milk agar than LB agar. Under all conditions tested, strain B4094 consistently yielded the highest amounts. Besides strain variation and medium composition, temperature also had an effect on lichenysin production, with twofold lower amounts of lichenysin produced at 55°C than at 37°C. All three strains produced lichenysin A with varying acyl chain lengths (C11–C18). The relative abundance of the C14 variant was highest in milk and the C15 variant highest in LB. The concentration of lichenysin needed to reduce cell viability by 50% (IC50) was 16.6 μg/ml for Caco-2 human intestinal epithelial cells and 16.8 μg/ml for pig ileum organoids. Taken together, the presence of low levels (<5 log10 CFU/ml) of B. licheniformis in foods is unlikely to pose a foodborne hazard related to lichenysin production. However, depending on the strain present, the composition, and storage condition of the food, a risk of foodborne intoxication may arise if growth to high levels is supported and such product is ingested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The neotropical genus Ruagea H.Karst. is revised. Fifteen species are recognised, including three R. obovata T.D.Penn., R. beckii T.D.Penn. and R. parvifructa T.D.Penn. which are described as new to science. A key to the species is presented, along with information on the morphology, distribution, ecology, conservation assessments, local names, uses and field characters. All species are mapped and illustrated with line drawings and all specimens seen are cited in a list of exsiccatae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient communication between the glial cells and neurons is a bi-directional process that is essential for conserving normal functioning in the central nervous system (CNS). Neurons dynamically regulate other brain cells in the healthy brain, yet little is known about the first pathways involving oligodendrocytes and neurons. Oligodendrocytes are the myelin-forming cells in the CNS that are needed for the propagation of action potentials along axons and additionally serve to support neurons by neurotrophic factors (NFTs). In demyelinating diseases, like multiple sclerosis (MS), oligodendrocytes are thought to be the victims. Axonal damage begins early and remains silent for years, and neurological disability develops when a threshold of axonal loss is reached, and the compensatory mechanisms are depleted. Three hypotheses have been proposed to explain axonal damage: 1) the damage is caused by an inflammatory process; 2) there is an excessive accumulation of intra-axonal calcium levels; and, 3) demyelinated axons evolve to a degenerative process resulting from the lack of trophic support provided by myelin or myelin-forming cells. Although MS was traditionally considered to be a white matter disease, the demyelination process also occurs in the cerebral cortex. Recent data supports the notion that initial response is triggered by CNS injury. Thus, the understanding of the role of neuron-glial neurophysiology would help provide us with further explanations. We should take in account the suggestion that MS is in part an autoimmune disease that involves genetic and environmental factors, and the pathological response leads to demyelination, axonal loss and inflammatory infiltrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescent bioimaging is an excellent tool in cellular biology, and it will be a powerful technique in modern medicine as a noninvasive imaging technology where tumoral and normal cells must be distinguished. One of the differences between normal and cancer cells is the intracellular pH. Therefore, the design and synthesis of pH-responsive fluorescent materials are required. Organotin Schiff bases showed halofluorochromic behavior in solution. Microwave-assisted synthesis showed better reaction times and chemical yields compared with conventional heating. All compounds were fully characterized by spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques. The halofluorochromism study showed that some molecules in acidic media have the maximum luminescence intensity due to protonation. All the fluorescent tin complexes showed cell staining on hepatocyte and MCF-7 cells by confocal microscopy. The theoretical study has enabled us to rationalize the optical properties and the halofluorochromism for compounds 1 and 2 synthesized in this work. Our results showed that the emission decrease, in the acid and basic media for compounds 1 and 2, respectively, is caused by intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) deactivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescence bioimaging technologies have become powerful tools to observe abnormalities in cells. Commercial biomarkers are available; however, there are disadvantages such as high isolation cost, low-temperature storage, photodegradation, and low yields. Therefore, some research must be carried out. The design, synthesis, and chemo-photophysical characterization of two Schiff bases derived from 4-aminobenzoic acid 4-(4-(diethylamino)benzylidene)aminobenzoic acid (1) and 4-((4-methoxybenzylidene)aminobenzoic acid (2)) are reported. The X-ray structures of both compounds showed a non-planar array with dihedral angles of 28.76° and 52.92° (4), respectively. Remarkably, both Schiff bases were isolated via eco-friendly synthetic routes such as ultrasound (US) and mechanosynthesis (MC) with reduced reaction time and energy cost compared to conventional heating. Notably, fluorescence confocal microscopy revealed that compound 1 showed good staining of the cytoplasm in hepatocytes and MCF-7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) determined the etiologic agents of moderate-to-severe diarrhea (MSD) in children under 5 years old in Africa and Asia. Here, we describe the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) serovars in GEMS and examine the phylogenetics of Salmonella Typhimurium ST313 isolates. Methods Salmonella isolated from children with MSD or diarrhea-free controls were identified by classical clinical microbiology and serotyped using antisera and/or whole-genome sequence data. We evaluated antimicrobial susceptibility using the Kirby-Bauer disk-diffusion method. Salmonella Typhimurium sequence types were determined using multi-locus sequence typing, and whole-genome sequencing was performed to assess the phylogeny of ST313. Results Of 370 Salmonella- positive individuals, 190 (51.4%) were MSD cases and 180 (48.6%) were diarrhea-free controls. The most frequent Salmonella serovars identified were Salmonella Typhimurium, serogroup O:8 (C2-C3), serogroup O:6,7 (C1), Salmonella Paratyphi B Java, and serogroup O:4 (B). The prevalence of NTS was low but similar across sites, regardless of age, and was similar among both cases and controls except in Kenya, where Salmonella Typhimurium was more commonly associated with cases than controls. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these Salmonella Typhimurium isolates, all ST313, were highly genetically related to isolates from controls. Generally, Salmonella isolates from Asia were resistant to ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone, but African isolates were susceptible to these antibiotics. Conclusions Our data confirm that NTS is prevalent, albeit at low levels, in Africa and South Asia. Our findings provide further evidence that multidrug-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium ST313 can be carried asymptomatically by humans in sub-Saharan Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophages have a key role in shaping the tumour microenvironment (TME), tumour immunity and response to immunotherapy, which makes them an important target for cancer treatment1,2. However, modulating macrophages has proved extremely difficult, as we still lack a complete understanding of the molecular and functional diversity of the tumour macrophage compartment. Macrophages arise from two distinct lineages. Tissue-resident macrophages self-renew locally, independent of adult haematopoiesis3–5, whereas short-lived monocyte-derived macrophages arise from adult haematopoietic stem cells, and accumulate mostly in inflamed lesions1. How these macrophage lineages contribute to the TME and cancer progression remains unclear. To explore the diversity of the macrophage compartment in human non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) lesions, here we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of tumour-associated leukocytes. We identified distinct populations of macrophages that were enriched in human and mouse lung tumours. Using lineage tracing, we discovered that these macrophage populations differ in origin and have a distinct temporal and spatial distribution in the TME. Tissue-resident macrophages accumulate close to tumour cells early during tumour formation to promote epithelial–mesenchymal transition and invasiveness in tumour cells, and they also induce a potent regulatory T cell response that protects tumour cells from adaptive immunity. Depletion of tissue-resident macrophages reduced the numbers and altered the phenotype of regulatory T cells, promoted the accumulation of CD8+ T cells and reduced tumour invasiveness and growth. During tumour growth, tissue-resident macrophages became redistributed at the periphery of the TME, which becomes dominated by monocyte-derived macrophages in both mouse and human NSCLC. This study identifies the contribution of tissue-resident macrophages to early lung cancer and establishes them as a target for the prevention and treatment of early lung cancer lesions.Single-cell RNA sequencing and imaging of macrophages in human non-small cell lung cancer and in a mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma show that tissue-resident macrophages have a key role in early tumour progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report a short series of six new boron Schiff bases (BOSCHIBAs), four of them bearing anionic boron clusters. The boron complexes (1-2) were synthesized by the multicomponent reaction. The Boron Schiff bases were appropriately functionalized with boron cluster anions [B12H12]2- (3-4) and [3,3'-Co(C2B9H11)2]- (5-6). Remarkably, BOSCHIBAs bearing [B12H12]2- showed fluorescence emission to the NIR and far-red regions (3: 747 nm, 4: 690 nm), while 5 and 6 exhibited emission in the UV region (5: 525 and 6: 475 nm). Notably, complexes 2, 5, and 6 showed the highest photostability, followed by the boron complexes 1 and 3, which suggest that the nature of the boron cluster influences photostability properties. Compounds 3-4 represent the first example of boron Schiff bases bearing boron cluster anions [B12H12]2- exhibiting fluorescence emission in the NIR and far-red regions, make them potential candidates as fluorescence probes for bioimaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The developmental fates of offspring have the potential to be influenced by the identity of their caregivers and by the nature of the care that they receive. In animals that exhibit both parental and alloparental care, such as the annually eusocial insects, the influence of care-giver identity can be directly assessed to yield mechanistic and evolutionary insights into the origins and elaboration of brood care. Here, we performed a comparative investigation of maternal and worker brood care in bumble bees, a pollinator group where mothers (queens) rear the first offspring in the nest, and then daughters (workers) assume this role upon their emergence. Specifically, we compared the effects of queen and worker brood care on offspring development and also offspring performance, for a set of traits related to sensory biology, learning, and stress resistance. Results: We found that queen-reared workers were smaller-bodied than worker-reared offspring, suggesting that bumble bee queens influence body size determination in their offspring. We also found that queen-reared workers were more resistant to starvation, which might be beneficial for early nesting success. These maternal influences could not be explained by feeding rate, given that we detected a similar offspring feeding frequency in both queens and workers. Conclusion: Bumble bee queens have a unique influence on the development of the first offspring in the nest, which they rear, relative to worker-reared workers. We propose that bumble bee brood care has been shaped by a suite of evolutionary and ecological factors, which might include a maternal influence on traits that promote survival of incipient colonies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, nitrification before and after abrupt cross-transfer in salinity was investigated in two moving bed biofilm reactors inoculated with nitrifying cultures that had adaptation to freshwater (FR) and seawater salinities (SR). FR and SR MBRRs were exposed to short and long term cross-transfer in salinity, and the functional capacity of nitrifying microbial communities was quantified by the estimation of ammonia and nitrite oxidation rates. Salinity induced successions were evaluated before and after salinity change by deep sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons and statistical analysis. The bacterial community structure was characterized and Venn diagrams were included. The results indicated that after salinity cross-transfer, the FR was not significantly recovered at seawater salinity whereas SR showed high resistance to stress caused by low-salt. Succession and physiological plasticity were the main mechanisms of the long-term adaption of the nitrifying communities exposed to abrupt salinity changes. Independently of salinity, some nitrifiers presented high physiological plasticity towards salinity and were very successful at both zero and full seawater salinity. SR culture is robust and suitable inoculum for ammonium removal from recirculating aquaculture systems and industrial wastewaters with variable and fast salinity changes. Our findings contradict the current perspective of the significance of salinity on the structure of nitrifying communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postharvest loss of bananas due to ripening acceleration is one of the problems of local Filipino farmers. This problem has resulted in profit losses which could bring serious effects in the agricultural sector. Thus, this study aims to derive chitosan, a biopolymer and nontoxic material from the test wastes of the Philippine blue-eyed sea urchins (Diadema savignyi Michelin, 1845) to be used as a surface coating for 'Saba' banana (Musa x paradisiaca) to delay the ripening process. The chitosan was obtained by decolorization, pulverization, deproteinization, demineralization, and deacetylation of the sea urchins' tests. The derived chitosan was validated by its Degree of Acetylation (DA) (35.65%) based on amino and hydroxyl group at peaks 1645.25 cm-1 and 3469.63 cm-1. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs confirmed the amorphous and non-homogeneous structure of chitosan. Results also showed that the chitosan-coated bananas had lower weight loss, greener color, firmer, and lower disease incidence after the seven-day observation as compared with that of the uncoated samples. The study implies that the synthesized chitosan from the test wastes of Philippine blueeyed sea urchin can be a potential natural coating material in delaying the rapid ripening of 'Saba' banana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we report the green synthesis of a Shiff base [N-(2-hydroxy-1-naphthylidene)- L -phenylalanine (1)] derived from an α-amino acid through an ultrasound-assisted synthesis method with excellent chemical yield in a short period of time. In the crystal framework, we found that compound 1 goes through a racemization process and remarkably a preferential intermolecular interaction between amino acid molecules with the same configuration was observed, i.e., a homo enantiomeric preference (HEP). This could indicate that an enantiomeric recognition could be observed in racemic mixtures of compounds that are derived from α-amino acids. Besides, a conformational study of 1 and a polymorph previously obtained in solid state for the same molecule was extensively discussed by the Hirshfeld surface, Finger plots, and DFT calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural protected areas are recognized as key to the conservation of biodiversity and to face deforestation. Their effectiveness requires both an integrated model and the social participation of local actors. The present study analyzes the deforestation process and its relationship with governance at the Sierra de la Abra Tanchipa Biosphere Reserve (RBSAT), Mexico, and Piedras Blancas National Park (PNPB), Costa Rica. Spatial analysis and participatory methodologies were applied in this study. Over 20 years, 37 ha were deforested in the RBSAT and 396 ha in the PNPB. Cooperation between local actors and institutions, a higher level of governance and empowerment, explains the low deforestation. Land tenure insecurity, unfinished demarcation, and weak governance are the principal threats. A management scheme combining environmental governance, the capacity for institutional management, and international cooperation would be an appropriate model for protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Key message: A histopathological study using one resistant and one susceptible clone ofEucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandishybrid showed that the colonization ofCeratocystis fimbriatawas limited by rapid and intense host defense responses such as closure of the vessel pits; formation of tyloses and gels; accumulation of amorphous material, starch, phenolic compounds, and calcium oxalate; and tissue lignification. The defense mechanisms of the resistant clone were not lethal to the pathogen because the fungus was reisolated from the diseased tissue. Context: The use of resistant genotypes of eucalypt is widely used to control Ceratocystis wilt caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata. However, little is known regarding the fungal infection process and the host defense responses. Aims: Thus, the objectives of this study were to compare the histopathological responses of one resistant and one susceptible clone of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis to artificial inoculation with C. fimbriata and to identify possible host defense responses against fungal infection. Methods: Fungal colonization was analyzed by light and scanning electron microscopy. The host defense responses to artificial fungal inoculation were evaluated through histochemical analysis and determining of the lignin concentration and lesion lengths, whereas the pathogen viability was confirmed by reisolations. Results: Both tested clones showed similar responses against fungal infection but presented defense responses with different speeds and intensities. Fungal colonization was not restricted in the tissue of plants from the susceptible clone, whereas in the resistant clone, fungal colonization was limited to the xylem vessels and parenchyma around the vessels due to closure of the vessel pits; intense formation of tyloses and gels; accumulation of amorphous material, starch, phenolic compounds, and calcium oxalate; and tissue lignification. However, the fungus was reisolated from the inoculated tissues of both clones. Conclusion: The resistance of eucalypt cuttings was found to be based on the rapid and intense defense responses shaped by biochemical and structural mechanisms that contained fungal colonization in the xylem vessels and parenchyma tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims The distribution of cytotypes and its potential correlation with environmental variables represent a cornerstone to understanding the origin and maintenance of polyploid lineages. Although many studies have addressed this question in single species at a regional scale, only a few have attempted to decipher this enigma in groups of closely related species at a broad intercontinental geographical scale. Here, we consider approx. 20 species of a diploid–polyploid complex (Veronica subsect. Pentasepalae) of recent and rapid diversification represented in Europe and North Africa to study the frequency and distribution of cytotypes and their relationship to environmental variables. Methods A total of 680 individuals (207 populations) were sampled. Ploidy levels were determined using flow cytometry. Ecological differentiation among cytotypes was tested using climatic and environmental variables related to temperature, precipitation, vegetation and biogeographical region, among others, and by performing univariate and multivariate (constrained principal coordinates analysis) analyses. Key Results Four ploidy levels (2 x , 4 x , 6 x and 8 x) were found and genome downsizing was observed to occur within the group. Plants of different ploidy level are ecologically differentiated, with hexaploids and octoploids occurring in wetter and colder habitats with a higher seasonality than diploids. A south to north distribution pattern was found, with diploids occupying southern refugial areas and octoploids being more frequent in northern regions of Europe above the permafrost boundary. Conclusions The distribution of cytotypes can be explained by ecological differentiation, the geographical position of refuge areas during the Quaternary climatic oscillations as well as by ice and permafrost retreat patterns. The Balkan Peninsula constitutes the most important contact zone between cytotypes. This work provides the first comprehensive ploidy screening within V. subsect. Pentasepalae at a broad scale and indicates that polyploidy and genome downsizing might have contributed to the colonization of new habitats in a recently diverged polyploid complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early detection of cancer cells and their visualization before and after surgery are essential for successful pre‐ and post‐operative disease management. Although fluorescence imaging is a sensitive and versatile tool that is finding increasing use in clinical applications, there is a lack of tumour‐targeting fluorophores. We report here a family of fluorescent Schiff base organotin dyes (1: Et2N−L‐SnPh2, 2: Et2N−L‐SnBu2, 3: MeO−L‐SnPh2, 4: MeO−L‐SnBu2, 5: HO−L‐SnPh2, and 6: HO−L‐SnBu2, where L=2‐hydroxybenzylidene‐4‐hydroxybenzhydrazine). In addition to one‐photon‐excited fluorescence, efficient two‐photon excitation was demonstrated in compounds 1–4. Two of the compounds (5 and 6), both with hydroxyl substituents, were capable of selective accumulation in HeLa cells, allowing differentiation from normal cells (periodontal ligament cells). Compounds 1 and 3 showed excellent cancer cell staining (HeLa) using two‐photon bioimaging, which is promising for biomedicine applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Despite the role of polyploidy in multiple evolutionary processes, its impact on plant diversification remains controversial. An increased polyploid frequency may facilitate speciation through shifts in ecology, morphology or both. Here we used Allium to evaluate: (1) the relationship between intraspecific polyploid frequency and species diversification rate; and (2) whether this process is associated with habitat and/or trait shifts.Using eight plastid and nuclear ribosomal markers, we built a phylogeny of 448 Allium species, representing 46% of the total. We quantified intraspecific ploidy diversity, heterogeneity in diversification rates and their relationship along the phylogeny using trait‐dependent diversification models. Finally, we evaluated the association between polyploidisation and habitat or trait shifts.We detected high ploidy diversity in Allium and a polyploidy‐related diversification rate shift with a probability of 95% in East Asia. Allium lineages with high polyploid frequencies had higher species diversification rates than those of diploids or lineages with lower polyploid frequencies. Shifts in speciation rates were strongly correlated with habitat shifts linked to particular soil conditions; 81.7% of edaphic variation could be explained by polyploidisation.Our study emphasises the role of intraspecific polyploid frequency combined with ecological drivers on Allium diversification, which may explain plant radiations more generally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of 35‑year‑old man with Crohn's disease presented with a 1 year old history of a painful cutaneous lesion on his right ear and dysacusis. He was treated with topical corticosteroids and antibiotics and treated for Crohn's disease with mesalazine, adalimumab and azathioprine. He was diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis identified Leishmania donovani and incidence of human immunodeficiency virus infection.

Enantiopure 3‐((R)‐ and 3‐((S)‐1‐phenylethyl)‐4‐oxazoline‐2‐ones were evaluated as chiral building blocks for the divergent construction of heterocycles with stereogenic quaternary centers. The N‐(R)‐ or N‐(S)‐1‐phenylethyl group of these compounds proved to be an efficient chiral auxiliary for the asymmetric induction of the 4‐ and 5‐positions of the 4‐oxazolin‐2‐one ring through thermal and MW‐promoted nucleophilic conjugated addition to Michael acceptors and alkyl halides. The resulting adducts were transformed via a cascade process into fused six‐membered carbo‐ and heterocycles. The structure of the reaction products depended on the electrophiles and reaction conditions used. Alternative isomeric 4‐methylene‐2‐oxazolidinones served as chiral precursors for a versatile and divergent approach to highly substituted cyclic carbamates. DFT quantum calculations showed that the formation of bicyclic pyranyl compounds was generated by a diastereoselective concerted hetero‐Diels‐Alder cycloaddition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and characterization of a new Carbonic dihydrazide, bis[2-(hydroxyimino)-1-methylpropylidene] is described. The compound was characterized by NMR (1H, 13C), high-resolution mass spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. We observed the ligand with anti-trans conformation in solid state and symmetric (C2) conformer in solution. The relative energies of the conformers were calculated, using the density functional theory (DFT) to determine their relative stability. Both the single-crystal and calculated structures indicate that the asymmetric conformer is the most stable conformer in the absence of solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin resistance has negative consequences on the physiological functioning of the nervous system. The appearance of type 3 diabetes in the brain leads to the development of the sporadic form of Alzheimer's disease. The c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK), a subfamily of the Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases, are enzymes composed by three different isoforms with differential modulatory activity against the insulin receptor (IR) and its substrate. This research focused on understanding the regulatory role of JNK2 on the IR, as well as study the effect of a high‐fat diet (HFD) in the brain. Our observations determined how JNK2 ablation did not induce compensatory responses in the expression of the other isoforms but led to an increase in JNKs total activity. HFD‐fed animals also showed an increased activity profile of the JNKs. These animals also displayed endoplasmic reticulum stress and up‐regulation of the protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and the suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 protein. Consequently, a reduction in insulin sensitivity was detected and it is correlated with a decrease on the signalling of the IR. Moreover, cognitive impairment was observed in all groups but only wild‐type genotype animals fed with HFD showed neuroinflammatory responses. In conclusion, HFD and JNK2 absence cause alterations in normal cognitive activity by altering the signalling of the IR. These affectations are related to the appearance of endoplasmic reticulum stress and an increase in the levels of inhibitory proteins like PTP1B and suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluorescent silk fibroin (FSF) is useful in a number of biomedical applications. However, some FSFs are less useful for medical applications because they are derived from toxic compounds. Here we report for the first time a fast (∼20 min), ultrasonic assisted, eco-friendly synthesis of four fluorescent organotin Schiff compounds using the corresponding aldehyde, benzoic hydrazide, and diorganotin oxide (1: MeO-L-SnPh2, 2: tBu2-L-SnPh2, 3: HO-L-SnPh2, and 4: HO-L-SnBu2). These compounds were fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 119Sn), HRMS, and UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Single crystal X-ray diffraction investigations of complexes 1 and 2 are also reported. The as-prepared organotin Schiff compounds exhibit fluorescence at ambient temperature with good photophysical properties (fluorescence quantum yields Φ: 18–55%). These organotin compounds serve as fluorescent dyes in silk fibroin (Bombyx mori). The organotin dyed fluorescent silk fibroin showed a uniform staining, high viability, and good capacity to retain organotin compounds which might be used as innocuous scaffolds in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The prevalence of dementia is rising as life expectancy increases globally. Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), including agitation and aggression, are common, presenting a challenge to clinicians and caregivers. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically reviewed evidence for gabapentin and pregabalin against BPSD symptoms of agitation or aggression in any dementia, using six databases (Pubmed, CINHL, PsychINFO, HealthStar, Embase, and Web of Science). Complementing this formal systematic review, an illustrative case of a patient with BPSD in mixed Alzheimer's/vascular dementia, who appeared to derive benefits in terms of symptom control and functioning from the introduction of gabapentin titrated up to 3600 mg day−1 alongside other interventions, is presented. Results: Twenty‐four relevant articles were identified in the systematic review. There were no randomized trials. Fifteen papers were original case series/case reports of patients treated with these compounds, encompassing 87 patients given gabapentin and six given pregabalin. In 12 of 15 papers, drug treatment was effective in the majority of cases. The remaining nine papers were solely reviews, of which two were described as systematic but predated PRISMA guidelines. Preliminary low‐grade evidence based on case series and case reviews suggests possible benefit of gabapentin and pregabalin in patients with BPSD in Alzheimer's disease. These benefits cannot be confirmed until well‐powered randomized controlled trials are undertaken. Evidence in frontotemporal dementia is lacking. Conclusion: Gabapentin and pregabalin could be considered for BPSD when medications having stronger evidence bases (risperidone, other antipsychotics, carbamazepine and citalopram) have been ineffective or present unacceptable risks of adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]