bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel yellowish‐green single‐phased spinel Mg1−xBaxAl2O4:Mn2+ phosphor(s) for color rendering white‐light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Ain Qurat Ul , Fazal Tanzeela , Iqbal Shahid , Mahmood Sajid , Ismail Bushra , Shah Mazloom , Khan Asad Muhammad , Bahadur Ali , Alotaibi Khalid M. , Alshalwi Matar
Published: March 2024

For white light‐rendering research activities, interpretation by using colored emitting materials is an alternative approach. But there are issues in designing the white color emitting materials. Particularly, differences in thermal and decay properties of discrete red, green, and blue emitting materials led to the quest for the search of a single‐phased material, able to emit primary colors for white light generation. The current study is an effort to design a simple, single‐phase, and cost‐effective material with the tunable emission of primary colors by a series of Mg1−xBaxAl2O4:Mn2+ nanopowders. Doping of manganese ion (Mn2+) in the presence of the larger barium cation (Ba2+) at tetrahedral‐sites of the spinel magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) structure led to the creation of antisite defects. Doped samples were found to have lower bandgaps compared with MgAl2O4, and hybridization of 3d‐orbitals of Mn2+ with O(2p), Mg(2s)/Al(2s3p) was found to be responsible for narrowing the bandgap. The distribution of cations at various sites at random results in a variety of electronic transitions between the valance band and oxygen vacancies as well as electron traps produced the antisite defects. The suggested compositions might be used in white light applications since they have three emission bands with centers at 516 nm (green), 464 nm (blue) and 622 nm (red) at an excitation wavelength of 380 nm. A detailed discussion to analyze the effects of the larger cationic radius of Ba2+ on the lattice strain, unit cell parameters, and cell volumes using X‐ray diffraction analysis is presented.
Bacterial nanocellulose: A versatile biopolymer production using a cost‐effective wooden disc based rotary reactor
Authors: Jagtap Ashish , Dastager Syed G.
Published: March 2024

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has various unique qualities, including high mechanical strength, crystallinity, and high water‐holding capacity, which makes it appropriate for a wide range of industrial applications. But its lower yield coupled with its high production cost creates a barrier to its usage. In this study, we have demonstrated the better yield of BNC from an indigenous strain Komagataeibacter rhaeticus MCC‐0157 using a rotary disc bioreactor (RDB) having a wooden disc. The RDB was optimized based on the type of disc material, distance between the disc, and rotation speed to get the highest yield of 13.0 g/L dry material using Hestrin–Schramm (H–S) medium. Further, the bioreactor was compared for the BNC production using reported medium, which is used for static condition; the RDB showed up to fivefold increase in comparison with the static condition reported. Komagataeibacter rhaeticus MCC‐0157 was previously reported to be one of the highest BNC producing stains, with 8.37 g/L of dry yield in static condition in 15 days incubation. The designed RDB demonstrated 13.0 g/L dry yield of BNC in just 5 days. Other characteristics of BNC remain same as compared with static BNC production, although the difference in the crystallinity index was observed in RDB (84.44%) in comparison with static (89.74%). For the first time, wooden disc was used for rotary bioreactor approach, which demonstrated higher yield of BNC in lesser time and can be further used for sustainable production of BNC at the industrial level.
Influence of gender and glyphosate resistance on Palmer amaranth growth and interference with cotton
Authors: Cahoon Charles W. , Jordan David L. , Tranel Patrick J. , York Alan C. , Riggins Chance , Seagroves Richard , Inman Matthew , Everman Wesley , Leon Ramon
Published: March 2024

Management of herbicide‐resistant weeds can be improved by understanding the biology of resistant biotypes. While the majority of research has focused on female plants and seed production of Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson) that are resistant to glyphosate, growth of male plants that are resistant to this herbicide has not been studied in detail. Additionally, interference of male versus female Palmer amaranth plants on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) yield has not been reported. Plant height and biomass of male and female plants from a mixed population of glyphosate‐resistant (GR) and glyphosate‐susceptible (GS) plants was studied in North Carolina when grown season‐long with cotton. Palmer amaranth height was less for GR male plants compared with GS males and both GR and GS females. Biomass of Palmer amaranth female plants was twice that of male plants irrespective of glyphosate resistance. Cotton yield was affected similarly by Palmer amaranth regardless of either gender or glyphosate resistance status. The implications of shorter GR male plants on pollen dispersal and ramifications on management of glyphosate resistance are not known. Results from these trials did not address implications of the height of male plants on fitness of GR resistance. Nonetheless, the finding that GR male plants were shorter in the field than GS male plants warrants a new look at this topic. Similar reductions for cotton yield in presence of both GR and GS biotypes and genders suggest that current yield loss assessments and management decisions do not need to consider these variables in Palmer amaranth populations.
A Photoswitchable Metallocycle Based on Azobenzene: Synthesis, Characterization, and Ultrafast Dynamics
Authors: Petrikat Raphael I. , Hornbogen Justin , Schmitt Marcel J. P. , Resmann Emma , Wiedemann Christina , Dilmen Nesrin I. , Schneider Heinrich , Pick Annika M. , Riehn Christoph , Diller Rolf , Becker Sabine
Published: March 2024

The novel photoswitchable ligand 3,3’‐Azobenz(metPA)2(1) is used to prepare a [Cu2(1)2](BF4)2metallocycle (2), whose photoisomerization was characterized using static and time‐resolved spectroscopic methods. Optical studies demonstrate the highly quantitative and reproducible photoinduced cyclicE/Zswitching without decay of the complex. Accordingly and best to our knowledge, [Cu2(1)2](BF4)2constitutes the first reversibly photoswitchable (3d)‐metallocycle based on azobenzene. The photoinduced multiexponential dynamics in the sub‐picosecond to few picosecond time domain of1and2have been assessed. These ultrafast dynamics as well as the yield of the respective photostationary state (PSSZ= 65 %) resemble the behavior of archetypical azobenzene. Also, the innovative pump‐probe laser technique of gas phase transient photodissociation (τ‐PD) in a mass spectrometric ion trap was used to determine the intrinsic relaxation dynamics for the isolated complex. These results are consistent with the results from femtosecond UV/Vis transient absorption (fs‐TA) in solution, emphasizing the azobenzene‐like dynamics of2. This unique combination of fs‐TA and τ‐PD enables valuable insights into the prevailing interplay of dynamics and solvation. Both analyses (in solution and gas phase) and quantum chemical calculations reveal a negligible effect of the metal coordination on the switching mechanism and electronic pathway, which suggests a non‐cooperative isomerization process.
Electrochemical Dehydration of Dicarboxylic Acids to Their Cyclic Anhydrides
Authors: Schneider Johannes , Häring Andreas P. , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: March 2024

An intramolecular electrochemical dehydration reaction of dicarboxylic acids to their cyclic anhydrides is presented. This electrolysis allows dicarboxylic acids as naturally abundant, inexpensive, safe, and readily available starting materials to be transformed into carboxylic anhydrides under mild reaction conditions. No conventional dehydration reagent is required. The obtained cyclic anhydrides are highly valuable reagents in organic synthesis, and in this report, we use them in‐situ for acylation reactions of amines to synthesize amides. This work is part of the recent progress in electrochemical dehydration, which – in contrast to electrochemical dehydrogenative reactions for example – is an underexplored field of research. The reaction mechanism was investigated by18O isotope labeling, revealing the formation of sulfate by electrochemical oxidation and hydrolysis of the thiocyanate‐supporting electrolyte. This transformation is not a classical Kolbe electrolysis, because it is non‐decarboxylative, and all carbon atoms of the carboxylic acid starting material are contained in the carboxylic anhydride. In total, 20 examples are shown with NMR yields up to 71 %.
Structural Analysis of the Macrocyclic Inhibitor BI‐4020 Binding to EGFR Kinase
Authors: Beyett Tyler S. , Rana Jaimin K. , Schaeffner Ilse K. , Heppner David E. , Eck Michael J.
Published: March 2024

A novel macrocyclic inhibitor of mutant EGFR (BI‐4020) has shown promise in pre‐clinical studies of T790M and C797S drug‐resistant non‐small cell lung cancer. To better understand the molecular basis for BI‐4020 selectivity and potency, we have carried out biochemical activity assays and structural analysis with X‐ray crystallography. Biochemical potencies agree with previous studies indicating that BI‐4020 is uniquely potent against drug‐resistant L858R/T790M and L858R/T790M/C797S variants. X‐ray structures with wild‐type (2.4 Å) and T790M/V948R (3.1 Å) EGFR kinase domains show that BI‐4020 is likely rendered selective due to interactions with the kinase domain hinge region as well as T790M, akin to Osimertinib. Additionally, BI‐4020 is also rendered more potent due to its constrained macrocycle geometry as well as additional H‐bonds to conserved K745 and T845 residues in both active and inactive conformations. These findings taken together show how this novel macrocyclic inhibitor is both highly potent and selective for mutant EGFR in a reversible mechanism and motivate structure‐inspired approaches to developing targeted therapies in medicinal oncology.
A Phase 1, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Single Ascending Dose Study to Evaluate the Pharmacokinetics, Immunogenicity, Safety, and Tolerability After Subcutaneous Administration of Tozorakimab in Healthy Chinese Participants
Authors: Li Yunfei , Zhang Hua , Pandya Hitesh , Miao Liyan , Reid Fred , Jimenez Eulalia , Sadiq Muhammad Waqas , Moate Rachel , Lei Alejhandra , Zhou Xiao‐Hong , Kell Chris , Ding Junjie , Zhang Guanlin , Zhao Lina , Ge Xiaoyun
Published: March 2024

Tozorakimab is a high‐affinity human immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody that neutralizes interleukin (IL)‐33, an IL‐1 family cytokine. This phase 1, single‐center, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single ascending dose study (NCT05070312) evaluated tozorakimab in a healthy Chinese population. Outcomes included the characterization of the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile and immunogenicity of tozorakimab. Safety outcomes included treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and clinical laboratory, electrocardiogram, and vital sign parameters. Healthy, non‐smoking, male, and female Chinese participants aged 18‐45 years with a body mass index 19‐24 kg/m2 were enrolled. In total, 36 participants across 2 cohorts of 18 participants were randomized 2:1 to receive a single subcutaneous dose of tozorakimab (300 mg [2 mL] or 600 mg [4 mL]) or matching placebo (2 or 4 mL). Tozorakimab showed dose‐dependent serum PK concentrations with an approximate monophasic distribution in serum over time and a maximum observed peak concentration of 20.1 and 33.7 μg/mL in the 300‐ and 600‐mg cohorts, respectively. No treatment‐emergent anti‐drug antibodies for tozorakimab were observed in any of the participants. There were no clinically relevant trends in the occurrence of TEAEs across the treatment groups. There were no clinically relevant trends over time in clinical laboratory (hematology, clinical chemistry, and urinalysis), electrocardiogram, or vital sign parameters in any treatment group. Overall, tozorakimab demonstrated dose‐dependent systemic exposure in healthy Chinese participants and was well tolerated, with no safety concerns identified in this study.
FP‐JSC: Job failure prediction on supercomputers through job application sequence correlation
Authors: Xian Gang , Yang Wenxiang , Yu Jie
Published: March 2024

Supercomputers are advanced computing systems interconnected through high‐speed communication networks, consisting of independent computational nodes. During the unfolding of the big data era, the potent computational capabilities of these supercomputers play a pivotal role in scientific computing. Despite executing numerous advanced computational science and engineering tasks on supercomputers, many submitted jobs fail due to various factors, resulting in user inefficiencies. These failures not only consume system resources but also reduce the overall efficiency of the system. Previous research often couples job performance features with a single machine learning method for predicting job failure. However, a primary hurdle emerges from the high cost of gathering these features, complicating their real‐world applicability. To address this challenge, our study establishes correlations among job applications through extensive job log analysis. Leveraging correlations, we propose a predictive framework based on job application sequence correlation (called FP‐JSC). This innovative framework employs multiple machine learning models to offer holistic predictions, selecting the most suitable model based on its learning effectiveness. Moreover, the framework optimizes feature collection expenses without adversely affecting job execution. We determine job applications using both job paths and job names, with the former emerging as a novel feature derived from supplementary monitoring data. Empirical results underscore FP‐JSC's effectiveness, accurately identifying over 89% of jobs with 95% specificity and 89% sensitivity—outperforming single prediction methods employed in related works.
Global Potential Energy Surfaces by Compressed‐State Multistate Pair‐Density Functional Theory for Hyperthermal Collisions in the O2+O2 System
Authors: Jiang Jie , Yang Jiawei , Hong Qizhen , Sun Quanhua , Li Jun
Published: March 2024

Interactions between oxygen molecules play an important role in atmospheric chemistry and hypersonic flow chemistry in atmospheric entries. Recently, high‐quality ab initio potential energy surface (PES) of the quintet O4 was reported by Paukku et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 147, 034301 (2017)]. 10543 configurations were sampled and calculated at the level of MS‐CASPT2/maug‐cc‐pVTZ with scaled external correlation. The PES was fitted to a many‐body (MB) form with the many‐body part described by the permutationally invariant polynomial approach (MB‐PIP). In this work, the PIP‐Neural Network (PIP‐NN) and MB‐PIP‐NN methods were used to refit the PES based on the same data by Paukku et al. Three PESs were compared. It was found that the performances differ significantly in the O+O3 region as well as in the long‐range region. Therefore, additional 1300 points were sampled, and the efficient compressed‐state multistate pair‐density functional theory (CMS‐PDFT) was used to calculate the electronic structure of these 1300 points and 10543 points by Paukku et al. Then, a completely new quintet PES was fitted using the MB‐PIP‐NN method. Based on this PES, the quasi‐classical trajectory (QCT) approach was used to reveal all possible reaction channels for hyperthermal O2‐O2 collisions.
Doping Efects on Ethane/Ethylene Dehydrogenation Catalyzed by Pt2X Nanoclusters
Authors: Ugartemendia Andoni , Mercero José M. , Jimenez‐Izal Elisa , de Cózar Abel
Published: March 2024

The catalytic dehydrogenation of light alkanes is key to transform low‐cost hydrocarbons to high value‐added chemicals. Although Pt is extremely efficient at catalyzing this reaction, it suffers from coke formation that deactivates the catalyst. Dopants such as Sn are widely used to increase the stability and lifetime of Pt. In this work, the dehydrogenation reaction of ethane catalyzed by Pt3 and Pt2X (X=Si, Ge, Sn, P and Al) nanocatalysts has been studied computationally by means of density functional calculations. Our results show how the presence of dopants in the nanocluster structure affects its electronic properties and catalytic activity. Exploration of the potential energy surfaces show that non–doped catalyst Pt3 present low selectivity towards ethylene formation, where acetylene resulting from double dehydrogenation reaction will be obtained as a side product (in agreement with the experimental evidence). On the contrary, the inclusion of Si, Ge, Sn, P or Al as dopant agents implies a selectivity enhancement, where acetylene formation is not energetically favoured. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of such dopant elements for the design of Pt–based catalysts on ethane dehydrogenation.
Synthesis of PtNi Nanoparticles to Accelerate the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Leteba Gerard M. , George Sarah L. , Mitchell David R. G. , Levecque Pieter B. J. , van Steen Eric , Macheli Lebohang , Lang Candace I.
Published: March 2024

We report the synthesis of core‐shell Ni−Pt nanoparticles (NPs) with varying degrees of crystallographic facets and surface layers rich in Pt via a seed‐mediated thermolytic approach. Mixtures of different surfactants used during synthesis resulted in preferential surface passivation, which in turn dictated the size, chemical composition, and geometric evolution of these PtNi NPs. Electrochemical investigations of these pristine core‐shell Ni−Pt structures in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) show that their catalytic functionalities outperform the commercial Pt/C reference catalyst. The enhanced electrocatalytic ORR performances of these Pt‐based PtNi NPs are correlated with the weakened oxygen binding strength or surface‐adsorbed hydroxyl (OH) species on active Pt surface sites induced by the downshift of the d‐band center as a result of compressive strain effects. Our studies offer a robust synthetic approach for the development of core‐shell nanostructures for enhanced ORR catalysis.
Insect root feeders incur negative density‐dependent damage across plant species in an alpine meadow
Authors: Kou Lixuan , Yang Nan , Yan Han , Niklas Karl J. , Sun Shucun
Published: March 2024

Although herbivores are well known to incur positive density‐dependent damage and mortality, thereby likely shaping plant community assembly, the response of belowground root feeders to changes in plant density has seldom been addressed. Locally rare plant species (with lower plant biomass per area) are often smaller with shallower roots than common species (with higher plant biomass per area) in competition‐intensive grasslands. Likewise, root feeders are often distributed in the upper soil layers. We hypothesized, therefore, that root feeders would incur negative density (biomass)‐dependent damage across plant species. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the diversity and abundance of plant and root feeder species in an alpine meadow and determined the diet of the root feeders using metabarcoding. Across all species, root feeder load decreased with increasing aboveground plant biomass, root biomass, and total plant biomass per area, indicating a negative density dependence of damage across plant species. Aboveground plant biomass per area increased with increasing individual plant biomass and root depth per area across species, suggesting that rare plant species were smaller in size and had shallower root systems compared to common plant species. Both root biomass per area and root feeder biomass per area decreased with soil depth, but the root feeder biomass decreased disproportionately faster compared to root biomass with increasing root depth. Root feeder load decreased with increasing root depth but was not correlated with the feeding preference of root feeder species. Moreover, the prediction derived from a random process incorporating vertical distributions of root biomass and root feeder biomass significantly accounted for interspecific variation in root feeder load. In conclusion, the data indicate that root feeders incur negative density‐dependent damage across plant species. On this basis, we suggest that manipulative experiments should be conducted to determine the effect of the negative density‐dependent damage on plant community structure and that different types of plant–animal interactions should be concurrently examined to fully understand the effect of plant density on overall herbivore damage across plant species.
Attachment and perceptual accuracy of hard and flat partner emotions in everyday life
Authors: Verhees Martine W. F. T. , Ceulemans Eva , Sels Laura , Kuppens Peter
Published: March 2024

Perceiving partner emotions accurately is relevant for relationship functioning and may relate to perceivers’ attachment orientations. Here we tested whether attachment anxiety and avoidance affect the perception of a hard and a flat partner emotion which can signal a relationship threat, that is, irritation and indifference towards the partner, and of general affective valence. We assessed whether individuals (1) over‐ or underestimate (directional bias) and (2) track changes (tracking accuracy) in their partner's emotions. Ninety‐four couples reported on their own emotions and their perception of their partner's emotions multiple times per day during 1 week. Results revealed that more avoidantly attached men less accurately tracked changes in partner irritation and more anxiously attached men less accurately tracked changes in partner affective valence. No other significant associations of attachment with tracking accuracy nor with directional bias were found. Overall, the findings suggest no robust relation between attachment insecurity and perception of partner irritation, indifference and affective valence in everyday life.
Investigations on the genotoxic potential of styrene in Fischer 344 rats using multiple endpoints
Authors: Gollapudi B. Bhaskar
Published: March 2024

Genotoxicity of styrene monomer was evaluated in male Fischer 344 rats using the alkaline comet assay for DNA damage, micronucleus assay for cytogenetic damage and the Pig‐a assay for gene mutations. In a dose range finding (DRF) study, styrene was administered by oral gavage in corn oil for 28 consecutive days at 0, 100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg/day. The bioavailability of styrene was confirmed in the DRF by measuring its plasma levels at approximately 7‐ or 15‐min following dosing. The 1000 mg/kg/day group exceeded the maximum tolerated dose based on body weight and organ weight changes and signs of central nervous system depression. Based on these findings, doses of 0, 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day (for 28 or 29 days) were selected for the genotoxicity assays. Animals were sacrificed 3–4 h after treatment on Day 28 or 29 for assessing various genotoxicity endpoints. Pig‐a mutant frequencies and micronucleus frequencies were determined in peripheral blood erythrocytes. The comet assay was conducted in the glandular stomach, duodenum, liver, lung, and kidney. These studies were conducted in accordance with the relevant OECD test guidelines. Oral administration of styrene did not lead to genotoxicity in any of the investigated endpoints. The adequacy of the experimental conditions was assured by including animals treated by oral gavage with the positive control chemicals ethyl nitrosourea and ethyl methane sulfonate. Results from these studies supplement to the growing body of evidence suggesting the lack of in vivo genotoxic potential for styrene.
Qualitative and quantitative changes in mitochondrial DNA associated with cervical cancer: A comprehensive review
Authors: Pereira Isadora Oliveira Ansaloni , Silva Nayara Nascimento Toledo , Lima Angelica Alves , da Silva Glenda Nicioli
Published: March 2024

Cervical cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is considered a preventable disease, as vaccination and screening programs effectively reduce its incidence and mortality rates. Disease physiopathology and malignant cell transformation is a complex process, but it is widely known that high‐risk HPV (hrHPV) infection is a necessary risk factor for cancer development. Mitochondria, cell organelles with important bioenergetic and biosynthetic functions, are important for cell energy production, cell growth, and apoptosis. Mitochondrial DNA is a structure that is particularly susceptible to quantitative (mtDNA copy number variation) and qualitative (sequence variations) alterations that are associated with various types of cancer. Novel biomarkers with diagnostic and prognostic value in cervical cancer can be evaluated to provide higher specificity and complement hrHPV molecular testing, which is the most recommended method for primary screening. In accordance with this, this review aimed to assess mitochondrial alterations associated with cervical cancer in clinical cervicovaginal samples, in order to unravel their possible role as specific diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for cervical malignancy, and also to guide the understanding of their involvement in carcinogenesis, HPV infection, and disease progression.
Ginsenoside Rh4 alleviates idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by enhancing the CXCL9–CXCR3 axis
Authors: Yao Lei , Qu Linlin , Deng Jianjun , Zhu Chenhui , Fu Rongzhan , Jiang Min , Fan Daidi
Published: March 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), often likened to a “tumor‐like disease,” proves more lethal than several malignancies. Although prior studies have demonstrated the lung‐protective efficacy of ginsenosides, the precise mechanism underlying their alleviative effect on IPF remains elusive. In this study, we validated the efficacy of the ginsenoside Rh4 in alleviating IPF and delved into the underlying mechanisms. Our data showed that Rh4 intervention significantly reduced mortality and hydroxyproline (HYP) content in mice. It also alleviated the pathological process of IPF by ameliorating phenomena such as alveolar wall thickening induced by IPF. In addition, in vitro cellular experiments confirmed that ginsenoside Rh4 was effective in alleviating transforming growth factor‐β1‐induced IPF model. Further analysis showed that ginsenoside Rh4 significantly reduced collagen fiber production and deposition while inhibiting the coagulation cascade signaling pathway. In addition, ginsenoside Rh4 inhibited the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition(EMT) pathway by promoting the CXCR3‐CXCL9 axis, which ultimately alleviated IPF. In conclusion, our data strongly suggest that ginsenoside Rh4 has the potential to be an innovative prophylactic drug against IPF.
Lipase‐catalyzed interesterification of Sunite sheep tail fat and flaxseed oil provides a fat having a unique fatty acid content and favorable physicochemical and nutritional properties
Authors: Baoyindugurong Jin‐Hua , Hou Jia‐Le , Ren Ya‐Nan , Li Ya‐Wen , Heshuote Mailisi , Hugejiletu  , Ohara Naoki , Naito Yukiko , Tatematsu Kenjiro
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to combine flaxseed oil (FO), rich in α‐linolenic acid (ALA), with Sunite sheep tail fat (STF) through a lipase‐catalyzed transesterification reaction, in order to produce an edible oil with a fatty acid ratio suitable for human needs. Initially, the optimal conditions for esterification were determined using the Box–Behnken design, with the measurement criterion being the content of ALA at the sn‐2 position. The results indicated that the highest content of sn‐2 ALA was obtained under the conditions of using 6.8 wt% Lipozyme®RMIM as the catalyst, a reaction temperature of 57°C, a reaction time of 3.3 h, and a substrate mass ratio of 5.6:4.4 for STF and FO. This led to the rapid breaking and recombining of molecular bonds, resulting in the interesterified fat (IF) with the highest content of ALA at the sn‐2 position. Comparing STF and FO, IF exhibited excellent fatty acid composition and content. Furthermore, IF had a lower melting point and crystallization temperature compared to STF, and its solid fat content decreased with increasing temperature, completely melting at temperatures above 30°C. Thus, IF is a synthesized fat with excellent properties from both animal and vegetable sources.
Isolation and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus from raw cow's milk in dairy farms of Wolaita Sodo Town, Southwest, Ethiopia
Authors: Tegegne Hailehizeb , Ejigu Eyoel , Woldegiorgis Dese , Mengistu Azeb
Published: March 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogenic bacterium‐contaminating milk and milk products causing food poisoning primarily due to its enterotoxins. A cross‐sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to June 2022 in Wolaita Sodo Town, to detect Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in raw cow's milk and assess their resistance levels to different antimicrobials. Purposive sampling was used to select 34 dairy farms. Accordingly, 419 raw milk samples from the farm and collection centers were collected. Isolates of S. aureus showing resistance to Cefoxitin were classified as MRSA. From the total 419 samples, 22.19% (93/419) were contaminated with S. aureus in dairy cows. The prevalence of S. aureus in raw milk, bulk milk from the farm, and bulk tank milk from the collection centers was 16.9%, 2.1%, and 3.1%, respectively. The risk of S. aureus contamination in dairy farm owners and milkers who do not take food safety training was 5.303 times higher than the risk of S. aureus contamination in dairy farm owners and milkers who take food safety training. The risk of S. aureus contamination in dairy farms kept under poor management system was 7.34 times more than that of dairy farms kept under good management. The cefoxitin disk diffusion method was used to detect MRSA, 57.14% being resistant to Cefoxitin in total while approximately 87.5% were sensitive to Sulfamethoxazole‐trimethoprim and Gentamycin, while Erythromycin registered 75%, Ciprofloxacin 62.5%, Chloramphenicol 62.5%, and Tetracycline 25%. This study revealed that MRSA exhibited a notable multidrug resistance pattern, encompassing resistance to multiple drugs, with a prevalence of 75%. Significantly, the hands of milkers and the milking containers emerged as pivotal sources of contamination. This underscores the crucial importance of maintaining stringent hygienic practices during the milking process, with particular emphasis on thorough cleaning and decontamination of utensils.
Modelling rainfall interception losses of three plantations in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Wei Wanyin , Song Xiaoyu , Li Lanjun , Zhao Xinkai , Meng Pengfei , Fu Chong , Wang Long , Li Huaiyou
Published: March 2024

The forest canopy affects the water entering the forest ecosystem by intercepting rainfall. This is especially pertinent in forests that depend on rainfall for their ecological water needs, quantifying and simulating interception losses provide critical insights into their ecological hydrological processes. In the semi‐arid areas of the Loess Plateau, afforestation has become an effective ecological restoration measure. However, the rainfall interception process of these plantations is still unclear. To quantify and model the canopy interception of these plantations, we conducted a two‐year rainfall redistribution measurement experiment in three typical plantations, including a deciduous broadleaf plantation (Robinia pseudoacacia) and two evergreen coniferous plantations (Platycladus orientalis and Pinus tabuliformis). Based on this, the revised Gash model was used to simulate their interception losses, and the model applicability across varying rainfall types was further compared and verified. The experiment clarified the rainfall redistribution in the three plantations, and the proportions of throughfall to gross rainfall in Robinia pseudoacacia, Platycladus orientalis, and Pinus tabuliformis were 84.8%, 70.4%, and 75.6%; corresponding, the stemflow proportions were 2.0%, 2.2%, and 1.8%; the interception losses were 13.2%, 27.4%, and 22.6%, respectively. The dominant rainfall pattern during the experiment was characterized by low‐amounts, moderate‐intensity, and short‐duration, during which the highest interception proportions across the three plantations were observed. We used the Penman‐Monteith equation and the regression method, respectively, to estimate the canopy average evaporation rate of the revised Gash model, finding that the latter provides a closer match to the measured cumulative interception (NSE >0.7). When simulating interception under the three rainfall patterns, the model with the regression method better simulated the cumulative interception and event‐scale interception for Platycladus orientalis and Pinus tabuliformis plantations under the dominant rainfall pattern. The results contribute valuable information to assess the impact of forest rainfall interception on regional hydrologic processes.
Readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy
Authors: Bart Yossi , Regev Noam , Shani Uria , Cohen Bracha , Yossef Fayrooz , Margieh Nadine , Kugelman Nir
Published: March 2024

Objective

To identify risk factors for readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy.

Methods

A retrospective study undertaken in two tertiary medical centers, including all individuals with medically treated tubal pregnancy (N = 511), between December 2009 and June 2021. Individuals with and without readmission following methotrexate treatment were compared. The primary outcome was the readmission rate. Secondary outcomes included the rate of post‐discharge gynecological emergency department visits, tubal rupture rate, and the eventual need for surgical treatment.

Results

Readmission following methotrexate treatment occurred in 224/511 patients (43.8%). Most readmissions were due to abdominal pain or suspicion of treatment failure. Readmitted individuals were more likely to have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease and pretreatment serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) >2000 mIU/mL. Both factors remained significantly associated with higher readmission rates in a logistic regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 6.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30–30.45, and adjusted OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.83–4.07, respectively) after adjustment for age, endometriosis, tubal pathology, abdominal pain, and presence of yolk sac or embryo at diagnosis. A dose‐dependent association was observed between pretreatment serum hCG levels and readmission rate (P < 0.001). Pretreatment hCG levels were also associated with tubal rupture and the eventual need for surgical treatment (P < 0.001 for both). A prediction model using hCG was not sufficiently accurate to predict readmission risk.

Conclusion

Readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy was independently associated with previous pelvic inflammatory disease and pretreatment serum hCG levels. The latter was also associated with surgical intervention rate.
Evaluating the validity of ChatGPT responses on common obstetric issues: Potential clinical applications and implications
Authors: Peled Tzuria , Sela Hen Y. , Weiss Ari , Grisaru‐Granovsky Sorina , Agrawal Swati , Rottenstreich Misgav
Published: March 2024

Objective

To evaluate the quality of ChatGPT responses to common issues in obstetrics and assess its ability to provide reliable responses to pregnant individuals. The study aimed to examine the responses based on expert opinions using predetermined criteria, including “accuracy,” “completeness,” and “safety.”

Methods

We curated 15 common and potentially clinically significant questions that pregnant women are asking. Two native English‐speaking women were asked to reframe the questions in their own words, and we employed the ChatGPT language model to generate responses to the questions. To evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and safety of the ChatGPT's generated responses, we developed a questionnaire with a scale of 1 to 5 that obstetrics and gynecology experts from different countries were invited to rate accordingly. The ratings were analyzed to evaluate the average level of agreement and percentage of positive ratings (≥4) for each criterion.

Results

Of the 42 experts invited, 20 responded to the questionnaire. The combined score for all responses yielded a mean rating of 4, with 75% of responses receiving a positive rating (≥4). While examining specific criteria, the ChatGPT responses were better for the accuracy criterion, with a mean rating of 4.2 and 80% of the questions received a positive rating. The responses scored less for the completeness criterion, with a mean rating of 3.8 and 46.7% of questions received a positive rating. For safety, the mean rating was 3.9 and 53.3% of questions received a positive rating. There was no response with an average negative rating below three.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates promising results regarding potential use of ChatGPT's in providing accurate responses to obstetric clinical questions posed by pregnant women. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when addressing inquiries concerning the safety of the fetus or the mother.
Students' reading in higher education: Challenges and ways forward
Authors: Bergman Lotta
Published: March 2024

This article deals with reading as a significant challenge for higher education students. The study aimed to understand students' experiences of challenges in reading during their first three semesters at university and how they handled these challenges. It is a qualitative case study built on in‐depth interviews with nine people studying to be primary teachers and their diaries about reading experiences in the academy. The findings show that students experience considerable anxiety and stress regarding finding enough time for reading tasks and comprehending what they read. They soon discover that extensive reading is a prerequisite for writing, questioning, and active participation in lectures and seminars. Despite experiences of lack of support from their teachers, most students identify new approaches and strategies to develop their reading, moving from passive to active engagement with texts. The findings implicate that continuous support from disciplinary experts is crucial for students' reading and writing development. Such support includes inviting students to participate in disciplinary practices, its tools, concepts, ways of thinking, genres used, approaches to reading, and what it means to reason, analyze, and argue in a discipline.
Dynein Light Intermediate Chains Exhibit Different Arginine Methylation Patterns
Authors: Bu Weiwen , Di Jie , Zhao Junkui , Liu Ruming , Wu Yue , Ran Jie , Li Te
Published: March 2024

Background

The motor protein dynein is integral to retrograde transport along microtubules and interacts with numerous cargoes through the recruitment of cargo‐specific adaptor proteins. This interaction is mediated by dynein light intermediate chain subunits LIC1 (DYNC1LI1) and LIC2 (DYNC1LI2), which govern the adaptor binding and are present in distinct dynein complexes with overlapping and unique functions.

Methods

Using bioinformatics, we analyzed the C‐terminal domains (CTDs) of LIC1 and LIC2, revealing similar structural features but diverse post‐translational modifications (PTMs). The methylation status of LIC2 and the proteins involved in this modification were examined through immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting analyses. The specific methylation sites on LIC2 were identified through a site‐directed mutagenesis analysis, contributing to a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of the dynein complex.

Results

We found that LIC2 is specifically methylated at the arginine 397 residue, a reaction that is catalyzed by protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1).

Conclusions

The distinct PTMs of the LIC subunits offer a versatile mechanism for dynein to transport diverse cargoes efficiently. Understanding how these PTMs influence the functions of LIC2, and how they differ from LIC1, is crucial for elucidating the role of dynein‐related transport pathways in a range of diseases. The discovery of the arginine 397 methylation site on LIC2 enhances our insight into the regulatory PTMs of dynein functions.
A Systematic Literature Review on the Use of Dried Biofluid Microsampling in Patients With Kidney Disease
Authors: Lamond Megan K. , Chetwynd Andrew J. , Salama Alan D. , Oni Louise
Published: March 2024

Background

Kidney disease is fairly unique due to the lack of symptoms associated with disease activity, and it is therefore dependent on biological monitoring. Dried biofluids, particularly dried capillary blood spots, are an accessible, easy‐to‐use technology that have seen increased utility in basic science research over the past decade. However, their use is yet to reach the kidney patient population clinically or in large‐scale discovery science initiatives. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the existing literature surrounding the use of dried biofluids in kidney research.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using three search engines and a predefined search term strategy. Results were summarised according to the collection method, type of biofluid, application to kidney disease, cost, sample stability and patient acceptability.

Results

In total, 404 studies were identified and 67 were eligible. In total, 34,739 patients were recruited to these studies with a skew towards male participants (> 73%). The majority of samples were blood, which was used either for monitoring anti‐rejection immunosuppressive drug concentrations or for kidney function. Dried biofluids offered significant cost savings to the patient and healthcare service. The majority of patients preferred home microsampling when compared to conventional monitoring.

Conclusion

There is an unmet need in bringing dried microsampling technology to advance kidney disease despite its advantages. This technology provides an opportunity to upscale patient recruitment and longitudinal sampling, enhance vein preservation and overcome participation bias in research.
Analytical Performance Evaluation of a Digital Real‐Time PCR for Quantifying Major BCR::ABL1 Transcripts
Authors: Lee Soo Jung , Lee Jong‐Mi , Ahn Ari , Lee Sung‐Eun , Hong Yuna , Lee Gun Dong , Song Hyun‐Woo , Song Min‐Sik , Shin Seung‐Shick , Kim Myungshin , Kim Yonggoo
Published: March 2024

Background

Accurate quantification of the BCR::ABL1 transcripts is essential for measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) after tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment. This study evaluated the newly developed digital real‐time PCR method, Dr. PCR, as an alternative reverse transcription‐PCR (qRT‐PCR) for MRD detection.

Methods

The performance of Dr. PCR was assessed using reference and clinical materials. Precision, linearity, and correlation with qRT‐PCR were evaluated. MRD levels detected by Dr. PCR were compared with qRT‐PCR, and practical advantages were investigated.

Results

Dr. PCR detected MRD up to 0.0032%IS (MR4.5) with excellent precision and linearity and showed a strong correlation with qRT‐PCR results. Notably, Dr. PCR identified higher levels of MRD in 12.7% (29/229) of patients than qRT‐PCR, including six cases of MR4, which is a critical level for TKI discontinuation. Dr. PCR also allowed for sufficient ABL1 copies in all cases, while qRT‐PCR necessitated multiple repeat tests in 3.5% (8/229) of cases.

Conclusion

Our study provides a body of evidence supporting the clinical application of Dr. PCR as a rapid and efficient method for assessing MRD in patients with CML under the current treatment regimen.
Catalytic role of biogenic gold nanoparticles in improving Cr(VI) removal efficiency of biocathode microbial fuel cells
Authors: Tang Shien , Zhuang Xinglei , Zhao Wanqi , Liang Jinhua , Zeng Yang , Xin Fengxue , Dong Weiliang , Jia Honghua , Wu Xiayuan
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Biogenic metal nanoparticle‐modified electrodes have a promising prospect for improving the efficiency of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI))‐containing wastewater treatment. In this study, a graphene (GO) electrode was modified with chemical gold nanoparticles (ChemAu) and biogenic gold nanoparticles (BioAu), respectively, and the two modified electrodes were then used as MFC biocathode electrodes to treat Cr(VI)‐containing wastewater.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the BioAu/GO biocathode‐based MFC obtained the highest power density (95.78 ± 1.11 mW m−2) and Cr(VI) removal rate (2.17 ± 0.51 mg L−1 h), which were 13.19 and 1.03 times higher than those of the graphite paper biocathode‐based MFC, respectively. The Cr(VI) removal efficiency of the BioAu/GO biocathode‐based MFC under close‐circuit condition reached 87.61 ± 0.19%, which was 3.74 times higher than that recorded under open‐circuit conditions, indicating the critical role of the bioelectrochemical reduction reaction mediated by the BioAu/GO biocathode on Cr(VI) removal.

CONCLUSION

The BioAu/GO electrode first confirmed its superior performance to the ChemAu/GO electrode in Cr(VI)‐reducing MFCs due to its excellent material properties. This study provides a technical reference for the exploration of efficient bioelectrode materials based on biogenic metal nanoparticles for MFCs to treat recalcitrant pollutant‐containing wastewater. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The efficacy of bile liquid biopsy in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract cancer
Authors: Miura Yoshifumi , Ohyama Hiroshi , Mikata Rintaro , Hirotsu Yosuke , Amemiya Kenji , Mochizuki Hitoshi , Ikeda Junichiro , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Kato Naoya , Omata Masao
Published: March 2024

Background

Diagnosing biliary tract cancer is difficult because endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is performed fluoroscopically, and the sensitivity of bile cytology is low. Liquid biopsy of bile using targeted sequencing is expected to improve diagnosis and treatment, but few studies have been conducted. In this study, we examined whether liquid biopsy of bile improves the diagnostic sensitivity of biliary strictures.

Methods

A total of 72 patients with biliary strictures who underwent ERCP at Chiba University Hospital between April 2018 and March 2021 were examined. Of these, 43 and 29 were clinically and pathologically diagnosed as having malignant and benign biliary strictures, respectively. We performed targeted sequencing of bile obtained from these patients, and the sensitivity of this method was compared with that of bile cytology. Detection of at least one oncogenic mutation was defined as having malignancy.

Results

The sensitivity of bile cytology was 27.9%, whereas that of genomic analysis was 46.5%. Comparing bile cytology alone with the combination of cytology and genomic analysis, the latter was more sensitive (53.5%, p < .001). Among the 43 patients with malignant biliary strictures, mutations with FDA‐approved drugs were detected in 11 (26%).

Conclusions

Liquid biopsy of bile can potentially diagnose malignancy and detect therapeutic targets.