bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Bioefficacy by Using Biostimulants on Growth, Quality, and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)
Authors: Noushad Reenu , Singh Devi , Wesley C. John , Sneha M. S.
Published: July 2023

The field experiment entitled “Assessment of bioefficacy by using biostimulants on growth, quality and yield of chilli (capsicum annum l.)”. was conducted during rabi season August 2022 to January 2023 at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U. P). The experiment had sixteen treatments replicated thrice in a randomized block design. The results from the present investigation concluded that bio stimulant which is applied in T 8 Dollar 2.5 ml / L was found superior in all aspects viz, Average Plant height (62.80), Average number of Primary branches (4.33), Average number of secondary branches (8.36), Plant surface area (56.62 cm2), No of days of flowering (52.81), Average number of flowers/cluster (12.42), Average number of flower/ plant (61.96), no of fruits/plants (73.66), Fruit length (12.26 cm), fruit girth (2.85 cm), Average Yield (612.81 gm), yield/kg (3.68 kg), Yield tonn/ha (22.68), Total soluble solids (0Brix) (5.22), Ascorbic acid (118.52 mg/100 g).Among the treatment maximum net profit in T8 (Dollar 2.5 ml / L) @ Rs/ha is 314765.85 & B:C ratio is 3.26 were recorded significantly higher compared to other treatments.
MAGIC Populations Improved Traits and Provided Different Accomplishments
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Anuradha  , Shrivastav Shiv Prakash
Published: July 2023

Plant breeding is a crucial aspect while ensuring food security by applying updated techniques and utilizing available resources to the fullest extent possible. For instance, the development of the Multi-parent Advanced Generation Intercrosses (MAGIC) population is a prominent example of this. This population uses a wide range of parents from different regions of the world and produces a population with a broad genetic base and significant phenotypic differentiation. Using quantitative trait loci (QTL), certain traits can be identified that can be used for the development of breeding lines for use in a breeding program for the development of advance varieties. As part of this review, we provided some examples of improved traits and different accomplishments achieved through the use of MAGIC populations.
Effect of Different Levels of Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Beetroot under Poplar Based Agroforestry System
Authors: Shivani  , Kumar Hemant
Published: July 2023

Agroforestry play crucial role in satisfying the need for industrial round wood and reaching the national aim of bringing one-third of total country’s land under forest/tree cover. The risk of losing money on crops due to poor monsoon conditions is mitigated, and farmers receive a steady stream of additional income as a result. Beet root is a highly productive, popular root vegetable grown mainly for its fleshy, enlarged roots prefers moderately cool condition. Furthermore, it could make a significant impact on the national initiative to double farmers' income growing agricultural crops under with spatial and temporal management. Present experiment was laid out to assess the effect of different levels of inorganic fertilizers on growth and yield of Beetroot under Poplar based Agroforestry in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications viz. T0 – (70:110:70 kg NPK / ha), T1 –(100:110:70 kg NPK / ha), T2– (130:110:70 kg NPK / ha), T3–(160:110:70 kg NPK / ha), T4 – (70:130:70 kg NPK / ha), T5 –(70:150:70 kg NPK / ha), T6– (70:180:70 kg NPK / ha), T7– (70:110:80 kg NPK / ha), T8– (70:110:90 kg NPK/ha), T9–(70:110:100 kg NPK / ha). Findings of experiment show that fertilizer Treatment has a significant influence on the growth and yield of Beetroot. The yield parameters of beetroot were significantly affected due to different inorganic nutrient management and comparatively higher tuber yield (307.67 q/ha) was recorded in Treatment T6 (70:180:70kg NPK/ha).
Preclinical Research Tool Innovation in Resource-scarce Setting – A Case Study of a Mouse Anxiety Multi-test Appararus
Authors: Monisola Umarudeen Ajibola , Ferhat Khan
Published: July 2023

One of the factors responsible for the high prevalence and attendant socio-economic burden of anxiety disorders is the paucity and slow pace of discovery of new anxiolytic drugs to complement or replace the existing ones due to high attrition rates and poor translation of preclinical anxiolytic drug discovery efforts to clinical usage. This scenario is viewed to arise from certain factors including the inherent anxiety sensitivity idiosyncrasies of most used individual classical anxiety tests/models when used as single assays. This thrust of this study is to invent a mouse multi-test that will be devoid of this limitation. Previous attempts to overcome this limitation by testing and retesting experimental mice on multiple individual paradigms on different times were soon encumbered by one-trial tolerance phenomenon on subsequent trials. Although a multi-test apparatus invented by Ramos comprising a light-dark, plus-, and open-field mazes is largely devoid of the limitations observed with single anxiety apparatuses, the central area of the elevated plus maze in the middle of the triple test still retains some ambiguity and errors in the behavioural thus generated. A novel mouse anxiety multi-test device comprising light-dark maze, zero-maze, and marble-burying mazes, dubbed U. of A. Mouse Anxiety Multi-test, that would be devoid of the limitations of the existing mouse single and multi- anxiety tests on one hand, and would potentially exhibit greater and richer sensitivity to anxiety-related behaviours in the mouse, was conceptualised. The fabrication of this composite anxiety test tool was made from locally sourced materials using simple tools requiring minimal space. The new mouse anxiety triple so generated is cost-effective – costing about 4 percent of the worth of its foreign counterparts. It is environmentally safe, portable, and operationally simple. Initial behavioural assessment of the tool indicate it can generate state anxiety in mice. This innovation is a potential asset to preclinical research in anxiolytic drug discovery. However, there is the need for its further pharmacological evaluation and automation.
Prevalence and incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in 2 regions in Turkey (A sub-analysis of CAT-TR study)
Authors: Akay Hakkı Tankut , Unal Orcun , Doganci Suat , Bozkurt Ahmet Kursat , Erdil Nevzat , Sirlak Mustafa , Uğuz Emrah
Published: July 2023

Aim: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a relatively common public health problem. In addition to increasing mortality due to complications, it also causes an increase in the cost of the country's economy and loss of labor due to the morbidity it creates. Considering that the recurrence of VTE is a common condition, the importance of this disease for the society increases even more. Although we have come a long way in treatment and follow-up, we see that VTE and its related complications maintain their place as a significant risk factor in the society at increasing rates. Material and Methods: This is an additional analysis of a multicentral, retrospective descriptive study, CAT-TR (Assessment of Patient Characteristic in Cancer Associated Venous Thrombosis in Turkey). The aim of the CAT-TR study was to evaluate patient characteristic and treatment patterns of cancer-induced VTE in Turkey. This article aims to evaluate the incidence and prevalence of cancer-induced VTE in two regions of Turkey between January 01, 2016 and December 31, 2019. Results: In our study, the 4-year prevalence of Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) in Central Anatolia and Marmara was 86.43, 103.56 and 105.68, 98.04 per 100.000 people, respectively. The cumulative incidence of cancer-related VTE in the Central Anatolian and Marmara populations is 17.22 and 6.71 per 100.000 people, respectively. Conclusion: The values we found in the prevalence and incidence study of VTE will be very valuable in terms of being a reference for us in the treatment and prevention of the disease. We believe that this study will shed light on new studies for diseases that may cause VTE in larger populations and strategies to be followed in prevention.
Association Between Genotype and Phenotype Severity in ABCA4-Associated Retinopathy
Authors: Bianco Lorenzo , Arrigo Alessandro , Antropoli Alessio , Manitto Maria Pia , Martina Elisabetta , Aragona Emanuela , Bandello Francesco , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio
Published: July 2023

Importance

ABCA4-associated retinopathy is a common inherited retinal disease, and its phenotype spans from late-onset macular dystrophy to extensive cone-rod degeneration. Over 2000 disease-causing variants in the ABCA4 gene have been identified.

Objective

To investigate genotype-phenotype correlations in ABCA4-associated retinopathy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study took place at a single referral center for inherited retinal diseases in Italy. Data were prospectively acquired from January 2015 to June 2022. Patients diagnosed with an inherited retinal disease related to biallelic ABCA4 variants were included for analysis.

Exposure

Genotype, classified into 4 groups according to the presence of the (1) p.Gly1961Glu allele, (2) a hypomorphic allele, (3) at least 1 moderate variant (moderate genotypes), or (4) 2 biallelic severe variants (severe genotypes).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Total decreased autofluorescence (TDAF) and definitely decreased autofluorescence (DDAF) areas, inner and outer retinal volumes, and the respective progression rate.

Results

A total of 71 patients (median [IQR] age, 34 [22.4-47.2] years; 40 [56%] female) were included in the study, and 54 (76%) were followed up for a median (IQR) of 3.5 (1.6-4.7) years. Compared with moderate genotypes, those with the p.Gly1961Glu allele had smaller TDAF lesions by 61% (95% CI, −78% to −33%; P < .001) and DDAF lesions by 77% (95% CI, −93% to −18%; P = .02), along with slower growth rates for both TDAF (0.05 mm/y; 95% CI, 0.01-0.07; P < .001) and DDAF (0.06 mm/y; 95% CI, 0-0.12; P = .004). Hypomorphic alleles were associated with a thicker inner (+0.19 mm3; 95% CI, +0.02 to +0.36; P = .03) and outer retinal volume (+0.16 mm3; 95% CI, +0.03 to +0.28; P = .01) compared with moderate genotypes as well as a slower TDAF growth rate (0.05 mm/y; 95% CI, 0.01-0.08; P = .007). Severe genotypes had a 7-fold larger TDAF area (95% CI, 3.4-14.7; P < .001) and 11-fold larger DDAF area (95% CI, 2.9-42.1; P < .001) compared with moderate genotypes, along with faster growth rates estimated at 0.16 mm/y for TDAF (95% CI, 0.12-0.20; P < .001) and 0.17 mm/y for DDAF (95% CI, 0.12-0.23; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study of ABCA4-associated retinopathy, a 4-tier classification of genotypes was found to capture substantial variation in disease phenotype severity. These findings could prove beneficial for the prognostication of patients and warrant consideration of genotype in the design of future clinical trials.
Exploring Olfactory Dysfunction as a Marker of Frailty and Postoperative Outcomes in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Mady Leila J. , De Ravin Emma , Vohra Varun , Lu Joseph , Newman Jason G. , Hall Daniel E. , Dalton Pamela H. , Rowan Nicholas R.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is increasingly recognized as a robust marker of frailty and mortality. Despite broad recognition of frailty as a critical component of head and neck cancer (HNC) care, there is no standardized frailty assessment.

Objective

To assess the prevalence of OD and its association with frailty and postoperative outcomes in HNC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this prospective cohort study with enrollment between February 17, 2021, to September 29, 2021, at a tertiary academic medical center, 85 eligible adult patients with primary, treatment-naive HNC of mucosal or cutaneous origin were included. Patients with a history of COVID-19, neurocognitive, or primary smell/taste disorders were excluded.

Exposures

Prospective olfactory assessments (self-reported, visual analog scale [VAS] and psychophysical, University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test [UPSIT]) with concurrent frailty assessment (Risk Analysis Index [RAI]) were used. Olfactory-specific quality of life (QOL) was examined with brief Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders–Negative Statements (QOD-NS).

Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s)

The primary outcome was the prevalence of OD as assessed by VAS (0-10, no to normal smell) and UPSIT (0-40, higher scores reflect better olfaction) and its association with frailty (RAI, 0-81, higher scores indicate greater frailty). For surgical patients, secondary outcomes were associations between OD and postoperative length of stay (LOS), 30-day postoperative outcomes, and QOD-NS (0-21, higher scores indicate worse QOL).

Results

Among 51 patients with HNC (mean [SD] age, 63 [10] years; 39 [77%] male participants; 41 [80%] White participants), 24 (47%) were frail, and 4 (8%) were very frail. Despite median (IQR) self-reported olfaction by VAS of 9 (8-10), 30 (59%) patients demonstrated measured OD with psychophysical testing. No meaningful association was found between self-reported and psychophysical testing (Hodges-Lehmann, <0.001; 95% CI, −2 to 1); a total of 46 (90%) patients did not report decreased olfaction-specific QOL. Median UPSIT scores were lower in frail patients (Hodges-Lehmann, 6; 95% CI, 2-12). Multivariate modeling demonstrated severe microsmia/anosmia was associated with 1.75 (95% CI, 1.09-2.80) times odds of being frail/very frail and approximately 3 days increased LOS (β, 2.96; 95% CI, 0.29-5.62).

Conclusions and Relevance

Although patients with HNC are unaware of olfactory changes, OD is common and may serve as a bellwether of frailty. In this prospective cohort study, a dose-dependent association was demonstrated between increasing degrees of OD and frailty, and the potential utility of olfaction was highlighted as a touchstone in the assessment of HNC frailty.
Fluorinated Elastomers
Authors: Ameduri Bruno
Published: July 2023

Fluorinated elastomers (FEs) are unique materials bearing exceptional properties and involved in High Tech applications (electronics, car, aerospace, and petrochemical industries and microelectronics) where they resist to stringent conditions, showing peculiar softness and resilience over a wide range of temperatures. This article mainly reports on (per)fluorocarbon elastomers, fluorophosphazenes, fluorosilicones, and perfluoropolyethers as well as controlled thermoplastic elastomers for which several properties and applications are provided.
Ultrathin PtNiGaSnMoRe Senary Nanowires with Partial Amorphous Structure Enable Remarkable Methanol Oxidation Electrocatalysis
Authors: Yang Furong , Ye Jinyu , Gao Lei , Yu Jingwei , Yang Zhilong , Lu Yangfan , Ma Chao , Zeng Yu‐Jia , Huang Hongwen
Published: July 2023

Finding a high CO‐tolerance Pt‐based catalyst plays a critical role for direct methanol fuel cells. Therefore, it is necessary to design controllable nanostructure and composition. Herein, a synthesis of ultrathin PtNiGaSnMoRe senary nanowires (SNWs) that features the virtues of partial amorphous structure, multimetallic ensembles, and ultrathin diameter is reported. For the alkaline methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), the SNWs deliver an excellent mass activity of 6.2 A mg−1Pt and a specific activity of 12.3 mA cm−2, respectively. More significantly, after undergoing 10 000 s of a durability test, its mass activity remains 13.0 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C catalyst, which is mainly attributed to the faster CO‐intermediate (CO*) removal and advanced nanostructure. In situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies and CO stripping experiments indicate its remarkable resistance to CO poisoning. Theoretical studies further reveal that the SNWs enable reduced energy barriers for the conversion of CO* into COOH* derived from the decreased CO* binding and intensified OH adsorption that accelerate the combination of both, thus essentially improving the MOR performance and CO tolerance.
SLN124, a GalNAc conjugated 19‐mer siRNA targeting tmprss6, reduces plasma iron and increases hepcidin levels of healthy volunteers
Authors: Porter John B. , Scrimgeour Alison , Martinez Alberto , James Leo , Aleku Manuela , Wilson Rosamund , Muckenthaler Martina , Boyce Malcolm , Wilkes Denise , Schaeper Ute , Campion Giles V.
Published: July 2023

SLN124, an N‐acetylgalactosamine conjugated 19‐mer short interfering RNA, is being developed to treat iron‐loading anemias (including beta‐thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndromes) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (polycythemia vera). Through hepatic targeting and silencing of the TMPRSS6 gene, SLN124 increases endogenous hepcidin synthesis. This is the first clinical report of an siRNA targeting a component of iron homeostasis. This first‐in‐human, phase 1 study assessed the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single ascending doses of SLN124 (1.0, 3.0, and 4.5 mg/kg) in healthy volunteers. Twenty‐four participants were randomized in three sequential cohorts of eight subjects, each to receive a single dose of either SLN124 or placebo (6:2 randomization), administered subcutaneously. There were no serious or severe adverse events, or discontinuations due to adverse events, and most treatment‐emergent adverse events were mild, including transient mild injection site reactions, resolving without intervention. SLN124 was rapidly absorbed, with a median tmax of 4–5 h across all treatment groups, and largely eliminated from plasma by 48 h. Plasma concentrations increased in a greater than dose proportional fashion between treatment groups. In all SLN124 groups, a dose‐related effect was observed across iron metabolism markers, and across erythroid markers, SLN124 resulted in increased plasma hepcidin levels, peaking around Day 29, and consequent dose‐related sustained reductions in plasma iron and transferrin saturation with decreased reticulocyte production, MCHC, and MCV. Results suggest duration of action lasting up to 56 days after a single SLN124 dose, on hepcidin and hematological parameters of iron metabolism (serum iron and TSAT).
Copolymers of poly(aryl ether ketone)/poly(ether ether amide) containing different numbers of methylene in the main chain: Synthesis and properties
Authors: Jiang Lishi , Li Xiaoyu , Dai Junyu , Zefeng Niu , Gou Sha , Gu Ling , Luo Shajie
Published: July 2023

“One‐step polymerization method” was used to improve the thermal property of semi‐aromatic poly(ether ether amide) (PEEA). Firstly, a series of difluorobenzamide monomers containing different numbers of methylene were synthesized by the reaction of diamine and 4‐fluorobenzoic chloride using a facile interfacial reaction method. Then, these syntheses were conducted to react with bisphenol AP and 4,4′‐difluorobenzophenon to synthesize the novel poly(aryl ether ketone)/semi‐aromatic poly(ether ether amide) copolymers (PAEK/PEEA) with different chain lengths in the chain through nucleophilic substitution by a one‐step method. The obtained copolymers were amorphous with inherent viscosities of 0.373–0.433 dLg−1. They were found to have high glass transition temperatures (Tg) of 160–191°C, good thermal stability with 5% weight‐loss temperature (T5%) of 409–437°C. The tensile strengths of the copolymers were 65.0–75.8 MPa. The storage modulus were over 0.9 GPa at 120°C. At room temperature, the copolymers were soluble in NMP, slightly soluble in DMF, CH2Cl2, CH3Cl, indicating that the synthesized copolymers could be processed by solution method. The results of optical performance showed that the copolymers had good optical transmittance with the optical transmittance of 75.7%–86.1% at 450 nm. They have the potential to be applied as the novel heat‐resistance optical films as the novel copolymers.
6‐Aminocoumarin oxime‐ether/sulfonamides as selective hCA IX and XII inhibitors: Synthesis, evaluation, and molecular dynamics studies
Authors: Ghouse Shaik Mahammad , Sinha Kareena , Bonardi Alessandro , Pawar Gaurav , Malasala Satyaveni , Danaboina Srikanth , Mohammed Arifuddin , Yaddanapudi Venkata M. , Supuran Claudiu T. , Nanduri Srinivas
Published: July 2023

Carbonic anhydrase isoforms IX and XII are overexpressed in hypoxic tumor cells regulating various physiological processes such as cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, resulting in the onset and spread of cancer. Selective inhibition of these enzymes is a promising strategy for anticancer therapy. Coumarin derivatives were identified as selective and potent inhibitors of these isoforms. This study reports 6‐aminocoumarin sulfonamide and oxime ether derivatives linked through a chloroacetyl moiety tethered to piperazine and piperidone, respectively, showing selective inhibition against human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) IX and XII with Ki ranging from 0.51 to 1.18 µM and 0.89–4.43 µM. While the sulfonamide derivative 8a exhibited submicromolar inhibition against hCA IX and XII with Ki 0.89 and 0.51 µM, the oxime ether derivatives showed lower activity than the sulfonamides, with the compound 5n inhibiting hCA IX and hCA XII with a Ki of 1.055 and 0.70 µM, respectively. The above results demonstrate the potential of these derivatives as selective, potent inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX and XII and provide a foundation for further optimization and development as effective anticancer agents. Further, the binding mode of the synthesized derivatives in the active site were examined using molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies.
Structural, morphological, and optical characteristics of Gd2Si2O7:Dy3+ nanophosphors for WLEDs
Authors: Gupta Isha , Singh Devender , Kumar Pawan , Singh Sitender , Bhagwan Shri , Kumar Vinod
Published: July 2023

Yellowish‐white light‐emitting Gd2‐xSi2O7:xDy3+ (x = 1–5 mol%) nanophosphors were prepared using a solution combustion synthesis method. Fluorescence spectrophotometry and X‐ray diffraction measurements were performed to scrutinize the optical performances and phase recognition of the designated nanophosphors. The outcomes specified that the prepared phosphors were crystallized into a triclinic phase with a P‐1 space group. As the concentration of Dy3+ ions was increased, the unit‐cell volume decrease proportionally due to the replacement of large‐sized Gd3+ by small‐sized Dy3+ ions. Under ultraviolet excitation at 349 nm, emission spectra consisted of two pronounced emission lines at ~482 nm (blue line), ~578 nm (yellow line), and a relatively weaker emission at ~670 nm (red line) due to 4F9/2→6H15/2, 4F9/2→6H13/2, and 4F9/2→6H11/2 intraconfigurational transitions of Dy3+ ions, respectively. The evidence about the site symmetry around Dy3+ ions was examined by considering the ratio of yellow‐to‐blue emission intensity. The observed critical distance (Rc) value was ~20.56 Å (≫5 Å), which signified that energy transfer primarily occurred due to multipolar interaction. The obtained coordinates were close to the white region of the Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage chromaticity diagram, which marked a significant milestone in the development of white light‐emitting diodes.
Organo‐Functionalized Lacunary Double Cubane‐Type Oxometallates: Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of [(MIICl)2(VIVO)2{((HOCH2CH2)(H)N(CH2CH2O))(HN(CH2CH2O)2)}2] (M=Co, Zn)
Authors: Shuaib Damola T. , Swenson LaSalle , Kaduk James A. , Chang Tieyan , Chen Yu‐Sheng , McNeely James , Khan M. Ishaque
Published: July 2023

Organofunctionalized tetranuclear clusters [(MIICl)2(VIVO)2{((HOCH2CH2)(H)N(CH2CH2O))(HN(CH2CH2O)2)}2] (1, M=Co, 2: M=Zn) containing an unprecedented oxometallacyclic {M2V2Cl2N4O8} (M=Co, Zn) framework have been prepared by solvothermal reactions. The new oxo‐alkoxide compounds were fully characterized by spectroscopic methods, magnetic susceptibility measurement, DFT and ab initio computational methods, and complete single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction structure analysis. The isostructural clusters are formed of edge‐sharing octahedral {VO5N} and trigonal bipyramidal {MO3NCl} units. Diethanolamine ligates the bimetallic lacunary double cubane core of 1 and 2 in an unusual two‐mode fashion, unobserved previously. In the crystalline state, the clusters of 1 and 2 are joined by hydrogen bonds to form a three‐dimensional network structure. Magnetic susceptibility data indicate weakly antiferromagnetic interactions between the vanadium centers [Jiso(VIV−VIV)=−5.4(1); −3.9(2) cm−1], and inequivalent antiferromagnetic interactions between the cobalt and vanadium centers [Jiso (VIV−CoII)=−12.6 and −7.5 cm−1] contained in 1.
Controlling the Morphological Features, Aspect Ratio and Emission Patterns of Supramolecular Copolymers by Restricted Dimensional Growth
Authors: Das Gourab , Anand Anjali , Vedhanarayanan Balaraman , Padmakumar Akhil , Praveen Vakayil K. , Ajayaghosh Ayyappanpillai
Published: July 2023

One of the bottlenecks associated with supramolecular polymerization of functional π‐systems is the spontaneous assembly of monomers leading to one‐ or two‐dimensional (1D or 2D) polymers without control over chain length and optical properties. In the case of supramolecular copolymerization of monomers that are structurally too diverse, preferential self‐sorting occurs unless they are closely interacting donor‐acceptor pairs. Herein, it is established that the spontaneous 1D polymerization of a phenyleneethynylene (PE) derivative and the 2D polymerization of a Bodipy derivative (BODIPY) can be controlled by copolymerizing them in different ratios, leading to unusual spindle‐shaped structures with controlled aspect ratio, as evident by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) studies. For example, when the content of BODIPY is 50 % in the BODIPY‐PE mixture, the 1D polymerization of PE is significantly restricted to form elongated spindle‐like structures having an aspect ratio of 4–6. The addition of 75 % of BODIPY to PE resulted in circular spindles having an aspect ratio of 1–2.5, thereby completely restricting the 1D polymerization of PE monomers. Moreover, the resultant supramolecular copolymers exhibited morphology and aspect ratio dependent emission features as observed by the time‐resolved emission studies.
Fully Conjugated Covalent Organic Frameworks: Synthesis, Structures and Applications†
Authors: Xu Yueshuai , Ren Guanshi , Zhang Dianqi , Sun Lishui , Zhao Yingjie
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

This review presents a comprehensive examination of fully conjugated covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which constitute an emerging class of porous materials with immense potential for diverse applications. This article focuses on diversified fully conjugated COFs, including sp2 carbon‐carbon linkages, pyrazine linkages, benzobisoxazole linkages, dioxin linkages, β‐aminoalkenone linkages, etc. The synthesis techniques and structural attributes of these COFs are expounded upon in great detail, along with their potential applications in various fields. The review thus provides a valuable resource for researchers keen on delving into the synthesis and applications of fully conjugated COFs, thereby highlighting their potential for developing novel functional materials with distinctive properties.
Magnesium enhances the graft‐versus‐tumor effect of donor lymphocytic infusion on hematologic malignancies
Authors: Wei Yan , Guo Jiayuan , Lu Ning , Liu Yi , Wang Lijun , Wang Lili , Bo Jian , Li Honghua , Dou Liping , Liu Daihong , Gao Chunji
Published: July 2023

Donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) cures relapsed hematologic malignancies after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation through the graft‐versus‐tumor (GVT) effect. Although the important role of magnesium in enhancing immunity has been mentioned in studies, limited clinical data have explored how magnesium affects the efficacy of DLI. Besides, although laboratory data demonstrate that magnesium can enhance CD8+ T cells effector function, whether magnesium regulates the tumor killing effect of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) remains to be explored. Here, for the retrospective study, we collected clinical data of relapsed patients receiving DLI and explored the relationship between different serum magnesium levels and patient outcomes. For in vitro studies, we investigated the effect of magnesium on the cytotoxicity of DLI cells which were PBMCs and preliminarily explored the mechanism. Eighty‐one patients were enrolled in this study. It was found that the high post‐DLI magnesium level was significantly associated with a higher incidence of complete remission (CR) or partial remission (CR/PR) and a higher possibility of survival. The magnesium level after DLI was an independent risk factor of overall survival. In vitro studies proved that increased magnesium enhanced the cytotoxic function of PBMCs on hematologic malignancies. Besides, magnesium modulated LFA‐1 headpiece opening. When blocking the integrin‐ligand interaction between LFA‐1 and ICAM‐1, the regulation effect of magnesium on PBMCs was weakened. Therefore, it was possible that magnesium regulated PBMCs effector function by stimulating LFA‐1. These results show that serum magnesium levels affect immunological responses mediated by donor lymphocytes in hematologic malignancies.
Safety and efficacy of parsaclisib in combination with obinutuzumab and bendamustine in patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (CITADEL‐102): A phase 1 study
Authors: Hamadani Mehdi , Coleman Morton , Boccia Ralph , Duras Juraj , Hutchings Martin , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Cordoba Raul , Oreiro Mariana Bastos , Williams Vanessa , Liu Huiqing , Stouffs Michael , Langmuir Peter , Sancho Juan‐Manuel
Published: July 2023

Parsaclisib is a potent and highly selective PI3Kδ inhibitor that has shown clinical benefit with monotherapy in a phase 2 study in relapsed or refractory (R/R) follicular lymphoma (FL). CITADEL‐102 (NCT03039114), a phase 1, multicenter study, assessed the efficacy of parsaclisib in combination with obinutuzumab and bendamustine in patients with R/R FL. Patients were ≥18 years of age with histologically confirmed and documented CD20‐positive FL, and R/R to previous rituximab‐containing treatment regimens. Part one (safety run‐in) determined the maximum tolerated dose of parsaclisib in combination with standard dosage regimens of obinutuzumab and bendamustine. Part two (dose expansion) was an open‐label, single‐group design evaluating safety, tolerability (primary endpoint), and efficacy (secondary endpoint) of parsaclisib combination therapy. Twenty‐six patients were enrolled in CITADEL‐102 and all patients received parsaclisib 20 mg once daily for 8 weeks, followed by 20 mg once weekly thereafter, in combination with obinutuzumab and bendamustine. One patient in safety run‐in experienced a dose‐limiting toxicity of grade 4 QT interval prolongation that was considered related to parsaclisib. Eight patients (30.8%) discontinued treatment due to treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) of colitis (2 [7.7%]), alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase increase (both in one patient [3.8%]), neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, QT prolongation, tonsil cancer, and maculopapular rash (each 1 [3.8%]). The most common reported TEAEs were pyrexia (53.8%), neutropenia (50.0%), and diarrhea (46.2%). Twenty‐three patients (88.5%) experienced grade 3 or 4 TEAEs; the most common were neutropenia (34.6%), febrile neutropenia (23.1%), and thrombocytopenia (19.2%). Seventeen patients (65.4%) had a complete response and 3 patients (11.5%) had a partial response, for an objective response rate of 76.9%. Overall, results from CITADEL‐102 suggest that the combination of parsaclisib with obinutuzumab and bendamustine did not result in unexpected safety events, with little evidence of synergistic toxicity, and demonstrated preliminary efficacy in patients with R/R FL who progressed following prior rituximab‐containing regimens.
Pyogenic liver abscess complicated with endogenous endophthalmitis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae: A case report and Literature Review
Authors: Chen Yunjiang , Gong Yanchun , Song Bei , Du Yueling , Cai Kaiyu
Published: July 2023

Objective

Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is a common surgical infectious disease caused by various pathogens. Klebsiella pneumoniae is a relatively recent cause, often affecting patients with low immunity. Endogenous endophthalmitis (EE), a rare and serious complication of PLA, may appear with eye symptoms before PLA. By reviewing a case of Klebsiella pneumoniae‐induced PLA complicated with EE, we want to summarize the information about the characteristics, causes, and complications of PLA based on the literature review.

Methods

This case report describes a 37‐year‐old male who had fever high to 39°C for 10 days experienced blurred vision followed by nonlight perception vision. He reported a history of diabetes irregularly taking oral medications and insulin therapy. Imaging examination found a large low‐density area in the right lobe of the liver with an unclear border and vague surrounding fat gap. The blood culture was not positive. The culture of the drainage fluid from the liver puncture showed Klebsiella pneumonia. Blood and liver puncture drainage fluid were sent for microbial high‐throughput gene detection with next‐generation sequencing technology (NGS), which confirmed the diagnosis of Klebsiella pneumoniae‐induced PLA complicated with EE.

Results

The patient's surgical incision had healed well at discharge, and he could feel light at his left eye. But the patient was lost to follow‐up since the third month after discharge.

Conclusion

By reviewing this case and summarize the information about the characteristics, causes, and complications of PLA based on the literature review, we concluded that it is necessary to promptly perform liver puncture drainage and empirically use antibiotics for patients with PLA, especially those with poor glycemic control, to avoid serious complications such as EE.
Recent Advances in Electrochemical, Ni‐Catalyzed C−C Bond Formation
Authors: Franke Mareena C. , Weix Daniel J.
Published: July 2023

Nickel‐catalyzed cross‐electrophile coupling (XEC) is an efficient method to form carbon‐carbon bonds and has become an important tool for building complex molecules. While XEC has most often used stoichiometric metal reductants, these transformations can also be driven electrochemically. Electrochemical XEC (eXEC) is attractive because it can increase the greenness of XEC and this potential has resulted in numerous advances in recent years. The focus of this review is on electrochemical, Ni‐catalyzed carbon‐carbon bond forming reactions reported since 2010 and is categorized by the type of anodic half reaction: sacrificial anode, sacrificial reductant, and convergent paired electrolysis. The key developments are highlighted and the need for more scalable options is discussed.
How to treat jatrogenic ureteral injury after posterior spinal surgery? Case report and review of literature
Authors: Kavaric Petar , Magdelinic Aleksandar , Rebronja Almir , Albijanic Marko , Sabovic Eldin , Radovic Nenad , Vukovic Marko
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Entry into the retroperitoneal space during open posterior spinal surgery introduces the rare possibility of iatrogenic ureteral injury.

Case presentation

We describe a case of ureteral injury after spinal surgery in a 49‐year‐old female with persistent lumbar pain and high fever 2 weeks after spinal surgery. After admission to the urology department, a computer tomography scan was performed and revealed right‐side hydronephrosis grade III and large retroperitoneal fluid collection. After radiological confirmation of right ureteral injury, a ureteral stent was placed, but 4 weeks later, ureteral stricture was confirmed on antegrade pyelography. Therefore, surgical ureteroplasty was indicated 2 months after initial admission to the urology department. Six weeks later, the stent was removed, and intravenous pyelography revealed a normal ureteral passage.

Conclusion

There should be a low threshold for ureteral injuries after spinal cord surgery in patients with high fever and elevated blood creatinine levels.
StainGAN: Learning a structural preserving translation for white blood cell images
Authors: Huang Maoye , Wang Tao , Cai Yuanzheng , Fan Haoyi , Li Zuoyong
Published: July 2023

Analysis of white blood cells in blood smear images plays a vital role in computer‐aided diagnosis for the analysis and treatment of many diseases. However, different techniques for blood smear preparation result in images with large appearance variations, which limits the performance of large‐scale machine learning algorithms. In this paper, we propose StainGAN, an image translation framework to transform the conventional Wright‐stained white blood cell images into their rapidly‐stained counterpart. Moreover, we designed a cluster‐based learning strategy that does not require manual annotations and a multi‐scale discriminator that incorporates a richer hierarchy of the spatial context to generate sharper images with better semantic consistency. Experimental results on multiple real‐world datasets prove the effectiveness of our proposed framework. Moreover, we show that the transformed images from StainGAN can be used to boost the downstream segmentation performance under the label‐limiting scenario.
Interpersonal skills and STEM career choice of three types of FIRST mentors
Authors: Rocker Yoel Shahaf , Dori Yehudit Judy
Published: July 2023

Background

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) robotics is an international, extra‐curricular program that fosters young students' interpersonal skills and career choices in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). FIRST teams are guided by mentors, about half of whom are also mentees.

Purpose

To describe and characterize FIRST mentors and their perceptions of their own interpersonal skills and STEM career choice and identify differences by mentor types and gender.

Method

The study participants included 261 FIRST mentors. A convergent mixed‐methods approach was used. Data was collected quantitatively via questionnaires and qualitatively via interviews. The analysis was guided by the social cognitive career theory (SCCT).

Results

Fourteen categories were identified to describe and characterize the FIRST mentors. Nine were based on SCCT and five were new: influence of friends, interpersonal skill, personal contribution, challenges, and mentor‐as‐educator. Differences were found between three types of FIRST mentors: non‐FIRST mentors, graduate mentors, and mentee mentors. The correlations between factors and categories indicated that the mentors' perceptions were consistent with those of the mentees. The FIRST program impacted the STEM career choice of men more than women, and external motivation influenced women more than men.

Conclusions

The FIRST program contributes to developing its graduates' interpersonal skills and affects their STEM career choice. The study provides insights into mentors' influence on mentees' career choices, from which both genders benefit. Making FIRST available in schools as a widespread enrichment program is expected to foster students' STEM career choices, thereby contributing to the human resource reservoir of the high‐tech industry workforce.
Therapeutic efficacy of the resorcylic acid lactone LL‐Z1640‐2 for adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma
Authors: Oura Masahiro , Harada Takeshi , Oda Asuka , Teramachi Jumpei , Nakayama Atsushi , Sumitani Ryohei , Inoue Yusuke , Maeda Yusaku , Sogabe Kimiko , Maruhashi Tomoko , Takahashi Mamiko , Fujii Shiro , Nakamura Shingen , Miki Hirokazu , Nakamura Masafumi , Hara Tomoyo , Yamagami Hiroki , Kurahashi Kiyoe , Endo Itsuro , Hasegawa Hiroo , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Abe Masahiro
Published: July 2023

Adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATL) remains incurable. The NF‐κB and interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) signalling pathways are among the critical survival pathways for the progression of ATL. TGF‐β‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1), an IκB kinase‐activating kinase, triggers the activation of NF‐κB. The resorcylic acid lactone LL‐Z1640‐2 is a potent irreversible inhibitor of TAK1/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 2 (ERK2). We herein examined the therapeutic efficacy of LL‐Z1640‐2 against ATL. LL‐Z1640‐2 effectively suppressed the in vivo growth of ATL cells. It induced in vitro apoptosis and inhibited the nuclear translocation of p65/RelA in ATL cells. The knockdown of IRF4 strongly induced ATL cell death while downregulating MYC. LL‐Z1640‐2 as well as the NF‐κB inhibitor BAY11‐7082 decreased the expression of IRF4 and MYC at the protein and mRNA levels, indicating the suppression of the NF‐κB‐IRF4‐MYC axis. The treatment with LL‐Z1640‐2 also mitigated the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK along with the expression of CC chemokine receptor 4. Furthermore, the inhibition of STAT3/5 potentiated the cytotoxic activity of LL‐Z1640‐2 against IL‐2‐responsive ATL cells in the presence of IL‐2. Therefore, LL‐Z1640‐2 appears to be an effective treatment for ATL. Further studies are needed to develop more potent compounds that retain the active motifs of LL‐Z1640‐2.
Discovering the effect of co‐fermentation involving Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe on the sensory quality improvement of mandarin wine based on metabolites and transcriptomic profiles
Authors: Luo Xiaoqin , Li Yumeng , Zhong Kai , Luo Dong , Wu Yanping , Gao Hong
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Mandarin wine has high added value, which can extend the industry chain of mandarins with excellent economic results. However, innovative fermentation methods are urgently needed to improve the typical taste and flavor characteristics of mandarin wine. In this study, the effect and underlying mechanism of co‐fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe on the characteristics of mandarin wine were investigated based on integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses.

RESULTS

In comparison with fermentation with only S. cerevisiae, the mandarin wine produced from co‐fermentation with S. cerevisiae and Sc. pombe had a higher pH value, lower malic acid content, and more abundant free amino acids, resulting in better sensory evaluation scores. The introduction of Sc. pombe extended the stage of alcoholic fermentation and enhanced the richness and diversity of volatile compounds, especially floral and fruity aroma compounds, including ethyl hexanoate, ethyl caprylate, ethyl enanthate, 1‐heptanol, and phenylethyl alcohol. he significantly differential metabolites and varying genes were mainly found in pathways of glycolysis, pyruvate metabolism, the citrate cycle, and amino acid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Co‐fermentation with S. cerevisiae and Sc. pombe showed advantages in producing distinctive taste and flavor of mandarin wine in comparison with fermentation with only S. cerevisiae. This study can inspire new co‐fermentation strategies to improve the sensory quality of mandarin wine. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
No Correlation between Plasma GPNMB Levels and Multiple System Atrophy in Chinese Cohorts
Authors: Wan Linlin , Fu You , Chen Zhao , Long Zhe , Chen Daji , Yuan Xinrong , Zhu Sudan , Peng Linliu , Liu Wuping , Qiu Rong , Tang Beisha , Jiang Hong
Published: July 2023

Background

Glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) has been demonstrated to mediate pathogenicity in Parkinson's disease (PD) through interactions with α‐synuclein, and plasma GPNMB tended to be a novel biomarker for PD.

Objective

The goal of this study was to investigate whether plasma GPNMB could act as a potential biomarker for the clinical diagnosis and severity monitoring of multiple system atrophy (MSA), another typical synucleinopathy.

Methods

Plasma GPNMB levels in patients with MSA, patients with PD, and healthy control subjects (HCs) were quantified using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

A total of 204 patients with MSA, 65 patients with PD, and 207 HCs were enrolled. The plasma GPNMB levels in patients with MSA were similar to those in HCs (P = 0.251) but were significantly lower than those in patients with PD (P = 0.003). Moreover, there was no significant correlation detected between the plasma GPNMB levels and disease severity scores of patients with MSA.

Conclusions

No evidence was detected for the biomarker potential of plasma GPNMB in MSA. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Opitz GBBB syndrome with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection: A new MID1 gene variant
Authors: Perea‐Cabrera Maryangel , Granados‐Riveron Javier T. , Segura‐Stanford Begoña , Moreno‐Vargas Liliana M. , Prada‐Gracia Diego , Moran‐Espinosa Mari C. , Erdmenger Julio , Diaz‐Garcia Hector , Sánchez‐Urbina Rocío
Published: July 2023

Background

Opitz GBBB syndrome (GBBB) is an X‐linked disease characterized by midline defects, including congenital heart defects. We present our diagnostic approach to the identification of GBBB in a consanguineous family in which two males siblings were concordant for a total anomalous connection of pulmonary veins and minor facial dysmorphias.

Methods

Targeted exome sequencing analysis of a 380‐gene panel associated with cardiovascular disease was performed on the propositus. Interpretative analysis of the exome results was conducted, and 3D models of the protein changes were generated.

Results

We identified a NM_000381.4:c.608G>A;p.(Arg203Gln) change in MID1, affecting the conformation of the B‐box 2 domain of the protein, with a zinc finger structure and associated protein interactions. This clinical phenotype is consistent with GBBB; however, the type of congenital heart disease observed in this case has not been previously reported.

Conclusion

A new likely pathogenic variant on MID1 c.608G>A was found to be associated with Opitz GBBB syndrome.