bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening for Salt Tolerance in Chenopodium quinoa Genotype Seedlings through Germination in a Hydroponic System
Authors: Jaikishun Sirpaul , Song Shikui , Yang Zhenbiao
Published: December 2023

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is poised to be a global life changer with its ability to adapt to a wide range of abiotic stresses and as a highly nutritious and sustainable food source. A trial on screening of salt tolerance was conducted at the germination and seedling stages of 69 quinoa genotypes in different concentrations of NaCl 0 (CK), 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mM for 21 days in the MS/2 mixture. This results in 16 genotypes with >50% germination at 400 mM NaCl. These were reassessed in germination indices and relative growth. Results indicated that Chadmo had the highest germinability of 97% and 32.76% relative height among the 16 genotypes.  Considering the germination indices, Chadmo had significantly different values (3.05±0.19 day-1) in mean germination time, coefficient of variation of the germination time (38.76±1.97%), the velocity of germination (0.23±0.01 day-1), the uncertainty of germination (0.54±0.08 bit), synchrony of germination (0.42±0.05 and Timson’s index (48.89) with significant differences (P<0.05) among the genotypes.  Moreover, Chadmo had the highest membrane stability index (MSI) (60.03±11.84) at 400 mM NaCl and the least relative change between the CK and 400 mM NaCl with 30.87±2.01%. Assessing the stress inhibitory effect of the 16 genotypes, Chadmo had the least relative difference between the CK and 400 mM NaCl with shoot length of 34.34%, root length of 25.57%, fresh weight of 22.05%, dry weight of 3.62% and moisture content of 1.99% with Tukey analyses identifying significant differences (p<0.05). To select the salt-sensitive genotype, an assessment was done on five genotypes that exhibited the least germination at 200 mM NaCl. Kankolla had the least germinability with 12 and 4% at 100 and 200 mM NaCl, respectively. Considering all these parameters, Chadmo and Kankolla were selected as salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive for further analyses.
Knowledge and Challenges in Cholera Control in The Tiko Health District of Cameroon: Community Perspective
Authors: Ndamukong-Nyanga Judith Lum , Margaret Nyambi Ali , Barro Neba Brandon
Published: December 2023

Aims: The incidence of cholera has increased steadily since the year 2000. The persistent presence of this disease in this community is probably due to poor socio-economic status, poor knowledge, on cholera prevention and control measures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the community’s knowledge on the cause, transmission, predisposing factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention/ control strategies used to combat cholera and to propose solutions for the reduction of the incidence in the Tiko Health Area.

Study Design:  It was a cross-sectional descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Tiko from January to July 2021

Methodology: The study involved 420 adults (>18years) participants. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, entered in EpiInfo version 17.3, cleaned with Microsoft Excel 2013, analyzed with R version 3.6.1 and the results were presented on tables and bar charts. A confidence interval of 95% was used and comparison for significance was done using the chi square test. 

Results: The average age of the participants was 35 years + 2years.  For the definition of Cholera, 345 (82.1%) could correctly identify that cholera is a bacterial infection while 17.9% could not. On modes of transmission, majority of the participants (72.62%, n = 305) indicated that drinking contaminated water was the main mode of transmission and few (10.1%, n = 45) indicated the consumption of unwashed fruits and vegetables. Most of the participants (89.3%, n = 375) indicated that anyone could contract the disease and a majority (68.8%, n = 289) said they will willingly accept cholera vaccines as a preventive measure while improving on hygienic measures. 

Conclusions: Community Members of Tiko Health District had good knowledge in relation to prevention and control of cholera. Community participation in relation to proper hygiene is the major way to reduce the spread of the disease.
Reported Variation in Hospital Billing Quality
Authors: Rumalla Kranti C. , Danforth Missy , Tilly Jean-Luc , Dun Chen , Walsh Christi M. , Makary Martin A.
Published: December 2023

This study examines how US hospitals perform on billing quality measures, including legal actions taken by a hospital to collect medical debt, the timeliness of sending patients an itemized billing statement, and patient access to a qualified billing representative.
Subcellular localization of PD‐L1 and cell‐cycle‐dependent expression of nuclear PD‐L1 variants: implications for head and neck cancer cell functions and therapeutic efficacy
Authors: Schulz Daniela , Feulner Laura , Santos Rubenich Dominique , Heimer Sina , Rohrmüller Sophia , Reinders Yvonne , Falchetti Marcelo , Wetzel Martin , Braganhol Elizandra , Lummertz da Rocha Edroaldo , Schäfer Nicole , Stöckl Sabine , Brockhoff Gero , Wege Anja K. , Fritsch Jürgen , Pohl Fabian , Reichert Torsten E. , Ettl Tobias , Bauer Richard J.
Published: December 2023

The programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD‐L1)/programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) axis is primarily associated with immunosuppression in cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). However, mounting evidence is supporting the thesis that PD‐L1 not only functions as a ligand but mediates additional cellular functions in tumor cells. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that PD‐L1 is not exclusively localized at the cellular membrane. Subcellular fractionation revealed the presence of PD‐L1 in various cellular compartments of six well‐characterized head and neck cancer (HNC) cell lines, including the nucleus. Via Western blotting, we detected PD‐L1 in its well‐known glycosylated/deglycosylated state at 40–55 kDa. In addition, we detected previously unknown PD‐L1 variants with a molecular weight at approximately 70 and > 150 kDa exclusively in nuclear protein fractions. These in vitro findings were confirmed with primary tumor samples from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. Furthermore, we demonstrated that nuclear PD‐L1 variant expression is cell‐cycle‐dependent. Immunofluorescence staining of PD‐L1 in different cell cycle phases of synchronized HNC cells supported these observations. Mechanisms of nuclear PD‐L1 trafficking remain less understood; however, proximity ligation assays showed a cell‐cycle‐dependent interaction of the cytoskeletal protein vimentin with PD‐L1, whereas vimentin could serve as a potential shuttle for nuclear PD‐L1 transportation. Mass spectrometry after PD‐L1 co‐immunoprecipitation, followed by gene ontology analysis, indicated interaction of nuclear PD‐L1 with proteins involved in DNA remodeling and messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing. Our results in HNC cells suggest a highly complex regulation of PD‐L1 and multiple tumor cell‐intrinsic functions, independent of immune regulation. These observations bear significant implications for the therapeutic efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibition.
Metabolism and signaling crosstalk in glioblastoma progression and therapy resistance
Authors: Zarzuela Laura , Durán Raúl V. , Tomé Mercedes
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma is the most common form of primary malignant brain tumor in adults and one of the most lethal human cancers, with high recurrence and therapy resistance. Glioblastoma cells display extensive genetic and cellular heterogeneity, which precludes a unique and common therapeutic approach. The standard of care in glioblastoma patients includes surgery followed by radiotherapy plus concomitant temozolomide. As in many other cancers, cell signaling is deeply affected due to mutations or alterations in the so‐called molecular drivers. Moreover, glioblastoma cells undergo metabolic adaptations to meet the new demands in terms of energy and building blocks, with an increasing amount of evidence connecting metabolic transformation and cell signaling deregulation in this type of aggressive brain tumor. In this review, we summarize some of the most common alterations both in cell signaling and metabolism in glioblastoma, presenting an integrative discussion about how they contribute to therapy resistance. Furthermore, this review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of the state‐of‐the‐art of therapeutic approaches and clinical trials exploiting signaling and metabolism in glioblastoma.
The dynamic relationship between inorganic polyphosphate and adenosine triphosphate in human non‐small cell lung cancer H1299 cells
Authors: Tsutsumi Kaori , Tippayamontri Thititip , Hayashi Mari , Matsuda Nobuto , Goto Yusaku
Published: December 2023

Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) plays a vital role in cellular energy metabolism and signaling, owing to its structure and high‐energy phosphate bonds. Intracellular ATP functions both as a cellular energy source and a key factor in cell death, and ATP dynamics in tumor cells are crucial for advancing cancer therapy. In this study, we explored the interplay between polyP and ATP in cellular energy metabolism. Treatment with polyP did not affect cell proliferation of human non‐small cell lung cancer H1299 and human glioblastoma T98G cell lines as compared to their respective control cells until 72 h post‐treatment. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in polyP‐treated cells was low, contrasting with the time‐dependent increase observed in control cells. While the ATP content increased over time in untreated and Na‐phosphate‐treated control cells, it remained unchanged in polyP‐treated cells. Furthermore, the addition of cyclosporine A, a mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) inhibitor, failed to restore ATP levels in polyP‐treated cells. We performed lactate assays and western blot analysis to evaluate the effect of polyP on glucose metabolism and found no significant differences in lactate secretion or glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity between polyP‐treated and control cells. Additional pyruvate restored MMP but had no effect on the cellular ATP content in polyP‐treated cells. We observed no correlation between the Warburg effect and glucose metabolism during ATP depletion in polyP‐treated cells. Further investigation is warranted to explore the roles of polyP and ATP in cancer cell energy metabolism, which might offer potential avenues for therapeutic interventions.
High‐Remanence Fe‐Rich 2:17‐Type Sm–Co Sintered Magnets Mediated via Multiscale Microstructure
Authors: Xi Longlong , Zhang Tianli , Hu Mingyao , Liu Ziheng , Kang Dazhuang , Zhao Mingjing , Zuo Shulan , He Yangkun , Jiang Chengbao
Published: December 2023

Realizing high remanence in Fe‐rich 2:17‐type Sm–Co sintered magnets remains a challenge when Fe content exceeds 23 wt%. Herein, a record remanence of 12.42 kGs is obtained by multiscale microstructure regulation strategy, based on co‐optimization from pulverizing treatment to solid solution and aging treatment. The density of sintered magnets is significantly enhanced by refining magnetic powders using ball milling to reduce porosity. Grain boundary precipitation phase is eliminated via prolonging solid solution time, together with reduced Fe concentration in the cell boundaries, due to increased proportion of defected 1:3R planar Z phase. Furthermore, the proportion of 1:3R planar Z phase is increased by greatly reducing the 2:17R’ phase during appropriately isothermal aging temperature to reduce Fe concentration in cell boundaries and the remanence of the magnet increases. The studies deepen the understanding of the correlation among process, microstructure, and remanence, guiding the preparation of Fe‐rich 2:17‐type Sm–Co sintered magnets with high magnetic performance.
Controlled Mechanical Actuation of Adsorbed Forisome Mechanoproteins: A Step Toward Biomolecular Devices
Authors: Becker Julian , Speldrich Svenja , Wittstock Gunther , Noll Gundula A. , Brand Izabella
Published: December 2023

Forisomes are giant structural plant mechanoproteins that reversibly undergo a transition from a longitudinally expanded to a contracted (dispersed) state. This transition is driven by a change in the concentration of Ca2+ ions. Artificial forisomes, expressed in yeast, have a width of 0.7 µm and a length of 4.6 µm and adsorb onto a gold surface. Scanning electrochemical microscopy imaging of the adsorbed forisomes reveales a heterogenous film in which several proteins adsorb together on the substrate surface. The adsorbed forisomes maintain their biological activity and undergo reversible contraction–expansion reactions. Infrared spectroscopy (IRS) shows that Ca2+ ions are coordinated to the carboxylate groups in the side chains of Asp and Glu affecting the 3D arrangement of the corresponding protein fragments allowing for a longitudinal contraction, dispersion of the forisome volume, and water uptake. In films, expanded forisomes accumulate small ions (ethylendiaminetetraacetic acid dianion or [Fe(CN)6]4‐) that are released upon Ca2+ driven dispersion. The properties described here make forisomes attractive for biotechnological applications.
Modulating Lineage Specification in Stem Cell Differentiation via Bioelectrical Stimulation Intensity Matching
Authors: Zhang Fengyi , Yan Xiangyu , Wu Muyao , Chen Yumin , Zhao Han , Zhang Chenguang , Dang Pengrui , Wei Ling , Zhu Fangyu , Chen Ying , Song Jinlin , Li Zhihong , Deng Xuliang , Liu Wenwen
Published: December 2023

Development and regeneration in biological tissues are fundamentally affected by stem‐cell‐fate commitment. Bioelectricity is heterogeneous between different tissues and crucially regulates cell behaviors, including cell differentiation. However, the effects of heterogeneous bioelectricity on stem‐cell differentiation remain poorly understood. Herein, it is shown that providing stem cells with electrical stimulation matching the endogenous membrane potentials of cells derived from different tissues (osteogenic‐related: −55.05 ± 4.22 mV, neurogenic‐related: −84.8 ± 7.48 mV) can induce their osteogenic or neurogenic lineage commitment. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the osteogenic‐related surface potential favors the adsorption of fibronectin, while the neurogenic‐related surface potential enhances the adsorption of FGF‐2. These different protein adsorptions trigger either downstream Wnt or Erk signaling, which direct stem‐cell differentiation. Surface‐potential‐mediated lineage‐specification of stem cells using bioelectrical intensity has enormous potential application value in tissue regenerative therapy.
Mosaic RBD Nanoparticles Elicit Protective Immunity Against Multiple Human Coronaviruses in Animal Models
Authors: Zhang Yanjun , Sun Jing , Zheng Jian , Li Suxiang , Rao Haiyue , Dai Jun , Zhang Zhaoyong , Wang Yanqun , Liu Donglan , Chen Zhao , Ran Wei , Zhu Airu , Li Fang , Yan Qihong , Wang Yiliang , Yu Kuai , Zhang Shengnan , Wang Dong , Tang Yanhong , Liu Banghui , Cheng Linling , Huo Jiandong , Perlman Stanley , Zhao Jingxian , Zhao Jincun
Published: December 2023

To combat SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and MERS‐CoV, as well as the potential re‐emergence of SARS‐CoV and spillovers of sarbecoviruses, which pose a significant threat to global public health, vaccines that can confer broad‐spectrum protection against betacoronaviruses (β‐CoVs) are urgently needed. A mosaic ferritin nanoparticle vaccine is developed that co‐displays the spike receptor‐binding domains of SARS‐CoV, MERS‐CoV, and SARS‐CoV‐2 Wild‐type (WT) strain and evaluated its immunogenicity and protective efficacy in mice and nonhuman primates. A low dose of 10 µg administered at a 21‐day interval induced a Th1‐biased immune response in mice and elicited robust cross‐reactive neutralizing antibody responses against a variety of β‐CoVs, including a series of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. It is also able to effectively protect against challenges of SARS‐CoV, MERS‐CoV, and SARS‐CoV‐2 variants in not only young mice but also the more vulnerable mice through induction of long‐lived immunity. Together, these results suggest that this mosaic 3‐RBD nanoparticle has the potential to be developed as a pan‐β‐CoV vaccine.
Freezing Halide Segregation Under Intense Light for Photostable Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Qiao Liang , Ye Tianshi , Wang Tao , Kong Weiyu , Sun Ruitian , Zhang Lin , Wang Pengshuai , Ge Zhizhong , Peng Yong , Zhang Xiaodan , Xu Menglei , Yan Xunlei , Yang Jie , Zhang Xinyu , Zeng Fang , Han Liyuan , Yang Xudong
Published: December 2023

Photo‐induced halide segregation in wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite leads to poor stability and limits its application in high‐efficiency tandem solar cells. Here, a simple solution strategy to achieve photostable WBG perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with bandgap of ≈1.67 eV by ionic coupling potassium sorbate with defects at the buried perovskite interface is reported. Moreover, the ionic coupled potassium sorbate (ICPS) enables to control the formation of N‐methyl formamidinium ions that can selectively passivate the perovskite defects at grain boundaries. As a result, the photo‐induced halide segregation in the target perovskite films is frozen under intense light. The target single‐junction WBG PSC achieves a record efficiency of 22.00% with an open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.272 V and photostability of less than 2% decay over 2000 h of operation. Perovskite/Silicon tandem solar cells are also fabricated that achieve an efficiency of 30.72% (certified 30.09% @1.087 cm2), which is the highest efficiency reported to date with a tunneling oxide passivating contact (TOPCon) c‐Si substrate. The encapsulated tandem device can maintain 97% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h of operation.
Molecular‐level insight on CO2 electroreduction to formate facilitated by triazole ionic liquid interfacial microhabitat
Authors: Peng Kuilin , Zeng Shaojuan , Li Guilin , Jiang Chongyang , Wang Chenlu , Yuan Lei , Bai Lu , Zhang Xiangping
Published: December 2023

The interfacial microhabitat induced by functionalized ionic liquid (IL) electrolyte can effectively improve product selectivity for CO2 electroreduction. The multiple interactions in IL electrolytes affect the ions, CO2, proton distribution, and the protonation reaction, which are relevant to product selectivity. However, the specific effects are still unclear. Herein, molecular dynamics simulation and density functional theory were combined to reveal the regulatory mechanisms. The results showed that the dipolar interaction between CO2 and [124Triz]− cooperating the hydrogen bonds between [124Triz]− and H2O facilitates the accumulation of H atoms around C atoms of CO2. Moreover, the strong polar [124Triz]− induces protons to attack the C atoms of CO2, which results in lower free energy (−0.10 eV) for the formation of *HCOO intermediate and promotes the formation of formate, compared with the free energy of 0.43 eV for [NTf2]−. This work reveals the [124Triz]− regulatory mechanism for high formate selectivity.
Diagnostic capabilities, clinical features, and longitudinal UBA1 clonal dynamics of a nationwide VEXAS cohort
Authors: Gurnari Carmelo , Pascale Maria Rosaria , Vitale Antonio , Diral Elisa , Tomelleri Alessandro , Galossi Elisa , Falconi Giulia , Bruno Alessandro , Crisafulli Francesca , Frassi Micol , Cattaneo Chiara , Bertoli Diego , Bernardi Massimo , Condorelli Annalisa , Morsia Erika , Poloni Antonella , Crisà Elena , Caravelli Daniela , Triggianese Paola , Brussino Luisa , Battipaglia Giorgia , Bindoli Sara , Sfriso Paolo , Caroni Federico , Dragani Matteo , Mallegni Flavia , Pilo Federica , Firinu Davide , Curti Antonio , Papayannidis Cristina , Olivieri Attilio , Kordasti Sharham , Albano Francesco , Pane Fabrizio , Musto Pellegrino , Bocchia Monica , Lugli Elisabetta , Breccia Massimo , Frigeni Marco , Dagna Lorenzo , Greco Raffaella , Franceschini Franco , Campochiaro Corrado , Cantarini Luca , Voso Maria Teresa
Published: December 2023

VEXAS is a prototypic hemato‐inflammatory disease combining rheumatologic and hematologic disorders in a molecularly defined nosological entity. In this nationwide study, we aimed at screenshotting the current diagnostic capabilities and clinical‐genomic features of VEXAS, and tracked UBA1 longitudinal clonal dynamics upon different therapeutics, including allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant. We leveraged a collaboration between the Italian Society of Experimental Hematology and of Rheumatology and disseminated a national survey to collect clinical and molecular patient information. Overall, 13/29 centers performed UBA1 genomic testing locally, including Sanger sequencing (46%), next‐generation sequencing (23%), droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (8%), or combination (23%). A total of 41 male patients were identified, majority (51%) with threonine substitutions at Met41 hotspot, followed by valine and leucine (27% and 8%). Median age at VEXAS diagnosis was 67 years. All patients displayed anemia (median hemoglobin 9.1 g/dL), with macrocytosis. Bone marrow vacuoles were observed in most cases (89%). The most common rheumatologic association was polychondritis (49%). A concomitant myelodysplastic neoplasm/syndrome (MDS) was diagnosed in 71% of patients (n = 28), chiefly exhibiting lower Revised International Prognostic Scoring System risk profiles. Karyotype was normal in all patients, except three MDS cases showing ‐Y, t(12;16)(q13;q24), and +8. The most frequently mutated gene was DNMT3A (n = 10), followed by TET2 (n = 3). At last follow‐up, five patients died and two patients progressed to acute leukemia. Longitudinal UBA1 clonal dynamics demonstrated mutational clearance following transplant. We collected a nationwide interdisciplinary VEXAS patient cohort, characterized by heterogeneous rheumatologic manifestations and treatments used. MDS was diagnosed in 71% of cases. Patients exhibited various longitudinal UBA1 clonal dynamics.
Lewis Base Catalyzed C−S Bond Formation Through Methyl C(sp3)‐H Thiocyanation of Indoles
Authors: Qumruddeen  , Kumar Dileep , Jose Jobsy , Tripathi Chandra Bhushan
Published: December 2023

A Lewis base catalyzed C−S bond formation through thiocyanation of methyl C(sp3)−H bond is reported. The method involves a sequential chlorination and thiocyanation reaction. This simple yet effective protocol works with diverse array of indoles to furnish thiocyanated products in good yield (up to 85 %). The developed method is also applied for the synthesis of phercaptoline (hypotensive agent) and umifenovir (antiviral drug).
Recent Progress Toward Total Syntheses of Iheyamines A and B
Authors: Kim Tae Lyn , Jeon Jiye , Lee Yong Ho , Cheon Cheol‐Hong
Published: December 2023

This perspective article describes the recent progress in the total syntheses of iheyamines A and B. Since iheyamine A possesses a highly unique unsymmetrical azepino‐2,2’‐bisindole scaffold, novel strategies to construct the basic scaffold have been developed, and unique total syntheses have been reported based on these strategies. In addition, because iheyamine B bears vicinal 2‐oxopropyl moieties with a trans‐configuration in the azepine scaffold of iheyamine A, the first asymmetric total synthesis of iheyamine B took a substantially longer time than iheyamine A to complete. Due to the unusual structure of iheyamine B and some discrepancies in the experimental data between the isolated and synthesized iheyamine B, some controversial issues regarding whether iheyamine B is a natural product or an artifact have been raised and will be discussed.
A Flexible Synthesis of Polypropionates via Diastereodivergent Reductive Ring‐Opening of Trisubstituted Secondary Glycidols
Authors: Pieper Katharina , Bleith Robin , Köhler Christian , Mika Regine , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: December 2023

Polypropionates, characterized by their alternating sequence of stereocenters bearing methyl‐ and hydroxy‐groups, are structurally diverse natural products of utmost importance.[1] Herein, we introduce a novel concept approach towards polypropionate synthesis featuring a diastereodivergent reductive epoxide‐opening as a key step. Readily available and stereochemically uniform trisubstituted sec‐glycidols serve as branching points for the highly selective synthesis of all isomers of polypropionate building blocks with three or more consecutive stereocenters. Stereodiversification is accomplished by an unprecedented mechanism‐control over the stereochemically complementary modification of the epoxide's tertiary C‐atom with excellent control of regio‐ and stereoselectivity. Since our method is not only suited for the preparation of specific targets but also for compound libraries, it will have a great impact on polypropionate synthesis.
Effects of stearic acid on the tensile properties of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene fibers
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Xinwei , Wang Yanling , Yu Junrong , Wang Yan , Hu Zuming
Published: December 2023

For the purpose of the development of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers with improved tensile properties, the stearic acid (SA) was added to the gel spinning of UHMWPE and acted as a lubricant film. SA addition was intended to be 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 wt% of UHMWPE for forming the SA modified UHMWPE fibers. The tensile properties, thermal properties, crystallization properties, and orientation properties of the prepared UHMWPE fibers were systematically investigated. Results show that there is a more significant tensile property for UHMWPE fibers as SA addition is 0.6 wt%. Their tensile strength and tensile modulus reach 32.86 and 1580.89 cN/dtex, which are raised to an extent of 12.0% and 7.7%, respectively, compared with UHMWPE fibers alone. Moreover, the thermal properties, crystallization properties, and orientation properties of the prepared UHMWPE fibers are enhanced observably when the SA addition is 0.6 wt%.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of carbazole‐based covalent triazine framework
Authors: Kong Fan , Zhang Shuting , Ding Shounian
Published: December 2023

A kind of carbazole‐based covalent triazine framework (CTF‐Cz) has been synthesized from a carbazole derivative. The porous polymer can efficiently adsorb probe molecules due to the strong intermolecular interactions caused by the polar triazine moiety. CTF‐Cz directly serves as the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering substrate without any post proceeding techniques. The enhancement factor of CTF‐Cz is ~105 for detecting rhodamine 6G (R6G). The lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level of CTF‐Cz (−3.93 eV) is much lower than that of R6G, which is in favor of the charge transfer from R6G to CTF‐Cz for illumination under a 532 nm laser, which is proved by time resolved photoluminescence spectra. The efficient charge transfer induced by the strong intermolecular π–π interactions and large molecular‐orbital delocalization contribute to the enhanced Raman signals of R6G on CTF‐Cz.
Peridynamic assessment of mechanical and thermal characteristics of a defected PMMA/HA composite beam
Authors: Akhlaghi‐Fard Soheil , Hosseini Safari Keivan , Mashhadi Mahmoud Mousavi
Published: December 2023

Polymer‐based composites are designed to improve mechanical and thermal characteristics. This study utilized a peridynamic methodology to simulate polymethyl methacrylate/hydroxyapatite composite beams. The simulation involved the crack growth within the computational domain, and an analysis was conducted to evaluate the mechanical and thermal properties of the defected system. The outcomes derived from the peridynamic analysis revealed that an augmentation in the hydroxyapatite ratio within the samples resulted in a decrease in their mechanical and thermal efficiencies. To elucidate further, at an impact velocity of 2 mm/s, the flexural modulus increased to 3.69 GPa, the flexural strength decreased to 132.34 MPa, and the thermal conductivity converged to 0.148 W/m·K, when the hydroxyapatite ratio was at 15%. In the course of the conducted investigations, it became evident that the impact velocity significantly influences the evolutionary behavior of particles within the samples. In particular, with an increase in the impact velocity up to 5 mm/s, the thermal conductivity decreased to 0.139 W/m·K. The results of this study indicate that by modifying the hydroxyapatite ratio and impact velocity, it is possible to control the mechanical and thermal properties of the polymethyl methacrylate/hydroxyapatite composite beams. This optimization allows for their suitability in various engineering applications.
Synthesis of thermoset elastomer from microbial oil derived from the fermentation of sugarcane
Authors: Capeto Ana Paula , Uribe Braian Buitrago , Pintado Manuela , Guimarães Ana Sofia , Oliveira Ana L. S.
Published: December 2023

In the context of the 21st century, the integration of diverse perspectives within the circular economy framework, encompassing waste management, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, stands out as a paramount challenge. Addressing this challenge, an innovative avenue emerges through the application of microbial oil to replace traditional petroleum in the synthesis of essential commodity chemicals. This groundbreaking study takes a significant step toward this goal by introducing a pioneering polyester material boasting an exceptionally high renewable content. This material is synthesized through melt polycondensation, utilizing a novel primary feedstock derived from the oily residue extracted post‐distillation of β‐farnesene (FDR). The ingenious approach involves fermenting sugarcane syrup using a genetically engineered yeast strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The outcome of this study reveals the creation of an amorphous polymer with rubber‐like attributes. These attributes include a Young's modulus of 3.9 MPa, with a maximum elastic strain and tensile stress values of 185.4% and 510 KPa, respectively, along with distinctive strain‐hardening characteristics. Remarkably, this material also exhibits indications of shape memory behavior in a temperature range spanning from −47 to 12°C, as discerned from dynamic mechanical analysis. Evidently, this novel polymer demonstrates exceptional promise in the realm of low‐temperature applications. Its intrinsic ability to uphold mechanical integrity, even when subjected to substantial deformations within its service conditions, positions it as an invaluable resource for various components requiring resilience in challenging environments.
3‐Halochromones Through Oxidative α‐Halogenation of Enaminones and its Photophysical Investigation: Another Case of Photo‐induced Partially Aromatised Intramolecular Charge Transfer?
Authors: Neto José S. S. , Coelho Filipe T. , Doerner Carlos V. , Braga Antonio L. , Lião Luciano M. , Coelho Felipe L.
Published: December 2023

A versatile synthesis strategy for fluorescent 3‐halo‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one derivatives is reported. The method involves the oxidative α‐halogenation of enaminones performed by an efficient and sustainable oxidation system. The use of Oxone® in combination with KCl, KBr, or KI enables the preparation of 3‐chloro‐, 3‐bromo‐, or 3‐iodo‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one in good to excellent yields, with great functional group tolerance where the protocol is amenable to gram‐scale synthesis. The analysis of the photophysical properties of the presented 4H‐chromen‐4‐one showed absorption in the UV region and fluorescence emission in the violet‐to‐cyan region with a relatively large Stokes shift. In solution, all compounds present a dual fluorescence emission, regardless of the solvent, assigned to a partially aromatised intramolecular charge transfer mechanism, considering the presence of a pseudo‐aromatic ring in the chromone scaffold and the absence of the influence of substituent electronic features in optical behaviour.
Highly magnetized quark matter in the chiral limit
Authors: Ferraris S. A. , Carlomagno J. P. , Grunfeld A. G.
Published: December 2023

We examine the behavior of highly magnetized two‐light‐flavor quark matter within the context of a nonlocal NJL‐type model. This analysis assumes the chiral limit and incorporates the interaction between fermions and the Polyakov loop. Our calculations utilize a covariant Gaussian form factor. We present phase diagrams on the plane, illustrating different magnetic field strengths. Additionally, we examine the critical endpoint's placement and the de Haas‐Van Alphen transitions within the chiral restored phase, observing their temperature‐dependent characteristics.
Genetic variants in BCL‐2 family genes influence the risk of non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate
Authors: Cui Xing , Zhu Guirong , Han Minxuan , Li Xiaofeng , Lou Shu , Xing Changyue , Xu Shuangbo , Pan Yongchu , Wang Lin
Published: December 2023

Background

The BCL‐2 family is crucial for cell death regulation and is involved in development, tissue homeostasis, and immunity. This study aimed to investigate the association between genetic variants in BCL‐2 family genes and non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) risk.

Methods

A two‐stage case–control study was conducted in this association study. Gene‐based analysis using Multi‐marker Analysis of GenoMic Annotation was performed in the first stage cohort, which included 565 cases and 1269 controls. A logistic regression model was employed to assess the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on susceptibility to NSCL/P. Candidate SNPs were replicated by extra dbGaP case‐parent trios. Haploreg, RegulomeDB, and UCSC Genome Browser were used to identify enhancer effects of promising SNPs. Bulk RNA sequencing data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus was used to identify co‐expressed genes. Single‐cell RNA sequencing dataset was used to infer the cell population of the candidate gene. The “Monocle” package was used to analyze the pseudotime cell trajectories.

Results

Rs3943258 located in the enhancer region was associated with the risk of NSCL/P (Pmeta = 5.66 × 10−04) and exhibited an eQTL effect for BCL2 (P = 3.96 × 10−02). Co‐expression and pathway enrichment analysis revealed that genes related to Bcl2 were significantly enriched in the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and Wnt signaling pathway. Five cell clusters were identified in single‐cell RNA sequencing, and Bcl2 was mainly located in the mesenchyme.

Conclusion

The rs3943258 located within BCL2 was probably related to NSCL/P susceptibility.
Did court dismiss employee's Title IX retaliation claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

A part‐time community health coordinator worked for a nonprofit affiliated with the University of Arkansas at  Little Rock. She claimed she was subjected to sexual harassment from her supervisor during the five years of her employment.
Review recent rulings involving racial, national origin discrimination
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

An overview of the key topics faced by higher education administrators with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Anticancer Potential of β‐Carboline Alkaloids: An Updated Mechanistic Overview
Authors: Tshikhudo Phumudzo P. , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe , Koorbanally Neil A. , Mudau Fhatuwani N. , Avendaño Caceres Edgardo Oscar , Popa Dragos , Calina Daniela , Sharifi‐Rad Javad
Published: December 2023

his comprehensive review is designed to evaluate the anticancer properties of β‐carbolines derived from medicinal plants, with the ultimate goal of assessing their suitability and potential in cancer treatment, management, and prevention. An exhaustive literature survey was conducted on a wide array of β‐carbolines including, but not limited to, harmaline, harmine, harmicine, harman, harmol, harmalol, pinoline, tetrahydroharmine, tryptoline, cordysinin C, cordysinin D, norharmane, and perlolyrine. Various analytical techniques were employed to identify and screen these compounds, followed by a detailed analysis of their anticancer mechanisms. Natural β‐carbolines such as harmaline and harmine have shown promising inhibitory effects on the growth of cancer cells, as evidenced by multiple in vitro and in vivo studies. Synthetically derived β‐carbolines also displayed noteworthy anticancer, neuroprotective, and cognitive‐enhancing effects. The current body of research emphasizes the potential of β‐carbolines as a unique source of bioactive compounds for cancer treatment. The diverse range of β‐carbolines derived from medicinal plants can offer valuable insights into the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer management and prevention.
Analysis and comparison of bioactive phytochemical composition and antibacterial property of two Ethiopian indigenous medicinal plants
Authors: Adamu Biruk Fentahun , Gao Jing , Xiangnan Yuan , Tan Shaojie , Song Ziyu , Xuexue Xiang
Published: December 2023

Indigenous medicinal plants with naturally inherited antimicrobial properties are promising sources of antimicrobial agents. Two indigenous Ethiopian traditional medicinal plants (Rhamnus prinoide and Croton macrostachyus) extracted using different solvents and the yield percentage, phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of the plant extracts were examined and compared. The results of this study revealed that Rhamnus prinoide leaf extract using aqueous methanol/ethanol (1 : 1) had the highest yield (15.12 %), a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.625 mg/mL, and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 10 mg/mL against S. aureus. Croton macrostachyus leaves showed a yield of 14.7 ±0.37 %, a minimum inhibitory concentration of 40 mg/mL, and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 40 mg/mL against S. aureus and E. coli. GC‐MS analysis revealed that aqueous methanol/ethanol (1 : 1) of Rhamnus prinoide and Croton macrostachyus leaf extracts were composed of bioactive carbohydrates, flavonoid acid phenols, and terpenoids, while Croton macrostachyus extract contained primarily phytol (30.08 %). The presence of bioactive compounds confirms the traditional use of these plant leaves to treat various diseases, including wounds, leading to the conclusion that they could be applied to textiles for wound dressing in future studies.
Fetal diagnosis of meconium periorchitis: A case report
Authors: Moustafa Ahmed S. Z. , Araji Sarah
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Fetal meconium periorchitis (MPO) is rare prenatal diagnosis associated with meconium peritonitis. The prenatal ultrasound finding consists of an enlarged fetal scrotum with echogenic fluid and debris. In this report, we describe a case in which a prenatal diagnosis of MPO was accurately made at 32 weeks of gestation. The neonate delivered without complications, underwent immediate evaluation followed by major surgery, and ultimately had a favorable outcome. An accurate prenatal diagnosis is important to counsel the patient in a multidisciplinary approach. This case highlights the prenatal ultrasound findings as well as the neonatal presentation and the possibility for conservative management by pediatric urology.
Enhanced Electrochemiluminescence of Rod‐Shape 25‐Atom AuAg Nanoclusters through Ligand Engineering
Authors: Kuang Kaiyang , Zhou Chuanjun , Jing Mengmeng , Fang Chunming , Li Zhuoyuan , Chen Shuang , Zhu Manzhou
Published: December 2023

The pursuit of highly emissive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) luminophores has long been a goal for both understanding mechanism and advancing detection applications. In this study, we employ ligand engineering to boost the ECL performance of bimetallic Au12Ag13 nanoclusters, substituting the PPh3 ligand with P(Ph‐OMe)3. The results demonstrate a 3.6‐fold enhancement in ECL efficiency following ligand exchange when compared to Au12Ag13‐PPh3, particularly in the presence of 1 mM tri‐n‐propylamine (TPrA) as a coreactant – surpassing the performance of the conventional Ru(bpy)32+ luminophore. Voltammetric analysis reveals the presence of both oxidative and reductive ECL signals under sweeping potentials, with corresponding ECL spectra collected. Proposed ECL mechanisms are rooted in the anodic and cathodic activities of Au12Ag13‐P(Ph‐OMe)3 nanoclusters. Notably, this work captures extremely high and transient ECL signals, sequentially activating LUMO and HOMO states, reminiscent of the behavior observed in Au12Ag13‐PPh3. Our findings present a promising strategy to enhance the ECL of metal nanoclusters, holding potential for further applications in sensing and detection.
Development of an automatic conversion method for the conversion of a CIE‐XYZ color system to a DIN color system
Authors: Yang Hongying , Feng Nuoya , Zhang Jingjing , Zhang Ge , Yang Yubin
Published: December 2023

The DIN color system is a visually uniform system adopted as the standard by several countries in central Europe. Currently, the conversion method from CIE‐XYZ color system to DIN color system consists of the DIN 6164 method combined with the manual reading method. However, the DIN 6164 method cannot be used for the edges of a chromaticity diagram. The manual reading method can read all areas in a chromaticity diagram; however, it is too inefficient to convert large quantities of data. This study builds on the manual reading method to create a new method entitled the program reading method. Upon comparing the relative error, absolute error and conversion times of all methods, it was determined that the program reading method achieved higher accuracy than that of the manual reading method. The maximum relative error of the program reading method was 3.24%; however, the conversion time for each sample was 0.07 s, which was 3.5 times slower than that of the DIN 6164 method. Based on these findings, this study proposes an automatic conversion method that combines the strengths of both approaches: the DIN 6164 method to be used for interpolable areas and the program reading method to be used for areas that cannot be interpolated. The automatic conversion method outlined in this study provides an efficient, precise and fast way to convert a CIE‐XYZ color system to a DIN color system.
Disseminated thymoma in pleural fluid: An unusual case
Authors: Berry Kate , Cooper Caroline
Published: December 2023

Thymic epithelial tumours show characteristic cytological features on fine‐needle aspiration cytology, however the cytological features of thymoma in fluid cytology are not well described. We present the case of a 77 year‐old‐woman with known pleural dissemination of type B2/B3 thymoma presenting with shortness of breath and orthopnoea due to a pleural effusion. Cytological evaluation of the pleural fluid showed cellular smears composed of numerous small lymphocytes with small numbers of admixed mesothelial cells. There was no epithelial component. On immunohistochemical (IHC) staining the lymphocytes were T cells which were positive for CD3. CD1a and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase (TdT) were also positive, consistent with immature lymphocytes of thymic origin. Despite the lack of an epithelial component, this case was diagnosed as suspicious for recurrent/ metastatic thymoma. This is only the second published case of thymoma identified on pleural fluid cytology, and to our knowledge the first case describing thymoma in pleural fluid with no epithelial component, a potential pitfall with the more common differential diagnosis of a reactive lymphocytic effusion.
Snowmelt progression drives habitat selection and vegetation disturbance by an Arctic avian herbivore
Authors: Eischeid Isabell , Madsen Jesper , Ims Rolf A. , Nolet Bart A. , Pedersen Åshild Ø. , Schreven Kees H. T. , Soininen Eeva M. , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Ravolainen Virve T.
Published: December 2023

Arctic tundra vegetation is affected by rapid climatic change and fluctuating herbivore population sizes. Broad‐billed geese, after their arrival in spring, feed intensively on belowground rhizomes, thereby disturbing soil, mosses, and vascular plant vegetation. Understanding of how springtime snowmelt patterns drive goose behavior is thus key to better predict the state of Arctic tundra ecosystems. Here, we analyzed how snowmelt progression affected springtime habitat selection and vegetation disturbance by pink‐footed geese (Anser brachyrhynchus) in Svalbard during 2019. Our analysis, based on GPS telemetry data and field observations of geese, plot‐based assessments of signs of vegetation disturbance, and drone and satellite images, covered two spatial scales (fine scale: extent 0.3 km2, resolution 5 cm; valley scale: extent 30 km2, resolution 10 m). We show that pink‐footed goose habitat selection and signs of vegetation disturbance were correlated during the spring pre‐breeding period; disturbances were most prevalent in the moss tundra vegetation class and areas free from snow early in the season. The results were consistent across the spatial scales and methods (GPS telemetry and field observations). We estimated that 23.4% of moss tundra and 11.2% of dwarf‐shrub heath vegetation in the valley showed signs of disturbance by pink‐footed geese during the study period. This study demonstrates that aerial imagery and telemetry can provide data to detect disturbance hotspots caused by pink‐footed geese. Our study provides empirical evidence to general notions about implications of climate change and snow season changes that include increased variability in precipitation.
Whole blood stimulation as a tool for studying the human immune system
Authors: Müller Sophie , Kröger Charlotte , Schultze Joachim L. , Aschenbrenner Anna C.
Published: December 2023

The human immune system is best accessible via tissues and organs not requiring major surgical intervention, such as blood. In many circumstances, circulating immune cells correlate with an individual's health state and give insight into physiological and pathophysiological processes. Stimulating whole blood ex vivo is a powerful tool to investigate immune responses. In the context of clinical research, the applications of whole blood stimulation include host immunity, disease characterization, diagnosis, treatment, and drug development. Here, we summarize different setups and readouts of whole blood assays and discuss applications for preclinical research and clinical practice. Finally, we propose combining whole blood stimulation with high‐throughput technologies, such as single‐cell RNA‐sequencing, to comprehensively analyze the human immune system for the identification of biomarkers, therapeutic interventions as well as companion diagnostics.
Access to Secondary Amines through Hydrogen Autotransfer Reaction Mediated by KOtBu
Authors: P Hima , Tomasini Michele , M Vageesh , Poater Albert , Dey Raju
Published: December 2023

We report herein an N‐alkylation reaction of amines with alcohols through a hydrogen autotransfer reaction. Unlike other catalytic systems containing transition metals or additives, potassium tertiary butoxide was found to be a unique and effective catalyst for synthesizing secondary amines. The role of the K+ ion and the reaction intermediates were studied under control experiments and by theoretical calculations. The reaction was found to be general and tolerates a series of functional groups, providing a convenient method to synthesize N‐alkylated compounds.