bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An induced thymic epithelial cell‐based high throughput screen for thymus extracellular matrix mimetics
Authors: Rouse Paul , Henderson Timothy , Venkateswaran Seshasailam , Sweetman Joanna , Duffy Cairnan , Bradley Mark , Blackburn C. Clare
Published: January 2023

Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) are key effectors of the thymic stroma and are critically required for T‐cell development. TECs comprise a diverse set of related but functionally distinct cell types that are scarce and difficult to isolate and handle. This has precluded TEC‐based screening assays. We previously described induced thymic epithelial cells (iTECs), an artificial cell type produced in vitro by direct reprogramming, raising the possibility that iTECs might provide the basis for functional screens related to TEC biology. Here, we present an iTEC‐based three‐stage medium/high‐throughput in vitro assay for synthetic polymer mimics of thymic extracellular matrix (ECM). Using this assay, we identified, from a complex library, four polymers that bind iTEC as well as or better than gelatin but do not bind mesenchymal cells. We show that these four polymers also bind and maintain native mouse fetal TECs and native human fetal TECs. Finally, we show that the selected polymers do not interfere with iTEC function or T‐cell development. Collectively, our data establish that iTECs can be used to screen for TEC‐relevant compounds in at least some medium/high‐throughput assays and identify synthetic polymer ECM mimics that can replace gelatin or ECM components in TEC culture protocols.
T‐cell selection in the thymus: New routes toward the identification of the self‐peptide ligandome presented by thymic epithelial cells
Authors: Sousa Laura G. , Rodrigues Pedro M. , Alves Nuno L.
Published: January 2023

Within the thymus, thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide a dedicated niche for the selection of functional T cells expressing a highly variable and self‐tolerant T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. In this minireview, we start by summarizing recent studies that have improved our understanding on the composition of cortical TEC and medullary TEC microenvironments. Next, we focus on the molecular processes that control the function of TECs in T‐cell selection. In particular, we discuss the role of cortical TECs in positive selection and the pathways employed by these cells to generate and present selecting self‐peptides:MHC II complexes. Several studies have underscored the role of the β5t‐containing thymoproteasome in the production of unique MHC I‐bound peptides critical for CD8 T‐cell selection. Contrarily, the identity of the molecular determinants that regulate the generation of MHC II‐bound self‐peptides capable of positive selecting CD4 T cells is far more uncertain. We highlight recent advances that interconnect the autophagy‐lysosomal pathway, the presentation of specific sets of self‐peptide:MHC II complexes, and the diversification of CD4 TCR repertoire. Lastly, we discuss how these findings may open up new avenues for deciphering the identity of the MHC I and MHC II ligandome in the thymus.
Seismic performance of buildings with novel self‐centering base isolation system for earthquake resilience
Authors: Wang Bin , Chen Peng , Zhu Songye , Dai Kaoshan
Published: January 2023

This study presents a novel self‐centering (SC) base isolation system enabled by traditional lead rubber bearing (LRB) incorporating superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) U‐shaped dampers (hereinafter referred to as SMA‐LRB). This system is particularly suitable for some important structures (e.g., hospital buildings) that require high seismic performance and rapid recovery of normal serviceability after a severe earthquake. The working mechanism of the SMA‐LRBs is first illustrated, followed by a comparative experimental study on the traditional LRB and the emerging SMA‐LRB. Test results confirm the satisfactory flag‐shaped hysteresis loops of SMA‐LRB associated with significantly reduced residual deformation under cyclic loading. Subsequently, a refined numerical modeling strategy for these bearings is developed. The seismic performances of the SMA‐LRBs are examined systematically through two comparative reinforced concrete (RC) frame buildings, namely, the traditionally isolated and the SC isolated cases under far‐ and near‐field earthquakes. Seismic fragility analyses are further carried out through incremental dynamic analysis (IDA). The seismic responses demonstrate that the SC isolated building can match or improve the behavior of the traditional isolated buildings. Compared with the considerable residual deformation of the traditional isolated system under some earthquake events, the SC isolated system exhibits negligible residual deformation that can significantly avoid normal serviceability disruption while achieving the high‐performance objectives. The SC base isolation system can provide a promising type of advanced seismic protection device for earthquake resilient design.
Comparison of serum midkine levels between pregnant women with and without pre‐eclampsia: A case–control study from a tertiary hospital
Authors: Sakcak Bedri , Turgut Ezgi , Denizli Ramazan , Farisogullari Nihat , Tanacan Atakan , Yazihan Nuray , Sahin Dilek
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate changes in maternal serum midkine levels in pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

This study included 40 pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia and 66 healthy pregnant women in the control group. Demographic data, laboratory results, and midkine levels were compared between the groups.

Results

The pre‐eclampsia and control groups were similar in terms of demographics. The midkine level of pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia was significantly higher than that of the controls (0.54 ± 0.23 and 0.31 ± 0.19 ng/mL, respectively, P < 0.001). According to the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal cut‐off value of midkine was determined as 0.37 ng/mL, at which it had 75% sensitivity and 74% specificity (area under the curve: 0.815, 95% confidence interval 0.73–0.89, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The serum midkine level was significantly higher in pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia. Midkine seems to be associated with complicated inflammatory processes leading to pre‐eclampsia. Further study protocols can be planned to investigate the role of midkine in the prediction of pre‐eclampsia as a novel marker.
Comparative study of in‐vitro autofluorescence of normal versus non‐melanoma‐skin‐cancer cells at different excitation wavelengths
Authors: Garbarino Federico , Scelfo Daniel , Paulone Gabriele , Paganelli Alessia , Ulrici Alessandro , Magnoni Cristina , Pasquali Luca
Published: January 2023

In this experimental study the autofluorescence of squamous carcinoma cells, stimulated by 6 different excitation wavelengths in the range 280–533 nm, has been compared with the autofluorescence of normal control keratinocytes. Skin cells were cultivated in vitro, to isolate their characteristic autofluorescence form the more complex one that would be originated by the complete skin tissue. Autofluorescence spectra in the visible range were complemented by absorption measurements. It was observed that the control cells showed characteristic emission (and absorption) structures due to typical endogenous chromophores [FAD and NAD(P)H, lipo‐pigments, porphyrins], that were severely dumped in pathological cells. The autofluorescence spectra were then elaborated by multivariate analysis: after a first exploratory data analysis by means of Principal Component Analysis, the whole dataset was used to develop classification models using partial least squares‐discriminant analysis, to differentiate between normal and pathological cells. This permitted us to identify the most suitable fluorescence spectral interval, in the 550–670 nm range, to discriminate between normal and pathological behavior, independently on the excitation wavelength.
The effect of silica exposure on the risk of lung cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Yunxia , Zhang Wensheng , Wu Dean , Fan Yindi
Published: January 2023

Lung cancer is an incurable disease with an increased mortality rate caused by the inhalation of dust‐containing crystalline silica particles. Silica exposure is one of the most important occupational hazards in the world. Whether the association between silica exposure and lung cancer is because of the fibrotic process or to the effect of respirable silica itself is unclear. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified silica as a human lung carcinogen. The opinion of lung cancer is a question that has been addressed in this review. Three electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, were used to search for relevant literature from 2000 to 2022. To evaluate the relationship between exposure to silica and developing lung cancer, we performed a meta‐analysis using the random‐effects model. For each study, the overall odds ratio (OR), relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and p values were calculated. An extensive database search resulted in the selection of 20 (case‒control and nested case‒control studies were selected) out of 527 studies. Among the 20 selected studies, 7 studies showed a significant association between silica exposure and an increased risk of lung cancer. Further analysis showed that among the selected studies, six studies showed a significant correlation between combined exposure to silica and smoking with an increased risk of lung cancer. The data from the present study showed that smoking habits increased the impact of silica exposure on the initiation of lung carcinogenesis in exposed workers.
Ergothioneine attenuates varicocele‐induced testicular damage by upregulating HSP90AA1 in rats
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhou Ranran , Yang Cheng , Jiang Qijun , Yuan Haoyu , Qiu Xin , Tian Hu , Zhou Junhao , Liu Cundong
Published: January 2023

This study investigates the therapeutic effect and the underlying mechanisms of ergothioneine (EGT) on the testicular damage caused by varicocele (VC) in vivo, in vitro, and in silico. This preclinical study combines a series of biological experiments and network pharmacology analyses. A total of 18 Sprague Dawley (SD) male rats were randomly and averagely divided into three groups: the sham‐operated, VC model, and VC model with EGT treatment (VC + EGT) groups. The left renal vein of the VC model and the VC + EGT groups were half‐ligated for 4 weeks. Meanwhile, the VC + EGT group was intragastrically administrated with EGT (10 mg/kg). GC1 and GC2 cells were exposed to H2O2 with or without EGT treatment to re‐verify the conclusion. The structure disorder of seminiferous tubules ameliorated the apoptosis decrease in the VC rats receiving EGT. EGT can also increase the sperm quality of the VC model rats (p < 0.05). The exposure to H2O2 decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis of GC1 and GC2 cells, which was revisable by adding EGT to the plates (p < 0.05). The network pharmacology and molecular docking were conducted to explore the potential targets of EGT in VC, and HSP90AA1 was identified as the pivotal gene, which was validated by western blot, immunohistochemistry, and RT‐qPCR both in vivo and in vitro (p < 0.05). Overall, EGT attenuates the testicular injury in the VC model both in vivo and in vitro by potentially potentiating the expression of HSP90AA1.
Exploring the cardioprotective effects of canagliflozin against cisplatin‐induced cardiotoxicity: Role of iNOS/NF‐κB, Nrf2, and Bax/cytochrome C/Bcl‐2 signals
Authors: Ali Fares E. M. , Hassanein Emad H. M. , Abd El‐Ghafar Omnia A. M. , Rashwan Eman K. , Saleh Fayez M. , Atwa Ahmed M.
Published: January 2023

Cardiotoxicity is a severe considerable side effect of cisplatin (CDDP) that requires much medical attention. The current study investigates the cardioprotective effects of canagliflozin (CA) against CDDP‐induced heart toxicity. Rats were allocated to the control group; the CA group was administered CA 10 mg/kg/day orally for 10 days; the CDDP group was injected with 7 mg/kg, intraperitoneal as a single dose on the 5th day, and the CDDP + CA group. Compared to the CDDP‐treated group, CA effectively attenuated CDDP‐induced heart injury as evidenced by a decrease of serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase‐MB, and lactate dehydrogenase enzymes and supported by the alleviation of histopathological changes in cardiac tissues. Biochemically, CA attenuated cardiac oxidative injury through upregulation of the nuclear factor‐erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) signal. CA suppressed inflammation by decreasing cardiac NO2−, MPO, iNOS, nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, and interleukin 1‐beta levels. Besides, CA significantly upregulated cardiac levels of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT), and p‐AKT proteins. Moreover, CA remarkably mitigated CDDP‐induced apoptosis via modulation of Bax, cytochrome C, and Bcl‐2 protein levels. Together, the present study revealed that CA could be a good candidate for preventing CDDP‐induced cardiac injury by modulating iNOS/NF‐κB, Nrf2, PI3K/AKT, and Bax/cytochrome C/Bcl‐2 signals.
Alternative splicing of FKBP5 gene exerts control over T lymphocyte expansion
Authors: Marrone Laura , D'Agostino Massimo , Cesaro Elena , di Giacomo Valeria , Urzini Simona , Romano Maria Fiammetta , Romano Simona
Published: January 2023

FKBP51 is constitutively expressed by immune cells. As other FKBP family members, FKBP51 acts as a coreceptor for the natural products FK506 and rapamycin, which exhibit immunosuppressive effects. However, little is known about the intrinsic role of this large FKBP in the primary function of lymphocytes, that is, the adaptive immune response against foreign antigens, for example, pathogens. This paper aimed to investigate whether FKBP51 expression was modulated during lymphocyte activation. Moreover, as we recently identified a splicing isoform of FKBP51, namely FKBP51s, we also measured this splice protein, along with the canonical one, at different times of a peripheral blood mononuclear cell culture stimulated via T cell receptor. Our results show that the two FKBP51 isoforms were alternatively induced during the proliferative burst. Canonical FKBP51 increased in the time window between 48 and 96 h and its expression levels correlated with cyclin D levels. FKBP51s transiently increased earlier, at 24−36 h to reappearing later, at 120 h, when cyclin D expression returned at resting levels and proliferation ceased. Interestingly, within these two specific timeframes, FKBP51s accumulated in the nucleus. Here FKBP51s colocalized with the Foxp3 transcription factor at 36 h. Regulatory T cell (Treg) counts significantly decreased when FKBP51s was downmodulated. The coculture suppression assay suggested that FKBP51s supports the suppressive capability of Tregs. At 120 h, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments found FKBP51s linked to CCND1 gene, suggesting a possible effect on gene transcription regulation, as previously demonstrated in melanoma. In conclusion, our study shows that FKBP5 isoforms are upregulated during lymphocyte activation, albeit on different timeframes. The activation of canonical FKBP51 coincides with proliferation hallmarks; FKBP5 splicing occurs early to sustain Treg development and late when proliferation ceases.
Modeling coarse‐grained van der Waals interactions using dipole‐coupled anisotropic quantum Drude oscillators
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Prasanta , Sadhukhan Mainak
Published: January 2023

The Quantum Drude Oscillator (QDO) model is a promising candidate for accurately calculating the van der Waals (vdW) interaction. Anisotropic QDO models have recently been used to represent quantum fluctuations of molecular fragments rather than that of single atoms. While this model promises accurate calculation of vdW energy, there is significant room for improvements, such as incorporating a proper fragmentation method, higher‐order dispersion corrections, and so forth. The present work attempts to gauge dipole–dipole interactions' ability without fragmentation. A suitable anisotropic damping function is also introduced to work with anisotropic QDO. This revised model accurately predicts the binding energies of vdW complexes for most of the systems considered. This work indicates the limit of dipole approximation for an anisotropic QDO‐based model.
Circular RNA SPI1 expression before and after induction therapy and its correlation with clinical features, treatment response, and survival of acute myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Xiong Ting , Xia Liqun , Song Qiaoqiao
Published: January 2023

Background

Circular RNA spi‐1 proto‐oncogene (circ‐SPI1) regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, and bone marrow differentiation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study aimed to assess the relationship of circ‐SPI1 expression with the clinical features, induction therapy response, and survival of AML patients.

Methods

In total, 80 AML patients were included with bone marrow (BM) samples collected at baseline and after induction therapy. Additionally, 20 healthy donors (HDs) and 20 disease controls (DCs) were enrolled with BM samples collected after enrollment. BM circ‐SPI1 expression was detected by reverse‐transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay.

Results

Circ‐SPI1 expression was highest in AML patients, moderate in DCs, and lowest in HDs (median (interquartile range): 3.01 [2.02–4.14] versus 1.71 [1.01–2.85] versus 0.98 [0.74–1.71]) (p < 0.001). Moreover, lower circ‐SPI1 expression was related to its decreased located gene SPI1 expression (p = 0.029), white blood cells (WBC) < 18.8 × 109/L (p = 0.010), trisomy 8 (p = 0.025), and more favorable risk stratification (p = 0.014) in AML patients. Additionally, circ‐SPI1 expression was reduced in AML patients after induction therapy (p < 0.001), and its low expression after induction therapy was correlated with the achievement of complete remission (p < 0.001). Furthermore, circ‐SPI1 decline ≥30% during therapy (versus <30%) was independently related to longer event‐free survival (EFS) (hazard ratio (HR): 0.445, p = 0.028) and overall survival (OS) (HR: 0.319, p = 0.025) in AML patients.

Conclusion

Decreased circ‐SPI1 expression is related to lower WBC, favorable risk stratification, and better therapy response; moreover, its decline during therapy is an independent factor to predict longer EFS and OS in AML patients.
Efficacy of a smartphone application as an aid to enhance the instruction of radiographic differential diagnosis of maxillofacial bony lesions
Authors: Nikkerdar Nafiseh , Sepidar Kish Sahar , Golshah Amin , Khavid Atefeh
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of a smartphone application for instruction of radiographic differential diagnosis of maxillofacial bony lesions as an aid to enhance to traditional learning (lecture‐based learning) for dental students.

Methods

This quasi‐experimental study evaluated 50 fifth‐year dental students who were randomly divided into two groups. The two groups were matched in terms of grade point average to ensure their equal baseline knowledge level. The experimental group (n = 25) received instructions regarding differential diagnosis of maxillofacial bony lesions via a self‐designed smartphone application, while the control group (n = 25) received lecture‐based instruction of the same topic. The students participated in a written exam (10 questions) immediately and 2 months after the interventions. Each question had 3 differential diagnosis choices. The best answer choice was allocated a score of 0.5, while other answer choices were allocated a score of 0.25. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA, and Mann‐Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests.

Results

The mean score of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group immediately after the intervention (p < 0.001) and also at 2 months (p < 0.001). The mixed effect linear model revealed that after controlling for the effect of age and sex, the mean score of the experimental group was still significantly higher than that of the control group immediately and at 2 months after the intervention (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Smartphone‐based mobile learning can effectively enhance the knowledge and practical skills of dental students in differential diagnosis of maxillofacial bony lesions as an aid to enhance to traditional learning.
No longer “non‐traditional”: Genetic counselors' perceptions towards laboratory and industry roles
Authors: Strohmeyer Joe , Arjunan Aishwarya , Ryan Lauren , Pan Vivian , Wicklund Catherine , Witherington Sarah
Published: January 2023

A growing percentage of genetic counselors are employed in roles that do not involve direct patient care, commonly in commercial diagnostic laboratories. This study aimed to assess characteristics of laboratory and industry (LI) roles and perceptions of the genetic counseling community's views towards such roles. Members of NSGC and ABGC were invited to participate in this study. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics and select participant quotes are included to highlight key points identified by statistical analyses. Three hundred twenty‐six genetic counselors who self‐identified as currently or previously working within an LI role responded to the survey. Over 40% of participants reported feeling that they were not perceived positively by colleagues outside of LI settings, and 54% felt that GC colleagues in non‐LI roles provided mostly negative commentary about LI GC roles. Over 90% of individuals felt that their employer was a factor in the way they were perceived by others and that this factor carried a bigger weight than job title, work setting, or even professional responsibilities. Qualitative responses from open‐ended text questions suggest that while perceptions toward LI roles have improved over time, commentary regarding the “dark side” of genetic counseling persists. To promote the continued, unified growth of the genetic counseling profession and other healthcare professions, it is necessary to address this source of intra‐professional conflict.
One‐pot synthesis of quinazolinones and quinazolines under visible light via decarboxylation of α‐hydroxy acids
Authors: Xie Zongbo , Yang Jiangnan , Hu Jiayu , Fan Qiangwen , Zhu Haibo , Le Zhanggao
Published: January 2023

A novel method for the synthesis of quinazolinones was developed via the decarboxylation of α‐hydroxyl acids induced by visible light. Under blue LED irradiation, mandelic acid was decarboxylated in the presence of [Acr‐Mes]+(ClO4)−. Using α‐hydroxyl acids as an acyl source, a condensation reaction was followed by cyclization and oxidization to obtain the target product quinazolinone. In addition, this synthetic route can be applied to the preparation of quinazolines from 2‐aminobenzylamine. The conversion can occur at room temperature under air conditions without additives.
Avoiding the lockdown: Morphological facilitation of transversal chewing movements in mammals
Authors: Avedik Annika , Duque‐Correa Maria J. , Clauss Marcus
Published: January 2023

The evolution of mammals is characterized, amongst other developments, by an increasing relevance of effective food processing in form of an increasingly durable dentition, complex occlusal surfaces, and transverse chewing movements. Some factors have received increasing attention for the facilitation of the latter, such as the configuration of the jaw joint, the chewing muscle arrangement and lever arms, or the reduction of interlocking cusps on the cheek teeth occlusal surface. By contrast, the constraining effect of the anterior dentition (incisors and canines) on transverse chewing motions, though known, has received less comprehensive attention. Here, we give examples of this constraint in extant mammals and outline a variety of morphological solutions to this constraint, including a reduction of the anterior dentition, special arrangements of canines and incisors, the nesting of the mandibular cheek teeth within the maxillary ones, and the use of different jaw positions for different dental functions (cropping vs. grinding). We suggest that hypselodont anterior canines or incisors in some taxa might represent a compensatory mechanism for self‐induced wear during a grinding chewing motion. We propose that the diversity in anterior dentition among mammalian herbivores, and the evolutionary trend towards a reduction of the anterior dentition in many taxa, indicates that the constraining effect of the anterior dentition, which is rigidly linked to the cheek teeth by the osseous jaws, represents a relevant selective pressure in mammalian evolution.
Predictive validity of GLIM malnutrition diagnosis in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: da Silva Couto Andresa , Gonzalez Maria Cristina , Martucci Renata Brum , Feijó Patrícia Moreira , Rodrigues Viviane Dias , de Pinho Nivaldo Barroso , Souza Nilian Carla
Published: January 2023

Background

Considering that the validation of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) remains unclear in patients with colorectal cancer, the present study aimed to assess the agreement, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and prognostic effect of the GLIM on survival when compared with the Patient‐Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG‐SGA).

Methods

Patients with colorectal cancer who were scheduled to undergo a routine abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan were recruited. Using the GLIM two‐step approach, the patients were first screened for malnutrition by using the PG‐SGA Short Form (score ≥3). The malnutrition diagnosis was based on the etiologic (disease burden [cancer] or reduced food intake) and phenotypic GLIM criteria, including weight loss, body mass index, and skeletal muscle index at the third lumbar vertebra when using the CT scans. The food intake was assessed by the PG‐SGA.

Results

This study included 191 patients (age, 60.5 ± 11.3 years; 57% men), and 23% and 32% were malnourished according to the GLIM and the PG‐SGA, respectively. The GLIM revealed fair sensitivity (64%), good agreement (kappa = 0.65), specificity (96%), and diagnostic accuracy for detecting malnutrition (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.80; 95% CI, 0.72–0.88) when compared with the PG‐SGA. The malnutrition value according to the GLIM and the PG‐SGA was associated with short‐term survival. However, only the PG‐SGA was associated with long‐term survival.

Conclusions

Although showing fair sensitivity, the GLIM had good agreement, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy for malnutrition detection and was an independent predictor of short‐term survival in patients with colorectal cancer.
Role of nutrients and temperature in shaping distinct summer phytoplankton and microzooplankton population dynamics in the western North Pacific and Bering Sea
Authors: Liu Kailin , Nishioka Jun , Chen Bingzhang , Suzuki Koji , Cheung Shunyan , Lu Yanhong , Wu Huijun , Liu Hongbin
Published: January 2023

Phytoplankton growth and microzooplankton grazing are two critical processes in marine food webs, but they remain understudied in the vast area of the subarctic western Pacific and the Bering Sea. In this study, we measured phytoplankton growth and microzooplankton grazing rates in these less‐explored regions to demonstrate their spatial patterns and investigate underlying mechanisms driving the planktonic food web dynamics. Our results showed that the phytoplankton growth in these regions was determined by nutrient availability and temperature. In the high‐nutrient, low‐chlorophyll regions (HNLC), iron availability was the primary factor limiting phytoplankton growth. In contrast, phytoplankton growth in the Gulf of Anadyr and Kamchatka Strait was mainly limited by inorganic nitrogen exhausted by the summer blooms. We found that microzooplankton grazing rate was affected by temperature and prey availability, highlighting the positive effect of temperature. Strong top‐down control on phytoplankton by microzooplankton in the Gulf of Anadyr and Kamchatka Strait indicated an active microbial food web with high turnover rates. In contrast, the decoupling of phytoplankton growth and microzooplankton grazing in the HNLC regions illustrates a weak role of microzooplankton in the marine food web. These results indicated different food web structures in the areas with and without riverine iron input. By revealing the roles of temperature and nutrient or prey availability in regulating the spatial variability of plankton rates, we expect that the plankton will respond differently to ocean warming between the HNLC and coastal regions of the subarctic Pacific due to different nutrient conditions. Our study helps understand how marine plankton will respond to environmental changes at high latitudes.
Iron‐Porphyrin‐Based Covalent Assembly with Peroxidase‐Like Activity and High Efficiency for Cr(VI) Colorimetric Detection
Authors: Xu Hanxin , Li Mengxue , Zang Mingsong , Sun Jianxin , Jia Dan , Hou Chunxi , Liu Junqiu
Published: January 2023

Efficient synthesis of functional nanomaterials for simple, sensitive, and accurate colorimetric detection of chromate [Cr(VI)] has attracted great interest due to the toxicity of Cr(VI). Here, novel covalently assembled iron porphyrins (CAIPs) are fabricated through covalently cross‐linking reaction between iron‐tetra‐(4‐hydroxy‐phenyl) porphyrin and three different cross‐linkers based on 3,3´‐dithiodipropionic acid. The results show that CAIPs have a spherical vesicle framework with favorable dimensional structure and enzymatic activity. In the presence of H2O2, CAIPs exhibit high peroxidase‐like activity toward 3,3´,5,5´‐tetramethylbenzidine. Based on these findings, CAIPs are used as an efficient colorimetric catalyst for the sensitive and selective detection of Cr(VI) with a detection limit about 23 nm. The feasibility of this method for real‐water samples is verified by a standard addition experiment. This system further facilitates the developments of nanomaterial, and its application in colorimetric detection fields.
Design of Hygroscopic Bioplastic Products Stable in Varying Humidities
Authors: Liu Sirui , Bettelli Mercedes A. , Wei Xinfeng , Capezza Antonio J. , Sochor Benedikt , Nilsson Fritjof , Olsson Richard T. , Johansson Eva , Roth Stephan V. , Hedenqvist Mikael S.
Published: January 2023

Hygroscopic biopolymers like proteins and polysaccharides suffer from humidity‐dependent mechanical properties. Because humidity can vary significantly over the year, or even within a day, these polymers will not generally have stable properties during their lifetimes. On wheat gluten, a model highly hygroscopic biopolymer material, it is observed that larger/thicker samples can be significantly more mechanically stable than thinner samples. It is shown here that this is due to slow water diffusion, which, in turn, is due to the rigid polymer structure caused by the double‐bond character of the peptide bond, the many bulky peptide side groups, and the hydrogen bond network. More than a year is required to reach complete moisture saturation (≈10 wt.%) in a 1 cm thick plate of glycerol‐plasticized wheat gluten, whereas this process takes only one day for a 0.5 mm thick plate. The overall moisture uptake is also retarded by swelling‐induced mechanical effects. Hence, hygroscopic biopolymers are better suited for larger/thicker products, where the moisture‐induced changes in mechanical properties are smeared out over time, to the extent that the product remains sufficiently tough over climate changes, for example, throughout the course of a year.
A new role for monomeric ParA/Soj in chromosome dynamics in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Roberts David M.
Published: January 2023

ParABS (Soj‐Spo0J) systems were initially implicated in plasmid and chromosome segregation in bacteria. However, it is now increasingly understood that they play multiple roles in cell cycle events in Bacillus subtilis, and possibly other bacteria. In a recent study, monomeric forms of ParA/Soj have been implicated in regulating aspects of chromosome dynamics during B. subtilis sporulation. In this commentary, I will discuss the known roles of ParABS systems, explore why sporulation is a valuable model for studying these proteins, and the new insights into the role of monomeric ParA/Soj. Finally, I will touch upon some of the future work that remains.
Effective Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation Following MRgFUS for Tremor Dominant Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Maamary Joel , Peters James , Kyle Kain , Barnett Yael , Jonker Benjamin , Tisch Stephen
Published: January 2023

Background

Whilst MRI guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy is an effective treatment option for tremor disorders, there are reports of tremor recurrence in patients with tremor dominant Parkinson's disease (PD). The mechanisms for tremor recurrence are unknown but likely relate to the duality of tremor network pathways with ramifications for subsequent treatment options.

Cases

We report two cases of tremor dominant PD who experienced tremor recurrence following MRgFUS thalamotomy with subsequent successful subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (DBS). Tremor scores were measured at baseline, 1‐ and 3‐months post MRgFUS and at least 18 months post DBS in both patients. Both cases evidenced immediate improvement in tremor, after MRgFUS, followed by subsequent tremor recurrence. STN DBS resulted in almost complete long‐term tremor alleviation in both cases.

Conclusions

These cases demonstrate the efficacy and feasibility of STN DBS in patients with tremor dominant PD with tremor recurrence following MRgFUS thalamotomy. We discuss the dualism of tremor outflow pathways that may have implications for single target lesional therapies.
Who Ever Said It Would Be Easy? Reflecting on Two Clinical Trials Targeting α‐Synuclein
Authors: Jensen Poul Henning , Schlossmacher Michael G. , Stefanis Leonidas
Published: January 2023

Two recent, high‐profile manuscripts reported negative results with two parallel approaches of passive immunization targeting α‐synuclein in a population of patients with early Parkinson's disease (PD). These phase II studies failed to show a bona fide disease‐modifying neuroprotective effect on PD progression, despite the evidence that these antibodies effectively bind native α‐synuclein in human serum. Here, we discuss the possible reasons that could help explain the lack of clinical efficacy. In particular, we highlight (1) the wealth of evidence supporting the notion of α‐synuclein as a valid therapeutic target; (2) the lack of evidence of target engagement in the aforementioned studies, especially of the elusive oligomeric species, the likely culprits in disease pathogenesis and/or its propagation; (3) the limitations, especially in terms of timing passive immunization, of preclinical models, where the same α‐synuclein antibodies succeeded in mitigating disease manifestations; (4) the consideration of possibly intervening at an even earlier stage of disease in future trials; and (5) the multitude of strategies beyond passive immunization that could be used to combat α‐synuclein‐mediated neurodegeneration, if in the end the current approach is not fruitful. Overall, our perception is that converging developments in the field, among them novel bioassays and biomarkers, improved cellular and animal models and objective measurements of motor activities integrated into clinical trials, if further optimized, will gradually move the momentum of the field forward. This, to better test the concept of whether α‐synuclein‐targeting therapies can indeed deliver the ”holy grail” of neuroprotection to the benefit of the PD community. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Design of wideband circularly polarized metasurface antenna using characteristic mode analysis
Authors: Ding Zhendong , Xu Mengnan , Li Xiang , Tao Shifei , Wang Hao , Wang Yan
Published: January 2023

A wideband circularly polarized metasurface antenna using characteristic mode analysis is presented in this letter, which is composed of two‐layer substrate, 4 × 4 circular patch metasurface, L‐slot, transmission line, and air spacing. Through mode analysis, the metasurface structure can significantly enhance the bandwidth and gain of the antenna, and realize circular polarization (CP). After excitation, the air spacing and the L‐slot can realize 90° difference between the characteristic angles of the two modes of the metasurface, and finally radiate CP. The measurement results show that the prototype has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth from 5.6 to 8.2 GHz (37.7%), a 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidth from 6.2 to 7.8 GHz (22.9%), and a peak gain of 8.7 dBi at 6.4 GHz.
A comparison of associations of body mass index and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry measured percentage fat and total fat with global serum metabolites in young women
Authors: Dorgan Joanne F. , Ryan Alice S. , LeBlanc Erin S. , Van Horn Linda , Magder Laurence S. , Snetselaar Linda G. , Zhang Yuji , Dallal Cher M. , Jung Seungyoun , Shepherd John A.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Body mass index (BMI) does not directly measure adiposity, whereas dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) provides valid direct estimates of adiposity. Therefore, this study evaluated usefulness of BMI as a measure of adiposity in serum metabolomics studies.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted of 202 women aged 25 to 29 years in the Dietary Intervention Study in Children Follow‐Up Study. Heights and weights were measured, and body composition was quantified using clinical DXA protocols. Serum metabolomic profiling was performed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Partial correlations of BMI, percentage fat (%FAT), and total fat (TOTFAT) with log transformed serum metabolites were calculated.

Results

There was significant overlap in the 93 metabolites that correlated with BMI, %FAT, and/or TOTFAT; 9 differently correlated with BMI and %FAT, whereas 15 differently correlated with BMI and TOTFAT. Even for these metabolites, absolute differences were modest. Metabolite set enrichment analysis identified diacylglycerol and sphingolipid metabolism as overrepresented among metabolites significantly correlated with all three measures of adiposity.

Conclusions

BMI can be a good proxy for DXA measured %FAT and TOTFAT in descriptive metabolomic studies of healthy, young White women. Larger studies in more diverse populations are needed to endorse more generalized conclusions.
Effects of microstructures of liquid polyisoprene on the properties of styrene–butadiene rubber/butadiene rubber compounds
Authors: Wang Qian , Sun Tao , Qiao Yunhe , Liu Heng , Zhang Chunyu , Zhang Xuequan , Sun Yu
Published: January 2023

Recently, there has been an increasing interest in liquid rubbers (LRs), which can work as reactive processing aids to replace conventional plasticizers and are used as prepolymers to synthesize novel block copolymers. However, the understanding of effects of their microstructures on the properties of materials is still not sufficient. In this study, liquid 1,4‐polyisoprene (L1,4‐IR) and liquid 3,4‐polyisoprene (L3,4‐IR) with similar molecular weight were selected and mixed with styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR)/butadiene rubber (BR). The effects of microstructures of the LRs on the properties of materials were investigated. L1,4‐IR has more 1,4‐units and fewer 3,4‐units than L3,4‐IR. This gives L1,4‐IR a lower glass transition temperature and much more flexible polymer chains. Vulcanizates containing L1,4‐IR had advantages over samples containing L3,4‐IR, including lower Mooney viscosities, smaller ΔG′ value from 0.3% to 43% of strain, fewer sol fractions, better abrasion resistance and lower values of tan δ at 60 °C. In contrast, high contents of 3,4‐units endow L3,4‐IR with low unsaturation in polymer backbones and high glass transition temperature. Samples containing L3,4‐IR showed higher values of tan δ at 0 °C, better thermal stabilities and excellent DIN abrasion resistance after aging compared to samples with L1,4‐IR. Furthermore, there were no big differences in the mechanical properties of SBR/BR compounds containing L1,4‐IR or L3,4‐IR. The results of this study are of great importance to the practical application of liquid polyisoprene in the rubber industry. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii mutants deficient for Old Yellow Enzyme 3 exhibit increased photooxidative stress
Authors: Böhmer Stefanie , Marx Christina , Goss Reimund , Gilbert Matthias , Sasso Severin , Happe Thomas , Hemschemeier Anja
Published: January 2023

Old Yellow Enzymes (OYEs) are flavin‐containing ene‐reductases that have been intensely studied with regard to their biotechnological potential for sustainable chemical syntheses. OYE‐encoding genes are found throughout the domains of life, but their physiological role is mostly unknown, one reason for this being the promiscuity of most ene‐reductases studied to date. The unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii possesses four genes coding for OYEs, three of which we have analyzed biochemically before. Ene‐reductase CrOYE3 stood out in that it showed an unusually narrow substrate scope and converted N‐methylmaleimide (NMI) with high rates. This was recapitulated in a C. reinhardtii croye3 mutant that, in contrast to the wild type, hardly degraded externally added NMI. Here we show that CrOYE3‐mediated NMI conversion depends on electrons generated photosynthetically by photosystem II (PSII) and that the croye3 mutant exhibits slightly decreased photochemical quenching in high light. Non‐photochemical quenching is strongly impaired in this mutant, and it shows enhanced oxidative stress. The phenotypes of the mutant suggest that C. reinhardtii CrOYE3 is involved in the protection against photooxidative stress, possibly by converting reactive carbonyl species derived from lipid peroxides or maleimides from tetrapyrrole degradation.
Synthesis, crystal structure, photoisomerization, and DFT studies of novel azo compounds based on imidazole
Authors: Slassi Siham , Aarjane Mohammed , El‐Ghayoury Abdelkrim , Allain Magali , Amine Amina
Published: January 2023

New azo imidazole compounds 1‐3 were synthesized by condensation of 2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxy‐5‐([aryl]diazenyl)benzaldehyde derivatives with o‐vanillin and characterized. The crystal structure of 1 crystallizes in the monoclinic system with space group P21/c and adopts an E configuration for the azo and azomethine double bonds. The photoisomerization experiments have been performed in DMSO as a function of time in order to investigate the photodynamical trans‐cis‐trans conversion of the azo (–N=N‐) chromophore of the imidazoles 1‐3. The compounds exhibited strong photoisomerization in solution and their trans to cis isomerization took about 40 min whereas the reverse process took 120 min. The experimental studies are rationalized with theoretical DFT and TD‐DFT studies successfully.
The missing piece: Effect of dangling chains on the synthesis and properties of bio‐based waterborne polyurethane
Authors: Wang Li , Luo Haihang , Gao Qiang , Jiang Le , Wang Zhenya , Fan Haojun , Chen Yi , Yan Jun , Xiang Jun
Published: January 2023

Bio‐based polyols derived from vegetable oils generally contain the dangling chains, which have recently attracted significant attention due to their influence on the preparation and performance of the waterborne polyurethane. Herein, a novel undecylenic‐based primary glycol (UPG) without dangling chains synthesized and the oleic‐based primary glycol (OPG) with dangling chains reported by our previous work were used to prepare straight‐chain and dangling‐chain bio‐based waterborne polyurethane (BWPU), respectively, to study the difference between the two diols and the effects of dangling chains on the synthesis and performance of BWPU. First, the UPG without dangling chains displayed higher activation energy (Ea/Eo = 77.72/80.56 kJ mol−1) and longer reaction end point of prepolymer (240 min), indicating relatively lower reactivity to isocyanate. In addition, the dangling chains were found to influence the dispersion stability of BWPU, and the minimum dosage of DMPA for maintaining dispersion stability was 6.5 wt% for OPG but 5.5 wt% for UPG. The average particle size of BWPU is greater for OPG than for UPG with the same DMPA content. Finally, performance studies revealed that dangling‐chain BWPU showed higher hydrophobicity, extensibility, and low temperature resistance, but lower thermal stability (Td5%) and tensile strength. This work comprehensively clarified the effects of linear and branched bio‐based polyols on the synthesis and properties of BWPU, and provided guidance for the development and application of bio‐based polyols and BWPU coatings.
The growth of process safety practice in China
Authors: Meng Yifei , Hu Yeyao , Li Weidong , Liu Yi , Zhao Dongfeng , Willey Ronald J.
Published: January 2023

Implementation of modern process safety practices came to China around the turn of the millennium. Compared to other developed countries. It is a relatively late start. However, within a period of 20 short years, remarkable results have been achieved under the joint efforts of many parties. Firstly, this paper introduces four major contributors that influence the development of process safety in China. These are the Chinese government, industry associations and consulting companies, production enterprises, and research institutes and universities. Among them, the government guides the development of process safety in China through policy guidance and the establishment of government projects. It also provides the driving force for research. Secondly, this paper reviews the main process for the development of process safety in China. It divides the development of process safety in China into three stages: namely sporadic contact, active cooperation, and comprehensive development, according to the frequency and leading party of process safety practice activities. Finally, a systematic review of China's process safety practices is conducted from four aspects: international communication and cooperation, process safety technology promotion, safety management system promotion, and personnel training promotion.
Front Cover Image
Authors: Yang Zhao‐Kai , Qu Cheng , Pan Shi‐Xiang , Liu Yan , Shi Zhuo , Luo Chen , Qin Yao‐Guo , Yang Xin‐Ling
Published: January 2023

The cover image is based on the Research Article Aphid‐repellent, ladybug‐attraction activities, and binding mechanism of methyl salicylate derivatives containing geraniol moiety by Zhao‐Kai Yang et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.7245.

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Cell state‐directed therapy – epigenetic modulation of gene transcription demonstrated with a quantitative systems pharmacology model of temozolomide
Authors: Saini Anshul , Ballesta Annabelle , Gallo James M.
Published: January 2023

Cancer therapy continues to be plagued by modest therapeutic advances. This is particularly evident in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) wherein treatment failures are attributed to intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH), a dynamic process of cell state transitions or plasticity. To address ITH, we introduce the concept of cell state‐directed (CSD) therapy through a quantitative systems pharmacology model of temozolomide (TMZ), a cornerstone of GBM drug therapy. The model consisting of multiple modules incorporated an epigenetic‐based gene transcription‐translation module that enabled CSD therapy. Numerous model simulations were conducted to demonstrate the potential impact of CSD therapy on TMZ activity. The simulations included those based on global sensitivity analyses to identify fragile nodes – MDM2 and XIAP – in the network, and also how an epigenetic modifier (birabresib) could overcome a mechanism of TMZ resistance. The positive results of CSD therapy on TMZ activity supports continued efforts to develop CSD therapy as a new anticancer approach.