bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reassessing acetyl‐CoA supply and NADPH availability for mevalonate biosynthesis from glycerol in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhou Shenting , Li Runyi , Liu Qian , Shao Xixi , Zhu Liyan , Kang Min‐Kyoung , Wei Gongyuan , Kim Seon‐Won , Wang Chonglong
Published: July 2022

Mevalonate is an important platform compound for the biosynthesis of isoprenoids. It can be synthesized from acetyl‐CoA in the presence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) by the introduced mvaES operon in Escherichia coli. The influences of E. coli hosts, acetyl‐CoA supply, and NADPH availability were assessed and engineered to improve the production titer and yield of mevalonate from glycerol. As a result, E. coli DH5α was found to be the best host with high specific capability and titer of mevalonate from glycerol. Through the engineering of phosphoketolase‐phosphotransacetylase (xPK‐PTA) bypass and NADPH availability, a final titer of 7.21 g/L with a specific capability of 1.36 g/g dry cell weight was gained in flask culture. Our work could offer new information to metabolically engineer the mevalonate pathway for the efficient production of isoprenoids.
Integration of UPLC–QE–MS/MS and network pharmacology to investigate the active components and action mechanisms of tea cake extract for treating cough
Authors: Lin Cheng , Liu Zhiping , Chen Jia , Wang Xuanxuan , Zhang Rui , Wu Longhuo , Li Linfu
Published: July 2022

The active components and mechanisms of tea cake extract (TCE) were investigated for treating cough. The components of TCE were tentatively identified by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q‐Exactive MS/MS (UPLC–QE–MS/MS), whose targets were obtained from the Swiss Target Prediction database and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and analysis platform. Cough‐related targets were retrieved from the Gene Cards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man database. After the intersection targets had been obtained, enrichment analysis of Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were determined, and the protein–protein interaction network and active compound‐intersection target–KEGG pathway network were constructed. Core active compounds and their targets were validated with molecular docking. A total of 78 compounds were identified from TCE, including 24 flavonoids, 17 phenolic acids, 10 alkaloids, seven organic acids, five triterpenes, five amino acids, five coumarins, three carbohydrates, one anthraquinone and one other. A total of 347 intersection targets were obtained. The top five GO terms with the most significant P‐values were responses to oxygen‐containing compounds and organic substances, chemical and cellular responses to chemical stimulus, and regulation of biological quality. The top five KEGG pathways with the most significant P‐values were: the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, lipids and atherosclerosis, human cytomegalovirus infection, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, and proteoglycans in cancer. The top five core active compounds were quercetin, genistein, luteolin, kaempferol and emodin. The top five core targets were protein kinase B (Akt1), prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1/3 (MAPK1/3) and phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1). The top five core active compounds could stably bind to their targets with LibDockScores higher than 100. Tea cake extract plays the antitussive role via multiple components and targets. Core targets (AKT1, MAPK1, MAPK3 and PIK3R1) and core components (quercetin, genistein, luteolin and kaempferol) involved in the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway are worth more attention in subsequent validation experiments.
Racial/ethnic disparities in gastric cancer: A 15‐year population‐based analysis
Authors: Gonzalez‐Pons Maria , Torres‐Cintrón Carlos R. , Soto‐Salgado Marievelisse , Vargas‐Ramos Yimari , Perez‐Portocarrero Luis , Morgan Douglas R. , Cruz‐Correa Marcia
Published: July 2022

Background and aims: Disparities in gastric cancer incidence and mortality have been reported among ethnic/racial groups. While gastric cancer is not common in the U.S., it is among the top 10 causes of cancer‐related death among Hispanics living in Puerto Rico (PRH). This study compared gastric cancer incidence rates during a 15‐year period (2002–2006, 2007–2011, and 2012–2016) between PRH and racial/ethnic groups in the mainland U.S., including Non‐Hispanic Whites (NHW), Non‐Hispanics Blacks (NHB), Hispanics (USH), and Non‐Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islanders (NHAPI).

Methods

Primary gastric cancer cases (ICD‐O‐3 codes C16.0 to C16.9) from the Puerto Rico Central Cancer Registry and SEER diagnosed from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2016 were included in the analysis. The Joinpoint Regression Program and standardized rate ratios were used to estimate Annual Percent Changes (APC) and differences in gastric cancer incidence among racial/ethnic groups, respectively.

Results

Our analysis included 83,369 gastric cancer cases (PRH n = 4202; NHW n = 43,164; NHB n = 10,414; NHAPI n = 11,548; USH n = 14,041). USH had the highest number of cases among individuals <50 years, whereas NHW and PRH had the highest percentage among individuals ≥50 years. PRH and USH were the only groups with increasing APCs among individuals <50 years.

Conclusions

Gastric cancer continues to be a common cancer among PRH, despite the overall decrease in incidence among other racial/ethnic groups. Studies evaluating the gastric cancer risk factors among high‐risk groups are necessary to establish health policy and modify gastric cancer screening algorithms among Hispanics.
Adolescents' evaluations of those who challenge exclusive and inclusive peer norms
Authors: Hitti Aline , Killen Melanie
Published: July 2022

Early and middle adolescents' judgements and reasonings about peers who challenge exclusive and inclusive peer group norms were examined across three studies with varying intergroup contexts. Study 1 participants included (N = 199) non‐Arab American participants responding to an Arab American/non‐Arab American intergroup context. Study 2 included (N = 123) non‐Asian and (N = 105) Asian American participants responding to an Asian/non‐Asian American intergroup context. Study 3 included (N = 275) Lebanese participants responding to an American/Lebanese intergroup context. Across all three studies participants responded to ingroup and outgroup deviant group members who challenged their peer groups to either include or exclude an outgroup peer with similar interests. Findings indicated that adolescents approved of peers who challenged exclusive peer norms and advocated for inclusion of an ethnic and cultural outgroup, and disapproved of peers who challenged inclusive group norms and advocated for exclusion. Non‐Arab and non‐Asian American adolescents displayed ingroup bias when evaluating a deviant advocating for exclusion. Additionally, age differences were found among Asian American adolescents. Findings will be discussed in the light of intergroup research on those who challenge injustices.
Chemical Conjugation to Less Targeted Proteinogenic Amino Acids
Authors: Kjærsgaard Nanna L. , Nielsen Thorbjørn B. , Gothelf Kurt V.
Published: July 2022

Protein bioconjugates are in high demand for applications in biomedicine, diagnostics, chemical biology and bionanotechnology. Proteins are large and sensitive molecules containing multiple different functional groups and in particular nucleophilic groups. In bioconjugation reactions it can therefore be challenging to obtain a homogeneous product in high yield. Numerous strategies for protein conjugation have been developed, of which a vast majority target lysine, cysteine and to a lesser extend tyrosine. Likewise, several methods that involve recombinantly engineered protein tags have been reported. In recent years a number of methods have emerged for chemical bioconjugation to other amino acids and in this review, we present the progress in this area.
Feruloyl Esterases Protein Engineering to Enhance Their Performance as Biocatalysts: A Review
Authors: Vega‐Rodríguez MS Ana Daniela , Rodríguez‐González Jorge Alberto , Armendáriz‐Ruiz Mariana Antonieta , Asaff‐Torres Ali , Sotelo‐Mundo Rogerio R. , Velasco‐Lozano Susana , Mateos‐Díaz Juan Carlos
Published: July 2022

Feruloyl esterases (FAEs) are versatile enzymes able to release hydroxycinnamic acids or synthesize their ester derivatives, both molecules with interesting biological activities such as: antioxidants, antifungals, antivirals, antifibrotic, anti‐inflammatory, among others. The importance of these molecules in medicine, food or cosmetic industries provides FAEs with several biotechnological applications as key industrial biocatalysts. However, FAEs have some operational limitations that must be overcome, which can be addressed through different protein engineering approaches to enhance their thermal stability, catalytic efficiencies, and selectivity. This review aims to present a brief historical tour through the mutagenesis strategies employed to improve enzymes performance and analyze the current protein engineering strategies applied to FAEs as interesting biocatalysts. Finally, an outlook of the future of FAEs protein engineering approaches to achieve successful industrial biocatalysts is given.
Synthetic α‐Helical Peptides as Potential Inhibitors of the ACE2 SARS‐CoV‐2 Interaction
Authors: Engelhardt Pascal M. , Florez‐Rueda Sebastián , Drexelius Marco , Neudörfl Jörg‐Martin , Lauster Daniel , Hackenberger Christian P. R. , Kühne Ronald , Neundorf Ines , Schmalz Hans‐Günther
Published: July 2022

During viral cell entry, the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 binds to the α1‐helix motif of human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Thus, alpha‐helical peptides mimicking this motif may serve as inhibitors of viral cell entry. For this purpose, we employed the rigidified diproline‐derived module ProM‐5 to induce α‐helicity in short peptide sequences inspired by the ACE2 α1‐helix. Starting with Ac‐QAKTFLDKFNHEAEDLFYQ‐NH2 as a relevant section of α1, a series of peptides, N‐capped with either Ac‐βHAsp‐[ProM‐5] or Ac‐βHAsp‐PP, were prepared and their α‐helicities were investigated. While ProM‐5 clearly showed a pronounced effect, an even increased degree of helicity (up to 63 %) was observed in sequences in which non‐binding amino acids were replaced by alanine. The binding affinities of the peptides towards the spike protein, as determined by means of microscale thermophoresis (MST), revealed only a subtle influence of the α‐helical content and, noteworthy, led to the identification of an Ac‐βHAsp‐PP‐capped peptide displaying a very strong binding affinity (KD=62 nM).
Electrochemical Immobilisation of Glucose Oxidase for the Controlled Production of H2O2 in a Biocatalytic Flow Reactor
Authors: Arshi Simin , Xiao Xinxin , Belochapkine Serguei , Magner Edmond
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical methods can be used to selectively modify the surfaces of electrodes, enabling the immobilisation of enzymes on defined areas on the surfaces of electrodes. Such selective immobilisation methods can be used to pattern catalysts on surfaces in a controlled manner. Using this approach, the selective patterning of the enzyme glucose oxidase on the electrodes was used to develop a flow reactor for the controlled delivery of the oxidant H2O2. GOx was immobilised on a glassy carbon electrode using polypyrrole, silica films, and diazonium linkers. The rate of production of H2O2 and the stability of the response was dependent on the immobilisation method. GOx encapsulated in polypyrrole was selected as the optimal method of immobilisation, with a rate of production of 91±11 μM h−1 for 4 hours of continuous operation. The enzyme was subsequently immobilised on carbon rod electrodes (surface area of 5.76 cm2) using a polypyrrole/Nafion® film and incorporated into a flow reactor. The rate of production of H2O2 was 602±57 μM h−1, with 100 % retention of activity after 7 h of continuous operation, demonstrating that such a system can be used to prepare H2O2 at continuous and stable rate for use in downstream oxidation reactions.
Effective Ways to Stabilize Polysulfide Ions for High‐Capacity Li−S Batteries Based on Organic Chalcogenide Catholytes
Authors: Nikiforidis Georgios , Pires Julie , Phadke Satyajit , Anouti Mérièm
Published: July 2022

Given the great promise of lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries as next‐generation high‐capacity energy storage devices, this feature article investigated critical parameters of the cathode, such as pretreatment of elemental sulfur (sublimed, polymerized, and crystallized), size of sulfur particles (19 vs. 35 μm) and aptness of current collector (aluminium vs. carbon paper). At the same time it also demonstrated the applicability of polychalcogenide‐based catholytes (e. g., diphenyl disulfide and diselenide) that exhibited a record specific capacity (3000 mAh g−1 at a C/5 rate) and an energy density of 1853 Wh Kg−1. From tweaking the sulfur nature in the cathode, where small‐sized polymerized sulfur was found to promote the carbon‐sulfur bond on the surface of carbon nanotubes, to trapping the polysulfide ions to formulate organochalcogenide‐based catholytes, our study provided fundamental insights into key battery performance parameters as well as sulfur‐polysulfide electrochemistry, inspiring future designs of such battery systems and more.
Reverse Replacement in NH2‐MIL‐125 with 1,4‐Dicarboxybenzene for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Zhang Yijun , Wen Chunfang , Wu Xuefeng , Liu Peng Fei , Yang Hua Gui
Published: July 2022

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) constructed by ligands and metal clusters, have been considered as a promising material for photocatalytic water splitting. In this work, a solvent‐assisted ligand exchange (SALE) method has been applied through partial reverse substitution of the ligand in NH2‐MIL‐125 (Ti) by 1,4‐dicarboxybenzene (BDC). This modification strategy can optimize the charge transfer dynamics together with the preserved light absorption, resulting in a 3.3 times higher hydrogen production rate compared to the pristine material under visible‐light irradiation. This work broadens the field of ligand modifications of MOFs to boost the photocatalytic performance.
Chemistry of Pentafluorosulfanyl Derivatives and Related Analogs: From Synthesis to Applications
Authors: Kordnezhadian Reza , Li Bing‐Yu , Zogu Armir , Demaerel Joachim , De Borggraeve Wim M. , Ismalaj Ermal
Published: July 2022

Pentafluorosulfanyl (SF5)‐containing compounds and corresponding analogs are a highly valuable class of fluorine‐containing building blocks owing to their unique properties. The reason for that is the set of peculiar and tremendously beneficial characteristics they can impart on molecules once introduced onto them. Despite this, their application in distinct scientific fields remains modest, given the extremely harsh reaction conditions needed to access such compounds. The recent synthetic approaches via S−F, and C−SF5 bond formation as well as the use of SF5‐containing building blocks embody a “stairway‐to‐heaven” loophole in the synthesis of otherwise‐inaccessible chemical scaffolds only a few years ago. Herein, we report and evaluate the properties of the SF5 group and analogs, by summarizing synthetic methodologies available to access them as well as following applications in material science and medicinal chemistry since 2015.
Pseudo empirical likelihood inference for nonprobability survey samples
Authors: Chen Yilin , Li Pengfei , Rao J. N. K. , Wu Changbao
Published: July 2022

In this article, we first provide an overview of two major developments on complex survey data analysis: the empirical likelihood methods and statistical inference with nonprobability survey samples. We highlight the important research contributions to the field of survey sampling in general and the two topics in particular by Canadian survey statisticians. We then propose new inferential procedures for analyzing nonprobability survey samples through the pseudo empirical likelihood approach. The proposed methods lead to point estimators asymptotically equivalent to those discussed in the recent literature but with more desirable features on confidence intervals such as range‐respecting and data‐driven orientation. Results from a simulation study demonstrate the superiority of the proposed methods in dealing with binary response variables.
Expression and localization of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the brain and sensory tissues of the African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni
Authors: Mobley Robert B. , Ray Emily J. , Maruska Karen P.
Published: July 2022

Nitric oxide (NO) produced by the enzyme neuronal nitric oxide synthase serves as an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that is involved in reproductive regulation, learning, sensory processing, and other forms of neural plasticity. Here, we map the distribution of nnos‐expressing cells in the brain and retina of the cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni using in situ hybridization. In the brain, nnos‐expressing cells are found from the olfactory bulbs to the hindbrain, including within specific nuclei involved in decision‐making, sensory processing, neuroendocrine regulation, and the expression of social behaviors. In the retina, nnos‐expressing cells are found in the inner nuclear layer, presumably in amacrine cells. We also used quantitative PCR to test for differences in nnos expression within the eye and olfactory bulbs of males and females of different reproductive states and social statuses. In the eye, males express more nnos than females, and socially dominant males express more nnos than subordinate males, but expression did not differ among female reproductive states. In the olfactory bulbs, dominant males had greater nnos expression than subordinate males. These results suggest a status‐specific function for NO signaling in the visual and olfactory systems that may be important for sensory perception related to mating or territorial interactions to maintain the social hierarchy. The widespread distribution of nnos‐expressing cells throughout the cichlid brain is similar to that in other teleosts, with some conserved localization patterns across vertebrates, suggesting diverse functions for this important neurotransmitter system.
A Theoretical Investigation of Cu+, Ni2+ and Co2+‐Exchanged Zeolites for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Ozbek M. Olus , Ipek Bahar
Published: July 2022

This study investigates the H2 adsorption on Cu+, Ni2+ and Co2+‐exchanged SSZ‐13 (CHA) and SSZ‐39 (AEI) using periodic DFT computations. The most stable Cu+ position was found to be the 6‐membered‐ring window for both zeolites. Similarly, for the investigated Ni2+ and Co2+ loadings on 6‐membered‐ring windows, the third nearest neighbor Al positions, i. e., Al−O−Si−O−Si−O−Al coordination, was found to be the most stable position. H2 adsorption was investigated for all the Cu+, Ni2+ and Co2+ centers. AEI and CHA resulted in similar H2−Cu interactions for the Al and B substituted structures. H2 adsorption on Cu+ located in the 8‐membered‐ring gave the highest adsorption energy for both frameworks. Replacing Al with B in the framework increased the electron back donation from Cu+ (3d) orbitals to H2 antibonding orbital (σH2*). The H2 adsorption energies on the Ni2+ and Co2+‐exchanged zeolites were found to be between −15 and −44 kJ/mol. Higher energy values were observed on the AEI framework, especially when two Al atoms have the Al−O−Si−O−Al configuration. Lesser interaction of the d‐orbitals in the case of the Co2+ and Ni2+ cations resulted in heat of H2 adsorption close to optimum values required for H2 storage on porous materials.
Bowl‐shaped Cluster CuB12−: A Viable Global Minimum with Twofold Aromaticity
Authors: Solar‐Encinas José , Leyva‐Parra Luis , Yáñez Osvaldo , Inostroza Diego , Barrios‐Llacuachaqui Julio R. , Vásquez‐Espinal Alejandro , Orellana Walter , Tiznado William
Published: July 2022

A low‐lying structure is revealed for the CuB12−cluster, which is bowl‐shaped. It consists of a triangular CuB2base and a B10rim. Molecular dynamics simulations indicates its structural robustness; at an elevated temperature (600 K), the base rotates reversibly within the B10perimeter. Chemical bonding analysis detects 2σ‐ and 3π‐delocalized bonds, suggesting double aromaticity. This is also confirmed by two diatropic and concentric ring currents under an external magnetic field.
Preservation and Encryption in DNA Digital Data Storage
Authors: Zhang Yi , Ren Yubin , Liu Yangyi , Wang Fan , Zhang Hongjie , Liu Kai
Published: July 2022

The exponential growth of the total amount of global data presents a huge challenge to mainstream storage media. The emergence of molecular digital storage inspires the development of the new‐generation higher‐density digital data storage. In particular, DNA with high storage density, reproducibility, and long recoverable lifetime behaves the ideal representative of molecular digital storage media. With the development of DNA synthesis and sequencing technologies and the reduction of cost, DNA digital storage has attracted more and more attention and achieved significant breakthroughs. Herein, this Review briefly describes the workflow of DNA storage, and highlights the storage step of DNA digital data storage. Then, according to different information storage forms, the current DNA information encryption methods are emphatically expounded. Finally, the brief perspectives on the current challenges and optimizing proposals in DNA information preservation and encryption are presented.
Therapeutic potential of targeting the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) by small molecule inhibitors
Authors: Singh Harbinder , Agrawal Devendra K.
Published: July 2022

Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a 45 kDa transmembrane receptor of immunoglobulin family that can bind to various endogenous and exogenous ligands and initiate the inflammatory downstream signaling pathways. RAGE is involved in various disorders including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and diabetes. This review summarizes the structural features of RAGE and its various isoforms along with their pathological effects. Mainly, the article emphasized on the translational significance of antagonizing the interactions of RAGE with its ligands using small molecules reported in the last 5 years and discusses future approaches that could be employed to block the interactions in the treatment of chronic inflammatory ailments. The RAGE inhibitors described in this article could prove as a powerful approach in the management of immune‐inflammatory diseases. A critical review of the literature suggests that there is a dire need to dive deeper into the molecular mechanism of action to resolve critical issues that must be addressed to understand RAGE‐targeting therapy and long‐term blockade of RAGE in human diseases.
Interspecific coprophagia by wild red foxes:DNAmetabarcoding reveals a potentially widespread form of commensalism among animals
Authors: Waggershauser Cristian N. , Taberlet Pierre , Coissac Eric , Kortland Kenny , Hambly Catherine , Lambin Xavier
Published: July 2022

Vertebrate animals are known to consume other species' faeces, yet the role of such coprophagy in species dynamics remains unknown, not least due to the methodological challenges of documenting it. In a large‐scale metabarcoding study of red fox and pine marten scats, we document a high occurrence of domestic dog DNA in red fox scats and investigate if it can be attributed to interspecific coprophagia. We tested whether experimental artifacts or other sources of DNA could account for dog DNA, regressed dog occurrence in the diet of fox against that of the fox’s main prey, short‐tailed field voles, and consider whether predation or scavenging could explain the presence of dog DNA. Additionally, we determined the calorific value of dog faeces through calorimetric explosion. The high occurrence of dog DNA in the diet of fox, the timing of its increase, and the negative relationship between dog and the fox's main prey, point to dog faeces as the source of DNA in fox scats. Dog faeces being highly calorific, we found that foxes, but not pine martens, regularly exploit them, seemingly as an alternative resource to fluctuating prey. Scattered accounts from the literature may suggest that interspecific coprophagia is a potentially frequent and widespread form of interaction among vertebrates. However, further work should address its prevalence in other systems and the implications for ecological communities. Tools such as metabarcoding offer a way forward.
Density‐dependent demography and movements in a cyclic brown lemming population
Authors: Fauteux Dominique , Gauthier Gilles
Published: July 2022

Theoretical modeling predicts that both direct and delayed density‐dependence are key factors to generate population cycles. Deciphering density‐dependent processes that lead to variable population growth characterizing different phases of the cycles remains challenging. This is particularly the case for the period of prolonged low densities, which is inherently data deficient. However, demographic analyses based on long‐term capture–mark–recapture datasets can help resolve this question. We relied on a 16‐year (2004–2019) live‐trapping program to analyze the summer demography and movements of a cyclic brown lemming population in the Canadian Arctic. More specifically, we examined if inversely density‐dependent processes could explain why population growth can remain low during the prolonged low phase. We found that the proportion of females in the population was inversely density‐dependent with a strong male‐biased sex ratio at low densities but not at high densities. However, survival of adult females was higher than adult males, but both had lower survival at low densities than at high ones. Distances moved by both adult males and females were density‐dependent, and proportion of females in reproductive condition was weakly density‐dependent as it tended to increase at low density. Individual body condition, measured as monthly change in body mass, was not density‐dependent. Overall, the strong male‐biased sex ratio at very low densities suggests a loss of reproductive potential due to the rarity of females and appears to be the most susceptible demographic factor that could contribute to the prolonged low phase in cyclic brown lemmings. What leads to this sex‐bias in the first place is still unclear, potentially owing to our trapping period limited to the summer, but we suggest that it could be due to high predation rate on breeding females in winter.
Ion Pairing in Cationic Au(I)(μ‐H)2WCp2 Bimetallic Dihydrides
Authors: Landrini Martina , De Paolis Elena , Macchioni Alceo , Tensi Leonardo , Hrobárik Peter , Rocchigiani Luca
Published: July 2022

The interionic structure in solution of a series of [LAu(μ‐H)2WCp2][BF4] ion pairs (L=N‐heterocyclic carbene, phosphine or phosphite) has been elucidated by means of heteronuclear NOE and diffusion NMR. Selective ion pairing based on specific metallocene‐anion interactions has been observed for all species. The ancillary ligand L plays only a minor role in dictating the availability of secondary ion pair structures, mainly owing to steric factors. DFT calculations have indicated that the tungstenocene fragment delocalizes most of the positive charge and acts as the preferential anion anchoring point. Even though the interaction is highly specific, ion association in CD2Cl2 is not enhanced and the typical aggregation behavior of linear Au(I) ion pairs is observed.
Nafion‐multi‐walled Carbon Nanotubes Supported Tris(bipyridyl)iron(II) for Nicotine Detection
Authors: Tiwari Ananya , Yadav Mamta , Kumar Singh Devesh , Ganesan Vellaichamy
Published: July 2022

This work reports an electrochemical sensing framework for nicotine determination based on glassy carbon electrode (GC) immobilized with Fe(bpy)32+(where bpy is 2,2’‐bipyridyl) supported by Nafion and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (Nf‐MWCNTs). Fe(bpy)32+immobilized Nf‐MWCNTs modified GC (GC/Nf‐MWCNTs/Fe(bpy)32+) manifests stable redox peaks, characteristics of Fe(bpy)32+. The GC/Nf‐MWCNTs/Fe(bpy)32+exhibits effective electrochemical oxidation of nicotine, diminishing the overpotential relative to GC/Nf‐MWCNTs. The limit of detection is 0.1 μM (experimentally observed) with two different linear calibration ranges between 0.1 to 600 μM and 600 to 3000 μM. Electrocatalytic responses observed at GC/Nf‐MWCNTs/Fe(bpy)32+indicate superior performance for nicotine determination with acceptable selectivity, stability, and reproducibility. Additionally, the nicotine present in real samples such as beedi and tobacco are also analyzed with satisfactory recovery percentages.
MiR‐146a‐5p accelerates sepsis through dendritic cell activation and glycolysis via targeting ATG7
Authors: Yu Junbo , Xue Jianhua , Liu Chun , Zhang Aixian , Qin Lili , Liu Jiajia , Yang Yang
Published: July 2022

To unveil the role and regulatory mechanism of miR‐146a‐5p in sepsis. A sepsis cell model was established via lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induction in dendritic cells (DCs). The maturation of DCs was evaluated via flow cytometry. Gene expression was measured through reverse‐transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). The concentrations of inflammation biomarkers were revealed via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The pathological and histological changes in lungs in the sepsis mice model were analyzed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. In this study, the miR‐146a‐5p level was elevated in the serum of sepsis patients and LPS‐induced DCs but decreased in the serums of cured sepsis patients. Furthermore, miR‐146a‐5p deletion alleviated the activation of T cells and attenuated the imbalance of Th17/Treg. Besides, ATG7 was validated as a target of miR‐146a‐5p. ATG7 elevation enhanced lactate production and glucose uptake in LPS‐triggered DCs. Additionally, upregulation of ATG7 suppressed the protein levels of phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (p‐AMPK), phospho protein kinase B (p‐AKT), and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator for transcription 3 (p‐STAT3). In addition, miR‐146a‐5p downregulation alleviated T‐cell activation, inflammation, lactate production, and glucose uptake in sepsis mice. Moreover, the lung injury due to sepsis was also attenuated as a result of miR‐146a‐5p silencing. MiR‐146a‐5p aggravates sepsis through DCs activation and glycolysis via targeting ATG7.
Study of the electrostatic repulsion of the carboxylic surface in the diffusion layer by scanning electrochemical microscopy
Authors: Li Xia , Li Na , Chen Zhuangzhuang , Shao Huibo
Published: July 2022

The behavior of electrostatic repulsion in the diffusion layer on the electrode is significant for understanding electrochemical processes with a diffusion control step. In this work, the electrostatic repulsion at the carboxylic acid‐containing surface of a 3‐mercaptopropionic acid self‐assembled monolayer (MPA SAM) in the diffusion layer on the tip electrode was revealed by scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). A direct surface repulsion system was designed between [Fe(CN)6]4− and the carboxylate groups in the diffusion layer. The pH‐modulated electrostatic repulsion of the carboxylic surface led to the repulsion of [Fe(CN)6]4− during diffusion, interrupting the regeneration of [Fe(CN)6]4− to [Fe(CN)6]3− on MPA SAM. Therefore, the approaching curve underwent a characteristic inversion from positive feedback to negative feedback dramatically. Electrostatic repulsion of the carboxylic surface was confirmed by linear sweep voltammetry and substrate generation/tip collection. Furthermore, the electrostatic repulsion of the carboxylic surface was visualized by SECM imaging technology. This work has contributed to broadening the recognition of electrostatic repulsion in the diffusion layer.
Solvent polarity‐dependent ESIPT behavior for 5‐(benzothiazole‐2‐yl)‐4‐hydroxyisophthalaldehyde fluorophore: A theoretical study
Authors: Guan Yanlong , Tang Zhe , Ju Liping , Zhao Jinfeng
Published: July 2022

In view of the potential applications of 5‐(benzothiazole‐2‐yl)‐4‐hydroxyisophthalaldehyde (BHI) in the rapid identification of cyanide, the mechanism of excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) of BHI has been studied in this work. By exploring the geometric parameters of hydrogen bonding in aprotic solvents with different polarities, infrared (IR) vibrational spectroscopy can confirm that hydrogen bonding is enhanced in the first excited state (S1). It is worth mentioning that the enhancement of hydrogen bonding in the S1 state by polar solvents is particularly important. In light‐induced excitation, by comparing the energy gaps of the leading molecular orbitals and the charge recombination around the proton acceptor and donor in aprotic solvents of different polarities, it is further predicted that polar solvents can promote the ESIPT process of BHI. In order to clarify the detailed ESIPT mechanism, we constructed the potential energy curves, searched for the transition state (TS) form, and determined the ESIPT mechanism for BHI fluorophore. Herein, we not only elucidated the excited‐state behavior of BHI, but also proposed a mechanism for regulating ESIPT by solvent polarity.
Motor cortical plasticity in adolescents with early onset schizophrenia: A TMS‐EMG study assessing the perturbation effect of intermittent and continuous theta burst stimulation
Authors: Purushotham Ashwathnarayan , Goyal Nishant , Sinha Vinod Kumar , Tikka Sai Krishna , Garg Shobit , Desarkar Pushpal
Published: July 2022

Background

Neuroplasticity in adolescents is distinct from that of adults. Literature pertaining to neuroplasticity in schizophrenia is limited to adult populations.

Aim

We aimed to assess baseline (or resting) cortical excitability and cortical plasticity in adolescents with schizophrenia using the transcranial magnetic stimulation‐electromyography (TMS‐EMG) protocol.

Methods

Twenty adolescent cases with schizophrenia and 20 age and gender matched healthy controls were studied using a crossover design. Single pulse TMS elicited resting motor threshold (RMT) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were assessed. Cortical plasticity was determined by tracking MEPs after a single session continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) and intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) up to 120 min at 12 intervals.

Results

Baseline (or resting) cortical excitability was found to be significantly lower in cases compared with controls. Response patterns to cTBS and iTBS were similar between the crossover. While cTBS led to inhibitory response, iTBS had an excitatory effect in both the groups. In the cases, while cTBS led to significantly greater initial inhibitory response, iTBS led to significantly lower excitatory response, compared with controls. The time taken to return to baseline excitability was significantly longer after receiving cTBS for cases, compared with controls.

Conclusions

iTBS and cTBS lead to excitatory and inhibitory response, representing classical long‐term depression and long‐term potentiation effects, respectively, in both cases and controls. We conclude that adolescents with schizophrenia have significantly lower baseline (resting) cortical excitability as well as significantly greater inhibitory plasticity; excitatory plasticity is significantly lower.
Time‐series gene expression patterns and their characteristics of Beauveria bassiana in the process of infecting pest insects
Authors: Zhang Guochao , Zhang Jifeng , Yao Zhuo , Shi Yong , Xu Chenxi , Shao Lvyi , Jiang Lei , Li Maoye , Tong Yue , Wang Yujun
Published: July 2022

Beauveria bassiana has been widely used as an important biological control fungus for agricultural and forest pests, and clarifying the interaction mechanism between B. bassiana and its host will help to better exert the efficacy of the mycoinsecticide. Here, we proposed a novel pattern analysis (PA) method for analyzing time‐series data and applied it to a transcriptomic data set of B. bassiana infecting Galleria mellonella. We screened out 14 patterns including 868 genes, which had some characteristics that were not inferior to differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Compared with the previous analysis of this data set, we had three novel discoveries during B. bassiana infection, including overall downregulation of gene expression, the more critical first 24 h, and enrichment of regulatory functions of downregulated genes. Our new PA method promises to be an important complement to DEGs analysis for time‐series transcriptomic data, and our findings enrich our knowledge of molecular mechanisms of fungal–host interactions.
Analysis of changes in large‐scale circulation patterns driving extreme precipitation events over the central‐eastern China
Authors: Jiang Qin , Cioffi Francesco , Giannini Mario , Wang Jun , Li Weiyue
Published: July 2022

To an extent, large‐scale circulation situations and moisture transport are responsible for extreme precipitation occurrence. The aim of our study is to investigate the possible modifications of circulation patterns (CPs) in driving extreme precipitation over the central‐eastern China (CEC). The self‐organizing map (SOM) and event synchronization methods are used to link the extreme precipitation events with CPs. Results show that 23% of rain gauges have a significant change point (at the 90% confidence level) in annual extreme precipitation from 1960 to 2015. Based on the identified change points, we classified the data into two periods, that is, 1960–1989 and 1990–2015. Overall, CPs characterized by obvious positive anomalies of 500 hPa geopotential height over the Eastern Eurasia continent and negative values over the surrounding oceans are highly synchronized with extreme precipitation events. During 1990–2015, the predominant CPs are more related to the extreme precipitation with enhanced event synchronization. We found that the CP changes produce an increase in extreme precipitation frequency from 1960–1989 to 1990–2015.
Bioactive antioxidant coatings for poly(lactic acid) packaging films: polyphenols affect coating structure and their release in a food simulant
Authors: Benbettaieb Nasreddine , Mlaouah Emna , Moundanga Sylvie , Brachais Claire‐Hélène , Kurek Mia , Galić Kata , Debeaufort Frédéric
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has limited uses for moist and acidic foods due to its barrier properties, which are fairly poor, and its sensitivity to moisture.

RESULTS

Deposition of thin coatings based on natural biopolymers (gelatin) incorporating bioactive agents has allowed the development of active packaging materials while maintaining their biodegradability and their food contact material ability. Gelatin coatings containing two phenolic acids (tannic and gallic) have been tested. These coated PLA films displayed a reduction of the moisture permeability and a slight modification of the thermal properties of PLA. The antioxidant properties of the films and their release kinetics in a simulant medium have been studied and modelled.

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporation of phenolic acids induced interactions with the gelatin that modified the structure of the network and positively affected the retention, diffusivity, and transfer rate of the bioactive compounds when coated PLA films were in contact with the liquid simulant. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Soil mite communities structure (Acari, Mesostigmata) during litter decomposition of seven tree species in pure Scots pine stands (Pinus sylvestrisL.) growing on a reclaimed post‐industrial area
Authors: Urbanowski Cezary K. , Horodecki Paweł , Kamczyc Jacek , Skorupski Maciej , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: July 2022

Our knowledge about mites, including mesostigmatids, compared to their significant role in soil‐forming processes on post‐industrial areas, is currently insufficient. Therefore, our study aim was to analyze the succession of mesostigmatid communities in relation to litter decomposition of seven tree species [Acer pseudoplatanusL.,Alnus glutinosa(L.) Gaertn.,Fagus sylvaticaL.,Pinus sylvestrisL.,Prunus serotinaEhrh.,Quercus rubraL.,Robinia pseudoacaciaL.] in pure Scots pine stands growing on a reclaimed spoil heap. In December 2011, 1439 litterbags were placed on plots and collected after ca. 3, 6, 9, 13, 19, 25, 31, 37 months since the experiment started. In total, we recorded 9653 mites classified into 67 taxa. The mesostigmatid abundance was affected by percentage initial litter mass loss. Interestingly, litter type shaped species richness and diversity, but not abundance. The highest abundance, almost two‐times higher compared to other tree species, was recorded inPrunus serotinalitter (352.73 ± 105.22 ind.; calculated per 100 g of dry litter mass) and the lowest inQuercus rubra(81.23 ± 9.82 ind.). Furthermore, the lowest richness (2.39 ± 0.07; calculated per sample) and diversity (0.33 ± 0.02; calculated per sample) was recorded inPinus sylvestrislitter, therefore, our results are in contradiction to the home‐field advantage assumptions that the ‘home’ litter has a positive effect on soil fauna structure compared to the ‘foreign’ litter. Nevertheless, the greatest abundance share ofAsca bicornisandAmblyseius tubae, the most numerous species, was recorded forPinus sylvestrislitter.
ERO1L promotes the proliferation and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma via the Wnt2/β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Xie Jinbao , Liao Guoliang , Feng Zhi , Liu Bo , Li Xu , Qiu Minglian
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the role and underlying mechanism of action of Endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin‐1 L (ERO1L) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Materials and Methods

The Gene expression profiling interactive analysis database was used to analyze the expression of ERO1L in LUAD cases. The expression of ERO1L and Wnt2 in LUAD tissue was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. We also used western blotting to assess the expression of ERO1L or Wnt2 and the phosphorylation of β‐catenin in LUAD cell lines. Plasmid transfection and small interfering RNA were used for overexpression and knockdown of ERO1L in LUAD cells, respectively. The proliferation, invasion and migration of LUAD cells were analyzed using cell viability, Transwell invasion and wound healing assays. The growth of LUAD tumors in animal models was assessed using tumor xenograft experiments.

Results

This study revealed that elevated ERO1L expression was associated with a poor prognosis in LUAD patients. In addition, ERO1L expression was significantly associated with lymph‐node metastasis, TNM stage and tumor size. The expression of Wnt2 was positively associated with ERO1L expression in LUAD tissue samples and cell lines. ERO1L overexpression upregulated the expression of Wnt2 and β‐catenin phosphorylation in vitro. Additionally, ERO1L was essential for the ubiquitination of Wnt2. Last, ERO1L promoted the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD via the Wnt2 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ERO1L was highly expressed in LUAD tissue, and it promoted the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD by activating the Wnt2/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
One‐dimensional periodic fractional Schrödinger equations with exponential critical growth
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Tang Xianhua , Chen Sitong
Published: July 2022

In the present paper, we study the existence of nontrivial solutions of the following one‐dimensional fractional Schrödinger equation

where
stands for the 1/2‐Laplacian,
, and
is a continuous function with an exponential critical growth. Comparing with the existing works in the field of exponential‐critical‐growth fractional Schrödinger equations, we encounter some new challenges due to the weaker assumptions on the reaction term
. By using some sharp energy estimates, we present a detailed analysis of the energy level, which allows us to establish the existence of nontrivial solutions for a wider class of nonlinear terms. Furthermore, we use the non‐Nehari manifold method to establish the existence of Nehari‐type ground state solutions of the one‐dimensional fractional Schrödinger equations.
Ultrahigh Resolution fMRI at 7T Using Radial‐Cartesian TURBINE Sampling
Authors: Graedel Nadine N. , Miller Karla L. , Chiew Mark
Published: July 2022

Purpose

We investigate the use of TURBINE, a 3D radial‐Cartesian acquisition scheme in which EPI planes are rotated about the phase‐encoding axis to acquire a cylindrical k‐space for high‐fidelity ultrahigh isotropic resolution fMRI at 7 Tesla with minimal distortion and blurring.

Methods

An improved, completely self‐navigated version of the TURBINE sampling scheme was designed for fMRI at 7 Telsa. To demonstrate the image quality and spatial specificity of the acquisition, thin‐slab visual and motor BOLD fMRI at 0.67 mm isotropic resolution (16 mm slab, TRvol = 2.32 s), and 0.8 × 0.8 × 2.0 mm (whole‐brain, TRvol = 2.4 s) data were acquired. To prioritize the high spatial fidelity, we employed a temporally regularized reconstruction to improve sensitivity without any spatial bias.

Results

TURBINE images provide high structural fidelity with almost no distortion, dropout, or T2* blurring for the thin‐slab acquisitions compared to conventional 3D EPI owing to the radial sampling in‐plane and the short echo train used. This results in activation that can be localized to pre‐ and postcentral gyri in a motor task, for example, with excellent correspondence to brain structure measured by a T1‐MPRAGE. The benefits of TURBINE (low distortion, dropout, blurring) are reduced for the whole‐brain acquisition due to the longer EPI train. We demonstrate robust BOLD activation at 0.67 mm isotropic resolution (thin‐slab) and also anisotropic 0.8 × 0.8 × 2.0 mm (whole‐brain) acquisitions.

Conclusion

TURBINE is a promising acquisition approach for high‐resolution, minimally distorted fMRI at 7 Tesla and could be particularly useful for fMRI in areas of high B0 inhomogeneity.
Two cases of acute respiratory failure following SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination in post‐COVID‐19 pneumonia
Authors: Bando Tomohiro , Takei Reoto , Mutoh Yoshikazu , Sasano Hajime , Yamano Yasuhiko , Yokoyama Toshiki , Matsuda Toshiaki , Kataoka Kensuke , Kimura Tomoki , Kondoh Yasuhiro
Published: July 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccination is a very effective method of preventing infection and is recommended for people having recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). In this novel case report, we describe two patients with post‐COVID‐19 pneumonia who experienced acute respiratory failure and new bilateral ground‐glass opacities several days after receiving SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination. Both patients were treated with methylprednisolone pulse therapy and recovered from the disease successfully. Indeed, post‐COVID‐19 patients can gain benefits from the vaccine, but vaccination at the early stage of recovery from COVID‐19 might be a risk for certain populations. These cases highlight a potential association between vaccination, interstitial lung disease and worsening of post‐COVID‐19 pneumonia. Further investigation and research examining the relationship between the timing of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination and potential risks in post‐COVID‐19 patients is recommended.