bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Independence through leapfrogging: Energy transitions in Eswatini
Authors: Hastie Helena
Published: February 2024

The need to swiftly transition to clean energy and expand electricity access is pressing; however, the goals of SDG7 are unlikely to be met by 2030, with the UN specifically mentioning land‐locked states as being off track. Through the conceptual lens of ‘leapfrogging’ fossil fuels, straight from traditional fuel sources to renewable energy, this paper discusses the relationship between electricity production and independence. It makes a conceptual contribution by introducing the term ‘energy independence through leapfrogging’, which is used to characterise the process of reducing dependency on another country – in the case of Eswatini, electricity is supplied by South Africa. Drawing from empirical research in Eswatini involving document analysis and in‐depth interviews, this paper discusses the potential for the country to move from being primarily an importer of electricity to generating its own supply from renewable sources. With Eswatini's current electricity supply from South Africa at risk/expiring in 2025, this research argues that the country faces a moment of opportunity for Eswatini to build further generation capacity, with a recommended focus on solar energy. The paper identifies potential challenges/barriers to this energy transition, examining power generation, storage, maintenance and affordability as key areas for intervention. Drawing on previous theories of electricity access, the paper argues that ‘access’ to electricity requires consideration of the affordability and reliability of energy systems. Eswatini is an understudied geographical area, and this paper makes a contribution to the literature on energy transitions by examining the specific circumstances attending this transition and examining these with relevance for other land‐locked nations in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Demographic study of patients' mortality rate before and after the COVID‐19 outbreak: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kouchek Mehran , Aghakhani Kamran , Memarian Azadeh
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

To better guide the health policies, it is essential to clarify the socio‐demographic and clinical risk factors affecting the mortality rate of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).

Objective

The purpose of this project is to separate hospital mortality statistics into different groups, which will definitely help in planning to reduce the mortality rate. As well, we aimed to compare factors involved in COVID‐19 death between the period before and after its outbreak.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was performed based on all death certificates of archived records in Rasool Akram Hospital during the years 2018 and the first half of 2019. A checklist was completed based on the variables, including death cases by time, gender, age, duration of hospitalization, department of place and time of death, cause of death, cases referred to forensic medicine, information of the patient, including educational and occupational level and birth certificate issuing city, neonatal death, and IUFD, classification of diseases according to the provided version of ICD 10 (international classification of diseases 10th edition).

Results

A number of 2632 deceased patients were included in this study, 1511 (57.4%) patients who died before the start of the COVID‐19 outbreak, and 1121 (42.6%) patients died in the hospital after the start of this pandemic. There were statistically significant differences in gender (higher prevalence of males), increased average age, lower occupational status, decreased number of infants, increased cause of death due to COVID‐19 and increased hospitalization in Royal ICU in dead patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings show that the elderly cases are more at risk of COVID‐19 mortality than other age groups, which needs more attention to this group of society and clarifies other epidemiological factors, as well as clinicopathological and public healthcare practices.
Relationship between self‐efficacy and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in HIV/AIDS patients: An analytical cross‐sectional study in southern Iran
Authors: Hosseini Zahra , Ezati Rad Roghayeh , Shahabi Nahid , Mohseni Shokrollah , Hassani Azad Mehdi , Aghamolaei Teamur , Madani Abdoulhossain
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, also known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), is spreading rapidly in the world, especially in developing countries, and is considered a serious health threat. This study aimed to assess the relationship of adherence antiretroviral therapy (ART) and self‐efficacy among people living with HIV.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in March–July 2022 at the Center for Behavioral Diseases in Bandar Abbas. A total number of 208 HIV patients treated with ART entered the study after voluntarily signing an informed letter of consent. The data collection instrument was the adherence to ART questionnaire with the six subscales and the General Self‐Efficacy Scale‐17 (GSE‐17) general self‐efficacy questionnaire. Multivariate regression analysis was used to test the relationship among the variables.

Results

The participants' mean age was 41.7 ± 8.2 years. Self‐efficacy was positively correlated with adherence ART. With every one score of increased self‐efficacy, MA increased for 0.85 score (p < 0.001) and medical challenges have the strongest correlation (r = 0.27) with self‐efficacy. The multivariable regression analysis showed that moderate and high socioeconomic status (SES) each improved MA for 18 and 22 units, respectively, compared to poor SES. Alcohol consumption reduced MA for 11 units.

Conclusion

This study proved the positive relationship of self‐efficacy in adherence to ART in HIV patients. The insights offered by this research can help develop a systematic and effective intervention to promote MA in HIV patients. SES and alcohol consumption significantly affect MA.
Helicobacter pylori CagA protein induces gastric cancer stem cell‐like properties through the Akt/FOXO3a axis
Authors: Chen Zheng‐wei , Dong Zhe‐bin , Xiang Han‐ting , Chen Sang‐sang , Yu Wei‐ming , Liang Chao
Published: February 2024

The presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection poses a substantial risk for the development of gastric adenocarcinoma. The primary mechanism through which H. pylori exerts its bacterial virulence is the cytotoxin CagA. This cytotoxin has the potential to induce inter‐epithelial mesenchymal transition, proliferation, metastasis, and the acquisition of stem cell‐like properties in gastric cancer (GC) cells infected with CagA‐positive H. pylori. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a distinct population of cells capable of self‐renewal and generating heterogeneous tumor cells. Despite evidence showing that CagA can induce CSCs‐like characteristics in GC cells, the precise mechanism through which CagA triggers the development of GC stem cells (GCSCs) remains uncertain. This study reveals that CagA‐positive GC cells infected with H. pylori exhibit CSCs‐like properties, such as heightened expression of CD44, a specific surface marker for CSCs, and increased ability to form tumor spheroids. Furthermore, we have observed that H. pylori activates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in a CagA‐dependent manner, and our findings suggest that this activation is associated with the CSCs‐like characteristics induced by H. pylori. The cytotoxin CagA, which is released during H. pylori infection, triggers the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in a CagA‐dependent manner. Additionally, CagA inhibits the transcription of FOXO3a and relocates it from the nucleus to the cytoplasm by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, the regulatory function of the Akt/FOXO3a axis in the transformation of GC cells into a stemness state was successfully demonstrated.
Healthcare provisions associated with multiple HIV‐related outcomes among adolescent girls and young women living with HIV in South Africa: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Toska Elona , Zhou Siyanai , Laurenzi Christina A. , Saal Wylene , Rudgard William , Wittesaele Camille , Langwenya Nontokozo , Jochim Janina , Banougnin Boladé Hamed , Gulaid Laurie , Armstrong Alice , Sherman Gayle , Edun Olanrewaju , Sherr Lorraine , Cluver Lucie
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV experience poor HIV outcomes and high rates of unintended pregnancy. Little is known about which healthcare provisions can optimize their HIV‐related outcomes, particularly among AGYW mothers.

Methods

Eligible 12‐ to 24‐year‐old AGYW living with HIV from 61 health facilities in a South African district completed a survey in 2018–2019 (90% recruited). Analysing surveys and medical records from n = 774 participants, we investigated associations of multiple HIV‐related outcomes (past‐week adherence, consistent clinic attendance, uninterrupted treatment, no tuberculosis [TB] and viral suppression) with seven healthcare provisions: no antiretroviral therapy (ART) stockouts, kind and respectful providers, support groups, short travel time, short waiting time, confidentiality, and safe and affordable facilities. Further, we compared HIV‐related outcomes and healthcare provisions between mothers (n = 336) and nulliparous participants (n = 438). Analyses used multivariable regression models, accounting for multiple outcomes.

Results

HIV‐related outcomes were poor, especially among mothers. In multivariable analyses, two healthcare provisions were “accelerators,” associated with multiple improved outcomes, with similar results among mothers. Safe and affordable facilities, and kind and respectful staff were associated with higher predicted probabilities of HIV‐related outcomes (p<0.001): past‐week adherence (62% when neither accelerator was reported to 87% with both accelerators reported), clinic attendance (71%−89%), uninterrupted ART treatment (57%−85%), no TB symptoms (49%−70%) and viral suppression (60%−77%).

Conclusions

Accessible and adolescent‐responsive healthcare is critical to improving HIV‐related outcomes, reducing morbidity, mortality and onward HIV transmission among AGYW. Combining these provisions can maximize benefits, especially for AGYW mothers.
Clinical outcomes and cost savings of a nonmedical switch to a biosimilar in children/young adults with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: McNicol Megan , Abdel‐Rasoul Mahmoud , McClinchie Madeline G. , Morris Grant A. , Boyle Brendan , Dotson Jennifer L. , Michel Hilary K. , Maltz Ross M.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The safety, efficacy, and cost savings associated with biosimilar medications are well established. However, a lack of pediatric data exists surrounding clinical outcomes when switching from an originator to a biosimilar. Our primary aim is to evaluate clinical outcomes following a nonmedical switch from the infliximab originator to a biosimilar in children and young adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our secondary aim is to estimate cost savings associated with this switch.

Methods

A quality improvement project was implemented to establish safe switching protocols, then those patients who underwent a nonmedical switch from the infliximab originator to the biosimilar were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, physician global assessments (PGAs), and laboratory values were recorded 1 year pre‐ and post‐switch. Continuation rates on the biosimilar were reported at 6 and 12 months. Cost savings were estimated using two different pricing models.

Results

Fifty‐three patients underwent a nonmedical switch. Laboratory values including inflammatory markers, infliximab levels, and PGA scores remained similar when assessed pre‐ and post‐switch. No infusion reactions or antidrug antibody development occurred. Two patients reported psoriasis‐like rashes. Five patients switched back to the originator during the study period. There were 379 biosimilar infusions completed with an estimated total cost savings of $11,260 (average sales price) and $566,223 (wholesale acquisition cost).

Conclusions

Clinical remission rates, inflammatory laboratory markers, serious adverse events, infliximab levels, and antidrug antibodies remained similar after a one‐time nonmedical switch to an infliximab biosimilar. Nonmedical switching to biosimilars resulted in significant cost savings.
Cover Image
Authors: Fu Xiaohang , Li Wenhui , Zhang Tianyu , Li He , Zang Mingwu , Liu Xinqi
Published: February 2024

The cover image is based on the Research Article Effect of extrusion on the protein structure and digestibility of extruded soybean protein by Xiaohang Fu et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.13109.

image
Arable land in Northwest China: Dynamics analysis of health and productivity in 2000–2020
Authors: Shuchen Liu , Yimin Gao , Pingda Lu , Yan Sun , Xiaoyun Liu
Published: February 2024

Arable land health (ALH) and arable land productivity (ALP) are crucial indicators of agricultural ecological functionality and sustainability. The shift of grain‐producing regions in Northwest China has led to arable land degradation, which endangers both food production and sustainable development. Several studies have focused on arable land quantity, distribution, and regional features, but ALH and sustainable ALP have received little attention. For the first time, we investigated the spatio‐temporal distribution and coupling connection between ALH and ALP in Northwest China (NC) using soil health indicators. Our study revealed the following key findings: (1) A minimal dataset of 12 indicators can efficiently replace the total dataset to evaluate the arable land health index in NC. (2) Over the last 20 years, the high and sub‐high grades of ALH increased by 536.8% and 222.6%, respectively, with a shift toward the northwest. During the specified period, ALH with low health and underutilized grade decreased by 46.01% and 69.4%, respectively, primarily in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia. At the county level, ALP increased by 26%, primarily in northern Xinjiang and southern Gansu. 71% of counties remained stable, while only 3% experienced a decline. (4) The relationship between ALH and ALP were divided into six coupled groups that form an inverted “U” shape. High‐production areas were generally strongly linked, while low‐production areas were weakly coupled. Over the last 20 years, NC has seen significant improvements in ALH, coinciding with an increase in ALP. However, in most cases, the relationship between ALH and ALP were negative or weak.
Compact Morpho‐Molecular Microscopy for Live‐cell Imaging and Material Characterization
Authors: Niu Mengxuan , Wang Yijin , Duan Liting , Sun Rui , Zhou Renjie
Published: February 2024

The Compact Morpho‐Molecular Microscopy (CM3) is proposed and demonstrated for multi‐functional imaging and characterization of living cells and material structures by simultaneously offering quantitative phase imaging (QPI), dispersion characterization, and fluorescence imaging. The compactness and stability of CM3 are realized by propagating lasers of different wavelengths in specially treated optical fibers and fiber‐based beam splitters and wavelength division multiplexers, as well as simplifying the detection scheme through Fourier‐space multiplexing and implementing a single camera for both QPI and fluorescence imaging. Quantitative phase maps of two wavelengths are retrieved from a multiplexed interferogram, and a synthesized wavelength phase map is derived to guide the height profiling of samples with extended depth. With the wavelength resolved phase maps, a physical model is derived to obtain sample dispersion parameters, which further enables us to quantify the hemoglobin concentration of red blood cells in real time. By inserting an appropriate emission color filter, fluorescence imaging is realized using the same camera, which significantly broadens the cell imaging applications of CM3. As a cost‐effective and multifaceted imaging method, CM3 may find many promising applications in live‐cell imaging and material characterization.
Study on the effect of micro‐texture coating tool on the milling quality of wood surface
Authors: Wang Dejin , Yin Hang , Feng Li
Published: February 2024

With the gradual increase of the demand for wooden products, people's requirements for processing quality of wooden products become higher. In this work, the dimension of groove micro‐texture is determined by finite element simulation analysis of tool structure strength. In this article, by designing milling experiments, the wood surface quality and wood surface morphology after milling with ordinary tools, micro‐textured tools, coated tools and micro‐textured coated tools are compared. The experimental results show that the quality of wood surface after milling with micro‐texture coating tool is better than that of the other three kinds of tools. And the wood surface after milling with micro‐texture coating tool is smooth, and the processing defects, such as burr and crack are less. In other words, micro‐texture technology combined with surface coating technology can effectively improve the surface quality of wood after milling.
Neck and chest rejuvenation with fractional 1440 and 1927‐nm low‐powered diode laser
Authors: Hoffman Lauren , Smeallie Eleanor , Ugonabo Nkem , Chapas Anne
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Ultraviolet light and infrared radiation exposure to the chest and neck can result in photoaging changes, such as rhytids, skin roughness, and dyschromia, which can be treated with nonablative fractionated lasers. The low‐powered fractionated 1440 and 1927‐nm diode lasers have been shown to safely reduce facial photodamage. This study was conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of a low‐powered 1440 and 1927‐nm nonablative fractionated diode laser in addressing photoaging symptoms, such as rhytids, skin roughness, and dyschromia, of the neck and chest.

Methods

In a prospective, single‐arm, nonrandomized study, a cohort of 24 adult female patients with photodamage to their neck and chest received four treatments to these areas, administered at 4‐week intervals. Treatments consisted of four passes on high settings with the 1440 nm handpiece followed by four passes with the 1927 nm handpiece. Photographs were taken at each study visit. Study investigators graded wrinkle severity, texture, and mottled pigmentation of the treated area at baseline and follow‐up visit, 3 months after the fourth treatment. Subjects also rated clinical improvement of their neck and chest, along with overall appearance. Blinded evaluators used baseline and follow‐up photographs to quantify improvements of rhytids and hyperpigmentation of the neck and chest using a 6‐point improvement scale.

Results

Of the original cohort, 20 subjects completed all four treatments and 3‐month follow‐ups. The mean rhytid scores improved by 0.7 ± 1.0 for both neck and chest. Meanwhile, texture scores improved by 1.2 ± 0.4 for the neck and 1.4 ± 0.7 for the chest, with pigment scores improving by 0.5 ± 0.6 for the neck and 0.67 ± 0.7 for the chest. Statistical analysis using paired t‐tests, performed on all pre‐ and posttreatment scores, revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in wrinkle severity, skin texture, and pigmentation of the neck and chest posttreatment. The degree of improvement was consistent for both the neck and chest areas. Blinded evaluators graded clinical improvements in rhytids and pigmentation at 0.6 ± 1.0 and 0.8 ± 1.2 respectively, corresponding to mild improvement of both neck and chest.

Conclusions

A series of treatments with the nonablative low‐energy fractional 1440 and 1927‐nm diode laser appears to be safe and effective for improving rhytids, skin texture, and hyperpigmentation of the neck and chest.
The impact of caregivers on COVID‐19 fears, behaviors, and perceived impact in a majority Black American sample of children
Authors: Bhogal Amanpreet , Heeter Autumm , Gowatch Leah , Jovanovic Tanja , Marusak Hilary A.
Published: February 2024

Caregivers may play an essential role in buffering and/or exacerbating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) fears and behaviors in youth. However, few studies have examined these associations in children from racial or ethnic minority groups, who have been historically marginalized and may be disproportionately susceptible to psychological consequences. Here, we examined the associations among caregivers and children in COVID‐19‐related fears, behaviors, and impact in a majority Black (71.9%) sample of children. Children (N = 64, 24 females, ages 7–10 years) were recruited from three Detroit, Michigan‐area schools during the 2019–2020 school year. Following school shutdowns in March 2020, children and their caregivers were invited to complete remote surveys in May and August 2020. We examined the associations among child and caregiver COVID‐19‐related fears, preventive behaviors, and perceived impact. We also examined whether aspects of the caregiver–child relationship (i.e., closeness, conflicts) moderated these associations. Caregiver–child fears about social distancing, preventive behaviors, and the perceived impact of COVID‐19 were positively correlated. The positive correlation between caregiver–child preventive behaviors strengthened over time and was moderated by caregiver–child closeness. These findings suggest that caregivers may impact fear as well as preventive behaviors and perceived impact of the pandemic in marginalized youth.
JAMA study: Exposure to gun violence increases suicide risk in Black adults
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2024

Gun violence exposure (GVE) is associated with a risk for suicide among Black adults, according to a new study published Feb. 5 in JAMANetwork Open. Researchers said their primary aim was to extend existing research by examining the association between GVE and suicidal thoughts and behaviors within a nationally representative sample of Black adults.
Telehealth common in MH clinics, but varies geographically
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2024

Although studies have examined the use of telehealth throughout the pandemic, little is known about the availability and composition of mental health telehealth services, such as appointment access and the mental health conditions that are treated, according to RAND researchers who found differences based on geography and types of services offered.
Allergic Reaction to a Commercially Available Insect Snack Caused by House Cricket (Acheta domesticus) Tropomyosin
Authors: Wangorsch Andrea , Jamin Annette , Spiric Jelena , Vieths Stefan , Scheurer Stephan , Mahler Vera , Hofmann Silke C.
Published: February 2024

Scope

Edible insects contain allergens with potential cross‐reactivity to other invertebrates. Here, this study examines IgE‐reactive proteins in a house cricket snack (Acheta domesticus) leading to an allergic reaction in a 27‐year old man followed by a similar reaction days later after eating shrimps.

Methods and results

Prick to prick tests verify the IgE‐mediated allergy to crickets and skin prick testing confirms a type I sensitization to house dust mite without any clinical relevance for the patient, and to shrimp extracts, but is negative for several other foods. Serological testing reveals a sensitization to shrimps, shrimp tropomyosin, and house dust mite tropomyosin. IgE‐immunodetection shows that the cricket allergic patient is sensitized to two proteins of 45 and >97 kDa using aqueous control cricket extract, but to only one protein at around 45 kDa when using the causative, seasoned insect snack extract. Mass spectrometry data and IgE‐inhibition experiments clearly identify this protein belonging to the tropomyosin allergen family.

Conclusion

This case report suggests that cricket tropomyosin may be an elicitor of allergic reactions even in previously not allergic patients, although it cannot be excluded the patient reacted additionally to other ingredients of the snack.
The Antiobesity Effects of Rosehip (Rosa canina) Flesh by Antagonizing the PPAR Gamma Activity in High‐Fat Diet‐Fed Mice
Authors: Sanz‐Lamora Hèctor , Nicola‐Llorente Mariano , Torres‐Oteros Daniel , Pérez‐Martí Albert , Aghziel Inass , Lozano‐Castellón Julián , Vallverdú‐Queralt Anna , Canudas Sílvia , Marrero Pedro F. , Haro Diego , Relat Joana
Published: February 2024

Scope

The rosehip (Rosa canina) is a perennial shrub with a reddish pseudofruit that has demonstrated antidiabetic, antiatherosclerotic, and antiobesogenic effects in rodent models but there is low information about the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects on the onset and progression of diet‐induced obesity.

Methods and results

Four‐week‐old C57BL/6J male mice are subjected to a high‐fat diet (HFD)‐supplemented or not with R. canina flesh for 18 weeks. The results indicated that the R. canina flesh exerts a preventive effect on HFD‐induced obesity with a significant reduction in body‐weight gain and an improvement of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance caused by a HFD. At the tissue level, subcutaneous white adipose tissue exhibits a higher number of smaller adipocytes, with decreased lipogenesis. On its side, the liver shows a significant decrease in lipid droplet content and in the expression of genes related to lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose metabolism. Finally, the data suggest that most of these effects agree with the presence of a putative Perosxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) antagonist in the R. canina flesh.

Conclusions

R. canina flesh dietary supplementation slows down the steatotic effect of a HFD at least in part through the regulation of the transcriptional activity of PPARγ.
Comprehensive splicing analysis of the alternatively spliced CHEK2 exons 8 and 10 reveals three enhancer/silencer‐rich regions and 38 spliceogenic variants
Authors: Sanoguera‐Miralles Lara , Llinares‐Burguet Inés , Bueno‐Martínez Elena , Ramadane‐Morchadi Lobna , Stuani Cristiana , Valenzuela‐Palomo Alberto , García‐Álvarez Alicia , Pérez‐Segura Pedro , Buratti Emanuele , de la Hoya Miguel , Velasco‐Sampedro Eladio A
Published: February 2024

Splicing is controlled by a large set of regulatory elements (SREs) including splicing enhancers and silencers, which are involved in exon recognition. Variants at these motifs may dysregulate splicing and trigger loss‐of‐function transcripts associated with disease. Our goal here was to study the alternatively spliced exons 8 and 10 of the breast cancer susceptibility gene CHEK2. For this purpose, we used a previously published minigene with exons 6–10 that produced the expected minigene full‐length transcript and replicated the naturally occurring events of exon 8 [Δ(E8)] and exon 10 [Δ(E10)] skipping. We then introduced 12 internal microdeletions of exons 8 and 10 by mutagenesis in order to map SRE‐rich intervals by splicing assays in MCF‐7 cells. We identified three minimal (10‐, 11‐, 15‐nt) regions essential for exon recognition: c.863_877del [ex8, Δ(E8): 75%] and c.1073_1083del and c.1083_1092del [ex10, Δ(E10): 97% and 62%, respectively]. Then 87 variants found within these intervals were introduced into the wild‐type minigene and tested functionally. Thirty‐eight of them (44%) impaired splicing, four of which (c.883G>A, c.883G>T, c.884A>T, and c.1080G>T) induced negligible amounts (<5%) of the minigene full‐length transcript. Another six variants (c.886G>A, c.886G>T, c.1075G>A, c.1075G>T, c.1076A>T, and c.1078G>T) showed significantly strong impacts (20–50% of the minigene full‐length transcript). Thirty‐three of the 38 spliceogenic variants were annotated as missense, three as nonsense, and two as synonymous, underlying the fact that any exonic change is capable of disrupting splicing. Moreover, c.883G>A, c.883G>T, and c.884A>T were classified as pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants according to ACMG/AMP (American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology)‐based criteria. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene micro‐ribbon fibers gel spun using orange terpenes
Authors: Brown Kenneth R. , Love‐Baker Cole , Xue ZhiJing , Li Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

Toxic, hazardous petrochemical solvents are commonly used for industrial‐scale ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber production, but orange terpenes, a byproduct of orange fruit production, present a bio‐derived, sustainable alternative. In this work, fine UHMWPE fibers were spun using orange terpenes as the spin solvent, hot‐drawn at a draw ratio of 5:1, investigated for their morphology, microstructure, and thermal and mechanical properties. The resulting fibers exhibited a flat, micro‐ribbon cross‐section, which is highly desirable for achieving high fiber volume fractions in UHMWPE‐fiber reinforced composites. After drawing, the fibers possessed 4× greater breaking tenacity than any previously published studies on UHMWPE fibers spun using orange terpenes with a tenacity of 8.6 cN/dtex and tensile modulus of 229.2 cN/dtex. Microstructural analysis via differential scanning calorimetry and X‐ray diffraction revealed that the hot drawing process significantly increased molecular orientation, but crystallinity decreased due to crystallite melting during drawing. Therefore, the mechanical properties of these fibers may be significantly improved with optimization of the fiber drawing process. This work establishes the strong potential of orange terpenes as an environmentally‐friendly alternative solvent for UHMWPE gel spinning and sets a foundation for future parametric optimization of the spinning and drawing of these fibers.

Highlights

Micro‐ribbon ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fibers were prepared using bio‐solvent orange terpenes.

Flat profile enables tight packing, aspect ratio maintained after drawing.

Drawn fibers were 4× stronger than any previous work with orange terpenes.

Near‐melt drawing reduced crystallinity, improved molecular alignment.
Pharmaco‐phosphoproteomic analysis of cancer‐associated KIT mutations D816V and V560G
Authors: Murray Heather C. , Miller Kasey , Dun Matthew D. , Verrills Nicole M.
Published: February 2024

The CD117 mast/stem cell growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (KIT) is critical for haematopoiesis, melanogenesis and stem cell maintenance. KIT is commonly activated by mutation in cancers including acute myeloid leukaemia, melanoma and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). The kinase and the juxtamembrane domains of KIT are mutation hotspots; with the kinase domain mutation D816V common in leukaemia and the juxtamembrane domain mutation V560G common in GISTs. Given the importance of mutant KIT signalling in cancer, we have conducted a proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of myeloid progenitor cells expressing D816V‐ and V560G‐KIT mutants, using an FDCP1 isogenic cell line model. Proteomic analysis revealed increased abundance of proteases and growth signalling proteins in KIT‐mutant cells compared to empty vector (EV) controls. Pathway analysis identified increased oxidative phosphorylation in D816V‐ and V560G‐mutant KIT cells, which was targetable using the inhibitor IACS010759. Dysregulation of RNA metabolism and cytoskeleton/adhesion pathways was identified in both the proteome and phosphoproteome of KIT‐mutant cells. Phosphoproteome analysis further revealed active kinases such as EGFR, ERK and PKC, which were targetable using pharmacological inhibitors. This study provides a pharmaco‐phosphoproteomic profile of D816V‐ and V560G‐mutant KIT cells, which reveals novel therapeutic strategies that may be applicable to a range of cancers.
Ternary complexes of isopentenyl phosphate kinase from Thermococcus paralvinellae reveal molecular determinants of non‐natural substrate specificity
Authors: Johnson Bryce P. , Mandal Prashant S. , Brown Sara M. , Thomas Leonard M. , Singh Shanteri
Published: February 2024

Isopentenyl phosphate kinases (IPKs) have recently garnered attention for their central role in biocatalytic “isoprenol pathways,” which seek to reduce the synthesis of the isoprenoid precursors to two enzymatic steps. Furthermore, the natural promiscuity of IPKs toward non‐natural alkyl‐monophosphates (alkyl‐Ps) as substrates has hinted at the isoprenol pathways' potential to access novel isoprenoids with potentially useful activities. However, only a handful of IPK crystal structures have been solved to date, and even fewer of these contain non‐natural substrates bound in the active site. The current study sought to elucidate additional ternary complexes bound to non‐natural substrates using the IPK homolog from Thermococcus paralvinellae (TcpIPK). Four such structures were solved, each bound to a different non‐natural alkyl‐P and the phosphoryl donor substrate/product adenosine triphosphate (ATP)/adenosine diphosphate (ADP). As expected, the quaternary, tertiary, and secondary structures of TcpIPK closely resembled those of IPKs published previously, and kinetic analysis of a novel alkyl‐P substrate highlighted the potentially dramatic effects of altering the core scaffold of the natural substrate. Even more interesting, though, was the discovery of a trend correlating the position of two α helices in the active site with the magnitude of an IPK homolog's reaction rate for the natural reaction. Overall, the current structures of TcpIPK highlight the importance of continued structural analysis of the IPKs to better understand and optimize their activity with both natural and non‐natural substrates.
Discovery and optimization of spirocyclic lactams that inhibit acyl‐ACP thioesterase
Authors: Asmus Elisabeth , Barber David M. , Bojack Guido , Bollenbach‐Wahl Birgit , Brown Ronald W. , Döller Uwe , Freigang Jörg , Gatzweiler Elmar , Getachew Rahel , Heinemann Ines , Hohmann Sabine , Ko Kwang‐Yoon , Laber Bernd , Lange Gudrun , Mattison Rebecca L. , Minn Klemens , Müller Thomas , Petry Thomas , Reingruber Anna M. , Schmutzler Dirk , Svejda Andrea , Frackenpohl Jens
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

There are various methods to control weeds, that represent considerable challenges for farmers around the globe, although applying small molecular compounds is still the most effective and versatile technology to date. In the search for novel chemical entities with new modes‐of‐action that can control weeds displaying resistance, we have investigated two spirocyclic classes of acyl‐ACP thioesterase inhibitors based on X‐ray co‐crystal structures and subsequent modelling studies.

RESULTS

By exploiting scaffold‐hopping and isostere concepts, we were able to identify new spirolactam‐based lead structures showing promising activity in vivo against commercially important grass weeds in line with strong target affinity.

CONCLUSION

The present work covers a series of novel herbicidal lead structures that contain a spirocyclic lactam as a structural key feature carrying ortho‐substituted benzyl or heteroarylmethylene side chains. These new compounds show good acyl‐ACP thioesterase inhibition in line with strong herbicidal activity. Glasshouse trials showed that the spirolactams outlined herein display promising control of grass‐weed species in pre‐emergence application combined with dose–response windows that enable partial selectivity in wheat and corn. Remarkably, some of the novel acyl‐ACP thioesterase‐inhibitors showed efficacy against resistant grass weeds such as Alopecurus myosuroides and Lolium spp. on competitive levels compared with commercial standards. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Water Vapor Permeation in Alumina Films on Polymer Substrates
Authors: Cai Zhuoting , Chen Yingke , Chen Xingyu , Wang Jiangyong , Lian Songyou , Xu Congkang
Published: February 2024

Herein, the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) films on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates is investigated and is focused on the impact of the film defects on the transmission rate. The aluminum oxide films are prepared on PET substrates by magnetron sputtering, and the effects of the film thickness, sputtering power, temperature, and bias voltage on the WVTR are studied. The surface morphologies of the films are examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM), and a method for obtaining the defect ratio of the film from AFM images is proposed. Subsequently, the influences of the defect ratio on the WVTR are quantitatively evaluated based on a 3D diffusion model. The simulated WVTR values are well in agreement with the experimental ones.
Influence of Metal Ions and Organic Solutions on Activity and Stability of Beta‐Glucosidase Nanoflowers
Authors: Altinkaynak Cevahir , Samsa Canan Gulmez , Ekremoglu Murat , Turk Merve , Ozturkler Melek , Özdemir Nalan , Atakisi Onur
Published: February 2024

β‐Glucosidase, a pivotal enzyme in the synthesis of various glycosides with wide applications in industries such as food, cosmetics, beverages, bioenergy, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and detergents, undergoes immobilization to enhance its utility in industrial processes and improve enzymatic properties. In this study, the conventional hybrid nanoflower synthesis method was used for β‐glucosidase‐inorganic hybrid nanoflowers. Following a comprehensive pH and temperature scanning of the nanoflowers, the influence of metallic ions and various organic solvents on hybrid nanoflowers to enhance the activity and stability of the biocatalyst were investigated. The optimal morphology for β‐Glu/NFs was determined to be 0.01 mg/mL. To obtain the optimum activity conditions, we explored pH values ranging from 3 to 8 and temperatures between 30 and 80 °C. Both the free form and β‐Glu/NFs exhibited higher activity in acidic conditions, with a significant decrease in activity observed at pH 7 and 8. β‐Glu/NFs demonstrated superior activity compared to the free enzyme in the presence of metal ions, exhibiting a remarkable 3.6‐fold increase in activity in chloroform, and approximately 2.8 and 2.7 times increase in benzene and glycerol, respectively. Moreover, it displayed over a 2‐fold increase in activity in methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, n‐butanol, acetone, and DMSO.
Mechanical properties of poly(N‐acryloyl‐glycinamide) hydrogels dependent on initiation number of the polymerization reaction
Authors: Osawa Shigehito , Akiyama Yoshikatsu
Published: February 2024

Hydrogels with polymer networks formed through physical interactions have received attention because of their post‐moldability and self‐healing properties upon physicochemical stimulation. Although hydrogels become fragile without covalent crosslinking, poly(N‐acryloyl‐glycinamide) (PNAGA) hydrogels, which are formed through hydrogen bonding among PNAGA molecules, have recently demonstrated exceptional strain. In this study, we prepared a series of PNAGA hydrogels with different molecular weights and constant weight concentrations of PNAGA. Stress–strain tests demonstrated that higher molecular weights of PNAGA promote extensibility. The swelling ability of the hydrogel also increased with higher molecular weights of PNAGA, suggesting that high molecular weights of PNAGA significantly increase the tolerability of hydrogels to shape change, which opens up new possibilities for developing robust hydrogels without the requirement for cross‐linking. Although different behaviors were not observed with changes in the molecular weight, we achieved hydrogel re‐construction using the PNAGA powder obtained from hydrogels, which demonstrates an advantage of such polymer networks based on hydrogen bonding. Regarding the healing ability of the cut surfaces, hydrogels with a lower molecular weight exhibited higher recoveries, probably owing to the high PNAGA mobility in the hydrogels. Finally, this study elucidates the importance of controlling the molecular weight when developing functional hydrogels.
Recent Advances of Engineered Cell Membrane‐Based Nanotherapeutics to Combat Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Ma Jiaxin , Ding Linyu , Peng Xuqi , Jiang Lai , Liu Gang
Published: February 2024

An immune reaction known as inflammation serves as a shield from external danger signals, but an overactive immune system may additionally lead to tissue damage and even a variety of inflammatory disorders. By inheriting biological functionalities and serving as both a therapeutic medication and a drug carrier, cell membrane‐based nanotherapeutics offer the potential to treat inflammatory disorders. To further strengthen the anti‐inflammatory benefits of natural cell membranes, researchers alter and optimize the membranes using engineering methods. This review focuses on engineered cell membrane‐based nanotherapeutics (ECMNs) and their application in treating inflammation‐related diseases. Specifically, this article discusses the methods of engineering cell membranes for inflammatory diseases and examines the progress of ECMNs in inflammation‐targeted therapy, inflammation‐neutralizing therapy, and inflammation‐immunomodulatory therapy. Additionally, the article looks into the perspectives and challenges of ECMNs in inflammatory treatment and offers suggestions as well as guidance to encourage further investigations and implementations in this area.
Strategies to Improve the Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Li Cong , Bai Yuan , Shao Jiajia , Meng Hongyu , Li Zhou
Published: February 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) can collect and convert random mechanical energy into electric energy, with remarkable advantages including broadly available materials, straightforward preparation, and multiple applications. Over the years, researchers have made substantial advancements in the theoretical and practical aspects of TENG. Nevertheless, the pivotal challenge in realizing full applications of TENG lies in ensuring that the generated output meets the specific application requirements. Consequently, substantial research is dedicated to exploring methods and mechanisms for enhancing the output performance of TENG devices. This review aims to comprehensively examine the influencing factors and corresponding improvement strategies of the output performance based on the contact electrification mechanism and operational principles that underlie TENG technology. This review primarily delves into five key areas of improvement: materials selection, surface modification, component adjustments, structural optimization, and electrode enhancements. These aspects are crucial in tailoring TENG devices to meet the desired performance metrics for various applications.
Synthesis of Red, Green, and Blue Carbon Quantum Dots and Construction of Multicolor Cellulose‐Based Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Xinrui , Han Xing , Zhang Caixia , Ou Xue , Liu Xiaoli , Zhang Junhua , Liu Wei , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Song Xueping , Zhang Zhanying
Published: February 2024

Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are widely used in lighting and display applications. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs), which have high biocompatibility, high resistance to photobleaching, and full‐spectrum luminescence, have inherent advantages as fluorescent materials for LED devices. Herein, multicolor CQDs are prepared by a new reagent engineering strategy due to the difference of effective conjugate length and the surface electron‐withdrawing groups of CQDs. White CQDs are realized by mixing blue, green, and red CQDs proportionally. Then, the aggregation‐caused quenching phenomenon of CQDs is suppressed through the hydrogen‐bonding network of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs). Multicolor fluorescent films are prepared from CQDs and CNFs by simple mixing and casting methods. Finally, thin‐film encapsulation based on the photosensitive resin ABPE‐10 coating can be realized and rapidly assembles into fluorescent films with different light‐emitting colors into LED devices, leading to have superior thermal performance compared with conventional LEDs. White LEDs have excellent white‐light illumination performance, with Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage color coordinates of (0.33, 0.37), a correlated color temperature of 5688 K, and a color rendering index of 86. This strategy provides a convenient and scalable pathway for low‐cost, environmentally friendly, and high‐performance CQDs‐based LEDs.
Branes in JT (super)gravity from group theory
Authors: Belaey Andreas , Mariani Francesca , Mertens Thomas G.
Published: February 2024

Abstract

In this work, we revisit the end-of-the-world (EOW) brane amplitudes in JT gravity from a BF gauge theoretic perspective. Observing and identifying the correct group theoretic ingredient for a closed EOW brane as a discrete series character, we use the group theory framework as a guide towards formulating the analogous supersymmetric problem. We compute these amplitudes explicitly in the supersymmetric generalizations of JT gravity ($$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1, 2, 4), motivated by the prospective of possibly finite amplitudes. In the process, we develop some of the representation theory of OSp(2|2, ℝ) and PSU(1, 1|2), relevant for the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 and $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 cases.
Celestial two-point functions and rectified dictionary
Authors: Furugori Hideo , Ogawa Naoki , Sugishita Sotaro , Waki Takahiro
Published: February 2024

Abstract

A naive celestial dictionary causes massless two-point functions to take the delta-function forms in the celestial conformal field theory (CCFT). We rectify the dictionary, involving the shadow transformation so that the two-point functions follow the standard power-law. In this new definition, we can smoothly take the massless limit of the massive dictionary. We also compute a three-point function using the new dictionary and discuss the OPE in CCFT.
Anomaly enforced gaplessness and symmetry fractionalization for SpinG symmetries
Authors: Brennan T. Daniel
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Symmetries and their anomalies give strong constraints on renormalization group (RG) flows of quantum field theories. Recently, the identification of a theory’s global symmetries with its topological sector has provided additional constraints on RG flows to symmetry preserving gapped phases due to mathematical results in category and topological quantum field theory. In this paper, we derive constraints on RG flows from ℤ2-valued pure- and mixed-gravitational anomalies that can only be activated on non-spin manifolds. We show that such anomalies cannot be matched by a unitary, symmetry preserving gapped phase without symmetry fractionalization. In particular, we discuss examples that commonly arise in 4d gauge theories with fermions.
Wnt/β-catenin-driven EMT regulation in human cancers
Authors: Xue Wenhua , Yang Lin , Chen Chengxin , Ashrafizadeh Milad , Tian Yu , Sun Ranran
Published: February 2024

Metastasis accounts for 90% of cancer-related deaths among the patients. The transformation of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells with molecular alterations can occur during epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). The EMT mechanism accelerates the cancer metastasis and drug resistance ability in human cancers. Among the different regulators of EMT, Wnt/β-catenin axis has been emerged as a versatile modulator. Wnt is in active form in physiological condition due to the function of GSK-3β that destructs β-catenin, while ligand–receptor interaction impairs GSK-3β function to increase β-catenin stability and promote its nuclear transfer. Regarding the oncogenic function of Wnt/β-catenin, its upregulation occurs in human cancers and it can accelerate EMT-mediated metastasis and drug resistance. The stimulation of Wnt by binding Wnt ligands into Frizzled receptors can enhance β-catenin accumulation in cytoplasm that stimulates EMT and related genes upon nuclear translocation. Wnt/β-catenin/EMT axis has been implicated in augmenting metastasis of both solid and hematological tumors. The Wnt/EMT-mediated cancer metastasis promotes the malignant behavior of tumor cells, causing therapy resistance. The Wnt/β-catenin/EMT axis can be modulated by upstream mediators in which non-coding RNAs are main regulators. Moreover, pharmacological intervention, mainly using phytochemicals, suppresses Wnt/EMT axis in metastasis suppression.

Graphical abstract