bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome-level genome assembly of hadal snailfish reveals mechanisms of deep-sea adaptation in vertebrates
Authors: Xu Wen-Jie , Zhu Chenglong , Gao Xueli , Wu Baosheng , Xu Han , Hu Ming-Liang , Zeng Honghui , Gan Xiaoni , Feng Chen-Guang , Zheng Jiangmin , Bo Jing , He Lisheng , Qiu Qiang , Wang Wen , He Shunping , Wang Kun
Published: December 2023

As the deepest vertebrate in the ocean, the hadal snailfish (
Pseudoliparis swirei
), which lives at a depth of 6,000~8,000m, is a representative case for studying adaptation to extreme environments. Despite some preliminary studies on this species in recent years, including their loss of pigmentation, visual and skeletal calcification genes, and the role of TMAO in adaptation to high-hydrostatic pressure, it is still unknown how they evolved and why they are among the few vertebrate species that have successfully adapted to the deep sea environment. Using genomic data from different trenches, we found that the hadal snailfish may have entered and fully adapted to such extreme environments only in the last few million years. Meanwhile, phylogenetic relationships show that they spread into different trenches in the Pacific Ocean within a million years. Comparative genomic analysis has also revealed that the genes associated with perception, circadian rhythms, and metabolism have been extensively modified in the hadal snailfish to adapt to its unique environment. More importantly, the tandem duplication of a gene encoding ferritin significantly increased their tolerance to reactive oxygen species, which may be one of the important factors in their adaptation to high-hydrostatic pressure.
A timeline of bacterial and archaeal diversification in the ocean
Authors: Martinez-Gutierrez Carolina A , Uyeda Josef C , Aylward Frank O
Published: December 2023

Microbial plankton play a central role in marine biogeochemical cycles, but the timing in which abundant lineages diversified into ocean environments remains unclear. Here, we reconstructed the timeline in which major clades of bacteria and archaea colonized the ocean using a high-resolution benchmarked phylogenetic tree that allows for simultaneous and direct comparison of the ages of multiple divergent lineages. Our findings show that the diversification of the most prevalent marine clades spans throughout a period of 2.2 Ga, with most clades colonizing the ocean during the last 800 million years. The oldest clades – SAR202, SAR324, Ca. Marinimicrobia, and Marine Group II – diversified around the time of the Great Oxidation Event, during which oxygen concentration increased but remained at microaerophilic levels throughout the Mid-Proterozoic, consistent with the prevalence of some clades within these groups in oxygen minimum zones today. We found the diversification of the prevalent heterotrophic marine clades SAR11, SAR116, SAR92, SAR86, and Roseobacter as well as the Marine Group I to occur near to the Neoproterozoic Oxygenation Event (0.8–0.4 Ga). The diversification of these clades is concomitant with an overall increase of oxygen and nutrients in the ocean at this time, as well as the diversification of eukaryotic algae, consistent with the previous hypothesis that the diversification of heterotrophic bacteria is linked to the emergence of large eukaryotic phytoplankton. The youngest clades correspond to the widespread phototrophic clades Prochlorococcus, Synechococcus, and Crocosphaera, whose diversification happened after the Phanerozoic Oxidation Event (0.45–0.4 Ga), in which oxygen concentrations had already reached their modern levels in the atmosphere and the ocean. Our work clarifies the timing at which abundant lineages of bacteria and archaea colonized the ocean, thereby providing key insights into the evolutionary history of lineages that comprise the majority of prokaryotic biomass in the modern ocean.
MAFB drives differentiation by permitting WT1 binding to podocyte specific promoters
Authors: Massa Filippo M. , Jian-Motamedi Fariba , Šerys Marijus , Tison Amelie , Loubat Agnès , Lacas-Gervais Sandra , Martin Luc , Belahbib Hassiba , Sarrazin Sandrine , Sieweke Michael H. , Schedl Andreas
Published: December 2023

Podocytes are highly specialized cells, but their chromatin status and the precise molecular events leading to their differentiation remain poorly defined. Here we used ChIP-Seq analysis for H3K4me3, H3K4me1 and H3K27me3 to establish the histone methylation map in adult mouse podocytes. Our data demonstrate open chromatin across podocyte specific genes and reveals that genes expressed in the mesoderm lineage become actively repressed upon podocyte differentiation. To better understand the transcriptional control of podocyte differentiation, we studied the role of transcription factor MAFB. ChIP-Seq experiments and functional analysis in conditional knockout mice identified a set of direct MAFB targets including
Nphs1
,
Nphs2, Vegfa
and
Tcf21
. Loss of
MafB
led to the deposition of extracellular matrix, progressive foot process effacement, and kidney disease. ChIP experiments in knockout animals revealed that during development MAFB is essential for H3K4me3 methylation and the recruitment of WT1 to the promoters of the podocyte specific genes
Nphs1
and
Nphs2
. Taken together our data reveal the crucial function of MAFB by permitting chromatin accessibility at podocyte-specific genes during development and maintaining terminal differentiation in adults.
Inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma growth via modulation of the miR-221/SOX11 axis by curcumin and berberine
Authors: Li Sheng , Cai Xiaoliang , Chen Liang , Lin Manbian , Zhu Ziqi , Xiao Huihuang , Nie Pingping , Chen Quanwen , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: December 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a fatal malignancy that has limited treatment options. This study focused on the potential therapeutic effects of curcumin (CUR) and berberine (BBR) on the miR-221/SRY-box transcription factor 11 (SOX11) axis in HCC. We investigated the combined effects of CUR and BBR on HEPG2 and Huh7 cell survival and miR-221 expression using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays and RT-qPCR, respectively. Western blotting was used to detect changes in the apoptosis-related caspase-3/9 protein levels. We performed bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase assays and measured apoptotic protein levels to assess the role of the miR-221/SOX11 axis in mediating the effects of CUR-BBR. Both CUR and BBR suppressed HCC cell growth in a dose-dependent manner, with the most potent combined effect observed at a 2:1 ratio. CUR-BBR treatment significantly downregulated miR-221 expression, and miR-221 overexpression partially reversed the CUR-BBR-mediated decrease in cell survival. In addition, SOX11 was found to be a direct target of miR-221. CUR-BBR treatment upregulated SOX11 expression, and overexpression of SOX11 restored the inhibitory effects of CUR-BBR on cell growth, migration, and invasion and promoted apoptosis in the presence of miR-221. Furthermore, CUR-BBR activated pro-apoptotic proteins caspase-3/9 through the miR-221/SOX11 axis. The combined effect of CUR-BBR played an important role in inhibiting the growth of HCC cells. This combined effect was achieved by regulating the miR-221/SOX11 axis and activating the synthesis of pro-apoptotic proteins. Our findings highlight a promising combined therapeutic approach for HCC and underscore the importance of targeting the miR-221/SOX11 axis.
A Research On The Digital Stories Prepared By Gifted Students About The History Of Geometry
Authors: SALTIK AYHANÖZ Gülşah , KAHRAMAN Eser
Published: December 2023

Technological developments have made it necessary to make changes in mathematics education. These changes are not just students receiving information; It has made it important for them to grow up as individuals who can solve problems, produce, analyze-synthesise, think critically and creatively. Mathematics education and, accordingly, geometry has a great place in gaining these skills. It is thought that transferring the 21st century skills and the history of geometry to students through digital storytelling will be effective. Gaining these skills to gifted individuals, developing their talents, revealing their knowledge and capacities are of great importance for the society. Digital storytelling is among the applications that can be used in this context. In this study, it was tried to determine the reflections on the views of the gifted students included in the digital storytelling process on the nature of geometry and the formation of geometry knowledge. In the conducted research, the case study pattern, which is among the qualitative research methods, was used. The study group consists of 12 students from the Niğde Science and Art Center (BİLSEM). Each of the 12 students created a digital story about the history of geometry. This study data was collected through semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method. After the application of the digital storytelling method, it was observed that there was an increase in the categorization of these disciplines in the students' views on the sciences that geometry is related to, and their knowledge about geometry became clear. In this research, the digital storytelling process on the history of geometry was analyzed by the gifted students on the concept of geometry, the birth of geometry, what geometry contains, what kind of benefits it provides to people in real life and the branch of science related to the benefits it provides in real life, whether geometry can be learned by everyone and how it can be learned. It has been observed that the reflections have changed in a positive way. It is thought that including digital storytelling on the history of geometry in the mathematics education of gifted students is effective in keeping student motivation high and transferring information about mathematics education.
Emergency Department Care for Children During the 2022 Viral Respiratory Illness Surge
Authors: Janke Alexander T. , Mangus Courtney W. , Fung Christopher M. , Kamdar Neil , Macy Michelle L. , Nypaver Michele M. , Kocher Keith E.
Published: December 2023

Importance

Pediatric readiness is essential for all emergency departments (EDs). Children’s experience of care may differ according to operational challenges in children’s hospitals, community hospitals, and rural EDs caused by recurring and sometimes unpredictable viral illness surges.

Objective

To describe wait times, lengths of stay (LOS), and ED revisits across diverse EDs participating in a statewide quality collaborative during a surge in visits in 2022.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included 25 EDs from the Michigan Emergency Department Improvement Collaborative data registry from January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2022. Pediatric (patient age <18 years) encounters for viral and respiratory conditions were analyzed, comparing wait times, LOS, and ED revisit rates for children’s hospital, urban pediatric high-volume (≥10% of overall visits), urban pediatric low-volume (<10% of overall visits), and rural EDs.

Exposures

Surge in ED visit volumes for children with viral and respiratory illnesses from September 1 through December 31, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prolonged ED visit wait times (arrival to clinician assigned, >4 hours), prolonged LOS (arrival to departure, >12 hours), and ED revisit rate (ED discharge and return within 72 hours).

Results

A total of 2 761 361 ED visits across 25 EDs in 2021 and 2022 were included. From September 1 to December 31, 2022, there were 301 688 pediatric visits for viral and respiratory illness, an increase of 71.8% over the 4 preceding months and 15.7% over the same period in 2021. At children’s hospitals during the surge, 8.0% of visits had prolonged wait times longer than 4 hours, 8.6% had prolonged LOS longer than 12 hours, and 42 revisits occurred per 1000 ED visits. Prolonged wait times were rare among other sites. However, prolonged LOS affected 425 visits (2.2%) in urban high-pediatric volume EDs, 133 (2.6%) in urban pediatric low-volume EDs, and 176 (3.1%) in rural EDs. High visit volumes were associated with increased ED revisits across sites.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of more than 2.7 million ED visits, a pediatric viral illness surge was associated with different pediatric acute care across EDs in the state. Clinical management pathways and quality improvement efforts may more effectively mitigate dangerous clinical conditions with strong collaborative relationships across EDs and setting of care.
Patient With Unilateral Nasal Obstruction and a Nasal Mass
Authors: Ho Yan-Ting , Lee Li-Yu , Fu Chia-Hsiang
Published: December 2023

A 65-year-old man presented with a 2-year history of left nasal obstruction and large tumor in the left nasal cavity. What is your diagnosis?
Mesoscale Clusters in the Crystallisation of Organic Molecules
Authors: Barua Harsh , Svärd Michael , Rasmuson Åke C. , Hudson Sarah P. , Cookman Jennifer
Published: December 2023

The early stages of the molecular self‐assembly pathway leading to crystal nucleation have a significant influence on the properties and purity of organic materials. This mini review collates the work on organic mesoscale clusters and discusses their importance in nucleation processes, with a particular focus on their critical properties and susceptibility to sample treatment parameters. This is accomplished by a review of detection methods, including dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle tracking analysis, small angle X‐ray scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. Considering the challenges associated with crystallisation of flexible and large‐molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients, the dynamic nature of mesoscale clusters has the potential to expand the discovery of novel crystal forms. By collating literature on mesoscale clusters for organic molecules, a more comprehensive understanding of their role in nucleation will evolve and can guide further research efforts.
Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Novel Tetramers with Enhanced Glass Transition Temperature for High‐Performance and Stable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Chen , Song Jiali , Ye Linglong , Li Xiaoming , Jee Min Hun , Woo Han Young , Sun Yanming
Published: December 2023

Oligomer acceptors in organic solar cells (OSCs) have garnered substantial attention owing to their impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) and long‐term stability. However, the simple and efficient synthesis of oligomer acceptors with higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we propose an innovative strategy for the synthesis of tetramers, denoted as Tet‐n, with elevated Tgs, achieved through only two consecutive Stille coupling reactions. Importantly, our strategy significantly reduces the redundancy in reaction steps compared to conventional methods for linear tetramer synthesis, thereby improving both reaction efficiency and yield. Furthermore, the OSC based on PM6:Tet‐1 attains a high PCE of 17.32 %, and the PM6:L8‐BO:Tet‐1 ternary device achieves an even more higher PCE of 19.31 %. Remarkably, the binary device based on the Tet‐1 tetramer demonstrates outstanding operational stability, retaining 80 % of the initial efficiency (T80) even after 1706 h of continuous illumination, which is primarily attributed to the enhanced Tg (247 °C) and lower diffusion coefficient (1.56×10−27 cm2 s−1). This work demonstrates the effectiveness of our proposed approach in the straightforward and efficient synthesis of tetramers materials with higher Tgs, thus offering a viable pathway for developing high‐efficiency and stable OSCs.
Dynamic Exchange in 3D Cell Culture Hydrogels Based on Crosslinking of Cyclic Thiosulfinates
Authors: Janssen Merel L. , Liu Tingxian , Özel Mertcan , Bril Maaike , Prasad Thelu Hari Veera , E. Kieltyka Roxanne
Published: December 2023

Dynamic polymer materials are highly valued substrates for 3D cell culture due to their viscoelasticity, a time‐dependent mechanical property that can be tuned to resemble the energy dissipation of native tissues. Herein, we report the coupling of a cyclic thiosulfinate, mono‐S‐oxo‐4‐methyl asparagusic acid, to a 4‐arm PEG‐OH to prepare a disulfide‐based dynamic covalent hydrogel with the addition of 4‐arm PEG‐thiol. Ring opening of the cyclic thiosulfinate by nucleophilic substitution results in the rapid formation of a network showing a viscoelastic fluid‐like behaviour and relaxation rates modulated by thiol content through thiol‐disulfide exchange, whereas its viscoelastic behaviour upon application as a small molecule linear crosslinker is solid‐like. Further introduction of 4‐arm PEG‐vinylsulfone in the network yields a hydrogel with weeks‐long cell culture stability, permitting 3D culture of cell types that lack robust proliferation, such as human pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hPSC‐CMs). These cells display native behaviours such as cell elongation and spontaneous beating as a function of the hydrogel's mechanical properties. We demonstrate that the mode of dynamic cyclic thiosulfinate crosslinker presentation within the network can result in different stress relaxation profiles, opening the door to model tissues with disparate mechanics in 3D cell culture.
Single‐Atom Manganese‐Catalyzed Oxygen Evolution Drives the Electrochemical Oxidation of Silane to Silanol
Authors: Tang Hai‐Tao , Zhou He‐Yang , Pan Ying‐Ming , Zhang Jia‐Lan , Cui Fei‐Hu , Li Wen‐Hao , Wang Dingsheng
Published: December 2023

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER), characterized by a four‐electron transfer kinetic process, represents a significant bottleneck in improving the efficiency of hydrogen production from water electrolysis. Consequently, extensive research efforts have been directed towards identifying single‐atom electrocatalysts with exceptional OER performance. Despite the comprehensive understanding of the OER mechanism, its application to other valuable synthetic reactions has been limited. Herein, we leverage the MOOH intermediate, a key species in the Mn−N−C single‐atom catalyst (Mn‐SA@NC), which can be cyclically delivered in the OER. We exploit this intermediate’ s capability to facilitate electrophilic transfer with silane, enabling efficient silane oxidation under electrochemical conditions. The SAC electrocatalytic system exhibits remarkable performance with catalyst loadings as low as 600 ppm and an exceptional turnover number of 9132. Furthermore, the catalytic method demonstrates stability under a 10 mmol flow chemistry setup. By serving as an OER electrocatalyst, the Mn‐SA@NC drives the entire reaction, establishing a practical Mn SAC‐catalyzed organic electrosynthesis system. This synthesis approach not only presents a promising avenue for the utilization of electrocatalytic OER but also highlights the potential of SACs as an attractive platform for organic electrosynthesis investigations.
Controllable Electrochemical Liberation of Hydrogen from Sodium Borohydride
Authors: Liu Xi , Sun Wei , Chen Junxiang , Wen Zhenhai
Published: December 2023

Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) has earned recognition as a promising hydrogen carrier, attributed to its exceptional hydrogen storage capacity, boasting a high theoretical storage capacity of 10.8 wt %. Nonetheless, the utilization of traditional pyrolysis and hydrolysis methods still presents a formidable challenge in achieving controlled hydrogen generation especially under ambient conditions. In this work, we report an innovative electrochemical strategy for production H2 by coupling NaBH4 electrooxidation reaction (BOR) at anode in alkaline media with hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at cathode in acidic media. To implement this, we have developed a bifunctional electrocatalyst denoted as Pd‐Mo2C@CNTs, wherein Pd nanoparticles are grown in situ on Mo2C embedded within N‐doped carbon nanotubes. This electrocatalyst demonstrates exceptional performance in catalyzing both alkaline BOR and acidic HER. We have developed a hybrid acid/alkali cell, utilizing Pd/Mo2C@CNTs as the anode and cathode electrocatalysts. This configuration showcases remarkable capabilities for self‐sustained, precise, and uninterrupted indirect release of H2 stored in NaBH4, even at high current densities of 100 mA cm−2 with a Faraday efficiency approaching 100 %. Additionally, this electrochemical device exhibits significant promise as a fuel cell, with the ability to deliver a maximum power density of 20 mW cm−2.
Construction of a Magnetic Interphase for Stable Cycling of Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Yunyi , Liu Haijian , Liu Lingli , Li Jiayan , Han Yongsheng
Published: December 2023

Lithium (Li) metal has been considered to be the most promising anode material. However, the uncontrolled growth of Li dendrites and the instability of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plague the commercial application of Li anodes. In this paper, a dual‐functional artificial magnetic interphase composed of PVDF and γ‐Fe2O3 is designed and constructed on the anode surface. The magnetic interphase modulates the distribution of lithium ions near the interface to induce stable deposition and stripping processes. Meanwhile, the magnetic particles improve the mechanical properties of the SEI layer and suppress the growth and spread of Li dendrites. The symmetrical cell coated with the magnetic layer has a stable cycle life of more than 4000 hours which is longer than that reported in most literature under the same conditions. This study highlights the significance of the magnetic field in stabilizing lithium metal anodes, providing new insights and approaches to develop efficient batteries by matching the diffusion and reaction processes in batteries.
Aspects of Admixture Research: On the Use of Machine Learning in Superplasticizer Chemistry
Authors: Gädt Torben , Wagner Thomas
Published: December 2023

The use of superplasticizers in concrete, especially polycarboxylate ethers (PCE), has delivered the ability to easily achieve low water to cement ratios and thereby either higher strength or lower cement contents. In the last years, significant progress has been made with regard to understanding the structure‐activity relationship of the interaction of PCE and cement. For example, scaling laws have been derived for the size of adsorbed PCE, the magnitude of the steric interaction force, for the retardation of cement hydration by PCEs and more recently for competitive adsorption. While this is extremely useful, the picture is not fully complete yet.

In this contribution, we wish to highlight some recent work in the field of data analysis of PCE. Inspired by a very early machine‐learning study of concrete formulations, we extracted structural PCE data together with rheology data from the literature. We compare PCE performance across studies and attempt to uncover underlying structure‐activity‐relationships (using machine learning models). It turns out that the data set quality and quantity is not yet sufficient to establish reliable models.
Ultra‐high performance alkali‐activated slag as a reusable mold for light metal casting
Authors: Link Janna , Wetzel Alexander , Müller Sebastian , Middendorf Bernhard
Published: December 2023

Light metal die casting is usually performed using steel molds. However, these lead to a reduced quality of the casting due to the occurrence of metal corrosion on the surface and the incorporation of hydrogen into the casting as a result of required process chemistry. Ultra‐high performance concrete based on alkali‐activated slag can be used to produce mineral molds for aluminum casting. The use of reusable mineral molds not only enables the production of various thin‐walled geometries. The risk of metal corrosion is eliminated and the concrete molds can withstand multiple cycles due to their thermal stability and high strength, making them potentially superior to the already common lost mineral molds.
Theoretical aspects of the genesis of composites: Dependence of properties on the history of formation
Authors: Herega Alexander
Published: December 2023

Studies of the last decades have brought the results of modern natural science into technology of composite materials of the widest range. The methods of percolation theory have become constructive tools for studying the structure of composites, for the purposeful creation of materials with desired properties. In this paper, a computer model of the processes of self‐organization of percolation clusters has been created. The model considers such problems with self‐organization, in which the properties of a percolation cluster are also determined by the history of the system's development. To study the structure and properties of such systems, a three‐dimensional continuum percolation problem with interacting elements is solved in the model. Iterative algorithms for the motion and interaction of particles and clusters, leading to the formation of percolation systems, have been developed. Their structure and properties have been studied, a number of standard parameters have been calculated, and the dependence of the structure and properties of clusters on the rate of system generation, degree of self‐organization, and characteristic values of the correlation length has been studied; analytical dependences of a number of parameters of percolation systems are obtained.
Leuchtturmprojekt einer maximal CO2 reduzierten Brücke nach dem 5C Approach des Cembureau'
Authors: Wassmann Kerstin , Eberhardt Bernd Arnd , Kurath Josef
Published: December 2023

Kurzfassung

Die Brücke „Bridge to the Future” setzt auf eindrückliche Weise den 5 C Ansatz des Cembureau' um, welcher die Optimierung des CO2‐Fussabdrucks über alle 5 Aspekte, vom Baustoff bis zur Bauweise beinhaltet. Die Verwendung des klinkerfreien Zementes Locarbo, kombiniert mit hohen Anteilen vorcarbonatisierter Gesteinskörnung in einem hochfesten Beton wurde hier mit CPC Technologie kombiniert, wodurch vollständig auf Stahlbewehrung verzichtet werden konnte.
Multi‐scale modeling for the prediction of Young's modulus of alkali‐activated slag concrete
Authors: Caron Richard , Patel Ravi A. , Dehn Frank
Published: December 2023

Alkali‐activated slag is an alternative to ordinary Portland cement that can be used for structural applications. Young's modulus is an important property to predict stress or strains in concrete. However, the fib Model Code 2010 overestimates it for alkali‐activated slag concrete. Multi‐scale models allow the determination of concrete property from the features of the microstructure. In this study, an analytical micromechanics‐based multi‐scale homogenization model is applied to predict Young's modulus of alkali‐activated slag. It is compared to experimental results found in the literature on paste, mortar and concrete. Better predictions of Young's modulus are achieved from multiscale models compared to the fib MC 2010. Accuracy could be enhanced by improving the predictions for the degree of activation of slag for the different mixes.
Cucurbit[7]uril‐mediated Histidine Dimerization: Exploring the Structure and Binding Mechanism
Authors: Zaorska Ewelina , Malinska Maura
Published: December 2023

Cucurbit[7,8]urils are known to form inclusion complexes with hydrophobic amino acids such as Trp, Tyr, Phe, and Met, as well as peptides containing these residues at the N‐terminus. Despite their widespread use in protein purification, the affinity of histidine (His) for cucurbit[7,8]urils has not been extensively explored. In this study, X‐ray diffraction experiments were conducted to investigate the binding of two histidine moieties to the cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) cavity, resulting in a network of π–π and hydrogen bonds. This assembly was found to induce a His pKa shift of ΔpKa=−4. Histidine weakly bound to CB7 or CB8; however, isothermal titration calorimetry revealed micromolar equilibrium dissociation constant values for CB7 and CB8 when bound to dipeptides containing His at the C‐terminus. Conversely, dipeptides with His at the N‐terminus exhibited millimolar values. Additionally, the His‐Gly‐Gly tripeptide formed a 2 : 1 complex with CB7. These findings suggest the potential use of histidine and histidine‐containing tags in conjunction with CB7 for various biological applications.
Scaffold Editing of Cubanes into Homocubanes, Homocuneanes via Cuneanes
Authors: Takebe Hiyori , Matsubara Seijiro
Published: December 2023

The selective synthesis of cage‐type hydrocarbons through the editing of the highly symmetric molecule cubane can be anticipated as one of the efficient approaches. In this paper, we identify a catalyst that facilitates the efficient scaffold isomerization of cubanes into homocubanes. This approach, which involves the direct synthesis of homocubanol esters, is promising as a novel method for the synthesis of phenoxy bioisosteres. Additionally, we observed that the isomerization of 1,4‐bis(acyloxymethl)cubane results in the generation of both D2‐ and C2‐symmetrical bishomocubanes. The same catalyst was also applied to the isomerization of acyloxymethylcuneanes, producing homocuneanol esters.
Role of Triplet States in the Photolysis of Proteogenic Amino Acids
Authors: Guerra Cristian , Rodríguez‐Núñez Yeray A. , Ensuncho Adolfo E.
Published: December 2023

This investigation delves into the UV photodissociation of pivotal amino acids (Alanine, Glycine, Leucine, Proline, and Serine) at 213 nm, providing insights into triplet‐state deactivation pathways. Utilizing a comprehensive approach involving time‐dependent density functional calculations (TD‐DFT), multi‐configurational methods, and ab‐initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, we scrutinize the excited electronic states (T1, T2, and S1) subsequent to 213 nm excitation. Our findings demonstrate that α‐carbonyl C−C bond‐breaking in triplet states exhibits markedly lower barriers than in singlet states (below 5.0 kcal mol−1). AIMD simulations corroborate the potential involvement of triplet states in amino acid fragmentation, underscoring the significance of accounting for these states in photochemistry. Chemical bonding analyses unveil distinctive patterns for S1 and T1 states, with the asymmetric redistribution of electron density characterizing the C−C breaking in triplet states, in contrast to the symmetric breaking observed in singlet states. This research complements recent experimental discoveries, enhancing our comprehension of amino acid reactions in the interstellar medium.
An improved low‐input resistance folded‐cascode transimpedance amplifier for giga‐bit per second optical communication front‐ends
Authors: Zohoori Soorena , Hosseini Ahmad , Dehkordi Mehrdad Amirkhan , Mirsanei Seyed Mehdi
Published: December 2023

The present study is devoted to articulating a modified folded‐cascode circuit, to make folded‐cascode structures an attractive configuration as a transimpedance amplifier (TIA) for being employed in Giga‐bit per second optical communication receiver systems. Giga‐bps communication receivers are highly necessitating circuits to isolate the input parasitic capacitance of the photodiode. The present modification makes folded cascodes comparable to the famous regulated cascode (RGC) structures by isolating this parasitic capacitor almost by the same quantity. The system is shown to be capable of operating at 2.5 Gbps up to 8 Gbps data rate with a fixed bandwidth. The paper analyzes and evaluates the designed circuit mathematically, and the obtained simulated results from Cadence using TSMC 65 nm CMOS validate the suitability of the modified circuit as a TIA.
Acute psychotropic, autonomic, and endocrine effects of 5,6‐methylenedioxy‐2‐aminoindane (MDAI) compared with 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in human volunteers: A self‐administration study
Authors: Angerer Verena , Schmid Yasmin , Franz Florian , Gnann Heike , Speer Jan Manuel , Gnann Anke , Helmecke Stephan , Buchwald Armin , Brandt Simon D. , Passie Torsten , Liechti Matthias E. , Auwärter Volker
Published: December 2023

The acute psychoactive, autonomic, and endocrine effects of the new psychoactive substance (NPS) 5,6‐methylenedioxy‐2‐aminoindane (MDAI; 3.0 mg/kg, range 180–228 mg) were investigated in six healthy volunteers (four males, two females) in a non‐blinded fashion without placebo. Subjective, cardiovascular, and endocrine responses were compared with two different doses of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) (75 mg and 125 mg) described in previously published placebo‐controlled studies, which used identical outcome measures including Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), the Adjective Mood Rating Scale (AMRS), and the 5 Dimensions of Altered States of Consciousness (5D‐ASC) scale. MDAI was well tolerated and produced subjective effects comparable with those of 125 mg MDMA. MDAI increased blood pressure similar to 125 mg MDMA but did not increase heart rate or body temperature. MDAI increased cortisol and prolactin levels and could be detected in serum about 20 min post ingestion and remained detectable at least for 4 days. In urine, MDAI was detectable over a period of at least 6 days. Further clinical investigations are warranted to assess whether MDAI could serve as drug with medicinal properties.
Developing a surface acoustic wave‐induced microfluidic cell lysis device for point‐of‐care DNA amplification
Authors: Husseini Abbas Ali , Yazdani Ali Mohammad , Ghadiri Fatemeh , Şişman Alper
Published: December 2023

We developed a microchip device using surface acoustic waves (SAW) and sharp‐edge glass microparticles to rapidly lyse low‐level cell samples. This microchip features a 13‐finger pair interdigital transducer (IDT) with a 30‐degree focused angle, creating high‐intensity acoustic beams converging 6 mm away at a 16 MHz frequency. Cell lysis is achieved through centrifugal forces acting on Candida albicans cells and glass particles within the focal area. To optimize this SAW‐induced streaming, we conducted 42 pilot experiments, varying electrical power, droplet volume, glass particle size, concentration, and lysis time, resulting in optimal conditions: an electrical signal of 2.5 W, a 20 μL sample volume, glass particle size below 10 μm, concentration of 0.2 μg, and a 5‐min lysis period. We successfully amplified DNA target fragments directly from the lysate, demonstrating an efficient microchip‐based cell lysis method. When combined with an isothermal amplification technique, this technology holds promise for rapid point‐of‐care (POC) applications.
Enhanced solar‐light driven CO2 conversion using Pt‐doped graphitic carbon nitride photocatalyst
Authors: Pham Thi Huong , Nguyen Minh Viet , Chu Thi Thu Hien , Jung Sung Hoon , Kim Taeyoung
Published: December 2023

The increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in our atmosphere demand innovative and efficient methods for its reduction. In this context, we present an advanced solar‐driven photocatalyst, Pt‐doped graphitic carbon nitride (Pt/g‐C3N4), specifically engineered for enhanced photoreduction of CO2. Our findings highlight the dual advantage of Pt/g‐C3N4: enhanced visible light absorption and electron‐hole pair dynamics, ensuring efficient carrier separation. Notably, the CO and CH4 yields, when employing Pt/g‐C3N4, surpassed those with the pristine g‐C3N4 catalyst by factors of 3.1 and 4.3, respectively. Moreover, the Pt/g‐C3N4 catalyst exhibited consistent high‐efficiency of CO2 conversion over successive cycles, emphasizing the catalyst's robustness. This work underscores the potential of Pt/g‐C3N4 as a viable tool against escalating CO2 levels, paving the way for a green and sustainable conversion of this predominant greenhouse gas into beneficial chemicals. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hematopoietic cell transplantation and cellular therapies in Switzerland. Evolution over 25 years. A report from the stem cell transplantation and cellular therapies working groups of the SBST 1997–2021
Authors: Passweg Jakob R. , Baldomero Helen , Ansari Marc , Arber Caroline , Chalandon Yves , Daskalakis Michael , Diepold Miriam , Diesch‐Furlanetto Tamara , Duchosal Michel A. , Gerull Sabine , Güngör Tayfun , Heim Dominik , Hitz Felicitas , Holbro Andreas , Masouridi‐Levrat Stavroula , Nair Gayathri , Novak Urban , Pabst Thomas , Renner Christoph , Stussi Georg , Schneidawind Dominik , Schanz Urs , Wannesson Luciano , Halter Jörg P. ,   for the Swiss Blood Stem Cell Transplantation Group (SBST)
Published: December 2023

The Swiss Blood Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Group (SBST) leads a mandatory national registry for all hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HCT) and cellular therapies. After 25 years, information was available for 11,226 patients receiving an HCT (4031 allogeneic and 7195 autologous), including 925 pediatric patients. We compared patient characteristics and outcome by quinquennia 1997–2001, 2002–2006, 2007–2011, 2012–2016, and 2017–2021. There were numerous changes over time. Allogeneic transplant recipients became older (median age 33.7 vs. 54.3) and had more frequently unrelated donors and reduced intensity conditioning in later quinquennia. Similarly, age increased for recipients of autologous HCT (median 48.3 vs. 59.9). We did not see a significant drop in transplant activity during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. Analysis of outcome showed overall survival (relative risk (RR) of death 0.664 (0.529–0.832) and progression free survival (RR 0.708 (0.577–0.870) being improved over time comparing the latest to the first quinquennium adjusting for risk factors. Non‐relapse mortality decreased in recipients of allogeneic HCT (RR: 0.371 (0.270–0.509)) over time but relapse risks did not. Outcome of autologous HCT improved as well across quinquennia, this improvement was mainly due to decreased relapse risks (RR 0.681 (0.597–0.777)), possibly related to maintenance treatment or rescue treatment for relapse mainly in myeloma patients. Cellular therapies other than allogeneic or autologous HCT, particularly chimeric antigen receptor T‐cells (CAR‐T) treatment have started to increase after 2019, year of approval of the first commercial CAR‐T product in Switzerland. Data on chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell treatment are too early for comparative analyses. Detailed analyses of changes over time are presented. This study includes all HCTs, and cellular therapies, data useful for quality assurance programs, health care cost estimation and benchmarking. Between 50% and 60% of patients are long‐term survivors after both types of HCT, indicating growing populations of surviving patients requiring long‐term care.
Prediction of shared gene signatures and biological mechanisms between polycystic ovary syndrome and asthma: Based on weighted gene coexpression network analysis
Authors: Bai Lilian , Gao Xueli , Guo Yanyan , Gong Junxing , Li Yuchen , Huang Hefeng , Liu Xinmei
Published: December 2023

Objective

Several clinical studies have shown an association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and asthma; however, the molecular link between these conditions remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a reanalysis and repurposing of existing databases in order to depict the common key genes, related signaling pathways, and similarity of the immune microenvironment between PCOS and asthma.

Methods

PCOS and asthma data sets were downloaded, and common signal pathways were identified by using gene set enrichment analysis. Identified common susceptibility genes were explored by intersecting the weighted gene coexpression network analysis module genes for both diseases. Then, we performed protein–protein interaction, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses of the common susceptibility genes. Finally, we analyzed the immune environment of PCOS and asthma.

Results

We identified five hub genes, namely, MMP9, CDC42, CD44, CD19, and BCL2L1, and uncovered that these five hub genes showed a tendency to be upregulated in both PCOS and asthma and possessed good diagnostic ability. In addition, we revealed that both PCOS and asthma were significantly enriched in the FcεRI‐mediated signaling pathway. Moreover, we found that both PCOS and asthma exhibited infiltration of similar types of immune cells, such as monocytes, suggesting that the two diseases have similar pathological features.

Conclusion

PCOS and asthma share common causative genes with a similar immune environment. Taken together, we uncovered previously unsuspected traits for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of PCOS and asthma in the future.
Influence of ultrasound pretreatment on drying characteristics of cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) slices during convective hot air drying
Authors: Nkem Owoidoho Michael , Oladejo Ayobami Olayemi , Alonge Akindele Folarin
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Convective hot air drying of cocoyam is risk‐free and inexpensive to a significant level. However, hot air drying causes negative changes to the color, texture, flavor and nutritional content of cocoyam as a result of the prolonged drying. Recently, the innovative technology of ultrasound pretreatment has been applied in food processing to reduce the processing time, conserve energy and preserve the quality of the food product. Thus, there is need to investigate the effect of ultrasound pretreatment with distilled water (UDW) and ultrasound with osmotic dehydration (UOD) for different ultrasonic times (10–30 min) on the drying kinetics of cocoyam slices during convective hot air drying. Ultrasound pretreatment was applied at a frequency of 20 kHz and an output power of 600 W for UDW and UOD. The ultrasound‐pretreated samples were further dried in a convective hot‐air drying oven at 70 °C.

RESULTS

UDW and UOD samples, respectively, had a 25% and 46% reduction in drying time compared to untreated samples. The UOD samples had the lowest activation energy (10.697 kJ), as well as the highest moisture diffusivity (3.782  × 10−10 m2 s−1) and mass transfer coefficient (2.006  × 10−8 m s−1), among the untreated and UDW samples. Wang and Singh, Page and Peleg models were found to be the most fitted models with respect to the drying characteristics of cocoyam for untreated, UDW and UOD samples, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound pretreatment technology is a potential non‐thermal process that can be incorporated as a pretreatment method in the convective drying of cocoyam to reduce processing time, conserve energy and enhance cocoyam product shelf life. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
From pervasive chaos to evolutionary transition: The experience of healthcare providers during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Khoddam Homeira , Modanloo Mahnaz , Mohammadi Reza , Talebi Razieh
Published: December 2023

Aim

The outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic confronted healthcare providers, especially physicians and nurses, with many unprecedented changes and physical and psychological pressures. This study aimed to explore the healthcare providers' experiences providing healthcare services for patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic in “Golestan, Northeast Iran”.

Design

Qualitative, conventional content analysis.

Methods

A total of 13 eligible participants were recruited through the purposeful sampling method. Data were gathered using semi‐structured in‐depth individual interviews. Transcripts were analysed using an inductive content analysis based on the Elo and Kyngas model. The COREQ checklist was used to prepare the manuscript.

Results

The analysis of the data in this study led to the development of 16 subthemes and 5 themes emerged as follows pervasive chaos, imposed difficulties, paradoxical perceptions, committed efforts, and constructive transition.

Conclusion

The experience of HCPs during the COVID pandemic in “Iran” showed that despite the physical, mental, emotional, and social consequences, a kind of constructive evolution and transition has also taken place in personal, professional, and organizational dimensions. It is suggested that managers while strengthening and protecting the capabilities and skills that have emerged, to reduce the tensions of HCPs, have developed programs for comprehensive support from them in physical, psychological, social, and financial dimensions.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

It is necessary to improve inter‐professional cooperation, empathy, teamwork, professional commitment, and continuous learning in crises.
Computational Studies for Development of Triazole‐Pyrimidines as Inhibitor of α‐Tubulin Receptor
Authors: Abdessadak Oumayma , Tabti Kamal , Alaqarbeh Marwa , Elmchichi Larbi , Koubi Yassine , Sbai Abdelouahid , Ajana Mohammed Aziz , Lakhlifi Tahar , Bouachrine Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Microtubules are among the critical targets for chemotherapeutic agents to fight against cancer because of their crucial role in mitosis. Microtubule inhibitors block cell cycle progression and result in apoptosis, they can frequently disrupt microtubule/tubulin dynamics by binding to the α‐tubulin receptor. To this end, we have developed compounds against α‐tubulin receptor using several tools of computational chemistry: 3D‐QSAR, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, and ADMET prediction. The significant findings incorporated two reliable models: CoMFA (Q2=0.75; R2=0.89) and CoMSIA (Q2=0.57; R2=0.78). Molecular Docking was generated and validated using Molecular Dynamics simulation to investigate the binding mode between the most active compound and the α‐tubulin receptor. The results of the MD simulation demonstrated stability over a 100 ns period. Four compounds (C1, C2, C3, and C4) were developed based on the contour maps, and their activities were predicted. Additionally, Molecular Docking was executed to elucidate the interaction and affinity between the novel compounds and the α‐tubulin receptor. C1 exhibited high affinity and essential interactions and was subjected to MD simulation studies. The results of the MD simulation revealed that the modifications made to enhance the anticancer activity did not impact stability. Finally, ADMET analysis was utilized to examine drug‐likeness.
Alysicarpus Vaginalis Plant‐Based Antioxidant Hybrid Nanocomposite‐MnFe2O4/AV for Water Treatment
Authors: Rathi Geetanjali , Singh Virendra , Chaudhry Saif Ali
Published: December 2023

The present study is focussed on the adsorptive removal of Crystal violet dye from laboratory polluted water using Alysicarpus vaginalis plant material based hybrid multifunctional nanocomposite which was prepared by following co‐precipitation method. The prepared composite MnFe2O4/AV has been characterised using FT‐IR, SEM‐EDX, TEM, XRD, BET, TGA techniques. The nanocomposite has been investigated for its antioxidant activity. The MnFe2O4/AV has been found possessing numerous functional groups on its porous surface and the sorption efficiency was evaluated in terms of parameters, such as sorbent dosage, concentration of the dye, contact time and pH of solution. The maximum adsorption capacity has been obtained as 34.211 mg g−1 and the process was found to be feasible and endothermic in nature. The data fitting showed that the sorption followed pseudo‐second order kinetics. From the sorption data fitting it was found that the sorption followed the Freundlich isotherm. Thus, the MnFe2O4/AV composite proved to be economical to synthesise which is eco‐friendly and has antioxidant ability, thus multifunctional in nature.