bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On‐farm growth performance of different strains of tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus reared in earthen ponds
Authors: Abwao Jacob , Kyule Domitila , Junga Joseph O. , Barasa James E. , Sigana Dorcus A.
Published: May 2023

The growth of aquaculture sector in Kenya has been anchored on farmed Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. Different strains of the species exist in Kenya with unknown quality due to lack of stock improvement programmes coupled by variations in breeding and management practices in different hatcheries. The seeds supplied to farmers have not exhibited good performance and resilience to changing climate. There is need to validate the quality of strains supplied to fish farmers in Kenya. This study sought to compare the growth performance of three strains of farmed Nile tilapia; Sagana strain (SAG‐F8) produced through selective breeding, super YY strain (KAM‐YY) from Kamuthanga fish farm and the local strain (LOC‐T) obtained from Siaya County. The fish were stocked in fertilised earthen ponds measuring 300 m2 in triplicates at 3 fish/m2. The fish were fed on 35% crude protein diet for 180 days at Bukani Aquapark located in Busia County, Kenya. There was no significant difference in mean weight gain (MWG) between SAG‐F8 and LOC‐T strain exhibiting 159.786 ± 6.76 g and 158.623 ± 4.67 g, respectively. However, under similar conditions, the KAM‐YY strain had a significantly lower MWG (131.74 ± 4.75 g) compared to the two strains. Food conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR) did not demonstrate any significant difference among the different strains. The body protein content in the SAG‐F8 fish strain was higher (65.40 ± 0.20%) followed by LOC‐T strain (61.23 ± 2.34%) and lastly KAM‐YY strain had the lowest (60.37 ± 0.89%). In this study, the impact of genetic improvement has been demonstrated to influence growth and feed efficiency as well as body composition. These improved strains will substantially increase fish production and productivity, hence, a positive impact on the fish farmers' livelihoods when supplied to the farmers and seed multipliers.
A call‐to‐action to assist in efforts to protect owl monkeys (Aotus spp.)
Authors: Wolovich Christy K. , Shanee Sam , Maldonado Angela M. , Méndez‐Carvajal Pedro G. , Perea‐Rodriguez Juan P. , Tabares Sebastian , Garcia de la Chica Alba , Evans Siân
Published: May 2023

The majority of the 11 species of owl monkeys (Aotus spp.) have declining populations or are listed as data deficient. Deforestation due to agriculture, development, or logging poses threats to owl monkeys throughout their range. In some areas, Aotus are hunted for bushmeat or trapped for the wildlife trade. In Colombia, the country with the greatest number of Aotus species, owl monkeys are also threatened by civil unrest. To help combat these challenges, nonprofit organizations and field researchers in habitat countries have successfully implemented a variety of conservation projects such as censusing and monitoring owl monkey populations, establishing protected areas, reforesting degraded areas, filing lawsuits to protect wild populations, helping law enforcement with environmental regulation, and promoting environmental education. We highlight some of the conservation successes and suggest actions people around the world can take to contribute to these important efforts.
A Triply [5]Helicene‐Bridged (1,3,5)Cyclophane
Authors: Aribot Frédéric , Merle Amélie , Dechambenoit Pierre , Bock Harald , Artigas Albert , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Carissan Yannick , Hagebaum‐Reignier Denis , Coquerel Yoann , Durola Fabien
Published: May 2023

A rigid propeller‐shaped conjugated triple macrocycle consisting of two nearly perfectly stacked benzene rings and three linking [5]helicene moieties has been synthesized using a glyoxylic Perkin approach. Analysis of the electron delocalization in this atypical aromatic molecule revealed global aromaticity and a 78 π‐electron circuit along the edge of its triple loop, to the detriment of the two 6 π‐electron circuits in the two stacked benzene rings.
Copper‐Catalyzed Radical Enantioselective Synthesis of γ‐Butyrolactones with Two Non‐vicinal Carbon Stereocenters
Authors: Xue Mengyu , Cui Jinfeng , Zhu Xiaotao , Wang Fei , Lv Daqi , Nie Zaicheng , Li Yajun , Bao Hongli
Published: May 2023

Chiral heterocycles with two or more carbon stereocenters are quite important skeletons in many fields. However, powerful strategies for the construction of such synthetically valuable heterocycles, especially with two or more remote carbon stereocenters, have largely lagged behind. We report here a powerful method for the synthesis of chiral γ‐butyrolactones with two non‐vicinal carbon stereocenters from readily available chemical feedstocks under mild conditions. Both of the two diastereoisomers can be obtained with good to excellent enantioselectivities. The well‐designed copper/PyBox catalytic system overrides the intrinsic stereoinduction of the close chirality center generated by the previous innocent radical addition step. Nevertheless, this work has the power to selectively provide one single diastereoisomer by taking advantage of the epimerization effect but also to synthesize all four diastereoisomers with the pair of chiral ligands L2 and L2′ having opposite chirality. The obtained useful chiral γ‐butyrolactones can be synthetically transformed into acyclic or cyclic molecules with two non‐vicinal carbon stereocenters. Mechanistic studies reveal that this radical reaction follows a linear relationship and can be well performed with a less loading amount of ligand compared to that of the copper catalyst.
Thermocatalytic Conversion of CO2 to Valuable Products Activated by Noble‐Metal‐Free Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Hou Sheng‐Li , Dong Jie , Zhao Xin‐Yuan , Li Xiang‐Shuai , Ren Fang‐Yu , Zhao Jian , Zhao Bin
Published: May 2023

Thermocatalysis of CO2 into high valuable products is an efficient and green method for mitigating global warming and other environmental problems, of which Noble‐metal‐free metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are one of the most promising heterogeneous catalysts for CO2 thermocatalysis, and many excellent researches have been published. Hence, this review focuses on the valuable products obtained from various CO2 conversion reactions catalyzed by noble‐metal‐free MOFs, such as cyclic carbonates, oxazolidinones, carboxylic acids, N‐phenylformamide, methanol, ethanol, and methane. We classified these published references according to the types of products, and analyzed the methods for improving the catalytic efficiency of MOFs in CO2 reaction. The advantages of using noble‐metal‐free MOF catalysts for CO2 conversion were also discussed along the text. This review concludes with future perspectives on the challenges to be addressed and potential research directions. We believe that this review will be helpful to readers and attract more scientists to join the topic of CO2 conversion.
A Crowning Achievement: The First Solution‐Phase Synthesis of Circumcoronenes
Authors: Gershoni‐Poranne Renana , Tsybizova Alexandra
Published: May 2023

Circumcoronene is a highly symmetric polybenzenoid hydrocarbon that has fascinated organic chemists and materials scientists for decades. However, until recently, it had only been studied theoretically, because its synthesis in solution remained challenging. In a recent report, Wu and co‐workers described the first successful solution‐phase synthesis and isolation of crystalline circumcoronene derivatives, validating the long‐predicted Clar structure. Their synthetic approach enables preparation of new polycyclic benzenoid hydrocarbons with multiple K‐regions, which are difficult to obtain, and expands our understanding of the chemistry of these systems.
Synthesis of a renewable polyamine from canola oil by photocatalyzed thiol‐ene addition of cysteamine under green conditions
Authors: Echeverri David A. , Inciarte Helen C. , Cortés Natalia , Estenoz Diana A. , Polo Mara L. , Rios Luis A.
Published: May 2023

A renewable polyamine was obtained by the photocatalyzed thiol‐ene addition of cysteamine hydrochloride (CAHC) to canola oil under mild conditions, using green solvents, a simple reaction system and a low‐power 365 UV lamp. A comparison of four different solvents was performed and the effect of one‐step and stepwise addition of CAHC to the reaction mixture was investigated. The solubilities of CAHC and oil in the solvent played a crucial role in the conversion of double bonds due to diffusion limitations and also due to changes in the opacity of the reaction mixture. Isopropanol showed a good solubility balance, dissolving well the oil and at the same time partially dissolving CAHC. During the one‐step addition of CAHC, the maximum conversions achieved were of 38.2% and 69% (in 24 h) with ethanol and isopropanol as solvents, respectively. The selectivity to the thiol‐ene product was very high with both solvents (i.e., 88%–90% at 4 h). The stepwise addition of CAHC significantly improved the double bond conversion (i.e., 93% at 24 h) using isopropanol as solvent. Finally, the polyamine was used as a comonomer in the aminolysis of a fatty cyclic carbonate affording a fully biobased elastomeric polyhydroxyurethane (PHU).
Aging characterization of different nitrile butadiene rubbers for sealing in a pneumatic system: Linking the change of the physicochemical state to the mechanical properties
Authors: Redon Adrien , Le Cam Jean‐Benoît , Robin Eric , Miroir Mathieu , Fralin Jean‐Charles
Published: May 2023

Nitrile butadiene rubbers (NBR) are widely used in sealing applications, such as O‐rings inside the pneumatic system of the French high‐speed train (TGV). In this application, a strong hardening of the NBRs alters the sealing function. Predicting the evolution of the mechanical properties during service life, especially the material hardening, is therefore a strategic issue to optimize time in maintenance operations of the TGV's pneumatic system. The main goal of this study is to reproduce the aging observed on a train's pneumatic system by performing thermo‐oxidative accelerated aging tests with different commercial nitrile rubbers at several temperatures and up to 2016 h. After achieving similar degradation to specimens aged on trains, aging mechanisms and effects have been investigated through different characterization techniques: infrared spectroscopy, swelling tests, X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and micro‐hardness measurements. The results obtained enabled us to identify and to relate aging mechanisms to aging conditions and to precisely determine and quantify the effects of physicochemical state evolution on the mechanical properties of each NBR considered. Extra crosslinks and oxidative functionalities form in the different elastomers, making them hard and brittle, and thus impacting the sealing function.
Efficient homology‐based annotation of transposable elements using minimizers
Authors: Gonzalez‐García Laura Natalia , Lozano‐Arce Daniela , Londoño Juan Pablo , Guyot Romain , Duitama Jorge
Published: May 2023

Premise

Transposable elements (TEs) make up more than half of the genomes of complex plant species and can modulate the expression of neighboring genes, producing significant variability of agronomically relevant traits. The availability of long‐read sequencing technologies allows the building of genome assemblies for plant species with large and complex genomes. Unfortunately, TE annotation currently represents a bottleneck in the annotation of genome assemblies.

Methods and Results

We present a new functionality of the Next‐Generation Sequencing Experience Platform (NGSEP) to perform efficient homology‐based TE annotation. Sequences in a reference library are treated as long reads and mapped to an input genome assembly. A hierarchical annotation is then assigned by homology using the annotation of the reference library. We tested the performance of our algorithm on genome assemblies of different plant species, including Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Coffea humblotiana, and Triticum aestivum (bread wheat). Our algorithm outperforms traditional homology‐based annotation tools in speed by a factor of three to >20, reducing the annotation time of the T. aestivum genome from months to hours, and recovering up to 80% of TEs annotated with RepeatMasker with a precision of up to 0.95.

Conclusions

NGSEP allows rapid analysis of TEs, especially in very large and TE‐rich plant genomes.
Organic Covalent Interaction‐based Frameworks as Emerging Catalysts for Environment and Energy Applications: Current Scenario and Opportunities
Authors: Rasheed Tahir , Ahmad Hassan Adeel , Ahmad Tauqir , Khan Sardaraz , Sher Farooq
Published: May 2023

The term “covalent organic framework” (COF) refers to a class of porous organic polymeric materials made from organic building blocks that have been covalently bonded. The preplanned and predetermined bonding of the monomer linkers allow them to demonstrate directional flexibility in two‐ or three‐dimensional spaces. COFs are modern materials, and the discovery of new synthesis and linking techniques has made it possible to prepare them with a variety of favorable features and use them in a range of applications. Additionally, they can be post‐synthetically altered or transformed into other materials of particular interest to produce compounds with enhanced chemical and physical properties. Because of its tunability in different chemical and physical states, post‐synthetic modifications, high stability, functionality, high porosity and ordered geometry, COFs are regarded as one of the most promising materials for catalysis and environmental applications. This study highlights the basic advancements in establishing the stable COFs structures and various post‐synthetic modification approaches. Further, the photocatalytic applications, such as organic transformations, degradation of emerging pollutants and removal of heavy metals, production of hydrogen and Conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to useful products have also been presented. Finally, the future research directions and probable outcomes have also been summarized, by focusing their promises for specialists in a variety of research fields.
Microcystins at the tap: A closer look at unregulated drinking water contaminants
Authors: Stanton Beckye , Little Amy , Miller Lisa , Solomon Gina , Ryan Sarah , Paulukonis Susan , Cajina Stefan
Published: May 2023

This case study compared microcystins in tap water from 18 public water systems (PWSs) and 46 households with private intakes or nearshore wells (called self‐supplied water systems [SSWS]) from Clear Lake, California during a major cyanobacterial bloom in 2021. Microcystin concentrations were below the US EPA health advisory (HA; 0.3 μg/L) for PWS with Clear Lake intakes and for SSWS drawing from wells. However, for SSWS with Clear Lake intakes (intake SSWS), 24 of 79 microcystin samples collected were at or above the HA (maximum 3.9 μg/L). Further, microscopy showed that 20 of 28 tap samples (post‐treatment) from intake SSWS contained either cyanobacteria or algal cells. This demonstrates that robust multi‐barrier treatment systems at PWS reliably removed microcystins, while the less sophisticated treatment systems at intake SSWS were compromised during a major cyanobacterial bloom. Intake SSWS should consider alternative sources of drinking water, including physically connecting to an adjacent PWS or drilling a well.
Mapping early serum proteome signatures of liver regeneration in living donor liver transplant cases
Authors: Carmona‐Rodríguez Lorena , Gajadhar Aaron S. , Blázquez‐García Irene , Guerrero Laura , Fernández‐Rojo Manuel A. , Uriarte Iker , Mamani‐Huanca Maricruz , López‐Gonzálvez Ángeles , Ciordia Sergio , Ramos Antonio , Herrero José Ignacio , Fernández‐Barrena Maite G. , Arechederra María , Berasain Carmen , Quiroga Jorge , Sangro Bruno , Argemi Josepmaría , Pardo Fernando , Rotellar Fernando , López Daniel , Barbas Coral , Ávila Matías A. , Corrales Fernando J.
Published: May 2023

The liver is the only solid organ capable of regenerating itself to regain 100% of its mass and function after liver injury and/or partial hepatectomy (PH). This exceptional property represents a therapeutic opportunity for severe liver disease patients. However, liver regeneration (LR) might fail due to poorly understood causes. Here, we have investigated the regulation of liver proteome and phosphoproteome at a short time after PH (9 h), to depict a detailed mechanistic background of the early LR phase. Furthermore, we analyzed the dynamic changes of the serum proteome and metabolome of healthy living donor liver transplant (LDLT) donors at different time points after surgery. The molecular profiles from both analyses were then correlated. Insulin and FXR‐FGF15/19 signaling were stimulated in mouse liver after PH, leading to the activation of the main intermediary kinases (AKT and ERK). Besides, inhibition of the hippo pathway led to an increased expression of its target genes and of one of its intermediary proteins (14‐3‐3 protein), contributing to cell proliferation. In association with these processes, metabolic reprogramming coupled to enhanced mitochondrial activity cope for the energy and biosynthetic requirements of LR. In human serum of LDLT donors, we identified 56 proteins and 13 metabolites statistically differential which recapitulate some of the main cellular processes orchestrating LR in its early phase. These results provide mechanisms and protein mediators of LR that might prove useful for the follow‐up of the regenerative process in the liver after PH as well as preventing the occurrence of complications associated with liver resection.
Response Surface Methodology‐Based Optimized Ultrasonic‐Assisted Extraction and Characterization of Selected High‐Value Components from Gemlik Olive Fruit
Authors: Ullah Sami , Anwar Farooq , Fayyaz ur Rehman Muhammad , Qadir Rahman , Safwan Akram Muhammad
Published: May 2023

This article presents an optimized ultrasound‐assisted ethanolic extraction (UAEE) and characterization of selected high‐value components from Gemlik olive fruit (GOF) harvested from Potohar region of Pakistan. Response surface methodology (RSM), involving central composite design (CCD), was applied to optimize the extraction variables i. e., temperature (25–65 °C), extraction time (15–45 min) and aqueous ethanol concentration (60–90 %) for optimal recovery of bioactives extract, total phenolic contents (TPC) and DPPH free radical scavengers. Under the optimized set of conditions such as 43 °C temperature, 32 min extraction time and 80 % aqueous ethanol, the best extract yield (218.82 mg/g), TPC (19.87 mg GAE/g) and DPPH scavenging activity (63.04 %) were recorded. A quadratic polynomial model was found to be reasonably fitted to the observed results for extract yield (p<0.0001 and R2=0.9941), TPC (p<0.0001 and R2=0.9891), and DPPH radical scavenging activity (p<0.0001 and R2=0.9692). Potent phenolic compounds were identified by GC/MS in GOF extract and considerable amount of essential fatty acids were also detected. The current findings support the use of UAEE as an effective green route for optimized recovery of high‐value components from GOF and hence its applications can be extended to functional food and nutra‐pharmaceutical developments.
Chemical Composition, Anthelmintic Activity, and Mechanism of Action of Lippia dominguensis Mold. Essential Oil on Haemonchus contortus
Authors: Espino Ureña Marcos J. , Katchborian‐Neto Albert , Trinidad Alexander Benítez , Ramírez Ramírez Maritza , Vásquez Tineo Manuel , Vilemar de Araújo‐Filho José , Ribeiro Wesley Lyeverton Correia , de Souza Collares Maia Castelo‐Branco Débora , de Oliveira Lorena Mayana Beserra , Bevilaqua Claudia Maria Leal , Chagas‐Paula Daniela Aparecida , Viegas Claudio , Marques Marcos José
Published: May 2023

Gastrointestinal nematode parasitism is a major burden to small ruminant production globally, compounded by increasing anthelmintic resistance. Previous studies have identified essential oils (EOs) from the Lippia genus with antiprotozoal and anthelmintic effects. Lippia dominguensis Moldenke (Ld), an endemic specie from the Dominican Republic, has similar popular uses, however, is chemically and pharmacologically yet uncharacterized. Here, we investigated the in vitro anthelmintic activity of LdEO and its ultrastructural effects on eggs and adult nematodes of Haemonchus contortus multidrug‐resistant isolated. The GC/MS analysis showed linalool (33.85 %), 1,8‐cineole (30.88 %), and δ‐terpineol (10.61 %) as the main EO constituents. The LdEO showed an IC50=0.523 mg/mL in the egg hatch test, and the motility in the adult worm motility test was 95.8 % at 1 mg/mL. The confocal scanning laser microscopy of eggs indicated permeabilization or disruption of egg cell membranes as the possible mechanism of action of LdEO. The scanning electron microscopy of adult worms showed wrinkling, undulations, and cuticular disruptions. The LdEO displayed significant in vitro anthelmintic activity on eggs and adult worms of H. contortus. Additionally, the LdEO showed low oral toxicity in mice at 2,000 mg/kg. Thus, additional in vivo studies are justified to determine its anthelmintic efficacy in small ruminants.
Increased cytokine levels induced by high phenylalanine concentrations in late diagnosis PKU patients compared to early diagnosis: Anti‐inflammatory effect of L‐carnitine
Authors: Faverzani Jéssica Lamberty , Hammerschmidt Tatiane Grazieli , Mescka Caroline Paula , Guerreiro Gilian , Lopes Franciele Fatima , Delgado Camila Aguilar , de Moura Coelho Daniella , Sitta Angela , Deon Marion , Wajner Moacir , Vargas Carmen Regla
Published: May 2023

Phenylketonuria (PKU) was the first genetic disease to have an effective therapy, which consists of phenylalanine intake restriction. However, there are patients who do not adhere to treatment and/or are not submitted to neonatal screening. PKU patients present L‐carnitine (L‐car) deficiency, compound that has demonstrated an antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory role in metabolic diseases. This study evaluated the effect caused by exposure time to high Phe levels in PKU patients at early and late diagnosis, through pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, as well as the L‐car effect in patients under treatment. It was observed that there was a decrease in phenylalanine levels in treated patients compared to patients at diagnosis, and an increase in L‐car levels in the patients under treatment. Inverse correlation between Phe versus L‐car and nitrate plus nitrite versus L‐car in PKU patients was also showed. We found increased proinflammatory cytokines levels: interleukin (IL)‐1β, interferons (IFN)‐gamma, IL‐2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha, IL‐8 and IL‐6 in the patients at late diagnosis compared to controls, and IL‐8 in the patients at early diagnosis and treatment compared to controls. Increased IL‐2, TNF‐alpha, IL‐6 levels in the patients at late diagnosis compared to early diagnosis were shown, and reduced IL‐6 levels in the treated patients compared to patients at late diagnosis. Moreover, it verified a negative correlation between IFN‐gamma and L‐car in treated patients. Otherwise, it was observed that there were increased IL‐4 levels in the patients at late diagnosis compared to early diagnosis, and reduction in treated patients compared to late diagnosed patients. In urine, there was an increase in 8‐isoprostane levels in the patients at diagnosis compared to controls and a decrease in oxidized guanine species in the treated patients compared to the diagnosed patients. Our results demonstrate for the first time in literature that time exposure to high Phe concentrations generates a proinflammatory status, especially in PKU patients with late diagnosis. A pro‐oxidant status was verified in not treated PKU patients. Our results demonstrate the importance of early diagnosis and prompt start of treatment, in addition to the importance of L‐car supplementation, which can improve cellular defense against inflammation and oxidative damage in PKU patients.
Expression and Characterization of a New Self‐Sufficient P450 Monooxygenase (P450 AZC1) from Azorhizobium caulinodans
Authors: Yıldırım Didem , Ozic Cem , Ensari Yunus
Published: May 2023

Oxyfunctionalization of non‐activated carbon bonds by P450 monooxygenases has drawn great industrial attraction. Self‐sufficient P450s containing catalytic heme and reductase domains in a single polypeptide chain offer many advantages since they do not require external electron transfer partners. Here, we report the first P450 enzyme identified and expressed from Azorhizobium caulinodans. Firstly, expression conditions of P450 AZC1 were optimized for enhanced expression in E.coli. The highest P450 content was obtained in E.coli Rosetta DE3 plysS when it was incubated in TB media supplemented with 0.75 mM IPTG, 0.5 mM ALA, and 0.75 mM FeCl3 at 25 °C for 24 hours. Subsequently, the purified enzyme showed a broad substrate spectrum including fatty acids, linear and cyclic alkanes, aromatics, and pharmaceuticals. Finally, P450 AZC1 showed optimal activity at pH 6.0 and 40 °C and a broad pH and temperature profile, making it a promising candidate for industrial applications.
Jointly Depleting Glutathione Based on Self‐Assembled Nanomicelles for Enhancing Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Wu Jingxi , Shang Jingjing , An Jing , Chen Wenlong , Hong Gaobo , Hou Haoran , Zheng Wen‐Heng , Song Fengling , Peng Xiaojun
Published: May 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one common ROS‐generating therapeutic method with high tumor selectivity and low side effects. But the GSH‐upregulation often alleviates its therapeutic efficiency. Here, we proposed a new strategy of jointly depleting GSH to enhance the therapeutic effect of PDT by preparing a nanomicelle by self‐assembly method from GSH‐activated photosensitizer DMT, curcumin, and amphiphilic polymer TPGS.
The contemporary role of protamine in the cardiac catheterization laboratory
Authors: Danek Barbara A. , Kearney Kathleen E. , Chung Christine J. , Steinberg Zachary , Lombardi William L. , McCabe James M. , Azzalini Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

Access to the arterial circulation and full anticoagulation carries a risk of serious bleeding during and after percutaneous coronary intervention. Important sources of bleeding include the arterial access site and coronary artery perforation. Prompt and effective management of hemorrhagic complications is an essential interventional skill. Protamine sulfate is well‐known as a heparin reversal agent. Despite this, there is heterogeneity in the use of protamine during interventional procedures. While protamine is generally well‐tolerated, it is associated with a risk of hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis, among others. The purpose of this review is to summarize the existing evidence about and experience with the use of protamine sulfate in the setting of percutaneous coronary and structural interventional procedures.
Determining the impact of genotype × environment on oat protein isolate structural and functional characteristics
Authors: Mel Roshema , Gough Kathleen M. , Nilsen Kirby T. , Beattie Aaron D. , Malalgoda Maneka
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

The effect of genotype × environment (G × E) on oat protein structural characteristics and functionality was studied using three oat genotypes grown in three different environments across the Canadian Prairies.

Findings

The protein content of oat protein isolate (OPI) ranged from 76.9% to 90.2%. All structural characteristics except protein surface hydrophobicity were significantly impacted by G × E, whereas protein surface hydrophobicity strongly depended on the growing environment. SDS‐PAGE and FT‐IR analysis demonstrated that oat protein profile and secondary structure were significantly impacted by genotype rather than environment. Cultivar Summit grown in Alberta had the highest foaming capacity which was significantly higher than Summit grown in the other environments, indicating a strong influence of environment on OPI foaming capacity.

Conclusion

The structure‐function properties of OPI extracted from the given cultivars were influenced by G × E however, further studies are needed to evaluate the stability of the tested cultivars over several years.

Significance and Novelty

Understanding how OPI structure and functional properties are influenced by G × E will allow better utilization of OPI in the food industry by facilitating the development of OPI ingredients with predictable functional properties.
Origin of the Captodative Effect: The Lone‐Pair Shielded Radical
Authors: Blokker Eva , ten Brink Martijn , van der Schuur J. Martijn , Hamlin Trevor A. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: May 2023

We have quantum chemically analyzed the origin of the captodative effect in the dimerization ofpara‐substituted phenyl dicyanomethyl radicals RPh(CN)2C⋅ in the gas phase and in solution. Captodative radicals are characterized by the presence of both, electron‐donating and electron‐withdrawing groups, and a weakening of the associated C−C bond in the dimer of these radicals. Our quantitative bonding analyses reveal that the captodative weakening of the C−C bond is the consequence of a special feature in the RPh(CN)2C⋅ electronic structure which we designate “lone‐pair shielded radical”. Solvation effects weaken the C−C bond as the radicals have a more prominent internal charge separation than the dimer and are, therefore, stabilized more than the intact dimer. Interestingly, we find that differences in solvent effects as a function of thepara‐substituent in the most prominent case arise from variations in the charge distribution in the dimer, not from that in the separate radicals which experience very similar solvation in those instances.
Bismuth Cations: Fluoride Ion Abstraction, Isocyanide Coordination, and Impact of Steric Bulk on Lewis Acidity
Authors: Dunaj Tobias , Schwarzmann Johannes , Ramler Jacqueline , Stoy Andreas , Reith Sascha , Nitzsche Joel , Völlinger Lena , von Hänisch Carsten , Lichtenberg Crispin
Published: May 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Carsten von Hänisch and Crispin Lichtenberg at the Philipps University of Marburg. The image depicts a bismuth kraken, eagerly grabbing Lewis basic substrates, thereby solving scientific puzzles about bismuth‐based Lewis acidity. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202204012.
Assessment of Clinical Response to V937 Oncolytic Virus After Intravenous or Intratumoral Administration Using Physiologically‐Based Modeling
Authors: Parra‐Guillen Zinnia P. , Sancho‐Araiz Aymara , Mayawala Kapil , Zalba Sara , Garrido Maria J. , de Alwis Dinesh , Troconiz Iñaki F. , Freshwater Tomoko
Published: May 2023

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) represent a potential therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive quantitative models characterizing clinical OV kinetics and distribution to the tumor. In this work, we present a mechanistic modeling framework for V937 OV, after intratumoral (i.t.) or intravascular (i.v.) administration in patients with cancer. A minimal physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic model was built to characterize biodistribution of OVs in humans. Viral dynamics was incorporated at the i.t. cellular level and linked to tumor response, enabling the characterization of a direct OV killing triggered by the death of infected tumor cells and an indirect killing induced by the immune response. The model provided an adequate description of changes in V937 mRNA levels and tumor size obtained from phase I/II clinical trials after V937 administration. The model showed prominent role of viral clearance from systemic circulation and infectivity in addition to known tumor aggressiveness on clinical response. After i.v. administration, i.t. exposure of V937 was predicted to be several orders of magnitude lower compared with i.t. administration. These differences could be overcome if there is high virus infectivity and/or replication. Unfortunately, the latter process could not be identified at the current clinical setting. This work provides insights on selecting optimal OV considering replication rate and infectivity.
Ultra wideband (UWB) dielectric resonator antenna using fractal‐inspired feeding mechanism
Authors: Huda Shabana , Saha Anuradha , Karmakar Anirban
Published: May 2023

This article examines a compact dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) for UWB applications. Here a composite feeding structure excites a dielectric resonator which in tern provides the resonant modes TE111, TE121, TE212, and TE222. The dielectric resonator (DR), built of alumina ceramic (εr, DR = 9.8), is mounted on a fractal triangular patch, inspired by Sierpinski Gasket. The suggested DRA is supported by a FR4 substrate (εr, sub = 4.4) and measures compactly 40 × 30 × 8.5 mm3. To confirm the results of its simulations, the proposed antenna's prototype is prepared and measured up to the second iteration. The measured outcome demonstrates that the suggested antenna has a frequency range of 3.38–10.71 GHz (104%) for S11 < −10 dB and provides a maximum gain of 7.23 dBi at 8 GHz along with highest possible simulated efficiency of 98%. The suggested DRA is appropriate for small‐range future 4G/5G UWB wireless multimedia applications due to its ultrawide bandwidth, excellent gain, reasonable efficiency, omnidirectional radiation features, and compact construction. This DRA is also suitable for repeaters of mobile and vehicular communications.
Inosine attenuates rotenone‐induced Parkinson's disease in rats by alleviating the imbalance between autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: El‐Latif Aya M. Abd , Rabie Mostafa A. , Sayed Rabab H. , Fattah Mai A. Abd El , Kenawy Sanaa A.
Published: May 2023

Growing evidence points to impaired autophagy as one of the major factors implicated in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). Autophagy is a downstream target of adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). Inosine has already demonstrated a neuroprotective effect against neuronal loss in neurodegenerative diseases, mainly due its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. We, herein, aimed at investigating the neuroprotective effects of inosine against rotenone‐induced PD in rats and to focus on the activation of AMPK‐mediated autophagy. Inosine successfully increased p‐AMPK/AMPK ratio in PD rats and improved their motor performance and muscular co‐ordination (assessed by rotarod, open field, and grip strength tests, as well as by manual gait analysis). Furthermore, inosine was able to mitigate the rotenone‐induced histopathological alterations and to restore the tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in PD rats' substantia nigra. Inosine‐induced AMPK activation resulted in an autophagy enhancement, as demonstrated by the increased striatal Unc‐S1‐like kinase1 and beclin‐1 expression, and also by the increment light chain 3II to light chain 3I ratio, along with the decline in striatal mammalian target of rapamycin and p62 protein expressions. The inosine‐induced stimulation of AMPK also attenuated neuronal apoptosis and promoted antioxidant activity. Unsurprisingly, these neuroprotective effects were antagonized by a preadministration of dorsomorphin (an AMPK inhibitor). In conclusion, inosine exerted neuroprotective effects against the rotenone‐induced neuronal loss via an AMPK activation and through the restoration of the imbalance between autophagy and apoptosis. These findings support potential application of inosine in PD treatment.
Deconvolution approach for floating wind turbines
Authors: Liu Zirui , Gaidai Oleg , Sun Jiayao , Xing Yihan
Published: May 2023

Green renewable energy is produced by floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT), a crucial component of the modern offshore wind energy industry. It is a safety concern to accurately evaluate excessive weights while the FOWT operates in adverse weather conditions. Under certain water conditions, dangerous structural bending moments may result in operational concerns. Using commercial FAST software, the study's hydrodynamic ambient wave loads were calculated and converted into FOWT structural loads. This article suggests a Monte Carlo‐based engineering technique that, depending on simulations or observations, is computationally effective for predicting extreme statistics of either the load or the response process. The innovative deconvolution technique has been thoroughly explained. The suggested approach effectively uses the entire set of data to produce a clear but accurate estimate for severe response values and fatigue life. In this study, estimated extreme values obtained using a novel deconvolution approach were compared to identical values produced using the modified Weibull technique. It is expected that the enhanced new de‐convolution methodology may offer a dependable and correct forecast of severe structural loads based on the overall performance of the advised de‐convolution approach due to environmental wave loading.
Viscoelastic boundary layer analysis of constant surface temperature plate embedded in saturated porous media
Authors: Elayyan Mutaz , Maaitah Hussein , Quran Omar , Awad Ahmad S. , Duwairi Hamzeh M.
Published: May 2023

Mathematical models and numerical solutions of Williamson fluid flow under influences of various boundary conditions provide important support to experimental studies in the solar energy field. Therefore, the present study is concerned with the effects of forced convection of the viscoelastic boundary layer on a horizontal plate embedded in saturated porous media subjected to constant surface temperature. The study explores the profiles of shear stress, velocity, temperature, and heat transfer coefficient. The governing equations in nondimensional forms are obtained by using a model of Darcy–Forchheimer–Brinkman and finally are solved numerically by using bvp4c with MATLAB package. The results of the numerical solution show an insignificant rise in the distribution of the velocity boundary layer and shear stress profile as the Darcy parameter is increased, while a decrease in the temperature and Nusselt numbers are found. On the other hand, as the viscoelastic parameter is increased, the Darcy parameter shows a reverse response. Finally, insignificant increases in profiles of boundary layer velocity, temperature, shear stress, and Nusselt number are observed at high values of the Forchheimer number.
Intraoperative ultrasound assessment of ureteral patency after uterosacral ligaments apical suspension for prolapse surgical repair: A feasibility study
Authors: Frigerio Matteo , Barba Marta , Marino Giuseppe , Volontè Silvia , Cola Alice
Published: May 2023

Objective

To prospectively compare power Doppler ultrasound diagnostic performance with reference standard cystoscopy in evaluating ureteral patency in a population at high risk of ureteral lesions.

Methods

We analyzed 100 women who underwent pelvic organ prolapse repair. All ultrasound scans were obtained, at the end of the procedures, before cystoscopic evaluation. Bilateral simultaneous ureteral jet evaluation with power Doppler was performed at the level of the ureterovesical junctions with a pulse repetition frequency set to detect low flow for a maximum of 3 min.

Results

According to the reference standard urethrocystoscopy, at least one ureter not ejaculating was observed in 6% of patients, for a total of seven ureters jets not visualized. No false‐negative results were obtained. Ultrasound with power Doppler showed 100% sensitivity and 95.9% specificity in detecting the lack of ureteral jet. The negative predictive value was 100%, and the positive predictive value was 46.7%.

Conclusions

Ultrasound with power Doppler represents an effective and reliable non‐invasive screening test to exclude ureteral kinking and reduce the need for intraoperative cystoscopy.
The mitochondrial gene COI reveals the origin of the introduction of Platanichthys platana (Regan, 1917) (Clupeiformes, Clupeidae) in a neotropical floodplain
Authors: Ramos Laura I. , Scorsim Bárbara , Pavanelli Carla S. , de Oliveira Alessandra V.
Published: May 2023

The first records of Platanichthys platana in the upper Rio Paraná floodplain (URPF) date to 2012, but variations in the body length of specimens collected from this basin have since generated uncertainty about their identity and origin of introduction. This study aimed to genetically characterize populations of P. platana in different river basins, assess haplotype diversity, and determine the origin of the introduced population in the URPF. Sequences from the COI region were used to calculate genetic distances, construct gene trees, and identify haplotype networks. Eight haplotypes were found, several of which were exclusive to the coastal basins of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, and the Río Negro basin (Río Yí). The Río de La Plata and Mar Chiquita basins, and upper Rio Paraná floodplain shared haplotypes. Based on the results of our analysis, we concluded that the URPF specimens were introduced from populations in Argentina.
Feeder cattle genomic tests: Analyzing cattle producer adoption decisions
Authors: DeLong Karen L. , Jensen Kimberly L. , Griffith Andrew P. , Boyer Christopher N. , Martinez Charley C.
Published: May 2023

Genomic tests (GTs) provide information about the expected performance of cattle. Cattle producer survey results indicated that 56% of producers were interested in using GTs for marketing cattle and 74% would use GTs to select replacement heifers. If interested in using GTs to market cattle, on average, producers indicated they were willing to pay $21/head and test 55% of their animals. For replacement heifers, on average, they were willing to pay $23/head and test 77% of their heifers. A conditional mixed process regression framework found producer characteristics and risk preferences were associated with the decisions involved in using GTs.
Research and scholarly methods: Thematic analysis
Authors: Cernasev Alina , Axon David R.
Published: May 2023

Thematic analysis (TA) is a commonly used approach in qualitative research. TA has been widely applied in various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, and anthropology, and is now increasingly employed in pharmacy and healthcare research. However, pharmacy researchers may not be familiar with TA. The objectives of this manuscript are to succinctly describe the process for TA explained through the six steps of Braun and Clark as it applies to pharmacy or healthcare‐related research, discuss how rigor is achieved in qualitative studies, provide an overview of the qualitative software that is available to assist with TA, and offer comparisons to quantitative analysis where appropriate to demonstrate the contrast with qualitative techniques such as TA.
Label‐free histological analysis of retrieved thrombi in acute ischemic stroke using optical diffraction tomography and deep learning
Authors: Chung Yoonjae , Kim Geon , Moon Ah‐Rim , Ryu DongHun , Hugonnet Herve , Lee Mahn Jae , Shin DongSeong , Lee Seung‐Jae , Lee Eek‐Sung , Park YongKeun
Published: May 2023

For patients with acute ischemic stroke, histological quantification of thrombus composition provides evidence for determining appropriate treatment. However, the traditional manual segmentation of stained thrombi is laborious and inconsistent. In this study, we propose a label‐free method that combines optical diffraction tomography (ODT) and deep learning (DL) to automate the histological quantification process. The DL model classifies ODT image patches with 95% accuracy, and the collective prediction generates a whole‐slide map of red blood cells and fibrin. The resulting whole‐slide composition displays an average error of 1.1% and does not experience staining variability, facilitating faster analysis with reduced labor. The present approach will enable rapid and quantitative evaluation of blood clot composition, expediting the preclinical research and diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.
Luxury is what you say: Analyzing electronic word‐of‐mouth marketing of luxury products using artificial intelligence and machine learning
Authors: Oc Yusuf , Plangger Kirk , Sands Sean , Campbell Colin L. , Pitt Leyland
Published: May 2023

Many luxury brands are investing heavily in creating dynamic video content to actively engage consumers. While it is straightforward to calculate the views or “likes” from a particular campaign to benchmark performance, analyzing consumers' comments on luxury brands' dynamic video content presents a challenge due to the unstructured nature of natural language and large comment volumes. Previous studies utilizing machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) have not adequately examined the impact of brand types, brand luxuriousness, and consumer diversity. To address this research gap, this article tests a conceptual framework with over 29,000 comments from 88 YouTube campaigns for nine luxury brands using a combination of automatic text and image analyses. The results indicate significant differences in comments' psycholinguistic nature depending on the brand's luxuriousness (premium, prestige, and exquisite) and Copelandian classification (convenience, shopping, and specialty), as well as consumers' demographic characteristics (age, gender, and ethnicity). These findings suggest that brand managers can use machine learning and AI methods to better tailor dynamic content creation to further engage diverse target segments by refining the campaign message to encourage additional engagement.
MHA releases analysis of online MH screening results
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2023

Observing that May is Mental Health Awareness Month, Mental Health America (MHA) released an analysis of its online mental health screens taken in 2022. More than 6.3 million people worldwide last year used the online screening program, representing a nearly 138% increase from 2020 and a 19% increase from 2021.
Multiple control of thermoelectric dual‐function metamaterials
Authors: Zhuang Pengfei , Huang Jiping
Published: May 2023

Thermal metamaterials based on transformation theory offer a practical design for controlling heat flow by engineering spatial distributions of material parameters, implementing interesting functions such as cloaking, concentrating, and rotating. However, most existing designs are limited to serving a single target function within a given physical domain. Here, we analytically prove the form invariance of thermoelectric (TE) governing equations, ensuring precise controls of the thermal flux and electric current. Then, we propose a dual‐function metamaterial that can concentrate (or cloak) and rotate the TE field simultaneously. In addition, we introduce two practical control methods to realize corresponding functions: one is a temperature‐switching TE rotating concentrator cloak that can switch between cloaking and concentrating; the other is an electrically controlled TE rotating concentrator that can handle the temperature field precisely by adjusting external voltages. The theoretical predictions and finite‐element simulations agree well with each other. This work provides a unified framework for manipulating the direction and density of the TE field simultaneously and may contribute to the study of thermal management, such as thermal rectification and thermal diodes.