bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of the E3 ubiquitin–protein ligase UBR7 of Frankliniella occidentalis on the ability of insects to acquire and transmit TSWV
Authors: Shi Junxia , Zhou Junxian , Jiang Fan , Li Zhihong , Zhu Shuifang
Published: May 2023

The interactions between plant viruses and insect vectors are very complex. In recent years, RNA sequencing data have been used to elucidate critical genes of Tomato spotted wilt ortho-tospovirus (TSWV) and Frankliniella occidentalis (F. occidentalis). However, very little is known about the essential genes involved in thrips acquisition and transmission of TSWV. Based on transcriptome data of F. occidentalis infected with TSWV, we verified the complete sequence of the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase UBR7 gene (UBR7), which is closely related to virus transmission. Additionally, we found that UBR7 belongs to the E3 ubiquitin–protein ligase family that is highly expressed in adulthood in F. occidentalis. UBR7 could interfere with virus replication and thus affect the transmission efficiency of F. occidentalis. With low URB7 expression, TSWV transmission efficiency decreased, while TSWV acquisition efficiency was unaffected. Moreover, the direct interaction between UBR7 and the nucleocapsid (N) protein of TSWV was investigated through surface plasmon resonance and GST pull-down. In conclusion, we found that UBR7 is a crucial protein for TSWV transmission by F. occidentalis, as it directly interacts with TSWV N. This study provides a new direction for developing green pesticides targeting E3 ubiquitin to control TSWV and F. occidentalis.
Transferências voluntárias: impactos e benefícios para o município de Primavera de Rondônia no período de 2017 a 2022
Authors: Fernandes Roger André , Arenas Marlene Valério dos Santos , De Souza Valmir Batista Prestes , Costa Leonardo Pastorin Vieira , Nascimento Natália Talita Araújo
Published: May 2023

O presente artigo se pauta em referências teóricas e metodológicas oriundas de pesquisa documental básica que se aprofunda na temática sobre transferências voluntárias, adotando como fundamento principal a Lei Complementar nº 101/2000 (Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal - LRF), que estabelece normas de finanças públicas voltadas para a responsabilidade na gestão fiscal. Buscou-se analisar os repasses por meio de transferências voluntárias, mediante identificação de impactos e áreas atendidas por estes recursos. Adotou-se como objeto de estudo o munícipio rondoniense de Primavera de Rondônia, buscando-se responder ao seguinte problema: Quais os efeitos ocasionados pelos repasses da União ao município Primavera de Rondônia em relação ao planejamento e orçamento público deste ente subnacional? Em relação à metodologia, é uma pesquisa descritiva com natureza quali-quantitativa e método subsidiado pela investigação documental. Como resultados, constatou-se que os efeitos ocasionados pelos repasses da União ao município Primavera de Rondônia em relação ao planejamento e orçamento público são positivos e necessários à manutenção e crescimento deste ente subnacional. Evidenciou-se que devido à baixa arrecadação interna, o município encontra-se dependente desse tipo de repasse. Os dados permitiram atestar que as transferências voluntárias, em especial para os pequenos municípios, são essenciais para a elaboração de políticas públicas de mobilidade, infraestrutura, esporte e lazer, face a limitação de receita própria e a incapacidade do pacto federativo de redistribuir adequadamente o fruto da arrecadação pública.
The Level of Technology Utilization in the Dissemination of Market Information to Smallholder Vegetable Farmers of Vihiga County, Kenya
Authors: Abdi Halima , Wakhungu Jacob W.
Published: May 2023

Aims: To investigate the level of information and communication technology used in the dissemination of market information to vegetable farmers of Vihiga County, Kenya.

Study Design: The study used a correlational research design to investigate the relationship between ICT tools and vegetable farmers concerning the dissemination of market information.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Agribusiness and Extension Management (ABE)- Operational, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, between March 2022 and August 2022.

Methodology: We included 568 smallholder vegetable farmers (356 women, 212 men; age range 18-50 years) with the ability to produce and sell vegetables in respective local markets. Cross-tabulation was administered to generate information about the association between the dependent and independent variables.

Results: The findings indicated the availability of ICT tools such as radios, TV, mobile phones, and cyber cafes in the county. However, the use of ICT in vegetable farming was found to be limited to Radio, with 135(49.1%) of the respondents reporting owning one. This limitation contributed to the absence of market information on other ICT platforms. Still, Chi-square analysis established that ICT use in the dissemination of market information was statistically significant at P-value=0.000, with a 5% level of significance.

Conclusion: There was a positive correlation between ICT use in the dissemination of market information, and improved returns from the sale.
The Effect of Extract Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Spermatozoa Motility in Fresh Semen of Goats
Authors: Sitepu Sukma Aditya , Marisa Julia , Farid Muhammad Miftah
Published: May 2023

Aims: Determine the motility of spermatozoa in fresh goat semen after being given turmeric extract.

Study Design:  Randomized Block Design.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Galang, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia, between December 2022 and January 2023.

Methodology: Giving turmeric extract to the goat once a day. The treatment included adding 0ml, 25 ml, 50 ml, 75 ml, and 100 ml turmeric extract. The parameter observed was the percentage of motility spermatozoa in fresh goats semen. The preparation of turmeric extract, Feeding goats using turmeric extract every day at 08.00, collection of fresh semen, evaluating motility spermatozoa. This  research obtained  conducted  using  a  Randomized  Block  Design  consisting  of  5  treatment  levels  and  five replications. Semen storage using 30 Bucks, which has done for three days.

Results: The addition of turmeric extract 0 ml showed an motility value of 65%, 25 ml = 70%, 50 ml = 75%, 75 ml = 75% and 100 ml = 75%. The analysis of variance showed that the results give a real impact on the motility of spermatozoa. The results showed that the addition of turmeric extract had significant effect (P <0.01).

Conclusion: Adding 50 ml of turmeric extract was the best result on spermatozoa motility in fresh goat semen.
A Numerical Approximation on Black-Scholes Equation of Option Pricing
Authors: Christain Onugu, , Iyai Davies, , Uchenna Amad, Innocent
Published: May 2023

This paper considered the notion of European option which is geared towards solving analytical and numerical solutions. In particular, we examined the Black-Scholes closed form solution and modified Black-Scholes (MBS) partial differential equation using Crank-Nicolson finite difference method. These partial differential equations were approximated to obtain Call and Put option prices. The explicit price of both options is found accordingly. The numerical solutions were compared to the closed form prices of Black-Scholes formula. More so, comparisons of other parameters were discussed for the purpose of investment plans. The computational results shows: increase in stock volatility increases the value of options, when the initial stock price is equal to its strike price the values of call option is higher than the put option. This informs the investor about the behavior of stock prices for the purpose of decision making.  Finally, all simulation results presented graphically using MATLAB.
Artificial Propagation of Indigenous Ornamental Fish Species via Nutritional Manipulation for Stock Enhancement and Conservation as a Step towards Environmental Sustainability: A Review
Authors: Marbaniang Banlam J. , Sawant Krupesh , Dhar Venerability , Prakashbhai H. Reena , Dohtdong Naisabet , Pawar Lokesh , Malla Supratim
Published: May 2023

Indigenous flora and fauna of a particular habitat greatly impacts the environment in maintaining an ecological balance and equilibrium for the normal functioning of the ecosystem as a whole. Native fishes play a major role and holds a major niche in the ecosystem which needs attention at the moment for their conservation and protection, failure of which may prove to be detrimental to the environment. The rapid developmental activities and industrialization taking place currently are leaving a negative impact upon the natural ecosystem. These activities are a major reason for loss of habitat, deterioration, pollution, and degradation. The ornamental fish industry is a budding industry in India and the indigenous fish fauna of the country offers a good market but unfortunately, so far, the requirements and demand are fulfilled from the natural stock through manual collection. Rigorous exploitation of these species may result into loss of species diversity or reduction of stock, provided, anthropogenic causes necessitated by development and industrialization are already acting upon the ecosystem. Therefore, in this review we will discuss the implementation of captive breeding techniques through nutritional manipulation for fish species so that the wild stock is not made vulnerable and instead, the same shall be enhanced through ranching. Though this technique offers certain limitations such as genetical quality compromise, inferior breeding performance etc., nevertheless it still is a major tool in conservational biology. The review will provide insights to researchers on how to achieve captive breeding success by manipulating nutritional component in fishes and eventually with the information made available in this document certain practical implementations may be necessitated which will help us move closer to the broader aspect of biodiversity conservation and sustainability.
In vitro and in vivo Antitrypanosomal Activities of Annona muricata Leaf Extracts in Trypanosoma brucei brucei Experimentally Infected Albino Rats
Authors: Osho Innocent Bamidele , Durojaye Catherine Olusunmibola
Published: May 2023

Aims: Trypanosomiasis is an important protozoan disease that affects domestic and wild animals as well as man. It is caused by the tsetse fly-transmitted extracellular hemo-flagellates that belong to the genus, Trypanosoma. In East and Southern Africa, Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) is caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense while in West and Central Africa, it is caused by T. b. gambiense. Animal trypanosomiasis on the other hand is caused by T. b. brucei, T. vivax, and T. congolense. In sub-Saharan Africa, about sixty million people are at risk of infection. This current study evaluates the antitrypanosomal efficacy of extracts of Annona muricata leaf in Trypanosoma brucei brucei infected albino rats.

Place and Duration of Study: Animal Parasitology and Microbiology Research Unit, Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, between February and June, 2021.

Methodology: In vitro antitrypanosomal analysis was done in varied concentrations of 2.5mg/ml, 5mg/ml and 10mg/ml using various solvent extracts (ethanolic, ethyl acetate, n-hexane, chloroform and aqueous). Diminazine aceturate and normal saline were used as positive and negative controls respectively. The In vivo assay was carried out through intraperitoneal administration of graded doses (200, 400 and 600mg/kg) of ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts of the plant for three consecutive days.

Results: The n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts yielded high percentage DPPH free radical scavenging activity of 85.52, 80.00 and 78.49% respectively. Decrease in motility of the parasites at different times were observed in all extracts tested invitro. These responses were positively concentration-dependent. 10mg/ml concentration of chloroform and ethyl acetate showed complete cessation of parasite motility at 35 and 45 minutes respectively. These two extracts (ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts) which showed the best invitro responses, were subjected to invivo analysis. Both extracts caused decrease in trypanosome parasitemia and prolongation of mean survival days of the rats to 14.67days as compared with 6.83days in the negative control group. The extracts displayed dose-dependent significant (p ≤ 0.05) antitrypanosomal activities when compared with the negative and positive controls.

Conclusion: The chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts of Annona muricata showed a relatively higher antitrypanosomal activity over other solvent extracts used in this study. Further fractionation, purification and isolation should be done to confirm the active components in this plant that is responsible for the antitrypanosomal activities recorded.
Internal Flow Heat Transfer Rate for Parallel Heat Exchanger Pipes One Pass of Rice Husk to Air
Authors: Alit Ida Bagus , Susana I. Gede Bawa
Published: May 2023

The research was conducted to analyze the heat transfer rate of heat exchangers from black steel pipes with rice husk as an energy source. This can be used as a recommendation to replace solar energy in the post-harvest drying process, especially for small farmers in rural areas. Research by converting rice husk biomass into heat energy using a heat exchanger of black steel pipes arranged parallel to one air fluid flow. Heat exchanger pipes are placed inside the furnace with dimensions of 50 cm x 50 cm x 80 cm. Forced convection is applied through a fan placed in the drying chamber with a constant speed of 2 m/s. It was found that the ambient temperature increased by an average of 11.70% without adding rice husk mass during the test. The average ambient temperature (Ti) is 305.10 K and ranges from 300.60 to 307.40 K which can be increased to (To) 340.80 K with a range of 317.25 to 366.30 K. This temperature is the out the heat exchanger pipes that can be used for the drying process. The value of the heat transfer rate reached an average of 39.19 W with a range of 18.62-63.19 W. The pattern of distribution of heat transfer rates follows the trend of temperature distribution. It was found that when rice husk turns into charcoal it causes a high heat transfer rate. High heat transfer rates are needed in the drying process of a product so that the required time is shorter and optimal. In addition, rice husk biomass can be used as alternative energy because it is easy to obtain, especially in agricultural areas that grow rice.
Diagnosis and Management of Cirrhosis and Its Complications
Authors: Tapper Elliot B. , Parikh Neehar D.
Published: May 2023

Importance

Cirrhosis affects approximately 2.2 million adults in the US. From 2010 to 2021, the annual age-adjusted mortality of cirrhosis increased from 14.9 per 100 000 to 21.9 per 100 000 people.

Observations

The most common causes of cirrhosis in the US, which can overlap, include alcohol use disorder (approximately 45% of all cases of cirrhosis), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (26%), and hepatitis C (41%). Patients with cirrhosis experience symptoms including muscle cramps (approximately 64% prevalence), pruritus (39%), poor-quality sleep (63%), and sexual dysfunction (53%). Cirrhosis can be diagnosed by liver biopsy but may also be diagnosed noninvasively. Elastography, a noninvasive assessment of liver stiffness measured in kilopascals, can typically confirm cirrhosis at levels of 15 kPa or greater. Approximately 40% of people with cirrhosis are diagnosed when they present with complications such as hepatic encephalopathy or ascites. The median survival time following onset of hepatic encephalopathy and ascites is 0.92 and 1.1 years, respectively. Among people with ascites, the annual incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is 11% and of hepatorenal syndrome is 8%; the latter is associated with a median survival of less than 2 weeks. Approximately 1% to 4% of patients with cirrhosis develop hepatocellular carcinoma each year, which is associated with a 5-year survival of approximately 20%. In a 3-year randomized clinical trial of 201 patients with portal hypertension, nonselective β-blockers (carvedilol or propranolol) reduced the risk of decompensation or death compared with placebo (16% vs 27%). Compared with sequential initiation, combination aldosterone antagonist and loop diuretics were more likely to resolve ascites (76% vs 56%) with lower rates of hyperkalemia (4% vs 18%). In meta-analyses of randomized trials, lactulose was associated with reduced mortality relative to placebo (8.5% vs 14%) in randomized trials involving 705 patients and reduced risk of recurrent overt hepatic encephalopathy (25.5% vs 46.8%) in randomized trials involving 1415 patients. In a randomized clinical trial of 300 patients, terlipressin improved the rate of reversal of hepatorenal syndrome from 39% to 18%. Trials addressing symptoms of cirrhosis have demonstrated efficacy for hydroxyzine in improving sleep dysfunction, pickle brine and taurine for reducing muscle cramps, and tadalafil for improving sexual dysfunction in men.

Conclusions and Relevance

Approximately 2.2 million US adults have cirrhosis. Many symptoms, such as muscle cramps, poor-quality sleep, pruritus, and sexual dysfunction, are common and treatable. First-line therapies include carvedilol or propranolol to prevent variceal bleeding, lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy, combination aldosterone antagonists and loop diuretics for ascites, and terlipressin for hepatorenal syndrome.
Specificity models in MAPK cascade signaling
Authors: Ma Yan , Nicolet Jade
Published: May 2023

The precise execution of various cellular functions relies on the maintenance of signaling specificity from input detection to cellular outputs. However, diverse signaling pathways share similar or identical intermediate components. A well‐conserved intermediate, the Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) cascade, participates in a myriad of signaling pathways, regulating signal transduction from input to output. This typifies the “hourglass conundrum”, where a multitude of inputs and outputs all operate through a limited number of common intermediates. Therefore, understanding how MAPK cascades regulate a variety of outputs with specificity is a fundamental question in biology. This review highlights four major insulating mechanisms that improve signaling specificity: selective activation, compartmentalization, combinatorial signaling, and cross‐pathway inhibition. We focus on plant pathways that share MAPK cascade components and compare mechanisms with those of animals and yeast. We hope this conceptual overview will aid future studies to better understand plant signaling specificity.
The Synergistic Effects of Boron and Impression Creep Testing during Paced Controlling of Temperature for P91 Steels
Authors: Akhtar Modassir , Khajuria Akhil
Published: May 2023

This article induces the quadruple knowledge on effects of 100 ppm (P91B) and 22 ppm (P91) boron in as‐received 9Cr steels in normalized and tempered conditions (NT) and impression crept conditions (ICC). Herein, impression creep testing is improved through paced temperature to fast evaluate creep performance. P91B performs the utmost by advancing activation energy and 30% better creep life, leading to same targeted creep life to 574 °C than P91 at 550 °C. Further, it incisively discusses variations in microstructure, precipitate size, geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs), pseudo‐rocking curve, grain size (GS), several types of grain boundaries (GBs), effective GB energy, and elastic stiffness. Novel phenomenological mechanisms like GB hardening/softening; antithetical mechanisms; boron‐dependent mosaicity; grain refinement/fragmentation/coarsening/homogenization; interaction among various types of GBs, triggering re/degeneration of dislocations and Σ boundaries as Σ reactions; super‐continuous and geometric dynamic recrystallizations; enhanced creep immunity of like‐oriented GBs than unlike oriented GBs; primary/secondary recrystallization; specialness; boron/NT/ICC‐dependent stiffness; high stiffness is dependent on low GNDs and big GS, and vice versa are observed. The synergistic effects of [100 ppm boron in NT/ICC] and ICC in manifestation of 22/100 ppm boron are ascertained. However, dependency [proportionally and antithetically] and independency of GB character on creep‐microstructural reciprocity discourse and converse into the mathematical relationship.
Response Speed‐Tunable Photodetectors Based on Hybrid Ternary FePSe3 Nanoflakes
Authors: Han Xu , Xu Guangyuan , Xing Jie , Song Yangpeng , Sun Zhenyu , Rong Dongke , Ma Fangyuan , Guo Zihao , Feng Baojie , Guo Jian‐gang , Xu Xiaolong , Wang Yeliang , Dai Yunyun , Huang Yuan
Published: May 2023

The layered metal phosphorus trichalcogenides (MPTs) are a newly emerging van der Waals material family with bandgaps ranging from 1.3 to 3.5 eV, which are promising candidates for optoelectronic devices. By using the excited multiple energy levels of FePSe3, a high‐performance FePSe3 photodetector, which shows tunable response speed in the range of ultraviolet (UV) to near‐infrared (NIR), is designed. The FePSe3 photodetector exhibits a high photoresponsivity of 236.18 A·W−1 under 532 nm laser illumination (laser power density P = 1 mW cm−2). The properties of FePSe3 can be modulated by oxygen plasma treatment, which transfer to oxygen‐doped FePSe3 (FePSe3‐O). Moreover, the speed of the FePSe3‐O photodetector can be improved more than 240 times compared to the intrinsic FePSe3 photodetector under NIR illumination (λ = 808 nm). In addition, the FePSe3‐graphene heterojunction can significantly improve the photoresponsivity and simultaneously prolong the response time of the device due to the FePSe3/graphene interfacial barrier. These results suggest that intrinsic, doped FePSe3 and its heterojunction can be used as multifunctional photodetectors with tunable response speeds.
The c‐Src/LIST Positive Feedback Loop Sustains Tumor Progression and Chemoresistance
Authors: Wang Xianteng , Wang Bing , Li Fang , Li Xingkai , Guo Ting , Gao Yushun , Wang Dawei , Huang Weiren
Published: May 2023

Chemotherapy resistance and treatment failure hinder clinical cancer treatment. Src, the first mammalian proto‐oncogene to be discovered, is a valuable anti‐cancer therapeutic target. Although several c‐Src inhibitors have reached the clinical stage, drug resistance remains a challenge during treatment. Herein, a positive feedback loop between a previously uncharacterized long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA), which the authors renamed lncRNA‐inducing c‐Src tumor‐promoting function (LIST), and c‐Src is uncovered. LIST directly binds to and regulates the Y530 phosphorylation activity of c‐Src. As a c‐Src agonist, LIST promotes tumor chemoresistance and progression in vitro and in vivo in multiple cancer types. c‐Src can positively regulate LIST transcription by activating the NF‐κB signaling pathway and then recruiting the P65 transcription factor to the LIST promoter. Interestingly, the LIST/c‐Src interaction is associated with evolutionary new variations of c‐Src. It is proposed that the human‐specific LIST/c‐Src axis renders an extra layer of control over c‐Src activity. Additionally, the LIST/c‐Src axis is of high physiological relevance in cancer and may be a valuable prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target.
Sandwich‐Structured Implants to Obstruct Multipath Energy Supply and Trigger Self‐Enhanced Hypoxia‐Initiated Chemotherapy Against Postsurgical Tumor Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Fang Youqiang , Luo Xing , Xu Yanteng , Liu Zheng , Mintz Rachel L. , Yu Haiyang , Yu Xuan , Li Kai , Ju Enguo , Wang Haixia , Tang Zhaohui , Tao Yu , Li Mingqiang
Published: May 2023

As a currently common strategy to treat cancer, surgical resection may cause tumor recurrence and metastasis due to residual postoperative tumors. Herein, an implantable sandwich‐structured dual‐drug depot is developed to trigger a self‐intensified starvation therapy and hypoxia‐induced chemotherapy sequentially. The two outer layers are 3D‐printed using a calcium‐crosslinked mixture ink containing soy protein isolate, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium alginate, and combretastatin A4 phosphate (CA4P). The inner layer is one patch of poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)‐based electrospun fibers loaded with tirapazamine (TPZ). The preferentially released CA4P destroys the preexisting blood vessels and prevents neovascularization, which obstructs the external energy supply to cancer cells but aggravates hypoxic condition. The subsequently released TPZ is bioreduced to cytotoxic benzotriazinyl under hypoxia, further damaging DNA, generating reactive oxygen species, disrupting mitochondria, and downregulating hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α, vascular endothelial growth factor, and matrix metalloproteinase 9. Together these processes induce apoptosis, block the intracellular energy supply, counteract the disadvantage of CA4P in favoring intratumor angiogenesis, and suppress tumor metastasis. The in vivo and in vitro results and the transcriptome analysis demonstrate that the postsurgical adjuvant treatment with the dual‐drug‐loaded sandwich‐like implants efficiently inhibits tumor recurrence and metastasis, showing great potential for clinical translation.
Linking glucocorticoid variations to monthly and daily behavior in a wild endangered neotropical primate
Authors: Kaisin Olivier , Bufalo Felipe , Amaral Rodrigo , Palme Rupert , Poncin Pascal , Brotcorne Fany , Culot Laurence
Published: May 2023

Identifying the factors swaying physiological stress levels in wild animals can help depict how they cope with environmental and social stressors, shedding light on their feeding ecology, behavioral plasticity, and adaptability. Here, we used noninvasive methods to explore the link between glucocorticoid levels and behavior in an endangered neotropical primate facing habitat fragmentation pressure, the black lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus). We investigated monthly and day‐to‐day glucocorticoid variations independently to attempt to disentangle the complex nature of the adrenocortical activity. Between May 2019 to March 2020, we followed two groups of black lion tamarins in two different areas, a continuous forest and a small fragment, and gathered behavioral data (over 95 days in total; 8.6 ± 3.9 days/month) and fecal samples (Nsamples = 468; 4.93 ± 3.5 samples/day) simultaneously. Preliminary analyses enabled us to identify circadian variations linked to the biological rhythm, which were taken into account in subsequent models. Monthly analyses revealed that black lion tamarin fecal glucocorticoid metabolite levels vary according to changes in activity budget associated with the fruit consumption, movement, and resting time of the groups. At a day‐to‐day level, while intergroup encounters led to increases in fecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations, we found that changes in food intake or activity level did not trigger physiological stress responses. These findings suggest that diet and ranging patterns, driven by food availability and distribution, influence physiological stress at a seasonal scale, while acute stressors such as interspecific competition trigger short‐term stress responses. Exploring fecal glucocorticoid metabolite variations over different timescales can help uncover the predictive and reactive facets of physiological stress in wild species. Moreover, having a comprehensive understanding of the physiological state of species is a valuable conservation tool for evaluating how they cope in changing environments.
Chemoselective α‐Alkylation of Nitriles with Primary Alcohols by Manganese(I)‐Catalysis
Authors: Bera Krishanu , Mukherjee Arup
Published: May 2023

A sustainable and easy‐to‐use protocol for the alkylation of aryl nitriles with the earth‐abundant manganese(I) catalyst is presented. The alkylation reaction employs readily available nitriles and naturally abundant alcohols as the coupling partners. The reaction proceeds chemoselectively and encompasses a broad substrate scope with good to excellent yields. The catalytic reaction yields selectively α‐branched nitriles and water as the sole byproduct. Experimental studies were executed to understand the mechanism of the catalytic reaction.
Does desegregation matter? A comparative study of school‐based social capital for university‐bound minority students in segregated and desegregated school contexts of Hong Kong
Authors: Gao Fang
Published: May 2023

Despite national policies, de facto school segregation for racial/ethnic minority students in the West and East has continued to deepen. In Hong Kong, the segregated school system was abolished in 2013, while from 2004 reformed School Places Allocation Systems encouraged minority students to choose mainstream primary and secondary schools. However, de facto ethnicity‐based school segregation continues to prevail. Most minority students in the mainstream system are stuck in low‐status schools where they face discrimination and institutional exclusion. This has led many of them to retreat to a limited number of schools that have traditionally catered for minority communities. Such segregation calls forth scholarly attention to the paradoxical correlation between the physical mixing of diverse students and equality of educational opportunity, especially equal access to post‐secondary education (PSE)—a key for minority youth to function in the competitive labour market. This study employed the theory of school‐based social capital (SBSC) and compared the ways in which PSE‐relevant institutional resources and support were rationalised and enacted by staff in de facto segregated and desegregated school contexts. Case studies of two secondary schools lead us to argue that desegregation is only effective when institutional structure, culture and agents empower minority students through access to instrumental resources and support for the pursuit of PSE. The findings confound the desegregation policy and call for structural/institutional interventions to ensure instrumental SBSC is accessible to PSE‐bound minority students in all schools, and thus increase the effectiveness of school desegregation.
Excision of mesenteric lymph nodes alters gut microbiota and impairs social dominance in adult mice
Authors: Yang Rui , Huang Bo‐Ya , Wang Yu‐Ning , Meng Qian , Guo Yi , Wang Shuang , Yin Xue‐Yong , Feng Hao , Gong Miao , Wang Sheng , Niu Chun‐Yu , Shi Yun , Shi Hai‐Shui
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) are central in immune anatomy. MLNs are associated with the composition of gut microbiota, affecting the central system and immune system. Gut microbiota was found to differ among individuals of different social hierarchies. Nowadays, excision of MLNs is more frequently involved in gastrointestinal surgery; however, the potential side effects of excision of MLNs on social dominance are still unknown.

Methods

MLNs were removed from male mice (7–8 weeks old). Four weeks after MLN removal, social dominance test was performed to investigate social dominance; hippocampal and serum interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐10, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) were investigated; and histopathology was used to evaluate local inflammation of the ileum. The composition of the gut microbiota was then examined to understand the possible mechanism, and finally intraperitoneal injection of IL‐10 was used to validate the effect of IL‐10 on social dominance.

Results

There was a decrease in social dominance in the operation group compared to the control group, as well as a decrease in serum and hippocampal IL‐10 levels, but no difference in serum and hippocampal IL‐1β and TNF‐α levels, and no local inflammation of the ileum after MLN removal. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that the relative abundance of the class Clostridia was decreased in the operation group. This decrease was positively associated with serum IL‐10 levels. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of IL‐10 in a subset of mice increased social dominance.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that MLNs contributed to maintaining social dominance, which might be associated with reduced IL‐10 and the imbalance of specific flora in gut microbiota.
p‐Chloropropynyl Phenylalanine, a Versatile Non‐Canonical Amino Acid for Co‐Translational Peptide Macrocyclization and Side Chain Diversification
Authors: Osorio Franco H. Estheban , Le Anthony V. , Chang Nathan Y. , Hartman Matthew C. T.
Published: May 2023

Macrocyclization has proven to be a beneficial strategy to improve upon some of the disadvantages of peptides as therapeutics. Nevertheless, many peptide cyclization strategies are not compatible with in vitro display technologies like mRNA display. Here we describe the novel amino acidp‐chloropropynyl phenylalanine (pCPF). pCPF is a substrate for a mutant phenylalanyl‐tRNA synthetase and its introduction into peptides via in vitro translation leads to spontaneous peptide macrocyclization in the presence of peptides containing cysteine. Macrocyclization occurs efficiently with a wide variety of ring sizes. Moreover, pCPF can be reacted with thiols after charging onto tRNA, enabling the testing of diverse ncAAs in translation. The versatility of pCPF should facilitate downstream studies of translation and enable the creation of novel macrocyclic peptide libraries.
Nivolumab‐induced fatal myocarditis: A case report
Authors: Bharathidasan Kavya , Abdelnabi Mahmoud , Abdelmalek John , Sekhon Jasmine , Butler William , Quirch Miguel , Sosa Erwin Argueta
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Baseline assessment and interval monitoring with a careful history, clinical examination, laboratory work‐up, and noninvasive imaging modalities may be beneficial for early detection of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated side effects.

Previous reports of immune checkpoint inhibitors' cardiotoxic effects include pericarditis, myocarditis, myocardial infarction, ventricular dysfunction, vasculitis, and electrical abnormalities. The authors report a case of acute heart failure caused by nivolumab‐induced cardiotoxicity in a middle‐aged man with advanced esophageal carcinoma with no previous cardiac history or significant cardiovascular risk factors.
Phosphate‐functionalized Zirconium Metal–Organic Frameworks for Enhancing Lithium–Sulfur Battery Cycling
Authors: Liu Bingqian , Baumann Avery E. , Butala Megan M. , Thoi V. Sara
Published: May 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries are promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage devices due to their outstanding theoretical energy density. However, they suffer from low sulfur utilization and poor cyclability, greatly limiting their practical implementation. Herein, we adopted a phosphate‐functionalized zirconium metal–organic framework (Zr‐MOF) as a sulfur host. With their porous structure, remarkable electrochemical stability, and synthetic versatility, Zr‐MOFs present great potential in preventing soluble polysulfides from leaching. Phosphate groups were introduced to the framework post‐synthetically since they have shown a strong affinity towards lithium polysulfides and an ability to facilitate Li ion transport. The successful incorporation of phosphate in MOF‐808 was demonstrated by a series of techniques including infrared spectroscopy, solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X‐ray pair distribution function analysis. When employed in batteries, phosphate‐functionalized Zr‐MOF (MOF‐808‐PO4) exhibits significantly enhanced sulfur utilization and ion diffusion compared to the parent framework, leading to higher capacity and rate capability. The improved capacity retention and inhibited self‐discharge rate also demonstrate effective polysulfide encapsulation utilizing MOF‐808‐PO4. Furthermore, we explored their potential towards high‐density batteries by examining the cycling performance at various sulfur loadings. Our approach to correlate structure with function using hybrid inorganic–organic materials offers new chemical design strategies for advancing battery materials.
Cascading failure invulnerability analysis of chemical material network considering failure propagation capability
Authors: Li Huapeng , Wang Zheng , Liu Ruijie , Hou Jingmin , Dong Zhaofei , Xie Tongtong
Published: May 2023

The material network in the chemical process has the characteristics of a complex network. Once the fault occurs, it will spread and lead to cascading failures, causing the chemical production process to not proceed normally. Previous studies of cascading failures have been limited by the size and characteristics of the network, which prevented the definition of the fault propagation capacity of the edge based on the actual situation. Studies on the effects of network topology and certain risk factors on the amount of fault propagation still need to be completed. Because of the above shortcomings, this study constructs a chemical material network cascading failure invulnerability analysis model that considers the failure propagation ability. Through the study of the chemical material network topology structure and the analysis of various flammable and explosive chemicals, the paper defines the fault propagation coefficient, which affects the load propagation quantity on the connecting edge. Then, based on the load‐capacity nonlinear cascading failure model, the chemical material network's invulnerability was analyzed by adjusting the model parameters. The effectiveness of the model is verified through case analysis. Compared to the existing model, the model in this paper effectively improves the invulnerability of the material network and can reduce the phenomenon of large‐scale failure of the material network due to the failure propagation capability is not considered.
Cryoablation inhibits the recurrence and progression of bladder cancer by enhancing tumour‐specific immunity
Authors: Mou Zezhong , Chen Yiling , Zhang Zheyu , Chen Xinan , Hu Yun , Zou Lujia , Xu Chenyang , Jiang Haowen
Published: May 2023

Background

Recurrence and metastasis of bladder cancer are major factors affecting patient prognosis. Endoscopic cryoablation achieved a better clinical outcome among clinical patients and could be synergistic with ICIs. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the immunological mechanism of cryoablation for bladder cancer to reveal the therapeutic mechanism.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the clinical prognosis of patients underwent cryoablation at Huashan Hospital in these first‐in‐human studies (ChiCTR‐INR‐17013060). Murine models were constructed to explore cryoablation‐induced tumour‐specific immunity, which was further confirmed by primary bladder tumour organoids and autologous lymphocytes cocultured system.

Results

Cryoablation improved progression‐free survival and recurrence‐free survival respectively. Assessment of murine models after cryoablation confirmed microenvironment remodelling and tumour‐specific T cells expansion. Enhanced antitumour effects were found after coculture of organoids with autologous lymphocytes collected from post‐cryoablation. We also demonstrated cryoablation‐induced tumour elimination required IFNGR expression on tumour cells. In addition, a long‐lasting antitumour memory response is achieved by cryoablation and could be enhanced after combination with ICIs.

Conclusions

This study revealed endoscopic cryoablation is an efficient and safe therapy for bladder tumour treatment. The tumour‐specific immune responses induced by cryoablation could reduce tumour recurrence and metastasis.
Mineralogy, microstructures and geomechanics of rock salt for underground gas storage
Authors: Vandeginste Veerle , Ji Yukun , Buysschaert Frank , Anoyatis George
Published: May 2023

Rock salt has excellent properties for its use as underground leak‐proof containers for the storage of renewable energy. Salt solution mining has long been used for salt mining, and can now be employed in the construction of underground salt caverns for the storage of hydrogen gas. This paper presents a wide range of methods to study the mineralogy, geochemistry, microstructure and geomechanical characteristics of rock salt, which are important in the engineering of safe underground storage rock salt caverns. The mineralogical composition of rock salt varies and is linked to its depositional environment and diagenetic alterations. The microstructure in rock salt is related to cataclastic deformation, diffusive mass transfer and intracrystalline plastic deformation, which can then be associated with the macrostructural geomechanical behavior. Compared to other types of rock, rock salt exhibits creep at lower temperatures. This behavior can be divided into three phases based on the changes in strain with time. However, at very low effective confining pressure and high deviatoric stress, rock salt can exhibit dilatant behavior, where brittle deformation could compromise the safety of underground gas storage in rock salt caverns. The proposed review presents the impact of purity, geochemistry and water content of rock salt on its geomechanical behavior, and thus, on the safety of the caverns.
Investigating the potential of social media and citizen science data to track changes in species' distributions
Authors: O'Neill Daisy , Häkkinen Henry , Neumann Jessica , Shaffrey Len , Cheffings Chris , Norris Ken , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: May 2023

How to best track species as they rapidly alter their distributions in response to climate change has become a key scientific priority. Information on species distributions is derived from biological records, which tend to be primarily sourced from traditional recording schemes, but increasingly also by citizen science initiatives and social media platforms, with biological recording having become more accessible to the general public. To date, however, our understanding of the respective potential of social media and citizen science to complement the information gathered by traditional recording schemes remains limited, particularly when it comes to tracking species on the move with climate change. To address this gap, we investigated how species occurrence observations vary between different sources and to what extent traditional, citizen science, and social media records are complementary, using the Banded Demoiselle (Calopteryx splendens) in Britain as a case study. Banded Demoiselle occurrences were extracted from citizen science initiatives (iRecord and iNaturalist) and social media platforms (Facebook, Flickr, and Twitter), and compared with traditional records primarily sourced from the British Dragonfly Society. Our results showed that species presence maps differ between record types, with 61% of the citizen science, 58% of the traditional, and 49% of the social media observations being unique to that data type. Banded Demoiselle habitat suitability maps differed most according to traditional and social media projections, with traditional and citizen science being the most consistent. We conclude that (i) social media records provide insights into the Banded Demoiselle distribution and habitat preference that are different from, and complementary to, the insights gathered from traditional recording schemes and citizen science initiatives; (ii) predicted habitat suitability maps that ignore information from social media records can substantially underestimate (by over 3500 km2 in the case of the Banded Demoiselle) potential suitable habitat availability.
Horizontal transmission of Salmonella Typhimurium among German cockroaches and its possible mechanisms
Authors: Mond Madison , Pietri Jose E.
Published: May 2023

German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) can be both mechanical and biological (amplifying) vectors of enteric pathogens, including Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium), which they acquire by feeding upon contaminated substances. Blattella germanica is also a gregarious species that shelters in groups and partakes in unique feeding behaviors such as conspecific coprophagy, necrophagy, and emetophagy. These properties create an interphase for potential horizontal transmission of pathogens among cockroach populations through the fecal‐oral route, which could in turn enhance transmission to humans and other animals. Here, we performed a series of experiments to determine: (1) whether horizontal transmission of S. Typhimurium infection takes place in B. germanica, (2) the prevalence of the phenomenon, and (3) the route(s) through which it may occur. We reveal that true horizontal transmission of S. Typhimurium occurs among B. germanica. That is, uninfected cockroaches acquire infection of the gut when co‐housed with orally infected conspecifics, albeit at low frequency. Furthermore, we provide definitive evidence that coprophagy and necrophagy are routes of transmission but could not exclude sharing of food or water as contributing routes. On the contrary, transmission by emetophagy appears less likely as oral regurgitates from infected cockroaches contained S. Typhimurium for less than one day after ingesting the bacteria. Together, our data enhance current understanding of the ecology of vector‐borne S. Typhimurium transmission by cockroaches, implicating conspecific horizontal transmission as a phenomenon that contributes to maintaining infected cockroach populations independently of contact with primary sources of the pathogen. Although the relative importance of horizontal transmission of pathogens in cockroaches in the field remains to be determined, these results also highlight the important role that food and water sources in the local environment may play in cockroach‐borne pathogen transmission and emphasize the importance of sanitation for not only abating infestations but also mitigating pathogen transmission.
Optimization Strategies Toward Functional Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Jingwei , Adit Gupta , Li Lun , Zhang Yingxin , Chua Daniel H. C. , Lee Pooi See
Published: May 2023

Exploration of alternative energy storage systems has been more than necessary in view of the supply risks haunting lithium‐ion batteries. Among various alternative electrochemical energy storage devices, sodium‐ion battery outstands with advantages of cost‐effectiveness and comparable energy density with lithium‐ion batteries. Thanks to the similar electrochemical mechanism, the research and development of lithium‐ion batteries have forged a solid foundation for sodium‐ion battery explorations. Advancements in sodium‐ion batteries have been witnessed in terms of superior electrochemical performance and broader application scenarios. Here, the strategies adopted to optimize the battery components (cathode, anode, electrolyte, separator, binder, current collector, etc.) and the cost, safety, and commercialization issues in sodium‐ion batteries are summarized and discussed. Based on these optimization strategies, assembly of functional (flexible, stretchable, self‐healable, and self‐chargeable) and integrated sodium‐ion batteries (−actuators, −sensors, electrochromic, etc.) have been realized. Despite these achievements, challenges including energy density, scalability, trade‐off between energy density and functionality, cost, etc. are to be addressed for sodium‐ion battery commercialization. This review aims at providing an overview of the up‐to‐date achievements in sodium‐ion batteries and serves to inspire more efforts in designing upgraded sodium‐ion batteries.