bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effect of thymoquinone nanoemulsion in reducing the cardiotoxic effect of 5‐fluorouracil in rats
Authors: Karim Bardia , Arabameri Motahare , Alimoradi Fatemeh , Mansoori Razieh , Moghadamnia Ali A. , Kazemi Sohrab , Hosseini Seyed M.
Published: March 2024

5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU), which is one of the most widely used chemotherapy drugs, has various side effects on the heart. Thymoquinone (TMQ), the main bioactive component ofNigella sativa, has antioxidant and protective effects against toxicity. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of thymoquinone against cardiotoxicity caused by 5‐FU in vitro and in vivo models. H9C2 cells were exposed to 5‐FU and TMQ, and cell viability was evaluated in their presence. Also, 25 male Wistar rats were divided into five control groups, 5‐FU, 2.5, and 5 mg TMQ in nanoemulsion form (NTMQ) + 5‐FU and 5 mg NTMQ. Cardiotoxicity was assessed through electrocardiography, cardiac enzymes, oxidative stress markers, and histopathology. 5‐FU induced cytotoxicity in H9c2 cells, which improved dose‐dependently with NTMQ cotreatment. 5‐FU caused body weight loss, ECG changes (increased ST segment, prolonged QRS, and QTc), increased cardiac enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase [AST], creatine kinase‐myocardial band [CK‐MB], and lactate dehydrogenase [LDH]), oxidative stress (increased malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, nitric acid; decreased glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity), and histological damage such as necrosis, hyperemia, and tissue hyalinization in rats. NTMQ ameliorated these 5‐FU‐induced effects. Higher NTMQ dose showed greater protective effects. Thus, the results of our study indicate that NTMQ protects against 5‐FU cardiotoxicity likely through antioxidant mechanisms. TMQ warrants further research as an adjuvant to alleviate 5‐FU chemotherapy side effects.
Decarboxylative Amination of SMAHOs by Dialkyl Azodicarboxylates
Authors: Pinaud Marine , Gall Erwan Le , Presset Marc
Published: March 2024

The decarboxylative addition of substituted malonic acid half oxyesters (SMAHOs) to dialkyl azodicarboxylates is described. The reaction was promoted by 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) as an organocatalyst in heated toluene. High yields of the coupling products were generally obtained, and the scope of the reaction proved rather important with the potential presence of functionalized side chains at the α‐position, affording an original access to α‐aminoester derivatives.
A developmental validation of the Quick TargSeq 1.0 integrated system for automated DNA genotyping in forensic science for reference samples
Authors: Han Junping , Zhuang Bin , Zou Lixin , Wang Daoyu , Jiang Li , Wei Yi‐Liang , Zhao Lijian , Zhao Lei , Li Caixia
Published: March 2024

Analysis of short tandem repeats (STRs) is a global standard method for human identification. Insertion/Deletion polymorphisms (DIPs) can be used for biogeographical ancestry inference. Current DNA typing involves a trained forensic worker operating several specialized instruments in a controlled laboratory environment, which takes 6–8 h. We developed the Quick TargSeq 1.0 integrated system (hereinafter abbreviated to Quick TargSeq) for automated generation of STR and DIP profiles from buccal swab samples and blood stains. The system fully integrates the processes of DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, and electrophoresis separation using microfluidic biochip technology. Internal validation studies were performed using RTyper 21 or DIP 38 chip cartridges with single‐source reference samples according to the Scientific Working Group for DNA Analysis Methods guidelines. These results indicated that the Quick TargSeq system can process reference samples and generate STR or DIP profiles in approximately 2 h, and the profiles were concordant with those determined using traditional STR or DIP analysis methods. Thus, reproducible and concordant DNA profiles were obtained from reference samples. Throughout the study, no lane‐to‐lane or run‐to‐run contamination was observed. The Quick TargSeq system produced full profiles from buccal swabs with at least eight swipes, dried blood spot cards with two 2‐mm disks, or 10 ng of purified DNA. Potential PCR inhibitors (i.e., coffee, smoking tobacco, and chewing tobacco) did not appear to affect the amplification reactions of the instrument. The overall success rate and concordance rate of 153 samples were 94.12% and 93.44%, respectively, which is comparable to other commercially available rapid DNA instruments. A blind test initiated by a DNA expert group showed that the system can correctly produce DNA profiles with 97.29% genotype concordance with standard bench‐processing methods, and the profiles can be uploaded into the national DNA database. These results demonstrated that the Quick TargSeq system can rapidly generate reliable DNA profiles in an automated manner and has the potential for use in the field and forensic laboratories.
Optimum Magnetite–Zeolite Nanoparticles Loading on the Cathode of Microbial Electrochemical–Anaerobic Digestion System for Enhancing Methane Generation
Authors: Park Sanghoon , Noori Md Tabish , Thatikayala Dayakar , Min Booki
Published: March 2024

Microbial electrochemical systems (MESs) can enhance methane production in anaerobic digestion, but their performance is hindered by inadequate electron transfer between the cathode and microbes. Magnetite–zeolite (MZ)‐based catalysts accelerate electron exchange; however, the optimal loading of MZ is crucial for maximizing MES performance. In this study, different loadings of the MZ catalyst ranging from 0 to 2 mg cm−2 on the cathode were evaluated to obtain an optimum loading for maximizing methane recovery from MES. Electrochemical analyses demonstrated enhanced electrochemical reduction kinetics of the cathode with increased MZ loading from 0 to 2 mg cm−2. Among the tested loadings, the MES with 1 mg cm−2 MZ on the cathode exhibited the highest methane production rate at 548 mL L−1 d−1, surpassing other MES operations with 2 and 0.5 mg cm−2 (499 and 434 mL L−1 d−1, respectively). Additionally, the MES with 1 mg cm−2 MZ demonstrated the highest soluble chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of 87% and total coulomb recovery of 1444.06C ± 42.60C, with the lowest amount of volatile fatty acids accumulation. Consequently, MZ is recommended as a superior catalyst for enhancing MES performance and suggested to utilize 1 mg cm−2 MZ loading on the cathode to maximize methane production.
A deep learning approach based on Richardson and Gauss–Seidel for massive MIMO detection
Authors: Yu Yongzhi , Ying Jie , Zhang Shiqi , Wang Jianming , Guo Limin , Shang Jiadong , Wang Ping
Published: March 2024

Massive multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems can improve the spectrum utilization and the system capacity, but this also increases the computational complexity of the signal detection. The existing iterative algorithms can greatly reduce the computational complexity; however, the detection performance is limited. In order to achieve a better balance between the computational complexity and the detection performance, this article combines the model‐driven deep learning approached with Massive MIMO signal detection to construct RGNet (RIGS‐based deep learning Network). First, RIGS is proposed as a hybrid method of RI (Richardson) and GS (Gauss–Seidel). The RIGS algorithm combines these methods to achieve faster convergence. However, the performance of RIGS joint algorithm is limited to the spatially correlated channel scenarios. To improve robustness, we further extend RIGS, by adding learnable parameters in each iteration and introducing staircase activation functions to significantly improve detection performance. Simulation results show that the proposed RGNet has low computational complexity and a simple and fast training process. It can also achieve excellent detection performance in Rayleigh fading channel and spatially correlated channel.
Dried algae as potential functional ingredient in fresh cheese
Authors: Borges Daniela M. , Ribeiro Susana C. , Silva Sofia P. M. , Silva Célia C. G.
Published: March 2024

Algae have attracted the attention of researchers and consumers due to their health‐promoting bioactive compounds. In addition, the high content of polysaccharides may confer important technological properties when included in foods with high moisture content, such as fresh cheese. In this study, two dried algae species—Fucus spiralis and Petalonia binghamiae, were added to fresh cheese to improve its functional properties. Syneresis was evaluated by water holding capacity (WHC) and measurement of weight loss of the cheeses during storage at 4°C. Cheeses were also analysed for antioxidant activity, composition, and organoleptic properties. The addition of dried seaweed significantly reduced the weight loss of fresh cheese during storage (p < 0.05), which is normally associated with a loss of sensory properties. A significant increase (p < 0.05) in antioxidant activity was also observed in the cheeses with the addition of both algae. Except for the cheese with the addition of F. spiralis (1 g/100 g), the chemical composition did not change (p > 0.05) when the algae were added to the cheeses. Cheese with the addition of dried F. spiralis showed the best results in the sensory tests, consumer preference, and purchase intention.
Association of caffeine consumption with all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality in adult Americans with hypertension
Authors: Wang Kun , Li Ziao , He Jinshen
Published: March 2024

Coffee is an important beverage that is widely consumed, of which caffeine is the main active ingredient. However, the long‐term relationship between caffeine consumption and mortality in hypertensive patients has rarely been studied. This study analyzed a cohort of 12,093 US adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999 to 2018. Caffeine consumption was divided into five groups: no intake, >0 to ≤100, >100 to ≤300, >300 to ≤400 and >400 mg/day. Using multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models, this study performed a 20‐year follow‐up analysis (1999–2018). In the fully adjusted model, all caffeine consumers had lower all‐cause mortality compared with no intake, especially in the >300 to ≤400 mg/day group (hazard ratio (HR) 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60–0.84). The result of restricted cubic spline also showed a nonlinear association between caffeine consumption and all‐cause mortality. For cardiovascular disease, mortality decreased only at >400 mg/day (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.47–0.85). For cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease, only >300 to ≤400 mg/day was significantly associated with decreased mortality: (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.42–0.67), (HR 0.22, 95% CI 0.07–0.75), and (HR 0.32, 95% CI 0.10–0.96), respectively. Lower all‐cause mortality was observed in non‐Hispanic White, African American, population aged 40 or above, and people with a body mass index <25 kg/m2. Our findings indicate a nonlinear association between average caffeine consumption and all‐cause mortality, suggesting that hypertensive patients may benefit from moderate caffeine intake.
Inflammation in obsessive–compulsive disorder: A literature review and hypothesis‐based potential of transcranial photobiomodulation
Authors: Coelho David Richer Araujo , Salvi Joshua D. , Vieira Willians Fernando , Cassano Paolo
Published: March 2024

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disabling neuropsychiatric disorder that affects about 2%–3% of the global population. Despite the availability of several treatments, many patients with OCD do not respond adequately, highlighting the need for new therapeutic approaches. Recent studies have associated various inflammatory processes with the pathogenesis of OCD, including alterations in peripheral immune cells, alterations in cytokine levels, and neuroinflammation. These findings suggest that inflammation could be a promising target for intervention. Transcranial photobiomodulation (t‐PBM) with near‐infrared light is a noninvasive neuromodulation technique that has shown potential for several neuropsychiatric disorders. However, its efficacy in OCD remains to be fully explored. This study aimed to review the literature on inflammation in OCD, detailing associations with T‐cell populations, monocytes, NLRP3 inflammasome components, microglial activation, and elevated proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, CRP, IL‐1β, and IL‐6. We also examined the hypothesis‐based potential of t‐PBM in targeting these inflammatory pathways of OCD, focusing on mechanisms such as modulation of oxidative stress, regulation of immune cell function, reduction of proinflammatory cytokine levels, deactivation of neurotoxic microglia, and upregulation of BDNF gene expression. Our review suggests that t‐PBM could be a promising, noninvasive intervention for OCD, with the potential to modulate underlying inflammatory processes. Future research should focus on randomized clinical trials to assess t‐PBM's efficacy and optimal treatment parameters in OCD. Biomarker analyses and neuroimaging studies will be important in understanding the relationship between inflammatory modulation and OCD symptom improvement following t‐PBM sessions.
A novel approach to evaluation of tumor response for advanced pulmonary adenocarcinoma using the intertumoral heterogeneity response score
Authors: Zheng Xinlong , Lu Tao , Wu Shiwen , Lin Xiaoyan , Bai Jing , Chen Xiaohui , Miao Qian , Yan Jianqun , Jiang Kan , Zhang Longfeng , Zheng Xiaobing , Wang Haibo , Xu Yiquan , Xiao Weijin , Li Cao , Peng Wenying , Ding Jianming , Zhong Qiaofeng , Zou Zihua , Yang Shanshan , Li Yujing , Chen Sihui , Zhang Qiuyu , Yan Jianfeng , Tang Guofeng , Cai Yuandong , kang Miao , Mok Tony S. K. , Lin Gen
Published: March 2024

Treatment response and prognosis estimation in advanced pulmonary adenocarcinoma are challenged by the significant heterogeneity of the disease. The current Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) criteria, despite providing a basis for solid tumor response evaluation, do not fully encompass this heterogeneity. To better represent these nuances, we introduce the intertumoral heterogeneity response score (THRscore), a measure built upon and expanding the RECIST criteria. This retrospective study included patients with 3–10 measurable advanced lung adenocarcinoma lesions who underwent first‐line chemotherapy or targeted therapy. The THRscore, derived from the coefficient of variation in size for each measurable tumor before and 4–6 weeks posttreatment, unveiled a correlation with patient outcomes. Specifically, a high THRscore was associated with shorter progression‐free survival, lower tumor response rate, and a higher tumor mutation burden. These associations were further validated in an external cohort, confirming THRscore's effectiveness in stratifying patients based on progression risk and treatment response, and enhancing the utility of RECIST in capturing complex tumor behaviors in lung adenocarcinoma. These findings affirm the promise of THRscore as an enhanced tool for tumor response assessment in advanced lung adenocarcinoma, extending the RECIST criteria's utility.
The role of industrial symbiosis on consumer demand under ecological carbon fixation: Evidence from the energy industry
Authors: Qiu Wei , Zhao Xinyu , Wu Haitao , Ren Siyu
Published: March 2024

Since the energy sector is the primary source of carbon emissions, achieving low carbon emission reduction and meeting the carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets require a full grasp of the symbiotic relationship between the traditional and new energy industries. This study analyzes data from China's conventional energy industries and the new energy industry from 2005 to 2021 to examine the symbiosis between these two sectors of the economy and its implications. The Lotka–Volterra model is used to determine the symbiosis between industries and further select provinces with industrial symbiosis to analyze the relationship between industrial symbiosis and consumer demand. The results show that, first, 28 provinces in China have industrial symbiosis, of which only four provinces are commensal symbiosis and the remaining 24 provinces are parasitic symbiosis. Second, whereas the parasitic symbiosis will impede the growth of consumer demand, the commensal symbiosis between the new energy industry and the traditional energy industry can greatly encourage the growth of consumer demand. In addition, the promotion effect of commensal symbiosis on consumer demand is mainly manifested in government consumption, while parasitic symbiosis has a dampening effect on residential consumption, government consumption, and investment. Finally, under the regulation of ecological carbon sequestration, parasitic symbiosis can promote the growth of consumer demand. Therefore, the government should continue to promote industrial symbiosis and ecological carbon sequestration and, in this way, promote the growth of consumer demand.
Electrically tunable substrate integrated waveguide equalizer based on PIN diodes
Authors: Peng Hao , Zhang Chen , Liu Yu , Tatu Serioja Ovidiu , Yang Tao
Published: March 2024

In this letter, a novel design of electrically tunable substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) equalizer, based on PIN diodes, is proposed. Compared to previous SIW equalizers, this one introduces PIN diodes that exhibit varying impedance under different direct current (DC) voltages. The equalizing values of the SIW equalizer are directly linked to the DC voltage applied to the PIN diode within a specific voltage range. This feature allows it to be considered as an electrically tunable SIW equalizer. The experimental results demonstrate that the equalizing values are consistently monotonic and adjustable within the range of 1.59–7.56 dB in Ku‐band. This adjustment is attained through a DC voltage step of −0.01 V, applied within the range of 1.23–1.11 V. Additionally, the microwave equalizer is a planar structure that can be conveniently implemented on traditional printed circuit board, resulting in lower costs, easier realization, and integration. This SIW equalizer can be applied in amplitude compensation circuits and networks to compensate flatness dynamically.
Enabling the transfer matrix method to model serial–parallel compliant mechanisms including curved flexure beams
Authors: Ling Mingxiang , Yuan Lei , Zeng Tingjun , Zhang Xianmin
Published: March 2024

Compliant mechanisms with curved flexure hinges/beams have potential advantages of small spaces, low stress levels, and flexible design parameters, which have attracted considerable attention in precision engineering, metamaterials, robotics, and so forth. However, serial–parallel configurations with curved flexure hinges/beams often lead to a complicated parametric design. Here, the transfer matrix method is enabled for analysis of both the kinetostatics and dynamics of general serial–parallel compliant mechanisms without deriving laborious formulas or combining other modeling methods. Consequently, serial–parallel compliant mechanisms with curved flexure hinges/beams can be modeled in a straightforward manner based on a single transfer matrix of Timoshenko straight beams using a step‐by‐step procedure. Theoretical and numerical validations on two customized XY nanopositioners comprised of straight and corrugated flexure units confirm the concise modeling process and high prediction accuracy of the presented approach. In conclusion, the present study provides an enhanced transfer matrix modeling approach to streamline the kinetostatic and dynamic analyses of general serial–parallel compliant mechanisms and beam structures, including curved flexure hinges and irregular‐shaped rigid bodies.
A comparison of tag retention and mortality from two tagging methods for internal tag placement in Channel Catfish
Authors: Durhack Travis C. , Simpson Holly A. , Watkinson Douglas A. , Pegg Mark A. , Enders Eva C.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Documenting the movement of Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus through telemetry, where a transmitter tag is surgically implanted in the fish, can provide valuable insight into the species' spatial ecology and habitat use. However, since fish in the order Siluriformes can expel foreign objects such as tags from their body cavity, the utility of telemetry technology may be limited for Channel Catfish. This study aimed to determine (1) how quickly Channel Catfish reject tags that were surgically implanted into the body cavity, (2) if surgical implantation of transmitter tags causes mortality, and (3) what surgical method is best to minimize tag rejection and/or mortality.

Methods

Three surgical trials were conducted on Channel Catfish (n = 24) using two tag implantation methods: a nontethered method, in which the tag was freely implanted into the body cavity, and a tethered method, where the tag was attached to the pectoral girdle. Fish were observed in the lab for 30 days for trials 1 and 2 and 225 days for trial 3 following tag implantation.

Result

No complete tag rejections occurred during any of the three experimental trials. However, all five tethered fish experienced mortality during trial 3 (58–221 days postsurgery). Necropsies indicated that the tethered tagging method led to septicaemia infections and internal lacerations from the tether, which were not observed in the nontethered fish. Tags in the nontethered fish were in the process of being absorbed into the intestinal tract, which over time might have led to tag rejection.

Conclusion

While rejection is possibly the end point of the nontethered tagging method, our results suggest it is nevertheless the better tagging method for Channel Catfish given higher survival.
Free‐breathing abdominal chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging using water presaturation and respiratory gating at 3.0 T
Authors: Chen Zhensen , Liu Chuyu , Wang Yishi , Guo Rui , Chen Weibo , Wang He , Song Xiaolei
Published: March 2024

Free‐breathing abdominal chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) has great potential for clinical application, but its technical implementation remains challenging. This study aimed to propose and evaluate a free‐breathing abdominal CEST sequence. The proposed sequence employed respiratory gating (ResGat) to synchronize the data acquisition with respiratory motion and performed a water presaturation module before the CEST saturation to abolish the influence of respiration‐induced repetition time variation. In vivo experiments were performed to compare different respiratory motion‐control strategies and B0 offset correction methods, and to evaluate the effectiveness and necessity of the quasi‐steady‐state (QUASS) approach for correcting the influence of the water presaturation module on CEST signal. ResGat with a target expiratory phase of 0.5 resulted in a higher structural similarity index and a lower coefficient of variation on consecutively acquired CEST S0 images than breath‐holding (BH) and respiratory triggering (all p < 0.05). B0 maps derived from the abdominal CEST dataset itself were more stable for B0 correction, compared with the separately acquired B0 maps by a dual‐echo time scan and B0 maps derived from the water saturation shift referencing approach. Compared with BH, ResGat yielded more homogeneous magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry maps at 3.5 ppm (standard deviation: 3.96% vs. 3.19%, p = 0.036) and a lower mean squared difference between scan and rescan (27.52‱ vs. 16.82‱, p = 0.004). The QUASS approach could correct the water presaturation‐induced CEST signal change, but its necessity for in vivo scanning needs further verification. The proposed free‐breathing abdominal CEST sequence using ResGat had an acquisition efficiency of approximately four times that using BH. In conclusion, the proposed free‐breathing abdominal CEST sequence using ResGat and water presaturation has a higher acquisition efficiency and image quality than abdominal CEST using BH.
An analysis of interobserver variability in the recording of maxillary sinusitis in human osteoarchaeological remains
Authors: Davies‐Barrett Anna M. , Casna Maia , Boyd Derek A. , Inskip Sarah A.
Published: March 2024

The accurate comparison of prevalence rates of disease between different groups/populations is vital if we seek to contextualize our understanding of the impact of risk factors on health in the past. The majority of bioarchaeological studies of maxillary sinusitis employ the methods and “diagnostic criteria” outlined by Boocock and colleagues in 1995. However, until now, few attempts have been made to assess the inter‐rater reliability of these methods. This study presents the results of the analysis of interobserver variability in the recording of bone changes related to maxillary sinusitis among three observers within three human osteoarchaeological populations. The results of Cohen's kappa coefficient tests indicated variability in agreement between different observers. The agreement on the presence/absence of maxillary sinusitis in different osteoarchaeological populations ranged from κ = 0.433 (“moderate” agreement) to κ = 0.629 (“substantial” agreement). The agreement on the type of bone change present within affected sinuses was often poor, with almost no to negative agreement for pitting (Observers 1 and 2) and remodeled spicules (Observers 1 and 3). Methodological problems that can impact consistency of results between researchers include variability in sinus preservation, duration of observer experience, the use of different endoscopic equipment, lack of clarity in the original method descriptions, and a deficit in clinical corroborations for bone changes. The results of this study highlight the need to improve standards for the recording of bone changes related to sinusitis to allow for meaningful comparisons of past maxillary sinusitis frequency rates. Further investigations of interobserver variability, incorporating a greater range of variables, are also required.
Obstetric imaging practice characteristics associated with prenatal detection of critical congenital heart disease in a rural US region over 20 years
Authors: McLean Kelley C. , Meyer Marjorie C. , Peters Sarah R. , Wrenn Lia D. , Yeager Scott B. , Flyer Jonathan N.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To identify clinical practice characteristics associated with the frequency of prenatal critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) detection (i.e., the number of liveborn infants with postnatally confirmed CCHD identified on prenatal sonography) over 20 years in a rural setting comprised of 11 primarily low‐volume obstetric hospitals and the single tertiary academic hospital to which they refer.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients in the referral region with an initial prenatal and/or postnatal diagnosis of CCHD from 01/01/2002 to 12/31/2021. The frequency of prenatal CCHD detection at the time of an obstetric ultrasound was reported, as was the change in detection over time. Critical congenital heart disease detection was assessed as a function of cardiac lesion type, practice setting, and practice characteristics.

Results

There were 271 cases with a confirmed postnatal CCHD diagnosis, of which 49% were identified prenatally. The majority of community practices each averaged <10 CCHD cases in total over the study period. Prenatal detection at the tertiary academic hospital's obstetric ultrasound unit was 64%, compared to 22% at the combined referring community practices (p < 0.001), though CCHD detection improved over time in both settings. Professional accreditation by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, image interpretation by radiology or Maternal Fetal Medicine, and use of video clips of ventricular outflow tracts were associated with improved prenatal CCHD detection.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the infrequency of CCHD cases at small‐volume, rural hospitals and the substantial variation in prenatal CCHD detection across practice settings. Our methods allowed for the identification of practice characteristics associated with prenatal CCHD detection.
Defensin‐like peptides from Capsicum chinense induce increased ROS, loss of mitochondrial functionality, and reduced growth of the fungus Colletotrichum scovillei
Authors: Resende Larissa Maximano , de Oliveira Mello Érica , Zeraik Ana Eliza , Oliveira Arielle Pinheiro Bessiati Fava , Souza Thaynã Amanda Melo , Taveira Gabriel Bonan , Moreira Felipe Figueiroa , Seabra Sérgio Henrique , Ferreira André Teixeira , Perales Jonas , de Oliveira Carvalho André , Rodrigues Rosana , Gomes Valdirene Moreira
Published: March 2024

In the present study, we identified and characterized two defensin‐like peptides in an antifungal fraction obtained from Capsicum chinense pepper fruits and inhibited the growth of Colletotrichum scovillei, which causes anthracnose. AMPs were extracted from the pericarp of C. chinense peppers and subjected to ion exchange, molecular exclusion, and reversed‐phase in a high‐performance liquid chromatography system. We investigated the endogenous increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), the loss of mitochondrial functioning, and the ultrastructure of hyphae. The peptides obtained from the G3 fraction through molecular exclusion chromatography were subsequently fractionated using reverse‐phase chromatography, resulting in the isolation of fractions F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. The F1‐Fraction suppressed C. scovillei growth by 90, 70.4, and 44% at 100, 50, and 25 μg mL−1, respectively. At 24 h, the IC50 and minimum inhibitory concentration were 21.5 μg mL−1 and 200 μg mL−1, respectively. We found an increase in ROS, which may have resulted in an oxidative burst, loss of mitochondrial functioning, and cytoplasm retraction, as well as an increase in autophagic vacuoles. MS/MS analysis of the F1‐Fraction indicated the presence of two defensin‐like proteins, and we were able to identify the expression of three defensin sequences in our C. chinense fruit extract. The F1‐Fraction was also found to inhibit the activity of insect α‐amylases. In summary, the F1‐Fraction of C. chinense exhibits antifungal activity against a major pepper pathogen that causes anthracnose. These defensin‐like compounds are promising prospects for further research into antifungal and insecticide biotechnology applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rice varietal resistance to the vector Sogatella furcifera hinders transmission of Southern rice black‐streaked dwarf virus
Authors: Liu Dandan , Zhong Yuqi , Li Zhengxi , Hou Maolin
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The Southern rice black‐streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV) transmitted by Sogatella furcifera constitutes a threat to sustainable rice production. However, most rice varieties are highly vulnerable to SRBSDV, whereas the occurrence of the viral disease varies significantly under field conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of rice varietal resistance to S. furcifera in reducing SRBSDV transmission.

RESULTS

Among the five rice varieties, Zhongzheyou8 and Deyou108 exhibited high resistance to S. furcifera, Baixiangnuo33 was susceptible, and TN1 and Diantun502 were highly susceptible. The S. furcifera generally showed non‐preference for and low feeding on the Zhongzheyou8 and Deyou108 plants, which may explain the resistance of these varieties to S. furcifera. Transmission of SRBSDV by S. furcifera was significantly impaired on the resistant varieties, both inoculation and acquisition rates were much lower on Zhongzheyou8 than on TN1. The short durations of S. furcifera salivation and phloem‐related activities and the low S. furcifera feeding amount may explain the reduced SRBSDV inoculation and acquisition rates associated with Zhongzheyou8. Spearman's rank correlation revealed a significant negative correlation between S. furcifera resistance and SRBSDV transmission among the tested varieties.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that rice varietal resistance to the vector S. furcifera hinders SRBSDV transmission, which is largely associated with the host plant selection and feeding behaviors of the vector. The current findings shed light on the management of the SRBSDV viral disease through incorporation of S. furcifera resistant rice varieties in the management protocol. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Virtual Screening of Compounds from the ZINC Database against PARP‐1 in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Priyankha Sridhar , Polk Shahrazad , Thilagavathi Ramasamy , Prakash Muthuramalingam , Kathiravan M. K. , Lakshmana Prabhu Sakthivel , Brunozi de Oliveira Isabela , Selvam Chelliah
Published: March 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive kind of breast cancer that has disseminated worldwide, decimating millions of people. Especially, since it is capable of forming complex mutations, the design and development of effective drugs are much needed. Clinically, though talazoparib is an FDA‐approved drug for PARP against advanced breast cancer, it has several adverse side effects such as anaemia, alopecia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Herein, to understand the molecular interactions and mode of binding, 4.59 million lead‐like compounds from the ZINC database were virtually screened against poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) protein using molecular docking. ADMET analysis were also performed for these compounds. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted for a period of 100 ns for the best five compounds to validate the stability of the complexes. Root‐mean‐square deviation (RMSD), root‐mean‐square fluctuation (RMSF), and the radius of gyration (Rg) were analyzed and the number of hydrogen bonding interactions was identified to determine the structure and stability of these protein‐ligand complexes. Further, binding free energy calculations were performed using the molecular mechanics‐Poisson‐Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) approach to identify the effective anticancer agents. Z02, Z03, and Z04 have the highest binding affinity of −19.6, −18.1, and −18.1 kcal/mol, respectively, with PARP‐1. They also have been found to strongly enhance the stability of the target. All things considered; we determine that compound Z04 is the most promising hit for TNBC.
Efficient Counter Electrode of MoS2‐GO/PEDOT:PSS for Platinum‐free, High Performance Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Chamatam Kasi Reddy Arimakula , Neeraja Velpula , Meenakshamma Ambapuram , Gurulakshmi Maddala , Gurubhasker Mangala , Raghavender Mitty , Pedda Venkata Subbaiah Yearva
Published: March 2024

The aim of this work is to fabricate the efficient platinum‐free counter electrodes for the development of advanced and high performance dye sensitized solar cells. MoS2‐GO/ PEDOT:PSS counter electrode has served as low‐cost, simple preparation and high efficient counter electrode for a DSSC. The Cyclic‐Voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Tafel curve analysis indicate that the MoS2‐GO/PEDOT:PSS counter electrode possesses low charge transfer resistance on the electrolyte–electrode interface, high electrocatalytic activity and fast reaction kinetics for the reduction of tri‐iodide to iodide at the counter electrode. The DSSCs made with MoS2‐GO/PEDOT:PSS counter electrode achieve high power conversion efficiency of 7.73 % under standard light illumination of 100 mW/cm2, is higher than the platinum based counter electrode DSSC (5.53 %). The results witnessed the developed counter electrode is efficient and potential for platinum‐free dye sensitized solar cell applications.
Improved Alcohol Oxidation through Combined Effects of Tensile Lattice Strain and Twin Defects in Core–Shell Electrocatalysts
Authors: Singha Tukai , Tomar Shalini , Chakraborty Sudip , Das Shuvankar , Satpati Biswarup
Published: March 2024

The direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs) rely on alcohol oxidation reactions (AORs) to produce electricity, which require catalysts with optimized electronic structure to accelerate the sluggish AORs. Herein, an epitaxial growth of Pd layer onto the pentatwinned Au@Ag core–shell nanorods (NRs) is reported to synthesize highly strained Au@AgPd core–shell NRs. The tensile strain in the AgPd shell of the Au@AgPd nanorods (NRs) arises not only from the core–shell lattice mismatch but also from twinning and lattice distortion occurring at the five twinned boundaries present in the structure. Theoretical simulations prove that the presence of tensile strains in the AgPd layer leads to a significant upward shift of the d‐band center of the Pd site toward the Fermi level which remarkably changes the adsorption energy of alcohols on the surface. Highly strained Au@AgPd NRs show exceptional mass activities in electrochemical oxidation of biomass‐derived alcohols (ethylene glycol, ethanol, and glycerol) reaching up to 18.66, 15.6, and 7.90 A mgpd−1, respectively. These values are 23.3, 23.6, and 23.2 times higher than commercial Pd/C catalysts. This strain engineering strategy set the platform for the design and synthesis of highly efficient and versatile catalysts for the construction of high‐performance DAFCs.
Atomic‐Level Catalyst Coupled with Metal Oxide Heterostructure for Promoting Kinetics of Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Yang Tingzhou , Liu Jiabing , Hu Chenchen , Gao Shihui , Shi Zhenjia , Wu Qiong , Li Haipeng , Zhang Yongguang , Chen Zhongwei
Published: March 2024

Despite the low competitive cost and high theoretical capacity of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries, their practical application is severely hindered by the lithium polysulfide (LiPS) shuttling and low conversion efficiency. Herein, the electronic structure of hollow Titanium dioxide nanospheres is tunned by single Iron atom dopants that can cooperatively enhance LiPS absorption and facilitate desired redox reaction in practical Li‐S batteries, further suppressing the notorious shuttle effect, which is consistent with theoretical calculations and in situ UV/vis investigation. The obtained electrode with massive active sites and lower energy barrier for sulfur conversions exhibits exceptional cycling stability after 500 cycles and high capacity under the sulfur loading of 10.53 mg cm−2. In particular, an Ah‐level Li‐S pouch cell is fabricated, further demonstrating that the synthetic strategy based on atomic‐level design offers a promising route toward practical high‐energy‐density Li‐S batteries.
In Situ Plasma Polymerization of Self‐Stabilized Polythiophene Enables Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anodes with Ultra‐Long Cycle Life
Authors: Cao Shengling , Ning Jing , He Xin , Wang Tianqi , Xu Cheng , Chen Manlin , Wang Kangli , Zhou Min , Jiang Kai
Published: March 2024

Constructing a flexible and chemically stable multifunctional layer for the lithium (Li) metal anodes is a highly effective approach to improve the uneven deposition of Li+ and suppress the dendrite growth. Herein, an organic protecting layer of polythiophene is in situ polymerized on the Li metal via plasma polymerization. Compared with the chemically polymerized thiophene (C‐PTh), the plasma polymerized thiophene layer (P‐PTh), with a higher Young's modulus of 8.1 GPa, shows strong structural stability due to the chemical binding of the polythiophene and Li. Moreover, the nucleophilic C─S bond of polythiophene facilitates the decomposition of Li salts in the electrolytes, promoting the formation of LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layers. The synergetic effect of the rigid LiF as well as the flexible PTh‐Li can effectively regulate the uniform Li deposition and suppress the growth of Li dendrites during the repeated stripping‐plating, enabling the Li anodes with long‐cycling lifespan over 8000 h (1 mA cm−2, 1 mAh cm−2) and 2500 h (10 mA cm−2, 10 mAh cm−2). Since the plasma polymerization is facile (5–20 min) and environmentally friendly (solvent‐free), this work offers a novel and promising strategy for the construction of the forthcoming generation of high‐energy‐density batteries.
Strain Self‐Adaptive Iron Selenides Toward Stable Na+‐Ion Batteries with Impressive Initial Coulombic Efficiency
Authors: Xiao Ying , Miao Yue , Gong Fenglian , Zhang Tonghui , Zhou Luoyuan , Yu Qingtao , Hu Shilin , Chen Shimou
Published: March 2024

High tap density electrodes play a vital role in developing rechargeable batteries with high volumetric capacities, however, developing advanced electrodes with satisfied capacity, excellent structural stability, and achieving the resulted batteries with a high initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and good rate capability with long lifespan simultaneously, are still an intractable challenge. Herein, an ultrahigh ICE of 94.1% and stable cycling of carbon‐free iron selenides anode is enabled with a high tap density of 2.57 g cm−3 up to 4000 cycles at 5 A g−1 through strain‐modulating by constructing a homologous heterostructure. Systematical characterization and theoretical calculation show that the self‐adaptive homologous heterointerface alleviates the stress of the iron selenide anodes during cycling processes and subsequently improves the stability of the assembled batteries. Additionally, the well‐formed homologous heterostructure also contributes to the rapid Na+ diffusion kinetic, increased charge transfer, and good reversibility of the transformation reactions, endowing the appealing rate capability of carbon‐free iron selenides. The proposed design strategy provides new insight and inspiration to aid in the ongoing quest for advanced electrode materials with high tap densities and excellent stability.
Ultrathin Template Approach to Synthesize High‐Entropy Intermetallic Nanoparticles for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zheng Shaohui , Hu Jiuyi , Feng Ri , Xu Jiayu , Yu Yingjie , Li Linpo , Liu Wenjing , Zhang Weina , Huo Fengwei , Saleem Faisal
Published: March 2024

Intermetallic nanoparticles (i‐NPs) have received considerable attention as high‐performance catalysts for diverse catalytic applications. However, high‐entropy i‐NPs have been rarely reported due to particle growth and phase separation in the multicomponent alloy. In this study, for the first time, an integrated approach of template and structure transformation is introduced to synthesize a series of sub ≈ 5 nm multicomponent i‐NPs with varying compositions. Firstly, ultrathin PtCu nanosheets (NSs) are directly converted into bimetallic PtCu i‐NPs. Furthermore, these PtCu NSs are also used as templates for epitaxial growth of the other metals, followed by annealing to obtain high‐loading, novel compositions and uniform i‐NPs with ternary, quaternary, and quinary compositions, including high‐entropy i‐NPs. Interestingly, L10 intermetallic phases are obtained when Fe is introduced. As a proof‐of‐concept application, these high‐entropy i‐NPs showed superior catalytic performance for the hydrogen evolution reaction , which can be attributed to the negatively shifted d‐band center of Pt, thereby resulting in reduced H* adsorption energy at Pt sites as supported by density functional theory calculations. Overall, this research presents a promising method for the development of i‐NPs with various compositions.
Synthesis and Characterization of Functionalized Starch by Grafting Pyridine for Use in Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Kanth Shreya , Puttaiahgowda Yashoda Malgar , Kulal Ananda
Published: March 2024

The urgent need for new, efficient solutions to antibiotic resistance is a serious worldwide healthcare concern. Recently, new classes of antimicrobials known as antimicrobial polymers have played a significant role in tackling multidrug‐resistant bacteria. To achieve this purpose, antimicrobial biodegradable materials made from affordable renewable resources, including polysaccharides, are extensively applied. Here, this study presents a simple one‐pot method for generating powerful antimicrobial polymer using soluble starch and an easily accessible chemical pyridine. The quaternary pyridine‐grafted starch (St‐QP) is prepared and characterized using structural and thermal techniques. To assess the antimicrobial capabilities of the St‐QP for textile application, antimicrobial activities of the St‐QP, antimicrobial activity of the St‐QP‐coated fabric, cytotoxicity, durability of the St‐QP coated fabric, surface morphology of St‐QP coated fabric and antimicrobial activity after washing cycles are also examined. According to the findings, St‐QP and its modified materials have shown good antimicrobial activity against three bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Mycobacterium smegmatis, and the fungus Candida albicans. The St‐QP displays low toxicity to human fibroblasts, and after being coated on fabrics, it shows good durability and antimicrobial activity. The St‐QP coated fabric material shows 80% inhibition for all four microorganisms even after 25 washing cycles.
Bisphenol A promotes cell death in healthy respiratory system cells through inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest
Authors: Aysin Ferhunde
Published: March 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a substance that can harm the environment and human health by interfering with the normal functioning of the body's hormonal system. It is commonly found in various plastic‐based products such as cosmetics, canned foods, beverage containers, and medical equipment and as well as it can also be absorbed by inhalation. There have been limited studies on the effects of BPA on lung fibroblasts, and it is still unclear how high levels of BPA can impact respiratory system cells, particularly the lungs and trachea. In this research, we aimed to investigate the cell cycle disruption potential of BPA on respiratory system cells by examining healthy trachea and lung cells together for the first time. The findings indicated that BPA exposure can alter the healthy cells' morphology, leading to reduced cellular viability that has been assessed by MTT and SRB assays. BPA treatment was able to activate caspase3 as expected, which could cause apoptosis in treated cells. Although the highest dose of BPA did not increase the apoptotic rate of rat trachea cells, it remarkably caused them to become necrotic (52.12%). In addition to quantifying the induction of apoptosis and necrosis by BPA, cell cycle profiles were also determined using flow cytometry. Thereby, BPA treatment unexpectedly inhibited the cell cycle's progression by causing G2/M cell cycle arrest in both lung and tracheal cells, which hindered cell proliferation. The findings of the study suggested that exposure to BPA could lead to serious respiratory problems, even respiratory tract cancers via alterations in the cell cycle.
Warped conformal symmetries of the accelerating Kerr black hole
Authors: Xu Jianfei
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Recent studies on the holographic descriptions of Kerr black holes indicate that the conformal or the warped conformal symmetries are responsible for the Kerr black hole physics at both background and perturbation levels. In the present paper, we extend the validity of these studies to the case of accelerating Kerr black hole. By invoking a set of non-trivial diffeomorphisms near the horizon bifurcation surface of the accelerating Kerr black hole, the Dirac brackets among charges of the diffeomorphisms form the symmetry algebra of a warped CFT which consists of one Virasoro and one Kac-Moody algebra with central extensions. This provides the evidence for warped CFTs being possible holographic dual to accelerating Kerr black holes. The thermal entropy formula of the warped CFT fixed by modular parameters and vacuum charges reproduces the entropy of the rotating black hole with acceleration.