bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel bias in managers' allocation of bonuses to teams: Emphasis on team size instead of team contribution
Authors: Bai Yun , Feng Zhiyu , Pinto Jonathan , Savani Krishna
Published: June 2023

How should managers supervising multiple teams allocate bonuses—based on each team's size or based on each team's contribution? According to the commonly accepted equity norm for allocating rewards, managers should distribute bonuses based on the relative contributions of the team. In contrast, we propose that managers are instead distracted by the number of employees in each team and neglect team contribution highlighted in the equity norm. Pilot Studies 1 and 2 confirmed that in both individual‐ and team‐based bonus allocation situations, people preferred and actually allocated rewards according to the equity norm rather than the equality norm or the need norm when only contribution was manipulated. However, Study 1, a laboratory experiment, revealed that individuals assigned to the role of a manager allocated more bonuses to the larger team even though the two teams' actual work output (in terms of the number of units of work completed) was nearly identical. Study 2 replicated the key findings of Study 1 using a sample of managers supervising teams in organizations. Study 3 developed an information nudge—highlighting the team contribution—that reduced this bias. Together, these studies indicate a novel team‐size bias that creeps in when managers allocate rewards to multiple teams and document an information nudge to reduce this bias.
Evaluation of a remote monitoring app in head and neck cancer follow‐up care
Authors: van de Weerd Cecile , Ebbers Tom , Smilde Donna E. M. , van Tol‐Geerdink Julia J. , Takes Robert P. , van den Broek Guido B. , Hermens Rosella P. M. G. , Kool Rudolf B.
Published: June 2023

Background

A remote monitoring app was developed for head and neck cancer (HNC) follow‐up during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. This mixed‐methods study provides insight in the usability and patients' experiences with the app to develop recommendations for future use.

Methods

Patients were invited to participate if they were treated for HNC, used the app at least once and were in clinical follow‐up. A subset was selected for semi‐structured interviews through purposive sampling considering gender and age. This study was conducted between September 2021–May 2022 at a Dutch university medical center.

Results

135 of the 216 invited patients completed the questionnaire, resulting in a total mHealth usability score of 4.72 (± 1.13) out of 7. Thirteen semi‐structured interviews revealed 12 barriers and 11 facilitators. Most of them occurred at the level of the app itself. For example, patients received no feedback when all their answers were normal. The app made patients feel more responsible over their follow‐up, but could not fulfill the need for personal contact with the attending physician. Patients felt that the app could replace some of the outpatient follow‐up visits.

Conclusions

Our app is user‐friendly, makes patients feel more in control and remote monitoring can reduce the frequency of outpatient follow‐up visits. The barriers that emerged must be resolved before the app can be used in regular HNC follow‐up. Future studies should investigate the appropriate ratio of remote monitoring to outpatient follow‐up visits and the cost‐effectiveness of remote monitoring in oncology care on a larger scale.
Stable and Reusable Fe3O4/ZIF‐8 Composite for Encapsulation of FDH Enzyme under Mild Conditions Applicable to CO2 Reduction
Authors: Aguirre Matías E. , Ramírez Cristina L. , Di Iorio. Yesica
Published: June 2023

The enzymatic reduction of carbon dioxide presents limited applicability due to denaturation and the impossibility of biocatalyst recovery; disadvantages that can be minimized by its immobilization. Here, a recyclable bio‐composed system was constructed by in‐situ encapsulation under mild conditions using formate dehydrogenase in a ZIF‐8 metalorganic framework (MOF) in the presence of magnetite. The partial dissolution of ZIF‐8 in the enzyme's operation medium can be relatively inhibited if the concentration of magnetic support used exceeds 10 mg mL−1. The bio‐friendly environment for immobilization does not harm the integrity of the biocatalyst, and the production of formic acid is improved 3.4‐fold compared to the free enzyme because the MOFs act as concentrators of the enzymatic cofactor. Furthermore, the bio‐composed system retains 86 % of its activity after a long time of five cycles, thus indicating an excellent magnetic recovery and a good reusability.
Highly Electrophilic Mononuclear Cationic Aluminium Alkoxide Complexes: Syntheses, Reactivity and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Bhandari Mamta , Kaur Mandeep , Rawat Sandeep , Singh Sanjay
Published: June 2023

Herein, we report the synthesis of β‐diketiminate‐supported aluminium complexes bearing terminal alkoxide and mono‐thiol functional groups: LAlOMe(Et) (2), LAlOtBu(Et) (3), and LAlSH(Et) (4), (L=[HC{C(Me)N‐(2,6‐iPr2C6H3)}2]). Complexes 2 and 3 are further used as synthons to generate the fascinating cationic aluminium alkoxide complexes, [LAlOMe(μ‐OMe)‐Al(Et)L][EtB(C6F5)3] (5), [LAlOMe(OEt2)][EtB(C6F5)3] (6), and [LAlOtBu(OEt2)][EtB(C6F5)3] (8). These electrophilic cationic species are well characterized by spectroscopic and crystallographic techniques. The assessment of Lewis acidity by the Gutmann‐Beckett method revealed superior Lewis acidity of the cations substituted with electron‐demanding alkoxy groups in comparison to the known methyl analogue [LAlMe][B(C6F5)4]. This has been further endorsed by computational calculations to determine the NBO charges and hydride ion affinity for complexes 6 and 8. These complexes are also capable of activating triethylsilane in stoichiometric reactions. The applicability of these complexes has been realized in the hydrosilylation of ethers, carbonyls, and olefines. Additionally, the solid‐state structure of a new THF stabilized aluminium halide cation [LAlCl(THF)][B(C6F5)4] (11) has also been reported.
The critical mass for the unconfined vapour cloud explosion of compressed and liquid hydrogen
Authors: Salzano Ernesto
Published: June 2023

The (unconfined) vapour cloud explosion (VCE) is a dramatic phenomenon that generates a severe pressure wave with a high potential to damage assets and produce injuries in the far field. This definition applies also to hydrogen. Nevertheless, no clear tools and methodology have been so far developed and tested for this highly reactive gas, and even advanced numerical simulations lack validation and suffer from large uncertainties. In this view, the comprehension of the physic which subtends this dramatic phenomenon for the specific case of hydrogen is still a central issue. This paper revises some of the most adopted theories on VCE based on classical acoustic theory and models for pressure wave propagation and provides a consequence‐based, threshold (minimum) value for the critical mass of hydrogen which is needed—at a stoichiometric concentration in air—for a vapour cloud to behave as a VCE. To this regard, any non‐stoichiometric hydrogen concentration in air or lower amount of hydrogen would decrease either the flame Mach number or the total energy, thus resulting in negligible overpressure. In this sense, the effects of buoyancy, diffusivity, and weather conditions on the dispersion of hydrogen should be taken into account. The results are valid either for compressed or cryogenic liquid tanks and can be adopted for the sake of distinction between hydrogen flash fire and VCE; for the hazard analysis of hydrogen production and storage; and more in general for the risk assessment of hydrogen systems.
The influence of childhood emotional maltreatment on cognitive symptoms, rumination, and hopelessness in adulthood depression
Authors: Domke Ann‐Kathrin , Hartling Corinna , Stippl Anna , Carstens Luisa , Gruzman Rebecca , Bajbouj Malek , Gärtner Matti , Grimm Simone
Published: June 2023

Childhood emotional maltreatment (CEM) is a risk factor for the pathogenesis of depressive disorders. However, it is not clear whether CEM is more strongly related to specific symptoms of depression and whether specific traits or cognitive states may mediate the association between CEM and depressive symptoms. In our cross‐sectional study, including 72 patients with a current depressive episode, we investigated if CEM is specifically related to cognitive symptoms of depression. In addition, we evaluated whether CEM also influences the extent of rumination and hopelessness in adult depression. Using multiple regression analyses, we tested if CEM and rumination could predict cognitive symptoms and hopelessness. A structural equation model (SEM) was used to examine if rumination mediates the relationship between CEM and cognitive symptoms. Correlational analyses revealed that CEM was related to cognitive symptoms, rumination, and hopelessness. The regression analyses showed that only rumination was a significant predictor for cognitive symptoms and hopelessness, whereas CEM could not significantly predict the two constructs. SEM revealed that the association between CEM and cognitive symptoms in adult depression was mediated by rumination. Our results thereby suggest that CEM is a risk factor particularly for the development of cognitive symptoms as well as rumination and hopelessness in adult depression. However, the influence on cognitive symptomatology seems to be indirectly regulated by rumination. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of processes that promote depression, as well as provide guidance for more targeted treatment options.
Triplet Formation and Triplet‐Triplet Annihilation Upconversion in Iodine Substituted Non‐Orthogonal BODIPY‐Perylene Dyads
Authors: Kumar Jha Keshav , Prabhakaran Amrutha , Cane Sia Rengel , Arellano Reyes Ruben Arturo , Kumar Sarangi Nirod , Yang Tingxiang , Kumar Krishan , Kupfer Stephan , Guthmuller Julien , Keyes Tia E. , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin
Published: June 2023

BODIPY‐perylene dyads have emerged as useful metal free sensitizers for triplet‐triplet annihilation upconversion (TTAUC), these dyads are capable of efficient triplet generation via spin‐orbit charge transfer intersystem crossing (SOCT‐ISC). This important route to triplet formation requires dyads in which two moieties are oriented perpendicular to each other. In this contribution, we give a deeper insight on the behavior of recently reported BODIPY‐perylene dyads, where BODIPY‐perylene dihedral exhibits a non‐orthogonal dyad geometry. The intersystem crossing of BODIPY‐perylene dyads with and without iodine are investigated using femtosecond transient absorption (fs‐TA) and nanosecond transient absorption (ns‐TA) spectroscopy. The concurrent decay of the singlet charge transfer state (1CT) and rise of triplet states in both the iodinated and non‐iodinated dyads confirms the SOCT‐ISC as the main intersystem crossing pathway despite the altered geometry of the dyads. The presence of an iodine atom on the BODIPY‐moiety enables intersystem crossing 2.6‐times faster and provides a higher triplet yield with respect to dyad without iodine. The upconversion quantum yield (
) is 8.4‐times higher in the sample containing iodinated dyad as sensitizer and perylene as annihilator. The triplet‐triplet energy transfer rate (kTTET) is ~8×108 M−1 s−1 for both iodinated and non‐iodinated sensitizer containing TTAUC systems in 1,4‐dioxane.
Electrochemically Activated Expanded Graphite with Tailor‐Made Pores for Magnesium–Organocation Hybrid Batteries
Authors: Mohanty Sangram Keshari , Cao Lei , Choi Byeong Kil , Ryu Ji Heon , Park Jin Kyoon , Yoo Hyun Deog
Published: June 2023

Invited for this month′s cover are the groups of Prof. Hyun Deog Yoo and Prof. Jin Kyoon Park at Pusan National University, and Prof. Ji Heon Ryu at Tech University of Korea (Republic of Korea). The cover image illustrates the generation of tailor‐made pores by the electrochemical activation of expanded graphite for a magnesium–organocation hybrid battery. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202300035.
Novel comprehensive feedback theory—Part I: Generalization of the cut‐insertion theorem and demonstration of feedback universality
Authors: Pellegrini Bruno , Macucci Massimo , Marconcini Paolo
Published: June 2023

The previous cut‐insertion theorem, defined for linear circuits and for particular three‐terminal circuits (TTCs) to be inserted into the cut, is here extended to any TTC and, in a simplified form, to non‐linear networks. The TTC may include dependent and independent sources and any other passive and/or independent elements, and, together with the remaining part of the circuit, determines a feedback loop for which the “transmission factors”
and
can be defined and computed. The theorem allows to obtain all the circuit properties: the overall gain, the driving‐point immittances, a new properly defined “cut immittance,” the sensitivity, and so on. For
becomes the “classic” loop gain. As will be shown in Part II of the paper, the new approach, depending on the TTC implementation, includes and unifies all the previous feedback models and enables the creation of new ones. Moreover, starting from the paradigmatic definition of a system with a feedback as a system in which the output quantity is in part an effect of itself, the universal presence of feedback in any system is shown. Finally, the results are highlighted by the application to unilateral non‐linear systems, such as digital latches, and to bilateral linear circuits, such as bridged‐
networks.
Challenging the stability of RAN development: Acknowledging PA and Gf in relation to reading
Authors: Wolff Ulrika , Åvall Malena , Gustafsson Jan‐Eric
Published: June 2023

This study had two overriding goals, (1) examine the stability of rapid automatized naming (RAN) in predicting reading achievement while taking into account two other frequently studied constructs, phonological awareness and fluid intelligence (Gf) and (2) examine the predictive power of RAN measured at age 4 on reading ability. The stable pattern of RAN development found in a previously reported growth model was challenged by relating phonological awareness and Gf to the model. Children (N = 364) were followed from age 4 to age 10. At age 4, Gf related strongly to phonological awareness, which in turn related strongly to RAN. The relations between the RAN measures over time was largely unaffected by the inclusion of Gf and phonological awareness. RAN, Gf and phonological awareness at age 4 independently predicted latent factors reflecting reading‐related abilities in grade 1 and grade 4. However, when scrutinizing type of reading measure in grade 4, Gf, phonological awareness and RAN at age 4 predicted both spelling and reading fluency, whereas RAN in grade 2 did not predict spelling but was the strongest predictor of reading fluency.
Development of a novel two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis protocol with agarose native gel electrophoresis
Authors: Nakagawa Masataka , Tomioka Yui , Sakuma Chiaki , Kurosawa Yasunori , Shibata Takashi , Arakawa Tsutomu , Akuta Teruo
Published: June 2023

A new protocol for conducting two‐dimensional (2D) electrophoresis was developed by combining the recently developed agarose native gel electrophoresis with either vertical sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) or flat SDS agarose gel electrophoresis. Our innovative technique utilizes His/MES buffer (pH 6.1) during the first‐dimensional (1D) agarose native gel electrophoresis, which allows for the simultaneous and clear visualization of basic and acidic proteins in their native states or complex structures. Our agarose gel electrophoresis is a true native electrophoresis, unlike blue native–PAGE, which relies on the intrinsic charged states of the proteins and their complexes without the need for dye binding. In the 2D, the gel strip from the 1D agarose gel electrophoresis is soaked in SDS and placed on top of the vertical SDS–PAGE gels or the edge of the flat SDS–MetaPhor high‐resolution agarose gels. This allows for customized operation using a single electrophoresis device at a low cost. This technique has been successfully applied to analyze various proteins, including five model proteins (BSA, factor Xa, ovotransferrin, IgG, and lysozyme), monoclonal antibodies with slightly different isoelectric points, polyclonal antibodies, and antigen–antibody complexes, as well as complex proteins such as IgM pentamer and β‐galactosidase tetramer. Our protocol can be completed within a day, taking approximately 5–6 h, and can be expanded further into Western blot analysis, mass spectrometry analysis, and other analytical methods.
Electrochemical interference study of manganese and iron by multiplex method and the application for manganese analysis in drinking water
Authors: Shi Yichun , Pei Yu , Lamothe Nicholas , Macdonald Kirsten , Payne Sarah Jane , She Zhe
Published: June 2023

Manganese is an emerging concern in drinking water, due to its potential health and aesthetic effects. Although accurate and sensitive, spectroscopic techniques for Mn2+ detection are costly and not capable of rapid detection. Electrochemical methods, such as cathodic stripping voltammetry, have been intensively explored as portable low‐cost methods for Mn2+ detection. Challenges of reliability and matrix interference are difficult to overcome with current electrochemical methods. Among the interference reagents, Fe2+ is one of the biggest challenges for Mn2+ detection. Herein, a new method based on multiplex chronoamperometry at potentials between 0.9 and 1.4 V by a multichannel potentiostat is explored for its ability for interference resistance and applicability for Mn2+ detection in real drinking water samples. Compared to conventional one‐channel electrochemical techniques, the multiplex method generates a reliable pattern that is unique to the sample components. The interference between Mn2+ and Fe2+ is investigated and the results are promising even at 100:1 Fe2+:Mn2+ concentrations. The detection limit determined for the multiplex method was 25.3 μM, and the optimum recovery rate in a real drinking water sample was 99.8%.
Nutritive value of forages consumed by ruminants during the dry season in the Western Highlands of Cameroon
Authors: Tieubou Tsopgni Leslie , Lemoufouet Jules , Meutchieye Felix , Edie Nounamo Langston Wilfried , Nyembo Kondo Camile , Kana Jean Raphaël , Mouchili Mama , Feudjio Back Armel
Published: June 2023

Background

In the Western Highlands of Cameroon (WHC), information on the nutritional value of fodder species consumed by ruminants is very limited.

Methods

Through interviews with farmers and monitoring of animals on the range, information was obtained on the types of fodder resources consumed by the ruminants. Samples of each forage species were collected in 15 districts, mixed, chopped, and dried in a ventilated oven at 60°C, and then ground for chemical composition analysis.

Results

Twenty‐two forage species were identified. Among these species, Vernonia amygdalina (29.43% ± 0.45% dry matter [DM]) and Pennisetum clandestinum (87.21% ± 1.33% DM) were, respectively, the highest in protein and neutral detergent fiber contents. Manihot esculenta was one of the most energy‐rich forages in terms of forage unit for lactation and forage unit for meat production. Hierarchical ascending classification revealed three main groups of forages, respectively, rich in crude fiber (Group 1), protein (Group 2), and energy (Group 3).

Conclusions

The present study identified 22 forage species browsed by ruminants in WHC. Further studies should be carried out to determine the antinutritional factors and to evaluate their nutrient value using in vitro or in situ digestibility techniques.
Novel agents in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Varma Gaurav , Goldstein Jordan , Advani Ranjana H.
Published: June 2023

Patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), ineligible for or relapsing after autologous stem‐cell transplant or chimeric antigen‐receptor T‐cell therapies have poor outcomes. Several novel agents, polatuzumab vedotin, tafasitamab, loncastuximab tesirine, and selinexor, have been approved and offer new opportunities for this difficult to treat population. Studies are evaluating combination of these agents with chemotherapy and other emerging therapies. Additionally, advances in our understanding of DLBCL biology, genetics, and immune microenvironment have allowed for the identification of new therapeutic targets like Ikaros and Aiolos, IRAK4, MALT1, and CD47 with several agents in ongoing clinical trials. In this chapter we review updated data supporting the use of the approved agents and discuss other emerging novel therapies for patients with R/R DLBCL.
Lymphomas in pregnancy
Authors: Pirosa Maria Cristina , Peccatori Fedro Alessandro
Published: June 2023

Lymphoma in pregnancy is an uncommon occurrence. This diagnosis is challenging, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists in obstetrics, anesthesiology, neonatology, hematology psychology should participate in the management of this condition. The choice of treatment regimen depends on the histotype and the gestational age. In Hodgkin lymphoma, ABVD is safe if administered after the thirteenth week of pregnancy. In indolent non‐Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL) a watchful waiting approach is reasonable; in case of aggressive NHLs, if the diagnosis occurs in the first gestational weeks, a termination of the pregnancy might be considered or if it occurs after the thirteenth week of pregnancy, a standard R‐CHOP regimen is safe. Regarding new anti‐lymphoma drugs, available data on the potential fetotoxicity of these agents are limited. Data collection regarding the use of new drugs in pregnant patients is mandatory in order to learn more about their safety and facilitating clinical decision making in this setting of patients.
Reversing vemurafenib‐resistance in primary melanoma cells by combined romidepsin and type I IFN treatment through blocking of tumorigenic signals and induction of immunogenic effects
Authors: Fragale Alessandra , Stellacci Emilia , Romagnoli Giulia , Licursi Valerio , Parlato Stefania , Canini Irene , Remedi Giacomo , Buoncervello Maria , Matarrese Paola , Pedace Lucia , Ascione Barbara , Pizzi Simone , Tartaglia Marco , D'Atri Stefania , Presutti Carlo , Capone Imerio , Gabriele Lucia
Published: June 2023

BRAFV600 mutations are the most common oncogenic alterations in melanoma cells, supporting proliferation, invasion, metastasis and immune evasion. In patients, these aberrantly activated cellular pathways are inhibited by BRAFi whose potent antitumor effect and therapeutic potential are dampened by the development of resistance. Here, by using primary melanoma cell lines, generated from lymph node lesions of metastatic patients, we show that the combination of two FDA‐approved drugs, the histone deacetylate inhibitor (HDCAi) romidepsin and the immunomodulatory agent IFN‐α2b, reduces melanoma proliferation, long‐term survival and invasiveness and overcomes acquired resistance to the BRAFi vemurafenib (VEM). Targeted resequencing revealed that each VEM‐resistant melanoma cell line and the parental counterpart are characterized by a distinctive and similar genetic fingerprint, shaping the differential and specific antitumor modulation of MAPK/AKT pathways by combined drug treatment. By using RNA‐sequencing and functional in vitro assays, we further report that romidepsin‐IFN‐α2b treatment restores epigenetically silenced immune signals, modulates MITF and AXL expression and induces both apoptosis and necroptosis in sensitive and VEM‐resistant primary melanoma cells. Moreover, the immunogenic potential of drug‐treated VEM‐resistant melanoma cells results significantly enhanced, given the increased phagocytosis rate of these cells by dendritic cells, which in turn exhibit also a selective down‐modulation of the immune checkpoint TIM‐3. Overall, our results provide evidence that combined epigenetic‐immune drugs can overcome VEM resistance of primary melanoma cells by oncogenic and immune pathways reprogramming, and pave the way for rapidly exploiting this combination to improve BRAFi‐resistant metastatic melanoma treatment, also via reinforcement of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
City‐wide medication use process standardization and implementation of intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia consensus recommendations at an academic medical center
Authors: Brown Michelle E. , Fuller James , Voss Hannah , Walroth Todd A.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Indianapolis Coalition for Patient Safety, Inc. (ICPS) identified practice variation across participating health‐systems related to intravenous Patient‐Controlled Analgesia (PCA) in 2018. No evidence‐based published recommendations were available to provide optimization for the medication use process during this evaluation, leading to development of an ad hoc interdisciplinary group to address gaps.

Objectives

Primary objectives were to operationalize safe use of PCA and evaluate implementation of ICPS PCA consensus recommendations at an academic medical center by assessing PCA prescribing patterns following policy and electronic health record (EHR) changes. Secondary objectives focused on markers of adoption changes and employee engagement.

Methods

ICPS formed an interdisciplinary, diverse group of content experts representing six health‐systems to review current PCA processes. Significant variations were identified, and a gap‐analysis was completed to develop consensus recommendations. To evaluate implementation of these recommendations, a retrospective pre‐/post‐analysis was completed of patients at a safety‐net, academic medical center from March 2021 to July 2022 who received an order for PCA. Prescribing patterns and electronic documentation were analyzed.

Results

The ICPS PCA Safety Summit developed 45 consensus recommendations addressing the following PCA medication use processes: ordering, patient assessment, administration, EHR design, documentation tools, smart pump drug library settings, policies, adverse event monitoring, and education. Evaluation included a total of 155 patients. The ordered total number of morphine milligram equivalent (MME) potentially available per day to a patient from PCA, electronic documentation of opioid tolerance, and PCA smart infusion pump review all significantly improved post‐implementation.

Conclusion

City‐wide standardization and development of PCA consensus guidelines filled a gap in practice to provide direction and optimization for the medication use process surrounding these high‐alert medications. Organizational results following implementation provide evidence that using new EHR order sets and incorporating opioid tolerance resulted in more intentional PCA prescribing and more thorough electronic nursing documentation.
Hydroponic phytoremediation of antimony by Tamarix smyrnensis and Nerium oleander
Authors: Seridou Petroula , Fyntrilakis Konstantinos , Syranidou Evdokia , Kalogerakis Nicolas
Published: June 2023

Background

Antimony (Sb) is considered a priority pollutant and its removal from the environment is of great importance. Among the various treatments, phytoremediation is considered an efficient method when the accumulation of this metalloid in plant tissues is sufficiently high. This work focused on removal of Sb(III) from aqueous solution at two Sb concentrations (5 and 10 ppm) and using salt as stressor (100 mmol L−1) only at the lowest Sb concentration (5 ppm). The response of two salt‐tolerant plant species – Tamarix smyrnensis and Nerium oleander – was monitored when subjected to Sb‐contaminated hydroponic solutions.

Results

Plant growth and water content remained unaltered within the 15‐day experimental period, while the chlorophyll content declined significantly at the higher Sb level (10 ppm) only for N. oleander. The antioxidant enzymatic activity in T. smyrnensis with respect to guaiacol peroxidase (GPOD) and catalase (CAT) was significantly increased in the treatment under Sb and salt stress. In N. oleander there was a strong increase in GPOD activity by the exposure to Sb, whereas the CAT activity was increased considerably with the presence of salinity. Sb concentration was detected on the surface of the leaves, indicating that excretion occurred in both plants. Increased accumulation was observed in N. oleander in the absence of salinity whereas, under salt stress, Sb accumulation was considerably higher (60%) in T. smyrnensis. Notably, both plants could accumulate a high amount of Sb, preferentially in the roots, with the concentrations in the leaves being significantly lower.

Conclusion

The experimental results from this study demonstrate that both plants are suitable for phytoremediation due to substantial Sb accumulation without visible Sb toxicity. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Degradation of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals using various sulfate radical activation methods: kinetics and mechanism
Authors: Puri Mehak , Gandhi Kavita , Kumar M Suresh
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Most studies have focused on the degradation of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals using persulfate activation processes. Therefore, the current study compares various sulfate radical activation processes in an aqueous solution of a mixture of diethyl phthalate, butylparaben and bisphenol A that are present in water and wastewater. The effects of initial persulfate dose and pH variation, the effect of concentration of target endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and degradation efficiency under various processes were studied. Additionally, the toxicity and cost estimation of the systems were also examined.

RESULTS

The results showed pseudo‐first‐order kinetics with maximum degradation efficiency of 99% for 1 mg L−1 at pH 7, 2.5 mmol L−1 persulfate dose, 450 W power in 60 min for UV‐activated persulfate oxidation process. A quenching experiment highlights the dominance of both sulfate and hydroxyl radicals in the degradation of mixtures of diethyl phthalate, butylparaben and bisphenol A in an aqueous solution. The transformative products identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry were monohydroxylated structures that decompose to form organic acids, indicating efficient degradation capacity with minimal toxicity. Further, the sono‐activated persulfate oxidation process was found to be cost‐effective at 1 mg L−1 with 95% degradation efficiency.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that an increase in the concentration of target compounds decreases the efficiency of degradation under various activation processes. pH 3 and pH 7 favor thermal and sono‐activated and UV‐activated processes, respectively. Toxicity evaluation shows minimal harm to non‐target species Daphnia magna for all activation processes. These findings can be useful for on‐field application for the degradation of chemicals in mixtures. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Co‐trimoxazole prophylaxis for children who are HIV‐exposed and uninfected: a systematic review
Authors: Wedderburn Catherine J. , Evans Ceri , Slogrove Amy L. , Rehman Andrea M. , Gibb Diana M. , Prendergast Andrew J. , Penazzato Martina
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Co‐trimoxazole prophylaxis is recommended for children born to women with HIV to protect those who acquire HIV from opportunistic infections, severe bacterial infections and malaria. With scale‐up of maternal antiretroviral therapy, most children remain HIV‐exposed uninfected (HEU) and the benefits of universal co‐trimoxazole are uncertain. We assessed the effect of co‐trimoxazole on mortality and morbidity of children who are HEU.

Methods

We performed a systematic review (PROSPERO number: CRD42021215059). We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Global Health, CINAHL Plus, Africa‐Wide Information, SciELO and WHO Global Index Medicus for peer‐reviewed articles from inception to 4th January 2022 without limits. Ongoing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified through registries. We included RCTs reporting mortality or morbidity in children who are HEU receiving co‐trimoxazole versus no prophylaxis/placebo. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane 2.0 tool. Data were summarized using narrative synthesis and findings were stratified by malaria endemicity.

Results

We screened 1257 records and included seven reports from four RCTs. Two trials from Botswana and South Africa of 4067 children who are HEU found no difference in mortality or infectious morbidity in children randomized to co‐trimoxazole prophylaxis started at 2–6 weeks of age compared to those randomized to placebo or no treatment, although event rates were low. Sub‐studies found that antimicrobial resistance was higher in infants receiving co‐trimoxazole. Two trials in Uganda investigating prolonged co‐trimoxazole after breastfeeding cessation showed protection against malaria but no other morbidity or mortality differences. All trials had some concerns or a high risk of bias, which limited the certainty of evidence.

Discussion

Studies show no clinical benefit of co‐trimoxazole prophylaxis in children who are HEU, except to prevent malaria. Potential harms were identified for co‐trimoxazole prophylaxis leading to antimicrobial resistance. The trials in non‐malarial regions were conducted in populations with low mortality potentially reducing generalizability to other settings.

Conclusions

In low‐mortality settings with few HIV transmissions and well‐performing early infant diagnosis and treatment programmes, universal co‐trimoxazole may not be required.
Screening and identification of high yield tetramethylpyrazine strains in Nongxiangxing liquor Daqu and study on the mechanism of tetramethylpyrazine production
Authors: Liu Yanbo , Li Mengke , Hong Xinfeng , Li Haideng , Huang Runna , Han Suna , Hou Jianguang , Pan Chunmei
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

There are few reports on the breeding of high‐yielding tetramethylpyrazine (TTMP) strains in strong‐flavor Daqu. In addition, studies on the mechanism of TTMP production in strains are mostly based on common physiological and biochemical indicators, and there is no report on RNA level. Therefore, in this study, a strain with high production of TTMP was screened out from strong‐flavor liquor, and transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed to analyze its key metabolic pathways and key genes, and to infer the mechanism of TTMP production in the strain.

RESULTS

In this study, a strain with a high yield of tetramethylpyrazine (TTMP) was screened out, and the yield was 29.83 μg mL−1. The identified strain was Bacillus velezensis, which could increase the content of TTMP in liquor by about 88%. After transcriptome sequencing, a total of 1851 differentially expressed genes were screened, including 1055 up‐regulated genes and 796 down‐regulated genes. Three pathways related to the production of TTMP were identified by gene ontology (GO) annotation and COG annotation, including carbohydrate metabolism, cell movement and amino acid metabolism. The key genes of TTMP were analyzed, and the factors that might regulate the production of TTMP, such as the transfer of uracil phosphate ribose and glycosyltransferase, were obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

A strain of B. velezensis with high TTMP production was screened and identified in strong‐flavor Daqu for the first time. The yield of TTMP was 29.83 μg mL−1, which increased the TTMP content in liquor by 88%. The key metabolic pathways of TTMP production in the strain were obtained: carbohydrate metabolism, cell movement and amino acid metabolism, and the key regulatory genes of each pathway were found, which complemented the gap in gene level in the production regulation of the strain, and provided a theoretical basis for the subsequent study of TTMP in liquor. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Seed storage proteins and seed coat compounds additively influence Callosobruchus maculatus Fab. tolerance in selected cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) varieties
Authors: Amusa Oluwafemi Daniel , Emereuwa Emmanuella Adaeze , Akinyosoye Solomon Tayo , Olayiwola Oreoluwa Ideraoluwa , Osunkojo Omotola Victoria , Adetola Azeezat Adeola , Ugbo Fechi Daniella , Ogunkanmi Liasu Adebayo , Oboh Bolanle Olufunmilayo
Published: June 2023

The cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus, is a major threat to stable cowpea production, especially in storage, and has been reported to facilitate postharvest losses in cowpea grains. Host resistance has been suggested as the best control method but with conflicting knowledge on the source of resistance. Hence, the study seeks to evaluate seed storage proteins (SSPs) and seed coat compounds (SCCs) associated with tolerance to C. maculatus. SSPs and SCCs were assayed and associated with C. maculatus tolerance in 19 cowpea varieties with varied tolerance levels using a stepwise multiple regression analysis. Top C. maculatus tolerants were TVu‐2027, TVu‐11952, TVu‐11953, and TVu‐145. The protein fraction with a mass of 51 kDa was a significant predictor associated with percentage adult insect emergence (PAE) and host suitability index (H.S.I.), and 57 and 71 kDa were associated with mean development period (MDP) whereas 59 and 131 kDa were associated with seed damage tolerance (TolSD). Several SCCs identified were associated with the C. maculatus tolerant measures used in the study. However, Thiazole, tetrahydro‐ and Undecane were consistently identified with C. maculatus tolerance. Higher phenotypic variability was accounted for by SCC than SSP fractions associated with C. maculatus tolerance in the study indicating that SCCs contributed more to the C. maculatus tolerance than the SSPs identified. These compounds can be incorporated into breeding for C. maculatus tolerant in cowpea and biopesticide formulations whereas cowpea varieties with the high or significant amount of these compounds can also be recommended to the farmers or to the cowpea producers.
Development and Validation of Analytical Methods for the Quantitation of Flavonoid Metabolites in Physiological Fluids via UHPLC‐MS
Authors: Kaiser Michael , Schieber Andreas
Published: June 2023

This thesis deals with the development and validation of methods for the quantification of flavonoid derivatives from physiological samples in cases of bioavailability research, as there is always a need for valid and reliable methods suitable for a wide variety of analytes. With the enzymatic proteolysis of plasma samples for flavonoid analysis, a completely new approach to sample preparation of plasma samples was investigated. Various enzymes and procedures were tested as part of the research, and the method was thus continuously optimized. The method validation showed the suitability of the developed method for several analytes of different flavonoid classes. It therefore appears to be promising when it comes to extending the application to further classes of analytes. With regard to the analysis of flavonoids in urine samples, an easy to handle method using evaporation was found and validated for anthocyanidins. In routine analysis, however, this method was not suitable for all anthocyanidins but only for the methoxylated ones. Nevertheless, the possibility of extending it to other analytes, especially the metabolically derivatized flavonoids, appears to be promising in the future.

Compared to already established methods, both methods presented here showed at least equivalent results with regard to method validation, apart from for hydroxylated anthocyanidins. But, when considering this it should be noted that due to the different validation guidelines used, there is no absolute comparability between the different analytical methods. It is indisputable, however, that with the methods presented here the costs can be blatantly reduced and the amount of material and the resulting waste can be reduced compared to the established methods using SPE. The application of a single sample preparation procedure for different analyte classes can also be used here, whereas different procedures would often be necessary with the classic SPE.

The repertory of available valid methods for bioavailability and metabolism research of flavonoids, and possibly other phytochemicals, could thus be expanded by the research work presented here.
Die Enzymologie der C8‐Oxylipinbiosynthese
Authors: Karrer Dominik , Rühl Martin
Published: June 2023

Based on transcriptomic, volatilomic and metabolomic data of the model organism Cyclocybe aegerita, the endogenous and enzymatic production of the C8‐oxylipins oct‐2‐en‐1‐ol, octan‐ 1‐ol, oct‐2‐enal, octanal, octan‐3‐ol, oct‐1‐en‐3‐ol, oct‐1‐en‐3‐one and octan‐3‐ one via biotransformations with [U‐13C]linoleic acid was compared to the developmental state depending gene expression patterns of putative oxylipin‐associated enzyme classes like lipoxygenases, dioxygenases, ene‐reductases and alcohol dehydrogenases. On closer consideration of these data sets, the C8‐oxylipin production seemed to occur cluster‐like.

While one cluster (ketonic‐cycle) consisted of octan‐3‐ol, oct‐1‐en‐3‐one, octan‐3‐one and oct‐1‐en‐3‐ol, which were detected through out all developmental stages, a second cluster (aldehydic‐cycle) primarily active at early developmental stages involved oct‐2‐enal, octanal, oct‐2‐en‐1‐ol and octan‐1‐ol. Studying these clusters revealed that all C8‐oxylipins of the aldehydic‐cycle and ketonic‐cycle can be derived from oct‐2‐enal and oct‐1‐en‐3‐one, respectively. A detailled consideration of the gene expression patterns revealed several enzyme classes putatively involved in the C8‐oxylipin biosynthesis. Especially the two genes AAE3 04864 and AAE3 13549 encoding the lox4‐ and enr1‐gene showed great similarities between their strongly increasing transcript counts with maturation. Subsequent recombinant production of CaeLOX4 and CaeEnR1 revealed that CaeLOX4 showed a preference for C18‐ fatty acids with the highest affinity towards linoleic acid. Analysis of the reaction product revealed that this LOX selectively oxygenated linoleic acid at position 13 to 13‐ hydroperoxyoctadecadienoic acid (13‐HPOD). CaeEnR1 showed high affinities towards the reduction of oct‐1‐en‐3‐one and oct‐2‐enal to their saturated counterparts octan‐3‐one and octanal, respectively. Due to the strong similarities between the expression patterns of CaeLOX4 and CaeEnR1 a coherence between their main reaction products 13‐HPOD and the precursor of the ketonic‐cycle oct‐1‐en‐3‐one seems very likely. This suggests a biosynthetic route from linoleic acid to 13‐HPOD, followed by a subsequent cleavage step to oct‐1‐en‐3‐ one and therefore to C8‐oxylipins of the ketonic‐cycle.
Heterologous production of basidiomycetous peptidases to decrease sodium chloride in food
Authors: Vorwerk Kirsten , Berger Ralf G.
Published: June 2023

In the past, the topic of excessive salt consumption associated with various chronic diseases became a focus of nutritional science. Enzymes such as hydrolases and specifically peptidases are widely used in industry since they do not require cofactors, are often stable at high pH values, and have a broad cleavage specificity. Thus, a new approach to use peptidases would be the generation of L‐arginyl dipeptides, which do not have a taste on their own, but are able to enhance the salty taste. This thesis should focus on the isolation and characterisation of arginyl‐specific peptidase genes from basidiomycetes to generate these dipeptides.

First, various peptidase genes from Trametes versicolor, Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Schizophyllum commune were isolated and expressed in Escherichia coli or Komagataella phaffii. The serine (ABB73029) peptidase from P. chrysosporium and the aspartate peptidase from T. versicolor (EIW62808) were successfully purified. Activity assays showed that the aspartate peptidase from T. versicolor is not an arginyl‐specific peptidase, while the analysis of cleavage sites indicates that the serine peptidase from P. chrysosporium is an exopeptidase. Next, 29 basidiomycetes were cultivated over 24 days in minimal medium with 1 % gluten and analysed regarding their endo‐ and exopeptidase activity. Out of 29 fungi, five interesting species with arginyl‐specific peptidase activity were chosen, namely Agrocybe aegerita, Fomitop‐ sis pinicola, Flammulina velutipes, Hypholoma sublateritium and Pleurotus eryngii. After purification of the culture supernatant using size exclusion chromatography, active fractions were used to hydrolyse the substrate casein, and cleavage products were analysed. Cleavage sites were only detected for A. aegerita, F. velutipes and P. eryngii. Beside arginyl‐specific cleavage sites also a high amount of undesired exopeptidase cleavage sites was determined assuming that these peptidases are probably exopeptidases rather than arginyl‐specific peptidases.

Generation of salt taste enhancing dipeptides should finally be achieved with a dipeptidyl‐ peptidase V (DPPV) from Pleurotusfloridanus. PflDPPV was heterologously produced in E. coli, had optima at pH 8.5 and 60 °C and was not completely inhibited by the tested peptidase inhibitors.
Metabolismus und Toxizität von 2‐Methylfuran
Authors: Kirsch Verena , Richling Elke
Published: June 2023

2‐Methylfuran (MF) ist eine Kontaminante, die vor allem in hitzebehandelten Lebensmitteln wie Kaffee oder Lebensmittelkonserven vorkommt. Jedoch ist die Datenlage für eine Risikobewertung lückenhaft hinsichtlich der Exposition und Toxizität (Knutsen et al., 2017). In vivo Studien mit 14C‐MF zeigten die Leber als Zielorgan histopathologischer Veränderungen, wie Nekrosen (Ravindranath et al., 1986; Gill et al., 2014). Es wurde die metabolische Aktivierung von MF zu reaktivem Acetylacrolein (AcA) angenommen, welches ein hohes Potential zeigte an Aminosäuren zu binden (Ravindranath et al., 1984a; Ravindranath und Boyd, 1985). In dieser Arbeit wurden die molekularen und chemischen Mechanismen von MF und AcA untersucht, um Rückschlüsse auf die toxikologischen Effekte zu ermöglichen. Zunächst wurde MF in silico hinsichtlich seines toxikologischen Potentials klassifiziert und endpunktspezifisch quantitative Struktur‐Wirkungsbeziehungen (QSAR, engl. quantitative structure‐ activity relationship) analysiert. Positive toxikologische Abschätzungen basierten auf dessen metabolischer Aktivierung zu verschiedenen Metabolite. Diese wurden in zwei Gruppen unterteilt, welche von AcA oder Furfurylalkohol (FFA) abstammten. Im Folgenden wurde AcA synthetisiert und dessen Reaktivität gegenüber N‐Acetyl‐L‐cystein (AcCys), Να‐Acetyl‐L‐lysin (AcLys), 2’‐Desoxyadenosin (dA), 2’‐Desoxyguanosin (dG), 2’‐Desoxycytosin (dC) sowie 2’‐Desoxythymidin (dT) geprüft. Bis auf dT, welches keine Reaktivität zeigte, wurden alle Addukte von AcA charakterisiert, was die Entwicklung sensitiver Quantifizierungsmethoden via (U)HPLC‐ESI+/‐‐MS/MS ermöglichte. Anschließend wurde die metabolische Aktivierung von MF zu AcA unter Verwendung humaner (HLM) und Rattenlebermikrosomen (RLM) verifiziert und enzymkinetisch untersucht. Analog wurde die Umsetzung von MF mit CYP 2E1 charakterisiert, welches sich innerhalb der getesteten SupersomesTM CYP 1A2, 2A6, 2C9, 2D6, 2E1 und 3A4 als Schlüsselenzym herausstellte. Zuletzt wurde die Bildung der in chemico identifizierten AcA‐Addukte in vitro untersucht. Hierzu wurde die Zytotoxizität von MF in primären Rattenhepatozyten (pRH) mit der in HepG2‐Zellen verglichen als auch in Bezug zu der Zytotoxizität von AcA gesetzt. Wurden pRH mit MF und AcA inkubiert, konnte in den Zellüberständen AcLys‐AcA zeit‐ und dosisabhängig nachgewiesen werden. Dies qualifiziert AcLys‐AcA als potenzieller Biomarker. Gleichzeitig konnte hiermit gezeigt werden, dass AcA auch auf zellulärer Ebene gebildet wird. Dahingegen wurde weder AcCys‐AcA noch die DNA‐Addukte dA‐AcA, dG‐AcA oder dC‐AcA in vitro nachgewiesen. Dies deutete auf eine effiziente Detoxifzierung, bzw. Reaktion mit Biomolekülen in der Zelle hin, obgleich die Induktion anderer DNA‐Schäden, ggf. auch durch anderen Metabolit, nicht prinzipiell auszuschließen ist. So wurde erstmals in vitro AcA als reaktiver Metabolit von MF nachgewiesen und seine Addukte mit nukleophilen Zellbestandteilen als potenzielle Biomarker untersucht. Diese ermöglicht eine verbesserte Risikobewertung von MF.