bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composting and vermicomposting of spent mushroom substrate to produce organic fertilizer
Authors: Domínguez-Gutiérrez Mario , Gaitán-Hernández Rigoberto , Moctezuma-Pérez Itzel , Barois Isabelle , Domínguez Jorge
Published: June 2022

Description or the subject: Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is a by-product of the mushroom cultivation industry. Mexico produces more than 350 thousand tons of SMS annually. Attempts have been made to use SMS as a soil amendment, among other applications, with some success. However, leaching from the SMS can discard into groundwater and potentially lead to eutrophication in discharge areas. These problems can be overcome by bioconversion of the waste. Objectives: Thus, the present study aimed to apply composting and vermicomposting methods on a pilot scale, to convert SMS into a highly enriched substrate suitable for soil amendment and horticulture. Method: For this purpose, 800 kg (fresh weight) of SMS was processed by each of the above-mentioned bioconversion methods for 120 days. The physicochemical properties of the initial material (SMS) and the compost and vermicompost obtained at the end of the two processes were analyzed by measuring pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total carbon, nitrogen content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), C/N, and micro- and macronutrient contents. Results: Both processes reduced the volume of SMS substantially (by around 60%), partly as a result of organic matter mineralization. The main characteristic of the vermicompost was its higher NO₃¯ content (292%) compared to the compost. The concentrations of most salts were significantly reduced, and the CEC increased, confirming the stability of the SMS at the end of both processes. Conclusions: In summary, the findings highlight the potential value of scaling up the composting/vermicomposting processes for industrial application in environmental waste management, particularly for SMS.
Evolution of the characteristics of the hackberry (Celtis australis L.) fresh flesh stored under refrigeration conditions
Authors: Vidal Cascales Esther , Salmerón Terue Joaquín , Ros García José María
Published: June 2022

The characteristics of the hackberry (Celtis australis L.) fresh flesh stored under refrigeration conditions during ten weeks have been investigated. The hackberries were harvested at maturity (October) in Moratalla (Spain). The flesh was obtained using a pilot scale rotational sieve. Sterile plastic containers of 150 grams were fully filled with the hackberry fresh flesh and stored at 5ºC. Three containers were sampled at time intervals (initial, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 weeks). The following parameters were analysed in the samples of hackberry fresh flesh: physicochemical characteristics (pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity, colour, moisture and water activity) and the microbiology (bacteria, yeasts and moulds). The results indicated that the pH decreased from 6.7 (initial) to 5.1 (10 weeks) and the titratable acidity increased from 0.48 g ACA/100 g (initial) to 1.26 g ACA/100 g (10 weeks), while the other physicochemical characteristics were constants during the ten weeks of refrigerated storage. The microorganisms were the key factor to stablish the acceptability of the fresh flesh. There was only the growth of the aerobic mesophilic from 9.0 x 105 cfu/g (initial) to 3.5 x 107 (8 weeks) and 2.8 x 107 (10 weeks of refrigerated storage). These results are to be considered for the use of the refrigerated hackberry fresh flesh as a natural ingredient at both domestic and industrial level.
Impact of a plant feed additive containing vitamin C on Holstein cow’s performance under heat stress conditions
Authors: Mendoza Martinez Germán David , Ortega Alvarez Nora Idolina , Hernández García Pedro Abel
Published: June 2022

A phytobiotic with secondary metabolites and with vitamin C, elaborated with Emblica officinalis and Ocimum sanctum (Polyherbal vitamin C), was evaluated for milk production, reproductive performance, cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in first calving Holstein cows under heat stress conditions. Two hundred primiparous cows with 20 ± 6 days in milk (initial body weight 521 ± 70.0 kg) were fed a basal diet (19.40% CP; 1.43 Mcal/kg Nel dry matter (DM)) and randomly assigned to one of the treatments: 0 or 20 g/d of the Polyherbal vitamin C was integrated daily into the diet with the fresh total mixed ration directly in the feeder. The experiment lasted 131 days and measurements of production were made daily and milk composition every 30 days. Pregnancy was recorded at the first service and accumulated in the experimental period. Results showed that the production and composition of milk were not affected by the supplementation with Polyherbal vitamin C, however, the accumulated gestation rate improved from 45.74 to 59.34% (P = 0.06), particularly that of the first service (20.21 to 34.06%; P = 0.03). Mastitis problems were reduced from 21.28 to 12.09% (P = 0.09). Polyherbal vitamin C did not modify the production of IL-1β, while the serum levels of IL-6 decreased significantly (P <0.001) compared to the unsupplemtented cows. All these results indicate that the Polyherbal vitamin C can improve the gestation rate of Holstein dairy cattle and have beneficial health effects by reducing mastitis problems. Also, Polyherbal vitamin C can exert an anti-inflammatory effect by lowering IL-6 levels and reducing ROS production.
Time course variations in ameliorative potentials of spermidine and kinetin for chromium toxicity - growth analysis indices of four Vigna mungo L. genotypes
Authors: Yasin Ghulam , Altaf Adeela , Ul Haq Ikram , Saima Shahzadi , Sameen Saira
Published: June 2022

The experimental studies were performed for finding antagonistic role of PGRs viz., Kinetin a Polyamine (Spermidine) for soil supplied Chromium toxicity on mash genotypes with age. Four varieties i.e., 80, 88, 97 and ES-1 were sown. Earthen pots were used and placed in complete randomization arrangement. Chromium (Cr) doses were applied @ 30mg/kg and 60mg per kg soil. This was done by adding CrCl3 salt in solutions form after 30 days of sowing. Spermidine and Kinetin were sprayed as 1.0 mM and 100.0 mM solutions respectively after 30 and 40 days of sowing. Growth analysis studies were carried when plants were of 30 and 46 days age. Chromium (Cr) at low level of concentrations in soil lowered the relative increase in plant height more effectively during growth interval 2 while, at higher toxicity levels, metal affected the shoot growth in the growth interval 1. Kinetin spray decreased the relative increase in plant height during growth interval 1while, Spermidine affected so during growth interval 1, increased the parameter. Chromium, at both levels of its concentration in soil, decreased the root growth rate more effectively during growth interval 2. Kinetin reduced relative increase in root length during growth interval 1 and increased it in the next growth interval. However, Spermidine effects started in the growth interval 1 and reached its maximum during growth interval 2. Chromium at lower concentration (30mg/kg soil) decreased the relative increase in leaf area during both intervals of growth. Exogenous Kinetin positively affected relative increase in leaf area and its effect being more pronounced in Ist interval of growth. Spermidine affected this attribute in the same manner but to lesser extent. Metal toxicity became effective during growth interval 2. Kinetin and Spermidine application to plants increased the net assimilation rate during both intervals comparatively more in growth interval
Ameliorative effect of multigrain on nutritional and sensorial profile of muffins
Authors: Rohi Madiha , Abdul Sattar Mahreen , Tehseen Saima , Saleem Bakhtawar
Published: June 2022

Maize and millet are the other major cereal grains grown worldwide along with wheat grains and their incorporation in products prepared solely with wheat flours can alter nutritional and sensorial attributes of products positively. Present study has been designed to develop multigrain muffins by utilizing wheat, maize and millet in different proportions i.e., T0 (100% wheat flour), T1 (80% wheat flour, 10% maize and millet flour each), T2 (60% wheat flour, 20% maize and millet flour each), T3 (40% wheat flour, 30% maize and millet flour each), T4 (20% wheat flour, 40% maize and millet flour each), T5 (50% maize and millet flour each), T6 (100% maize flour) and T7 (100% millet flour) treatments have been prepared and investigated for their nutritional profile and sensorial characteristics (performa evaluated on 9 points Hedonic scale). Moreover, storage study of the products was carried on 0, 10, 20 and 30th day of preparation. Data has been collected and subjected to twoway ANOVA by using software Statistics 8.1. The overall mean values for crude protein (6.97%) and crude fiber (1.17%) contents proved to be improved in T3. On the other hand, T3 proved to be good in attaining best sensory scores in aroma and texture. Overall acceptability of T3 remained in good condition on average basis throughout storage period of muffins. So, it has been concluded that using wheat flour in combination with the maize flour and millet flour not only improves the nutritional profile of products but also the sensorial attributes. This product would be a valuable healthy addition in the market for consumers if studied further for launching and commercialization.
Effect of coagulating enzymes and types of milk on the physico-chemical, proximate composition and sensory attributes of iron fortified Mozzarella cheese
Authors: Raquib Masuk , Borpuzar Trishna , Hazarika Mineswar , Kumar Laskar Saurabh , Saikia Girindra Kumar , Ahmed Hazarika Razibuddin
Published: June 2022

Mozzarella cheese is an extremely versatile product that has been widely used by the food sector as an essential ingredient in pizza, cheeseburger, cheese-based salads, etc. The main aim of the present investigation is to study the effect of coagulating enzymes and types of milk on the physico-chemical, proximate composition and sensory attributes of iron fortified mozzarella cheese. Iron-fortified mozzarella cheese was prepared using chymosin (control group) and kiwifruit crude extract (treatment group) from three different types of milk (cow milk 100%, goat milk 100%, and cow: goat milk 50:50 ratio). SDS-PAGE of kiwifruit crude extract exhibited protein bands at 24.5 kDa, 20.3 kDa, and 18.8 kDa. The milk clotting time of kiwifruit crude extract exhibited a shorter coagulation time in the presence of CaCl2. Highly significant (p<0.01) difference between enzymes, types of milk, and the interaction effect between enzymes and types of milk were noted for pH. Similarly, a highly significant difference (p<0.01) was observed between types of milk and interaction effect between enzymes and types of milk while a significant difference (p<0.05) was observed between enzymes for titratable acidity. The highest moisture and fat content were noted in the control group for goat and mixed milk cheese while fat, ash, and TS were comparably higher in the treatment group in mixed and goat milk cheese samples. The sensory score of mixed milk cheese enjoyed the maximum ratings by the taste panel members. Based on the findings, the present study suggests that mixed milk iron fortified mozzarella cheese (treatment group) was adjudged the best product compared to cow milk or goat milk mozzarella cheese
Starch accumulation in duckweeds (lemnaceae) induced by nutrient deficiency
Authors: K. Sowjanya Sree , Appenroth Klaus-J.
Published: June 2022

The aim of the present project is to demonstrate the potential of duckweeds in fast production of starch-rich biomass that could render these plants as promising next generation crop plants. Starch-rich biomass can be produced by several methods of starch induction. In the present project the effects of nutrient deficiency (phosphate, nitrate and sulphate) on starch accumulation were investigated in 21 clones (strains) of duckweeds covering 11 species and all 5 genera of the duckweed family encompassing a wide geographic area. The magnitude of change in the starch content after treatment with nutrient deficient medium varied widely within the genera, the different species and different clones of the same species. Highest values, between 40 and 50 %, of starch on dry weight basis of the whole plant biomass were obtained after two weeks of application of phosphate- or nitrogen-lacking nutrient media whereas sulphate deficiency showed minor effects. It is concluded that various clones of the species Landoltia punctata, Lemna minor, and Spirodela intermedia proved to be promising candidates for starch rich biomass production.
Engineering a highly sensitive biosensor for abscisic acid in mammalian cells
Authors: Kim Seo Woo , Alci Kübra , Van Gaever Femke , Driege Yasmine , Bicalho Keylla , Goeminne Geert , Libert Claude , Goossens Alain , Beyaert Rudi , Staal Jens
Published: June 2022

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a signalling molecule conserved in plants, bacteria, fungi, and animals. Recently, ABA has gained attention for its pharmacological activities and its potential as a biomarker for the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and glioma. This prompts the development of a reliable, sensitive, rapid, and cost‐effective method to quantify ABA levels in mammalian cells and tissues. The previously described ABA biosensor system based on the ABA‐dependent interaction between the plant ABA receptor PYL1 and co‐receptor ABI1 is not sensitive enough for the low ABA levels seen in mammals. Therefore, we optimized this system by replacing PYL1 with other high‐affinity plant PYL proteins. The optimized biosensor system engineered with the PYL8 receptor enabled the quantification of ABA at low concentrations in HEK293T cells.
Clonal heterogeneity and rates of specific chromosome gains are risk predictors in childhood high‐hyperdiploid B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Ramos‐Muntada Mireia , Trincado Juan L. , Blanco Joan , Bueno Clara , Rodríguez‐Cortez Virginia C. , Bataller Alex , López‐Millán Belén , Schwab Claire , Ortega Margarita , Velasco Pablo , Blanco Maria L. , Nomdedeu Josep , Ramírez‐Orellana Manuel , Minguela Alfredo , Fuster Jose L. , Cuatrecasas Esther , Camós Mireia , Ballerini Paola , Escherich Gabriele , Boer Judith , DenBoer Monique , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús M. , Calasanz Maria J. , Cazzaniga Giovanni , Harrison Christine J. , Menéndez Pablo , Molina Oscar
Published: June 2022

B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) is the commonest childhood cancer. High hyperdiploidy (HHD) identifies the most frequent cytogenetic subgroup in childhood B‐ALL. Although hyperdiploidy represents an important prognostic factor in childhood B‐ALL, the specific chromosome gains with prognostic value in HHD‐B‐ALL remain controversial, and the current knowledge about the hierarchy of chromosome gains, clonal heterogeneity and chromosomal instability in HHD‐B‐ALL remains very limited. We applied automated sequential‐iFISH coupled with single‐cell computational modeling to identify the specific chromosomal gains of the eight typically gained chromosomes in a large cohort of 72 primary diagnostic (DX, n = 62) and matched relapse (REL, n = 10) samples from HHD‐B‐ALL patients with either favorable or unfavorable clinical outcome in order to characterize the clonal heterogeneity, specific chromosome gains and clonal evolution. Our data show a high degree of clonal heterogeneity and a hierarchical order of chromosome gains in DX samples of HHD‐B‐ALL. The rates of specific chromosome gains and clonal heterogeneity found in DX samples differ between HHD‐B‐ALL patients with favorable or unfavorable clinical outcome. In fact, our comprehensive analyses at DX using a computationally defined risk predictor revealed low levels of trisomies +18+10 and low levels of clonal heterogeneity as robust relapse risk factors in minimal residual disease (MRD)‐negative childhood HHD‐B‐ALL patients: relapse‐free survival beyond 5 years: 22.1% versus 87.9%, P < 0.0001 and 33.3% versus 80%, P < 0.0001, respectively. Moreover, longitudinal analysis of matched DX‐REL HHD‐B‐ALL samples revealed distinct patterns of clonal evolution at relapse. Our study offers a reliable prognostic sub‐stratification of pediatric MRD‐negative HHD‐B‐ALL patients.
Finite Element Simulation and Low‐Temperature Spark Plasma Sintering for Ti–Zr–Ni Alloy
Authors: Luo Shuyi , Luo Junting , Liu Yongkang , Li Zhenlun , Wang Guofeng
Published: June 2022

Herein, titanium (Ti) and zirconium (Zr) metal powders are used as starting powders and GH4169 superalloy powder is used as a sintering aid. Spark plasma sintering process is used to prepare Ti–Zr–nickel (Ni) alloy with the fine and uniform grain size of α and β phases mixed under low‐temperature conditions of 1273, 1373, and 1573 K. The thermal–mechanical–electric three‐field coupling simulation of the sintering process of alloy powder is conducted on the basis of the voltage and current data of the discharge sintering test. Results show that experimental and simulation temperatures are consistent and extension of holding time helps improve the uniformity of temperature and relative density. In the axial direction, the temperature and relative density gradually decrease from the upper surface to the lower surface of the sample. In the radial direction, the temperature gradually decreases from the center to the edge of the sample, and the relative density of the upper surface of the sample gradually decreases from the center to the edge, with an opposite change in the lower surface. The relative density of the central layer is stable and uniformity is optimal.
A genomic‐augmented multivariate prognostic model for the survival of natural‐killer/T‐cell lymphoma patients from an international cohort
Authors: Lim Jing Quan , Huang Dachuan , Chan Jason Yongsheng , Laurensia Yurike , Wong Esther Kam Yin , Cheah Daryl Ming Zhe , Chia Burton Kuan Hui , Chuang Wen‐Yu , Kuo Ming‐Chung , Su Yi‐Jiun , Cai Qing‐qing , Feng Yanfen , Rao Huilan , Feng Li‐Na , Wei Pan‐Pan , Chen Jie‐Rong , Han Bo‐Wei , Lin Guo‐Wang , Cai Jun , Fang Yu , Tan Jing , Hong Huangming , Liu Yanhui , Zhang Fen , Li Wenyu , Poon Michelle L. M. , Ng Siok‐Bian , Jeyasekharan Anand , Ha Jeslin Chian Hung , Khoo Lay Poh , Chin Suk Teng , Pang Wan Lu , Kee Rebecca , Cheng Chee Leong , Grigoropoulos Nicholas Francis , Tang Tiffany , Tao Miriam , Farid Mohamad , Puan Kia Joo , Xiong Jie , Zhao Wei‐Li , Khor Chiea Chuen , Hwang William , Kim Won Seog , Campo Elias , Tan Patrick , Teh Bin Tean , Chng Wee‐Joo , Rötzschke Olaf , Tousseyn Thomas , Huang Hui‐Qiang , Rozen Steve , Lim Soon Thye , Shih Lee‐Yung , Bei Jin‐Xin , Ong Choon Kiat
Published: June 2022

With lowering costs of sequencing and genetic profiling techniques, genetic drivers can now be detected readily in tumors but current prognostic models for Natural‐killer/T cell lymphoma (NKTCL) have yet to fully leverage on them for prognosticating patients. Here, we used next‐generation sequencing to sequence 260 NKTCL tumors, and trained a genomic prognostic model (GPM) with the genomic mutations and survival data from this retrospective cohort of patients using LASSO Cox regression. The GPM is defined by the mutational status of 13 prognostic genes and is weakly correlated with the risk‐features in International Prognostic Index (IPI), Prognostic Index for Natural‐Killer cell lymphoma (PINK), and PINK‐Epstein–Barr virus (PINK‐E). Cox‐proportional hazard multivariate regression also showed that the new GPM is independent and significant for both progression‐free survival (PFS, HR: 3.73, 95% CI 2.07–6.73; p < .001) and overall survival (OS, HR: 5.23, 95% CI 2.57–10.65; p = .001) with known risk‐features of these indices. When we assign an additional risk‐score to samples, which are mutant for the GPM, the Harrell's C‐indices of GPM‐augmented IPI, PINK, and PINK‐E improved significantly (p < .001, χ2 test) for both PFS and OS. Thus, we report on how genomic mutational information could steer toward better prognostication of NKTCL patients.
Alzheimer's disease genetic burden is associated with mid‐life depression among persons with normal cognition
Authors: Wingo Thomas S. , Gerasimov Ekaterina S. , Canon Se Min , Lah James J. , Levey Allan I. , Wingo Aliza P.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Despite an established link between depression and higher Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk, it is unclear whether the conditions share pathophysiology. Here, we investigated whether depression manifesting after age 50 is associated with a genetic predisposition to AD.

Methods

From the population‐based Health and Retirement Study cohort with biennial assessments of depressive symptoms and cognitive performance, we studied 6656 individuals of European ancestry with whole‐genome genotyping. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for AD were estimated and examined for an association with depression in cognitively normal participants using regression modeling.

Results

Among cognitively normal participants, those with a higher AD PRS were more likely to experience depression after age 50 after accounting for the effects of genetic predisposition to depression, sex, age, and education.

Discussion

Genetic predisposition to AD may be one of the factors contributing to the pathogenesis of mid‐life depression. Whether there is a shared genetic basis between mid‐life depression and AD merits further study.
Molecular Engineered Crown‐Ether‐Protein with Strong Adhesion over a Wide Temperature Range from −196 to 200 °C
Authors: Zhao Kelu , Liu Yawei , Ren Yubin , Li Bo , Li Jingjing , Wang Fan , Ma Chao , Ye Fangfu , Sun Jing , Zhang Hongjie , Liu Kai
Published: June 2022

The inherently tenuous adhesion strength and limited environmental tolerance of supramolecular adhesives severely restrict their application scenarios. It is challenging for the development of robust adhesives with extreme temperature tolerance. Herein, we report a new type of temperature‐resistant crown‐ether‐protein (CEP) adhesive by harnessing synergistic host–guest molecular interactions between engineered crown ether and protein building blocks. The outputs of CEP adhesive demonstrate ultrahigh shearing adhesion strength of ≈22 MPa over a wide temperature range from −196 to 200 °C, superior to other established supramolecular or polymeric adhesives. The temperature‐induced phase transition and internal bound water stabilized the system and led to superb adhesion under extreme conditions. Thus, this work pioneers a molecular engineering approach for the generation of adhesives with tailored applications in extreme settings.
Single‐Photon‐Induced Post‐Ionization to Boost Ion Yields in MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging**
Authors: Bookmeyer Christoph , Röhling Ulrich , Dreisewerd Klaus , Soltwisch Jens
Published: June 2022

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) is a rapidly growing method in the life sciences. However, for many analyte classes, its sensitivity is limited due to poor ionization efficiencies. To mitigate this problem, we here introduce a novel post‐ionization scheme based on single‐photon induced chemical ionization using pulsed RF‐Kr lamps. The fine‐vacuum conditions of a dual ion‐funnel ion source effectively thermalize the evolving MALDI plume and enable ample gas‐phase reactions. Injected chemical dopants crucially support fragment‐less ionization to [M+H]+/[M−H]− species. Based on this interplay, numerous glycerophospho‐, sphingo‐, and further lipids, registered from mammalian tissue sections, were boosted by up to three orders of magnitude, similar to results obtained with laser‐based post‐ionization (MALDI‐2). Experiments with deuterated matrix and dopant, however, indicated complex chemical ionization pathways different from MALDI‐2.
Reactivity in Nickel‐Catalyzed Multi‐component Sequential Reductive Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Chen Haifeng , Yue Huifeng , Zhu Chen , Rueping Magnus
Published: June 2022

The nickel‐catalyzed three‐component reductive carbonylation of alkyl halides, aryl halides, and ethyl chloroformate is described. Ethyl chloroformate is utilized as a safe and readily available source of CO in this multi‐component protocol, providing an efficient and practical alternative for the synthesis of aryl‐alkyl ketones. The reaction exhibits a wide substrate scope and good functional group compatibility. Experimental and DFT mechanistic studies highlight the complexity of the cross‐electrophile coupling and provide insight into the sequence of the three consecutive oxidative additions of aryl halide, chloroformate, and alkyl halide.
Fused Hybrids of a [22]Smaragdyrin BF2 Complex with a NiII Porphyrin
Authors: Liu Yang , Xie Daguan , Rao Yutao , Xu Ling , Zhou Mingbo , Osuka Atsuhiro , Song Jianxin
Published: June 2022

[22]Smaragdyrin BF2 complex (S)‐NiII porphyrin (P) fused hybrids were synthesized through Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of brominated S with borylated P and subsequent oxidative fusion reaction with FeCl3 as the first example of directly fused porphyrinoids bearing cycloheptatriene linkage. These fused hybrids have been fully characterized, including their X‐ray structural analysis. Owing to the cycloheptatriene linkage, these fused hybrids adopt waving structures. These fused hybrids display red‐shifted and enhanced Q‐like bands and characteristic redox potentials, depending upon the constitution and the linking position.
The Rational Design and Atroposelective Synthesis of Axially Chiral C2‐Arylpyrrole‐Derived Amino Alcohols
Authors: Han Tian‐Jiao , Zhang Zheng‐Xu , Wang Min‐Can , Xu Li‐Ping , Mei Guang‐Jian
Published: June 2022

Axially chiral biaryl diols have achieved great success in asymmetric catalysis. By contrast, axially chiral biaryl amino alcohols are far less developed. Herein, we have rationally designed a versatileC1‐symmetric biaryl amino alcohol scaffold 1‐(1‐amino‐pyrrol‐2‐yl)naphthalen‐2‐ol (NPNOL) on the basis of axially chiral C2‐arylpyrrole framework. For its enantioselective synthesis, the chiral phosphoric acid‐catalyzed asymmetric Attanasi reaction between 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds and azoalkenes had been established. By using this practical method, a wide range of NPNOLs were readily prepared in high yields and excellent atroposelectivities (38 examples, up to 89 % yield and 99 %ee). DFT calculations were performed to reveal the reaction mechanism and the origins of the enantioselectivity. The easy transformations of NPNOL‐derived products into organocatalysts/ligands and their preliminary applications in asymmetric catalytic reactions demonstrated the promising utility of NPNOL.
Orthogonal Access to α‐/β‐Branched/Linear Aliphatic Amines by Catalyst‐Tuned Regiodivergent Hydroalkylations
Authors: Yang Peng‐Fei , Shu Wei
Published: June 2022

Linear, α‐branched, and β‐branched aliphatic amines are widespread in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. Thus, the development of direct and efficient methods to these structures in a tunable manner is highly desirable yet challenging. Herein, a catalyst‐controlled synthesis of α‐branched, β‐branched and linear aliphatic amines from Ni/Co‐catalyzed regio‐ and site‐selective hydroalkylations of alkenyl amines with alkyl halides is developed. This catalytic protocol features the reliable prediction and control of the coupling position of alkylation to provide orthogonal access to α‐branched, β‐branched and linear alkyl amines from identical starting materials. This platform unlocks orthogonal reactivity and selectivity of nickel hydride and cobalt hydride chemistry to catalytically repurpose three types of alkyl amines under mild conditions.
Circularly and Linearly Polarized Luminescence from AIE Luminogens Induced by Super‐Aligned Assemblies of Sub‐1 nm Nanowires
Authors: Rong Shujian , Shi Wenxiong , Zhang Simin , Wang Xun
Published: June 2022

Sub‐1 nm nanowires (SNWs) combine the properties of inorganic materials and polymers. They can be highly oriented through assembly, and can also be easily processed. Meanwhile, aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) show high potential for optical applications, but they are usually hard to process. The combination of SNWs and AIEgens can enrich both of their applications. In this study, we report that the fluorescence emission intensity of the AIEgens–SNW dispersion is dramatically enhanced due to the flexibility of SNWs. Furthermore, we fabricate two kinds of functional films with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) and linearly polarized luminescence (LPL) activities. The construction of CPL materials didn't require any chiral chemicals. The construction of LPL materials didn't require an additional stretching process. As a result, we endowed common achiral AIEgens with a high dissymmetry factor of 0.033 and a polarization ratio of 0.44, respectively.
Fabrication and characterization of innovative chitosan/doxorubicin coated3Dprinted microneedle patch for prolonged drug delivery
Authors: Camcı Yağmur , Türk Serbülent , Gepek Engin , İyibilgin Osman , Özsoy Mehmet İskender
Published: June 2022

In this study, microneedles (MNs) were successfully fabricated using the 3D printing method, which provides ease of production and reproduction in the desired size. Chi/Dox MNs drug delivery systems containing doxorubicin (Dox) were successfully produced in the presence of glutaraldehyde, which was coated with chitosan (Chi) and used as a crosslinker to prolong the drug release of the produced MNs. The obtained Chi/Dox MNs drug distribution systems were characterized by SEM, FTIR, zeta, contact angle, surface energy, compression test, and drug release tests. With the SEM analyzes performed before and after coating, it was observed that the MNs were in micro dimensions, and the diameters of the MNs tips before and after coating were 41.22 μm and 54.58 μm, respectively. After the compression test, it was analyzed that each MNs could withstand a force of about 76 N. The zeta potentials of Chi and Dox solutions were measured as 8.8 and 21.5 mV, respectively. FTIR, zeta potential, contact angle, and surface energy results confirm the Dox coating and their interactions. It has been observed that Chi/Dox MNs has successfully extended drug release time without drug‐burst, and their use in skin cancer treatment is promising.
Preparation of highly selective PSf/ZnO/PEG400 tight ultrafiltration membrane for dyes removal
Authors: Aryanti Putu Teta Prihartini , Nugroho Febrianto Adi , Widiasa I Nyoman , Sutrisna Putu Doddy , Wenten I Gede
Published: June 2022

Tight ultrafiltration (UF) has increasingly been developed to overcome the low selectivity of conventional UF membranes towards soluble contaminants. In this work, a tight structure of polysulfone‐based (PSf) UF membrane was prepared by blending PSf with polyethylene glycol (PEG400), ZnO nanoparticle (ZnO‐Np), and acetone (Ac) in dimethylacetamide (DMAc). The influences of Ac/DMAc ratio (1: 15 to 1:25) and PEG400 concentration (0–25 wt%) on the binodal curve of the polymer solution, characteristics, and performances of the UF membrane were studied. The membrane performances were investigated by observing the permeate flux and dye rejection during real textile wastewater treatment. The binodal curves are close to the polymer line, which means that rapid demixing occurred after the casted solution was immersed in the coagulation bath. Based on FTIR analysis, PEG400 and ZnO‐Np were partially entrapped in the UF membrane structure. Over 90% of color removal at a permeate flux of 72 L.m−2.h−1 could be achieved when the Ac/DMAC ratio was 1:12. The tight‐UF membrane removed TDS and Naphthol AS by 74.5% and 92.8%, respectively. Since the experimental result showed a high contaminants removal, the tight‐UF could be used as clean technology to produce clean water for water reuse purposes at low energy requirements.
Characterization of complete mitochondrial genome of the common tiger, Danaus genutia (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Danainae) and phylogenetic implications within the subfamily Danainae
Authors: Hao Xiang‐Yu , Ye Zi , Pan Yue , You Zi‐Han , Zhang Jing‐Feng , Li Hao‐Hang , Yuan Xiang‐Qun
Published: June 2022

Nymphalidae is the most diverse butterfly family worldwide, with more than 6000 species, whereas the mitogenomic data of nymphalid species, especially the subfamily Danainae, is still lacking for more comprehensive systematic studies. To this contribution, the complete mitogenome of Danaus genutia (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Danainae) was determined via sequencing and annotating. The mitogenome in total consists of 15,255 base pairs (bp), containing 13 protein‐coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, 2 ribosomal RNAs, and a 440‐bp noncoding A+T‐rich region. Furthermore, phylogeny of the subfamily Danainae was reconstructed applying maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference on the basis of the mitogenomic data sets. Combined with our analysis and previous studies, the genus‐level phylogenetic relationships within the subfamily Danainae are ((Tirumala + Danaus) + ((Idea + Euploea) + (Ideopsis + Parantica))). This study offers molecular information and provides a new perspective for phylogenetic research within the subfamily Danainae.
Efficient removal of nitrate and arsenic using a two‐stage biotic‐abiotic treatment system
Authors: Upadhyaya Giridhar , Raymond Will , Guarin Tatiana , Wu Pei‐Shin , Witter John , Brown Jess
Published: June 2022

Nitrate and arsenic often co‐exist in groundwater sources. Reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and ion exchange are the commonly implemented technologies for nitrate removal. Compared to these technologies that generate high‐strength waste streams, biological treatment converts nitrate to innocuous nitrogen gas without producing a concentrated waste. When nitrate and arsenic co‐exist in a water source, combining a biotic process for nitrate removal with an abiotic process (i.e., chemical–physical process such as coagulation/flocculation) for arsenic removal may provide an effective approach for simultaneous removal of these contaminants. A 12‐month pilot study was conducted with a two‐stage, fixed‐bed biotreatment system, originally developed for nitrate removal, for simultaneous removal of nitrate and arsenic. With an empty bed contact time as low as 10 min in the bioreactor, nitrate was consistently lowered from ~35 mg/L N to <0.1 mg/L N (treatment target was <1 mg/L N), whereas arsenic was effectively lowered from ~14 μg/L to <5 μg/L. Overall, the results demonstrated efficient and resilient simultaneous removal of nitrate and arsenic using a two‐stage biotic‐abiotic treatment system.
Mineral content variations between Australian tap and bottled water in the context of urolithiasis
Authors: Kwok Michael , McGeorge Stephen , Roberts Matthew , Somani Bhaskar , Rukin Nicholas
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The objective of this study is to investigate the variations in mineral content of tap drinking water across major Australian cities, compared with bottled still and sparkling water, and discuss the possible implications on kidney stone disease (KSD).

Materials and Methods

The mineral composition of public tap water from 10 metropolitan and regional Australian cities was compared using the drinking water quality reports published from 2019 to 2021 by the respective water service utilities providers. Specifically, average levels of calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and sulphates were compared with published mineral content data from bottled still and sparkling drinking water in Australia.

Results

The median or mean (depending on report output) mineral composition was highly variable for calcium (range 1.3 to 20.33 mg/L), magnesium (range 1.1 to 11.2 mg/L), bicarbonate (range 12 to 79 mg/L), sodium (range 3 to 47.1 mg/L), potassium (range 0.4 to 3.23 mg/L) and (sulphates range <1 to 37.4 mg/L). Calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate levels in tap water were lower than in bottled sparkling water. Consumption of 3 L/day of the most calcium rich tap water would fulfil 4.7% of the RDI, compared with 8.7% with bottled sparkling water. Consumption of 3 L of the most magnesium rich tap water would fulfil 8% of the RDI, compared with 13.6% with bottled sparkling water.

Conclusion

The mineral content of tap drinking water varied substantially across major Australian city centres. Bottled sparkling water on average provided higher levels of calcium, bicarbonate and magnesium and may be preferred for prevention of calcium oxalate stones. These findings may assist counselling of patients with KSD depending on geographic location in the context of other modifiable risk factors and 24‐h urine analysis results.
International student perceptions of online medical education during the COVID‐19 epidemic
Authors: Wang Juejin , Zhang Yujie , Xia Tianxiang , Ge Yingbin , Chen Lei , Han Ying , Sun Yu , Du Jun
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to investigate how international students enrolled on medical and surgical bachelor's degree programs (MBBS) in China perceived online medical education course, compared to native Chinese students during the Covid‐19 pandemic. The perceptions of 38 MBBS and 31 Chinese sophomores were surveyed using the Chaoxing platform. The international student group's mean satisfaction with online teaching was 2.737 on a 5‐point scale, much lower than the Chinese students' mean score of 4.355 (p < 0.05). Similarly, the international students expressed less satisfaction than the Chinese learners with other aspects of the course, including the teacher's level, at 3.964 ± 0.818 versus 4.445 ± 0.548 (p < 0.05); curriculum organization, at 3.651 ± 0.848 versus 4.333 ± 0.568 (p < 0.05); and self‐learning level, at 3.634 ± 0.996 versus 3.686 ± 0.949 (p > 0.05), respectively. There were also noteworthy differences between the progress made by the international students in Chinese language learning, which was positively correlated with satisfaction with teaching on the online medical education (p < 0.05). The results suggest that, while online teaching was a necessary response to the Covid‐19 pandemic, satisfaction with this mode of education is lower among international students than their Chinese counterparts.
Tracing analgesic constituents from crude and vinegar‐processed resin of Boswellia carterii by integrating ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry–based determination, analgesic evaluation in mice, and gray relationship analysis
Authors: Xie Xiaoyang , Liu Qing , Zhu Fei , Zhang Tingjun , Xu Xiangwei , Tao Yi
Published: June 2022

The analgesic effect of the resin of Boswellia carterii (BC) is well known; however, the constituents that contribute to the analgesic effect remain elusive. The current study integrates ultrasonic‐assisted extraction, quantitative determination, analgesic evaluation in rats, and gray relationship analysis for tracing analgesic constituents from the resin of BC. First, a robust and precise ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry approach with multiple reaction monitoring mode was developed for the simultaneous quantification of seven major constituents in crude and vinegar‐processed resin of BC. Glycyrrhetinic acid was chosen as the internal standard. The approach showed good linearity. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions of each constituent were within 3.0%. The recoveries of each constituent were in the range of 96.4–102.7%. The approach was then applied to determine the seven constituents in 10 batches of crude and vinegar‐processed resin of BC. Second, the analgesic effects of crude and vinegar‐processed resin of BC were assessed in mice. Third, chemometrics methods, gray relationship analysis, and partial least squares regression were employed for determining the relationship between the contents of seven constituents and their analgesic effects. 11‐Keto‐β‐boswellic acid, 3‐acetyl‐β‐boswellic acid, 3‐acetyl‐α‐boswellic acid, 3‐acetyl‐11‐keto‐β‐boswellic acid, and β‐sitosterol were identified as the key analgesic constituents of BC.
Expert consensus on the clinical application of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors in the treatment of advanced breast cancer
Authors:   The Society of Clinical Research of Oncology Medications of China Anticancer Association,   Breast Cancer Expert Committee of National Cancer Quality Control Center,   Boao Cancer Innovation Institute
Published: June 2022

Phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB or AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway (PAM pathway) plays an important role in the development of breast cancer and are closely associated with the resistance to endocrine therapy in advanced breast cancer. Therefore, anticancer treatment targeting key molecules in this signaling pathway has become a research hotspot in recent years. Randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors bring significant clinical benefit to patients with advanced breast cancer, especially to those with hormone receptor (HR)‐positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) 2‐negative advanced breast cancer. Alpelisib, a PI3K inhibitor, and everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, have been approved by FDA. Based on their high efficacy and relatively good safety profile, an expanded indication of everolimus in breast cancer has been approved by National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). Alpelisib is expected to be approved in China in the near future. The members of the consensus expert panel reached this consensus to comprehensively define the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in breast cancer, efficacy and clinical applications of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors, management of adverse reactions, and PIK3CA mutation detection, to promote the understanding of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for Chinese oncologists, improve clinical decision‐making, and prolong the survival of target patient population.
Construction and validation of a nomogram based on N6‐Methylandenosine‐related lncRNAs for predicting the prognosis of non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Xiao Wenjing , Geng Wei , Xu Juanjuan , Huang Qi , Fan Jinshuo , Tan Qi , Yin Zhengrong , Li Yumei , Yang Guanghai , Jin Yang
Published: June 2022

Background

The N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) can modify long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), thereby influencing a wide array of biological functions. However, the prognosis of m6A‐related lncRNAs (m6ARLncRNAs) in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains largely unknown.

Methods

Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify m6ARLncRNAs in 1835 NSCLC patients and with the condition (|Pearson R| > 0.4 and p < 0.001). Univariant Cox regression analysis was conducted to explore the prognostic m6ARLncRNAs. We filtered prognostic m6ARLncRNAs by LASSO regression and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression to construct and validate an m6ARLncRNAs signature (m6ARLncSig). We analyzed the correlation between the m6ARLncSig score and clinical features, immune microenvironment, tumor mutation burden, and therapeutic sensitivity and conducted independence and clinical stratification analysis. Finally, we established and validated a nomogram for prognosis prediction in NSCLC patients.

Results

Forty‐one m6ARLncRNAs were identified as prognostic lncRNAs, and 12 m6ARLncRNAs were selected to construct m6ARLncSig in the TCGA training dataset. The m6ARLncSig was further validated in the testing dataset, GSE31210, GSE37745, GSE30219, and our NSCLC samples. In terms of m6ARLncSig, NSCLC patients were divided into high‐ and low‐risk groups, with significantly different overall survival (OS), clinical features (age, sex, and tumor stage), tumor‐infiltrating immune cells, chemotherapeutic sensitivity, radiotherapeutic response, and biological pathways. Moreover, m6ARLncSig independently predicted the OS of NSCLC patients. Finally, the robustness and clinical practicability for predicting NSCLC patient prognosis was improved by constructing a nomogram containing the m6ARLncSig, age, gender, and tumor stage.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that m6ARLncSig could act as a potential biomarker for evaluating the prognosis and therapeutic efficacy in NSCLC patients.
Variety decorative bas‐relief generation based on normal prediction and transfer
Authors: Shang Jing , Wang Meili
Published: June 2022

As the generation of realistic bas‐relief models from 2D images suffers from insufficient 3D depth information and severe under‐constraint, in this article, we propose a new framework for bas‐relief modeling based on 2D decorative images, which adopts conditional generative adversarial network to infer the normal information of the decorative bas‐reliefs from the greyscale information extracted from the images. For the variety of models, we extract the internal structure information through the saliency detection method based on scene perception, and use the transfer process based on the optimized texture synthesis algorithm to complete the normal editing from the source normal map to the new one, which can diversify and control the structure and detailed information of existed normal map. Finally, we adopt a bas‐relief reconstruction approach based on domain transfer recursive filter and surface from gradient to recover 2.5D information from predicted and transferred normal maps. Experiments on various model examples demonstrate the efficiency and diversity of the proposed method in reconstructing bas‐relief models from a single decorative image.
A rare new presentation of pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Mozafari Nikoo , Ganji Raziyeh , Toossi Parviz
Published: June 2022

We report a new presentation for pemphigus vulgaris in a 51‐year‐old female patient that was complaining only from non‐healing foot ulcer, but unfortunately pemphigus was not confirmed and the patient lost multiple nails. This new variation is reported to increase health workers’ awareness especially in races pemphigus seems to be common.
Large infratentorial cystic oligodendroglioma in a pregnant patient: A case report of a rare presentation and literature review
Authors: Abbasi Fard Salman , Tabasi Farhad , Pourzand Pouria , Vahedi Arshia , Heravi Mehrdad , Mortazavi Martin M.
Published: June 2022

Oligodendrogliomas (ODGs) are rare brain tumors in adults, mostly presenting as a supratentorial solid mass, while less than 10% occur infratentorially. Infratentorial cystic ODGs are extremely rare. We reported a large partially cystic cerebellar ODG in a 31‐week pregnant patient with an unusual presentation and discussed the challenging management.
Targeting Pathogenic DNA and RNA Repeats: A Conceptual Therapeutic Way for Repeat Expansion Diseases
Authors: Guo Pei , Han Da
Published: June 2022

Expansions of short tandem repeats (STRs) in the human genome cause nearly 50 neurodegenerative diseases, which are mostly inheritable, nonpreventable and incurable, posing as a huge threat to human health. Non‐B DNAs formed by STRs are thought to be structural intermediates that can cause repeat expansions. The subsequent transcripts harboring expanded RNA repeats can further induce cellular toxicity through forming specific structures. Direct targeting of these pathogenic DNA and RNA repeats has emerged as a new potential therapeutic strategy to cure repeat expansion diseases. In this conceptual review, we first introduce the roles of DNA and RNA structures in the genetic instabilities and pathomechanisms of repeat expansion diseases, then describe structural features of DNA and RNA repeats with a focus on the tertiary structures determined by X‐ray crystallography and solution nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and finally discuss recent progress and perspectives of developing chemical tools that target pathogenic DNA and RNA repeats for curing repeat expansion diseases.