bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision Activity‐Based α‐Amylase Probes for Dissection and Annotation of Linear and Branched‐Chain Starch‐Degrading Enzymes
Authors: Pickles Isabelle B. , Chen Yurong , Moroz Olga , Brown Haley A. , de Boer Casper , Armstrong Zachary , McGregor Nicholas G. S. , Artola Marta , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Koropatkin Nicole M. , Overkleeft Herman S. , Davies Gideon J.
Published: November 2024

α‐Amylases are the workhorse enzymes of starch degradation. They are central to human health, including as targets for anti‐diabetic compounds, but are also the key enzymes in the industrial processing of starch for biofuels, corn syrups, brewing and detergents. Dissection of the activity, specificity and stability of α‐amylases is crucial to understanding their biology and allowing their exploitation. Yet, functional characterization lags behind DNA sequencing and genomics; and new tools are required for rapid analysis of α‐amylase function. Here, we design, synthesize and apply new branched α‐amylase activity‐based probes. Using both α‐1,6 branched and unbranched α‐1,4 maltobiose activity‐based probes we were able to explore the stability and substrate specificity of both a panel of human gut microbial α‐amylases and a panel of industrially relevant α‐amylases. We also demonstrate how we can detect and annotate the substrate specificity of α‐amylases in the complex cell lysate of both a prominent gut microbe and a diverse compost sample by in‐gel fluorescence and mass spectrometry. A toolbox of starch‐active activity‐based probes will enable rapid functional dissection of α‐amylases. We envisage activity‐based probes contributing to better selection and engineering of enzymes for industrial application as well as fundamental analysis of enzymes in human health.
A Kinetic Scout Approach Accelerates Targeted Protein Degrader Development
Authors: Fan Angela T. , Gadbois Gillian E. , Huang Hai‐Tsang , Chaudhry Charu , Jiang Jiewei , Sigua Logan H. , Smith Emily R. , Wu Sitong , Poirier Grace J. , Dunne‐Dombrink Kara , Goyal Pavitra , Tao Andrew J. , Sellers William R. , Fischer Eric S. , Donovan Katherine A. , Ferguson Fleur M.
Published: November 2024

Bifunctional molecules such as targeted protein degraders induce proximity to promote gain‐of‐function pharmacology. These powerful approaches have gained broad traction across academia and the pharmaceutical industry, leading to an intensive focus on strategies that can accelerate their identification and optimization. We and others have previously used chemical proteomics to map degradable target space, and these datasets have been used to develop and train multiparameter models to extend degradability predictions across the proteome. In this study, we now turn our attention to develop generalizable chemistry strategies to accelerate the development of new bifunctional degraders. We implement lysine‐targeted reversible‐covalent chemistry to rationally tune the binding kinetics at the protein‐of‐interest across a set of 25 targets. We define an unbiased workflow consisting of global proteomics analysis, IP/MS of ternary complexes and the E‐STUB assay, to mechanistically characterize the effects of ligand residence time on targeted protein degradation and formulate hypotheses about the rate‐limiting step of degradation for each target. Our key finding is that target residence time is a major determinant of degrader activity, and this can be rapidly and rationally tuned through the synthesis of a minimal number of analogues to accelerate early degrader discovery and optimization.
Autocatalytic Reaction Networks: A Pathway to Spatial Temporal Mastery in Dynamic Materials
Authors: Zhao Yingshuai , Li Bohan , Fu Xiaoming , Zhao Peng , Zhao Yuanfeng , Zhou Wei , Lu Yan , Zheng Yijun
Published: November 2024

Autocatalytic reaction present a significant opportunity for the precise spatial and temporal control of dynamic materials, mimicking the characteristics of living matter within autonomous chemical systems. Herein, we have crafted an autocatalytic chemical reaction network (CRN) designed to be incorporated into a dynamic system, allowing for efficient control of both sol(I)‐gel and gel‐sol(II) transitions through autocatalytic fronts. The CRN incorporates two autocatalytic reactions. The first reaction promotes the formation of disulfide crosslinks while increasing the local pH through base product generation, catalyzing further disulfide bond formation and initiating a polymerization front that transforms the liquid phase into a gel. A subsequent, slower reaction triggered at the gel/air interface, resulted in the breakage of disulfide crosslinks, transforming the gel back into a liquid state through accelerating fronts. The dynamics of these autocatalytic fronts are accurately predicted by a reaction‐diffusion model, providing a theoretical framework for system preprogramming. Moreover, our results show that the reversible sol‐gel transition can be reliably repeated multiple times. This approach not only enhances our understanding of autocatalytic CRNs but also pioneers a new approach for developing dynamic materials with life‐like properties, significantly impacting material science and bioengineering.
The Effect of Electric Fields on Oxidization Processes at the Air‐Water Interface
Authors: Martins‐Costa Marilia T. C. , Ruiz‐López Manuel F.
Published: November 2024

At the air–water interface, many reactions are accelerated, sometimes by several orders of magnitude. This phenomenon has proved to be particularly important in water microdroplets, where the spontaneous oxidation of many species stable in bulk has been experimentally demonstrated. Different theories have been proposed to explain this finding, but it is currently believed that the role of interfacial electric fields is key. In this work, we have carried out a quantum chemistry study aimed at shedding some light on this question. We have studied two prototypical processes in which a hydroxide anion transfers its excess electron to either the water environment or a dioxygen molecule. To model the interface, we use a cluster of 21 water molecules immersed in an electric field, and we examine the energetics of the studied reactions as a function of field magnitude. Our results reveal that electric fields close to those estimated for the neat air–water interface (∼0.15 V ⋅ Å−1) have a moderate effect on the reaction energetics and that much stronger fields (>1 V ⋅ Å−1) are required to get spontaneous electron transfer. Therefore, the study suggests that additional factors such as an excess charge in microdroplets need to be considered for explaining the experimental observations.
Convergent Total Synthesis of Kalmanol
Authors: Zhao Rong , Zhao Xiaolong , Yang Ming
Published: November 2024

Kalmanol (1) is the first isolated kalmane‐type grayanoid featuring a highly oxidized 5/8/5/5 tetracyclic carbon skeleton and 9 contiguous stereocenters. We have accomplished the efficient and asymmetric total synthesis of 1 in 16 steps from known compounds (20 steps from commercially available starting materials) by a modular synthetic strategy. A tetracyclic intermediate was prepared in a convergent manner through a Grignard reaction and a subsequent ring‐closing metathesis reaction of two enantiomerically enriched fragments. The polyhydroxy groups were introduced by late‐stage stereo‐ and regioselective oxidations.
Preparation of Mesoporous Silica Nanostructure Functionalized With Hydrobenzoin Substituted Phthalocyanine and Its Catalytic Performance in Benzyl Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Gök Yaşar , Arlı Osman Tayyar , Gök Halil Zeki , Erdem Recep
Published: November 2024

In this study, a new mesoporous silica nanostructure functionalized with hydrobenzoin substituted cobalt (II) phthalocyanine (MCM‐41‐CoPc) was prepared by grafting first 3‐chloropropyltriethoxysilane (CPTES) and then peripherally hydrobenzoin substituted cobalt (II) phthalocyanine (CoPc) onto mesoporous silica nanomaterial (MCM‐41). The structural properties of heterogeneous catalyst MCM‐41‐CoPc were elucidated by FT‐IR, XRD, TEM, EDS, TGA, solid‐state UV–Vis and N2 sorption analyses. The catalytic performance of MCM‐41‐CoPc was investigated in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde. To find the best catalytic conditions for aldehyde selectivity, the effect of the different parameters such as temperature, reaction time, oxidant, solvent, amount of the substrate, and oxidant on the catalytic activity of MCM‐41‐CoPc was investigated in detail. The selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde in the presence of MCM‐41‐CoPc was achieved with high aldehyde selectivity (98%) and moderate conversion (57%). The reusability of MCM‐41‐CoPc was tested in three consecutive cycle and no catalytic activity loss was observed. Additionally, it has been determined that the product selectivity can be controlled depending on the type of reaction solvent. When ethyl acetate was used as the solvent, 98.5% conversion rate and 96% benzoic acid selectivity were obtained.
Preparation and Characterization of Nanocellulose/Sulfonated Poly(Ether Imide) Composite Membrane and Its Application as Proton Exchange Membrane
Authors: Sriruangrungkamol Arisara , Therdthianwong Apichai , Chonkaew Wunpen
Published: November 2024

The TEMPO‐oxidized cellulose nanofibril (CNF) membrane is combined with sulfonated poly(ether imide) (SPEI) using the solution impregnation method to enhance its proton exchange membrane properties. SPEI solutions with different sulfonation levels, SPEI1, SPEI2, SPEI4, and SPEI5, are prepared by adjusting the acetyl sulfate to PEI mole ratios from 1:1 to 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, and 5:1, respectively. The CNF membranes are immersed in each SPEI solution for 24 h and hot‐pressed at 100°C for 1 h to form composite membranes. The chemical structure, morphology, wettability, and membrane characteristics are analyzed. The wettability of SPEI on the CNF surface varies with sulfonation degree, and it affects the morphology of each CNF‐SPEI membrane. Consequently, proton conductivity and ion exchange capacity (IEC) increase, while methanol permeability decreases with increasing sulfonation levels. The CNF‐SPEI5 membrane exhibits the highest proton conductivity of 4.23 mS.cm−1 and the lowest methanol permeability at 6.67 × 10−7 cm2.s−1. Additionally, the CNF‐SPEI4 membrane achieves maximum tensile strength and flexibility at 4.91 ± 0.09 MPa and 15.05% ± 0.24%, respectively. While its proton conductivity still faces challenges, the CNF/SPEI membrane demonstrates better methanol permeability suppression than Nafion 117 (1.31 × 10−6 cm2.s−1) and superior dimensional stability compared with the pristine CNF membrane.
Deciphering the Catalytic Proficiency and Mechanism of the N‐Acetylglucosamine Deacetylase From Pantoea dispersa
Authors: Yang Wentao , Chen Xiao , Pang Li , Tian Hong , Yang Liang , Xia Bo
Published: November 2024

Glucosamine (GlcN) is a widely utilized amino monosaccharide. It is traditionally synthesized from N‐acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) via chemical processes that pose environmental threats. In pursuit of a greener alternative, our investigation explored biocatalysis with a Pantoea dispersa derived deacetylase (Pd‐nagA), showcasing its efficacy as a catalyst in GlcN production. As a result, this work provides a comprehensive characterization of Pd‐nagA, scrutinizes its enzymatic behavior, and delves into the deacetylation mechanism in detail. Heterologous expression methods were utilized for the production and isolation of Pd‐nagA, followed by a kinetic evaluation highlighting its enzymatic activity. The complex interactions between the enzyme and its substrate were investigated by integrating classical molecular dynamics, quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics simulations, funnel metadynamics, and on‐the‐fly probability enhanced sampling techniques, thereby elucidating the precise deacetylation pathway. Rigorous computational analysis results demonstrated that Pd‐nagA exhibited promising specificity and efficiency for GlcNAc with a high turnover rate. The catalytic residues central to the reaction were identified, and the underlying quantum reaction mechanism was detailed. Our findings suggest an approach to GlcN production using eco‐friendly biocatalysis, positioning Pd‐nagA at the forefront of industrial application not only because of its remarkable catalytic capabilities but also due to its potential for enzyme optimization.
Screening for Anti‐Aβ Aggregation Activity of Marine Fungal Natural Products Based on a Gold Nanoparticle Method
Authors: Wang Xingyuan , Zhou Longjian , Liu Yayue , Ban Fangfang , Yang Zhiyou , Zhang Yongping , Hu Xueqiong , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2024

Screening Aβ aggregation inhibitors (AAIs) is important for Alzheimer's disease drug discovery. However, common cellular or biochemical methods are not suitable for high‐throughput natural product screening. A gold nanoparticle (GNP) screening method was employed in this study to screen marine fungal crude extracts and pure compounds for quick AAI discovering. The anti‐Aβ aggregation activity was further inspected using transmission electron microscopic (TEM) observation, and the interaction between active molecules and different Aβ species was revealed by molecular docking. The results indicated that the fungal extracts DLS2008001(M), BM3T2(M), DLEN2008005(M), TBG1‐16(P), and TBG1‐13(P) showed activity comparable to the positive control human serum albumin at the concentration of 500 µg/mL; 10 pure compounds also displayed moderate anti‐aggregation activity, particularly nidulin, aspergillusidone G, and butyrolactone I. The inspection of anti‐Aβ aggregation effect through TEM further demonstrated that extracts TBG1‐16(P), DLS2008001(M), and BM3T2(M) dramatically inhibited the formation of Aβ aggregates. Molecular docking displayed low binding energies and key interactions of nidulin, aspergillusidone G, and butyrolactone I, with nine types of Aβ peptides. These findings indicate that the GNP method is efficient in screening AAIs and reveal marine fungal natural products as valuable sources of small molecular AAIs.
Keep your eye on…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

How effective is post‐suicidal engagement?

You can help attachment insecurity

The links between adolescent cannabis use with psychosis
Possible Factor Xa Resistance in a Patient Who Failed Apixaban and Rivaroxaban
Authors: Ali Ola , Elnaeem Awab , Kaur Manmeet , Thatikonda Nitisha , Aigbogun Julia , Muktadir A. K. M.
Published: November 2024

This article aims to discuss the literature on switching to an anticoagulant with a different mechanism of action in case of treatment failure. We present a patient with atrial fibrillation who incurred an embolic stroke despite adequate anticoagulation with apixaban and developed a new symptomatic ischemic stroke during the same admission after switching to rivaroxaban, a factor Xa inhibitor with a similar mechanism of action. He had no new events at 3‐months after switching to dabigatran, a direct thrombin inhibitor. We identified no apparent reason for anticoagulation failure in our patient. The literature on switching anticoagulants in case of failure is inconclusive with no strong supportive evidence. More research is needed to define anticoagulation failure and identify cases with factor Xa inhibitor resistance, in which switching to a different mechanism of anticoagulation may be appropriate.
Reliability Assessment of Multiprocessor System Based on Exchanged Crossed Cube Networks
Authors: Liu Xuanli , Fan Weibei , He Jing , Han Zhijie , Chi Chi‐Hung
Published: November 2024

With the increasingly widespread application of multiprocessor systems, some processors in multiprocessor systems are inevitably prone to malfunctions. The reliability and effectiveness of the system are key issues. As a standard for measuring system fault tolerance, connectivity, and edge connectivity have many drawbacks. Therefore, Haray proposed conditional connectivity by restricting the connected components in disconnected subgraphs to satisfy certain properties, where and represent the interconnection network and its set of faulty vertices, respectively. Restricted connectivity is a special type of conditional connectivity. Exchanged crossed cube, as a deformation of hypercube, has more favorable properties, such as smaller diameter, smaller link size, and lower cost. We prove that the 2‐restricted connectivity of the exchanged crossed cubes is for .
Structural Analysis of Deeply Charged Li(Ni0.95Co0.04Al0.01)O2 Cathode for Li‐Ion Battery
Authors: Cheol Lee Byung , Kim Jeon , Kim Hee‐Soo , Park Geon‐Tae , Sun Yang‐Kook , Seung Yoon Chong
Published: November 2024

LiNi0.95Co0.04Al0.01O2 (NCA95) is charged up to 4.6 V to study its structural stability at a highly delithiated state using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The TEM analysis shows that the localized depletion of Li ions near the surface triggers the transition from the H3 phase to the H4 phase with the H4 phase with the O1 stacking appearing as a series of stacking faults even at 4.4 V. The H3→H4 transition appears irreversible and leads to the initial capacity loss. In addition, intraparticle cracks are observed when charged above 4.3 V. These intraparticle microcracks, unlike interparticle cracks that become sealed upon Li‐uptake, likely remain during deintercalation, compromising the mechanical stability of the cathode and lead to fast deterioration of the cycling stability. The TEM analysis of the overcharged NCA95 cathode suggests a clear limit above which the cathode can be cycled without significant capacity loss. Introducing doping elements that promote the migration of Ni2+ ions into the Li layer would hinder the H3→H4 transition and help suppress the intraparticle cracks.
CircHipk3 serves a dual role in macrophage pyroptosis by promoting NLRP3 transcription and inhibition of autophagy to induce abdominal aortic aneurysm formation
Authors: Cai Donghua , Li Chuling , Zhang Yingyuan , He Sisi , Guo Yihai , Liao Wangjun , Liao Yulin , Bin Jianping , He Xiang
Published: November 2024

Aims

CircRNAs could regulate macrophage pyroptosis, which has the potential in promoting the synergistic effect of inflammation and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). But the roles of circRNAs in modulating macrophage pyroptosis in the AAA remain unknown. This study explored the contribution to AAA of circHipk3, which was macrophage pyroptosis promoter, and the underlying mechanism.

Methods and Results

CircHipk3 was markedly upregulated in aortic aneurysms compared with that in normal arteries. In mice treated with circHipk3 contributed to macrophage pyroptosis, subsequently promoting the synergistic effect of inflammation and MMP synthesis, and significantly accelerated angiotensin (Ang) II‐ and porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE)‐induced AAA formation. Mechanically, chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP) indicated that circHipk3 facilitated macrophage pyroptosis by interaction with Stat3, increase the NLRP3 level in the aorta, and by binding Snd1 to promote Ptbp1 mRNA degradation to inhibit autophagy. Therefore, our study revealed the important role of circHipk3 in macrophage pyroptosis and thus significantly improved the outcome of AAA.

Conclusions

CircHipk3 serves a dual role in augmenting macrophage pyroptosis by interaction with Stat3, increase the NLRP3 level, and by binding Snd1 to promote Ptbp1 mRNA degradation to inhibit autophagy, thereby inducing aneurysm formation and progression.

Key points

CircHipk3 is significantly upregulated in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) compared to normal arteries, contributing to macrophage pyroptosis.

CircHipk3 promotes the synergistic effect of inflammation and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, accelerating Angiotensin II‐ and porcine pancreatic elastase‐induced AAA formation in mice. Mechanistically, CircHipk3 interacts with Stat3 to elevate NLRP3 levels and binds Snd1 to promote Ptbp1 mRNA degradation, inhibiting autophagy.

CircHipk3's dual role in enhancing NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inhibiting autophagy makes it a critical regulator in AAA development and rupture.

Targeting CircHipk3 may offer a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent pyroptosis and AAA development, positioning it as a potential treatment target.
Encourage volunteerism for team building
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: November 2024

You know those really old people who volunteer at the hospital? Well, that now describes my husband and me. My husband drives a golf cart in the parking lots, carrying the visitors and patients to and fro. I sit at the front desk of one of the two medical office buildings that sits on the hospital campus. I smile, say hi, and answer simple questions. I’m not unlike the greeters at the big‐box stores, except I wear a red vest rather than a blue one.
The Hunger Games: Stable Isotopes Indicate Winter Inter‐Guild Competition for Resources by Marine Meso‐Predators in the Sub‐Arctic North Pacific
Authors: Troina Genyffer C. , Pakhomov Evgeny A. , Weitkamp Laurie , Somov Aleksey , Hunt Brian P. V.
Published: November 2024

Interspecific competition can significantly impact marine ecosystems by affecting species distributions and abundances. Understanding how sympatric species utilize available food helps identify potential competition and its effects when resources are limited. Here, we applied a suite of analytical methods (diet analysis, stable isotopes, and biomass estimates) to identify potential competitive interactions among North Pacific pelagic predators. Samples were collected in the Gulf of Alaska during the winter of 2019. Environmental conditions and food web structure (prey consumption, species biomass, and isotopic niche overlap) varied across the region. Several squid and myctophid species occupied similar trophic positions and had high isotopic nice overlap with Pacific salmon. The intensity of these interactions differed between the northwest and southeast Gulf of Alaska. For example, there was a substantial isotopic niche overlap between sockeye salmon and the squid Onychyoteuthis borealijaponica in the southeast, while chum salmon exhibited considerable niche overlap with various species in both areas. Our results demonstrate that, as the biomass of non‐salmonid competitors may exceed that of Pacific salmon, these interactions must be considered when assessing salmon production on the high seas. Regional differences in trophic interactions demonstrate that the open ocean northeast Pacific is more dynamic than previously proposed, and knowledge of salmon rearing locations could improve production estimates. Further research on regional ocean properties and their effects on trophic ecology is needed to understand how salmon will respond to climate‐driven changes in ocean conditions. This study provides the first analysis of pelagic food webs in the North Pacific high seas during winter, highlighting significant intra‐guild competition among meso‐predators. The effects of this competition on production are difficult to assess using empirical approaches due to the inaccessibility of the region. We propose the application of the trophic interactions identified here to explore these effects using food web models.
Achieving 2.1% Efficiency in Alpha‐Voltaic Cell Based on Silicon Carbide Transducer
Authors: Gao Runlong , Ma Wuying , Wan Pengying , Liu Ao , Ouyang Xiao , Du Xue , Lei Qiantao , Deng Qi , Liu Linyue , Ouyang Xiaoping
Published: November 2024

Alpha‐voltaic cell is a type of micro nuclear battery that provides several decades of reliable power in the nanowatt to microwatt range, supplying for special applications where traditional chemical batteries or solar cells are difficult to operate. However, the power conversion efficiency of the alpha‐voltaic cells reported are still far behind the theoretical limit, making the development of alpha‐voltaic cell challenging. Developing advanced semiconductor transducers with higher efficiency in converting the energy of alpha particles into electric energy is proving to be necessary for realizing high‐power conversion efficiency. Herein, we propose an alpha‐voltaic cell based on SiC PIN transducer that includes a sensitive region with an area of 1 cm2, a width of 51.2 μm, and a charge collection efficiency of 95.6% at 0 V bias. We find that optimizing the unintentional doping concentration and crystal quality of the SiC epitaxial layer can significantly increase the absorption and utilization of the energy of alpha particles, resulting in a 2.4‐fold enhancement in power conversion efficiency compared with that of the previous study. Electrical properties of the SiC alpha‐voltaic cell are measured using an He‐ion accelerator as the equivalent α‐radioisotopes, with the best power conversion efficiency of 2.10% and maximum output power density of 406.66 nW cm−2 is obtained. Our research makes a big leap in SiC alpha‐voltaic cell, bridging the gap between micro nuclear batteries and practical applications in micro‐electromechanical systems, micro aerial vehicles, and tiny satellites.
Relevance of residual tricuspid regurgitation for right ventricular reverse remodelling after tricuspid valve intervention in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation and right‐sided heart failure
Authors: Weckbach Ludwig T. , Stolz Lukas , Doldi Philipp M. , Glaser Hannah , Ennin Cecilia , Kothieringer Michael , Stocker Thomas J. , Näbauer Michael , Kassar Mohammad , Bombace Sara , Kresoja Karl‐Patrik , Lurz Philipp , Praz Fabien , Thiele Holger , Rudolph Volker , Massberg Steffen , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: November 2024

Aims

Right ventricular reverse remodelling (RVRR) is linked to improved survival in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and right‐sided heart failure who underwent interventional treatment. However, the role of residual TR on RVRR remains unclear. In this analysis the impact of residual TR on RVRR after interventional TR treatment, which was validated by two independent cohorts at four sites using echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, was investigated.

Methods and results

Overall, 253 patients who were treated for severe TR and right‐sided heart failure using different treatment modalities (tricuspid transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair [T‐TEER], transcatheter tricuspid valve annuloplasty, orthotopic transcatheter TV replacement [TTVR], heterotopic TTVR) were included. Three‐dimensional echocardiographic and CMR‐based assessment of RVRR and clinical evaluation of decongestion or exercise capacity were performed at baseline and 30 days after the procedure. Mortality was analysed at 1 year after transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention (TTVI). In patients with residual TR ≤1+ pronounced reduction of right ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic volumes was observed. In patients with residual TR ≥2+ the effect of RVRR gradually decreased with higher residual TR reinforcing the relevance of optimal procedural results for RVRR. These findings were validated in two independent cohorts. In contrast to RVRR, residual TR ≤1+ and 2+ were associated with similar 1‐year survival. RVRR was only observed after T‐TEER or orthotopic TTVR, but not after heterotopic TTVR as expected. However, all three treatment modalities were accompanied by significant decongestion and functional improvement at 30‐day follow‐up.

Conclusion

In patients with severe TR and right‐sided heart failure undergoing TTVI, superior procedural results were associated with more pronounced RVRR.
Structural Diversity in Homoleptic Lithium Amidomanganate(II) Complexes: Impact of Amine Substitution
Authors: Jones Rebecca S. , Mahon Mary F. , Uzelac Marina
Published: November 2024

Expanding the library of structurally characterized lithium amidomanganates(II), here we report a general synthetic approach to access a new series of homoleptic complexes. In situ salt‐metathesis of commercially available reagents afforded tetrabutyl lithium manganate [(TMEDA)2Li2Mn(nBu)4] (1) (TMEDA=N,N,N’,N’‐tetramethylethylendiamine) which could be used as a precursor for direct deprotonation of a selection of amines affording a family of homoleptic lithium amidomanganates. Complexes [{Li(THF)4}+{Mn(NPh2)3(THF)}‐] (2), [(THF)LiMn(NCy2)3] (3) (Cy=cyclohexyl), [(HNCy2)LiMn(NCy2)3] (4), [(THF)4Li2Mn(NHMes)4] (5) (Mes=2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl), and [(TMEDA)2Li2Mn(NHMes)4] (6) have been isolated and structurally characterized as main products. While it is evident that 1 possesses adequate basicity to effect deprotonation of both primary and secondary amines, the exact stoichiometry, constitution, and structural motif of newly generated lithium amidomanganates are governed by the steric and electronic variations of the amide ligands.
In Situ Organic Transformation Reactions Involved in Synthesis Process of Polyoxometalate‐Based Hybrids
Authors: He Jing‐Yan , Wang Jie‐Fei , Du Jing , Ma Yuan‐Yuan , Han Zhan‐Gang
Published: November 2024

The unique acidity, redox properties, and catalytic characteristics of polyoxometalates(POMs) provide an environment for the in situ transformation of organic molecules. The hydrothermal in situ ligand transformation has shown fascinating appeal in the synthesis of new POM‐based metal‐organic hybrid compounds due to its effectiveness, simplicity, and environmental friendliness. Currently, there has been an increasing number of reports on POM‐based metal‐organic hybrid compounds based on in situ transformation, and the study of the transformation mechanisms of organic components is of great significance for designing new POM‐based hybrid materials. Here, this review summarizes six types of in situ transformation reactions of organic molecules (pyrolysis, hydrolysis, oxidation, condensation, substitution, and cyclization), covering approximately forty kinds of organic molecules. The regulatory mechanisms during the in situ transformation process of organic molecules are discussed, and the impact of in situ transformed organic molecules on the structure of organic‐inorganic hybrid materials based on POMs is analyzed. The article also delves into the structure‐activity relationship between the in situ transformation of organic molecules and the properties of POM‐based composite materials. Finally, the article summarizes the existing problems in this field and provides an outlook on future development directions, aiming to showcase the broad application prospects in catalysis, materials science, energy, and medicinal chemistry.
ILAE neonatal seizure framework to aide in determining etiology
Authors: Yozawitz Elissa G. , Cilio Maria Roberta , Mizrahi Eli M. , Moon Jee‐Young , Moshé Solomon L. , Nunes Magda L. , Plouin Perrine , Zuberi Sameer , Pressler Ronit M.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To employ the neonatal seizure framework developed by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Neonatal Task force to assess its usefulness in determining the etiology of neonatal seizures.

Methods

The members of the ILAE Neonatal Task Force evaluated 157 seizures from 146 neonates to determine internal validity and associations between semiology and a specific etiology.

Results

Provoked neonatal electrographic and electroclinical seizures were due to multiple etiologies. For electroclinical seizures, unilateral clonic seizures were typically seen with vascular etiologies, focal tonic seizures and sequential seizures with genetic etiologies, and myoclonic seizures with inborn errors of metabolism. Electrographic seizures were often seen in hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy or vascular etiologies.

Significance

These data suggest that the ILAE neonatal seizure classification may be used as a bedside tool to aid and guide workup to determine the etiology of seizures.
Mobile Cloud Computing Paradigm: A Survey of Operational Concerns, Challenges and Open Issues
Authors: Mora Higinio , Pujol Francisco A. , Ramirez‐Gordillo Tamai , Jimeno Antonio
Published: November 2024

The Mobile Cloud Computing paradigm has revolutionized the concepts of mobile computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). This paradigm allows outsourcing the workload of mobile devices, or other connected “things,” to be computed in the Cloud. Currently, outsourcing possibilities have been widely developed making available computing platforms at different network layers. In a consequence of that, a virtual increasing of the performance and a homogenization of the computing capabilities of the devices are produced. The research described in this work presents a review of the state of the art about recent works, the main operational concerns, challenges, and open issues of this paradigm in order to update the border of knowledge on this topic. As a result, a critical analysis is conducted, and new research directions are discussed. The findings provide value‐added to the scientific community and, therefore it could be helpful for other researches in these topics, especially given the rising popularity of IoT platforms.
Integration of UAVs and FANETs in Disaster Management: A Review on Applications, Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Abbas Sohail , Abu Talib Manar , Ahmed Ibtihal , Belal Omar
Published: November 2024

Rapid growth and technological improvement in wireless communication, driven by engineers from various disciplines, have reached significant milestones. Unmanned Aerial vehicles (UAVs) and flying ad hoc networks (FANET) have undergone one of the biggest innovations. UAVs have drawn a lot of attention from research institutions. They are increasingly employed in various application fields, such as real‐time monitoring, precision farming, wireless coverage, military surveillance, climate monitoring, disaster surveillance, and monitoring and rescue operations. The primary characteristics of disasters are their unpredictability and the scarcity of resources in the affected areas. To reduce the loss of lives and livelihoods, disaster management has received much attention. Numerous methodologies and technologies have been developed to predict and handle disasters. UAVs are increasingly being used in disaster management. Additionally, artificial intelligence and collaborative machine learning techniques are gaining prominence among researchers, who are investigating the possibility of their use in disaster management tasks to better cope with the severe and frequently devastating effects of natural catastrophes. This paper provides a review of the relevant FANET research activities in disaster management and emerging artificial intelligence techniques, along with several observations and research challenges. The papers are categorized based on the disaster scenario‐related problems and their proposed solutions. FANET problems are receiving less attention from the research community, and the main challenges with FANETs are also highlighted. Finally, significant insights are presented that can aid in improving research related to the application of FANETs in disaster management.
Wildfire and Its Impact on the Ecosystem in Guizhou Province
Authors: Liu Hua , Zhou Xuefei
Published: November 2024

In February 2024, a total of 221 recorded excess wildfires occurred throughout Guizhou Province. The atypical weather conditions attributed to climate change, seasonal drought during the non‐monsoon period, and human activities associated with the Spring Festival are identified as the primary factors contributing to this period of extensive wildfires. To facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the local ecosystem, analyses were conducted on precipitation, temperature, air quality index records, and water quality monitoring of downstream lakes and rivers. The early onset of the rainy season in April exacerbated soil erosion in Guizhou Province, where 81% of the terrain is mountainous. The repercussions of the excess wildfires on the downstream surface water ecosystem may persist for several months. The findings revealed significant differences in biomass accumulation and response times between rivers and lakes. A more thorough understanding of the impacts of wildfires on water and soil is essential for the formulation of effective recovery policies aimed at safeguarding downstream water resources.
A comprehensive review on the composition, processing methods, and sustainable utilization of tropical fruit seeds in food industry
Authors: Zhang Xuanyi , Liang Jun , Lin Xiaojun , Chen Junzhe , Luo Xiaoyu
Published: November 2024

The global consumption of tropical fruits has been increasing gradually, due to their high nutritional value and desirable sensory profile that can meet diverse consumer demands. In the fruit industry, the seeds of tropical fruits are often part of the by‐products that are commonly generated from the processing and manufacture of fresh whole fruits, ready‐to‐eat fruit salads, juices, concentrates, and dried fruit products. Currently, most of the fruit seed by‐products are subject to direct disposal or recycle in the form of the ingredients for animal feed and agricultural fertilizer. However, considering they are still rich in nutritional and bioactive components, tropical fruit seeds are hidden jewelry that can be more extensively utilized in the food industry, such as in food processing, food preservation, and the formulation of functional foods. In this review, the main components of different representative tropical fruit seeds are summarized, and the corresponding functions are elucidated. The methods on processing such fruit by‐products and the extraction of value‐adding substances from fruit seeds are compared. The potential application pathways in food industry are discussed accordingly, with further demonstration of current opportunities and main hurdles. This comprehensive review aims to capture the interests of food scientists, fruit manufacturers, and other stakeholders in the food supply chain, in order to explore the possibilities for reutilizing the functional components from tropical fruit by‐products in a broader spectrum.
Snow Depth Distribution in Canopy Gaps in Central Pyrenees
Authors: Rojas‐Heredia Francisco , Revuelto Jesús , Deschamps‐Berger César , Alonso‐González Esteban , Domínguez‐Aguilar Pablo , García Jorge , Pérez‐Cabello Fernando , López‐Moreno Juan Ignacio
Published: November 2024

This research analyses the snow depth distribution in canopy gaps across two plots in Central Pyrenees, to improve understanding of snow–forest and topography interactions. Snow depth maps, forest structure–canopy gap (FSCG) characteristics and topographic variables were generated by applying Structure from Motion algorithms (SfM) to images acquired from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Six flights were conducted under different snowpack conditions in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Firstly, the snow depth database was analysed in terms of the ratio between the radius of the canopy gap and the maximum height of the surrounding trees (r/h), in order to classify the gaps as small‐size, medium‐size, large‐size, or open areas at both sites independently. Then Kendall's correlation coefficients between the snow depth, FSCG and topographic variables were computed and a Random Forest (RF) model for each survey was implemented, to determine the influence of these variables in explaining snow depth patterns. The results demonstrate the consistency of the UAV SfM photogrammetry approach for measuring snowpack dynamics at fine scale in canopy gaps and open areas. At the northeast exposed Site 1, the larger the r/h observed, the greater was the snow depth obtained. This pattern was not evident at the southwest exposed Site 2, which presented high variability related to the survey dates and categories, highlighting the relevance of topography for determining optimum snow accumulation in forested areas. Slope systematically exhibited a negative and significant correlation with snow depth and was consistently the highest‐ranked variable for explaining snow distribution at both sites according to the RF models. Distance to the Canopy Edge also presented high influence, especially at Site 1. The findings suggest differences in the main drivers throughout each site and surveys of the topographic and FSCG variables are needed to understand snow depth distribution over heterogeneous mountain forest domains.
Microscopic Mechanism of Particle Clogging in Porous Media During Managed Aquifer Recharge: From X‐Ray Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging to Numerical Modelling
Authors: Xu Yang , Ye Xueyan , Du Xinqiang
Published: November 2024

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is a strategy within water resources management. However, issues related to clogging have hindered its implementation. The change in permeability of the medium is significantly influenced not only by the macroscopic characteristics of infiltration sand, such as heterogeneity and anisotropy, but also by its microstructural features, including pore structure, morphology and connectivity. Nevertheless, the interactions between fluid flow, particle migration and changes in permeability remain unclear. This study investigates the pore‐scale response mechanisms between fluid flow and pore clogging using a non‐destructive x‐ray computed tomography approach. Our findings indicate that the decrease in permeability due to particle deposition occurs in stages, with particles preferentially accumulating in irregularly shaped pores. The changes in the permeability of the sand column exhibit a negative correlation with alterations in shape factor and tortuosity, while showing a positive correlation with the fractal dimension. As pores become clogged with particles, the increase in tortuosity leads to a longer flow path. Once the sharp edges of the irregular pores are filled with particles, the pore space becomes smoother and more uniform, and the fractal dimension of the pores gradually decreases with further clogging. Based on numerical modelling of particle movement and the clogging process in porous media, it was determined that pressure is greatest in clogged pores. When this pressure reaches a certain threshold, the particles that were previously trapped in the pores are flushed out, leading to uneven changes in normalised hydraulic conductivity and normalised concentration at the outlet. If the pressure is insufficient to dislodge the clogging particles, the water flow path is compelled to change, resulting in a gradual stabilisation of the clogging.
Development of Quantum Safe Polynomial‐Based Cryptography in Classical and Quantum Framework
Authors: Hasija Taniya , Ramkumar K. R. , Singh Bhupendra
Published: November 2024

The advent of quantum computers has brought forth a substantial danger to the security of current cryptographic algorithms, necessitating the development of quantum‐resistant algorithms to ensure data protection. The encryption method proposed in this article uses polynomials and is intended to counter key size‐based attacks. This paper brings a novel method of using polynomial interpolations for encryption and decryption, and the proposed algorithm is implemented in both classical and quantum environments to check its feasibility and accuracy. To ensure protection from the outside world, the proposed technique is applied in key generation, encryption, decryption, and confusion‐diffusion modules. This article also tabulated the National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST) test suit results for randomness acceptability criteria and compares the new algorithm with the Kyber algorithm. While quantum computers are believed to excel in tasks like factorization and optimization, this paper is the first to explore cryptography algorithms in a quantum environment, opening new research possibilities for future cryptographic developments.
Nicotine and Vape: Drugs of the Same Profile Flock Together
Authors: Otenaike Titilayomi A. , Farodoye Oluwabukola M. , de Silva Monica M. , Loreto Julia S. , Adedara Adeola O. , dos Santos Matheus M. , de Prestes Alessandro S. , Barbosa Nilda V. , da Rocha João B. T. , Lobo Luiz E. , Wagner Roger , Abolaji Amos O. , Loreto Elgion L. S.
Published: November 2024

Smoking, a major behavioral health burden, causes preventable and premature deaths globally. Nicotine, the addictive component present in tobacco products and Electronic cigarettes (E‐cigarettes, vape), can bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain to trigger a dopamine release that reinforces smoking. Despite the widespread usage of nicotine, its mechanisms of toxicity, particularly in e‐cigarettes, are poorly understood. Using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism, this study aims to investigate the mechanism of the toxicity of nicotine and vape. Behavioral parameters, oxidative stress indicators, mRNA expression levels of Dopamine 1‐ receptor 1 (Dop1R1), Acetyl‐coenzyme A synthetase (AcCoAs), and apoptotic proteins were assessed in the flies after a 5‐day exposure to varying concentrations of nicotine (0.15, 0.25, and 0.35 mg/mL diet) and vape (0.06, 0.08, and 0.12 mg/mL diet). Furthermore, Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) and Gas Chromatography‐Flame Ionization Detection (GC/FID) analyzes were conducted to gain more insight on the composition of the vape used in study. Findings indicate that both nicotine and vape exposure significantly reduced lifespan, impaired locomotor activity, and disrupted sleep patterns. Notably, nicotine exposure stimulated Dop1R1 transcription and altered Acetyl‐CoA gene expression, impacting the viability and behavior of the flies. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen biomarkers were observed, contributing to cellular damage through oxidative stress and apoptotic mechanisms mediated by the Reaper and DIAP1 proteins. Additionally, the composition analysis of vape liquid revealed the presence of propylene glycol, nicotine, methyl esters, and an unidentified compound. This study highlights the complex interplay between nicotine, gene expression, and physiological responses in Drosophila.
Improving facial expression recognition for autism with IDenseNet‐RCAformer under occlusions
Authors: Selvi S. , Parvathy M.
Published: November 2024

The term ‘autism spectrum disorder’ describes a neurodevelopmental illness typified by verbal and nonverbal interaction impairments, repetitive behaviour patterns and poor social interaction. Understanding mental states from FEs is crucial for interpersonal interaction and social interaction. But when there are occlusions like glasses, facial hair or self‐occlusion, it becomes harder to identify facial expressions accurately. This research tackles the issue of identifying facial expressions when parts of the face are occluded and suggests an innovative technique to tackle this difficulty. Creating a strong framework for facial expression recognition (FER) that better handles occlusions and increases recognition accuracy is the goal of this research. Therefore, we propose novel Improved DenseNet‐based Residual Cross‐Attention Transformer (IDenseNet‐RCAformer) system to tackle the partial occlusion FER problem in autism patients. The recognition framework's efficacy is assessed using four datasets of facial expressions, and some preprocessing procedures are conducted to increase the expression recognition efficiency. After that, when recognizing expressions, a simple argmax function is applied to get a forecasted landmark position from a heatmap. Then feature extraction phase, local and global representation are captured from preprocessed images by adopting Inception‐ResNet‐V2 approach, Cross‐Attention Transformer, respectively. Moreover, both features are fused by employing the FusionNet method, thereby enhancing system's training speed and precision. After the features are extracted, an improved DenseNet mechanism is applied to efficiently recognize some variety of facial expressions in partially occluded autism patients. A number of performance metrics are determined and analysed to demonstrate the proposed approach's effectiveness, where the IDenseNet‐RCAformer performs best with an accuracy of 98.95%. According to the experimental findings, the proposed framework significantly outperforms the prior recognition frameworks in terms of recognition outcomes.