bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Simple Cost‐Effective Method to Fabricate Single Nanochannels by Embedding Electrospun Polyethylene Oxide Nanofibers
Authors: Zhou Lei , Chen Zhuonan , Ma Jian
Published: March 2024

Solid state nanochannels provide significant practical advantages in many fields due to their interesting properties, such as controllable shape and size, robustness, ion selectivity. But their complex preparation processes severely limit their application. In this study, a simple cost‐effective method to fabricate single nanochannel by embedding a single polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofiber is presented. Firstly, PEO nanofibers are prepared by electrospinning, and then a single PEO nanofiber are precisely transferred to the target sample using a micromanipulation platform. Then, PDMS is used for embedding, and finally, the PEO nanofiber is dissolved to obtain a single nanochannel. Unlike other methods of preparing nanochannels by embedding nanofibers, this method can prepare single nanochannel. The diameter of nanochannel can be as fine as 100 nm, and the length can reach several micrometers. The power generation between two potassium chloride solutions with various combinations of concentrations was investigated using the nanochannel. This low‐cost flexible nanochannel can also be used in various applications, including DNA sequencing and biomimetic ion channel.
Risky conclusions regarding shrinking rhino horns
Authors: Ferreira S. M. , ’t Sas‐Rolfes M. , Balfour D. , Barichievy C. , Chege G. , Dean C. , Doak N. , Dublin H. T. , du Toit R. , Ellis S. , Emslie R. H. , Flamand J. , Gadd M. , Gaymer J. , Hofmeyr M. , Knight M. , Moodley Y. , Shaw J. , Versteege L. , Vigne L. , von Houwald F. , Uri‐Khob S. , Mosweu K.
Published: March 2024

Image‐based analyses from an online repository on rhino horns asserted that declines in size over time could be the consequence of poaching and hunting.

We provide reflections on whether the sample was representative enough to make generalizations, the study adequately accounted for the main sources of horn‐size variation and the statistical methods were adequate to be confident in the results.

The sample had a limited representation, most coming from zoo animals. We highlight several sources of variance in horn size that such a sample could not evaluate robustly using linear regressions, both for establishing a proxy for horn size corrected for size of a rhino and assessing trends over time.

Nevertheless, horn poaching continues to be the key threat to rhinos. Addressing the underlying drivers of poaching and trafficking are key priorities for responsible public debate, policy making and interventions.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Response to ‘Risky conclusions regarding shrinking rhino horns’: Clarification on a statistically determined reduction of relative horn length in five species of rhinoceros since 1885
Authors: Wilson Oscar E. , Pashkevich Michael D. , Rookmaaker Kees , Turner Edgar C.
Published: March 2024

In their response to Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022), Ferreira et al. argue that our conclusions regarding shrinking rhino horns were risky, given the low sample size used for this assessment, the variation in rhino horn length related to non‐heritable factors (including age, sex, environment and behaviour) and the low impact that current selective trophy hunting has on rhino numbers.

We agree that our sample size was low and that many factors can influence horn length and therefore we discussed these points as important caveats in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022).

However, we argue that although many factors can lead to variation in horn length, they do not explain the decline in relative horn length over time that we observed, and we note that the response does not offer an alternative explanation for this temporal shift.

Although selective hunting is currently a minor factor in rhino mortality, this may have been relatively more important and to have had a potentially greater selective influence in the past.

Our dataset does not allow identification of factors driving this change, and in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022), we offered selective hunting as one possible explanation for the relative decline, calling for more work to investigate this further.

We highlight that the focus of Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) was far more than an assessment of changing relative horn length and instead aimed to demonstrate that a wide range of data can be extracted effectively from image repositories for use in a conservation context.

We hope that the results in Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) will provide a useful starting point for future research, including addressing the questions raised by Ferreira et al.

Ultimately, we feel that the attention given to Wilson, Pashkevich, Rookmaaker, et al. (2022) reveals the enduring interest people have in rhinos, a topic addressed in other parts of our original paper, which we encourage readers to read in its entirety.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
A comprehensive investigation on tensile behavior of surface‐modified Kevlar hybrid nanocomposites for similar and dissimilar joints
Authors: Nallamuthu Ramasamy , Vellayaraj Arumugam , Chelliah Suresh Kumar , Bose Prabhu , Thirugnanasamabandam Arunkumar
Published: March 2024

The main objective of this study is to enhance the interfacial adhesion between Kevlar fiber‐reinforced epoxy composite for a single lap joint. This has been achieved by performing various chemical treatments on Kevlar fiber. Moreover, the nanofiller‐added epoxy matrices were also used for investigating its potentiality in a single lap joint. A thorough comparison has been made among various chemical treatments based composite and modified epoxy matrix composite. The tensile strength of similar and dissimilar single lap joints was investigated through experiments and was analyzed by SEM, XRD, and Weibull model. It was perceived that the tensile shear strength and Weibull modulus of the treated similar Kevlar lap joint were 21.45% and 40.18% higher than the similar nanocomposite joint; also, it has been found that an increment of about 79.8% and 76.64% with that of untreated similar Kevlar joint. Furthermore, the failure progression of optimized joints was evaluated by acoustic emission (AE) monitoring.

Highlights

Interfacial adhesion study of Kevlar fiber with matrix in single lap joint.

Kevlar surface modification and epoxy modified by nanocomposites were used.

The lap shear strength of similar and dissimilar single lap joint composites.

SEM, XRD, and Weibull analysis and AE monitoring were used for this research.

Chemical treatments on Kevlar fiber have enhanced the interfacial adhesion.
Fabrication of robust polyamide 6 with local cross‐linked structure via dynamic vulcanization
Authors: Ye Weihua , Yuan Yanchao , Liu Xing , Liu Shumei , Zhao Jianqing
Published: March 2024

Polyamide 6 (PA6) is a widely used thermoplastic engineering polymer, and the toughening modification for PA6 is always a main research topic. Meanwhile, the rigidity and heat resistance of PA6 usually deteriorate. To address this conflict, an epoxy compound (EGDE‐GA) was designed and synthesized and used to modify PA6 by dynamic vulcanization in twin‐screw extruder. EGDE‐GA is a linear molecule with a flexible molecular structure, which is favorable to toughening of PA6, and epoxy groups of EGDE‐GA can form local cross‐linked structure to improve the rigidity and retain the heat resistance of PA6. At the loading of 20 wt% of EGDE‐GA, the modified PA6 (PA6/EGDE‐GA 20) exhibited very high elongation at break and notched impact strength, which were increased by 413% and 520%, respectively, compared to those of PA6. The tensile strength was 61.4 MPa, which was higher than that of PA6. The heat deflection temperature remained almost unchanged. The results showed that the modified polymers may possess the high toughness without sacrificing the original rigidity by building the local crosslinked structure using dynamic vulcanization. The findings provide a feasible method for reusing and upcycling PA6 and other polymers with higher value and wider use in the industry.

Highlights

The polyamide 6 (PA6) is toughened via dynamic vulcanization.

The toughness of modified PA6 is increased by 520% compared with pure PA6.

The toughened PA6 exhibits higher tensile strength than that of pure PA6.

The toughened PA6 maintains its rigidity and heat resistance.
Rational evolution for altering the ligand preference of estrogen receptor alpha
Authors: Eerlings Roy , Gupta Purvi , Lee Xiao Yin , Nguyen Tien , El Kharraz Sarah , Handle Florian , Smeets Elien , Moris Lisa , Devlies Wout , Vandewinkel Bram , Thiry Irina , Ta Duy Tien , Gorkovskiy Anton , Voordeckers Karin , Henckaerts Els , Pinheiro Vitor B. , Claessens Frank , Verstrepen Kevin J. , Voet Arnout , Helsen Christine
Published: March 2024

Estrogen receptor α is commonly used in synthetic biology to control the activity of genome editing tools. The activating ligands, estrogens, however, interfere with various cellular processes, thereby limiting the applicability of this receptor. Altering its ligand preference to chemicals of choice solves this hurdle but requires adaptation of unspecified ligand‐interacting residues. Here, we provide a solution by combining rational protein design with multi‐site‐directed mutagenesis and directed evolution of stably integrated variants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This method yielded an estrogen receptor variant, named TERRA, that lost its estrogen responsiveness and became activated by tamoxifen, an anti‐estrogenic drug used for breast cancer treatment. This tamoxifen preference of TERRA was maintained in mammalian cells and mice, even when fused to Cre recombinase, expanding the mammalian synthetic biology toolbox. Not only is our platform transferable to engineer ligand preference of any steroid receptor, it can also profile drug‐resistance landscapes for steroid receptor‐targeted therapies.
Oligomerization mediated by the D2 domain of DTX3L is critical for DTX3L‐PARP9 reading function of mono‐ADP‐ribosylated androgen receptor
Authors: Vela‐Rodríguez Carlos , Yang Chunsong , Alanen Heli I. , Eki Rebeka , Abbas Tarek A. , Maksimainen Mirko M. , Glumoff Tuomo , Duman Ramona , Wagner Armin , Paschal Bryce M. , Lehtiö Lari
Published: March 2024

Deltex proteins are a family of E3 ubiquitin ligases that encode C‐terminal RING and DTC domains that mediate interactions with E2 ubiquitin‐conjugating enzymes and recognize ubiquitination substrates. DTX3L is unique among the Deltex proteins based on its N‐terminal domain architecture. The N‐terminal D1 and D2 domains of DTX3L mediate homo‐oligomerization, and the D3 domain interacts with PARP9, a protein that contains tandem macrodomains with ADP‐ribose reader function. While DTX3L and PARP9 are known to heterodimerize, and assemble into a high molecular weight oligomeric complex, the nature of the oligomeric structure, including whether this contributes to the ADP‐ribose reader function is unknown. Here, we report a crystal structure of the DTX3L N‐terminal D2 domain and show that it forms a tetramer with, conveniently, D2 symmetry. We identified two interfaces in the structure: a major, conserved interface with a surface of 973 Å2 and a smaller one of 415 Å2. Using native mass spectrometry, we observed molecular species that correspond to monomers, dimers and tetramers of the D2 domain. Reconstitution of DTX3L knockout cells with a D1‐D2 deletion mutant showed the domain is dispensable for DTX3L‐PARP9 heterodimer formation, but necessary to assemble an oligomeric complex with efficient reader function for ADP‐ribosylated androgen receptor. Our results suggest that homo‐oligomerization of DTX3L is important for the DTX3L‐PARP9 complex to read mono‐ADP‐ribosylation on a ligand‐regulated transcription factor.
Disrupted protein interaction dynamics in a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder revealed by structural bioinformatics and genetic code expansion
Authors: Marino Valerio , Phromkrasae Wanchana , Bertacchi Michele , Cassini Paul , Chakrabandhu Krittalak , Dell'Orco Daniele , Studer Michèle
Published: March 2024

Deciphering the structural effects of gene variants is essential for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of genetic diseases. Using a neurodevelopmental disorder called Bosch‐Boonstra‐Schaaf Optic Atrophy Syndrome (BBSOAS) as a genetic disease model, we applied structural bioinformatics and Genetic Code Expansion (GCE) strategies to assess the pathogenic impact of human NR2F1 variants and their binding with known and novel partners. While the computational analyses of the NR2F1 structure delineated the molecular basis of the impact of several variants on the isolated and complexed structures, the GCE enabled covalent and site‐specific capture of transient supramolecular interactions in living cells. This revealed the variable quaternary conformations of NR2F1 variants and highlighted the disrupted interplay with dimeric partners and the newly identified co‐factor, CRABP2. The disclosed consequence of the pathogenic mutations on the conformation, supramolecular interplay, and alterations in the cell cycle, viability, and sub‐cellular localization of the different variants reflect the heterogeneous disease spectrum of BBSOAS and set up novel foundation for unveiling the complexity of neurodevelopmental diseases.
DNA‐dependent phase separation by human SSB2 (NABP1/OBFC2A) protein points to adaptations to eukaryotic genome repair processes
Authors: Kovács Zoltán J. , Harami Gábor M. , Pálinkás János , Kuljanishvili Natalie , Hegedüs József , Harami‐Papp Hajnalka , Mahmudova Lamiya , Khamisi Lana , Szakács Gergely , Kovács Mihály
Published: March 2024

Single‐stranded DNA binding proteins (SSBs) are ubiquitous across all domains of life and play essential roles via stabilizing and protecting single‐stranded (ss) DNA as well as organizing multiprotein complexes during DNA replication, recombination, and repair. Two mammalian SSB paralogs (hSSB1 and hSSB2 in humans) were recently identified and shown to be involved in various genome maintenance processes. Following our recent discovery of the liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) propensity of Escherichia coli (Ec) SSB, here we show that hSSB2 also forms LLPS condensates under physiologically relevant ionic conditions. Similar to that seen for EcSSB, we demonstrate the essential contribution of hSSB2's C‐terminal intrinsically disordered region (IDR) to condensate formation, and the selective enrichment of various genome metabolic proteins in hSSB2 condensates. However, in contrast to EcSSB‐driven LLPS that is inhibited by ssDNA binding, hSSB2 phase separation requires single‐stranded nucleic acid binding, and is especially facilitated by ssDNA. Our results reveal an evolutionarily conserved role for SSB‐mediated LLPS in the spatiotemporal organization of genome maintenance complexes. At the same time, differential LLPS features of EcSSB and hSSB2 point to functional adaptations to prokaryotic versus eukaryotic genome metabolic contexts.
Sensitivity of Plasmopara viticola to selected fungicide groups and the occurrence of the G143A mutant in Australian grapevine isolates
Authors: Ismail Ismail , Taylor Andrew S. , Van Den Heuvel Steven , Borneman Anthony , Sosnowski Mark R.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Grapevine downy mildew, caused by Plasmopara viticola, is an economically important disease in Australia and worldwide. The application of fungicides is the main tool to control this disease. Frequent fungicide applications can lead to the selection of resistant P. viticola populations, which has negative impacts on the management of the disease. Identification of resistance and its prevalence is necessary to inform resistance management strategies.

RESULTS

A total of 86 P. viticola isolates were collected between 2017 and 2022 from vineyards in 15 growing regions across Australia for four fungicide groups; phenylamide (PA, group 4), carboxylic acid amide (CAA, group 40), quinone outside inhibitor (QoI, group 11) and quinone outside inhibitor stigmatellin binding type (QoSI, group 45). Decreased phenotypic sensitivity was detected for all four groups, and resistance to metalaxyl‐M (PA) and pyraclostrobin (QoI), was detected. Genetic analysis to detect the G143A (QoI) and G1105S (CAA) mutations using amplicon‐based sequencing was performed for 239 and 65 isolates collected in 2014–2017 and 2017–2022, respectively. G143A was detected in 8% and 52% of isolates, respectively, with strong association to phenotypic resistance. However, G1105S was not detected in any isolates.

CONCLUSION

Plasmopara viticola isolates in Australia with resistance to at least two fungicide groups have been detected, therefore it is necessary to adopt resistance management strategies where resistance has been detected. Vineyards should continue to be monitored to improve management strategies for downy mildew. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pesticide loaded nanohydrogel based on attapulgite and gelatin with improved foliar adhesion
Authors: Zhang Sijia , Xiao Zhenggang
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUNDS

Pesticides have been widely applied to promote plant growth due to their high insecticidal efficiency. However, most pesticides easily slip from the leaf surface due to the low foliar adhesion, leading to significant damage to the environment and human health. Increasing foliar adhesion of pesticides has been a major challenge. Nanomaterial technology, which can deliver pesticide active ingredients, offers a new opportunity to increase pesticides efficacy with higher foliar adhesion.

RESULTS

In this study, we prepared the pesticide loaded nanohydrogel ALP@Ge‐g‐P(AA‐co‐AM)/ATP by grafting attapulgite and gelatin onto P(AA‐co‐AM), and loading the pesticide alphacypermethrin synchronously via the emulsion solvent evaporation method. The size of the new nanohydrogel was 20.5 nm and the pesticide loading capacity was 21.5%. Compared to P(AA‐co‐AM), the water absorbency of Ge‐g‐P(AA‐co‐AM)/ATP increased by 54.3% in 120 min, while the water retention increased from 4.27% to 38.7% after 48 h. Washout experiments and contact angle results suggested that the nanohydrogel, with a contact angle of 44.8° indicating good wettability, can resist rain flush and increase foliar adhesion naturally.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the preparation of pesticide loaded nanohydrogel is simple. Experiments demonstrated the pesticide loaded nanohydrogel has high efficiency and strong foliar adhesion. This makes it a promising candidate for spraying application and reducing pollution levels. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Molecular mechanisms for selective action of afidopyropen to Myzus persicae and Coccinella septempunctata
Authors: Liu Xiaolan , Wang Qianwen , Liu Xinxin , Xiao Da , Liu Tong‐Xian , Liang Pei
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Afidopyropen is a novel insecticide with high selectivity between sucking insects such as the peach aphids Myzus persicae and natural enemies like the seven‐spotted lady beetle Coccinella septempunctata. However, the mechanisms of selective action for afidopyropen remain unknown.

RESULTS

The LC50 values of afidopyropen to the 1st–4th instar larvae and adult C. septempunctata were 372‐ to more than 7267‐fold higher than that to adult M. persicae. Though the activity of cytochrome P450s in M. persicae was 6.1‐ to 7.5‐fold higher than that in C. septempunctata, the latter has much higher activities of carboxylesterase (CarEs) and glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs), and the crude enzyme of C. septempunctata and M. persicae showed similar metabolism efficiency to afidopyropen. Molecular docking results demonstrated that afdopyropen showed higher binding affinity to the vanilloid‐type transient receptor potential (TRPV) channel of M. persicae (−9.1 kcal/mol) than to that of C. septempunctata (−8.2 kcal/mol). And the EC50 value of afdopyropen to the TRPV channel of C. septempunctata (41 360 nM) was 19 885‐fold higher than that in M. persicae (2.08 nM).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that the significantly different sensitivity of M. persicae and C. septempunctata TRPV channel to afidopyropen play a key role in the high selectivity of afidopyropen. These findings provide new insights into the selective mechanisms of afidopyropen against insect pests and natural enemies as well as the theory support for coordinated application of chemical control and biological control. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pacing mobility trajectories: Temporality and agency in ‘home’ visits by migrant youth
Authors: Anschütz Sarah , Mazzucato Valentina
Published: March 2024

Research on transnational youth mobilities has shown the importance of visits to the ‘home’ country for young people's identities, sense of belonging and access to resources. Yet what transpires on these visits and how do young people agentically shape their experiences? This paper brings into dialogue scholarship on ‘homeland’ mobilities, trajectories and temporalities to shed light on how youth experience their attachments to a ‘homeland’ and reveal the mechanisms through which young people's lives are affected by ‘home’ visits. We use the temporal concept of pacing, recently developed in mobility studies, to analyze how young people experience ‘home’ visits at different moments in their lives. Drawing on 18 months of multi‐sited ethnographic fieldwork using mobile methods with Ghanaian‐background youth who live in Belgium, we show that visits to Ghana are experienced differently by youth throughout their life time in relation to how much control they exert over the pacing of their visits. Through their mobility and their practices before, during and after ‘home’ visits, young people craft affective experiences with people and places in Ghana and experience different paces of life across space and time. This ultimately shapes how young people imagine a future ‘good life’ that involves a transnational lifestyle and that has the ‘right pace’ by incorporating aspects of life from both Belgium and Ghana. A focus on pacing and trajectories contributes to acknowledging both temporal and spatial dimensions of transnational youth mobility.
Cellulose Extraction From Green Algae, Ulva Ohnoi, and Its Application to PVA‐Based Antibacterial Composite Films Incorporated With Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Eun Hwang , Kim Duk Gon , Hong Su Jung , Kim Jun Tae , Shin Gye Hwa
Published: March 2024

Cellulose was successfully extracted from green algae (Ulva ohnoi) by chemical treatments. The contents of holocellulose and α‐cellulose significantly increased from 37.6% and 3.3% to 82.5% and 63.3%, respectively, after whole extraction treatments. The extracted cellulose (EC) was mixed to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to prepare EC/PVA composite films with polyethylene glycol (PEG) or glycerol (GLY) as a plasticizer. The EC/3%PVA composite film showed the highest tensile strength of 54.42 MPa because of the high PVA content. Adding GLY steeply increased the elongation of the EC/3%PVA film from 3.12% to 126.76%, but adding PEG slightly decreased to 2.63%. The EC/1%PVA/PEG composite film showed the highest visible light transmittance of 84.47%, while the addition of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) significantly improved UV‐blocking properties. In addition, the incorporation of ZnO‐NPs on the EC/PVA‐based composite films showed excellent antibacterial activity against six Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria.
Zone‐based failure risk assessment of fatigue crack growth caused by initial defects in powder turbine disc
Authors: Wang Rongqiao , Kong Weihan , Cao Guanjie , Liu Xi , Mao Jianxing , Sun Haihe , Hu Dianyin
Published: March 2024

In this research, A zone‐based failure risk assessment (FRA) method of fatigue crack growth (FCG) caused by initial defects in the FGH96 alloy turbine disc is developed. Firstly, the initial defects distribution in the FGH96 alloy turbine disc is calculated based on the defect data. Subsequently, a probabilistic short FCG life model is established, taking into account the dispersion in grain size. Meanwhile, a probabilistic long FCG life model is established, incorporating the life dispersion factor. To calculate the Stress Intensity Factor (SIF) at any position of the disc, the general weight function method and the rectangular plate model are established. Finally, the zoning process is established, enabling a FRA that considers the FCG due to initial defects. The results indicate that the number of cycles corresponding to a 0.13% failure probability of the turbine disc is 7150, and the percentage of failures in each zone is analyzed.
Risk of kidney and liver diseases after COVID‐19 infection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Bei , Wang Xiaoman , Lai Honghao , Vernooij Robin W. M. , Deng Xiyuan , Ma Ning , Li Dan , Huang Jiajie , Zhao Weilong , Ning Jinling , Liu Jianing , Tian Jinhui , Ge Long , Yang Kehu
Published: March 2024

COVID‐19 is not only associated with substantial acute liver and kidney injuries, but also with an elevated risk of post‐acute sequelae involving the kidney and liver system. We aimed to investigate whether COVID‐19 exposure increases the long‐term risk of kidney and liver disease, and what are the magnitudes of these associations. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Living Overview of the Evidence COVID‐19 Repository for cohort studies estimating the association between COVID‐19 and kidney and liver outcomes. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were performed to combine the results of the included studies. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Fifteen cohort studies with more than 32 million participants were included in the systematic review COVID‐19 was associated with a 35% greater risk of kidney diseases (10 more per 1000 persons; low certainty evidence) and 54% greater risk of liver disease (3 more per 1000 persons; low certainty evidence). The absolute increases due to COVID‐19 for acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and liver test abnormality were 3, 8, and 3 per 1000 persons, respectively. Subgroup analyses found no differences between different type of kidney and liver diseases. The findings provide further evidence for the association between COVID‐19 and incident kidney and liver conditions. The absolute magnitude of the effect of COVID‐19 on kidney and liver outcomes was, however, relatively small.
Robust consensus tracking of one‐sided Lipschitz nonlinear multi‐agent systems under structured uncertainty and time‐varying delay
Authors: Li Yanzhou , Wu Yuanqing , Liao Siqin
Published: March 2024

This article delves into the intricate matter of achieving robust consensus tracking of multi‐agent systems with structured uncertainty, one‐sided Lipschitz nonlinearity and time‐varying delay. It is important to note that the time delay is both time‐varying and bounded. To solve the consensus tracking problem of multi‐agent systems, we transform it into the stability problem of an error system. Then, a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, incorporating the free‐weighting matrix technique and integral inequality approach, is designed to investigate the stability of the obtained error system. The Leibnitz–Newton formula and its associated relationships among terms are also taken into account. Then, two distributed control strategyies that respectively utilizes relative state and output information of neighboring agents are designed. This approach enables us to find a feasible solution to the consensus tracking problem. Finally, several numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed theoretical results.
An Unusual Presentation of Extragenital Lichen Sclerosus—An Extensive Keratotic Variant
Authors: Magaña Mario , Márquez-Maldonado Carol Estefania
Published: March 2024

In this case report, we outline a case of a 71-year-old woman who presented to the dermatology clinic with a history of keratotic and atrophic warty-like plaques on her lower limbs, which limited the movements in her right lower extremity. A skin radial biopsy of one of the plaques was performed and the diagnosis of extragenital lichen sclerosus (ELS) was established. She underwent an anogenital exam and fortunately, lesions were not found. The patient in this case showed an unusual variant of ELS.
Transition‐Metal Catalyzed [4+2]‐Cycloaddition Reactions: A Sexennial Update
Authors: Panda Jasmine , Mohapatra Suhasini , Ansar Ahemad Mohammed , Nayak Sabita , Mohapatra Seetaram
Published: March 2024

Cycloaddition reactions serve as exceptionally useful strategy to provide atom‐economical, efficient and practical access to complex molecules from simple starting materials. The [4+2]‐cycloaddition reaction allows for the stereospecific construction of six‐membered carbo‐/heterocycles. Cycloaddition reactions catalyzed by transition metals are potent methods for the rapid construction of highly functionalized molecular frameworks. This review article summarizes the different reports on transition‐metal catalyzed [4+2]‐cycloaddition reactions involving various transition metals such as Pd, Cu, Rh, Au, Fe, Ni, Sc, Sn, Hf, Ag, Mn, Dy, Co etc. for the straightforward construction of pharmaceutically active six‐membered heterocycles. An emphasis is laid on the mechanistic insights to highlight the unique application of novel processes of transition‐metals in these transformations to build intricate polycyclic structures.
Silver Nanoparticles From Cassia alata L. Incorporated to Coconut Oil‐Oleogel Based Ointment As An Alternative for Diabetes Mellitus Wound Healing: Optimization, In Vitro and In Vivo Tests
Authors: Wiedagdo Setyanto Arief , Febriyanti Anjelika Putri , Huda Syamsul , Kusumaningrum Valentina , Perdana Evangelica Dian , Firdaus Maulidan
Published: March 2024

Diabetes mellitus, a widespread chronic illness categorized by elevated blood sugar levels, poses a significant health burden. This study aimed to synthesize an optimal oleogel formula and investigate its impact on accelerating diabetic wound healing through a multidimensional approach. The evaluation spanned in vitro examination utilizing bacterial cultures, and in vivo assessments on mice, involving a meticulous 9‐day observation of wound healing percentages. The successful synthesis and characterization of AgNPs and Na‐CMC laid the foundation for further exploration. Oleogel formulation optimization using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) revealed the most effective composition featuring Na‐CMC at 4.5 %, beeswax at 12.5 %, and a stirring temperature of 80 °C. Manufacturing success was affirmed through comprehensive testing encompassing pH, organoleptic properties, dispersion, gelation time, and FTIR analyses. Characteristics of extracted nanoparticles were scrutinized through SEM‐EDX, PSA, and Zetapotential tests. In vitro evaluations showcased the commendable antibacterial activity of AgNPs. Notably, in vivo observations highlighted the superior wound healing capabilities of oleogel ointment enriched with AgNPs. These findings collectively underscore the promising potential of the synthesized oleogel in promoting the healing process for diabetic wounds, validated through diverse analytical approaches, marking a significant stride toward effective therapeutic interventions in diabetes‐related wound management.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Flavonoids and Their Diverse Applications in Nutrition, Health, and Medicine: A Mini Review
Authors: Qayyum Momna , Shahid Sammia , Mansoor Sana , Azam Qamar Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Enantioselective synthesis, which yields one enantiomer in higher concentration or purity than the other, has transformed the production of flavonoids. Flavonoids, which are found in large quantities in nature and are known to exhibit a diverse array of physiological activities, are an ideal choice for enantioselective synthesis due to the significance of chirality in their therapeutic effects. Enantioselective synthesis is used in the medicinal, nutraceutical, and agrochemical sectors to produce flavonoids, which are useful in the development of novel therapeutics with improved effectiveness and fewer adverse reactions. The ability to obtain specific enantiomers of flavonoids facilitates the elucidation of biochemical strategies and the relationship between structure and activity, thereby providing avenues for tailored drug design and optimization. This review highlights the critical role that enantioselective synthesis plays in achieving the full potential of flavonoids for a variety of therapeutic and non‐therapeutic applications. It also discusses the challenges and prospects of enantioselective syntheses to create relevant classes of flavonoid monomers, emphasizing their applications in the field. The review focused on the synthetic methods for fabricating native flavonoids and their analogs, highlighting the critical role that enantioselective synthesis of flavonoids plays in maximizing their therapeutic potential for enhancing human health and wellbeing.
Multifunctional Piezoelectric Yarns and Meshes for Efficient Fog Water Collection, Energy Harvesting, and Sensing
Authors: Parisi Gregory , Szewczyk Piotr K. , Narayan Shankar , Ura Daniel P. , Knapczyk‐Korczak Joanna , Stachewicz Urszula
Published: March 2024

Given global water scarcity and the quest for sustainable energy, there's a pressing need for integrated approaches addressing water‐energy interdependence worldwide. A practical approach for this challenge involves the implementation of fog water collectors. Herein, a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) multifunctional device capable of harvesting water and electricity from wind is developed and tested, collecting up to 365 mg cm−2 h−1 of fog water. Due to the piezoelectric nature of electrospun PVDF, these yarns and meshes not only serve as piezoelectric sensors, enabling the detection of incoming fog flow and determination of its speed and, bust also harvest electricity by charging a capacitor, making it a green and renewable power source. In this study, promising insights are offered into developing efficient fog water collection methods and utilizing piezoelectric fiber‐based yarns and meshes for multifunctional applications in sustainable water management, energy harvesting, and sensing in a single device.
Application of Bioactive Materials for Osteogenic Function in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Bai Yuxin , Wang Zhaojie , He Xiaolie , Zhu Yanjing , Xu Xu , Yang Huiyi , Mei Guangyu , Chen Shengguang , Ma Bei , Zhu Rongrong
Published: March 2024

Bone tissue defects present a major challenge in orthopedic surgery. Bone tissue engineering using multiple versatile bioactive materials is a potential strategy for bone‐defect repair and regeneration. Due to their unique physicochemical and mechanical properties, biofunctional materials can enhance cellular adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, thereby supporting and stimulating the formation of new bone tissue. 3D bioprinting and physical stimuli‐responsive strategies have been employed in various studies on bone regeneration for the fabrication of desired multifunctional biomaterials with integrated bone tissue repair and regeneration properties. In this review, biomaterials applied to bone tissue engineering, emerging 3D bioprinting techniques, and physical stimuli‐responsive strategies for the rational manufacturing of novel biomaterials with bone therapeutic and regenerative functions are summarized. Furthermore, the impact of biomaterials on the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells and the potential pathways associated with biomaterial‐induced osteogenesis are discussed.
SLC40A1 in iron metabolism, ferroptosis, and disease: A review
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zou Liyi , Li Xiaodan , Guo Long , Hu Baoguang , Ye Hua , Liu Yi
Published: March 2024

Solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1) plays an essential role in transporting iron from intracellular to extracellular environments. When SLC40A1 expression is abnormal, cellular iron metabolism becomes dysregulated, resulting in an overload of intracellular iron, which induces cell ferroptosis. Numerous studies have confirmed that ferroptosis is closely associated with the development of many diseases. Here, we review recent findings on SLC40A1 in ferroptosis and its association with various diseases, intending to explore new directions for research on disease pathogenesis and new therapeutic targets for prevention and treatment.

This article is categorized under:

Cancer > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Metabolic Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
On small black holes in string theory
Authors: Balthazar Bruno , Chu Jinwei , Kutasov David
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We discuss the worldsheet sigma-model whose target space is the d+1 dimensional Euclidean Schwarzschild black hole. We argue that in the limit where the Hawking temperature of the black hole, T, approaches the Hagedorn temperature, TH, it can be described in terms of a generalized version of the Horowitz-Polchinski effective theory. For d ≥ 6, where the Horowitz-Polchinski EFT [1, 2] does not have suitable solutions, the modified effective Lagrangian allows one to study the black hole CFT in an expansion in powers of d − 6 and TH − T. At T = TH, the sigma model is non-trivial for all d > 6. It exhibits an enhanced SU(2) symmetry, and is described by a non-abelian Thirring model with a radially dependent coupling. The resulting picture connects naturally to the results of [3–5], that relate Schwarzschild black holes in flat spacetime at large d to the two dimensional black hole. We also discuss an analogous open string system, in which the black hole is replaced by a system of two separated D-branes connected by a throat. In this system, the asymptotic separation of the branes plays the role of the inverse temperature. At the critical separation, the system is described by a Kondo-type model, which again exhibits an enhanced SU(2) symmetry. At large d, the brane system gives rise to the hairpin brane [6].
Educational choice, initial wage and wage growth
Authors: van Ophem Hans , Mazza Jacopo
Published: March 2024

We study the effects of expected initial wages, expected wage growth, and observed and unobserved heterogeneity in the choice of college major in a sample of American college graduates. We propose a three-stage empirical model that relates future earnings to individual choices. In the first stage, starting from revealed choices, observed wages, and life-cycle wage profiles, we estimate the expectation on initial wages and wage growth from the individual point of view, where the panel structure of the data allows us to produce estimates corrected for self-selection bias. We find substantial differences in expected real wages and expected real wage growth between majors and that both characteristics of life cycle earnings influence major choice. Our parametric models show a strong correlation between salary trends and major choice, whereas semiparametric models yield less reliable results. We interpret our results as being consistent with agents being rational and as a validation for our estimation strategy based on counterfactual imputation.
Image-based dosimetry for [225Ac]Ac-PSMA-I&T therapy and the effect of daughter-specific pharmacokinetics
Authors: Liubchenko Grigory , Böning Guido , Zacherl Mathias , Rumiantcev Mikhail , Unterrainer Lena M. , Gildehaus Franz Josef , Brendel Matthias , Resch Sandra , Bartenstein Peter , Ziegler Sibylle I. , Delker Astrid
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Although 221Fr and 213Bi have sufficient gamma emission probabilities, quantitative SPECT after [225Ac]Ac-PSMA-I&T therapy remains challenging due to low therapeutic activities. Furthermore, 221Fr and 213Bi may underlie a different pharmacokinetics due to alpha recoil. We conducted a quantitative SPECT study and a urine analysis to investigate the pharmacokinetics of 221Fr and 213Bi and the impact on image-based lesion and kidney dosimetry.

Methods

Five patients (7.7 ± 0.2 MBq [225Ac]Ac-PSMA-I&T) underwent an abdominal SPECT/CT (1 h) at 24 and 48 h (Siemens Symbia T2, high-energy collimator, 440 keV/218 keV (width 20%), 78 keV (width 50%)). Quantitative SPECT was reconstructed using MAP-EM with attenuation and transmission-dependent scatter corrections and resolution modelling. Time-activity curves for kidneys (CT-based) and lesions (80% isocontour 24 h) were fitted mono-exponentially. Urine samples collected along with each SPECT/CT were measured in a gamma counter until secular equilibrium was reached.

Results

Mean kidney and lesion effective half-lives were as follows: 213Bi, 27 ± 6/38 ± 10 h; 221Fr, 24 ± 6/38 ± 11 h; 78 keV, 23 ± 7/39 ± 13 h. The 213Bi-to-221Fr kidney SUV ratio increased by an average of 9% from 24 to 48 h. Urine analysis revealed an increasing 213Bi-to-225Ac ratio (24 h, 0.98 ± 0.15; 48 h, 1.08 ± 0.09). Mean kidney and lesion absorbed doses were 0.17 ± 0.06 and 0.36 ± 0.1 $${{\text{Sv}}}_{{\text{RBE}}=5}$$

Sv

RBE
=
5

/MBq using 221Fr and 213Bi SPECT images, compared to 0.16 ± 0.05/0.18 ± 0.06 and 0.36 ± 0.1/0.38 ± 0.1 $${{\text{Sv}}}_{{\text{RBE}}=5}$$

Sv

RBE
=
5

/MBq considering either the 221Fr or 213Bi SPECT.

Conclusion

SPECT/CT imaging and urine analysis showed minor differences of up to 10% in the daughter-specific pharmacokinetics. These variances had a minimal impact on the lesion and kidney dosimetry which remained within 8%.
New insights into optical properties, and applications of Zr-doped BaTiO3
Authors: Reda Mahasen , Ateia Ebtesam E. , El-Dek S. I. , Arman M. M.
Published: March 2024

The present work scrutinizes a few uses of barium titanate BaTi1–xZrxO3 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) nanoparticles, which are an innovative and highly promising material for a variety of applications, including optical applications; and waste water treatment. To estimate the quality of a synthesized powder relative to an already existing commercial powder, the samples were prepared using cheaper raw materials and simpler, faster procedures than those reported in other literature at lower annealing durations and temperatures. The prepared samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Raman spectroscopy, which confirmed the coarse nature of the samples and the system's tetragonality. Furthermore, UV–visible absorbance of all compositions was studied. It has been determined that optical transition is directly allowed after extensive research, and the optical band gap (Eg) values increase with increasing (Zr4+) ion concentration. The derivation of absorption spectrum fitting (DASF) technique was used to support the type of transition and calculate the value of the coefficient of electronic transition (n). Samples can perform overall water splitting and CO2 reduction processes. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to comprehend the procedure of adsorption on the investigated samples. The BaTi0.8Zr0.2O3 has been used to successfully remove 99.9% of heavy metals (Cr6+) from wastewater. The obtained results provide new insights into the control of the structure, and optical behaviors in BaTi1–xZrxO3.
PHD1-3 oxygen sensors in vivo—lessons learned from gene deletions
Authors: Jucht Agnieszka E. , Scholz Carsten C.
Published: March 2024

Oxygen sensors enable cells to adapt to limited oxygen availability (hypoxia), affecting various cellular and tissue responses. Prolyl-4-hydroxylase domain 1–3 (PHD1-3; also called Egln1-3, HIF-P4H 1–3, HIF-PH 1–3) proteins belong to the Fe2+- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily and utilise molecular oxygen (O2) alongside 2-oxoglutarate as co-substrate to hydroxylate two proline residues of α subunits of the dimeric hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) transcription factor. PHD1-3-mediated hydroxylation of HIF-α leads to its degradation and inactivation. Recently, various PHD inhibitors (PHI) have entered the clinics for treatment of renal anaemia. Pre-clinical analyses indicate that PHI treatment may also be beneficial in numerous other hypoxia-associated diseases. Nonetheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the observed protective effects of PHIs are only partly understood, currently hindering their translation into the clinics. Moreover, the PHI-mediated increase of Epo levels is not beneficial in all hypoxia-associated diseases and PHD-selective inhibition may be advantageous. Here, we summarise the current knowledge about the relevance and function of each of the three PHD isoforms in vivo, based on the deletion or RNA interference-mediated knockdown of each single corresponding gene in rodents. This information is crucial for our understanding of the physiological relevance and function of the PHDs as well as for elucidating their individual impact on hypoxia-associated diseases. Furthermore, this knowledge highlights which diseases may best be targeted by PHD isoform-selective inhibitors in case such pharmacologic substances become available.
Predicting pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients: use of MRI radiomics data from three regions with multiple machine learning algorithms
Authors: Zheng Guangying , Peng Jiaxuan , Shu Zhenyu , Jin Hui , Han Lu , Yuan Zhongyu , Qin Xue , Hou Jie , He Xiaodong , Gong Xiangyang
Published: March 2024

Objective

To construct a multi-region MRI radiomics model for predicting pathological complete response (pCR) in breast cancer (BCa) patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and provide a theoretical basis for the peritumoral microenvironment affecting the efficacy of NACT.

Methods

A total of 133 BCa patients who received NACT, including 49 with confirmed pCR, were retrospectively analyzed. The radiomics features of the intratumoral region, peritumoral region, and background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) were extracted, and the most relevant features were obtained after dimensional reduction. Then, combining different areas, multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to select the optimal feature set, and six different machine learning models were used to predict pCR. The optimal model was selected, and its performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. SHAP analysis was used to examine the relationship between the features of the model and pCR.

Results

For signatures constructed using three individual regions, BPE provided the best predictions of pCR, and the diagnostic performance of the intratumoral and peritumoral regions improved after adding the BPE signature. The radiomics signature from the combination of all the three regions with the XGBoost machine learning algorithm provided the best predictions of pCR based on AUC (training set: 0.891, validation set: 0.861), sensitivity (training set: 0.882, validation set: 0.800), and specificity (training set: 0.847, validation set: 0.84). SHAP analysis demonstrated that LZ_log.sigma.2.0.mm.3D_glcm_ClusterShade_T12 made the greatest contribution to the predictions of this model.

Conclusion

The addition of the BPE MRI signature improved the prediction of pCR in BCa patients who received NACT. These results suggest that the features of the peritumoral microenvironment are related to the efficacy of NACT.
Learning minimal automata with recurrent neural networks
Authors: Aichernig Bernhard K. , König Sandra , Mateis Cristinel , Pferscher Andrea , Tappler Martin
Published: March 2024

In this article, we present a novel approach to learning finite automata with the help of recurrent neural networks. Our goal is not only to train a neural network that predicts the observable behavior of an automaton but also to learn its structure, including the set of states and transitions. In contrast to previous work, we constrain the training with a specific regularization term. We iteratively adapt the architecture to learn the minimal automaton, in the case where the number of states is unknown. We evaluate our approach with standard examples from the automata learning literature, but also include a case study of learning the finite-state models of real Bluetooth Low Energy protocol implementations. The results show that we can find an appropriate architecture to learn the correct minimal automata in all considered cases.