bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of protein removal process of Lonicera japonica polysaccharide and its immunomodulatory mechanism in cyclophosphamide‐induced mice by metabolomics and network pharmacology
Authors: Ding Jie , Du Haitao , Tan Haining , Li Jing , Wang Lingna , Li Li , Zhang Yongqing , Liu Yuhong
Published: September 2022

In this study, TCA–n‐butanol was chosen as the best deproteinization method for Lonicera japonica polysaccharide (LJP) by comparing the polysaccharide retention rate and the protein clearance rate of five different methods. The response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box–Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the deproteinization conditions as follows: TCA: n‐butanol = 1: 5.1, polysaccharide solution: (TCA–n‐butanol) = 1: 2.8, and shook for 33 min. LJP could promote the thymus and spleen indexes of cyclophosphamide (CTX)‐induced immune‐deficient mice. Besides, the contents of cytokine interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and hemolysin in mice serum were augmented after treatment with LJP. Based on serum metabolomics analysis, a total of 14 metabolites (VIP >1.0, FC >2 or FC <0.5, and p value < .05) were selected as the potential biological biomarkers related to the LJP for treating CTX‐induced mice. After the pathway enrichment analysis, these metabolites were mainly involved in the relevant pathways of arginine biosynthesis, Citrate cycle, and other metabolic pathways. Network pharmacology further showed that there were 57 key targeting proteins in the intersection of the potential biological biomarkers and immunodeficiency‐related targeting proteins according to protein–protein interactions analysis (PPI). The biological function analysis indicated that the potential biological processes were mainly associated with tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, phospholipid metabolic process, metabolic process, and so on. In conclusion, serum metabolomics combined with network pharmacology could be helpful to clarify the immunomodulatory mechanism of LJP and provide a literature basis for further clinical research on the therapeutic mechanism of LJP.
Loss of phospholipase Cγ1 suppresses hepatocellular carcinogenesis through blockade of STAT3‐mediated cancer development
Authors: Seo Eun‐Bi , Jang Hyun‐Jun , Kwon Sun‐Ho , Kwon Yong‐Jin , Kim Seul‐Ki , Lee Song‐Hee , Jeong Ae Jin , Shin Hyun Mu , Kim Yong‐Nyun , Ma Stephanie , Kim Haeryoung , Lee Yun‐Han , Suh Pann‐Ghill , Ye Sang‐Kyu
Published: September 2022

Phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLCγ1) plays an oncogenic role in several cancers, alongside its usual physiological roles. Despite studies aimed at identifying the effect of PLCγ1 on tumors, the pathogenic role of PLCγ1 in the tumorigenesis and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. To investigate the function of PLCγ1 in HCC, we generated hepatocyte‐specific PLCγ1 conditional knockout (PLCγ1f/f; Alb‐Cre) mice and induced HCC with diethylnitrosamine (DEN). Here, we identified that hepatocyte‐specific PLCγ1 deletion effectively prevented DEN‐induced HCC in mice. PLCγ1f/f; Alb‐Cre mice showed reduced tumor burden and tumor progression, as well as a decreased incidence of HCC and less marked proliferative and inflammatory responses. We also showed that oncogenic phenotypes such as repressed apoptosis, and promoted proliferation, cell cycle progression and migration, were induced by PLCγ1. In terms of molecular mechanism, PLCγ1 regulated the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling. Moreover, PLCγ1 expression is elevated in human HCC and correlates with a poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Our results suggest that PLCγ1 promotes the pathogenic progression of HCC, and PLCγ1/STAT3 axis was identified as a potential therapeutic target pathway for HCC.
Monitoring quality of care in hepatocellular carcinoma: A modified Delphi consensus
Authors: Maharaj Ashika D. , Lubel John , Lam Eileen , Clark Paul J. , Duncan Oliver , George Jacob , Jeffrey Gary P. , Lipton Lara , Liu Howard , McCaughan Geoffrey , Neo Eu‐Ling , Philip Jennifer , Strasser Simone I. , Stuart Katherine , Thompson Alexander , Tibballs Jonathan , Tu Thomas , Wallace Michael C. , Wigg Alan , Wood Marnie , Zekry Amany , Greenhill Elysia , Ioannou Liane J. , Ahlenstiel Golo , Bowers Kaye , Clarke Stephen J. , Dev Anouk , Fink Michael , Goodwin Mark , Karapetis Christos S. , Levy Miriam T. , Muller Kate , O'Beirne James , Pryor David , Seow James , Shackel Nicholas , Tallis Caroline , Butler Nick , Olynyk John K. , Reed‐Cox Kate , Zalcberg John R. , Roberts Stuart K.
Published: September 2022

Although there are several established international guidelines on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there is limited information detailing specific indicators of good quality care. The aim of this study was to develop a core set of quality indicators (QIs) to underpin the management of HCC. We undertook a modified, two‐round, Delphi consensus study comprising a working group and experts involved in the management of HCC as well as consumer representatives. QIs were derived from an extensive review of the literature. The role of the participants was to identify the most important and measurable QIs for inclusion in an HCC clinical quality registry. From an initial 94 QIs, 40 were proposed to the participants. Of these, 23 QIs ultimately met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final set. This included (a) nine related to the initial diagnosis and staging, including timing to diagnosis, required baseline clinical and laboratory assessments, prior surveillance for HCC, diagnostic imaging and pathology, tumor staging, and multidisciplinary care; (b) thirteen related to treatment and management, including role of antiviral therapy, timing to treatment, localized ablation and locoregional therapy, surgery, transplantation, systemic therapy, method of response assessment, and supportive care; and (c) one outcome assessment related to surgical mortality. Conclusion: We identified a core set of nationally agreed measurable QIs for the diagnosis, staging, and management of HCC. The adherence to these best practice QIs may lead to system‐level improvement in quality of care and, ultimately, improvement in patient outcomes, including survival.
Quantifying the effects of grass distribution patterns on the relative hydrodynamic parameters of overland flow
Authors: Zhang Hongyang , Zhang Kuandi , Liu Juanjuan , Wang Meng , Cen Youdong
Published: September 2022

Grass distribution pattern (GDP) plays a crucial role in soil erosion, which is driven by overland flow on hillslopes caused by rainfall. To quantify the effects of GDPs on the hydrodynamic characteristics of overland flow, indoor scouring experiments were conducted in a hydraulic flume across eight flow discharges (3–45 L min−1), six slope gradients (2–12°), and five GDPs—a vertical strip pattern parallel to the slope direction (VP), chequerboard pattern (CP), small patches distributed in an ‘X’‐shape (XP), a banded pattern perpendicular to slope direction (BP), and a random pattern (RP). The results showed that GDP had a significant effect on the hydrodynamic parameters of overland flow when compared with bare slope (BS). For the five GDPs, the relative water depth, relative flow velocity, relative Froude number, and relative resistance coefficient were positively affected by flow discharge (p < 0.001), and negatively affected by slope gradient (p < 0.001); whereas the effects on the relative Reynolds number were inverted. Compared with the other patterns, the effects of BP on retarding flow was the best, as it maintained particularly remarkable characteristics affecting all five relative hydrodynamic parameters. Through parameterising GDP as a calculation factor, the prediction models of relative flow velocity (adj.R2 = 0.788**, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency [NSE] = 0.692), and relative Froude number (adj.R2 = 0.756*, NSE = 0.674) were established via nonlinear regression analysis. The effects of GDP on overland flow revealed here can help inform optimal GDP designs for water and soil conservation on sloped environments.
DYNAMITE: Dynamic aggregation of mutually‐connected points based clustering algorithm for time series data
Authors: Bhowmik Abhimanyu , Sannigrahi Madhushree , Guha Prithwish , Chowdhury Deepraj , Gill Sukhpal Singh
Published: September 2022

Time‐series clustering typically entails clustering similar patterns across various time scales or comparing various point trajectories. However, this study emphasizes to group data points based on their motions and forecast how the clusters will evolve across a number of immediate time frames. To achieve this, we propose a DYNamic Aggregation of Mutually‐connected poInts clusTEring (DYNAMITE) based clustering algorithm for time series. DYNAMITE is based on the interaction between points in a time series and it majorly consists of three components: (1) cluster initialization; (2) calculation of mutually connected points; and (3) cluster updating.
Two‐photon collagen crosslinking in ex vivo human corneal lenticules induced by near‐infrared femtosecond laser
Authors: Cheng Zhenzhou , Zhang Nan , Chang Le , Qi Pengfei , Zhang Lin , Lin Lie , Wang Yan , Liu Weiwei
Published: September 2022

Myopia and keratoconus have become common corneal diseases that threaten the quality of human vision, and keratoconus is one of the most common indications for corneal transplantation worldwide. Collagen crosslinking (CXL) using riboflavin and ultraviolet A (UVA) light is an effective approach for treating ophthalmic disorders and has been shown clinically not only to arrest further progression of keratoconus but also to improve refractive power for cornea. However, CXL surgery irradiated by UVA has various potential risks such as surface damage and endothelial cell damage. Here, near‐infrared femtosecond laser‐based two‐photon CXL was first applied to ex vivo human corneal stroma, operating at low photon energy with high precision and stability. After two‐photon CXL, the corneal stiffness can be enhanced by 300% without significantly reducing corneal transparency. These findings illustrate the optimized direction that depositing high pulses energy in corneal focal volume (not exceeding damage threshold), and pave the way to 3D CXL of in vivo human cornea with higher safety, precision, and efficacy.
Impact of temperature on optical sensing in biology based on investigation of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Szczerska Małgorzata , Wityk Paweł , Listewnik Paulina
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present an investigation of the influence of the temperature on the sensing of biological samples. We used biofunctionalized microsphere‐based fiber‐optic sensor to detect immunoglobulin G attached to the sensor head at temperatures relevant in biological research: 5°C, 25°C, and 55°C. The construction of the sensor allowed us to perform measurements in the small amount of solution. The results of our experiment confirm substantial changes in the measured reflected optical power, indicating the need to control the temperature during such measurements. The sensitivity of the sensor used in this research is 8.82 nW/°C. Coefficient R was also calculated and it equals 0.998, which shows good fit between theoretical linear fit and obtained measured data.
Glycerol and natural sugar‐derived complex modulate differentially stratum corneum water‐binding properties and structural parameters in an in vitro Raman‐desorption model
Authors: Fluhr Joachim W. , Tfayli Ali , Darlenski Razvigor , Darvin Maxim E. , Joly‐Tonetti Nicolas , Lachmann Nadège
Published: September 2022

The epidermal protective functions are closely associated with skin hydration homeostasis. The understanding of different states of water binding is a rising concept in assessing topically applied formulations and their interaction within the stratum corneum (SC). In addition to global water content, primary bound water, partially bound water, and unbound water and barrier‐related lipid lateral packing and protein secondary structure can be measured by Raman spectroscopy. This study aimed to establish an in vitro SC model to evaluate differences in the efficacy of a natural sugar‐derived complex in combination with glycerol and a botanical extract in modulating SC water binding and structural proteins and barrier lipids. These compounds were selected due to their water‐binding and soothing properties. The SC water profiles were assessed at the surface and in 8 μm SC depth. After a 12‐hour hyperhydration and subsequent product incubation the measurements were performed during a 6 hours desiccation phase. The maximal water caption and the time until reaching a steady state are measured as well as water retention and resistance against water loss. Global water content, partially bound, and unbound water, as well as lipid and protein structures were assessed with confocal Raman microspectroscopy. Both the natural sugar‐derived mixture and more pronounced, the same mixture with additional glycerol increased all three water‐binding parameters at the surface and in 8 μm SC depth at the beginning and during the desiccation phase. Further addition of botanical extract did not result in an additional increase of the water‐binding. All three formulations showed an increase in the lipid lateral packing values prevented the protein alteration as measured by β‐sheets signal compared to blank. The present model is suited for screening studies comparing the specific effects of different compounds on hydration states. The natural sugar‐derived mixture Aquaxyl showed evidence for an improvement of all SC hydration states, lipid and protein structure which was further enhanced by the addition of glycerol 5%. This improvement was evidenced at the surface and within the SC for all hydration‐related parameters, and the lipid as well the protein structures. The addition of botanical extract phytoessence blue daisy did not show further improvement.
Low‐Intensity Vibration Protects the Weight‐Bearing Skeleton and Suppresses Fracture Incidence in Boys With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Prospective, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Bianchi Maria Luisa , Vai Silvia , Baranello Giovanni , Broggi Francesca , Judex Stefan , Hangartner Thomas , Rubin Clinton
Published: September 2022

The ability of low‐intensity vibration (LIV) to combat skeletal decline in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial. Twenty DMD boys were enrolled, all ambulant and treated with glucocorticoids (mean age 7.6, height‐adjusted Z‐scores [HAZ] of hip bone mineral density [BMD] −2.3). Ten DMD boys were assigned to stand for 10 min/d on an active LIV platform (0.4 g at 30 Hz), while 10 stood on a placebo device. Baseline and 14‐month bone mineral content (BMC) and BMD of spine, hip, and total body were measured with DXA, and trabecular bone density (TBD) of tibia with quantitative computed tomography (QCT). All children tolerated the LIV intervention well, with daily compliance averaging 78%. At 14 months, TBD in the proximal and distal tibia remained unchanged in placebo subjects (−1.0% and −0.2%), while rising 3.5% and 4.6% in LIV subjects. HAZ for hip BMD and BMC in the placebo group declined 22% and 13%, respectively, contrasting with no change from baseline (0.9% and 1.4%) in the LIV group. Fat mass in the leg increased 32% in the placebo group, contrasting with 21% in LIV subjects. Across the 14‐month study, there were four incident fractures in three placebo patients (30%), with no new fractures identified in LIV subjects. Despite these encouraging results, a major limitation of the study is—despite randomized enrollment—that there was a significant difference in age between the two cohorts, with the LIV group being 2.8y older, and thus at greater severity of disease. In sum, these data suggest that noninvasive LIV can help protect the skeleton of DMD children against the disease progression, the consequences of diminished load bearing, and the complications of chronic steroid use. © 2022 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Etiology and Pathophysiology of Hypoparathyroidism: A Narrative Review
Authors: Pasieka Janice L. , Wentworth Kelly , Yeo Caitlin T. , Cremers Serge , Dempster David , Fukumoto Seiji , Goswami Ravinder , Houillier Pascal , Levine Michael A. , Pasternak Jesse D. , Perrier Nancy D. , Sitges-Serra Antonio , Shoback Dolores M.
Published: September 2022

The approach utilized a systematic review of the medical literature executed with specifically designed criteria that focused on the etiologies and pathogenesis of hypoparathyroidism. Enhanced attention by endocrine surgeons to new knowledge about parathyroid gland viability are reviewed along with the role of intraoperative parathyroid hormone (ioPTH) monitoring during and after neck surgery. Nonsurgical etiologies account for a significant proportion of cases of hypoparathyroidism (~25%), and among them, genetic etiologies are key. Given the pervasive nature of PTH deficiency across multiple organ systems, a detailed review of the skeletal, renal, neuromuscular, and ocular complications is provided. The burden of illness on affected patients and their caregivers contributes to reduced quality of life and social costs for this chronic endocrinopathy. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Snow depth variability across the Qinghai Plateau and its influencing factors during 1980–2018
Authors: Ma Heng , Zhang Gangfeng , Mao Rui , Su Bo , Liu Weihang , Shi Peijun
Published: September 2022

As a crucial component of the climate system, snow cover plays an important role on surface energy budgets, hydrological cycles and socioeconomic development. This paper investigated the spatiotemporal patterns of snow depth across the Qinghai Plateau (QP) during 1980–2018 based on passive microwave (PMW) satellite observation and reanalysis products. The study identified the relationships between the changes in PMW snow depth and topographic features and revealed the impact of climatic variables (air temperature, precipitation and wind speed) and large‐scale atmospheric circulations on observed snow depth variability. The results show that the spatial pattern of snow depth climatology is similar in all datasets, except in terms of magnitude, with high values in the southern and southeastern parts of the QP and low values in the eastern and northwestern parts. Average snow depth correlates positively with precipitation, elevation and slope, and negatively with air temperature and wind speed. The long‐term trends in snow depth vary with the season and the datasets. The PMW snow depth across the QP shows a significant annual (−0.125 cm·decades−1, p < .10) and spring (−0.184 cm·decades−1, p < .05) negative trend, while snow depth for ERA5 and MERRA2 does not present significant trends. Air temperature dominates total snow depth variation over the QP, explaining 43.85, 24.88 and 47.28% of annual, winter and spring PMW snow depth variations, which significantly affects snow depth variations in most parts of the QP, yet the effects of precipitation and wind speed on snow depth variation exhibit significant regional differences, and atmospheric circulations (e.g., AMO) also have a remarkable controlling effect on some localized areas.
Identification and classification of the wet Red Sea Trough over Israel
Authors: Ziv Baruch , Shimer Ran , Harpaz Tzvi , Drori Ron , Alpert Pinhas , Raveh‐Rubin Shira , Saaroni Hadas
Published: September 2022

The Red‐Sea Trough (RST) extends toward the Levant from the south and is mostly associated with dry conditions. This study analysed the rarer type, rain‐producing RSTs, referred to as ‘wet RSTs’ (WRST), using data from 1958 to 2019. A WRST archive was established, based on rain data from a study region covering the arid part of Israel, the region where this system is most active. The study also aimed to find an atmospheric proxy for rainfall, to replace precipitation estimates obtained from climate models. A WRST day was defined as a day when the RST was identified and rainfall of ≥0.1 mm was observed by at least two of the 39 rain stations used. The annual occurrence of WRSTs is 16.4 days, ~16% of all RSTs, peaking in the winter. The relative contribution of WRSTs to the annual rainfall ranges from 16% in the northern part of the study region to 50% in the south. The tropical air intrusion was quantified through trajectory analysis and the results revealed that in most WRST days, 72%, the fraction of air originating from the tropics was less than 10% and only in 3.7% of the days did it exceed 50%. Attempts to extract an atmospheric proxy which identifies a WRST did not yield significant separation between dry and wet RSTs, because of significant differences among several WRST types. Therefore, identification of future changes in WRSTs will still require the use of rainfall data offered by climate models. We automatically classified the WRST days into four types. Two types are associated with 850 hPa negative temperature anomalies and the other two with higher‐than‐normal temperatures, resembling ‘tropical‐like’ RSTs, which are known as ‘active RSTs’ and tropical plumes. A predictive equation was extracted to quantify the tropical air intrusion and replace the use of trajectory analysis in future studies.
A novel cellulosic non‐enzymatic nanosensor based on carbon shell silver (Ag@C) nanoparticles for colorimetric detection of Chlorpyrifos in agricultural products
Authors: Bilal Sehrish , Saleem Shaifa , Akhtar Naeem , Sami Amtul Jamil , Gokce Gultekin , Hayat Akhtar
Published: September 2022

Background

The precise detection and quantification of organophosphorus pesticides are highly required to ensure food safety. The non‐enzymatic nanosensor technology has appeared as an efficient method to replace conventional analytical techniques of pesticide detection. The utilization of carbon‐based nanomaterials and metal nanoparticles has shown great potential to develop non‐enzymatic nanosensors for the sensitive and selective sensing of food contaminants.

Results

In this study, bifunctional carbon shell silver nanoparticles (Ag@C NPs) having oxidase‐like properties and advanced optical activities were used as nanozymes for visual detection of highly toxic organophosphorus pesticide (OP), Chlorpyrifos. The as‐prepared nanomaterial was characterized for its structural and morphological features. The nanosensor was fabricated by immobilizing Ag@C NPs in the network of sodium alginate gel over a cellulosic paper disc. The detection was based on the inhibition of oxidase‐like activity of Ag@C NPs by the adsorption of pesticide which blocks the accessibility of substrate to produce the blue‐colored product. Under the optimized conditions, the fabricated sensor showed potential analytical response for Chlorpyrifos providing a dynamic linear range from 0–350 ng/mL with a limit of detection, of 0.097 ng/mL and limit of quantification, of 0.293 ng/mL. In addition, the devised sensor was able to recover Chlorpyrifos from spiked wheat, apple, and water samples with excellent recovery percentages. Further, the constructed nanosensor exhibited excellent selectivity and specificity to Chlorpyrifos.

Conclusion

The fabricated surface provides a rapid, selective, low cost and portable detection method for the real‐time detection of OP traces from food and environmental samples.
Papaya dietary fiber concentrates for providing functionality to muffin formulations
Authors: Nieto‐Calvache Jhon , Lorenzo Gabriel , Califano Alicia , Gerschenson Lía , de Escalada Pla Marina
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Papaya leftovers are a good source of dietary fiber (DF) and antioxidants. They can be transformed in dietary fiber concentrates (DFCs) to be used as ingredients in food formulation, improving consumers’ health status.

RESULTS

Using the peel or the pulp of papaya, DFCs were produced. These DFCs were used in muffin production. Muffins produced with 7.7% DFCs and 47.6 g water had the same specific volume (2.0 cm3 g−1) but softer crumb than those obtained with a reference formulation without DF addition, showing average hardness of 15 N. In general, the addition of DFCs of pulp or peel slightly affected other textural profile parameters. Also, non‐significant differences were observed for muffins containing pulp or peel DFCs, which showed average values of 10.9 N for chewiness, 0.95 for springiness, 0.76 for cohesiveness and 0.42 for resilience. Regarding the crumb structure, muffins with pulp DFCs showed the lowest value for d3.2 (1.3 ± 0.3 mm). Meanwhile, the highest anti‐radical and reducing capacity, 240 ± 2 and 1050 ± 6 mgeq Trolox g−1 muffin (dry basis), respectively, were observed in the muffins with peel DFC. Finally, the addition of DFCs allowed us to maintain lower hardness values than those of the reference formulation during the whole storage period studied (22 days). Muffins with peel DFCs tended to have a lower rate of crumb hardening (0.08 ± 0.02) d−1.

CONCLUSION

The addition of papaya DFCs to muffin formulations confers interesting properties for industry and consumers, providing functionality, extending the shelf life as well as transforming papaya leftovers in new functional ingredients, contributing to a circular economy. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The mechanism leading to color differences between purple‐red and green partridge tea leaves
Authors: Shi Qi , Yu Wengang , Li Juanling , Feng Shipeng
Published: September 2022

Background

Partridge tea (Mallotus oblongifolius) is used as an important beverage and medical plant in Hainan province of China. Although some information about the morphology, cytology, and genetics of partridge tea has been reported in the literature, knowledge about this plant is still very limited. The leaves are the most important part for every tea plant, with a major role in nutrition and other functions. The leaves of different cultivars of partridge tea are different in colors and functions. The molecular mechanism of color formation of partridge tea leaf is still unclear. We reveal the molecular mechanism of the color difference between purple‐red and green partridge tea leaves through metabolome and transcriptome analysis.

Results

We identified 665 compounds in the two partridge tea cultivars through metabolome analysis. Among these compounds, the content of 324 differed between the two cultivars. We also annotated 50 042 unigenes in the two cultivars by transcriptome analysis; 9665 unigenes were expressed differently between the two cultivars. Using an integrated analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome data, we found that the compounds and genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis were up‐regulated in the purple‐red leaves, compared with the green leaves.

Conclusion

Our results showed that the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway genes were up‐regulated, which resulted in the up‐regulation of the anthocyanin, making the leaf color purple‐red. Our study reveals the molecular mechanism of the color difference between purple‐red and green partridge tea, and lays a foundation for the genetic breeding of partridge tea genetic and the utilization of its volatile components. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Biocrust diversity enhances dryland saline soil multifunctionality
Authors: Kakeh Jalil , Sanaei Anvar , Sayer Emma J. , Hazhir Shadi , Gorji Manouchehr , Mohammadi Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2022

Biocrusts are multifaceted communities including mosses, lichens, and cyanobacteria that are crucial for sustaining soil functions in drylands. Most studies on biocrust functions to date have focused on biocrust cover and development, largely in non‐saline soils, and we know very little about the importance of biocrust diversity for maintaining multifunctionality in saline dryland soils. We assessed the direct and indirect linkages between biocrust richness, soil texture and salinity and soil multifunctionality by measuring 13 variables characterizing soil biological, nutrient and hydrological functions across 32 plots in a salinized dryland in northeastern Iran. We assessed the species richness of biocrust patches and characterized soil functions in bare soils. Overall, biocrust species richness declined with soil clay content and soil salinity, whereas soil salinity increased with soil clay content. Structural equation modeling showed a strong positive association between biocrust species richness and all measured dryland soil functions (soil biological, nutrient, and hydrological functions), but soil hydrological function declined with soil salinity. Overall, dryland soil multifunctionality was positively associated with biocrust species richness but negatively associated with soil clay content. Biocrust species richness likely enhances soil multifunctionality via the distinct roles of species and biocrust functional groups in providing carbon and nutrient inputs, creating favourable microsites, enhancing infiltration, and facilitating soil microbial colonization in saline dryland soils. Overall, our findings highlight a key role for biocrust diversity in facilitating and maintaining soil multifunctionality in drylands affected by soil salinity.
Influence of Sharklet‐Inspired Micropatterned Polymers on Spatio‐Temporal Variations of Marine Biofouling
Authors: Védie Elora , Barry‐Martinet Raphaëlle , Senez Vincent , Berglin Mattias , Stenlund Patrik , Brisset Hugues , Bressy Christine , Briand Jean‐François
Published: September 2022

This article aims to show the influence of surface characteristics (microtopography, chemistry, mechanical properties) and seawater parameters on the settlement of marine micro‐ and macroorganisms. Polymers with nine microtopographies, three distinct mechanical properties, and wetting characteristics are immersed for one month into two contrasting coastal sites (Toulon and Kristineberg Center) and seasons (Winter and Summer). Influence of microtopography and chemistry on wetting is assessed through static contact angle and captive air bubble measurements over 3‐weeks immersion in artificial seawater. Microscopic analysis, quantitative flow cytometry, metabarcoding based on the ribulose biphosphate carboxylase (rbcL) gene amplification, and sequencing are performed to characterize the settled microorganisms. Quantification of macrofoulers is done by evaluating the surface coverage and the type of organism. It is found that for long static in situ immersion, mechanical properties and non‐evolutive wettability have no major influence on both abundance and diversity of biofouling assemblages, regardless of the type of organisms. The apparent contradiction with previous results, based on model organisms, may be due to the huge diversity of marine environments, both in terms of taxa and their size. Evolutive wetting properties with wetting switching back and forth over time have shown to strongly reduce the colonization by macrofoulers.
3D‐Printing of Poly(arylene ether sulfone)s: Functional High‐Performance Polymers for Vat Photopolymerization
Authors: Weyhrich Cody W. , Will John W. , Heifferon Katherine V. , Brown James R. , Arrington Clay B. , Meenakshisundaram Viswanath , Williams Christopher B. , Long Timothy E.
Published: September 2022

Vat photopolymerization (VP) is an advanced additive manufacturing (AM) platform that enables production of intricate 3D monoliths that are unattainable with conventional manufacturing methods. In this work, modification of amorphous poly(arylene ether sulfone)s (PSU) allows for VP printing. Post‐polymerization telechelic functionalization with acrylate functionality yielded photocrosslinkable PSUs across a molecular weight range. 1H NMR spectroscopy confirms chemical composition and quantitative acrylate functionalization. Addition of diphenyl‐(2,4,6‐trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (TPO) photoinitiator to 30 wt% PSU solutions in NMP provides a photocurable composition. However, subsequent photorheological studies elucidate rapid photodegradation of the polysulfone main chain, which is especially apparent in high Mn (15 kg mol−1) PSU formulations. UV‐light intensity and wavelength range are altered to reduce degradation while allowing for efficient crosslinking. The addition of 0.5 wt% of avobenzone photoblocker produces an ill‐defined structure with 6 kg mol−1 PSU. For higher molecular weights (>12 kg mol−1), solutions with a low molar mass reactive diluent, i.e., trimethylolpropane triacrylate, enable the printing of an organogel with a storage modulus (>105 Pa) sufficient for vat photopolymerization. Employing multicomponent solutions provide well‐defined parts with complex geometries through vat photopolymerization.
Glucose Scavenging with Pectin Hydrazide: A Step toward Designing Innovative, Functional, All‐Sugar‐Based Polymers
Authors: Würfel Hendryk , Geitel Katja , Günther Wolfgang , Anufriev Ilya , Schubert Ulrich S. , Nischang Ivo , Heinze Thomas
Published: September 2022

Polygalacturonic acid hydrazide (PGH) is one of only a few polysaccharide derivatives with pronounced nucleophilic characteristics known today. This water‐soluble and benign material could be reacted with the hydrophilic aldehydes D‐glucose in water, without any catalyst and at room temperature, resulting in a product that is the first example of new family of all‐sugar‐based polysaccharide derivatives. The reaction is reversible, allowing for D‐glucose loading and unloading of the PGH. The D‐glucose binds as the α−, and β anomer of the glucopyranosyl form. The reaction is orthogonal to the reactivity of the hydroxyl groups in the polysaccharide and enables the mild generation of new bio‐inspired polysaccharide derivatives. The glucose attachment could be rendered irreversibly by reducing the hydrazone with sodium cyanoborohydride, leading to the acyclic sugar derivative. A brief hydrodynamic and light scattering study of the polymers showed varying macromolecular properties at consistent molar mass values of the modified polysaccharide derivatives.
Anionic Hybrid Copolymerization of Cyclic and Vinyl Monomers without Transesterification
Authors: Yang Hongjun , Feng Kaifeng , Song Yiye , Huang Wenyan , Jiang Qimin , Xue Xiaoqiang , Jiang Li , Jiang Bibiao , Zhang Guanzghao
Published: September 2022

Anionic hybrid copolymerization (AHcP) of cyclic and vinyl monomers provides a powerful strategy to synthesize biodegradable heteropolymers. However, transesterification between comonomeric units often happens making the mechanism complex. Here, AHcP of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMA) with ε‐caprolactone (CL) is investigated at 25 °C, where DMA does not have ester group so that no transesterification between DMA and CL units happens. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry measurements reveal that DMA and CL units are randomly distributed in the resulted polymer. Differential scanning calorimetry measurements show that the copolymer has only one glass transition temperature (Tg). Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrates the copolymer has a single‐stage decomposition from 255 to 425 °C, which is between those of the corresponding homopolymers. Thes facts further indicate that the copolymer is random. This study clearly demonstrates that AHcP takes place regardless of transesterification though it may have some effects.
Formation of Robust and Adaptive Biopolymers via Non‐Covalent Supramolecular Interactions
Authors: Cohen Erez , Avram Liat , Poverenov Elena
Published: September 2022

Biomass‐originated materials are the future's next‐tier polymers. This work suggests improving mechanical and barrier properties of nature‐sourced polymers using non‐covalent supramolecular interactions. Polysaccharide chitosan is modified with amino acids via an esterification pathway using a systematic variation of hydrogen bond and aromatic domains (Degrees of substitution 12–49%). These controlled modifications improve stability due to non‐covalent interactions, resulting in biopolymers with tailored thermal (decomposition temperature 232–275 °C), mechanical (Young's modulus 540–2667 MPa), and surface properties (roughness 4–40 nm). Chitosan and natural amino acids that are already manufactured at scale are purposely selected. The facile synthesis, controlled properties, stimuli‐responsive potential, and inexhaustible origin of the raw materials provide the presented findings with the potential to become the method for the formation of high‐performance biodegradable alternatives to petroleum‐based polymers that can be used in packaging, food, agriculture, and medicine.
An Asymmetric Cross‐Linked Ionic Copolymer Hybrid Solid Electrolyte with Super Stretchability for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Jia , Dong Linna , Zeng Xingfa , Chen Liya , Wei Xiangrong , Shi Liyi , Fu Jifang
Published: September 2022

Composite solid electrolytes are recommended to be the most promissing strategy for solid‐state batteries because they combine the advantages of inorganic ceramics and polymers. However, the huge interfacial resistance between the inorganic ceramic and polymer results in low ionic conductivity, which is still the major impediment that limits their applications. Herein, a novel highly elastic and weakly coordinated ionic copolymer hybrid electrolyte with asymmetric structure based on surface‐modified Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 by "in situ" polymerization is proposed to improve ionic conductivity and mechanical properties simultaneously. The all‐solid hybrids electrolytes exhibit room‐temperature ionic conductivity up to 2.61 × 10−4 S cm−1 and lithium‐ion transference number of 0.41. The hybrids electrolytes can be repeatedly stretching–releasing–stretching, showing a super stretchability with the elongation at break up to 496%. The Li symmetrical cells assembled with the hybrid electrolytes can continuously operate for 800 h at 0.1 mA cm−2 without discernable dendrites, indicating good interfacial compatibility between the hybrid electrolytes and lithium electrodes. The Li|LiFePO4 batteries assembled with the hybrid electrolytes deliver an initial discharge specific capacity of 165.5 mAh g−1 with an initial coulombic efficiency of 94.8% and 154 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 C, and maintain 95.4% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.5 C.
Pyrrolidinium‐Based Hyperbranched Anion Exchange Membranes with Controllable Microphase Separated Morphology for Alkaline Fuel Cells
Authors: Duan Xiaoqin , Zhu Xiang , Li Gege , Xia Ru , Qian Jiasheng , Ge Qianqian
Published: September 2022

It is well acknowledged that the microphase‐separated morphology of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is of vital importance for membrane properties utilized in alkaline fuel cells. Herein, a rigid macromolecule poly(methyldiallylamine) (PMDA) is incorporated to regulate the microphase morphology of hyperbranched AEMs. As expected, the hyperbranched poly(vinylbenzyl chloride) (HB‐PVBC) is guided to distribute along PMDA chains, and longer PMDA cha leads to a more distinct microphase morphology with interconnected ionic channels. Consequently, high chloride conductivity of 10.49 mS cm−1 at 30 °C and suppressed water swelling ratio lower than 30% at 80 °C are obtained. Furthermore, the β‐H of pyrrolidinium cations in the non‐antiperiplanar position increases the energy barrier of β‐H elimination, leading to conformationally disfavored Hofmann elimination and increased alkaline stability. This strategy is anticipated to provide a feasible way for preparing hyperbranched AEMs with clear microphase morphology and good overall properties for alkaline fuel cells.
Improving the Energy Storage Performance of All‐Polymer Composites By Blending PVDF and P(VDF−CTFE)
Authors: Yi Zhihui , Wang Zhuo , Li Yanxin , Wu Dan , Xue Ying
Published: September 2022

Organic film capacitors have incredibly high power density and have an irreplaceable position in pulsed power systems, high‐voltage power transmission networks and other fields. At present, the energy storage density and energy storage efficiency of organic film capacitors are relatively low, resulting in excessive equipment volume. The performance of organic film capacitors is determined by polymer materials, so it is crucial to develop a polymer composite with high energy storage density and high charge–discharge efficiency. Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐chlorotrifluoroethylene) (P(VDF−CTFE)) is incorporated into the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix by solution blending. The successful preparation of the all‐polymer composite material solves the problems of low breakdown electric field strength, low discharge energy density, and low charge–discharge efficiency of high‐dielectric ferroelectric materials. The discharge energy density of the PVDF/P(VDF−CTFE) (70/30) film is more than twice that of pure PVDF due to the increase of phases α and γ and the decrease of crystallinity. Under the breakdown electric field (380 kV mm−1), PVDF/P(VDF−CTFE) (70/30) film also has an ultrahigh energy storage efficiency of 64%. The relationship between the structure and properties of composite materials is investigated in this study, which has important implications for the development of capacitors with high energy storage density.
The effect of growth hormone treatment in children with novel BPTF gene variants: A report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Wu Wenyong , Chen Ruimin
Published: September 2022

Background

Neurodevelopmental disorder with dysmorphic facies and distal limb anomalies (NEDDFL) is a rare neurodevelopmental disease caused by BPTF gene variants. To date, there are only 36 cases reported in the literature, and patients mainly presented with a developmental delay, language delay, and microcephaly. About 35% of the patients had short stature, but there had no reports published on the treatment.

Methods

The exome sequencing was performed in two probands. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the identified variants both in probands and their parents.

Results

As for the Chinese population, we report two novel variants in BPTF gene (NM_004459.6: c.1133G>A, c.5941delC) causing NEDDFL from two unrelated families. Both children had short stature and responded to recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment – the first report of this therapy in NEDDFL patients.

Conclusion

Our findings broaden the genotypic spectrum of BPTF variants. The salutary effect of rhGH in the NEDDFL is documented.
Whole lifecycle observation of single‐spore germinated Streptomyces using a nanogap‐stabilized microfluidic chip
Authors: Chen Dongwei , Nie Mengyue , Tang Wei , Zhang Yuwei , Wang Jian , Lan Ying , Chen Yihua , Du Wenbin
Published: September 2022

Streptomyces is a model bacterium to study multicellular differentiation and the major reservoir for antibiotics discovery. However, the cellular‐level lifecycle of Streptomyces has not been well studied due to its complexity and lack of research tools that can mimic their natural conditions. In this study, we developed a simple microfluidic chip for the cultivation and observation of the entire lifecycle of Streptomyces development from the single‐cell perspective. The chip consists of channels for loading samples and supplying nutrients, microwell arrays for the seeding and growth of single spores, and air chambers beside the microwells that facilitate the development of aerial hyphae and spores. A unique feature of this chip is that each microwell is surrounded by a 1.5 µm nanogap connected to an air chamber, which provides a stabilized water–air interface. We used this chip to observe the lifecycle development of Streptomyces coelicolor and Streptomyces griseus germinated from single spores, which revealed differentiation of aerial hyphae with progeny spores at micron‐scale water–air interfaces and air chambers. Finally, we demonstrated the applicability of this chip in phenotypic assays by showing that the microbial hormone A‐Factor is involved in the regulatory pathways of aerial hyphae and spore formation. The microfluidic chip could become a robust tool for studying multicellular differentiation, single‐spore heterogeneity, and secondary metabolism of single‐spore germinated Streptomyces.
Long Term Weight Cycling Affects Fecal Microbiota of Mice
Authors: Humblot Christèle , Seyoum Yohannes , Turpin Williams , Mrabt Rachida , List Edward O. , Berryman Darlene E. , Jensen Elizabeth A. , Sustarsic Elahu G. , Kopchick John J. , Ricort Jean‐Marc
Published: September 2022

Scope

Fighting obesity and associated comorbidities through dieting is not always sustained and results in a subsequent weight gain, a phenomenon referred to as weight cycling. Diet is among the most important factors in modifying the composition of gut microbiota. The objective of this work is to determine whether weight cycling affects the composition and the predicted function of mouse fecal bacteria on a long‐term basis.

Methods and results

Mice fed for 40 weeks with either high fat (HF), low fat (LF), or cycled diets (starting and ending by one of the two diets, and the reverse) exhibit a bacterial profile specific to each of the four groups. A higher proportion of Firmicutes and Bacteroidota phyla are observed in mice on Hf and LF diet, respectively. The proportion of functions dedicated to amino acid metabolism is higher in mice on HF or LF/HF diets, whereas the mice on LF or HF/LF diets have a higher proportion of functions involve in carbohydrate metabolism and vitamin B biosynthesis.

Conclusion

Compared to continuous HF or LF diets, cyclic diet specifically alters the composition and function of the mouse fecal microbiota, suggesting that fight against weight gain should be considered on a long‐term basis.
Total pelvic floor ultrasound can reliably predict long‐term treatment outcomes for patients with pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction
Authors: Hainsworth Alison J. , De Robles Marie Shella , Ferrari Linda , Solanki Deepa , Williams Andrew B. , Schizas Alexis
Published: September 2022

Aim

Integrated total pelvic floor ultrasound (TPFUS) may provide an alternative to defaecation proctography (DP) in decision making and treatment planning for patients with pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction (PFDD). This study evaluates the use of TPUS as a screening tool, and its likelihood to predict long‐term treatment outcomes.

Methods

Two blinded clinicians reviewed 100 women who had historically presented to a tertiary referral colorectal unit with PFDD from October 2014 to April 2015. The clinical history of the patients together with TPFUS or DP results were used to decide on main impression, treatment plan, likelihood of surgery and certainty of plan. These were compared to the actual treatment received six months later and again after a median follow‐up of 68 months (range 48–84).

Results

A total of 82 patients were treated with biofeedback only and 18 also underwent surgery. There were no complications in any of the patients who had surgery. When compared with the actual treatment received, 99 of the 100 of the TPFUS group would have been treated appropriately. The number of false positives for surgical treatment was lower with TPFUS compared to DP. Clinician confidence in the overall decision was significantly higher after review with DP.

Conclusions

TPFUS is a reliable assessment tool for PFDD. It can identify patients who can go straight to biofeedback and is just as good as DP at predicting likelihood of surgery. We might be able to rely on TPFUS more significantly in the future, even for surgical planning.