bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Architected Lattices with a Topological Transition
Authors: Agarwal Shivam , Jin Lihua
Published: October 2023

Topological metamaterials showing two‐ or multistep deformation under compression provide highly tunable stress–strain responses. A contact‐enabled mechanism is incorporated into lattice structures through substituting the regular struts to obtain a global multidirectional two‐step deformation. The proposed mechanism is a longitudinal structure with different beams designed for bending or buckling in different stages of deformation. When axially compressed, the mechanism shows a standalone two‐step response, which can be widely tuned by varying its geometric parameters. The presence of the mechanisms in different orientations allows for multidirectional functionality, which signifies the uniqueness of this method. By conducting experiments on 3D‐printed samples and finite element simulations, the working principle and functionality of the mechanism and lattices in 2D and 3D are shown. It is also explored how the lattice connectivity affects the performance of the topological lattices, and concluded that high enough connectivity of a lattice to achieve stretching‐dominant behavior is required for the metamaterial to achieve two‐step deformation.
Photocatalytic Regioselective Hydrofunctionalization of 1,4‐Diaryl‐1,3‐butadienes Using O‐, N‐, and C‐Nucleophiles
Authors: Hirata Tsubasa , Ikegami Ayumi , Hatano Manabu
Published: October 2023

The hydrofunctionalization of 1,3‐dienes is a challenging task especially with respect to controlling the regioselectivity of the corresponding adducts. Although various hydrofunctionalization approaches have already been developed, nucleophiles are often unselectively introduced at the C1‐ and C2‐positions of 1,3‐dienes. Here, we report a new methodology for the photocatalytic regioselective hydrofunctionalization of 1,4‐diaryl‐1,3‐butadienes in the presence of a photocatalyst under blue LED irradiation. O‐, N‐, and C‐nucleophiles are regioselectively introduced at the C1‐position of 1,4‐diaryl‐1,3‐butadienes to furnish the corresponding allylic (1,4‐adducts) and homoallylic (1,2‐adducts) derivatives as the major products. Moreover, the resultant mixture of 1,4‐adducts and 1,2‐adducts can be convergently transformed into a single reduced compound via hydrogenation.
Substrates and Cyclic Peptide Inhibitors of the Oligonucleotide‐Activated Sirtuin 7**
Authors: Bolding Julie E. , Nielsen Alexander L. , Jensen Iben , Hansen Tobias N. , Ryberg Line A. , Jameson Samuel T. , Harris Pernille , Peters Günther H. J. , Denu John M. , Rogers Joseph M. , Olsen Christian A.
Published: October 2023

The sirtuins are NAD+‐dependent lysine deacylases, comprising seven isoforms (SIRT1–7) in humans, which are involved in the regulation of a plethora of biological processes, including gene expression and metabolism. The sirtuins share a common hydrolytic mechanism but display preferences for different ϵ‐N‐acyllysine substrates. SIRT7 deacetylates targets in nuclei and nucleoli but remains one of the lesser studied of the seven isoforms, in part due to a lack of chemical tools to specifically probe SIRT7 activity. Here we expressed SIRT7 and, using small‐angle X‐ray scattering, reveal SIRT7 to be a monomeric enzyme with a low degree of globular flexibility in solution. We developed a fluorogenic assay for investigation of the substrate preferences of SIRT7 and to evaluate compounds that modulate its activity. We report several mechanism‐based SIRT7 inhibitors as well as de novo cyclic peptide inhibitors selected from mRNA‐display library screening that exhibit selectivity for SIRT7 over other sirtuin isoforms, stabilize SIRT7 in cells, and cause an increase in the acetylation of H3 K18.
Visual search strategies of performance monitoring used in action anticipation of basketball players
Authors: Li Yawei , Feng Tian , Zhang Fuchun , Asgher Umer , Yan Bingbing , Peng Tianyu
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Numerous studies have found that expert players anticipate better than novices. If more accurate prediction represents performance monitoring of experts, what are the advantages of elite basketball players in identifying and processing available cues? There is still a lack of sufficient evidence. This study examined the visual search in basketball players and explored the performance monitoring of action anticipation, adopting an expert–novice paradigm and eye‐movement technology.

Methods

Forty basketball players were recruited in this study: 20 in the expert group and 20 in the novice group. Participants were asked to predict the outcome of videotaped basketball throws and their accuracy and eye‐movement characteristics were record.

Results

The accuracy of the expert was significantly higher than that of the novice. The experts were able to instantly search and identify important cues in anticipation, and the gaze area of the experts was concentrated on the area of interest of the body. Additionally, the expert group showed long, repetitive, and rapid visual search of vital information, and improved their performance of the task.

Conclusion

The experts could monitor the performance of prediction by grabbing vital shooting information (such as the body of a player). The results suggest the athletes and coaches that if they want to improve the ability of prediction, it may be useful to shift their focus of attention from ball trajectory to body action.
ThermoBRET: A Ligand‐Engagement Nanoscale Thermostability Assay Applied to GPCRs**
Authors: Hoare Bradley L. , Tippett David N. , Kaur Amandeep , Cullum Sean A. , Miljuš Tamara , Koers Eline J. , Harwood Clare R. , Dijon Nicola , Holliday Nicholas D. , Sykes David A. , Veprintsev Dmitry B.
Published: October 2023

Measurements of membrane protein thermostability reflect ligand binding. Current thermostability assays often require protein purification or rely on pre‐existing radiolabelled or fluorescent ligands, limiting their application to established targets. Alternative methods, such as fluorescence‐detection size exclusion chromatography thermal shift, detect protein aggregation but are not amenable to high‐throughput screening. Here, we present a ThermoBRET method to quantify the relative thermostability of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), using cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and the β2‐adrenoceptor (β2AR) as model systems. ThermoBRET reports receptor unfolding, does not need labelled ligands and can be used with non‐purified proteins. It uses Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer (BRET) between Nanoluciferase (Nluc) and a thiol‐reactive fluorescent dye that binds cysteines exposed by unfolding. We demonstrate that the melting point (Tm) of Nluc‐fused GPCRs can be determined in non‐purified detergent solubilised membrane preparations or solubilised whole cells, revealing differences in thermostability for different solubilising conditions and in the presence of stabilising ligands. We extended the range of the assay by developing the thermostable tsNLuc by incorporating mutations from the fragments of split‐Nluc (Tm of 87 °C versus 59 °C). ThermoBRET allows the determination of GPCR thermostability, which is useful for protein purification optimisation and drug discovery screening.
Unlocking The Mysteries of DNA Adducts with Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Arora Sakshi , Satija Shiva , Mittal Aayushi , Solanki Saveena , Mohanty Sanjay Kumar , Srivastava Vaibhav , Sengupta Debarka , Rout Diptiranjan , Arul Murugan Natarajan , Borkar Roshan M. , Ahuja Gaurav
Published: October 2023

Cellular genome is considered a dynamic blueprint of a cell since it encodes genetic information that gets temporally altered due to various endogenous and exogenous insults. Largely, the extent of genomic dynamicity is controlled by the trade‐off between DNA repair processes and the genotoxic potential of the causative agent (genotoxins or potential carcinogens). A subset of genotoxins form DNA adducts by covalently binding to the cellular DNA, triggering structural or functional changes that lead to significant alterations in cellular processes via genetic (e. g., mutations) or non‐genetic (e. g., epigenome) routes. Identification, quantification, and characterization of DNA adducts are indispensable for their comprehensive understanding and could expedite the ongoing efforts in predicting carcinogenicity and their mode of action. In this review, we elaborate on using Artificial Intelligence (AI)‐based modeling in adducts biology and present multiple computational strategies to gain advancements in decoding DNA adducts. The proposed AI‐based strategies encompass predictive modeling for adduct formation via metabolic activation, novel adducts’ identification, prediction of biochemical routes for adduct formation, adducts’ half‐life predictions within biological ecosystems, and, establishing methods to predict the link between adducts chemistry and its location within the genomic DNA. In summary, we discuss some futuristic AI‐based approaches in DNA adduct biology.
Expression assay of the COLQ in a family with congenital myasthenic syndrome and symptomatic carriers
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad Farid , Fateh Sahand Tehrani , Aghajani Hadi , Bahramy Afshin , Zaheryani Seyed Mohammad Salar , Behroozi Javad , Kahani Seyyed Mohammad , Mohammadi Pouria , Garshasbi Masoud
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Congenital myasthenic syndromes‐5 (CMS5) is a rare autosomal recessive heterogeneous disorder, caused by pathogenic variants in the COLQ that lead to skeletal muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability. The onset is usually from birth to childhood. Disease‐causing variants in the collagen‐like tail subunit are the most explained etiology in synaptic CMS, causing defected acetylcholinesterase. In this study whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed in an affected boy with muscle weakness, ophthalmoplegia, and bilateral ptosis and gene expression assay by qRT‐PCR was performed in entire family. A homozygous nonsense variant in the COLQ [NM_005677.4:c.679C>T], (p.Arg227Ter) was identified in the proband. Segregation analysis by Sanger sequencing confirmed the homozygous state in the proband and heterozygous state in his parents and four of the siblings. The mRNA expression level in the proband was 0.02 of a healthy person, and in the carriers were 0.42 of a healthy person. This study presents an Iranian family with two affected children and eight symptomatic carriers with attenuated mRNA expression. This study provides evidence that carriers of the COLQ disease‐causing variants could become symptomatic with some yet unknown pathogenesis mechanism and underscore the importance of further investigations to elucidate this mechanism.
Preclinical Evaluation of Zn(II) Self‐Assemblies with Selective Cytotoxic Activity Against Cancer Cells In Vitro and In Ovo
Authors: Allison Simon J. , Ashton Gage P. , Lynch Hannah J. , Shire Bethany R. , Phillips Roger M. , Parkes Gareth M. B. , Pinder Emma , Rice Craig R. , Teixeira Ana A. M. , Volleman Tibo , Wordsworth Daisy A.
Published: October 2023

Dipodal pyridylthiazole amine ligands L1 and L2 both form different metallo‐supramolecular self‐assemblies with Zn2+ and Cu2+ and these are shown to be toxic and selective towards cancer cell lines in vitro. Furthermore, potency and selectivity are highly dependent upon the metal ions, ligand system and bound anion, with significant changes in chemosensitivity and selectivity dependent upon which species are employed. Importantly, significant anti‐tumor activity was observed in ovo at doses that are non‐toxic.
10 μm‐Level TiNb2O7 Secondary Particles for Fast‐Charging Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fan Jing , Chen Zhengxu , Liang Chennan , Tao Kai , Zhang Ming , Sun Yongming , Zhan Renming
Published: October 2023

TiNb2O7 with Wadsley–Roth phase delivers double theoretical specific capacity and similar working potential in comparison to spinel Li4Ti5O12, the commercial high‐rate anode material, and thus can enable much higher energy density of lithium‐ion batteries. However, the inter‐particle resistance within the high‐mass‐loading TiNb2O7 electrode would impede the capacity release for practical application, especially under fast‐charging conditions. Herein, 10–20 μm‐size carbon‐coated TiNb2O7 secondary particle (SP‐TiNb2O7) consisting of initial micro‐scale TiNb2O7 particles (MP‐TiNb2O7) was fabricated. The high crystallinity of active material could enable fast‐charge diffusion and electrochemical reaction rate within particles, and the small number of stacking layers of SP‐TiNb2O7 could reduce the large inter‐particle resistance that regular particle electrode often possess and achieve high compaction density of electrodes with high mass loading. The investigation on materials structure and electrochemical reaction kinetics verified the advances of the as‐fabricated SP‐TiNb2O7 in achieving superior electrochemical performance. The SP‐TiNb2O7 exhibited high reversible capacity of 292.7 mAh g−1 in the potential range of 1–3 V (Li+/Li) at 0.1 C, delivering high‐capacity release of 94.3 %, and high capacity retention of 86 % at 0.5 C for 250 cycles in half cell configuration. Particularly, the advances of such an anode were verified in practical 5 Ah‐level laminated full pouch cell. The as‐assembled LiFePO4||TiNb2O7 full cell exhibited a high capacity of 5.08 Ah at high charging rate of 6 C (77.9 % of that at 0.2 C of 6.52 Ah), as well as an ultralow capacity decay rate of 0.0352 % for 250 cycles at 1 C, suggesting the great potential for practical fast‐charging lithium‐ion batteries.
Comprehensive vasodilatation in women with acute heart failure: Novel insights from the GALACTIC randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wussler Desiree , Belkin Maria , Maeder Micha T. , Walter Joan , Shrestha Samyut , Kupska Karolina , Stierli Michelle , Flores Dayana , Kozhuharov Nikola , Gualandro Danielle Menosi , de Oliveira Junior Mucio Tavares , Sabti Zaid , Noveanu Markus , Socrates Thenral , Bayés‐Genis Antoni , Sionis Alessandro , Simon Patrick , Michou Eleni , Gujer Samuel , Gori Tommaso , Wenzel Philip , Pfister Otmar , Arenja Nisha , Kobza Richard , Rickli Hans , Breidthardt Tobias , Münzel Thomas , Mueller Christian ,   for the GALACTIC Investigators
Published: October 2023

Aims

Sex‐specific differences in acute heart failure (AHF) are both relevant and underappreciated. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the risk/benefit ratio and the implementation of novel AHF therapies in women and men separately.

Methods and results

We performed a pre‐defined sex‐specific analysis in AHF patients randomized to a strategy of early intensive and sustained vasodilatation versus usual care in an international, multicentre, open‐label, blinded endpoint trial. Inclusion criteria were AHF with increased plasma concentrations of natriuretic peptides, systolic blood pressure ≥100 mmHg, and plan for treatment in a general ward. Among 781 eligible patients, 288 (37%) were women. Women were older (median 83 vs. 76 years), had a lower body weight (median 64.5 vs. 77.6 kg) and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (median 48 vs. 54 ml/min/1.73 m2). The primary endpoint, a composite of all‐cause mortality or rehospitalization for AHF at 180 days, showed a significant interaction of treatment strategy and sex (p for interaction = 0.03; hazard ratio adjusted for female sex 1.62, 95% confidence interval 1.05–2.50; p = 0.03). The combined endpoint occurred in 53 women (38%) in the intervention group and in 35 (24%) in the usual care group. The implementation of rapid up‐titration of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors was less successful in women versus men in the overall cohort and in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (median discharge % target dose in patients randomized to intervention: 50% in women vs. 75% in men).

Conclusion

Rapid up‐titration of RAAS inhibitors was less successfully implemented in women possibly explaining their higher rate of all‐cause mortality and rehospitalization for AHF.

Clinical Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, unique identifier NCT00512759.
DFT Studies on Pd/Xiao‐Phos‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Arylation of Secondary Phosphine Oxides
Authors: Liu Si‐Yuan , Li Zhi‐Ming , Guo Hao , Zhang Jun‐Liang
Published: October 2023

Asymmetric arylation of secondary phosphine oxides (SPOs) has been rapidly developed, while there are few theoretical studies reported. DFT computations were carried out to study the whole catalytic cycle of Pd/Xiao‐Phos‐catalyzed asymmetric arylation of SPOs, and a modified mechanism including tautomerization and arylation was presented. Some new tautomerization mechanisms have been traversed, including base‐assisted and Pd/Xiao‐Phos‐catalyzed tautomerization. These are different from the existing report, where base‐assisted tautomerization is the most favored. The resulting intermediate enters the downstream arylation directly. Furthermore, oxidative addition is identified as the enantioselectivity‐determining step. IGMH analysis results indicate that the different non‐bonding interactions between Xiao‐Phos and SPO parts determine the enantioselectivity. This work not only provides deeper insights into the self‐adaptive property of SadPhos ligands but also offers valuable guidance for ligand design. Newly proposed tautomerization mechanisms will also bring some inspiration to subsequent related research.
Implantation and reimplantation of intracranial EEG electrodes in patients considering epilepsy surgery
Authors: Eelbode Céline , Spinelli Laurent , Corniola Marco , Momjian Shahan , Seeck Margitta , Schaller Karl , Mégevand Pierre
Published: October 2023

In patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy who are considering surgery, intracranial EEG (iEEG) helps delineate the putative epileptogenic zone. In a minority of patients, iEEG fails to identify seizure onsets. In such cases, it might be worthwhile to reimplant more iEEG electrodes. The consequences of such a strategy for the patient are unknown. We matched 12 patients in whom the initially implanted iEEG electrodes did not delineate the seizure onset zone precisely enough to offer resective surgery, and in whom additional iEEG electrodes were implanted during the same inpatient stay, to controls who did not undergo reimplantation. Seven cases and eight controls proceeded to resective surgery. No intracranial infection occurred. One control suffered an intracranial hemorrhage. Three cases and two controls suffered from a post‐operative neurological or neuropsychological deficit. We found no difference in post‐operative seizure control between cases and controls. Compared to an ILAE score of 5 (ie, stable seizure frequency in the absence of resective surgery), cases showed significant improvement. Reimplantation of iEEG electrodes can offer the possibility of resective epilepsy surgery to patients in whom the initial iEEG investigation was inconclusive, without compromising on the risk of complications or seizure control.
Recent Developments in Vaccines and Immunization Practices
Authors: Casto Daniel T.
Published: October 2023

Dramatic changes have been made in the recommended schedule for immunizations, and for a variety of reasons: greater understanding of risks associated with whole‐cell pertussis vaccine; introduction of more immunogenic vaccines to prevent invasive disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B; a national epidemic of measles that affected many vaccinated individuals; and the failure of targeted use of vaccine in high‐risk patients to reduce the occurrence of hepatitis B. Additional changes in recommended regimens can be anticipated as new products are introduced. However, for vaccines to have their greatest impact, improved adherence to recommended immunization practices is necessary.
Evaluating the Performance of Clinical Pharmacy Faculty: Putting the ACCP Template to Use
Authors: Schumock Glen T. , Crawford Stephanie Y. , Giusto Deborah A. , Hutchinson Richard A.
Published: October 2023

The responsibilities of clinical faculty members are often multifaceted and may include direct patient care, didactic and experiential teaching, research, and administrative duties. Specialization, poorly defined standards of care, and lack of direct supervision have traditionally made performance evaluation difficult. We implemented a method to evaluate clinical faculty as they carried out patient care activities using a revised template for the evaluation of a clinical pharmacist developed by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy Clinical Practice Affairs Committee. In addition, it allows individuals to report and evaluate their own performance in the areas of patient care, instructional activity, university and public service, research and scholarly activities, and administrative duties. Teaching evaluations from clerkship students and residents are also submitted and assessed during the annual interview. To determine the usefulness of the evaluation, including the template, we surveyed the opinions of clinical faculty (nontenured) at four primary practice sites (response rate 92%). Mean scores for responses suggested agreement with statements as to the merits of the evaluation system; however, there was some variation among practice sites. Incorporating the template into a broad evaluation system was effective in facilitating improved job performance and career development. Adaptation of the template may be practice site dependent and should be coordinated by a participative approach. Additional assessment may be facilitated by physician, nurse, or peer evaluation.
Rational Drug Design: The Proteinase Inhibitors
Authors: Wlodawer Alexander
Published: October 2023

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) proteinase is a promising target for the rational development of drugs against the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), since this enzyme is necessary for viral maturation, and its inhibition could lead to cessation of viral replication. Rational drug design combines chemical synthesis of compounds with structure determination methods, including protein crystallography. When the crystal structure of the HIV proteinase was determined, many research laboratories began designing drugs that would be effective inhibitors of the enzyme, and many such inhibitors were produced. Once that work was initiated, refined, and completed in the laboratory, other issues, such as specificity and bioavailability, became important. The clinical utility of such compounds is the final and most important consideration. Analysis of many agents for which structural formulas have been determined, and comparison of such formulas, provide valuable lessons for the continuing work on this enzyme and for future programs of rational drug design.
Review of the Symptomatic Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Wright Julie M.
Published: October 2023

References were selected from a MEDLINE search from 1966–1993 for literature evaluating the drug therapy of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). The search was limited to studies evaluating symptomatic treatment, and methods were developed to include only well‐designed clinical trials. Many recommendations for the symptomatic treatment of DPN appear in the medical literature, but are frequently based on case reports, information extrapolated from other neuropathic pain syndrome models, or treatment protocols lacking scientific methods. These recommendations include antidepressants, sodium channel antagonists, topical capsaicin, and miscellaneous agents. Antidepressants are considered to be the first choice in these patients. Factors to consider in establishing a regimen are interpretation of studies, adverse drug effects, drug‐drug and drug‐disease interactions, convenience of administration, and cost of therapy. Potentially effective alternatives were determined from the reviewed trials.
Patients' Perceptions of Increased Pharmacy Contact
Authors: Erstad Brian L. , Draugalis JoLaine R. , Waldrop Scott M. , Scheurer Leslie , Namanny Michael D.
Published: October 2023

This prospective, randomized study was conducted to determine if increased patient contact between pharmacists and patients would result in greater patient awareness and satisfaction with their hospital stay and particularly with pharmacists and pharmacy services. Eligible patients were randomized to receive either the usual pharmacy care with minimum contact with the pharmacist, or expanded services based on increased contact with the pharmacist. A questionnaire was used to determine patient awareness and satisfaction. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups on awareness and satisfaction with pharmacy services scales as well as total scores. Total patient scores were highly reliable, with an a coefficient of 0.87. In addition, comments by patients in the group with increased contact were overwhelmingly positive, in contrast to those receiving usual care. Patients desire and appreciate greater contact with pharmacists.
Effect of Dilauroylphosphatidylcholine on Human Spermatozoa
Authors: HOLDEN CAROL A. , TROUNSON ALAN O.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: To achieve higher rates of acrosomal loss for in vitro studies of human sperm function, the effect of liposomes prepared from the phospholipid, dilauroylphosphatidylcholine (PC12), on human spermatozoa was investigated. In general, acrosome loss was induced with PC12 with an associated decline in the percentage of motile spermatozoa. Reduction of bovine serum albumin concentration in the incubation medium from 12 mg/mL to 3 mg/mL resulted in a more pronounced effect of PC12, with a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in the percentage of motile spermatozoa within 1 hour of incubation with PC12. The percentage of spermatozoa observed to be acrosome‐free under staining with fluorescein‐conjugated Concanavalin A lectin was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) when spermatozoa were incubated with PC12 (260 μmol/L) in the absence of calcium. The percentage of motile spermatozoa was not different during PC12 incubations when Ca2+ concentration (0, 2.5, and 5 mmol/L) was altered. An active motility pattern was restored in PC12‐treated human spermatozoa by subsequent incubation in a defined medium containing 7.5 mmol/L adenosine 5′‐triphosphate and 20 μmol/L cyclic adenosine 3′, 5′‐monophosphate. It was demonstrated that PC12‐treated human spermatozoa were capable of binding to the zona pellucida of salt‐stored human oocytes once an active motility pattern had been restored.
Sertoli Cell Secretion of a Factor that Inhibits the Incorporation of 3H‐Thymidine into Cells In Vitro
Authors: LAMB DOLORES J. , LEE SANG , SHUBHADA SANKARARAMAN
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Rat Sertoli cells secrete a low molecular weight factor in vitro that inhibits the incorporation of 3H‐thymidine into cells. Although the addition of Sertoli cell‐conditioned medium (rSCCM) resulted in nearly a threefold stimulation of cell growth, the incorporation of 3H‐thymidine was decreased in a dose‐dependent manner and did not reflect the increase in cell number. Peritubular cell‐ and germ cell‐conditioned medium did not contain this inhibitory activity. Nor did the conditioned medium from fibroblasts and a variety of cell lines tested. A low molecular weight filtrate of rSCCM (<1,000 Da) contained virtually all of the 3H‐thymidine inhibiting activity, as well as about 50% of the mitogenic activity in the rSCCM. The inhibitory activity was eliminated upon removal of the rSCCM and was not due to either growth inhibition or a toxic effect on cell proliferation.
The Detrimental Effects of Electric Current on Normal Human Sperm
Authors: SIKKA SURESH C. , WANG RUN , KUKUY EUGENE , WALKER CEDRIC F. , HELLSTROM WAYNE J. G.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: This in vitro study was conducted to determine the direct effects of electric current and associated increase in temperature on human sperm. Washed sperm samples from normal volunteers were subjected to an electric current (0 to 100 mA) in a small, customized Plexiglas chamber for up to 10 minutes. Resistive heating was monitored by a miniature temperature probe. An aliquot (7 μl) obtained from the exposed sample (at 0, 3, 7, and 10 minute intervals) was evaluated for sperm motion parameters, viability, gross morphology, and electron microscopic analyses. As the current increased, there was a time‐dependent decrease in the percentages of motility, viability, and curvilinear velocity. Light and electron microscopic evaluations of the sperm showed no demonstrable damage to the head, mid piece, or tail regions on electric stimulation. A gradual time‐dependent increase in the temperature of the medium was observed with electric current. Separate evaluations in the absence of an electric current showed a significant increase in percent motility and curvilinear velocity until 40°C. These results suggest that an electric current, independent of temperature (up to 40°C), is detrimental to sperm motion and viability. Further studies are indicated to evaluate whether electric current during electroejaculation may be in part responsible for poor sperm recovery in men with spinal cord injury.
Hemizona Index (HZI) Demonstrates Excellent Predictability when Evaluating Sperm Fertilizing Capacity in In Vitro Fertilization Patients
Authors: CODDINGTON C. C. , OEHNINGER S. C. , OLIVE DAVID L. , FRANKEN D. R. , KRUGER T. F. , HODGEN G. D.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The objective of this work was to assess the power of the hemizona assay to predict in vitro fertilization (IVF) results using receiving operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. In a tertiary medical center setting, 94 couples undergoing IVF were included in the study comparing their fertilization results to sperm function during the hemizona assay. Using ROC analysis, fertilization in IVF (mature oocytes only) was compared to performance of the sperm in the sperm—zona pellucida binding test as expressed by hemizona index (HZI; [number of test sperm bound/number of control sperm bound] x 100). The IVF results were as follows: 32 patients had no fertilization (0%), 55 patients fertilized all of the oocytes (100%), and 7 patients fertilized between 14% and 85% of the oocytes. Modified ROC analysis was used to determine the best threshold for fertilization success or failure, depending upon how the data are viewed. A HZI of 40–43 separated the 100% fertilization group from the other groups, with a true positive rate of 87% and a true negative of 83%. Conversely, a HZI of 4–5 separated the 0% fertilization versus partial or total fertilization, with a true positive rate of 100% and true negative rate of 71%. Sperm performance in the hemizona assay as measured by the HZI reflects performance in IVF and benefits couple evaluation and counseling.
Acute Immobilization Stress Disrupts Testicular Steroidogenesis in Adult Male Rats by Inhibiting the Activities of 17α‐Hydroxylase and 17,20‐Lyase Without Affecting the Binding of LH/hCG Receptors
Authors: ORR T. EDWARD , TAYLOR MATTHEW F. , BHATTACHARYYA ANJAN K. , COLLINS DELWOOD C. , MANN DAVID R.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: We have investigated the effect of acute immobilization (3 hours) stress on testicular steroidogenesis in the adult rat. Immobilization did not alter plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, but plasma testosterone (T) levels were reduced by 82%. Plasma levels of corticosterone in stressed rats were elevated more than ninefold over control levels. After 3 hours of stress, testicular levels of progesterone were elevated 33%, and levels of 17α‐hydroxyprogesterone and T were reduced 47% and 37%, respectively, compared to controls. Immobilization for 3 hours had no effect on the association or dissociation rate constants of LH/human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) receptors of testicular interstitial cells and did not alter specific hCG binding. The effect of 3 hours of immobilization on testicular 17α‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐lyase was assessed by incubating testicular microsomes from stressed and control animals in the presence of 21[14C]progesterone and [3H]17α‐hydroxypro‐gesterone. Immobilization of rats reduced the VMax values of 17α‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐tyase by 47% and 48%, respectively, but had no effect on the Km values. These results support the hypothesis that stress for 3 hours disrupts rat testicular steroidogenesis via a mechanism that is independent of changes in circulating levels of LH and the binding characteristics of LH/hCG receptors. The effects of immobilization on the content of testicular steroids and on the activities of 17α‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐lyase suggest that stress inhibits the activities of both 17α‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐lyase.
Human Androgen Receptor Binding to the Androgen Response Element of Prostate Specific Antigen
Authors: LUKE MARKHAM C. , COFFEY DONALD S.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: This study examined the in vitro interaction of the human androgen receptor with a putative androgen response element (ARE) in the promoter region of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) gene. To characterize the androgen receptor's interactions with its DNA response elements we expressed the full length human androgen receptor protein in a baculovirus expression system. The receptor was shown to be 110 kDa by sodium dodecyl sulfate poly‐acrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and was purified using ion‐exchange column chromatography. Binding of the synthetic androgen R1881 to the unpurified recombinant receptor exhibited a kd of 7.6 nM by Scatchard analysis. In DNA gel electromobility shift assays the promoter region from PSA (a 313‐bp fragment) was bound by the unpurified recombinant androgen receptor in a sequence‐specific manner. An ARE‐containing sequence from the promoter region of the PSA gene was synthesized as a 30‐bp oligo‐nucleotide and was shown to bind specifically to the human androgen receptor in gel electromobility shift assays by DNA competition and by antibody supershifts of the receptor—ARE complex. The specific binding of the insect cell expressed androgen receptor to its ARE was shown to occur even in the absence of androgen. Androgen receptors purified by ion‐exchange chromatography were unable to bind to ARE, suggesting the presence of other factors required for DNA binding.
When Theory Meets Practice: Promoting Participatory Creativity Through World‐Building
Authors: Artigau Ana Inés Jorge , Bosch Teresa , Trosserro Ignacio , Aguilar Florencia
Published: October 2023

This article addresses that there has been a shift in the field of creativity, evidenced in the socio‐cultural manifesto written in 2019. This shift invites us to rethink our focus on education. The change proposed here is a change of perspective: stop focusing on the individual and instead consider the whole picture where the individual encounters a context with others and materials to think. The individual seeks a purpose in the world that allows a point of view to emerge. World‐building proposes a similar shift when it comes to storytelling. The objective is to develop a story not around a character but imagining a world where individuals emerge. This article seeks to understand whether this particular outtake on education might be a way to foster this perspective on creativity. To answer this question, we will analyze the students' final reflections once they finish the semester. The answers belong to two different cohorts, in the year 2021 and 2022, from the Universidad Austral in Argentina. The student's responses will be analyzed using the coding method developed by Strauss and Corbin. The codes will allow us to group the main findings. Each family group will be described to understand if they are similar to what the manifesto states.
Fabrication of myristic acid–potato starch complex nanostructures and assessment of their cytotoxic behavior
Authors: Almushawah Mushawah Abdullah , Athinarayanan Jegan , Periasamy Vaiyapuri Subbarayan , Alshatwi Ali A
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Lipids and carbohydrates perform essential functions in foods. In recent decades, food scientists have studied the effects of carbohydrate‐lipid interactions on the functional properties of food. However, the ways in which carbohydrate‐lipid complex‐derived materials affect the biological system are unknown. In this study, a myristic acid‐potato starch complex was created using a simple cooking approach. The complex was employed as a precursor for the fabrication of myristic acid–potato starch complex‐based nanostructured materials (MPS‐NMs) through a liquid–liquid extraction approach. A study was conducted on the structural and cytotoxic features of the fabricated MPS‐NMs.

RESULTS

Transmission electron microscopy images confirmed the formation of spherical nanostructures, 3–60 nm in size. After 24 h exposure, the chloroform fraction‐based and n‐hexane fraction‐based MPS‐NMs increased cell death by ~90% and ~ 82%, respectively. Chloroform fraction‐based MPS‐NMs (CMPS‐NMs) triggers apoptotic cell death in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). n‐Hexane fraction‐based MPS‐NMs (HMPS‐NMs) treated cells have red color‐intact nuclei, attributed to necrotic cell death. The CMPS‐NMs and HMPS‐NMs significantly decreased the mitochondria membrane potential and increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. We observed significant downregulation in flavin‐containing monooxygenase (FMO), Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM), and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) gene expression levels in the exposed cells of CMPS‐NMs and HMPS‐ NMs. In addition, we found upregulation of glutathione‐disulfide reductase (GSR) and glutathione S‐transferase A4 (GSTA4) genes in CMPS‐NMs, and HMPS‐NMs exposure.

CONCLUSION

The cooking process may lead to the formation of nanostructured material in food systems. Chloroform fraction‐based MPS‐NMs and HMPS‐NMs may contribute to cell metabolic disorders. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Analysis of the economic life and the replacement time of telecommunications equipment
Authors: Bakry Saad Haj , Al‐Abbas Ibrahim , Samarkandy Mohammad K.
Published: October 2023

This paper describes a mathematical model for the analysis of the economic life and the replacement time of telecommunication technology components. The theory has been applied to a practical case‐study in Saudi Arabia.
Application note: LAN internet helps prudential securities compete
Authors: Muller Nathan J.
Published: October 2023

To stay competitive, companies of all types and sizes are finding it necessary to integrate diverse operations to achieve targeted levels of efficiency and economy.
Investigation of alternative two‐phase solvent systems for purification of natural products by centrifugal partition chromatography
Authors: Michel Thomas , Loyet Célestine , Boulho Romain , Eveno Magalie , Audo Grégoire
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) is a liquid–liquid chromatography characterised by its solvent flexibility. The compounds undergoing separation are subjected to a continuous partition process between two immiscible phases in a column space free of solid support. In the context of green chemistry, it is important to substitute halogenated and petroleum‐based solvents commonly used in purification processes.

Objectives

The main goal of the current study was to replace classical solvents used in CPC (e.g., hexane and methanol) by green and renewable alternatives.

Methods

Solvents were first selected based on literature. Their commercial availability, price, recyclability, toxicity and ability to form two phases were particularly sought after.

Key findings

The new two‐phase solvent systems were evaluated for the purification of two compounds of interest: piperine and cannabidiol. Using these alternative two‐phase solvent systems allows us to isolate natural products with a high purity level (> 95%).

Conclusion

Substituting petroleum‐based solvents with bio‐sourced, renewable alternatives reduces the environmental impact of CPC. Herein, new biphasic solvent systems were built using hexamethyldisiloxane, ethyl isobutyrate and 2‐methyl tetrahydrofuran in combination with ethanol and water. Furthermore, this research provides a scientific basis for developing new and sustainable solvent systems in CPC.
Explanation of the Atomic Force Microscope‐Based Nanoscale 3D Printing of Quantum Dots
Authors: An Sangmin , Lee Hong Seok , Oh Hye Min , Rho Heesuk
Published: October 2023

Conceptual explanation of atomic force microscope‐based nanoscale 3D printing of quantum dots is given, specifically utilizing nanoscale nozzle (nanopipette) integrated with the quartz tuning fork‐based atomic force microscope. How these nanopipettes are incorporated into atomic force microscopy to enable the controlled ejection of liquid through a nanosized aperture on the substrate is explored and how this process forms the basis for fabricating 3D structures is studied.
Astaxanthin supplementation impact on insulin resistance, lipid profile, blood pressure, and oxidative stress in polycystic ovary syndrome patients: A triple‐blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Jabarpour Masoome , Aleyasin Ashraf , Shabani Nashtaei Maryam , Amidi Fardin
Published: October 2023

Astaxanthin (ASX) is a natural carotenoid compound found in several of microorganisms and seafood. It may have numerous therapeutic benefits for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ASX on lipid profile, insulin resistance (IR), blood pressure (BP), and oxidative stress (OS) levels in infertile PCOS patients. Overall, 58 infertile women with diagnosed PCOS participated in this triple‐blind randomized clinical trial. They were randomly assigned to two groups, taking either a placebo or ASX (2 × 6 mg/day) for 8 weeks. Blood serum samples were collected from patients before and after the intervention. Fasting Insulin (FI), fasting blood glucose (FBS), OS markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and total antioxidant capacity [TAC]), and lipid profiles were evaluated in serum. Moreover, based on the relevant formula, several indices associated with IR were calculated. BP was also assessed at the start and end of the study. After 8 weeks of ASX consumption, a significant reduction was observed in fasting blood sugar, HOMA‐IR, FI, MDA, low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, and TC/HDL‐C. Conversely, ASX significantly increased TAC, HDL‐C, and QUICKI. After adjusting the analysis for the baseline values of age, body mass index, and biochemical parameters, non‐significant values were obtained for QUICKI and FI, along with no changes in other findings. Overall, ASX appears to be an effective and safe supplement that alleviates insulin metabolism, lipid profile parameters, and OS in infertile PCOS patients.
The hyper‐Wiener Index of diamond nanowires
Authors: Nagy Benedek
Published: October 2023

Carbon nanowires based on various structures have various applications. In this article, our focus is on diamond nano‐wires, based on the structure of the diamond. Our goal is to characterize these nanowires by providing their hyper‐Wiener index, one of the basic topological graph indices. The diamond is formed by carbon atoms in a compact structure: every atom has exactly four neighbors connected by covalent bonds according to the simplest three‐dimensional polyhedron. Considering an atom in the center of a tetrahedron, its neighbors, the atoms connected to it by bonds, are located in the corners of the tetrahedron. In this article, this “diamond‐grid” structure is analysed in the case that the graphs correspond to connected parts of sequences of unit cells, in this way forming nanowires of various lengths. By a combinatorial approach, a closed formula is proven for the hyper‐Wiener index based on the graph‐distances of every pair of carbon atoms (i.e., the minimal number of edges connecting the atoms), and this formula depends only on the size of the graph in terms of the number of unit cells included.
The Erlang weighted tree, a new branching process
Authors: Moharrami M. , Subramanian V. , Liu M. , Sundaresan R.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we study a new discrete tree and the resulting branching process, which we call the erlang weighted tree(EWT). The EWT appears as the local weak limit of a random graph model proposed in La and Kabkab, Internet Math. 11 (2015), no. 6, 528–554. In contrast to the local weak limit of well‐known random graph models, the EWT has an interdependent structure. In particular, its vertices encode a multi‐type branching process with uncountably many types. We derive the main properties of the EWT, such as the probability of extinction, growth rate, and so forth. We show that the probability of extinction is the smallest fixed point of an operator. We then take a point process perspective and analyze the growth rate operator. We derive the Krein–Rutman eigenvalue and the corresponding eigenfunctions of the growth operator, and show that the probability of extinction equals one if and only if .
Free‐Standing and Highly Tough 3D Network of Carbon Nanotubes and MXene Constructed by Facile “Egg‐Box” Coordination Mechanism for High‐Efficiency Solar Evaporator
Authors: Jin Yang , Gong Xiaole , He Yujian , Wang Hen , Li Shaoxiang , Liu Jingquan
Published: October 2023

Solar steam generation to generate steam through solar light‐driven surface evaporation can be an attractive methodology that utilizes green and inexhaustible solar energy to generate water steam and fresh water with superior efficiency. However, some drawbacks of the current photothermal conversion materials such as complicated fabrication process, high cost, and low salt tolerance often heavily restrict their wide applications. Herein, a green and low‐cost method is designed and developed for constructing a free‐standing, elastic, and highly tough 3D network of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and MXene through an efficient “egg‐box” coordination mechanism in only one step for high‐efficiency water evaporation. When the mass ratios of MXene and CNTs are designed at 1:1.5 and cross‐linked with sodium alginate and CaCl2, the obtained MCS‐3 shows the most excellent light absorption and hydrophilicity, leading to the best evaporation rate of 1.644 kg m−2 h−1, and the highest photothermal conversion efficiency of 96%. Moreover, subject to different harsh environments and durability tests, MCS‐3 also shows desired structural stability and evaporation performance. As demonstrated by its extraordinary photothermal evaporation properties, MCS‐3 can envision a wide range of commercial applications covering wastewater purification, brine seawater, desalination, etc.