bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Fr 13 risk analysis of failure in a global food process – illustration with milk processing
Authors: Chandrakash Saravanan , Davey Kenneth , O'Neill Brian
Published: October 2023

A novel Friday 13th (Fr 13) risk analysis of the vulnerability to surprise (unexpected) failure of a global milk pasteurizing plant consisting of heating, holding and cooling unit operations is developed and illustrated. We define two or more interconnected unit operations as a global model. The aim was to gain new insight into the effects of accumulating random (stochastic) changes that could lead to overall failure in an otherwise well‐operated and well‐maintained pasteurizing plant. The methodology is a development of the work of Davey and co‐workers (Food Control 29, 1 (2015) 248–253, CES 127 (2015) 133–142). Failure is defined in terms of criteria that must be met to ensure safe operation. Realistic data for large‐scale pasteurization are used. Results reveal that the overall global model is vulnerable to failure in 12.5% of all cases over the long term. If each simulation can be considered a daily process, this translates to some 46 failures each year to meet the design pasteurization criteria. This new process insight cannot be obtained using traditional risk and hazard approaches. How this new Fr 13 methodology can be used to simulate design changes to the physical system to minimize vulnerability to failure is discussed. The finding should be of immediate interest to milk processors. © 2015 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
α‐Ketoglutarate–Dependent KDM6 Histone Demethylases and Interferon‐Stimulated Gene Expression in Lupus
Authors: Montano Erica N. , Bose Moumita , Huo Lihong , Tumurkhuu Gantsetseg , De Los Santos Gabriela , Simental Brianna , Stotland Aleksandr B. , Wei Janet , Bairey Merz C. Noel , Suda Jo , Martins Gislaine , Lalani Sarfaraz , Lawrenson Kate , Wang Yizhou , Parker Sarah , Venuturupalli Swamy , Ishimori Mariko , Wallace Daniel J. , Jefferies Caroline A.
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate the hypothesis that interferon (IFN)–stimulated gene (ISG) expression in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) monocytes is linked to changes in metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation of ISG expression.

Methods

Monocytes from healthy volunteers and patients with SLE at baseline or following IFNα treatment were analyzed by extracellular flux analysis, proteomics, metabolomics, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and gene expression. The histone demethylases KDM6A/B were inhibited using glycogen synthase kinase J4 (GSK‐J4). GSK‐J4 was tested in pristane and resiquimod (R848) models of IFN‐driven SLE.

Results

SLE monocytes had enhanced rates of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation compared to healthy control monocytes, as well as increased levels of isocitrate dehydrogenase and its product, α‐ketoglutarate (α‐KG). Because α‐KG is a required cofactor for histone demethylases KDM6A and KDM6B, we hypothesized that IFNα may be driving “trained immune” responses through altering histone methylation. IFNα priming (day 1) resulted in a sustained increase in the expression of ISGs in primed cells (day 5) and enhanced expression on restimulation with IFNα. Importantly, decreased H3K27 trimethylation was observed at the promoters of ISGs following IFNα priming. Finally, GSK‐J4 (KDM6A/B inhibitor) resulted in decreased ISG expression in SLE patient monocytes, as well as reduced autoantibody production, ISG expression, and kidney pathology in R848‐treated BALB/c mice.

Conclusion

Our study suggests long‐term IFNα exposure alters the epigenetic regulation of ISG expression in SLE monocytes via changes in immunometabolism, a mechanism reflecting trained immunity to type I IFN. Importantly, it opens the possibility that targeting histone‐modifying enzymes, such as KDM6A/B, may reduce IFN responses in SLE.

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Shortened time to diagnosis for patients suspected of urinary bladder cancer managed in a standardized care pathway was associated with an improvement in tumour characteristics
Authors: Abuhasanein Suleiman , Jahnson Staffan , Kjölhede Henrik
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To evaluate whether the implementation of standardized care pathway (SCP) for patients with suspected urinary bladder cancer (UBC) was associated with changes in tumour characteristics. Additionally, the study aims to explore whether there was a shift in the selection of patients prioritized for immediate evaluation regarding suspicion of UBC.

Materials and Methods

The study included all patients diagnosed with UBC in the NU Hospital Group between 2010 and 2019. To evaluate changes associated with SCP, patients were divided into two diagnostic time periods, either before (2010–2015) or during (2016–2019) the implementation of the SCP. To evaluate which patients were prioritized for prompt evaluation within 13 days, logistic regression analysis was performed on all patients before and during SCP.

Results

Median time to transurethral resection of the tumour in urinary bladder (TURBT) decreased from 29 days (interquartile range [IQR] 16–48) before SCP to 12 days (IQR 8–19) during SCP (p < 0.001) with a clear break from 2016. The proportion of cT2 + tumours decreased during SCP from 26% to 20% (p = 0.035). In addition, tumours detected during SCP were smaller (p = 0.023), but with more multiple lesions (p = 0.055) and G3 tumours (p = 0.007). During SCP, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups of patients with TURBT within or after 13 days. In contrast, before SCP, a majority of the patients treated within 13 days had advanced tumours and were admitted from the emergency ward.

Conclusions

The implementation of an SCP for suspected UBC was associated with improved tumour characteristics. Interestingly, during SCP, there were no substantial differences in patients' or tumours' characteristics among those who underwent TURBT within or after 13 days. This indicates that the 13‐day timeframe for TURBT might be prolonged, especially in less urgent cases in order to facilitate a prioritization of more severe cases with treatable disease.
Proportion of collagen type II in the extracellular matrix promotes the differentiation of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells into nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Tao Yiqing , Zhou Xiaopeng , Liu Dongyu , Li Hao , Liang Chengzhen , Li Fangcai , Chen Qixin
Published: October 2023

During degeneration process, the catabolism of collagen type II and anabolism of collagen type I in nucleus pulposus (NP) may influence the bioactivity of transplanted cells. Human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) were cultured as a micromass or in a series of gradual proportion hydrogels of a mix of collagen types I and II. Cell proliferation and cytotoxicity were detected using CCK‐8 and LDH assays respectively. The expression of differentiation‐related genes and proteins, including SOX9, aggrecan, collagen type I, and collagen type II, was examined using RT‐qPCR and Western blotting. Novel phenotypic genes were also detected by RT‐qPCR and western blotting. Alcian blue and dimethylmethylene blue assays were used to investigate sulfate proteoglycan expression, and PI3K/AKT, MAPK/ERK, and Smad signaling pathways were examined by Western blotting. The results showed collagen hydrogels have good biocompatibility, and cell proliferation increased after collagen type II treatment. Expressions of SOX9, aggrecan, and collagen type II were increased in a collagen type II dependent manner. Sulfate proteoglycan synthesis increased in proportion to collagen type II concentration. Only hADMSCs highly expressed NP cell marker KRT19 in collagen type II culture. Additionally, phosphorylated Smad3, which is associated with phosphorylated ERK, was increased after collagen type II‐stimulation. The concentration and type of collagen affect hADMSC differentiation into NP cells. Collagen type II significantly ameliorates hADMSC differentiation into NP cells and promotes extracellular matrix synthesis. Therefore, anabolism of collagen type I and catabolism of type II may attenuate the differentiation and biosynthesis of transplanted stem cells. © 2016 BioFactors, 42(2):212–223, 2016
Choice of fusion proteins, expression host, and analytics solves difficult‐to‐produce protein challenges in discovery research
Authors: Lyons‐Abbott Sally , Abramov Ariel , Chan Chung‐leung , Deer Jen Running , Fu Guangsen , Hassouneh Wafa , Koch Tyree , Misquith Ayesha , O'Neill Jason , Simon Sandy Alexander , Wolf Anitra , Yeh Ronald , Vernet Erik
Published: October 2023

High quality biological reagents are a prerequisite for pharmacological research. Herein a protein production screening approach, including quality assessment methods, for protein‐based discovery research is presented. Trends from 2895 expression constructs representing 253 proteins screened in mammalian and bacterial hosts—91% of which are successfully expressed and purified—are discussed. Mammalian expression combined with the use of solubility‐promoting fusion proteins is deemed suitable for most targets. Furthermore, cases utilizing stable cell line generation and choice of fusion protein for higher yield and quality of difficult‐to‐produce proteins (Leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G‐protein coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) and Neurturin) are presented and discussed. In the case of Neurturin, choice of fusion protein impacted the target binding 80‐fold. These results highlight the need for exploration of construct designs and careful Quality Control (QC) of difficult‐to‐produce protein reagents.
Adaptive laboratory evolution and transcriptomics‐guided engineering of Escherichia coli for increased isobutanol tolerance
Authors: Jang Young Seo , Yang Jungwoo , Kim Jae Kyun , Kim Tae In , Park Yong‐Cheol , Kim In Jung , Kim Kyoung Heon
Published: October 2023

As a renewable energy from biomass, isobutanol is considered as a promising alternative to fossil fuels. To biotechnologically produce isobutanol, strain development using industrial microbial hosts, such as Escherichia coli, has been conducted by introducing a heterologous isobutanol synthetic pathway. However, the toxicity of produced isobutanol inhibits cell growth, thereby restricting improvements in isobutanol titer, yield, and productivity. Therefore, the development of robust microbial strains tolerant to isobutanol is required. In this study, isobutanol‐tolerant mutants were isolated from two E. coli parental strains, E. coli BL21(DE3) and MG1655(DE3), through adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) under high isobutanol concentrations. Subsequently, 16 putative genes responsible for isobutanol tolerance were identified by transcriptomic analysis. When overexpressed in E. coli, four genes (fadB, dppC, acs, and csiD) conferred isobutanol tolerance. A fermentation study with a reverse engineered isobutanol‐producing E. coli JK209 strain showed that fadB or dppC overexpression improved isobutanol titers by 1.5 times, compared to the control strain. Through coupling adaptive evolution with transcriptomic analysis, new genetic targets utilizable were identified as the basis for the development of an isobutanol‐tolerant strain. Thus, these new findings will be helpful not only for a fundamental understanding of microbial isobutanol tolerance but also for facilitating industrially feasible isobutanol production.
Spectroscopic Study on the Stability of Morin in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Bark Ki‐Min , Im Seo‐Eun , Seo Jung‐Ja , Park Ok‐Hyun , Park Chul‐Ho , Park Hyoung‐Ryun
Published: October 2023

Morin (3,2,4,5,7‐pentahydroxyflavone) is a flavonol conjugated to a resorcinol moiety at the C‐2 position, different from many other flavonoids. The UV–vis spectrum of morin in neat water reveals two major absorption bands with maxima at 265 and 387 nm. The substance is stable in acidic solution and neat water. However, its absorption maximum at 387 nm continuously shifts to longer wavelengths and new peaks appeared at wavelengths of 312 nm with increasing pH of the solution. The shape of the absorption spectrum of morin depends on the storage time at a given pH, indicating the occurrence of other successive chemical reactions. The fluorescence spectroscopic results also prove that new conjugated double bonds are formed in the deaerated basic solution at the initial state and decompose with time. This behavior indicates that morin is very unstable, and therefore its decomposition occurs by a sequence of multistep reactions in basic solution. Probable reaction pathways for the reaction are suggested based on the spectroscopic results.
Characterization and Histone Deacetylase Inhibitory Activity of Three Novel Fluorescent Benzamide Derivatives
Authors: Shin In Su , Lee Dong Gyu , Lee Jin Hee , Jeong Hwan‐Jeong , Seo Young Jun
Published: October 2023

New fluorescent benzamide derivatives were developed by using four different aromatic groups with expanding sizes from thiophene to naphthalene, anthracene, and pyrene in an attempt to identify a novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. The compounds exhibited red shift absorption and emission dependent on the size of the aromatic group as well as a high fluorescence efficiency with high quantum yields. However, the HDAC binding affinity of the compounds with polyaromatic modification of the substituent was very low (IC50
ranging from 46 to 101 μM) in contrast to that of the monoaromatic substituted compound (<0.12 μM). Likely, the modification of the aromatic substituent results in the enzyme's inability to bind the inhibitors due to space limitation at the binding site. Nevertheless, we believe that these results will be useful in the design of new fluorescent HDAC inhibitors based on the benzamide scaffold with diverse applications as diagnostic tools targeting the HDAC enzyme, which has an important role in the prevention of a number of diseases.
Abietane Diterpenoids from Perovskia atriplicifolia and Their Anti‐HBV Activities
Authors: Jiang Zhi‐Yong , Li Zhong‐Qiu , Huang Chao‐Guan , Zhou Jun , Hu Qiu‐Fen , Liu Wen‐Xing , Huang Xiang‐Zhong , Wang Wei , Zhang Li‐Zhu , Xia Fu‐Ting
Published: October 2023

Bioassay‐guided phytochemical investigation on the 90% EtOH extract of Perovskia atriplicifolia resulted in the isolation of eight abietane diterpenoids, including three new ones (1–3). Based on spectroscopic methods involving 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy techniques, mass spectrometry, and optical rotation, the structures of the new compounds (1–3) were unambiguously characterized. Compounds 1–2 and 4–8 were evaluated for their anti‐HBV (hepatitis B virus) activity in HepG 2.2.15 cell line. Results suggested rosmadial (8) had the most anti‐HBV potency, suppressing the secretion of HBsAg and HBeAg, with IC50
values of 0.09 and 0.34 mM, respectively.
Binding Geometry of Free Base and Mn(III)meso‐Tetrakis(N‐methylpyridium‐4‐yl)porphyrin to Various Duplex and Triplex DNAs
Authors: Sung Giwoong , Shin Jong Heon , Kim Raeyeong , Jang Myung Duk , Han Sung Wook , Lee Dong Jin , Cho Tae Sub
Published: October 2023

The binding mode of free base and Mn(III)meso‐tetrakis(N‐methylpyridium‐4‐yl)porphyrin (TMPyP and MnTMPyP) to various duplex and triplex synthetic polynucleotides was investigated by polarized light spectroscopy, specifically circular and linear dichroism (CD and LD) spectroscopy. Both TMPyP and MnTMPyP produced a similar positive CD spectrum in the Soret absorption region when bound to poly(dA)·poly(dT) duplex and poly(dA)·[poly(dT)]2 triplex. Considering that the third poly(dT) strand blocks the major groove, this result suggested that both porphyrins bound near the minor groove where the axial ligands of the central Mn(III) ion did not affect the binding mode. In contrast, TMPyP intercalated and MnTMPyP bound the exterior of poly(dG)·poly(dC) and poly(dI)·poly(dC) duplexes, as judged from the negative and positive CD signals, respectively. The CD signals for both intercalated TMPyP and externally bound MnTMPyP were greatly altered when bound to poly(dG)·poly(dC)·poly(dC)+ and poly(dI)·poly(dC)·poly(dC)+ triplexes, indicating that the binding modes of both porphyrins were affected by the presence of the third strand, poly(dC)+, which contrasted with the AT polynucleotides. This observation supported the conclusion that the external binding site of MnTMPyP at the GC and IC duplexes is the major groove. The reduced LD spectrum indicated that the angles of the two electric transition moments of both TMPyP and MnTMPyP in the Soret absorption region were 57° and 65° with respect to the local DNA helix axis when bound to the poly(dA)·[poly(dT)]2 triplex. On the other hand, a strong, wavelength‐dependent reduced LD was observed in the Soret region for both porphyrins when associated with CGC triplex, and the excessive tilt degree prevented any reasonable calculation of the angles.
Plantago asiatica Extracts Inhibit UV‐induced Matrix Metalloproteinase‐1 in Human Dermal Fibroblasts and Prevent Skin Photoaging in Hairless Mice
Authors: Kim Ki Hyun , Bae Gyu‐Un , Kim Yong Kee
Published: October 2023

In this study, we examined the antiwrinkle effects of Plantago asiatica seed (PAS) on UV‐induced human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and hairless mice models to determine if an anti‐inflammatory agent could also be developed as an antiaging treatment. Acute UV irradiation induced matrix metallproteinase (MMP)‐1 protein expression levels, but this was suppressed by PAS in HDFs. Next, we investigated the effect of PAS on UV‐induced skin changes in hairless mice. Chronic UV exposure of the dorsal skin increased skin thickness and induced wrinkle formation. PAS significantly suppressed UV‐induced morphologic skin changes. In addition, MMP‐1 expression was dramatically attenuated by treatment with plantainoside D which was purely isolated from PAS, indicating that this is the principle compound inhibiting MMP‐1 expression in HDFs. Taken together, our data suggest that PAS can prevent the harmful effects of UV that lead to skin aging.
Detection of Single Au Nanoparticle Collisions Using Electrocatalytic Amplification Method
Authors: Kim Dong Young , Lee Sangmin , Kwon Seong Jung
Published: October 2023

Detection of single gold (Au) nanoparticle (NP) collisions on a carbon‐fiber (C‐fiber) ultramicroelectrode (UME) was carried out successfully using the electrocatalytic amplification method. The C‐fiber UME shows a low and quite stable background current for the hydrazine oxidation over a wide potential range. The electrocatalytic current transient generated by Au NP collision on the C‐fiber UME was also detected simultaneously without any pretreatment of the UME or deformation of the Au NP. The magnitude and frequency of the transient current from Au NP collisions agree well with the calculated values based on the size and concentration of the Au NP.
Temperature‐dependent Energy Transfer in Mn‐doped CdS/ZnS Nanocrystals#
Authors: Park Yerok , Son Dong Hee
Published: October 2023

Temperature dependence of the exciton and luminescence intensities in Mn‐doped CdS/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) emitting both exciton and dopant luminescence simultaneously was studied in the temperature range 77–320 K. With increasing temperature, exciton luminescence intensity decreased as a result of the increased charge carrier trapping, similar to the usual undoped QDs. In contrast, the sensitized Mn luminescence intensity increased with increasing temperature despite the decrease in the exciton population available for the sensitization. The observed opposite temperature dependence of the exciton and Mn luminescence indicates that the exciton–Mn energy transfer rate should increase with temperature significantly more rapidly than the charge carrier trapping. Temperature shift of the bandgap of the host QD and the energy of accepting d–d transition, resulting in the variation of the donor–acceptor spectral overlap, is considered responsible for the large temperature dependence of the energy transfer rate in Mn‐doped QDs.
Memory Effect of Calcined Layered Samarium Hydroxychlorides in Aqueous Solution#
Authors: Lee Byung‐Il , Byeon Song‐Ho
Published: October 2023

The decomposition and recovery behavior of layered samarium hydroxychloride (Sm2(OH)5Cl·nH2O, LSmH) has been closely studied in various conditions. Although the heat treatment of LSmH at 700 °C completely collapsed typical layered structure, the calcined LSmH (c‐LSmH) recovered its layered characteristics and consequently its ability to intercalate anions into the interlayer space when it was rehydroxylated and rehydrated in aqueous solutions containing organic and inorganic anions. This phenomenon is similar to the memory effect observed in classical layered double hydroxides (LDHs), where LDHs calcined to a mixture of metal oxides can recover their layered structures in aqueous solutions. In contrast, the recovery reaction of c‐LSmH in water without any counter anions was unsuccessful and instead resulted in the formation of Sm(OH)3. Such a difference was interpreted on the basis of the salt effect on Sm2(OH)5Cl·nH2O–Sm(OH)3 phase equilibria in water.
Preparation of Two‐Dimensional Au Nanoparticle Arrays with Controllable Gap Distance: Interparticle Coupling Effect on Surface Plasmon Resonance and SERS#
Authors: Kim Tae‐Heon , Acapulco Jesus A. I. , Hong Soonchang , Lee Sangji , Park Sungho
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we demonstrate the fabrication of highly ordered, close‐packed, two‐dimensional Au nanoparticle (2D Au NP) arrays by surface modification of Au NPs with self‐assembly chemistry of (3‐mercaptopropyl)‐trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) at a water/hexane interface. Aside from functioning as a packing molecule, MPTMS provided active sites for direct substrate polymerization of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The optical properties of the fabricated 2D Au NP array were then analyzed by UV–vis‐NIR and Raman spectroscopy. The 2D Au NP array showed unique surface plasmon resonance (SPR) modes that came from the bare dipole–dipole coupling interaction of neighboring nanoparticles, which was due to the condition of sub‐1‐nm distance between the NPs. We were able to deduce these SPR modes by investigating their characteristics by controlling the gap between the Au NPs through mechanical force expansion. Second, Raman spectroscopy indicated that the close‐packed Au nanoparticle array exhibits strong surface‐enhanced Raman scattering response; and, as expected, an inverse relationship was observed between Raman intensity and gap length. In addition, the Au nanorod array showed higher sensitivity compared to the Au nanosphere array as building block for the 2D Au NP array.
Excited State Intramolecular Proton Transfer Dynamics of Oxadiazole‐based Dyes#
Authors: Kim Jinyong , Kim Sehoon , Park Soo Young , Joo Taiha
Published: October 2023

Excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) dynamics of two oxadiazole‐based model compounds, 2,5‐bis‐[5‐(4‐tert‐butyl‐phenyl)‐[1,3,4]oxadiazol‐2‐yl]‐phenol (SOX) and 2,5‐bis‐[5‐(4‐tert‐butyl‐phenyl)‐[1,3,4]oxadiazol‐2‐yl]‐benzene‐1,4‐diol (DOX) have been investigated by time‐resolved fluorescence. SOX and DOX have one and two intramolecular hydrogen bond moieties, respectively, where ESIPT may occur. Time‐resolved fluorescence fully resolves the ESIPT dynamics and establishes the two‐state conversion between the enol and keto isomers in the S1
potential energy surface. The apparent inconsistency between the ESIPT rate and the steady‐state spectrum is settled by invoking the conformational inhomogeneity including the intermolecular hydrogen bonding with protic solvents. The ESIPT rates of SOX and DOX are not as fast as those of typical ESIPT molecules, which indicates a finite barrier for the reaction. For DOX, ESIPT is enabled for only one hydroxyl moiety, and the ESIIPT rate is twice as fast as that of SOX. We propose a symmetric potential energy surface along the two proton transfer coordinates, and bifurcation of the initial probability density of the enol isomer into the two potential minima representing the keto isomer.
Analysis of the Terahertz Absorption Spectrum of Melamine#
Authors: Hwang Yeun Hee , Noh Yo Han , Seo Dongkyun , Yeo Hak Min , Kim Seongheun , Park Jaehun , Chun Hyang Sook , Kwak Kyungwon
Published: October 2023

In this paper, with terahertz (THz) time‐domain spectroscopy, we measure the characteristic absorption peaks of melamine and analyze their vibrational modes with the help of solid‐state density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The observed strong absorption peaks at 2, 2.27, and 2.61 THz are well reproduced but show red shifts compared to the theoretical results. Detailed normal mode analyses are carried out, which reveals that those THz peaks are generated from intermolecular vibrations. Temperature‐dependent THz measurements suggest that this red shift mainly comes from the temperature effect. Thus, three peaks are assigned to the calculated intermolecular vibrational motions. This result indicates that THz spectroscopy can be a useful tool to detect the details of intermolecular structures.
Preparation of Heat‐treated Iron‐Phthalocyanine Cathode Catalysts and their Active Sites Evaluation for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Media#
Authors: Jang Jin‐Sung , Kim Sang‐Kyung , Kim Jiyoung , Peck Dong‐Hyun , Jung Doo‐Hwan
Published: October 2023

A heat‐treated iron‐phthalocyanine cathode catalyst was used to oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. Heat‐treatment temperature was determined by thermogravimetric analysis. Physicochemical characterizations of the electrocatalysts were performed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical activities of the catalysts were examined for ORR in alkaline media using rotating disk electrode (RDE) system. Acid treatment of iron‐phthalocyanine was conducted to assess the role of metal in the nitrogen‐containing non‐noble metal catalyst. Durability studies were carried out by means of an accelerated durability test of 4000 voltametric cycles. ORR activities were higher when the catalysts were treated at lower temperature. As a result of the XPS and ORR tests, the transition metal itself is not an active site for ORR. Nitrogen appeared to be the active site of heat‐treated iron phthalocyanines for ORR in alkaline media.
A SensitiveC. elegansChemotaxis Assay Using Microfluidic Device Generating a Linear Gradient of Chemoeffectors
Authors: Hwang Hyejin , Kim Eehyun , Kim So Hyun , Park Sungsu
Published: October 2023

The chemotactic response of the soil nematodeCaenorhabditis eleganshas been traditionally studied by observing its crawling movements across a chemical gradient on agar plates. However, agar plates generate a temporally evolving gradient and make it difficult to obtain the reliable chemotactic response of the worms. Previously, we reported that, on a micropost array of agar,C. eleganseffectively swim by mechanosensational reflexes, which generate coordinated sinusoidal movements in water. In this paper, we report the development of a microfluidic chemotaxis assay system forC. elegansby combing a micropost array with a microfluidic device, generating a stable linear gradient of chemoeffectors. In the assay system, worms were attracted to 1 nM NaCl, which is six orders of magnitude lower than 1 mM, the known concentration of attraction. Worms were repelled from even 0.001% sodium dodecyl sulfate. Our results suggest that our assay system is useful for studying the chemotactic response ofC. elegansto soluble compounds.
Dissolution Kinetics of Cerussite in Acidic Sodium Chloride Solutions
Authors: Feng Qicheng , Wen Shuming , Wang Yijie , Zhao Wenjuan , Liu Jian
Published: October 2023

The dissolution kinetics of cerussite in acidic sodium chloride solutions was investigated with respect to experimental variables such as particle size, stirring speed, sodium chloride concentration, hydrochloric acid concentration, and reaction temperature. Results show that leaching reagent concentration and reaction temperature have significant effects on the extraction of lead, whereas particle size and stirring speed have a relatively moderate effect on the leaching rate. The dissolution process followed the kinetic law of the shrinking core model, and a corresponding mixed control model was found suitable to represent the rate‐controlling step. The apparent activation energy of this process was determined to be 40.46 kJ/mol, and a corresponding dissolution kinetic equation is also presented to describe the dissolution reaction.
Preparation of Novel Pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridine Derivatives via a New Concise Synthetic Approach
Authors: Guo Na , Jia Haiyong , You Xing , Jiang Du , Lu Kui , Yu Peng
Published: October 2023

The pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridine core structure, a bioisostere of quinolones, is found in several molecules that possess important biological activity. We describe here a new, concise, three‐step synthesis of pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridines starting from L‐alanine. A series of 4,7‐dihydro‐4‐oxo‐1H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridine‐5‐carboxylic acid derivatives, which have not been previously reported, were synthesized using this approach.
Four Claims on Research Assessment and Metric Use in the Humanities
Authors: Hammarfelt Björn
Published: October 2023

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Bibliometric evaluation for research in the field of sciences can be a good way to assess the quality and factual basis of claims and can lead to more funding for authors and for research work. However, due to the more diverse fields covered, this type of evaluation is less effective in the world of humanities. Many professionals and researchers in humanities fields believe that bibliometric evaluation is meant only for STEM research and can't properly assess any findings made in humanities. Four common claims made about bibliometrics in humanities are that bibliometrics do not adequately cover the non‐uniform nature of humanities; greater bibliometric coverage will not solve all the research problems in humanities subjects; metrics use already has an impact on humanities research practices and finally; other evaluation methods, like altmetrics, are conventional.
Chemical Profiling of Nitraria roborowskii Kom. by UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐MS and Their Hypolipidemic Effects in Vivo
Authors: Jia Qiangqiang Q. , Yang Zufan F. , Wang Qian , Zhao Qing , Jia Yujiao J. , Guo Banghao H. , Li Xiangyang Y. , Wang Wen
Published: October 2023

The Nitraria roborowskii Kom. (NRK) berries, as fruits of the genus Nitraria of the Zygophyllceae family, have been widely used as folk medicine. Modern pharmacological research has demonstrated that Nitraria berries had hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory effects. However, more research needs to be reported on the chemical composition and biological activity of NRK. Hence, the phenolic compounds in the NRK berries were comprehensively analyzed and characterized by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Quadruple‐Orbitrap MS system (UPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap MS) in this study. In total, 52 phenolics were identified, and all were reported for the first time. In addition, the hypolipidemic efficacy of NRK berries extract was studied in the hyperlipidemic mouse model. After treatment, the high dose group of NRK substantially reversed total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Through lipidomics technology, 27 potential biomarkers were characterized. And there was a significant callback at 25 of them after NRK treatment by using statistical analysis methods. Pathway analysis results demonstrated that NRK might exert therapeutic effects by regulating glycerophospholipid and glycerolipid metabolism pathways. This study could provide firsthand information on NRK berries for their phenolic compounds and potential application in preventing and treating hyperlipidemia.
Efficient Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Using a Flavoprotein Oxidase from the Honeybee Apis mellifera
Authors: Tjallinks Gwen , Boverio Alessandro , Jager Amarins W. , Kaya Saniye G. , Mattevi Andrea , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: October 2023

The chemical 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) can be derived from lignocellulose and is an interesting bio‐based platform chemical as it has the potential to be transformed into numerous valuable building blocks such as the polymer‐precursor 2,5‐diformylfuran (DFF). To date, only a few oxidases acting on HMF are known and by sampling atypical species, we discovered a novel flavin‐dependent oxidoreductase from the honeybee Apis mellifera (beeHMFO). The enzyme can perform the chemoselective oxidation of HMF to DFF but can also readily accept other aromatic alcohols as substrates. The function of the enzyme may well be the antimicrobial generation of hydrogen peroxide using HMF, which is very abundant in honey. The discovery of this insect‐derived flavoprotein oxidase holds promising potential in the synthesis of renewable products and demonstrates that insects can be an interesting source of novel biocatalysts.
Protracted complete response after limited checkpoint inhibitor dosing: A case report
Authors: Sember Quinne , Sigal Darren
Published: October 2023

Immunotherapy is an important modality in the treatment of many types of malignancy. The optimal duration of treatment with immunotherapy in patients with metastatic malignancies who experience complete responses is not fully understood. Our case demonstrates a protracted complete response in a patient with metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma after just three doses of pembrolizumab. This illustrates a need for further research into which patients might have responses such as these and could therefore be spared additional doses of an expensive treatment with many potential side effects.
Iron‐catalyzed Hydrosilylation of Secondary Carboxamides: Chemoselective Access to Aldimines
Authors: Wu Jiajun , Narayanasamy Subash Nethaji , Darcel Christophe
Published: October 2023

This contribution described the chemoselective reduction of secondary carboxamides to aldimines. To perform such challenging transformation, we reported a catalyzed hydrosilylation using Fe(CO)4(IMes) [IMes=1,3‐bis (2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) imidazol‐2‐ylidene] as the catalyst, diphenylsilane as the reductant under UV irradiation (350 nm) at room temperature for 16 h. Aldimines were then obtained, after a basic quench, in 32–83 % isolated yields. This transformation was unprecedented at iron.
Durable K‐ion batteries with 100% capacity retention up to 40,000 cycles
Authors: Lu Xianlu , Liang Zhao , Fang Zhi , Zhang Dongdong , Zheng Yapeng , Liu Qiao , Fu Dingfa , Teng Jie , Yang Weiyou
Published: October 2023

Currently, the major challenge in terms of research on K‐ion batteries is to ensure that they possess satisfactory cycle stability and specific capacity, especially in terms of the intrinsically sluggish kinetics induced by the large radius of K+ ions. Here, we explore high‐performance K‐ion half/full batteries with high rate capability, high specific capacity, and extremely durable cycle stability based on carbon nanosheets with tailored N dopants, which can alleviate the change of volume, increase electronic conductivity, and enhance the K+ ion adsorption. The as‐assembled K‐ion half‐batteries show an excellent rate capability of 468 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1, which is superior to those of most carbon materials reported to date. Moreover, the as‐assembled half‐cells have an outstanding life span, running 40,000 cycles over 8 months with a specific capacity retention of 100% at a high current density of 2000 mA g−1, and the target full cells deliver a high reversible specific capacity of 146 mA h g−1 after 2000 cycles over 2 months, with a specific capacity retention of 113% at a high current density of 500 mA g−1, both of which are state of the art in the field of K‐ion batteries. This study might provide some insights into and potential avenues for exploration of advanced K‐ion batteries with durable stability for practical applications.
Capture‐SELEX of DNA Aptamers for Sulforhodamine B and Fluorescein
Authors: Gu Lide , Zheng Jiajie , Zhang Yao , Wang Deli , Liu Juewen
Published: October 2023

While many dye binding aptamers have been reported, most of them were for light‐up aptamers that can significantly enhance the quantum yield of fluorophores. Sulforhodamine B (SRhB) was used as a target previously to select both DNA and RNA aptamers, and the DNA aptamer was a G‐quadruplex that can bind to a number of rhodamine analogs. In addition, the previous selections were performed by immobilizing the target molecules. In this work, the library immobilization method was used to respectively select aptamers for SRhB and fluorescein. The SRhB aptamer has a non‐G‐quadruplex structure with a Kd of 1.0 μM measured from isothermal titration calorimetry. Upon titration of the aptamer, the fluorescence of SRhB increased 2.5‐fold, and this aptamer does not require Mg2+ for binding. Rhodamine B has even tighter binding suggesting binding through the xanthene moiety of the dyes. No binding was detected for fluorescein. For the fluorescein selection, a dominant aptamer sequence with a Kd of 147 μM was obtained. This study provides two new aptamers for two important fluorophores that can be used to study aptamer‐based separation, dye detection and catalysis. Comparison of these aptamers also provides insights into the effect of functional groups on aptamer binding.
Expression of B7‐H3 and TIM‐3 in gastric‐type endocervical adenocarcinoma: prevalence, association with PD‐L1 expression, and prognostic significance
Authors: Sun Yao , Zhou Xin , Lucas Elena , Chen Lili , Zhang Huijuan , Chen Hao , Zhou Feng
Published: October 2023

Gastric‐type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GEA) is the second most common subtype of endocervical adenocarcinoma and has a poor prognosis. Anti‐programmed death‐1 and anti‐programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitors have emerged as a major treatment option for GEA; however, data on the expression of other immune checkpoints in GEA are limited. We analyzed the expression of T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin‐domain containing‐3 (TIM‐3) and B7 homolog 3 protein (B7‐H3) in 58 GEA and investigated their prognostic significance as well as association with PD‐L1 expression and other known prognostic factors. Applying the tumor proportion score (TPS) with a cutoff of 1%, B7‐H3 and TIM‐3 were present in 48.3% and 17.2% of cases, respectively. Applying the combined positive score (CPS) with a cutoff of 1, TIM‐3 expression was present in 70.7% of cases. Moreover, the expression of three checkpoints (B7‐H3, TIM‐3, and PD‐L1) was incompletely overlapping. Patients with B7‐H3 positive tumors (by TPS) or TIM‐3 positive tumors (by TPS) had significantly worse recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (log‐rank). Using CPS, patients with TIM‐3 positive tumors showed significantly worse RFS (log‐rank). Similarly, B7‐H3 positivity (by TPS) and TIM‐3 positivity (by TPS) were associated with worse RFS and OS in univariate analysis. TIM‐3 positivity (by CPS) was associated with worse RFS in univariate analysis and the final Cox multivariate analysis. In conclusion, our results show that (1) B7‐H3 and TIM‐3 are frequently expressed in GEA and their expression overlaps incompletely with PD‐L1; and (2) both B7‐H3 and TIM‐3 are independent negative prognostic markers in GEA.
Diffuse domain approach for flexible needle insertion and relaxation
Authors: Jerg Katharina I. , Boggaram Naveen Lalith , Kanschat Guido , Okonkwo Ernest Chukwudi N. , Hesser Jürgen W.
Published: October 2023

Needle insertion simulations play an important role in medical training and surgical planning. Most simulations require boundary conforming meshes, while the diffuse domain approach, currently limited to stiff needles, eliminates the need for meshing geometries. In this article the diffuse domain approach for needle insertion simulations is first extended to the use of flexible needles with bevel needle tips, which are represented by an Euler‐Bernoulli beam. The model parameters are tuned and the model is evaluated on a real‐world phantom experiment. Second, a new method for the relaxation of the needle‐tissue system after the user releases the needle is introduced. The equilibrium state of the system is determined by minimizing the potential energy. The convergence rate of the coupled Laplace equations for solving the Euler‐Bernoulli beam is 1.92 0.14 for decreasing cell size. The diffuse penalty method for the application of Dirichlet boundary conditions results in a convergence rate of 0.73 0.21 for decreasing phase field width. The simulated needle deviates on average by 0.29 mm compared to the phantom experiment. The error of the tissue deformation is below 1 mm for 97.5% of the attached markers. Two additional experiments demonstrate the feasibility of the relaxation process. The simulation method presented here is a valuable tool for patient‐specific medical simulations using flexible needles without the need for boundary conforming meshing. To the best of the authors' knowledge this is the first work to introduce a relaxation model, which is a major step for simulating accurate needle‐tissue positioning during realistic medical interventions.
Stationary measure for the open KPZ equation
Authors: Corwin Ivan , Knizel Alisa
Published: October 2023

We provide the first construction of stationary measures for the open KPZ equation on the spatial interval [0,1] with general inhomogeneous Neumann boundary conditions at 0 and 1 depending on real parameters u and v, respectively. When , we uniquely characterize the constructed stationary measures through their multipoint Laplace transform, which we prove is given in terms of a stochastic process that we call the continuous dual Hahn process. Our work relies on asymptotic analysis of Bryc and Wesołowski's Askey–Wilson process formulas for the open ASEP stationary measure (which in turn arise from Uchiyama, Sasamoto and Wadati's Askey‐Wilson Jacobi matrix representation of Derrida et al.'s matrix product ansatz) in conjunction with Corwin and Shen's proof that open ASEP converges to open KPZ under weakly asymmetric scaling.
Catalyst Engineering for the Selective Reduction of CO2 to CH4: A First‐Principles Study on X‐MOF‐74 (X=Mg, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)
Authors: McCarver Gavin A. , Yildirim Taner , Zhou Wei
Published: October 2023

The conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into more valuable chemical compounds represents a critical objective for addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable energy sources. The CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) holds promise for transforming CO2 into versatile feedstock materials and fuels. Leveraging first‐principles methodologies provides a robust approach to evaluate catalysts and steer experimental efforts. In this study, we examine the CO2RR process using a diverse array of representative cluster models derived from X‐MOF‐74 (where X encompasses Mg, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, or Zn) through first‐principles methods. Notably, our investigation highlights the Fe‐MOF‐74 cluster's unique attributes, including favorable CO2 binding and the lowest limiting potential of the studied clusters for converting CO2 to methane (CH4) at 0.32 eV. Our analysis identified critical factors driving the selective CO2RR pathway, enabling the formation CH4 on the Fe‐MOF‐74 cluster. These factors involve less favorable reduction of hydrogen to H2 and strong binding affinities between the Fe open‐metal site and reduction intermediates, effectively curtailing desorption processes of closed‐shell intermediates such as formic acid (HCOOH), formaldehyde (CH2O), and methanol (CH3OH), to lead to selective CH4 formation.
Effects of endophytes Trichoderma amazonicum and Acremonium strictum on fungal pathogens of Paspalum
Authors: Depetris Mara B. , Marcón Florencia , Gutiérrez Susana A. , Skuletich Viviana B. , Zandoná Dahiana A. , Acuña Carlos A. , Felitti Silvina A.
Published: October 2023

In natural ecosystems, many plants engage in symbiotic interactions with fungal endophytes which can have impacts on host plant communities. In South American grasslands, several endophytes have been isolated from different Paspalum species. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antagonistic effect of endophytes Trichoderma amazonicum and Acremonium strictum against Claviceps paspali through in vitro and in vivo assays. In addition, they were evaluated as biocontrol agents against fungal pathogens which produce leaf spots such as Alternaria alternata and Bipolaris sp. through in vitro experiments. The in vitro assessment was conducted by dual culture between the antagonists and the three pathogens. For the in vivo assay, plants of Paspalum notatum and Paspalum dilatatum were planted in the field in a completely randomized block design with six replications. Three treatments were applied: T1 = endophyte inoculum, T2 = fungicide, and T3 = control. Seed yield, seed set, healthy seed set, and weight of healthy seed set per kilogram of seeds were evaluated for three timepoints. Trichoderma amazonicum exhibited a high growth inhibition, while A. strictum a moderate to low effect in vitro. In the in vivo assay, significant differences were observed among treatments in both species. T1 increased the kilogram of healthy seed set per 100 kg of seed by increasing the seed set and weight of healthy seed set in at least one of the evaluated dates in P. notatum and P. dilatatum. Based on these results, T. amazonicum and A. strictum have antagonistic effects on the pathogens assessed.
Comment on: Magalhães et al., Middle Jurassic multi‐scale transgressive–regressive cycles: An example from the Lusitanian Basin,The Depositional Record, 9, 174–202
Authors: Schneider S. , Fürsich F. T. , Werner W. , Pierce C. S.
Published: October 2023

This is a comment to an article previously published inThe Depositional Record.
Preparation of astrocytes by directed differentiation of pluripotent stem cells and somatic cell transdifferentiation
Authors: Chen Hangjie , Zheng Kang , Qiu Mengsheng , Yang Junlin
Published: October 2023

Astrocytes (ACs) are the most widely distributed cells in the mammalian central nervous system, which are essential for the function and homeostasis of nervous system. Increasing evidence indicates that ACs also participate in the development of many neurological diseases and repair after nerve injury. ACs cultured in vitro provide a cellular model for studying astrocytic development, function, and the pathogenesis of associated diseases. The preparation of primary ACs (pACs) faces many limitations, so it is important to obtain high‐quality ACs by the differentiation of pluripotent stem cell (PSC) or somatic cell transdifferentiation. Initially, researchers mainly tried to induce embryonic stem cells to differentiate into ACs via embryoid body (EB) and then turned to employ induced PSCs as seed cells to explore more simple and efficient directed differentiation strategies, and serum‐free culture was delved to improve the quality of induced ACs. While exploring the induction of ACs by the overexpression of AC‐specific transcription factors, researchers also began to investigate small molecule–mediated somatic cell transdifferentiation. Here, we provide an updated review on the research progresses in this field.
Development of Basic Human Behavior Recognition System Using Plant Bioelectric Potential
Authors: NOMURA KENTA , NAMBO HIDETAKA , KIMURA HARUHIKO
Published: October 2023

We investigated the influence of basic human behaviors on the plant bioelectric potential. We analyzed four basic human behaviors, namely, touching a plant, opening a door, approaching a plant, and turning on a light. The specific responses in the bioelectric potential were found to be influenced by each behavior. The bioelectric potential has a pulsatile response due to behavior. Therefore, we attempted to learn and recognize human behaviors by extracting characteristics from the planet bioelectric potential. The method of recognizing basic human behaviors that we propose uses a low level of the cepstrum in the plant bioelectric potential. Some data were not recognized correctly because of individual differences in human behaviors. However, the F‐measure had an average of value 0.76, which shows that the proposed method may be an effective way of recognizing basic human behaviors by using the plant bioelectric potential.