bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of steam explosion treatment on structural and physicochemical properties, and potential application of soluble dietary fiber from grain and oil processing by‐products: A review
Authors: Tian Xin‐Yi , Liu Jian‐Fu , Wu Na‐Na , Tan Bin
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Grain and oil processing by‐products contain dietary fiber with high quality, but most of them have not been utilized due to their high content of insoluble dietary fiber and coarse texture, which are detrimental to the quality improvement of cereal food.

Findings

Steam explosion treatment can transfer dietary fiber from insoluble to water‐soluble resulting in a high content of water‐soluble dietary fiber. The content of soluble dietary fiber in cereal processing by‐products with steam explosion treatment is increased from 27.48% to 171% via optimal conditions of steam explosion treatment. The structure of dietary fiber from cereal processing by‐products is disrupted to a honeycomb porous shape, therefore, the physicochemical properties of dietary fiber are improved, such as hydration capacity, oil, cholesterol, and bile salts binding capacity, hypoglycemic capacity, and antioxidant activity.

Conclusions

Steam explosion treatment is a rapidly developing and extremely promising pretreatment technology for physicochemical properties enhancement of dietary fiber from grain and oil processing by‐products.

Significance and Novelty

This review can provide some useful references for the properties improvement of soluble dietary fiber in grain and oil processing by‐products by steam explosion pretreatment. It may facilitate the application of soluble dietary fiber in the food industry.
Tuning the Topology of Two‐Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks through Site‐Selective Synthetic Strategy
Authors: Wu Xueying , Tang Xihao , Zhang Kai , Harrod Chelsea , Li Rui , Wu Jialin , Yang Xi , Zheng Shengrun , Fan Jun , Zhang Weiguang , Li Xinle , Cai Songliang
Published: January 2024

Tuning the topology of two‐dimensional (2D) covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is of paramount scientific interest but remains largely unexplored. Herein, we present a site‐selective synthetic strategy that enables the tuning of 2D COF topology by simply adjusting the molar ratio of an amine‐functionalized dihydrazide monomer (NH2−Ah) and 4,4′,4′′‐(1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4,6‐triyl)tribenzaldehyde (Tz). This approach resulted in the formation of two distinct COFs: a clover‐like 2D COF with free amine groups (NH2−Ah−Tz) and a honeycomb‐like COF without amine groups (Ah−Tz). Both COFs exhibited good crystallinity and moderate porosity. Remarkably, the clover‐shaped NH2−Ah−Tz COF, with abundant free amine groups, displayed significantly enhanced adsorption capacities toward crystal violet (CV, 261 mg/g) and congo red (CR, 1560 mg/g) compared to the non‐functionalized honeycomb‐like Ah−Tz COF (123 mg/g for CV and 1340 mg/g for CR), underscoring the pivotal role of free amine functional groups in enhancing adsorption capacities for organic dyes. This work highlights that the site‐selective synthetic strategy paves a new avenue for manipulating 2D COF topology by adjusting the monomer feeding ratio, thereby modulating their adsorption performances toward organic dyes.
Gold‐Promoted Biocompatible Selenium Arylation of Small Molecules, Peptides and Proteins
Authors: Nakahata Douglas H. , Kanavos Ioannis , Zubiria‐Ulacia Maria , Inague Alex , Salassa Luca , Lobinski Ryszard , Miyamoto Sayuri , Matxain Jon Mattin , Ronga Luisa , de Paiva Raphael E. F.
Published: January 2024

A low pKa (5.2), high polarizable volume (3.8 Å), and proneness to oxidation under ambient conditions make selenocysteine (Sec, U) a unique, natural reactive handle present in most organisms across all domains of life. Sec modification still has untapped potential for site‐selective protein modification and probing. Herein we demonstrate the use of a cyclometalated gold(III) compound, [Au(bnpy)Cl2], in the arylation of diselenides of biological significance, with a scope covering small molecule models, peptides, and proteins using a combination of multinuclear NMR (including 77Se NMR), and LC–MS. Diphenyl diselenide (Ph−Se)2 and selenocystine, (Sec)2, were used for reaction optimization. This approach allowed us to demonstrate that an excess of diselenide (Au/Se−Se) and an increasing water percentage in the reaction media enhance both the conversion and kinetics of the C−Se coupling reaction, a combination that makes the reaction biocompatible. The C−Se coupling reaction was also shown to happen for the diselenide analogue of the cyclic peptide vasopressin ((Se−Se)‐AVP), and the Bos taurus glutathione peroxidase (GPx1) enzyme in ammonium acetate (2 mM, pH=7.0). The reaction mechanism, studied by DFT revealed a redox‐based mechanism where the C−Se coupling is enabled by the reductive elimination of the cyclometalated Au(III) species into Au(I).
Regenerativ erzeugter Wasserstoff – Perspektiven in chemischen Wertschöpfungsketten
Authors: Niquini Gabriela Rodrigues , Münzer Pia , Ebrahim-Moghaddam Mahsa , Warmuth Lucas , Herrera Delgado Karla , Pitter Stephan , Dahmen Nicolaus , Sauer Jörg
Published: January 2024

Wasserstoff wird zurzeit überwiegend aus Erdgas, Erdöl und Kohle hergestellt. Aktuell wird in der Forschung und der anwendungsnahen Entwicklung intensiv an neuen Verfahren für die Erzeugung und den Transport von regenerativ erzeugtem Wasserstoff gearbeitet. Für die chemische Industrie werden zudem neue Kohlenstoffquellen gesucht, wodurch sich die Wertschöpfungsketten auf dem Weg zur angestrebten Klimaneutralität drastisch verändern. Die vorliegende Arbeit zeigt, dass der Wasserstoffbedarf nur in den frühen Wertschöpfungsstufen erheblich zunehmen wird. Bei der Veredelung von Zwischenprodukten wird sich Bedarf nicht deutlich ändern, wenn davon ausgegangen wird, dass die heutigen Zwischenprodukte der industriellen organischen Industrie weitestgehend beibehalten werden. Für eine erfolgreiche Transformation der deutschen chemischen Industrie wäre es demnach von besonderer Bedeutung, eine optimale Balance zwischen dem Import regenerativ erzeugter Zwischenprodukte und der Bereitstellung von regenerativem Wasserstoff für die Veredelungsstufen zu den Endprodukten zu finden.
BRAF/MEK inhibitor rechallenge in advanced melanoma patients
Authors: Van Not Olivier J. , van den Eertwegh Alfons J. M. , Haanen John B. , van Rijn Rozemarijn S. , Aarts Maureen J. B. , van den Berkmortel Franchette W. P. J. , Blank Christian U. , Boers‐Sonderen Marye J. , de Groot Jan Willem W. B. , Hospers Geke A. P. , Kapiteijn Ellen , Bloem Manja , Piersma Djura , Stevense‐den Boer Marion , Verheijden Rik J. , van der Veldt Astrid A. M. , Wouters Michel W. J. M. , Blokx Willeke A. M. , Suijkerbuijk Karijn P. M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Effectivity of BRAF(/MEK) inhibitor rechallenge has been described in prior studies. However, structured data are largely lacking.

Methods

Data from all advanced melanoma patients treated with BRAFi(/MEKi) rechallenge were retrieved from the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry. The authors analyzed objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) for both first treatment and rechallenge. They performed a multivariable logistic regression and a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model to assess factors associated with response and survival.

Results

The authors included 468 patients in the largest cohort to date who underwent at least two treatment episodes of BRAFi(/MEKi). Following rechallenge, ORR was 43%, median PFS was 4.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.1–5.2), and median OS was 8.2 months (95% CI, 7.2–9.4). Median PFS after rechallenge for patients who discontinued first BRAFi(/MEKi) treatment due to progression was 3.1 months (95% CI, 2.7–4.0) versus 5.2 months (95% CI, 4.5–5.9) for patients who discontinued treatment for other reasons. Discontinuing first treatment due to progression and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels greater than two times the upper limit of normal were associated with lower odds of response and worse PFS and OS. Symptomatic brain metastases were associated with worse survival, whereas a longer treatment interval between first treatment and rechallenge was associated with better survival. Responding to the first BRAFi(/MEKi) treatment was not associated with response or survival.

Conclusions

This study confirms that patients benefit from rechallenge. Elevated LDH levels, symptomatic brain metastases, and discontinuing first BRAFi(/MEKi) treatment due to progression are associated with less benefit from rechallenge. A prolonged treatment interval is associated with more benefit from rechallenge.
Analysis of Influencing Factors on Silicon Epitaxial Growth in Horizontal Single‐Wafer Reactor through Orthogonal Test
Authors: Li Chaozhong , Li Chengshuai , Jiang Hang , Chen Hao , Fang Haisheng
Published: January 2024

Silicon epitaxy is a crucial process used in semiconductor manufacturing to deposit high‐quality films of silicon. This technique is widely used in the production of integrated circuits, as it enables the fabrication of intricate electronic structures with enhanced performance characteristics. This study conducts numerical simulations on a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor to explore the impact of process parameters on the growth rate and non‐uniformity of silicon. The investigation encompasses both the gas and surface reactions of the trichlorosilane‐hydrogen (TCS‐H2) system. The distributions of gas flow velocity, temperature, and main components are systematically studied by varying the process parameters, including susceptor temperature, inlet gas velocity, susceptor rotating speed, inlet gas temperature, upper wall temperature, and TCS mole fraction. Furthermore, the orthogonal test method is introduced to assess the effect of all parameters on the growth non‐uniformity. The results reveal that the inlet gas velocity and susceptor temperature have a significant influence on the growth rate and non‐uniformity. The silicon growth rate is primarily influenced by the TCS mole fraction, whereas the rotation speed of the substrate primarily influences the growth non‐uniformity of growth. Finally, the optimal scheme is proposed as valuable guidance for enhancing silicon chemical vapor deposition processes in industrial applications.
Media coverage of corporate wrongdoing: International evidence on the stock market reaction and the buffering effect of prior corporate social performance
Authors: Gutknecht Dominic
Published: January 2024

Using an international sample of 111,251 news published in print, online, and social media between 2007 and 2021 covering 3202 firms in 20 countries, I find that superior prior corporate social performance (CSP) buffers the adverse market reaction to media coverage of corporate social irresponsibility (CSI), indicating that stakeholders interpret the misbehaviour as an anomaly rather than a pattern. Generally, the magnitude of the negative market reaction to CSI news intensified over time, confirming increased social awareness of corporate responsibility. I complement existing literature by revealing a diminishing marginal benefit of prior CSP: the buffering effect is consistently positive while strongly flattening, suggesting that stakeholders are somewhat indifferent between good and excellent CSP but highly sensitive towards previous misbehaviour. The shareholder value loss and insurance‐like effect of prior CSP are enhanced for firms located in stakeholder‐oriented business cultures, indicating that societal culture shapes stakeholders' attitudes towards corporate responsibility.
Indolocarbazole‐Based Small Molecule Cathode‐Active Material Exhibiting Double Redox for High‐Voltage Li‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Park Hyunji , Kye Hyojin , Lee Jong‐Sung , Joo Young‐Chang , Min Dong Joo , Kim Bong‐Gi , Park Soo Young , Kwon Ji Eon
Published: January 2024

Most organic electrode materials (OEMs) for rechargeable batteries employ n‐type redox centers, whose redox potentials are intrinsically limited <3.0 V versus Li+/Li. However, p‐type materials possessing high redox potentials experience low specific capacities because they are capable of only a single redox reaction within the stable electrochemical window of typical electrolytes. Herein, we report 5,11‐diethyl‐5,11‐dihydroindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole (DEICZ) as a novel p‐type OEM, exhibiting stable plateaus at high discharge potentials of 3.44 and 4.09 V versus Li+/Li. Notably, the second redox potential of DEICZ is within the stable electrochemical window. The mechanism of the double redox reaction is investigated using both theoretical calculations and experimental measurements, including density functional theory calculations, ex situ electron spin resonance, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Finally, hybridization with single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) improves the cycle stability and rate performance of DEICZ owing to the π–π interactions between the SWCNT and co‐planar molecular structure of DEICZ, preventing the dissolution of active materials into the electrolyte. The DEICZ/SWCNT composite electrode maintains 70.4% of its initial specific capacity at 1‐C rate and also exhibits high‐rate capability, even performing well at 100‐C rate. Furthermore, we demonstrate its potential for flexible batteries after applying 1000 bending stresses to the composite electrode.
Circulating 3‐hydroxy butyrate predicts mortality in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Christensen Kristian Hylleberg , Nielsen Roni R. , Schou Morten , Gustafsson Ida , Jorsal Anders , Flyvbjerg Allan , Tarnow Lise , Bøtker Hans Erik , Kistorp Caroline , Johannsen Mogens , Møller Niels , Wiggers Henrik
Published: January 2024

Aims

In patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), myocardial ketone metabolism is increased and short‐term treatment with the ketone body 3‐hydroxy butyrate (3‐OHB) has beneficial haemodynamic effects. In patients with HFrEF, we investigated whether the level of circulating 3‐OHB predicted all‐cause mortality and sought to identify correlations between patient characteristics and circulating 3‐OHB levels.

Methods and results

We conducted a cohort study in 218 patients with HFrEF. Plasma 3‐OHB levels were measured using high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Data on all‐cause mortality were obtained by reviewing the patients' medical records, which are linked to the national ‘Central Person Registry’ that registers the timing of all deaths in the country. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 35 ± 8.6%, mean age was 67 ± 10 years, 54% were New York Heart Association II, and 27% had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Median follow‐up time was 7.3 (interquartile range 6.3–8.4) years. We observed large variations in 3‐OHB levels between patients (median 59 μM, range: 14–694 μM). Patients with 3‐OHB levels above the median displayed a markedly increased risk of death compared with those with low levels {hazard ratio [HR]: 2.1 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.3–3.5], P = 0.003}. In a multivariate analysis, 3‐OHB predicted mortality independently of known chronic heart failure risk factors [HR: 1.004 (95% CI: 1.001–1.007), P = 0.02] and with a similar statistical strength as N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) [HR: 1.0005 (95% CI: 1.000–1.001), P = 0.02]. For every 100 μmol increase in plasma 3‐OHB, the hazard of death increased by 49%. The following factors significantly predicted 3‐OHB levels in the univariate analysis: free fatty acids (FFAs) [β: 238 (95% CI: 185–292), P < 0.0001], age [β: 2.43 (95% CI: 1.14–3.72), P < 0.0001], plasma insulin {β: −0.28 [95% CI: −0.54–(−0.02)], P = 0.036}, body mass index {β: −3.15 [95% CI: −5.26–(−0.05)], P = 0.046}, diabetes [β: 44.49 (95% CI: 14.84–74.14), P = 0.003], glycosylated haemoglobin [β: 1.92 (95% CI: 0.24–3.59), P = 0.025], New York Heart Association class [β: 26.86 (95% CI: 5.99–47.72), P = 0.012], and NT‐proBNP [β: 0.03 (95% CI: 0.01–0.04), P = 0.001]. In a multivariate analysis, only FFAs predicted 3‐OHB levels [β: 216 (95% CI: 165–268), P > 0.001].

Conclusions

In patients with HFrEF, circulating 3‐OHB was a strong predictor of all‐cause mortality independently of NT‐proBNP. Circulating FFAs were the best predictor of 3‐OHB levels.
On the behavior of sub‐micrometer polystyrene particles subjected to AC insulator‐based dielectrophoresis
Authors: Bu Shulin , Sonker Mukul , Koh Domin , Ros Alexandra
Published: January 2024

Polymer beads, especially polystyrene particles, have been extensively used as model species in insulator‐based dielectrophoresis (iDEP) studies. Their use in alternating current iDEP (AC‐iDEP) is less explored; however, an assessment in the low‐frequency regime (≤10 kHz) allows to link surface conduction effects with the surface properties of polymer particles. Here, we provide a case study for various experimental conditions assessing sub‐micrometer polystyrene particles with AC‐iDEP and link to accepted surface conduction theory to predict and experimentally verify the observed AC‐iDEP trapping behavior based on apparent zeta potential and solution conductivity. We find excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions, but also the occurrence of concentration polarization electroosmotic flow under the studied conditions, which have the potential to confound acting dielectrophoresis conditions. Furthermore, we study a case relevant to the assessment of microplastics in human and animal body fluids by mimicking the protein adsorption of high abundant proteins in blood by coating polystyrene beads with bovine serum albumin, a highly abundant protein in blood. Theoretical predictions and experimental observations confirm a difference in observed AC‐iDEP behavior between coated and non‐coated particles, which might be exploited for future studies of microplastics in blood to assess their exposure to humans and animals.
Mechanical Vibration Energy Harvesting and Vibration Monitoring Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Wang Xinhua , Yin Gefan , Sun Tao , Xu Xiangjie , Rasool Ghulam , Abbas Kamil
Published: January 2024

Mechanical equipment is ubiquitous in industrial production, and the vibration energy generated by its operation usually cannot be effectively harvested, resulting in huge energy waste. Meanwhile, real‐time monitoring of machine operation can be achieved by collecting vibration information. Indeed, vibration energy harvesting and vibration monitoring are of great significance for the development of green energy and machine fault diagnosis. As an emerging power generation technology, triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has shown extraordinary potential in the field of vibration energy harvesting and vibration monitoring. First, the theoretical basis, working modes, and triboelectric materials are described. Then, TENG devices for vibration energy harvesting are classified and introduced based on the structural characteristics, and the main advantages and disadvantages are compared. Furthermore, the current research progress of a self‐powered vibration monitoring system based on TENG is introduced. Finally, the shortcomings of triboelectric nanogenerators in this field are analyzed and summarized, and future research directions and application scenarios are prospected.
Effect of prepared barium phytate on thermal stability and combustion properties of flexible polyurethane foams
Authors: Zhang Xu , Li Renzhou , Sun Simiao , Wang Zhi , Xie Hua
Published: January 2024

Flame retardant barium phytate (PABA) was prepared by phytic acid and barium carbonate. PABA was used to modify flexible polyurethane foam (FPUF) by “one‐step method” to obtain composite FPUF‐PABA. The effects of PABA on the thermal stability and combustion properties of FPUFs were studied by smoke density (Ds), cone calorimeter (CONE), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and pyrolysis kinetic analysis. The results indicated that the addition of PABA improved the flame‐retardant properties of the modified FPUFs. The CONE results showed that PABA significantly reduced the PHRR and total heat release (THR) of FPUF, and FPUF‐PABA15 had the lowest PHRR (44.69 kW/m2) and THR (2.49 MJ/m2). TGA showed that FPUF‐PABA15 had maximum residual masses of 27.14%, 26.99%, 28.61%, and 27.25% at four heating rates, respectively. Integral programmed decomposition temperature analysis found that FPUF‐PABA15 also had the highest decomposition temperature, 225.56, 210.54, 148.83, and 162.13°C at four different heating rates. At the same time, the computational activation energy of FPUF‐PABA15 was also the highest, at 133.30, 140.46, and 129.46 kJ/mol, respectively. Ds indicated that FPUF‐PABA15 had the best smoke suppression performance, Ds decreased by 2.47 and light transmittance increased by 2.33%. The current results provide a better formulation for bio‐based flame retardant‐modified FPUF.
Comparative genomics and fermentation flavor characterization of five selected lactic acid bacteria provide predictions for flavor biosynthesis metabolic pathways in fermented muskmelon puree
Authors: Yuan Lin , Li Meilun , Xu Xinxing , Shi Xun , Chen Guogang , Lao Fei , Wu Jihong
Published: January 2024

Five species of plant‐derived lactic acid bacteria (LAB), including Pediococcus pentosaceus, Lactococcus garvieae, Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum, Weissella paramesenteroides, and Lactococcus lactis, were used for muskmelon fermentation to improve flavor characteristics. Comparative genomic analysis showed that a high proportion of annotated genes were related to carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism in all five strains. L. lactis P‐1 (Ll1) contained the highest proportion (2.02%) of genes from the glycoside hydrolase family associated with carbohydrate metabolism. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry results showed that 89 volatile compounds in muskmelon purees were identified; the largest number of volatile compounds was detected in fermented muskmelon puree (FMP) inoculated with W. paramesenteroides FL3, followed by L. paraplantarum FL‐8. A total of 25 key volatile compounds were screened in muskmelon puree, and some unique key volatile compounds (e.g., β‐damascenone, phenylacetaldehyde, and 3‐penten‐2‐one) and taste compounds (e.g., mannitol) were produced by different LAB strains. L. garvieae Pa‐2 and Ll1 were considered to have greater potential due to their ability to produce a greater category of pleasant key aromas. Based on the correlations of potential pathways analyzed using comparative genomics and detected flavor profiles, flavor synthesis pathways in FMP were predicted. Some carbohydrate, amino acid, and fatty acid metabolism pathways, including tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, and cysteine and methionine metabolism pathways, are common to all five LAB strains. Furthermore, differences in the predicted flavor biosynthesis metabolic pathways in monoterpenoid biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and fructose and mannose metabolism pathways explained the differences in volatile profiles produced by different strains.
Nitric oxide delays the postharvest nutritional quality decline of “Golden Hook” beans
Authors: He Xuelian , Wang Lihong , Watkins Christopher B. , Bai Chunmei , Ma Lili , Guo Susu , Han Lichun , Wang Hongwei , Wang Qing , Zuo Jinhua , Zheng Yanyan
Published: January 2024

“Golden Hook” beans turn purple to different degrees due to the different compositions and contents of flavonoids during storage. At the same time, quality losses due to softening or pathogen invasion, and the deteriorations of flavor associated with carbohydrate metabolism occur. To reveal the effect of nitric oxide (NO) generated from sodium nitroprusside (SNP) on the postharvest quality of “Golden Hook” beans, we used metabolome, transcriptome, and assay for transposase‐accessible chromatin with high‐throughput sequencing approaches to compare beans at the time of treatment with untreated and SNP‐treated beans stored at 8°C for 12 days. The results showed that NO induced the expression of CERK1, FLS2, JAZ, and MYC2, stimulated the expression of polyphenol oxidase, CAT, and l‐ascorbate oxidase, the accumulation of flavonoids, and the synthesis of lignin in the antioxidant system, improving the ability of beans to resist stress while maintaining the balance of reactive oxygen species. High expressions of F3′H, FLS, INV, SUS, BCAT, and the accumulation of 6‐C‐methylquercetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside were associated with the maintenance of the fresh purplish red appearance of the beans in the SNP‐12d group, without loss of flavor. SNP treatment downregulated the transcription factors blimp‐1, OBP1, COG1, and AT1G6957 associated with bean senescence. These results provide insight into the postharvest quality control of “Golden Hook” beans.
NF‐κB1 promotes miR‐27a‐5p upregulation in acrylamide‐induced toxicity in rats
Authors: Zhang Lujia , Yang Liuqing , Gao Jianwei , Dong Li , Luo Yinghua , Chen Fang
Published: January 2024

Acrylamide (AA) is a neurotoxic and potentially carcinogenic contaminant, usually generated during food processing. MicroRNAs are a class of noncoding small RNAs, which serve essential pathogenic roles in linking exposure to toxic contaminants with their pathological outcomes. Our previous research identified miR‐27a‐5p as a key regulator in AA toxicity, as it induces mitochondria‐dependent apoptosis by targeting Btf3 in rats. However, the mechanisms by which miR‐27a‐5p is regulated to exert its toxic effects remain unclear. Here, the transcription factors that bind to the promoter of miR‐27a‐5p and their potential regulatory functions are investigated in cell lines and rats. The results showed that nuclear factor kappa‐B 1 (NF‐κB1) is a promising transcription factor from bioinformatic analysis. The luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that NF‐κB1 enhances the transcriptional activity of the miR‐27a‐5p promoter, whereas the cleavage under targets and tagmentation assay successfully verified the specific binding sites at −305/−298 bp. Furthermore, the inhibition of NF‐κB1 resulted in the suppression of miR‐27a‐5p expression and its associated target pathways, with additional validation provided by in vivo experimentation. Consequently, the upregulation of miR‐27a‐5p induced by AA and its subsequent intrinsic apoptosis can be attributed to the binding of NF‐κB1 to the miR‐27a‐5p promoter. This binding event may serve as the initial step in the molecular network regulated by miR‐27a‐5p that underlies AA toxicity.
Therapeutic potential of dietary nutrients and medicinal foods against metabolic disorders: Targeting Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Xu Wenyi , Zhang Shaozhuo , Yang Yanan , Zhan Jiaguo , Zang Chenchen , Yu Huifang , Wu Chongming
Published: January 2024

As one of the most attractive next‐generation probiotics, mucin‐degrading Akkermansia muciniphila has emerged as an essential and integral factor in maintaining human health and affecting pathological outcomes. Its abundance is inversely associated with various metabolic diseases (e.g., obesity and type 2 diabetes), cardiovascular diseases, and intestinal inflammation. Supplementing A. muciniphila to restore the gut microbiota ecosystem is a promising approach for treating metabolic disorders. However, the direct utilization of this probiotic is limited by technological and regulatory hurdles, such as the in vitro bulk culture of A. muciniphila and the need for expensive animal‐derived materials. Therefore, enrichment of A. muciniphila using nutraceutical supplements is a feasible strategy. Dietary supplements, especially medicinal herbs, offer a vast and valuable resource as potential prebiotics for promoting the growth of A. muciniphila in the gut, ensuring reliable safety and efficacy. In this study, we first systemically reviewed the dietary substances and medicinal foods known to promote A. muciniphila from over 100 literature sources, aiming to establish a candidate basis for future exploration of prebiotics targeting A. muciniphila. Furthermore, we summarized and discussed the major regulatory factors and mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effect of A. muciniphila on metabolic disorders, hoping to open up exciting directions for in‐depth research on the pharmacological mechanism of A. muciniphila and pave the way for its clinical therapeutics.
Holothuria leucospilota polysaccharides (HLP) ameliorate colitis rats via regulation of the metabolic profiling and TLR4/NLRP3 signaling pathways
Authors: Zhang Xin , Shi Qiuge , Hu Maojie , Zhu Kexue , Zhu Lulu , Cao Jun , Li Chuan
Published: January 2024

Recently, the development of natural polysaccharides for ameliorating immunity and gut metabolism has attracted extensive attention. This study used Holothuria leucospilota polysaccharides (HLP) to explore the improvement mechanism in ulcerative colitis rats on perspectives of immunity and metabolism. The results showed that HLP increased goblet cells’ number and the content of tight junction proteins (zona occludens 1 and occludin) and improved intestinal barrier permeability. The levels of immune cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐18, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β) and the activity of oxidative stress‐related enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase) were regulated. HLP regulated the related genes and proteins expression of immune cytokines, MAPK, and NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, HLP treatment increased the concentration of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and regulated serum metabolic disorders by regulating amino acid metabolism, SCFA metabolism, and energy metabolism. These results provide a new perspective for developing HLP as a promising functional food for preventing and mitigating colitis.
How to enhance the acceptability of insects food—A review
Authors: Okaiyeto Samuel Ariyo , Yu Shi‐Han , Deng Li‐Zhen , Wang Qing‐Hui , Sutar Parag Prakash , Wang Haiou , Zhao Jin‐Hong , Mujumdar Arun S. , Ni Jia‐Bao , Lv Weiqiao , Xiao Hong‐Wei
Published: January 2024

About 1 billion people worldwide suffer from hunger, so exploring new food sources is very tempting for achieving zero hunger in the world. Edible insects (EIs) may be one of the ways to solve human protein deficiency. Currently, more than 200 species of EIs are consumed by over 2.5 billion people, especially in tropical regions, as part of their regular diets. However, there is still a large rejection in various parts of the world. In this review, we systematically summarize the factors behind the rejection of EIs as well as ways to improve the acceptability of EIs as alternative protein, essential vitamins, and mineral sources. The main goal of this research is to spread the knowledge of the benefits of eating EIs, consumer perception of insects, and enhance its acceptability as an alternative food. Sensory attributes, health‐related concerns, and sustainability issues are identified as the key factors affecting consumer acceptability of EIs. Conventional processing methods, such as blanching, drying, roasting, and fermentation, have been used in treating EIs to improve the quality and safety of EIs. Nine strategies were proposed to enhance the acceptability of insects as food, such as promoting food safety, encouraging product development, addressing cultural norms, enhancing the culinary experience, collaborating with restaurants, and increasing public awareness through education. The information in this work will shed more light on the consumption of EIs and pave the way for more research in this area.
Detection of food contaminants: A review of established rapid analytical techniques and their applications and limitations
Authors: Ling Zhiming , Yang Luyu , Zhang Wanqing , Yao Ting , Xu Hengyi
Published: January 2024

Food contaminants have consistently posed a serious threat to human health and have caused various food safety problems. The most common techniques currently used for the detection of food contaminants, include instrumental and immunoassay methods; however, these traditional methods have shown some limitations when applied to the analysis of food contaminants. Therefore, in recent years, more and more researchers have been devoted to the development of rapid, reliable, sensitive, and suitable detection techniques for the detection of food contaminants in food matrices. In this review, we first classify the analytical methods proposed in recent years into colorimetric methods, fluorescence methods, photoelectrochemical methods, electrochemical methods, nucleic acid amplification methods, and other methods, and illustrate their detection principles. In addition, the paper highlights the strategies and recent research advances for each method through typical application examples. Finally, the future perspectives of these analytical methods are presented. We hope that this review will provide researchers with valuable insights to guide the sensitive detection of food contaminants.
Common and distinct BOLD correlates of Simon and flanker conflicts which can(not) be reduced to time‐on‐task effects
Authors: Wojciechowski Jakub , Jurewicz Katarzyna , Dzianok Patrycja , Antonova Ingrida , Paluch Katarzyna , Wolak Tomasz , Kublik Ewa
Published: January 2024

The ability to identify and resolve conflicts between standard, well‐trained behaviors and behaviors required by the current context is an essential feature of cognitive control. To date, no consensus has been reached on the brain mechanisms involved in exerting such control: while some studies identified diverse patterns of activity across different conflicts, other studies reported common resources across conflict tasks or even across simple tasks devoid of the conflict component. The latter reports attributed the entire activity observed in the presence of conflict to longer time spent on the task (i.e., to the so‐called time‐on‐task effects). Here, we used an extended Multi‐Source Interference Task (MSIT) which combines Simon and flanker types of interference to determine shared and conflict‐specific mechanisms of conflict resolution in fMRI and their separability from the time‐on‐task effects. Large portions of the activity in the dorsal attention network and decreases of activity in the default mode network were shared across the tasks and scaled in parallel with increasing reaction times. Importantly, the activity in the sensory and sensorimotor cortices, as well as in the posterior medial frontal cortex (pMFC) – a key region implicated in conflict processing – could not be exhaustively explained by the time‐on‐task effects.
Effects of rotation and temperature‐dependent viscosity on thermal convection in Oldroydian fluid saturating porous media: A modified stability analysis
Authors: Dhiman Joginder Singh , Gupta Khushboo , Sharma Praveen Kumar
Published: January 2024

The onset of thermal convection in an incompressible Oldroydian fluid‐saturating porous media is examined to study the combined impact of uniform rotation and temperature‐dependent viscosity. A characteristic equation from the basic hydrodynamic equations governing the Brinkman–Oldroyd model is derived using linear stability theory and modified Boussinesq approximation. For various combinations of stress‐free and slip‐free boundaries, the expressions for the Darcy–Rayleigh numbers for both non‐oscillatory as well as oscillatory convection with linear and exponential temperature‐dependent viscosity are derived, using the “weighted residual method.” The effects of rotation, variable viscosity parameter, strain retardation and stress relaxation time parameters and other fluid parameters on non‐oscillatory and oscillatory convection are investigated numerically and the results are presented graphically. From the analysis, it is found that overstability is the preferred mode of onset of convection. The rotation, the coefficient of specific heat variations (due to temperature variation), and the strain retardation time have a stabilizing influence on the stability of the system, whereas the stress relaxation imparts a destabilizing effect. Additionally, it is noticed that the variable viscosity parameter and Brinkman‐Darcy number stabilize the system for each set of boundary conditions.
Immune checkpoint molecules B7‐1 and B7‐H1 as predictive markers of pre‐eclampsia: A case–control study in a Ghana
Authors: Akilla Martin Awe , Nchor Ignatius Abowini Awinibuno , Banyeh Moses , Amidu Nafiu
Published: January 2024

Background/Aim

Immune tolerance in the fetal–maternal junction is maintained by a balance in the Th1/Th2 system. Th1‐type immunity is associated with pro‐inflammatory cytokines and immune checkpoint molecules (ICMs) such as B7‐H1, while Th2‐type immunity is characterized by anti‐inflammatory cytokines and ICMs such as B7‐1. Any imbalance in the Th1/Th2 immune system may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre‐eclampsia (PE). Hitherto, the potential of serum B7‐1 and B7‐H1 proteins as early markers of PE has not been explored in the Ghanaian population.

Materials and Methods

This was a case–control study from May 2020 to April 2022 at the War Memorial and the Upper East Regional Hospitals. The study involved 291 women, including 180 (61.9%) with normotensive pregnancy and 111 (38.1%) with PE. Venous blood samples were collected and assayed for blood cell count, serum interleukins (ILs)‐4, ‐6, ‐12, ‐18, and TNF‐α as well as serum B7‐1 and B7‐H1 proteins.

Results

The monocyte count (p = .007), the serum levels of IL‐18 (p = .035), TNF‐α (p = .001), and B7‐H1 (p = .006) were significantly higher in PE than in normotensive pregnancy. In addition, the monocyte count (p = .002), the serum levels of IL‐12 (p = .029), TNF‐α (p = .016), and B7‐1 (p = .009) levels were significantly higher in the third trimester than the second trimester PE. In predicting PE, the area under the curve of cytokines and ICMs ranged from 0.51 for IL‐6 to 0.62 for TNF‐α.

Conclusion

PE may be characterized by a dominant Th1‐type immunity with higher levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and B7‐H1 proteins, but these variables may not be suitable for predicting PE.
Sufficiently activated mature natural killer cells derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells substantially enhance antitumor activity
Authors: Liu Chuanling , Li Yingying , Li Yanrong , Hu Meng , Wang Haiyan , Lu Shasha , Li Zhao , Dilimulati Dilinuer , Jiao Shunchang , Lu Shelian , Zhao Weihong
Published: January 2024

Background

Peripheral blood‐derived natural killer (NK) cells spontaneously lyse tumor cells without prior sensitization. However, NK cells in peripheral blood (PBNK cells) are in a resting state and exhibit inhibitory phenotypes and impaired cytotoxicity. Thus, strengthening the cytotoxic effector function of PBNK cells and improving NK cell expansion in vitro for a convenient allogeneic therapy are essential.

Materials and Methods

Pure cytokine activation and expansion of NK cells (super NK [SNK]) from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were studied. Markers of activated and inhibited NK cells and cytokine secretion by NK cells were examined using flow cytometry. NK cell antitumor activity in vitro was assessed using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assay and an Incucyte real‐time imaging system. Additionally, the function of SNK cells against ascites caused by ovarian cancer in NOD‐Prkdc(em26Cd52)il2rg(em26Cd22)/Nju (NCG) mice was determined. In a further investigation of the differences between PBNK and SNK, the mRNA of both cells was sequenced and analyzed.

Results

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed selective NK cell expansion upon cytokine activation and culture. Both SNK and PBNK cells expressed activation markers, but at different levels, and SNK cells secreted more cytokines related to cytotoxicity than PBNK cells did. Accordingly, SNK cells exhibited strong antitumor activity ex vivo and improved NCG mice survival after intraperitoneal ovarian cancer transplantation. Mechanistically, SNK cells expressed more genes associated with nucleotide metabolism, fatty acid, and ATP metabolism than PBNK cells.

Conclusion

SNK cells derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells have sufficiently activated mature characteristics and high antitumor activity, rendering them a highly promising and essential therapeutic approach for cancer treatment.
A community based seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Yared Solomon , Abera Tsegalem , Ali Seid Mohammed , Muhummed Abdifatah Muktar , Ibrahim Mohammed , Hussen Abdulahi , Hattendorf Jan , Zinsstag Jakob , Tschopp Rea
Published: January 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) is life‐threatening infectious disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 virus that caused a global pandemic. SARS‐CoV‐2 has been widely transmitted throughout Ethiopia, with over 501,060 cases confirmed and 7574 deaths until November 2023. This study assessed for the first time the seroprevalence SARS‐CoV‐2 in the general population of the Somali Region during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study design was conducted from May to June 2021 in 14 districts of Somali Region. Blood samples were collected in 820 participants in addition to administering a questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics and history of clinical symptoms of COVID‐19. Blood samples were tested for the presence or absence of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 using a commercial Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit (Euroimmun).

Results

Overall, 477 (58.2%) were male and 343 (41.8%) were female. The majority of the participants (N = 581; 70.9%) were between 18 and 34 years old and not vaccinated against COVID‐19 (N = 793; 96.7%). The overall seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies was 41.7% (95% CI: 33.3%–47.6%). The highest prevalence was found in Goljano district (70%) and the lowest in Gunagado district (22.5%). Only age was found to be associated with COVID‐19 seropositivity.

Conclusion

Prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies was the highest ever reported in Ethiopia, indicating that a large proportion of the population had been infected 14 months after the start of the outbreak in the country. Such studies are important to swiftly reassess and improve specific COVID‐19 preventive and control measures to reduce transmissions within the community in a given setting.
Scientific approaches toward improving cervical cancer elimination strategies
Authors: Lehtinen Matti , Bruni Laia , Elfström Miriam , Gray Penelope , Logel Margaret , Mariz Filipe Colaço , Baussano Iacopo , Vänskä Simopekka , Franco Eduardo L. , Dillner Joakim
Published: January 2024

At the 2023 EUROGIN workshop scientific basis for strategies to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer and its causative agent, human papillomavirus (HPV) were reviewed. Although some countries have reached key performance indicators toward elimination (>90% of girls HPV vaccinated and >70% of women HPV screened), most are yet to reach these targets, implying a need for improved strategies. Gender‐neutral vaccination, even with moderate vaccination coverage was highlighted as a strategy to achieve elimination more rapidly. It is more resilient against major disturbances in vaccination delivery, such as what happened during the coronavirus pandemic. Further, an analysis of ethical/legal issues indicated that female‐restricted vaccination is problematic. Extended catch‐up of vaccination with concomitant screening, and outreach to vulnerable groups were highlighted. Although birth cohorts with high coverage of HPV vaccination at school are protected against HPV, and HPVs have a very low reproductive rate in women above age 35, adult women below age 30 have inadequate direct protection. In addition to herd protection from gender‐neutral vaccination, this group can be protected by offering concomitant catch‐up HPV vaccination and HPV screening. Furthermore, hepatitis B vaccination experiences indicate that elimination cannot be achieved without prioritizing vulnerable/migrant populations. The long‐lasting durability of vaccination‐induced antibody responses suggests prolonged protection with HPV vaccines when adequately administrated. Finally, cost‐effectiveness modelling suggests that high‐coverage HPV vaccination in multiple population segments will be resource‐saving due to reduced need for screening. In summary, the workshop found that strategically optimal deployment of vaccination will accelerate elimination of HPV and cervical cancer.
A case of complete response to avelumab plus axitinib combination therapy for metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma in a kidney undergoing dialysis
Authors: Shiomi Ei , Goto Yuta , Hisano Mizuki , Ito Rento , Moriwaka Makoto , Ikarashi Daiki , Maekawa Shigekatsu , Kato Renpei , Kanehira Mitsugu , Ujiie Takashi , Obara Wataru
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Combination therapies of immune checkpoint and tyrosine kinase inhibitors for end‐stage kidney disease and patients on hemodialysis need careful consideration as few case reports provide suitable management decisions.

Case presentation

A 70‐year‐old man who had undergone hemodialysis for 6 years due to nephrosclerosis. Avelumab plus axitinib combination therapy was performed for repeated lung metastasis, and a complete response was achieved without major side effects.

Conclusion

A complete response was achieved after Ave plus Axi combination therapy for clear cell renal cell carcinoma in a patient undergoing dialysis. This suggests that Ave plus Axi combination therapy may be safe and effective for dialysis patients.
Color analysis and tracking of the reduction of an indigo solution in real‐time using LabVIEW and machine vision
Authors: Chiang Hui‐Yu , Lin Cheng‐Huang
Published: January 2024

A novel detection method, known as RGB‐tracking, was utilized to quantify the relative color changes in reactants/products during the dyeing of a solution of indigo as a model compound. The RGB‐tracking system consists of a digital camera, a light source, a data acquisition device, a LabVIEW program, and its built‐in function (Machine Vision). For the reduction of indigo, two types of reagents were employed: sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4) for the chemical redox process and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) for the biological fermentation process. As a result, in the case of chemical redox during the reduction of the indigo solution, the progress of the reaction can be described by a color change, that is, the curves of R‐ and G‐pixels, respectively. When the curve for the G‐pixels began to increase, this indicated that leuco‐indigo is being formed. A dramatic increase in the R‐curve indicates that the amount of leuco‐indigo has exceeded than that of indigo itself and that the reaction will gradually reach equilibrium. In contrast to this, additional complex behavior was observed in the case of biological fermentation. When the RGB‐tracking curves for the R‐ and G‐pixels reach their maximum values, this indicates that the concentration of leuco‐indigo was significantly higher than that of indigo itself. The flattening of the RGB‐tracking curves indicates that the reaction has reached equilibrium.