bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concise Synthesis of Cyctetryptomycin A and B Enabled by Zr‐Catalyzed Dimerization
Authors: Yu Longhui , Ogawa Hiroshige , Li Shangzhao , Lam Cheung Tsoh , Liu Wenchao , Yan Dexiu , Matsuda Yudai , Kobayashi Yusuke , Guo Zhihong , Ikeda Kotaro , Hamlin Trevor A. , Yamazaki Ken , Qian Pei‐Yuan , Nakamura Hugh
Published: August 2024

A concise synthetic strategy utilizing a Zr catalyst for the construction of cyctetryptomycin A and B is reported. Cyctetryptomycin A and B are recently isolated, complex tetrameric natural products for which total synthesis has not been previously reported. This study presents a practical approach for the construction of two consecutive quaternary carbon centers with a Zr catalyst. Furthermore, the first total synthesis of cyctetryptomycin A and B was achieved by this Zr‐catalyzed radical coupling. The radical dimerization reaction mediated by the Zr catalyst required 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe) as an indispensable additive. Through both experimental and theoretical investigations into the mechanism of this Zr‐catalyzed reaction, the specific role of dppe was elucidated. In addition, the synthetic approach was extended to enable the practical synthesis of other dimeric natural products, including tetratryptomycin A, dibrevianamide F, and ditryptophenaline. Finally, the synthetic mechanism of cyctetryptomycin A and B, through the oxidative macrocyclization of tetratryptomycin A by CttpC, was newly elucidated by both experimental and docking simulations.
Numerical investigation of electromagnetic [Cu + TiO2/H2O]h hybrid nanofluid flow with solar radiation over an exponential stretching surface
Authors: Venkateswarlu Bhumarapu , Joo Sang Woo , Nagendra Nallagundla , Metwally Ahmed Sayed M
Published: August 2024

The idea of a hybrid nanofluid (HNF) has sparked curiosity among many scientists because of its ability to enhance thermal characteristics, leading to elevated rates of heat transfer (HT). These HNFs are utilized in various engineering and industrial settings, such as electronics cooling, manufacturing, naval structures, biomedical applications, and drug delivery. The current study investigates the analysis of irreversibility in EMHD [Cu + TiO2/H2O]h flow over a stretching sheet with radiation and viscous dissipation. The governing PDEs are converted into ODEs using similarity variables. These ODEs are then solved using the RKF method along with a shooting technique. The effects of different physical parameters on the velocity and temperature distributions of the HNF, as well as on HT and surface drag force, are thoroughly examined and presented in graphs. The velocity of [TiO2/water]n flow declines as the magnetic field strength rises, but it rises with greater electric field values for [Cu + TiO2/water]h. The temperature of the [Cu + TiO2/water]h increases with elevated levels of radiation, Eckert number, and heat generation strength. Higher Reynolds and Brinkman numbers result in a rise in entropy generation for [Cu + TiO2/H2O]h, whereas the Bejan number decreases to the same extent. The HT rate in [Cu + TiO2/H2O]h increases by 3.05% as the Eckert number rises, while it drops by 4.01% when there is significant thermal radiation. Skin friction reduces by 3.21% in [TiO2/water]n as the electric field strength increases, whereas it decreases by 4.05% with an increase in magnetic field strength. These discoveries offer valuable perspectives on furthering the utilization of HNFs in engineering and industrial operations.
Poly(lactic acid)/poly(vinyl butyral) composites containing kaolin modified by acids and calcination
Authors: Lee Hayeong , Park Jeong‐Ho , Jang Keon‐Soo
Published: August 2024

The compatibility between two distinct polymers in the blend is important to maximize various properties of the blends. This study investigated the effects of kaolin modifications through acid and calcination treatments on the compatibility, molecular weight, its distribution, and various properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(vinyl butyral) (PVB) blends. In addition, the incorporation of the modified kaolin as a compatibilizer into the blends enhanced their mechanical and thermal properties, addressing the challenges of immiscibility between distinct polymers. The experimental approach included the utilization of scanning electron microscopy, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, rheometer, and melt flow index to examine the structural, molecular, and thermal, mechanical and rheological behaviors of the composites. The changes in various molecular weights were correlated with other properties. The incorporation of surface‐treated kaolin into the blend improved the compatibility between PLA and PVB, exhibiting a singular melting temperature peak and a less distinct interface between two different polymers. This research contributed to the development of sustainable material solutions by demonstrating the potential of modified inorganic fillers in improving the performance of biodegradable polymer blends.
Advances in bioengineered CAR T/NK cell therapy for glioblastoma: Overcoming immunosuppression and nanotechnology‐based strategies for enhanced CAR T/NK cell therapy
Authors: Dana Nasim , Dabiri Arezou , Najafi Majed Bahri , Rahimi Azadeh , Ishaghi Sayed Mohammad Matin , Shariati Laleh , Shao Minmin , Borzacchiello Assunta , Rahimmanesh Ilnaz , Makvandi Pooyan
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma is a strong challenge in the worldwide field of central nervous system malignancies. GBM's inherent heterogeneity, along with the formation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, supports its resistance to current therapy methods. Immunotherapeutic methods have emerged as potential options in recent years. However, because of the inherent limits of traditional immunotherapeutic techniques innovative approaches are required. Advances in cut‐edge techniques provide a possible route for improving effector cell effectiveness. This review gives insight into the complicated immunosuppressive pathways in GBM, with a particular emphasis on CAR T/NK‐cell treatment as a potential achievement. Recognizing and addressing these concerns might open the way for more effective and focused glioblastoma therapies, providing hope for the future with the aim of improved outcomes for patients. In addition, this review presents valuable insights into the integration of nanotechnology into CAR T/NK cell therapy for enhanced efficiency of these personalized gene therapy products.
A Novel 3‐Benzyloxychromone From Celastrus orbiculatus Thunb. Exhibits Anticancer Effects on Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells via GSK‐3β–Dependent c‐Jun/ATF2 Pathway
Authors: Ding Yanlin , Wang Tingye , Xu Zhenyu , Fu Yuxuan , Liu Yanqing , Tao Li
Published: August 2024

Celastrus orbiculatus Thunb. is a vine used as a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In this study, we focused on the anticancer cytotoxicity and underlying mechanism of previously unreported 3‐oxygen–substituted isoflavone analogue (3‐benzyloxychromone, 3‐Boc) from the herb. Initially, we established cell line–derived xenograft mouse model using H1299 non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and found that the ethanol crude extracts of the stem part of C. orbiculatus (200 mg/kg) could substantially suppress the growth of xenograft tumors in athymic nu/nu mice. We compared 3‐Boc with three other flavonoid analogues isolated from the stem part of C. orbiculatus. Among these, 3‐Boc showed the most potent cytotoxicity against H1299 and H1975 NSCLC cells. Colony formation, EdU incorporation and Annexin V‐FITC/PI apoptosis assays demonstrated that 3‐Boc induced growth inhibition primarily by inhibiting DNA replication and inducing apoptotic death of NSCLC cells. Structure‐based target prediction and MD simulation suggested that 3‐Boc potentially suppressed the activity of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β) by interacting with the ATP–binding site. Western blot analysis indicated that 3‐Boc triggered the phosphorylation of Serine 21 of GSK‐3α or Serine 9 of GSK‐3β in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. To investigate the dependency of GSK‐3β, we established GSK‐3β knockout in H1299 cells. Depletion of GSK‐3β enhanced 3‐Boc–induced cytotoxicity compared with wild‐type counterparts through activated c‐Jun/ATF2 signaling pathway. Altogether, our study highlights the anticancer potential of C. orbiculatus and the discovery of novel 3‐oxygen–substituted chromone from the herb, which may have important implications for screening promising modulators of GSK‐3β and related signaling pathways in the treatment of cancer.
Psychedelic‐assisted therapy for palliative care within a home treatment setting: A case report
Authors: Federico Seragnoli , Geo Martignoni , Entela Martignoni , Bachmann Silke , Elisa Rabitti , Silvio Cavuto , Zoë Dubus , Louise Penzenstadler , Gabriel Thorens , Joël Billieux , Daniele Zullino
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case study describes the feasibility and safety of psychedelic‐assisted therapy (PAT) as a home‐based intervention for a patient with throat cancer experiencing significant existential distress. The patient tolerated the intervention well. This case supports the feasibility and safety of PAT for patients with life‐threatening conditions in a home setting.

Psychedelic‐assisted therapy (PAT), as it is practiced today, merges traditional psychotherapeutic techniques with the use of psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin, or MDMA with the aim of unlocking deeper insights in patients and treating mental conditions that are resistant to other forms of therapy. The present case study describes the safety of PAT as a home‐based intervention for a patient with throat cancer experiencing significant existential distress. The patient tolerated the intervention well and was asked to report on measures of anxiety, depression, and distress related to his somatic condition. The observations provided by this clinical case report align with previous findings, suggesting that PAT can be safely applied to potentially provide relief from existential distress in patients with life‐threatening conditions. As this is a single‐case study, generalizations should be made cautiously. Moreover, placebo effects, expectancy effects, and the natural course of the disease may influence outcomes. Future research should consider controlled trials to ascertain the efficacy and safety of such interventions in diverse settings.
From drug therapy failures to laser therapy victory: A case report and literature review of lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei resolution
Authors: Bazargan Afsaneh Sadeghzadeh , Roohaninasab Masoumeh , Kahjoogh Hossein Ahmadi , Aghdam Saba Baybordi , Taheri Amirmasoud , Jafarzadeh Alireza
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pulsed dye laser (PDL) has proven effective in resolving lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) where drug therapies have failed with a lack of treatment consensus for LMDF, considering early PDL intervention is crucial to achieve resolution without scarring, prevent relapse, and enhance overall treatment outcomes.

Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) is a rare inflammatory and granulomatous dermatologic disease that primarily affects the face. The optimal treatment for LMDF remains controversial, and there is a lack of consensus on the most effective therapy. This case report highlights the successful use of a 595 nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the treatment of LMDF following unsuccessful drug therapy. A 28‐year‐old male presented with reddish‐brown eruptions on his face that had persisted for several months. Clinical examination revealed discrete dome‐shaped eruptions in clusters on the central area of the face. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of LMDF, based on the presence of epithelioid granulomas with central caseous necrosis. Previous treatment with an oral isotretinoin and methotrexate combination also failed to yield satisfactory results. After discontinuing drug therapy, the patient underwent five sessions of PDL treatment. Ten days after the first session, the eruptions began to regress without scarring. Subsequent PDL sessions led to the complete resolution of the eruptions. The patient experienced no relapse during the follow‐up period. This case report suggests that PDL treatment may be an effective option for LMDF, particularly in cases where drug therapy has failed. Early initiation of laser treatment may prevent scarring, minimize the adverse effects associated with drug therapy, and reduce the risk of disease relapse. Further research and controlled trials are needed to establish the efficacy of laser therapy in the treatment of LMDF.
Catalytic Generation of Benzyl Anions from Aryl Ketones Utilizing [1,2]‐Phospha‐Brook Rearrangement and Their Application to Synthesis of Tertiary Benzylic Alcohols
Authors: Kondoh Azusa , Suzuki Hirochika , Hirozane Takayuki , Terada Masahiro
Published: August 2024

A synthetic method of tertiary alcohols was developed based on the formal umpolung addition of aryl ketones with electrophiles utilizing the [1,2]‐phospha‐Brook rearrangement under Brønsted base catalysis. The addition reaction of α‐hydroxyphosphonates, derived from alkyl aryl‐ and diaryl ketones, with electrophiles such as phenyl vinyl sulfone, afforded phosphates having a tertiary alkyl group, which were readily convertible to the corresponding tertiary benzylic alcohols. This operationally simple protocol provides efficient complementary access to tertiary alcohols that are difficult to synthesize by conventional methods.
Turning Solid Waste into Catalysts: A Path for Environmental Solutions
Authors: Rautela Rahul , Sharma Apurva , Prakash Ranjan Ved , Rathika K , Pratap Vinay , Ram Yadav Bholu , Kumar Sunil
Published: August 2024

Waste, often overlooked, stands out as a prime source of valuable products, meeting the demand for natural resources. In the face of environmental challenges, this study explores the crucial role of waste‐derived catalysts in sustainable practices, emphasizing the transformative potential of solid waste materials. Carbon‐based catalysts sourced from agricultural, municipal, and industrial waste streams can be transformed into activated carbon, biochar, and hydrochar which are extensively used adsorbents. Furthermore, the paper also highlights the potential of transition metal‐based catalysts derived from spent batteries, electronic waste, and industrial byproducts, showcasing their efficacy in environmental remediation processes. Calcium‐based catalysts originating from food waste, including seashells, eggshells, bones, as well as industrial and construction waste also find an extensive application in biodiesel production, providing a comprehensive overview of their promising role in sustainable and eco‐friendly practices. From mitigating pollutants to recovering valuable resources, waste‐derived catalysts exhibit a versatile role in addressing waste management challenges and promoting resource sustainability. By transforming waste into valuable catalysts, this study champions a paradigm shift towards a more sustainable and resource‐efficient future.
Understanding and resolving student conflicts: Perspectives and strategies in senior high schools across the Volta Region of Ghana
Authors: Amedome Sedem Nunyuia , Ilfiandra  , Suherman Uman
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the dynamics, sources, and resolution strategies of student conflicts in senior high schools across the Volta Region of Ghana. Despite the implementation of various conflict resolution and peer mediation programs, challenges in effectively managing student disputes remain prevalent. These conflicts often stem from interpersonal and academic tensions, exacerbated by a complex mix of socio‐cultural backgrounds, economic disparities, and personal beliefs. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in conflict experiences and resolutions, highlighting the need for gender‐sensitive and culturally informed approaches. The study employed a quantitative research design, utilizing a structured questionnaire to gather data from a representative sample of 661 students. The findings indicate that interpersonal conflicts with peers and academic‐related issues are the most common, with conflicts involving violence and guns being comparatively rare. Gender‐specific differences were notable in responses to conflicts involving school administration and cultural or ethnic disparities. The research underscores the importance of adopting comprehensive, culturally sensitive conflict resolution programs that are tailored to the unique socio‐cultural and educational context of the Volta Region. By addressing these nuanced needs, the study aims to enhance the educational landscape and foster an atmosphere conducive to effective dispute resolution. The findings contribute to the discourse on implementing effective, culturally responsive conflict resolution mechanisms in Ghanaian senior high schools, advocating for strategies that support the holistic development of students.
Unravelling the Metabolic Underpinnings of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Comprehensive Mendelian Randomisation Analysis Identifying Causal Metabolites and Biological Pathways
Authors: Shen Min , Shi Lei , Xing Mengzhen , Jiang Hehe , Ma Yuning , Ma Yuxia , Zhang Linlin
Published: August 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has a strong genetic predisposition. Integrating metabolomics with Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis offers a potent method to uncover the metabolic factors causally linked to GDM pathogenesis.

Objectives

This study aims to identify specific metabolites and metabolic pathways causally associated with GDM susceptibility through a comprehensive MR analysis. Additionally, it seeks to explore the potential of these identified metabolites as circulating biomarkers for early GDM detection and risk assessment. Furthermore, it aims to evaluate the implicated metabolic pathways as potential therapeutic targets for preventive or interventional strategies against GDM.

Methods

A two‐sample MR study was conducted using summary statistics from a metabolite genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of 8299 individuals and a GDM GWAS comprising 13,039 cases and 197,831 controls. Rigorous criteria were applied to select robust genetic instruments for 850 metabolites.

Results

MR analysis revealed 47 metabolites exhibiting putative causal associations with GDM risk. Among these, five metabolites demonstrated statistically significant associations after multiple‐testing correction: Beta‐citrylglutamate, Isobutyrylcarnitine (c4), 1,2‐dilinoleoyl‐GPC (18:2/18:2), Alliin and Cis‐3,4‐methyleneheptanoylcarnitine. Importantly, all these metabolites exhibited protective effects against GDM development. Additionally, metabolic pathway enrichment analysis implicated the methionine metabolism and spermidine and spermine biosynthesis pathways in the pathogenesis of GDM.

Conclusion

This comprehensive MR study has robustly identified specific metabolites and metabolic pathways with causal links to GDM susceptibility. These findings provide novel insights into the metabolic underpinnings of GDM aetiology and offer promising translational implications. The identified metabolites could serve as potential circulating biomarkers for early detection and risk stratification, while the implicated metabolic pathways may represent therapeutic targets for preventive or interventional strategies against GDM.
Habitat suitability and protected area coverage for an expanding cougar Puma concolor population in Canada
Authors: Christoff Jennifer A. , Devenish‐Nelson Eleanor S.
Published: August 2024

Successful conservation of expanding large carnivore populations and management of human–wildlife conflict to promote coexistence requires sufficient spatiotemporal knowledge to inform appropriate action. In Canada, cougars (Puma concolor) are expanding their range eastwards and little research is available for use in decision making by land managers and conservation planners. To inform proactive management regarding expanding populations of cougars in Canada, we utilized open‐source cougar presence and land‐cover data in a maximum entropy habitat suitability model to determine potentially suitable habitat for cougars across the country. We then used a gap analysis to determine the effectiveness of existing formal protected areas to protect potential cougar habitat. Suitable habitat exists for range‐expanding cougars dispersing eastwards through the central and eastern provinces to the Atlantic coast. While the habitat is highly fragmented, the highest suitability occurs in areas of medium road density, indicating that the potential for new human–cougar conflict will likely involve residents of exurban and rural areas. Protected areas offered 16% coverage of suitable habitat, although most protected areas that overlap predicted cougar habitat are not large enough to effectively conserve the large home range requirements of cougars. Synthesis and Applications: High fragmentation of suitable habitat and the potential for human–wildlife conflict requires proactive management to ensure appropriately sized and connected areas are maintained for the establishment of expanding cougar populations. Many of the management actions intended to aid in the conservation of cougars and their habitat can also serve to mitigate potential human–cougar conflict arising as a consequence of an expanding population, such as highway wildlife crossing structures and formal habitat protection.
Toward a comparative framework for studies of altitudinal migration
Authors: Vander Pluym David , Mason Nicholas A.
Published: August 2024

The study and importance of altitudinal migration has attracted increasing interest among zoologists. Altitudinal migrants are taxonomically widespread and move across altitudinal gradients as partial or complete migrants, subjecting them to a wide array of environments and ecological interactions. Here, we present a brief synthesis of recent developments in the field and suggest future directions toward a more taxonomically inclusive comparative framework for the study of altitudinal migration. Our framework centers on a working definition of altitudinal migration that hinges on its biological relevance, which is scale‐dependent and related to fitness outcomes. We discuss linguistic nuances of altitudinal movements and provide concrete steps to compare altitudinal migration phenomena across traditionally disparate study systems. Together, our comparative framework outlines a “phenotypic space” that contextualizes the biotic and abiotic interactions encountered by altitudinal migrants from divergent lineages and biomes. We also summarize new opportunities, methods, and challenges for the ongoing study of altitudinal migration. A persistent, primary challenge is characterizing the taxonomic extent of altitudinal migration within and among species. Fortunately, a host of new methods have been developed to help researchers assess the taxonomic prevalence of altitudinal migration—each with their own advantages and disadvantages. An improved comparative framework will allow researchers that study disparate disciplines and taxonomic groups to better communicate and to test hypotheses regarding the evolutionary and ecological drivers underlying variation in altitudinal migration among populations and species.
Flower‐Like NiCo/rGO Effective Nanocomposite for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Qin Fang , Yan Yuqing
Published: August 2024

Novel electrode materials with unique architectures are always favored to improve the capacity and energy density of supercapacitors. Herein, we have designed a composition of transition metal and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as advanced electrode for enhanced‐performance supercapacitors. Particularly, a facile one‐pot hydrothermal approach was applied for in‐situ growth of NiCo/rGO composite. It displayed the best electrochemical performance attributing to the three‐dimensional flower‐like architecture in combination with conductive rGO. Among all the electrodes, NiCo/rGO exhibited impressive areal capacitance of 2565 mF/cm2 at a current density of 1 mA/cm2, and a high energy density of μWh/cm2 at a power density of 200 μW/cm2. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirms feasible charge transfer kinetics at the interface with small internal resistance and rapid diffusion, resulting an improved electrochemical performance.
Copper(II)/Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Sequential Annulation‐Olefination of 2‐Arylquinoxalines
Authors: Chen Yifan , Yin Fucheng , Luo Zhongwen , Li Shang , Zhang Yonglei , Li Xinxin , Wan Siyuan , Kong Lingyi , Wang Xiaobing
Published: August 2024

The quinoxaline scaffold occurs in many pharmaceuticals, natural products and organic materials. In this study, a Cu(II)/Rh(III)‐catalyzed regioselective annulation‐olefination sequence for the formation and modification of quinoxalines was developed using ethanol and water as the solvent, with relatively broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance. This protocol has been successfully applied to the derivatization of natural products and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the derivatives exhibited enhanced antiproliferative activities against A‐2780 and HCT‐116 cell lines, underscoring their potential as promising lead compounds for ovarian cancer and colon cancer treatment.
Examining 1,4,2‐Dioxazol‐5‐One as an Alternative Reagent to Acyl Azides in the Staudinger Reaction
Authors: Zhang Qianlan , Liu Shijie , Xie Yunzhi , Du Tianlei , Wang Shuaihao , Guan Jia , Li Jian , Tang Hao , Zhou Zijun
Published: August 2024

In this study, we explore 1,4,2‐dioxazol‐5‐one as an alternative reagent to acyl azides in the Staudinger reaction, providing a safe and efficient method for synthesizing N‐acyliminophosphoranes under metal‐free conditions. This approach involves a heat‐promoted nucleophilic attack of phosphines on 1,4,2‐dioxazol‐5‐ones, followed by the extrusion of CO2 gas, resulting in the formation of the P−N coupling product. The synthetic utility of this metal‐free imidization of phosphine was demonstrated through a gram‐scale reaction and its suitability for subsequent transformations. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to elucidate the overall reaction pathway leading to the formation of N‐acyliminophosphoranes.
Self‐medication for dental caries‐associated toothache among dental outpatients attended at public health facilities in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sohal Karpal Singh , Jeremiah Linus , Okechi Uchenna , Agbor Ashu Michael
Published: August 2024

Background and aim

Self‐medication is a common practice worldwide, and its prevalence ranges between 20% and 80% among patients suffering from dental pain. The socioeconomic status of an individual plays a key role in self‐medication practice, especially sex and education level. This study aims to investigate the extent of self‐medication practice for toothache due to dental caries among adults in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods

This was an analytical cross‐sectional study carried out over 6 months. It included adult patients presenting with toothache in public dental clinics. A questionnaire captured information on demography, self‐medication practice, the substance used for self‐medication, duration of self‐medication, and reason for self‐medication. Univariate analysis was carried out to assess factors associated with self‐care remedies. The probability level of α < 0.05 was selected for statistical significance.

Results

A total of 420 participants took part in this survey with a majority (54.3%) being females. The ages of the participants ranged between 18 years and 79 years, with a mean age of 33.37 (SD = 12.64) years. Nearly all (98.5%) participants used some sort of self‐prescribed remedies for managing toothache before attending a dental clinic for appropriate treatment. The sociodemographic status of the participants did not influence the practice of self‐medication.

Conclusion

About 98% of patients suffering from toothache in Tanzania practice self‐medication, and it cuts across all social strata of the adult dental population

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients with toothache secondary to dental caries participated in the pilot study and were consulted on the suitability of the study tool.
Silencing of KIAA1429, a N6‐methyladenine methyltransferase, inhibits the progression of colon adenocarcinoma via blocking the hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 signalling pathway
Authors: Ouyang Canhui , Xu Guofeng , Xie Jun , Xie Yun , Zhou Yun
Published: August 2024

KIAA1429 is an important ‘writer’ of the N6‐methyladenine (m6A) modification, which is involved in tumour progression. This study was conducted to explore the mechanism of action of KIAA1429 in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). KIAA1429‐silenced COAD cell and xenograft tumour models were constructed, and the function of KIAA1429 was explored through a series of in vivo and in vitro assays. The downstream mechanisms of KIAA1429 were explored using transcriptome sequencing. Dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG), an activator of HIF‐1α, was used for feedback verification. The expression of KIAA1429 in COAD tumour tissues and cells was elevated, and KIAA1429 exhibited differential expression at different stages of the tumour. Silencing of KIAA1429 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HT29 and HCT116 cells. The expression levels of NLRP3, GSDMD and Caspase‐1 were decreased in KIAA1429‐silenced HT29 cells, indicating the pyroptotic activity was inhibited. Additionally, KIAA1429 silencing inhibited the growth of tumour xenograft. Transcriptome sequencing and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that after KIAA1429 silencing, the expression of AKR1C1, AKR1C2, AKR1C3 and RDH8 was elevated, and the expression of VIRMA, GINS1, VBP1 and ARF3 was decreased. In HT29 cells, KIAA1429 silencing blocked the HIF‐1 signalling pathway, accompanied by the decrease in AKT1 and HIF‐1α protein levels. The activation of HIF‐1 signalling pathway, mediated by DMOG, reversed the antitumour role of KIAA1429 silencing. KIAA1429 silencing inhibits COAD development by blocking the HIF‐1 signalling pathway.
Organizational resources, burnout, and work engagement of school counselors: The mediating effect of professional identity
Authors: Um Byeolbee , Bardhoshi Gerta
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of organizational resources and professional identity on school counselor burnout and work engagement. We performed structural equation modeling using a sample of 345 practicing school counselors. The results of the analysis showed that organizational resources for school counselors were significantly related to professional identity, burnout, and work engagement, while professional identity significantly mediated the relationship between organizational resources and burnout/work engagement. We provided implications and recommendations for future research on school counselors’ work‐related attitudes and professional identity development.
Ichor: A Python library for computational chemistry data management and machine learning force field development
Authors: Manchev Yulian T. , Burn Matthew J. , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: August 2024

We present ichor, an open‐source Python library that simplifies data management in computational chemistry and streamlines machine learning force field development. Ichor implements many easily extensible file management tools, in addition to a lazy file reading system, allowing efficient management of hundreds of thousands of computational chemistry files. Data from calculations can be readily stored into databases for easy sharing and post‐processing. Raw data can be directly processed by ichor to create machine learning‐ready datasets. In addition to powerful data‐related capabilities, ichor provides interfaces to popular workload management software employed by High Performance Computing clusters, making for effortless submission of thousands of separate calculations with only a single line of Python code. Furthermore, a simple‐to‐use command line interface has been implemented through a series of menu systems to further increase accessibility and efficiency of common important ichor tasks. Finally, ichor implements general tools for visualization and analysis of datasets and tools for measuring machine‐learning model quality both on test set data and in simulations. With the current functionalities, ichor can serve as an end‐to‐end data procurement, data management, and analysis solution for machine‐learning force‐field development.
Spectroscopic Analysis of the Initial Step of the Maillard Reaction of d‐Fructose and Nα‐Acetyl‐l‐Lysine
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Cheng , Hiramatsu Hirotsugu
Published: August 2024

The Maillard reaction is a reaction between sugar and the amino group of proteins. Herein, Nα‐acetyl lysine (Ac‐Lys) and fructose were the model compounds. Structural information of the intermediates and products of the reaction at pH 7.4 and 37°C was obtained using UV–Vis absorption, fluorescence, and 785‐nm excited non‐resonance Raman spectroscopy. In the 6‐h reaction, three independent components in the spectroscopic data were attributed to the solvated reactants (A), their complex (B), and a covalent‐bonded product (C). The rate constant of the change in the fraction from A to B and B to C were (9.9 ± 0.1) × 10−3 and (3.3 ± 0.1) × 10−3 min−1, respectively. Polymeric Maillard reaction products were not yet formed. The structures of the solute molecules in each state were discussed based on the spectroscopic data.
Nutrient availability influences the thermal response of marine diatoms
Authors: Pang Mengwen , Liu Kailin , Chen Bingzhang , Zhang Xiaodong , Gao Zuyuan , Xu Zhimeng , Tan Yehui , Yang Jing , Liu Hongbin
Published: August 2024

Understanding how phytoplankton growth responds to temperature is critical for forecasting marine productivity in a warming ocean. While previous laboratory studies have shown that phytoplankton thermal traits such as optimal temperature (Topt) can be affected by nutrient availability, it is unclear whether this can be extrapolated to natural communities. To address this, we tested the impacts of nutrient availability on the thermal responses of two cosmopolitan diatom genera, Pseudo‐nitzschia and Leptocylindrus, through a series of in situ manipulation experiments on natural phytoplankton communities. Analysis of the thermal performance curves revealed that nutrient limitation during summer not only limited the growth of these two genera but also reduced their Topt and the maximum growth rates (μmax). Topt was close to or lower than in situ temperature under ambient nutrient conditions, suggesting that further warming may have a detrimental effect on their growth. However, increasing nutrient supply could counteract this by enhancing Topt and μmax. To further confirm the interactive effects of nutrients and temperature on diatoms, we analyzed a 20‐yr monitoring dataset on Pseudo‐nitzschia, Leptocylindrus, and the whole diatom assembly in Hong Kong coastal waters. We found that the abundances of marine diatoms were significantly higher at high temperatures under nutrient‐rich environments while relatively low under low nutrient concentrations. Findings on natural diatom cell density align with the growth performance derived from in situ manipulation experiments, suggesting that abundant nutrients bolster marine diatoms in coping with warming. Our results highlight the importance of considering the influence of nutrient availability on thermal response of phytoplankton growth, which sheds light on how marine primary production may change under climate warming.
Nature‐based shoreline protection in newly formed tidal marshes is controlled by tidal inundation and sedimentation rate
Authors: Stoorvogel Marte M. , Temmerman Stijn , Oosterlee Lotte , Schoutens Ken , Maris Tom , van de Koppel Johan , Meire Patrick , Bouma Tjeerd J.
Published: August 2024

Many tidal marshes have been lost by past land use changes, but are nowadays increasingly restored and created to provide valuable ecosystem services such as nature‐based flood and erosion protection along estuarine shorelines. To be functional for flood and shoreline erosion protection, restored and created tidal marshes should develop erosion resistant sediment beds. Here, we investigated which factors drive the spatial variations in sediment strength and erosion resistance in a developing tidal marsh restoration site. Our results show that decreasing tidal inundation frequency, decreasing sedimentation rate, and better drainage led to stronger consolidation in deeper sediment layers. This consolidation resulted in greater sediment strength, quantified here by shear strength and penetration resistance. Generally, sediment strength was greater when sediment had higher bulk density, while a higher water and fine fraction (= clay and silt) content decreased sediment strength. Overall, all measurement locations were relatively erosion resistant, likely caused by the dense root network and cohesive sediment. To restore or create resilient tidal marshes for nature‐based flood and shoreline erosion protection, we should thus aim for sites with relatively low tidal inundation frequency, moderate sedimentation rates, and cohesive sediment mixtures of clay, silt, and sand, which are well drained and have potential for vegetation establishment. These conditions have a high likelihood of resulting in restored or created tidal marshes that contribute to nature‐based flood and shoreline erosion protection.
Evaluating O2 : Ar, N2 : Ar, and 29,30N2 using membrane inlet mass spectrometry configured to minimize oxygen interference
Authors: Boedecker Ashlynn R. , Taylor Jason M. , Tappenbeck Tyler H. , Hall Robert O. , Robbins Caleb J. , Scott J. Thad
Published: August 2024

Membrane inlet mass spectrometry (MIMS) provides detailed measures of dissolved 28,29,30N2, O2, and argon (Ar) for estimating important gas fluxes and concentrations in aquatic ecosystems. Previous studies demonstrated a large O2 scavenging effect while using a MIMS, where varying concentrations of O2 can affect measured N2 : Ar because O2 interacts with N2 in the ion source to produce NO+ (m/z = 30), potentially decreasing the detected current for 28,29N2 and increasing the detected current for 30N2. A common solution is to use a muffle furnace heated to 600°C with a copper reduction column to reduce the concentration of O2 to minimal levels and accurately measure 28,29,30N2. However, this solution eliminates the detection of O2 in environmental samples, which is a major benefit of using a MIMS. We questioned whether the MIMS was sensitive enough to provide accurate O2 estimates when using the furnace and whether the O2 scavenging effect was real and consistent among MIMS. We conducted four separate experiments on three different MIMS to test the O2 scavenging effect and the potential detection of O2 when using a MIMS with furnace. The furnace removed ~ 99% of O2, and O2 scavenging had little to no detectable effect on N2 : Ar and an unclear effect on 29N2 : 28N2, but increased 30N2 : 28N2. In most cases, accurate O2 data could be retrieved despite using the furnace. The need for O2 reduction may be limited to measuring accurate 30N2 : 28N2 in isotope pairing studies, but without substantial loss of MIMS measurements used to describe O2 dynamics.
Constructing Mechanochromic Fluorescent Interphase via Core–Shell Microcapsules: A Route for Interface Reinforcing and Damage Self‐Reporting of CFRP Composites
Authors: Liang Siyun , Sun Yuhang , Yang Peiwen , Su Qingfu , Li Gang , Yang Xiaoping , Zuo Xiaobiao
Published: August 2024

Perylenediimide‐chitosan/γ‐poly (glutamic acid) microcapsules sizing (PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA) core–shell microcapsule is designed and used to establish a novel interphase in carbon fiber/epoxy (CF/EP) composite, and the interfacial property, as well as the damage self‐reporting of the composite, is compared with desized carbon fiber (CF‐desized)/EP and commercial carbon fiber (CF‐COM)/EP composite. The ruptured PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA microcapsule exhibits strong “turn‐on” green fluorescence from the released PDI upon mechanical stimuli. The anchoring of PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA microcapsule on carbon fiber with PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA microcapsules sizing (CF@PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA) surface results in increased chemical activity and roughness, exhibiting a weak green fluorescence signal instead of non‐fluorescence on CF‐desized and CF‐COM surface. The transverse fiber bundle tensile (TFBT) strength of CF@PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA composite is 80.97% and 31.09% higher than those of CF‐desized/EP and CF‐COM/EP composite, which is attributed to the mechanical interlocking and chemical bonding interaction between carbon fiber and epoxy matrix by introducing PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA microcapsule with spherular structure and active groups. After microdroplet testing, the strong “turn‐on” green fluorescence signal of the released PDI from the microcapsules is detected in the interfacial debonding regions, realizing the microscopic damage self‐reporting of CF@PDI‐CS/γ‐PGA composite.
Activation and inhibition of sirtuins: From bench to bedside
Authors: Fiorentino Francesco , Fabbrizi Emanuele , Mai Antonello , Rotili Dante
Published: August 2024

The sirtuin family comprises seven NAD+‐dependent enzymes which catalyze protein lysine deacylation and mono ADP‐ribosylation. Sirtuins act as central regulators of genomic stability and gene expression and control key processes, including energetic metabolism, cell cycle, differentiation, apoptosis, and aging. As a result, all sirtuins play critical roles in cellular homeostasis and organism wellness, and their dysregulation has been linked to metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Furthermore, sirtuins have shown dichotomous roles in cancer, acting as context‐dependent tumor suppressors or promoters. Given their central role in different cellular processes, sirtuins have attracted increasing research interest aimed at developing both activators and inhibitors. Indeed, sirtuin modulation may have therapeutic effects in many age‐related diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Moreover, isoform selective modulators may increase our knowledge of sirtuin biology and aid to develop better therapies. Through this review, we provide critical insights into sirtuin pharmacology and illustrate their enzymatic activities and biological functions. Furthermore, we outline the most relevant sirtuin modulators in terms of their modes of action, structure–activity relationships, pharmacological effects, and clinical applications.
Study of Caputo fractional derivative and Riemann–Liouville integral with different orders and its application in multi‐term differential equations
Authors: Rahman Ghaus Ur , Ahmad Dildar , Gómez‐Aguilar José Francisco , Agarwal Ravi P. , Ali Amjad
Published: August 2024

In this article, we initially provided the relationship between the RL fractional integral and the Caputo fractional derivative of different orders. Additionally, it is clear from the literature that studies into boundary value problems involving multi‐term operators have been conducted recently, and the aforementioned idea is used in the formulation of several novel models. We offer a unique coupled system of fractional delay differential equations with proper respect for the role that multi‐term operators play in the research of fractional differential equations, taking into account the newly established solution for fractional integral and derivative. We also made the assumptions that connected integral boundary conditions would be added on top of
‐fractional differential derivatives. The requirements for the existence and uniqueness of solutions are also developed using fixed‐point theorems. While analyzing various sorts of Ulam's stability results, the qualitative elements of the underlying model will also be examined. In the paper's final section, an example is given for purposes of demonstration.
The analysis of traveling wave structures and chaos of the cubic–quartic perturbed Biswas–Milovic equation with Kudryashov's nonlinear form and two generalized nonlocal laws
Authors: Li Shuang , Du Xing‐Hua
Published: August 2024

The cubic–quartic perturbed Biswas–Milovic equation, which contains Kudryashov's nonlinear form and two generalized nonlocal laws, has been explored qualitatively and quantitatively, as demonstrated in the present work. The research methods used include the complete discrimination system for polynomial method and the trial equation method. The results show that the Hamiltonian has the conservation property, and the global phase diagrams obtained via the bifurcation method reveal the existence of periodic and soliton solutions. Furthermore, we fully classify all the single traveling wave solutions to substantiate our findings, covering singular solutions, solitons, and Jacobian elliptic function solutions. We analyze their topological stabilities and present two‐dimensional graphs of solutions. We also delve deeper into the dynamic system by incorporating the perturbation item to explore the chaotic phenomena associated with the equation. These outcomes are valuable for studying the propagation of high‐order dispersive optical solitons and have potential applications in optimizing optical communication systems to improve efficiency.
A miniaturized on‐chip BPF with low insertion loss and wide stopband based on integrated passive device technology
Authors: Li Fuwang , Cheng Yi‐Feng , Wang Gaofeng
Published: August 2024

In this study, a novel bandpass filter (BPF) characterized by low insertion loss (IL) and the presence of two transmission zeros (TZs) based on integrated passive device (IPD) technology is introduced. The design incorporates a low‐pass filter and a high‐pass filter which both exhibit strong out‐of‐band suppression performance. The control structure for TZs is constructed by cascading the inductance and capacitance components. The TZ controlling structure primarily generates TZs at high frequencies, resulting in a further bandwidth enhancement in the stopband. The lumped circuit of the proposed BPF is first constructed, and rigorous design formulas are provided to assist in constructing the proposed design. After schematic optimization, the second step involves layout optimization and simulation based on the specific IPD process. Experimental results mounted on a printed circuit board demonstrate that the bandwidth spans from 3.3 to 4.2 GHz with an IL of only 2.0 dB at the center frequency. Additionally, this BPF achieves impressive sideband suppression, exceeding 18 dB in the 0–1.7 GHz range and 30 dB in the 9–15 GHz range. Remarkably, the BPF is exceptionally compact with only 0.5 mm × 1.0 mm (0.006λc × 0.012λc). The proposed BPF exhibits outstanding performance with minimal IL and extensive sideband suppression at such a compact size based on the IPD technology.
Photo‐induced polymerization of styrene‐maleic acid copolymers for the extraction of membrane proteins
Authors: Monjal Valentin , Guillet Pierre , Moreno Alexis , Soulié Marine , Durand Grégory
Published: August 2024

We report herein the photoinduced electron/energy transfer–reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization of styrene‐maleic anhydride (SMAnh) using the photocatalyst, zinc tetraphenylporphirine, under a white cool LED light. PET‐RAFT is an easy and convenient polymerization method that does not require deoxygenation unlike other radical polymerizations. Various parameters, for example, the amount of styrene in the feed or the solvent, and their influence on the polymerization were studied. After hydrolysis of the anhydride moieties, the resulting styrene‐maleic acid (SMA) copolymers obtained by PET‐RAFT copolymerization were evaluated for their solubilization efficiency of three different membrane proteins, BmrA and AcrB, overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and A2AR, expressed in insect cells (Sf9). The different copolymers provided similar solubilization rates to the commercially available SMA; however, a highly improved migration behavior on sodium dodecyl‐sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was observed which could, facilitate downstream analyses. Overall, we demonstrated that PET‐RAFT is a versatile oxygen tolerant polymerization technique to yield SMA, a suitable polymer for biochemical applications.