bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant Tissue Culture for Medical Therapy: Unlocking the Potential of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Anushi  , Jain Shubham , Rathod Manjunath , Mishra Gopa , Kumari V. Lakshmi Prasanna , Baksh Hari , Saxena Saransh , Prasad Lalu
Published: December 2023

Plant tissue culture is emerging as a pivotal biotechnological tool with profound implications for medical therapy, particularly in the realm of herbal medicine. Medicinal plants have long been cherished for their natural healing properties. However, escalating demand, habitat destruction, and overharvesting have threatened the availability and sustainability of these valuable resources. Plant tissue culture addresses these concerns by enabling the mass propagation of medicinal plants. In controlled environments, plant tissues can be multiplied rapidly, providing a continuous and sustainable source of plant material. This not only safeguards wild populations but also ensures a consistent supply of bioactive compounds that form the basis of herbal therapies. One of the most transformative applications of plant tissue culture in medical therapy is the manipulation of secondary metabolite production. Medicinal plants synthesize a diverse array of bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, with therapeutic properties. Through precise control of growth conditions and genetic modification, plant tissue culture can enhance the yield of these compounds, thereby increasing the potency and efficacy of herbal medicines. This precision is instrumental in the pharmaceutical industry, where the isolation and production of specific bioactive compounds can lead to the development of novel drugs and therapies. In addition to bolstering yields, plant tissue culture offers the advantage of disease-free plant material. By maintaining cultures in sterile conditions, the risk of contaminants and pathogens is mitigated, enhancing the safety and quality of herbal medicines. These cultures can also serve as a continuous source of plant-derived compounds, enabling a consistent supply of bioactive substances. Furthermore, plant tissue culture is a crucial tool for research and development in the field of medicinal plants. It provides a controlled platform for studying plant biology, optimizing growth conditions, and investigating the mechanisms underlying secondary metabolite production. These insights contribute to the development of improved plant varieties with enhanced medicinal properties, addressing the evolving needs of medical therapy. While the potential of plant tissue culture in medical therapy is vast, it is essential to underscore the importance of rigorous research, quality control, and safety assessments. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of products derived from tissue-cultured plants is paramount to their acceptance and use in medical applications. Compliance with regulatory standards and collaboration with healthcare professionals are integral to upholding the quality and safety of medicinal products.
Carbon Farming: A Promising Approach to Climate Mitigation and Adaptation in India
Authors: Jambamma  , Kanaka, S.  , Yogameenakshi, P.  , Agila, R.  , Sridhar, P.
Published: December 2023

This article addresses India's role in the reduction of GHG emissions, the impact of renewable energy and the application of solar energy. In response to the climatic challenges, India is meticulously stepping towards offsetting or the onset of carbon farming such as organic cultivation and solar energy interventions. Offset carbon farming area of 5. 387 Mha organic farming could sequester carbon annually of 6.567 mt, simultaneously; it has the advantage of reducing synthetic nitrogen fertilizer application doses ranging from a minimum of 0.27 mt and a maximum of 1.08 mt per hectare. Furthermore, solar energy can indirectly be used as SWH suitable for average family households contributing carbon credits of 771 kg-824 kg in addition to saving an annual electricity burden of around 1365 kWh to 1459 kWh and directly utilized for solar PV electricity generation of 1 MW will offset approximately 730 tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to 33, 183 carbon-absorbing trees (22 kg of CO2 absorbed/ tree/year). Carbon farming has challenges encompassing economic, technological, policy, and knowledge-based barriers that require innovative solutions and concerted stakeholder efforts.
Impact of traditional versus nontraditional initiation dosing schedule of paliperidone palmitate on 30-day readmission and safety
Authors: Kim Erika , Williams Andrew , Chang Justin , Butala Niyati , Firek Matthew
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Paliperidone palmitate (PP), a second-generation long-acting injectable antipsychotic, requires 2 injections upon initiation. Due to the fast-paced nature of the inpatient setting, the second dose may be administered earlier than recommended by labeled use despite the lack of evidence that evaluates this practice.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review that investigated the outcomes associated with the timing of the second PP initiation dose with the aim of comparing patients who received the second PP dose fewer than 3 days after the first injection with those who received it between 3 and 11 days after the first injection. The primary outcomes included 30-day psychiatric readmission, index hospitalization length of stay, and time until the next psychiatric hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included 6-month readmission and the percentage of patients who experienced an adverse event after the second injection.

Results

No statistically significant differences were observed between groups for 30-day readmission. There was a statistically significant shortened index length of hospitalization (median, 2 vs 4 days; P < 0.001) and a non-statistically significant trend for time until the next psychiatric hospitalization (median, 25 vs 47 days) when comparing those who received the nontraditional loading regimen to those who received the traditional labeled loading regimen. No differences were observed in the secondary outcomes or safety/tolerability.

Discussion

The results of the study indicate that there are no significant differences in readmission rates and adverse drug reactions in those who received the second PP dose earlier than recommended per labeled use. Larger, controlled studies are needed to further investigate clinical and safety outcomes.
Diagnoses, outcomes and nursing interventions applied to patients undergoing cardiovascular rehabilitation / Diagnósticos, resultados e intervenções de enfermagem aplicados ao paciente em reabilitação cardiovascular
Authors: Farias Maria Sinara , Silva Lúcia de Fátima da
Published: December 2023

Objetivo: descrever os diagnósticos, resultados e intervenções de Enfermagem à pessoas em reabilitação Cardiovascular, fundamentados em taxonomias de Enfermagem e na Teoria de Médio Alcance para Enfermagem em Reabilitação Cardiovascular. Método: estudo exploratório e descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa com 6 pacientes em reabilitação cardiovascular. Utilizou-se taxonomia International Nursing Diagnoses, a Nursing Outcomes Classification, as recomendações da Nursing Interventions Classification, e de forma basilar, a Teoria de Médio Alcance para Enfermagem em Reabilitação Cardiovascular. Resultados:  os títulos de diagnósticos de enfermagem mais frequentes entre os identificados, foram: Ansiedade (38,4%), Padrão de sono perturbado (15,3%), Conforto prejudicado (15,3%), Diminuição do envolvimento de atividades diversivas (15,3%), Conflito de papel parental (15,3%). As afirmativas diagnósticas possibilitaram a estruturação de 17 resultados esperados e 21 intervenções de enfermagem. Considerações finais: o processo de Reabilitação Cardiovascular vivido envolve alterações físicas, sociais, culturais e psicológicas, requerendo estratégias de Enfermagem efetivas voltadas para a pessoa e para os familiares.
Preclinical evaluation of the gorilla‐derived HAdV‐B AdV‐lumc007 oncolytic adenovirus ‘GoraVir’ for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bots Selas T. F. , Harryvan Tom J. , Groeneveldt Christianne , Kinderman Priscilla , Kemp Vera , van Montfoort Nadine , Hoeben Rob C.
Published: December 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy which shows unparalleled therapeutic resistance due to its genetic and cellular heterogeneity, dense stromal tissue, and immune‐suppressive tumour microenvironment. Oncolytic virotherapy has emerged as a new treatment modality which uses tumour‐specific viruses to eliminate cancerous cells. Non‐human primate adenoviruses of the human adenovirus B (HAdV‐B) species have demonstrated considerable lytic potential in human cancer cells as well as limited preexisting neutralizing immunity in humans. Previously, we have generated a new oncolytic derivative of the gorilla‐derived HAdV‐B AdV‐lumc007 named ‘GoraVir’. Here, we show that GoraVir displays oncolytic efficacy in pancreatic cancer cells and pancreatic‐cancer‐associated fibroblasts. Moreover, it retains its lytic potential in monoculture and co‐culture spheroids. In addition, we established the ubiquitously expressed complement receptor CD46 as the main entry receptor for GoraVir. Finally, a single intratumoural dose of GoraVir was shown to delay tumour growth in a BxPC‐3 xenograft model at 10 days post‐treatment. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the new gorilla‐derived oncolytic adenovirus is a potent oncolytic vector candidate that targets both pancreatic cancer cells and tumour‐adjacent stroma.
Engineered Human Organoids for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zhu Yujuan , Sun Lingyu , Wu Xiangyi , Gu Zhifeng , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: December 2023

Human organoid models potentially offer a physiologically relevant platform to replace traditional monolayer cultures and animal models. In particular, the rapid development of engineered strategies including microfluidics, hydrogel, 3D printing and others, which have enormous advantages in comparison to conventional methods, is expected to further advance organoid technology. Up to now, many studies have demonstrated the engineered organoid models with complex cell composition, controlled structure, enhanced maturation, reduced heterogeneity, and so on. These engineered organoids are high promising for studies in development, disease, tissue repair, precision medicine and drug screening. In this review, a comprehensive summary of the engineered organoid model systems is provided based on microfluidics, hydrogel, 3D printing and so on. Then, the biomedical applications of these models are highlighted, which have displayed the great power in organoid field. Finally, the key bottlenecks and future development of organoid models are discussed about from an engineering perspective.
Liquid Metal Memory
Authors: Yuan Ruizhi , Cao Yingjie , Zhu Xiyu , Shan Xiaohui , Wang Bo , Wang Hongzhang , Chen Sen , Liu Jing
Published: December 2023

Storage systems are vital components of electronic devices, while significant challenges persist in achieving flexible memory due to the limitations of existing storage methodologies. Inspired by the polarization and depolarization mechanisms in the human brain, here a novel class of storage principles is proposed and achieve a fully flexible memory through introducing the oxidation and deoxidation behaviors of liquid metals. Specifically, reversible electrochemical oxidation is utilized to modulate the overall conductivity of the target liquid metals, creating a substantial 11‐order resistance difference for binary data storage. To obtain the best storage performance, systematic optimizations of multiple parameters are conducted. Conceptual experiments demonstrate the memory's stability under extreme deformations (100% stretching, 180° bending, 360° twisting). Further tests reveal that the memory performs better when its unit size gets smaller, warranting superior integrability. Finally, a complete storage system achieves remarkable performance metrics, including rapid storage speed (>33 Hz), long data retention capacity (>43200 s), and stable repeatable operation (>3500 cycles). This groundbreaking method not only overcomes the inherent rigidity limitations of existing electronic storage units but also opens new possibilities for innovating neuromorphic devices, offering fundamental and practical avenues for future applications in soft robotics, wearable electronics, and bio‐inspired artificial intelligence systems.
Integrating Chemocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering for Coproduction of Bioplastic Precursors Butanediol and Succinic Acid from Xylose
Authors: Sutiono Samuel , Melse Okke , Döring Manuel , Lommes Petra , Sieber Volker
Published: December 2023

Polybutylene succinate (PBS) is one of the most important biobased plastics, based on the amount produced. Owing to its high melting point and resemblance to petroleum‐based plastics (i. e. PP), PBS becomes one of the emerging bioplastics with an array of applications. PBS is manufactured by polymerization of 1,4‐butanediol and succinic acid. Thus, it is of great importance to ensure the use of renewable resources to produce the PBS precursors. As the second most abundant carbohydrate monomer on Earth, D‐xylose will be a suitable candidate for this purpose. In this work, we combined protein engineering with chemical oxidation by gold catalyst to enable transformation of D‐xylose to 1,4‐butanediol and succinic acid simultaneously. In silico docking studies and semi rational design were employed to create variants of the key enzyme, branched chain α‐keto acid decarboxylase (KdcA) with higher affinity for the intermediates in the production of 1,4‐butanediol and succinic acid. Direct enzymatic biotransformation would result in a production of both monomers with 3:1 ratio, thus not readily suitable for a direct polymerization to PBS. By developing a one‐pot multi‐step chemo‐enzymatic approach with a gold catalyst to perform the first oxidation step, we could achieve a final product ratio of 1:1. Application of an engineered KdcA variant allowed us to achieve >98% yield after four hours transformation. In contrast, after 24 h transformation, >10% intermediate was still observed when the original variant was used. We anticipate this new approach could serve as an alternative route for biotechnological productions of PBS and its precursors.
Tandem Ring‐Opening/Double Ring‐Closing Synthesis of 1,2,4‐Triazolo[1,5‐a]pyridines from Chromone‐Containing Acrylonitriles
Authors: Chernov Nikita M. , Kustin Roman P. , Pypa Yulia V. , Anisimov Sergej O. , Spiridonova Dar'ya V. , Shutov Roman V. , Yakovlev Igor P.
Published: December 2023

We studied a reaction of chromone‐containing acrylonitriles and cyanoacrylates with acid hydrazides. This reaction turned out to be a method for the synthesis of salicyloyl‐substituted 1,2,4‐triazolo[1,5‐a]pyridines. The synthesis developed is a tandem ring‐opening/double ring‐closing process. This synthetic approach is characterized by low toxic solvents (ethanol, butanol) and mediator (Et3N), 37–84% yields, non‐chromatographic isolation of products, and substrate tolerance (59 examples).
Electrochemical Selenylation‐Induced Annulation of Alkenyl Ureas to Access Cyclic Isoureas
Authors: Li Hongjun , Tang Dong , Zhou Pengjuan , Wan Yaya , Jiang Rui , Yang Jinhui
Published: December 2023

A direct electrosynthesis of cyclic isoureas from N‐allyl ureas and diselenides has been described. This protocol proceeds without any additional catalyst and oxidant, at room temperature under air, providing the desired products in 71–91% yield. In addition, the synthesis of cyclic isoureas containing five to seven‐membered rings has also been achieved by the employment of this strategy. On the basis of the mechanism experiments and previous research works, a probable mechanism is proposed.
Mechanistic Insights into Electrodeposition in Seawater at Variable Electrochemical Potentials
Authors: Devi Nishu , Wagner Amy , Lopez Jeffrey , Guerini Alexandre , Zampini Davide , Rotta Loria Alessandro F.
Published: December 2023

The classical approach to manufacturing cement and concrete involves considerable and energy‐intensive exploitation of minerals from the environment, calling for alternative and sustainable methods to obtain such resources. Electrodeposition resulting from local pH changes near an oxygen or water reduction electrode can be used to grow valuable minerals in seawater for use in the cement and concrete industries, with the potential to use clean electricity without relying on the mining of resources. Limited knowledge is available about the electrochemical reaction networks that yield mineral precipitates via electrodeposition in seawater, hindering a complete assessment of the promise of such an approach to serving the construction industry. This work presents an investigation of the electrodeposition in seawater as a function of the applied potential. The work identifies multiple electrochemical potential regimes that yield distinct polymorphs, quantities, and production rates of calcium and magnesium‐based minerals due to the varying rates of oxygen reduction and water‐splitting reactions. The quality of the produced minerals is comparable to that of traditionally mined aggregates in terms of morphology and composition, supporting that seawater represents a vast source of raw materials for use in the construction industry upon an enhancement in the efficiency of hydroxide‐producing reactions and the reactor design.
Copper–Zinc‐Doped Bilayer Bioactive Glasses Loaded Hydrogel with Spatiotemporal Immunomodulation Supports MRSA‐Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Huo Shicheng , Liu Shu , Liu Qianqian , Xie En , Miao Licai , Meng Xiangyu , Xu Zihao , Zhou Chun , Liu Xuesong , Xu Guohua
Published: December 2023

Developing biomaterials with antimicrobial and wound‐healing activities for the treatment of wound infections remains challenging. Macrophages play non‐negligible roles in healing infection‐related wounds. In this study, a new sequential immunomodulatory approach is proposed to promote effective and rapid wound healing using a novel hybrid hydrogel dressing based on the immune characteristics of bacteria‐associated wounds. The hydrogel dressing substrate is derived from a porcine dermal extracellular matrix (PADM) and loaded with a new class of bioactive glass nanoparticles (BGns) doped with copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) ions (Cu–Zn BGns). This hybrid hydrogel demonstrates a controlled release of Cu2+ and Zn2+ and sequentially regulates the phenotypic transition of macrophages from M1 to M2 by alternately activating nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain (NOD) and inhibiting mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathways. Additionally, its dual‐temporal bidirectional immunomodulatory function facilitates enhanced antibacterial activity and wound healing. Hence, this novel hydrogel is capable of safely and efficiently accelerating wound healing during infections. As such, the design strategy provides a new direction for exploring novel immunomodulatory biomaterials to address current clinical challenges related to the treatment of wound infections.
Embedding Atomically Dispersed Manganese/Gadolinium Dual Sites in Oxygen Vacancy‐Enriched Biodegradable Bimetallic Silicate Nanoplatform for Potentiating Catalytic Therapy
Authors: Ye Jin , Zhang Kefen , Yang Xing , Liu Mengting , Cui Yujie , Li Yunlong , Li Chunsheng , Liu Shuang , Lu Yong , Zhang Zhiyong , Niu Na , Chen Ligang , Fu Yujie , Xu Jiating
Published: December 2023

Due to their atomically dispersed active centers, single‐atom nanozymes (SAzymes) have unparalleled advantages in cancer catalytic therapy. Here, loaded with chlorin e6 (Ce6), a hydrothermally mass‐produced bimetallic silicate‐based nanoplatforms with atomically dispersed manganese/gadolinium (Mn/Gd) dual sites and oxygen vacancies (OVs) (PMnSAGMSNs‐V@Ce6) is constructed for tumor glutathione (GSH)‐triggered chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and O2‐alleviated photodynamic therapy. The band gaps of silica are significantly reduced from 2.78 to 1.88 eV by doping with metal ions, which enables it to be excited by a 650 nm laser to produce electron‐hole pairs, thereby facilitating the generation of reactive oxygen species. The Gd sites can modulate the local electrons of the atom‐catalyzed Mn sites, which contribute to the generation of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals (•OH). Tumor GSH‐triggered Mn2+ release can convert endogenous H2O2 to •OH and realize GSH‐depletion‐enhanced CDT. Significantly, the hydrothermally generated OVs can not only capture Mn and Gd atoms to form atomic sites but also can elongate and weaken the O‐O bonds of H2O2, thereby improving the efficacy of Fenton reactions. The degraded Mn2+/Gd3+ ions can be used as tumor‐specific magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents. All the experimental results demonstrate the great potential of PMnSAGMSNs‐V@Ce6 as cancer theranostic agent.
Air‐Stable Atomically Encapsulated Crystalline‐Crystalline Phase Transitions in In2Se3
Authors: Ignacio Nicholas D , Fatheema Jameela , Jeon Yu‐Rim , Akinwande Deji
Published: December 2023

The layered semiconductor In2Se3 has a low temperature crystalline–crystalline (α → β) phase transformation with distinct electrical properties that make it a promising candidate for phase change memory. Here, using scanning tunneling microscopy, correlative in situ micro‐Raman, and electrical measurements, it is shown that the β phase can persist in bulk crystals at room temperature in non‐oxidative environments. Of particular note, the stability of β phase crystals in ambient conditions under encapsulation of graphene and similar passivation layers, is reported for the first time. The strategy of encapsulation to ensure the persistence of β phase overlaps with efforts to passivate switching materials. It is further demonstrated that degradation from the elevated temperatures required for the phase change is slowed through examination of Raman signatures. These results demonstrate an alternative method of phase manipulation with a new stabilization of β‐In2Se3 in ambient conditions potentially extendable to other polymorphic materials, and the importance of passivation in In2Se3 memory devices.
Modelling the carbon balance in bryophytes and lichens: Presentation of PoiCarb 1.0, a new model for explaining distribution patterns and predicting climate‐change effects
Authors: Nikolić Nada , Zotz Gerhard , Bader Maaike Y.
Published: December 2023

Premise

Bryophytes and lichens have important functional roles in many ecosystems. Insight into their CO2‐exchange responses to climatic conditions is essential for understanding current and predicting future productivity and biomass patterns, but responses are hard to quantify at time scales beyond instantaneous measurements. We present PoiCarb 1.0, a model to study how CO2‐exchange rates of these poikilohydric organisms change through time as a function of weather conditions.

Methods

PoiCarb simulates diel fluctuations of CO2 exchange and estimates long‐term carbon balances, identifying optimal and limiting climatic patterns. Modelled processes were net photosynthesis, dark respiration, evaporation and water uptake. Measured CO2‐exchange responses to light, temperature, atmospheric CO2 concentration, and thallus water content (calculated in a separate module) were used to parameterize the model's carbon module. We validated the model by comparing modelled diel courses of net CO2 exchange to such courses from field measurements on the tropical lichen Crocodia aurata. To demonstrate the model's usefulness, we simulated potential climate‐change effects.

Results

Diel patterns were reproduced well, and the modelled and observed diel carbon balances were strongly positively correlated. Simulated warming effects via changes in metabolic rates were consistently negative, while effects via faster drying were variable, depending on the timing of hydration.

Conclusions

Reproducing weather‐dependent variation in diel carbon balances is a clear improvement compared to simply extrapolating short‐term measurements or potential photosynthetic rates. Apart from predicting climate‐change effects, future uses of PoiCarb include testing hypotheses about distribution patterns of poikilohydric organisms and guiding conservation strategies for species.
Unlocking the power of nature: Safeguarding refrigerated camel meat with herb‐extracted (Anethum graveolens leaves) zinc nanoparticles
Authors: Gharehyakheh Sepideh
Published: December 2023

The utilization of zinc nanoparticles as a bacterial protective layer in the food industry is highly favored. Additionally, the presence of antioxidant and polyphenol compounds in certain herbs can enhance this protective effect. In this study, zinc nanoparticles were synthesized using a green method involving the extract of Anethum graveolens leaves. To assess their antibacterial protection on camel meat against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes, three protective materials (A. graveolens L., ZnNPs, and Zn [NO3]2) were evaluated at concentrations ranging from 0% to 1% over a period of 20 days. The results demonstrated that ZnNPs (1%) exhibited the best performance, leading to a reduction in the microbial population (Log CFU g−1) of E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes from 5 to 2.4 and 2.6, respectively. A. graveolens L. extract was the second most effective protective agent. However, it was observed that higher concentrations of all tested substances resulted in improved protection. For instance, the reduction in E. coli O157:H7 count decreased from 5 to 3.25 (Log CFU g−1) with A. graveolens L. (1%), while for L. monocytogenes, it decreased from 5 to 3.5 (Log CFU g−1). Moreover, parameters such as peroxide value (PV), pH, protein carbonyl content, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were effectively controlled, preventing rapid increases. The protective effect of the meat led to lower values of these parameters compared with the control sample. Cytotoxicity assessments confirmed the non‐toxic nature of both A. graveolens L. and ZnNPs. Overall, the findings of this study highlight the potential of combining chemical methods with natural materials to significantly enhance the effectiveness of ZnNPs, ensuring the health and quality of food products.
Hydroboration of aldehydes with pinacolborane catalyzed by bulky 2‐iminopyrrolyl copper(I) triphenylphosphine complexes
Authors: Cruz Tiago F. C. , Figueira Cláudia A. , Gomes Pedro T.
Published: December 2023

Eight new copper(I) triphenylphosphine complexes of bulky 5‐substituted‐2‐iminopyrrolyl ligands [Cu{κ2N,N′‐5‐R‐NC4H2–2‐C(H) = N(2,6‐iPr2C6H3)}(PPh3)n] (for n = 2: R = 2,6‐Me2C6H3 (1), 3,5‐(CF3)2C6H3 (2); for n = 1: R = 2,4,6‐iPr3C6H2 (3), CPh3 (4), 2,6‐(OMe)2C6H3 (5), 2,4,6‐Ph3C6H2 (6), 2,6‐Me2C6H3 (7), 3,5‐(CF3)2C6H3 (8)) are presently reported. The complexes were prepared in good yields by: (1) the reaction of the previously reported binuclear complexes [Cu{κN,κN'‐5‐R‐NC4H2‐2‐C(H) = N(2,6‐iPr2C6H3)}]2 (D1–D6) with triphenylphosphine (PPh3); (2) the reaction of the respective 5‐R‐2‐iminopyrrolyl potassium salts (KL1–KL3 and KL5) and [Cu(NCMe)2(PPh3)2]BF4; or (3) the abstraction of one PPh3 ligand present in complexes 1 and 2 with one equivalent of tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (only for complexes 7 and 8, respectively). All complexes were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and, in selected cases, by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The single crystal X‐ray diffraction structures of 1, 3, and 5–7 displayed tetrahedral (for 1) and trigonal planar (for 3 and 5–7) coordination geometries. All complexes catalyzed the 1,4‐hydroboration of some α,β‐unsaturated (E)‐2‐enals with pinacolborane (HBPin), with 1,4:1,2‐addition selectivities as high as 29:1, the maximum turnover frequencies being equal to 9.9 min−1, and the 1,4‐hydroboration selectivity being favored by increasing steric protection of the 5‐substituted‐2‐iminopyrrolyl scaffold. Additionally, these complexes also catalyzed the hydroboration of an array of other aldehydes, reaching TOFs as high as 9.9 min−1. A combination of control experiments suggests that the catalyst system operates via a non‐classical copper‐hydride outer sphere route.
A 600–700‐year‐old basalt adze production site from Mount Bates, Norfolk Island
Authors: Jorgensen Nicola , Way Amy Mosig , Flexner James
Published: December 2023

While pre‐European settlement of Norfolk Island has been recognised for many decades, particularly the larger settlement site at Emily Bay, until this point there has been limited understanding, and very little systematic recording of evidence for inland settlement. This report presents the location, chronology, stratigraphy and artefact assemblage of a previously undocumented lithic production site from Mount Bates in the north‐western uplands of Norfolk Island. The site dates to approximately 600–700 calBP. Excavations recovered over 1200 basalt artefacts, representing various stages in the adze production process. Sites such as this contribute to a better understanding of the range of activities carried out by Polynesian settlers of Norfolk Island, the stone tool economies of marginal Polynesia and the importance of local stone sources for understanding Oceanic settlement.
Tetrahydropalmatine from medicinal plants activates human glucokinase to regulate glucose homeostasis
Authors: Singh Sweta , Ghosh Payel , Sharma Shilpy , Bhargava Shobha , Kumar Ameeta Ravi
Published: December 2023

Many synthetic glucokinase activators (GKAs), modulating glucokinase (GK), an important therapeutic target in diabetes have failed to clear clinical trials. In this study, an in silico structural similarity search with differing scaffolds of reference GKAs have been used to identify derivatives from natural product databases. Ten molecules with good binding score and similar interactions to that in the co‐crystallized GK as well good activation against recombinant human GK experimentally were identified. Tetrahydropalmatine, an alkaloid present in formulations and drugs from medicinal plants, has not been explored as an antidiabetic agent and no information regarding its mechanism of action or GK activation exists. Tetrahydropalmatine activates GK with EC50 value of 71.7 ± 17.9 μM while lowering the S0.5 (7.1 mM) and increasing Vmax (9.22 μM/min) as compared to control without activator (S0.5 = 10.37 mM; Vmax = 4.8 μM/min). Kinetic data (α and β values) suggests it to act as mixed, nonessential type activator. Using microscale thermophoresis, Kd values of 3.8 μM suggests a good affinity for GK. In HepG2 cell line, the compound potentiated the uptake of glucose and maintained glucose homeostasis by increasing the expression of GK, glycogen synthase, and insulin receptor genes and lowering the expression of glucokinase regulatory protein (GKRP) and glucagon. Tetrahydropalmatine at low concentrations could elicit a good response by reducing expression of GKRP, increasing expression of GK while also activating it. Thus, it could be used alone or in combination as therapeutic drug as it could effectively modulate GK and alter glucose homeostasis.
Measuring environmental and cost benefits of riparian buffers for drinking water production in a Midwest watershed
Authors: Wu May , Khalid Yusra , Mitchell Jeff , Ha Miae
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on the economic value and carbon benefits of riparian buffers in urban drinking water production. The impact of riparian buffers on the waterworks operation in the Raccoon River watershed was quantified using the following metrics: nitrate concentration, days of nitrate removal operation, material and energy cost (based on 17 years of historical records with a watershed model), regression, and cost analysis. The findings indicate that the presence of riparian buffers in agricultural land can substantially decrease nitrate concentration in the water intake of the waterworks during the crop‐growing season: 19% in April, 9% in May, and 11% in June. These reductions mean less nitrate treatment of the plant intake flow: 23% in April, 12% in May, and 3% in June. These changes lead to significant resource savings: 425 metric tons of sodium chloride (NaCl), 147 810 kWh of electricity, 253 metric tons of powdered activated carbon, and 20.8 million liters of fresh water. The buffers would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 86.9 metric tons (CO2 equivalent) in 17 years. The total cost saving was estimated at $327 326, with the highest potential savings in May ($215 100), followed by April ($65 465), and June ($46 761). When factoring in buffer installation, cropland loss, nitrate removal, and cost associated with buffer harvest for biofuel in an established biomass market, the benefit to the entire watershed community would be $2.63 million annually. The results underscore the significant cost benefits and environmental benefits associated with cropland riparian buffers in a watershed community. The approach employed in this study holds promise for assessing riparian buffer benefits in other watersheds, contributes to an understanding of sustainable water management practices, and provides a basis for decision making in a wide range of agricultural regions.
R‐Betone mit basaltfaserverstärkter Kunststoffbewehrung: Untersuchungen zum Verbund‐ und Zugtragverhalten
Authors: Glomb Daniel , Kustermann Andrea , Dauberschmidt Christoph , Wolf Benjamin , Pichlmayr Raphael
Published: December 2023

Der Einsatz von R‐Betonen unterliegt in Deutschland Einschränkungen, die die Anwendung bei tausalzhaltigen Umgebungsbedingungen der Expositionsklassen XD3 und XS3 unterbinden. Um diese normativen Hürden zu überwinden, forscht die Hochschule München an dem Einsatz alternativer Bewehrungsmaterialien, bei denen die Bewehrungskorrosion ausgelöst durch Chloride gänzlich an Relevanz verliert. Dabei werden nichtrostende Faserverbundstäbe aus dem Vulkangestein Basalt, gebunden mit Harz, verwendet, die u. a. ökologische Vorteile gegenüber Verstärkungen aus Edelstahl, Glasfaser oder Carbon aufweisen. Die hier vorgestellten Untersuchungen zum Verbund‐ und Zugtragverhalten von basaltfaserverstärktem Kunststoff sind im Zuge eines aktuellen Forschungsvorhabens entstanden, das den Einsatz dieser Bewehrungsart in Brückenkappen aus R‐Beton betrachtet. Neben betontechnologischen Voruntersuchungen zum Einsatz von bis zu 100 % rezyklierter Gesteinskörnungen wurden Verbundkörper aus Recyclingbeton und Basaltfaserverbundkunststoff geprüft, um eine Aussage über das Tragverhalten unter statischer und zyklischer Belastung zu ermöglichen.
Synthesis and study of luminescence properties of a deep red–emitting phosphor K2LiAlF6:Mn4+ for plant cultivation
Authors: Bawanthade Bharti P. , Mistry Ashok A. , Ugemuge Nilesh S. , Dhoble Sanjay J.
Published: December 2023

Light is the most important component in plant growth and development. This study synthesised a novel Mn4+‐doped K2LiAlF6 red‐emitting phosphor using the coprecipitation method. We observed that on addition of dopant Mn4+ ions to the host K2LiAlF6, its phase changed from rhombohedral to cubic due to the change in the lattice position of the atoms. When the atoms are excited at 468 nm, the K2LiAlF6:Mn4+ phosphor exhibited a red emission band ranging from 630 to 700 nm, centred at 638 nm, which matched well with the absorption spectra of phytochrome PR. The critical quenching content of Mn4+ ions was ~3 mol%. The critical distance between Mn4+ ions was determined to be 19.724 Å, and non‐radiative energy transfer among the nearest‐neighbour Mn4+ ions was the mechanism used for the concentration quenching effect. The Commission International de l'Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity coordinates of the K2LiAlF6:0.03 Mn4+ sample were (x = 0.7162, y = 0.2837). The luminescence mean decay time was calculated to be 8.29 ms. These results demonstrated the promising prospect of K2LiAlF6:Mn4+ as a red‐emitting phosphor for application in red light‐emitting diodes for plant cultivation.
Immobilization of Cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase onto three dimensional‐ hydrophobic and two dimensional‐ hydrophilic supports: A comparative study
Authors: Ogunbadejo Babatunde A. , Aljahoushi Khawla A. , Alzamly Ahmed , Greish Yaser E. , Al‐Zuhair Sulaiman
Published: December 2023

Cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase) degrades starch into cyclodextrin via enzymatic activity. In this study, we immobilize CGTase from Thermoanaerobacter sp. on two supports, namely graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) consisting of short stacks of graphene nanoparticles and a calcium‐based two‐dimensional metal organic framework (Ca‐TMA). The uptakes of CGTase on GNP and Ca‐TMA reached 40 and 21 mg g−1 respectively, but immobilized CGTase on Ca‐TMA showed a higher specific activity (38 U mg−1) than that on GNP (28 U mg−1). Analysis of secondary structures of CGTase, shows that immobilization reduces the proportion of β‐sheets in CGTase from 56% in the free to 49% and 51.3% for GNP and Ca‐TMA respectively, α‐helix from 38.5% to 18.1 and 37.5%, but led to increased β‐turns from 5.5 to 40% and 11.2% for GNP and Ca‐TMA, respectively. Lower levels of conformational changes were observed over the more hydrophilic Ca‐TMA compared to hydrophobic GNP, resulting in its better activity. Increased β‐turns were found to correlate with lower β‐CD production, while more β‐sheets and α‐helix favored more β‐CD. Reusability studies revealed that GNP retains up to 74% of initial CGTase activity, while Ca‐TMA dropped to 33% after eight consecutive uses. The results obtained in this work provide insight on the effect of support's surface properties on CGTase performance and can assist in developing robust CGTase‐based biocatalysts for industrial application.
Metabolic regulatory network kinetic modeling with multiple isotopic tracers for iPSCs
Authors: Wang Keqi , Xie Wei , Harcum Sarah W.
Published: December 2023

The rapidly expanding market for regenerative medicines and cell therapies highlights the need to advance the understanding of cellular metabolisms and improve the prediction of cultivation production process for human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In this paper, a metabolic kinetic model was developed to characterize the underlying mechanisms of iPSC culture process, which can predict cell response to environmental perturbation and support process control. This model focuses on the central carbon metabolic network, including glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and amino acid metabolism, which plays a crucial role to support iPSC proliferation. Heterogeneous measures of extracellular metabolites and multiple isotopic tracers collected under multiple conditions were used to learn metabolic regulatory mechanisms. Systematic cross‐validation confirmed the model's performance in terms of providing reliable predictions on cellular metabolism and culture process dynamics under various culture conditions. Thus, the developed mechanistic kinetic model can support process control strategies to strategically select optimal cell culture conditions at different times, ensure cell product functionality, and facilitate large‐scale manufacturing of regenerative medicines and cell therapies.
In vivo pharmacokinetic study of vanillic acid in monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension rats and its tissue distribution
Authors: A Xuxia , Huayu Meiduo , Li Zhanqiang , Su Shanshan
Published: December 2023

Vanillic acid (VA) is a bioactive chemical present in many food plants and fruits. It has been shown to have a protective effect on pulmonary tissues in monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension, as well as an intervention effect on right ventricular remodeling. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a reliable method for assessing VA utilizing ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry using caffeic acid as the internal standard. Across diverse substrates, the correlation coefficient for VA ranged from 0.9992 to 0.9995. The method’s intraday precision was <13.53% (RSD), and its accuracy (RE) ranged from −9.88 to 4.35%. The precision across days was <13.69% (RSD), while the accuracy ranged from 2.16 to 10.94% (RE). The extraction recoveries ranged from 80.30 to 118.81%, with a lower limit of quantification of 20 ng/mL. The approach was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution studies of VA in rat plasma after gavage administration, and the pharmacokinetic parameters of VA in the plasma of the monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension were significantly different from those of the control group.
Talk or walk? The board of directors and firm environmental strategies
Authors: Taglialatela Jonathan , Miroshnychenko Ivan , Barontini Roberto , Testa Francesco
Published: December 2023

Drawing on legitimacy theory, we study the nexus between green communication and the implementation of green practices, and in particular, we focus on the determinants of their discrepancy. Based on a large sample of firms in 58 countries over a 19‐year period, we employ an index to measure the discrepancy between green operations and the communicated practices, mapped to each firm's board structure. The results provide the first empirical evidence that larger, more gender‐diverse, and more independent boards are associated with a preponderance of green communication over implementation. We interpret this imbalance as a strategy to participate in the public discourse to gain moral legitimacy. Conversely, CEO duality is associated with a discrepancy in the opposite direction, with firms focusing more on implementing green practices than talking about them, suggesting that these firms aim mainly at gaining pragmatic legitimacy from their stakeholders.
Gene silencing of Helicobacter pylori through newly designed siRNA convenes the treatment of gastric cancer
Authors: Reza Mahjerin Nasrin , Mahmud Shahin , Ferdous Nadim , Ahammad Ishtiaque , Hossain Mohammad Uzzal , Al Amin Md. , Mohiuddin A. K. M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a gastric pathogen that is responsible for causing chronic inflammation and increasing the risk of gastric cancer development. It is capable of persisting for decades in the harsh gastric environment because of the inability of the host to eradicate the infection. Several treatment strategies have been developed against this bacterium using different antibiotics. But the effectiveness of treating H. pylori has significantly decreased due to widespread antibiotic resistance, including an increased risk of gastric cancer. The small interfering RNAs (siRNA), which is capable of sequence‐specific gene‐silencing can be used as a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of a variety of such malignancies. In the current study, we rationally designed two siRNA molecules to silence the cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA) and vacuolating cytotoxin A (VacA) genes of H. pylori for their significant involvement in developing cancer.

Methods

We selected a common region of all the available transcripts from different countries of CagA and VacA to design the siRNA molecules. The final siRNA candidate was selected based on the results from machine learning algorithms, off‐target similarity, and various thermodynamic properties.

Result

Further, we utilized molecular docking and all atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to assess the binding interactions of the designed siRNAs with the major components of the RNA‐induced silencing complex (RISC) and results revealed the ability of the designed siRNAs to interact with the proteins of RISC complex in comparable to those of the experimentally reported siRNAs.

Conclusion

These designed siRNAs should effectively silence the CagA and VacA genes of H. pylori during siRNA mediated treatment in gastric cancer.
Paget's disease of bone in the patient presented with a bowed leg
Authors: Hajialiloo Mehrzad , Tekantapeh Sepideh Tahsini
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

In dealing with bowed limbs along with increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP), even if the typical changes to the face are not very noticeable at first glance, Paget's disease of the bone (PDB) should be suspected, and the necessary investigations should be carried out to confirm the diagnosis.

Paget's disease of the bone (PDB) is the second most prevalent metabolic bone disorder worldwide with disorganized bone remodeling. Here, a patient is presented with pain and bending of the right leg, whose skull and forehead changes are not noticeable at first glance, but with clinical suspicion and additional diagnostic evaluations, PDB diagnosis is confirmed for the patient.
Metal Organic Frameworks Derived Catalysts for the Upgrading of Platform Chemicals
Authors: Zhao Huaiyuan , Du Weichen , Hou Zhaoyin
Published: December 2023

Biomass plays a significant role in replacing fossil resources, and catalytic transformation of platform chemicals to high‐value chemicals is an effective approach to maximize the utilization of biomass. Among of which, efficient and durable catalysts are the heart for upgrading of these platform chemicals, and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived catalysts have attracted much attentions due to their suitable and versatile physicochemical properties. In this work, we present a short review on the applications of MOFs‐derived catalysts in upgrading of platform chemicals. The design and synthetic strategies of MOFs‐derived catalysts were summarized in detail, and their application in the catalytic upgrading of glycerol, ethanol, furanic compounds, levulinic acid and vanillin were addressed. The final section outlines the potential industrial applications of MOFs‐derived catalysts for upgrading platform chemicals.
Functionalization and Crosslinking of Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets by Multiple Tetrazine Units to Improve the Energy Storage in Supercapacitors
Authors: Bosmi Margarita , Adeniji Ademola , Michel Elise , Brosseau Arnaud , Brasiliense Vitor , Audebert Pierre , Pongilat Remith , Gauthier Magali , Miomandre Fabien
Published: December 2023

A multi‐tetrazine compound tailored for grafting on graphene sheets has been designed and investigated. It is composed of hydrogen substituted tetrazines involved in inverse Diels‐Alder demand cycloaddition reactions for grafting and a central dialkoxytetrazine to confer redox properties to the final material. The successful incorporation of this compound in reduced graphene oxide was demonstrated by elemental analysis, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, AFM, SEM and XRD. Cyclic voltammetry shows the redox activity of the remaining central tetrazine unit in graphene and allows to assess the specific capacity of the material. A significant increase in the specific capacity was found compared to pristine graphene and another tetrazine model compound bearing only one grafting unit. This result was assigned to an increase in the specific area in relation to bridges created between graphene sheets, as evidenced by AFM and XRD. The performance in energy storage were assessed in symmetrical Swagelok cells confirming the high impact of the functionalization on capacitance values.