bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Reactivity to Mental Stress in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Moazzami Kasra , Cheung Brian , Sullivan Samaah , Shah Anish , Almuwaqqat Zakaria , Alkhoder Ayman , Mehta Puja K. , Pearce Brad D. , Shah Amit J. , Martini Afif , Obideen Malik , Nye Jonathon , Bremner J. Douglas , Vaccarino Viola , Quyyumi Arshed A.
Published: October 2023

Importance

The clinical significance of hemodynamic reactivity to mental stress in the population with coronary artery disease (CAD) is unclear.

Objective

To investigate the association between hemodynamic reactivity to mental stress and the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with stable CAD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included individuals with stable CAD from 2 prospective studies from a university-based hospital network: the Mental Stress Ischemia Prognosis Study (MIPS) and the Myocardial Infarction and Mental Stress Study 2 (MIMS2). Participants were enrolled between June 2011 and March 2016 and followed up for a median of 6.0 (IQR, 5.6-6.0) years in MIPS and 4.6 (IQR, 3.8-5.3) years in MIMS2. Data were analyzed from December 1, 2022, to February 15, 2023.

Exposures

The rate-pressure product (RPP) was calculated as the mean systolic blood pressure times the mean heart rate at rest. Rate-pressure product reactivity was calculated as the maximum RPP during a standardized mental stress test minus the RPP at rest.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. The secondary end point additionally included hospitalizations for heart failure.

Results

From the total of 938 individuals from the pooled cohort (mean [SD] age, 60.2 [10.1] years; 611 [65.1%] men), 631 participated in MIPS and 307 in MIMS2. A total of 373 individuals (39.8%) were Black, 519 (55.3%) were White, and 46 (4.9%) were of unknown race or ethnicity. The RPP increased by a mean (SD) of 77.1% (23.1%) during mental stress (mean [SD] absolute change, 5651 [2878]). For every SD decrease in RPP reactivity with mental stress, the adjusted hazard ratios for the primary and secondary end points were 1.30 (95% CI, 1.04-1.72) and 1.30 (95% CI, 1.06-1.56), respectively, in MIPS and 1.41 (95% CI, 1.06-1.97) and 1.21 (95% CI, 1.02-1.60), respectively, in MIMS2. In the pooled sample, when RPP reactivity to mental stress was added to a model including traditional clinical risk characteristics, model discrimination for adverse events improved (increase in C statistic of 5% for the primary end point; P = .009).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of individuals with stable CAD, a blunted cardiovascular reactivity to mental stress was associated with adverse outcomes. Future studies are needed to assess the clinical utility of mental stress reactivity testing in this population.
Shaping Tomorrow's Liver Organoids: A Journey Toward Integrating Bile Ducts
Authors: Rizwan Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Liver tissue engineering has undergone remarkable developments since the late 20th century, transitioning from simple two‐dimensional cultures to sophisticated three‐dimensional organoid models for drug toxicity assessments. Stem cell innovations have enabled the creation of liver organoids for disease modelling and tissue engineering. However, a key limitation is the absence of functional bile ducts in these organoids, crucial for replicating bile‐duct related diseases. Bile, synthesized by hepatocytes, plays a vital role in digesting fats and expelling lipid‐soluble wastes, including drug byproducts. Diseases impeding bile flow are responsible for many liver transplants and can cause severe conditions such as liver cirrhosis, causing over 50,000 annual deaths in the US. Current liver organoids, while bile‐producing, are devoid of bile ducts, limiting their efficacy in mimicking diseases related to bile flow. This article underscores the pressing need to incorporate bile ducts in engineered liver tissues, delves into the challenges faced in this effort, and highlights potential solutions through biomaterial and bioengineering techniques. Such advancements will offer researchers enhanced insights into bile duct disorders and pave the way for exploring innovative therapeutic strategies.
Platelet Membrane‐Enclosed Bioorthogonal Catalysis for Combating Dental Caries
Authors: Karmacharya Mamata , Kumar Sumit , Choi Yoon Jeong , Cho Yoon‐Kyoung
Published: October 2023

Platelets have shown promise as a means to combat bacterial infections, fostering the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. However, several challenges persist, including cargo loading issues, limited efficacy against biofilms, and concerns regarding the impact of payloads on the platelet carriers. Here, human platelet membrane vesicles (h‐PMVs) encapsulating supramolecular metal catalysts (SMCs) as “nanofactories” to convert prodrugs into antimicrobial compounds within close proximity to bacteria are introduced. Having established the feasibility and effectiveness of the SMCs withinh‐PMVs, referred to as the PLT‐reactor, to activate pro‐antibiotic drugs (pro‐ciprofloxacin and pro‐moxifloxacin) using model organisms (Escherichia coliATCC 25922 andStaphylococcus aureusATCC 25923), the investigation is subsequently extended to oral biofilms, with a particular emphasis onStreptococcus mutans3065. This “bind and kill” strategy demonstrates the potent antimicrobial specificity of the PLT‐reactor through localized antibiotic production.h‐PMVs play a pivotal role by enabling precise targeting of pathogenic biofilms on natural teeth while minimizing potential hemolytic effects. The finding indicates that platelet membrane‐cloaked surfaces exhibit robust, multifaceted, and pathogen‐specific binding affinity with excellent biocompatibility, making them a promising alternative to antibody‐based therapies for infectious diseases.
Catalyzing Viologen Electrochromic Reaction with CuOx Nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Liangliang , Fang Huajing , Li Jiaqi , Wu Lingqi , Wang Hong
Published: October 2023

Viologen‐based electrochromic devices have attracted great attention because of their tremendous potential in building energy conservation and low power display. However, the unsatisfactory performance at lower voltage limits their application, while the high driving voltage increases the energy consumption as well as safety risk. Herein, an electrocatalytic strategy is proposed for high‐performance viologen‐based electrochromic devices. Copper oxide (CuOx) nanoparticles are uniformly deposited on the F‐doped Tin Oxide (FTO) glass for enhancing the catalytic activity of Br−/Br3− redox couple, thereby promoting the interfacial charge transfer. The driving voltage can be reduced by ≈30% without sacrificing its high transparency (up to 80%) and the cycling stability can be significantly improved within 200 cycles. Large‐area smart windows and electrochromic displays are fabricated, which can be driven by the 1.5 V dry battery. This work opens up a new path to optimize the electrochromic performance of viologens and also lays the foundation for the application of catalysis in optoelectronic devices.
Closed‐Loop Recyclable Silica‐Based Nanocomposites with Multifunctional Properties and Versatile Processability
Authors: Hou Yi , Zhu Guangda , Catt Samantha O. , Yin Yuhan , Xu Jian , Blasco Eva , Zhao Ning
Published: October 2023

Most plastics originate from limited petroleum reserves and cannot be effectively recycled at the end of their life cycle, making them a significant threat to the environment and human health. Closed‐loop chemical recycling, by depolymerizing plastics into monomers that can be repolymerized, offers a promising solution for recycling otherwise wasted plastics. However, most current chemically recyclable polymers may only be prepared at the gram scale, and their depolymerization typically requires harsh conditions and high energy consumption. Herein, it reports less petroleum‐dependent closed‐loop recyclable silica‐based nanocomposites that can be prepared on a large scale and have a fully reversible polymerization/depolymerization capability at room temperature, based on catalysis of free aminopropyl groups with the assistance of diethylamine or ethylenediamine. The nanocomposites show glass‐like hardness yet plastic‐like light weight and toughness, exhibiting the highest specific mechanical strength superior even to common materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate), glass, and ZrO2 ceramic, as well as demonstrating multifunctionality such as anti‐fouling, low thermal conductivity, and flame retardancy. Meanwhile, these nanocomposites can be easily processed by various plastic‐like scalable manufacturing methods, such as compression molding and 3D printing. These nanocomposites are expected to provide an alternative to petroleum‐based plastics and contribute to a closed‐loop materials economy.
A Cell‐Penetrant Peptide Disrupting the Transcription Factor CP2c Complexes Induces Cancer‐Specific Synthetic Lethality
Authors: Son Seung Han , Kim Min Young , Choi Sungwoo , Kim Ji Sook , Lee Yong Sang , Lee Sangwon , Lee Yeon Ju , Lee Jin Youn , Lee Seol Eui , Lim Young Su , Ha Dae Hyun , Oh Eonju , Won Young‐Bin , Ji Chang‐Jun , Park Mi Ae , Kim Boram , Byun Kyu Tae , Chung Min Sung , Jeong Jaemin , Choi Dongho , Baek Eun Jung , Cho Eung‐Ho , Kim Sang‐Bum , Je A. Reum , Kweon Hee‐Seok , Park Hyun Sook , Park Dongsun , Bae June Sung , Jang Se Jin , Yun Chae‐Ok , Chae Ji Hyung , Lee Jin‐Won , Lee Su‐Jae , Kim Chan Gil , Kang Ho Chul , Uversky Vladimir N. , Kim Chul Geun
Published: October 2023

Despite advances in precision oncology, cancer remains a global public health issue. In this report, proof‐of‐principle evidence is presented that a cell‐penetrable peptide (ACP52C) dissociates transcription factor CP2c complexes and induces apoptosis in most CP2c oncogene‐addicted cancer cells through transcription activity‐independent mechanisms. CP2cs dissociated from complexes directly interact with and degrade YY1, leading to apoptosis via the MDM2‐p53 pathway. The liberated CP2cs also inhibit TDP2, causing intrinsic genome‐wide DNA strand breaks and subsequent catastrophic DNA damage responses. These two mechanisms are independent of cancer driver mutations but are hindered by high MDM2 p60 expression. However, resistance to ACP52C mediated by MDM2 p60 can be sensitized by CASP2 inhibition. Additionally, derivatives of ACP52C conjugated with fatty acid alone or with a CASP2 inhibiting peptide show improved pharmacokinetics and reduced cancer burden, even in ACP52C‐resistant cancers. This study enhances the understanding of ACP52C‐induced cancer‐specific apoptosis induction and supports the use of ACP52C in anticancer drug development.
Barium Oxynitride Electride as Highly Enhanced Promotor for Ruthenium Catalyst in Ammonia Synthesis: Comparative Study with Barium Oxide
Authors: Li Jiang , Jiang Yihao , Zhang Zhujun , Tsuji Masatake , Miyazaki Masayoshi , Kitano Masaaki , Hosono Hideo
Published: October 2023

Barium oxide is a conventional promoter for various transition‐metal (TM) catalysts in ammonia synthesis. Ba‐promoted Ru catalysts are widely used for ammonia synthesis under mild reaction conditions. However, the promotion mechanism, including the active factor, remains unclear. In this study, the excellent promotion effect of barium oxynitride is reported, which creates anionic electrons in the lattice, forming an electride (BaOxNy:e−z) with the same rocksalt structure as BaO. The BaOxNy:e−z enhances the ammonia synthesis activity of the supported Ru catalyst by 40–100 fold compared with the BaO promotor. This study reveals that a low‐work‐function electron formed in the BaO lattice plays a pivotal role in the electronic promotion effect in catalytic ammonia synthesis, suggesting that BaOxNy:e−z formed near the surface during the ammonia synthesis reaction is an active species for the promotion effect of conventional BaO.
Proton Intercalation/De‐intercalation Chemistry in Phenazine‐based Anode for Hydronium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Wei Yuan , Han Wenjuan , Tong Yuhao , Song AJing , Zhang Jianhua , Li Hongbao , Li Xifei , Yang Jianping
Published: October 2023

Hydronium‐ion batteries have received significant attention owing to the merits of extraordinary sustainability and excellent rate abilities. However, achieving high‐performance hydronium‐ion batteries remains a challenge due to the inferior properties of anode materials in strong acid electrolyte. Herein, a hydronium‐ion battery is constructed which is based on a diquinoxalino [2,3‐a:2’,3’‐c] phenazine (HATN) anode and a MnO2@graphite felt cathode in a hybrid acidic electrolyte. The fast kinetics of hydronium‐ion insertion/extraction into HATN electrode endows the HATN//MnO2@GF battery with enhanced electrochemical performance. This battery exhibits an excellent rate performance (266 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, 97 mAh g−1 at 50 A g−1), attractive energy density (182.1 Wh kg−1) and power density (31.2 kW kg−1), along with long‐term cycle stability. These results shed light on the development of advanced hydronium‐ion batteries.
Innovations in applications and prospects of non‐isocyanate polyurethane bioplastics
Authors: Mangal Mangal , H. Supriya , Bose Suryasarathi , Banerjee Tamal
Published: October 2023

Currently, conventional plastics are necessary for a variety of aspects of modern daily life, including applications in the fields of healthcare, technology, and construction. However, they could also contain potentially hazardous compounds like isocyanates, whose degradation has a negative impact on both the environment and human health. Therefore, researchers are exploring alternatives to plastic which is sustainable and environmentally friendly without compromising its mechanical and physical features. This review study highlights the production of highly eco‐friendly bioplastic as an efficient alternative to non‐biodegradable conventional plastic. Bioplastics are produced from various renewable biomass sources such as plant debris, fatty acids, and oils. Poly‐addition of di‐isocyanates and polyols is a technique employed over decades to produce polyurethanes (PUs) bioplastics from renewable biomass feedstock. The toxicity of isocyanates is a major concern with the above‐mentioned approach. Novel green synthetic approaches for polyurethanes without using isocyanates have been attracting greater interest in recent years to overcome the toxicity of isocyanate‐containing raw materials. The polyaddition of cyclic carbonates (CCs) and polyfunctional amines appears to be the most promising method to obtain non‐isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs). This method results in the creation of polymeric materials with distinctive and adaptable features with the elimination of harmful compounds. Consequently, non‐isocyanate polyurethanes represent a new class of green polymeric materials. In this review study, we have discussed the possibility of creating novel NIPUs from renewable feedstocks in the context of the growing demand for efficient and ecologically friendly plastic products.
Induced Circular Dichroism Analysis of Thermally Induced Conformational Changes on Protein Binding Sites Under a Crowding Environment
Authors: Ota Chikashi , Konishi Tomoya , Tanaka Shun‐ichi , Takano Kazufumi
Published: October 2023

Protein‐ligand interactions in crowded cellular environments play a crucial role in biological functions. The crowded environment can perturb the overall protein structure and local conformation, thereby influencing the binding pathway of protein‐ligand reactions within the cellular milieu. Therefore, a detailed understanding of the local conformation is crucial for elucidating the intricacies of protein‐ligand interactions in crowded cellular environments. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of induced circular dichroism (ICD) using 8‐anilinonaphthalene‐1‐sulfonic acid (ANS) for local conformational analysis at the binding site in a crowding environment. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) concentration‐dependent measurements were performed to assess the feasibility of ANS‐ICD for analyzing protein interior binding sites. The results showed distinct changes in the ANS‐ICD spectra of BSA solutions, indicating their potential for analyzing the internal conformation of proteins. Moreover, temperature‐dependent measurements were performed in dilute and crowding environments, revealing distinct denaturation pathways of BSA binding sites. Principal component analysis of ANS‐ICD spectral changes revealed lower temperature pre‐denaturation in the crowded solution than that in the diluted solution, suggesting destabilization of binding sites owing to self‐crowding repulsive interactions. The established ANS‐ICD method can provide valuable conformational insights into protein‐ligand interactions in crowded cellular environments.
Tacrolimus Pharmacokinetics is Associated with Gut Microbiota Diversity in Kidney Transplant Patients: Results from a Pilot Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Degraeve Alexandra L. , Bindels Laure B. , Haufroid Vincent , Moudio Serge , Boland Lidvine , Delongie Kevin‐Alexandre , Dewulf Joseph P. , Eddour Djamila Chaib , Mourad Michel , Elens Laure
Published: October 2023

Clinical use of tacrolimus (TAC), an essential immunosuppressant following transplantation, is complexified by its high pharmacokinetic (PK) variability. The gut microbiota gains growing interest but limited investigations have evaluated its contribution to TAC PKs. Here, we explore the associations between the gut microbiota composition and TAC PKs. In this pilot cross‐sectional study (Clinicaltrial.gov NCT04360031), we recruited 93 CYP3A5 non‐expressers stabilized kidney transplant recipients. Gut microbiota composition was characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, TAC PK parameters were computed, and additional demographic and medical covariates were collected. Associations between PK parameters or diabetic status and the gut microbiota composition, as reflected by α‐ and β‐diversity metrics, were evaluated. Patients with higher TAC area under the curve AUC/(dose/kg) had higher bacterial richness, and TAC PK parameters were associated with specific bacterial taxa (e.g., Bilophila) and amplicon sequence variant (ASV; e.g., ASV 1508 and ASV 1982 (Veillonella/unclassified Sporomusaceae); ASV 664 (unclassified Oscillospiraceae)). Building a multiple linear regression model showed that ASV 1508 (co‐abundant with ASV 1982) and ASV 664 explained, respectively, 16.0% and 4.6% of the interindividual variability in TAC AUC/(dose/kg) in CYP3A5 non‐expresser patients, when adjusting for hematocrit and age. Anaerostipes relative abundance was decreased in patients with diabetes. Altogether, this pilot study revealed unprecedented links between the gut microbiota composition and diversity and TAC PKs in stable kidney transplant recipients. It supports the relevance of studying the gut microbiota as an important contributor to TAC PK variability. Elucidating the causal relationship will offer new perspectives to predict TAC inter‐ and intra‐PK variability.
Forensic validation of a combined analysis of mRNA and miRNA markers for precise tissue origin inferences of five kinds of body fluids by RT‐qPCR
Authors: Chen Xuebing , Xu Hui , Zhu Bofeng
Published: October 2023

Correctly inferring the tissue origin types of forensic‐relevant body fluids left at a crime scene is beneficial for reconstructing a crime scene. However, it is still a challenge to accurately identify different kinds of body fluids at a crime scene. Shorter sequence length and anti‐degradation microRNA (miRNA) can be used to infer the tissue sources of biological fluid traces, but a limited number of miRNAs are tissue specific. The application of messenger RNA (mRNA) has been confirmed by different studies based on its high tissue specificity. According to the differential expression features of mRNA or miRNA in forensically relevant body fluids, this study developed a simultaneously reversed mRNA and miRNA system and then used these two types of RNAs for the determinations of five common kinds of body fluids. Compared with previously reported single kind of mRNA or miRNA assay, the combined mRNA and miRNA system showed good advantages for human body fluid identifications, especially it could be applied in mixed samples. In conclusion, the obtained results indicated that this combined mRNA and miRNA system might provide a scientific and accurate reference for body fluid identifications.
Data‐driven models for predicting remaining useful life of high‐speed shaft bearings in wind turbines using vibration signal analysis and sparrow search algorithm
Authors: Pandit Ravi , Xie Weixun
Published: October 2023

Wind turbine bearings play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of wind turbines. Accurate estimation of the remaining useful life (RUL) of bearings can significantly reduce operating and maintenance costs. In this paper, we propose three advanced data‐driven models to predict the RUL of high‐speed shaft bearings in wind turbines. These models combine the sparrow search algorithm (SSA) with three different regression models, namely support vector machine, random forest (RF) regression and Gaussian process regression. The models are based on features extracted from the vibration signal analysis, and the features are selected based on their monotonicity to evaluate bearing degradation. To optimize the performance of the regression models, all model parameters are tuned using the SSA algorithm. The proposed models are validated using vibration data collected from a real 2 MW commercial wind turbine. Our results demonstrate that the proposed models are effective in predicting the RUL of wind turbine bearings, and the SSA algorithm improves the accuracy of the predictions.
Inundation and flow properties of a runoff‐generated debris flow following successive high‐severity wildfires in northern Arizona, USA
Authors: Gorr Alexander N. , McGuire Luke A. , Youberg Ann M. , Beers Rebecca , Liu Tao
Published: October 2023

Burned slopes are susceptible to runoff‐generated debris flows in the years following wildfire due to reductions in vegetation cover and soil infiltration capacity. Debris flows can pose serious threats to downstream communities, so quantifying variations in flow properties along debris‐flow runout paths is needed to improve both conceptual and quantitative models of debris‐flow behaviour to help anticipate and mitigate the risk associated with these events. Changes in flow properties along the runout paths of the runoff‐generated debris flows that follow fire may be particularly dramatic, since they initiate when a water‐dominated flow rapidly entrains sediment and later transition back to a water‐dominated flow once they reach greater drainage areas and lower slopes. Here, we study the properties of a debris flow that initiated 1 month following the 2022 Pipeline Fire in northern Arizona, USA. We categorized flow type into two classes, granular debris flow and muddy debris flow, along the 7‐km runout path and examined how flow properties varied between the phases. Changes in channel gradient and confinement likely facilitated the transition between the flow phases, which were characterized by significant differences in maximum clast size, but similar clay content and fine fractions. We also found that the volume and runout distance of the debris flow were 28 and six times greater, respectively, than that of a debris flow that initiated in the same watershed following a fire 12 years earlier. We attribute these differences to the combined effects of two high‐severity fires, suggesting that consideration of recent fire history could improve post‐fire debris‐flow hazard assessments. Results of this study provide quantitative constraints on changes in post‐fire debris‐flow properties along a runout path. Data collected in this study add to a small number of debris‐flow inundation datasets that can be used to test runout models in post‐fire settings.
Study on the inhibitory effect of DL‐malic acid on the phase structure and combustion characteristics of coal
Authors: Sun Qingqing , Niu Huiyong , Yang Yanxiao , Sun Siwei
Published: October 2023

DL‐malic acid (DMA), as a recognized antioxidant inhibitor and chelating agent in the food and chemical industries, has good application prospects in coal fire prevention and control. This paper investigates the impact of a DMA solution on the surface properties and phase structure of coal through a range of analytical techniques, including electron microscope scanning, particle size analysis, and x‐ray diffraction. The thermal behavior characteristics of DMA‐treated coal were analyzed using thermogravimetric experiments. The results show that after adding malic acid, the particle size of coal sample is reduced, the sphericity and roundness are reduced, and the pore size is increased. The hydroxyapatite and calcite components in coal were dissolved and consumed, and the calcite components were gradually depleted with the increase of DMA concentration. The flocculent structure produced by the condensation of the crushing residue and broken small particles are attached to the internal pores of coal, which reduced the coal oxygen contact sites and increases the content of the sealed solution, resulting in the increase of the thermal characteristic temperature of the coal and the inhibition of the oxidation heat generation process. DMA has obvious inhibitory effect on fresh coal and oxidized coal, and the inhibitory effect is stronger on high‐temperature oxidized coal. Therefore, DMA can be effectively applied to the prevention and control of spontaneous combustion of residual coal in goaf. The research results provide a reference for the research of coal fire prevention technology and the preparation of environmentally friendly flame retardant materials.
Unlocking the genetic potential of Ethiopian durum wheat landraces with high protein quality: Sources to be used in future breeding for pasta production
Authors: Mulugeta Behailu , Tesfaye Kassahun , Ortiz Rodomiro , Geleta Mulatu , Haileselassie Teklehaimanot , Hammenhag Cecilia , Hailu Faris , Johansson Eva
Published: October 2023

The content and composition of the grain storage proteins in wheat determine to a high extent its end‐use quality for pasta and bread production. This study aimed to evaluate the content and composition of the grain storage proteins in Ethiopian landraces and cultivars to contribute to future breeding toward improved pasta quality. Thus, 116 landraces and 34 cultivars originating from Ethiopia were grown in three locations, and the protein parameters were analyzed using size exclusion‐high performance liquid chromatography (SE‐HPLC). A considerable variation in the amount of the analyzed protein parameters was found. The genotypes, environments, and interactions contributed significantly (p < 0.001) to the differences obtained. The broad‐sense heritability was high (0.75–0.98) for all protein parameters except for unextractable small monomeric protein (uSMP). Using the principal component analysis (PCA) to evaluate the impact of protein parameters and using either PCA or unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) to assess the impact of the genetic composition, the cultivar group was found to form a separate cluster. This indicates that durum wheat improvement in Ethiopia has relied on exotic materials, which might result from a narrow genetic base. Unlike most landraces, most released cultivars showed a high and stable gluten strength across environments. Two landraces, G057 and G107, were found genetically distinct from the released cultivars but with high and stable gluten. The two selected landraces might be of extremely high value for future use in durum wheat breeding programs, as they might be adapted to wide‐ranging Ethiopian growing conditions, they might carry genes of relevance to withstand abiotic and biotic stresses, and they seem to hold essential protein properties, which might result in high‐quality grains for industrial processes.
Lipid‐lowering activity and underlying mechanism of glycosylated peptide–calcium chelate prepared by transglutaminase pathway
Authors: Wu Xiaoping , Chen Xu , Cai Xixi , Wang Shaoyun
Published: October 2023

The compounds that promote calcium absorption and osteogenesis may have great potential in controlling adipogenesis and obesity. In this study, the glycosylated peptides–calcium chelate prepared from Crimson Snapper scale protein hydrolysates (CSPHs) and xylooligosaccharide (XOS) via transglutaminase pathway with calcium absorption promoting and osteogenic activities, named XOS‐CSPHs‐Ca‐TG, were used to explore the potential prebiotic effect and lipid‐lowering activity on 3T3‐L1 cells. The presence of XOS‐CSPHs‐Ca‐TG in pure cultures could significantly promote the proliferation of probiotics (Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Lactobacillus acidophilus), enabling them to enter the logarithmic growth phase 2–4 h earlier. Results of in vitro fermentation of mice intestinal flora further indicated that XOS‐CSPHs‐Ca‐TG increased the number of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus by 11.57% and 7.63%, respectively, and boosted the production of short‐chain fatty acids, thereby improving the colonization ability of the intestinal microbiota. Results of quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction confirmed that XOS‐CSPHs‐Ca‐TG achieved lipid‐lowering effects by accelerating calcium influx and activating the mitogen‐activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinases signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the gene expressions of the downstream peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors γ and CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α, and further attenuating the secretion of adipokines and controlling the expression of key lipases. These results suggest that glycosylated peptides–calcium chelates are potentially functional foods in lipid metabolism‐related disease prevention.
Intrusion detection system using metaheuristic fireworks optimization based feature selection with deep learning on Internet of Things environment
Authors: Jayasankar T. , Kiruba Buri R. , Maheswaravenkatesh P.
Published: October 2023

Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and other significant advancements in communication have created new security challenges. Due to these advancements and the ineffectiveness of the current security measures, cyber‐attacks are also increasing quickly. Recently, several artificial intelligence (AI)–based solutions have been presented for various secure applications, such as intrusion detection. This article proposes an intrusion detection system using dynamic search fireworks optimization–based feature selection with optimal deep recurrent neural network (DFWAFS‐ODRNN) model in IoT environment. The presented DFWAFS‐ODRNN model follows a two‐stage process, namely, feature selection and intrusion classification. In the first phase, the DFWAFS‐ODRNN model elects an optimal subset of features using the dynamic search fireworks optimization algorithm (DFWAFS) technique. Next, in the second stage, the intrusions are identified and categorized using the DRNN model. At last, the hyperparameters of the DRNN are optimally chosen by the Nadam optimizer. A detailed simulation analysis of the DFWAFS‐ODRNN model is validated on benchmark intrusion detection system (IDS) dataset, and the outcomes show the efficacy of intrusion detection. The proposed model efficiently detects the intrusion detection with an accuracy of 96.11%.
Functional foods of sub‐Saharan Africa and their implications in the management of type 2 diabetes: A review
Authors: Matsinkou Soh Rosane , Ngaha Damndja Wilfred , Njintang Yanou Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Throughout the world, the prevalence of metabolic diseases in general and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in particular is constantly growing, and sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) is not spared. The use of functional foods is a more practical option among the different approaches used in the management of T2DM owing to the fact that they are relatively less costly, safer, and more accessible. In addition to their low glycemic index just like foods currently used to manage diabetes, functional foods contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, dietary fibers, saponins, and peptides. They are so named because they have additional health advantages beyond their basic nutritional worth. Bioactive compounds can be found in a variety of SSA plant‐based foods, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, legumes, starchy foods, prepared foods, mixed foods, and prepared dishes. The goal of this review is to highlight some of the investigations into the effectiveness of local food and their antidiabetic mechanisms that have been studied in various SSA regions. Using the literature review as a basis, the authors state that SSA foods are rich in various bioactive compounds capable of regulating blood sugar through enhanced glucose tolerance, antioxidant effects, insulin sensitivity, and inhibition or activation of some key enzymes of the glucose metabolism that are linked to the prevention and management of T2DM. Many of the cited findings are preliminary, obtained from cell and preclinical studies, and therefore other studies need to be done to demonstrate the full potential of these foods to serve as bases for dietary guidelines.
Conditional cash transfers and women's reproductive choices
Authors: Laszlo Sonia , Majid Muhammad Farhan , Renée Laëtitia
Published: October 2023

We study potential non‐targeted effects of a large‐scale national conditional cash transfer program—Peru's Juntos—on the fertility and reproductive decisions of adult beneficiaries. We use an event study design, exploiting time and geographic variation in the rollout of the program, to identify the causal effects of the program. We find that Juntos decreases the number of children that adult beneficiaries have and that these effects persist over time. We explore various mechanisms and find that Juntos does not affect fertility preferences but rather empowers women to avoid unwanted births. We provide evidence that this decrease is most likely due to better access to and more extensive use of modern birth control methods.
RORα overexpression reduced interleukin‐33 expression and prevented mast cell degranulation and inflammation by inducing autophagy in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Yu Wangbo , Du Jingwei , Peng Lijuan , Zhang Tao
Published: October 2023

Background

Retinoid acid receptor related orphan receptor α (RORα) is a nuclear receptor that along with other bioactive factors regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and immunomodulation in vivo.

Aims

The objective of this study was to explore the function and mechanism of RORα in allergic rhinitis (AR).

Materials and Methods

Derp1 was used to construct an AR cell model in HNEpC cells, and RORα was overexpressed or silenced in the AR HNEpC cells. Next, LAD2 cells were co‐cultured with the Derp1‐treated HNEpC cells. Additionally, an AR mouse model was established using by OVA, and a RORα Adenovirus was delivered by nebulizing. Pathological tissue structures were evaluated by hematoxylin‐eosin staining, and the levels of RORα, interleukin‐33 (IL‐33), and other proteins were analyzed immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. IL‐33, IL‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐13 levels were detected using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits and cell migration was assessed by Transwell assays.

Results

Our data showed that RORα was downregulated in the nasal mucosa tissues of AR patients. Derp1 treatment could cause a downregulation of RORα, upregulation of IL‐33, the induction of NLRP3 inflammasomes, and cell migration in HNEpC cells. Furthermore, RORα overexpression dramatically attenuated IL‐33 levels, NLRP3 inflammasome activity, and the migration of AR HNEpC cells induced with Derp1. Moreover, RORα in AR HNEpC cells could prevent mast cell (MC) degranulation and inflammation by accelerating autophagy, RORα overexpression inhibited MC degranulation and NLRP3‐induced inflammation in the AR model mice. RORα overexpression reduced IL‐33 expression in nasal epithelial cells, and also suppressed MC degranulation and inflammation by promoting autophagy.

Conclusion

RORα inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome in HNEpC, and attenuated mast cells degranulation and inflammation through autophagy in AR.
How important is tourism for growth?
Authors: Panagiotidis Theodore , Mussoni Maurizio , Voucharas Georgios
Published: October 2023

We revisit the tourism‐led growth hypothesis by utilising a panel set of 108 countries over the period 1996–2017. We quantify the effects of tourism on the entire conditional distribution of economic growth for both relatively poor and relatively rich countries within a panel quantile regression framework. We address the unobserved heterogeneity and potential endogeneity concerns. We reveal that the lower the conditional growth rate a country experiences the more important is tourism development for the conditional growth distribution for both developing and developed countries. The size of the effect in developed countries is twice as high as in developing ones. On the other hand, tourism specialisation is beneficial only at higher quantiles of the conditional growth distribution and only for developed countries. On the contrary, it brings about an undesirable effect in developing countries. Finally, we examine the impact of a reduction in tourism activity on economic growth due to an exogenous shock (i.e., COVID‐19). Simulation analysis based on the quantile regression estimates shows that countries facing relatively low growth rates conditionally to the growth distribution are affected the most. Policymakers may consider the importance of tourism activity in the growth process and formulate strategies that align with the growth experience of each country.
Reconstructed human epidermis‐based testing strategy of skin sensitization potential and potency classification using epidermal sensitization assay and in silico data
Authors: Mizumachi Hideyuki , Suzuki Sho , Sakuma Megumi , Natsui Midori , Imai Noriyasu , Miyazawa Masaaki
Published: October 2023

The hazards and potency of skin sensitizers are traditionally determined using animal tests such as the local lymph node assay (LLNA); however, significant progress has been made in the development of non‐animal test methods addressing the first three mechanistic key events of adverse outcome pathway in skin sensitization. We developed the epidermal sensitization assay (EpiSensA), which is a reconstructed human epidermis‐based assay, by measuring four genes related to critical keratinocyte responses during skin sensitization. Four in vitro skin sensitization test methods (EpiSensA, direct peptide reactivity assay [DPRA], KeratinoSens™, and human cell line activation test [h‐CLAT]) were systematically evaluated using 136 chemicals including lipophilic chemicals and pre/pro‐haptens, which may be related to assay‐specific limitations. The constructed database included existing and newly generated data. The EpiSensA showed a broader applicability domain and predicted the hazards with 82.4% and 78.8% accuracy than LLNA and human data. The EpiSensA could detect 76 out of 88 sensitizers at lower concentrations than the LLNA, indicating that the EpiSensA has higher sensitivity for the detection of minor sensitizing constituents. These results confirmed the potential use of the EpiSensA in evaluating a mixture of unknown compositions that can be evaluated by animal tests. To combine different information sources, the reconstructed human epidermis‐based testing strategy (RTS) was developed based on weighted multiple information from the EpiSensA and TImes MEtabolism Simulator platform for predicting Skin Sensitization (TIMES‐SS; RTSv1) or Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) QSAR Toolbox automated workflow (RTSv2). The predictivities of the hazards and Globally Harmonized System (GHS) subcategories were equal to or better than the defined approaches (2 out of 3, integrated testing strategy [ITS]v1, and ITSv2) adopted as OECD Guideline 497.
Wound‐triggered shape change microgels for the development of enhanced biomimetic function platelet‐like particles
Authors: Chee Eunice , Mihalko Emily , Nellenbach Kimberly , Sollinger Jennifer , Huang Ke , Hon Mason , Pandit Sanika , Cheng Ke , Brown Ashley
Published: October 2023

Platelets play a pivotal role in hemostasis and wound healing and conditional shape change is an important component of platelet functionality. In normal circumstances, platelets travel through the circulatory system in an inactive rounded state, which enables platelets to easily move to vessel walls for attachment. When an injury occurs, platelets are prompted by molecules, such as thrombin, to shift into a stellate shape and increase exposure of fibrin‐binding receptors. When active, platelets promote hemostasis and clot retraction, which enhances clot stability and promotes healing. However, in conditions where platelets are depleted or hyporeactive, these functions are diminished and lead to inhibited hemostasis and healing. To treat platelet depletion, our group developed platelet‐like particles (PLPs) which consist of highly deformable microgels coupled to fibrin binding motif. However, first generation PLPs do not exhibit wound‐triggered shape change like native platelets. Thus, the objective of these studies was to develop a PLP formulation that changes shape when prompted by thrombin. To create thrombin‐sensitive PLPs (TS‐PLPs), we incorporated a thrombin‐cleavable peptide into the microgel body and then evaluated PLP properties before and after exposure to thrombin including morphology, size, and in vitro clot retraction. Once thrombin‐prompted shape change ability was confirmed, the TS‐PLPs were tested in vivo for hemostatic ability and subsequent wound healing outcomes in a murine liver trauma model. We found that TS‐PLPs exhibit a wound‐triggered shape change, induce significant clot retraction following exposure to thrombin and promote hemostasis and healing in vivo after trauma.
Development of Ti‐10Nb alloy by powder metallurgy processing route for dental application
Authors: Kumar Rupesh , Gautam R. K.
Published: October 2023

Titanium and its alloys are used to make dental implants because of its low density, high strength, and corrosion resistance. This paper describes the development of a potential biomaterial Ti‐10Nb by powder metallurgy utilizing four different compaction pressures and analyses its microstructural, physical, mechanical, electrochemical, biological, and tribological behavior under various situations. The alloys were fabricated using four different compaction pressures, that is, 600, 650, 700, and 750 MPa, and sintered in a vacuum atmosphere at 1000°C for 1.5 h. The density of the samples was measured using Archimedes principle. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy were used to investigate the phase composition and microstructure, and a profilometer was used to examine the surface roughness of various samples. Vickers hardness tester was used to evaluate hardness, and a universal testing machine was used for compression testing. Corrosion and wear behavior were examined using a potentiostat and a Bio‐Tribometer, respectively. This Ti‐10Nb alloys consist of α + β phase, and have 16% highest porosity in sample compacted at 600 MPa. The samples compacted at 750 MPa achieved highest hardness, yield strength, compressive strength, and elastic modulus of 450 ± 29.72 HV, 718.22 ± 16.37 MPa, 1543.59 ± 24.37 MPa, and 41.27 ± 3.29 GPa, respectively. In addition, it also possesses highest corrosion and wear resistance with lowest icorr of 0.3954 ± 0.008 μA/cm2 and wear volume of (31.25 ± 0.206) × 10−3 mm3. These results indicate that the developed alloys have a variety of desirable properties, including high hardness, adequate compressive strength, good corrosion and wear resistance, apatite‐forming capability, and a low elastic modulus, which is advantageous for avoiding stress shielding. Therefore, it may be recommended to use it as a dental implant material.
Investigation of the relationship between phenylalanine in venous plasma and capillary blood using volumetric blood collection devices
Authors: Carling Rachel S. , Barclay Zoe , Cantley Nathan , Emmett Erin C. , Hogg Sarah L. , Finezilber Yael , Schulenburg‐Brand Danja , Murphy Elaine , Moat Stuart J.
Published: October 2023

Measurement of plasma and dried blood spot (DBS) phenylalanine (Phe) is key to monitoring patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). The relationship between plasma and capillary DBS Phe concentrations has been investigated previously, however, differences in methodology, calibration approach and assumptions about the volume of blood in a DBS sub‐punch has complicated this. Volumetric blood collection devices (VBCDs) provide an opportunity to re‐evaluate this relationship. Paired venous and capillary samples were collected from patients with PKU (n = 51). Capillary blood was collected onto both conventional newborn screening (NBS) cards and VBCDs. Specimens were analysed by liquid‐chromatography tandem mass‐spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) using a common calibrator. Use of VBCDs was evaluated qualitatively by patients. Mean bias between plasma and volumetrically collected capillary DBS Phe was −13%. Mean recovery (SD) of Phe from DBS was 89.4% (4.6). VBCDs confirmed that the volume of blood typically assumed to be present in a 3.2 mm sub‐punch is over‐estimated by 9.7%. Determination of the relationship between plasma and capillary DBS Phe, using a single analytical method, common calibration and VBCDs, demonstrated that once the under‐recovery of Phe from DBS has been taken into account, there is no significant difference in the concentration of Phe in plasma and capillary blood. Conversely, comparison of plasma Phe with capillary DBS Phe collected on a NBS card highlighted the limitations of this approach. Introducing VBCDs for the routine monitoring of patients with PKU would provide a simple, acceptable specimen collection technique that ensures consistent sample quality and produces accurate and precise blood Phe results which are interchangeable with plasma Phe.