bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive mutagenesis maps the effect of all single-codon mutations in the AAV2 rep gene on AAV production
Authors: Jain Nina K , Ogden Pierce J , Church George M
Published: June 2023

Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are the predominant gene therapy vector. Several rAAV vectored therapies have achieved regulatory approval, but production of sufficient rAAV quantities remains difficult. The AAV Rep proteins, which are essential for genome replication and packaging, represent a promising engineering target for improvement of rAAV production but remain underexplored. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Rep proteins and their mutational landscape, we assayed the effects of all 39,297 possible single-codon mutations to the AAV2 rep gene on AAV2 production. Most beneficial variants are not observed in nature, indicating that improved production may require synthetic mutations. Additionally, the effects of AAV2 rep mutations were largely consistent across capsid serotypes, suggesting that production benefits are capsid independent. Our results provide a detailed sequence-to-function map that enhances our understanding of Rep protein function and lays the groundwork for Rep engineering and enhancement of large-scale gene therapy production.
Comprehensive mutagenesis maps the effect of all single codon mutations in the AAV2 rep gene on AAV production
Authors: Jain Nina K. , Ogden Pierce J. , Church George M.
Published: June 2023

Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (rAAVs) are the predominant gene therapy vector. Several rAAV vectored therapies have achieved regulatory approval, but production of sufficient rAAV quantities remains difficult. The AAV Rep proteins, which are essential for genome replication and packaging, represent a promising engineering target for improvement of rAAV production but remain underexplored. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Rep proteins and their mutational landscape, we assayed the effects of all 39,297 possible single codon mutations to the AAV2
rep
gene on AAV2 production. Most beneficial variants are not observed in nature, indicating that improved production may require synthetic mutations. Additionally, the effects of AAV2
rep
mutations were largely consistent across capsid serotypes, suggesting that production benefits are capsid independent. Our results provide a detailed sequence-to-function map that enhances our understanding of Rep protein function and lays the groundwork for Rep engineering and enhancement of large-scale gene therapy production.
Investigating the Mechanism of the Effect of Nature-based Architectural Components on Residential Satisfaction
Authors: Azizibabani Mohammadhossein , Bemanian Mohammadreza , Yeganeh Mansour
Published: June 2023

The development of multi-unit urban housing, especially in the metropolises of Iran, does not take into account the effects of cultural factors on the perceived quality of housing architecture. Since the community is diverse in metropolises, especially on a sub-culture scale, it is impossible to provide housing development strategies and practical actions concerning the factors related to this scale of culture. The compatibility of lifestyle at the national or structural level with housing can be considered a general strategy to solve this problem. Based on the position of nature in the foundations of the Islamic lifestyle, it is possible to accommodate humans’ significant needs through inspiration from nature. This paper intends to investigate the mechanism of the effect of nature-based architectural components (NBAC) on residential satisfaction (RS) from the Islamic lifestyle perspective to apply the findings in architectural planning and programming processes. The results demonstrate that as adherence to the Islamic lifestyle increases, residential preferences related to the formal and semantic dimensions of NBAC also increase. Qualitative deficiencies in these components cause a decrease in perceived quality and, consequently, RS. Therefore, high residential preferences regarding semantic and formal components lead to the intensification of deficiencies in qualitative perception. In such conditions, a large part of the RS is due to residents’ adaptive behaviors. Therefore, measuring RS based on accommodating residential needs cannot be considered an objective criterion to determine housing architecture quality to test the fit of housing development patterns with residential needs. This proves the necessity for the measurement of the perceived quality of housing architecture based on the main influential factors involved, which are NBAC.
Alumnos Mediadores. Construyendo la Paz
Authors: Paulero Rosaura
Published: June 2023

El presente artículo es producto de más de una década de trabajo en escue-las públicas, implementando programas de alumnos mediadores. Estos inter-vienen en conflictos entre sus pares. A largo de todo el trabajo desarrollado se han formados más de 2.600 alumnos mediadores y capacitados más de 5.000 docentes. Las conclusiones que se presentan son el resultado de la recolección de testimonios e informes de los involucrados (alumnos, fami-lias, docentes y directivos), y como consecuencia de esta experiencia es que podemos postular el carácter formativo y preventivo de la inclusión de la mediación en la escuela.
Evaluation of Community Pharmacists’ Awareness towards Middle East Respiratory Syndrome: A Simulated Client Method
Authors: Soliman Alaa Bahaa , Talkhan Hend Ahmed , Ibrahim Mohamed Izham Mohamed , Shalash Ala Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory disease caused by a coronavirus variant in the Arabian Peninsula. There is a lack of information regarding awareness and practices of community pharmacists in Qatar for this contagious disease. Aim: To determine the quality of the MERS-related information, recommendations, and counseling practices provided by Qatar’s community pharmacists by using Simulated Client Method (SCM). Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study using a non traditional SCM was conducted in community pharmacies of Qatar from February 2017 to April 2017. A total of 30 community pharmacies were visited twice by two independent simulated clients and data regarding, provision of evidence-based information, recommendations and counseling practices were collected to assess the competency of pharmacists in managing MERS as a primary care problem. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for data analysis. Results: In present study, majority of pharmacists encountered were male and younger than 45-year-old with 44 (73.3%) each. The average number of pharmacists who did not ask about the patient’s current medical conditions 56 (93.3), medications 58 (97.5%), allergies, and smoking status in both scenarios were not asked by any of the pharmacist. Most of the pharmacists gave an incorrect explanation of MERS 43 (71.7%). The overall quality counselling score for the pharmacists (mean±SD; median (IQR)) was {27.5±4.5; 28.5 (25.3-30.0)}. Quality counselling was significantly related to the type of pharmacy (p=0.0478). Conclusion: Qatar community pharmacist’s MERS related information, recommendations, and counseling practices were below expectations and inconsistent, thus urging the need for continuous professional development.
Guide Flange Prosthesis: A Case Report
Authors: Padmini D. , Rao B. L. , Kumar C. D. Sai , Sravanthi T. L. G. , Teja G. Krishna , Murali Karuna
Published: June 2023

Patients who have undergone surgical hemi/segmental/subtotal mandibulectomy for various reasons with resulting mandibular deviation are given a guide flange. If secondary osseous grafting is planned, the doctor must wait for the graft, lesion, or radiotherapeutic effects to resolve. A definitive prosthesis can be planned only when the graft has been healed. During this time lag, the patient must be fitted with a prosthesis to rectify mandibular deviation caused by unilateral muscle strain. Furthermore, in some circumstances, a definitive prosthesis must be postponed due to bone grafting failure or the patient's unwillingness to undergo a second surgery. This clinical case report shows a mandibular guide flange prosthesis fabricated for a patient.
Early Parkinson's Disease Detection Using Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Adekunle Abiona Akeem , Joseph Oyerinde Bolarinwa , Olalekan Ajinaja Micheal
Published: June 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and motor skills. Early diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's disease are crucial for improving patient outcomes; however, traditional diagnostic methods are time-consuming and subject to observer bias. This study aims to use a machine learning model for the detection of Parkinson's disease. The model will be trained on a public repository dataset of biomedical voice measurements from individuals with and without Parkinson's disease and its performance will be evaluated in terms of accuracy and precision. The results of this study have the potential to revolutionize the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease by providing a fast, non-invasive, and reliable diagnostic tool. The study's results could also have implications for the development of similar diagnostic tools for other neurodegenerative disorders.
Evaluation of Growth Rates of Bt. Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Hybrid NHH-44 as Influenced by High Density Planting and Weed Management Practices under Rainfed Conditions in Marathwada Region of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Mane S. G. , Karle A. S. , Sallawar S. C. , Madagoudra Y. B.
Published: June 2023

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, AICRP on Integrated Farming Systems, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani (M.S.) during kharif seasons of 2020-21 on to study the “Impact of high density planting and weed management practice on growth and yield of Bt. cotton. (Gossypium hirsutum L.)” Treatment consist of  Twelve  treatment  combinations   comprising Three planting densities in main plot that is (S1-120 cm x 45 cm (18518 plants ha-1), S2- 80 cm x 60 cm (20833 plants ha-1) and S3- 90 cm x 45 cm (24691plants ha-1) and four weed management practices that is W1 - Stale seedbed technique + PoE Pyrithiobac Sodium 10% EC @ 62.5 g ha-1 + Quizolfop-ethyl 5% EC @ 50 g ha-1 + Straw mulching, W2 - Stale seed bed technique +PoE Glufosinate ammonium 13.5% SL @ 0.7 kg ha-1 + Hand weeding, W3 - Weed Free and W4 - Weedy Check.

The mean maximum AGR for plant height were recorded under high density planting 90 cm x 45 cm. Among different growth intervals 61-90 DAS recorded maximum AGR for plant height (1.664 cm day-1 plant-1), while mean maximum AGR for dry matter (2.358 g day-1 plant-1) were recorded between 91-120 DAS under high density planting 120 cm x 45 cm. Among weed management practices, weed free treatment recorded mean maximum AGR for plant height (1.645 cm day-1 plant-1) 61-90 DAS interval, while mean maximum AGR for dry matter (2.441 g day-1 plant-1) were recorded between 91-120 DAS. The mean CGR, RGR and LAI were also maximum under weed free treatment.
Optimization of Colour Parameters of Different Gluten-free Pasta Samples Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Mahajan K. C. , Garg S. K. , Maurya Shivbilas , Daheriya Mahendra , Maravi Swati Singh
Published: June 2023

Colour plays an important role in consumer’s perception and acceptability of the food product. Therefore, colour measurement and analysis is one of the most important quality attributes to optimize the quality and value of food. Different blends of gluten-free maize flour, finger millet (Ragi) flour and quinova flour were used as raw materials for the development of pasta. Hunter Lab Colorimeter was used for measuring the surface color of the uncooked pasta samples. High quality pasta (either fresh or dried) is normally yellow in colour and the degree of yellowness can be calculated by using b* and L* values. Quality of pasta developed by different blend ratio of maize, ragi and quinova flours with different levels of CMC, Karaya Gum and dried at different drying temperature and air flow rates were evaluated in terms of L* values (lightness), b* values (yellowness) and Yellowness Index (YI). Results of colour analysis of gluten-free pasta samples indicated a significant effect of flours on L*, b* and YI while drying air temperature have a significant effect on b* values. Pasta samples prepared following optimized formulation 50:25:25 (Maize flour: Ragi, flour: Quinova flour) blend ratio, 5g CMC per 100g of blend ratio, 2.5g Karaya Gum per 100g of blend ratio, 60 0C drying air temperature and 0.78 m/sec. air flow rate provided optimum L*, b* and YI values with overall desirability of 0.545.
Studies on the Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Health of Tea (Camellia sp.)
Authors: Easwaran S. , Marimuthu M. , Guhan V.
Published: June 2023

A field trial was conducted at Parry Agro Industries Ltd., Valparai, Coimbatore district in two varieties of tea viz., Assam jat and ATK clone. On Eighteen treatments with different combinations of 100, 75, 62.5 and 50 per cent of the recommended doses of fertilizers along with DCC and biofertilizers. The DCC at a rate of three and six tonnes ha-1 and biofertilizers viz., VAM, Azospirillum and Phosphobacteria each @ 50 kg ha-1 were given annually. The soil physical properties viz., bulk density, particle density, porosity and water holding capacity, chemical properties viz., pH, EC, CEC, organic matter, soil N, P, K, Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn and biological properties viz., VAM infection, population of Azospirillum, Phosphobacteria, bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi were greatly improved by the treatments consisting DCC 6 tonnes and biofertilizers along with full or reduced level of recommended dose of the estate practice.
Pediatric Drug and Other Shortages in the Age of Supply Chain Disruption
Authors: Shachar Carmel , Gruppuso Philip A. , Adashi Eli Y.
Published: June 2023

This Viewpoint lists the top 3 pediatric drugs and product shortages, considers the federal government’s and manufacturers’ ethical duty to protect children, reviews the causes for the shortages, and suggests policy changes that could help fill in the gap.
Mediation Analysis to Untangle Opposing Associations of High-Dose Docosahexaenoic Acid With IQ and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Children Born Preterm
Authors: Sullivan Thomas R. , Gould Jacqueline F. , Bednarz Jana M. , McPhee Andrew J. , Gibson Robert , Anderson Peter J. , Best Karen P. , Sharp Mary , Cheong Jeanie L.Y. , Opie Gillian F. , Travadi Javeed , Davis Peter G. , Simmer Karen , Collins Carmel T. , Doyle Lex W. , Makrides Maria
Published: June 2023

Importance

High-dose omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation of children born at less than 29 weeks’ gestation has been shown to improve IQ despite increasing the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Given that BPD is associated with poorer cognitive outcomes, it is unclear whether the increased risk of BPD with DHA supplementation is associated with decreased benefit to IQ.

Objective

To investigate whether the increased risk of BPD with DHA supplementation was associated with diminished IQ benefit.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data collected from a multicenter, blinded, randomized controlled trial of DHA supplementation in children born at less than 29 weeks’ gestation. Participants were recruited from 2012 to 2015 and followed up until 5 years’ corrected age. Data were analyzed from November 2022 to February 2023.

Interventions

Enteral DHA emulsion (60 mg/kg/d, to match the estimated in-utero requirement) or a control emulsion from the first 3 days of enteral feeds until 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age or discharge home.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Physiological BPD was assessed at 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. IQ was assessed at 5 years’ corrected age using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, 4th Edition; children from the 5 highest-recruiting Australian hospitals were assessed. The total effect of DHA supplementation on IQ was divided into direct and indirect effects using mediation analysis, with BPD as the presumed mediating variable.

Results

Among 656 surviving children from hospitals involved in IQ follow-up (mean [SD] gestational age at birth, 26.8 [1.4] weeks; 346 males [52.7%]), there were 323 children with DHA supplementation and 333 children in the control group. Mean IQ was 3.45 points (95% CI, 0.38 to 6.53 points) higher in the DHA group than the control group, despite an increase in the risk of BPD (160 children [49.7%] vs 143 children [42.8%] with BPD). The indirect effect of DHA on IQ via BPD was not statistically significant (−0.17 points; 95% CI, −0.62 to 0.13 points), with most of the effect of DHA on IQ occurring independently of BPD (direct effect = 3.62 points; 95% CI, 0.55 to 6.81 points).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that associations of DHA with BPD and IQ were largely independent. This finding suggests that if clinicians supplement children born preterm with high-dose DHA, any resulting increase in BPD risk would not be associated with meaningful reductions in the IQ benefit.
Mesoaciditogaceae
Authors: L'Haridon Stéphane , Nesbo Camilla , Farrell Anne , Zhaxybayeva Olga
Published: June 2023

Me.so.a.ci.di.to.ga.ce'ae. N.L. fem. n.
Mesoaciditoga
type genus of the family; L. fen, pl. n. suff. ‐aceae, ending denoting a family; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Mesoaciditogaceae
, the
Mesoaciditoga
family.

Thermotogota / Thermotogae / Mesoaciditogales / Mesoaciditogaceae

The family
Mesoaciditogaceae
, the only family in the order
Mesoaciditogales
, comprises
thermophilic, weakly acidophilic
bacteria. The cells stain Gram‐negative and are sheathed
short rods
. Members of this family are
heterotrophs
and
anaerobes
, growing optimally at salinities that range from freshwater to marine seawater. Known habitats are deep‐sea hydrothermal vents and acidic terrestrial hot springs. The family currently accommodates two genera,
Mesoaciditoga
and
Athalassotoga
. Only two species have been described, but additional 16S rRNA sequences and metagenomes from environmental samples suggest that
Mesoaciditogaceae
may include additional genera whose representatives are not yet isolated.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 39.9–40.6 (genome analysis).

Type genus
:
Mesoaciditoga
Reysenbach et al. 2013
VP
.
Pelagerythrobacter
Authors: Xu Lin , Dong Han , Sun Xiao‐Yan
Published: June 2023

Pe.lag.e.ry.thro.bac'ter. L. neut. n.
pelagus
, the sea; N.L. masc. n.
Erythrobacter
, a genus name; N.L. masc. n.
Pelagerythrobacter
,
Erythrobacter
from the sea.

Pseudomonadota / Alphaproteobacteria / Sphingomonadales / Erythrobacteraceae / Pelagerythrobacter

The genus
Pelagerythrobacter
belonging to the family
Erythrobacteraceae
currently comprises four species with validly published names:
Pelagerythrobacter aerophilus
,
P
.
marensis
,
P
.
marinus
, and
P
.
rhizovicinus
. Members of
Pelagerythrobacter
inhabit various environments, such as surface and deep seawater as well as rhizosphere soil of a desert xerophyte. Cells are Gram‐stain‐negative and several members are motile by a polar flagellum. The main respiratory quinone is ubiquinone‐10. The major polar lipids are phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and sphingoglycolipid (SGL). The predominant cellular fatty acid is an unsaturated octadecenoic acid of C
18:1
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
:
64–69 (
genome
).

Type species
:
Pelagerythrobacter marinus
Xu et al. 2020
VP
(basonym:
Altererythrobacter marinus
Lai et al. 2009b
VP
).
Parashewanella
Authors: Wang Guanghua
Published: June 2023

Pa.ra.she.wa.nel'la. Gr. prep.
para
‐, beside; N.L. fem. dim. n.
Shewanella
, a bacterial genus name; N.L. fem. dim. n.
Parashewanella
, beside
Shewanella
.

Pseudomonadota / Gammaproteobacteria / Alteromonadales / Shewanellaceae / Parashewanella

The genus
Parashewanella
accommodates low genome G + C content bacteria in the family
Shewanellaceae
. Cells of these bacteria are Gram‐stain‐negative, aerobic or facultatively anaerobic, straight or curved rods, motile by flagellum(a). Colonies on marine agar 2216 are circular, smooth, and convex with regular margins. The optimal incubation time for type strains is about 3 days. Most of the members in this genus can reduce nitrate to nitrogen. The major respiratory quinone is Q‐8. Cannot produce menaquinone. The major fatty acids are iso‐C
15:0
and C
16:1
ω7
c
/ω6
c
. Major polar lipids are phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, and unidentified aminoglycolipid. Known habitats are marine animals, such as coral, sponge.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 39.6–40.8.

Type species
:
Parashewanella spongiae
Xu et al. 2019
VP
(basonym:
Shewanella spongiae
Yang et al. 2006
VP
).
Vedic Period, Political History
Authors: Sinha Kanad
Published: June 2023

“Vedic period” refers to the period when the Vedic corpus, the oldest body of South Asian literature, was composed. The Early Vedic period corresponds to the second half of the second millenniumbce, when the oldest Vedic text – theSaṃhitāof theR̥gveda– was composed. The Vedic Aryans were agro‐pastoralist nomads who migrated from Iran and spoke an Indo‐European language. Possibly a cultic confrontation led to the schism between the Indo‐Iranian speakers and the Indo‐Aryans whose entry in the Indian subcontinent entailed clashes and negotiations with different cultural communities known as the Dāsas and Dasyus. The Early Vedic tribes also fought among themselves, mainly for cattle, and eventually the Bharatas established themselves as the most prominent of them all, especially after their chief Sudās won the famous battle of Ten Kings. Vedic Aryans moved eastwards in the Later Vedic period (ca. 1000–600bce) and adopted sedentary agricultural life. The Kuru‐Pāñcālas dominated the early phase of the Later Vedic period, when rudimentary hereditary kingship was emerging. However, their position waned at the end of the Later Vedic age, and territories further east – such as Kosala, Kāśī, and Videha – gained prominence.
Long‐running patent‐switch lawsuit resolved between Indivior and state AGs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2023

On June 2, Indivior, which makes the buprenorphine product Suboxone, resolved a lawsuit by 42 attorneys general (AGs)who had claimed that the Virginia‐based pharmaceutical company fraudulently removed its tablets from the market in order to prevent generics from entering. In the agreement, announced June 2, Indivior will pay the states a total of $102.5 million.
Study: Massachusetts mandate to report MOUD use in pregnancy harms families
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2023

A Massachusetts policy that mandates child abuse/neglect reporting when a mother has taken medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) during her pregnancy causes tangible harms to these women and their families, a newly published analysis suggests. The report's gripping comments from women who were subjected to child protection system (CPS) investigations illustrate the sharp contrast between the medical advice they had received during their pregnancy and the way that state child welfare officials treated them.
Effects of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Optical Properties of Sputtered GeO2 Thin Films
Authors: Nam Kideuk , Oh Ju Hyun , Bae Jong-Seong , Lee Seunghun
Published: June 2023

Microstructure and composition significantly influence the physical properties of thin films. Therefore, these can be adapted to enhance the functionality of thin films for practical applications. Herein, the anomalous microstructural evolution of sputtered GeO2 thin films based on postdepositional heat treatments is reported. Temperature‐dependent microstructural variations are investigated systematically via a combinatorial postdepositional heat treatment employing a natural thermal gradient in a tube furnace. Heat treatment under an oxidizing atmosphere results in a transition from the amorphous phase to the quartz phase, and subsequent heat treatments under a reducing atmosphere cause H2O‐incorporated chemical reactions. Hence, these conditions create unique microstructural features and yield optical transmittance variations in the GeO2 thin films. The phase transition induces the formation of spherulitic hexagonal GeO2 crystallites, and further increase in the temperature promotes the agglomeration of crystallites in the amorphous matrix. The incorporation of H2O results in the growth of the microstructure, and the chemical reduction to Ge metal begins to generate small granules from the boundary of the microstructures. The experimental results and proposed mechanisms presented herein for the microstructural and compositional changes serve as references for designing the physical properties of thin films.
Chemical Vapor Deposition Syntheses of Wafer‐Scale 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Films toward Next‐Generation Integrated Circuits Related Applications
Authors: Hu Jingyi , Zhou Fan , Wang Jialong , Cui Fangfang , Quan Wenzhi , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: June 2023

2D semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), most with a formula of MX2 (M=Mo, W; X=S, Se, etc.), have emerged as promising channel materials for next‐generation integrated circuits, considering their dangling‐bond‐free surfaces, moderate bandgaps, relatively high carrier mobilities, etc. Wafer‐scale preparation of 2D MX2 films holds fundamental significance for realizing their applications. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is recognized as the most promising method for preparing electronic‐grade 2D MX2 films. This review hereby summarizes the recent progress in CVD syntheses of wafer‐scale 2D MX2 films and their applications in logic operations, data storage, and image capturing/processing related fields. The first part focuses on the wafer‐scale syntheses of 2D MX2 films through designing homogeneous metal precursor supply routes (e.g., precoating soluble precursor, feeding gaseous precursor, designing independent multisource supply or face‐to‐face metal precursor supply routes). The second part highlights the epitaxial growth of monolayer MX2 single crystals on single‐crystal Au substrates and well‐designed sapphire substrates. The third part introduces various functional device/circuit related applications of CVD‐derived 2D MX2 wafers. Finally, challenges and prospects are discussed from the viewpoints of the controlled synthesis, reliable characterization, and damage‐free transfer of 2D MX2, as well as the fabrication and integration of high‐performance devices.
Induction of Metabolic Reprogramming in Kidney by Singlet Diradical Nanoparticles
Authors: Ye Lei , Jiang Shengwei , Hu Jinlian , Wang Mingzhe , Weng Taoyu , Wu Feng , Cai Liangyu , Sun Zhe , Ma Lan
Published: June 2023

Polycyclic aromatic compounds with an open‐shell singlet diradical ground state, namely singlet diradicals, have recently gained attention in the fields of organic electronics, photovoltaics, and spintronics owing to their unique electronic structures and properties. Notably, singlet diradicals exhibit tunable redox amphoterism, which makes them excellent redox‐active materials for biomedical applications. However, the safety and therapeutic efficacy of singlet diradicals in biological systems have not yet been explored. Herein, the study presents a newly designed singlet diradical nanomaterial, diphenyl‐substituted biolympicenylidene (BO‐Ph), exhibiting low cytotoxicity in vitro, non‐significant acute nephrotoxicity in vivo, and the ability to induce metabolic reprogramming in kidney organoids. Integrated transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal that the metabolism of BO‐Ph stimulates glutathione (GSH) synthesis and fatty acid degradation, increases the levels of intermediates in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) and carnitine cycles, and eventually boosts oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) under redox homeostasis. Benefits of BO‐Ph‐induce metabolic reprogramming in kidney organoids include enhancing cellular antioxidant capacity and promoting mitochondrial function. The results of this study can facilitate the application of singlet diradical materials in the treatment of clinical conditions induced by mitochondrial abnormalities in kidney.
Exchange‐Interaction‐Like Behavior in Ferroelectric Bilayers
Authors: Kavle Pravin , Ross Aiden M. , Zorn Jacob A. , Behera Piush , Parsonnet Eric , Huang Xiaoxi , Lin Ching‐Che , Caretta Lucas , Chen Long‐Qing , Martin Lane W.
Published: June 2023

Interlayer coupling in materials, such as exchange interactions at the interface between an antiferromagnet and a ferromagnet, can produce exotic phenomena not present in the parent materials. While such interfacial coupling in magnetic systems is widely studied, there is considerably less work on analogous electric counterparts (i.e., akin to electric “exchange‐bias‐like” or “exchange‐spring‐like” interactions between two polar materials) despite the likelihood that such effects can also engender new features associated with anisotropic electric dipole alignment. Here, electric analogs of such exchange interactions are reported, and their physical origins are explained for bilayers of in‐plane polarized Pb1−xSrxTiO3 ferroelectrics. Variation of the strontium content and thickness of the layers provides for deterministic control over the switching properties of the bilayer system resulting in phenomena analogous to an exchange‐spring interaction and, leveraging added control of these interactions with an electric field, the ability to realize multistate‐memory function. Such observations not only hold technological promise for ferroelectrics and multiferroics but also extend the similarities between ferromagnetic and ferroelectric materials to include the manifestation of exchange‐interaction‐like phenomena.
Temperature Decoupling of a Hydrogel‐Based Strain Sensor under a Dynamic Temperature Field
Authors: Li Zemin , Huang Jiaoya , Zhou Runhui , Chen Ziyu , Gao Wenchao , He Jiang , Bao Rongrong , Pan Caofeng
Published: June 2023

Hydrogels possess several interesting characteristics and have attracted increasing attention for flexible interactive strain‐sensing. However, hydrogel strain sensors are easily influenced by temperature because of the intrinsic characteristics of the materials, thus, their sensing accuracy is significantly affected. Herein, a strategy is proposed to eliminate the influence of temperature by building an in‐situ hydrogel temperature sensor next to the strain sensor to monitor ambient temperature changes and simultaneously correct the strain signal. By introducing silicon nanoparticles and modified graphene, the hydrogel exhibits a good balance between conductivity and stretchability. The hydrogel strain sensor exhibits a working range of up to 1000% and a sensitivity of 8.1. It can monitor human movement and shows good stability. Moreover, the hydrogel‐based sensor demonstrates an impressive thermal response sensitivity (−7.16% °C−1). This bimodal sensor not only realizes the decoupling of the strain sensor from the temperature but protects the temperature sensor from the influence of strain. More importantly, the device is also able to accurately control the manipulator under dynamic temperatures, proving the feasibility of the design. This strategy provides a new method to eliminate the influence of temperature on strain sensing and assists in the development of the interactive‐sensing field.
Dynamically Tunable Structural Colors Enabled by Pixelated Programming of Soft Materials on Thickness
Authors: Huang Mengting , Wang Yifei , Liu Xuan , Zhang Songyu , Yuan Cong‐Long , Hu Hong‐Long , Zheng Zhi‐Gang
Published: June 2023

Structural colors are widespread in nature and have become an important component of the lives. Considerable efforts have been made toward reversible color tuning, which underpins intriguing applications, including color displays, anti‐counterfeiting, and information encryption. However, the limited size, complicated fabrication processes, and low modulation speeds of structural colors are the main obstacles to their further development. Herein, a facile method to realize dynamically tunable structural colors is presented, which are enabled by the pixelated programming of soft materials on thickness. Pixelated photoresist microarrays with different heights are obtained using a digitalized lithography technique, enabling delicate control over the thickness of the liquid crystal (LC) layers. Stimuli‐responsive LCs endow structural colors with dynamic and reversible tunability and exhibit remarkable switching speeds with external stimuli. The proposed strategy sheds new light on dynamically tunable structural colors and promotes the development of optical anti‐counterfeiting, thermal sensors, and advanced information encryption.
Metasurface‐Based Free‐Space Multi‐Port Beam Splitter with Arbitrary Power Ratio
Authors: Tian Tian , Liao Yuxuan , Feng Xue , Cui Kaiyu , Liu Fang , Zhang Wei , Huang Yidong
Published: June 2023

A beam splitter (BS) is one of the most critical building blocks in optical systems. Despite various attempts of flat‐type BSs to miniaturize the conventional cube BS reported, it remains a challenge to realize an ultrathin optical BS with multi‐port output, non‐uniform splitting ratio, and steerable outgoing directions. Herein, a free‐space optical multi‐port beam splitter (MPBS) based on a polarization‐independent all‐dielectric metasurface is demonstrated. By applying an optimized phase‐pattern paradigm via a gradient‐descent‐based iterative algorithm to amorphous silicon (α‐Si) metasurfaces, a variety of MPBS samples with arbitrarily predetermined output port number (2–7), power ratio, and spatial distribution of output beams are prepared. The experimental results reveal that the fabricated MPBSs can achieve high total splitting efficiency (TSE, above 74.7%) and beam‐splitting fidelity (similarity, above 78.4%) within the bandwidth of 100 nm (1500–1600 nm). Such proposed MPBS can provide fabulous flexibility for optical integrated system and diverse applications.
Copper‐Catalyzed C(sp3)− Functionalization and Annulation of 2‐Bromoaryl Oximes with Active Methylene Compounds towards Synthesis of Isoquinoline N‐Oxides
Authors: Patel Chandresh K. , Gujjarappa Raghuram , Kant Kamal , Ghanta Susanta , Singh Virender , Kabi Arup K. , Al‐Zaqri Nabil , Malakar Chandi C.
Published: June 2023

The established process proceeds through copper (II)‐catalyzed C(sp3)− functionalization of β‐diketones/β‐ketoesters with 2‐bromobenzaldehyde oximes followed by the intramolecular cyclization of in situ generated acylated intermediates to deliver isoquinoline N‐oxides. The copper(II) acetate catalyzed C−H functionalization showed maximum efficacy at 60 °C in methanol/toluene as solvent. The described reaction conditions were applicable over a wide range of substrates with a variety of functional groups to yield isoquinoline N‐oxides in yields up to 85%. The developed approach was further elucidated by means of control experiments and DFT calculations.
Computational Insights into the Reactivity Difference between Hypervalent Bromine(III) and Hypervalent Iodine(III) Reagent in the C−H Amination and Alkene Aziridination
Authors: Shao Yingbo , Ren Zhiyuan , Zheng Chenfengtao , Xue Xiao‐Song
Published: June 2023

We present herein a computational exploration into the mechanism and origin of the reactivity difference between N‐triflylimino‐λ3‐iodane and N‐triflylimino‐λ3‐bromane in the C−H amination and alkene aziridination. Our calculations revealed that the preferred mechanism for C−H amination involves the generation of free nitrene intermediate, while the alkene aziridination proceeds via a concerted reaction mechanism. The superior reactivity of N‐triflylimino‐λ3‐bromane over N‐triflylimino‐λ3‐iodane could be mainly ascribed to better nucleofugality of the bromanyl moiety, which can be characterized by the strength of I−N and Br−N bond. The effect of solvent polarity on the reactivity of N‐triflylimino‐λ3‐bromane as a nitrene precursor will be discussed.
Top‐down kinetic modeling from power law to elementary steps using KASTER: A methane steam reforming case study
Authors: Siradze Sébastien , Poissonnier Jeroen , Costa da Cruz Ana R. , Thybaut Joris W.
Published: June 2023

A top‐down methodology for kinetic model construction including regression against experimental data is proposed using “KASTER.” As a case study, it is applied in the assessment of methane steam reforming (MSR) including water–gas shift (WGS) on a Ni catalyst at 923 K. The degree of detail in the reaction mechanism and the corresponding model is gradually enhanced, typically ranging from a simple power law to a microkinetic model. The reactor equations are solved transiently, preventing the numerical challenges encountered in the steady‐state solution, particularly for microkinetic models. The microkinetic variant indicated that CH4 dissociative adsorption and CO formation are kinetically relevant steps in MSR, while COOH formation is rate‐determining in WGS. However, the model providing the best balance between detail accounted for and parameter significance corresponded to a Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson (LHHW) mechanism accounting for dissociative adsorption, with CO formation and COOH formation as rate‐determining steps for MSR and WGS, respectively.
Exome sequencing in a Romanian Bardet‐Biedl syndrome cohort revealed an overabundance of causal BBS12 variants
Authors: Khan Sheraz , Focșa Ina Ofelia , Budișteanu Magdalena , Stoica Cristina , Nedelea Florina , Bohîlțea Laurențiu , Caba Lavinia , Butnariu Lăcrămioara , Pânzaru Monica , Rusu Cristina , Jurcă Claudia , Chirita‐Emandi Adela , Bănescu Claudia , Abbas Wasim , Sadeghpour Azita , Baig Shahid Mahmood , Bălgrădean Mihaela , Davis Erica E.
Published: June 2023

Bardet‐Biedl syndrome (BBS), is an emblematic ciliopathy hallmarked by pleiotropy, phenotype variability, and extensive genetic heterogeneity. BBS is a rare (~1/140,000 to ~1/160,000 in Europe) autosomal recessive pediatric disorder characterized by retinal degeneration, truncal obesity, polydactyly, cognitive impairment, renal dysfunction, and hypogonadism. Twenty‐eight genes involved in ciliary structure or function have been implicated in BBS, and explain the molecular basis for ~75%–80% of individuals. To investigate the mutational spectrum of BBS in Romania, we ascertained a cohort of 24 individuals in 23 families. Following informed consent, we performed proband exome sequencing (ES). We detected 17 different putative disease‐causing single nucleotide variants or small insertion–deletions and two pathogenic exon disruptive copy number variants in known BBS genes in 17 pedigrees. The most frequently impacted genes were BBS12 (35%), followed by BBS4, BBS7, and BBS10 (9% each) and BBS1, BBS2, and BBS5 (4% each). Homozygous BBS12 p.Arg355* variants were present in seven pedigrees of both Eastern European and Romani origin. Our data show that although the diagnostic rate of BBS in Romania is likely consistent with other worldwide cohorts (74%), we observed a unique distribution of causal BBS genes, including overrepresentation of BBS12 due to a recurrent nonsense variant, that has implications for regional diagnostics.
The effect of reference sample composition and size on dental age interval estimates
Authors: Sgheiza Valerie , Liversidge Helen M.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Validation studies in juvenile dental age estimation primarily focus on point estimates while interval performance for reference samples of different ancestry group compositions has received minimal attention. We tested the effect of reference sample size and composition by sex and ancestry group on age interval estimates.

Materials and Methods

The dataset consisted of Moorrees et al. dental scores from panoramic radiographs of 3334 London children of Bangladeshi and European ancestry and 2–23 years of age. Model stability was assessed using standard error of mean age‐at‐transition for univariate cumulative probit and sample size, group mixing (sex or ancestry), and staging system as factors. Age estimation performance was tested using molar reference samples of four sizes, stratified by year of age, sex, and ancestry. Age estimates were performed using Bayesian multivariate cumulative probit with 5‐fold cross‐validation.

Results

Standard error increased with decreasing sample size but showed no effect from mixing by sex or ancestry. Estimating ages using a reference and target sample of different sex reduced success rate significantly. The same test by ancestry groups had a lesser effect. Small sample size (n < 20/year of age) negatively affected most performance metrics.

Discussion

We found that reference sample size, followed by sex, primarily drove age estimation performance. Combining reference samples by ancestry produced equivalent or better estimates of age by all metrics than using a single‐demographic reference of smaller size. We further proposed that population specificity is an alternative hypothesis of intergroup difference that has been erroneously treated as a null.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Markovnikov‐Selective Hydrodifluoromethylation of Alkynes Using BrCF2H
Authors: Pan Shiwei , Chen Fan , Zhang Yanyan , Shao Liang , Chu Lingling
Published: June 2023

A Markovnikov‐selective hydrodifluoromethylation of alkynes with BrCF2H via nickel catalysis is described. This protocol proceeds via a migratory insertion of nickel hydride to alkyne followed by a CF2H‐coupling, enabling straightforward access to diverse branched CF2H‐alkenes with high efficiency and exclusive regioselectivity. The mild condition applies to a wide array of aliphatic and aryl alkynes with good functional group compatibility. Mechanistic studies are presented to support the proposed pathway.
A review of the desert gold jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) whole plant, oil, and meal: Phytochemical composition, medicinal uses, and detoxification
Authors: El Gendy Salsabeel N. , Elmotayam Amira K. , Samir Reham , Ezzat Marwa I. , El Sayed Aly M.
Published: June 2023

Simmondsia chinensis (Link) C.K. Schneider (Jojoba) is a valuable shrub that can bear harsh conditions and is cultivated in many countries globally. Its prominence originates from the unique oil that constitutes more than 50% of the seeds. The great economic value of jojoba oil is highlighted in many fields, especially the cosmetic industry. The remaining meal, which is rich in proteins, constitutes a good source for cattle feeding. However, the presence of antinutritional principles in the meal limited its use and encouraged the researchers to find different ways for its detoxification. The detoxification ways of jojoba meal included physical, biological, and chemical treatments. The phytochemical composition of the oil was deeply studied, but for the remaining plant, only few studies have reported its chemical composition. Jojoba oil composed of wax esters (97%), fatty acids, fatty alcohols, sterols, and small percentage of vitamin E. Jojoba possesses a long traditional history. It has been used in folklore for treatment of cold, dysuria, and obesity. Many recent studies reported its medicinal and pharmacological properties like antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti‐acne, anti‐psoriasis, wound healing, and hepatoprotective activities. Many of these biological activities have been attributed to the presence of several phytochemicals such as simmondsin and phenolic compounds. In this review, the authors will highlight the previous phytochemical studies, medicinal applications of jojoba oil and different plant parts, and the various ways of meal detoxification.
Transcriptome profiling research in urothelial cell carcinoma
Authors: Ahmad Umar , Ibrahim Buhari , Mohammed Mustapha , Aldoghachi Ahmed Faris , Usman Mahmood , Yakubu Abdulbasit Haliru , Tanko Abubakar Sadiq , Bobbo Khadijat Abubakar , Garkuwa Usman Adamu , Faggo Abdullahi Adamu , Mustapha Sagir , Al‐Masaeed Mahmoud , Abdullah Syahril , Keong Yong Yoke , Veerakumarasivam Abhi
Published: June 2023

Urothelial cell carcinoma (UCC) is the ninth most common cancer that accounts for 4.7% of all new cancer cases globally. UCC development and progression are due to complex and stochastic genetic programs. To study the cascades of molecular events underlying the poor prognosis that may lead to limited treatment options for advanced disease and resistance to conventional therapies in UCC, transcriptomics technology (RNA‐Seq), a method of analyzing the RNA content of a sample using modern high‐throughput sequencing platforms has been employed. Here, we review the principles of RNA‐Seq technology and summarize recent studies on human bladder cancer that employed this technique to unravel the pathogenesis of the disease, identify biomarkers, discover pathways and classify the disease state. We list the commonly used computational platforms and software that are publicly available for RNA‐Seq analysis. Moreover, we discussed the future perspectives for RNA‐Seq studies on bladder cancer and recommended the application of a new technology called single‐cell sequencing to further understand the disease.
Metadata as imaginary demands: Exploring metadata markets in digital heritage with speculative design
Authors: Hansson Karin
Published: June 2023

Cultural heritage practices is formed by different socio‐technical regimes. Today, it is increasingly formed by the regime of commodification, expressed in terms like interoperability and reuse. This signifies a shift from a regime of the authentic object where the value is in the unique object positioned in a particular institutional context. To be able to exploit cultural heritage items on digital markets detached from their position in their original context, large resources are needed to furnish the items with metadata. In this metadata production, the regime of the institution as guarantor for the objects' authenticity, clash with the regime of aggregated trust, where authenticity is confirmed by aggregating data from multiple producers. This article argue that such rich contextual information is what creates long‐term value for digital archival objects. In this speculative design project focusing humanities research needs, I therefore turn the attention to the metadata producers. Taking the idea of metadata as a commodity to its peak, I show how we can interpret metadata as a supply to meet imaginary demands. By looking at metadata as imaginary demands we can begin to see the contours of the diverse conceptual models the archives carry.
Bimetallic hydrogels based on chitosan and carrageenan as promising materials for biological applications
Authors: Khalil Ahmed M. , Hashem Amr H. , Kamel Samir
Published: June 2023

In this study, novel crosslinked hydrogels based on chitosan (CS) and carrageenan (CRG) loaded with silver and/or copper nanoparticles (Ag/CuNPs) were prepared through a freeze‐drying (thawing) process to be applied in biological applications comprising wound dressing. These hydrogels showed porous interconnected structures. The influence of the used nanoparticles (NPs) on the antibacterial properties of the CS/CRG hydrogels was explored. Antimicrobial results revealed that both CS/CRG/CuNPs, CS/CRG/AgNPs, and CS/CRG/Ag‐CuNPs exhibited promising antibacterial and antifungal activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida albicans. Moreover, CS/CRG/AgNPs, CS/CRG/CuNPs, and CS/CRG/Ag‐CuNPs hydrogels showed potential antioxidant activity to be 57%, 78%, and 89%, respectively. Furthermore, cytotoxicity results against Vero normal cell line confirmed that all designed hydrogels are safe upon usage. The bimetallic CS/CRG hydrogels showed notably enhanced antibacterial properties among the as‐prepared hydrogels allowing them to be a successful material upon being employed in wound dressing applications.