bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrospinning of poly(ethylene oxide)/glass hybrid nanofibres for anticounterfeiting encoding
Authors: El‐Newehy Mohamed H. , Aldalbahi Ali , Thamer Badr M. , Abdulhameed Meera Moydeen
Published: April 2024

The use of photochromism to increase the credibility of consumer goods has shown great promise. To provide mechanically dependable anticounterfeiting nanofibres, it has also been critical to improve the engineering processes of authentication patterns. Mechanically robust and photoluminescent electrospun poly(ethylene oxide)/glass (PGLS) nanofibres (150–350 nm) immobilized with nanoparticles of lanthanide‐doped aluminate (NLA; 8–15 nm) were developed using electrospinning technology for anticounterfeiting purposes. The provided nanofibrous membranes changed colour from transparent to green when irradiated with ultraviolet light. By delivering NLA with homogeneous distribution without aggregations, we were able to keep the nanofibrous membrane transparent. When excited at 365 nm, NLA@PGLS nanofibres showed an emission intensity at 517 nm. The hydrophobicity of NLA@PGLS nanofibres improved by raising the pigment concentration as the contact angle was increased from 146.4° to 160.3°. After being triggered by ultraviolet light, NLA@PGLS showed quick and reversible photochromism without fatigue. It was shown that the suggested method can be applied to reliably produce various anticounterfeiting materials.
Sustainability in small and medium enterprises: A circular economy approach using cloud computing
Authors: Natrajan Nidhi Shridhar , Sanjeev Rinku , Jain Rishabh Upendra
Published: April 2024

Sustainable production and consumption are the need of the hour. Adopting the Circular Economy (CE) approach fosters sustainable business practices. Cloud computing is a new way of storage and application deployment. Cloud computing enables sustainable business processes, which in turn contributes towards the effective implementation of the Circular Approach to Business Practices (CABP). The current study aims to understand the potential of cloud computing to foster circular economy practices in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). We conducted a Systematic review of 186 scholarly articles published in Web of Science (WOS), selected using the PRISMA framework. We conducted scientometric analysis on sources, authors and country level and thematic analysis to pinpoint further research areas. This was followed by a detailed literature review of the articles selected to study the concept and current practices of circular economy and an evaluation of its implementation in emerging economies. The paper proposes an integrated framework grounded in two approaches, that is, the Technology, Organization and Environment (TOE) framework and institutional isomorphism as determinants of cloud adoption and CE implementation. The proposed model explores the impact of institutional forces on the various parameters of TOE, thereby culminating in the adoption of Cloud Computing in SMEs. The study would encourage leaders and managers of SMEs to adopt cloud computing for competitive advantage and achieve a circular economy approach together. The adoption of cloud‐based applications has a great potential to foster industrial and economic progress with minimum damage to the ecosystem, furthering sustainability and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ChatGPT as an educational resource for civil engineering students
Authors: Uddin S M Jamil , Albert Alex , Tamanna Mahzabin , Ovid Anto , Alsharef Abdullah
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the investigation was to evaluate the utility of ChatGPT, a state‐of‐the‐art language model developed by Open AI, in the context of civil engineering education. To achieve this objective, 44 civil engineering students from a large state university in the United States were recruited and asked to respond to three questions pertaining to Construction Surveying and Geomatics. The students were then introduced to ChatGPT and provided with guidelines on how the platform could be utilized for educational purposes, including obtaining answers to questions like those presented to them earlier. The students were then given the opportunity to leverage ChatGPT to obtain responses to questions they had been presented with earlier and any other related queries of interest. Subsequently, the students were asked to provide written responses to the same questions they were presented with earlier, but without access to ChatGPT or its response, to assess any knowledge gains. The investigation also captured the student's acceptance and perceived usability based on their experience of using ChatGPT. The findings indicated that the student's written responses were more thorough, detailed, and informative after utilizing ChatGPT. The results also revealed that ChatGPT was largely well‐received by the students and they held a positive perception of the AI platform. The findings can inform efforts targeted at successfully integrating AI tools for civil engineering education.
Maxillary sinus augmentation via the bone lid technique: A prospective, radiographic case series
Authors: Izzetti Rossana , Cinquini Chiara , Nisi Marco , Baldi Niccolò , Graziani Filippo , Barone Antonio
Published: April 2024

Background

Maxillary sinus augmentation is one of the most performed procedures to increase the bone quantity of the atrophic maxilla to allow implant placement. The aim of the present case series was to describe a surgical protocol to perform maxillary sinus augmentation with the “bone lid technique,” and its outcomes in a cohort of patients eligible for the procedure.

Methods

After the initial clinical evaluation, a cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination was performed for preoperative assessment. Patients were then scheduled for surgical intervention. At 6–9 months follow‐up, patients underwent a second CBCT scan to evaluate bone height following bone graft and to schedule implant placement.

Results

A total of 11 patients were enrolled in the study with a total of 13 sinus lift procedures. Membrane perforation was registered in 4 cases (30.76%). Mean surgical time was 67.69 min (SD 6.51). Postoperative period was uneventful in all patients, in the absence of complications. The mean graft volume increase was 2.46 cm3 (SD 0.85), and the mean height increase was 14.27 mm (SD 3.18). Mean membrane thickness was 1.40 mm (SD 0.75). In all the 4 cases with sinus membrane perforation, the membrane had a thickness lower than 1 mm.

Conclusions

The present study highlights that the maxillary sinus augmentation with bone lid repositioning could provide repeatable results in terms of bone height increase. The technique appears reliable both in terms of bone gain and absence of complications.

Key points

The bone lid technique for maxillary sinus augmentation provides repeatable results in terms of bone height increase. The favorable clinical outcomes can be related to an enhancement of bone formation due to the unique osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties of autogenous bone, along with a reduction of soft tissue ingrowth.

Complications were not observed in any of the patients following the surgical procedures.

The risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation is inversely proportional to membrane thickness; the thinner the membrane is, the higher the risk to perforate it.
Correcting mucogingival deformities for pescatarian patients: A clinical case study
Authors: Jung Hyung Jae , Karimbux Nadeem , Dragan Irina F.
Published: April 2024

Aim

This clinical case study is to highlight the improvement of periodontal health of mandibular canines using a soft tissue alternative of fish origin, a piscine graft.

Methods

A 37‐year‐old female patient was referred to a periodontal practice for evaluation of mucogingival deformities around teeth #22 and #27 that were also diagnosed with recession, lack of keratinized tissue (KT), and bilateral high frenum attachment. Multiple soft tissue treatment options were presented to the patient, including autogenous, allograft, or xenograftporcine or piscine.

Results

Given the patient's dietary preference, piscine option was preferred. The procedures were completed one at a time, first #22 and later #27, using the standard of care procedures for correcting mucogingival deformities using soft tissue alternatives. Post‐surgical visits were scheduled at regular intervals (2, 4, 12, 24, 52 weeks) to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Healing was uneventful and clinical outcomes reveal correction of the mucogingival deformities. The amount of KT at the 52 weeks healing time, measured using an intraoral scanner was 2.12 mm on #22 and 1.78 mm on #27.

Conclusion

Within this clinical case's scope, piscine xenograft demonstrates to be a safe and effective soft tissue alternative to correct mucogingival deformities, increasing the KT width and achieving recession coverage. In addition, integration of patient's preference may lead to increased case acceptance and patient compliance.

Key points

What new information is this case providing?

The use of a soft tissue alternative of piscine origin that was selected based on the patient's preference to correct bilateral combined mucogingival deformities (recession, lack of KT, and aberrant frenum attachment) around teeth.

What is a key step to integrating this soft tissue alternative in clinical practice?

The pre‐hydration of the soft tissue alternative is preferred, compared to other soft tissue alternatives that might not require hydration (xenograft bovine origin).

What are the limitations to success in this case?

Confirming with the patient no pre‐existing fish allergies.
Oleanane‐Type Triterpene Glycosides from Camellia phanii and Their α‐Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Lan Hoang Thi Tuyet , Xuan Vu Thi , Anh Bui Thi Mai , Mai Nguyen Thi , Dung Nguyen Viet , Tai Bui Huu , Hang Nguyen Thi Minh , Thao Vu Mai , Nhiem Nguyen Xuan
Published: April 2024

Three new oleanane‐type triterpene saponins, named camphanosides A–C (1–3), along with five known compounds, chikusetsusaponin IVa (4), spinasaponin A 28‐O‐glucoside (5), (−)‐epicatechin (6), (−)‐epicatechin 3‐O‐gallate (7), and (−)‐epigallocatechin 3‐O‐gallate (8) were isolated from the leaves Camellia phanii Hakoda & Ninh. Their structures were established by 1D and 2D‐NMR and mass spectral analysis and chemical methods. Moreover, compounds 1–5 were also evaluated for α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity. Compounds 1–3 exhibited moderate α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 230.7±18.0, 251.4±22.7, and 421.4±25.6 μM, respectively.
Critical roles of long noncoding RNA H19 in cancer
Authors: Darmadi Darmadi , Chugaeva Uliana Y. , Saleh Raed Obaid , Hjazi Ahmed , Saleem Hiba Muwafaq , Ghildiyal Pallavi , Alwaily Enas R. , Alawadi Ahmed , Alnajar Mohammed Jawad , Ihsan Ali
Published: April 2024

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a category of noncoding RNAs characterized by their length, often exceeding 200 nucleotides. There is a growing body of data that indicate the significant involvement of lncRNAs in a wide range of disorders, including cancer. lncRNA H19 was among the initial lncRNAs to be identified and is transcribed from the H19 gene. The H19 lncRNA exhibits significant upregulation in a diverse range of human malignancies, such as breast, colorectal, pancreatic, glioma, and gastric cancer. Moreover, the overexpression of H19 is frequently associated with a worse prognosis among individuals diagnosed with cancer. H19 has been shown to have a role in facilitating several cellular processes, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and apoptosis. This article summarizes the aberrant upregulation of H19 in human malignancies, indicating promising avenues for future investigations on cancer diagnostics and therapeutic interventions.
Mesoporous Pt/N−TiO2/Ti Photocatalytic Plate for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Production
Authors: Hua Zhe , Yang Liu , Li Jing , Wang Junchao , Chen Lixin , Tan Liyuan , Guo Jiaming , Yao Jinlei , Liu Baodan
Published: April 2024

Monolithic plate‐type photocatalyst with excellent light absorption, abundant active sites and strong mechanical adhesion is the growing trend of photocatalysis application, as referring to a photovoltaic panel. In this study, we report a large‐scale Pt/N−TiO2/Ti photocatalytic plate with granular and mesoporous structure, which shows a superior photocatalytic performance and adhesion than nanowires and nanosheets photocatalysts. The outstanding photocatalytic performance of Pt/N−TiO2/Ti is attributed to the large exposed surface area, enhanced light absorption, high separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers and excellent surface activity induced by single Pt atom cocatalyst. The best Pt/N−TiO2/Ti sample could exhibit an outstanding photocatalytic hydrogen production activity of 72547.9 μmol ⋅ h−1 ⋅ g−1, and a high apparent quantum efficiency of 47.07 % under a 350 nm light irradiation. It can be anticipated that the proposed method and insights would pave a solid way on the development and application of superior TiO2 based photocatalytic plate.
Self‐Supported Electrocatalyst for Seawater Splitting
Authors: Enkhbayar Enkhtuvshin , Gaur Ashish , Jang Jin Uk , Nayak Arpan Kumar , Na Kyeong‐Han , Choi Won‐Youl , Han HyukSu
Published: April 2024

Over the past decades, tremendous effort has been made to enhance the water‐splitting via fabricating eco‐friendly electrocatalyst with increased conductivity, and large number of accessible active sites in lab scale. However, the development of earth abundant efficient electrocatalyst with superior activity for ‐seawater‐splitting remains a great challenge for the researchers. In this regard, self‐supported catalysts are found to be the most promising candidates, they have the features of increased loading, superior adhesion, rapid mass and charge transfer, and easy wettability for large scale hydrogen production via electrochemical seawater splitting. This review investigates different fabrication processes for the self‐supported catalyst, emphasizing their distinct characteristics that contribute to improved activity. Furthermore, we provided a detailed elucidation of the procedure and characteristics of seawater splitting, emphasizing the most recent progress in the creation of self‐supportive catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and bifunctional activity. We have also examined the current barriers and potential prospects for advancing the utilization of self‐supported catalysts in the process of seawater splitting.
Solvent‐Free Mechanosynthesis of Oligopeptides by Coupling Peptide Segments of Different Lengths – Elucidating the Role of Cesium Carbonate in Ball Mill Processes
Authors: Wróblewska Aneta , Bak‐Sypien Irena I. , Paluch Piotr , Wielgus Ewelina , Zając Justyna , Jeziorna Agata , Kaźmierski Sławomir , Potrzebowski Marek J.
Published: April 2024

We report an idea for the synthesis of oligopeptides using a solvent‐free ball milling approach. Our concept is inspired by block play, in which it is possible to construct different objects using segments (blocks) of different sizes and lengths. We prove that by having a library of short peptides and employing the ball mill mechanosynthesis (BMMS) method, peptides can be easily coupled to form different oligopeptides with the desired functional and biological properties. Optimizing the BMMS process we found that the best yields we obtained when TBTU and cesium carbonate were used as reagents. The role of Cs2CO3 in the coupling mechanism was followed on each stage of synthesis by 1H, 13C and 133Cs NMR employing Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) techniques. It was found that cesium carbonate acts not only as a base but is also responsible for the activation of substrates and intermediates. The unique information about the BMMS mechanism is based on the analysis of 2D NMR data. The power of BMMS is proved by the example of different peptide combinations, 2+2, 3+2, 4+2, 5+2 and 4+4. The tetra‐, penta‐, hexa‐, hepta‐ and octapeptides obtained under this project were fully characterized by MS and NMR techniques.
High Pressure Promotes Binding of the Allosteric Inhibitor Zn2+‐Cyclen in Crystals of Activated H‐Ras
Authors: Girard Eric , Lopes Pedro , Spoerner Michael , Dhaussy Anne‐Claire , Prangé Thierry , Kalbitzer Hans Robert , Colloc'h Nathalie
Published: April 2024

In this work, we experimentally investigate the potency of high pressure to drive a protein toward an excited state where an inhibitor targeted for this state can bind. Ras proteins are small GTPases cycling between active GTP‐bound and inactive GDP‐bound states. Various states of GTP‐bound Ras in active conformation coexist in solution, amongst them, state 2 which binds to effectors, and state 1, weakly populated at ambient conditions, which has a low affinity for effectors. Zn2+‐cyclen is an allosteric inhibitor of Ras protein, designed to bind specifically to the state 1. In H‐Ras(wt).Mg2+.GppNHp crystals soaked with Zn2+‐cyclen, no binding could be observed, as expected in the state 2 conformation which is the dominant state at ambient pressure. Interestingly, Zn2+‐cyclen binding is observed at 500 MPa pressure, close to the nucleotide, in Ras protein that is driven by pressure to a state 1 conformer. The unknown binding mode of Zn2+‐cyclen to H‐Ras can thus be fully characterized in atomic details. As a more general conjunction from our study, high pressure x‐ray crystallography turns out to be a powerful method to induce transitions allowing drug binding in proteins that are in low‐populated conformations at ambient conditions, enabling the design of specific inhibitors.
Improving Fatigue Resistance and Autonomous Switching of pH Responsive Hydrazones by Pulses of a Chemical Fuel
Authors: Maity Pankaj , Pradhan Harekrushna , Das Asesh , Dalapati Monotosh , Samanta Dipak
Published: April 2024

The chemically triggered reversible switching of pH‐responsive hydrazones involves rotary motion‐induced configurational changes, serving as a prototype for constructing an array of molecular machines. Typically, the configurational isomerization of such switches into two distinct forms (E/Z) occurs through the alteration of the pH the medium, achieved by successive additions of acid and base stimuli. However, this process results in intermittent operation due to the concomitant accumulation of salt after each cycle, limiting switching performance to only a few cycles (5–6). In this context, we introduce a novel strategy for the autonomous E/Z isomerization of hydrazones in acetonitrile using pulses of trichloroacetic acid as a chemical fuel. The use of this transient acid enabled reversible switching of hydrazones even after 50 cycles without causing significant fatigue. To test the broad viability of the fuel, a series of ortho/para‐substituted hydrazones were synthesized and their switching performance was investigated. The analysis of kinetic data showed a strong dependency of switching operations including the lifetime of transient state, on the electronic properties of substituents. Finally, a distinct color change from yellow to orange due to reversible switching of the para‐methoxy substituted hydrazone was employed for the creation of rewritable messages on commercially available paper.
A Single Terminal [NiII−OH] Catalyst for Direct Julia‐Type Olefination and α‐Alkylation Involving Sulfones and Alcohols
Authors: Pandey Prabhakar K. , Patra Moumita , Ranjan Prabodh , Kumar Pal Nilay , Choudhary Sanjay , Bera Jitendra K.
Published: April 2024

A terminal [NiII−OH] complex 1, supported by triflamide‐functionalized NHC ligands, showed divergent reactivity for the reaction of sulfone with alcohol, contingent on base concentration, temperature, and time. Julia‐type olefination of alcohols with sulfones was achieved using one equiv. of base, whereas lowering base loading to 0.5 equiv. afforded α‐alkylated sulfones. Besides excellent substrate scope and selectivity, biologically active stilbene derivatives DMU‐212, pinosylvin, resveratrol, and piceatannol were synthesized in high yield under Julia‐type olefination conditions. An extensive array of controlled experiments and DFT calculations provide valuable insight on the reaction pathway.
High‐Intensity Circular Dichroism of Head‐To‐Tail Regioregular Poly(1,4‐Phenylene)s in the Aggregated State
Authors: Tanaka Rikuya , Yamaoka Seiha , Ikeda Shuichi , Okano Kentaro , Horie Masaki , Minami Hideto , Suzuki Nozomu , Mori Atsunori
Published: April 2024

Circular dichroism (CD) studies on poly(1,4‐phenylene)s bearing a chiral side chain in the aggregated conditions were carried out. Little CD was observed in a solution form, while addition of a poor solvent into the polyphenylene solution induced aggregation and a strong CD was observed, accordingly. Applying the controlled degree of polymerization (DP) of poly(1,4‐phenylene) in the use of bidentate diphosphine Chiraphos as a ligand for the nickel catalyst, the relationship of DP with CD strength was studied to reveal to show the highest CD at the DP=84 (gabs=ca. 2×10−2). It was also found that the related aggregation was observed in good solvent 1,2‐dichloroethane upon standing the solution at 4 °C for 3–23 days to observe gabs=ca. 10−1. Studies on the substituent effect of poly(1,4‐phenylene) suggested that CD behaviors were dependent on the type of non‐chiral substituent on the aromatic ring as well as the side‐chain chirality.
Solution‐State Structure of a Long‐Loop G‐Quadruplex Formed Within Promoters of Plasmodium falciparum B var Genes
Authors: Juribašić Kulcsár Marina , Gabelica Valérie , Plavec Janez
Published: April 2024

We report the high‐resolution NMR solution‐state structure of an intramolecular G‐quadruplex with a diagonal loop of ten nucleotides. The G‐quadruplex is formed by a 34‐nt DNA sequence, d[CAG3T2A2G3TATA2CT3AG4T2AG3T2], named UpsB‐Q‐1. This sequence is found within promoters of the var genes of Plasmodium falciparum, which play a key role in malaria pathogenesis and evasion of the immune system. The [3+1]‐hybrid G‐quadruplex formed under physiologically relevant conditions exhibits a unique equilibrium between two structures, both stabilized by base stacking and non‐canonical hydrogen bonding. Unique equilibrium of the two closely related 3D structures originates from a North‐South repuckering of deoxyribose moiety of residue T27 in the lateral loop. Besides the 12 guanines involved in three G‐quartets, most residues in loop regions are involved in interactions at both G‐quartet‐loop interfaces.
Linking of Chemical Reactions and Silica Nanoparticle Contact Using Synthetic Helical Molecules
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Bao Ming , Arisawa Mieko , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Biological cells exhibit diverse phenomena induced through linking of chemical reactions of molecules and solid surface contact. It is then a significant topic in the field of chemistry to study phenomena induced through this linking using synthetic systems, which can promote our understanding of biological phenomena and can be applied to the development of novel functions. Silica nanoparticles (SNPs), which are synthetic inorganic materials, are attractive for such purposes, because of their following characteristics: they can adsorb large amounts of molecules on their surfaces, they can aggregate through contact between SNPs as well as contact between molecules and SNPs, and the molecules can be easily removed from solutions by precipitation. The contact of SNP surfaces with molecules then affects chemical reactions of molecules and also behaviors of SNPs. This article describes systems derived from synthetic helical molecules and SNPs, which exhibit notable phenomena including selective adsorption and molecular recognition, equilibrium shift, step kinetics with induction period, precipitation with flow and sweeping, and disaggregation and desorption by sonication, in which the high affinity of helical molecules with SNP surfaces plays important roles. Mechanistic models that explain the phenomena are provided. Possible applications are also discussed, including the separation of molecules, capture of intermediates, the storage and release of molecules, equilibrium shift, clocking, and the translation of mechanical stimulations into chemical reactions.

Key Scientists
Prediction of the essential intermolecular contacts for side‐binding of VASP on F‐actin
Authors: Aydin Fikret , Katkar Harshwardhan H. , Morganthaler Alisha , Harker Alyssa J. , Kovar David R. , Voth Gregory A.
Published: April 2024

Vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) family proteins play a crucial role in mediating the actin network architecture in the cytoskeleton. The Ena/VASP homology 2 (EVH2) domain in each of the four identical arms of the tetrameric VASP consists of a loading poly‐Pro region, a G‐actin‐binding domain (GAB), and an F‐actin‐binding domain (FAB). Together, the poly‐Pro, GAB, and FAB domains allow VASP to bind to sides of actin filaments in a bundle, and recruit profilin–G‐actin to processively elongate the filaments. The atomic resolution structure of the ternary complex, consisting of the loading poly‐Pro region and GAB domain of VASP with profilin–actin, has been solved over a decade ago; however, a detailed structure of the FAB‐F‐actin complex has not been resolved to date. Experimental insights, based on homology of the FAB domain with the C region of WASP, have been used to hypothesize that the FAB domain binds to the cleft between subdomains 1 and 3 of F‐actin. Here, in order to develop our understanding of the VASP–actin complex, we first augment known structural information about the GAB domain binding to actin with the missing FAB domain‐actin structure, which we predict using homology modeling and docking simulations. In earlier work, we used mutagenesis and kinetic modeling to study the role of domain‐level binding–unbinding kinetics of Ena/VASP on actin filaments in a bundle, specifically on the side of actin filaments. We further look at the nature of the side‐binding of the FAB domain of VASP at the atomistic level using our predicted structure, and tabulate effective mutation sites on the FAB domain that would disrupt the VASP–actin complex. We test the binding affinity of Ena with mutated FAB domain using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy experiments. The binding affinity of VASP is affected significantly for the mutant, providing additional support for our predicted structure.
Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 1 (LPA1) Antagonists as Potential Migrastatics for Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Liu Wenjie , Mousa Amr A. K. , Hopkins Austin M. , Wu Yin Fang , Thu Kelsie L. , Campbell Michael , Lees Simon J. , Ramachandran Rithwik , Hou Jinqiang
Published: April 2024

Metastasis is responsible for about 90 % of cancer deaths. Anti‐metastatic drugs, termed as migrastatics, offer a distinctive therapeutic approach to address cancer migration and invasion. However, therapeutic exploitation of metastasis‐specific targets remains limited, and the effective prevention and suppression of metastatic cancer continue to be elusive. Lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPA1) is activated by an endogenous lipid molecule LPA, leading to a diverse array of cellular activities. Previous studies have shown that the LPA/LPA1 axis supports the progression of metastasis for many types of cancer. In this study, we report the synthesis and biological evaluation of fluorine‐containing triazole derivatives as potent LPA1 antagonists, offering potential as migrastatic drugs for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). In particular, compound 12 f, the most potent and highly selective in this series with an IC50 value of 16.0 nM in the cAMP assay and 18.4 nM in the calcium mobilization assay, inhibited cell survival, migration, and invasion in the TNBC cell line. Interestingly, the compound did not induce apoptosis in TNBC cells and demonstrated no cytotoxic effects. These results highlight the potential of LPA1 as a migrastatic target. Consequently, the LPA1 antagonists developed in this study hold promise as potential migrastatic candidates for TNBC.
Photocatalytic Drug Degradation and Supercapacitor Applications of FeVO4 and rGO‐FeVO4 Nanocomposite
Authors: Neha  , Seo Young Soo , Nisar Sobia , Vijaya Kumar R. , Rambabu P. , Perugu Chandra S. , Banerjee S. , Das Pradip , Rabani Iqra , Turpu G. R.
Published: April 2024

Constructing novel multifunctional materials is a promising approach to boost the catalytic activity and electrochemical performance simultaneously. Herein, hydrothermal synthesized FeVO4 nanosized particles dispersed on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) through cost‐effective simple sonochemical assisted route are developed as an efficient material for photocatalysis activity and high‐value‐added supercapacitor applications. The synthesized materials were characterized for structural and morphological purity and found to be in single phase and nanostructured. rGO‐FeVO4 composite shows excellent photodegradation of Levofloxacin (LVO) drug (100 % over 80 min) compared with FeVO4 owing to the bandgap in visible region and larger surface area. Further, the optimized rGO‐FeVO4 composite was employed into supercapacitors and it showed 3 times higher capacitance (211.4 F/g at 0.5 A/g) compared with FeVO4 (70.4 F/g) using half‐cell measurements. Moreover, the developed symmetric supercapacitors (full cell; SSCs) using rGO‐FeVO4 composite device showed 109 F/g capacitance at 0.5 A/g current density having high energy density of 13.6 Wh/kg at the power density of 450 W/kg. The proposed rGO‐FeVO4 composite proved its multifunctional outcomes, which can open new opportunities to develop such materials for numerous future applications.
Synthesis of Selenium Derivatives using Organic Selenocyanates as Masked Selenols: Chemical Reduction with Rongalite as a Simpler Tool to give Nucleophilic Selenides
Authors: Castro‐Godoy Willber D. , Heredia Adrián A. , Bouchet Lydia M. , Argüello Juan E.
Published: April 2024

The chemical reduction within a family of organic selenocyanates, as masked selenols, using reducing agents, such as Rongalite, sodium dithionite, and sodium thiosulfate is investigated. Using Rongalite, the corresponding diselenides were obtained quantitatively and selectively in very good to excellent yields (51–100 %) starting from alkyl, aryl, and benzyl selenocyanates. The scope of the reaction is unaffected by the electronic nature of the substituents. Furthermore, the reducing agent, Rongalite, is compatible with hydrolysable and reducing‐sensitive functional groups. Additionally, a simple methodology employing the in‐situ generated benzyl selenolate anion (PhCH2Se−) to promote aliphatic nucleophilic substitution, epoxide ring opening, and Michael addition reactions has been developed; thus, extending the structural diversity of the synthesized selenium derivatives.
Mouse Anesthesia and Analgesia
Authors: Schwartz Kenzie , Pacharinsak Cholawat
Published: April 2024

Providing anesthesia and analgesia for mouse subjects is a common and critical practice in the laboratory setting. This practice is necessary for performing invasive procedures, achieving prolonged immobility for sensitive imaging modalities (magnetic resonance imaging, for instance), and providing intra‐ and post‐procedural pain relief. In addition to facilitating the procedures performed by the investigator, the provision of anesthesia and analgesia is crucial for the preservation of animal welfare and for humane treatment of animals used in research. Furthermore, anesthesia and analgesia are important components of animal use protocols reviewed by Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees, requiring careful consideration and planning for the particular animal model. In this article, we provide technical guidance for the investigator, covering the provision of anesthesia by two routes (injectable and inhalant), guidelines for monitoring anesthesia, current techniques for recognition of pain, considerations for administering preventative analgesia, and considerations for post‐operative care. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Injectable anesthesia

Basic Protocol 2: Inhalant anesthesia

Basic Protocol 3: Assessing pain
Germination patterns and seedling growth of congeneric native and invasive Mimosa species: Implications for risk assessment
Authors: Kharel Nisha , Dangol Anuj , Shrestha Ashmita , Airi Hemanti , Devkota Anjana , Thapa Lal Bahadur , Shrestha Bharat Babu
Published: April 2024

Comparisons of plant traits between native and invasive congeners are useful approaches for identifying characteristics that promote invasiveness. We compared germination patterns and seedling growth of locally sympatric populations of native Mimosa himalayana and two varieties of invasive M. diplotricha (var. diplotricha and var. inermis) growing in southeastern Nepal. Seeds were germinated under a 12‐h photoperiod or complete dark, low (25/15°C day/night) and high (30/20°C) temperatures, different water stress levels (0, −0.1, −0.25, −0.5, −0.75 and −1.0 MPa), and soil depths (0, 2, and 4 cm). Plant height, biomass allocations, and relative growth rate (RGR) of seedlings were measured. Invasive M. diplotricha had higher germination percentage, rate, and shorter germination time compared with the native species. Germination of both congeners declined as water stress increased, but the decline was more pronounced in native species. Seedling emergence declined with increasing depth in all taxa. The seedlings of invasive species were taller with higher leaf number and allocated greater proportion of biomass to shoot, whereas the native congener allocated greater biomass to root. The RGR was nearly twice as high in invasive species as it was in the native congener. Seedling height and number of leaves were always higher in invasive than in native species, and the native–invasive differences increased over time. Better germination and higher growth performance of invasive species than the congeneric native one suggests that seed germination and seedling growth can be useful traits for the prediction of species' invasiveness in their introduced range during risk assessment process.
Untangling the roles of centrality and environmental contribution in diversity patterns across spatial scales
Authors: Tornero Irene , Gascón Stéphanie , Cunillera‐Montcusí David , Sala Jordi , Compte Jordi , Quintana Xavier D. , Boix Dani
Published: April 2024

The application of graph theory to metacommunity ecology allows a deeper analysis of the effect of network structure on diversity patterns. Here, we set out to test the role of network centrality metrics and environmental characteristics in diversity patterns of pond macroinvertebrate metacommunities. We tested two approaches to construct the networks: one used the percolation distance, whereas the other was based on a community‐contingent distance. The role of each patch within the network was then analyzed using its centrality value. Later, we analyzed the relationships between the macroinvertebrate diversity and centrality metrics for four study sites. The calculated diversity metrics cover different facets of biodiversity at two scales: pond and pondscape. Environmental characteristics of the studied ponds were also included. All relationships were tested considering the entire macroinvertebrate dataset, but also differentiated by dispersal mode (i.e., active vs. passive) and considering the two types of network approaches analyzed. The results were mostly consistent when comparing the network approaches used. Centrality metrics tended to be positively related to alpha and negatively to beta diversity. Environmental uniqueness showed a positive effect on beta diversity metrics, regardless of the dispersal mode. We only observed a weak negative relationship between eutrophication and species richness of active dispersers. Pond size showed a positive effect on both alpha and beta diversity, but was detected more frequently on alpha diversity metrics. We could not find evidence for a clear negative effect of habitat degradation on diversity. We found a greater importance of environmental characteristics versus the centrality metrics for both alpha and beta diversity of active dispersers, while a combination of their contributions for passive dispersers. An unexpected importance of centrality was observed for alpha diversity of passive dispersers. Using empirical data, we demonstrate that the centrality of a patch in an undirected network affects diversity regardless of the approach used to construct the networks, with a higher influence at local scale regardless of the dispersal mode. This study broadens knowledge of the relationships between environmental features and network centrality, demonstrating the important role of centrality as a determinant of diversity in metacommunities.
Activation/Cyclization of 2H‐Azirines and 3‐Amino‐2‐fluoropyridines Towards 2‐Aryl‐Pyrido[2,3‐b]pyrazines
Authors: Fortier Tess , Belouin Audrey , Vuillermet Frédéric , Bourret Joanick , Pelletier Guillaume
Published: April 2024

The electrophilic activation of 2H‐azirines with triflic anhydride (Tf2O) for an addition/cyclization reaction producing 2‐aryl‐pyrido[2,3‐b]pyrazines regioselectively is described. This reaction proceeds via nucleophilic addition of 3‐amino‐2‐fluoropyridines onto 1‐trifloyl‐aziridin‐2‐yl triflates and subsequent cyclization via SNAr. Desulfonylation and oxidation provides a single regioisomer of the aza‐bicyclic heterocycle after treatment with Et3N. Optimization of the reaction conditions lead to a range of 2‐aryl‐pyrido[2,3‐b]pyrazines in isolated yields of 20 % to 60 %.
Iron‐Based Deep Eutectic Solvents: Key Players for Amide and Sulfonamide Synthesis and Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Cicco Luciana , Urselli Sara , Favia Claudia , Perna Filippo Maria , Vitale Paola , Capriati Vito
Published: April 2024

A sustainable protocol has been devised for the oxidation of activated secondary alcohols to their corresponding carbonyl compounds, as well as their utilization as selective mono‐alkylating reagents for both amide and arylsulfonamide derivatives. These reactions proceed smoothly and in good yields (up to 98 %) when conducted in Fe‐based deep eutectic solvents (DESs), which serve dual roles as solvents and catalysts. Operating under mild (40 °C) and aerobic conditions, these transformations are completed within a 4 h time frame. A pharmacologically relevant amide derivative, specifically a PMRT1 inhibitor, has also been successfully synthesized on a 3 g‐scale utilizing a reusable FeCl3 ⋅ 6H2O/glycerol Lewis acidic DES.
Coupling support technique for coal roadway under double gobs in close coal seams
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Nan Zhang , Chen Dongdong , Wu Xiaowei , Zhou Hao
Published: April 2024

In the process of lower coal roadway support under double gobs in close coal seams, there are problems such as the whole destruction of the lower coal seam and the intermediate strata, the thin roof of the lower coal roadway with the smaller support space, the upper rock of the lower coal roadway without anchor bearing layer, the roof falling, the anchor cable offing, and so on. On the basis of the engineering background of No. 11103 haulage roadway in Fenxi coal mine, the research methods of theoretical modeling analysis, numerical simulation analysis and field engineering test are comprehensively adopted. In this paper, the layout of the roadway with floor insertion in the lower coal seam, the distribution characteristics of surrounding rock deviatoric stress, the control principle of broken surrounding rock and the coupling support method of shed–cable–prop are systematically studied. The study shows that many measures are needed to ensure the stability of the surrounding rock in the strong mining roadway of the lower coal seam. The lower coal seam roadway section was modified from the original rectangular section to adopt an arched section to counteract the broken roof. The staggered position of the lower coal seam roadway layout was modified from the original coal roadway position to a coal–rock roadway, so as to avoid the area of high deviatoric stress in the coal pillar and the area of crushed coal body, and to leave an effective support space for the roof. The support scheme of the lower coal seam roadway was improved to use anchor cable and single prop to support the weak section of U‐type steel shed with local coupling, and realize unequal force coupling by adjusting the size of the force at different coupling points. In the field monitoring the deformation of the roadway is small, and the support effect is good.
Chemical constituents and bioactivities of the essential oils of Magnolia biondii flower buds from three provinces in China
Authors: Li Tian‐Xiao , Li Li‐Peng , Zhang Da‐Yuan , Zhao Guo‐Liang , Liang Yong‐Wei , Jia Xue‐Wei , Guo Lei , Xu Chun‐Ping , Gao Xin
Published: April 2024

Magnolia biondii flower buds are a well‐known medicinal plant in China, and it is important to determine the differences in aroma, flavour components, and biological activity of the essential oils of M. biondii flower buds (EOM) from different origins. In this study, the essential oils of M. biondii flower buds from Sichuan (EOM‐SC), Anhui (EOM‐AH) and Henan (EOM‐HN) provinces were extracted by hydrodistillation. The condition of the extraction process was optimized. The differences in the flavour compounds were further confirmed by GC–MS and relative odour activity value (ROAV) analyses. In addition, the antibacterial and antioxidant activity was also evaluated. The results showed that the optimized condition for steam distillation was water: flower powder ratio = 10:1 with extraction time for more than 3.0 h. Interestingly, special floral, fruity and freshness flavours were found for EOM‐SC, and the medicinal herb and sweetness odours of EOM‐HN were more prominent. The numbers and contents of flavour compounds in EOM‐SC and EOM‐HN were higher than those of EOM‐AH. Eucalyptol, β‐pinene, linalool, α‐terpineol and sabinene could be proposed as the key mutual flavour compounds for three essential oils. In addition, the strong floral, fruity and freshness aroma of EOM‐SC could be associated with the high ROAVs of α‐terpineol, linalool and sabinene. Moreover, EOM‐SC exhibited better antibacterial and antioxidant activity than those of the other two essential oils.
An assessment of the nutritional status of internally displaced school children in the West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon
Authors: Ejoh Aba Richard , Nwachan Boh Mirabelle , Noumo Ngangmou Theirry
Published: April 2024

Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge among children in developing countries, especially those experiencing civil wars and political unrest. It is imperative to ascertain the level of malnutrition, particularly in displaced children, to develop and effectively implement interventions. This study was a cross‐sectional survey conducted to assess the nutritional status of 657 internally displaced school‐aged children (5–15 years) enrolled in primary schools in the West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon. The height, weight, and mid‐upper arm circumference of the children were measured using standard measurements. Clinical examinations were also made on the children. Other parameters that affect nutritional status, such as morbidity and health‐seeking practices, were assessed using pre‐tested, structured interviewer questionnaires. An analysis of the data revealed that stunting was the most prevalent form of malnutrition (27.1%), followed by wasting (23%), thinness (21.6%), and underweight (20.1%). About 44.5% of the children had low serum iron, and 35.7% of them had poor protein status. The prevalence of anemia was 30.0%. The most common signs of protein, vitamin A, and iron deficiencies observed were thin, dry, or sparse hair (5.2%), pallor (7.3%), and xerosis (3.3%), respectively. About 32% of the children had been sick within the previous month of the study, and the most common illness was the common cold (19.8%). Most of them (>60%) had good health‐seeking practices. The high prevalence of stunting, wasting, thinness, underweight, anemia, protein, and iron deficiency calls for interventions such as nutrition education and supplementation to prevent malnutrition and diet‐related diseases among children.
A novel application of data‐consistent inversion to overcome spurious inference in genome‐wide association studies
Authors: Janani Negar , Young Kendra A. , Kinney Greg , Strand Matthew , Hokanson John E. , Liu Yaning , Butler Troy , Austin Erin
Published: April 2024

The genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) typically use linear or logistic regression models to identify associations between phenotypes (traits) and genotypes (genetic variants) of interest. However, the use of regression with the additive assumption has potential limitations. First, the normality assumption of residuals is the one that is rarely seen in practice, and deviation from normality increases the Type‐I error rate. Second, building a model based on such an assumption ignores genetic structures, like, dominant, recessive, and protective‐risk cases. Ignoring genetic variants may result in spurious conclusions about the associations between a variant and a trait. We propose an assumption‐free model built upon data‐consistent inversion (DCI), which is a recently developed measure‐theoretic framework utilized for uncertainty quantification. This proposed DCI‐derived model builds a nonparametric distribution on model inputs that propagates to the distribution of observed data without the required normality assumption of residuals in the regression model. This characteristic enables the proposed DCI‐derived model to cover all genetic variants without emphasizing on additivity of the classic‐GWAS model. Simulations and a replication GWAS with data from the COPDGene demonstrate the ability of this model to control the Type‐I error rate at least as well as the classic‐GWAS (additive linear model) approach while having similar or greater power to discover variants in different genetic modes of transmission.
Predicting the overall survival and progression‐free survival of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients based on hemoglobin, albumin, and globulin ratio and classical clinicopathological parameters
Authors: Chen Zui , Ling Jie , Zhang Sujuan , Feng Yuhua , Xie Yangchun , Liu Xianling , Hou Tao
Published: April 2024

Background

Serum biomarkers have a significant impact on the prediction of treatment outcomes in patients diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The primary aim of this study was to develop and validate a nomogram that incorporates hemoglobin, albumin, and globulin ratio (HAGR) and clinical data to accurately forecast treatment outcomes in patients with NPC.

Methods

A total of 796 patients diagnosed with NPC were included in the study.

Results

The results of the multivariate Cox analysis revealed that TNM stage and HAGR were found to be significant independent prognostic factors for OS and PFS. Furthermore, the utilization of the nomogram demonstrated a significant improvement in the evaluation of OS, PFS compared with the eighth TNM staging system. Additionally, the implementation of Kaplan–Meier curves and decision curve analysis curves further confirmed the discriminability and clinical effectiveness of the nomogram.

Conclusions

The HAGR, an innovative prognostic factor grounded in the realm of immunonutrition, has emerged as a promising prognostic marker for both OS and PFS in individuals afflicted with NPC.