bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Andrographolide reverts multidrug resistance in KBChR 8‐5 cells through AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Lakra Deepa S. , Bharathiraja Pradhapsingh , Dhanalakshmi T. , Prasad N. Rajendra
Published: February 2024

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle in cancer chemotherapy. P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) one of the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters plays an important role in MDR. In this study, we examined the sensitizing property of andrographolide (Andro) to reverse MDR in the drug‐resistant KBChR 8‐5 cells. Andro exhibited increased cytotoxicity in a concentration‐dependent manner in the P‐gp overexpressing KBChR 8‐5 cells. Furthermore, Andro showed synergistic interactions with PTX and DOX in this drug‐resistant cells. Andro co‐administration enhanced PTX‐ and DOX‐induced cytotoxicity and reduced cell proliferation in the MDR cancer cells. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were elevated with a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) during Andro and chemotherapeutic drugs combination treatment in the drug‐resistant cells. Furthermore, Andro and PTX‐induced cell cycle arrest was observed in the drug‐resistant cell. We also noticed that the expression of ABCB1 and AKT were downregulated during Andro (4 µM) treatment. Furthermore, Andro treatment enhanced the expression of caspase 3 and caspase 9 in the combinational groups that support the enhanced apoptotic cell death in drug‐resistant cancer cells. Therefore, the results reveal that Andro plays a role in the reversal of P‐gp‐mediated MDR in KBChR 8‐5 cells which might be due to regulating ABCB1/AKT signaling pathway.
De Winter syndrome in action: Captured on defibrillator
Authors: Alhatemi Ahmed Qasim Mohammed , Hashim Hashim Talib , Aziz Ezzat Mohammed Hussain , Abdulhussain Tiba Khaild , Hashim Ali Talib
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

De Winter syndrome, though rare, demands heightened clinical suspicion. Recognizing its electrocardiographic subtleties is crucial, as prompt diagnosis allows for life‐saving interventions such as percutaneous coronary intervention or thrombolysis.
One‐pot Twostep Chemobiocatalytic Synthesis of a Furan Amino Acid from 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Wu Zi‐Cheng , Li Wei‐Wei , Zong Min‐Hua , Li Ning
Published: February 2024

Recently, catalytic valorization of biomass‐derived furans has received growing interest. 5‐Aminomethyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (AMFC), a furan amino acid, holds great promise in the aeras of polymer and pharmaceutical, but its synthesis remains limited. In this work, we report a chemobiocatalytic route toward AMFC by combining laccase‐TEMPO system and recombinant Escherichia coli (named E. coli_TAF) harboring ω‐transaminase (TA), L‐alanine dehydrogenase (L‐AlaDH) and formate dehydrogenase (FDH), starting from 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). In the cascade, HMF is oxidized into 5‐formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (FFCA) by laccase‐TEMPO system, and then the resulting intermediate is converted into AMFC by E. coli_TAF via transamination with cheap ammonium formate instead of costly organic amine donors, theoretically generating H2O and CO2 as by‐products. The tandem process was run in a one‐pot twostep manner, affording AMFC with approximately 81 % yield, together with 10 % 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) as by‐product. In addition, the scale‐up production of AMFC was demonstrated, with 0.41 g/L h productivity and 8.6 g/L titer. This work may pave the way for green manufacturing of the furan‐containing amino acid.
Downregulation of Hypoxia Inducible Factor‐1α in Primary Human Natural Killer Cells Using Small Interfering RNA Delivery with ExPERT ATx by MaxCyte
Authors: Velásquez Sonia Y. , Baslar Gizem E. , Schulte Jutta , Fuderer Tanja , Lindner Holger A. , Coulibaly Anna
Published: February 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate cytokine‐producing and cytolytic effector lymphocytes. Their function is responsive to environmental factors, e.g., hypoxia, a frequent feature of inflamed tissues. Such responses require that the NK cells up‐regulate HIF‐1α (hypoxia inducible factor‐1α), the major mediator of cellular responses to hypoxia that affects cell survival as well as immune responses. Thus, a major approach to the study of NK cell effector function under hypoxic conditions involves the ability to regulate HIF‐1α levels in primary human NK cells. One difficulty with this approach, however, is that NK cells are difficult‐to‐transfect cells and common transfection methods, including electroporation or lipofection, suffer from variable transfection efficiency and cell viability. Moreover, the detection of HIF‐1α is technically challenging because of the rapid degradation of the protein under normoxic conditions. Here, using the commercially available ExPERT ATx by MaxCyte, we report a workflow for the reliable delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) for targeting HIF‐1α expression in primary human NK cells. We further provide a protocol for the detection of HIF‐1α by immunoblot analysis demonstrating its efficient downregulation by siRNA. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation of natural killer cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Basic Protocol 2: Delivery of non‐coding small interfering RNA and HIF‐1α targeting siRNA into natural killer cells using ExPERT ATx

Basic Protocol 3: Assessing the downregulation of HIF‐1α protein using immunoblot analysis

Support Protocol 1: Exemplary assessment of transfection efficiency using fluorescently labeled non‐targeting siRNA

Support Protocol 2: Exemplary assessment of NK cell viability 20 hr post‐transfection

Support Protocol 3: Exemplary assessment of HIF‐1α knockdown using immunoblot analysis
Happy troubles? CSR awards and CSR report quality
Authors: Guo Yihao , Song Yanwen , Wang Yimin
Published: February 2024

We propose that quality of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports, as measured by independent agencies, will decline when firms perform well in social responsibility. Building on the existing literature on stakeholder theory and existing literature, we theorize that lower‐quality CSR reports may correlate with better actual CSR because performing well in CSR will increase external stakeholders' expectations but simultaneously stimulate discontent among shareholders, forcing firms to mitigate the conflict through CSR reports. This study takes Chinese listed firms from 2010 to 2019 as subjects and examines the relationship between winning prestigious CSR awards and CSR report quality. The results support our hypothesis. We further investigate two moderator variables and find the negative relationship is weakened when firms are state‐owned, potentially resulting in more social expectation pressures from the government and public. As an important financial indicator tracked by internal stakeholders, return on equity weakens this negative relationship.
Visible‐Light‐Sensitive Photoliquefiable Arylazoisoxazoles for the Solar Energy Conversion, Storage and Controlled‐Release of Heat at Room Temperature or Lower Temperatures
Authors: Dolai Anirban , Bhunia Supriya , Manna Kalipada , Bera Satyajit , Box Sk Majid , Bhattacharya Kallol , Saha Ritabrata , Sarkar Subhasish , Samanta Subhas
Published: February 2024

The photoswitchable MOlecular Solar Thermal (MOST) energy storage systems that are capable of exhibiting high energy storage densities are found to suffer from the poor cyclability, the use of less abundant UV light of the solar spectrum, or reduced charging/discharging rates and poor photoconversions in solid states. Herein, we have designed and readily synthesized a novel set of para‐thioalkyl substituted arylazoisoxazoles, that undergo high trans‐cis and cis‐trans photoconversions under visible light, and show fast charging/discharging and impressive cyclability. Remarkably, the presence of C6‐or C10‐thioalkyl chainin photochromes permitted reversible solid‐liquid phase transition with the formation of cis‐enriched charged states by 400 nm light irradiation and trans‐enriched discharged states by 530 nm light at various temperatures (10–35 °C). The solid‐to‐liquid phase transition enabled storage of the latent heat in addition to the isomerization energy, resulting in a high net energy storage density of 189–196 J/g, which are substantially higher than that of many recently reported azobenzene‐based MOST compounds (100–161 J/g). Using a high‐resolution infrared camera, we further demonstrated that a brief irradiation of green light can be employed to readily release the trapped photon energy as heat. Our results suggest that the arylazoisoxazole with C6‐thioalkyl chain at para‐position can serve as an effective and eco‐friendly photoliquefiable MOST material.
A clinical update on fungal disease of human skin
Authors: Burningham Kevin M. , Kim Juliana H. , Kashyap Alisha , Tyring Stephen K.
Published: February 2024

Fungi cause cutaneous pathology in humans in three broad categories: superficial mycoses, subcutaneous mycoses, and systemic or opportunistic mycoses. In this chapter, we will discuss recent updates in treatment for dermatological diagnoses in each of these categories. We will also discuss dermatologically relevant emerging fungal pathogens.
Shifting patterns in fine root distribution of four xerophytic species across soil structural gradients and years of growth
Authors: Hu Hui , Bao Weikai , Huang Long , Li Fanglan
Published: February 2024

Fine root (diameter < 2 mm) distribution influences the potential for resource acquisition in soil profiles, which defines how plants interact with local soil environments; however, a deep understanding of how fine root vertical distribution varies with soil structural variations and across growth years is lacking. We subjected four xerophytic species native to an arid valley of China, Artemisia vestita, Bauhinia brachycarpa, Sophora davidii, and Cotinus szechuanensis, to increasing rock fragment content (RFC) treatments (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%, v v−1) in an arid environment and measured fine root vertical profiles over 4 years of growth. Fine root depth and biomass of woody species increased with increasing RFC, but the extent of increase declined with growth years. Increasing RFC also increased the degree of interannual decreases in fine root diameter. The limited supply of soil resources in coarse soils explained the increases in rooting depth and variations in the pattern of fine root profiles across RFC. Fine root depth and biomass of the non‐woody species (A. vestita) in soil profiles decreased with the increase in RFC and growth years, showing an opposite pattern from the other three woody species. Within woody species, the annual increase in fine root biomass varied with RFC, which led to large interannual differences in the patterns of fine root profiles. Younger or non‐woody plants were more susceptible to soil environmental changes than the older or woody plants. These results reveal the limitations of dry and rocky environments on the growth of different plants, with woody and non‐woody plants adjusting their root vertical distribution through opposite pathways to cope with resource constraints, which has management implications for degraded agroforest ecosystems.
Conservation genetics of Notelaea lloydii (Oleaceae) in south‐eastern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Manawaduge Chapa G. , Ryan James , Phillips Matthew J. , Fuller Susan
Published: February 2024

Habitat fragmentation can increase the chance of population bottlenecks and inbreeding, and may ultimately lead to reduced fitness and local extinction. Notelaea lloydii is a native olive species endemic to Australia and listed as vulnerable due to its restricted distribution. A recent molecular systematics study has revealed there might be some geographic structuring among N. lloydii populations. Therefore, we undertook a genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis to determine levels and patterns of genetic diversity, inbreeding and gene flow within and among N. lloydii populations in south‐eastern Queensland. Furthermore, as the reproductive phase of a plant's life history has a profound influence on genetic diversity, life history reproductive traits were also studied. Our SNP analysis revealed low genetic diversity, inbreeding and significant genetic structuring even among proximate populations. Results of a flower and fruit bagging experiment in two consecutive seasons revealed that N. lloydii produced many flowers but only a few fruits survived to maturity. There were no differences in bagged and un‐bagged flowering and fruiting rates, and therefore, we conclude that the high fruit abortion rate was probably due to inbreeding depression and/or suboptimal conditions, rather than pollinator availability and insect attack. Overall, results of this study indicate that the populations of N. lloydii are small, inbred and genetically isolated and represent unique management units that require local conservation management due to ongoing threats associated with urbanisation.
An eDNA‐based assessment of Garra cambodgiensis (stonelapping minnow) distribution on a megadiverse river, the Mekong
Authors: Osathanunkul Maslin , Suwannapoom Chatmongkon
Published: February 2024

Garra cambodgiensis (stonelapping minnow) has experienced significant population declines, prompting intensive research and management, although its distribution in river systems such as the Mekong remains obscure. Effective conservation and management necessitate accurate monitoring and survey data on the distribution of freshwater species. Traditional surveying techniques for fish may be challenging and generate insufficient data on species distribution. This study developed an eDNA‐based method for detecting G. cambodgiensis to address this void. Twenty‐one locations were surveyed. Water samples were collected in triplicate from the river's surface at each site and processed within 48 h in a dedicated laboratory. Primers and probes for G. cambodgiensis were meticulously designed and species‐specificity tested to ensure accurate detection without interference from co‐occurring species in the same geographic range. Each water sample was analysed by qPCR using six technical replicates. The results of qPCR were reported as positive with quantifiable eDNA concentration (copies/mL), below the limit of quantification, or non‐detectable. G. cambodgiensis eDNA was detected in water samples collected from 10 out of 21 sampling sites, with concentrations ranging from 8.5 to 2990.0 copies/mL. Importantly, G. cambodgiensis eDNA was consistently detected in all three replicate water samples at each site where the qPCR experiment yielded positive results. The findings of this study demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating eDNA‐based monitoring or surveys for G. cambodgiensis in the ecologically diverse Mekong River. Monitoring based on eDNA can aid in targeting and informing conservation and management of G. cambodgiensis in its natural habitat. Comprehensive and robust information on species distribution can be obtained via an eDNA‐based survey, which could contribute to more efficient and informed decision‐making processes in fisheries management and conservation efforts.
Origin of domesticated water chestnuts (Trapa bispinosa Roxb.) and genetic variation in wild water chestnuts
Authors: Lam Dinh Thi , Kataoka Taro , Yamagishi Hiroki , Sun Guoping , Udatsu Tetsuro , Tanaka Katsunori , Ishikawa Ryuji
Published: February 2024

The water chestnut Trapa bispinosa Roxb. has been domesticated in China and has been reported as the only domesticated species of this genus. To understand the origin of T. bispinosa and its evolution pathway, we compared the genetic similarity and seed morphology of domesticated water chestnut T. bispinosa with three wild species T. natans, T. incisa, and T. japonica along with archeological seed samples from the Tianluoshan site (approximately 7000–6300 cal BP) in China. The largest seed size was observed only in the domesticated species, whereas other wild species showed smaller size including T. natans L. genetically close to the domesticated type, and T. incisa was the smallest in size. The volumes of the seed capsule and endosperm were measured using X ray CT scans, showing the ratios of total volumes between T. bispinosa and wild species ranged from 4.2 to 4.5. The ratios of endosperm volume ranged from 3.3 to 3.7. Both measurements showed domesticated species have larger seed volume. Genome size was indirectly estimated by flow cytometry. Domesticated species with larger seed size was estimated as diploid, as were the wild species except for tetraploid species T. japonica. Domesticated species clearly showed the largest edible organs, but it was not a result of ploidy level changes. Maternal lineages traced using complete whole chloroplast sequences, suggested that T. natans is the closest to T. bispinosa, both of which are close to T. japonica. The result was confirmed by PCR genotyping with chloroplast insertion/deletion (cpINDEL) markers developed in the study. T. incisa showed distinct plastid types within the species, and T. japonica showed a unique plastid genotype. Our study concludes the largest volumes for the edible endosperm have been accomplished through nearly 6000 years of artificial selection, but the domestication did not involve ploidy level changes.
Population and conservation threats to the vulnerable Sarus crane Grus antigone in Nepal
Authors: Sharma Hari Prasad , Katuwal Hem Bahadur , Regmi Sandeep , Suwal Rajendra Narsingh , Acharya Rashmi , Nepali Amrit , KC Sabin , Aryal Bishnu , Tamang Krishna , Rawal Basudha , Basnet Amir , Baral Bashu Dev , Devkota Surya , Parajuli Sagar , Regmi Niraj , Kandel Pradip , Subedi Bishal , Giri Hari Sharan , Kawan Samjhana , Thapa Gokarna Jung , Bhattarai Bishnu Prasad
Published: February 2024

Globally, biodiversity is declining due to habitat loss and degradation, over‐exploitation, climate change, invasive species, pollution, and infrastructure development. These threats affect the populations of large waterbird species, such as Sarus crane (Grus antigone), which inhabits agricultural–wetland ecosystems. Despite the burgeoning built‐up areas and diminishing agricultural and wetland spaces, scant research investigates the impact of these changing land uses on the globally vulnerable Sarus crane in Nepal. During the pre‐breeding season from April to June 2023, our comprehensive study meticulously scrutinized Sarus crane population status and factors associated with the occurrences and conservation challenges across 10 specific districts of Nepal. Our study documented a total of 690 individuals of Sarus cranes in five districts. The Lumbini Province has 685 individuals, occupying 11 roosting sites. Conversely, the remaining five districts have no Sarus cranes presence during this period. Wetland, farmland and built‐up areas exhibited a significantly positive influence on Sarus crane occurrences in the Lumbini Province. Additionally, we recorded 47 fatalities of Sarus cranes over the past 13 years in the Lumbini Province due to electrocution and collisions. Our study provides a baseline dataset crucial for developing conservation policies, particularly during the dry season when Sarus crane populations tend to congregate in larger flocks. The adaptation of the Sarus crane to urbanized landscapes exposes them to several anthropogenic threats in the coming days. Therefore, protecting wetlands and farmland areas and adopting transboundary conservation approaches are imperative for the long‐term conservation of the Sarus crane and its habitat.
S2I2N0–3 score predicts short‐ and long‐term mortality and morbidity in HFrEF: a post‐hoc analysis of the GUIDE‐IT trial
Authors: Sun Junyi , Xie Zhengshuo , Ye Min , Xu He , Dong Yugang , Liu Chen , Zhu Wengen
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study investigated the S2I2N0–3 score, a simple tool comprising stroke history, insulin‐treated diabetes, and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide, for forecasting mortality and morbidity in heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

Analysing 890 GUIDE‐IT HFrEF trial participants, we stratified them by baseline S2I2N0–3 risk score into three risk groups. We examined the score's association with five adverse outcomes over short (90 days) and extended periods (median follow‐up of 15 months) using Cox and competing risk models. Our analysis revealed significant positive associations between the S2I2N0–3 strata and adverse outcomes. When analysed as a continuous variable, each point increment of the S2I2N0–3 score was associated with a higher risk of short‐ and long‐term cardiovascular death [short term: hazard ratio (HR) 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.98; long term: HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.02–1.38], all‐cause death (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.12–2.07; HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.03–1.36), HF hospitalization (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.20–1.62; HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.06–1.31), any hospitalization (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06–1.34; HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00–1.19), and the composite outcome of cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.21–1.60; HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.06–1.30). The S2I2N0–3 demonstrated reliable prognostic value, with C‐indices ranging from 0.619 to 0.753 across outcomes and time points. When compared with the Meta‐Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) score using Z‐statistics, net reclassification index, and integrated discrimination improvement, the S2I2N0–3 showed comparable predictive power for all outcomes during both short‐ and long‐term follow‐ups.

Conclusions

The S2I2N0–3 risk score had modest predictive values for both short‐ and long‐term clinical outcomes in HFrEF patients, offering equivalent performance to the established MAGGIC score.
A novel likely pathogenic homozygous RBCK1 variant in dilated cardiomyopathy with muscle weakness
Authors: MozafaryBazargany MohammadHossein , Esmaeili Shiva , Hesami Mahshid , Houshmand Golnaz , Mahdavi Mohamad , Maleki Majid , Kalayinia Samira
Published: February 2024

Aims

Polyglucosan body myopathy 1 (PGBM1) is a type of glycogen storage disease where polyglucosan accumulation leads to cardiomyopathy and skeletal muscle myopathy. Variants of RBCK1 is related with PGBM1. We present a newly discovered pathogenic RBCK1 variant resulting in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and a comprehensive literature review.

Methods and results

Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was utilized to detect genetic variations in a 7‐year‐old girl considered the proband. Sanger sequencing was performed to validate the variant in the patient and all the available family members, whether affected or unaffected. The variant's pathogenicity was assessed by conducting a cosegregation analysis within the family with in silico predictive software. WES showed that the proband's RBCK1 gene contained a missense likely pathogenic homozygous nucleotide variant, c.598_599insT: p.His200LeufsTer14 (NM_001323956.1), in exon 8. The computational analysis supported the variant's pathogenicity. The variant was identified in a heterozygous form among all the healthy members of the family. Variants with changes in N‐terminal part of the protein were more likely to manifest immunodeficiency and auto‐inflammation than those with C‐terminal protein modifications according to prior variations of RBCK1 reported in the literature.

Conclusions

Our study offers novel findings indicating an RBCK1 variant in individuals of Iranian ancestry presenting with DCM leading to heart transplantation and myopathy without immunodeficiency or auto‐inflammation.
The development of a next‐generation sequencing panel targeting cannabinoid synthase genes to distinguish between marijuana and hemp
Authors: Cheng Ya‐Chih , Houston Rachel
Published: February 2024

Hemp and marijuana, both derived from Cannabis sativa L. (C. sativa), are subject to divergent legal regulations due to their different Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC) contents. Cannabinoid synthase genes are considered the key enzymes that determine the chemical composition or chemotype of a particular cultivar. However, existing methods for crop type differentiation based on previous synthase gene theories have limitations in terms of precision and specificity, and a wider range of cannabis varieties must be considered when examining cannabis‐based genetic markers. A custom next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel was developed targeting all synthase genes, including Δ9‐THC acid synthase, cannabidiolic acid synthase, and cannabichromenic acid synthase, as well as the pseudogenes across diverse C. sativa samples, spanning reference hemp and marijuana, commercial hemp derivatives, and seized marijuana extracts. Interpretation of NGS data revealed a relationship between genotypes and underlying chemotypes, with the principal component analysis indicating a clear distinction between hemp and marijuana clusters. This differentiation was attributed to variations in both synthase genes and pseudogene variants. Finally, this study proposes a genetic cannabis classification method using a differentiation flow chart with novel synthase markers. The flow chart successfully differentiated hemp from marijuana with a 1.3% error rate (n = 147).
Preparation of Fe‐Doped Ni3S2/Ni(OH)2/Ni/NSG Composites and Enhanced Water Splitting Performance
Authors: Zhou Qi , Wang Jiang , Feng ChengCheng , Luo YouCheng , Su WenXiao , Liu HaoRui , Zhang Yiming
Published: February 2024

Herein, Fe‐doped Ni3S2/Ni(OH)2/Ni@NSG electrocatalysts are prepared by dealloying Ni–Al precursors followed by magnetic stirring. It is found that the hydrogen precipitation reaction (HER) of NSG‐Fe‐25 is 148 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is 274 mV at a current density of 50 mA cm−2 compared to NSG‐Fe‐5, NSG‐Fe‐45, Ni‐NN‐Fe, and Ni‐NN‐Fe@NSG. The Tafel slopes for the HER are 81.6 mV dec−1, and the Tafel slope of OER is 61.6 mV dec−1, while the Cdl value of NSG‐Fe‐25 is larger and the resistance value is smaller. Therefore, NSG‐Fe‐25 has the optimal performance. The heterostructure of Fe‐doped Ni3S2/Ni(OH)2/Ni@NSG provides abundant active sites for surface HER and OER, which enhances the electronic conductivity of the electrode. Meanwhile, long‐term constant‐current electrolysis test experiments show that NSG‐Fe has good stability in use. The present study opens a new window for the design and preparation of total hydrolysis electrocatalysts.
Comparison of different open‐source Digital Elevation Models for landslide susceptibility mapping
Authors: Lu Dingyang , Tang Guoan , Yan Ge , Yu Fengyize , Lin Xiaofen
Published: February 2024

In this study, the application of open‐source digital elevation model (DEM) is explored for regional landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM), and the potential impact of different DEM choices on the mapping accuracy is also examined. With the advancements in remote sensing technology, an increasing number of global open‐source DEMs have been available, with improvement in the accuracy. However, the latest released data are rarely evaluated in LSM research. In this paper, DEM‐based factors, including elevation, aspect, slope, plan curvature and profile curvature, were generated from seven open‐source DEMs, including Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection (ASTER) V2, ASTERV3, ALOS World 3D‐30 m (AW3D30), Copernicus DEM 30 m (COP) Forest and Buildings removed Copernicus DEM (FABDEM), NASADEM, and Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). DEM‐based factors were coupled with the distance to road, distance to river, land use, lithology, rain and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The significant difference between DEMs is determined by comparing the area proportion. Slope, plane curvature and profile curvature are found to have a maximum difference of 15%–20%. Then, K‐Nearest Neighbours (KNN) and Random Forest (RF) were used to predict landslide susceptibility with two sampling methods, namely, 70% for training and 30% for testing (S1); 67% for training and 33% for testing (S2). For KNN with S1, the prediction rate is range from 0.8299 to 0.8701, with a difference of 0.0402. The difference of prediction rate is decreased to 0.0207 for S2 and 0.0258 for RF. COP has the highest prediction rate of 0.8701, 0.9254 and 0.9461 for KNN with S1 and RF with S1 and S2, respectively. ASTERV2 is the worst with prediction rate of 0.8897 and 0.8996 for KNN with S2 and RF with S1, respectively. The research result provides valuable insights for the selection of open‐source DEMs in future LSM.
Neuroprotective effects of nuciferine on high‐fat diet‐induced cognitive dysfunction in obese mice: Role of insulin resistance, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress
Authors: Zhu Xiangyang , Hao Rili , Lv Xiaqing , Su Jing , Li Dapeng , Zhang Chen
Published: February 2024

High‐fat diets (HFDs) trigger oxidative stress, insulin resistance (IR), and inflammatory responses in the body, leading to cognitive dysfunction. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of nuciferine on HFD‐induced IR and cognitive impairment in the central nervous system of obese mice and further identify the possible underlying mechanisms. In behavioral experiments, nuciferine administration increased the total distance moved, the number of times mice entered the open arm, the duration of open dwell time, and the number of alternations while shortening the latency to escape. Nuciferine suppressed HFD‐induced synaptic structure damage, as evidenced by the increased expressions of neurotrophic factor BDNF and synaptic function proteins SYN, SNAP‐25, and PSD‐95. In addition, nuciferine effectively ameliorated HFD‐induced IR by IRS/PI3K/AKT pathway, alleviated HFD‐induced neurological damage through AMPK/SIRT1 pathway, and improved cognitive impairment via the Aβ‐tau‐neuroinflammation axis. Therefore, nuciferine could be a new food‐derived neuroprotective agent to counteract HFD‐induced damage.
The intestinal delivery systems of ferulic acid: Absorption, metabolism, influencing factors, and potential applications
Authors: Chen Yushan , Teng Wendi , Wang Jinpeng , Wang Ying , Zhang Yuemei , Cao Jinxuan
Published: February 2024

Ferulic acid (FA) is a hydroxycinnamic acid known for its strong antioxidant activity and potential benefits for intestinal health. However, its poor water solubility and instability limit its effectiveness. To address these issues, different ways have been explored to protect FA against degradation and further exert its potential benefits. This review discusses the absorption and metabolism of FA in the gut, as well as its potential impact on intestinal health. It also compares different intestinal delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, electrospun nanofibers, microcapsules, cross‐linked polymer gels, and Pickering emulsions, which can improve the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of FA in the gastrointestinal tract. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights for using FA in food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceuticals products.
Standardization of teff (Eragrostis teff) injera making process conditions for better physicochemical and sensory quality
Authors: Bikila Gizachew M. , Tola Yetenayet B. , Kuyu Chala G.
Published: February 2024

Injera is a type of flatbread that is fermented, naturally leavened, and native to Ethiopia. However, injera quality can vary depending on the processing steps used, even if the same variety of teff is used. This research was conducted to optimize the prebaking processing and baking conditions to produce better quality teff injera suitable for industrial and export purposes. Four experiments were conducted to optimize the injera‐making process. The first two phases focused on optimizing the prebaking processing conditions (fermentation temperature and time, absit mixing ratio, absit cooking time, and secondary fermentation time). The best physicochemical qualities were obtained at a primary fermentation temperature of 25°C for 64 h, an 8% mixing ratio of absit with 10 min of cooking, and a secondary fermentation time of 4 h. In the third phase, baking temperature (195 ± 5, 215 ± 5, 235 ± 5, and 255 ± 5°C) and time (1, 2, and 3 min) were evaluated. The results showed that the best response variables were obtained at a temperature of 255 ± 5°C for 2 min or 235 ± 5°C for 3 min. Finally, the optimized conditions were validated on five different varieties [DZ‐Cr‐387, DZ‐Cr‐2124, white (T‐BT), white (T‐GK), and sergegna teff (T‐E)] of teff grain. The results indicated that the optimized conditions could produce better quality and consistent teff injera on a large commercial scale, which would suit both local and export markets.
The impact of international health worker migration and recruitment on health systems in source countries: Stakeholder perspectives from Colombia, Indonesia, and Jordan
Authors: Sax dos Santos Gomes Lila , Efendi Ferry , Putri Nuzulul Kusuma , Bolivar‐Vargas Mery , Saadeh Rami , Villarreal Pedro A. , Aye Thit Thit , De Allegri Manuela , Lohmann Julia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

To address domestic shortages, high‐income countries are increasingly recruiting health workers from low‐ and middle‐income countries. This practice is much debated. Proponents underline benefits of return migration and remittances. Critics point in particular to the risk ofbrain drain. Empirical evidence supporting either position is yet rare. This study contributes to filling this gap in knowledge by reporting high‐level stakeholders' perspectives on health system impacts of international migration in general, and active recruitment of health workers in specific, in Colombia, Indonesia, and Jordan.

Method

We used a multiple case study methodology, based on qualitative methods integrated with information available in the published literature.

Results

All respondents decried a lack of robust and detailed data as a serious challenge in ascertaining their perspectives on impacts of health worker migration. Stakeholders described current emigration levels as not substantially aggravating existing health workforce availability challenges. This is due to the fact that all three countries are faced with health worker unemployment grounded in unwillingness to work in rural areas and/or overproduction of certain cadres. Respondents, however, pleaded against targeting very experienced and specialised individuals. While observing little harm of health worker migration at present, stakeholders also noted few benefits such asbrain gain, describing how various barriers to skill enhancement, return, and reintegration into the health system hamper in practice what may be possible in theory.

Conclusion

Improved availability of data on health worker migration, including their potential return and reintegration into their country of origin's health system, is urgently necessary to understand and continuously monitor costs and benefits in dynamic national and international health labour markets. Our results imply that potential benefits of migration do not come into being automatically, but need in‐country supportive policy and programming, such as favourable reintegration policies or programs targeting engagement of the diaspora.
Expanding from materials to biology inspired by biomineralization
Authors: Wang Qi , Hu Lishan , Wang Xiaoyu , Tang Ruikang
Published: February 2024

Biomineralization is the intricate process by which living organisms orchestrate the formation of organic–inorganic composites by regulating the nucleation, orientation, growth, and assembly of inorganic minerals. As our comprehension of biomineralization principles deepens, novel strategies for fabricating inorganic materials based on these principles have emerged. Researchers can also harness biomineralization strategies to tackle challenges in both materials' science and biomedical fields, demonstrating a thriving research field. This review begins by introducing the concept of biomineralization and subsequently shifts its focus to a recently discovered chemical concept: inorganic ionic oligomers and their cross‐linking. As a novel approach for constructing inorganic materials, the inorganic ionic oligomer‐based strategy finds applications in biomimetic regeneration and repair of hard tissues, such as teeth and bones. Aside from innovative methods for material fabrication, biomineralization has emerged as an alternative method for tackling biomedical challenges by integrating materials with biological organisms, facilitating advancements in biomedical fields. Emerging material‐biological integrators play a critical role in areas like vaccine improvement, cancer therapy, universal blood transfusion, and arthritis treatment. This review highlights the profound impact of biomineralization in the development and design of high‐performance materials that go beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, potentially promoting breakthroughs in materials science, chemical biology, biomedical, and numerous other domains.
IR780‐based diffuse fluorescence tomography for cancer detection
Authors: He Zhuanxia , Zhang Limin , Xing Lingxiu , Sun Wenjing , Gao Xiujun , Zhang Yanqi , Gao Feng
Published: February 2024

IR780 iodide is a commercially available targeted near‐infrared contrast agent for in vivo imaging and cancer photodynamic or photothermal therapy, whereas the accumulation, dynamics, and retention of IR780 in biological tissue, especially in tumor is still under‐explored. Diffuse fluorescence tomography (DFT) can be used for localization and quantification of the three‐dimensional distribution of NIR fluorophores. Herein, a homemade DFT imaging system combined with tumor‐targeted IR780 was utilized for cancer imaging and pharmacokinetic evaluation. The aim of this study is to comprehensively assess the biochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics of IR780 with the aid of DFT imaging. The optimal IR780 concentration (20 μg/mL) was achieved first. Subsequently, the good biocompatibility and cellar uptake of IR780 was demonstrated through the mouse acute toxic test and cell assay. In vivo, DFT imaging effectively identified various subcutaneous tumors and revealed the long‐term retention of IR780 in tumors and rapid metabolism in the liver. Ex vivo imaging indicated IR780 was mainly concentrated in tumor and lung with significantly different from the distribution in other organs. DFT imaging allowed sensitive tumor detection and pharmacokinetic rates analysis. Simultaneously, the kinetics of IR780 in tumors and liver provided more valuable information for application and development of IR780.
Genotype‐Guided Model for Prediction of Tacrolimus Initial Dosing After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Du Wenwen , Wang Xiaoxing , Zhang Dan , Zuo Xianbo
Published: February 2024

The determination of the appropriate initial dose for tacrolimus is crucial in achieving the target concentration promptly and avoiding adverse effects and poor prognosis. However, the trial‐and‐error approach is still common practice. This study aimed to establish a prediction model for an initial dosing algorithm of tacrolimus in patients receiving a lung transplant. A total of 210 lung transplant recipients were enrolled, and 26 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) from 18 genes that could potentially affect tacrolimus pharmacokinetics were genotyped. Associations between SNPs and tacrolimus concentration/dose ratio were analyzed. SNPs that remained significant in pharmacogenomic analysis were further combined with clinical factors to construct a prediction model for tacrolimus initial dose. The dose needed to reach steady state tacrolimus concentrations and achieve the target range was used to validate model prediction efficiency. Our final model consisted of 7 predictors—CYP3A5 rs776746, SLCO1B3 rs4149117, SLC2A2 rs1499821, NFATc4 rs1955915, alanine aminotransferase, direct bilirubin, and hematocrit—and explained 41.4% variance in the tacrolimus concentration/dose ratio. It achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.804 (95% confidence interval, 0.746‐0.861). The Hosmer‐Lemeshow test yielded a nonsignificant P value of .790, suggesting good fit of the model. The predicted dose exhibited good correlation with the observed dose in the early postoperative period (r = 0.748, P less than .001). Our study provided a genotype‐guided prediction model for tacrolimus initial dose, which may help to guide individualized dosing of tacrolimus in the lung transplant population in clinical practice.
Resurgence Following Higher or Lower Quality Alternative Reinforcement
Authors: Shahan Timothy A. , Sutton Gabrielle M. , Van Allsburg Jack , Avellaneda Matias , Greer Brian D.
Published: February 2024

Resurgence is a temporary increase in a previously suppressed target behavior following a worsening in reinforcement conditions. Previous studies have examined how higher rates or magnitudes of alternative reinforcement affect suppression of the target behavior and subsequent resurgence. However, there has been no investigation of the effects of higher versus lower qualities of alternative reinforcement on resurgence. Using a three‐phase resurgence preparation with rats, the present experiments examined the effects of an alternative reinforcer that was of higher (Experiment 1) or lower (Experiment 2) quality than the reinforcer that had previously maintained the target behavior. The results of both experiments showed greater reductions in target behavior with a higher quality alternative reinforcer and larger increases in target responding when a higher quality alternative reinforcer was removed. Along with prior findings with higher rates and magnitudes of alternative reinforcement, these findings suggest that variations in reinforcer dimensions that increase the efficacy of alternative reinforcement also tend to increase resurgence when alternative reinforcement is removed. The results are discussed in terms of the resurgence as choice in context model and in terms of potential clinical implications.
Morphological variations of auditory bullae in otomyine rodents (Rodentia: Otomyini) in southern African biomes
Authors: Edwards Shelley , Bessinger Rochelle
Published: February 2024

Mammalian middle ear cavities differ from those of other taxa as they comprise three ossicles and in rodents, can be encapsulated by an auditory bulla. In small mammals, the middle ear cavity (bulla) was found to be enlarged in the desert‐dwelling species; however, differences in bullar size could have been due to ancestry. In this study, we sampled seven species from three genera (Myotomys, Otomys, and Parotomys) of the African murid tribe Otomyini (laminated‐toothed rats), and compared the bullar volumes and shapes between the otomyine species and within the species Myotomys unisulcatus. Photographs of museum skull specimens were taken from ventral and lateral views, and the volumes of the bullae were estimated digitally from the photographs. No sexual dimorphism in bullar volumes was found in any of the species. Corrected bullar volumes were significantly different between species and larger bullae were seen in individuals inhabiting regions with lower annual rainfall. Bullar shape (estimated using geometric morphometrics) was significantly different between the genera and the species. Parotomys have tympanic meatuses that face more anteriorly compared to both, Otomys and Myotomys. When comparing bullae within M. unisulcatus, those inhabiting regions with lower annual rainfall had significantly larger bullar volumes, but no significant difference was found in bullar shape between the regions. This study shows that otomyine rodents in more xeric habitats have different auditory structures to those inhabiting wetter habitats.
Enhanced dynamic state estimation of regional new energy power system under different abnormal scenarios
Authors: Li Shuaibing , Jiang Ziwei , Cui Yi , Kang Yongqiang , Li Xingming , Li Hongwei , Dong Haiying
Published: February 2024

The high proportion of renewable energy sources in the power grid increases the failure probability of the system, which becomes a new challenge for the safe and stable operation of the regional power grid. To ensure stable control of the power network with substantial renewable energy integration, this article proposes a new method that combines the long short‐term memory (LSTM) neural networks and adaptive cubature Kalman filter (ACKF) to improve the prediction accuracy of mutation data inherited from the renewable generation. Four abnormal scenarios, including low voltage ride‐through (LVRT), high voltage ride‐through (HVRT), continuous fault ride‐through and bad data injection of the regional power grid are investigated through extensive case studies. The proposed method is implemented on the IEEE 30‐node system for performance verification. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method has considerably higher robustness than the traditional Kalman filter algorithm and can effectively improve the overall state estimation accuracy of the renewable energy power system under different scenarios.
Biochemical and physicochemical properties of shrimp (Pandalus borealis) compounds after compact filter press process
Authors: Jafarpour Ali , Sales Queiroz Lucas , Casanova Federico , Badfar Narjes , Jacobsen Charlotte , Jessen Flemming , Sloth Jens J. , Petersen Heidi Olander , Knudsen Mikkel , Hansen Preben Bøje , Gringer Nina
Published: February 2024

Background

Most of the shrimp side streams are discarded due to the lack of appropriate processing techniques/methodology for their utilization, which is not only a loss of potentially valuable compounds, but also leads to environmental pollution. The study aimed to employ a mechanical filter press to separate the liquid called press juice (PJ) and the solid named press cake (PC) fraction from shrimp head and shell (H&S).

Results

The proximate composition was performed, including amino acids analysis, protein content, fatty acids, and the main volatile compounds. In the whole shrimp (WS), the average values of protein, lipid, dry matter, and ash content were recorded at 14.7%, 2.9%, 21.1%, and 4.8%, respectively. The protein percentage reached 10.1% in H&S, indicating considerable amount of protein leftover in the shrimp side streams (p < 0.05). The major PUFAs in WSs' sample were Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (8.8%) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (7.8%). Furthermore, the values of EPA and DHA a showed nearly two‐folded increase after peeling and filter‐pressing, PC sample. Total amino acids in the WS, H&S, PJ, and PC samples were found to be 94.6, 67.7, 22.2, and 76.6 mg/g, respectively. From the nutritional point of view, non‐essential amino acids represented higher values (13.2%–56.9%) compared to essential amino acids (9.0%–37.6%). The major components of 5′‐neucleoitides in WS sample were in order of guanosine‐5′‐diphosphate (GDP) ≫ hypoxanthine (HYP) > inosine‐5′‐monophosphate (IMP) ≫ adenosine‐5′‐monophosphate (AMP) > adenosine‐5′‐diphosphate (ADP) with values of 684.4, 293.6, 201.4, 25.6 and 16.2 μg/g sample, while no inosine (INO), guanosine‐5′‐monophosphate (GMP), and guanosine‐5′‐triphosphate (GTP) were detected. Equivalent umami concentration (g MSC/100 g) was recorded as 0.63, 0.07 for WS and H&S samples and 0.015 for PJ sample, which indicates a significant drop from the shrimp raw material toward the side streams. Most volatile compounds belonged to alkenes followed by alkanes groups.

Conclusion

This work showed the possibility to employ the filter press machine to obtain PJ and PC from shrimp H&S, after peeling processing. The fractions present an interesting nutritional composition and value.