bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Thio-Functionalization of Metal Organic Frameworks of Isonicotinate Ligands and their Application for Fluorescein Removal from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Ajayi Samson Abidemi
Published: January 2024

Mechanochemical syntheses of four (4) know metal organic frameworks (MOFs) were obtained by grinding stoichiometric amounts of metal salts [Zn (II) and Cu (II)] and corresponding carboxylate ligands [Fumaric and Isonicotinic acids] in a mortar with a pestle. Also, Solvent-based syntheses of MOFs were carried out with the reaction of metal salts and each carboxylate ligand by mixing in the presence of solvents. The compounds were characterized by the comparison of melting point, elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy and XRPD results with those of the free ligands and literature. The analytical and spectroscopic data of the compounds prepared via the two different methods gave the expected product.

The presence of coordinatively unsaturated metal centers in the synthesized MOFs provides an accessible way to selectively functionalize them through coordination bonds. In this work, thiol-functionalization of MOFs were described by choosing six well known MOFs in which three (3) are Zn-based while the other three (3) are Cu-based MOF, by a facile coordination based postsynthetic strategy. The obtained thiol-functionalized MOFs were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, CHN and infrared spectroscopy. The analytical and spectroscopic data of the unmodified and modified compound were different.

A series of [Cu (Ina)2] samples stoichiometrically decorated with thiol groups has been prepared through coordination bonding of coordinatively unsaturated metal centers with –SH group in thioglycolic acid. [Cu (Ina)2]. H2O and [Cu(Ina)2]-TH were investigated for the adsorptive removal of fluorescein from aqueous solution. The parameters that affect the dye sorption such as contact time, solution pH, initial fluorescein concentration and temperature, have been investigated and optimized conditions determined at PH of 7.8. Dubinin–Radushkevich Equilibrium isotherm studies were used to evaluate the maximum sorption capacity of MOFs and experimental results showed that the removal efficiency decreases in the order of [Cu(Ina)2]-TH > [Cu(Ina)2].H2O both in adsorption rate and adsorption capacity. The Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin Radushkevich models have been applied and the data correlate well with Dubinin Radushkevich model. The adsorption mechanism may be explained with a simple electrostatic interaction and π- π interaction. Finally, it can be suggested that modification of MOFs can be use to improve their adsorption capacity and rate, making them a better adsorbent to remove emerging dyes contaminants from waste water.
Comparative Performance Analysis of Stainless-Steel Tube and Glass Coated Copper Tube Receiver in Parabolic Trough Collectors for Enhanced Thermal Efficiency
Authors: Arun C. A.  , Abhimannue Ajil C. , Sukumaran Sanchu
Published: January 2024

Renewable energy is the most promising energy-saving and environmentally friendly option. The concentrating type solar collector like parabolic trough collectors can be utilized for solar thermal energy collection due to low cost and high-temperature output. The paper is an experimental study of a solar parabolic trough collector with manual sun tracking. A parabolic trough with an area of 2.5´1.75 m² was constructed for the present study. A highly polished aluminum sheet for concentrating the reflecting sunlight to the focal line contains the receiver tube. The parabolic trough was tracked at regular interval of one hour concerning the sun position and focused the sunlight into the receiver tube to ensure sound performance. Water is used as a working fluid inside the receiver tube, and experiments were done with three different mass flow rates of 0.0072,0.0112 and 0.0158 kg/s. Two heat-collecting elements, such as a stainless-steel receiver tube and a glass-coated copper receiver tube, were tested with a parabolic trough. The performance was analyzed based on the difference in the inlet and outlet temperature of the working fluid at the ends of the receiver tubes of the parabolic trough. The instantaneous efficiency of the parabolic trough with two different materials of receiver tube at three different flow rates were evaluated.  The results showed that the glass coated copper tube surpassed in performance compared with stainless steel receiver tubes. The instantaneous efficiency of the glass coated copper tube is found to be 71.17% at a flow rate of 0.0158 kg/s which was significantly high when compared with that of the stainless-steel receiver tube. The glass coated copper tube prevents the convective heat transfer loss and thereby increases the efficiency. The experiment shows that the performance of the parabolic trough solar collector strongly depends upon solar light tracking and the focal line containing the receiver tube.
Standardization of Meta-Topolin Concentration for Maximizing In vitro Proliferation in Commercial Banana Cultivars of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Lakshmi R. Naga , Mamatha K. , Bhagavan B. V. K. , Naidu M. M.
Published: January 2024

Cytokinins are associated with cell division, cell growth, and differentiation, are the most common plant growth regulators used in micropropagation. Aromatic cytokinin, meta-topolin (mT), and its derivatives have been demonstrated as alternative cytokinins in the in vitro multiplication of various plants. Different banana cultivars differ in in vitro shoot proliferation due to the difference in endogenous growth regulator content among them. A study was conducted to figure out the effect of different concentrations of meta-topolin on in vitro shoot proliferation of banana cultivars like Karpura chakkera keli (AAB), Mortoman (AAB), and Kovvur Bontha (ABB). In vitro shoot proliferation was initiated from the first subculture (C1) itself at 1.5 ppm mT concentration in Mortoman, Kovvur Bontha, and from the second subculture (C2) at 1.0 ppm mT concentration in Kovvur Bontha. Whereas, at all other remaining concentrations, shoot proliferation of different cultivars was initiated from the third subculture (C3) only. At the end of the sixth subculture (C6), the maximum number of shoots per explant (82.70) was recorded in the Kovvur Bontha cultivar at 1.5 ppm mT concentration. Among the cultivars, the Kovvur Bontha cultivar responded better to the meta-topolin for shoot proliferation than Karpura chakkera keli (AAB) and Mortoman (AAB).
Synthesis, Characterization and Impact of Nano-urea on Growth and Yield of Wheat in Inceptisol
Authors: Jadhav A. B. , Majik S. T. , Gosavi A. B. , Patil A. V.
Published: January 2024

A study on “Synthesis, Characterization and Impact of Nano-urea on Growth and Yield of Wheat in Inceptisol” was conducted at Division of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Pune during rabi 2021. The object of this experiment is to synthesize and characterize nano-urea at post graduate laboratory of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Pune and which is named as COAP (College of Agriculture, Pune). Nano-urea was synthesized from granular conventional urea and characterised for size of nano particles by using scanning electron microscope. The experiment consisted of twenty one combinations of treatment based on 3 levels of recommended doses of nitrogen (0, 50, 75%) and six nitrogen levels for foliar sprays and water spray as a control which was replicated twice in factorial completely randomized Design (FCRD). The foliar sprays of nitrogen consisted of four levels of COAP nano-urea @ 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm, IFFCO nano-urea @ 160 ppm and conventional urea @ 10,000 ppm applied at 30 and 50 DAS.

It could be revealed that average size of COAP (22.419 nm) and IFFCO (22.773 nm) nano-urea was almost same. Results revealed that conjoint application of 75% nitrogen along with two foliar sprays of conventional urea @10,000 ppm, COAP nano-urea @ 200 ppm and IFFCO nano-urea @ 160 ppm taken at 30 and 50 DAS for wheat recorded significantly higher periodical plant height and leaf area at 35 and 55 DAS. Significantly higher plant height was reported with combine application of 75% RDN along with two foliar sprays of urea @ 10,000 ppm (76.83 cm) which was statistically at par with nano-urea of IIFCO (76.20 cm) and COAP (74.20 cm) than rest of the treatment at 55 DAS. In case of leaf area, application of  75% RDN along with two foliar sprays of either conventional urea @ 10,000 ppm, IFFCO nano- urea @ 160 ppm and COAP nano-urea @ 200 ppm at 35 and 55 DAS. Application of 75% recommended dose of nitrogen along with two foliar sprays of 10,000 ppm conventional urea recorded significantly higher grain (45 g pot-1) and straw yield (65.39 g pot-1) of wheat which was found to be significantly at par with 75% RDN + IFFCO nano-urea @160 ppm (44.91 and 62.87 g pot-1) and 75% RDN + COAP nano-urea @ 200 ppm (44.83 and 60.66 g pot-1).
Impacts of Long-term Application of Fertilizer and Manures on Physico-chemical Properties, Phosphorus Uptake and Crop Yield at Different Growth Stages of Wheat
Authors: Sunil B. H. , Dwivedi B. S. , Datta S. P. , Meena M. C. , Haokip Immanuel C.
Published: January 2024

A field experiment was conducted on wheat in a sandy loam soil (Typic Haplustept) at IARI farm, New Delhi during 2018-19 in a long-term fertilizer experiment to study the physico-chemical properties of soil, crop yield, phosphorus uptake and phosphorus availability. The experiment was designed with seven different treatments, replicated thrice in a randomized complete block design. The treatments details were T1: Control, T2: 100%N, T3: 100%NP, T4: 100%NPK, T5: 150% NPK, T6: 100%NPK+5t FYM and T7: 100% NPK+ Zn-5 kgha-1. The results revealed that pH and electrical conductivity were highest under control and lowest recorded under 100% NPK+FYM. Available phosphorus content at all four stages was wheat significantly greater under NPK+FYM followed by 150% NPK treatment and lowest under nitrogen alone (100% N) and unfertilized treatment (control). Initially available phosphorus in soil ranged from 13.5 to 39.8 and 15.4 to 37.9 kg ha-1 at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depth, respectively. At the tillering stage, available P was 20.7 to 43.7 and 16.5 to 38.1 kg ha-1 at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depth, respectively. At panicle emergence, it was 24.1 to 48.4 kg ha-1 and 18.6 to 42.3 at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depth. At harvest of wheat crop, available P ranged from 20.5 to 41.8 and 16.5 to 39.1 kg ha-1 at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depth, respectively. Total phosphorus uptake and crop yield significantly increased under 150% NPK treatment followed by 100% NPK+FYM.
Exploring Lectin Binding and Complement Activation in the Context of COVID-19 Infection: A Review of Immune Mechanisms
Authors: Chao Barbara Mendes Paz , Razera Amanda , Santos Jean Rodrigo , Ribeiro Maria Elvira Cordeiro , Fermino Barbara Luiza , Ivanski Fernanda , Gabriel Katiuscia de Oliveira Francisco , Carraro Emerson , Figueiredo David Livingstone Alves
Published: January 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has aroused interest in understanding the immunological mechanisms involved in the response to SARS-CoV-2. The lectin pathway stands out in this scenario, since understanding the activation of this pathway during COVID-19 infection can provide valuable information about correlated immunological mechanisms, especially in the uncontrolled inflammatory response of severe cases.

Aim: Thus, the objective was to synthesize the available information on the role of the lectin pathway in the activation of the complement system and its relevance in the immune response and pathogenesis of COVID-19 infection.

Methods: This is a systematic review carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines using the PICOS strategy. The quality of the studies and risk of bias were evaluated using the Checklist Hawker. After the analysis, 11 pertinent studies with the objectives of this study were included.

Results: Patients with COVID-19 had high levels of mannose-binding lectin recognition protein (MBL), especially those with thromboembolic complications. MBL reduction due to certain genotypes (BB or AB) was associated with a more severe form of the disease. The interaction between VL recognition proteins and SARS-CoV-2 virus proteins suggests the activation of the complement system through this pathway. The interaction of SARS-CoV-2 protein N with the VL activator potentiates complement activation. There is a correlation between the genetic polymorphisms in the MBL2 gene and the expression of MBL in the tissues during infection.

Conclusion: Although some studies have not found consistent correlations between complement markers and disease severity, it is consensus that complement system activation is present in patients with COVID-19, and high levels of activation products are associated with more severe forms of the disease, suggesting that inadequate regulation of the complement system may contribute to the uncontrolled inflammatory response and serious complications of COVID-19. Future investigations should explore the specific mechanisms related to the activation of the complement system through the lectin pathway in SARS-CoV-2 infection, thus providing valuable insights for the development of more effective therapeutic strategies against COVID-19.
Giant Multicyst Neck Lymphangioma in Adult with Single Session Ethanol Ablation Treatment: Rare Case Report
Authors: Sentoso Joko Wibowo , Yarsa Kristanto Yuli
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Neck lymphangioma is a benign congenital malformation that occurs frequently in children, and is rare in adults. They are usually found in the head and neck region and are often considered a metastatic lesion rather than a primary neoplasia. Most lymphangiomas are acquired at birth which is about 60%, and by the age of 2 years about 80% to 90% are present. The most common location of the abnormality is the submandibular region followed by the parotid gland.

Case Presentation: A 22-year-old man with complaints of lumps on the right side of the neck that has been getting bigger since 5 months ago. The lump initially appeared the size of a tennis ball, then quickly grew to the size of a watermelon within a month. Physical examination revealed a mass in the right colli region, cystic, fixed, multiple masses of varying size. The core biopsy examination showed the results of lymphangioma. The patient was treated with Ethanol Ablation.

Discussion: Neck lymphangiomas that are clinically more circumscribed than cavernous lymphangioma. On physical examination, they are soft, with varying sizes and shapes, and will typically grow if not surgically excised. MRI can be useful in determining the extent of anatomical involvement of cystic or cavernous lymphangiomas. Treatment of neck lymphoma is mainly surgical resection. Resection surgery can be associated with complications like lymphatic leaks, fistula formation, chronic wounds, neck on account of mucosal oedema, enlargement of internal lymphangiomas, and loss of neural innervation to the pharynx or tongue. Radiofrequency ablation is a safe, viable alternative and effective debulking treatment of neck lymphangioma.

Conclusion: We recommend ethanol ablation is a safe, viable alternative and effective debulking treatment of neck lymphangioma and thermal damage to surrounding tissues. This paper constitutes the first report of successful treatment of airway obstruction due to neck lymphangioma.
Problem-Solving Skills Training for Parents of Children With Chronic Health Conditions
Authors: Zhou Tianji , Luo Yuanhui , Xiong Wenjin , Meng Zhenyu , Zhang Hanyi , Zhang Jingping
Published: January 2024

Importance

Problem-solving skills training (PSST) has a demonstrated potential to improve psychosocial well-being for parents of children with chronic health conditions (CHCs), but such evidence has not been fully systematically synthesized.

Objective

To evaluate the associations of PSST with parental, pediatric, and family psychosocial outcomes.

Data Sources

Six English-language databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library), 3 Chinese-language databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Wanfang), gray literature, and references were searched from inception to April 30, 2023.

Study Selection

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that performed PSST for parents of children with CHCs and reported at least 1 parental, pediatric, or family psychosocial outcome were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted independently by 2 reviewers. Data were pooled for meta-analysis using the standardized mean difference (SMD) by the inverse variance method or a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses of children- and intervention-level characteristics were conducted.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The psychosocial outcomes of the parents, their children, and their families, such as problem-solving skills, negative affectivity, quality of life (QOL), and family adaptation.

Results

The systematic review included 23 RCTs involving 3141 parents, and 21 of these trials were eligible for meta-analysis. There was a significant association between PSST and improvements in parental outcomes, including problem-solving skills (SMD, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.27-0.58), depression (SMD, −0.45; 95% CI, −0.66 to −0.23), distress (SMD, −0.61; 95% CI, −0.81 to −0.40), posttraumatic stress (SMD −0.39; 95% CI, −0.48 to −0.31), parenting stress (SMD, −0.62; 95% CI, −1.05 to −0.19), and QOL (SMD, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.15-0.74). For children, PSST was associated with better QOL (SMD, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.04-1.47) and fewer mental problems (SMD, −0.51; 95% CI, −0.68 to −0.34), as well as with less parent-child conflict (SMD, −0.38; 95% CI, −0.60 to −0.16). Subgroup analysis showed that PSST was more efficient for parents of children aged 10 years or younger or who were newly diagnosed with a CHC. Significant improvements in most outcomes were associated with PSST delivered online.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that PSST for parents of children with CHCs may improve the psychosocial well-being of the parents, their children, and their families. Further high-quality RCTs with longer follow-up times and that explore physical and clinical outcomes are encouraged to generate adequate evidence.
Serpentine and Amphibole Asbestos [A Subset of Elongated Mineral Particles (EMPs)]
Authors: “Tony” Havics Andrew A. , Bernstein David M.
Published: January 2024

The term asbestos refers to two very different minerals, serpentine and amphibole, occurring in fibrous form with very different mineralogical properties. Unfortunately, the term “asbestos” has been used loosely when, in fact, it has always been appropriate to discuss them separately. This chapter focuses on the key essential differences which result in very different toxicological and epidemiological responses to the fibers from these two minerals. In particular, it is discussed how a fiber's potency dictates the health risk, how the fiber's mineralogy affects biopersistence in the lung, and how fiber length determines how the lung responds to this characteristic. The differential toxicology is presented, as well as the epidemiology of these fibrous minerals. The regulations in the United Stated are also discussed. It is now convenient to use the term asbestos to describe a subset of elongated mineral particles (EMPs). Although the term has been discussed with potential differing definitions depending on the authors' purpose from 1979 to 2023, a popular working definition for EMPs is any mineral particle with a minimum aspect ratio of 3:1. This chapter will focus on the asbestos subset.
Gout in Native Hawaiian Patients in Hawaiʻi: Clinical Characteristics and Disparities
Authors: Chang Celia , Siu Andrea , Kimata Chieko , Sawada Haruki , Mak Victoria P. , Lim Sian Yik
Published: January 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in clinical characteristics and health care use of Native Hawaiian and White patients with gout.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of Native Hawaiian and White patients with gout treated from 2011 to 2017 within a large health care system in Hawaiʻi. We compared demographic characteristics, clinical outcomes, and risk factors for gout. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify predictive factors of emergency department visits.

Results

We identified 270 Native Hawaiian patients with gout and 239 White patients with gout. The Native Hawaiian patients were younger on average (54.0 vs 64.0 years; P < 0.0001) and had an earlier onset of disease (50.0 vs 57.0 years; P < 0.0001). Native Hawaiian patients with gout had higher mean (7.58 vs 6.87 mg/dL; P < 0.0001) and maximum (10.30 vs 9.50 mg/dL; P < 0.0001) serum urate levels compared to White patients with gout. Native Hawaiian patients with gout also had a greater number of tophi (median 2.00 vs 1.00; P < 0.0001). Native Hawaiians patients with gout were 2.7 times more likely to have frequent (≥1) emergency department visits than White patients with gout. Native Hawaiian patients with gout were less likely to have a therapeutic serum urate ≤6.0 mg/dL and had lower rates of rheumatology specialty care.

Conclusion

Native Hawaiian patients have a higher disease burden of gout, with earlier disease onset and more tophi. Native Hawaiian patients with gout are more likely to use emergency services for gout and have lower rates of rheumatology specialty care compared to White patients. Future studies are needed to promote culturally appropriate preventive care and management of gout in Native Hawaiians.
NG,NG‐Dimethylarginine Dimethylaminohydrolase 1 Expression Is Dispensable for Cold‐ or Diet‐Induced Thermogenesis
Authors: Park Min‐Jung , Lee Junhyeong , Bagon Bernadette B. , Matienzo Merc Emil , Lim Sangyi , Kim Keon , Lee Chang‐Min , Wu Jun , Kim Dong‐il
Published: January 2024

The strategy to activate thermogenic adipocytes has therapeutic potential to overcome obesity as they dissipate surplus energy as heat through various mechanisms. NG,NG‐dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolases (DDAHs) are enzymes involved in the nitric oxide‐protein kinase G signaling axis which increases thermogenic gene expression. However, the role of DDAHs in thermogenic adipocytes has not been elucidated. The adipocyte‐specific Ddah1 knockout mice are generated by crossing Ddah1fl/fl mice with adiponectin Cre recombinase mice. Adipocyte‐specific DDAH1 overexpressing mice are generated using adeno‐associated virus‐double‐floxed inverse open reading frame (AAV‐DIO) system. These mice are analyzed under basal, cold exposure, or high‐fat diet (HFD) conditions. Primary inguinal white adipose tissue cells from adipocyte‐specific Ddah1 knockout mice expressed comparable amounts of Ucp1 mRNA. Adipocyte‐specific DDAH1 overexpressing mice do not exhibit enhanced activation of thermogenic adipocytes. In addition, when these mice are exposed to cold environment or fed an HFD, their body temperature/weight and thermogenesis‐related gene and protein expressions are unchanged. These findings indicate that DDAH1 does not play a role in either cold‐ or diet‐induced thermogenesis. Therefore, adipocyte targeting DDAH1 gene therapy for the treatment of obesity is unlikely to be effective.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography with Hour‐Scale Duration after Single Low‐Dose Administration of Biocompatible Gadolinium Oxide Nanoprobe
Authors: Wang Jiaojiao , Han Bing , Ma Min , Zhao Yujie , Li Bingjie , Zhou Junzi , Wu Chao , Zhang Xuening , Pan Jinbin , Sun Shao‐Kai
Published: January 2024

Long‐term contrast‐enhanced angiography offers significant advantages in theranostics for diverse vascular diseases, particularly in terms of real‐time dynamic monitoring during acute vascular events; However, achieving vascular imaging with a duration of hours through a single administration of low‐dose contrast agent remains challenging. Herein, a hyaluronic acid‐templated gadolinium oxide (HA@Gd2O3) nanoprobe‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is proposed to address this bottleneck issue for the first time. The HA@Gd2O3 nanoprobe synthesized from a facile one‐pot biomineralization method owns ultrasmall size, good biocompatibility, optimal circulation half‐life (≈149 min), and a relatively high T1 relaxivity (r1) under both clinical 3 T (8.215 mM−1s−1) and preclinical 9.4 T (4.023 mM−1s−1) equipment. The HA@Gd2O3 nanoprobe‐enhanced MRA highlights major vessels readily with significantly improved contrast, extended imaging duration for at least 2 h, and ultrahigh resolution of 0.15 mm under 9.4 T, while only requiring half clinical dosage of Gd. This technique can enable rapid diagnosis and real‐time dynamic monitoring of vascular changes in a model of acute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis with only a single injection of nanoprobe. The HA@Gd2O3 nanoprobe‐enhanced MRA provides a sophisticated approach for long‐term (hour scale) vascular imaging with ultrahigh resolution and high contrast through single administration of low‐dose contrast agent.
Biohybrid Photonic Platform for Subcellular Stimulation and Readout of In Vitro Neurons
Authors: Kaspar Corinna , Ivanenko Alexander , Lehrich Julia , Klingauf Jürgen , Pernice Wolfram H.P.
Published: January 2024

Targeted manipulation of neural activity via light has become an indispensable tool for gaining insights into the intricate processes governing single neurons and complex neural networks. To shed light onto the underlying interaction mechanisms, it is crucial to achieve precise control of individual neural activity, as well as a spatial read‐out resolution on the nanoscale. Here, a versatile photonic platform with subcellular resolution for stimulation and monitoring of in‐vitro neurons is demonstrated. Low‐loss photonic waveguides are fabricated on glass substrates using nanoimprint lithography and featuring a loss of only ‐0.9 ± 0.2 dB cm−1 at 489 nm and are combined with optical fiber‐based waveguide‐access and backside total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. Neurons are grown on the bio‐functionalized photonic chip surface and, expressing the light‐sensitive ion channel Channelrhodopsin‐2, are stimulated within the evanescent field penetration depth of 57 nm of the biocompatible waveguides. The versatility and cost‐efficiency of the platform, along with the possible subcellular resolution, enable tailor‐made investigations of neural interaction dynamics with defined spatial control and high throughput.
Light‐Activatable MBD‐Readers of 5‐Methylcytosine Reveal Domain‐Dependent Chromatin Association Kinetics In Vivo
Authors: Lin Tzu‐Chen , Engelhard Lena , Söldner Benedikt , Linser Rasmus , Summerer Daniel
Published: January 2024

5‐Methylcytosine (5mC) is the central epigenetic mark of mammalian DNA, and plays fundamental roles in chromatin regulation. 5mC is dynamically read and translated into regulatory outputs by methyl‐CpG‐binding domain (MBD) proteins. These multidomain readers recognize 5mC via an MBD domain, and undergo additional domain‐dependent interactions with multiple additional chromatin components. However, studying this dynamic process is limited by a lack of methods to conditionally control the 5mC affinity of MBD readers in cells. Light‐control of MBD association to chromatin by genetically encoding a photocaged serine at the MBD‐DNA interface is reported. The authors study the association of MBD1 to mouse pericentromeres, dependent on its CxxC3 and transcriptional repressor domains (TRD) which interact with unmethylated CpG and heterochromatin‐associated complexes, respectively. Both domains significantly modulate association kinetics, arguing for a model in which the CxxC3 delays methylation responses of MBD1 by holding it at unmethylated loci, whereas the TRD promotes responses by aiding heterochromatin association is studied. Their approach offers otherwise inaccessible kinetic insights into the domain‐specific regulation of a central MBD reader, and sets the basis for further unravelling how the integration of MBDs into complex heterochromatin interaction networks control the kinetics of 5mC reading and translation into altered chromatin states.
Deep Characterisation of the sn‐Isomer Lipidome Using High‐Throughput Data‐Independent Acquisition and Ozone‐Induced Dissociation**
Authors: Michael Jesse A. , Young Reuben S. E. , Balez Rachelle , Jekimovs Lachlan J. , Marshall David L. , Poad Berwyck L. J. , Mitchell Todd W. , Blanksby Stephen J. , Ejsing Christer S. , Ellis Shane R.
Published: January 2024

In recent years there has been a significant interest in the development of innovative lipidomics techniques capable of resolving lipid isomers. To date, methods applied to resolving sn‐isomers have resolved only a limited number of species. We report a workflow based on ozone‐induced dissociation for untargeted characterisation of hundreds of sn‐resolved glycerophospholipid isomers from biological extracts in under 20 min, coupled with an automated data analysis pipeline. It provides an order of magnitude increase in the number of sn‐isomer pairs identified as compared to previous reports and reveals that sn‐isomer populations are tightly regulated and significantly different between cell lines. The sensitivity of this method and potential for de novo molecular discovery is further demonstrated by the identification of unexpected lipids containing ultra‐long monounsaturated acyl chains at the sn‐1 position.
Immobilized Tetraalkylammonium Cations Enable Metal‐free CO2 Electroreduction in Acid and Pure Water
Authors: Fan Jia , Pan Binbin , Wu Jialing , Shao Chaochen , Wen Zhaoyu , Yan Yuchen , Wang Yuhang , Li Yanguang
Published: January 2024

Carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) provides an efficient pathway to convert CO2 into desirable products, yet its commercialization is greatly hindered by the huge energy cost due to CO2 loss and regeneration. Performing CO2RR under acidic conditions containing alkali cations can potentially address the issue, but still causes (bi)carbonate deposition at high current densities, compromising product Faradaic efficiencies (FEs) in present‐day acid‐fed membrane electrode assemblies. Herein, we present a strategy using a positively charged polyelectrolyte—poly(diallyldimethylammonium) immobilized on graphene oxide via electrostatic interactions to displace alkali cations. This enables a FE of 85 %, a carbon efficiency of 93 %, and an energy efficiency (EE) of 35 % for CO at 100 mA cm−2 on modified Ag catalysts in acid. In a pure‐water‐fed reactor, we obtained a 78 % CO FE with a 30 % EE at 100 mA cm−2 at 40 °C. All the performance metrics are comparable to or even exceed those attained in the presence of alkali metal cations.
Lokaler Wassergehalt in Polymergelen bestimmt über superauflösende Fluoreszenzlebensdauer‐Bildgebung
Authors: Jana Sankar , Nevskyi Oleksii , Höche Hannah , Trottenberg Leon , Siemes Eric , Enderlein Jörg , Fürstenberg Alexandre , Wöll Dominik
Published: January 2024

Wassermoleküle spielen eine wichtige Rolle für die Struktur, Funktion und Dynamik von (Bio‐) Materialien. Ein direkter Zugang zur Anzahl der Wassermoleküle in nanoskopischen Volumina kann daher neue molekulare Einblicke in Materialien geben und eine Feinabstimmung ihrer Eigenschaften in anspruchsvollen Anwendungen ermöglichen. Die Bestimmung des lokalen Wassergehalts wurde durch die Entdeckung möglich, dass H2O die Fluoreszenz von rot‐emittierenden Farbstoffen löscht. Da deuteriertes Wasser, D2O, keine signifikante Fluoreszenzlöschung hervorruft, lässt sich über Fluoreszenzlebensdauermessungen bei unterschiedlichen H2O/D2O‐Verhältnissen die lokale Wasserkonzentration bestimmen. Wir kombinierten diesen Effekt mit der vor Kurzem entwickelten Fluoreszenzlebensdauer‐Einzelmolekül‐Lokalisierungsmikroskopie (FL‐SMLM), um die lokale Wasserkonzentration in Mikrogelen, d. h. weichen Hydrogelpartikeln, die aus einem in Wasser gequollenen vernetzten Polymer bestehen, nanoskopisch zu bestimmen. Die Änderung des Wassergehalts von thermoresponsiven Mikrogelen beim Übergang von ihrem gequollenen Zustand bei Raumtemperatur zu einem kollabierten Zustand bei erhöhter Temperatur konnte analysiert werden. Es wurde eine deutliche Abnahme des Wassergehalts festgestellt, die zu unserer Überraschung über das gesamte Mikrogelvolumen recht gleichmäßig war. In der Peripherie der gequollenen Mikrogele war die Wasserkonzentration um den Farbstoff herum nur geringfügig größer als in deren Zentrum.
Influence of flexible segment length on the phase structure and properties of poly(hexamethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate)‐block‐biopolytetrahydrofuran copolymers
Authors: Paszkiewicz Sandra , Walkowiak Konrad , Irska Izabela , Rozwadowski Zbigniew , Dryzek Jerzy
Published: January 2024

Two series of biobased poly(ether‐ester)s comprised of poly(hexamethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate) (PHF) as the rigid segments and biopolytetrahydrofuran (pTHF) with different molecular masses (1000 and 2000 g/mol) as the flexible segments were synthesized employing polycondensation in the molten state. The study mainly focuses on comparing these two series in terms of the length of the flexible segment. The content of pTHF segments in the copolymer chains varied from 25 to 75 wt.%. The molecular structure and composition, phase structure, and thermal and mechanical properties were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier‐transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). In addition, mechanical performance and thermo‐oxidative and thermal stability have been investigated. Moreover, cyclic tensile properties were studied to evaluate the elastic properties. 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopies demonstrate that the syntheses were correctly carried out, which made it possible to obtain the desired compositions of the block copolymers with high molecular masses. The decrease in Tm1, Tc1, and XcPHF values was visible, along with the increase in the flexible segment content. Moreover, the characteristic properties measured by PALS and the values of temperatures designated from TGA (inert and oxidizing atmosphere) did not vary between copolymer series PHF‐b‐F‐pTHF1000 and PHF‐b‐F‐pTHF2000. In turn, along with an increase in flexible segment content and the length of the pTHF, the values of tensile modulus, stress at break, and hardness decrease, while the value of elongation at break increases.
The pre‐contact temple system of Hālawa Valley, Moloka‘i, Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Kirch Patrick V. , Swift Jillian , Ruggles Clive
Published: January 2024

Building upon a pioneering 1909 survey of Moloka‘i Island heiau (temples) by archaeologist John F. G. Stokes, the pre‐contact temple system of Hālawa Valley is described and analysed. Ten heiau were relocated and mapped, with seven sites test excavated and radiocarbon dated. The majority of sites are terraces or terraced platforms in architectural form, ranging in size from 72 to 1300 square meters in basal area. Functionally, the temples include fishing shrines (ko‘a), agricultural or fertility temples (heiau ho‘oulu‘ai), and one luakini or temple of human sacrifice dedicated to the war god Kū. The orientations of the temple foundations appear to be deliberate (rather than dictated by topography). One group is slightly offset from cardinality and shows an eastward orientation, likely associated with the god Kāne. A second group exhibits an orientation to the ENE, which is the direction of the star cluster Makali‘i (Pleiades), whose achronycal rising determined the onset of the Makahiki season dedicated to the god Lono. The radiocarbon dates indicate that the temples were constructed during the seventeenth to eighteenth centuries, or the Archaic States Period of the Hawaiian cultural sequence.
What are the success factors for schools in remote Indigenous communities?
Authors: Dillon Anthony , Riley Philip , Filardi Nicola , Franklin Alicia , Horwood Marcus , McMullan Jennifer , Craven Rhonda G. , Schellekens Melissa
Published: January 2024

Indigenous Australian students generally attain poorer educational outcomes compared to non‐Indigenous students. However, some remote schools are challenging the status quo by providing schooling experiences where Indigenous students thrive. Using an Indigenous research paradigm and a comparative case study methodology, we conducted interviews with stakeholders from two different remote community schools where students were predominantly Indigenous. Recognising the limitations of assessing student success solely on westernised concepts of success, we adopted a strengths‐based approach. Using thematic analysis, qualitative data were analysed to yield themes that were sorted using a model of Indigenous wellbeing comprising five dimensions (academic, cultural, physical, psychological and social wellbeing). Responses from stakeholders (teachers, community leaders and students) show that success can be achieved when local culture is respected and incorporated into the curriculum by dedicated staff who maintain open communication with community. While both schools shared a largely common approach to Indigenous education, a hallmark was their responsiveness to local needs.
Lung adenocarcinomas with isolated TP53 mutation: A comprehensive clinical, cytopathologic and molecular characterization
Authors: Mendoza Rachelle P. , Chen‐Yost Heather I‐Hsuan , Wanjari Pankhuri , Wang Peng , Symes Emily , Johnson Daniel N. , Reeves Ward , Mueller Jeffrey , Antic Tatjana , Biernacka Anna
Published: January 2024

Background

TP53 mutation is present in about 50.8% of lung adenocarcinomas, frequently in combination with other genetic alterations. However, a rare subset harbors the TP53 mutation alone.

Methods

Next‐generation sequencing was performed in 844 lung adenocarcinomas diagnosed by fine needle aspiration. Fourteen cases (1.7%) showed isolated TP53 alteration and were subjected to a comprehensive analysis.

Results

The average age at diagnosis was 65.7 years (range 48–79); 9 males and 5 females. All were smokers with an average pack‐year of 40.7 (range 10–70). Ten had metastases, mostly in the brain (n = 4) and pleura (n = 4). After a follow‐up period of up to 102 months, 9 died, 3 were alive free of disease, 1 was alive with disease, and 1 was lost to follow‐up. The median survival was 12.2 months. Most tumors exhibited poor differentiation, composed of solid sheets with moderate to severe atypia, increased mitotic activity, and necrotic background. Half were positive for TTF‐1 and showed p53 overexpression. PD‐L1 was positive in 5 cases. Most alterations were missense mutations in exons 5–8, and this mutation type was associated with p53 overexpression. Tumors with combined missense mutation and truncated protein had higher PD‐L1 expression along with a trend towards an increase in tumor mutational burden (TMB). CEBPA deletion of undetermined significance was the most common copy number alteration.

Conclusion

Isolated TP53 mutation was seen in association with smoking, high‐grade cytomorphologic features, adverse prognosis, and recurrent CEBPA deletions. These tumors tend to have strong PD‐L1 expression and high TMB, suggesting potential benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. Hence, the recognition of this molecular group has prognostic and therapeutic implications.
The der(1;7)(q10;p10) defining a distinct profile from −7/del(7q) in myelodysplastic syndromes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lang Wei , Luo Yingwan , Wang Lu , Zhang Yudi , Hu Chao , Wang Huanping , Tong Hongyan
Published: January 2024

Background and Objective

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are myeloid neoplasms characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis due to stem cell abnormalities. Monosomy 7q aberrations are a common cytogenetic abnormality in MDS. Specifically, an unbalanced translocation der(1;7)(q10;p10) [der(1;7)] has been identified in MDS patients, which is a monosomy 7q aberration variant like −7/del(7q). However, knowledge of der(1;7)'s features remains limited. Existing studies have compared the clinical and genetic characteristics of der(1;7) to those of −7/del(7q) but yielded inconsistent findings. Accordingly, we conducted meta‐analyses comparing der(1;7) to −7/del(7q).

Methods

Publications were searched from the following databases up to January 10, 2023: Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Eligible studies were assessed for risks of bias. Relevant data were extracted from included studies and analyzed using random‐effects models. Publication bias was evaluated and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

The comparative meta‐analyses included 405 MDS patients with der(1;7) from nine studies. The analysis revealed that der(1;7) was associated with a greater male preponderance (86.1% vs. 68.3%, Odds Ratios (ORs) 2.007, p < 0.01) than −7/del(7q), lower platelets counts compared to del(7q), higher hemoglobin levels than −7, lower absolute neutrophil counts, and higher percentage of patients with non‐excess blasts (66.9% vs. 41.3%, ORs 2.374, p = 0.01) in comparison with −7/del(7q). The der(1;7) existed more as a sole karyotype aberration (55.6% vs. 37.0%, ORs 2.902, p = 0.02), co‐occurred more often with +8 (22.7% vs. 4.2%, ORs 5.714, p = 0.04) whereas less −5/del(5q) (1.5% vs. 41.3%, ORs 0.040, p < 0.01) and complex karyotype (7.3% vs. 54.8%, OR 0.085, p < 0.01). The der(1;7) was associated with higher frequencies of RUNX1 (40.8% vs. 12.3%, ORs 4.764, p < 0.01), ETNK1 (28.1% vs. 2.5%, ORs 42.106, p < 0.01) and EZH2 (24.8% vs. 6.9%, ORs 3.767, p = 0.02) mutations, but less TP53 mutation (2.4% vs. 45.3%, ORs 0.043, p < 0.01). Moreover, der(1;7) patients had longer time to progression (Hazard Ratios (HRs) 0.331, p = 0.02), better overall survival (OS) than −7 patients (HRs 0.557, p < 0.01), but similar OS with del(7q) patients (HRs 0.837, p = 0.37).

Conclusion

The findings revealed distinct clinical, cytogenetic, and molecular characteristics distinguishing der(1;7) from −7/del(7q), indicating der(1;7) defines a unique subtype within MDS with monosomy 7q. These findings support classifying der(1;7) as a separate MDS entity in future.
Intensified conditioning regimens with total marrow irradiation/etoposide/cyclophosphamide and busulfan/etoposide/cyclophosphamide overcome the impact of pre‐transplant minimal residual disease on outcomes in high‐risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients in complete remission
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyan , Xu Ziwei , Li Ziying , Zhou Xi , Hu Yu , Wang Huafang
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Among high‐risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT), those with positive minimal residual disease (MRD) are susceptible to poor outcomes. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the most suitable preparatory regimen for these patients.

Methods

Data were analyzed from 141 patients who received allo‐HSCT and were diagnosed with high‐risk ALL. These patients underwent intensified conditioning regimens, including either total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI)‐etoposide (VP16)‐cyclophosphamide (CY) or busulfan (BU)‐VP16‐CY between October 2016 and November 2022. A total of 141 individuals were in complete remission (CR) before transplantation and, among all patients, 90 individuals exhibited a negative MRD status and 51 patients had a positive MRD status.

Results

In patients who tested negative for MRD, the incidence of relapse within a 2‐year timeframe was 25.0% (24.8%–25.5%), compared with 32.2% (31.2%–33.2%) in MRD‐positive patients; however, this difference was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences in the 2‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) and 2‐year overall survival (OS) rates between the MRD‐negative and MRD‐positive groups (DFS: 67.2% (57.9%–78.1%) vs. 55.5% (42.6%–72.3%); OS: 69.0% (61.9%–88.2%) vs. 66.7% (53.9%–82.5%)). Furthermore, no notable variations were observed in the occurrence of transplant‐related mortality (TRM) and graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) across the two groups.

Conclusion

This study reveals the benefits of TMLI‐VP16‐CY and BU‐VP16‐CY conditioning regimens in high‐risk ALL patients with CR and MRD‐positive status. A large‐scale prospective clinical trial is warranted in the future.
Folic Acid‐Conjugated Chitosan‐Coated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Precision Targeting of Artemisia vulgaris Essential Oils for Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Aghabagherzadeh Mozhdeh , Karimi Ehsan , Zareian Mohsen
Published: January 2024

In this study, we developed Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN‐NPs) loaded with Artemisia vulgaris essential oil and coated with folic acid‐chitosan (AVEO‐SCF‐NPs) to enhance drug delivery in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. AVEO‐SCF‐NPs were synthesized using homogenization and ultra‐sonication methods and comprehensively characterized. These nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 253.67 nm, Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.26, zeta potential (ζ‐p) of +39.96 mV, encapsulation efficiency (%EE) of 99.0 %, and folic acid binding efficiency (% FB) of 46.25 %. They effectively inhibited MCF‐7, HT‐29, and PC‐3 cancer cells with IC50 values of 48.87 μg/mL, 88.48 μg/mL, and 121.34 μg/mL, respectively, and demonstrated antibacterial properties against Gram‐positive strains. AVEO‐SCF‐NPs also exhibited scavenging effects on ABTS (IC50: 203.83 μg/mL) and DPPH (IC50: 680.86 μg/mL) free radicals and inhibited angiogenesis, as confirmed through CAM and qPCR assays. Furthermore, these nanoparticles induced apoptosis, evidenced by up‐regulation of caspase 3 and 9, down‐regulation of TNF‐α genes, and an increase in SubG1 phase cells. The high loading capacity of SCF‐NPs for AVEO, coupled with their multifaceted biological properties, highlights AVEO‐SCF‐NPs as promising candidates for cancer therapy in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Hypericum alpestre extract exhibits in vitro and in vivo anticancer properties by regulating the cellular antioxidant system and metabolic pathway of L‐arginine
Authors: Ginovyan Mikayel , Javrushyan Hayarpi , Karapetyan Hasmik , Koss‐Mikołajczyk Izabela , Kusznierewicz Barbara , Grigoryan Anna , Maloyan Alina , Bartoszek Agnieszka , Avtandilyan Nikolay
Published: January 2024

Conventional treatment methods are not effective enough to fight the rapid increase in cancer cases. The interest is increasing in the investigation of herbal sources for the development of new anticancer therapeutics. This study aims to investigate the antitumor capacity of Hypericum alpestre (H. alpestre) extract in vitro and in vivo, either alone or in combination with the inhibitors of the 
l‐arginine/polyamine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway, and to characterize its active phytochemicals using advanced chromatographic techniques. Our previous reports suggest beneficial effects of the arginase inhibitor NG‐hydroxy‐nor‐
l‐arginine and NO inhibitor NG‐nitro‐Larginine methyl ester in the treatment of breast cancer via downregulation of polyamine and NO synthesis. Here, the antitumor properties of H. alpestre and its combinations were explored in vivo, in a rat model of mammary gland carcinogenesis induced by subcutaneous injection of 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. The study revealed strong antiradical activity of H. alpestre aerial part extract in chemical (DPPH/ABTS) tests. In the in vitro antioxidant activity test, the H. alpestre extract demonstrated pro‐oxidant characteristics in human colorectal (HT29) cells, which were contingent upon the hemostatic condition of the cells. The H. alpestre extract expressed a cytotoxic effect on HT29 and breast cancer (MCF‐7) cells measured by the MTT test. According to comet assay results, H. alpestre extract did not exhibit genotoxic activity nor possessed antigenotoxic properties in HT29 cells. Overall, 233 substances have been identified and annotated in H. alpestre extract using the LC‐Q‐Orbitrap HRMS system. In vivo experiments using rat breast cancer models revealed that the H. alpestre extract activated the antioxidant enzymes in the liver, brain, and tumors. H. alpestre combined with chemotherapeutic agents attenuated cancer‐like histological alterations and showed significant reductions in tumor blood vessel area. Thus, either alone or in combination with Nω‐OH‐nor‐
l‐arginine and Nω‐nitro‐
l‐arginine methyl ester, H. alpestre extract exhibits pro‐ and antioxidant, antiangiogenic, and cytotoxic effects.