bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient degradation of methyl orange in wastewater via bio‐electro‐Fenton system: optimization, pathway investigation and process evaluation
Authors: Wang Wen , Wang Qiannan , Peng Yuying , Papadakis Vagelis G. , Goula Maria A. , Li Xiaoyue , Xie Tianze , Yang Ziyi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The efficient and green technology of dye removal has been widely investigated. In this study, a bio‐electro‐Fenton system was used to degrade methyl orange (MO). For the system optimization, five experimental groups were detected, including pH (1–6), iron (Fe2+) concentration (3–15 mmol L−1), airflow rate (0–20 mL min−1), external voltages (0.2–1.0 V) and initial MO concentration (20–100 mg L−1).

RESULTS

Optimal conditions of pH 3, Fe2+ concentration 9 mmol L−1, air flowrate 12 mL min−1, external voltage of 0.6 V and MO concentration 60 mg L−1 were selected, resulting in a 92% efficiency. For the pathway investigation of MO degradation, under oxidization by ˙OH, demethylation, broken azo bonds and broken benzene ring structure were obtained. Intermediate products were predicted. For the system evaluation, energy consumption of 0.15–0.59 KWh was determined for 1 m3 MO wastewater. The total cost of degrading MO wastewater could decrease to US$470.0 m−3 by adjusting operational time.

CONCLUSION

Considering the Fe2+ regeneration and the low energy consumption, this bio‐electro‐Fenton system can be considered as one of the most environmentally‐friendly approaches for MO degradation; however, quantitative evaluation on sustainability needs to be further discussed via advanced assessment tools (such as life‐cycle assessment). © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The effect of bisphenol A on antioxidant defense and the structure and function of the liver of Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii)
Authors: Khorshidi Naeemeh Salimi , Salati Amir Parviz , Keyvanshokooh Saeed
Published: February 2024

The present study was conducted to investigate the biochemical and histological changes of liver tissue in Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) exposed to different doses of bisphenol A (BPA). One hundred and eighty pieces of 1‐year‐old A. baerii with an average weight of 200–250 g bought and randomly distributed in 18 tanks (n = 10). After 2 weeks of adaptation, the fish received intraperitoneal injections of 1, 10, and 100 μg/g/week BPA and μg/g/week of 17β‐estradiol intraperitoneally. The solvent control group received only peanut oil, while the control group did not receive any injections. In order to investigate histological changes of the liver, after 2 weeks the liver samples were taken, fixed in 10% formalin solution and slides prepared by routine histological methods. For assaying antioxidant defense status, the liver tissue from three fish of each replicates was captured and after homogenization, activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde measured. The most important histological changes observed in the liver tissue were: vacuolation of hepatocytes, nuclear hypertrophy, necrosis of liver cells, expansion of sinusoids, and accumulation of fat cells. In the highest dose, the intensity of tissue changes increased. Activity of antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde content increased in fish exposed to 100 μg/g/week BPA in compare with other groups (p < .05). According to our findings, it could be concluded that liver histology was affected by BPA and tissue damage had occurred, which had led to changes in blood parameters. Also, the obtained results showed that the high concentrations of BPA used in this study stimulate the antioxidant defense.

Research Highlights

BPA evoke oxidative stress in Siberian sturgeons in high dose of exposure.

Severity of liver histologic lesions was dose dependent.
Comparative light and scanning electron microscopic studies of the lenses in the insectivorous bat (Pipistrellus kuhlii) and Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus)
Authors: Aboelnour Asmaa , Gewaily Mahmoud S. , Noreldin Ahmed E.
Published: February 2024

Bats have the ability to fly without eye application in the darkness. In this study, we aimed to characterize the functional and structural acclimations of the lenses of two common bats with a various lifestyle in the Egyptian environment: the insectivorous bat (IB) (Pipistrellus kuhlii) and Egyptian fruit bat (FB) (Rousettus aegyptiacus). From each species, seven lenses were extracted from adult eyes. The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and light microscopic examination of the lens were carried out. FB lenses were made up primarily of fiber cells and sheets, which were encapsulated by a thin collagenous capsule and covered by single epithelial layer anteriorly. On the other hand, the IB lens had two poles and was visibly oval shaped. Both lenses had epithelial cells of the same cuboidal form that were subjected to continuous division and differentiation into new fiber cells at the center. SEM revealed that the normal FB lens had regularly organized shells of fiber cells of intact lens fibers which were connected by membrane interdigitations with different shapes mainly ball‐and‐socket junctions through the superficial cortical fiber cells. The IB lens was composed of parallel, evenly spaced fibers with various types of interdigitations between fibers that can be seen and increased close to the middle region revealing tiny bumps along the scrubby portions and sockets and balls in the center of the wide portions. Near the center of both lenses, there were large interlocking paddles with little and lengthy protrusions along their short sides. In conclusion, our study discovered several ultrastructural and structural variations among the investigated species. The detection of specialized membrane interdigitations with different shapes protruding from the lens fiber sheets is considered the most characteristic of the FB lens.

Research Highlights

FB lens has more organized sheets of fibers parallel to each other than IB lens.

Different shapes of interdigitations protruded from the FB lens have been detected.

Interlocking paddles, balls, and sockets with tongue‐like fiber flabs are characteristic to FB lens.
Evaluation of the key ingredient from the main production areas of Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Sun Yuran , Zhao Qiqi , Fang Heng , Sun Hui , Yang Le , Sun Ye , Yan Guangli , Han Ying , Wang Xijun
Published: February 2024

Phellodendri Amurensis Cortex (PAC) is a medicinal herb that has been generally used to treat diarrhea and jaundice. In order to comprehensively evaluate the PAC in the main production areas quality, a qualitative and quantitative method with highly effective, sensitive, and reliable was developed. The chemical compositions of PAC were analyzed, and fingerprints were established by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS). Then, the determination of berberine, canthin‐6‐one, dictamnine, γ‐fagarine, and magnoflorine from PAC samples was simultaneously performed using UPLC‐QQQ‐MS. Furthermore, the chemical components of PAC from different regions were compared and analyzed by combining hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. A total of 58 compounds were identified, including 36 alkaloids, four phenylpropanoids, seven terpenoids, four flavonoids and their glycosides, an organic acid compound, and six other components. The fingerprint results show that samples have good similarity. Meanwhile, the content of the five ingredients in different habitats is quite different. By multivariate statistical analysis, 18 batches of PAC could be divided into three categories, and 20 components were identified as differential markers of various origins. A comprehensive method of PAC quality evaluation and chemical composition difference analysis was established, which provided the scientific basis for quality evaluation and further pharmacological mechanism research.
Head and Neck Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Therapeutic Benefit of Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Nodal Disease
Authors: Harley Randall J. , Lyden Megan , Aribindi Seetha , Socolovsky Leandro , Harley Earl H.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of post‐operative radiotherapy (PORT) with respect to nodal status among patients with head and neck Merkel cell carcinoma (HNMCC).

Methods

In this retrospective study, we queried Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) dataset from 2000 through 2019. We included all adult patients who received primary surgical resection for histologically confirmed treatment naive HNMCC. Entropy balancing was used to reweight observations such that there was covariate balance between patients who received PORT and patients who received surgical resection alone. Doubly robust estimation was achieved by incorporating weights into a multivariable cox proportional hazards model. Planned post hoc subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of PORT by pathological node status.

Results

Among 752 patients (mean age, 73.3 years [SD 10.8]; 64.2% male; 91.2% White; 41.9% node‐positive), 60.4% received PORT. Among node‐positive patients, we found that PORT was associated with improved overall survival (OS) (aHR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37–0.81; p = 0.003) and improved disease‐specific survival (DSS) (aHR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.35–0.92; p = 0.022). Among node‐negative patients, we found that PORT was not associated with OS and was associated with worse DSS (aHR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.30–4.23; p = 0.005).

Conclusions

We found that PORT was associated with improved OS and DSS for node‐positive patients and worse DSS for node‐negative patients. For HNMCC treated with primary surgical resection, these data confirm the value of PORT for pathologically node‐positive patients and support the use of single modality surgical therapy for pathologically node‐negative patients without other adverse risk factors.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3587–3594, 2024
Decrease in Rates of Hearing Loss From Pediatric Bacterial Meningitis Over Time: A Database Review
Authors: Gitomer Sarah Ann , Boguniewicz Juri , Tong Suhong , Gottman Drew C. , Hirsch Scott , Herrmann Brian William
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Bacterial meningitis is a leading cause of acquired sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Treatment and prevention of bacterial meningitis have improved over time, but rates of neurologic complications have not been recently studied. The objective here is to present an updated population‐based review of hearing loss as a sequela of bacterial meningitis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between 2010 and 2022 of children discharged with bacterial meningitis, using the Pediatric Health Information System's (PHIS) database. Rates of hearing loss and mortality were evaluated over time.

Results

A total of 6138 children with a primary diagnosis of bacterial meningitis were identified (3520 male [57.3%], mean age 5.8 months [2.0, 61.2]). Of these, 277 (4.51%) were diagnosed with hearing loss. Children with hearing loss were significantly older (23.6 vs. 5.3 months, p < 0.01), but differences in gender, race, or ethnicity had no association with hearing loss. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningiditis were associated with significantly higher rates of hearing loss than other etiologies (p < 0.01). Children with hearing loss had a higher rate of receiving dexamethasone than children without hearing loss. Overall mortality rate was 2.1%. Hearing loss and mortality demonstrated significant decreases over the study period.

Conclusion

Hearing loss remains a common sequela of bacterial meningitis despite widespread uptake of vaccines for preventing S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and N. meningitidis. Dexamethasone was not associated with decreased rates of hearing loss in this cohort. From 2010 to 2022, there was a significant decrease in overall rates of mortality and hearing loss for children with bacterial meningitis.

Level of Evidence

3: retrospective case–control series Laryngoscope, 134:3820–3825, 2024
The crystal structure of human ferroptosis suppressive protein 1 in complex with flavin adenine dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine nucleotide
Authors: Feng Shijian , Huang Xiaofang , Tang Dan , Liu Xiaoyu , Ouyang Liang , Yang Dehua , Wang Kunjie , Liao Banghua , Qi Shiqian
Published: February 2024

Ferroptosis is a recently discovered form of regulated cell death characterized by its distinct dependence on iron and the peroxidation of lipids within cellular membranes. Ferroptosis plays a crucial role in physiological and pathological situations and has attracted the attention of numerous scientists. Ferroptosis suppressive protein 1 (FSP1) is one of the main regulators that negatively regulates ferroptosis through the GPX4‐independent FSP1–CoQ10–NAD(P)H axis and is a potential therapeutic target for ferroptosis‐related diseases. However, the crystal structure of FSP1 has not been resolved, which hinders the development of therapeutic strategies targeting FSP1. To unravel this puzzle, we purified the human FSP1 (hFSP1) protein using the baculovirus eukaryotic cell expression system and solved its crystal structure at a resolution of 1.75 Å. Furthermore, we evaluated the oxidoreductase activity of hFSP1 with NADH as the substrate and identified E156 as the key amino acid in maintaining hFSP1 activity. Interestingly, our results indicated that hFSP1 exists and functions in a monomeric state. Mutagenesis analysis revealed the critical role of the C‐terminal domain in the binding of substrate. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of the functional mechanism of FSP1 and provide a precise model for further drug development.
Type 1 early infantile epileptic encephalopathy: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zaker Erfan , Nouri Negar , Movahedinia Mojtaba , Dadbinpour Ali , Vahidi Mehrjardi Mohammad Yahya
Published: February 2024

Background

Variants in the Aristaless‐related homeobox (ARX) gene lead to a variety of phenotypes, with intellectual disability being a steady feature. Other features can include severe epilepsy, spasticity, movement disorders, hydranencephaly, and ambiguous genitalia in males. X‐linked Ohtahara syndrome or Type 1 early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE1) is a severe early‐onset epileptic encephalopathy with arrested psychomotor development caused by hemizygous mutations in the ARX gene, which encodes a transcription factor in fundamental brain developmental processes.

Methods

We presented a case report of a 2‐year‐old boy who exhibited symptoms such as microcephaly, seizures, and severe multifocal epileptic abnormalities, and genetic techniques such as autozygosity mapping, Sanger sequencing, and whole‐exome sequencing.

Results

We confirmed that the patient had the NM_139058.3:c.84C>A; p.(Cys28Ter) mutation in the ARX gene.

Conclusion

The patient with EIEE1 had physical symptoms and hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalogram. Genetic testing identified a causative mutation in the ARX gene, emphasizing the role of genetic testing in EIEE diagnosis.
Ergodic periodic measure of a stochastic budworm growth model with periodic coefficients
Authors: Yang Yazhou , Liu Meng
Published: February 2024

A stochastic budworm growth model with periodic coefficients is formulated and explored. Sufficient conditions for the existence of a unique ergodic periodic measure are given. An example based on exemplary data is also provided to illustrate the main results.
Analysis of global behavior in an age‐structured epidemic model with nonlocal dispersal and distributed delay
Authors: Bentout Soufiane
Published: February 2024

The virus infections pose a significant threat to human health, necessitating a profound comprehension of these diseases to effectively manage epidemics and avert fatalities. This study delves into a comprehensive analysis of a mathematical model that incorporates the age of infection and distributed time delays in the context of pathogenic epidemics. The framework of this model accommodates the nonlocal diffusion of the pathogen within cells. Our investigation showcases the well‐posed nature of the model and establishes the compactness of the solutions. We derive the basic reproduction number, denoted as
, and substantiate that when
is less than 1, the disease‐free equilibrium (
) achieves global asymptotic stability. Furthermore, we construct a global attractor within a bounded set and affirm the existence of the complete trajectory (
). This research also delves into scenarios where
surpasses 1, illustrating the presence of the endemic steady state (
) through the utilization of super‐subsolutions. We establish the globally asymptotic stability of
for cases where
is greater than 1 by employing a well‐suited Lyapunov function. To validate the robustness of our mathematical computations, we conclude by presenting a set of numerical results.
Local well‐posedness of classical solutions for the kinetic self‐organized model of Cucker–Smale type
Authors: Zhou Yong‐Shen , Zhang Teng‐Fei , Ma Qingxia
Published: February 2024

We study in this paper the local well‐posedness of classical solutions to the Cauchy problem for a kinetic self‐organized model of Cucker–Smale type for collective motions, which includes two cases of velocity alignment mechanisms: normalized and nonnormalized reorientation cases. The main concern is the a priori estimates for both cases. Our treatments rely on two key ingredients: One point is to deal with the possible singularity and high nonlinearity arising from the normalized/nonnormalized mean velocity, and the other is to control the growth with respect to the microscopic velocity variable in the whole space by employing weighted estimates.
Boundedness and non‐existence of traveling wave solutions for a four‐compartment lattice epidemic system with exposed class and standard incidence
Authors: Wu Xin , Ma Zhaohai
Published: February 2024

A recent paper (Zhang R, Yu X. Traveling waves for a four‐compartment lattice epidemic system with exposed class and standard incidence. Math Meth Appl Sci. 2022; 45: 113‐136) presented a four‐compartment lattice epidemic system with exposed class and standard incidence. The authors studied the existence and non‐existence of traveling wave solutions of this system. However, the limit behavior of
‐component of traveling wave solutions is still open. In this paper, we solve this open problem and establish the boundedness of traveling wave solutions by analysis technique. Meanwhile, we study the non‐existence of traveling wave solutions with non‐positive wave velocity.
Uncertainty principles for windowed coupled fractional Fourier transform
Authors: Bahri Mawardi , Syamsuddin Fitriyani , Bachtiar Nasrullah , Amir Amir Kamal
Published: February 2024

The windowed coupled fractional Fourier transform was recently proposed in the literature. It may be considered as a generalized version of the windowed fractional Fourier transform. In this study, we first present various basic properties of the windowed coupled fractional Fourier transform including linearity, shifting, modulation, parity, orthogonality relation, and inversion formula. Further, the close relation of the windowed coupled fractional Fourier transform with the two‐dimensional Fourier transform and the windowed fractional Fourier transform is studied. By combining the properties and relation, we derive several versions of the uncertainty inequalities related to the windowed coupled fractional Fourier transform.
On further refinements of the Jensen inequality and applications
Authors: Krnić Mario , Minculete Nicuşor , Mitroi‐Symeonidis Flavia‐Corina
Published: February 2024

We aim to extend some recent refinements of the Jensen inequality. First, we establish even more precise estimates for the Jensen inequality. Then, we derive an improvement of the Jensen inequality with regard to
‐convexity. As an application, our main results are applied in deriving refinements of power mean inequalities and the Hölder inequality. Finally, we obtain more accurate estimates for
‐divergences, important in the information theory.
Unraveling forward and backward source problems for a nonlocal integrodifferential equation: A journey through operational calculus for Dzherbashian‐Nersesian operator
Authors: Ahmad Anwar , Ali Muhammad , Malik Salman A.
Published: February 2024

This article primarily aims at introducing a novel operational calculus of Mikusiński's type for the Dzherbashian‐Nersesian operator. Using this calculus, we are able to derive exact solutions for the forward and backward source problems of a differential equation that features Dzherbashian‐Nersesian operator in time and intertwined with nonlocal boundary conditions. The initial condition is expressed in terms of Riemann‐Liouville integral. Solutions are presented using Mittag‐Leffler (ML) type functions. The outcomes related to the existence and uniqueness subject to certain conditions of regularity on the input data are developed.
A stable formulation of correspondence‐based peridynamics with a computational structure of a method using nodal integration
Authors: Wang Jiarui , Behzadinasab Masoud , Li Weican , Bazilevs Yuri
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we lay out a variational framework for correspondence‐based peridynamic (PD) formulations of solid mechanics. Using the framework, we address the numerical instabilities of the original version of correspondence‐based PD by developing a natural stabilization technique that avoids costly bond‐associated approaches and retains the structure of a method with nodal integration. Accuracy, robustness, and efficiency of the proposed naturally stabilized correspondence‐based PD are demonstrated on several computational test cases ranging from linear elastostatics to large deformation elasto‐plasticity. The computational methodology developed is particularly effective for handling materials undergoing nearly‐incompressible deformations.
Superiority of model predictive control with robust and stable approach for sliding wheeled mobile systems in the presence of obstacles
Authors: Korayem Moharam Habibnejad , Namdarpour Fateme , Lademakhi Naeim Yousefi
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present two distinct linear Model Predictive Control (MPC) methods for controlling mobile robots in the presence of obstacles while considering the wheel slip. Predictability of the controller enables the robot to automatically choose an alternative path to avoid obstacles. However, environmental conditions and disturbances, including slip, may impact the system model. Therefore, to accurately represent the system, slip angle and slip ratio are factored into the modeling process. Then the kinematic model is linearized using the successive method to reduce computational cost. Next, both Stable MPC (SMPC) and Robust MPC have been designed and implemented on the linearized time‐variant model to control the robot. The superiority of the robust predictive control method over the stable method has been discussed in terms of safety and optimal performance considering wheel slip. Finally, based on experimental tests, it has been found that the robust predictive controller is more effective than stable control when the surface is slippery and there is an obstacle in front of the robot. However, in a case where the wheel slip is neglectable, SMPC can be a better choice in presence of obstacles due to the lower computational cost.
Optimized tracking control using reinforcement learning and backstepping technique for canonical nonlinear unknown dynamic system
Authors: Song Yanfen , Li Zijun , Wen Guoxing
Published: February 2024

The work addresses the optimized tracking control problem by combining both reinforcement learning (RL) and backstepping technique for the canonical nonlinear unknown dynamic system. Since such dynamic system contains multiple state variables with differential relation, the backstepping technique is considered by making a virtual control sequence in accordance with Lyapunov functions. In the last backstepping step, the optimized actual control is derived by performing the RL under identifier‐critic‐actor structure, where RL is to overcome the difficulty coming from solving Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) equation. Different from the traditional RL optimizing methods that find the RL updating laws from the square of the HJB equation's approximation, this optimized control is to find the RL training laws from the negative gradient of a simple positive definite function, which is equivalent to the HJB equation. The result shows that this optimized control can obviously alleviate the algorithm complexity. Meanwhile, it can remove the requirement of known dynamic as well. Finally, theory and simulation indicate the feasibility of this optimized control.
Psychological predictors of adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Chan Jade K. Y. , Vartanian Lenny R.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery is associated with better health outcomes; however, research suggests that patients struggle to follow post‐operative recommendations. This systematic review aimed to examine psychological factors associated with adherence after bariatric surgery.

Methods

PubMed, PsycInfo, and Embase were searched (from earliest searchable to August 2022) to identify studies that reported on clinically modifiable psychological factors related to adherence after bariatric surgery. Retrieved abstracts (n = 891) were screened and coded by two raters.

Results

A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative synthesis. Appointment attendance and dietary recommendations were the most frequently studied post‐operative instructions. Higher self‐efficacy was consistently predictive of better post‐operative adherence to diet and physical activity, while pre‐operative depressive symptoms were commonly associated with poorer adherence to appointments, diet, and physical activity. Findings were less inconsistent for anxiety and other psychiatric conditions.

Conclusions

This systematic review identified that psychological factors such as mood disorders and patients' beliefs/attitudes are associated with adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery. These factors can be addressed with psychological interventions; therefore, they are important to consider in patient care after bariatric surgery. Future research should further examine psychological predictors of adherence with the aim of informing interventions to support recommended lifestyle changes.
Harnessing generative artificial intelligence to support nature‐based solutions
Authors: Richards Daniel , Worden David , Song Xiao Ping , Lavorel Sandra
Published: February 2024

The ongoing biodiversity and climate change crises require society to adopt nature‐based solutions that integrate and enhance ecosystems. To achieve successful implementation of nature‐based solutions, it is vital to communicate scientific information about their benefits and suitability.

This article explores the potential of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as a tool for automating and scaling up science communication, outreach, and extension for nature‐based solutions.

To illustrate the potential of GenAI, we present three case study examples; (1) reporting scientific information on ecosystem services, future land use options, and nature‐based solutions for farms (2) interactively providing guidance in response to homeowner questions about biodiversity‐friendly garden design and (3) visualising potential future scenarios of landscape change that incorporate diverse nature based and technological solutions. These examples demonstrate potential applications which may be relevant to other systems and types of nature‐based solutions.

While GenAI for nature‐based solutions offers significant opportunities, this new technology brings risks of bias, false information, data privacy, mistrust, and high energy usage. Alongside technological development, we require integrated social research into ethics, public acceptability, and user experience, to maximise the benefits of GenAI while limiting these risks.

GenAI offers an opportunity to accelerate the dissemination of nature‐based design strategies and reach a broader audience, by synthesising information and producing tailored content for specific users and locations. By harnessing the power of GenAI alongside human expertise, we can support nature‐based solutions to tackle the complex challenges of future sustainability.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Graft copolymers of collagen and acrylic monomers—Reagents for sizing of cotton yarn
Authors: Rafikov Adham Salimovich , Ibodulloyev Bekzod Shuxrat Ugli , Yasinskaya Nataliya Nikolayevna , Khakimova Mukaddas Shamuratovna
Published: February 2024

A new highly effective sizing reagent based on grafted collagen copolymers has been proposed for cotton yarn. The copolymers were synthesized by reacting an aqueous solution of collagen with acrylic monomers—acrylic, matacrylic acids, and their amides in the presence of potassium persulfate. Based on Scanning electron microscopy ‐ Energy dispersive (SEM‐EDS) analysis data, the composition of the copolymers was determined. Unsaturated acids are more actively grafted onto collagen than their amides. When a polymer film is formed from a solution of a collagen copolymer with (meth)acrylic acid, microcracks appear on the surface of the sample; microcracks are absent in films of copolymers with (meth)acrylamide. Films of copolymers, especially methacrylamide, are quite flexible and contribute to a significant improvement in the properties of the yarn. The tensile strength of yarn sized with copolymers increases by 20%–65% compared to unsized yarn, and by 13%–38% compared to yarn sized with a starch solution. At the same time, the relative tensile elongation of the experimental yarn improves by 14%–58%, while this property of starch‐size yarn deteriorates by 14%–22% compared to unsized yarn. The complete removal of graft copolymers from the surface of the yarn in the process of biochemical desizing using the enzyme protease is shown.

Highlights

Graft copolymerization of (meth)acrylamide with collagen was carried out.

Grafting is initiated by the interaction of collagen with potassium persulfate.

The synthesized copolymers are effective sizing reagents for cotton yarn.

The copolymer with poly(meth)acrylamide forms a flexible and stable film.

The protease enzyme completely removes the size from the surface of the yarn.
Improvement in persistent room temperature phosphorescence of polymeric systems via a melt‐pressing method
Authors: Jiang Siyang , Chen Jinzheng , Miao Yiling , Guo Danman , Jiang Ni , Huang Huahua , Chen Yongming
Published: February 2024

Polymer‐based afterglow materials with persistent room temperature phosphorescence (pRTP) have attracted ever‐increasing attention due to their excellent mechanical property, suitability for large‐area production, and diverse processing methods. However, most pRTP polymers were solution‐processed into the films via casting. Herein, a simple processing method of melt‐pressing was proposed, which can improve the phosphorescence of various emitters when doped into polyamide‐12 (PA12) or its copolymer PA4 matrix. Notably, for Be@PA4 and Ch@PA4 (benzo[c]phenanthrene, Be and chrysene, Ch), their casted films did not show any afterglow, while the melt‐pressed ones exhibited bright afterglow of over 4.0 s, even if there were no hydrogen or ionic interaction between the emitters and the matrix. Detailed investigations demonstrate the melt‐pressing procedure can increase the non‐covalent interaction among the matrix as well as offer a rigid and dense environment. The melt‐pressed RTP improvement strategy was also applied to other polar polymers. Additionally, the melt‐pressing method would be of great potential in high‐level anti‐counterfeiting like preparing colorful camouflage patterns. Therefore, we offered a feasible method of melt‐pressing to improve the phosphorescence of polymeric materials without a change in chemical composition or feeding ratio. This work also gained a deeper understanding of the luminescence of polymer‐based systems.
Overexpression of miR‐927‐5p suppresses stalky expression and negatively reduces the spermatid production in Zeugodacus cucurbitae
Authors: Han Hong‐Liang , Li Jing‐Ming , Chen Dong , Zhai Xiao‐Di , Smagghe Guy , Jiang Hongbo , Wang Jin‐Jun , Wei Dong
Published: February 2024

Background

The melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae Coquillett, is one of the major pests attacking Cucurbitaceae crops. Identifying critical genes or proteins regulating fertility is essential for sustainable pest control and a research hotspot in insect physiology. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNAs that do not directly participate in protein translation, but instead function in post‐transcriptional regulation of gene expression involved in male fertility.

Results

We found that miR‐927‐5p is highly expressed in the testes and investigated its function in spermatogenesis in Z. cucurbitae. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) showed miR‐927‐5p in the transformation and maturation region of the testis, and overexpression of miR‐927‐5p reduced the number of sperms by 53%. In continuation, we predicted 12 target genes of miR‐927‐5p using bioinformatics combined with transcriptome sequencing data, and found that miR‐927‐5p targets the new gene Stalky in insects, which was validated by quantitative real‐time PCR, RNA pull‐down and dual luciferase reporter assays. FISH also confirmed the co‐localization of miR‐927‐5p and the transcript Stalky_1 in the testis. Moreover, silencing of Stalky_1 by RNA interference reduced the number of sperms by 32% and reduced sperm viability by 39% in physiologically mature male adults. Meanwhile, the silencing of Stalky_1 also resulted in low hatchability.

Conclusion

Our work not only presents a new, so far unreported mechanism regulating spermatogenesis by miR‐927‐5p targeting a new unknown target, Stalky, which is providing new knowledge on the regulatory network of insect spermatogenesis, but also lays a foundation for the development of SIT against important tephritid fly pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Modeling the pest‐pathogen threats in a warming world for the red turpentine beetle (Dendroctonus valens) and its symbiotic fungus (Leptographium procerum)
Authors: Zhou Yuting , Guo Siwei , Wang Tao , Zong Shixiang , Ge Xuezhen
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Dendroctonus valens along with its symbiotic fungi have caused unprecedented damage to pines in China. Leptographium procerum, its primary symbiotic fungus, facilitates the invasion and colonization of the pest, thereby aggravating ecological threats. Assessing shifts in the niches and ranges of D. valens and its symbiotic fungus could provide a valuable basis for pest control. Here, we conducted niche comparisons between native and invasive populations of D. valens. Then, we employed standard ecological niche models and ensembles of small models to predict the potential distributions of D. valens and L. procerum under climate change conditions and to estimate areas of overlap.

RESULTS

The niche of invasive population of D. valens in Chinese mainland only occupied a limited portion of the niche of native population in North America, leaving a substantial native niche unfilled and without any niche expansion. The suitable regions for D. valens are predicted in central and southern North America and central and northeastern Chinese mainland. The overlap with the suitable regions of L. procerum included eastern North America and the central and northeastern Chinese mainland under historical climatic scenarios. The regions susceptible to their symbiotic damage will shift northward in response to future climate change.

CONCLUSIONS

Projected distributions of D. valens and its symbiotic fungus, along with areas vulnerable to their symbiotic damage, provide essential insights for devising strategies against this association. Additionally, our study contributes to comprehending how biogeographic approaches aid in estimating potential risks of pest–pathogen interactions in forests within a warming world. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Acid‐Mediated One‐Pot Three‐Component Tandem Cyclization: Access to Some New Series of Benzo[5,6]chromeno[2,3‐d]pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Kayyal Marziyeh , Olyaei Abolfazl , Pourshamsian Khalil , Sadeghpour Mahdieh
Published: February 2024

An efficient one‐pot synthesis of some new series of benzo[5,6]chromeno[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives is reported by the three‐component condensation reaction of 2,3‐dihydroxynaphthalene, 2‐thiobarbituric acid and aromatic aldehydes using sulfuric acid as the catalyst in glacial acetic acid under reflux condition. This transformation apparently proceeds through Michael addition, intra‐molecular heterocyclization and dehydration sequences. This protocol provides cleaner reaction profiles, good to high yields, operational simplicity, easy workup, readily accessible starting materials and not requires column chromatography for isolation of target products in pure form.
The new argonauts: The international migration of venture‐backed companies
Authors: Shi Yuan , Sorenson Olav , Waguespack David M.
Published: February 2024

Research Summary

We use a novel longitudinal dataset, constructed from 16 downloads of VentureXpert records collected over 20 years, to characterize the international migration of venture‐capital‐backed startups. We find that: (i) 1078 firms in our sample (1.4%) migrate; (ii) countries with high levels of in‐migration also have high levels of out‐migration; (iii) migrating firms move to places with more investors; (iv) pre‐move investors and their connections most strongly predict migration patterns; and (v) movers raise more money than non‐movers, primarily from investors at their destinations. Overall, these patterns appear inconsistent with those expected if startups move primarily in search of talent or customers. Instead, the flows across countries look more like international trade, with startups seeking capital, and social connections between investors defining the shipping lanes.

Managerial Summary

Although many high‐profile startups have relocated their headquarters from one country to another, systematic information on this phenomenon has been scarce. How frequently do these moves happen? Why do startups move? Over 20 years, we have built a database that can begin to answer these questions. International moves appear rare. When startups do move, they tend to move to places with more venture capital, particularly when their existing investors have connections in those places. Movers, moreover, raise more money than non‐movers, mostly from investors in their destination countries. Capital availability, rather than access to talent or proximity to customers, appears to be the strongest predictor of startup migration.
Nanoparticles Coated with Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cell Membranes can Target and Cross the Blood–Brain Barrier to Deliver Drugs to Brain Tumors
Authors: Chen Huajian , Ji Jingsen , Zhang Li , Luo Chuangcai , Chen Taoliang , Zhang Yuxuan , Ma Chengcheng , Ke Yiquan , Wang Jihui
Published: February 2024

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) contains tightly connected brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) that hinder drug delivery to the brain, which makes brain tumors difficult to treat. Previous studies have shown that nanoparticles coated with tumor cell membranes selectively target their homologous tumors. Therefore, this study investigated whether bEnd.3‐line BMEC membrane‐coated nanoparticles with poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐based doxorubicin‐loaded cores (BM‐PDs) can be used to target BMECs and cross the BBB. In vitro, the BM‐PDs effectively target BMECs and cross a BBB model. The BM‐PDs enter the BMECs via macropinocytosis, clathrin‐mediated endocytosis, caveolin‐mediated endocytosis, and membrane fusion, which result in excellent cellular uptake. The BM‐PDs also show excellent cellular uptake in brain tumor cells. In vivo, the BM‐PDs target BMECs, cross the BBB, accumulate in brain tumors, and efficiently kill tumor cells. Therefore, the proposed strategy has great therapeutic potential owing to its ability to cross the BBB to reach brain tumors.
Surface Bio‐engineered Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Haidar Laura Libnan , Bilek Marcela , Akhavan Behnam
Published: February 2024

Surface bio‐engineering of polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) has emerged as a cornerstone in contemporary biomedical research, presenting a transformative avenue that can revolutionize diagnostics, therapies, and drug delivery systems. The approach involves integrating bioactive elements on the surfaces of PNPs, aiming to provide them with functionalities to enable precise, targeted, and favorable interactions with biological components within cellular environments. However, the full potential of surface bio‐engineered PNPs in biomedicine is hampered by obstacles, including precise control over surface modifications, stability in biological environments, and lasting targeted interactions with cells or tissues. Concerns like scalability, reproducibility, and long‐term safety also impede translation to clinical practice. In this review, these challenges in the context of recent breakthroughs in developing surface‐biofunctionalized PNPs for various applications, from biosensing and bioimaging to targeted delivery of therapeutics are discussed. Particular attention is given to bonding mechanisms that underlie the attachment of bioactive moieties to PNP surfaces. The stability and efficacy of surface‐bioengineered PNPs are critically reviewed in disease detection, diagnostics, and treatment, both in vitro and in vivo settings. Insights into existing challenges and limitations impeding progress are provided, and a forward‐looking discussion on the field's future is presented. The paper concludes with recommendations to accelerate the clinical translation of surface bio‐engineered PNPs.
Role of pretty nanoflowers as novel versatile analytical tools for sensing in biomedical and bioanalytical applications
Authors: Dadi Seyma , Ocsoy Ismail
Published: February 2024

In recent years, an encouraging breakthrough in the synthesis of immobilized enzymes in flower‐shaped called “organic‐inorganic hybrid nanoflowers (hNFs)” with greatly enhanced catalytic activity and stability were reported. Although, these hNFs were discovered by accident, the enzymes exhibited highly enhanced catalytic activities and stabilities in the hNFs compared with the free and conventionally immobilized enzymes. Herein, we rationally utilized the catalytic activity of the hNFs for analytical applications. In this comprehensive review, we covered the design and use of the hNFs as novel versatile sensors for electrochemical, colorimetric/optical and immunosensors‐based detection strategies in analytical perspective.
Trace determination of genotoxic impurity p‐toluene sulfonate alkyl esters in four active pharmaceutical ingredients by using on‐line column switching liquid chromatography
Authors: Jiang Yifei , Zhao Xuejia , Sun Shengnan , Lian Xiaofang , Liu Huiyi , Zheng Ruifang , Wang Yue , Yao Jing , Shan Guangzhi
Published: February 2024

Sulfonate esters, one of the genetic impurities, have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential to cause genetic mutations and cancer. In this study, we reported a novel on‐line column‐switching liquid chromatography method for the quantitative analysis of three p‐toluene sulfonate alkyl esters in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The sensitivity was improved by large‐volume injection. A diluting modulation‐based sampling procedure was specifically devised to mitigate the impact of solvent effects and resolve the poor stability of isopropyl p‐toluene sulfonate alkyl ester. The established method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, stability, and robustness. The limit of quantitation level was determined to be 1 ng/mL (equivalent to 1 ppm relative to 1 mg/mL API samples). Besides, the method was applied for four APIs Tosuloxacin toluene sulfonate, Lapatinib toluene sulfonate, Nirapalib toluene sulfonate, and Capecitabine. The recoveries of all target analytes in the four‐drug substances were within 89%–110%. The expanded uncertainties of the measurements ranged from 6.8% to 8.4% at a coverage level of k = 2 and a confidence level of approximately 95%. The method described in this paper was compared with other published literature, demonstrating its simplicity and ease of standardization which could be further applied in the quality control and safety assessment of drug substances.
Enhancing diagnostic value in urethral imaging: the case for urologist‐performed urethrograms
Authors: Harrison William , Ravichandran Kapilan , Munien Kale , Desai Devang
Published: February 2024

Urologist‐performed urethrograms in males and voiding cystourethrograms in females provide superior diagnostic imaging compared with traditional radiology‐performed studies. The authors argue that implementing urologist‐performed urethrograms and cystourethrograms as standard practice would improve urethral stricture disease management and other urethral pathology outcomes.
Toward generalizable structure‐based deep learning models for protein–ligand interaction prediction: Challenges and strategies
Authors: Moon Seokhyun , Zhung Wonho , Kim Woo Youn
Published: February 2024

Accurate and rapid prediction of protein–ligand interactions (PLIs) is the fundamental challenge of drug discovery. Deep learning methods have been harnessed for this purpose, yet the insufficient generalizability of PLI prediction prevents their broader impact on practical applications. Here, we highlight the significance of PLI model generalizability by conceiving PLIs as a function defined on infinitely diverse protein–ligand pairs and binding poses. To delve into the generalization challenges within PLI predictions, we comprehensively explore the evaluation strategies to assess the generalizability fairly. Moreover, we categorize structure‐based PLI models with leveraged strategies for learning generalizable features from structure‐based PLI data. Finally, we conclude the review by emphasizing the need for accurate pose‐predicting methods, which is a prerequisite for more accurate PLI predictions.

This article is categorized under:

Data Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Data Science > Chemoinformatics

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics