bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actin-related protein 5 functions as a novel modulator of MyoD and MyoG in skeletal muscle and in rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Morita Tsuyoshi , Hayashi Ken'ichiro
Published: March 2022

Myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) are pivotal transcription factors in myogenic differentiation. MyoD commits cells to the skeletal muscle lineage by inducing myogenic genes through recruitment of chromatin remodelers to its target loci. This study showed that actin-related protein 5 (Arp5) acts as an inhibitory regulator of MyoD and MyoG by binding to their cysteine-rich (CR) region, which overlaps with the region essential for their epigenetic functions. Arp5 expression was faint in skeletal muscle tissues. Excessive Arp5 in mouse hind limbs caused skeletal muscle fiber atrophy. Further, Arp5 overexpression in myoblasts inhibited myotube formation by diminishing myogenic gene expression, whereas Arp5 depletion augmented myogenic gene expression. Arp5 disturbed MyoD-mediated chromatin remodeling through competition with the three-amino-acid-loop-extension-class homeodomain transcription factors the Pbx1–Meis1 heterodimer for binding to the CR region. This antimyogenic function was independent of the INO80 chromatin remodeling complex, although Arp5 is an important component of that. In rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cells, Arp5 expression was significantly higher than in normal myoblasts and skeletal muscle tissue, probably contributing to MyoD and MyoG activity dysregulation. Arp5 depletion in RMS partially restored myogenic properties while inhibiting tumorigenic properties. Thus, Arp5 is a novel modulator of MRFs in skeletal muscle differentiation.
Mechanisms and potential immune tradeoffs of accelerated coral growth induced by microfragmentation
Authors: Schlecker Louis , Page Christopher , Matz Mikhail , Wright Rachel M.
Published: March 2022

Microfragmentation is the act of cutting corals into small pieces (~1 cm2) to accelerate the growth rates of corals relative to growth rates observed when maintaining larger-sized fragments. This rapid tissue and skeletal expansion technique offers great potential for supporting reef restoration, yet the biological processes and tradeoffs involved in microfragmentation-mediated accelerated growth are not well understood. Here we compared growth rates across a range of successively smaller fragment sizes in multiple genets of reef-building corals, Orbicella faveolata and Montastraea cavernosa. Our results confirm prior findings that smaller initial sizes confer accelerated growth after four months of recovery in a raceway. O. faveolata transcript levels associated with growth rate include genes encoding carbonic anhydrase and glutamic acid-rich proteins, which have been previously implicated in coral biomineralization, as well as a number of unannotated transcripts that warrant further characterization. Innate immunity enzyme activity assays and gene expression results suggest a potential tradeoff between growth rate after microfragmentation and immune investment. Microfragmentation-based restoration practices have had great success on Caribbean reefs, despite widespread mortality among wild corals due to infectious diseases. Future studies should continue to examine potential immune tradeoffs throughout the microfragmentation recovery period that may affect growout survival and disease transmission after outplanting.
Using cluster and rest redistribution set structures as alternatives to resistance training prescription method based on velocity loss thresholds
Authors: Jukic Ivan , Helms Eric R. , McGuigan Michael R. , García-Ramos Amador
Published: March 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of cluster (CS), rest redistribution (RR) and traditional (TS) set configurations on acute neuromuscular performance, and to determine the viability of using CS and RR as alternatives to training prescription based on velocity loss (VL).

Methods

Thirty-one resistance-trained men performed, in a randomised order, three experimental sessions consisting of the squat (SQ) and bench press (BP) exercises performed against the 10-repetition maximum load using CS (three sets of six repetitions; 30 s of intra-set rest every two repetitions; 3 min of inter-set rest), RR (9 sets of two repetitions; 45 s of inter-set rest), and TS (3 sets of 6 repetitions; 3 min of inter-set rest), set configurations.

Results

Linear mixed-effects model analysis revealed that participants had significantly lower VL (p = 0.0005) during CS and RR than TS. Generalised mixed-effects model analysis yielded significant main effects of set structure (p < 0.0001; RR > CS > TS), exercise (p < 0.0001; SQ > BP), and set number (p = 0.0006; Set 1 > Set 2 > Set 3) for maintaining repetition velocity above a 20% VL threshold.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CS and RR are effective at reducing the overall fatigue-included decrease in velocity compared to TS and allow the majority of repetitions to be completed with less than 20% VL. Therefore, both CS and RR can be used to manage fatigue during resistance training, and as alternatives to training prescription method based on 20% VL threshold.
Yield Gap Analysis of Cotton in Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana
Authors: Priyadarshini Barre Jyothsna , Sinha D. K. , Ahmed Nasim , Singh K. M. , Kumar Mahesh , Singh S. P.
Published: March 2022

Cotton (Gossypium spp.), also known as the "white gold" or "king of fibres," is inextricably linked to human civilisation. It has a significant impact on India's economy. In the years 2019-2020, an investigation was conducted in the Bhadradri kothagudem area of Telangana. Inputs, cost and returns, and production data were collected from 120 cotton growers via personal interviews. The whole yield difference was predicted to be 21.69 percent. It was discovered that the total yield gap varied with the size of land holdings and that the size of land holdings and the total yield gap had an inverse connection. This hypothesis states that as the size of a land holding grows, the total yield gap shrinks. The reasons driving the yield gap in cotton have to be identified in order to narrow the yield gap. The gap between the suggested levels of all critical inputs at progressive farmers plot and actual input use levels was determined to be a primary driver for vast variances in realising the potential farm production on sample farms, according to the functional analysis of the yield gap in cotton. The data can be used to form conclusions about how to reduce the yield gap-II by using recommended levels of key inputs.
Controlled Catalytic Reduction in Synthesising Pure Tetrahydrocurcumin
Authors: Sekhara Rao Nethinti Chandra , T. S. S. Sundaram Dhanraj , Kumar Sarvesh , Boju Sreenivasulu , Babu Korupolu Raghu , Nowduri Annapurna , Kumar Ray Uttam
Published: March 2022

Pd-Catalyzed hydrogenation process has been developed to synthesize tetrahydrocurcumin from synthetic curcumin. Use of diphenyl sulphide as catalyst poison is crucial for lowering the activity of the catalyst and thus reduces impurity formation. The process avoids column chromatography to achieve good quality tetrahydrocurcumin in cost effective manner. All the prepared compounds are characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, mass and HPLC techniques.
Effect of Different Insecticides against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. M. Smith) in Maize at Belaka Municipality, Udayapur, Nepal
Authors: Dahal Asmita , Dahal Kusum , Koirala Sagar , Wagle Pramod
Published: March 2022

This research was conducted to evaluate the five selected commercial formulation of insecticides against newly introduced Fall armyworm spodoptera frugiperda in the farmer's field at Belaka Municipality of Udayapur district, Nepal. The experiment was laid out in Randomized completely blocked design (RCBD) from 23rd Feb 2021. The prepared field was divided into six treatments and four replications (Imidacloprid 70 % WDG@0.3ml/ltr water, Spinetoram 11.7% SC@0.3ml/ltr water, Chlorantraniliprol 18.5% W/W@0.4ml/ltr water, Emamectin Benzoate 5% WDG@0.4ml/ltr, Azadirachtin 0.03% EC @5ml/ltr and control). Total three spray of the insecticides were done at the interval of 7 days after the initial damage symptoms starts to appear. The field experiment showed that all the insecticides were significantly effective in reducing the number of live larvae per plant after 3rd spray whereas fast and foremost reduction in live larvae was seen in the plot sprayed with spinetoram and chlorantraniliprole. There was 89% reduction of live larvae after 1st spray in the plot sprayed with spinetoram and chlorantraniliprole followed by emamectin benzoate, 66%. Similarly, no damage symptoms were seen in the plot sprayed with spinetoram and chlorantraniliprole after 3rd spray. The highest grain yield per plot was also gained from chlorantraniliprole (8.8 ton/ha) and spinetoram (8.5 ton/ha).
Properties and Effect of Fresh Concentrated Extract of Garlic on Different Bacteria and Fungi
Authors: Acosta Rodríguez Ismael , Contreras Briones Dalila , Tovar Oviedo Juana , Turrubiartes Martínez Edgar A. , C. Pacheco Castillo Nancy , Rodríguez Pérez Adriana , Cárdenas González Juan Fernando , Manuel Martínez Juárez Víctor
Published: March 2022

Aims: Study some characteristics of fresh concentrated extract of garlic (FCEG) and analyze its effect on the growth of different bacteria and fungi.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Faculty of Chemical Sciences. Autonomous University of San Luís Potosí, S.L.P., between march and November 2020.

Methodology: To obtain the FCEG, 15 heads of raw garlic, previously peeled, were ground in a mortar and the suspension obtained was filtered through gauze, pressing to obtain a greater amount of filtrate, and kept covered at 4oC. For the study of some of their characteristics, the yeast Candida albicans was used. Petri dishes containing Sabouraud dextrose agar were inoculated with 1 x 106 yeasts/mL and 50 µL of FCEG, and were incubated at 28oC for 5 days, comparing growth with respect to a control without FCEG (all inhibition experiments described below were performed with the same protocol), while for the study of antifungal properties analyzed the effect of the extract on different strains of bacteria, yeasts, and fungi.

Results: Some of the factors that modify antifungal activity of FCEG are dilution, incubation temperature, protein concentration, half-life, capping and uncapping of tubes, and treatment with activated carbon. Regarding the growth inhibition analyses, it was found that all the species analyzed were susceptible to FCEG, among which the following stand out: the the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, causing systemic mycoses, the yeasts Cryptococcus neoformans and C. albicans, as well as different species of Dermatophytes, Aspergillus, and bacteria.

Conclusion: FCEG shows a good antimicrobial effect against a wide variety of bacteria, yeast, and fungal species, which makes its application in medical therapy and agriculture, as well as being cheap, easy to obtain and does not cause side effects, although more studies are required for its therapeutic application.
Biotechnological Aspects and Genetic Diversity Assessment in Zingiber Species
Authors: Gupta Mayank , Pandey D. K.
Published: March 2022

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a zingerbiaceae family member. It is a very important old-world crop with a Mediterranean provenance. Its origins may be traced back to Southeast Asia. It was first grown in India and China. Later it reached Asia Minor. It arrived in Europe in the early Middle Ages. The tropics now cultivate it widely. It is India's most important horticulture crop, used in culinary, ayurvedic medicine, and pharmaceutical industries. India has many types of ginger species. So, it's vital to research the various ginger species and kinds. It is grown in Nepal, Thailand, India, China, and throughout Asia. RAPD and ISSR are utilized as molecular markers for this purpose. For their protection, to avoid cross-species germplasm fusion, and to conserve their vital species. The growing demand for ginger in the food and beverage industry is driving market expansion. The growing use of ginger in food products such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, soups, and sauces are likely to drive the worldwide ginger market growth. Global consumer awareness of ginger's health advantages is positively fueling the ginger market. The global ginger market is likely to benefit from rising consumer demand for bakery and convenience foods. This paper aims to inspire scientists/researchers to develop efficient techniques for molecularly authenticating powerful zingiber species.
Comparison of Microscopy, Boeck and Drbolav’s Stool Culture Medium and Bichro-latex Antibody Test with A Reference Elisa Antigen Test for E. histolytica Diagnosis in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: E. O. Onosakponome, , C. E. Ohanu , C. U. Nyenke
Published: March 2022

Objective: Amoebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by E.histolytica, accurate diagnosis of E. histolytica is important in the treatment of amoebiasis and to avoid preventable costs. The study objective is to compare different diagnostic methods used in the diagnosis of amoebiasis for detection of E.histolytica parasite.

Materials and Methods: Faecal and serum specimens of 200 patients defined as symptomatic (diarrhea and dysentery) and asymptomatic (a case history of E.histolytica infection) was used for the study .Stool specimen was examined with microscopy, cultured in Boeck and drbolav’s medium and anti-E. histolytica antibodies were investigated using a latex slide test. Stool samples were also examined by immunoassay methods for specific antigens which is the reference standard for comparison.

Result: Two hundred (200) samples examined for E.histolytica parasite 12(6.0%) were positive in in microscopy,34(17%) in bichro-latex antibody test and 6(3.0%) in Boeck and drbolav’s culture medium. The three test methods showed significant detection of E.histolytica parasite(p<0.05). Microscropic method detected 100% of E.histolytica infection in symptomatic patients and Boeck and Drbohlav’s culture medium detected 33.3%. However, the method of diagnosis is not associated with the diagnosis E.histolytica infection in asymptomatic and symptomatic Patients(p>0.05).The diagnostic precision of the microscopy diagnostic method showed that sensitivity was 40.2%, specificity was 82.3%, PPV 39.6% and NPV 70.4% .The sensitivity was 86.6%, specificity was 70.6% PPV 87.6% and NPV 75.6% for bichro-latex antibody test and The sensitivity was 20.6 %, specificity was 50.6 %, PPV 34.6%, NPV 61.2% for Boeck and Drbohlav’s culture medium

Conclusion: The result from the comparison of the three diagnostic methods for E.histolytica parasite indicate high sensitivity and specificity for bichro-latex antibody test when compared with the other methods. however, in areas were molecular technology such as Polymerase chain reaction and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay is not available, bichro-latex antibody assay is recommended. although,microscopic examination can be used in diagnosis of amoebiasis in geographical areas with technological limitation in health.
Ben Lawers, an archaeological landscape in time
Authors: Atkinson John A , Dalglish Chris , Dixon Nicholas T , Donnelly Michael , Harrison John G , Lelong Olivia , MacGregor Gavin , Bateson J D , Clarke Ann , Constable Sue , Cox Adrian , Dalgleish George , Duncan John S , Finlay Nyree , Frew Craig , Haggarty George , Hooper Janet , Innes Lorna , McKenzie Joanne T , McLellan Kirsteen , Miller Jennifer , Murdoch Robin K , Photos-Jones Effie , Ramsay Susan , Roberts Julie , Shearer Ingrid , Sheridan Alison , Simpson Ian A , Toolis Ronan , Watters Margaret , Will Robert S , Wilson Lyn , McSwan GIllian , Sievewright Jill
Published: March 2022

This volume presents the results of archaeological investigations between 1996 and 2005, carried out as part of the Ben Lawers Historic Landscape Project, a multi-disciplinary project based on north Loch Tayside in the Central Highlands of Scotland (NGR: NN 63763 41298). Archaeological surveys and excavations formed the core of the Ben Lawers Project, but many other disciplines also contributed to researching this landscape. Some of these partner projects are reported here, while others have been presented elsewhere (Tipping et al 2009), and some have formed part of doctoral research projects (Watters 2007). The results of the 13 field seasons, particularly the nine evaluation and excavation seasons, together with the results of the partner projects, specialist studies and scientific analyses, have provided a body of evidence which permits the story of the land of Lawers to be told. The historical continuum in that story can be used to curate and manage this landscape for generations to come.
AVALIAÇÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM DA ANATOMIA RADIOGRÁFICA EM INCIDÊNCIAS OCLUSAIS COM O USO DO AMBIENTE VIRTUAL MOODLE
Authors: Rose Cantarelli Morosolli Aline , Silva Ferraz Eduardo , Rejane Brücker Márcia , Bolzan Rockenbach Maria Ivete
Published: March 2022

Objetivos: Avaliar o uso da plataforma MOODLE como material de apoio e para realização de atividades de interpretação de radiografias na Disciplina de Radiologia Odontológica III. Materiais e métodos: A amostra foi constituída por alunos do Curso de Odontologia matriculados em duas turmas diferentes que cursavam a disciplina de Radiologia Odontológica III (alunos concluintes do curso no ano de 2019 e concluintes em 2020), que realizaram atividades referentes ao conteúdo de anatomia radiográfica em incidências oclusais e responderam um questionário. Os dados foram obtidos por meio das notas das avaliações práticas de interpretação das radiografias, realizadas em sala de aula e na plataforma MOODLE, onde foram disponibilizadas radiografias associadas a questões de escolha simples ou múltipla. Resultados: O teste T de Student para amostras pareadas verificou que houve diferença significativa entre as duas avaliações para os alunos concluintes em 2020, com notas menores na modalidade virtual. Por outro lado, para os concluintes em 2019 não houve diferença significativa. De acordo com o Teste Exato de Fisher, observou-se diferença estatística significante (P=0,009) na modalidade presencial na qual houve um predomínio da turma concluinte em 2020 na categoria 5, enquanto na categoria 4 houve predomínio dos concluintes em 2019. Para a modalidade virtual, não houve diferença significante. As respostas do questionário mostraram que 72 alunos referiram a plataforma MOODLE como a principal ferramenta de estudo durante o semestre. Conclusão: A plataforma MOODLE mostrou ser promissora para o processo de aprendizagem na disciplina de Radiologia Odontológica, porém necessita de aperfeiçoamento em sua implementação.
Coffee Consumption Reduces Gout Risk Independently of Serum Uric Acid Levels: Mendelian Randomization Analyses Across Ancestry Populations
Authors: Shirai Yuya , Nakayama Akiyoshi , Kawamura Yusuke , Toyoda Yu , Nakatochi Masahiro , Shimizu Seiko , Shinomiya Nariyoshi , Okada Yukinori , Matsuo Hirotaka ,   Japan Gout Genomics Consortium (Japan Gout)
Published: March 2022

Objective

The effects of coffee consumption on serum uric acid (SUA) levels and gout risk are controversial. There have hitherto been no reports based on Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis of its effects that consider pleiotropy. Here, we evaluated the effects of coffee consumption across ancestry populations, taking pleiotropy into account.

Methods

We performed the first MR analyses for coffee consumption on SUA levels and gout, considering pleiotropy. We used the following summary statistics of genome‐wide association studies from a Japanese population: habitual coffee consumption (152,634 subjects), gout (3053 cases and 4554 controls), and SUA levels (121,745 subjects). In addition to fixed‐effect inverse variance weighted (IVW) meta‐analysis, we performed a robust evaluation of heterogeneity and removed several instruments for reasons of possible pleiotropy. Previous European datasets were also reevaluated while heterogeneity was considered.

Results

Habitual coffee consumption was significantly and inversely associated with gout (odds ratio [OR] = 0.29, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.16‐0.51, P = 1.9 × 10−5) in random‐effect IVW (Phet = 5.5 × 10−19). Excluding pleiotropic instruments, the protective effect on gout was confirmed in fixed‐effect IVW analysis (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.58‐0.97, P = 0.026) without heterogeneity (Phet = 0.39). However, we observed no significance in the previous European datasets when heterogeneity was considered. Associations were not observed between coffee consumption and SUA levels in either ancestry in MR analyses that considered pleiotropy. Multivariable MR analysis showed that increased coffee consumption significantly reduced gout risk, even after adjusting for SUA levels (OR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31‐0.81, P = 0.0046).

Conclusion

With pleiotropy taken into account, our MR analyses revealed that coffee consumption can causally reduce gout risk, and that it may reduce gout risk independently of SUA levels.
Ruthenium Olefin Metathesis Catalysts Bearing a Macrocyclic N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligand: Improved Stability and Activity
Authors: Kośnik Wioletta , Lichosyt Dawid , Śnieżek Marcin , Janaszkiewicz Angelika , Woźniak Krzysztof , Malińska Maura , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Kajetanowicz Anna , Grela Karol
Published: March 2022

Formation of sterically hindered C−C double bonds via catalytic olefin metathesis is considered a very challenging task for Ru catalysts. This limitation led to the development of specialised catalysts bearing sterically reduced N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands that are very active in such transformations, yet significantly less stable as compared to general purpose catalysts. To decrease the small‐size NHC catalysts susceptibility to decomposition, a new NHC ligand was designed, in which two sterically reduced aryl arms were tied together by a C‐8 alkyl chain. The installation of this macrocyclic ligand on the ruthenium centre led to the formation of an olefin metathesis catalyst (trans‐Ru6). Interestingly, this complex undergoes transformation into an isomer bearing two Cl ligands in the cis‐arrangement (cis‐Ru6). These two isomeric complexes exhibit similarly high thermodynamic stability, yet different application profiles in catalysis.
syn‐Selektive Epoxidierung von chiralen, terminalen Allylalkoholen mit einem Titan‐Salalen‐Katalysator und Wasserstoffperoxid
Authors: Severin Fabian , Fusi Giovanni M. , Wartmann Christina , Neudörfl Jörg‐Martin , Berkessel Albrecht
Published: March 2022

In der asymmetrischen Sharpless‐Epoxidierung von chiralen, sekundären Allylalkoholen wird ein Substratenantiomer bevorzugt zum anti‐Epoxyalkohol umgesetzt. In dieser Arbeit stellen wir die erste hoch syn‐selektive Epoxidierung von terminalen Allylalkoholen vor. Mit einem Titan‐Salalen‐Katalysator und H2O2 als Oxidationsmittel werden enantiomerenreine, terminale Allylalkohole mit bis zu 98 % Ausbeute und >99 : 1 dr (syn) zu Epoxyalkoholen umgesetzt. Diese syn‐Selektivität bleibt auch bei niedrigeren Katalysatorbeladungen (bis zu 1 mol‐%) erhalten. Auch die Modifizierung der Allylalkoholfunktion zu einem Ether beeinflusst die Diastereoselektivität nicht [>99 : 1 dr (syn)]. Wird die Katalysatorkonfiguration invertiert, so wird bevorzugt das anti‐Produkt gebildet, allerdings mit niedrigerem dr (ca. 20 : 1). Das Anwendungspotential wird am Beispiel der Synthese eines THF‐Bausteins mit drei Stereozentren im Grammmaßstab demonstriert, in welcher zwei Ti‐Salalen‐katalysierte Epoxidierungen durchlaufen werden.
LiBF4‐Induced Rearrangement and Desymmetrization of a Palladium‐Ligand Assembly
Authors: Sudan Sylvain , Fadaei‐Tirani Farzaneh , Scopelliti Rosario , Ebbert Kristina E. , Clever Guido H. , Severin Kay
Published: March 2022

Thirteen palladium‐ligand assemblies with different structures and topologies were investigated for the ability to bind lithium ions. In one case, the addition of LiBF4resulted in a profound structural rearrangement, converting a dincluclear [Pd2L4]4+complex into a low‐symmetry [Pd4L8]8+assembly with two binding pockets for solvated LiBF4ion pairs. The rearrangement could only be induced by Li+, indicating highly specific host–guest interactions. A structural analysis of the [Pd4L8]8+receptor revealed a compact structure with multiple intramolecular interactions, reminiscent of what is seen for natural and synthetic foldamers.
Copper‐Catalyzed Dynamic Kinetic C−P Cross‐Coupling/Cyclization for the Concise Asymmetric Synthesis of Six‐, Seven‐ and Eight‐MemberedP‐Stereogenic Phosphorus Heterocycles
Authors: Li Yanli , Jin Xiao , Liu Peng , Zhang Haijuan , Yu Xiuling , Liu Yanjuan , Liu Baixue , Yang Wenqiang
Published: March 2022

A copper‐catalyzed asymmetric aryl C−P cross‐coupling/cyclization reaction was successfully developed via dynamic kinetic asymmetric transformation (DYKAT) under mild conditions. This study provides a general and simple method for the catalytic enantioselective synthesis of stable six‐, seven‐ and eight‐membered P‐stereogenic phosphorus heterocycles with excellent enantioselectivities and moderate to high yields. One‐pot gram‐scale asymmetric synthesis of the P‐stereogenic P‐heterocycle from commercially available materials was also successfully accomplished with excellent enantioselectivity and high yield.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity of a Hydrido‐ and Imido‐Bridged Dinuclear Ytterbium(III) Complex
Authors: Wen Qingqing , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Maron Laurent , Leng Xuebing , Chen Yaofeng
Published: March 2022

The trivalent rare‐earth metal hydrido and imido complexes are of versatile reactivity, and many such complexes have been synthesized. However, no example of a rare‐earth metal complex bearing both hydrido‐ and imido‐ligands has been reported. Herein, we report the first rare‐earth metal complex bearing both hydrido‐ and imido‐ligands, namely a hydrido‐ and imido‐bridged dinuclear ytterbium(III) complex. The complex was synthesized via an unprecedented redox reaction of divalent rare‐earth metal hydrido complex with azido compound. DFT calculation indicated that the N2 release from azido compound in the presence of ytterbium(II) is a kinetically facile process because of the cooperative effects of the two metal centers. The reactivity of the hydrido‐ and imido‐bridged dinuclear ytterbium(III) complex was also explored, which showed the redox, addition and σ‐bond metathesis reactivities.
Modular Nitrogen‐Doped Concave Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for High‐Performance Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Tunable Emission Mechanisms**
Authors: Wagner Jakub , Zimmermann Crocomo Paola , Kochman Michał Andrzej , Kubas Adam , Data Przemysław , Lindner Marcin
Published: March 2022

Although bowl‐shaped N‐pyrrolic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can achieve excellent electron‐donating ability, their application for optoelectronics is hampered by typically low photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs). To address this issue, we report the synthesis and characterization of a series of curved and fully conjugated nitrogen‐doped PAHs. Through structural modifications to the electron‐accepting moiety, we are able to switch the mechanism of luminescence between thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) and room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP), and to tune the overall PLQY in the range from 9 % to 86 %. As a proof of concept, we constructed solid‐state organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) devices, which has not been explored to date in the context of concave N‐doped systems being TADF/RTP emitters. The best‐performing dye, possessing a peripheral trifluoromethyl group adjacent to the phenazine acceptor, exhibits yellow to orange emission with a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 12 %, which is the highest EQE in a curved D‐A embedded N‐PAH to date.
Utility of urinary biomarkers in primary haematuria: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Soputro Nicolas Adrianto , Gracias Dylan Neil , Dias Brendan Hermenigildo , Nzenza Tatenda , O'Connell Helen , Sethi Kapil
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of FDA‐approved urinary biomarkers in the evaluation of primary haematuria for investigation of bladder cancer.

Methods

The scientific databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Pubmed and Web of Science were searched to collect studies. Studies that evaluated the diagnostic performance of FDA‐approved urinary biomarkers in investigating patients with primary haematuria without a prior history of bladder cancer were included. Quality of studies was assessed using the JBI Criteria. Bivariate mixed‐effects regression model was used to calculate pooled sensitivities and specificities for each biomarker.

Results

Eighteen studies were included in the analysis. The biomarkers assessed in these studies were CxBladder, AssureMDx, Bladder Tumour Antigen (BTA), NMP22, UroVysion and Immunocyt/uCyt+. Several biomarkers, such as AssureMDx, CxBladder and Immunocyt, were shown to have better diagnostic performance based on their sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio, as well as positive and negative likelihood ratios. Across the six biomarkers, sensitivity ranged from 0.659 to 0.973, and the specificity ranged between 0.577 and 0.833.

Conclusion

Despite certain biomarkers demonstrated better performance, current diagnostic abilities of the FDA‐approved biomarkers remain insufficient for their general application as a rule out test for bladder cancer diagnosis and as a triage test for cystoscopy in patients with primary haematuria. High‐quality prospective studies are required to further analyse this and also analyse the correct scenario in which urinary biomarkers may be best utilised.
Erythrocyte lysis and angle‐resolved light scattering measured by scanning flow cytometry result to 48 indices quantifying a gas exchange function of the human organism
Authors: Yastrebova Ekaterina S. , Nekrasov Vyacheslav M. , Gilev Konstantin V. , Gisich Alla V. , Abubakirova Olga A. , Strokotov Dmitry I. , Chernyshev Andrey V. , Karpenko Andrey A. , Maltsev Valeri P.
Published: March 2022

Molecular/cell level of gas exchange function assumes the accurate measurement of erythrocyte characteristics and rate constants concerning to molecules involved into the CO2/O2 transport. Unfortunately, common hematology analyzers provide the measurement of eight indices of erythrocytes only and say little about erythrocyte morphology and nothing about rate constants of cellular function. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the ability of the Scanning Flow Cytometer (SFC) in the complete morphological analysis of mature erythrocytes and characterization of erythrocyte function via measurement of lysing kinetics. With this study we are introducing 48 erythrocyte indices. To provide the usability of application of the SFC in clinical diagnosis, we formed four categories of indices which are as follows: content/concentration (9 indices), morphology (26 indices), age (5 indices), and function (8 indices). The erythrocytes of 39 healthy volunteers were analyzed with the SFC to fix the first‐ever reference intervals for the new indices introduced. The essential measurable reliability of the presented method is expressed in terms of errors of characteristics of single erythrocytes retrieved from the solution of the inverse light‐scattering problem and errors of parameters retrieved from the fitting of the experimental kinetics by molecular‐kinetics model of erythrocyte lysis.
Niche expansion via acquired metabolism facilitates competitive dominance in planktonic communities
Authors: Hsu Veronica , Pfab Ferdinand , Moeller Holly V.
Published: March 2022

Acquired phototrophs, organisms that obtain their photosynthetic abilities by hosting endosymbionts or stealing plastids from their prey, are omnipresent in aquatic ecosystems. This acquisition of photosynthetic metabolism allows for niche expansion, and can therefore influence competition outcomes by alleviating competition for shared resources. Here, we test how acquired metabolism alters competitive outcomes by manipulating light availability to control the energetic contribution of photosynthesis to acquired phototrophs. Using freshwater protists that compete for bacterial prey, we demonstrate light‐dependent competition outcomes of acquired phototrophs (Paramecium bursaria) and strict heterotrophs (Colpidium sp.) in laboratory model experiments. We then synthesize these findings using a series of mathematical models, and show that explicitly accounting for resource competition improves model fits. Both empirical and mathematical models predict that the acquired phototroph should increase in competitive dominance with increasing light availability. Our results highlight the importance of acquired metabolism to community dynamics, highlighting the need for more empirical and theoretical studies of this mechanism for niche expansion.
Synthesis of Rigid Macrocyclic Phenols and Their Catalytic Applications in Diels‐Alder Reactions
Authors: Hayashi Tomoya , Ohishi Yuki , Chiba Junya , Inouye Masahiko
Published: March 2022

Macrocyclic catalysts having a phenol‐acetylene‐phenol triad were developed as a hydrogen‐bond donor catalyst. The rigid macrocyclic framework suppressed intramolecular hydrogen bonds between neighboring phenolic hydroxy groups. The preorganized phenol‐acetylene‐phenol moiety formed efficient intermolecular hydrogen bonds with carbonyl groups of substrates. The hydrogen‐bond donor catalysts accelerated the Diels‐Alder reaction of methyl vinyl ketone with cyclopentadiene. The catalytic ability was higher than that of an acyclic counterpart.
Engineering Mycolicibacterium neoaurum for the production of antioxidant ergothioneine
Authors: Xiong Liang‐Bin , Xie Zhi‐Yong , Ke Jie , Wang Li , Gao Bei , Tao Xin‐Yi , Zhao Ming , Shen Ya‐Ling , Wei Dong‐Zhi , Wang Feng‐Qing
Published: March 2022

Ergothioneine (EGT) represents valuable protective functions for humans, but EGT from the diet cannot meet daily requirements. Although the heterologous synthesis of EGT had been achieved, it is still a challenge to obtain stable and high‐yield EGT‐producing cell factories. Here, after the co‐overexpression of the EGT synthetic gene cluster and hisG, hisC, and allB1 in Mycolicibacterium neoaurum, the natural EGT titer was increased by 7.2‐folds. However, the degradation problem of EGT in large‐scale fermentation needs to be urgently solved. A putative lyase gene Mn_3042 was inactivated, thus inhibiting the product degradation and increasing the EGT titer by 21%. Moreover, the enhancement of S‐adenosyl‐
l‐methionine regeneration further increased EGT titer by 28%. After optimization of fed‐batch fermentation, the yield of EGT was boosted to 1.56 g/L with a productivity of 7.2 mg/L/h. This study provides a systematic engineering strategy for developing EGT‐producing cell factories.
Petrogenesis of the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous granites in the Taiping–Huangshan area, north‐eastern Yangtze Block, China
Authors: Zhang Yuanshuo , Xiang Bingquan , Yan Jun , Wang Xiaohai , Li Guofeng , Chen Gang , Tao Shuanglong , Zhang Jiahai , Chen Hui , Chen Fukun
Published: March 2022

Yanshanian magmatisms are intensive in the eastern Jiangnan orogen and can be divided into early (150–136 Ma) and late (136–120 Ma) stages. About these granitic rocks, the petrogenesis and associated tectonic setting are still hotly debated. The Taiping–Huangshan complex, a representative granitic rock in this region, is selected to perform geochemical studies. Three lithologic units have been identified in the Taiping–Huangshan complex: granodiorite, monzogranite, and alkali‐feldspar granite with zircon U–Pb dating results of 149–144 Ma, 148 Ma, and 135–131 Ma, respectively, belonging to the early stage for the granodiorite and monzogranite, and late stage for the alkali‐feldspar granite. The granodiorite and monzogranite have similar major and trace element characteristics with intermediate‐acidic SiO2 contents ranging from 65.9 to 69.7 wt.%, low Mg# values of 35.8–38.4, enriched LREE, Pb, Th, and U contents, and weak Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.71–0.79). The alkali‐feldspar granite is characterized by high SiO2 contents (73.3–76.6 wt.%), low Mg# (2.6–10.0), enriched Th, U, Ta, Pb, and Nd, depleted high‐field‐strength elements, and pronounced negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.01–0.19). The granodiorite and monzogranite have consistent εHf(t) (−5.38 to −9.41) and δ18O (7.18‰ to 11.00‰) values, while the alkali‐feldspar granite has elevated εHf(t) values (−0.96 to −6.48) and δ18O values (6.27‰ to 8.34‰). Integrated geochemical characteristics and batch partial melting modelling constrain that the early stage granitic rocks derived from ca. 8% batch melting of the Neoproterozoic juvenile crust, and the late‐stage granites derived from a similar crust source with a little contribution from mantle. From early to late stage, the tectonic setting translated from post‐orogenic to anorogenic and the later corresponded to a back‐arc extensional setting as increasing of the slab subducted angle of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate.
Can machine learning accelerate process understanding and decision‐relevant predictions of river water quality?
Authors: Varadharajan Charuleka , Appling Alison P. , Arora Bhavna , Christianson Danielle S. , Hendrix Valerie C. , Kumar Vipin , Lima Aranildo R. , Müller Juliane , Oliver Samantha , Ombadi Mohammed , Perciano Talita , Sadler Jeffrey M , Weierbach Helen , Willard Jared D. , Xu Zexuan , Zwart Jacob
Published: March 2022

The global decline of water quality in rivers and streams has resulted in a pressing need to design new watershed management strategies. Water quality can be affected by multiple stressors including population growth, land use change, global warming, and extreme events, with repercussions on human and ecosystem health. A scientific understanding of factors affecting riverine water quality and predictions at local to regional scales, and at sub‐daily to decadal timescales are needed for optimal management of watersheds and river basins. Here, we discuss how machine learning (ML) can enable development of more accurate, computationally tractable, and scalable models for analysis and predictions of river water quality. We review relevant state‐of‐the art applications of ML for water quality models and discuss opportunities to improve the use of ML with emerging computational and mathematical methods for model selection, hyperparameter optimization, incorporating process knowledge into ML models, improving explainablity, uncertainty quantification, and model‐data integration. We then present considerations for using ML to address water quality problems given their scale and complexity, available data and computational resources, and stakeholder needs. When combined with decades of process understanding, interdisciplinary advances in knowledge‐guided ML, information theory, data integration, and analytics can help address fundamental science questions and enable decision‐relevant predictions of riverine water quality.
Recombinant subunits of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein as vaccine candidates to elicit neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Noorabad Ghahroodi Faezeh , Khalili Saeed , Rasaee Mohammad Javad
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The spike protein has been reported as one of the most critical targets for vaccine design strategies against the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Hence, we have designed, produced, and evaluated the potential use of three truncated recombinant proteins derived from spike protein as vaccine candidates capable of neutralizing SARS‐CoV‐2 virus.

Methods

In silico tools were used to design spike‐based subunit recombinant proteins (RBD (P1), fusion peptide (P2), and S1/S2 cleavage site (P3)). These proteins were checked for their ability to be identified by the anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies by exposing them to COVID‐19 serum samples. The proteins were also injected into mice and rabbit, and the antibody titers were measured for 390 days to assess their neutralization efficiency.

Results

The antibodies that existed in the serum of COVID‐19 patients were identified by designed proteins. The anti‐spike antibody titer was increased in the animals injected with recombinant proteins. The VNT results revealed that the produced antibodies could neutralize the cultured live virus.

Conclusion

Truncated subunit vaccines could also be considered as robust tools for effective vaccination against COVID‐19. Using a combination of in silico, in vitro, and in vivo experiments, it was shown that the injection of spike‐based truncated recombinant proteins could stimulate long‐lasting and neutralizing antibody responses.
Spatial–temporal pattern of cultivated land productivity based on net primary productivity and analysis of influencing factors in the Songhua River basin
Authors: Yang Shiliang , Bai Yang , Alatalo Juha M. , Wang Huimin , Tong Jinping , Liu Gang , Zhang Fan , Chen Junyu
Published: March 2022

Inefficient utilization puts the productivity of cultivated land in a low development state. The key challenge for the efficient utilization of cultivated land is to clarify how various factors affect the spatial differentiation pattern of cultivated land productivity (CLP), to improve food production. However, evaluating the impact of the intensity and direction of CLP on a large‐scale is a difficulty and there is a gap in knowledge. In this study, we used net primary productivity (NPP) to calculate the productivity of cultivated land and reveal its spatial differentiation. Also, this study examined the spatio‐temporal heterogeneity of CLP and determined the effect intensity and the direction of effect of various factors on productivity, using the Songhua River basin (SRB) in China as a research case. We used genetic algorithms to modify and improve a neural network model of factor dimensionality reduction, combined with path analysis, cluster analysis, and regression analysis, to identify the main factors impacting CLP, synergies between these factors, and effect intensity and direction. The results showed that: (1) the area of cultivated land in SRB decreased, but the NPP of cultivated land area increased, during 2000–2020; (2) spatially, NPP was relatively low in the middle of the basin and gradually increased towards the periphery; (3) The main positive factors were the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), slope, precipitation, evapotranspiration, and total nitrogen, while the main negative factors were temperature, ratio vegetation index, and total phosphorus. Individual principal factors and the synergy between these factors gave CLP different temporal and spatial heterogeneity. Collaborative management of the threshold range of various influencing factors would improve the CLP. This novel information on spatial–temporal differentiation and factors influencing CLP can be important in formulating science‐based and feasible policies for land protection and for improving CLP.
Distribution of vitamin D‐binding protein/group‐specific component gene subtypes in Kuwaiti population
Authors: Al‐Shammri Suhail Najim , Mustafa Abu Salim , Bhattacharya Arpita
Published: March 2022

Background

Vitamin D‐binding protein or group‐specific component (Gc) is the major plasma carrier protein of Vitamin D. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs7041 (NM_000583.3:c.1296G>T;NP_000574.2:p.Asp432Glu) and rs4588 (c.1307C>A; p.Thr436Lys), in the GC gene result in three major genotypes, that is, GC1F (c.1296T, c.1307C), GC1S (c.1296G, c.1307C), GC2 (c.1296T, c.1307A), and phenotypes such as Gc1F (p.432Asp, p.436Thr), Gc1S (p.432Glu, p.436Thr), and Gc2 (p.432Asp, p.436Lys). Significant variations in the frequencies of GC subtypes (genotypes/phenotypes) are reported in different populations living in different geographical locations, for example, GC1S/Gc1S (c.1296G, c.1307C/p.432Glu, p.436Thr) and GC2/Gc2 (c.1296T, c.1307A/p.432Asp, p.436Lys) are predominant in Caucasians and people living in the northern hemisphere, and GC1F/Gc1F (c.1296T, c.1307C/p.432Asp, p.436Thr) is predominant in Africans. However, frequencies of major GC subtypes are not known in the Kuwaiti population. In this study, we investigated 512 alleles to identify the major GC subtypes in Kuwaiti nationals.

Methods

Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples of 128 healthy subjects. DNA regions covering the targeted mutations were amplified by PCR. Amplified DNAs were sequenced by the Sanger method and analyzed for specific mutations to determine the GC genotypes and phenotypes.

Results

The results identified the presence of four GC genotypes/phenotypes namely GC1F/Gc1F (c.1296T, c.1307C/p.432Asp, p.436Thr), GC1S/Gc1S (c.1296G, c.1307C/p.432Glu, p.436Thr), GC2/Gc2 (c.1296T, c.1307A/p.432Asp, p.436Lys), and GC3/Gc3 (c.1296G;c.1307A/p.432Glu, p.436Lys). Among the allelic subtypes (n = 512), GC1S (c.1296G; c.1307C) (n = 270, 52.7%) was predominant, followed by GC1F (c.1296T; c.1307C) (n = 138, 27%), GC2 (c.1296T; c.1307A) (n = 72, 14%), and GC3 (c.1296G; c.1307A) (n = 32, 6.3%). Three common subtypes, that is, GC1F (c.1296T; c.1307C), GC1S (c.1296G; c.1307C), and GC2 (c.1296T; c.1307A) are well documented in the literature, but GC3 (c.1296T; c.1307A) is an uncommon variant found in our study subjects.

Conclusion

We found that GC subtype distribution was unique in the Kuwaiti population, with some affinity to Caucasians. Several factors including ancestral origin, migration history, and environmental forces such as solar intensity may be responsible for the unique distribution of GC subtypes in this population.
Modulation of Tumor Vasculature Network: Key Strategies
Authors: Taleb Mohammad , Mohammadkhani Niloufar , Bahreini Farbod , Ovais Muhammad , Nie Guangjun
Published: March 2022

Tumor cells, owing to their relentless division, require increased nutrient supply. This is made possible by angiogenesis, that is, the formation of new blood vessels increases the blood flow toward tumor cells, thereby promoting the supply of oxygen and vital nutrients required for the proliferation of tumor cells. Decreasing the blood flow to the tumor cells can effectively halt tumor progression and possibly cure cancer. However, practically, the mechanism is not as straightforward as it seems. In this review, the role of angiogenesis is focused on in the development of tumors and cancer metastasis and the potential of tumor vascular normalization for the reduction of angiogenesis, which results in the suppression of tumor cells. An insight into various strategies, including pharmacological inhibition of angiogenesis, genetic models, and nanoparticle‐based novel treatment strategies for vascular normalization, is provided. In addition, the effect of vessel normalization and tumor microenvironment modulation on the delivery of nanoparticle‐based drugs to the target tumor cells is discussed. The critical role of monitoring vascular normalization is also highlighted, without which selecting the most efficient strategy for tumor vascular normalization is possible. Therefore, efficiently combating cancer and its devastating effects remains an unsolved puzzle.
Learning Model Checking and the Kernel Trick for Signal Temporal Logic on Stochastic Processes
Authors: Bortolussi Luca , Gallo Giuseppe Maria , Křetínský Jan , Nenzi Laura
Published: March 2022

We introduce a similarity function on formulae of signal temporal logic (STL). It comes in the form of akernel function, well known in machine learning as a conceptually and computationally efficient tool. The correspondingkernel trickallows us to circumvent the complicated process of feature extraction, i.e. the (typically manual) effort to identify the decisive properties of formulae so that learning can be applied. We demonstrate this consequence and its advantages on the task ofpredicting (quantitative) satisfactionof STL formulae on stochastic processes: Using our kernel and the kernel trick, we learn (i) computationally efficiently (ii) a practically precise predictor of satisfaction, (iii) avoiding the difficult task of finding a way to explicitly turn formulae into vectors of numbers in a sensible way. We back the high precision we have achieved in the experiments by a theoretically sound PAC guarantee, ensuring our procedure efficiently delivers a close-to-optimal predictor.