bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor‐targeted therapy and overcoming strategies
Authors: Ou Xuejin , Gao Ge , Habaz Inbar A. , Wang Yongsheng
Published: August 2024

Tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)‐targeted therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by selectively blocking specific signaling pathways crucial for tumor growth, offering improved outcomes with fewer side effects compared with conventional chemotherapy. However, despite their initial effectiveness, resistance to TKIs remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. Understanding the mechanisms underlying TKI resistance is paramount for improving patient outcomes and developing more effective treatment strategies. In this review, we explored various mechanisms contributing to TKI resistance, including on‐target mechanisms and off‐target mechanisms, as well as changes in the tumor histology and tumor microenvironment (intrinsic mechanisms). Additionally, we summarized current therapeutic approaches aiming at circumventing TKI resistance, including the development of next‐generation TKIs and combination therapies. We also discussed emerging strategies such as the use of dual‐targeted antibodies and PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras. Furthermore, we explored future directions in TKI‐targeted therapy, including the methods for detecting and monitoring drug resistance during treatment, identification of novel targets, exploration of dual‐acting kinase inhibitors, application of nanotechnologies in targeted therapy, and so on. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in TKI‐targeted therapy, aiming to advance our understanding of resistance mechanisms and guide the development of more effective therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment.
Indirect influence on the BDNF/TrkB receptor signaling pathway via GPCRs, an emerging strategy in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Antonijevic Mirjana , Dallemagne Patrick , Rochais Christophe
Published: August 2024

Neuronal survival depends on neurotrophins and their receptors. There are two types of neurotrophin receptors: a nonenzymatic, trans‐membrane protein of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) family–p75 receptor and the tyrosine kinase receptors (TrkR) A, B, and C. Activation of the TrkBR by brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or neurotrophin 4/5 (NT‐4/5) promotes neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic function. It is shown that in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative conditions (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease) the BDNF/TrkBR signaling pathway is impaired. Since it is known that GPCRs and TrkR are regulating several cell functions by interacting with each other and generating a cross‐communication in this review we have focused on the interaction between different GPCRs and their ligands on BDNF/TrkBR signaling pathway.
A wideband fully enclosed coaxial‐to‐substrate‐integrated waveguide transition and its applications in a 1‐to‐4 radial power divider
Authors: Tao Bo , Liu Jiong , Yang Linna , Qing Zihao , Li Zhiyi
Published: August 2024

Aimed at the interconnection between coaxial transmission line and substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW), a wideband coaxial‐to‐SIW transition was proposed and applied in a 1‐to‐4 radial power divider. First of all, a fan‐shaped region was designed on the end of a SIW transmission line. Then, a coaxial transmission line was inserted into this region. To improve the impedance matching at the coaxial port, a feeding ring was designed on the back of the transition where the coaxial line was inserted. Next, the transition was applied in a 1‐to‐4 radial power divider to realize an equal power division. Finally, to validate the correctness of the designs, prototypes were fabricated and measured. For the coaxial‐to‐SIW transition, measured reflection coefficient |S11| was less than −15 dB from 7.84 to 12.18 GHz. Transmission coefficient |S21| was between −0.52 and −0.24 dB. For the 1‐to‐4 radial divider, measured |S11| was less than −15 dB from 7.91 to 12.4 GHz, and the transmission coefficient was around −6.9 dB. Measurement and simulation agreed well with each other. Therefore, the proposed design can be used in coaxial‐to‐SIW interconnection scenarios.
Fiber laser tuning by means of nonthermal plasma as a temperature regulator
Authors: Tung Hao Jiun , Raja Ibrahim Raja Kamarulzaman , Azmi Asrul Izam , Husein Nor Ain , Vargas‐Rodriguez Everardo , Alresheedi Mohammed Thamer , Ng Eng Khoon , Mahdi Mohd Adzir
Published: August 2024

This work presents a technique to obtain wavelength tuning for a fiber laser with a nonthermal plasma‐based temperature regulator system and a fiber Bragg grating (FBG). The plasma effect was generated in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor filled with helium as the carrier gas for plasma generation. The temperature characterization of the DBD reactor had shown that the nonthermal heating mechanism of plasma could manipulate gas temperature from 25°C to around 145°C in ~10 min. By exploiting the rapid temperature change of plasma, the reflected wavelength of the FBG can be tuned accordingly. At a discharge voltage of 3 kV, the fiber laser was tuned within a range of 2 nm with 11.9 pm/°C tuning resolution. The fiber laser exhibits a thermally stable emission with very low shifting at a constant temperature value.
A gain enhancement of compact UWB antenna based on a single FSS layer
Authors: Ksouri Elhachmi , Boufrioua Amel , Belazzoug Massinissa , Messaoudene Idris , Melouki Noureddine , Denidni Tayeb A.
Published: August 2024

The present work introduces a novel low‐profile antenna for UWB applications through the use of a frequency‐selective surface (FSS). The FSS reflector uses a 7 × 7 array with a unit cell of 12.4 × 12.4 mm. By incorporating this periodic structure, the antenna's peak gain reaches 11 dBi, covering a UWB frequency range from 3.01 GHz to 13.5 GHz. Both FSS and UWB antennae are printed on the same type of substrate (FR4‐epoxy). The gap between the FSS layer and antenna is a half wavelength (18 mm) to obtain the best performance. The fabricated optimized antenna prototype shows a reasonable accord between numerical and experimental results. These results are compared to the existing literature designs. Overall, the proposed antenna system has reduced complexity and size, while offering a very wide bandwidth and high gain, making it a good candidate for imminent wideband and high‐gain wireless communication systems.
Eigenvector method for array pattern synthesis
Authors: Chen Jie , Yin Yingzeng
Published: August 2024

A novel equation for array beam pattern synthesis is presented. The expected pattern total power is set to a fixed value, under this constraint, the difference between the main beam total power and the other part total power is maximized to achieve the array pattern synthesis. To solve the proposed pattern synthesis equation, which cannot be solved by any published traditional method, based on the Lagrange multiplier method, it is transformed into a new equation in which the array element excitation vector is the eigenvector of a matrix. Thus, the array element excitation vector can be obtained by matrix eigenvalue decomposition. Three array architectures using the method are taken as examples to show its advantages. Simulation results of the examples show that the method has better performance than other methods. The method is a noniterative approach, so it requires less computational volume to complete the pattern synthesis process. In addition, through eigenvalue decomposition, multiple eigenvectors can provide other different solutions of array elements current excitations, which can be applied in different areas.
A single‐channel transmitarray antenna with abilities of super resolution and digital beamforming
Authors: Guo Xin , Tang Jiayu , Wu Wen
Published: August 2024

A single‐channel transmitarray antenna with abilities of super resolution and digital beamforming (DBF) is proposed. The amplitude and phase distributions on the array aperture are reconstructed through beam switching with a single channel. By finding and solving relations between distributions and received signals of beams, aperture distributions can be reconstructed. The ill‐conditioned problem caused by limited scanning range and angular interval is solved using the regularization method. The obtained distributions can then be delivered to super‐resolution algorithm to obtain super resolution, or used to produce shaped beams by DBF. On the basis of the proposed theory, a bifocal beam‐reconfigurable transmitarray is designed and tested as a single‐channel DBF antenna without special and additional hardware design. It has the outstanding advantages of low cost, simple structure, low energy consumption, and high working frequency.
Performance and cost advantage of stocking locally sourced Walleye fry into southern Minnesota lakes
Authors: Logsdon Dale E. , Shroyer Steven M. , Shametov Askhan , Miller Loren M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

A genetically distinct strain of Walleye Sander vitreus (southern Minnesota strain [SMS]) persists in southern Minnesota lakes despite decades of stocking more easily obtained strains from outside of the region. Because of the regional performance advantage inferred by this persistence, we conducted in situ experiments to compare survival and stocking cost of SMS Walleye fry against those of a frequently stocked northern Minnesota strain (Mississippi headwaters strain [MIS]) to determine whether it is beneficial to expand SMS fry stocking in lieu of historic practices.

Methods

We conducted four paired stockings of oxytetracycline-marked SMS fry and MIS fry into six southern Minnesota lakes and then sampled the fish as fall fingerlings during 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. We then used fluorescent microscopy and parentage-based tagging techniques to discern the stocked strains for comparison of growth and survival. We also obtained production and stocking cost data from agency records to calculate relative stocking costs.

Result

By the end of their first summer, SMS Walleye from all but two stockings exhibited higher survival than MIS Walleye. Despite higher initial costs to produce SMS fry, their higher survival to fall fingerlings made the stocking of SMS fry more cost effective than MIS fry stocking. Natural reproduction was also identified in several stocked lakes, most of which consisted of either high or increasing levels of SMS ancestry.

Conclusion

A local strain can outperform nonlocal strains at a level that can overcome additional costs of developing a new egg source. In addition, natural reproduction of local-strain Walleye may reduce or eliminate the need for future stocking.
Lateral kinematic properties of offshore pipe piles embedded in saturated soil considering soil plug effect
Authors: Li Jiaxuan , Yang Xiaoyan , Liu Hao , Chen Libo , Wu Wenbing , Naggar M. Hesham El , Lu Dagang
Published: August 2024

This study establishes a theoretical framework for analyzing the lateral oscillation of marine pipe piles. The additional mass model is introduced herein to consider the inertial fluctuation effect of the soil plug. Analytical mathematical methods are used to determine the complex impedance variation of the pile over a range of frequency effects. An investigation is performed to determine how the presence of soil plugs changes the lateral complex stiffness and natural frequency of pipe piles. Additionally, comparisons of the applicability of the plane strain model and continuous medium model have been conducted to enable the easy use of the theoretical model. The main conclusions can be drawn as (1) if the fluctuation inertia effect of the soil plug is not taken into consideration, the dynamic active length and the dynamic stiffness of the pipe pile will be underestimated; (2) for the soft soil, the plane strain model may give rise to substantial calculation errors attributed to them regardless of the vertical continuity of the soil, nevertheless, the calculation error decreases rapidly with the increase of soil shear modulus and vibration frequency.
Dynamically accelerating the power iteration with momentum
Authors: Austin Christian , Pollock Sara , Zhu Yunrong
Published: August 2024

In this article, we propose, analyze and demonstrate a dynamic momentum method to accelerate power and inverse power iterations with minimal computational overhead. The method can be applied to real diagonalizable matrices, is provably convergent with acceleration in the symmetric case, and does not require a priori spectral knowledge. We review and extend background results on previously developed static momentum accelerations for the power iteration through the connection between the momentum accelerated iteration and the standard power iteration applied to an augmented matrix. We show that the augmented matrix is defective for the optimal parameter choice. We then present our dynamic method which updates the momentum parameter at each iteration based on the Rayleigh quotient and two previous residuals. We present convergence and stability theory for the method by considering a power‐like method consisting of multiplying an initial vector by a sequence of augmented matrices. We demonstrate the developed method on a number of benchmark problems, and see that it outperforms both the power iteration and often the static momentum acceleration with optimal parameter choice. Finally, we present and demonstrate an explicit extension of the algorithm to inverse power iterations.
Factors related to the disaster preparedness of patients on haemodialysis from Sichuan, China, during COVID‐19: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhu Linfang , Liu Yang , Li Sijian , Liao Ruoxi , Fu Ping , Yuan Huaihong
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to investigate personal preparedness among patients on haemodialysis (HD) and to examine the relationship among sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes toward disaster preparedness and personal preparedness behaviours during natural disaster incidents.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted.

Methods

A convenience sampling method was used. A total of 446 participants from six areas of Sichuan province completed the online questionnaire study from February 27 to March 13, 2022. Sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes toward disaster preparedness and personal preparedness behaviours were measured. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse sociodemographic characteristics and attitudes toward disaster preparedness. The relationship among sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes toward disaster preparedness and personal preparedness behaviours were assessed using ordinal regression. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 446 participants completed the survey. Of these, 42.15% (N = 188) were poorly prepared, 26.23% (N = 117) were moderately prepared and 31.61% (N = 141) were highly prepared. Ordinal regression showed that knowing about disaster preparedness (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.691, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.081–2.644, p = 0.021), participating in disaster evacuation exercises (OR = 2.519, 95% CI = 1.595–3.977, p < 0.001) and learning about disaster preparedness (OR = 2.421, 95% CI = 1.542–3.802, p < 0.001) were associated with high preparedness. Compared to patients with a university degree or higher, patients with a junior high school education or lower (OR = 3.491, 95% CI = 1.760–6.925, p < 0.001) and senior high school degree (OR = 2.052, 95% CI = 1.038–4.057, p = 0.039) were associated with high preparedness. Patients who felt very confident and could deal with all their needs (OR = 3.878, 95% CI = 2.904–7.181, p < 0.001) or patients who felt confident and could meet some of their needs (OR = 1.949, 95% CI = 1.124–3.379, p = 0.017) had higher preparedness than those who felt less confident and were not well prepared to take care of their needs.

Patient or Public Contribution

After obtaining each participant's consent, they filled out the online questionnaire using their own or a relative's cell phone while undergoing HD.

Implication for Practice

It is essential that patients should be educated not only on medical specialty topics, but also on general disaster preparedness. Medical institutions should improve and reinforce preparation training among targeted populations. The low level of preparedness is partly due to the lack of participation of patients in disaster preparedness programs. Dialysis center managers should be urged to implement such programs at their centers.
Family management styles for children with asthma: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Lin Keke , Zhang Yuying , He Xudong , Chen Xiangyu , Zhang Xianzhen , Duan Hongmei
Published: August 2024

Aim

To identify the latent profiles and predictors of family management styles for children with asthma.

Design

This is a secondary data analysis. The demographic data of 506 primary caregivers of children with asthma and their scores of the Family Management Scale in a cross‐sectional study were used. Latent profile analysis and multiple logistic regression analyses were employed.

Results

Three family management styles were identified: Thriving (Profile 1), Accommodating (Profile 2), and Enduring (Profile 3) Family Management Style. The child's age, gender, mother's education level, family structure, influence of illness on parents' work and family life, whether they had follow‐up plans and whether their parents had read disease and health knowledge pamphlets were found to be the predictors of different styles.

Conclusion

Three distinct family management styles exist for children with asthma. Future interventions designed to enhance family management for children with asthma should be based on their demographic characteristics and family management styles.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

The precise classification of family management styles in this study can serve as a guide to form multi‐disciplinary teams of physicians and nurses to provide individualized care and conduct in‐depth research to explore the mechanisms of biomedicine and the social psychology of asthma in the future.

Impact

This paper aims to identify the latent profiles and predictors of family management styles of children with asthma.

Thriving, accommodating, and enduring family management styles were identified in this paper. Child's characteristics, family and organizational factors were the predictors of different family management styles.

Findings of this paper provide guidance for physicians and nurses to offer individualized care and conduct in‐depth research to explore the mechanisms of biomedicine and the social psychology of asthma in the future.

Reporting Method

The article was reported according to the STROBE Checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Windmill grass (Chloris spp.) as a non‐wood source of cellulose for reinforcement of starch films
Authors: Flores‐Martínez N. L. , Cruz‐Rodríguez J. J. , Arredondo‐Tamayo B. , Hernández‐Varela J. D. , Chanona‐Pérez J. J. , Gallegos‐Cerda S. D. , Hernández‐Hernández H. M. , Jarquín‐Enríquez L.
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, non‐timber sources are of greater interest as they avoid deforestation and the pollution which occurs with cellulose obtention. An emerging alternative is using weeds such as windmill grass (Chloris spp.) to isolate cellulose since the plant grows in large quantities near crops or landfills used for farming. The present study aims to explore windmill grass as an alternative source of cellulose for applications as reinforcement in biopolymeric matrices. Treatment was conducted using the peroxyformic pulping method, varying the formic acid (FA) and hydrogen peroxide (HP) concentration to obtain an optimum cellulose extraction condition. The isolated celluloses were analyzed for chemical composition, yield, chemical functionality, crystallinity, and morphology. The optimum pulping condition (FA = 87.5%, HP = 3%) shows the gradual removal of non‐cellulosic components by microscopy. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed a high crystallinity index (89.63%) with a characteristic cellulose type I pattern. To evaluate the reinforced effect of Chloris spp. celluloses, film formulations were made using sweet potato starch, glycerol, and cellulose at different concentrations (2.5, 5.0, and 7.5% w/w). The films' mechanical, physicochemical, and thermal properties were measured, and results indicate that adding cellulose fibers significantly improves these properties of sweet potato starch films, revealing further applications and non‐wood windmill grass added value with potential applications in the packaging sector.

Highlights

Windmill grass (Chloris spp.) is presented as a non‐wood source of cellulose.

The peroxyformic method is reported as a less polluting cellulose extraction process.

Optimal cellulose pulp presents enhanced physicochemical properties after bleaching.

Cellulose‐reinforced sweet potato starch films exhibit a stable biopolymeric matrix.

The films produced show enhanced water barrier and mechanical/thermal properties.
Effect of polymeric spherulite coatings on optical properties of chiral nematic cellulose nanocrystal films
Authors: Verma Chhavi , Chhajed Monika , Priya E. , Maji Pradip K.
Published: August 2024

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have received an abundance of attention because of their distinctive chiral nematic structure and exceptional optical characteristics. However, the use of free‐standing films is constrained by the inherent stiffness and brittleness. In this work, CNC films with robust mechanical properties are prepared by simply coating them with polymeric spherulites. Maleic anhydride‐grafted polypropylene (PP‐g‐MA) is used to coat CNC films. The optical properties of coated films were also analyzed using polarized optical microscope. It is observed that the circular extinction patterns for the coated CNC film were created by the radial symmetry of banded spherulites, which were responsible for the perception of the optical transmission bands of the CNC film. Interfacial anchoring plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance and properties of the composite system. The future development of numerous portable functional components needing improved optical, mechanical, and thermal qualities of CNC films is made possible by this protective coating approach.
Physiotherapy practices in the clinical assessment of lateral elbow tendinopathy: An international survey
Authors: Heales Luke , Vicenzino Bill , Bisset Leanne , Bateman Marcus , Hill Caitlin , Kean Crystal , Spyve Aleesha , Jaques Ashlee , Sansom Fergus , Lowe Michael , Obst Steven
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Understanding physiotherapy practices is important to identify variations from empirical evidence and highlight requirements for training. This survey explored international physiotherapy practices for assessment of lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET).

Methods

Two hundred ninety‐nine surveyed physiotherapists from eight member countries of the International Federation of Manual and Orthopaedic Physical Therapists completed the survey. Respondents rated their frequency of use (never, rarely, sometimes, often, and always) for items related to: patient history; diagnostic tests; grip and upper limb strength; cervical and neurological assessment; and medical imaging. To establish practices, the five response categories were dichotomised into routine practice (often, always) and not‐routine practice (sometimes, rarely, never). A response rate of ≥70% for each dichotomy was used to determine whether an assessment item was deemed routine practice or not, with items not meeting either criterion considered neither routine nor not‐routine practice.

Results

Most respondents were from United States (63%). The ‘chair pick up test’, ‘cervical special tests’, and ‘plain radiograph’ met our criteria for not routine practice (i.e., 70%, 72%, and 71%, respectively). All other assessment items did not meet the criteria to be considered routine or not‐routine practice.

Conclusion

The chair pick‐up test, cervical spine special tests (e.g., Spurling's test), and plain radiography appear to not be routinely used in the assessment of LET. The finding that no assessment technique met the criteria for routine use may imply that physiotherapists adopt a nuanced approach to selecting clinical assessment items as opposed to routinely applying tests.
Applications of cell free protein synthesis in protein design
Authors: Thornton Ella Lucille , Paterson Sarah Maria , Stam Michael J. , Wood Christopher W. , Laohakunakorn Nadanai , Regan Lynne
Published: August 2024

In protein design, the ultimate test of success is that the designs function as desired. Here, we discuss the utility of cell free protein synthesis (CFPS) as a rapid, convenient and versatile method to screen for activity. We champion the use of CFPS in screening potential designs. Compared to in vivo protein screening, a wider range of different activities can be evaluated using CFPS, and the scale on which it can easily be used—screening tens to hundreds of designed proteins—is ideally suited to current needs. Protein design using physics‐based strategies tended to have a relatively low success rate, compared with current machine‐learning based methods. Screening steps (such as yeast display) were often used to identify proteins that displayed the desired activity from many designs that were highly ranked computationally. We also describe how CFPS is well‐suited to identify the reasons designs fail, which may include problems with transcription, translation, and solubility, in addition to not achieving the desired structure and function.
Formerly degenerate seventh zinc finger domain from transcription factor ZNF711 rehabilitated by experimental NMR structure
Authors: Rua Antonio J. , Alexandrescu Andrei T.
Published: August 2024

Domain Z7 of nuclear transcription factor ZNF711 has the consensus last metal‐ligand H23 found in odd‐numbered zinc fingers of this protein replaced by a phenylalanine. Ever since the discovery of ZNF711, it has been thought that Z7 is probably non‐functional because of the H23F substitution. The presence of H26 three positions downstream prompted us to examine if this histidine could substitute as the last metal‐ligand. The Z7 domain adopts a stable tertiary structure upon metal‐binding. The NMR structure of Zn2+‐bound Z7 shows the classical ββα‐fold of CCHH zinc fingers. Mutagenesis and pH titration experiments indicate that H26 is not involved in metal binding and that Z7 has a tridentate metal‐binding site comprised of only residues C3, C6, and H19. By contrast, an F23H mutation that introduces a histidine in the consensus position forms a tetradentate ligand. The structure of the WT Z7 is stable causing restricted ring‐flipping of phenylalanines 10 and 23. Dynamics are increased with either the H26A or F23H substitutions and aromatic ring rotation is no longer hindered in the two mutants. The mutations have only small effects on the Kd values for Zn2+ and Co2+ and retain the high thermal stability of the WT domain above 80°C. Like two previously reported designed zinc fingers with the last ligand replaced by water, the WT Z7 domain is catalytically active, hydrolyzing 4‐nitrophenyl acetate. We discuss the implications of naturally occurring tridentate zinc fingers for cancer mutations and drug targeting of notoriously undruggable transcription factors.
A look beyond the QR code of SNARE proteins
Authors: Yadav Deepak , Hacisuleyman Aysima , Dergai Mykola , Khalifeh Dany , Abriata Luciano A. , Peraro Matteo Dal , Fasshauer Dirk
Published: August 2024

Soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor Attachment protein REceptor (SNARE) proteins catalyze the fusion process of vesicles with target membranes in eukaryotic cells. To do this, they assemble in a zipper‐like fashion into stable complexes between the membranes. Structural studies have shown that the complexes consist of four different helices, which we subdivide into Qa‐, Qb‐, Qc‐, and R‐helix on the basis of their sequence signatures. Using a combination of biochemistry, modeling and molecular dynamics, we investigated how the four different types are arranged in a complex. We found that there is a matching pattern in the core of the complex that dictates the position of the four fundamental SNARE types in the bundle, resulting in a QabcR complex. In the cell, several different cognate QabcR‐SNARE complexes catalyze the different transport steps between the compartments of the endomembrane system. Each of these cognate QabcR complexes is compiled from a repertoire of about 20 SNARE subtypes. Our studies show that exchange within the four types is largely tolerated structurally, although some non‐cognate exchanges lead to structural imbalances. This suggests that SNARE complexes have evolved for a catalytic mechanism, a mechanism that leaves little scope for selectivity beyond the QabcR rule.
Biological activity and systemic translocation of the new tetrazolyloxime fungicide picarbutrazox against plant‐pathogenic oomycetes
Authors: Fu Yixin , Du Xiaoran , Wang Xixi , Cheng Fei , Peng Qin , Liu Xili , Miao Jianqiang
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Picarbutrazox is a new tetrazolyloxime fungicide discovered in 2014 by Nippon Soda. It is mostly used to protect against Phytophthora spp. and Pythium spp. However, little is known of its inhibition spectrum, protective and curative activity, and systemic translocation in plants.

RESULTS

While picarbutrazox did not show obvious antifungal activity, it exhibited significant activity against oomycetes, including Phytophthora spp., Pythium spp. and Phytopythium spp.. The effective concentration for 50% growth inhibition (EC50) values of picarbutrazox against 16 oomycetes ranged from 3.1 × 10−4 and 7.27 × 10−3 μg mL−1. Furthermore, picarbutrazox could markedly inhibited the mycelial development, sporangia production, zoospore release, and cyst germination of Phytophthora capsici, with EC50 values of 1.34 × 10−3, 1.11 × 10−3, 4.85 × 10−3, and 5.88 × 10−2 μg mL−1, respectively. Additionally, under greenhouse conditions, the protective and curative activities of picarbutrazox at 200 mg L−1 (100%, 41.03%) against the P. capsici infection in peppers were higher than those of the reference fungicide dimethomorph at 200 mg L−1 (77.52%, 36.15%). High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis confirmed that picarbutrazox showed excellent systemic translocation in pepper plants.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that picarbutrazox markedly inhibited the important plant oomycete pathogens including Phytophthora spp., Pythium spp. and Phytopythium spp.. It also displayed excellent protective, curative and systemic translocation activity. Picarbutrazox thus has significant potential for preventing and controlling diseases caused by oomycetes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Textual data for electricity load forecasting
Authors: Obst David , Claudel Sandra , Cugliari Jairo , Ghattas Badih , Goude Yannig , Oppenheim Georges
Published: August 2024

Traditional mid‐term electricity forecasting models rely on calendar and meteorological information such as temperature and wind speed to achieve high performance. However depending on such variables has drawbacks, as they may not be informative enough during extreme weather. While ubiquitous, textual sources of information are hardly included in prediction algorithms for time series, despite the relevant information they may contain. In this work, we propose to leverage openly accessible weather reports for electricity demand and meteorological time series prediction problems. Our experiments on French and British load data show that the considered textual sources allow to improve overall accuracy of the reference model, particularly during extreme weather events such as storms or abnormal temperatures. Additionally, we apply our approach to the problem of imputation of missing values in meteorological time series, and we show that our text‐based approach beats standard methods. Furthermore, the influence of words on the time series' predictions can be interpreted for the considered encoding schemes of the text, leading to a greater confidence in our results.
Use of stable isotope combined with intact cell lipidomic by routine MALDI mass spectrometry analysis for rapid drug susceptibility assay in mycobacteria
Authors: Cheong Bosco , Tang Wenhao , Kostrzewa Markus , Larrouy‐Maumus Gerald
Published: August 2024

Rationale

Rapid, accurate, and easy‐to‐perform diagnostic assays are required to address the current need for the diagnosis of resistant pathogens. That is particularly the case for mycobacteria, such as the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which requires up to 2 weeks for the determination of the drug susceptibility profile using the conventional broth microdilution method. To address this challenge, we investigated the incorporation of deuterium, the stable isotope of hydrogen, into lipids as a read out of the drug susceptibility profile.

Methods

Deuterium is incorporated into newly synthesized proteins or lipids in place of hydrogen as bacterial cells grow, increasing the mass of the macromolecules, which can then be observed via matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). As proof‐of‐concept, we used the non‐pathogenic Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 strain, which is susceptible to the aminoglycoside antibiotic kanamycin, and M. smegmatis mc2155 containing the empty vector pVV16, which is kanamycin‐resistant. Bacteria were incubated in a culture medium containing 50% of deuterium oxide (D2O) and either 1 or 2 times the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC50) of kanamycin. Lipids were then analyzed using the MBT lipid Xtract matrix combined with routine MALDI mass spectrometry in the positive ion mode to evaluate the changes in the lipid profile.

Results

Using this approach, we were able to distinguish susceptible from resistant bacteria in less than 5 h, a process that would take 72 h using the conventional broth microdilution method.

Conclusions

We therefore propose a solution for the rapid determination of drug susceptibility profiles using a phenotypic assay combining D2O stable isotope labelling and lipid analysis by routine MALDI mass spectrometry.
Metabolipidomic changes induced by dermal nickel penetration determined in an ex vivo porcine ear skin model
Authors: Rezaei Azar , Ganashalingam Yameera , Schindler Siegfried , Spengler Bernhard , Keck Cornelia M. , Schulz Sabine
Published: August 2024

Rational

Nickel is one of humans' most prevalent triggers of allergic contact dermatitis. However, the underlying mechanisms of this allergy still need to be fully understood. One aspect that has yet to be explored is the direct impact of common metal allergens on the skin's metabolites and lipids composition.

Method

Our study employed matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) to analyze spatially resolved metabolic alterations induced by nickel exposure. Cross‐sections of ex vivo porcine ear skin exposed to increasing nickel (II) ion concentrations (17–167 μg/cm2) were measured with an AP‐SMALDI5 AF ion source coupled to Q Exactive HF Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Additionally, the penetration of nickel ions into the skin was observed through its pink complexation with dimethylglyoxime under light microscopy.

Results

For nickel ion concentrations up to 84 μg/cm2, most nickel ions were stopped within the stratum corneum, while only a very small proportion of nickel ions penetrated the viable epidermis and dermis. Stratum corneum locations with high nickel ion concentrations showed a decrease in arginine and ceramides. Furthermore, several phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin species were found to be downregulated in the viable epidermis and dermis due to the nickel exposure.

Conclusion

Nickel penetrates at a trace level into the viable skin and induces severe metabolomic and lipidomic changes in the stratum corneum, epidermis, and dermis, indicating a change in the skin (barrier) function. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of nickel‐induced skin allergies and provide a solid foundation for further research.
Thermal electron attachment to halogenated silanes in the gas phase
Authors: Michalczuk Bartosz , Papp Peter , Mészáros Dušan , Stachová Barbora , Moravský Ladislav , Matejčík Štefan , Barszczewska Wiesława
Published: August 2024

Rationale

Silane derivatives play a crucial role in industrial plasma processes for the fabrication of various electronic devices such as lighting devices, solar cells, and displays. Accurate quantitative data are essential for modeling technological plasmas. This study reports the rate coefficients (k) and activation energies (Ea) for thermal electron attachment to Si2Cl6, Si (CH3)3CHF2, and SiCl (CH3)2Si(CH3)3, which are key parameters for understanding the underlying processes in plasmas. The results obtained for other silane derivatives were also analyzed and discussed.

Methods

The measurements were conducted using the pulsed Townsend technique. In this technique, electrons generated by a laser under an electric field travel to the anode, inducing a charge on it. In the presence of a scavenger gas, electrons are captured, leading to a decrease in the rate of charge increase over time. The kinetic parameters were deduced from the shape of the pulse. The G4 method was used to obtain bond dissociation energies (BDEs).

Results

This study determined the kinetic parameters for thermal electron attachment to Si2Cl6, Si (CH3)3CHF2, and SiCl (CH3)2Si(CH3)3 for the first time. The rate coefficients at 298 K were found to be 2.17 ± 0.04 × 10−9cm3s−1, 2.01 ± 0.09 × 10−12cm3s−1, and 8.05 ± 0.07 × 10−12cm3s−1, respectively. The corresponding activation energies were determined to be 0.37 ± 0.04 eV, 0.29 ± 0.03 eV, and 0.21 ± 0.01 eV for Si2Cl6, Si (CH3)3CHF2, and SiCl (CH3)2Si(CH3)3, respectively. The experiment was conducted over the temperature range of 298–378 K.

Conclusions

The findings of this study provide significant new insights into fundamental parameters such as rate coefficients and activation energies for thermal electron capture by chlorinated and fluorinated silane derivatives. These data contribute to advancing our understanding of thermal electron interactions with chlorosilanes, which can be utilized for controlling important species in the plasmas of various modern technologies.
Women and circular transition in agri‐food industry: The commitment to gender diversity as an engine of change
Authors: García‐Sánchez Isabel‐María , Enciso‐Alfaro Saudi‐Yulieth
Published: August 2024

The agri‐food industry has a positive impact on society, providing a sustainable and high‐quality food source for the world's population. However, this industry has a significant impact on the environment, which is essential to know and understand. In this article, we explore the importance of the circular transition in the agri‐food industry and analyse the role that female directors, C‐suite executives or managers and employees play in it. For a sample of the most relevant 243 agri‐food companies worldwide, over the period 2013–2022, we conduct Tobit and lineal regressions for panel data to attend to gender diversity in firms and its consequences concerning this circularity environmental model. In a sector with unbalanced organisational levels in terms of gender, the results show that the overall diversity of the companies favours the transition towards a circular model that is respectful of the environment, favouring the optimisation of resources and processes that lead to the generation of minimum waste, and unequivocally opting for ecological inputs, technologies, spaces and other goods. However, the individualised study of diversity at the organisational levels confirms the unquestionable role that female leadership plays in the circular transition of the agri‐food sector when exercised from C‐suite positions.
Molecular Engineering of Pure Superoxide Radical Photogenerator for Hypoxia‐Tolerant Tumor Theranostics
Authors: Ding Jipeng , Zhu Tianyu , Zheng Fan , Gao Feng , Zhang Shengwang , Zhang Kexiang , Zeng Jinrong , Dong Jie , Zeng Wenbin
Published: August 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising cancer treatment, but limited oxygen supply in tumors (hypoxia) can hinder its effectiveness. This is because traditional PDT relies on Type‐II reactions that require oxygen. Type‐I photosensitizers (PSs) offer a promising approach to overcome the limitations of tumor photodynamic therapy (PDT) in hypoxic environments. To leverage the advantages of Type‐I PDT, the design and evaluation of a series of Type‐I PSs for developing pure Type‐1 PSs, by incorporating benzene, thiophene, or bithiophene into the donor–acceptor molecular skeleton are reported. Among them, CTTI (with bithiophene) shows the best performance, generating the most superoxide radical (O2•−) upon light irradiation. Importantly, CTTI exclusively produced superoxide radicals, avoiding the less effective Type‐II pathway. This efficiency is due to CTTI's energy gap and low reduction potential, which favor electron transfer to oxygen for O2•− generation. Finally, CTTI NPs are successfully fabricated by encapsulating CTTI into liposomes, and validated to be effective in killing tumor cells, even under hypoxic conditions, making them promising hypoxia‐tolerant tumor phototheranostic agents in both in vitro and in vivo applications.
Sudachitin Alleviates Paraquat Instigated Testicular Toxicity in Albino Rats via Regulating Nrf‐2/Keap‐1, Inflammatory, Steroidogenic, and Histological Profile
Authors: Ijaz Muhammad Umar , Imtiaz Sana , Hayat Muhammad Faisal , Batool Moazama , Al‐Ghanim Khalid A. , Riaz Mian Nadeem
Published: August 2024

Paraquat (PQ) is a noxious herbicide which adversely affects the vital organs including male reproductive system. Sudachitin (SCN) is a naturally occurring flavonoid that demonstrates a wide range of biological potentials. The current study was designed to investigate the alleviative potential of SCN to avert PQ‐induced testicular toxicity in rats. Forty‐eight male rats (Rattus norvegicus) were apportioned into four groups including control, PQ (5 mg/kg), PQ + SCN (5 mg/kg + 30 mg/kg), and SCN (30 mg/kg) only treated group. Our findings elucidated that PQ treatment reduced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf‐2) and its antioxidant genes as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GSR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while elevating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, PQ intoxication upregulated the expressions of Keap‐1 while downregulating the expression of 3‐beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β‐HSD), 17‐beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β‐HSD), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Moreover, sperm anomalies were increased following the exposure to PQ. Besides, PQ exposure decreased the levels of plasma testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) while increasing the levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB), interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β), and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). Additionally, PQ treatment escalated the expressions of cysteinyl aspartate‐specific proteases‐3 (Caspase‐3) and Bcl‐2‐associated X‐protein (Bax) while downregulating the expressions of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2). Furthermore, PQ exposure disrupted the normal architecture of testicular tissues. However, SCN treatment remarkably protected the testicular tissues via regulating the aforementioned disruptions owing to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and androgenic potential.
Updated checklist of the Culicoides Latreille biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) of Galicia (NW Spain): Diversity, distribution and medical‐veterinary relevance
Authors: Polina Alejandro , Martínez‐Barciela Yasmina , Pereira José Manuel , Cobo Fernando , Íñiguez Elvira , Lucientes Javier , Estrada Rosa , Garrido Josefina
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Culicoides Latreille biting midges are vectors of high concern as they can transmit serious veterinary diseases such as bluetongue virus or epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus, among others. Little is known about these vectors in Galicia, so a comprehensive literature review and an intensive monitoring were carried out in the region.

Material and methods

The Autonomous Community of Galicia was sampled through three different vector surveillance projects between 2004 and 2023. A total of 239 sampling points were deployed alongside the Galician territory. In addition, a literature review of Culicoides in Galicia related content was made by consulting several digital repositories.

Results

A total of 33 species of Culicoides belonging to 8 subgenera were identified. Among them, 15 are considered or suspected to be potential vectors of several pathogens of medical and/or veterinary interest. In addition, 20 of them are reported for the first time in the region. Updated distribution maps of the Culicoides biting midges of Galicia were provided, including several notes regarding their ecology and relevance for both public health and animal welfare.

Conclusions

The present work is one of the most complete works made at regional level in Spain to date. As Galicia's economy relies heavily on livestock farming, this work will provide a solid baseline in order to develop new research lines in the future regarding prevention to vector‐borne diseases.
Marker‐free genomic editing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using universal donor templates and multiplexing CRISPR‐CAS9
Authors: Grissom J. H. , Moody S. E. , Chi R. J.
Published: August 2024

The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an excellent model organism for studying a variety of critical cellular processes. Traditional methods to knock in or ‐out at specific yeast loci utilize polymerase chain reaction‐based techniques, in which marker cassettes with gene‐specific homologies are integrated into the genome via homologous recombination. While simple and cost‐effective, these methods are limited by marker availability when multiple edits are desired. More recently, CRISPR‐Cas9 technology has introduced methods to edit the yeast genome without the need for selectable markers. Although efficient, this method is hindered by additional reagents and lengthy protocols to design and test unique guide RNAs and donor templates for each desired edit. In this study, we have combined these two approaches and have developed a highly efficient economical method to edit the yeast genome marker‐free. We have designed two universal donor templates that efficiently repair commonly used selectable markers when targeted by a novel guideRNA‐Cas9 designed to promoter regions in Ashbya gossypii found in most integration modules. Furthermore, we find our newly designed guideRNA‐Cas9 successfully multiplexes when multiple markers are present. Using these new tools, we have significantly improved the cost and efficiency to generate single or multiple marker‐free genetic modifications. In this study, we demonstrate the effectiveness of these new tools by marker‐free ablating PRC1, PEP4, and PRB1 vacuolar proteases typically inactivated before many biochemical and membrane‐trafficking studies using budding yeast.