bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The establishment and application of a one‐step multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of Streptococcus suis, Streptococcus suis serotype 2, and Glaesserella parasuis
Authors: Xin Lingxiang , Wang Haojie , Hu Yunhao , Liu Yan , Yao Wensheng , Wang Xiuli , Li Jian , Liu Yuanjie , Tong Rendong , Wang Qi , Lu Youlong , Zhu Liangquan
Published: November 2023

This article aims to establish a multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for the simultaneous detection of Streptococcus suis (SS), Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (SS2), and Glaesserella parasuis (GPS). In this study, three pairs of primers and three probes were designed based on the specific sequences of SS (gdh), SS2 (cps2j), and GPS (infB). The results showed that the assay was not cross‐reacted with other swine pathogens (Escherichia coli, Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis; Streptococcus pyogenes). 108 to 102 copies/μL showed the R2 values for SS, SS2, and GPS were 0.999, 0.992, and 0.990, respectively. The multiplex real‐time PCR efficiency was 93.816% for gdh, 105.260% for cps2j, and 93.175% for infB. The sensitivity result showed that SS, SS2, and GPS could be detected at 10 copies/μL. The repeatability result showed that intra‐assay and inter‐assay coefficients of variation of SS, SS2, and GPS were <2%. The best cutoff values for SS, SS2, and GPS were determined from ROC curves to be 35.085, 35.620, and 34.940, respectively. Areas under the curve were 0.943, 0.968, and 0.958. In total, 88 clinical samples were analyzed. The results indicated positive rates of 11.364% (10/88) for SS, 20.455% (18/88) for SS2, and 18.182% (16/88) for GPS. In conclusion, the developed one‐step multiplex real‐time PCR assay may be a valuable tool for the early detection of the SS, SS2 and, GPS with high specificity and sensitivity.
Disturbance‐observer‐based speed control for SPMSM drives using modified super‐twisting algorithm and extended state observer
Authors: Liu Yong‐Chao , Laghrouche Salah , Depernet Daniel , N'Diaye Abdoul , Djerdir Abdesslem , Cirrincione Maurizio
Published: November 2023

To address the robust speed control problem of the surface‐mounted permanent‐magnet synchronous motor (SPMSM) drive, a novel composite speed controller (CSC) is proposed, which consists of the modified super‐twisting sliding‐mode SC (STSM‐SC) and the extended state observer (ESO). Regarding the motion dynamics of the SPMSM drive, the unmodeled dynamics, endogenous, and exogenous disturbances are lumped together as the total disturbance. The ESO‐based feedforward compensation mechanism is used to deal with the total disturbance for the robustness improvement of the speed control achieved by the modified STSM‐SC‐based feedback regulation mechanism. On the basis of the field‐oriented control strategy, performance comparisons of the standard STSM‐SC, the ESO‐based standard STSM‐SC, the modified STSM‐SC, and the proposed CSC are carried out on a suitably developed experimental setup. The experimental results are presented to validate the superiority of the proposed CSC.
Development and validation of an Arabic language eye‐tracking paradigm for the early screening and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders in Qatar
Authors: Al‐Shaban Fouad A. , Ghazal Iman , Thompson I. Richard , Klingemier Eric W. , Aldosari Mohammed , Al‐Shammari Hawraa , Al‐Faraj Fatema , El‐Hag Saba , Tolefat Mohamed , Ali Mogahed , Nasir Bisher , Frazier Thomas W.
Published: November 2023

Abnormal eye gaze is a hallmark characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The primary aim of the present research was to develop an Arabic version of an objective measure of ASD, the “autism index” (AI), based on eye gaze tracking to social and nonsocial stimuli validated initially in the United States. The initial phase of this study included the translation of English language eye‐tracking stimuli into stimuli appropriate for an Arabic‐speaking culture. During the second phase, we tested it on a total of 144 children with ASD, and 96 controls. The AI had excellent internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Moreover, the AI showed good differentiation of ASD from control cases (AUC = 0.730, SE = 0.035). The AI was significantly positively correlated with SCQ total raw scores (r = 0.46, p < 0.001). ADOS‐2 scores were only available in the ASD group and did not show a significant relationship with AI scores (r = 0.10, p = 0.348), likely due to the restricted range. The AI, when implemented using Arabic‐translated stimuli in a Qatari sample, showed good diagnostic differentiation and a strong correlation with parent‐reported ASD symptoms. Thus, the AI appears to have cross‐cultural validity and may be useful as a diagnostic aide to inform clinical judgment and track ASD symptom levels as part of the evaluation process.
Erfahrungswerte zur Prognose der axialen Grenztragfähigkeit von Duktilrammpfählen
Authors: Berndt Johannes , Reul Oliver , Marte Roman
Published: November 2023

Im Jahresbericht 2022 des Arbeitskreises „Pfähle“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geotechnik (DGGT) wurde die Aufnahme des Pfahlsystems „Duktilrammpfahl“ in die neue, 3. Auflage der Empfehlungen des Arbeitskreises „Pfähle“ (EA‐Pfähle) angekündigt. Für mantelverpresste Duktilrammpfähle, die schon seit Jahrzehnten in Deutschland eingesetzt werden, liegen damit nun praktische Erfahrungswerte zur Prognose der axialen Grenztragfähigkeit sowie Hinweise zur Qualitätssicherung während der Pfahlherstellung vor. Grundlage für die Entwicklung der Erfahrungswerte war ein Forschungsvorhaben an der Universität Kassel, in dem zunächst umfangreich instrumentierte Pfahlprobebelastungen in bindigen und nichtbindigen Böden durchgeführt wurden. Die Ergebnisse der Probebelastungen wurden in einer umfassenden Datenbank für Duktilrammpfähle aufgenommen, aus der dann mit einem multilinearen Regressionsmodell Korrelationsbeziehungen für die Pfahlmantelreibung und den Pfahlspitzendruck mantelverpresster Duktilrammpfähle ermittelt werden konnten. Im Rahmen dieses Aufsatzes sollen diese Untersuchungen, auf deren Grundlage die Erfahrungswerte ermittelt wurden, erläutert und veranschaulicht werden.
Prevalence of congenital anomalies according to maternal race and ethnicity, Texas, 1999–2018
Authors: Schraw Jeremy M. , Jaime Elwin , Shumate Charles J. , Canfield Mark A. , Lupo Philip J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Few studies of congenital anomalies provide prevalence estimates stratified by maternal race/ethnicity. We sought to determine whether the prevalence of a broad spectrum of anomalies varies among offspring of women from different race/ethnic groups.

Methods

We obtained information on cases with anomalies from the population‐based Texas Birth Defects Registry, and denominator data on livebirths among Texas residents during 1999–2018 from the Texas Center for Health Statistics. We estimated the prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of N = 145 anomalies among offspring of Hispanic and non‐Hispanic Black relative to non‐Hispanic White women using Poisson regression, adjusting for maternal age, education, body mass index, and previous livebirths. We performed a two‐stage analysis with a Bonferroni‐adjusted p < 1.7 × 10−4 in the initial screening phase to identify anomalies with statistically significant variation.

Results

There were 7,698,768 livebirths and 1,187,385 anomalies diagnosed in 368,393 cases. The prevalence of any monitored congenital anomaly was similar among offspring of non‐Hispanic White (referent), non‐Hispanic Black (PR 0.98, CI 0.96–1.00), and Hispanic (PR 0.95, CI 0.93–0.96) women. We observed statistically significant racial/ethnic variation for 42 anomalies. Marked differences were observed when comparing offspring of non‐Hispanic Black to non‐Hispanic White women with respect to polydactyly (PR 4.38, CI 4.07–4.72), pyloric stenosis (PR 0.34, CI 0.29–0.40), and aortic valve atresia/stenosis (PR 0.51, CI 0.36–0.72).

Conclusions

Birth prevalence of many major congenital anomalies varies by maternal race and ethnicity. While the reasons for these differences are likely multifactorial, a thorough understanding of racial and ethnic disparities is useful to stimulate etiologic research.
Failing children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in England: New evidence of poor outcomes and a postcode lottery at the Local Authority level at Key Stage 1
Authors: Azpitarte Francisco , Holt Louise
Published: November 2023

This paper sets out original findings from analyses of the English National Pupil Database of Key Stage 1 (KS1) attainment, to examine educational outcomes of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The schooling of these children has been entirely within the context of the current SEND system, defined by the 2014–2015 policy of the Children and Families Act and Code of Practice. With a strong focus on children's needs and outcomes, the policy intends to achieve high educational outcomes for children with SEND. Our new results show, however, that children with SEND are one of the most disadvantaged groups in education, and they are far less likely to meet expected learning standards than their peers at KS1. For instance, about 44%, 31% and 23% of children with SEND met the standards in phonics, reading and writing, respectively, compared to 88%, 83% and 78% of children with no SEND. Further, our spatial analysis shows for the first time that this disadvantage displays large spatial variability across Local Authorities: there is a postcode lottery in the education of children with SEND. The new findings provide strong evidence that the new SEND policy is failing many children with SEND, and that this performance varies markedly across space. This adds further weight and evidence to a growing recognition, even from government, that the SEND system needs to change, and that the ambitious aims of the transformation of education and care for children with SEND in 2014 and 2015 are not being realised.
Recent progress on polymerization‐induced emission
Authors: Li Baixue , Feng Bingwen , Wang Jia , Qin Yusheng
Published: November 2023

The aggregate luminescence behaviors of polymeric luminescent materials have been attracting great attention. However, the importance of the polymerization process on luminescence, namely, polymerization‐induced emission (PIE), has rarely been overviewed. In this review, recent advances in polymerization with PIE effects are summarized, including PIE with aromatic rings based on one‐/two‐/multi‐component polymerizations, and PIE without aromatic rings according to disparate mechanisms of polymerizations. Typical examples are selected to elaborate the basic design principles, as well as the properties and potential applications of the luminous polymers. Moreover, the challenges and perspectives in this area are also discussed.
Improvement of C‐to‐U RNA editing using an artificial MS2‐APOBEC system
Authors: Li Jiarui , Fan Guangyao , Sakari Matomo , Tsukahara Toshifumi
Published: November 2023

RNA cytidine deamination (C‐to‐U editing) has been achieved using the MS2‐apolipoprotein B‐editing catalytic polypeptide‐like (APOBEC)1 editing system. Here, we fused the cytidine deaminase (CDA) enzymes APOBEC3A and APOBEC3G with the MS2 system and examined their RNA editing efficiencies in transfected HEK 293T cells. Given the single‐stranded RNA preferences of APOBEC3A and APOBEC3G, we designed unconventional guide RNAs that induced a loop at the target sequence, allowing the target to form a single‐stranded structure. Because APOBEC3A and APOBEC3G have different base preferences (5′‐TC and 5′‐CC, respectively), we introduced the D317W mutation into APOBEC3G to convert its base preference to that of APOBEC3A. Upon co‐transfection with a guide RNA that induced the formation of a 14 nt loop on the target sequence, MS2‐fused APOBEC3A and APOBEC3G showed high editing efficiency. While the D317W mutation of APOBEC3G led to a slight improvement in editing efficiency, the difference was not statistically significant. These findings indicate that APOBEC3A and APOBEC3G can induce C‐to‐U RNA editing when transfected with a loop guide RNA. Moreover, the editing efficiency of APOBEC3G can be enhanced by site‐specific mutation to alter the base preference. Overall, our results demonstrate that the MS2 system can fuse and catalyze reactions with different enzymes, suggesting that it holds an even greater potential for RNA editing than is utilized currently.
Genome‐wide CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screening to mitigate cell growth inhibition induced by histone deacetylase inhibitors in recombinant CHO cells
Authors: Kim Dongil , Kim Su Hyun , Yoon Chansik , Lee Gyun Min
Published: November 2023

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (iHDACs) have been extensively studied as enhancers of therapeutic protein production in recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) (rCHO) cell cultures. However, the addition of iHDACs reduces the viable cell concentration (VCC) in rCHO cell cultures, thereby reducing their potential to enhance therapeutic protein production. To mitigate the negative effects of iHDACs on VCC, screening using a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9)‐based single‐gene knockout (KO) library in rCHO cells was performed in the presence of CI994, a member of iHDACs, and 10 potential KO genes that enhanced the VCC of CI994‐treated rCHO cells were identified. Among these, Bcor was validated as a promising KO target that improved VCC without negatively affecting the specific productivity in the presence of CI994. Bcor KO increased the VCC and therapeutic protein concentrations in both batch and fed‐batch cultures in the presence of CI994. Taken together, these findings highlight the potential of the whole‐genome CRISPR/Cas9‐based single‐gene KO cell library to identify KO target genes for the development of iHDAC‐resistant rCHO cells for enhanced therapeutic protein production.
LncRNA‐CCAT5‐mediated crosstalk between Wnt/β‐Catenin and STAT3 signaling suggests novel therapeutic approaches for metastatic gastric cancer with high Wnt activity
Authors: Liu Chenchen , Shen Aiwen , Song Junquan , Cheng Lei , Zhang Meng , Wang Yanong , Liu Xiaowen
Published: November 2023

Background

Although the constitutively activated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway plays vital roles in gastric cancer (GC) progression, few Wnt inhibitors are approved for clinical use. Additionally, the clinical significance of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in GC intraperitoneal dissemination (IPD) remains elusive. Here, we investigated the function and therapeutic potential of Wnt‐transactivated lncRNA, colon cancer‐associated transcript 5 (CCAT5), in GC metastasis.

Methods

LncRNA‐sequencing assay was performed to document abundance changes of lncRNAs induced by Wnt family member 3A (Wnt3a) and degradation‐resistant β‐catenin (S33Y mutated) in ascites‐derived GC cells with low Wnt activity. Luciferase reporter, Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)‐re‐ChIP assays were performed to determine how CCAT5 was transcribed. The clinical significance of CCAT5 was examined in 2 cohorts of GC patients. The biological function of CCAT5 was investigated through gain‐ and loss‐of‐function studies. The molecular mechanism was explored through RNA‐sequencing, mass spectrometry, and CRISPR/Cas9‐knocknout system. The therapeutic potential of CCAT5 was examined through RNAi‐based cell xenograft model and patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) model of IPD.

Results

We identified a novel Wnt‐regulated lncRNA, CCAT5, which was transactivated by the β‐catenin/transcription factor 3 (TCF3) complex. CCAT5 was significantly upregulated in GC and predicted poor prognosis. Functional studies confirmed the promotive role of CCAT5 in GC growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, CCAT5 bound to the C‐end domain of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and blocks Src homology 2 domain‐containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP‐1)‐mediated STAT3Y705 dephosphorylation, leading to STAT3 nuclear entry and transactivation, thus accelerating GC progression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that both Wnt3a and β‐catenin acted as activator of STAT3 signaling pathway, and the interplay between CCAT5 and STAT3 was functionally essential for Wnt‐drived STAT3 signaling and tumor evolution. Finally, we revealed in vivo si‐CCAT5 selectively attenuated growth and metastasis of Wnthigh GC, but not Wntlow GC. The combination of si‐CCAT5 and oxaliplatin displayed obvious synergistic therapeutic effects on Wnthigh PDX mice.

Conclusions

We identified a novel Wnt‐transactivated lncRNA, CCAT5. Our study revealed a mechanism of STAT3 signaling regulation via canonical Wnt signaling and the functional significance of CCAT5 as critical mediator. We provided conceptual advance that lncRNAs serve as therapeutic targets reversing GC progression.
In Vitroandin VivoAntimalarial Activity, Cytotoxicity and Phytochemical HRMS2Profile of Plants from the Western Pará State, Brazilian Amazonia
Authors: Viana dos Santos Maria Beatriz , Costa Gontijo Douglas , Alves do Nascimento Maria Fernanda , de Paula Renata Cristina , Bezerra Bellei Jessica Correia , Raimundo Felipe Oliveira , Gorza Scopel Kézia Katiani , de Oliveira Alaíde Braga , Veras Mourão Rosa Helena
Published: November 2023

Ethnopharmacology and botanical taxonomy are valid criteria used to selecting plants for antimalarial bioprospection purposes. Based on these two criteria, ethanol extracts of 11 plants from Santarém City vicinities, Western Pará State, Brazilian Amazonia, had theirin vitroantiplasmodial activity against chloroquine‐resistantPlasmodium falciparum(W2 clone) assessed by thePfLDH method, whereas their cytotoxicity to HepG2‐A16 cells was assessed through MTT assay.Acmella oleracea,Siparuna krukoviiandTrema micranthaextracts disclosed the highest rate of parasite growth inhibition (90 %) in screening tests.In vivoantimalarial assays were conducted with these extracts againstPlasmodium berghei(NK 65 strain) infected mice. Inhibition rate of parasite multiplication ranged from 41.4 % to 60.9 % at the lowest extract dose (25 mg/kg). HPLC‐ESI‐HRMS2analyses allowed the putative identification of alkylamides, fatty acids, flavonoid glycosides and alkaloids in ethanol extracts deriving from these three plant species. Results pointed towardsA. oleraceaflowers ethanol extract as the most promising potential candidate to preclinical studies aiming the development of antimalarial phytomedicine.
Green Synthesis of CuO Nanoparticles UsingAgaricus bisporusExtract as a Highly Efficient Catalyst for the Suzuki Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: İnce Simay , Yalçın M. Serkan , İnce Tuncay , Geçgel Cihan , Yılmaz Mustafa Kemal
Published: November 2023

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were synthesized using a rapid, eco‐friendly, cost‐effective, efficient, and biological method employing aqueousAgaricus bisporusextract as a capping and reducing agent. The formation of CuONPs was checked by UV‐vis spectroscopy and was characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), dynamic light scattering spectroscopy (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and surface area and porosimetry analyzer. The characterization results showed that the synthesized nanoparticles had a spherical‐like appearance and a crystal structure with 40–100 nm particle size. The green synthesized CuONPs were found to be an excellent and sustainable heterogeneous catalyst (TOF up to 29700 h−1) for the Suzuki C−C coupling of aryl halides with phenylboronic acid in a very short reaction time (10 minutes). Moreover, the easily recovered catalyst can be reused five times with just a negligible reduction in catalytic behavior.
Attenuative effects of tamarixetin against polystyrene microplastics‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats by regulation of Nrf‐2/Keap‐1 pathway
Authors: Ijaz Muhammad Umar , Khalil Mehrab , Hamza Ali , Khatoon Aisha
Published: November 2023

Polystyrene microplastics (PS‐MPs) are environmental contaminants due to their potential to induce damages in multiple organs specifically liver. Tamarixetin (TMT) is a naturally occurring flavonoid present in Tamarix ramosissima plant that exhibits multiple pharmacological properties. Therefore, the present research was designed to evaluate the palliative role of TMT against PS‐MPs instigated liver dysfunction in rats. The exposure to PS‐MPs reduced the expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 and antioxidant genes, while increasing the expression of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1. PS‐MPs exposed rats exhibited considerably (p < .05) higher alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) contents. Additionally, PS‐MPs treatment resulted in a notable decrease in anti‐oxidants activity, that is, glutathione S‐transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) content, whereas upregulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Moreover, PS‐MPs intoxication noticeably increased (p < .05) the inflammatory indices (interleukin‐1ß [IL‐1ß], nuclear factor kappa B [NF‐κB], interleukin‐6 [IL‐6], tumor necrosis factor‐α [TNF‐α] levels, and cyclooxygenase‐2 [COX‐2] activity). Besides, Caspase‐3 and Bax expressions were upregulated and Bcl‐2 expression was decreased after PS‐MPs exposure. Additionally, the histomorphological examination revealed notable hepatic damage in PS‐MPs treated group. However, TMT treatment substantially (p < .05) recovered all the PS‐MPs‐induced damages and histopathological changes. Taken together, it can be deduced that TMT might be used as a pharmacological agent to ameliorate hepatic damage.
The protective effect of aqueous extract ofStevia rebaudianaagainst tartrazine toxicity in male Wistar rat
Authors: Hanna Demiana H. , Beshay Sylvia Nabil , El. Shafee E. , El‐Rahman Heba Ali Abd
Published: November 2023

Tartrazine is a yellow colouring agent that is commonly used in foods; however, high dosages of Tartrazine affect fertility and create oxidative stress by generating free radicals. A plant species known asStevia rebaudianahas natural antioxidants that show promise for protecting testicular tissue. Consequently, this study was intended to examine the ameliorative effect of the aqueous extract ofS. rebaudiana(Stevia) on the fertility of male Wistar rats induced by the daily oral intake of Tartrazine. Utilizing gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, phytochemical identification was accomplished forSteviaextract. Study groups were separated into several groups: the first group (the control) got distilled water for up to 56 days; theSteviagroup (1000 mg/kg), the Tartrazine group (300 mg/kg) and theSteviaand Tartrazine group (the group was given Tartrazine after 1 h ofSteviaextract intake). Also, the oxidative damage in testicular tissues was assessed by measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidants (catalase [CAT], superoxide dismutase [SOD] and glutathione reductase [GSH]). Further, histological alterations were examined. In addition, cyclic AMP‐responsive element modulator (Crem)gene expression levels and their relative proteins were measured in the testicular tissues using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. Sperm analysis and testosterone concentration were also performed. SPSS version 25 was used for the analysis of results while (p < .05) was regarded as significant. Compared with the control group, the results demonstrated that Tartrazine caused a significant reduction (p < .05) in the testosterone hormone level (0.70 ± 0.21) and the Crem protein quantity (1.21 ± 0.23) in the treated Tartrazine group. Also, it had a significant decrease (p < .05) in sperm motility, viability, count and antioxidant levels. Moreover, there was a significant increase (p < .05) in sperm abnormalities, MDA level (7.40 ± 1.10), kidney and liver function parameters, and DNA degradation in the treated Tartrazine group compared with the control group. On the contrary, theSteviaextract intake enhanced the testosterone (2.50 ± 0.60), antioxidants and Crem protein levels (2.33 ± 0.10) with an improvement in sperm quality in theSteviaand Tartrazine‐treated group compared with the Tartrazine group.Steviaalso caused a significant decrease (p < .05) in the MDA level (3.20 ± 0.20), and sperm abnormalities with an enhancement of the liver and kidney function parameters in theSteviaand Tartrazine‐treated group compared to the Tartrazine group.Steviaadministration has a protective effect on the testicular tissues and sperm quality against toxicity induced by Tartrazine exposure, so it will be a good antioxidant drug to be administered daily before daily administration of Tartrazine.
Metabolic signals influence cell‐fate decisions in Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Fatima Tasneem , Hadem Ibanylla Kynjai Hynniewta , Saran Shweta
Published: November 2023

Nutrient‐sensing plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular energy and metabolic homeostasis. Perturbations in sensing pathways are associated with a wide variety of pathologies, especially metabolic diseases. Very little is understood about sensing fluctuations in nutrients and how this information is integrated into physiological and metabolic adaptation that could further affect cell‐fate decisions during differentiation in Dictyostelium discoideum (henceafter, Dictyostelium). Glucose is the primary metabolic fuel among all nutrients. Carbohydrates, lipids and proteins ultimately breakdown into glucose, which is further used for providing energy. The maintenance of optimum glucose levels is important for efficient cell‐survival. Glucose is not only a nutrient, but also a signaling molecule influencing cell growth and differentiation in Dictyostelium. Modulation of endogenous glucose levels either by varying exogenous glucose levels or genetic overexpression or deletion of genes involved in glucose signaling lead to changes in endogenous metabolite levels such as ADP/ATP ratio, NAD+/NADH ratio, cAMP and ROS levels which further influence cell‐fate decisions. Here, we show that AMPKα and Sir2D are components of glucose‐signaling pathway in Dictyostelium which adjust cell metabolism interdependently in response to nutrient‐status and promote cell‐fate decisions.
Effect of Modification Strategies on the Biological Activity of Peptides/Proteins
Authors: Ma Jian , Yan Liang , Yang Jingkui , He Yujian , Wu Li
Published: November 2023

Covalent attachment of biologically active peptides/proteins with functional moieties is an effective strategy to control their biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, enzymatic digestion, and toxicity. This review focuses on the characteristics of different modification strategies and their effects on the biological activity of peptides/proteins and illustrates their relevant applications and potential.
TAC‐tics for Leveraging Proximity Biology in Drug Discovery
Authors: Nalawansha Dhanusha A. , Mangano Kyle , den Besten Willem , Potts Patrick Ryan
Published: November 2023

Chemically induced proximity (CIP) refers to co‐opting naturally occurring biological pathways using synthetic molecules to recruit neosubstrates that are not normally encountered or to enhance the affinity of naturally occurring interactions. Leveraging proximity biology through CIPs has become a rapidly evolving field and has garnered considerable interest in basic research and drug discovery. PROteolysis TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC) is a well‐established CIP modality that induces the proximity between a target protein and an E3 ubiquitin ligase, causing target protein degradation via the ubiquitin‐proteasome system. Inspired by PROTACs, several other induced proximity modalities have emerged to modulate both proteins and RNA over recent years. In this review, we summarize the critical advances and opportunities in the field, focusing on protein degraders, RNA degraders and non‐degrader modalities such as post‐translational modification (PTM) and protein‐protein interaction (PPI) modulators. We envision that these emerging proximity‐based drug modalities will be valuable resources for both biological research and therapeutic discovery in the future.
Acute pancreatitis associated with the antibiotic levofloxacin: A rare case report
Authors: Inban Pugazhendi , Gulla Virali , Devani Aarfa , Akuma Chinaza Mercy , Gowthavaram Chengala Ananyaa , Hussain Akbar , Aung Lynn Lat Lat , Jadav Neel , Savaliya Bansi , Sajjad Taha , Khan Aadil Mahmood , Akuma Ogbonnaya , Kelechi Anasonye Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Drug‐induced acute pancreatitis is a potentially ignored diagnosis that must be precisely valued. Drug‐induced acute pancreatitis can be considered the third common cause of acute pancreatitis after ruling out alcohol and gallstones. Levofloxacin belongs to a class of fluoroquinolone antibiotics used for treating various infections. Besides photosensitivity and liver toxicity, levofloxacin can induce acute pancreatitis, although rarely described. We highlight a case of acute pancreatitis in a female induced by levofloxacin. She presented with typical signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis and had been taking levofloxacin for urinary tract infections for the last 3 days. After ruling out all other possible causes, her clinical picture, laboratory results, and imaging findings confirmed acute pancreatitis induced by levofloxacin.
Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in combination with Levosimendan as a bridge to recovery for a case of severe yew intoxication in a 13‐year‐old patient
Authors: Peer Eva Maria , Quitt Jonas , Marsch Stephan , Loosen Gregor
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

In an adolescent patient with severe yew intoxication and consecutive cardiac arrest, non‐responsive to conventional resuscitation necessitating extracorporeal life support, Levosimendan has been implemented in the early acute phase of hemodynamic stabilization, without obvious side effects. However, the additive value of this treatment in severe yew intoxication remains speculative.
Successful treatment with nivolumab in a patient with unresectable oral squamous cell carcinoma following ineffective chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Sekido Katsuhisa , Imaue Shuichi , Tachinami Hidetake , Tomihara Kei , Naruto Norihito , Yamagishi Kentaro , Ikeda Atsushi , Fujiwara Kumiko , Noguchi Makoto
Published: November 2023

Key clinical message

Nivolumab has been clinically successful in prolonging the overall survival of patients with recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer, complete remission is rare. Synergistic combinations of immunotherapy and conventional cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy, are likely to be the most viable strategies for improving patient responses.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized recurrent, metastatic oral cancer treatment; however complete remission in advanced stages is unusual. We present a case of complete remission of advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma for >4 years in a 64‐year‐old Japanese woman, that responded poorly to chemoradiotherapy but well to subsequent nivolumab treatment.
Congenital staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome in a preterm infant
Authors: Lee Ting‐Yu , Liu Tzu‐Yu
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a rare condition in premature infants. We report a case of SSSS in a preterm neonate who displayed all clinical manifestations at birth, leading to a fatal outcome from Candida parapsilosis fungemia. The clinical presentation was challenging to differential diagnosis. SSSS diagnosis was confirmed by skin biopsy. This case emphasizes the significance of early recognition and diagnosis of SSSS promptly for clinicians. Congenital SSSS in premature infants can be fatal, but with early recognition and appropriate supportive and antimicrobial therapy, outcomes can be improved and lives can be saved.
Two cases of neglected leishmaniasis with marked facial disfigurement: A diagnostic conundrum
Authors: Aryanian Zeinab , Balighi Kamran , Mohaghegh Fatameh , Etesami Ifa , Razavi Zahra , Hatami Parvaneh
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

There is a need to pay more attention to cutaneous leishmaniasis in endemic regions which may mimic other dermatoses and treatment should be initiated with a strong clinical suspicion even without any histopathologic or PCR confirmation to avoid disfigurement or development of secondary malignancy.

Leishmaniasis is a vector‐borne disease with a variety of Clinical manifestations. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form of disease and can mimic other dermatoses. We describe two unusual cases of chronic leishmaniasis that remained undiagnosed for many years and led to superimposition of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on lesions of one patient. These reports showed that the leishmaniasis should be borne in mind by clinicians when encountering any infiltrated lesion in patients from endemic regions and treatment should be initiated with a strong clinical suspicion even without any histopathologic or PCR confirmation to avoid disfigurement or development of secondary malignancy.
Wandering spleen; a rare clinical presentation of chronic pain with acute torsion
Authors: Ghasemi Shahab , Najari Dorsa , Mirhosseini Mohammadmoein , Refaei Meisam
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Wandering spleen results from abnormal ligamentous laxity and is often symptomatic, presented with abdominal pain and other non‐specific symptoms. These symptoms, make the diagnosis very difficult and most of the times even impossible. As such, keeping in mind this pathology, can make further complications less frequent.
Remote intracerebral hemorrhage following craniotomy for an intracerebral hematoma: A case report
Authors: Scalia Gianluca , Silven Manikon Poullay , Costanzo Roberta , Chaurasia Bipin , Furnari Massimo , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Nicoletti Giovanni Federico , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Remote intracerebral hemorrhage (RICH) is a rare yet highly consequential complication that can occur after a craniotomy performed for the evacuation of an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In this case report, we present the clinical details of a 74‐year‐old female patient who underwent a supratentorial craniotomy to address an ICH, and subsequently developed RICH. A 74‐year‐old woman was admitted to our department with a severe headache, onset of dysarthria, and left‐sided brachio‐crural hemiparesis. The patient had a history of arterial hypertension and a previous cerebral ischemia incident 2 years prior, potentially due to cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Despite the immediate surgical intervention and intensive care, she succumbed to respiratory distress after developing a contralateral ICH. RICH following craniotomy for an intracerebral hematoma is a rare but potentially devastating complication. Close monitoring, prompt recognition of neurological deterioration, and timely intervention are imperative to optimize patient outcomes. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with this complication, allowing for improved prevention and management strategies in the future.
Modeling and Simulation of N‐(3‐Aminio‐4 methylphenyl)benzamide Synthesis in a Microreactor
Authors: Cao Yan , Ghadiri Mahdi
Published: November 2023

N‐(3‐Amino‐4‐methylphenyl)benzamide is an intermediate product for the production of several medicines. Microreactor technology is a new concept for the continuous synthesis of chemicals. The computational fluid dynamics method was used to simulate the flow synthesis of N‐(3‐amino‐4‐methylphenyl)benzamide. There was good agreement between experimental data and modeling outputs. The effect of operating parameters such as temperature and residence time on system performance was investigated. The results revealed that an increase in temperature from 30 to 70 °C led to the enhancement of N‐(3‐amino‐4‐methylphenyl)benzamide production from about 42 to 76 % at a residence time of 420 s. It was found that the residence time and temperature have the largest influence on N‐(3‐amino‐4‐methylphenyl)benzamide production. Byproduct production was also increased by increasing the temperature and residence time.
Chiral Supramolecular Organogel Constructed Using Riboflavin and Melamine: Its Application in Photo‐Catalyzed Colorimetric Chiral Sensing and Enantioselective Adsorption
Authors: Oka Marina , Kozako Ryo , Teranishi Yuta , Yamada Yuta , Miyake Kazuhiro , Fujimura Takuya , Sasai Ryo , Ikeue Takahisa , Iida Hiroki
Published: November 2023

The synthesis of a chiral supramolecular organogel via the hierarchical helical self‐assembly of optically active riboflavin and melamine derivatives is described herein. Owing to the photocatalysis of riboflavin and the supramolecular chirality induced in the helically stacked riboflavin/melamine complex, the gel is observed to act as a light‐stimulated chiral sensor of optically active alcohols by detecting the change in color from yellow to green. The gel also served as an efficient chiral adsorbent, enabling optical resolution of a racemic compound with high chiral recognition ability.
Biological Evaluation of Isosteric Applicability of 1,3‐Substituted Cuneanes as m‐Substituted Benzenes Enabled by Selective Isomerization of 1,4‐Substituted Cubanes
Authors: Fujiwara Kan , Nagasawa Shota , Maeyama Ryusei , Segawa Ryosuke , Hirasawa Noriyasu , Hirokawa Takatsugu , Iwabuchi Yoshiharu
Published: November 2023

We herein evaluate a biological applicability of 1,3‐substituted cuneanes as an isostere of m‐substituted benzenes based on its structural similarity. An investigation of a method to obtain 1,3‐substituted cuneanes by selective isomerization of 1,4‐substituted cubanes enables this attempt by giving a key synthetic step to obtain a cuneane analogs of pharmaceuticals having m‐substituted benzene moiety. Biological evaluation of the synthesized analogs and in silico study of the obtained result revealed a potential usage of cuneane skeleton in medicinal chemistry.
Anatomy of the auditory cortex then and now
Authors: Rauschecker Josef P. , Afsahi Rosstin K.
Published: November 2023

Using neuroanatomical investigations in the macaque, Deepak Pandya and his colleagues have established the framework for auditory cortex organization, with subdivisions into core and belt areas. This has aided subsequent neurophysiological and imaging studies in monkeys and humans, and a nomenclature building on Pandya's work has also been adopted by the Human Connectome Project. The foundational work by Pandya and his colleagues is highlighted here in the context of subsequent and ongoing studies on the functional anatomy and physiology of auditory cortex in primates, including humans, and their relevance for understanding cognitive aspects of speech and language.
Lifestyle and subsequent meningioma in childhood cancer survivors: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort study
Authors: Onerup Aron , Mirzaei S. Sedigheh , Bhatia Shalini , Ware Megan E. , Joffe Lenat , Turcotte Lucie M. , Goodenough Chelsea G. , Sapkota Yadav , Dixon Stephanie B. , Wogksch Matthew D. , Ehrhardt Matthew J. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Hudson Melissa M. , Ness Kirsten K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Lifestyle is associated with meningioma risk in the general population.

Aims

We assessed longitudinal associations between lifestyle‐associated factors and subsequent meningiomas in childhood cancer survivors.

Methods and results

Childhood cancer survivors age ≥18 years in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study were evaluated for body composition, self‐reported physical activity, cardiopulmonary fitness, muscle strength, smoking, and alcohol consumption at baseline. Time to first meningioma analyses were performed, adjusted for sex, age at diagnosis and baseline assessment, treatment decade, and childhood cancer treatment exposures. The study included 4,072 survivors (47% female; [mean (SD)] 9 (6) years at diagnosis; 30 (8.5) years at the start of follow‐up, with 7.0 (3.3) years of follow‐up). 30% of the participants were survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 29% of the participants had received cranial radiation. During follow‐up, 90 participants developed ≥1 meningioma, of whom 73% were survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with cranial radiation being the strongest risk factor (relative risk [RR] 29.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.6‐83.2). Muscle strength assessed by knee extension was associated with a lower risk of developing a meningioma in the adjusted analyses (RR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2‐1.0, p = 0.04 for quartiles 3‐4 vs. 1). No other lifestyle‐associated variable was associated with subsequent meningioma.

Conclusion

Independent of cranial radiation, muscle strength was associated with a lower risk of developing a subsequent meningioma in childhood cancer survivors.
Two‐Dimensional Tetragonal Transition Metal Chalcogenides for High Performance Oxygen Evolution and Reduction: A DFT Study
Authors: Cheng Yumeng , Zhou Jia
Published: November 2023

The pursuit of high‐performance bifunctional catalysts for oxygen evolution/reduction (OER/ORR) has gained significant attention in the field of electrochemical water splitting and fuel cells. In this study, we employed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate a series of 2D tetragonal TMX (TM=transition metal, X=S, Se, Te) monolayers as potential bifunctional electrocatalysts for OER/ORR. To evaluate the overall performance of OER electrocatalysts, we introduced a descriptor, Gmax. The Gmax values obtained for tetragonal CdS, CdSe, FeSe, NiSe, and NiTe monolayers were all below 1.0 V, indicative of their superior catalytic activity and selectivity. Moreover, NiSe displayed remarkable ORR capability with an overpotential (ηORR) of 0.53 V. Based on the bifunctional index (BI), the catalytic activity ranking for the bifunctional catalysts is as follows: NiSe>NiTe>FeSe>CdS>CdSe>NiS>TiSe>ZnTe. These findings provide an insightful understanding of the electrocatalytic properties of 2D tetragonal TMX monolayers for OER/ORR, opening avenues for the future development of efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts based on 2D tetragonal transition metal chalcogenides.
A First‐Principles Study of Anion Doping in LiFePO4 Cathode Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Ziwei , Kong Xiangpeng , Fan Zhiwei , Ding Shujiang , Rong Qiang , Su Yaqiong
Published: November 2023

Doping anions into LiFePO4 can improve the electrochemical performance of lithium‐ion batteries. In this study, structures, electronic properties and Li‐ion migration of anion (F−, Cl−, and S2−) doping into LiFePO4 were systematically investigated by means of density functional theory calculations. Anion substitution for oxygen atoms leads to an expansion of the LiFePO4 lattice, significantly facilitating Li‐ion diffusion. For Cl− and F− anion doped into LiFePO4, the energy barrier of Li‐ion migration gets lowered to 0.209 eV and 0.283 eV from 0.572 eV. The introduction of anions narrows the forbidden band of LiFePO4, enhancing its electronic conductivity. This work pays a way towards the rational design of high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
CW or Pulsed laser – That is the Question: Comparative Steady‐state Photocrystallographic Analysis of Metal Nitrosyl Linkage Isomers
Authors: Hasil Asma , Konieczny Krzysztof A. , Mikhailov Artem , Pillet Sébastien , Schaniel Dominik
Published: November 2023

The investigation of photo‐induced effects is profoundly influenced by the characteristics of photo‐excitation sources. In this study, we present a comprehensive analysis of the structures of two photoinduced linkage isomers (PLI) in a ruthenium nitrosyl complex, trans‐[Ru(py)4F(NO)](ClO4)2, following irradiation with both pulsed and continuous wave (CW) light sources under low temperature conditions. The X‐ray (photo)diffraction analysis shows that the resulting PLI generated from the two types of irradiation sources, an isonitrosyl configuration of the nitrosyl ligand in the so‐called metastable state MS1, and a side‐on configuration of the nitrosyl ligand in the metastable state MS2, are identical. In‐situ optical absorption spectroscopy was employed during CW and pulsed irradiation, enabling the monitoring of the population process of these PLI. The results obtained from the infrared spectroscopic analysis after pulsed irradiation give insight into the population mechanism illustrating that the generation of the isonitrosyl MS1 occurs through a two‐step process, via the second PLI, the side‐on configuration MS2.
Synthesis of Piperidine‐based Derivatives as Red Emitting Lu‐minescent Materials
Authors: Wang Zhao , Guo Ranran , Wu Junliang
Published: November 2023

Organic fluorescent materials have become increasingly attractive due to the requirements of green chemistry. In this study, the synthetic route of piperidine‐based fluorescent materials was optimized with good to excellent yields. 37 fluorescent compounds were achieved with emission wavelength at 540–670 nm and chromogenic changed from green to standard red. The fluorescence quantum yields of 5 a, 5 ab, and 5 af were 1.96 %, 0.97 %, and 5.13 %, respectively. The relationship between the structure and luminescent properties has also been systematically discussed. This work presents the possibility of utilizing piperidine analogues to develop fluorescent probes in biological imaging, display devices and other related fields.
The integration of environmental, social and governance criteria in portfolio optimization: An empirical analysis
Authors: Abate Guido , Basile Ignazio , Ferrari Pierpaolo
Published: November 2023

The increasing interest of investors in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues has prompted asset managers to develop new approaches to strategic asset allocation that can effectively integrate ESG factors into the optimization process. This study reviews the main techniques of the most recent ESG‐efficient portfolio optimization models. Furthermore, this study conducts an empirical investigation to identify the impact of ESG constraints on mean–variance efficient allocations, and extends existing approaches by incorporating a downside risk framework. Our findings reveal that social and combined ESG ratings mitigate the negative skewness of portfolio returns, and that ESG rating, environmental rating, social rating, and combined ESG rating allow the sustainable investor to incur lower transaction costs.
Improved geographic opportunistic routing protocol for void hole elimination in underwater IoTs: Parameter tuning by TSA optimization
Authors: Simon Judy , Kapileswar Nellore , Phani Kumar Polasi , Aarthi Elaveini Mathiyalakendran
Published: November 2023

Underwater IoT is incredibly helpful in monitoring a variety of jobs, from instrument monitoring to climate recording, from pollution management to natural catastrophe forecasting. Nevertheless, there exist various issues that have an impact on a network's efficiency such as the formation of void holes, excessive EC, and low PDR. As a result, the IGOR protocol is suggested in this study to increase PDR by reducing the percentage of void hole occurrence. The developed routing protocols' scalability is also examined. Here, the parameter optimization for the EC minimization and PDR maximization is performed by a meta‐heuristic optimization algorithm referred to as TSA. In order to verify that the suggested protocol is EC‐optimal by calculating the viable areas. In addition, suggested protocols are evaluated against contemporaries' benchmark routing protocols. The outcomes of the simulations clearly demonstrate that the suggested routing protocols obtained greater PDR than the current techniques. Additionally, there exists a reduction in the ratio of void hole incidence. Comparative research reveals that suggested routing protocols outperformed benchmark routing protocols by 80–81% in PDR. Further, the suggested routing procedures reduced the frequency of void holes by around 30%.