bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Geranylation of Cyclic Dipeptides and Naphthols by the Fungal Prenyltransferase CdpC3PT_F253G
Authors: Li Dan , Wang Yi , Xu Yuanyuan , Long Hongping , Min Wenqing , Gao Shangfeng , Li Shu‐Ming , Yu Xia 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPrenyl modification often improves the biological activities of compounds. Prenyltransferases have attracted attention as environmentally friendly biocatalysts for catalyzing prenyl modification of compounds. Compared to dimethylallyl modifications, research on geranyl modifications is relatively limited. To enrich biocatalytic toolboxes for generating potentially bioactive geranylated derivatives, this study developed methodologies to synthesize two types of geranylated compounds, i. e., geranylated tryptophan‐containing cyclic dipeptides and geranylated naphthols, employing the F253G mutant of CdpC3PT, a cyclic dipeptide prenyltransferase from Neosartorya fischeri. The cyclic dipeptides (1–3) were transformed into C7‐geranylated products (1G1–3G1), whereas 1‐naphthol (4) and derivatives (5–6) yielded C4‐geranylated products (4G1–6G1) and 2,7‐dihydroxynaphthalene (7) generated a C3‐geranylated product (7G1). All seven substrates and their geranylated products underwent antibacterial efficacy testing against Bacillus subtilis. Among them, five geranylated compounds (2G1 and 4G1–7G1) demonstrated antibacterial efficacies against Bacillus subtilis, with MIC values ranging from 4 to 32 μg/mL, surpassing their non‐geranylated precursors. This research broadens the tools of geranyl‐modifying biocatalysts, illustrates a case for developing highly efficient or function‐altered biocatalysts and showcases the potential of prenyltransferases in the biosynthesis of bioactive small molecules.
Understanding the P‐Cluster of Vanadium Nitrogenase: an EPR and XAS Study of the Holo vs. Apo Forms of the Enzyme
Authors: Wahl Isis M. , Sengupta Kushal , van Gastel Maurice , Decamps Laure , DeBeer Serena 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe catalytic moiety of nitrogenases contains two complex metalloclusters: The M‐cluster (also called cofactor), where the catalytic reduction of substrates takes place, and the [Fe8S7] P‐cluster responsible for electron transfer. Due to discrepancies between crystallography and EPR spectroscopy, the exact structure of the P‐cluster in the VFe protein remains a topic of debate. Herein, we use an apo‐form of VFe (which retains the P‐cluster but lacks the FeVco) to study the VFe P‐cluster. SDS‐PAGE and NativePAGE showed a heterogeneous composition of the VFe and the apo‐VFe samples with the presence of α1β2δ2 and α1β2 complexes. The parallel mode EPR measurements of IDS oxidized MoFe, apo‐MoFe, and VFe samples reveal a signal at g=12 associated with the two‐electron oxidized state of the P‐cluster (P2+) for all three samples, albeit with different intensities. In contrast, no P2+ was observed for IDS oxidized apo‐VFe. Additionally, comparisons between apo‐MoFe, apo‐VFe and the model complex (NBu4)2[Fe4S4(SPh)4] via EXAFS measurements showed that apo‐VFe does not contain a fully formed [Fe8S7] P‐cluster, but rather is comprised of fragmented iron‐sulfur clusters. Our results point to a possible variation in the structure of the P‐cluster in the different forms of the nitrogenase.
The Interconnection Between Community College Hiring and Retention of Faculty of Color
Authors: Lara Luke J. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThis study examined the experiences of faculty of color in community colleges within the context of faculty diversification efforts. Community college students have become more racially and ethnically diverse, yet faculty remain overwhelmingly White. Ten faculty of color from diverse disciplinary fields were interviewed in this phenomenological study. Critical race theory was used as an analytical framework. Participants revealed how their racialized awareness led to their commitment to racial justice. They strongly articulated the important role faculty of color play for student success. Additionally, the participating faculty noted that the current quality of employment included experiencing isolation, microaggressions, and unspoken burdens, which motivated them to create a community with other faculty of color and, by extension, advocating for racial diversity in hiring. Recommendations are provided to address the systemic changes needed to support faculty of color from recruitment to retirement.
Together and Toward Equity: Experiences and Insights of Faculty in a Transfer Partnership
Authors: Okur Ayse , Contreras‐Garcia Nicole , Widmer Maria , Wang Xueli 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTEmpirically grounded, this article presents practical insights from a faculty‐led cross‐institutional transfer partnership involving three community colleges and a university in the Midwest. Drawing upon focus group interviews with over 60 members involved in the partnership, we delve into how faculty participants traverse domains of teaching, mentoring, and collaboration in their quest for developing equitable transfer opportunities and pathways. The article offers implications and recommendations that inform several vital areas of community college research and practice, such as transfer partnerships and equity initiatives, especially those led by faculty. Further, by illuminating how faculty negotiate priorities, tensions, strategies, and opportunities across their multiple roles in the transfer partnership, this article offers approaches for supporting community college faculty in reconciling their multiple professional roles toward complementarity, synergy, and sustainability.
Highly Active and Stable Cu−Cd Bimetallic Oxides for Enhanced Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Mei Guoliang , Zhai Yanling , Guo Weiwei , Liu Doudou , Fang Zijian , Xie Guixian , Duan Zongxia , Lang Xianzhen , Zhu Zhijun , Lu Xiaoquan , Tang Jianguo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractElectrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) can produce value‐added chemicals such as carbon monoxide (CO) and multicarbon (C2+). However, the complex reaction pathways of CO2 electro‐reduction reaction (CO2RR) greatly limit the product selectivity and conversion efficiency. Herein, the Cu−Cd bimetallic oxides catalyst was designed and applied for the CO2RR. The optimized 4.73 %Cd‐CuO exhibits remarkable electrocatalytic CO2RR activity for selective CO production in H‐cell using 0.5 M 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([Bmim]PF6)/MeCN as electrolyte. The Faradaic efficiency of CO (FE(CO)) can be maintained above 90 % over a wide potential range of −2.0 to −2.4 V vs. Ag/Ag+. Particularly, the catalyst achieves an impressive FE(CO) of 96.3 % with a current density of 60.7 mA cm−2 at −2.2 V vs. Ag/Ag+. Furthermore, scaling up the 4.73 %Cd‐CuO catalyst into a flow cell can reach 56.64 % FE of C2+ products (ethylene, ethanol and n‐propanol) with a current density as high as 600 mA cm−2 steadily. The excellent CO2RR performance of the as‐synthesized 4.73 %Cd‐CuO can be mainly attributed to the introduction of CdO to improve the ability of CuO to activate CO2, the electronic interactions between Cu and Cd can boost the activation and conversion the key intermediates of CO2RR and ensure the continuous stability of the 4.73 %Cd‐CuO in electrolysis process.
Ag‐Catalyzed Cyclization‐Intermolecular Sulfinyl Group Transfer Cascade Reactions Enabling Enantioselective Synthesis of 4‐Sulfinylisoquinolines
Authors: Nakamura. Itaru , Kubota Keiryo , Tashiro Hiroki , Saito Yushiro , Terada Masahiro 
Published: November 2024

AbstractN‐Sulfinylimines derived from ortho‐alkynylbenzaldehydes were efficiently converted into the corresponding 4‐sulfinylisoquinolines in good to excellent yields. The reaction proceeds via cyclization followed by intermolecular migration of the sulfinyl group from the nitrogen atom to the silver‐bound carbon of the resulting cyclized vinylsilver intermediate with the aid of either a counteranion or a nucleophilic species. Moreover, the Ag‐catalyzed reaction in the presence of quinidine acetate as a chiral nucleophilic cocatalyst yielded chiral isoquinolines with high enantioselectivities through a dynamic kinetic asymmetric transformation (DYKAT).
Copper‐Catalyzed Regioselective Cyanation/Diarylmethylation of Formamides: Construction of α‐Cyano Functionalized Tetra‐Substituted Olefins
Authors: Yuan Minjing , Li Zikang , Xu Weifeng , Xiong Biquan , Liu Yu , Liu Min , Tang Ke‐Wen , Zhu Longzhi 
Published: November 2024

Comprehensive SummaryA copper‐catalyzed cyanation/diarylmethylation of formamides has been developed for the synthesis of α‐cyano functionalized tetra‐substituted olefins by utilizing para‐quinone methides (p‐QMs) and trimethylcyanosilane as functionalization sources. Various kinds of p‐QMs and formamides are well tolerated, delivering the desired products with 72%—94% yields, demonstrating broad functional group tolerance. Notably, the reaction does not require noble metals and proceeds regioselectively under mild conditions. Based on step‐by‐step control experiments, Hammett studies and DFT calculation, a plausible mechanism is proposed.
A Pleiotropic Nanomedicine Mitigates Splenic Hyperplasia, Ineffective Erythropoiesis, G6PDH Anomaly through Redox Buffering in Preclinical Mice Model
Authors: Das Monojit , Mondal Susmita , Ghosh Ria , Roy Lopamudra , Kumar Das Anjan , Sankar Bhattacharya Siddhartha , Pal Debasish , Bhattacharya Debasish , Chakrabarti Prantar , Kumar Mallick Asim , Kumar Kundu Jayanta , Kumar Pal Samir 
Published: November 2024

AbstractHere, we present a pleiotropic nanomedicine—a smart, functionalized redox buffering nanoparticle—that may be used to treat hematological diseases, associated splenic hyperplasia, and issues related to restricted erythropoiesis. With a diameter of 5–7 nm, the spherical nanomaterial is made of manganese oxide and citrate. Here, we have produced the novel nanomaterial and, using cutting‐edge electron microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, extensively assessed its redox buffering potential in vitro with its structural integrity. Using an appropriate animal model (Phenylhydrazine, PHz, intoxicated C57BL/6J mice), we assessed the therapeutic efficacy of the redox buffering nanomedicine in the treatment of anemia and related consequences. We have further investigated the intricate molecular mechanism of the nanomedicine and its therapeutic impact, which includes increased erythropoiesis and G6PDH production, decreased inflammatory responses, mitigation of splenic hyperplasia, and synergistic intracellular redox buffering. To the best of our knowledge, our studies would find relevance in the innovative management of anemia, decreased erythropoiesis, and splenic hyperplasia.
Sorafenib or anthracycline‐based chemotherapy for progressive desmoid tumors
Authors: Costa Philippos Apolinario , Arora Arshia , Fernandez Yannelys , Yi Irvin , Bakkila Baylee , Tan Heng , Barreto Coelho Priscila , Campoverde Leticia , Hardy Nicole , Bialick Steven , Espejo Freire Andrea , D’Amato Gina Z. , Chang Yu‐Cherng Channing , Mesenger Jacob Peter , Subhawong Ty , Haims Andrew , Hurwitz Michael , Olino Kelly , Turaga Kiran , Deshpande Hari , Trent Jonathan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundDesmoid tumors can cause morbidity due to local invasion, potentially being fatal when fast growth compromises vital structures. In this context, a timely treatment response is required. This study aims to compare the activity of sorafenib and anthracycline‐containing regimens during the first year of treatment.MethodsThe authors conducted a multi‐institutional retrospective analysis of desmoid tumor patients treated with either sorafenib or an anthracycline‐containing regimen over 1 year. The primary end point was the overall response rate (ORR). The secondary end points were time to response (TTR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and adverse events.ResultsFrom 2005 to 2022, 80 patients received sorafenib and 51 received an anthracycline‐containing regimen with similar baseline characteristics. The 1‐year ORR was 37% for anthracycline and 13% for sorafenib (p = .016). Median best response was –9% (range, –73 to 51) for anthracycline and –4% (range, –69 to 126) for sorafenib. Median TTR was 5.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.4–7.8) for anthracycline and 8.7 months (95% CI, 6.3–11.1) for sorafenib (p = .2). One‐year PFS was 73% (95% CI, 60–86) for anthracycline and 59% (95% CI, 47–71) for sorafenib (p = .3). Common grade 1–2 adverse events for sorafenib were hand‐foot syndrome (40%), diarrhea (25%), and fatigue (22%); for anthracycline, they were nausea (31%), fatigue (16%), and rash (14%). Grade 3 events were higher in the anthracycline group, 27% versus 14% (p < .05).ConclusionAnthracycline‐based therapy provided a greater 1‐year response rate than sorafenib but was associated with a higher rate of serious adverse events. Higher‐risk desmoid tumors, which need a more timely response, might benefit from anthracycline‐based therapies, whereas average‐risk tumors could benefit from sorafenib.
Semiconvexity estimates for nonlinear integro‐differential equations
Authors: Ros‐Oton Xavier , Torres‐Latorre Clara , Weidner Marvin 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this paper we establish for the first time local semiconvexity estimates for fully nonlinear equations and for obstacle problems driven by integro‐differential operators with general kernels. Our proof is based on the Bernstein technique, which we develop for a natural class of nonlocal operators and consider to be of independent interest. In particular, we solve an open problem from Cabré‐Dipierro‐Valdinoci. As an application of our result, we establish optimal regularity estimates and smoothness of the free boundary near regular points for the nonlocal obstacle problem on domains. Finally, we also extend the Bernstein technique to parabolic equations and nonsymmetric operators.
Substrate‐Induced Strain Upshot on the Optical and Optoelectronic Properties of Trilayer MoS2
Authors: Mondal Sourav , Basak Durga 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe characteristics of 2D layered MoS2 film are highly dependent on the substrate it is grown on which leaves us privileged to achieve unique and tunable properties. In this study, trilayer MoS2 films have been grown on fused quartz, crystalline quartz (z‐cut), sapphire (0001), and silicon (100) substrates. MoS2 film grows as freestanding on amorphous fused quartz, while it experiences an in‐plane tensile strain on the sapphire and silicon. Unprecedentedly we show that due to a large mismatch in the lattice parameter as well as in the thermal expansion coefficient, MoS2 grows with a significant compressive strain both along both in‐plane on the crystalline quartz. The developed strain causes an alteration in its electronic structure, causing a 30 meV blue shift in the photoluminescence peak and an increased band gap in addition to fewer sulphur vacancies. Comparatively, the film on sapphire having tensile strain along the in‐plane exhibits more sulphur vacancies increasing the electron density. The photoresponse time, photosensitivity, and charge separation distinctly vary for the MoS2 films depending on the substrates. This study underscores the influence of substrate on MoS2 film opening further research scopes on tunable properties owing to 2D layer‐substrate interactions.
Recent Progress of Flexible Solid‐State Supercapacitors: Electrodes, Electrolytes and Practical Application
Authors: Wei Geng , Chen Ping , Wu Jinyu , Liang Yongfang , Li Jianghai , Huang Haifu , Lan Zhiqiang , Liang Xianqing , Zhou Wenzheng , Qing Peilin , Tang Shaolong 
Published: November 2024

AbstractFlexible solid‐state supercapacitors (FSSCs) have garnered significant attention due to their advantages, including lightness, adaptability, enhanced safety, and extensive operational potential windows. These features make them highly suitable as energy storage devices for the next generation of portable and flexible electronics. The recent surge in the development and remarkable breakthroughs in novel wearable electronics have further propelled research into FSSCs. Nevertheless, several pressing issues need to be addressed in this field, including synthesizing flexible electrode materials with superior electrochemical energy storage capabilities, enhancing the physicochemical properties of solid gel polymer electrolytes, particularly in extreme environments, and ensuring effective contact between electrodes and gel electrolytes. This paper presents an overview of the latest advancements in FSSCs, focusing on electrode materials and electrolytes. Additionally, it delves into the current challenges and future prospects of FSSCs.
Generating iAstrocytes From Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells by Combining Low‐Density Passaging of Neural Progenitor Cells and Transcription Factor NFIA Transdifferentiation
Authors: Bosco Patrick , Akcan Ugur , Williams Damian , Buchanan Heather M. , Agalliu Dritan , Sproul Andrew A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAstrocytes are key regulators of central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis, and their dysfunction is implicated in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we describe a two‐step protocol to generate astrocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) using a bankable neural progenitor cell (NPC) intermediate, followed by low‐density passaging and overexpression of the gliogenic transcription factor NFIA. A bankable NPC intermediate allows for facile differentiation into both purified neuronal and astrocyte cell types in parallel from the same genetic background, depending on the experimental needs. This article presents a protocol to generate NPCs from hiPSCs, which are then differentiated into hiPSC‐derived astrocytes, termed iAstrocytes. The resulting iAstrocytes express key markers of astrocyte identity at transcript and protein levels by bulk RNA‐Seq and immunocytochemistry, respectively. Additionally, they respond to the inflammatory stimuli poly(I:C) and generate waves of calcium activity in response to either physical activity or the addition of ATP. Our approach offers a simple and robust method to generate and characterize human astrocytes, which can be used to model human disease affecting this cell type. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.Basic Protocol 1: Differentiation of hiPSCs to NPCsBasic Protocol 2: Differentiation of NPCs into iAstrocytesSupport Protocol 1: Molecular validation of iAstrocytesSupport Protocol 2: Calcium imaging‐based validation of iAstrocyte functionSupport Protocol 3: Differentiation of NPCs into neurons
Wild Ungulates and Cattle Have Different Effects on Litter Decomposition as Revealed by Fecal Addition in a Northeast Asian Temperate Forest
Authors: Hu Yongchun , Feng Jiawei , Wang Hongfang , Ge Jianping , Wang Tianming 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTLitter decomposition is critical for maintaining productivity and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. Large herbivores play an essential role in determining the processes of nutrient cycling. Asian temperate forests are becoming degraded and fragmented by the widespread intensification of anthropogenic activities, including excessive livestock grazing. However, the effects of livestock grazing and wild ungulates on forest litter decomposition remain less explored. In this study, we used a litterbag experiment to investigate the effects of the addition of cattle (Bos taurus) and sika deer (Cervus nippon) feces on litter decomposition. The study was conducted in Northeast China from July 2022 to October 2023. We found that the addition of deer feces significantly reduced litter decomposition, but the addition of cattle feces greatly increased litter decomposition. The presence of cattle and deer excrement significantly accelerated the release of C after 1 year of litter decomposition. Compared with the results of the control group (no addition of feces), the addition of cattle and sika deer feces increased C release by 37.45% and 22.69%, respectively. Fecal addition increased the release of N; however, for the three treatment groups, the maximum accumulation of N occurred in the middle of litter decomposition, which may have been due to the initial chemical quality of the leaves and snow melt as well as nutrient limitations at the sites. Compared with the results of the control group, P release in the feces of cattle increased by 4.35%, but P release in the feces of deer decreased by 27.55%. This work highlights that feces deposition by large herbivores (e.g., wild or domestic) in the forest has nonequivalent effects on litter decomposition. Such effects may further alter the nutrient cycling in temperate forest ecosystems, with far‐reaching effects on the ecosystem that deserve closer attention. We suggest that conservation managers should seek evidence‐based interventions to optimize livestock use of forest habitats shared with wildlife.
Transitions Into Freezing Environments Linked With Shifts in Phylogenetic Integration Between Vitaceae Leaf Traits
Authors: Parins‐Fukuchi Charles Tomo , Stull Gregory W. , Wen Jun , Beaulieu Jeremy M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTUnderstanding how the intrinsic ability of populations and species to meet shifting selective demands shapes evolutionary patterns over both short and long timescales is a major question in biology. One major axis of evolutionary flexibility can be measured by phenotypic integration and modularity. The strength, scale, and structure of integration may constrain or catalyze evolution in the face of new selective pressures. We analyze a dataset of seven leaf measurements across Vitaceae to examine how correlations in trait divergence are linked to transitions between freezing and nonfreezing habitats. We assess this by applying a custom algorithm to compare the timing of habitat shifts to changes in the structure of evolutionary trait correlation at discrete points along a phylogeny. We also explore these patterns in relation to lineage diversification rates to understand how and whether patterns in the evolvability of complex multivariate phenotypes are linked to higher‐level macroevolutionary dynamics. We found that shifts in the structure, but not the overall strength, of phylogenetic integration of leaves precipitate colonization of freezing climates. Lineages that underwent associated shifts in leaf trait integration and subsequent movement into freezing habitats also displayed lower turnover and higher net diversification, suggesting a link among shifting vectors of selection, internal constraint, and lineage persistence in the face of changing environments.
Insights Into the Ecology of a Widespread but Poorly Known Aerial Insectivore and a Theoretical Basis for Range Expansion Following Repeated Vagrancy Events
Authors: Ramírez‐Garofalo José R. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTOver the course of the last two centuries, Northern Rough‐winged Swallows (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) have expanded their range across the North American continent but have remained a relatively poorly known species. In this paper, I discuss two aspects of their nature history that has received little attention. First, I document an instance of Northern Rough‐winged Swallows digging their own burrow, which was for the better part of the last century considered a behavior that was either lost or never occurred in the first place. Second, I review the natural history literature to document qualitative patterns evident in their expansion over the last two centuries. In doing so, I define three potentially useful concepts that can he applied to understand species' range shifts: an Expansion Chronology, which is a spatiotemporal map of a range shift; the concept of Vagrancy‐induced Range Expansion, where a species undergoes repeated movements outside of their typical geographic range (defined as vagrancy events), leading to the regular occurrence in a new region (e.g., regular overwintering or nonbreeding occurrences); and the concept of Vagrancy‐induced Long‐distance Dispersal, which is specifically expansion of a species' breeding range following repeated vagrancy events.