bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying genetic susceptibility to Aspergillus fumigatus infection using collaborative cross mice and RNA‐Seq approach
Authors: Yosief Roa'a H. S. , Lone Iqbal M. , Nachshon Aharon , Himmelbauer Heinz , Gat‐Viks Irit , Iraqi Fuad A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundAspergillus fumigatus (Af) is one of the most ubiquitous fungi and its infection potency is suggested to be strongly controlled by the host genetic background. The aim of this study was to search for candidate genes associated with host susceptibility to Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) using an RNAseq approach in CC lines and hepatic gene expression.MethodsWe studied 31 male mice from 25 CC lines at 8 weeks old; the mice were infected with Af. Liver tissues were extracted from these mice 5 days post‐infection, and next‐generation RNA‐sequencing (RNAseq) was performed. The GENE‐E analysis platform was used to generate a clustered heat map matrix.ResultsSignificant variation in body weight changes between CC lines was observed. Hepatic gene expression revealed 12 top prioritized candidate genes differentially expressed in resistant versus susceptible mice based on body weight changes. Interestingly, three candidate genes are located within genomic intervals of the previously mapped quantitative trait loci (QTL), including Gm16270 and Stox1 on chromosome 10 and Gm11033 on chromosome 8.ConclusionsOur findings emphasize the CC mouse model's power in fine mapping the genetic components underlying susceptibility towards Af. As a next step, eQTL analysis will be performed for our RNA‐Seq data. Suggested candidate genes from our study will be further assessed with a human cohort with aspergillosis.
Deoxygenative Transformation of Alcohols via Phosphoranyl Radical from Exogenous Radical Addition
Authors: Xu Wenhao , Fan Chao , Hu Xile , XU Tao 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA general approach to the direct deoxygenative transformation of primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols has been developed. It undergoes through phosphoranyl radical intermediates generated by the addition of exogenous iodine radical to trivalent alkoxylphosphanes. Since these alkoxylphosphanes are readily in situ obtained from alcohols and commercially available, inexpensive chlorodiphenylphosphine, a diverse range of alcohols with various functional groups can be utilized to proceed deoxygenative cross‐couplings with alkenes or aryl iodides. The selective transformation of polyhydroxy substrates and the rapid synthesis of complex organic molecules are also demonstrated with this method.
Effect of microwave and oven roasting on chemical composition, bioactive properties, phenolic compounds and fatty acid compositions of sunflower seed and oils
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Yılmaz Havvanur , Mohammed Belal M. , Albakry Zainab 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn this study, the effects of microwave (540, 720 and 900 W) and oven (120, 150 and 230°C) roasting techniques on the total phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, polyphenolic and fatty acid results of sunflower seed and oils were investigated. Total phenol (except oven 150°C), flavonoid (except oven 120°C) contents and antioxidant activity values of sunflower seeds and oils subjected to oven and microwave heat treatment decreased compared to the control. Total phenolic, total flavonoids and antioxidant activities were higher in MRS oil than ORS oil. Individual phenolic constituent in both seed and oil samples from ORS and MRS showed significant (p < 0.05) changes to the control (non‐roasted seed and its oil). A general increase in the phenolic components of seeds and oils was observed with oven and microwave roasting compared to the control. Oleic acid values (%) of the oil extracted from seeds roasted in oven and microwave systems were recorded to be between 23.76 (120°C) and 29.41% (150°C) to 24.32 (540 W) and 26.10% (720 W), respectively. Linoleic acid values of the oils obtained from seeds roasted in oven and microwave systems varied to be between 57.01 (150°C) and 65.89% (120°C) to 60.70 (720 W) and 65.26% (540 W), respectively. As a result of the applied heat treatment, while the linoleic acid values of the oil samples decreased, an increase was observed in the palmitic, stearic and oleic acid values of the oil.
Cu‐modified Fe‐Mn magnetic mercury adsorbent and anti‐SO2 characteristic
Authors: Shang Yu , Gong Ruhao , Duan Yufeng , Zhou Qiang 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA series of Fe6Mn1Cux adsorbents for mercury removal were prepared by using co‐precipitation and impregnation methods. The performance of mercury adsorption and anti‐SO2 characteristic was studied in a fixed‐bed experimental system. The effect of Cu doping amount, reaction temperature, and flue gas components on mercury removal was investigated. The mercury species on the spent adsorbent was analyzed through Hg‐TPD test. The physical–chemical features were characterized by using the N2 adsorption/desorption, VSM, XPS, and XRD. It was found that the Fe6Mn1Cu0.4 exhibited a high performance of mercury adsorption and well magnetic property and good sulfur resistance. Under high concentration of SO2, the average adsorption efficiency of Fe6Mn1Cu0.4 adsorbent achieved 99%. Cu modification optimized the pore structure and improved the mercury removal performance as well as SO2 resistance. The XPS analysis indicated that Mn4+ was the main form that played an important role in oxidizing Hg0, as a result of decrement of Mn4+ after mercury adsorption. Mercury adsorbed on the spent adsorbent was HgO and HgSO4.
Evolutionary anatomical and functional characteristics of the intrinsic shoulder and brachial muscles in the northern anteater (Tamandua mexicana)
Authors: Torres Suárez Sharith Valentina , Monroy‐Cendales Maria Jose , Velasco‐Bolaños Juan , Miglino Maria Angelica , Vélez García Juan Fernando 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTamandua mexicana is an anteater species native from Mexico to Peru. This species is of great evolutionary interest because it belongs to one of the oldest clades of placental mammals in the American continent. This study aimed to describe the origin, insertion, and arterial supply of the intrinsic shoulder and brachial muscles of T. mexicana. We also compared the masses of the functional groups. Gross dissections were performed on both thoracic limbs of 13 cadavers. ANOVA followed by Tukey's test was used for statistical analyses. The subscapularis muscle presents a hiatus to the common tendon of the caput breve of the biceps brachii and coracobrachialis muscles. A variant accessory muscle, the m. articularis humeri lateralis, was found on the lateral surface of the shoulder joint. M. deltoideus pars acromialis has two bellies. The teres major muscle is perforated by the aponeurotic origin of the m. tensor fasciae antebrachii. The triceps brachii has two capita longi. The caput mediale is fused with the m. anconeus medialis. The caput laterale can have an accessory belly as an anatomical variant. Among the functional groups, a significant difference was found between the elbow extensors and flexors, with the latter having the lowest mass. In conclusion, the intrinsic muscles of T. mexicana presented unique features for the species, as well as arrangements in mass distribution that evidence a possible evolutionary convergence among species of the Superorder Xenarthra.
Developing an Effective Environmental Laboratory Workforce
Authors: Adams Hunter , Reyes Dimas , Ganegoda Sathya Sandarenu , Thames Becky , Gillis Leah D. , English Zonetta E. , Thomas Dave 
Published: February 2024

Key TakeawaysTalent acquisition and retention will be major industry challenges in the future, so water and wastewater utilities must focus on recruitment.When hiring, education and experience should be considered without one being exclusive of the other, while internal and external candidates bring different advantages to job positions.Programs for continuous improvement and professional development, including mentorship opportunities, are key to fostering a thriving workforce culture in environmental laboratories.
The application of process simulations in lignocellulosic biorefinery: a review
Authors: Wan Qiaoling , Cheng Long , Li Liangli , Shi Jingjing , Xu Junming , Lu Yanju 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn recent years there has been a growing interest in the scale‐up and commercialization of lignocellulosic biorefinery. Process simulation is a crucial preliminary study, conducted at the system level, to evaluate the feasibility of industrializing biorefinery operations. Numerous research studies have been conducted on the application of process simulation in lignocellulosic biorefinery, making it essential to provide a detailed introduction to this topic. This paper summarizes two aspects of the application of process simulation in lignocellulosic biorefinery: the production of bioenergy and the production of biochemicals. The bioenergy section describes the application of process simulation to hydrochar, syngas, and bioethanol. The biochemicals section relates to the production processes for cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose. Additionally, the research status of process simulation in biorefinery are detailed from the following aspects: physical property parameters, kinetic study, the variety of raw materials and validation. Finally, this paper discusses some advances in biorefinery process simulation. It is hoped that this paper will assist the industrialization of lignocellulosic biorefinery.
Do corporate environmental protection efforts reduce firm‐level operating risk? Evidence from a developing country
Authors: Jamil Syed Hassan , Khan Majid Jamal 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the impact of corporate environmental protection efforts on firm‐level operating risk. The importance of environmental protection has gained attention in recent years, as proliferation in ESG rating agencies has significantly increased. As suggested by stakeholder theory, the corporations for their survival are required to take care of the environment in which they operate. We used a sample of 245 non‐financial publicly listed firms of developing economy, Pakistan, from 2007 to 2019, to examine whether firms that engage in environmental protection activities have lower operating risk than firms that do not. We identified four important dimensions based on previous literature, to develop a unique index for measuring the firms' environmental performance. These dimensions included voluntary standardization, product environmental compliance, process environmental compliance, and environmental social drives. Focused on downside operating risk in terms of firm operating income, we used binary codes to distinguish firms that are negatively deviating from their industrial average. Using logistic regression on our hand‐collected environmental performance index data, this study finds that firms maintaining effective environmental protection activities are less likely to experience operational failure compared to peers who do not. This relationship holds true even after controlling for various firm‐specific factors such as firm size, leverage, growth opportunity, and profitability. Our findings have implications for policymakers and corporate managers who seek to improve their firms' environmental and financial performance simultaneously. By highlighting the potential benefits of corporate environmental protection efforts, our study provides valuable insights for firms operating in emerging economies.
Volatile Organic Compounds from Offspring of Stingless Bee Sacrificed in Hygienic Behavior Test
Authors: Neiva de Jesus Jossimara , Ribeiro Mesquita Paulo Roberto , Barbosa da Silva Kelly , de Medeiros Rodrigues Frederico , Lopes de Carvalho Carlos Alfredo , Gomes da Costa João , Lima Aguiar Cândida Maria 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study shows the profile of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from pupae and larvae of Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides Lepeletier subjected to three death induction techniques for hygienic behavior (HB) studies: freezing in liquid nitrogen (LN2), freezing in a freezer (FRZ) and piercing of offspring with an entomological pin (PIN). The VOCs from larvae and pupae were obtained through headspace solid‐phase microextraction and characterized using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. In addition, an HB test was performed on the colonies. The main classes of VOCs were hydrocarbons, terpenes and alcohols. Multivariate analysis was applied and showed that there was a separation in the compound profiles between the different treatments. The HB test in the colonies showed that 24 hours after the application of the techniques, the bees removed more dead larvae in LN2 treatment (83.5 %), while after 48 hours more larvae were removed in the LN2 and FRZ treatments (92.3 %). When compared to pupae removal, larvae removal was significantly faster in LN2.
Optimizing the Vanillin‐Acid Sulfuric Method to Total Saponin Content in Leaves of Yerba Mate Clones
Authors: de Aguiar Natalia Saudade , Hansel Fabricio Augusto , Reis Cristiane Aparecida Fioravante , Lazzarotto Marcelo , Wendling Ivar 
Published: February 2024

AbstractYerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a forest species consumed in the form of non‐alcoholic beverages in South America, with applications in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. The species leaves are globally recognized for their important bioactive compounds, including, saponins. We adjusted the vanillin‐acid sulfuric method for determining spectrophotometrically the total saponin in yerba mate leaves. Seeking to maximize the extraction of saponins from leaves, a Doehlert design combined with Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used, considering ethanol:water ratios and ultrasound times. In addition, the same methodology was used for the analysis of times and temperatures in the vanillin‐sulfuric acid reaction heating. The contents of total saponin in mature leaves were compared in four yerba mate clones. The extraction was maximized using 40 % ethanol:60 % water and 60 minutes of ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) without heating. For the reaction conditions, 70 °C for 10 minutes heating is recommended, and UV/Vis reading from 460 to 680 nm. Using the optimized methodology, total saponin contents ranged from 28.43 to 53.09 mg g−1 in the four yerba mate clones. The significant difference in saponin contents between clones indicate great genetic diversity and potential for clones’ selection and extraction of these compounds from yerba mate leaves.
Electrocatalytic Effects of Au Nanoclusters in its Electrochemiluminescence Enhanced by Coreactant Tertiary Amines
Authors: Ma Hedi , Yang Ruoyu , Yi Meijun , Wang Gangli 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAtomically precise metal nanoclusters are increasingly exploited in electrocatalysis such as water electrolysis and CO2 reduction. The catalytic effects are generally evaluated by conventional electrochemical methods or end‐product analysis. Herein, near infrared electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of the nanoclusters is introduced as a new signaling mechanism to complement classical voltammetric analysis for elucidating essential electrocatalytic parameters. Coreactant ECL from an aqueous soluble Au22 nanocluster (NCs) enhanced by a common pH buffer materials 4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐1‐piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) and by a piperazine drug hydroxyzine (HDZ) is studied under oxidative reduction pathways. Foot of the wave analysis on voltametric features and the kinetics profiles in potential‐step experiments are studied in different nanocluster and coreactant concentrations. Benchmark parameters such as rate constants are determined under EC (Electron‐transfer‐Chemical‐reaction) mechanism as feasibility validations. Because the luminescence properties of AuNCs are sensitive to the surface ligands or adsorbents, ECL is proposed as a new signal readout for operando studies providing insights for governing reaction mechanism and kinetics during catalytic reactions. Retrospectively, mechanistic understanding of the complex multi‐step reactions during ECL generation can provide guidance for the evaluation and optimization of ECL property for better quantitative applications.
Mechanistic Insights into Sc(III)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Homologation of Ketones with Diazo Compounds: How Trans Influence Assists in Controlling Stereochemistry
Authors: Huang Meirong , Wu Yun‐Dong , Zhang Xinhao 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAsymmetric one‐carbon homologation or ring expansion of ketones with formal insertion of carbene intermediate, is a challenging but useful strategy to construct a complex skeleton. Sc(III) and chiral ligands have been employed in this regard. However, due to flexible conformations and a variety of stereo models, the origin of stereochemistry remains ambiguous. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to explore the interactions that control the stereoselectivity of a Sc(III)‐catalyzed asymmetric homologation. The trans influence of counterions was found to affect the coordination mode of ketone to Sc(III), and consequently affect the stereoselectivity.
Investigating the benefits of using HPGR prior to cyanidation of low grade gold ore
Authors: Pural Yusuf Enes , Kahya Zeynep , Tarhan Nihat , Şirvancı Nursun , Arslan Fatma , Boylu Feridun 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIt is known that the cracked structure of the particles has positive effects in leaching processes. In this respect, high pressure grinding rolls (HPGR) provides some advantages such as increasing leaching efficiency and reducing leaching time by creating more cracked particles compared to other crushers. Although there are studies on the advantages of HPGR on different ores, these have not been fully demonstrated in low grade gold ores, and leaching kinetics have not been examined in detail in the studies conducted in this context. In this study, first of all, crack formation in a low grade gold ore by crushing with HPGR and jaw crusher was investigated. Then, bottle roll tests were performed in different size fractions and different cyanide concentrations along with column leaching of the pelletized ore in a single test condition. As a result of the studies, it was determined that 2–3 times more cracked particles were formed in HPGR depending on the particle size. It was shown that the modified Kelsall model explains the kinetics better than other kinetic models tested. In summary, it was revealed that maximum gold extractions are almost same for HPGR and jaw crushers. However, the fast dissolution kinetic constant was found to be around 25% higher for HPGR than for the jaw crusher in bottle roll tests while this ratio was approximately 30% higher in column leaching tests, suggesting a distinct influence of the crushing method on the dissolution kinetics.
Is grafting crystals the new art of making conventional elastomers smart?
Authors: Basak Sayan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractConventional elastomers, such as polyisoprene, polybutadiene, and styrene–butadiene rubber, lack inherent shape memory properties due to their low glass transition temperature. Recently, researchers have discovered a method to incorporate external crystal moieties, thereby transforming these elastomers into thermoresponsive shape memory polymers. However, the question remains: what possibilities might this revolution unfold in the near future? This brief opinion piece celebrates the development of semi‐crystalline shape memory elastomers developed via grafting crystals onto conventional elastomers and offers personal insights into the potential directions this discovery could take us.
Helical BODIPY Dyes as Heavy‐Atom‐Free Triplet Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Mula Soumyaditya , Koli Mrunesh 
Published: February 2024

AbstractDespite of having many advantages over the popular cancer therapies, photodynamic therapy still is not widely acceptable for clinical applications. Scarcity of efficient triplet photosensitizers (PSs) is one of the main bottlenecks for this. Although numerous heavy atom attached PSs are developed as PDT agents, but these are not suitable for clinical applications due to several reasons. Thus, development of heavy‐atom‐free organic PSs is urgently required. In this context, development of new type of helical BODIPYs as PSs for PDT is discussed. BODIPYs have rich photophysical properties and structural helicity further enhances their triplet conversion rates. This new concept of structural helicity to enhance the triplet conversion of BODIPYs is discussed with reported helical BODIPYs. Helical geometries of these dyes are checked by X‐ray crystallography studies and their high triplet conversions as compared to planar BODIPYs are also confirmed. Importantly, these dyes have high triplet lifetimes and are capable of generating high singlet oxygens even in hypoxia condition as compared to conventional heavy atom attached BODIPYs. All these make the helical BODIPYs excellent candidates as PDT agents. Finally, their successful applications as PDT agents in killing of various types of cancer cells are also discussed. The results are encouraging which indicate that helical BODIPYs could be next generation heavy‐atom‐free PSs for PDT applications.
SWOG 1609 cohort 48: anti–CTLA‐4 and anti–PD‐1 for advanced gallbladder cancer
Authors: Patel Sandip P. , Guadarrama Elizabeth , Chae Young Kwang , Dennis Michael J. , Powers Benjamin C. , Liao Chih‐Yi , Ferri William A. , George Thomas J. , Sharon Elad , Ryan Christopher W. , Othus Megan , Lopez Gabby , Blanke Charles D. , Kurzrock Razelle 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIntroductionMost patients with advanced gallbladder cancer are treated with multiagent chemotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors offer the possibility of a durable response with less toxicity. This prospective, multicenter, open‐label study was designed to evaluate the anticancer activity of nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients with advanced gallbladder cancer.MethodsNineteen patients with advanced gallbladder cancer refractory to ≥1 previous therapy received nivolumab 240 mg intravenously every 2 weeks and ipilimumab 1 mg/kg intravenously every 6 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary end point was confirmed radiographic overall response rate (ORR) (complete response [CR] + partial response [PR] confirmed on subsequent scan); secondary end points included unconfirmed overall response, clinical benefit rate (confirmed and unconfirmed responses + stable disease >6 months), progression‐free survival, overall survival, and toxicity.ResultsThe confirmed ORR was 16% (CR, n = 1 [5%]; PR, n = 2 [11%]); all were microsatellite stable, and the confirmed CR had undetectable programmed death‐ligand 1 by immunohistochemistry. The unconfirmed ORR and clinical benefit rates were both 32%. The median duration of response was 14.8 months (range, 4–35.1+ months). The 6‐month progression‐free survival was 26% (95% CI, 12–55). The median overall survival was 7.0 months (95% CI, 3.9–19.1). The most common toxicities were fatigue (32%), anemia (26%), and anorexia (26%). Aspartate aminotransferase elevation was the most common grade 3/4 toxicity (11%). There was 1 possibly related death (sepsis with attendant hepatic failure).ConclusionsIpilimumab plus nivolumab was well tolerated and showed modest efficacy with durable responses in previously treated patients with advanced gallbladder cancer.Clinical Trial RegistrationNCT02834013 (ClincialTrials.gov).Plain Language Summary

This prospective study assessed the efficacy and safety of nivolumab plus ipilimumab in 19 patients with advanced gallbladder cancer refractory to previous therapy. The combination demonstrated modest efficacy with a 16% confirmed overall response rate, durable responses, and manageable toxicities, suggesting potential benefits for this challenging patient population.