bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of direct oral anticoagulants does not significantly increase delayed bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric neoplasms
Authors: Choi Jinju , Cho Soo-Jeong , Na Sang-Hoon , Lee Ayoung , Kim Jue Lie , Chung Hyunsoo , Kim Sang Gyun
Published: April 2021

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are widely prescribed for the prevention of stroke in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation and approved indication for DOAC has been expanded. We aimed to evaluate the risk of delayed bleeding in patients who had taken DOAC and underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for gastric neoplasms. We included consecutive patients who underwent ESD between January 2016 and July 2019 in Seoul National University Hospital. Patients were divided into four groups (no med; no medication, DOAC, WFR; warfarin, anti-PLT; anti-platelet agent) according to the medications they had been taken before the procedure. We defined delayed bleeding as obvious post-procedural gastrointestinal bleeding sign including hematemesis or melena combined with hemoglobin drop ≥ 2 g/dL. Among 1634 patients enrolled in this study, 23 (1.4%) patients had taken DOAC and they usually stopped the medication for 2 days before the ESD and resumed within 1 or 2 days. We compared rates of delayed bleeding between groups. Delayed bleeding rates of the groups of no med, DOAC, WFR, and anti-PLT were 2.1% (32/1499) 8.7% (2/23), 14.3% (2/14), 11.2% (11/98), respectively (P < 0.001). However, there was no difference of delayed bleeding rate between no med and DOAC group after propensity score matching (no med vs DOAC, 1.7% vs 10.0%, P = 0.160). Taking DOAC was not associated statistically with post-ESD bleeding when adjusted by age, sex, comorbidities and characteristics of target lesion (Adjusted Odds Ratio: 2.4, 95% Confidence intervals: 0.41–13.73, P = 0.335). Crude rate of bleeding in DOAC users seemed to be higher than no medication group after performing ESD with 2 days of medication cessation. When adjusted by age, sex, and comorbidity, however, this difference seems to be small, which suggests that gastric post-ESD bleeding may be influenced by patients’ underlying condition in addition to medication use.
Combined VEGFR and MAPK pathway inhibition in angiosarcoma
Authors: Wagner Michael J. , Lyons Yasmin A. , Siedel Jean H. , Dood Robert , Nagaraja Archana S. , Haemmerle Monika , Mangala Lingegowda S. , Chanana Pritha , Lazar Alexander J. , Wang Wei-Lien , Ravi Vinod , Holland Eric C. , Sood Anil K.
Published: April 2021

Angiosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy of endothelial cells that carries a high mortality rate. Cytotoxic chemotherapy can elicit clinical responses, but the duration of response is limited. Sequencing reveals multiple mutations in angiogenesis pathways in angiosarcomas, particularly in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFR) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. We aimed to determine the biological relevance of these pathways in angiosarcoma. Tissue microarray consisting of clinical formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue archival samples were stained for phospho- extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) with immunohistochemistry. Angiosarcoma cell lines were treated with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor trametinib, pan-VEGFR inhibitor cediranib, or combined trametinib and cediranib and viability was assessed. Reverse phase protein array (RPPA) was performed to assess multiple oncogenic protein pathways. SVR angiosarcoma cells were grown in vivo and gene expression effects of treatment were assessed with whole exome RNA sequencing. MAPK signaling was found active in over half of clinical angiosarcoma samples. Inhibition of MAPK signaling with the MEK inhibitor trametinib decreased the viability of angiosarcoma cells. Combined inhibition of the VEGF and MAPK pathways with cediranib and trametinib had an additive effect in in vitro models, and a combinatorial effect in an in vivo model. Combined treatment led to smaller tumors than treatment with either agent alone. RNA-seq demonstrated distinct expression signatures between the trametinib treated tumors and those treated with both trametinib and cediranib. These results indicate a clinical study of combined VEGFR and MEK inhibition in angiosarcoma is warranted.
Increased inequalities of per capita CO2 emissions in China
Authors: Yang Jun , Hao Yun , Feng Chao
Published: April 2021

Designing inter-regional and inter-provincial responsibility-sharing mechanisms for climate change mitigation requires the knowledge of carbon distributions. This study is the first to use a two-sector (i.e., productive and household sectors) inequality decomposition approach to examine the regional, provincial, and national inequalities of per capita CO2 emissions (CPC) in China, as well as their determinants. We show that the CPC inequality index in China increased from 1.1364 in 2000 to 2.3688 in 2017, with the productive sector accounting for 91.42% of this expansion and households responsible for the rest. The production-side per capita output level, energy efficiency, energy structure, and industrial structure explain 69.01%, 12.81%, 5.57%, and 4.03% of these inequalities, respectively. Further, the household per capita energy consumption and energy structure explain only 8.12% and 0.46%, respectively. Therefore, future responsibility-sharing mechanisms for climate mitigation need to be formulated taking mainly the productive sector into account.
Shorter heels are linked with greater elastic energy storage in the Achilles tendon
Authors: Foster A. D. , Block B. , Capobianco F. , Peabody J. T. , Puleo N. A. , Vegas A. , Young J. W.
Published: April 2021

Previous research suggests that the moment arm of the m. triceps surae tendon (i.e., Achilles tendon), is positively correlated with the energetic cost of running. This relationship is derived from a model which predicts that shorter ankle moment arms place larger loads on the Achilles tendon, which should result in a greater amount of elastic energy storage and return. However, previous research has not empirically tested this assumed relationship. We test this hypothesis using an inverse dynamics approach in human subjects (n = 24) at speeds ranging from walking to sprinting. The spring function of the Achilles tendon was evaluated using specific net work, a metric of mechanical energy production versus absorption at a limb joint. We also combined kinematic and morphological data to directly estimate tendon stress and elastic energy storage. We find that moment arm length significantly determines the spring-like behavior of the Achilles tendon, as well as estimates of mass-specific tendon stress and elastic energy storage at running and sprinting speeds. Our results provide support for the relationship between short Achilles tendon moment arms and increased elastic energy storage, providing an empirical mechanical rationale for previous studies demonstrating a relationship between calcaneal length and running economy. We also demonstrate that speed and kinematics moderate tendon performance, suggesting a complex relationship between lower limb geometry and foot strike pattern.
The effect of air temperature on hospital admission of adults with community acquired pneumonia in Baotou, China
Authors: Guo Wenfang , Yi Letai , Wang Peng , Wang Baojun , Li Minhui
Published: April 2021

The relationship between air temperature and the hospital admission of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) was analyzed. The hospitalization data pertaining to adult CAP patients (age ≥ 18 years) in two tertiary comprehensive hospitals in Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China from 2014 to 2018 and meteorological data there in the corresponding period were collected. The exposure–response relationship between the daily average temperature and the hospital admission of adult CAP patients was quantified by using a distributed lag non-linear model. A total of 4466 cases of adult patients with CAP were admitted. After eliminating some confounding factors such as relative humidity, wind speed, air pressure, long-term trend, and seasonal trend, a lower temperature was found to be associated with a higher risk of adult CAP. Compared to 21 °C, lower temperature range of 4 to –12 °C was associated with a greater number of CAP hospitalizations among those aged ≥ 65 years, and the highest relative risk (RR) was 2.80 (95% CI 1.15–6.80) at a temperature of − 10 °C. For those < 65 years, lower temperature was not related to CAP hospitalizations. Cumulative lag RRs of low temperature with CAP hospitalizations indicate that the risk associated with colder temperatures appeared at a lag of 0–7 days. For those ≥ 65 years, the cumulative RR of CAP hospitalizations over lagging days 0–5 was 1.89 (95% CI 1.01–3. 56). In brief, the lower temperature had age-specific effects on CAP hospitalizations in Baotou, China, especially among those aged ≥ 65 years.
Histamine receptor 2 blockade selectively impacts B and T cells in healthy subjects
Authors: Meghnem Dihia , Oldford Sharon A. , Haidl Ian D. , Barrett Lisa , Marshall Jean S.
Published: April 2021

Histamine receptor 2 (H2R) blockade is commonly used in patients with gastric, duodenal ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Beyond the gastrointestinal tract, H2R is expressed by multiple immune cells, yet little is known about the immunomodulatory effects of such treatment. Clinical reports have associated H2R blockade with leukopenia, neutropenia, and myelosuppression, and has been shown to provide clinical benefit in certain cancer settings. To systematically assess effects of H2R blockade on key immune parameters, a single-center, single-arm clinical study was conducted in 29 healthy subjects. Subjects received daily high dose ranitidine for 6 weeks. Peripheral blood immunophenotyping and mediator analysis were performed at baseline, 3 and 6 weeks into treatment, and 12 weeks after treatment cessation. Ranitidine was well-tolerated, and no drug related adverse events were observed. Ranitidine had no effect on number of neutrophils, basophils or eosinophils. However, ranitidine decreased numbers of B cells and IL-2Rα (CD25) expressing T cells that remained lower even after treatment cessation. Reduced serum levels of IL-2 were also observed and remained low after treatment. These observations highlight a previously unrecognised immunomodulatory sustained impact of H2R blockade. Therefore, the immune impacts of H2R blockade may require greater consideration in the context of vaccination and immunotherapy.
Standard blood laboratory values as a clinical support tool to distinguish between SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative patients
Authors: Thell Rainer , Zimmermann Jascha , Szell Marton , Tomez Sabine , Eisenburger Philip , Haugk Moritz , Kreil Anna , Spiel Alexander , Blaschke Amelie , Klicpera Anna , Janata Oskar , Krugluger Walter , Sebesta Christian , Herkner Harald , Laky Brenda
Published: April 2021

Standard blood laboratory parameters may have diagnostic potential, if polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) tests are not available on time. We evaluated standard blood laboratory parameters of 655 COVID-19 patients suspected to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, who underwent PCR testing in one of five hospitals in Vienna, Austria. We compared laboratory parameters, clinical characteristics, and outcomes between positive and negative PCR-tested patients and evaluated the ability of those parameters to distinguish between groups. Of the 590 patients (20–100 years, 276 females and 314 males), 208 were PCR-positive. Positive compared to negative PCR-tested patients had significantly lower levels of leukocytes, neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocytes, and thrombocytes; while significantly higher levels were detected with erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, C-reactive-protein, ferritin, activated-partial-thromboplastin-time, alanine-aminotransferase, aspartate-aminotransferase, lipase, creatine-kinase, and lactate-dehydrogenase. From all blood parameters, eosinophils, ferritin, leukocytes, and erythrocytes showed the highest ability to distinguish between COVID-19 positive and negative patients (area-under-curve, AUC: 72.3–79.4%). The AUC of our model was 0.915 (95% confidence intervals, 0.876–0.955). Leukopenia, eosinopenia, elevated erythrocytes, and hemoglobin were among the strongest markers regarding accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, positive and negative likelihood ratio, and post-test probabilities. Our findings suggest that especially leukopenia, eosinopenia, and elevated hemoglobin are helpful to distinguish between COVID-19 positive and negative tested patients.
Mechanism confirmation of organofunctional silanes modified sodium silicate/polyurethane composites for remarkably enhanced mechanical properties
Authors: Liang Yuntao , Gao Ao , Sun Yong , Tian Fuchao , Sun Weili , Lu Wei , He Zhenglong
Published: April 2021

Hybrid reinforced sodium silicate/polyurethane (SS/PU) composites mainly derived from low-cost SS and polyisocyanate are produced by a one-step method based on the addition of 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane (CTS). The wettability of SS on PU substrate surface is much improved as CTS content increases from 0.0 to 3.5 wt%. Furthermore, with 2.5 wt% of CTS optimal addition, the fracture surface morphology and elemental composition of the resulting SS/PU composites are characterized, as well as mechanical properties, chemical structure and thermal properties. The results indicate that the CTS forms multiple physical and chemical interactions with the SS/PU composites to induce an optimized organic–inorganic hybrid network structure thus achieving simultaneous improvement of compressive strength, flexural strength, flexural modulus and fracture toughness of the SS/PU composites, with the improvement of 12.9%, 6.6%, 17.5% and 9.7%, respectively. Moreover, a reasonable mechanism explanation for CTS modified SS/PU composites is confirmed. Additionally, the high interface areas of the organic–inorganic phase and the active crosslinking effect of the CTS are the main factors to determine the curing process of the SS/PU composites.
Genetic dissection of QTLs associated with spikelet-related traits and grain size in sorghum
Authors: Takanashi Hideki , Shichijo Mitsutoshi , Sakamoto Lisa , Kajiya-Kanegae Hiromi , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Sakamoto Wataru , Tsutsumi Nobuhiro
Published: April 2021

Although spikelet-related traits such as size of anther, spikelet, style, and stigma are associated with sexual reproduction in grasses, no QTLs have been reported in sorghum. Additionally, there are only a few reports on sorghum QTLs related to grain size, such as grain length, width, and thickness. In this study, we performed QTL analyses of nine spikelet-related traits (length of sessile spikelet, pedicellate spikelet, pedicel, anther, style, and stigma; width of sessile spikelet and stigma; and stigma pigmentation) and six grain-related traits (length, width, thickness, length/width ratio, length/thickness ratio, and width/thickness ratio) using sorghum recombinant inbred lines. We identified 36 and 7 QTLs for spikelet-related traits and grain-related traits, respectively, and found that most sorghum spikelet organ length- and width-related traits were partially controlled by the dwarf genes Dw1 and Dw3. Conversely, we found that these Dw genes were not strongly involved in the regulation of grain size. The QTLs identified in this study aid in understanding the genetic basis of spikelet- and grain-related traits in sorghum.
Interbase-FRET binding assay for pre-microRNAs
Authors: Bood Mattias , del Nogal Anna Wypijewska , Nilsson Jesper R. , Edfeldt Fredrik , Dahlén Anders , Lemurell Malin , Wilhelmsson L. Marcus , Grøtli Morten
Published: April 2021

The aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRs) has been linked to several human diseases. A promising approach for targeting these anomalies is the use of small-molecule inhibitors of miR biogenesis. These inhibitors have the potential to (i) dissect miR mechanisms of action, (ii) discover new drug targets, and (iii) function as new therapeutic agents. Here, we designed Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-labeled oligoribonucleotides of the precursor of the oncogenic miR-21 (pre-miR-21) and used them together with a set of aminoglycosides to develop an interbase-FRET assay to detect ligand binding to pre-miRs. Our interbase-FRET assay accurately reports structural changes of the RNA oligonucleotide induced by ligand binding. We demonstrate its application in a rapid, qualitative drug candidate screen by assessing the relative binding affinity between 12 aminoglycoside antibiotics and pre-miR-21. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) were used to validate our new FRET method, and the accuracy of our FRET assay was shown to be similar to the established techniques. With its advantages over SPR and ITC owing to its high sensitivity, small sample size, straightforward technique and the possibility for high-throughput expansion, we envision that our solution-based method can be applied in pre-miRNA–target binding studies.
Laser spectroscopy of the $$^2{\mathrm{S}}_{1/2}{-}^2{\mathrm{P}}_{{1}/2}$$, $$^2{\mathrm{P}}_{3/2}$$ transitions in stored and cooled relativistic C3+ ions
Authors: Winzen D. , Hannen V. , Bussmann M. , Buß A. , Egelkamp C. , Eidam L. , Huang Z. , Kiefer D. , Klammes S. , Kühl Th. , Loeser M. , Ma X. , Nörtershäuser W. , Ortjohann H.-W. , Sánchez R. , Siebold M. , Stöhlker Th. , Ullmann J. , Vollbrecht J. , Walther Th. , Wang H. , Weinheimer Ch. , Winters D. F. A.
Published: April 2021

The $$^2{\mathrm{S}}_{1/2}{-}^2{\mathrm{P}}_{{1}/2}$$

2

S

1
/
2

-

2

P

1
/
2

and $$^2{\mathrm{S}}_{1/2}{-}^2{\mathrm{P}}_{{3}/2}$$

2

S

1
/
2

-

2

P

3
/
2

transitions in Li-like carbon ions stored and cooled at a velocity of $$\beta \approx 0.47$$

β
≈
0.47

in the experimental storage ring (ESR) at the GSI Helmholtz Centre in Darmstadt have been investigated in a laser spectroscopy experiment. Resonance wavelengths were obtained using a new continuous-wave UV laser system and a novel extreme UV (XUV) detection system to detect forward emitted fluorescence photons. The results obtained for the two transitions are compared to existing experimental and theoretical data. A discrepancy found in an earlier laser spectroscopy measurement at the ESR with results from plasma spectroscopy and interferometry has been resolved and agreement between experiment and theory is confirmed.
Nonlinear radiative Maxwell nanofluid flow in a Darcy–Forchheimer permeable media over a stretching cylinder with chemical reaction and bioconvection
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Khan Muhammad Usman , Ramzan Muhammad , Chu Yu-Ming , Kadry Seifedine , Malik M. Y. , Chinram Ronnason
Published: April 2021

Studies accentuating nanomaterials suspensions and flow traits in the view of their applications are the focus of the present study. Especially, the usage of such materials in biomedical rheological models has achieved great importance. The nanofluids’ role is essential in the cooling of small electronic gizmos like microchips and akin devices. Having such exciting and practical applications of nanofluids our goal is to scrutinize the Maxwell MHD nanofluid flow over an extended cylinder with nonlinear thermal radiation amalgamated with chemical reaction in a Darcy–Forchheimer spongy media. The presence of gyrotactic microorganisms is engaged to stabilize the nanoparticles in the fluid. The partial slip condition is considered at the boundary of the stretching cylinder. The Buongiorno nanofluid model is betrothed with impacts of the Brownian motion and thermophoresis. The analysis of entropy generation is also added to the problem. The highly nonlinear system is tackled numerically is addressed by the bvp4c built-in function of the MATLAB procedure. The outcomes of the prominent parameters versus embroiled profiles are portrayed and conversed deeming their physical significance. It is perceived that fluid temperature is augmented for large estimates of the radiation and Darcy parameters. Moreover, it is noticed that the magnetic and wall roughness parameters lower the fluid velocity. To corroborate the presented results, a comparison of the current study with a previously published paper is also executed. An outstanding correlation in this regard is attained.
Differential associations of ankle and brachial blood pressures with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases: cross-sectional study
Authors: Viswambharan Hema , Cheng Chew Weng , Kain Kirti
Published: April 2021

Increased brachial systolic blood-pressure (BP) predicts diabetes (T2DM) but is not fully effective. Value of absolute ankle systolic BP for T2DM compared to brachial systolic BP is not known. Our objectives were to assess independent relationships of ankle-systolic BP with T2DM and cardiovascular disease in Europeans and south Asians. Cross-sectional studies of anonymised data from registered adults (n = 1087) at inner city deprived primary care practices. Study includes 63.85% ethnic minority. Systolic BP of the left and right-brachial, posterior-tibial and dorsalis-pedis-arteries measured using a Doppler probe. Regression models’ factors were age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) and waist height ratio (WHtR). Both brachial and ankle systolic-BP increase with diabetes in Europeans and south Asians. We demonstrated that there was a significant positive independent association of ankle BP with diabetes, regardless of age and sex compared to Brachial. There was stronger negative association of ankle blood pressure with cardiovascular disease, after adjustment for BMI, WHtR and ethnicity. Additionally, we found that ankle BP were significantly associated with cardiovascular disease in south Asians more than the Europeans; right posterior tibial. Ankle systolic BPs are superior to brachial BPs to identify risks of Type 2DM and cardiovascular diseases for enhanced patient care.
Early-onset of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation weakening in response to atmospheric CO2 concentration
Authors: Dima Mihai , Nichita Denis R. , Lohmann Gerrit , Ionita Monica , Voiculescu Mirela
Published: April 2021

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a tipping component of the climate system, is projected to slowdown during the 21st century in response to increased atmospheric CO2 concentration. The rate and start of the weakening are associated with relatively large uncertainties. Observed sea surface temperature-based reconstructions indicate that AMOC has been weakening since the mid-20th century, but its forcing factors are not fully understood. Here we provide dynamical observational evidence that the increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration affects the North Atlantic heat fluxes and precipitation rate, and weakens AMOC, consistent with numerical simulations. The inferred weakening, starting in the late 19th century, earlier than previously suggested, is estimated at 3.7 ± 1.0 Sv over the 1854–2016 period, which is larger than it is shown in numerical simulations (1.4 ± 1.4 Sv).
Epigenomics and immunotherapeutic advances in pediatric brain tumors
Authors: Abedalthagafi Malak , Mobark Nahla , Al-Rashed May , AlHarbi Musa
Published: April 2021

Brain tumors are the leading cause of childhood cancer-related deaths. Similar to adult brain tumors, pediatric brain tumors are classified based on histopathological evaluations. However, pediatric brain tumors are often histologically inconsistent with adult brain tumors. Recent research findings from molecular genetic analyses have revealed molecular and genetic changes in pediatric tumors that are necessary for appropriate classification to avoid misdiagnosis, the development of treatment modalities, and the clinical management of tumors. As many of the molecular-based therapies developed from clinical trials on adults are not always effective against pediatric brain tumors, recent advances have improved our understanding of the molecular profiles of pediatric brain tumors and have led to novel epigenetic and immunotherapeutic treatment approaches currently being evaluated in clinical trials. In this review, we focus on primary malignant brain tumors in children and genetic, epigenetic, and molecular characteristics that differentiate them from brain tumors in adults. The comparison of pediatric and adult brain tumors highlights the need for treatments designed specifically for pediatric brain tumors. We also discuss the advancements in novel molecularly targeted drugs and how they are being integrated with standard therapy to improve the classification and outcomes of pediatric brain tumors in the future.
Deep learning model to predict fracture mechanisms of graphene
Authors: Lew Andrew J. , Yu Chi-Hua , Hsu Yu-Chuan , Buehler Markus J.
Published: April 2021

Understanding fracture is critical to the design of resilient nanomaterials. Molecular dynamics offers a way to study fracture at an atomistic level, but is computationally expensive with limitations of scalability. In this work, we build upon machine-learning approaches for predicting nanoscopic fracture mechanisms including crack instabilities and branching as a function of crystal orientation. We focus on a particular technologically relevant material system, graphene, and apply a deep learning method to the study of such nanomaterials and explore the parameter space necessary for calibrating machine-learning predictions to meaningful results. Our results validate the ability of deep learning methods to quantitatively capture graphene fracture behavior, including its fractal dimension as a function of crystal orientation, and provide promise toward the wider application of deep learning to materials design, opening the potential for other 2D materials.
Parallel G-quadruplexes recruit the HSV-1 transcription factor ICP4 to promote viral transcription in herpes virus-infected human cells
Authors: Frasson Ilaria , Soldà Paola , Nadai Matteo , Lago Sara , Richter Sara N.
Published: April 2021

G-quadruplexes (G4s) are four-stranded nucleic acid structures abundant at gene promoters. They can adopt several distinctive conformations. G4s have been shown to form in the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) genome during its viral cycle. Here by cross-linking/pull-down assay we identified ICP4, the major HSV-1 transcription factor, as the protein that most efficiently interacts with viral G4s during infection. ICP4 specific and direct binding and unfolding of parallel G4s, including those present in HSV-1 immediate early gene promoters, induced transcription in vitro and in infected cells. This mechanism was also exploited by ICP4 to promote its own transcription. Proximity ligation assay allowed visualization of G4-protein interaction at the single selected G4 in cells. G4 ligands inhibited ICP4 binding to G4s. Our results indicate the existence of a well-defined G4-viral protein network that regulates the productive HSV-1 cycle. They also point to G4s as elements that recruit transcription factors to activate transcription in cells.
Polysaccharide MCP extracted from Morchella esculenta reduces atherosclerosis in LDLR-deficient mice
Authors: Wang Dandan , Yin Zequn , Ma Likun , Han Lan , Chen Yan , Pan Wenjuan , Gong Ke , Gao Yongyao , Yang Xiaoxiao , Chen Yuanli , Han Jihong , Duan Yajun
Published: April 2021

MCP inhibits the development of atherosclerosis in LDLR−/− mice by the following actions: 1) reduction of hypercholesterolemia; 2) inhibition of inflammation in both arteries and liver; and 3) inhibition of HFD-induced hypertriglyceridemia.
MXene derivatives: synthesis and applications in energy convention and storage
Authors: Sui Jinyi , Chen Xifan , Li Yang , Peng Wenchao , Zhang Fengbao , Fan Xiaobin
Published: April 2021

MXene derivatives with different morphology and applications in energy convention and storage.
In situ tracking and characterisation of scorpionate ligands via11B-NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Thomas Jarrod R. , Sulway Scott A.
Published: April 2021

Using 11B-NMR spectroscopy for the in situ tracking and characterisation of the well known scorpionate ligand class. Five examples are included.
A sandwich sensor based on imprinted polymers and aptamers for highly specific double recognition of viruses
Authors: Chen Siyu , Luo Lianghui , Wang Lingyun , Chen Chunyan , Gong Hang , Cai Changqun
Published: April 2021

A MIP-virus-aptamer sandwich sensor is constructed. The results shows that this method has good selectivity and sensitivity with the imprinting factor as high as 7.56. It improves the unsatisfactory selectivity of traditional virus detection methods.
Fabrication of PεCL–AuNP–BSA core–shell–corona nanoparticles for flexible spatiotemporal drug delivery and SERS detection
Authors: Hong Yanhang , Ju Yuanyuan , Chen Wenjuan , Liu Yingze , Zhang Mingming , Zhao Hanying
Published: April 2021

PεCL–AuNP–BSA core–shell–corona nanoparticles for spatiotemporal drug delivery and SERS detection.
Easy wide scope access to luminescent fluorophosphoranes
Authors: Ponce-de-León Jaime , Infante Rebeca , Espinet Pablo
Published: April 2021

Isomerization of easily accessible 2′-F,2-(PR2)(biaryl) phosphines, initiated by intramolecular SNAr reaction, affords luminescent fluorophosporanes in high yield.
Two-dimensional buckled tetragonal cadmium chalcogenides including CdS, CdSe, and CdTe monolayers as photo-catalysts for water splitting
Authors: Naseri M. , Bafekry A. , Faraji M. , Hoat D. M. , Fadlallah Mohamed M. , Ghergherehchi M. , Sabbaghi N. , Gogova D.
Published: April 2021

The Tetra-CdX (X = S, Se, and Te) monolayers are theoretically predicted by means of DFT. The electronic band gaps of CdS, CdSe, and CdTe are predicted to be 3.10, 2.97, and 2.90 eV, respectively. The optical properties of the CdX show the ability to absorb visible light.
High-temperature molecular screening of hybrid polyOAPS-imide networks based on octa(aminophenyl)silsesquioxane for increased thermomechanical resistance
Authors: Neyertz Sylvie , Salimi Saman , Radmanesh Farzaneh , Benes Nieck E. , Brown David
Published: April 2021

This work reports the extensive molecular modelling screening of 22 hybrid hyper-cross-linked polyOAPS-imide and polyPOSS-imide networks for high thermoresistance (300 °C and 400 °C). The orthoOAPS and/or PMDA precursors lead to superior resistance.
Kinetically labile ruthenium(ii) complexes of terpyridines and saccharin: effect of substituents on photoactivity, solvation kinetics, and photocytotoxicity
Authors: Kumar Priyaranjan , Singh Prerana , Saren Sanjoy , Pakira Sandip , Sivakumar Sri , Patra Ashis K.
Published: April 2021

A series of kinetically labile [RuII(R-tpy)(sac)2X] complexes explored for structure, solvation, DNA and BSA binding, photoactivity, ROS generation and apoptosis assessment.
Anionic oxoborane and thioxoborane molecules supported by a 1,2-bis(imino)acenaphthene ligand
Authors: Liu Rui , Gao Fangfang , Liu Jingjing , Wei Jing , Hou Lei , Xie Gang , Chen Sanping , Zeng Fanlong , Li Anyang , Wang Wenyuan
Published: April 2021

The isolable anionic oxoborane and thioxoborane, supported by a Dip-BIAN ligand, contain terminal doubly bonded BE (E = O, S) groups, respectively, in which only the BO group interacts with imidazoliumviaa hydrogen bond.
1st row transition metal aluminylene complexes: preparation, properties and bonding analysis
Authors: Kong Richard Y. , Crimmin Mark R.
Published: April 2021

The synthesis and spectroscopic characterisation of eight new first-row transition metal (M = Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu) aluminylene complexes is reported.
In situ built interphase with high interface energy and fast kinetics for high performance Zn metal anodes
Authors: Chu Yuzhu , Zhang Shu , Wu Shuang , Hu Zhenglin , Cui Guanglei , Luo Jiayan
Published: April 2021

An in-situ SEI with Zn3(PO4)2 and ZnF2 was built on Zn anode via KPF6-induced chemical strategy. With high interface energy and fast kinetics, it leads to record cumulative capacity and the product of largest current density and areal capacity.
Unique “posture” of rose Bengal for fabricating personal protective equipment with enhanced daylight-induced biocidal efficiency
Authors: Tang Peixin , El-Moghazy Ahmed Y. , Ji Bolin , Nitin Nitin , Sun Gang
Published: April 2021

RB captured by super-adsorptive cotton achieves enhanced biocidal activity by alleviating aggregation-caused self-quenching and modulating the photoreaction of RB.
Near-infrared light enhanced starvation therapy to effectively promote cell apoptosis and inhibit migration
Authors: Huang Yan , Gong Peiwei , Liu Mingyue , Peng Jingyi , Zhang Ruyue , Qi Changmin , Hou Yanqing , Liu Ming , Wang Dandan , Liu Zhe
Published: April 2021

A novel near-infrared light enhanced starvation therapy nanosystem has been constructed from nanoscale fluorinated graphene, which effectively surmounts limitations of single starvation therapy and displays excellent anti-migration property.
Signal transmission encryption based on dye-doped chiral liquid crystals via tunable and efficient circularly polarized luminescence
Authors: Li Chengxi , Yang Xuefeng , Han Jianlei , Sun Wenjing , Duan Pengfei
Published: April 2021

Multi-channel adjustable CPL in chiral liquid crystals was investigated, where a well-organized structure distributed in double thin layers exhibits a high |glum| for the input signal to encrypt information transmission.
Reducing odor emissions from feces aerobic composting: additives
Authors: Zhu Ping , Shen Yilin , Pan Xusheng , Dong Bin , Zhou John , Zhang Weidong , Li Xiaowei
Published: April 2021

Aerobic composting is a reliable technology for treating human and animal feces, and converting them into resources. The addition of additives can reduce the production of odor during the composting process.
Recovery of boron from brines with high magnesium content by solvent extraction using aliphatic alcohol
Authors: Xu Zhenya , Su Hui , Zhang Jian , Liu Wensen , Zhu Zhaowu , Wang Jinggang , Chen Jing , Qi Tao
Published: April 2021

The multi-stage counter-current simulation process showed an extraction system with great potential for commercial application in boron recovery from salt lake brines with high magnesium content.
Thiosemicarbazone modified zeolitic imidazolate framework (TSC-ZIF) for mercury(ii) removal from water
Authors: Jaafar Amani , Platas-Iglesias Carlos , Bilbeisi Rana A.
Published: April 2021

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks Ald-ZIF were obtained by mixing two imidazole-based linkers with zinc(ii). Post-synthetically modified Ald-ZIFs with thiosemicarbazide group improved mercury(ii) removal efficiency from water at a capacity of 1667 mg g−1.
Nanostructured CuO with a thin g-C3N4 layer as a highly efficient photocathode for solar water splitting
Authors: Bae Hyojung , Burungale Vishal , Na Wonkyeong , Rho Hokyun , Kang Soon Hyung , Ryu Sang-Wan , Ha Jun-Seok
Published: April 2021

A g-C3N4/CuO nanostructure featuring improved photoelectrochemical properties was successfully prepared using a facile and cost-effective method involving electrodeposition and thermal oxidation.
Efficient biodegradation of malachite green by an artificial enzyme designed in myoglobin
Authors: Xiang Heng-Fang , Xu Jia-Kun , Liu Jiao , Yang Xin-Zhi , Gao Shu-Qin , Wen Ge-Bo , Lin Ying-Wu
Published: April 2021

An artificial enzyme of F43H/H64 myoglobin was successfully applied for efficient biodegradation of malachite green, with the catalytic efficiency exceeding those of some natural enzymes.
Crossover of positive and negative magnetoconductance in composites of nanosilica glass containing dual transition metal oxides
Authors: Samanta Subha , Maity Anupam , Chatterjee Alorika , Giri Saurav , Chakravorty Dipankar
Published: April 2021

Magnetoconductance swithching phenomenon in nanosilica glass containing dual transition metal oxide ions.
Preparation of 3,5-diarylsubstituted 5-hydroxy-1,5-dihydro-2H-pyrrol-2-ones via base-assisted cyclization of 3-cyanoketones
Authors: Aksenov Nicolai A. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Kurenkov Igor A. , Aksenov Alexander V. , Skomorokhov Anton A. , Prityko Lidiya A. , Rubin Michael
Published: April 2021

The highly efficient oxidative cyclization of 1,3-diarylsubstituted 3-cyanoketones yielded 5-hydroxy-1,5-dihydro-2H-pyrrol-2-ones.
In situlaser irradiation: the kinetics of the changes in the nonlinear/linear optical parameters of As50Se40Sb10thin films for photonic applications
Authors: Sahoo D. , Priyadarshini P. , Dandela R. , Alagarasan D. , Ganesan R. , Varadharajaperumal S. , Naik R.
Published: April 2021

The photosensitivity of amorphous chalcogenide thin films brings out light-induced changes in the nonlinear and linear optical parameters upon sub-bandgap and bandgap laser irradiation.
Chemical dynamics simulations of energy transfer in CH4 and N2 collisions
Authors: Lakshmanan Sandhiya , Kim Hyunsik , Hase William L.
Published: April 2021

Chemical dynamics simulations have been performed to study the energy transfer from a hot N2 bath at 1000 K to CH4 fuel at 300 K at different bath densities ranging from 1000 kg m−3 to 30 kg m−3.
Retraction: Metal-free [2+2+1] cycloaddition polymerization of alkynes, nitriles, and oxygen atoms to functional polyoxazoles
Authors: Dong Lichao , Lan Tian , Liang Yin , Guo Shifeng , Zhang Hao
Published: April 2021

Retraction of ‘Metal-free [2+2+1] cycloaddition polymerization of alkynes, nitriles, and oxygen atoms to functional polyoxazoles’ by Lichao Dong et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 24368–24373, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA04249H.
Formation and internal ordering of periodic microphases in colloidal models with competing interactions
Authors: Serna Horacio , Pozuelo Antonio Díaz , Noya Eva G. , Góźdź Wojciech T.
Published: April 2021

Simulations show that periodic modulated phases formed from colloidal particles with competing interactions become internally ordered at low temperature.
Unveiling the genesis of the high catalytic activity in nickel phthalocyanine for electrochemical ammonia synthesis
Authors: Murmu Shyamal , Paul Sourav , Kapse Samadhan , Thapa Ranjit , Chattopadhyay Santanu , N. Abharana , Jha Shambhu N. , Bhattacharyya Dibyendu , Ghorai Uttam Kumar
Published: April 2021

DFT is applied to identify the active sites of NiPc for NRR and its catalytic origination. Accordingly, NiPc nanorods, synthesized by solvothermal method, exhibit NH3 yield rate of 85 μg h−1 mgcat−1 and FE of 25% at −0.3 V vs. RHE.
MXene-supported stable adsorbents for superior CO2 capture
Authors: Liu Fa-Qian , Liu Xin , Sun Lishui , Li Rongxun , Yin Chun-Xiao , Wu Bozhen
Published: April 2021

Ti3C2(OH)x–polyethyleneimine-1,2-butylene oxide (Ti3C2/PEI/BO) nanocomposite with superior CO2 capture performance.
Fundamentals of tin iodide perovskites: a promising route to highly efficient, lead-free solar cells
Authors: Filippetti A. , Kahmann S. , Caddeo C. , Mattoni A. , Saba M. , Bosin A. , Loi M. A.
Published: April 2021

Chemical potentialμehand radiative lifetimeτradbehaviourvs.carrier densitynin FASnI3. They change dramatically with hole doping concentration, inducing large Burstein–Moss shift
Ultrafine Ir nanoparticles decorated on FeP/FeOOH with abundant interfacesviaa facile corrosive approach for alkaline water-splitting
Authors: Zhao Zongshi , Jin Wei , Xu Li , Wang Chan , Zhang Yang , Wu Zexing
Published: April 2021

Ultrafine Ir nanoparticles coupled with FeP/FeOOH with abundant interfaces on iron foam (FF) were developed by facile corrosive strategies which presented remarkable electrocatalytic performances toward overall water-splitting.
Synthesis of maleimide-based enediynes with cyclopropane moieties for enhanced cytotoxicity under normoxic and hypoxic conditions
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Lu Haotian , Zhang Mengsi , Ma Hailong , Cheng Xiaoyu , Ding Yun , Hu Aiguo
Published: April 2021

Maleimide-based enediynes with cyclopropane moieties show enhanced radical character by taking advantage of radical clock reactions. They are highly effecient antitumor agents under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions.
High-performance antiviral nano-systems as a shield to inhibit viral infections: SARS-CoV-2 as a model case study
Authors: Sadique Mohd. Abubakar , Yadav Shalu , Ranjan Pushpesh , Verma Sarika , Salammal Shabi Thankaraj , Khan Mohd. Akram , Kaushik Ajeet , Khan Raju
Published: April 2021

The recent COVID-19 pandemic is uncontrollable since the SARS-CoV-2 virus has a contagious transmission and causes fatal illness. Thus, it is vital to avoid this spread using high-performance antiviral nanomaterials to eradicate viral infections.
Luminescent silver nanoclusters decorated on ZnO tetrapods: a detailed understanding of their role in photoluminescence features
Authors: Rodrigues Joana , Becker Charline , Ben Sedrine Nabiha , Kamp Marius , Kienle Lorenz , Adelung Rainer , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Parak Wolfgang J. , Chakraborty Indranath , Correia Maria Rosário , Monteiro Teresa
Published: April 2021

A detailed spectroscopic analysis of the AgNC@ZnO Tp hybrid is presented, together with a comparison of their properties with the AgNC and ZnO Tp independently, confirming the formation of a functional material.
Improving the performance of organic solar cells by side chain engineering of fused ring electron acceptors
Authors: Chen Ya-Nan , Zheng Rui , Wang Jing , Wang Hang , Li Miao , Wang Yunzhi , Lu Hao , Zhang Zhe , Liu Yahui , Tang Zheng , Bo Zhishan
Published: April 2021

The side chain engineering of photoactive materials is one of the most commonly used molecular design strategies for developing high performance organic solar cells (OSCs).
Recent advances in enzyme-free electrochemical hydrogen peroxide sensors based on carbon hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Hu Yue , Hojamberdiev Mirabbos , Geng Dongsheng
Published: April 2021

The article gives an overview of the recent advances of the enzyme-free electrochemical H2O2 sensors based on carbon hybrid nanocomposites in the hope of suggesting feasible approaches to further enhance the sensitivity of carbon hybrid materials.
Towards a tough reprocessable and self-healable acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber based on strong hydrogen bonding interactions
Authors: Wang Wenyan , Zhang Weicheng , Liu Zongxu , Xue Ying , Lei Xingfeng , Gong Guangbi , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: April 2021

Tough reprocessable and self-healable acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) is developed by grafting 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone groups onto the backbone of amidoxime NBR, representing a big step in recyclable high-performance NBR.
A comprehensive review on selected graphene synthesis methods: from electrochemical exfoliation through rapid thermal annealing towards biomass pyrolysis
Authors: Prekodravac Jovana R. , Kepić Dejan P. , Colmenares Juan Carlos , Giannakoudakis Dimitrios A , Jovanović Svetlana P.
Published: April 2021

A comprehensive overview of selected synthetic methods for graphene and graphene based nanomaterials production with the emphasis on the reaction conditions, the quality of obtained graphene nanomaterials and a variety of potential applications.
Combined healing and doping of transition metal dichalcogenides through molecular functionalization
Authors: Gali Sai Manoj , Beljonne David
Published: April 2021

Twofold effect of molecular functionalization of defective transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs).
A review of functional linear carbon chains (oligoynes, polyynes, cumulenes) and their applications as molecular wires in molecular electronics and optoelectronics
Authors: Bryce Martin R.
Published: April 2021

This review presents the multi-faceted applications of oligoynes in molecular electronics and optoelectronics, as well as recent insights for the design and properties of sp-hybridised carbon wires.
Methods to study the structure of misfolded protein states in systemic amyloidosis
Authors: Fändrich Marcus , Schmidt Matthias
Published: April 2021

Systemic amyloidosis is defined as a protein misfolding disease in which the amyloid is not necessarily deposited within the same organ that produces the fibril precursor protein. There are different types of systemic amyloidosis, depending on the protein constructing the fibrils. This review will focus on recent advances made in the understanding of the structural basis of three major forms of systemic amyloidosis: systemic AA, AL and ATTR amyloidosis. The three diseases arise from the misfolding of serum amyloid A protein, immunoglobulin light chains or transthyretin. The presented advances in understanding were enabled by recent progress in the methodology available to study amyloid structures and protein misfolding, in particular concerning cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. An important observation made with these techniques is that the structures of previously described in vitro formed amyloid fibrils did not correlate with the structures of amyloid fibrils extracted from diseased tissue, and that in vitro fibrils were typically more protease sensitive. It is thus possible that ex vivo fibrils were selected in vivo by their proteolytic stability.
What's in a mass?
Authors: Calvete Juan J. , Sanz Libia , Mora-Obando Diana , Lomonte Bruno , Tanaka-Azevedo Anita M. , de Morais-Zani Karen , Sant'Anna Sávio S. , Caldeira Cleópatra A.S.
Published: April 2021

This short essay pretends to make the reader reflect on the concept of biological mass and on the added value that the determination of this molecular property of a protein brings to the interpretation of evolutionary and translational snake venomics research. Starting from the premise that the amino acid sequence is the most distinctive primary molecular characteristics of any protein, the thesis underlying the first part of this essay is that the isotopic distribution of a protein's molecular mass serves to unambiguously differentiate it from any other of an organism's proteome. In the second part of the essay, we discuss examples of collaborative projects among our laboratories, where mass profiling of snake venom PLA2 across conspecific populations played a key role revealing dispersal routes that determined the current phylogeographic pattern of the species.
A discontinuity in the luminosity–mass relation and fluctuations in the evolutionary tracks of low-mass and low-metallicity stars at the Gaia M-dwarf gap
Authors: Mansfield Santana , Kroupa Pavel
Published: April 2021

Context. The Gaia M-dwarf gap is a recently discovered feature in the colour-magnitude diagram that shows a deficiency of low-mass and low-metallicity stars at the lower end of the main sequence.

Aims. We aim at performing theoretical stellar modelling at low metallicities using a fine mass step and a fine time step, looking specifically for the transition of models from partially to fully convective since the convective kissing instability that occurs at this transition is believed to be the cause of the gap.

Methods. Stellar evolution models with metallicities of Z = 0.01, Z = 0.001, and Z = 0.0001 are performed using MESA, with a mass step of 0.00025 M⊙ and a time step of 50 000 years.

Results. The small time step produced models that experience loops in their evolutionary tracks in the Hertzsprung-Russell (HR) diagram. The fluctuations in effective temperature and luminosity correspond to repeated events in which the bottom of the convective envelope merges with the top of the convective core, transporting 3He from the core to the surface. In addition to the episodes of switching from partially to fully convective, several near-merger events that produced low amplitude fluctuations were also found. Low-metallicity models undergo the convective kissing instability for longer portions of their lifetime and with higher fluctuation amplitudes than models with higher metallicities. The small mass step used in the models revealed a discontinuity in the luminosity–mass relation at all three metallicities.

Conclusions. The repeated merging of the convective core and envelope, along with several near-merger events, removes an abundance of 3He from the core and temporarily reduces nuclear burning. This results in fluctuations in the model’s luminosity and effective temperature, causing loops in the evolutionary track in the HR diagram and leading to the deficiency of stars at the M-dwarf gap, as well as a discontinuity in the luminosity–mass relation.