bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical report of six-month follow-up after cementing PEEK crown on molars
Authors: Kimura Hitomi , Morita Koji , Nishio Fumiko , Abekura Hitoshi , Tsuga Kazuhiro
Published: November 2022

We conducted a six-month clinical follow-up on computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing-fabricated molar polyetheretherketone PEEK crowns to investigate their therapeutic effect. Only the PEEK crowns were examined as our study focused on short-term clinical evaluation of the new PEEK material. Twenty-three cases of PEEK crowns placed on the molars of 20 subjects (7 males and 13 females, mean age: 60.6 ± 14.2 years) were included in the study. The evaluation items were the condition of the crowns at the time of cementation and after six months, patient satisfaction, masticatory ability, and occlusal force. Mann–Whitney U tests with a significance level of 5% were used to examine the difference in glucose concentration by masticatory ability, occlusal pressure, and occlusal force, with and without PEEK crowns. The occlusion, margin fit, and contact of all 23 cases at the time of cementing were good. Six months after cementation, there was no crown desorption, fracture or crack, and prosthodontics was not needed in the 22 cases (one patient dropped out). No wear of the dental antagonist was observed. Patient satisfaction was generally high. There was no significant difference in masticatory ability between the groups with and without PEEK crowns. The subject's occlusal force was within the normal range. PEEK crowns used on molars can replace metal crowns and hold promise for an appropriate and effective treatment.
Microwave assisted synthesis of Mn3O4 nanograins intercalated into reduced graphene oxide layers as cathode material for alternative clean power generation energy device
Authors: Shahid Mehmood , Katugampalage Thilina Rajeendre , Khalid Mohammad , Ahmed Waqar , Kaewsaneha Chariya , Sreearunothai Paiboon , Opaprakasit Pakorn
Published: November 2022

Mn3O4 nanograins incorporated into reduced graphene oxide as a nanocomposite electrocatalyst have been synthesized via one-step, facile, and single-pot microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique. The nanocomposites were employed as cathode material of fuel cells for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The synthesized product was thoroughly studied by using important characterization, such as XRD for the structure analysis and FESEM and TEM analyses to assess the morphological structures of the material. Raman spectra were employed to study the GO, rGO bands and formation of Mn3O4@rGO nanocomposite. FTIR and UV–Vis spectroscopic analysis were used to verify the effective synthesis of the desired electrocatalyst. The Mn3O4@rGO-10% nanocomposite with 10 wt% of graphene oxide was used to alter the shiny surface of the working electrode and applied for ORR in O2 purged 0.5 M KOH electrolyte solution. The Mn3O4@rGO-10% nanocomposite electrocatalyst exhibited outstanding performance with an improved current of − 0.738 mA/cm2 and shifted overpotential values of − 0.345 V when compared to other controlled electrodes, including the conventionally used Pt/C catalyst generally used for ORR activity. The tolerance of Mn3O4@rGO-10% nanocomposite was tested by injecting a higher concentration of methanol, i.e., 0.5 M, and found unsusceptible by methanol crossover. The stability test of the synthesized electrocatalyst after 3000 s was also considered, and it demonstrated excellent current retention of 98% compared to commercially available Pt/C electrocatalyst. The synthesized nanocomposite material could be regarded as an effective and Pt-free electrocatalyst for practical ORR that meets the requirement of low cost, facile fabrication, and adequate stability.
Tetrahydroquinolinone derivatives exert antiproliferative effect on lung cancer cells through apoptosis induction
Authors: Ryczkowska Małgorzata , Maciejewska Natalia , Olszewski Mateusz , Witkowska Milena , Makowiec Sławomir
Published: November 2022

The anticancer properties of quinolones is a topic of interest among researchers in the scientific world. Because these compounds do not cause side effects, unlike the commonly used cytostatics, they are considered a promising source of new anticancer drugs. In this work, we designed a brief synthetic pathway and obtained a series of novel 8-phenyltetrahydroquinolinone derivatives functionalized with benzyl-type moieties at position 3. The compounds were synthesized via classical reactions such as nucleophilic substitution, solvent lysis, and condensation. Biological evaluation revealed that 3-(1-naphthylmethyl)-4-phenyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-quinolin-2-one (4a) exhibited potent cytotoxicity toward colon (HTC-116) and lung (A549) cancer cell lines. Analysis of the mechanism of action of compounds showed that compound 4a induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, leading to apoptotic cell death via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Taken together, the findings of the study suggest that tetrahydroquinolinone derivatives bearing a carbonyl group at position 2 could be potential lead compounds to develop anticancer agents for the treatment of lung cancers.
Females exhibit higher GluA2 levels and outperform males in active place avoidance despite increased amyloid plaques in TgF344-Alzheimer’s rats
Authors: Chaudry Osama , Ndukwe Kelechi , Xie Lei , Figueiredo-Pereira Maria , Serrano Peter , Rockwell Patricia
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that is most prevalent in females. While estrogen provides neuroprotection in females, sex mediated differences in the development of AD pathology are not fully elucidated. Therefore, comparing events between sexes in early-stage AD pathology may reveal more effective therapeutic targets of intervention. To address sex differences, we analyzed early-stage 9-month male and female TgF344-AD (Tg-AD) rats, an AD model carrying the APPswe and Presenilin 1 (PS1ΔE9) mutations that develops progressive age-dependent AD pathology similar to humans. Tg-AD females significantly outperformed Tg-AD males in the active place avoidance (aPAT) test that assesses hippocampal-dependent spatial learning and memory. However, comparisons between Tg-AD male or female rats and their WT counterparts showed significant deficits for female but not male rats. Nevertheless, Tg-AD females experienced significantly less hippocampal neuronal loss with higher GluA2 subunit levels than Tg-AD males. Unexpectedly, Tg-AD females displayed higher levels of hippocampal amyloid plaques than Tg-AD males. Thus, we propose that GluA2 may provide a neuroprotective function for Tg-AD females in our rat model by mitigating cognitive impairment independently of amyloid plaques. Elucidating this protective mechanism in AD could lead to new targets for early intervention.
Pinning potential in highly performant CaKFe4As4 superconductor from DC magnetic relaxation and AC multi-frequency susceptibility studies
Authors: Ionescu A. M. , Ivan I. , Crisan D. N. , Galluzzi A. , Polichetti M. , Ishida S. , Iyo A. , Eisaki H. , Crisan A.
Published: November 2022

We have investigated the pinning potential of high-quality single crystals of superconducting material CaKFe4As4 having high critical current density and very high upper critical field using both magnetization relaxation measurements and frequency-dependent AC susceptibility. Preliminary studies of the superconducting transition and of the isothermal magnetization loops confirmed the high quality of the samples, while temperature dependence of the AC susceptibility in high magnetic fields show absolutely no dependence on the cooling conditions, hence, no magnetic history. From magnetization relaxation measurements were extracted the values of the normalized pinning potential U*, which reveals a clear crossover between elastic creep and plastic creep. The extremely high values of U*, up to 1200 K around the temperature of 20 K lead to a nearly zero value of the probability of thermally-activated flux jumps at temperatures of interest for high-field applications. The values of the creep exponents in the two creep regimes resulted from the analysis of the magnetization relaxation data are in complete agreement with theoretical models. Pinning potentials were also estimated, near the critical temperature, from AC susceptibility measurements, their values being close to those resulted (at the same temperature and DC field) from the magnetization relaxation data.
Linoleic acid binds to SARS-CoV-2 RdRp and represses replication of seasonal human coronavirus OC43
Authors: Goc Anna , Sumera Waldemar , Rath Matthias , Niedzwiecki Aleksandra
Published: November 2022

Fatty acids belong to a group of compounds already acknowledged for their broad antiviral efficacy. However, little is yet known about their effect on replication of human coronaviruses. To shed light on this subject, we first screened 15 fatty acids, three lipid-soluble vitamins, and cholesterol, on SARS-CoV-2 RdRp, and identified the four fatty acids with the highest RdRp inhibitory potential. Among them, linoleic acid was found to have the greatest interaction with SARS-CoV-2 RdRp, with its direct binding to the cavity formed by the RNA double helix and protein. Linoleic acid forms hydrophobic interactions with multiple residues, and at the same time forms electrostatic interactions including the hydrogen bond with Lys593 and Asp865. In line with these results, a dose-dependent inhibition of HCoV-OC43 replication in vitro was observed, additionally strengthened by data from in vivo study, which also confirmed anti-inflammatory potential of linoleic acid. Based on these results, we concluded that our study provides a new understanding of the antiviral properties of fatty acids against human coronaviruses including the SARS-CoV-2 strain. Particularly, they lays down a new prospect for linoleic acid’s RdRp-inhibitory activity, as a candidate for further studies, which are warranted to corroborate the results presented here.
Hyperfibrinolysis and fibrinolysis shutdown in patients with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Nakae Ryuta , Murai Yasuo , Wada Takeshi , Fujiki Yu , Kanaya Takahiro , Takayama Yasuhiro , Suzuki Go , Naoe Yasutaka , Yokota Hiroyuki , Yokobori Shoji
Published: November 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with coagulation/fibrinolysis disorders. We retrospectively evaluated 61 TBI cases transported to hospital within 1 h post-injury. Levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT), D-dimer, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured on arrival and 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, 1 day, 3 days and 7 days after injury. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors for coagulation and fibrinolysis. Plasma TAT levels peaked at admission and decreased until 1 day after injury. Plasma D-dimer levels increased, peaking up to 3 h after injury, and decreasing up to 3 days after injury. Plasma PAI-1 levels increased up to 3 h after injury, the upward trend continuing until 6 h after injury, followed by a decrease until 3 days after injury. TAT, D-dimer, and PAI-1 were elevated in the acute phase of TBI in cases with poor outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that D-dimer elevation from admission to 3 h after injury and PAI-1 elevation from 6 h to 1 day after injury were significant negative prognostic indicators. Post-TBI hypercoagulation, fibrinolysis, and fibrinolysis shutdown were activated consecutively. Hyperfibrinolysis immediately after injury and subsequent fibrinolysis shutdown were associated with poor outcome.
Virus-like Particle-based Vaccines: GARDASIL®
Authors: Kosinski M. , Dephillips P. , Manger W. , Abraham D.
Published: November 2022

Papillomaviruses are widely distributed in Nature among mammals where infection of humans, cattle, dogs, rabbits, monkeys, and other species is typically asymptomatic, but may cause small benign tumors known as papillomas or warts, or even carry a risk of becoming cancerous. The viral particles for more than 100 papillomavirus types are about 55–60 nm in diameter and are composed mostly of the type-specific major capsid protein (L1). Prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are based on the use of the L1 protein expressed in heterologous expression systems to create self-assembled non-infectious virus-like particles (VLPs) that display immunodominant type-specific neutralizing epitopes. To date, three HPV vaccines have been developed and approved: GARDASIL®, a quadrivalent vaccine, and GARDASIL® 9, a nonavalent vaccine, both made by Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA (MSD), and Cervarix™, a bivalent vaccine made by GlaxoSmithKline. This chapter focuses on the key stages of development of the processes used to support the clinical program and subsequent commercial manufacture of GARDASIL®. Cross-functional collaboration between product development teams was critical for the establishment of a commercially sustainable platform manufacturing process.
Vaccine Adjuvants: Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Hogenesch Harm , Orr Mark T. , Fox Christopher B.
Published: November 2022

Adjuvants are essential ingredients of subunit and inactivated vaccines. The adjuvants in the majority of licensed vaccines were developed empirically and their mechanisms of action are complex and remain incompletely understood. This chapter reviews how adjuvants enhance different components of both the innate and adaptive immune response, including the engagement of pattern recognition receptors, recruitment of inflammatory cells to the site of injection, kinetics of antigen transport to the lymph node and antigen presentation, lymphocyte migration, and the formation of germinal centers in draining lymph nodes. Knowledge of the ways in which current adjuvants work will help in the design and selection of appropriate adjuvants for new and improved vaccine formulations.
Development Considerations for Final Dosage Forms: Mucosal Bacterial Vaccines
Authors: Zhang Jingtuo , Patel Amish
Published: November 2022

Bacterial vaccines significantly reduce the spread of infectious diseases and protect many lives. However, there is still a great need for the development of new bacterial vaccines, particularly for diseases caused by pediatric enteric infections globally. The development of final dosage forms plays a critical role in maintaining the vaccine stability and potency, keeping in mind the challenges associated with global delivery and public distribution of enteric vaccines. In this chapter, different dosage forms of bacterial vaccines are summarized and evaluated, focusing particularly on oral enteric mucoadhesive vaccines.
Exploiting Glycans in Vaccine Design
Authors: Middleton Dustin R. , Avci Fikri Y.
Published: November 2022

Pathogens display an array of glycoconjugates on their surfaces with various roles, including innate immune evasion, adherence, and signaling. These glycan moieties are often critical mediators of pathogenesis and host–cell interactions. Owing to their surface exposure and important functional properties, there have been tremendous efforts to exploit these antigenic glycans in vaccine development. This chapter discusses the current state and promise of targeting carbohydrate epitopes through vaccination.
The PATH Experience in Vaccine Development Partnerships with Manufacturers from Emerging Markets
Authors: Alderson Mark R. , Hausdorff William P. , Marfin Anthony A.
Published: November 2022

Partnerships between public sector agencies and emerging market manufacturers, often facilitated by support from foundations and governments, have long been touted as a way to ensure that affordable vaccines are developed and commercialized to address sustainably the public health needs of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Technology transfer for vaccines is difficult, however, under any circumstances and, not surprisingly, the success record of such partnerships is mixed. This chapter presents a critical look at how three different partnerships with one private and one state-owned LMIC vaccine manufacturer have succeeded and the pivotal role played by the global health organization PATH. The vaccines include a meningococcal A conjugate (MenAfriVac®), a 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate (PNEUMOSIL®), and a Japanese encephalitis vaccine (CD.JEVAX®). The vaccines differed in development and manufacturing complexities and whether a global or regional market already existed with established competitors. The factors that prompted project initiation and key challenges faced are discussed. The chapter highlights the innovative strategies and approaches taken, what the public sector and local manufacturers brought to the table, the resulting benefits to each, and the evolving roles of funding agencies. Two tables summarize key aspects of each of the partnerships. Future partnerships may benefit from the “lessons learned” in these three successful projects.
Rapid and reliable detection and quantification of organophosphorus pesticides using SERS combined with dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction
Authors: Wang Panxue , Li Xiang , Sun Yan , Wang Li , Xu Ying , Li Guoliang
Published: November 2022

SERS was combined with DLLME to develop a rapid and reliable method for the detection and quantification of organophosphorus pesticides, which exhibited good sensitivity and stability for both single and multiple detection of OPPs.
PDAC-on-chip for in vitro modeling of stromal and pancreatic cancer cell crosstalk
Authors: Sgarminato Viola , Marasso Simone Luigi , Cocuzza Matteo , Scordo Giorgio , Ballesio Alberto , Ciardelli Gianluca , Tonda-Turo Chiara
Published: November 2022

Schematic representation of PDAC-on-chip reassembly the pancreatic acino-ductal unit composed of healthy and pathological human pancreatic ductal epithelial cells (HPDE and KRAS-HPDE, respectively) surrounded by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs).
Electrochemical behaviors of Li–B alloys in a LiCl–LiBr–KBr molten salt system
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhang Xicheng , Peng Kaite , Cui Yixiu , He Ke , Zhang Xu , Cao Yong , Xu Yichun , Jin Xianbo
Published: November 2022

Electrochemical behaviors of Li–B alloys in LiCl–LiBr–KBr molten salt are systematically measured and analyzed using a three-electrode system.
Correction: The structuring effect of the alkyl domains on the polar network of ionic liquid mixtures: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Mazzilli Valerio , Wang Yanting , Saielli Giacomo
Published: November 2022

Correction for ‘The structuring effect of the alkyl domains on the polar network of ionic liquid mixtures: a molecular dynamics study’ by Valerio Mazzilli et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2022, 24, 18783–18792, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2CP02786K.
Review on recent progress in WO3-based electrochromic films: preparation methods and performance enhancement strategies
Authors: Zheng Jin You , Sun Qimeng , Cui Jiameizi , Yu Xiaomei , Li Songjie , Zhang Lili , Jiang Suyu , Ma Wei , Ma Renzhi
Published: November 2022

Typical preparation techniques and performance enhancement strategies for WO3-based electrochromic films are described in detail in this review.
A fast curing assisted spray-coating method to fabricate a robust core–shell structured evaporator with stable solar vapor generation performance
Authors: Ma Dongdong , Zhang Xiangyi , Deng Kaimin , Huang Jingjing , Zhang Ruquan , Yang Hongjun , Liu Xin , Shang Bin , Gu Shaojin
Published: November 2022

Solar driven interfacial vapor generation is considered to be an effective strategy to alleviate the impact of water crisis on human activities.
Synthesis and solution properties of telechelic poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) bearing perfluoro end groups
Authors: Xue Na , Hou Xiaoming , Qiu Xing-Ping , Song Xiaotao , Feng Qingguo , Liu Xiaozhi
Published: November 2022

Telechelic FPIPOZ and its precursor N3PIPOZ films reassembled into discs and short fibers, respectively, when exposed to THF vapor.
Identifying the intrinsic active site in bimetallic Co3S4/Ni3S2 feathers on MXene nanosheets as a heterostructure for efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Yang , Du Qi-Xuan , Cui Jian , Chen Xiao , Yang Hong-Wei , Qian Hua
Published: November 2022

The NF@MXene@Co3S4/Ni3S2 Co3S4/Ni3S2 feathers fixed on MXene nanosheets with enhanced conductivity and Ni active sites of Ni3S2 shows efficient activity for OER.
Photo-induced nickel-mediated cross-electrophile coupling for alkylated allenes via electron donor–acceptor complexes
Authors: Zhou Zhao-Zhao , Zhai Xiao-Feng , Zhang Shu-Liang , Xia Ke-Jian , Ding Haixin , Song Xian-Rong , Tian Wan-Fa , Liang Yong-Min , Xiao Qiang
Published: November 2022

The first photo-induced nickel-mediated regioselective radical–radical cross-electrophile coupling process with alkyl NHP esters and EDA complexes for alkylated allenes is described.
Slower diffusion and anomalous association of R453W lamin A protein alter nuclear architecture in AD-EDMD
Authors: Mukherjee Chandrayee , Sengupta Duhita , Maganti Lakshmi , Mahendar M. , Bhattacharyya Dhananjay , Sengupta Kaushik
Published: November 2022

Changes in the microdynamics landscape of Ig fold R453W modulate the mobility and assembly of full length lamin A.
An ultra-stable reference electrode for scaled all-vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Huang Qian , Song Chaojie , Crawford Alasdair , Jiang Zhengming , Platt Alison , Fatih Khalid , Bock Christina , Reed David
Published: November 2022

An ultra-stable reference electrode with novel design has been developed for scaled all-vanadium redox flow batteries, which demonstrates high accuracy and long-term stability over 500 charge–discharge cycles.
Recent advances of magnetite nanomaterials to remove arsenic from water
Authors: Jain Richa
Published: November 2022

Pure water is one of the major requirements for living beings but water bodies are contaminated with toxic pollutants and heavy metals.
Regioselective α-addition of vinylogous α-ketoester enolate in organocatalytic asymmetric Michael reactions: enantioselective synthesis of Rauhut–Currier type products
Authors: Weng Zhibing , Zhou Ying , Yue Xin , Jiang Feng , Guo Wengang
Published: November 2022

Catalytic asymmetric α-regioselective Michael additions of vinylogous α-ketoester enolate are described herein.
A forward reconstruction, holographic method to overcome the lens effect during 3D detection of semi-transparent, non-spherical particles
Authors: Tai Cheng-Wei , Ahmadzadegan Adib , Ardekani Arezoo , Narsimhan Vivek
Published: November 2022

Suspensions of semi-transparent particles such as polystyrene microparticles are commonly used as model systems in the study of micro-rheology, biology, and microfluidics.
Correction: Non-equilibrium shapes and dynamics of active vesicles
Authors: Iyer Priyanka , Gompper Gerhard , Fedosov Dmitry A.
Published: November 2022

Correction for ‘Non-equilibrium shapes and dynamics of active vesicles’ by Priyanka Iyer et al., Soft Matter, 2022, 18, 6868–6881, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SM00622G.
Following carbon condensation by in situ TEM: towards a rational understanding of the processes in the synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbonaceous materials
Authors: Piankova Diana , Kossmann Janina , Zschiesche Hannes , Antonietti Markus , López-Salas Nieves , Tarakina Nadezda V.
Published: November 2022

In situ TEM heating experiments combined with extensive chemical, structural and sorption analysis reveal the nanoscale mechanism of porosity formation in carbonaceous materials obtained directly from molecular precursors.
Enhancing the endogenous triboelectricity of a polylactic acid nanofiber film by controlling the MXene content and distribution
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Tong Wangshu , Liang Ce , Chen Yiyuan , Liu Yulun , Wang Zhihao , Zhang Yihe
Published: November 2022

An endogenous TENG was prepared using a MXene/polylactic acid composite fiber film, and the effects of the filler content and distribution on the triboelectricity generation performance of endogenous TENGs based on the composite fiber film were revealed.
Precise and scalable fabrication of metal pair-site catalysts enabled by intramolecular integrated donor atoms
Authors: Chen Yuqing , Qiao Shanshan , Tang Yanhong , Du Yi , Zhang Danyu , Wang Wenjie , Xie Haijiao , Liu Chengbin
Published: November 2022

Biomass-derived nanocarbons with natural intramolecular N,S frameworks are impressively used to fabricate DACs with pairwise-dual-atoms on a gram-scale for highly efficient oxygen reduction reaction.
Multi-electron/ion conduction channels enabling high-performance flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Zeng Fan , Song Xianyin , Liang Jing , Zhang Xingang , Sha Xuefeng , Wu Xueli , Zhou Hongtao , Liu Zhi , Wu Wei , Jiang Changzhong
Published: November 2022

A 3D porous carbon fiber composited metal oxide and graphene was achieved by simple cotton carbonization and metal–salt thermal decomposition, to construct a multi-electron/ion conduction ink and enable high-performance flexible supercapacitors.
Co, Fe and N co-doped 1D assembly of hollow carbon nanoboxes for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Minjun , Wang Chaohai , Earnshaw Jacob , Park Teahoon , Amirilian Nasim , Ashok Aditya , Na Jongbeom , Han Minsu , Rowan Alan E. , Li Jiansheng , Yi Jin Woo , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: November 2022

In this study, we successfully demonstrate the synthesis of a novel necklace-like Co, Fe, and N co-doped one-dimensional (1D)-assembly of hollow carbon nanoboxes (1D-HCNB-x) and its potential for supercapacitor application.
Green biopolymer-CNT films exhibit high thermoelectric power factor and electrical conductivity for low temperature heat energy harvesting
Authors: Wang Yizhuo , Li Kuncai , Wang Jing , Dai Xu , Sun Xu , Chong Daotong , Yan Junjie , Zhang Liuyang , Wang Hong
Published: November 2022

A biopolymer-carbon nanotube (CNT) composite exhibits a high power factor of >2500 μW m−1 K−2 with a high electrical conductivity of about 7450 S cm−1 at a relatively low CNT concentration.
Polyaniline-decorated porous carbons with engineered meso/macrochannels for high performance capacitive deionization
Authors: Li Bofeng , Cao Qi , Liu Ya , Sun Yukuo , Ma Xinlong , Duan Xiaoguang , Chen Chunmao , Wang Yuxian
Published: November 2022

Polyaniline modified activated carbon shows outstanding capacitive deionization ability because of the synergism between electrical double layer adsorption and pseudocapacitive deionization.
Biomedical polymer scaffolds mimicking bone marrow niches to advance in vitro expansion of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Hong Jing , Zheng Wenlong , Wang Xiaoqiong , Hao Ying , Cheng Guosheng
Published: November 2022

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation provides an effective platform for the treatment of hematological disorders.
How phosphorylation impacts intrinsically disordered proteins and their function
Authors: Newcombe Estella A. , Delaforge Elise , Hartmann-Petersen Rasmus , Skriver Karen , Kragelund Birthe B.
Published: November 2022

Phosphorylation is the most common post-translational modification (PTM) in eukaryotes, occurring particularly frequently in intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). These proteins are highly flexible and dynamic by nature. Thus, it is intriguing that the addition of a single phosphoryl group to a disordered chain can impact its function so dramatically. Furthermore, as many IDPs carry multiple phosphorylation sites, the number of possible states increases, enabling larger complexities and novel mechanisms. Although a chemically simple and well-understood process, the impact of phosphorylation on the conformational ensemble and molecular function of IDPs, not to mention biological output, is highly complex and diverse. Since the discovery of the first phosphorylation site in proteins 75 years ago, we have come to a much better understanding of how this PTM works, but with the diversity of IDPs and their capacity for carrying multiple phosphoryl groups, the complexity grows. In this Essay, we highlight some of the basic effects of IDP phosphorylation, allowing it to serve as starting point when embarking on studies into this topic. We further describe how recent complex cases of multisite phosphorylation of IDPs have been instrumental in widening our view on the effect of protein phosphorylation. Finally, we put forward perspectives on the phosphorylation of IDPs, both in relation to disease and in context of other PTMs; areas where deep insight remains to be uncovered.
The chameleonic behavior of p53 in health and disease: the transition from a client to an aberrant condensate scaffold in cancer
Authors: Marques Mayra A. , de Oliveira Guilherme A.P. , Silva Jerson L.
Published: November 2022

In 1972, the Weber statement, “The multiplicity of interactions and the variety of effects that follow from them show that multimer proteins are unlikely to be limited to a minimal number of allowed conformations,” first addressed the dynamic nature of proteins. This idea serves as a foundation for understanding why several macromolecules, such as p53, exhibit the properties of a molecular chameleon. Functionally competent states comprise a myriad of p53 three-dimensional arrangements depending on the stimuli. For instance, the interaction of p53 with nuclear components could induce liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) and the formation of membraneless organelles. The functional or deleterious role of p53 in liquid droplets is still unclear. Functional aspects display p53 interconverting between droplets and tetramer with its functional abilities maintained. In contrast, the aberrant phase separation is likely to fuel the aggregation path, usually associated with the onset and progression of age-related neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Here, we gathered the most relevant aspects that lead p53 to phase separation and the resulting structural effects, attempting to understand p53’s functional and disease-relevant processes. Aberrant phase separation and aggregation of mutant p53 have become important therapeutic targets against cancer.
Astrocyte strategies in the energy-efficient brain
Authors: Fernández-González Irene , Galea Elena
Published: November 2022

Astrocytes generate ATP through glycolysis and mitochondrion respiration, using glucose, lactate, fatty acids, amino acids, and ketone bodies as metabolic fuels. Astrocytic mitochondria also participate in neuronal redox homeostasis and neurotransmitter recycling. In this essay, we aim to integrate the multifaceted evidence about astrocyte bioenergetics at the cellular and systems levels, with a focus on mitochondrial oxidation. At the cellular level, the use of fatty acid β-oxidation and the existence of molecular switches for the selection of metabolic mode and fuels are examined. At the systems level, we discuss energy audits of astrocytes and how astrocytic Ca2+ signaling might contribute to the higher performance and lower energy consumption of the brain as compared to engineered circuits. We finish by examining the neural-circuit dysregulation and behavior impairment associated with alterations of astrocytic mitochondria. We conclude that astrocytes may contribute to brain energy efficiency by coupling energy, redox, and computational homeostasis in neural circuits.
The Effect of Vocal Hygiene Education Programs on Voice Quality in Professional Voice Users: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vermeulen Rouxjeanne , du Toit Maria , van Lierde Kristiane , van der Linde Jeannie
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

This study aimed to critically appraise recent peer-reviewed scientific evidence on the effect of vocal hygiene education on voice quality and function directly and indirectly measured by auditory-perceptual, acoustic, and self-report measures in professional voice users.

Method:

A systematic review was conducted utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Five databases were searched using the keywords “vocal hygiene,” “vocal hygiene education,” “vocal health,” “vocal quality,” and “voice quality” with Boolean phrases “AND” and “OR.” Twenty-three studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. Scoring was based on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's levels of evidence and quality indicators, as well as the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for assessing the risk of bias.

Results:

Four studies (17%) linked low awareness of vocal hygiene or insufficient vocal hygiene education to self-reported acute and chronic voice symptoms, as well as a greater perception of voice handicap among professional voice users. Numerous studies (
n
= 10; 43%) showed that adequate voice training or vocal hygiene education was linked to positive voice outcomes. Six studies (6.26%), however, demonstrated that vocal hygiene education is more effective when combined with direct voice therapy. When vocal hygiene education is presented in isolation, the superiority of a direct voice therapy approach, with or without vocal hygiene education, is seen over a vocal hygiene education program alone (indirect treatment).

Conclusions:

Recent literature demonstrates mixed results obtained through auditory-perceptual, acoustic, and self-rating measures on the effects of vocal hygiene instruction on vocal quality and function in professional voice users. However, the compelling positive outcomes presented do warrant implementation of vocal hygiene education programs in combination with direct voice therapy for professional voice users.
A Descriptive Study of Speech Breathing in Children With Cerebral Palsy During Two Types of Connected Speech Tasks
Authors: Kovacs Sydney , Darling-White Meghan
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

This study examined speech breathing during two connected speech tasks in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and typically developing (TD) peers. Understanding how the respiratory system supports speech production during various speech tasks can help researchers construct appropriate models of speech production and clinicians remediate speech disorders effectively.

Method:

Four children with CP and four age- and sex-matched TD peers completed two speech tasks, reading and extemporaneous speech. Respiratory kinematic and acoustic data were collected. Dependent variables included utterance length, speech rate, sound pressure level, and lung volume variables.

Results:

Based on descriptive results, children with CP and speech motor involvement demonstrated reduced utterance length and speech rate, equivalent intensity levels, and changes in lung volume variables indicative of respiratory physiological impairment as compared to their TD peers. However, children with CP and no speech motor involvement exhibited speech production and speech breathing variables in the more typical range. In relation to task effects, the majority of children (CP and TD) produced shorter utterances, slower speech rates, equivalent intensity levels, higher lung volume initiation, termination, excursion, higher percent vital capacity per syllable, and longer inspiratory duration during extemporaneous speech as compared to reading.

Conclusions:

Two major themes emerged from the data: (a) Children with CP, particularly those with concomitant speech motor involvement, demonstrate different speech production and speech breathing patterns than their TD peers. (b) Speech task impacts speech production and speech breathing variables in both children with CP and their TD peers, but the extemporaneous speech task did not seem to exaggerate group differences.
INTEGRAL study of MAXI J1535−571, MAXI J1820+070, and MAXI J1348 − 630 outbursts
Authors: Cangemi F. , Rodriguez J. , Belloni T. , Gouiffès C. , Grinberg V. , Laurent P. , Petrucci P.-O. , Wilms J.
Published: November 2022

In black hole X-ray binaries, a nonthermal high-energy component is sometimes detected at energies above 200 keV. The origin of this high-energy component is debated and distinct spectral modelizations can lead to different interpretations. High-energy polarimetry measurements with the INTErnational Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory (INTEGRAL) enable new diagnostics on the physics responsible for the MeV spectral component in black hole X-ray binaries. In this work, we aim to investigate the high-energy behavior of three bright sources discovered by the Monitor of All-sky X-ray Image: MAXI J1535−571, MAXI J1820+070, and MAXI J1348−630. We took advantage of their brightness to investigate their soft γ-ray (0.1–2 MeV) properties with INTEGRAL. We used both spectral and polarimetric approaches to probe their high-energy emission with the aim of bringing new constraints on the MeV emission in black hole X-ray binaries. We first studied the spectral characteristics of the sources in the 3–2000 keV range using JEM-X, IBIS, and SPI, with a semi-phenomenological description of the data. We then used IBIS as a Compton telescope in order to evaluate the polarization properties of the sources above 300 keV. A high-energy component was detected during the hard-intermediate state and soft-intermediate state of MAXI J1535−571, the low-hard state of MAXI J1820+070, and the low-hard state of MAXI J1348−630. The components detected in MAXI J1820+070 and MAXI J1348 − 630 were polarized with a polarization fraction of 26 ± 9° and > 56% in the 300–1000 keV range, respectively. With no polarization information for MAXI J1535−571, the component detected could either come from the jets or the corona. In the case of MAXI J1820+070, the extrapolation of the synchrotron spectrum measured in the infrared indicates that the component is likely due to a nonthermal distribution of electrons from a hybrid corona. For MAXI J1348−630, the high fraction of polarization points toward a jets origin; however, we cannot formally conclude this without any infrared data giving information on the optically thin part of the synchrotron spectrum.
New results on light nuclei, hyperons and hypernuclei from HADES (HADES collaboration)
Authors: Abou Yassine Rayane , Adamczewski-Musch Jörn , Becker Marten , Bergmann Philip , Blanco Alberto , Blume Christoph , Chlad Lukas , Chudoba Petr , Ciepał Izabela , Cordts Malte , Dreyer Jörn , Esmail Waleed Ahmed , Firlej Miroslaw , Fiutowski Tomasz , Floersheimer Henrik , Fonte Paulo , Friese Jürgen , Fröhlich Ingo , Förtsch Jörg , Galatyuk Tetyana , Gniazdowski Tomasz , Greifenhagen Robert , Grunwald Mateusz , Grzonka Dieter , Gumberidze Malgorzata , Harabasz Szymon , Heinz Thorsten , Höhne Claudia , Hojeij Fatima , Holzmann Romain , Huck Holger , Idzik Marek , Kämpfer Burkhard , Kampert Karl-Heinz , Kardan Behruz , Kedych Vadym , Koenig Ilse , Koenig Wolfgang , Kohls Marvin , Kolas Jedrzej , Korcyl Grzegorz , Kornakov Georgy , Kornas Frederic , Kotte Roland , Krueger Wilhelm , Kugler Andrej , Kulessa Pawel , Lalik Rafal , Lebedev Semen , Linev Sergey , Lopes Luís , Lorenz Manuel , Malige Akshay , Markert Jochen , Matulewicz Tomasz , Messchendorp Johan , Metag Volker , Michel Jan , Molenda Aleksandra , Moron Jakub , Müntz Christian , Nabroth Marvin , Naumann Lothar , Orliński Jan , Otto Jan-Hendrik , Parpottas Yannis , Parschau Mirco , Pauly Christian , Pechenov Vladimir , Pechenova Olga , Perez Andrade Gabriela , Pfeifer Dennis , Piasecki Krzysztof , Pietraszko Jerzy , Povar Tetiana , Prozorov Alexandr , Przygoda Witold , Pysz Krzysztof , Ramstein Béatrice , Rathod Narendra , Ritman James , Rost Adrian , Rustamov Anar , Salabura Piotr , Saraiva Joao , Schadmand Susan , Schild Niklas , Schwab Erwin , Seck Florian , Selyuzhenkov Ilya , Singh Udai , Skorpil Leon , Smyrski Jerzy , Sobiella Manfred , Spataro Stefano , Spies Simon , Stefaniak Maria , Ströbele Herbert , Stroth Joachim , Sumara Konrad , Svoboda Ondřej , Swientek Krzysztof , Szala Melanie , Tlusty Pavel , Traxler Michael , Tsertos Haralabos , Wagner Vladimir , Wasiluk Mateusz , Weber Adrian Amatus , Wendisch Christian , Wintz Peter , Zbroszczyk Hanna , Zherebtsova Elizaveta , Zielinski Marcin , Zumbruch Peter
Published: November 2022

In March 2019 the HADES experiment recorded 14 billion Ag+Ag collisions at √sNN = 2.55 GeV as a part of the FAIR phase-0 physics program. In this contribution, we present and investigate our capabilities to reconstruct and analyze weakly decaying strange hadrons and hypernuclei emerging from these collisions. The focus is put on measuring the mean lifetimes of these particles.
Nature of excited 𝚵 baryons with threshold effects
Authors: Nishibuchi Takuma , Hyodo Tetsuo
Published: November 2022

Spectroscopy of excited baryons with strangeness S = −2 is stimulated by recent experimental developments. Here we focus on the Ξ(1620) which locates close to the K̅Λ threshold. To take into account the threshold effects, we construct the coupled-channels meson-baryon scattering amplitude where the Ξ(1620) appears as a resonance. We demonstrate that the K̅Λ threshold effects distort the peak of the Ξ(1620) resonance from the simple Breit-Wigner distribution.
Analysis of coupled-channel potentials with quark and hadron degrees of freedom
Authors: Terashima Ibuki , Hyodo Tetsuo
Published: November 2022

The quark-antiquark potentials are known to be confining in the absence of the q̅q pair creation. On the other hand, the inter-hadron potentials vanish at large distance, because the interaction range is limited by the inverse pion mass. When the q̅q pair creation and annihilation are switched on, the channel coupling occurs between the quark and hadron degrees of freedom, modifying the behavior of potentials. In this work, we investigate the properties of the effective potentials obtained by eliminating one of the channels. We show that the coupling to the eliminated channel induces a non-local and energy dependent effective potential, irrespective of the properties of the transition potential. In addition, when the hadron channel having continuous scattering eigenstates is eliminated, the resulting inter-quark potential contains an imaginary part above the threshold to describe the decay effect into the meson pair.
The J-PARC heavy ion project
Authors: Ozawa Kyoichiro , Aoki Kazuya , Esumi Shin-ichi , Gunji Taku , Hachiya Takashi , Harada Hiroyuki , Ichikawa Yudai , Kitazawa Masakiyo , Miake Yasuo , Morino Yuhei , Nagamiya Shoji , Nara Yasushi , Naruki Megumi , Niida Takafumi , Nonaka Toshihiro , Saito Takehiko R. , Sakaguchi Takao , Sako Hiroyuki , Sato Susumu , Takahashi Hitoshi , Tamura Hirokazu , Tanaka Kazuhiro , Yokkaichi Satoshi
Published: November 2022

A project to study high-density nuclear matter using heavy ion collisions in a beam energy range of few GeV is being prepared at J-PARC. The goal of the project is to perform experiments with beam energies of 1-12 AGeV/c and the collision rate of 1011 Hz. The project is divided into two phases. For the first stage, measurements with a limited beam intensity will be performed with upgraded spectrometer of an on-going experiment. Full performance will be implemented at the second phase to study in detail the high density matter and light hypernuclei. Feasibility of measurements for both phases are being evaluated.
Advanced numerical simulation and modeling for reactor safety – contributions from the CORTEX, McSAFER, and METIS projects
Authors: Demazière Christophe , Sanchez-Espinoza Victor Hugo , Zentner Irmela
Published: November 2022

This paper gives an account of three projects funded by the European Union that heavily rely on numerical modeling and simulations of nuclear reactors: the CORTEX project (CORe monitoring Techniques and EXperimental validation and demonstration), the McSAFER project (High-Performance Advanced Methods and Experimental Investigations for the Safety Evaluation of Generic Small Modular Reactors), and the METIS project (MEthods and Tools Innovations for Seismic risk assessment). The CORTEX project focuses on neutronic simulations, the McSAFER project considers neutronic, thermal-hydraulic, and thermo-mechanic simulations, whereas the METIS project investigates simulations for seismic assessments. Although the projects have different objectives, they present some common features in terms of the complementary modeling approaches used in each project and in terms of verification and validation programs. The main achievements of the projects are presented in the paper covering the technical aspects of the respective projects, training, education, and dissemination activities, as well as utilization and cross-fertilization. All three projects lead to the advancement in nuclear reactor modeling in the above areas, with the development of new simulation capabilities beyond the state-of-the-art.
Serological diagnosis of toxoplasmosis: evaluation of the commercial test recomLine Toxoplasma IgG immunoblot (Mikrogen) based on recombinant antigens
Authors: Jean-Pierre Vincent , Miozzo Julien , Fricker-Hidalgo Hélène , Garnaud Cécile , Robert Marie Gladys , Pelloux Hervé , Brenier-Pinchart Marie-Pierre
Published: November 2022

Background: IgG detection to determine immune status to Toxoplasma gondii infection and seroconversion mainly relies on ELISA techniques and, if necessary, on a confirmatory test, Western blot. This study evaluated the performance of the recomLine Toxoplasma IgG immunoblot (IB-recomLine) (Mikrogen) as a confirmatory test on a large number of sera. A total of 171 sera were selected (113 patients) and had previously been analyzed by two ELISA tests, ARCHITECT (Abbott) and VIDAS (bioMérieux) ± LDBIO-Toxo II IgG Western blot (WB-LDBIO) (LDBio). The sera were classified into three groups: group 1 included 50 sera without difficulty in interpreting the IgG results (patients with documented past infection or uninfected); group 2 included 47 sera with difficulty in interpreting the ELISA results; and group 3 included 74 sequential sera from 25 pregnant women with seroconversion. Results: In group 1, overall IgG agreements were 94% and 90% with ARCHITECT and VIDAS, respectively. In group 2, low agreement was observed between IB-recomLine and WB-LDBIO, with eight false-positive and 13 false-negative results. In group 3, 4/13 seroconversions were detected earlier with IB-recomLine compared to other tests. Conclusions: IB-recomLine allowed for earlier diagnosis of toxoplasmic seroconversion compared to both ELISA tests and WB-LDBIO but led to insufficient performance to confirm the immune status when ELISA results were discordant or equivocal.
De novo transcriptome assembly and identification of G-Protein-Coupled-Receptors (GPCRs) in two species of monogenean parasites of fish
Authors: Caña-Bozada Víctor , Morales-Serna F. Neptalí , Fajer-Ávila Emma J. , Llera-Herrera Raúl
Published: November 2022

Genomic resources for Platyhelminthes of the class Monogenea are scarce, despite the diversity of these parasites, some species of which are highly pathogenic to their fish hosts. This work aimed to generate de novo-assembled transcriptomes of two monogenean species, Scutogyrus longicornis (Dactylogyridae) and Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Diplectanidae), providing a protocol for cDNA library preparation with low input samples used in single cell transcriptomics. This allowed us to work with sub-microgram amounts of total RNA with success. These transcriptomes consist of 25,696 and 47,187 putative proteins, respectively, which were further annotated according to the Swiss-Prot, Pfam, GO, KEGG, and COG databases. The completeness values of these transcriptomes evaluated with BUSCO against Metazoa databases were 54.1% and 73%, respectively, which is in the range of other monogenean species. Among the annotations, a large number of terms related to G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) were found. We identified 109 GPCR-like sequences in R. viridisi, and 102 in S. longicornis, including family members specific for Platyhelminthes. Rhodopsin was the largest family according to GRAFS classification. Two putative melatonin receptors found in S. longicornis represent the first record of this group of proteins in parasitic Platyhelminthes. Forty GPCRs of R. viridisi and 32 of S. longicornis that were absent in Vertebrata might be potential drug targets. The present study provides the first publicly available transcriptomes for monogeneans of the subclass Monopisthocotylea, which can serve as useful genomic datasets for functional genomic research of this important group of parasites.