bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction between dietary total antioxidant capacity and BDNF Val66Met polymorphism on lipid profiles and atherogenic indices among diabetic patients
Authors: Abaj Faezeh , Rafiee Masoumeh , Koohdani Fariba
Published: September 2021

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the “neurotrophin” family of growth factors, and it has recently been associated to cardiovascular disease (CVD). We anticipated that BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms may alter CVD risk markers such as serum lipid profile differences, and interaction with total antioxidant capacity of diet (DTAC) could alter these clinical parameters. This cross-sectional study consisted of 667 diabetic patients (39.7% male and 60.3% female). DTAC was calculated by international databases. Biochemical markers including total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), superoxide dismutase (SOD), C-reactive protein (CRP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), pentraxin-3 (PTX3), isoprostaneF2α (PGF2α). interleukin 18 (IL18), leptin and ghrelin were measured by standard protocol. Atherogenic indices (AIP, AC, CR-I, CR-II) were calculated. Genotyping of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms was conducted by the real-time PCR–RFLP method. The gene-diet interactions were evaluated using a generalized linear mode (GLMs). Carriers of the Val/Met genotype who were in the higher median intake of FRAP had lower HDL (P:0.04) and higher TG (P:0.005), AIP (P:0.02) and AC (P:0.02) index compared to Val/Val genotypes with lower median intake. Moreover, diabetic patients with Val/Met genotype who consumed higher ORAC intake had increased odds for anthropometric indices (BMI (P:0.01) and WC (P:0.03)), lipid profiles (TG) (P:0.01), and atherogenic index (AIP) (P:0.02), also decreased odds for HDL (P:0.03) concentration compared to reference group whit lower ORAC intake. Individuals with Val/Met genotype who consumed higher TRAP intake had increased odds for WC (P:0.04), TC (P:0.001), TG (P < 0.001), AIP (P < 0.001) and AC (P < 0.001). Finally, Val/Met patients with a higher median intake of TEAC had higher TG (P:0.02), AIP (P:0.009) and AC (P:0.03) compared to the reference group whit lower TEAC intake. Our study showed that Val/Met genotype had also the highest lipid profile and atherogenic indices even in the highest adherence to DTAC. While it seems that the presence of the Val/Val wild-type and BDNF Met/Met homozygotes in diabetic patients with a high DTAC is a protective factor.
Investigation of proteins important for microcirculation using in vivo microdialysis after glucose provocation: a proteomic study
Authors: Högstedt Alexandra , Farnebo Simon , Tesselaar Erik , Ghafouri Bijar
Published: September 2021

Insulin has metabolic and vascular effects in the human body. What mechanisms that orchestrate the effects in the microcirculation, and how the responds differ in different tissues, is however not fully understood. It is therefore of interest to search for markers in microdialysate that may be related to the microcirculation. This study aims to identify proteins related to microvascular changes in different tissue compartments after glucose provocation using in vivo microdialysis. Microdialysis was conducted in three different tissue compartments (intracutaneous, subcutaneous and intravenous) from healthy subjects. Microdialysate was collected during three time periods; recovery after catheter insertion, baseline and glucose provocation, and analyzed using proteomics. Altogether, 126 proteins were detected. Multivariate data analysis showed that the differences in protein expression levels during the three time periods, including comparison before and after glucose provocation, were most pronounced in the intracutaneous and subcutaneous compartments. Four proteins with vascular effects were identified (angiotensinogen, kininogen-1, alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein and hemoglobin subunit beta), all upregulated after glucose provocation compared to baseline in all three compartments. Glucose provocation is known to cause insulin-induced vasodilation through the nitric oxide pathway, and this study indicates that this is facilitated through the interactions of the RAS (angiotensinogen) and kallikrein-kinin (kininogen-1) systems.
Development and characterization of a DNA aptamer for MLL-AF9 expressing acute myeloid leukemia cells using whole cell-SELEX
Authors: Earnest Kaylin G. , McConnell Erin M. , Hassan Eman M. , Wunderlich Mark , Hosseinpour Bahareh , Bono Bianca S. , Chee Melissa J. , Mulloy James C. , Willmore William G. , DeRosa Maria C. , Merino Edward J.
Published: September 2021

Current classes of cancer therapeutics have negative side effects stemming from off-target cytotoxicity. One way to avoid this would be to use a drug delivery system decorated with targeting moieties, such as an aptamer, if a targeted aptamer is available. In this study, aptamers were selected against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells expressing the MLL-AF9 oncogene through systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Twelve rounds of SELEX, including two counter selections against fibroblast cells, were completed. Aptamer pools were sequenced, and three candidate sequences were identified. These sequences consisted of two 23-base primer regions flanking a 30-base central domain. Binding studies were performed using flow cytometry, and the lead sequence had a binding constant of 37.5 + / − 2.5 nM to AML cells, while displaying no binding to fibroblast or umbilical cord blood cells at 200 nM. A truncation study of the lead sequence was done using nine shortened sequences, and showed the 5′ primer was not important for binding. The lead sequence was tested against seven AML patient cultures, and five cultures showed binding at 200 nM. In summary, a DNA aptamer specific to AML cells was developed and characterized for future drug-aptamer conjugates.
An enhanced variant effect predictor based on a deep generative model and the Born-Again Networks
Authors: Kim Ha Young , Jeon Woosung , Kim Dongsup
Published: September 2021

The development of an accurate and reliable variant effect prediction tool is important for research in human genetic diseases. A large number of predictors have been developed towards this goal, yet many of these predictors suffer from the problem of data circularity. Here we present MTBAN (Mutation effect predictor using the Temporal convolutional network and the Born-Again Networks), a method for predicting the deleteriousness of variants. We apply a form of knowledge distillation technique known as the Born-Again Networks (BAN) to a previously developed deep autoregressive generative model, mutationTCN, to achieve an improved performance in variant effect prediction. As the model is fully unsupervised and trained only on the evolutionarily related sequences of a protein, it does not suffer from the problem of data circularity which is common across supervised predictors. When evaluated on a test dataset consisting of deleterious and benign human protein variants, MTBAN shows an outstanding predictive ability compared to other well-known variant effect predictors. We also offer a user-friendly web server to predict variant effects using MTBAN, freely accessible at http://mtban.kaist.ac.kr. To our knowledge, MTBAN is the first variant effect prediction tool based on a deep generative model that provides a user-friendly web server for the prediction of deleteriousness of variants.
Automatic segmentation tool for 3D digital rocks by deep learning
Authors: Phan Johan , Ruspini Leonardo C. , Lindseth Frank
Published: September 2021

Obtaining an accurate segmentation of images obtained by computed microtomography (micro-CT) techniques is a non-trivial process due to the wide range of noise types and artifacts present in these images. Current methodologies are often time-consuming, sensitive to noise and artifacts, and require skilled people to give accurate results. Motivated by the rapid advancement of deep learning-based segmentation techniques in recent years, we have developed a tool that aims to fully automate the segmentation process in one step, without the need for any extra image processing steps such as noise filtering or artifact removal. To get a general model, we train our network using a dataset made of high-quality three-dimensional micro-CT images from different scanners, rock types, and resolutions. In addition, we use a domain-specific augmented training pipeline with various types of noise, synthetic artifacts, and image transformation/distortion. For validation, we use a synthetic dataset to measure accuracy and analyze noise/artifact sensitivity. The results show a robust and accurate segmentation performance for the most common types of noises present in real micro-CT images. We also compared the segmentation of our method and five expert users, using commercial and open software packages on real rock images. We found that most of the current tools fail to reduce the impact of local and global noises and artifacts. We quantified the variation on human-assisted segmentation results in terms of physical properties and observed a large variation. In comparison, the new method is more robust to local noises and artifacts, outperforming the human segmentation and giving consistent results. Finally, we compared the porosity of our model segmented images with experimental porosity measured in the laboratory for ten different untrained samples, finding very encouraging results.
Mechanical mapping of mammalian follicle development using Brillouin microscopy
Authors: Chan Chii Jou , Bevilacqua Carlo , Prevedel Robert
Published: September 2021

In early mammalian development, the maturation of follicles containing the immature oocytes is an important biological process as the functional oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. Despite recent work demonstrating the regulatory role of mechanical stress in oocyte growth, quantitative studies of ovarian mechanical properties remain lacking both in vivo and ex vivo. In this work, we quantify the material properties of ooplasm, follicles and connective tissues in intact mouse ovaries at distinct stages of follicle development using Brillouin microscopy, a non-invasive tool to probe mechanics in three-dimensional (3D) tissues. We find that the ovarian cortex and its interior stroma have distinct material properties associated with extracellular matrix deposition, and that intra-follicular mechanical compartments emerge during follicle maturation. Our work provides an alternative approach to study the role of mechanics in follicle morphogenesis and might pave the way for future understanding of mechanotransduction in reproductive biology, with potential implications for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
Diet-induced alteration of intestinal stem cell function underlies obesity and prediabetes in mice
Authors: Aliluev Alexandra , Tritschler Sophie , Sterr Michael , Oppenländer Lena , Hinterdobler Julia , Greisle Tobias , Irmler Martin , Beckers Johannes , Sun Na , Walch Axel , Stemmer Kerstin , Kindt Alida , Krumsiek Jan , Tschöp Matthias H. , Luecken Malte D. , Theis Fabian J. , Lickert Heiko , Böttcher Anika
Published: September 2021

Excess nutrient uptake and altered hormone secretion in the gut contribute to a systemic energy imbalance, which causes obesity and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and colorectal cancer. This functional maladaptation is thought to emerge at the level of the intestinal stem cells (ISCs). However, it is not clear how an obesogenic diet affects ISC identity and fate. Here we show that an obesogenic diet induces ISC and progenitor hyperproliferation, enhances ISC differentiation and cell turnover and changes the regional identities of ISCs and enterocytes in mice. Single-cell resolution of the enteroendocrine lineage reveals an increase in progenitors and peptidergic enteroendocrine cell types and a decrease in serotonergic enteroendocrine cell types. Mechanistically, we link increased fatty acid synthesis, Ppar signaling and the Insr–Igf1r–Akt pathway to mucosal changes. This study describes molecular mechanisms of diet-induced intestinal maladaptation that promote obesity and therefore underlie the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome and associated complications.
Dual-targeting SERS-encoded graphene oxide nanocarrier for intracellular co-delivery of doxorubicin and 9-aminoacridine with enhanced combination therapy
Authors: Chen Hui , Xing Longqiang , Guo Huiru , Luo Caixia , Zhang Xuedian
Published: September 2021

A multifunctional nanocarrier based on SERS traceable and dual-targeted graphene oxide for the dual-drug delivery with enhanced combinational therapy.
Effects of amino acid additives on protein solubility – insights from desorption and direct electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Javanshad Roshan , Venter Andre R.
Published: September 2021

Protein dissolution is aided by the destabilizing neutral crowding additive, l-serine, as established by DESI-MS.
Biomimetic self-assembly of lipase-zeolitic imidazolate frameworks with enhanced biosensing of protox inhibiting herbicides
Authors: Cheng Chuanchuan , Shen Cai , Lai Oi-Ming , Tan Chin-Ping , Cheong Ling-Zhi
Published: September 2021

Protox inhibiting herbicides such as nitrofen have detrimental effects on the environment and human health.
New insights into Li distribution in the superionic argyrodite Li6PS5Cl
Authors: Zhao Enyue , He Lunhua , Zhang Zhigang , Doux Jean-Marie , Tan Darren H. S. , Wu Erik A. , Deysher Grayson , Chen Yu-Ting , Zhao Jinkui , Wang Fangwei , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: September 2021

A previously unreported Li lattice site was discovered in the argyrodite solid-state electrolyte, completing the Li diffusion model in argyrodites.
Microscale purification in support of high-throughput medicinal chemistry
Authors: Barhate Chandan L. , Donnell Andrew F. , Davies Merrill , Li Ling , Zhang Yong , Yang Fukang , Black Regina , Zipp Greg , Zhang Yingru , Cavallaro Cullen L. , Priestley E. Scott , Weller Harold N.
Published: September 2021

High-throughput purification workflow in support of microscale (1–5 μmol or 0.5–2 mg) library synthesis.
Bio-inspired dynamic biomolecule assembling for fine regulation of protein activity
Authors: Wang Wenxiao , Shen Yu , Wang Fuan , Liu Ying , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: September 2021

A versatile approach for the fine control of DNA-based hierarchical assembly. Moreover, by a reasonable design of thrombin aptamer structures on the nanoassembly, it can achieve precise regulation of thrombin activity.
Site-selective lysine conjugation methods and applications towards antibody–drug conjugates
Authors: Haque Muhammed , Forte Nafsika , Baker James R.
Published: September 2021

In this feature article we discuss developments in site-selective lysine modification methodologies and their application towards the synthesis of antibody–drug conjugates; including our recent work on a cysteine-to-lysine transfer (CLT) protocol.
Stable Zr-UiO-67 constructed through polymeric network assisted post-synthetic modification and its wettability modulation
Authors: Du Jingcheng , Chen Li , Zhou Cailong , Zhou Wei , Shen Huizhen , Zeng Xinjuan , Zhou Peizhang , Tan Luxi , Dong Lichun
Published: September 2021

Stable Zr-UiO-67 is prepared by introducing a fluorine-containing layer on its surface through a polymeric network assisted post-synthetic modification (PSM) strategy.
Azulene-based fluorescent chemosensor for adenosine diphosphate
Authors: López-Alled Carlos M. , Park Sang Jun , Lee Dong Joon , Murfin Lloyd C. , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Hann Jodie L. , Wenk Jannis , James Tony D. , Kim Hwan Myung , Lewis Simon E.
Published: September 2021

AzuFluor® 435-DPA-Zn, an azulene fluorophore bearing two zinc(ii)-dipicolylamine receptor motifs, exhibits fluorescence enhancement in the presence of adenosine diphosphate.
Stable cross-linked lyotropic gyroid mesophases from single-head/single-tail cross-linkable monomers
Authors: Imran Omar Q. , Li Patrick , Kim Na Kyung , Gin Douglas L. , Osuji Chinedum O.
Published: September 2021

A simplified design for intrinsically cross-linkable gyroid-forming mesogens is introduced for the fabrication of solvent-resistant nanoporous membranes.
C–H bond functionalization by high-valent cobalt catalysis: current progress, challenges and future perspectives
Authors: Lukasevics Lukass , Cizikovs Aleksandrs , Grigorjeva Liene
Published: September 2021

Over the last decade, high-valent cobalt catalysis has earned a place in the spotlight as a valuable tool for C–H activation and functionalization.
A narrowband blue circularly polarized thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitter with a hetero-helicene structure
Authors: Yang Sheng-Yi , Zou Sheng-Nan , Kong Fan-Cheng , Liao Xiang-Ji , Qu Yang-Kun , Feng Zi-Qi , Zheng You-Xuan , Jiang Zuo-Quan , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: September 2021

A narrowband blue CP-TADF emitter with a rigid hetero-helicene structure (QAO-PhCz) was synthesized and characterized.
Long-lived localised singlet diradicaloids with carbon–carbon π-single bonding (C–π–C)
Authors: Wang Zhe , Yadav Pinky , Abe Manabu
Published: September 2021

Extremely long-lived localised singlet cyclopentane-1,3-diyl diradicaloids with the carbon–carbon π-single bonding has been achieved by the kinetic stabilisation using “stretch effect” and “solvent dynamic effect”.
Synthesis of spirosuccinimides via annulative cyclization between N-aryl indazolols and maleimides under rhodium(iii) catalysis
Authors: Kang Ju Young , An Won , Kim Suho , Kwon Na Yeon , Jeong Taejoo , Ghosh Prithwish , Kim Hyung Sik , Mishra Neeraj Kumar , Kim In Su
Published: September 2021

The rhodium(iii)-catalyzed spiroannulation reaction between N-aryl indazolols and maleimides is described herein. The developed method is showcased by the spirocyclization with bioactive molecule-linked and chemical probe-linked maleimides.
Construction of an isoquinolinone framework from carboxylic-ester-directed umpolung ring opening of methylenecyclopropanes
Authors: Wei Hao-Zhao , Wei Yin , Shi Min
Published: September 2021

A novel carboxylic ester directed umpolung ring opening of functionalized methylenecyclopropanes (MCPs) leading to the rapid construction of isoquinolinone framework.
Stereodivergent silver-catalyzed synthesis of pyroglutamic acid esters
Authors: Kim Byungjun , Song Yuna , Lee Sarah Yunmi
Published: September 2021

A silver-catalyzed method for the enantio- and diastereodivergent synthesis of chiral pyroglutamic acid esters containing multiple stereocenters has been developed through stereospecific 1,4-addition followed by lactamization.
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as host materials for the enhanced delivery of biomacromolecular therapeutics
Authors: Tong Pei-Hong , Zhu Ling , Zang Yi , Li Jia , He Xiao-Peng , James Tony D.
Published: September 2021

We summarize recent progress in the enhanced delivery of biomacromolecular therapeutics for disease treatment using metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as host materials.
Isonicotinic acid-templated metal phosphate–oxalates: solvent-free synthesis, luminescence, and proton conduction
Authors: Huang Lijuan , Xu Haiping , Zhao Yan , Huang Ling , Bi Jian , Zeng Hongmei , Zou Guohong , Gao Daojiang , Lin Zhien
Published: September 2021

Two new layered metal phosphate–oxalates were prepared under solvent-free conditions using isonicotinic acid as a structure-directing agent, which show interesting photoluminescence and proton-conducting properties.
Cation exchange in a fluorescent zinc-based metal–organic framework for cadmium ion detection
Authors: Chen Mao-Long , Qi Zhen-Li , Jin Wan-Ting , Xu Zhou , Cheng Yun-Hui , Zhou Zhao-Hui
Published: September 2021

A Zn metal–organic framework with a large aperture shows remarkable fluorescence characteristics for the detection of cadmium ions in aqueous solution and can adsorb CO2 and O2 selectively.
Crystalline Cu(ii) metal–organic frameworks based on a carboxamide pincer ligand and an NCONCON–Pd(ii) pincer complex
Authors: Malaza Siphelele S. P. , Mehlana Gift , Cheung Ocean , Hunter Roger , Makhubela Banothile C. E.
Published: September 2021

Two copper MOFs based on carboxamide linkers are presented. This work shows how organometallic complexes with carboxylate functionalities can be repurposed to produce crystalline MOFs which can be used in carbon dioxide conversion.
Photo-control of bimolecular reactions: reactivity of the long-lived Rhodamine 6G triplet excited state with ˙NO
Authors: MacAleese Luke , Chan Bun , Bouakil Mathilde , Dugourd Philippe , O’Hair Richard A. J.
Published: September 2021

Step-by-step photo-chemical mechanisms are becoming experimentally observable in extremely dilute environments as found in ion trap mass spectrometers where long lived excited species may react with controlled pressures of neutral reagents.
Phenolic compounds alter the ion permeability of phospholipid bilayersviaspecific lipid interactions
Authors: Hossain Sheikh I. , Saha Suvash C. , Deplazes Evelyne
Published: September 2021

How phenolic compounds interact with biological membranes and alter the menbrane properties.
Potential thermoelectric materials: first-principles prediction of low lattice thermal conductivity of two-dimensional (2D) orthogonal ScX2 (X = C and N) compounds
Authors: Bi Shipeng , Sun Zhehao , Yuan Kunpeng , Chang Zheng , Zhang Xiaoliang , Gao Yufei , Tang Dawei
Published: September 2021

Single-layer o-ScC2 and o-ScN2 express extremely low lattice TCs, and o-ScN2 expresses lower TC comparing with o-ScC2 in the Y direction. Both of the two materials show significant anisotropy.
Small molecule based fluorescent chemosensors for imaging the microenvironment within specific cellular regions
Authors: Yin Junling , Huang Ling , Wu Luling , Li Jiangfeng , James Tony D. , Lin Weiying
Published: September 2021

This review comprehensively summarizes and highlights recent progresses in the design and application of small molecule based fluorescent probes for sensing and imaging the microenvironment within specific cellular regions since 2015.
Electronic structures and spectroscopic signatures of diiron intermediates generated by O2 activation of nonheme iron(ii)–thiolate complexes
Authors: Ekanayake Danushka M. , Pham Dao , Probst Andrew L. , Miller Joshua R. , Popescu Codrina V. , Fiedler Adam T.
Published: September 2021

Spectroscopic and computational methods are employed to elucidate the geometric and electronic structures of diiron intermediates arising from the reaction of biomimetic nonheme iron–thiolate complexes with O2.
17% efficiency all-small-molecule organic solar cells enabled by nanoscale phase separation with a hierarchical branched structure
Authors: Qin Jinzhao , Chen Zhihao , Bi Pengqing , Yang Yang , Zhang Jianqi , Huang Ziyun , Wei Zhixiang , An Cunbin , Yao Huifeng , Hao Xiaotao , Zhang Tao , Cui Yong , Hong Ling , Liu Chenyu , Zu Yunfei , He Chang , Hou Jianhui
Published: September 2021

By constructing a ternary cell with a B1:BO-2Cl:BO-4Cl donor:acceptors combination, an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 17.0% (certified to be 16.9%) has been realized for all-small-molecule organic solar cells (ASM-OSCs).
Allicin, a dietary trpa1 agonist, prevents high fat diet-induced dysregulation of gut hormones and associated complications
Authors: Khare Pragyanshu , Mahajan Neha , Singh Dhirendra Pratap , Kumar Vibhu , Kumar Vijay , Mangal Priyanka , Boparai Ravneet K. , Gesing Adam , Bhadada Sanjay K. , Sharma Shyam S. , Kondepudi Kanthikiran , Chopra Kanwaljit , Bishnoi Mahendra
Published: September 2021

Our experiments have found a significant role for gut hormones and alterations in their release patterns as central to HFD-induced complications which might be successfully prevented by TRPA1 activation through TRPA1 agonist ARGJ.
Hyphaene thebaica(doum)-derived extract alleviates hyperglycemia in diabetic rats: a comprehensivein silico,in vitroandin vivostudy
Authors: Shady Nourhan Hisham , Hassan Heba Ali , Elrehany Mahmoud A. , Kamel Mohamed Salah , Ali Saber Entesar , Maher Sherif A. , Abo-Elsoud Fatma A. , Sayed Ahmed M. , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Gaber Shereen S.
Published: September 2021

In the present study, we investigated the hypoglycemic effect of different extracts (i.e.organic and aqueous) derived from the fruits ofHyphaene thebaica(doum) on male streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
In situ XRF study of black colouring matter of the Palaeolithic figures in the Font-de-Gaume cave
Authors: Trosseau Antoine , Maigret Anne , Coquinot Yvan , Reiche Ina
Published: September 2021

After the discovery of Font-de-Gaume's prehistoric rock art in 1902, first non-invasive in situ X-ray fluorescence analyses reveal the complex chemistry of atleast three types of black manganese oxide-based colouring matter.
Time-absorbance profile ratio background correction: introducing TAP to correct for spectral overlap in high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Nakadi Flávio V. , García-Poyo M. Carmen , Pécheyran Christophe , Resano Martín
Published: September 2021

A new method to correct for spectral overlap when using HR CS GFAAS is proposed.
CMOS back-end compatible memristors for in situ digital and neuromorphic computing applications
Authors: He Zhen-Yu , Wang Tian-Yu , Meng Jia-Lin , Zhu Hao , Ji Li , Sun Qing-Qing , Chen Lin , Zhang David Wei
Published: September 2021

A CMOS back-end compatible memristor for multifunctional applications is proposed, which can perform in situ digital logic memory calculations and brain-inspired analog neuromorphic calculation functions simultaneously.
Adsorption of Cu(ii) from solution by modified magnetic starch St/Fe3O4-g-p(AA-r-HEMA)
Authors: Hou Chengmin , Ma Hanxiao , Cao Congjun , Ding Xiaojian , Duan Jingting
Published: September 2021

Magnetic starch was prepared, and then AA and HEMA were grafted on its surface to obtain St/Fe3O4-g-p(AA-r-HEMA) for the adsorption of Cu(ii).
A hydrolysis synthesis route for (001)/(102) coexposed BiOCl nanosheets with high visible light-driven catalytic performance
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Zhao Wei , Xiong Dezhi , Ye Yao , Li Shibo , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2021

The (001)/(102) co-exposed BiOCl nanosheet shows good adsorption of cationic dyes and high visible light-driven catalytic performance.
Insight into the adsorption of Cr(vi) on functionalized carboxymethyl cellulose-based sponge via experimental and theoretical calculations
Authors: Zhang Shengli , Pei Yanbo , Li Menglin , Li Wei , Su Kai , Chen Junmin , Yang Hongwei
Published: September 2021

PEI–PAM–CM with a sponge-like structure can effectively remove Cr(vi) at low concentration by electrostatic attraction and chemical binding.
In-depth atomic force microscopy investigation of nanoscale mechanical properties of Pāua nacre
Authors: Nguyen Cam-Phu Thi , Schoenherr Peggy , Juli Lyman , Seidel Jan
Published: September 2021

An in-depth atomic force microscopy (AFM) study investigating the mechanical properties of nacre from a Pāua abalone shell. Comparing three different AFM modes allows for the extraction of comparable and quantitative results on the nanoscale.
Quantitative analysis of weak current rectification in molecular tunnel junctions subject to mechanical deformation reveals two different rectification mechanisms for oligophenylene thiolsversusalkane thiols
Authors: Xie Zuoti , Bâldea Ioan , Nguyen Quyen Van , Frisbie C. Daniel
Published: September 2021

Despite similar chemical asymmetry, molecular junctions based on alkane thiols (CnT) and oligophenylene thiols (OPTn) exhibit opposite current rectification and different behavior under mechanical deformation.
Multifunctional superparamagnetic nanoparticles with a fluorescent silica shell for the in vitro study of bio-nano interactions at the subcellular scale
Authors: Cursi Lorenzo , Vercellino Silvia , McCafferty Mura M. , Sheridan Emily , Petseva Vanya , Adumeau Laurent , Dawson Kenneth A.
Published: September 2021

A multifunctional nanoparticle was developed to study the bio-nano interactions at the subcellular scale by combining a fluorescent silica shell suitable for microscopy and a superparamagnetic multicore for the extraction of cellular content.
Phosphatidylcholine-mediated regulation of growth kinetics for colloidal synthesis of cesium tin halide nanocrystals
Authors: Wang Lu-Ming , Chen Jia-Kai , Zhang Bin-Bin , Liu Qi , Zhou Yang , Shu Jie , Wang Zuoshan , Shirahata Naoto , Song Bo , Mohammed Omar F. , Bakr Osman M. , Sun Hong-Tao
Published: September 2021

A general and low-cost synthetic approach has been developed for producing colloidal CsSnX3 perovskite NCs.
Water biocatalytic effect attenuates cytochrome P450-mediated carcinogenicity of diethylnitrosamine: A computational insight
Authors: Kamel Emadeldin M. , Lamsabhi Al Mokhtar
Published: September 2021

The mechanism-based mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of diethylnitrosamine (DEN) are believed to act through interactions with cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes.
Benzophenones and synthetic progestin in wastewater and sediment from farms, WWTPs and receiving surface water: distribution, sources, and ecological risks
Authors: Wang Siqi , Huo Zhuhao , Gu Jianzhong , Xu Gang
Published: September 2021

The occurrence, source and ecological risk of BPs and synthetic progestin in farms, WWTPs and their receiving river were investigated.
Electrospun cationic nanofiber membranes for adsorption and determination of Cr(vi) in aqueous solution: adsorption characteristics and discoloration mechanisms
Authors: Fang Run , Shiu Bing-Chiuan , Ye Yuansong , Zhang Yuchi , Xue Hanyu , Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: September 2021

Cationic nanofiber membranes are prepared by electrospinning mixed aqueous solution of a cationic polycondensate (CP) and PVA. Apart from being a highly efficient Cr(vi) adsorbent, it can also serve as a convenient method for Cr(vi) determination.
Photochemistry of P,N-bidentate rhenium(i) tricarbonyl complexes: reactive species generation and potential application for antibacterial photodynamic therapy
Authors: Acosta Alison , Antipán Javier , Fernández Mariano , Prado Gaspar , Sandoval-Altamirano Catalina , Günther Germán , Gutiérrez-Urrutia Izabook , Poblete-Castro Ignacio , Vega Andrés , Pizarro Nancy
Published: September 2021

Three P,N-rhenium tricarbonyl complexes exhibited photoisomerization upon irradiation at 365 nm, and no CO release was detected. The antibacterial activity is attributed to their singlet oxygen generation, following the same decreasing order: RePNBr > RePNTfO > RePNNBr.
Heterostructure of vanadium pentoxide and mesoporous SBA-15 derived from natural halloysite for highly efficient photocatalytic oxidative desulphurisation
Authors: Nguyen Manh B. , Pham Xuan Nui , Doan Huan V.
Published: September 2021

New and robust catalysts made from natural minerals that can operate in sunlight to produce fuel oils with ultra-low-sulphur content.
Ni1−2xMoxSe nanowires@ammonium nickel phosphate–MoOx heterostructures as a high performance electrocatalyst for water splitting
Authors: Zhang Pianpian , Gong Leibo , Tan Yiwei
Published: September 2021

Bifunctional Ni1−2xMoxSe@NH4NiPO4·6H2O–MoOx/NF electrodes with dual active sites efficiently promote both the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions towards alkaline water splitting and require a low cell voltage of 1.49 V to reach 10 mA cm−2.
Glutathione sensitive vesicles prepared from supramolecular amphiphiles
Authors: Mobley Emily B. , Byrd Natalie , Yim Matthew G. , Gariepy Rachel , Rieder Maya , Ward Sandra
Published: September 2021

Novel glutathione sensitive vesicle nanocarriers formed from supramolecular amphiphiles degrade via a thiol–disulfide exchange at the vesicle surface.
PEPT1 is essential for the growth of pancreatic cancer cells: a viable drug target
Authors: Schniers Bradley K. , Rajasekaran Devaraja , Korac Ksenija , Sniegowski Tyler , Ganapathy Vadivel , Bhutia Yangzom D.
Published: September 2021

PEPT1 is a proton-coupled peptide transporter that is up-regulated in PDAC cell lines and PDXs, with little expression in the normal pancreas. However, the relevance of this up-regulation to cancer progression and the mechanism of up-regulation have not been investigated. Herein, we show that PEPT1 is not just up-regulated in a large panel of PDAC cell lines and PDXs but is also functional and transport-competent. PEPT2, another proton-coupled peptide transporter, is also overexpressed in PDAC cell lines and PDXs, but is not functional due to its intracellular localization. Using glibenclamide as a pharmacological inhibitor of PEPT1, we demonstrate in cell lines in vitro and mouse xenografts in vivo that inhibition of PEPT1 reduces the proliferation of the cancer cells. These findings are supported by genetic knockdown of PEPT1 with shRNA, wherein the absence of the transporter significantly attenuates the growth of cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that PEPT1 is critical for the survival of cancer cells. We also establish that the tumor-derived lactic acid (Warburg effect) in the tumor microenvironment supports the transport function of PEPT1 in the maintenance of amino acid nutrition in cancer cells by inducing MMPs and DPPIV to generate peptide substrates for PEPT1 and by generating a H+ gradient across the plasma membrane to energize PEPT1. Taken collectively, these studies demonstrate a functional link between PEPT1 and extracellular protein breakdown in the tumor microenvironment as a key determinant of pancreatic cancer growth, thus identifying PEPT1 as a potential therapeutic target for PDAC.
Energy management for data centre microgrids considering co‐optimisation of workloads and waste heat
Authors: Tian Ming , Zhang Haifeng , Wu Hongyu
Published: September 2021

The high energy consumption of data centres (DCs) has recently become a significant problem with the rapid development of DCs worldwide. This work studies the daily energy management of a data centre microgrid (DCM). The energy management problem is formulated as a two‐stage stochastic mixed‐integer linear programing (MILP) model that accounts for workload schedules, cooling resources, uncertainties of onsite renewable generation, and electricity price. An energy management scheme that co‐optimises workloads and waste heat is proposed to minimise the operating cost. Furthermore, the potential for waste heat recovery and reuse is also considered. The simulation results illustrate that the proposed model can reduce the operating cost of DCM by the co‐optimisation of workloads and waste heat while meeting the temperature requirements for server clusters.
Using the phase inversion method and loudness comparisons for the evaluation of noise reduction algorithms in hearing aids
Authors: Husstedt Hendrik , Kreyenhagen Jannine , Langhof Laura , Kreikemeier Steffen , Denk Florian , Wollermann Simone , Frenz Marlitt
Published: September 2021

The phase inversion method, a technical measurement procedure, is often used to evaluate the performance of noise reduction algorithms in hearing aids. However, a detailed comparison of these technical measurements with the perceived loudness is missing. Therefore, commercially available hearing aids of six different manufacturers were evaluated technically and in a study with 18 normal-hearing listeners. First, the output signals of the hearing aids with and without activated noise reduction were recorded in a test box. Then, the test subjects evaluated the perceived loudness of these recordings within multiple two alternative forced choice (2-AFC) tasks. During one task, the test subjects had to focus either on the speech or noise signal and were asked to select the louder of two signals, which both contained a mixture of speech and noise. These results provide not only the perceived SNR but also the perceived speech and noise levels. Comparing the results of the 2-AFC tasks and the phase inversion method basically shows good agreement. Nevertheless, a simple computation of the sound pressure level can lead to significant deviations. Therefore, another possibility for the analysis of the results of the phase inversion method to better match the perceived loudness is presented.
Cenozoic mountain building and topographic evolution in Western Europe: impact of billions of years of lithosphere evolution and plate kinematics
Authors: Mouthereau Frédéric , Angrand Paul , Jourdon Anthony , Ternois Sébastien , Fillon Charlotte , Calassou Sylvain , Chevrot Sébastien , Ford Mary , Jolivet Laurent , Manatschal Gianreto , Masini Emmanuel , Thinon Isabelle , Vidal Olivier , Baudin Thierry
Published: September 2021

The architecture and tectono-magmatic evolution of the lithosphere of Europe are the result of a succession of subduction, rifting and inputs from plumes that have modified the lithospheric mantle since the Neoproterozoic (750–500 Ma). These events gave birth to contrasting crust-mantle and lithosphere-asthenosphere mechanical coupling between strong, viscous, thick, cold, depleted mantle of the Archean lithosphere of the West African Craton and the East European Craton, and the weak, low viscous, thin, hot and less depleted mantle of the Phanerozoic lithosphere of Central Europe. These differences were long-lived and explain the first-order present-day stresses and topography as well as the styles of orogenic deformation. The lack of thermal relaxation needed to maintain rheological contrasts over several hundreds of millions of years requires high mantle heat flux below Central Europe since at least the last 300 Ma. A combination of edge-driven convection on craton margins and asthenospheric flow triggered by rift propagation during the Atlantic and Tethys rifting is suggested to be the main source of heat. The topography of Central Europe remained in part dynamically supported during most of the Mesozoic thinning in line with the long-term stability of thermal-mechanical structure of the lithosphere. Timing and rates of exhumation recorded across Western Europe during convergence indicate that an additional control by the architecture of Mesozoic rifted margins is required. By 50 Ma the acceleration of orogenic exhumation, from the High Atlas to the Pyrenees, occurred synchronously with the onset of extension and magmatism in the West European Rift. Extension marks the onset of distinct orogenic evolution between Western Europe (Iberia) and the Alps (Adria) in the east, heralding the opening of the Western Mediterranean. A major kinematic re-organisation occurred triggering the involvement of more buoyant and thicker portions of rifted margins resulting in widespread orogenic growth. We conclude that conceptual models of collision require to better account for the thermo-magmatic evolution of the continental lithosphere, especially the original architecture and composition of its mantle, as well as the precise knowledge of the architecture of the rifted margins to explain the timing and rates of orogenic topography.
The Sustainability of Online Concert and Live Concert
Authors: Fan Yi , Ouyang Sibo , Zhang Baoxin , Wang Wenmin
Published: September 2021

As environmental awareness grows, the world is increasingly focused on living a low-carbon, energy-sustainable lifestyle. At the same time, with the global outbreak of the COVID-19 in 2020, online concerts are growing rapidly to maintain social distance between people and keep isolated lives rich. Therefore, in this survey, we focus on the online music scene, which has flourished during the epidemic, and compares various indicators to find out which of the two forms of music, online or offline, is more sustainable. The article will use questionnaires, literature surveys, and three indicators - carbon footprint, water footprint, and economy -to discuss how much energy is consumed by both online and offline concerts. The energy consumption of a single person at an online concert is less than that of an offline concert. This research study will demonstrate to society the superiority of online concerts in terms of sustainability through a scientific and rigorous approach, which will be beneficial to reducing global energy consumption.
Atomically Dispersed M-N-C Catalysts in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: Recent Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Kong Haoran , Liu Jiarong , Yue Yu
Published: September 2021

The selection of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts plays a key role in enhancing the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). To optimize the energy conversion technology in PEMFCs and improve the cost-effectiveness of ORR catalysts, atomically dispersed metal-nitrogen-carbon (M-N-C) catalyst is regarded as one of the most promising materials to replace Pt-based catalysts. In this review, we summarize the advantages of atomically dispersed M-N-C catalysts in both physical and chemical properties, including controllable dimensions, ease of accessibility, high surface area and excellent conductivity. Additionally, the unique merits of their cost-effectiveness are also described by a concise comparison with other ORR catalysts. Subsequently, some of its main synthesis methods are based on the most commonly used zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) precursor. Several other precursors involve carbon, nitrogen, and one or more active transition metals (mainly iron or cobalt) are introduced briefly. Although there are a variety of synthesis methods, all these methods are in line with pyrolysis technology. Then, the recent advancements of atomically dispersed M-N-C catalysts related to their development and application of Fe-N-C, Mn-N-C, and Co-N-C catalysts are comprehensively described. Finally, based on some common M-N-C catalysts, many improvement ideas are also proposed. The focus is on how to control the negative reaction in Fe-N-C catalysts, improve the activity of Co-N-C catalysts and Mn-N-C catalysts, and find more suitable transition metal materials to prepare M-N-C catalysts.
The Strategy of Hospital Wastewater Treatment to Reduce the Risk of Virus Transmission and Environmental Pollution under COVID-19 based on Big Data
Authors: Huang Qianhui , Liu Peilin , Xie Jiangwei
Published: September 2021

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is sweeping the world starting in 2019. According to the analysis based on big data technology, the wastewater generated by hospitals hosting SARS-CoV-2 infected patients is complex in origin and composition, and contains a large number of pathogenic microorganisms and drugs, etc. Without effective treatment, it will become an important pathway for the spread of the epidemic and a source of environmental pollution, so wastewater treatment processes more effective for degrading organic matter and inactivating viruses are required. This paper investigates the improvement measures adopted for hospital wastewater treatment systems in response to COVID-19. For instance, reinforced septic tanks and fine grilles with smaller grids were used for wastewater treatment. Besides, the Moving-bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) process and the flocculation slant plate process were widely used for biochemical treatment and sedimentation processes. It is critical to increase the dosage of disinfectant since coronaviruses can be transmitted through water bodies and pose a threat to the environment and human health. Finally, a high-temperature anaerobic digestion and incineration disposal scheme can effectively inactivate sludge pathogenic bacteria and viruses for sludge generated from hospital wastewater treatment. In addition, we propose recommendations for the shortcomings and risks in this treatment system, which are important for improving the efficiency of medical wastewater containing the SARS-CoV-2 virus and stopping further virus transmission.
Research on the Influence of the Distribution Pattern of Building Clusters in Coastal Areas on Wind Environment -Focused on Busan area in Korea
Authors: Huimin Yang , Shuwen Zhao , Chulsoo Kim
Published: September 2021

With the development of urbanization, the heat island phenomenon has led to further deterioration of the urban thermal environment, resulting in wind environment differences. To study the thermal environment of the city, this paper takes the Busan area in South Korea as the research object and analyzes the connection between the layout of buildings and the wind environment based on the microscopic wind environment characteristics of the coastal area using CFD air-fluid simulation software and suggests that the monsoon influence brought by the coastal currents should be paid attention to, the layout of wind-oriented building groups should be improved, urban air ducts should be established to enhance the ventilation efficiency, and the wind environment of the urban public environment and buildings should be guaranteed. The wind environment quality of urban public environment and indoor environment should be ensured.
The progress and development of antidepressants
Authors: Li Keyang , Diao Shiqi
Published: September 2021

Major depressive disorder is a common emotional mood disorder disease, which mainly manifests as depression, cognitive impairment, weakened volition activities, loss of appetite, and sleep disorders. Depression is a common mental disorder affecting more than 264 million people worldwide. There are many antidepressant drugs in clinic, e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, selective serotonin (5-HT) reuptake inhibitors and selective norepinephrine (NA) reuptake inhibitors. Although great progress has been made in the research of new antidepressant drugs, the current clinical use of drugs still has many shortcomings, e.g., the unmet efficiency, slow onset of action, and multiple adverse reactions, which are difficult to meet the requirements of the increasing number of the depressed patients. This article mainly focuses on the development process of antidepressant drugs and compares their effects. Specifically, the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor as a new antidepressant has a good effect, which is worthy of further study. These results shed light for providing a research idea for the study of new antidepressants.
Kodama-XUUB: an informative classification for alveolar echinococcosis hepatic lesions on magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Brumpt Éléonore , Liu Wenya , Graeter Tilmann , Calame Paul , Rong Shi , Jiang Yi , Li Weixia , Bao Haihua , Delabrousse Éric ,   The XUUB consortium
Published: September 2021

Objective: To propose a modification of the Kodama classification to classify type III lesions of alveolar echinococcosis (AE) that do not have microcysts. Materials and Methods: 200 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images of AE liver lesions from four endemic regions of the world were classified according to Kodama, distinguishing within type III those with microcysts from those without. Each center included 50 MRIs of patients with unoperated AA liver lesions. The first 50 cases were classified by a first reader in the presence of four second-line readers from each region. Then each second-line reader classified his or her 50 cases. Results: In all centers, type III lesions were predominant: 58% of the total lesions and 23% of them were without microcysts. The average age of the patients was 47 years. In China, the patients were on average younger and the lesions larger. German patients had more lesions within the liver. Type I and II lesions, synonymous with earlier diagnosis, were more common in Europe. Conclusion: The Kodama classification needed to be modified because of the existence of a significant proportion of unclassifiable lesions. This is especially true since the presence of microcysts is an informative element of parasite activity. Therefore, this study proposes a Kodama-XUUB classification with type IIIa lesions having microcysts and type IIIb lesions not having microcysts.