bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of CEMIP potentiates the effect of sorafenib on metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing the stiffness of lung metastases
Authors: Liu Mingyu , Xie Lulu , Zhang Yuying , Chen Jianning , Zhang Xiang , Chen Ye , Huang Wensou , Cai Mingyue , Liang Licong , Lai Miaoling , Huang Jingjun , Guo Yongjian , Lin Liteng , Zhu Kangshun
Published: January 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with lung metastasis is associated with poor prognosis and poor therapeutic outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that stiffened stroma can promote metastasis in various tumors. However, how the lung mechanical microenvironment favors circulating tumor cells remains unclear in metastatic HCC. Here, we found that the expression of cell migration-inducing hyaluronan-binding protein (CEMIP) was closely associated with lung metastasis and can promote pre-metastatic niche formation by increasing lung matrix stiffness. Furthermore, upregulated serum CEMIP was indicative of lung fibrotic changes severity in patients with HCC lung metastasis. By directly targeting CEMIP, pirfenidone can inhibit CEMIP/TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway and reduce lung metastases stiffening, demonstrating promising antitumor activity. Pirfenidone in combination with sorafenib can more effectively suppress the incidence of lung metastasis compared with sorafenib alone. This study is the first attempt to modulate the mechanical microenvironment for HCC therapy and highlights CEMIP as a potential target for the prevention and treatment of HCC lung metastasis.
Glioma-derived LRIG3 interacts with NETO2 in tumor-associated macrophages to modulate microenvironment and suppress tumor growth
Authors: Li Youwei , Wang Wei , Hou Xiaoshuang , Huang Wenda , Zhang Po , He Yue , Wang Baofeng , Duan Qiuhong , Mao Feng , Guo Dongsheng
Published: January 2023

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) account for 30–50% of glioma microenvironment. The interaction between glioma tumor cells and TAMs can promote tumor progression, but the intrinsic mechanisms remain unclear. Herein, we reported that soluble LRIG3 (sLRIG3) derived from glioma tumor cells can block the M2 polarization of TAMs via interacting with NETO2, thus suppressing GBM malignant progression. The expression or activity of ADAM17 in glioma cells was positively correlated with the expression of sLRIG3 in cell supernatant. Soluble LRIG3 can suppress the M2-like polarity transformation of TAMs and inhibit the growth of tumor. High expression of LRIG3 predicts a good prognosis in patients with glioma. Mass spectrometry and Co-immunoprecipitation showed that sLRIG3 interacts with the CUB1 domain of NETO2 in TAMs. Silencing or knockout of NETO2 could block the effect of sLRIG3, which inhibited the M2-like polarity transformation of TAMs and promoted GBM tumor growth. However, overexpressing His-target NETO2 with CUB1 deletion mutation does not fully recover the suppressive effects of sLRIG3 on the TAM M2-polarization in NETO2-Knockout TAMs. Our study revealed vital molecular crosstalk between GBM tumor cells and TAMs. Glioma cells mediated the M2 polarization of TAM through the sLRIG3-NETO2 pathway and inhibited the progression of GBM, suggesting that sLRIG3-NETO2 may be a potential target for GBM treatment.
Improving adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated transgene expression in retinal ganglion cells: comparison of five promoters
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Bart , Laperrousaz Elise , Tribble James R. , Verhaagen Joost , Fawcett James W. , Martin Keith R. , Williams Pete A. , Osborne Andrew
Published: January 2023

Recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) are an effective system for gene transfer. AAV serotype 2 (AAV2) is commonly used to deliver transgenes to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) via intravitreal injection. The AAV serotype however is not the only factor contributing to the effectiveness of gene therapies. Promoters influence the strength and cell-selectivity of transgene expression. This study compares five promoters designed to maximise AAV2 cargo space for gene delivery: chicken β-actin (CBA), cytomegalovirus (CMV), short CMV early enhancer/chicken β-actin/short β-globulin intron (sCAG), mouse phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK), and human synapsin (SYN). The promoters driving enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) were examined in adult C57BL/6J mice eyes and tissues of the visual system. eGFP expression was strongest in the retina, optic nerves and brain when driven by the sCAG and SYN promoters. CBA, CMV, and PGK had moderate expression by comparison. The SYN promoter had almost exclusive transgene expression in RGCs. The PGK promoter had predominant expression in both RGCs and AII amacrine cells. The ubiquitous CBA, CMV, and sCAG promoters expressed eGFP in a variety of cell types across multiple retinal layers including Müller glia and astrocytes. We also found that these promoters could transduce human retina ex vivo, although expression was predominantly in glial cells due to low RGC viability. Taken together, this promoter comparison study contributes to optimising AAV-mediated transduction in the retina, and could be valuable for research in ocular disorders, particularly those with large or complex genetic cargos.
Multiple pkd and piezo gene family members are required for atrioventricular valve formation
Authors: Juan Thomas , Ribeiro da Silva Agatha , Cardoso Bárbara , Lim SoEun , Charteau Violette , Stainier Didier Y. R.
Published: January 2023

Cardiac valves ensure unidirectional blood flow through the heart, and altering their function can result in heart failure. Flow sensing via wall shear stress and wall stretching through the action of mechanosensors can modulate cardiac valve formation. However, the identity and precise role of the key mechanosensors and their effectors remain mostly unknown. Here, we genetically dissect the role of Pkd1a and other mechanosensors in atrioventricular (AV) valve formation in zebrafish and identify a role for several pkd and piezo gene family members in this process. We show that Pkd1a, together with Pkd2, Pkd1l1, and Piezo2a, promotes AV valve elongation and cardiac morphogenesis. Mechanistically, Pkd1a, Pkd2, and Pkd1l1 all repress the expression of klf2a and klf2b, transcription factor genes implicated in AV valve development. Furthermore, we find that the calcium-dependent protein kinase Camk2g is required downstream of Pkd function to repress klf2a expression. Altogether, these data identify, and dissect the role of, several mechanosensors required for AV valve formation, thereby broadening our understanding of cardiac valvulogenesis.
Cryo-EM structures of orphan GPR21 signaling complexes
Authors: Lin Xi , Chen Bo , Wu Yiran , Han Yingqi , Qi Ao , Wang Junyan , Yang Zhao , Wei Xiaohu , Zhao Tingting , Wu Lijie , Xie Xin , Sun Jinpeng , Zheng Jie , Zhao Suwen , Xu Fei
Published: January 2023

GPR21 is a class-A orphan G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and a potential therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. This receptor shows high basal activity in coupling to multiple G proteins in the absence of any known endogenous agonist or synthetic ligand. Here, we present the structures of ligand-free human GPR21 bound to heterotrimeric miniGs and miniG15 proteins, respectively. We identified an agonist-like motif in extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) that occupies the orthosteric pocket and promotes receptor activation. A side pocket that may be employed as a new ligand binding site was also uncovered. Remarkably, G protein binding is accommodated by a flexible cytoplasmic portion of transmembrane helix 6 (TM6) which adopts little or undetectable outward movement. These findings will enable the design of modulators for GPR21 for understanding its signal transduction and exploring opportunity for deorphanization.
Complementing two-photon fluorescence detection with backscatter detection to decipher multiparticle dynamics inside a nonlinear laser trap
Authors: Devi Anita , Yadav Sumit , De Arijit K.
Published: January 2023

Using wide-field and point detection modalities, we show how optical trapping dynamics under femtosecond pulsed excitation can be explored by complementing detection of two-photon fluorescence with backscatter. Radial trajectories of trapped particles are mapped from correlated/anti-correlated fluctuations in backscatter pattern whereas temporal evolution of two-photon fluorescence is used to mark the onset of trapping involving multiple particles. Simultaneous confocal detection of backscatter and two-photon fluorescence estimates axial trap stiffness, delineating short-time trapping dynamics. When a second particle is being trapped an oscillatory signal is observed which is due to interference of backscatter amplitudes, revealing inter-particle interactions within the trap. These findings are crucial steps forward to achieve controlled manipulation by harnessing optical nonlinearity under femtosecond pulsed excitation.
Discovery of rafoxanide as a novel agent for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Hu Ankang , Liu Jing , Wang Yonghui , Zhang Maoyin , Guo Yao , Qin Ying , Liu Tingya , Men Yanjuan , Chen Quangang , Liu Tingjun
Published: January 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases, is associated with a poor outcome. Rafoxanide is an anthelmintic drug that inhibits tumor growth in certain malignancies. However, its impact on NSCLC remains unknown. In this study, we examined the effect of rafoxanide on NSCLC and dissected the underlying mechanism. The results showed that rafoxanide significantly inhibited the growth, invasion, and migration of NSCLC cells. Besides, rafoxanide can induce NSCLC cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in a dose-dependent manner. RNA-seq analysis revealed that genes associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER) stress responses were activated. Mechanistically, we found Rafoxanide can induce ER stress and activate the unfolded protein response (UPR). Apoptosis was activated by excessive ER stress, and autophagy was activated to partially alleviate ER stress. In vivo, we found that rafoxanide inhibited the growth of A549 and H1299 xenograft mouse models without severe side effects. Collectively, the present study indicates that rafoxanide may be a candidate drug for the treatment of NSCLC.
Domain motions, dimerization, and membrane interactions of the murine guanylate binding protein 2
Authors: Loschwitz Jennifer , Steffens Nora , Wang Xue , Schäffler Moritz , Pfeffer Klaus , Degrandi Daniel , Strodel Birgit
Published: January 2023

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are a group of GTPases that are induced by interferon-$$\gamma$$
γ
and are crucial components of cell-autonomous immunity against intracellular pathogens. Here, we examine murine GBP2 (mGBP2), which we have previously shown to be an essential effector protein for the control of Toxoplasma gondii replication, with its recruitment through the membrane of the parasitophorous vacuole and its involvement in the destruction of this membrane likely playing a role. The overall aim of our work is to provide a molecular-level understanding of the mutual influences of mGBP2 and the parasitophorous vacuole membrane. To this end, we performed lipid-binding assays which revealed that mGBP2 has a particular affinity for cardiolipin. This observation was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy using giant unilamellar vesicles of different lipid compositions. To obtain an understanding of the protein dynamics and how this is affected by GTP binding, mGBP2 dimerization, and membrane binding, assuming that each of these steps are relevant for the function of the protein, we carried out standard as well as replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations with an accumulated simulation time of more than 30 μs. The main findings from these simulations are that mGBP2 features a large-scale hinge motion in its M/E domain, which is present in each of the studied protein states. When bound to a cardiolipin-containing membrane, this hinge motion is particularly pronounced, leading to an up and down motion of the M/E domain on the membrane, which did not occur on a membrane without cardiolipin. Our prognosis is that this up and down motion has the potential to destroy the membrane following the formation of supramolecular mGBP2 complexes on the membrane surface.
Heart rate variability responses to cognitive stress in fibromyalgia are characterised by inadequate autonomous system stress responses: a clinical trial
Authors: Zetterman Teemu , Markkula Ritva , Miettinen Teemu , Kalso Eija
Published: January 2023

Fibromyalgia (FM) is associated with sympathetically dominant dysautonomia, but the connection between dysautonomia and FM symptoms is unclear. Dysautonomia can be analysed with heart rate variability (HRV) and it has been proposed that FM patients comprise subgroups with differing profiles of symptom severity. In our study, 51 female FM patients aged 18 to 65 years and 31 age-matched healthy female controls followed a 20-min protocol of alternating relaxation and cognitive stress (mental arithmetic). Heart rates and electrocardiograms were registered. The HRV measures of heart rate (HR), mean interval between heart beats (RRmean), root mean squared interval differences of successive beats (RMSSD), and the standard deviation of intervals between normal heart beats (SDNN) were analysed with generalized linear modelling. Features in HRV reactivity which differed between FM patients and controls were used to cluster the FM patients and cluster characteristics were analysed. FM patients had higher baseline HR (72.3 [SD 12.7] vs 64.5 [7.80], p < 0.001) and lower RRmean (0.844 [0.134] vs 0.934 [0.118], p = 0.002), compared with controls. They also reacted to repeated cognitive stress with an attenuated rise in HR (− 4.41 [95% CI − 7.88 to − 0.93], p = 0.013) and attenuated decrease of RRmean (0.06 [95 CI 0.03 to 0.09], p < 0.001), compared with controls. Clustering of FM patients by HRV reactivity resulted in three clusters characterised by (1) normal levels of HRV and HRV reactivity with low levels of depressive mood and anxiety, (2) reduced levels of HRV and impaired HRV reactivity with increased levels of depressive mood and high levels of anxiety, and (3) lowest HRV and most impaired HRV reactivity with the highest scores for depressive mood and anxiety. Our results show that FM patients have lower HRV than healthy controls and their autonomous reactions to cognitive stress are attenuated. Dysautonomia in FM associates with mood disturbance.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03300635). Registered October 3 2017—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03300635.
Contrasting impacts of dry versus humid heat on US corn and soybean yields
Authors: Ting Mingfang , Lesk Corey , Liu Chunyu , Li Cuihua , Horton Radley M. , Coffel Ethan D. , Rogers Cassandra D. W. , Singh Deepti
Published: January 2023

The impact of extreme heat on crop yields is an increasingly pressing issue given anthropogenic climate warming. However, some of the physical mechanisms involved in these impacts remain unclear, impeding adaptation-relevant insight and reliable projections of future climate impacts on crops. Here, using a multiple regression model based on observational data, we show that while extreme dry heat steeply reduced U.S. corn and soy yields, humid heat extremes had insignificant impacts and even boosted yields in some areas, despite having comparably high dry-bulb temperatures as their dry heat counterparts. This result suggests that conflating dry and humid heat extremes may lead to underestimated crop yield sensitivities to extreme dry heat. Rainfall tends to precede humid but not dry heat extremes, suggesting that multivariate weather sequences play a role in these crop responses. Our results provide evidence that extreme heat in recent years primarily affected yields by inducing moisture stress, and that the conflation of humid and dry heat extremes may lead to inaccuracy in projecting crop yield responses to warming and changing humidity.
Incidence of muscle wasting in the critically ill: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Hrdy Ondrej , Vrbica Kamil , Kovar Marek , Korbicka Tomas , Stepanova Radka , Gal Roman
Published: January 2023

Loss of muscle mass occurs rapidly during critical illness and negatively affects quality of life. The incidence of clinically significant muscle wasting in critically ill patients is unclear. This study aimed to assess the incidence of and identify predictors for clinically significant loss of muscle mass in this patient population. This was a single-center observational study. We used ultrasound to determine the rectus femoris cross-sectional area (RFcsa) on the first and seventh day of ICU stay. The primary outcome was the incidence of significant muscle wasting. We used a logistic regression model to determine significant predictors for muscle wasting. Ultrasound measurements were completed in 104 patients. Sixty-two of these patients (59.6%) showed ≥ 10% decreases in RFcsa. We did not identify any predictor for significant muscle wasting, however, age was of borderline significance (p = 0.0528). The 28-day mortality rate was higher in patients with significant wasting, but this difference was not statistically significant (30.6% versus 16.7%; p = 0.165). Clinically significant muscle wasting was frequent in our cohort of patients. Patient age was identified as a predictor of borderline significance for muscle wasting. The results could be used to plan future studies on this topic.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03865095, date of registration: 06/03/2019.
Experimental study on the shear performance of an anchor cable with a C-shaped tube anchored flat structural plane
Authors: Tong Xiao , Shan Renliang , Liu Nan , Liu Dong , Wei Yonghui
Published: January 2023

To analyse the influence of normal stress (σn) and steel tube strength on an anchor cable with a C-shaped tube (ACC), we selected Q235 steel tubes and Q345 steel tubes as representative ACCs and carried out double shear tests of ACC-reinforced jointed rock masses. Based on the test results, the influence of the steel tube strength on the ACC axial force and shear force under different normal stresses, the characteristics of the shear force-shear displacement curve of the anchored flat structural plane (FSP) in the rock mass, and the ACC failure mode and contribution to the anchored concrete surface shear strength were studied. The test results show that under 2 ~ 10 MPa of σn, the failure angle varies between 28° and 40° due to the bending of the ACC near the structural plane and increases with increasing σn. Compared with Q235-ACC, Q345-ACC contributes more to the shear strength of the structural plane and can better exert its axial force when resisting the lateral shearing action of the structural plane. Additionally, we proved that σn is a main factor affecting the shear stiffness of the structural plane and that the Q345 C-shaped tube effectively improves the shear stiffness of an ACC-reinforced jointed rock mass and can more fully mobilize the anchor cable during shearing ductility in the tangential direction compared to the performance of the Q235 C-shaped tube. The research results can provide a reference for the further application of ACCs to roadways.
Performance of homogeneous catalysts viewed in dynamics
Authors: Yang Wenjun , Filonenko Georgy A. , Pidko Evgeny A.
Published: January 2023

In this feature article, we discuss how the different aspects of the complex catalytic mechanisms manifest themselves in the commonly accepted performance metrics.
Guest-dependent bond flexibility in UiO-66, a “stable” MOF
Authors: Fabrizio Kevin , Andreeva Anastasia B. , Kadota Kentaro , Morris Amanda J. , Brozek Carl K.
Published: January 2023

We report “flexibility constants”—a conceptual analog to metal–ligand stability constants—of UiO-66, the prototypical “stable” MOF, across a wide temperature range in both vacuum and in the presence of typical guest solvents.
Carrier envelope phase sensitivity of photoelectron circular dichroism
Authors: Hanus Václav , Kangaparambil Sarayoo , Richter Martin , Haßfurth Lukas , Dorner-Kirchner Martin , Paulus Gerhard G. , Xie Xinhua , Baltuška Andrius , Gräfe Stefanie , Zeiler Markus
Published: January 2023

The PECD of methyloxirane molecules fragmenting along the laser propagation direction (left) shows a strong modulation by the CEP (top) due to the CEP-dependence of the ionization probability from different areas of specific orbitals (bottom right).
Unveiling the molecular structure and two-photon absorption properties relationship of branched oligofluorenes
Authors: Zucolotto Cocca Leandro H. , Pelosi André Gasparotto , Abegão Luis M. G. , de Q. Garcia Rafael , Mulatier Jean-Christophe , Pitrat Delphine , Barsu Cyrille , Andraud Chantal , Mendonça Cleber R. , Vivas Marcelo G. , De Boni Leonardo
Published: January 2023

Organic molecules have been intensively studied during the last few decades because of their photonics and biological applications.
Doping-induced magnetism and magnetoelectric coupling in one-dimensional NbOCl3 and NbOBr3
Authors: He Ruiman , Liu Pengyu , Wang Bing , Fan Jinbo , Liu Chang
Published: January 2023

Doping electrons in 1D ferroelectric materials NbOCl3 and NbOBr3 can induce ferromagnetism and generate strong magnetoelectric coupling in their nanochains.
Expression of Concern: Direct observation of the THz Kerr effect (TKE) in deionized, distilled and buffered (PBS) water
Authors: Sarbak Szymon , Sharma Gargi , Joseph Cecil S. , Kucia Weronika E. , Dobek Krzysztof , Giles Robert H. , Dobek Andrzej
Published: January 2023

Expression of concern for ‘Direct observation of the THz Kerr effect (TKE) in deionized, distilled and buffered (PBS) water’ by Andrzej Dobek et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 26749–26757, https://doi.org/10.1039/c7cp04061j.
The design of small-molecule prodrugs and activatable phototherapeutics for cancer therapy
Authors: Han Hai-Hao , Wang Han-Min , Jangili Paramesh , Li Mingle , Wu Luling , Zang Yi , Sedgwick Adam C. , Li Jia , He Xiao-Peng , James Tony D. , Kim Jong Seung
Published: January 2023

This tutorial review provides a general overview for the design of prodrugs and activatable phototherapeutics which enables the development of improved therapies.
Modulating crystal and electronic structure of NiFe-MOFs by inorganic acid for highly efficient electrochemical water oxidation
Authors: Wu Fang , Li Qiulin , Guo Hu , Wang Suwei , Hao Gazi , Hu Yubing , Zhang Guangpu , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2023

The bimetallic metal–organic frameworks were grown in situ on Ni foam (NiFe-MOF-2/NF) utilizing HCl as the modulator using a facile hydrothermal method, exhibiting outstanding OER performance.
Platin-C containing nanoparticles: a recipe for the delivery of curcumin–cisplatin combination chemotherapeutics to mitochondria
Authors: Banik Bhabatosh , Ashokan Akash , Choi Joshua H. , Surnar Bapurao , Dhar Shanta
Published: January 2023

We report the synthesis of a curcumin–cisplatin combination chemotherapeutic agent, Platin-C, suitably packaged in a mitochondrion-targeted nanovehicle for enhanced anticancer efficacy and diminished chemotherapy-associated inflammation.
A heterostructure of a 2D bimetallic metal–organic framework assembled on an MXene for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Dongdong , Zhang Zheng , Tao Kai , Han Lei
Published: January 2023

Rationally designed 2D/2D NiCo-MOF/MXene heterostructures exhibit excellent supercapacitive performance.
Metabolic and nutritional biomarkers in adults consuming lacto-ovo vegetarian, vegan and omnivorous diets in Spain. A cross-sectional study
Authors: García-Maldonado Elena , Zapatera Belén , Alcorta Alexandra , Vaquero M. Pilar
Published: January 2023

Consumption of vegetarian diets in Spain coexist with the culture of the Mediterranean diet. This study shows that Spanish lacto-ovo vegetarian, vegan, and omnivorous present similar low cardiometabolic risk.
Surface modification for improving immunoassay sensitivity
Authors: Zhou Xiaohu , Zheng Bo
Published: January 2023

In this review, we summarize the recent progress in surface modification strategies for improving the sensitivity of immunoassays, including antifouling coatings to reduce background noise and nanostructured surfaces to amplify the signals.
Beyond biology: alternative uses of cantilever-based technologies
Authors: Muñoz-Galán Helena , Alemán Carlos , Pérez-Madrigal Maria M.
Published: January 2023

Microcantilever-based platforms are presented as versatile lab-on-chip devices for advanced applications spanning from material characterization and environmental monitoring to energy.
A direct Z-scheme S-Co3O4/Bi2WO6 heterostructure for enhanced photoelectrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under visible light
Authors: Jia Litao , Yu Pei , Dong Ying , Xing Yonglei , Peng Juan , Ni Gang , Jin Xiaoyong
Published: January 2023

Investigation of tetracycline degradation mechanism by calculation of material work function and free radical experiments.
Direct use of hydroxyl ions as an oxygen source for oxidation of isoquinolinium salts to isoquinolinones in water solution
Authors: Xu Daqian , Wang Lixian , Yao Fangzheng , Shi Mingrui , Xie Min , Li Tao , Nie Rong , Gou Hao , Zhao Guohu , Sun Wei
Published: January 2023

Herein we reported the direct use of hydroxyl ions as an oxygen source for oxidation of isoquinolinium salts to isoquinolinones in water solution.
Preparation and characterization of theh-BN/Fe3O4/APTES-AMF/CuIInanocomposite as a new and efficient catalyst for the one-pot three-component synthesis of 2-amino-4-aryl(or heteroaryl)-7,7-dimethyl-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitriles
Authors: Rana Pooja , Dixit Ranjana , Sharma Shivani , Dutta Sriparna , Yadav Sneha , Arora Bhavya , Kaushik Bhawna , Gawande Manoj B. , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: January 2023

Magnetic two-dimensional boron nitride nanosheet-based copper catalyst has been synthesized for accessing a wide array of 2-amino-4-aryl(or heteroaryl)-7,7-dimethyl-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitriles.
Crystal phase engineering of Ru for simultaneous selective photocatalytic oxidations and H2 production
Authors: Gebruers Michaël , Wang Chunhua , Saha Rafikul A. , Xie Yangshan , Aslam Imran , Sun Li , Liao Yuhe , Yang Xuhui , Chen Taoran , Yang Min-Quan , Weng Bo , Roeffaers Maarten B. J.
Published: January 2023

The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 in the simultaneous photocatalytic oxidation of organic molecules and H2 production is optimized via crystal phase engineering of Ru cocatalysts.
Photoredox-catalysed hydroaminoalkylation of on-DNA N-arylamines
Authors: Mahdavi-Amiri Yasaman , Hu Molly S. J. , Frias Nicole , Movahedi Matina , Csakai Adam , Marcaurelle Lisa A. , Hili Ryan
Published: January 2023

Photoredox-catalysed hydroaminoalkylation between on-DNA secondary N-substituted (hetero)arylamines and vinylarenes for DNA-encoded library synthesis.
Development of a new synthetic method for oligodeoxynucleotides using 3′-H-phosphonamidate derivatives
Authors: Tsurusaki Taiki , Sato Kazuki , Wada Takeshi
Published: January 2023

A new synthetic method for oligodeoxynucleotides was developed using H-phosphonamidate derivatives as monomers. The condensation reaction proceeded under mild basic conditions without any additives.
A social semiotic lens to capture meaning-making of polymeric concepts during modelling in chemistry education
Authors: Widing Lizette , Nilsson Pernilla , Granklint Enochson Pernilla
Published: January 2023

This study investigated students’ meaning-making of polymeric concepts during modelling and discuss students’ creation of visible representations in chemistry. The analysis combines a phenomenographic and social semiotic approach and leads to the finding and description of 21 different meaning-making processes. We refer to meaning-making as the outcome of translative communication through representations, discerned by students, where the collective meaning of created representations that build on each other constitutes the meaning as a whole. The study took place in three Swedish upper secondary chemistry classes. Data were collected from eight groups of 3–4 students (n = 30). Video, audio recordings and photos taken during modelling were analysed to investigate students’ meaning-making during the modelling process. The results show translative changes between and within semiotic resources, indicating meaning for students’ learning of polymeric concepts. Additionally, the representations produced during modelling were essential resources connecting the submicro and macro levels by creating a ‘bridge’ between levels. The results show that the modelling activities practised by all groups were multimodal. The study acknowledges that teachers can use the social semiotic lens as a tool to evaluate students’ modelling in addition to the importance of translative processes during modelling.
From symmetry breaking to symmetry swapping: is Kasha's rule violated in multibranched phenyleneethynylenes?
Authors: Swathi K. , Sujith Meleppatt , Divya P. S. , P Merin Varghese , Delledonne Andrea , Phan Huu D. K. Andrea , Di Maiolo Francesco , Terenziani Francesca , Lapini Andrea , Painelli Anna , Sissa Cristina , Thomas K. George
Published: January 2023

Highly symmetric multibranched phenyleneethynylenes exhibit intense fluorescence despite the presence of low-lying dark states. The inversion of the energy order of excited states is explained in terms of a novel phenomenon dubbed “symmetry swapping”.
Rail configuration for lateral particle transport across intact co-flows: effect of wall and rail geometry on liquid and particle transport
Authors: Ziemecka Iwona , de Hemptinne Amaury , Misko Vyacheslav R. , Briet Matthieu , Gelin Pierre , Maes Dominique , De Malsche Wim
Published: January 2023

Layer-by-Layer coating technology implies exposure of particles to various reagents. A rail at the bottom of a microfluidic channel enables passive particle transport, and internal walls allow to avoid the undesirable effect of reagent stream mixing.
Poly(succinimide) nanoparticles as reservoirs for spontaneous and sustained synthesis of poly(aspartic acid) under physiological conditions: potential for vascular calcification therapy and oral drug delivery
Authors: Adelnia Hossein , Blakey Idriss , Little Peter J. , Ta Hang Thu
Published: January 2023

Nanoparticles based on poly(succinimide) (PSI) and their dissolution at different pHs at 37 °C. Graph showing the dissolution of nanoparticles made up of pure and chemically modified PSI.
AMPK inhibits liver gluconeogenesis: fact or fiction?
Authors: Johanns Manuel , Hue Louis , Rider Mark H.
Published: January 2023

Is there a role for AMPK in the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis and could targeting AMPK in liver be a viable strategy for treating type 2 diabetes? These are frequently asked questions this review tries to answer. After describing properties of AMPK and different small-molecule AMPK activators, we briefly review the various mechanisms for controlling hepatic glucose production, mainly via gluconeogenesis. The different experimental and genetic models that have been used to draw conclusions about the role of AMPK in the control of liver gluconeogenesis are critically discussed. The effects of several anti-diabetic drugs, particularly metformin, on hepatic gluconeogenesis are also considered. We conclude that the main effect of AMPK activation pertinent to the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis is to antagonize glucagon signalling in the short-term and, in the long-term, to improve insulin sensitivity by reducing hepatic lipid content.
The Influence of Abiotic Factors on the Activity of Methane-Oxidizing Bacteria
Authors: Avdeeva Lidia
Published: January 2023

Methanotrophs are widespread bacteria and utilize a number of hydrocarbons under normal conditions. In this study, a model reaction of propylene oxidation by methane-oxidizing bacteria Methylococcus capsulatus (M) was considered. The influence of abiotic factors (the flow rate, exogenous metals) on methane-oxidizing bacteria has been studied. It was found that increasing the flow velocity slightly effect on the growth of bacterial biomass. Studies have shown that under the action of salts of the studied metals a significant decrease the propylene oxidation by bacteria is observed. Methanotrophs exhibit resistance to stress factors, which ensures their wide distribution in nature and provides biotechnological potential.
Interaction of Nd:YAG Laser Radiation with Bovine Serum Albumin Solution
Authors: Nagaev Egor I. , Baimler Ilya V. , Baryshev Alexey S. , Reut Veronika E. , Astashev Maxim E.
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the effect of Nd:YAG laser radiation on the properties of the BSA protein is investigated. A solution with a protein concentration of 5 mg/ml was irradiated for 30 minutes. After a 5-minute and 30-minute exposure, absorption spectra were taken, the particle size in the solution was determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS), the refractive index was determined, and fluorescent maps were taken. Raman spectroscopy of proteins was also performed. The results showed that after irradiation, the absorption of the protein solution decreases in the spectral range corresponding to amino acid residues. In DLS experiments, it was shown that the peak corresponding to protein molecules decreases, and the peaks corresponding to large aggregates (>100 nm) grow. Raman spectroscopy has shown that there is a decrease in intensity at a wavelength of 1570 cm-1. There were no significant changes in the refractive indices and the shape of the fluorescent maps. The data suggest that partial denaturation of proteins took place.
Creation and Characterization of Mycolicibacterium Smegmatis mc2155 with Deletions in Genes Encoding Sterol Oxidation Enzymes
Authors: Byakov Artem , Karpov Mikhail , Strizhov Nikolai , Donova Marina
Published: January 2023

The fast-growing saprotrophic strain Mycolicibacterium smegmatis mc2155 is capable of utilizing plant and animal sterols and can be used for creation of genetically engineered strains producing biologically active steroids. Oxidation of the 3β-hydroxyl group and Δ5(6)→Δ4(5) double bond isomerization followed by formation of stenones from sterols are considered as the initial stage of steroid catabolism in some actinobacteria. The study of the mechanism of steroid nucleus 3β-hydroxyl group oxidation is relevant for the creation of a method of the microbiological production of valuable 3β-hydroxy-5-en-steroids. A mutant strain of M. smegmatis with deletions in three genes (MSMEG_1604, MSMEG_5228 and MSMEG_5233) encoding known enzymes exhibiting 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity was constructed by homologous recombination coupled with double selection. The resulting mutant retained macromorphological properties and the ability to convert cholesterol. 3-Keto-4-en-steroids were found among the sterol catabolism intermediates. Experimentally obtained data indicate the presence of a previously undetected intracellular enzyme that performs the function of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5(6)→Δ4(5) isomerase.
Biotechnological Aspects of Iodine Enrichment of Bakery Products
Authors: Patlasov Nikolai O. , Patlasov Oleg Yu.
Published: January 2023

In case of potential radiological contamination of territories, preventive intake of iodine-containing products before the arrival of iodine radionuclides is effective. The paper presents the results of the influence of changes in the recipe composition of the bakery product, namely the use of the additive iodocasein on the physico-chemical and organoleptic characteristics of bread. The use of iodocasein for bread enrichment is justified. The influence of technological parameters on the preservation of the iodine trace element in bread is investigated. Doses of iodine-containing additives are calculated in the technological process. It is proved that the iodine in bread is preserved in the product for 90 hours. The nutritional value of the developed bread recommended for preventive nutrition is evaluated.
Activation of Tomato Growth Under Photoconversion Coatings with Nanoluminophor Sr0.76Ba0.20Yb0.02Er0.02F2.04
Authors: Paskhin Mark , Kazantseva Dina , Ermakova Julia , Grigorieva Daria , Yanykin Denis
Published: January 2023

The effect of coatings containing upconversion luminescent nanoparticles on the cultivation of Solanum lycopersicum has been studied. Sr0.76Ba0.20Yb0.02Er0.02F2.04 particles capable of converting infrared radiation into visible light (λem = 660 nm, 545 nm, and 525 nm) were used as the phosphor. It was shown that the cultivation of tomatoes under photoconversion coatings accelerated the adaptation of plants to ultraviolet radiation. A more efficient distribution of the energy of absorbed light between the processes of photosynthesis and thermal dissipation under upconversion coatings was revealed. As a result, plants grown under photoconversion coatings increased the number and total leaf area, stem length, and leaf chlorophyll content.
Treatment of Calicivirus Infection in Cats with Azitronite, Miramistin and Vinylin
Authors: Abdulkhazhieva Aiset Shaamanovna , Menshakova Marija Yurievna , Abdulkhazhieva Malkan Shaamanovna
Published: January 2023

This article discusses one of the ways to treat cats with calicivirus infection. In the treatment, the antibacterial drug azitronite from the group of macrolides is used, the oral cavity and damaged parts are treated with antiseptic agents miramistite and vinylin. For the treatment of cats with calicivirus infection, there are no drugs with proven effectiveness. Supportive symptomatic treatment is given, and antibiotics are given to prevent secondary infection. Supportive care and plenty of fluids help cats fight off calicivirus. In this article, we will analyze a step-by-step method for treating cats.
Estimation of the Ability to Decompose Sodium Benzoate by a Bacterium Isolated from Biohumus Eicenia Fetida
Authors: Lyakhovchenko Nikita , Gubina Elizabeth , Senchenkov Vladislav , Nikishin Ilya , Solyanikova Inna
Published: January 2023

The study presents growth kinetics of a BG28 bacterial strain isolated from vermicompost (generated with the use of Eisenia fetida worms). The strain was given a codename BG28. It was revealed that the isolate is capable of using high concentrations of sodium benzoate (up to 15 g/l) as a substrate. At the same time, the rate and division constants of a culture that grows at 5 g/l, 10 g/l, and 15 g/l do not differ. However, the mean and specific increment of BG28 at the end of the logarithmic growth phase is significantly higher in the variant with 5 g/l. It was testified, that with the shortest duration of the logarithmic growth phase on a medium with 5 g/l, the substrate loss constant is higher than in other variants. The difference in the kinetic parameters of the culture at 5 g/l and 10 g/l sodium benzoate is insignificant. With an increase of the substrate concentration to 15 g/l, the duration of the logarithmic growth phase increased significantly, but the sodium benzoate decrease constant was found to be the lowest. During the study of the individual properties of BG28, it was revealed that the strain is capable of growing on benzoic acid. On this basis, it can be assumed that the culture contributes to the degradation of plant residues during vermicomposting. Besides, the isolate grows on a mineral nutrient medium with polyethylene glycol 6000 and liquid paraffin. In the process of the individual properties estimation, it was revealed that the strain is capable of local suppression of the Alternaria brassicicola VKM F-1864 mold growth when co-cultivated on agar nutrient medium.
Sensitivity of Janthinobacterium Lividum to Low Concentrations of Hydrogen Peroxide and the Effect of Mild Oxidative Stress on Pigment Yield
Authors: Efimova Viktoria , Lyakhovchenko Nikita , Akhapkina Sofia , Koreshkova Alexandra , Solyanikova Inna
Published: January 2023

In the course of assessing the sensitivity of the Janthinobacterium lividum VKM B-3515 strain to low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, it was found that at a content of 0.003% H2O2, the growth properties of the bacterium during submerged cultivation without pigmentation differed statistically insignificantly relative to the control variant at 16 hours of incubation and beyond. Whereas in the presence of peroxide at 12 hours the optical density was lower than in the control by 97%. When cultivating by the surface method, the respiration intensity did not significantly differ between the control and experimental variants. However, during the extraction of the pigment, it was found that in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, the optical density of the acetone extract significantly exceeds the control variant by 28%. It can be assumed that, at the same growth parameters of the culture, the biosynthesis of violacein is stimulated and the population can adapt to the peroxide content, and the peroxide concentration itself decreases due to the cost of catalytic reactions. Further studies of the sensitivity of J. lividum VKM B-3515 to various oxidizing agents will allow us to consider the effect of weak oxidative stress on the biosynthesis of violacein.
Aza-Wacker Cyclization Toward the Bridged Core of FR901483
Authors: Zhu Lili , Hong Ran , Shen Defeng , Xie Changmin , Ruan Zhuwei , Yang Chen , Huang Sha-Hua
Published: January 2023

A nine-step synthetic route to access the tricyclic core of FR901483 is reported, featuring a key aza-Wacker cyclization step to construct an α-tertiary amine (ATA) in the bridged structure. The aza-Wacker protocol can tolerate both exocyclic and endocyclic double bonds, providing viable access to various bridged bicyclic rings bearing an ATA (e.g., 6-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane, 7-azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane, and 7-azabicyclo[4.2.1]nonane) in good to excellent yields. The synthetic studies presented herein enable structural derivatization of FR901483 to further exploit its compelling biological activities.
Extraction Site in Minimally Invasive Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Paruch Jennifer L.
Published: January 2023

The widespread adoption of minimally invasive colorectal surgery has led to improved patient recovery and outcomes. Specimen extraction sites remain a major source of pain and potential postoperative morbidity. Careful selection of the extraction site incision may allow surgeons to decrease postoperative pain, infectious complications, or rates of hernia formation. Options include midline, paramedian, transverse, Pfannenstiel, and natural orifice sites. Patient, disease, and surgeon-related factors should all be considered when choosing a site. This article will review different options for specimen extraction sites.
Techniques for Oxygenation and Ventilation in Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Richards Guy A. , Smith Oliver
Published: January 2023

This paper discusses mechanisms of hypoxemia and interventions to oxygenate critically ill patients with COVID-19 which range from nasal cannula to noninvasive and mechanical ventilation. Noninvasive ventilation includes continuous positive airway pressure ventilation (CPAP) and high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) with or without proning. The evidence for each of these modalities is discussed and thereafter, when to transition to mechanical ventilation (MV). Various techniques of MV, again with and without proning, and rescue strategies which would include extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) when it is available and permissive hypoxemia where it is not, are discussed.
The Origins of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2
Authors: Dwyer Dominic E.
Published: January 2023

An outbreak of severe pneumonia of unknown cause was identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019: the causative agent was a novel betacoronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome-cotonavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a virus that joins a list of coronaviruses causing severe (e.g., SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome) or milder (e.g., 229E, OC43, NL63, and HKU1) respiratory tract infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) classified the spreading outbreak as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Many SARS-related coronaviruses (SARSr-CoVs) have been identified in bats, particularly in Rhinolophus horseshoe bats, animals that are common in southern China and Southeast Asia. Many of the features of SARS-CoV-2 that facilitate human infection—the furin cleavage site, the receptor binding domain that binds to the human ACE2 receptor—can be identified in SARSr-CoVs. Related coronaviruses can be detected in pangolins and other animals, and human SARS-CoV-2 itself can infect various animals, some of which can transmit SARS-CoV-2 back to humans. Investigation by the WHO and others pointed to the initial outbreak being centered on the Huanan wet market in Wuhan where wild and farmed animals were sold, and where environmental testing revealed widespread SARS-CoV-2 contamination. This supports the hypothesis that bats, probably via an intermediate animal, are the origin of SARS-CoV-2. Other possible origins have been postulated, such as an accidental or deliberate laboratory leak, or virus present in frozen foods, but evidence for these ideas has not surfaced. Study of the origins of SARS-CoV-2 have been complicated by intense media and political commentary, features that may slow the studies required to understand the viral origins. Such studies are complex and may be slow: international openness and co-operation is vital. Origins explanations are needed to predict or prevent future pandemics and support the “One Health” approach to disease.
A Rare Case of Migration of Hyaluronic Acid Gluteal Injection to the Medial Thigh Presenting as a Soft Lump
Authors: Saad Ahmed , Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Davies A. Mark , Botchu Rajesh
Published: January 2023

Introduction Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a widely accepted agent most commonly used as a dermal filler in facial aesthetic/cosmetic medicine. More recently, HA has been utilized for gluteal augmentation. The common side effects of HA injection are often minor and self-limiting. HA migration is a very rare complication.

Case Report We describe a rare case of HA buttock injection migration in a transgender patient, appearing as a superficial lump on right thigh representing a diagnostic dilemma. We highlight the need of a clinical suspicion and discuss the appropriate investigations for guided management of such patients.

Conclusion It is essential for reporting radiologist to be aware of the commonly used injectable fillers, their complications, and imaging findings to avoid misdiagnosis and guide optimal patient management.