bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized phase 3 trial of Gemcitabine or Nab-paclitaxel combined with cisPlatin as first-line treatment in patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Wang Biyun , Sun Tao , Zhao Yannan , Wang Shusen , Zhang Jian , Wang Zhonghua , Teng Yue-E , Cai Li , Yan Min , Wang Xiaojia , Jiang Zefei , Pan Yueyin , Luo Jianfeng , Shao Zhimin , Wu Jiong , Guo Xiaomao , Hu Xichun
Published: July 2022

Platinum is recommended in combination with gemcitabine in the treatment of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). We conduct a randomized phase 3, controlled, open-label trial to compare nab-paclitaxel/cisplatin (AP) with gemcitabine/cisplatin (GP) in mTNBC patients (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02546934). 254 patients with untreated mTNBC randomly receive AP (nab-paclitaxel 125 mg/m² on day 1, 8 and cisplatin 75 mg/m² on day 1) or GP (gemcitabine 1250 mg/m² on day 1, 8 and cisplatin 75 mg/m² on day 1) intravenously every 3 weeks until progression disease, intolerable toxicity or withdrawal of consent. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints are objective response rate (ORR), safety and overall survival (OS). The trial has met pre-specified endpoints. The median PFS is 9.8 months with AP as compared to 7.4 months with GP (stratified HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.50–0.88; P = 0.004). AP significantly increases ORR (81.1% vs. 56.3%, P < 0.001) and prolongs OS (stratified HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.44–0.90; P = 0.010) to GP. Of grade 3 or 4 adverse events, a significantly higher incidence of neuropathy in AP and thrombocytopenia in GP is noted. These findings warrant further assessment of adding novel agents to the nab-paclitaxel/platinum backbone due to its high potency for patients with mTNBC.
On the role of Al/Nb in the SCC of AFA stainless steels in supercritical CO2
Authors: Cong Shuo , Ma Zhaodandan , Liu Zhu , Duan Zhengang , Zhou Zhangjian , Zhang Lefu , Guo Xianglong
Published: July 2022

SCC of a series of AFA stainless steels with different Al and Nb contents were studied in supercritical CO2 by SSRT. The results show that Nb element plays a precipitation strengthening on the mechanical properties, while it shows few effects on the corrosion properties. The surface oxide film of the Al-free material only consisted of amorphous Cr2O3 and Cr-rich spinel. With the addition of Al, the Al2O3 layers are formed and significantly decreases the element diffusion, thus inhibiting the initiation of SCC. Fe3O4 fills the interior of cracks of both Al-free and Al-containing materials. The Al2O3 layer is formed at the crack tip of Al-containing materials. Because the matrix grains are large, the protective Al2O3 layer can only be formed at the crack tip, which cannot completely hinder the outward diffusion of ions on the crack walls and its protective effect on the crack propagation is limited.
The control of waterborne pathogenic bacteria in fresh water using a biologically active filter
Authors: Steven Joshua A. C. , Thorn Robin M. S. , Robinson Gareth M. , Turner Dann , Lee Jack E. , Reynolds Darren M.
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the control of three species of bacteria commonly associated with biologically contaminated water, using biofiltration. In this study, a laboratory-scale biofilter system was used to investigate the control of Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in fresh water. Simulated fresh water was inoculated with the test pathogens at a starting inocula of ~1000 CFU 100 mL−1 to challenge the biofilters. Biofilter systems operating within a recirculation configuration demonstrated significant reduction of E. coli (99%), E. faecalis (99%), and P. aeruginosa (92%) after 24 h. Conversely, all sterile control systems did not show any significant reduction in pathogens. Subsequent analysis of the biofilter media after circulation showed that 0% of E. coli was recovered from the biofilter, whereas 0.06% and 1.26% of E. faecalis and P. aeruginosa were recovered respectively. Further investigation demonstrated the reduction of E. coli and enterococci from an environmentally-derived surface water of 99.8% and 99.4% respectively. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that biofilter systems can be used to significantly reduce waterborne pathogenic bacteria within fresh water. The potential application of low-cost, energy efficient biofilter systems for the management of waterborne bacterial pathogens in water supplies is discussed.
Transatlantic spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 by wild birds from Europe to North America in 2021
Authors: Caliendo V. , Lewis N. S. , Pohlmann A. , Baillie S. R. , Banyard A. C. , Beer M. , Brown I. H. , Fouchier R. A. M. , Hansen R. D. E. , Lameris T. K. , Lang A. S. , Laurendeau S. , Lung O. , Robertson G. , van der Jeugd H. , Alkie T. N. , Thorup K. , van Toor M. L. , Waldenström J. , Yason C. , Kuiken T. , Berhane Y.
Published: July 2022

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses of the A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996 lineage (GsGd), which threaten the health of poultry, wildlife and humans, are spreading across Asia, Europe, Africa and North America but are currently absent from South America and Oceania. In December 2021, H5N1 HPAI viruses were detected in poultry and a free-living gull in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Our phylogenetic analysis showed that these viruses were most closely related to HPAI GsGd viruses circulating in northwestern Europe in spring 2021. Our analysis of wild bird migration suggested that these viruses may have been carried across the Atlantic via Iceland, Greenland/Arctic or pelagic routes. The here documented incursion of HPAI GsGd viruses into North America raises concern for further virus spread across the Americas by wild bird migration.
Impact of squid predation on juvenile fish survival
Authors: Takahashi Motomitsu , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Sassa Chiyuki , Yoda Mari
Published: July 2022

Predation is a major source of mortality during the early life stages of marine fishes; however, few studies have demonstrated its impact—especially that of squid predation—on survival processes. Here, we examined the feeding habits and predation impacts of swordtip squid on a major prey fish, juveniles of jack mackerel, in the East China Sea. Otoliths of the juveniles extracted from the squid stomach were used to reconstruct the age–length relationship and the growth trajectory of the consumed juveniles, and they were compared to those of juveniles collected with a net using a newly developed statistical framework. The juveniles consumed by squid had significantly shorter body lengths and smaller body sizes during the late larval and early juvenile stages than the netted juveniles, suggesting that smaller juveniles with slower growth rates have a higher probability to be selected. The body mass ratio of the predator squid to prey juveniles (predator–prey mass ratio, PPMR) ranged from 7 to 700, which was remarkably lower than the PPMR reported in various marine ecosystems based on analyses of fishes. Our findings demonstrate that squid predation can significantly impact the early life survival of fish and the trophodynamics in marine ecosystems.
Anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory potencies of cinnamon oil on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma bearing mice
Authors: Morsi Dalia S. , El-Nabi Sobhy Hassab , Elmaghraby Mona A. , Abu Ali Ola A. , Fayad Eman , Khalifa Shaden A. M. , El-Seedi Hesham R. , El-Garawani Islam M.
Published: July 2022

Cinnamon is a well-known natural spice and flavoring substance used worldwide. The objective of the present work is to explore the possible antitumor and immunomodulatory potencies of cinnamon essential oil (Cinn) on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). A total of fifty female Swiss albino mice were sub-grouped into five groups (n = 10), namely, normal (a non-tumorized and non-treated) group; EAC-tumorized and non-treated group; Cinn (non-tumorized mice received Cinn, 50 mg/kg per body weight daily) group; a group of EAC-tumorized mice treated with Cinn and the final positive control group of EAC-tumorized mice received cisplatin. Eight compounds were identified from Cinn using UPLC-MS-Qtof and NMR analysis. Compared to EAC untreated group, Cinn successfully (P < 0.05) inhibited tumor growth by reducing tumor cell count (45%), viability (53%) and, proliferation accompanied by the inhibition of tumor growth rate. Moreover, a significant (P < 0.05) arrest in the cell cycle at G0/G1 phase was noticed following Cinn treatments (~ 24.5%) compared to EAC group. Moreover, Cinn markedly evoked an antitumor immune response by elevating the percentage of splenic T helper (CD3+CD4+) and T cytotoxic (CD3+CD8+) cells. It is noteworthy that Cinn treatments significantly restored different hematological alterations as well as liver and kidney functions in EAC-tumorized mice. In conclusion, results suggest that Cinn has a good antitumor and immunostimulatory potencies against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in vivo. The mechanism underlying its antitumor activity may be attributed to its immunostimulatory effects which increase its potential as a promising anticancer candidate.
Prevalence of fatigue at one-year follow-up from the Gothenburg recovery and rehabilitation after COVID-19 and intensive care unit study
Authors: Hussain Netha , Samuelsson Carina M. , Drummond Avril , Persson Carina U.
Published: July 2022

Fatigue was a commonly reported sequala after COVID-19. However, there is little literature about the prevalence and predictors of fatigue one year after Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission following COVID-19. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of fatigue and to identify the predictors prior to, and during the care period in ICU that were associated with fatigue at one year after ICU admission following COVID-19. The dependent variable, fatigue, was assessed using the Swedish version of Fatigue Assessment Scale (S-FAS), in a cohort of 105 individuals cared for at the ICU at the Sahlgrenska University hospital, Sweden during the first wave of the pandemic. The independent variables were related to demographic factors, comorbidities and complications during ICU admission following COVID-19. Fatigue was reported by 64.4% (n = 67) of the individuals. Age (odds ratio: 0.95, confidence interval: 0.92–0.99) and length of stay in the ICU (odds ratio: 1.04, confidence interval: 1.00–1.07) were statistically significant predictors of fatigue one year after ICU admission following COVID-19. The findings from this study will be important for healthcare practitioners, policy makers and the general public in planning the rehabilitation of individuals who underwent ICU care for COVID-19.
A model-based opinion dynamics approach to tackle vaccine hesitancy
Authors: Ancona Camilla , Iudice Francesco Lo , Garofalo Franco , De Lellis Pietro
Published: July 2022

Uncovering the mechanisms underlying the diffusion of vaccine hesitancy is crucial in fighting epidemic spreading. Toward this ambitious goal, we treat vaccine hesitancy as an opinion, whose diffusion in a social group can be shaped over time by the influence of personal beliefs, social pressure, and other exogenous actions, such as pro-vaccine campaigns. We propose a simple mathematical model that, calibrated on survey data, can predict the modification of the pre-existing individual willingness to be vaccinated and estimate the fraction of a population that is expected to adhere to an immunization program. This work paves the way for enabling tools from network control towards the simulation of different intervention plans and the design of more effective targeted pro-vaccine campaigns. Compared to traditional mass media alternatives, these model-based campaigns can exploit the structural properties of social networks to provide a potentially pivotal advantage in epidemic mitigation.
The amniotic fluid proteome predicts imminent preterm delivery in asymptomatic women with a short cervix
Authors: Gudicha Dereje W. , Romero Roberto , Gomez-Lopez Nardhy , Galaz Jose , Bhatti Gaurav , Done Bogdan , Jung Eunjung , Gallo Dahiana M. , Bosco Mariachiara , Suksai Manaphat , Diaz-Primera Ramiro , Chaemsaithong Piya , Gotsch Francesca , Berry Stanley M. , Chaiworapongsa Tinnakorn , Tarca Adi L.
Published: July 2022

Preterm birth, the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality, is associated with increased risk of short- and long-term adverse outcomes. For women identified as at risk for preterm birth attributable to a sonographic short cervix, the determination of imminent delivery is crucial for patient management. The current study aimed to identify amniotic fluid (AF) proteins that could predict imminent delivery in asymptomatic patients with a short cervix. This retrospective cohort study included women enrolled between May 2002 and September 2015 who were diagnosed with a sonographic short cervix (< 25 mm) at 16–32 weeks of gestation. Amniocenteses were performed to exclude intra-amniotic infection; none of the women included had clinical signs of infection or labor at the time of amniocentesis. An aptamer-based multiplex platform was used to profile 1310 AF proteins, and the differential protein abundance between women who delivered within two weeks from amniocentesis, and those who did not, was determined. The analysis included adjustment for quantitative cervical length and control of the false-positive rate at 10%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated to determine whether protein abundance in combination with cervical length improved the prediction of imminent preterm delivery as compared to cervical length alone. Of the 1,310 proteins profiled in AF, 17 were differentially abundant in women destined to deliver within two weeks of amniocentesis independently of the cervical length (adjusted p-value < 0.10). The decreased abundance of SNAP25 and the increased abundance of GPI, PTPN11, OLR1, ENO1, GAPDH, CHI3L1, RETN, CSF3, LCN2, CXCL1, CXCL8, PGLYRP1, LDHB, IL6, MMP8, and PRTN3 were associated with an increased risk of imminent delivery (odds ratio > 1.5 for each). The sensitivity at a 10% false-positive rate for the prediction of imminent delivery by a quantitative cervical length alone was 38%, yet it increased to 79% when combined with the abundance of four AF proteins (CXCL8, SNAP25, PTPN11, and MMP8). Neutrophil-mediated immunity, neutrophil activation, granulocyte activation, myeloid leukocyte activation, and myeloid leukocyte-mediated immunity were biological processes impacted by protein dysregulation in women destined to deliver within two weeks of diagnosis. The combination of AF protein abundance and quantitative cervical length improves prediction of the timing of delivery compared to cervical length alone, among women with a sonographic short cervix.
Elevated endothelin-1 levels as risk factor for an impaired ocular blood flow measured by OCT-A in glaucoma
Authors: Lommatzsch Claudia , Rothaus Kai , Schopmeyer Lasse , Feldmann Maria , Bauer Dirk , Grisanti Swaantje , Heinz Carsten , Kasper Maren
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether a correlation exists between glaucoma-associated alteration of ocular vascular haemodynamics and endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels exist. Eyes of patients with cataract (n = 30) or glaucoma (n = 68) were examined with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography (OCT-A; AngioVue™-RTVue-XR; Optovue, Fremont, California, USA). The peripapillary and the macular vessel density (VD) values were measured. Inferior and superior retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness loss was used for further OCT staging. Aqueous humour of the examined eye and plasma were sampled during cataract or glaucoma surgery and analysed by means of ELISA to determine their ET-1 level. Glaucoma eyes are characterised by reductions in RNFL thickness and VD that correlate significantly with the OCT GSS score. Peripheral and ocular ET-1 level were significantly elevated in patients with glaucoma and correlate positively with the OCT-GSS score of the entire study population. Peripapillary and macula VD of glaucoma patients correlates negatively with plasma ET-1 levels. Multivariable analysis showed a subordinate role of intraocular pressure predictive factor for impaired retinal blood flow compared with plasma ET-1 level in glaucoma. Peripheral ET-1 level serves as risk factor for detection of ocular blood flow changes in the optic nerve head region of glaucomatous eyes.
Characteristics of total body and appendicular bone mineral content and density in Japanese collegiate Sumo wrestlers
Authors: Midorikawa Taishi , Torii Suguru , Ohta Megumi , Sakamoto Shizuo
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics of total body and appendicular bone mineral content (BMC, kg) and bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm2) in Japanese collegiate Sumo wrestlers. A total of 54 male college Sumo wrestlers were recruited for the study and assigned to two groups according to their body weight (middleweight, 85–115 kg, n = 23 and heavyweight, > 115 kg, n = 31). The BMC, BMD, fat mass, and lean soft tissue mass (LSTM) values were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry for the total body and appendicular regions. Heavyweight Sumo wrestlers had significantly higher body weight, fat mass, and LSTM compared to middleweight Sumo wrestlers. The mean total body and regional BMC values were significantly higher in heavyweight than in middleweight Sumo wrestlers. The total body and leg BMD was significantly higher in heavyweight than in middleweight Sumo wrestlers, and was significantly correlated with body weight, but not arm BMD. The present study indicates that BMC and BMD might not sharply elevate among even heavyweight athletes, although heavier Sumo wrestlers had a greater BMC and BMD.
The cortical thickness of the area PF of the left inferior parietal cortex mediates technical-reasoning skills
Authors: Federico Giovanni , Reynaud Emanuelle , Navarro Jordan , Lesourd Mathieu , Gaujoux Vivien , Lamberton Franck , Ibarrola Danièle , Cavaliere Carlo , Alfano Vincenzo , Aiello Marco , Salvatore Marco , Seguin Perrine , Schnebelen Damien , Brandimonte Maria Antonella , Rossetti Yves , Osiurak François
Published: July 2022

Most recent research highlights how a specific form of causal understanding, namely technical reasoning, may support the increasing complexity of tools and techniques developed by humans over generations, i.e., the cumulative technological culture (CTC). Thus, investigating the neurocognitive foundations of technical reasoning is essential to comprehend the emergence of CTC in our lineage. Whereas functional neuroimaging evidence started to highlight the critical role of the area PF of the left inferior parietal cortex (IPC) in technical reasoning, no studies explored the links between the structural characteristics of such a brain region and technical reasoning skills. Therefore, in this study, we assessed participants’ technical-reasoning performance by using two ad-hoc psycho-technical tests; then, we extracted from participants’ 3 T T1-weighted magnetic-resonance brain images the cortical thickness (i.e., a volume-related measure which is associated with cognitive performance as reflecting the size, density, and arrangement of cells in a brain region) of all the IPC regions for both hemispheres. We found that the cortical thickness of the left area PF predicts participants’ technical-reasoning performance. Crucially, we reported no correlations between technical reasoning and the other IPC regions, possibly suggesting the specificity of the left area PF in generating technical knowledge. We discuss these findings from an evolutionary perspective, by speculating about how the evolution of parietal lobes may have supported the emergence of technical reasoning in our lineage.
Structural controls on bedrock weathering in crystalline basement terranes and its implications on groundwater resources
Authors: Pradhan Rudra Mohan , Singh Anand , Ojha Arun Kumar , Biswal Tapas Kumar
Published: July 2022

Crystalline basement rock aquifers underlie more than 20% of the earth’s surface. However, owing to an inadequate understanding of geological structures, it is challenging to locate the groundwater resources in crystalline hard rock terranes. In these terranes, faults, fractures, and shear zones play an important role in bedrock weathering and ultimately groundwater storage. This study integrates important geological structures with 2D high-resolution subsurface resistivity images in understanding the factors that influenced bedrock weathering and groundwater. The results reveal the variability of weathered zone depth in different structural zones (Zone-I to Zone-IV). This is due to the presence of foliations, fractures, and faults. A thicker weathered zone develops when a fracture/fault overprints a pre-existing planar pervasive structure like foliations (Zone-II) as compared to zones only with faults/fractures (Zone-III). Further, the transmissivity of boreholes also shows relatively higher in Zone-II than Zone-III, which implies a good pact between different structural features and possible groundwater storage. The study also demonstrates the role of paleostress and different tectonic structures influencing the depth of the “Critical Zone”. While the geology may vary for different structural terranes, the approach presented in this paper can be readily adopted in mapping bedrock weathering and groundwater resources in crystalline basement terranes globally.
Light enhanced the antimicrobial, anticancer, and catalytic activities of selenium nanoparticles fabricated by endophytic fungal strain, Penicillium crustosum EP-1
Authors: Fouda Amr , Hassan Saad El-Din , Eid Ahmed M. , Abdel‐Rahman Mohamed Ali , Hamza Mohammed F.
Published: July 2022

Selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) has recently received great attention over owing to their superior optical properties and wide biological and biomedical applications. Herein, crystallographic and dispersed spherical Se-NPs were green synthesized using endophytic fungal strain, Penicillium crustosum EP-1. The antimicrobial, anticancer, and catalytic activities of biosynthesized Se-NPs were investigated under dark and light (using Halogen tungsten lamp, 100 Watt, λ > 420 nm, and light intensity of 2.87 W m−2) conditions. The effect of Se-NPs was dose dependent and higher activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well different Candida spp. were attained in the presence of light than obtained under dark conditions. Moreover, the viabilities of two cancer cells (T47D and HepG2) were highly decreased from 95.8 ± 2.9% and 93.4 ± 3.2% in dark than those of 84.8 ± 2.9% and 46.4 ± 3.3% under light-irradiation conditions, respectively. Significant decreases in IC50 values of Se-NPs against T47D and HepG2 were obtained at 109.1 ± 3.8 and 70.4 ± 2.5 µg mL−1, respectively in dark conditions than 19.7 ± 7.2 and 4.8 ± 4.2 µg mL−1, respectively after exposure to light-irradiation. The photoluminescence activity of Se-NPs revealed methylene blue degradation efficiency of 89.1 ± 2.1% after 210 min under UV-irradiation compared to 59.7 ± 0.2% and 68.1 ± 1.03% in dark and light conditions, respectively. Moreover, superior stability and efficient MB degradation efficiency were successfully achieved for at least five cycles.
Study on the cohesive shear characteristics and intrinsic modelling of the root–tailing soil interface of Amorpha fruticosa
Authors: Yang Qing Chao , Hao Zhe , Cheng Wenjing , Lei Sheng You , Zhang Ying , Teng Da , Zhang Qian , Wang Xiao Ming
Published: July 2022

To study the soil consolidation effect of shrub plant roots on tailings soil and to explore the frictional characteristics of plant roots on tailings soil, three experimental conditions of the root–soil interface were established by using a modified indoor direct shear instrument with binders such as liquid sodium silicate and cyanoacrylate to conduct direct shear frictional tests at the root–soil interface using the roots of the typical slope protection plant Amorpha fruticosa. The Gompertz improved curve model was established by using the relationship between shear stress and shear displacement and the trend of the root–soil interface parameter index. The results were compared between the improved Gompertz curve model and the Clough–Duncan hyperbolic model, and a two-factor coupled improved Gompertz interfacial intrinsic structure model with normal stress and cohesive strength factor was established. The results showed that the interface shear stress and shear displacement showed strain hardening characteristics at different normal pressures for cohesive strength ratios of 1.5 and 1.7 at the root–tailing soil interface. At a cohesive strength ratio of 1.6, strain-softening was observed from 100 to 300 kPa and strain hardening was observed at 400 kPa. The improved Gompertz curve model predicts the shear stress and shear displacement curves at the root–soil interface with different cohesive strengths more reasonably than the Clough–Duncan hyperbolic model, and the maximum accuracy can be improved by nearly 40%. The two-factor coupled improved Gompertz curve model can fit the shear stress versus shear displacement relationship at the A. fruticosa root–tailing soil interface.
Multimorbidity and multi-disability among the elderly in residential care in India: the Hyderabad Ocular Morbidity in Elderly Study (HOMES)
Authors: Marmamula Srinivas , Kumbham Thirupathi Reddy , Shidhaye Rahul , Modepalli Satya Brahmanandam , Barrenkala Navya Rekha , Yellapragada Ratnakar , Keeffe Jill
Published: July 2022

We report prevalence and risk factors for multimorbidity and multi-disability among elderly people in residential care in the Hyderabad region in South India. In total, 1182 elderly (aged ≥ 60) participants were examined in 41 homes for the aged centres. Detailed interviews were conducted by trained personnel to collect personal and demographic information. A questionnaire was used to assess the history of non-communicable diseases and Washington Disability Questionnaire (WDQ) was administered to assess disabilities. The mean age of the participants was 75.0 years (SD 8.8 years; range: 60–108 years), 35.4% were men, 20.3% had no formal education, 60.7% had school education and 19% had higher education. The prevalence of multimorbidity was 37.6% (95% CI: 34.8–40.4). Prevalence of multi-disability was 23.6% (95% CI: 21.2–26.3; n = 270). In total, 857 (72.5%) participants reported using at least one medication for NCDs. Over a third of the elderly in residential care had multimorbidity, and a quarter of them had multi-disability. A holistic health care system that comprises health and wellness coupled with rehabilitation to address disabilities is needed to achieve healthy aging in elderly in homes for the aged in India.
Exceptional properties of hyper-resistant armor of a hydrothermal vent crab
Authors: Cho Boongho , Kim Dongsung , Kim Taewon
Published: July 2022

Animals living in extreme environments, such as hydrothermal vents, would be expected to have evolved protective shells or exoskeletons to maintain homeostasis. The outer part of the exoskeleton of vent crabs (Austinograea sp.) in the Indian Ocean hydrothermal vent was one of the hardest (approximately 7 GPa) biological materials ever reported. To explore the exoskeletal characteristics of vent crabs which enable them to adapt to severe environments, a comparative analysis was conducted with the Asian paddle crab (Charybdis japonica) living in coastal areas. Nanoindentation, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray analysis, and Raman spectroscopy were used to analyze the mechanical properties, thermal stability, structure, surface components, and the composition of compounds, respectively. Though both species have four-layered exoskeletons, the outermost layer of the vent crab, a nano-granular structure, was much thicker than that of the coastal crab. The proportions of aluminum and sulfur that constitute the epicuticle of the exoskeleton were higher in the vent crab than in the coastal crab. There was a lack of water or volatile substances, lots of CaCO3, and no carotenoid-based compounds in the exoskeleton of the vent crab. These might have improved the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the hydrothermal species.
Cardiac rehabilitation may influence leptin and VEGF A crosstalk in patients after acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Skrypnik Damian , Skrypnik Katarzyna , Suliburska Joanna , Bogdański Paweł
Published: July 2022

Leptin, a well-proven cardiovascular risk factor, influences vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF A) synthesis via hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1A), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NfkB) and NILCO (Notch, interleukin 1 [IL1] and leptin cross-talk outcome) pathways. This study aimed to investigate the influence of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on HIF-1A, NfkB and NILCO dependent leptin and VEGF A cross-talk in patients after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Fifty post-ACS patients underwent a 2-week CR programme (study group S) and were compared to 50 post-ACS subjects who did not undergo CR (control group K). In group S, at baseline and at completion and in group K once, anthropometric, body composition, blood pressure and heart rate measurements were taken and blood sampling was performed. Serum levels of leptin, VEGF A, VEGF receptor 2 (VEGF R2), HIF-1A, NfkB, interleukin 1-alpha (IL1-alpha) and Notch 1 were determined. In group S, serum VEGF A levels increased while leptin, HIF-1A and VEGF R2 levels decreased and completion but not baseline serum leptin correlated positively with serum VEGF A. Also, serum completion VEGF A correlated positively with NfkB and HIF-1A in group S. Correlation analysis in group S confirmed the significant role of the NILCO pathway in the regulation of VEGF A serum levels mediated by HIF-1A and NfkB. CR may induce the predomination of the NILCO pathway interacting with HIF-1A and NfkB over leptin canonical and non-canonical signalling pathways in the leptin influence on VEGF A in post-ACS patients.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03935438. The CARDIO-REH randomised study.
Flow field characteristics and experimental research on inner-jet electrochemical face grinding of SUS420J2 stainless steel
Authors: Wang Feng , He Yafeng , Wu Xiaokai , Kang Min
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical grinding (ECG) is processed by the combination of dissolution and grinding. It is very suitable for the processing of difficult-to-cut stainless steel, but its processing performance is restricted by the matching effect of dissolution and grinding. In this work, the processing of the torus surfaces of the stainless steel shaver cap was taken as the research object. A flow field model including the through-hole structure and the rotation of the grinding head was proposed to optimize the flow field distribution and promote the uniform dissolution of materials. The flow field simulation results showed that the rotational flow formed by the high-speed rotation prolonged the electrolyte flow path and was not conducive to the discharge of electrolytic products, and the reasonable selection of the diameter and distribution of the through-hole could reduce the velocity difference. The effects of rotational speed, feed rate, and inlet pressure on the flatness and surface roughness of the torus surfaces were experimentally investigated, and a better matching effect of dissolution and grinding was obtained. Moreover, the experimental results showed that the inner-jet ECG had a good prospect in the batch processing of high-hardness stainless steel parts.
A prospective study using an individualized nomogram to predict the success rate of external cephalic version
Authors: Lin Jing , Liu Wei , Gu Wei , Zhou Ye
Published: July 2022

To establish a clinical-based nomogram for predicting the success rate of external cephalic version (ECV) through a prospective study. This was a single-center prospective study that collected eligible breech pregnant women. 152 participants were enrolled in the training cohort, who received ECV procedures performed by a single operator. We used the training cohort to establish regression equations and prediction models. These variables include maternal factors (age, operation gestational age, pre-pregnancy BMI (Body Mass Index), operation BMI, BMI increase, multipara), ultrasound factors (fetal weight estimation, amniotic fluid index, placental location, type of breech presentation, spinal position), and anesthesia. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to screen the factors affecting the success of ECV. A nomogram scoring model was established based on these factors. And C-index, DCA (Decision Curve Analysis) and calibration curve, Hosmer–Lemeshow test was used to verify the prediction effect of the model. Finally, 33 participants were enrolled in the testing cohort who received ECV with an unrestricted operator. We used C-index, DCA (decision curve analysis), and Hosmer–Lemeshow to verify the application value of the prediction model. The calibration curves and ROC curves of both the training cohort and testing cohort are plotted for internal and external validation of the model. The ECV success rate of the training cohort was 62.5%. Univariate analysis showed that the predictors related to the success rate of ECV were age, BMI increase value, AFI (amniotic fluid index), breech type, placental location, spinal position, anesthesia, and multipara. The prediction thresholds of the corresponding indexes were calculated according to the Youden index. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that BMI increase ≥ 3.85 kg/m2, AFI ≥ 10.6 cm, anesthesia, multipara, and non-anterior placenta were independent predictors of ECV success. Through the internal and external validation, it is confirmed that the model has a good calibration and prediction ability. Our nomogram has a good ability to predict the success rate of ECV.
Multi-center validation of machine learning model for preoperative prediction of postoperative mortality
Authors: Lee Seung Wook , Lee Hyung-Chul , Suh Jungyo , Lee Kyung Hyun , Lee Heonyi , Seo Suryang , Kim Tae Kyong , Lee Sang-Wook , Kim Yi-Jun
Published: July 2022

Accurate prediction of postoperative mortality is important for not only successful postoperative patient care but also for information-based shared decision-making with patients and efficient allocation of medical resources. This study aimed to create a machine-learning prediction model for 30-day mortality after a non-cardiac surgery that adapts to the manageable amount of clinical information as input features and is validated against multi-centered rather than single-centered data. Data were collected from 454,404 patients over 18 years of age who underwent non-cardiac surgeries from four independent institutions. We performed a retrospective analysis of the retrieved data. Only 12–18 clinical variables were used for model training. Logistic regression, random forest classifier, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and deep neural network methods were applied to compare the prediction performances. To reduce overfitting and create a robust model, bootstrapping and grid search with tenfold cross-validation were performed. The XGBoost method in Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) data delivers the best performance in terms of the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) (0.9376) and the area under the precision-recall curve (0.1593). The predictive performance was the best when the SNUH model was validated with Ewha Womans University Medical Center data (AUROC, 0.941). Preoperative albumin, prothrombin time, and age were the most important features in the model for each hospital. It is possible to create a robust artificial intelligence prediction model applicable to multiple institutions through a light predictive model using only minimal preoperative information that can be automatically extracted from each hospital.
Pore flow-through catalytic membrane reactor for steam methane reforming: characterization and performance
Authors: Angulo M. , Agirre I. , Arratibel A. , Llosa Tanco M. A. , Pacheco Tanaka D. A. , Barrio V. L.
Published: July 2022

A new reactor configuration with low Pd loadings allows good methane conversion results at low temperatures.
Screen-printed electrode-based biosensors modified with functional nucleic acid probes and their applications in this pandemic age: a review
Authors: Ye Qingqing , Zhang Zhenqi , Liu Jian , Wang Xuyao
Published: July 2022

Electrochemical methodology has probably been the most used sensing platform in the past few years as they provide superior advantages.
Multi-layered alginate hydrogel structures and bacteria encapsulation
Authors: Jeong Yoon , Irudayaraj Joseph
Published: July 2022

In this work, we advanced the fabrication of alginate hydrogel-shell capsules based on mechanistic principles to generate functional hydrogel biomaterials.
Aryl iodine-catalysed divergent synthesis of isobenzofuranones and isocoumarins via oxidative 1,2-aryl migration/elimination
Authors: He Jiaxin , Zhang Jingran , Li Xuemin , Shi Haofeng , Du Yunfei
Published: July 2022

The divergent synthesis of isobenzofuranones and isocoumarins from 2-alkenyl benzoic acids was realized via an aryl iodine catalysed oxidative 1,2-aryl migration/elimination enabled by a modified Koser reagent generated in situ.
Exploring halogen⋯halogen interactions in supramolecular self-assemblies of BODIPY networks
Authors: Topaloğlu Aksoy Burcu , Dedeoglu Burcu , Zorlu Yunus , Ayhan Mehmet Menaf , Çoşut Bünyemin
Published: July 2022

In this study, the efficiency of halogen⋯halogen interactions to control supramolecular assemblies of boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) (B1–B5) derivatives was explored.
High-throughput computational screening of hypothetical metal–organic frameworks with open copper sites for CO2/H2 separation
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Cai Weiquan , Wang Chao , Wu Xuanjun
Published: July 2022

Computational screening of MOFs with copper open sites and breakthrough curve prediction in a fixed bed for CO2/H2 separation.
Low-intensity–low-temperature stability assessment of perovskite solar cells operating on simulated Martian surface conditions
Authors: Sun Mengjie , Zheng Yifan , Shi Yifeng , Zhang Guodong , Shao Yuchuan
Published: July 2022

The self-healing effect in a low-intensity–low-temperature (LILT) environment could be attributed to the simultaneous effect of light-induced decomposition and β-phase perovskite recrystallization.
Vacuum ultraviolet photodissociation of OCS via the 21Σ+ state: the S(1D2) elimination channel
Authors: Li Zheng , Liao Hong , Yang Wenshao , Yang Xueming , Yu Shengrui
Published: July 2022

We report the dissociation dynamical characteristics and mechanism of the CO(1Σ+) + S(1D2) channel via the 21Σ + state.
NASICON-type Na3.6Lu1.8−x(PO4)3:xEu3+ phosphors: structure and luminescence
Authors: Krutyak Nataliya , Spassky Dmitry , Deyneko Dina V. , Antropov Andrey , Morozov Vladimir A. , Lazoryak Bogdan I. , Nagirnyi Vitali
Published: July 2022

To establish the connection between the structure and luminescence properties in NASICON type structure, Na3.6Lu1.8−x(PO4)3:xEu3+ compounds have been studied. The enhanced thermal stability of the Eu3+ emission was obtained at Eex = 3.23 eV.
A new three-dimensional zinc(ii) metal–organic framework as a fluorescence sensor for sensing the biomarker 3-nitrotyrosine
Authors: Geng Jun , Li Yuyao , Lin Hongyan , Liu Qianqian , Lu Junjun , Wang Xiuli
Published: July 2022

A new 3D zinc-based metal–organic framework was successfully prepared, which exhibits excellent luminescence sensing performance toward the biomarker 3-nitrotyrosine with a high KSV, low detection limit and rapid response time.
Crystal phase modified blue upconversion on Tm3+/Yb3+:BCZT ceramic phosphor benefits multifunctionality in white-light applications
Authors: Sukul Prasenjit Prasad , Swart Hendrik C.
Published: July 2022

RE doped perovskite oxide hosts are promising phosphor materials in terms of white-light emission owing to their extraordinary properties such as an exceptional hosting environment for RE-ions and a switchable crystal phase near the phase boundary.
Early and late cyanobacterial bloomers in a shallow, eutrophic lake
Authors: Painter Kristin J. , Venkiteswaran Jason J. , Simon Dana F. , Vo Duy Sung , Sauvé Sébastien , Baulch Helen M.
Published: July 2022

Monitoring of a critical drinking water source reveals not all cyanobacteria that bloom can be detected using the chl-a/biomass relationship. Here we illustrate a shift from N-fixing Dolichospermum to a previously undetected autumn Planktothrix bloom.
Important ecological processes are affected by the accumulation and trophic transfer of nanoplastics in a freshwater periphyton-grazer food chain
Authors: Holzer Manuel , Mitrano Denise M. , Carles Louis , Wagner Bettina , Tlili Ahmed
Published: July 2022

Fundamental knowledge gaps on the bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and effects of nanoplastics in fresh waters limit the estimation of their ecological risks.
A chemical approach for the future of PLA upcycling: from plastic wastes to new 3D printing materials
Authors: Shao Lin , Chang Yu-Chung , Hao Cheng , Fei Ming-en , Zhao Baoming , Bliss Brian J. , Zhang Jinwen
Published: July 2022

Chemical upcycling of PLA:  Ethanolamine cleaves polylactic acid to high purity N-LEA. N-LEA reacts with methacrylic anhydride (MAh) yielding crosslinkable DME. Simply combine DME with reactive diluent and photo-initiator to form a 3D printing resin.
Drop-of-sample rheometry of biological fluids by noncontact acoustic tweezing spectroscopy
Authors: Kasireddy Nithya , Orie Jeremy C. , Khismatullin Damir B.
Published: July 2022

Acoustic tweezing spectroscopy is a novel noncontact technique to measure viscosity and elasticity using a single drop of fluid sample.
Morphological evolution of carnation flower-like Cu2CoSnS4 battery-type electrodes
Authors: Isacfranklin M. , Yuvakkumar R. , Ravi G. , Velauthapillai Dhayalan
Published: July 2022

Transition metal sulfides are the most reliable type of battery electrode material for supercapacitors.
A first principles study of a van der Waals heterostructure based on MS2 (M = Mo, W) and Janus CrSSe monolayers
Authors: Alam Q. , Sardar S. , Din H. U. , Khan S. A. , Idrees M. , Amin B. , Rehman F. , Muhammad Saleh , Laref A.
Published: July 2022

The strategy of stacking two-dimensional materials for designing van der Waals heterostructures has gained tremendous attention in realizing innovative device applications in optoelectronics and renewable energy sources.
Photothermal synthesis of a CuOx&FeOy catalyst with a layered double hydroxide-derived pore-confined frame to achieve photothermal CO2 hydrogenation to CO with a rate of 136 mmol min−1 gcat−1
Authors: Song Lizhu , Yi Xinli , Ouyang Shuxin , Ye Jinhua
Published: July 2022

A photothermally synthesized CuOx&FeOy catalyst with a layered double hydroxide-derived pore-confined frame exhibits an excellent sintered aggregation-resisted ability to achieve efficient photothermal CO2 conversion at high reaction temperatures.
Methane plasma-mediated phase engineering of Ni nanosheets for alkaline hydrogen evolution
Authors: Yan Wenxiu , An Chao , Shen Yongli , Zeng Shuyuan , An Changhua
Published: July 2022

Hcp Ni and fcc Ni nanosheets were obtained through room-temperature methane plasma conversion of Ni(OH)2, where hcp sample exhibited greater alkaline hydrogen evolution performance due to its unique crystal structure.
Amorphous ferric oxide-coating selenium core–shell nanoparticles: a self-preservation Pt(iv) platform for multi-modal cancer therapies through hydrogen peroxide depletion-mediated anti-angiogenesis, apoptosis and ferroptosis
Authors: Xu Zhaowei , Li Qingdong , Zhang Caiyun , Wang Peng , Xu Xiaotong , Ran Lang , Zhang Li , Tian Geng , Zhang Guilong
Published: July 2022

A synergistic action mechanism of iAIO@NSe-Pt suppressed tumor growth via hydrogen peroxide depletion-mediated anti-angiogenesis, apoptosis and ferroptosis.
Unveiling the hybridization between the Cr-impurity-mediated flat band and the Rashba-split state of the α-Au/Si(111) surface
Authors: Mihalyuk Alexey , Bondarenko Leonid , Tupchaya Alexandra , Utas Tatyana , Chou Jyh-Pin , Gruznev Dimitry , Eremeev Sergey , Zotov Andrey , Saranin Alexander
Published: July 2022

We have studied the effects of magnetic impurity on the electronic structure of the α-Au/Si(111)-√3×√3 system, when the role of magnetic dopants is played by the Cr adatoms.
Dramatically reducing the critical velocity of air cavity generation via biomimetic microstructure effects
Authors: Wang Zhaochang , Liu Xiaojun , Ji Jiawei , Jiao Yunlong , Liu Kun
Published: July 2022

Inspired by cybister's natural non-smooth body surface structure, the microstructure effect dramatically reduces the critical velocity of cavitation generation and causes cavitation generation almost independent of surface wettability.
Ru(ii)-Catalyzed regioselective carbene insertion into β-carbolines and isoquinolines
Authors: John Stephy Elza , Bora Darshana , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: July 2022

An efficient Ru(ii)-catalyzed carbene insertion strategy has been developed with β-carbolines and isoquinolines as effective directing groups. The protocol enabled the construction of various pharmacophores and chromophores.
Research advances in palladium-catalysed intermolecular C–H annulation of aryl halides with various aromatic ring precursors
Authors: Qiao Shujia , Deng Wenbo , Deng Guobo , Liang Yun , Yang Yuan
Published: July 2022

This review focuses on palladium-catalysed intermolecular C–H annulation of aryl halides with various aromatic ring precursors.
Dynamic covalent exchange induced cyclization in poly(methacrylic anhydride)
Authors: Santefort Arielle L. , Yuya Philip A. , Shipp Devon A.
Published: July 2022

Anhydride dynamic covalent exchange crosslinked poly(methacrylic anhydride) allows recycling at elevated temperatures and pressures and also produces cyclic anhydrides.
Coupling partner-dependent unsymmetrical C–H functionalization of N-phenoxyacetamides leading to sophisticated spirocyclic scaffolds
Authors: Song Xia , Wang Kelin , Xue Lian , Yu Haibo , Zhang Xinying , Lee Richmond , Fan Xuesen
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a coupling partner-dependent unsymmetrical C–H functionalization of N-phenoxyacetamides leading to the formation of sophisticated spirocyclic scaffolds is presented.
Cationic molybdenum oxo alkylidenes stabilized by N-heterocyclic carbenes: from molecular systems to efficient supported metathesis catalysts
Authors: Musso Janis V. , De Jesus Silva Jordan , Benedikter Mathis J. , Groos Jonas , Frey Wolfgang , Copéret Christophe , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: July 2022

The first cationic molybdenum oxo complexes were synthesized and immobilized on partially dehydroxylated silica. Vastly enhanced catalytic activity for terminal olefins was found compared to their neutral congeners.
Unexpected toroidal micelles formed from St/MMA gradient copolymers
Authors: Zheng Chao
Published: July 2022

Toroidal micelles formed from gradient copolymer is dependent on the pathway.
Progress in the self-assembly of organic/inorganic polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) hybrids
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Gamal , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: July 2022

Self-assembled structures from mono-functionalized, di-functionalized and multi-functionalized POSS cages with various polymeric attachments, including PS, PMMA, phenolic, PVPh, and polypeptides.
Ammonium ion pre-intercalation stabilized tunnel h-WO3 for fast NH4+ storage
Authors: Chen Qiang , Song Mengda , Zhang Xiangyong , Zhang Jianli , Hou Guangya , Tang Yiping
Published: July 2022

We report a pre-intercalated NH4+ stabilized tunnel h-WO3 anode for an ammonium-ion hybrid supercapacitor (A-HSC). The A-HSC delivers an ultra-high areal capacitance (2239.7 mF cm−2), areal energy density (1010.1 μWh cm−2), and decent durability.