bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of Health-Related Quality of Life and 1-year-survival in sarcoma patients—results of a Nationwide Observational Study (PROSa)
Authors: Eichler Martin , Singer Susanne , Hentschel Leopold , Richter Stephan , Hohenberger Peter , Kasper Bernd , Andreou Dimosthenis , Pink Daniel , Jakob Jens , Grützmann Robert , Fung Stephen , Wardelmann Eva , Arndt Karin , Heidt Vitali , Bonilla Sergio Armando Zapata , Gaidzik Verena I. , Jambor Helena K. , Weitz Jürgen , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Bornhäuser Martin , Schmitt Jochen , Schuler Markus K.
Published: January 2022

Background

Sarcomas are rare cancers of high heterogeneity. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) has been shown to be a prognostic factor for survival in other cancer entities but it is unclear whether this applies to sarcoma patients.

Patients and methods

HRQoL was prospectively assessed in adult sarcoma patients from 2017 to 2020 in 39 German recruiting sites using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Vital status was ascertained over the course of 1 year. HRQoL domains were analysed by multivariable cox-regressions including clinical and socio-economic risk factors.

Results

Of 1102 patients, 126 (11.4%) died during follow-up. The hazard ratio (HR) for global health was 0.73 per 10-point increase (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–0.85). HR for the HRQoL-summary score was 0.74 (CI 0.64–0.85) and for physical functioning 0.82 (CI 0.74–0.89). There was also evidence that fatigue (HR 1.17, CI 1.10–1.25), appetite loss (HR 1.15, CI 1.09–1.21) and pain (HR 1.14, CI 1.08–1.20) are prognostic factors for survival.

Conclusion

Our study adds sarcoma-specific evidence to the existing data about cancer survival in general. Clinicians and care-givers should be aware of the relations between HRQoL and survival probability and include HRQoL in routine assessment.
High energy density of BaTiO3@TiO2 nanosheet/polymer composites via ping-pong-like electron area scattering and interface engineering
Authors: Jian Gang , Jiao Yong , Feng Liang , Meng Qingzhen , Yang Ning , Zhu Shangtao , Lü Minfeng , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: January 2022

Dielectric substances exhibit great potential for high-power capacitors due to their high stability and fast charge–discharge; however, a long-term challenge is to enhance energy density. Here, we propose a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) composite utilizing BaTiO3 nanoparticle@TiO2 nanosheet (BT@TO ns) 2D nanohybrids as fillers, aiming at combining the interfacial strategy of using a core–shell filler and the electron scattering of a 2D filler to improve the energy density. With 4 wt% filler, the composite possesses the largest breakdown strength (Eb) of 561.2 MV m−1, which is significantly enhanced from the 407.6 MV m−1 of PVDF, and permittivity of 12.6 at 1 kHz, which is a 23% increase from that of PVDF. A superhigh energy density of 21.3 J cm−3 with an efficiency of 61% is obtained at 550 MV m−1. The 2D BT@TO ns-filled composite exhibits a higher energy density than composites filled with core–shell 1D BT@TO nws or non-core–shell 0D BT, 1D TO, or 2D TO particles. The Eb and energy density improvements are attributed to the buffer layer-based interface engineering and enhanced area scattering of electrons caused by the 2D hybrids, an effect similar to that of a ping-pong paddle to scatter electric field-induced charge migrations in composites. Thus, an effective hybrid strategy is presented for achieving high-performance polymer composites that can be used in energy storage devices.
Development of virtual ophthalmic surgical skills training
Authors: Gupta Chandni , Henein Christin , Ashton Christopher , Makuloluwa Achini , Mathew Rashmi G.
Published: January 2022

Background

This study aims to assess whether ophthalmic surgical skills can be taught successfully online to a diverse international and interprofessional student group.

Methods

Mixed methods study involving 20 students and 5 instructors.

Each student completed a pre-session and post-session questionnaire to assess their perceptions regarding online instruction. Changes in questionnaire responses were analysed using Wilcoxon signed rank (SPSS 25). Semi-structured interviews were conducted to assess instructor perceptions towards virtual surgical skills teaching. Thematic analysis was undertaken using NVivo 12.0 software.

Results

There was a 100% completion rate of pre- and post-session questionnaires.

Prior to the session, lack of instructor supervision and inability to provide constructive feedback were emergent themes from students. Pre-session concerns regarding online delivery: 40% of students thought their view of skills demonstration would be negatively impacted, 60% their level of supervision and 55% their interaction with instructors. Following the session 10%, 15% and 5% held this view respectively. All students were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ regarding the ‘Surgeon’s View’ camera angle as well as the use of breakout rooms. 75% perceived an improvement in their confidence in instrument handling, 80% in cable knot tying and 70% in suture tying.

Overall student rating for the virtual surgical skills session was 8.85 (±1.19) out of 10 (10 being most satisfied).

Conclusions

We demonstrate that successful delivery of a virtual ophthalmic surgical skills course is feasible. We were able to widen accessibility and participation through virtual delivery, which has future implications for ophthalmic surgical teaching and its reach.
In vivo spatiotemporal control of voltage-gated ion channels by using photoactivatable peptidic toxins
Authors: Montnach Jérôme , Blömer Laila Ananda , Lopez Ludivine , Filipis Luiza , Meudal Hervé , Lafoux Aude , Nicolas Sébastien , Chu Duong , Caumes Cécile , Béroud Rémy , Jopling Chris , Bosmans Frank , Huchet Corinne , Landon Céline , Canepari Marco , De Waard Michel
Published: January 2022

Photoactivatable drugs targeting ligand-gated ion channels open up new opportunities for light-guided therapeutic interventions. Photoactivable toxins targeting ion channels have the potential to control excitable cell activities with low invasiveness and high spatiotemporal precision. As proof-of-concept, we develop HwTxIV-Nvoc, a UV light-cleavable and photoactivatable peptide that targets voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels and validate its activity in vitro in HEK293 cells, ex vivo in brain slices and in vivo on mice neuromuscular junctions. We find that HwTxIV-Nvoc enables precise spatiotemporal control of neuronal NaV channel function under all conditions tested. By creating multiple photoactivatable toxins, we demonstrate the broad applicability of this toxin-photoactivation technology.
Selective photoinduced charge separation in perylenediimide-pillar[5]arene rotaxanes
Authors: Pearce Nicholas , Reynolds Katherine E. A. , Kayal Surajit , Sun Xue Z. , Davies E. Stephen , Malagreca Ferdinando , Schürmann Christian J. , Ito Sho , Yamano Akihito , Argent Stephen P. , George Michael W. , Champness Neil R.
Published: January 2022

The ability to control photoinduced charge transfer within molecules represents a major challenge requiring precise control of the relative positioning and orientation of donor and acceptor groups. Here we show that such photoinduced charge transfer processes within homo- and hetero-rotaxanes can be controlled through organisation of the components of the mechanically interlocked molecules, introducing alternative pathways for electron donation. Specifically, studies of two rotaxanes are described: a homo[3]rotaxane, built from a perylenediimide diimidazolium rod that threads two pillar[5]arene macrocycles, and a hetero[4]rotaxane in which an additional bis(1,5-naphtho)-38-crown-10 (BN38C10) macrocycle encircles the central perylenediimide. The two rotaxanes are characterised by a combination of techniques including electron diffraction crystallography in the case of the hetero[4]rotaxane. Cyclic voltammetry, spectroelectrochemistry, and EPR spectroscopy are employed to establish the behaviour of the redox states of both rotaxanes and these data are used to inform photophysical studies using time-resolved infra-red (TRIR) and transient absorption (TA) spectroscopies. The latter studies illustrate the formation of a symmetry-breaking charge-separated state in the case of the homo[3]rotaxane in which charge transfer between the pillar[5]arene and perylenediimide is observed involving only one of the two macrocyclic components. In the case of the hetero[4]rotaxane charge separation is observed involving only the BN38C10 macrocycle and the perylenediimide leaving the pillar[5]arene components unperturbed.
Accurate determination of solvation free energies of neutral organic compounds from first principles
Authors: Pereyaslavets Leonid , Kamath Ganesh , Butin Oleg , Illarionov Alexey , Olevanov Michael , Kurnikov Igor , Sakipov Serzhan , Leontyev Igor , Voronina Ekaterina , Gannon Tyler , Nawrocki Grzegorz , Darkhovskiy Mikhail , Ivahnenko Ilya , Kostikov Alexander , Scaranto Jessica , Kurnikova Maria G. , Banik Suvo , Chan Henry , Sternberg Michael G. , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian K. R. S. , Crawford Brad , Potoff Jeffrey , Levitt Michael , Kornberg Roger D. , Fain Boris
Published: January 2022

The main goal of molecular simulation is to accurately predict experimental observables of molecular systems. Another long-standing goal is to devise models for arbitrary neutral organic molecules with little or no reliance on experimental data. While separately these goals have been met to various degrees, for an arbitrary system of molecules they have not been achieved simultaneously. For biophysical ensembles that exist at room temperature and pressure, and where the entropic contributions are on par with interaction strengths, it is the free energies that are both most important and most difficult to predict. We compute the free energies of solvation for a diverse set of neutral organic compounds using a polarizable force field fitted entirely to ab initio calculations. The mean absolute errors (MAE) of hydration, cyclohexane solvation, and corresponding partition coefficients are 0.2 kcal/mol, 0.3 kcal/mol and 0.22 log units, i.e. within chemical accuracy. The model (ARROW FF) is multipolar, polarizable, and its accompanying simulation stack includes nuclear quantum effects (NQE). The simulation tools’ computational efficiency is on a par with current state-of-the-art packages. The construction of a wide-coverage molecular modelling toolset from first principles, together with its excellent predictive ability in the liquid phase is a major advance in biomolecular simulation.
Artificial-intelligence-driven discovery of catalyst genes with application to CO2 activation on semiconductor oxides
Authors: Mazheika Aliaksei , Wang Yang-Gang , Valero Rosendo , Viñes Francesc , Illas Francesc , Ghiringhelli Luca M. , Levchenko Sergey V. , Scheffler Matthias
Published: January 2022

Catalytic-materials design requires predictive modeling of the interaction between catalyst and reactants. This is challenging due to the complexity and diversity of structure-property relationships across the chemical space. Here, we report a strategy for a rational design of catalytic materials using the artificial intelligence approach (AI) subgroup discovery. We identify catalyst genes (features) that correlate with mechanisms that trigger, facilitate, or hinder the activation of carbon dioxide (CO2) towards a chemical conversion. The AI model is trained on first-principles data for a broad family of oxides. We demonstrate that surfaces of experimentally identified good catalysts consistently exhibit combinations of genes resulting in a strong elongation of a C-O bond. The same combinations of genes also minimize the OCO-angle, the previously proposed indicator of activation, albeit under the constraint that the Sabatier principle is satisfied. Based on these findings, we propose a set of new promising catalyst materials for CO2 conversion.
Enrichment of the exocytosis protein STX4 in skeletal muscle remediates peripheral insulin resistance and alters mitochondrial dynamics via Drp1
Authors: Merz Karla E. , Hwang Jinhee , Zhou Chunxue , Veluthakal Rajakrishnan , McCown Erika M. , Hamilton Angelica , Oh Eunjin , Dai Wenting , Fueger Patrick T. , Jiang Lei , Huss Janice. M. , Thurmond Debbie C.
Published: January 2022

Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in skeletal muscle insulin resistance. Syntaxin 4 (STX4) levels are reduced in human diabetic skeletal muscle, and global transgenic enrichment of STX4 expression improves insulin sensitivity in mice. Here, we show that transgenic skeletal muscle-specific STX4 enrichment (skmSTX4tg) in mice reverses established insulin resistance and improves mitochondrial function in the context of diabetogenic stress. Specifically, skmSTX4tg reversed insulin resistance caused by high-fat diet (HFD) without altering body weight or food consumption. Electron microscopy of wild-type mouse muscle revealed STX4 localisation at or proximal to the mitochondrial membrane. STX4 enrichment prevented HFD-induced mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction through a mechanism involving STX4-Drp1 interaction and elevated AMPK-mediated phosphorylation at Drp1 S637, which favors fusion. Our findings challenge the dogma that STX4 acts solely at the plasma membrane, revealing that STX4 localises at/proximal to and regulates the function of mitochondria in muscle. These results establish skeletal muscle STX4 enrichment as a candidate therapeutic strategy to reverse peripheral insulin resistance.
Formation of twelve-fold iodine coordination at high pressure
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Rui , Wang Zhigang , Li Da , Cui Tian
Published: January 2022

Halogen compounds have been studied widely due to their unique hypercoordinated and hypervalent features. Generally, in halogen compounds, the maximal coordination number of halogens is smaller than eight. Here, based on the particle swarm optimization method and first-principles calculations, we report an exotically icosahedral cage-like hypercoordinated IN6 compound composed of N6 rings and an unusual iodine−nitrogen covalent bond network. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first halogen compound showing twelve-fold coordination of halogen. High pressure and the presence of N6 rings reduce the energy level of the 5d orbitals of iodine, making them part of the valence orbital. Highly symmetrical covalent bonding networks contribute to the formation of twelve-fold iodine hypercoordination. Moreover, our theoretical analysis suggests that a halogen element with a lower atomic number has a weaker propensity for valence expansion in halogen nitrides.
Bio-inspired lanthanum-ortho-quinone catalysis for aerobic alcohol oxidation: semi-quinone anionic radical as redox ligand
Authors: Zhang Ruipu , Zhang Runze , Jian Ruijun , Zhang Long , Zhang Ming-Tian , Xia Yu , Luo Sanzhong
Published: January 2022

Oxidation reactions are fundamental transformations in organic synthesis and chemical industry. With oxygen or air as terminal oxidant, aerobic oxidation catalysis provides the most sustainable and economic oxidation processes. Most aerobic oxidation catalysis employs redox metal as its active center. While nature provides non-redox metal strategy as in pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ)-dependent methanol dehydrogenases (MDH), such an effective chemical version is unknown. Inspired by the recently discovered rare earth metal-dependent enzyme Ln-MDH, here we show that an open-shell semi-quinone anionic radical species in complexing with lanthanum could serve as a very efficient aerobic oxidation catalyst under ambient conditions. In this catalyst, the lanthanum(III) ion serves only as a Lewis acid promoter and the redox process occurs exclusively on the semiquinone ligand. The catalysis is initiated by 1e--reduction of lanthanum-activated ortho-quinone to a semiquinone-lanthanum complex La(SQ-.)2, which undergoes a coupled O-H/C-H (PCHT: proton coupled hydride transfer) dehydrogenation for aerobic oxidation of alcohols with up to 330 h−1 TOF.
Solid-state optical properties of self-assembling amyloid-like peptides with different charged states at the terminal ends
Authors: Schiattarella Chiara , Diaferia Carlo , Gallo Enrico , Della Ventura Bartolomeo , Morelli Giancarlo , Vitagliano Luigi , Velotta Raffaele , Accardo Antonella
Published: January 2022

The self-assembling of small peptides not only leads to the formation of intriguing nanoarchitectures, but also generates materials with unexpected functional properties. Oligopeptides can form amyloid-like cross-β assemblies that are able to emit intrinsic photoluminescence (PL), over the whole near-UV/visible range, whose origin is still largely debated. As proton transfer between the peptide chain termini within the assembly is one of the invoked interpretations of this phenomenon, we here evaluated the solid state PL properties of a series of self-assembled hexaphenylalanine peptides characterized by a different terminal charge state. Overall, our data indicate that the charge state of these peptides has a marginal role in the PL emission as all systems exhibit very similar multicolour PL associated with a violation of the Kasha’s rule. On the other hand, charged/uncharged ends occasionally produce differences in the quantum yields. The generality of these observations has been proven by extending these analyses to the Aβ16–21 peptide. Collectively, the present findings provide useful information for deciphering the code that links the spectroscopic properties of these assemblies to their structural/electronic features.
A review of some techniques for inclusion of domain-knowledge into deep neural networks
Authors: Dash Tirtharaj , Chitlangia Sharad , Ahuja Aditya , Srinivasan Ashwin
Published: January 2022

We present a survey of ways in which existing scientific knowledge are included when constructing models with neural networks. The inclusion of domain-knowledge is of special interest not just to constructing scientific assistants, but also, many other areas that involve understanding data using human-machine collaboration. In many such instances, machine-based model construction may benefit significantly from being provided with human-knowledge of the domain encoded in a sufficiently precise form. This paper examines the inclusion of domain-knowledge by means of changes to: the input, the loss-function, and the architecture of deep networks. The categorisation is for ease of exposition: in practice we expect a combination of such changes will be employed. In each category, we describe techniques that have been shown to yield significant changes in the performance of deep neural networks.
Deep learning-based algorithm for lung cancer detection on chest radiographs using the segmentation method
Authors: Shimazaki Akitoshi , Ueda Daiju , Choppin Antoine , Yamamoto Akira , Honjo Takashi , Shimahara Yuki , Miki Yukio
Published: January 2022

We developed and validated a deep learning (DL)-based model using the segmentation method and assessed its ability to detect lung cancer on chest radiographs. Chest radiographs for use as a training dataset and a test dataset were collected separately from January 2006 to June 2018 at our hospital. The training dataset was used to train and validate the DL-based model with five-fold cross-validation. The model sensitivity and mean false positive indications per image (mFPI) were assessed with the independent test dataset. The training dataset included 629 radiographs with 652 nodules/masses and the test dataset included 151 radiographs with 159 nodules/masses. The DL-based model had a sensitivity of 0.73 with 0.13 mFPI in the test dataset. Sensitivity was lower in lung cancers that overlapped with blind spots such as pulmonary apices, pulmonary hila, chest wall, heart, and sub-diaphragmatic space (0.50–0.64) compared with those in non-overlapped locations (0.87). The dice coefficient for the 159 malignant lesions was on average 0.52. The DL-based model was able to detect lung cancers on chest radiographs, with low mFPI.
The usefulness of dual mobility cups in primary total hip arthroplasty patients at a risk of dislocation
Authors: Moon Nam Hoon , Do Min Uk , Kim Jung Shin , Seo Jae Seung , Shin Won Chul
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the early results of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) using dual mobility (DM) cups in patients at a risk of dislocation and compare them with that of fixed bearing (FB) THA. This retrospective study included patients who had undergone primary THA between January 2016 and December 2018 and were at a risk of dislocation. A propensity score-matched analysis was conducted for 63 THA procedures with vitamin-E infused highly cross-linked polyethylene (VEPE) DM bearing and 63 THA procedures performed with FB from the same manufacturer for a mean follow-up period of 3.1 and 3.5 years, respectively. The radiologic outcomes at the last follow-up and incidence of postoperative complications were evaluated and compared statistically between the two groups. The modified Harris hip score (mHHS) was used to assess patient-reported outcomes. Postoperative dislocation occurred in 4 cases (6.3%) in the FB group, but did not occur in the DM group (p = 0.042). There was no difference in the radiologic outcomes and postoperative complications between the two groups. The mHHS at the last follow-up showed satisfactory outcomes in both the groups (DM group, 90.5; FB group, 88.1), without a statistical difference between the groups. The early results of THA using VEPE DM bearing showed better outcomes than that of THA with FB for patients at a risk of dislocation. A longer follow-up period is recommended to assess the stability and overall outcomes.
In situ silane activation enables catalytic reduction of carboxylic acids
Authors: Stoll Emma L. , Barber Thomas , Hirst David J. , Denton Ross M.
Published: January 2022

A practical reduction of carboxylic acids (no Schlenk apparatus) using inexpensive and readily available catalysts.
Diastereoselective palladium-catalyzed functionalization of prochiral C(sp3)–H bonds of aliphatic and alicyclic compounds
Authors: Babu Srinivasarao Arulananda , Aggarwal Yashika , Patel Pooja , Tomar Radha
Published: January 2022

Advancements in the palladium-catalyzed functionalization of diastereotopic or prochiral C(sp3)–H bonds generating stereogenic centers and stereo-arrays in aliphatic compounds have been highlighted.
Keggin-type polyoxometalates as Cu(ii) chelators in the context of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Atrián-Blasco Elena , de Cremoux Lucie , Lin Xudong , Mitchell-Heggs Rufus , Sabater Laurent , Blanchard Sébastien , Hureau Christelle
Published: January 2022

Keggin-type POMs extract Cu(ii) from the Alzheimer's-related amyloid-β peptide. They prevent Cu(Aβ) ROS production, while ill-defined Cu(Aβ) aggregates are switched to fibrils due to Cu(POM) modulation of the apo-Aβ's assembly.
Synthesis of a large-cavity carbazole macrocycle for size-dependent recognition
Authors: Dong Ming , Liu Xiu , Zhang Zhi-Yuan , Yu Chengmao , Huo Bochao , Li Chunju
Published: January 2022

A large-sized carbazole macrocycle shows size-dependent recognition towards large-volume tetrapropylammonium salts.
Bis(1-bora-4-phosphorinane) ring closure at Cp*M (M = Fe, Co) complexes
Authors: Zurakowski Joseph A. , Austen Brady J. H. , Brown Kasey R. , Drover Marcus W.
Published: January 2022

Bis(1-bora-4-phosphorinane) metal complexes have been synthesized using a Cp*M-protecting (M = FeIICl, CoI, Cp* = C5Me5−) strategy and structurally authenticated by NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Insights into the role of strontium in catalytic combustion of toluene over La1−xSrxCoO3 perovskite catalysts
Authors: Liu Mo , Yang Xiaoli , Tian Zimeng , Wang Huimin , Yin Liangtao , Chen Jianjun , Guan Qingqing , Yang Hao , Zhang Qiulin
Published: January 2022

A series of LaCoO3 perovskite catalysts substituted by Sr in the A site (La1−xSrxCoO3) were prepared via a facile sol–gel method.
Solvent and cosolute dependence of Mg surface enrichment in submicron aerosol particles
Authors: Pelimanni Eetu , Saak Clara-Magdalena , Michailoudi Georgia , Prisle Nønne , Huttula Marko , Patanen Minna
Published: January 2022

In situ XPS of aerosol particles formed from aqueous and EtOH solutions of Mg and Na bromides show surface enrichment of Mg, while particles grown from aqueous solution of Ca and Mg chlorides do not exhibit surface segregation.
High throughput screening of promising lead-free inorganic halide double perovskites via first-principles calculations
Authors: Gao Zhengyang , Mao Guangyang , Chen Shengyi , Bai Yang , Gao Peng , Wu Chongchong , Gates Ian D. , Yang Weijie , Ding Xunlei , Yao Jianxi
Published: January 2022

A high-throughput search for all-inorganic double perovskites by cationic mutation based on first-principles calculations.
Anion-binding of a chiral tris(2-aminoethyl)amine-based tripodal thiourea: a spectroscopic and computational study
Authors: Scholten Kevin , Merten Christian
Published: January 2022

A detailed conformational analysis supports the structure elucidation of hydrogen bonded complexes of a chiral tris(thiourea). VCD is the key to understanding the structural differences between chloride and hydrogen sulfate anion binding complexes.
Structural transformations in boron clusters induced by metal doping
Authors: Barroso Jorge , Pan Sudip , Merino Gabriel
Published: January 2022

Would it be possible to eventually derive a simple methodology to predict the structure adopted by boron clusters based on its structural transformation induced by the doping with one or two metal atoms?
A simple continuous reaction for the synthesis of quinoline compounds
Authors: Song Suhong , Dai Yuyu , Hong Yunyang , Li Xiaoqing , Yan Xinhuan
Published: January 2022

Using nitroarenes, sustainable solvents and a solid catalyst to synthesize quinoline compounds through a simple and continuous hydrogen transfer reaction.
Desktop-level small automatic guided vehicle driven by a liquid metal droplet
Authors: Ge Zhenyou , Guo Wenshang , Tao Ye , Liu Weiyu , Xue Rui , Song Chunlei , Jiang Hongyuan , Ren Yukun
Published: January 2022

A desktop-level small automatic guided vehicle (sAGV) system is established to realize the automatic movement of the vehicle driven by a liquid metal droplet.
Bifunctional chelators for radiorhenium: past, present and future outlook
Authors: Melis Diana R. , Burgoyne Andrew R. , Ooms Maarten , Gasser Gilles
Published: January 2022

This review highlights some of the past and current bifunctional chelators developed for radiorhenium (186Re and 188Re), as well as providing an outlook on what we may expect in the field of rhenium radiopharmaceuticals in the future.
The construction of a palladium–hydrogen accelerated catalytic Fenton system enhanced by UiO-66(Zr)
Authors: Jin Long , Liu Feng , Wu Jian-hua , Ma San-Jian , Li Juan-Hong , Tian Yong-Jing , Liu Xin , Lin Zi-Xia
Published: January 2022

The introduction of H2and Pd/UiO-66(Zr) accelerated the FeII/FeIIIcycle and led to higher contaminant degradation using only a trace level of FeIIin several reaction cycles.
Carbopol 940 hydrogel containing curcumin-loaded micelles for skin delivery and application in inflammation treatment and wound healing
Authors: Song Zhimei , Wen Yi , Teng Fangfang , Wang Min , Liu Na , Feng Runliang
Published: January 2022

Inflammation and excessive reactive oxygen species production are the main reason for slow wound healing, which necessitates an efficient therapy in clinic.
Versatile sensing platform of an innovative copper oxide-assisted Cu-phenolic coordination nanosheet-mediated fluorophore-tagged GT-rich SSA-based fluorescence ON–OFF biosensor for the subsequent detection of Cd2+ and S2− ions
Authors: Pavadai Rajaji , Perumal Panneerselvam
Published: January 2022

Increased levels of toxic metal/non-metal ions cadmium (Cd2+) and sulfide (S2−) in the environment can be detrimental to human health.
A different polynorbornene backbone by combination of two polymer growth pathways: vinylic addition and ring opening via β-C elimination
Authors: Pérez-Ortega Ignacio , Albéniz Ana C.
Published: January 2022

A new polynorbornene skeleton that contains a mixture of bicyclic norbornane units and cyclohexenylmethyl moieties can be obtained using a nickel catalyst.
Pt/Mn3O4 cubes with high anti-poisoning ability for C1 and C2 alcohol fuel oxidation
Authors: Xue Jia , Wu Xiang , Feng Ligang
Published: January 2022

Pt-decorated Mn3O4 porous cubes displayed high anti-poisoning abilities for alcohol fuel oxidation due to the enrichment of the Pt particle surfaces with electrons and due to the oxophilicity of Mn3O4.
Lung-protective effect of Punicalagin on LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice
Authors: Zeng Yibin , Zhao Hongying , Zhang Tong , Zhang Chao , He Yanni , Du Lingbo , Zuo Fuguo , Wang Wuqing
Published: January 2022

Background: Punicalagin (Pun) is one of the main bioactive compounds in pomegranate peel, it possesses many properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammation and immunosuppressive activities. The study was aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanisms of Pun on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice.

Methods and Results: Forty-eight BALB/c male mice were used to establish ALI by intratracheal-instilled 2.4 mg/kg LPS, the mice were randomly divided into model and Pun (10, 20, 40 mg/kg) groups. The other 12 mice were intratracheal-instilled same volume of water as control. After 2 h of receiving LPS, mice were administered drug through intraperitoneal injection. Lung index, histopathological changes, white blood cells and biomarkers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed. The protein expression of total and phosphor p65, IκBα, ERK1/2, JNK and p38 in lung tissue was detected. The result showed that Pun could reduce the lung index and wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio, improve lung histopathological injury. In addition, Pun decreased the inflammation cells and regulated the biomarkers in BALF. Furthermore, Pun dose-dependently reduced the phosphor protein levels of p65, IκBα, ERK1/2, JNK and p38 in lung tissue, which exhibited that the effect of Pun related to mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway. More importantly, there was no toxicity was observed in the acute toxicity study of Pun.

Conclusion: Pun improves LPS-induced ALI mainly through its anti-inflammatory properties, which is associated with nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and MAPKs signaling pathways. The study implied that Pun maybe a potent agent against ALI in future clinic.
Oral Care in Acute Stroke
Authors: Gurgel-Juarez Nalia , Mallet Karen , Egan Mary , Blacquiere Dylan , Laneville Anik , Perrier Marie-France , Martineau Isabelle , Flowers Heather Leslie
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Stroke impacts independent activities, particularly personal care such as oral hygiene. Existing guidelines lack details about how to provide effective oral care. This study explores the frequency of oral care based on staff adherence to oral care policies.

Method:

As part of a quality improvement initiative, we conducted a retrospective chart review of 30 consecutive stroke admissions to an acute care hospital. Patients with primary intracerebral hemorrhage or ischemic stroke were eligible. Sources of information included a decision support database and an electronic chart review. Data collection included length of hospitalization, stroke type, presence of infections, oral mechanism exam, dysphagia evaluations, and daily personal care provision by nursing staff (e.g., oral care and bathing).

Results:

Twenty-seven patients met the inclusion criteria. They had a mean age of 74 years, and 52% were men. Most had supratentorial stroke (86%) with comparable frequencies of right (48%) and left (52%) hemisphere lesions. In over half of the cases, provision of oral care was not documented at any point during the patients' hospitalization (Mdn= 128 hr). Pericare and bathing were about twice and 4 times more frequent than oral care, respectively.

Conclusions:

Oral care after stroke is challenging. Existing oral care recommendations from stroke guidelines lack sufficient detail and warrant reconsideration for optimal and routine implementation particularly in acute settings. Education around oral care and associated protocols are necessary to advance oral care practices and improve stroke recovery.
A gridded modular bidirectional high voltage gain soft‐switching DC–DC converter and its multiport expansion
Authors: Sun Lejia , Xue Xuan , Zhang Shaohua , Lv Hongliang , Zhang Yuming
Published: January 2022

Here, a novel modular bidirectional high voltage gain soft‐switching DC–DC converter is proposed. The proposed converter named gridded modular high‐gain soft‐switching DC–DC converter (GMHSC) can achieve wide range expansion of port voltage and voltage gain by gridded filling of modules and achieve voltage and current sharing among these modules. In addition, all semiconductor devices also realize full‐load soft‐switching operation in both power directions by introducing a simple auxiliary zero‐current transaction (ZCT) cell in each module. A distributed control system including a centre controller and localized module controllers is proposed to improve the converter's design flexibility and dynamic performance. Moreover, the GMHSC is able to provide multiple fixed voltage nodes, which makes it suitable to expend to a multiport converter. A 1.6 kW 200 kHz experimental prototype based on SiC device is provided to achieve an efficiency of 97.9% and 97.7% in boost and buck modes, respectively. Furthermore, the input current and output voltage ripples are greatly reduced through interleaved operation of the GMHSC.
Poultry biodiversity for alternative farming systems development
Authors: Fiorilla Edoardo , Cartoni Mancinelli Alice , Birolo Marco , Castellini Cesare , Soglia Dominga , Macchi Elisabetta , Mioletti Silvia , Miniscalco Barbara , Sartore Stefano , Franco Riccardo , Nurisso Stefano , Baruchello Maristella , Tarantola Martina , Sacchi Paola , Schiavone Achille , Mugnai Cecilia
Published: January 2022

Poultry biodiversity represents a key factor to improve poultry resilience and promote sustainable and low input farming systems. The EU and member states promote protection of livestock biodiversity and the development of alternative farming through funding projects such as “Local Chicken Breeds in Alternative Production Chain: Welfare, Quality and Sustainability” (funded by the Italian Ministry of Research and University). The aim of the present research was to identify among five different poultry genotypes Bionda Piemontese (BP), Robusta Maculata (RM), RM x Sasso (RMxS), BP x Sasso (BPxS) and a commercial hybrid (Ross 308) the best suitable breed in terms of productivity and welfare for alternative housing system. A total of 300 (60 x genotype), 21 days old male birds were randomly allotted in two housing systems: 1) standard intensive farming (controlled environment, 33 kg/m2 and standard diet) and 2) free-range (“natural” environmental conditions, 21 kg/m2, access to outdoor area and low-input diet). Slaughtering was performed at 81 days of age. During the trial, the productive performance and behaviour of the animals were evaluated. The housing system, the genotype and their interaction significantly affected many of the studied variables, showing broiler not the ideal genotype for extensive farming system, which is more suited for low/medium performance strains.
Characteristics of reduced fat mayonnaise using pumpkin flour (Cucurbita moschata) as fat replacer
Authors: Azizila Nidhal Hemas , Evanuarini Herly , Thohari Imam
Published: January 2022

Reduced fat mayonnaise has the disadvantage of destabilization of emulsion. Emulsion destabilization that occurs is the separation of oil and water. Pumpkin flour is used to increase the viscosity and stability of the emulsion. The objective of this study was to determine the best percentage of the use of pumpkin flour in reduced fat mayonnaise based on pH, emulsion stability, moisture content, and sensory evaluation. The material used in this research was mayonnaise made from egg yolk, canola flower oil, vinegar, pumpkin flour as a fat replacer carbohidrates based, and other optional ingredients. The method used was an experimental laboratory with a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments consisted of without the use of pumpkin as a control, the use of pumpkin flour 2%, 4%, and 6% of the total oil used. The variables measured were pH, emulsion stability, moisture content, and sensory evaluation. The results showed that the use of pumpkin flour on mayonnaise gave highly significant effect on pH, stability emulsion, moisture content and increased panelists preferences. The conclusion of the study that using 6% pumpkin flour produced the best reduced-fat mayonnaise.
Production Performance of Layer Strain Hy-Line Brown in Different Cage Locations in Closed House
Authors: Sudjarwo Edhy , Muharlien Muharlien , Sjofjan Osfar , Lestari Yulianti Dyah
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the production performance of layer hen strain Hy-Line Brown in different cage locations in closed house. The research material was 5,051 laying hens of the Hy-Line strain aged 28 weeks. House system was closed house, cage arranged to form frame A. Hy-Line Brown layer were housed at cage densities of 500 cm2 per hen. Research feed is complete feed code 324 KJ produced by PT. Charoen Pokphand Indonesia. The research method is comparative, comparing the production performance on the location of the cage in zone 1 (inlet), zone 2 (middle), and zone 3 (outlet) of a closed cage. The research sample is 10% of the total population. Observations were carried out on 6 cages which were randomly selected in each cage zone. The average density of cages is 20 birds/m2. Tabulated research data are Hen Day Production (%), egg weight (g), egg mass (kg), and feed conversion. Data analysis is analysis of variance analysis (One-Way ANOVA). Based on the results of the study, there were significant differences in the the production performance of layer hen strain Hy-Line Brown in different cage locations in closed house. The highest production performance is the cage located close to the inlet (Zone 1).
Nutritional content, performance and ratooning ability of four sorghum genotypes
Authors: Harmini Harmini , Fanindi Achmad , Sutedi Endang , Herdiawan Iwan , Sajimin Sajimin
Published: January 2022

Sorghum is a grain plant that is a source of food, biofuel and feed, which can be produced using the techniques of ratoon cultivation. The objective of this study is to assess the nutrition content, the performance of the four sorghum genotypes and the vegetative characteristics of the sorghum ratoon. The research was carried out from December 2020 to July 2021 at the Ciawi Research Garden, the Livestock Research Institute. The study employed four treatments (genotype) and three replications of random block design. The range of protein content, crude fat crude fiber and ash in the four genotypes of sorghum was 7.91-9.30, 1.91-2.69, 33.41-37.57 and 8.25-9.11%, respectively. Genotype significantly affected P<0.05 on plant height, stem height, leaf width, internode length, flag leaf width and fresh weight, but not significantly different P>0.05 on leaf length, stem diameter and flag leaf length on the main plant. Genotype had no significant effect (P>0.05) on plant height, number of tillers, leaf length, leaf width and fresh weight of ratoons. It was concluded that the ability of ratoon in sorghum was not affected by the genotype of sorghum.
Morphometric and gross anatomy studies of gonads in day-old Arabic chick (Gallus turcicus) lead to gonadal asymmetry
Authors: Iswati Iswati , Ciptadi Gatot
Published: January 2022

The differentiation of avian gonads occurred since the embryonic stage, resulted in asymmetric morphology. This study aimed to analyse the morphometric and gross anatomy of gonads in Day old Arabic chick. This study utilized 116 Day old Arabic chick. After necropsy, they were divided into 61 male and 55 female. The variables studies were length, width, volume, location, colour, and shape of the gonads. Data analysis used descriptive analysis and independent T test. The results showed a significant difference (P<0.01) between the right and left ovary lengths 1.67±0.08 mm and 3.69±0.05, respectively. A significant difference (P<0.01) between the width ovaries 0.64±0.03 mm (right ovary) and 1.18±0.03 mm (left ovary), respectively. It was found a significant difference (P<0.05) between the length of right and left testis 2.47±0.08 mm and 3.29±0.07mm, and between volume of testis 1.46±0.12 mm3 (right testis) and 2.03±0.13 mm3 (left testis). However, the right and left testes width was not significant (P>0.01). The testes colour was creamy white, sometimes pink, and grey to black, the colour of ovaries was creamy yellow and pink. Morphometric and gonadal morphology of Day old Arabic chick showed gonadal asymmetry, and the left side is larger than the right side.
Role of high quality feed supplement additional to the success of artificial insemination using sexing semen on Limousin Crossbred Cow
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Zainul , Utami Putri , Prafitri Rizki , Hanim Chusnul , Susilawati Trinil
Published: January 2022

The success of artificial insemination must be supported by a balance of nutrients for livestock. AI combined with sexing produces offspring according to wishes of the breeder. This study aims to determine the increase in concentration on the success of Artificial Insemination using frozen semen sexing. This research was conducted at the people's beef cattle farm, Sumber Pucung District, Malang Regency. The limousine crosser used was 30 cows. Cattle aged 1.8 – 5 years with BCS 3-5 (score 1-9) Treatment T0 : The usual feed given by farmers (Control). T1: Control+HQFS. Parameters NRR-1, NRR-2, Conception Rate (CR), Pregnancy Rate (PR). The additional feeding of concentrate did not significantly affect the reproductive parameters. The results showed that at T0 the results of NRR-1 and NRR-2 were 80% and 73.33%, respectively. while in T1 it was 73.3% and 66.67%. The results showed that the CR in both treatments was 26% and the results showed that the PR for T0 was 26% and for T1 was 33%. Insufficient feed consumption for all treatments based on NRC requirement data, T0 and T1 dry matter consumption respectively 6.6 and 7.3 Kg/head/day, Protein consumption 0.36 and 0.3 Kg/head/day and TDN consumption of 3.08 and 3.20. kg/head/day.
Effect of addition level of Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. on Broiler performances at starter period
Authors: Widodo Eko , Leke Jein Rini , Pangestu Khusnul Teguh , Hidayatul Aulia , Purnomo Dhimas Rodho , Farhan Muhamad
Published: January 2022

Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves are commonly used as food additives in many countries. Beside to improve taste, it is recognized to contain various compound groups namely alkaloid, saponins, flavonoids and tannins that have a role in antibacterial activity. However, the current research aim was to examine effect of using Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves as feed additive in broilers. The method used was experiment, employing 6 treatments included P0: control feed; P0: control feed added with 0.1% zinc bacitracin; P1: control feed added with 0.5% Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder; P2: control feed added with 1.0% Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder; P3: control feed added with 1.5% Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder; P4: control feed added with 2.0% Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder. The variables measured were feed consumption, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio. The results indicated that in all variables no significant results were reported. Those indicated that addition of Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder in broiler feed did not affect growth performances of broiler. It is concluded that the use of Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. leaves powder as feed additive did not change growth of broiler, probably due partly to its antibacterial effect.
The potential of frozen rumen fluid for ruminant feed evaluation using in vitro gas production technique
Authors: Pramita Melyndra Sonya , Soetanto Hendrawan
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the potential of frozen rumen fluid (RF) for ruminant feed evaluation using in vitro gas production (IVGP) technique. This study used a factorial randomized block design with a 3 × 3 × 3 pattern, consisting three feeding regimes varying in forage to concentrate proportion, namely 20%:80% (feed A), 40%:60% (feed B), and 60%:40% (feed C), respectively; three storage time (2, 11, and 19 days); and RF from 3 breeds of indigenous cattle, namely Bali, crossbred Ongole and Madura cattle as groups. The results showed that the effects of feeding regimes, inoculum source, or storage time on total gas production, potential of gas production, rate of gas production, dry matter and organic matter degradability. Based on the results, it can be concluded that frozen RF may be used as inoculum source for feed evaluation using the IVGP technique and hence it supports the previous findings reported in the literature. Considering that the effects of different feeds, inoculum sources, and storage times gave the specific values, it is advisable that to use RF from slaughtered animals should be taken from the same breed to allow accurate comparison for feed evaluation using IVGP technique.
Ecological risk analysis in marine fish farming: a case study of a seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) farm located in Moroccan Mediterranean coast
Authors: Nhhala Hassan , Bahida Abdeljallil , Nhhala Imane , Chadli Housni , Abrehouch Azeddine , Abdellaoui Benyounes , Id Halla Mohamed , Er-Raioui Hassan
Published: January 2022

The present study aimed at studying ecological interaction between a fish farm cages located in M’diq bay, in western Moroccan Mediterranean coast, and its local environment. It was carried out in 2013 and 2016 through seabed analysis in terms of organic matter and some nutrients parameters such as Nitrogen and Phosphorus, as well as through monitoring macro-fauna assemblages. The results showed recorded values relatively stable in three years’ interval and have a well-integrated fish farming activity within its ecosystem. Sediment was sandy to sandy shelly types and macro-benthic fauna were composed of six groups, Gastropods, Bivalves, Scaphopoda, Amphipods, Nematoda and Polychaeta. Organic matter and Total Organic Carbon were respectively less than 3.2% and 1.87% and very low comparing with others Mediterranean fish farms sites. Estimation of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Carbon potential releases of M’diq fish farm gave low data related to its production capacity not exceeding 200 tons by year. Influenced with open sea location and high current state, dispersion pattern of these fish farm discharges seemed to play a key role in keeping lower values. ANOVA analysis showed no significant difference between studied parameters in the five sampling stations comparing with the reference station both on geographical and temporal levels (seasons and years).