bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boosting the adsorptive and photocatalytic performance of MIL-101(Fe) against methylene blue dye through a thermal post-synthesis modification
Authors: Fattahi Mehdi , Niazi Zohreh , Esmaeili Fatemeh , Mohammadi Ali Akbar , Shams Mahmoud , Nguyen Le Binh
Published: September 2023

Photocatalytic degradation under ultra-low powered light is a viable advanced oxidation process technique against extensive emerging contaminants. As a new and remarkable class of nanoporous materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), attract interest for the supreme adsorptive and photocatalytic functionalities. An outstanding MOF, MIL-101(Fe) chosen as a photocatalyst template for the synthesis of α-Fe2O3 by a simple thermal modification to improve the structural properties toward methylene blue (MB) eradication. Octahedron-like α-Fe2O3 photocatalyst (Modified MIL-101(Fe), M-MIL-101(Fe)) was superior in dispersion and separation properties in aqueous medium. Moreover, the adsorptive and catalytic performance was increased for modified form by ~ 7.3% and ~ 17.1% compared to pristine MIL-101(Fe), respectively. Synergistic improvement of MB removal achieved by simultaneous adsorption/degradation under 5-W LED irradiation. Parametric study indicated an 18.1% and 44.5% improvement in MB removal was observed by increasing pH from 4 to 10, and M-MIL-101(Fe) dose from 0.2 to 1 g L−1, respectively. MB removal followed the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and the process efficiency dropped by 38% as MB concentration increased from 5 to 20 mg L−1. Radical trapping tests revealed the significant role of $${\mathrm{OH}}^{.}$$

OH

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and electron radicals as the major participants in dye degradation. A significant loss in the efficiency of M-MIL-101(Fe) was observed in the reusability tests that is good to study further. In conclusion, a simple thermal post-synthesis modification on MIL-101(Fe) improved its structural, catalytic, and adsorptive properties against MB.
Script-driven imagery of socially salient autobiographical memories in major depressive disorder
Authors: Gillard Julia , Werner-Seidler Aliza , Dalgleish Tim , Stretton Jason
Published: September 2023

Cues of social rejection and affiliation represent proximal risk and protective factors in the onset and maintenance of depression. Such cues are thought to activate an evolutionarily primed neuro-cognitive alarm system, alerting the agent to the benefits of inclusion or the risk of social exclusion within social hierarchies focused on ensuring continued access to resources. In tandem, autobiographical memory is thought to be over-general and negatively biased in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) which can contribute to maintenance and relapse. How memories of social rejection and affiliation are experienced and processed in MDD remains unexplored. Eighteen participants with recurrent and chronic MDD and 18 never-depressed controls listened to and vividly revisited autobiographical social experiences in an ecologically valid script-driven imagery paradigm using naturalistic memory narratives in an fMRI paradigm. Memories of Social Inclusion and Social Rejection broadly activated a common network of regions including the bilateral insula, thalamus and pre/postcentral gyrus across both groups. However, having a diagnosis of MDD was associated with an increased activation of the right middle frontal gyrus irrespective of memory type. Changes in positive affect were associated with activity in the dorsal ACC in the MDD group and in the insular cortex of the Control group. Our findings add to the evidence for complex representations for both positive and negative social signals in MDD and suggest neural sensitivity in MDD towards any socially salient information as opposed to selective sensitivity towards negative social experiences.
A leader supply-demand-based optimization for large scale optimal power flow problem considering renewable energy generations
Authors: Daqaq Fatima , Hassan Mohamed H. , Kamel Salah , Hussien Abdelazim G.
Published: September 2023

The supply-demand-based optimization (SDO) is among the recent stochastic approaches that have proven its capability in solving challenging engineering tasks. Owing to the non-linearity and complexity of the real-world IEEE optimal power flow (OPF) in modern power system issues and like the existing algorithms, the SDO optimizer necessitates some enhancement to satisfy the required OPF characteristics integrating hybrid wind and solar powers. Thus, a SDO variant namely leader supply-demand-based optimization (LSDO) is proposed in this research. The LSDO is suggested to improve the exploration based on the simultaneous crossover and mutation mechanisms and thereby reduce the probability of trapping in local optima. The LSDO effectiveness has been first tested on 23 benchmark functions and has been assessed through a comparison with well-regarded state-of-the-art competitors. Afterward, Three well-known constrained IEEE 30, 57, and 118-bus test systems incorporating both wind and solar power sources were investigated in order to authenticate the performance of the LSDO considering a constraint handling technique called superiority of feasible solutions (SF). The statistical outcomes reveal that the LSDO offers promising competitive results not only for its first version but also for the other competitors.
The transition from field emission to collisional space-charge limited current with nonzero initial velocity
Authors: Breen Lorin I. , Loveless Amanda M. , Darr Adam M. , Cartwright Keith L. , Garner Allen L.
Published: September 2023

Multiple electron emission mechanisms often contribute in electron devices, motivating theoretical studies characterizing the transitions between them. Previous studies unified thermionic and field emission, defined by the Richardson-Laue-Dushman (RLD) and Fowler–Nordheim (FN) equations, respectively, with the Child-Langmuir (CL) law for vacuum space-charge limited current (SCLC); another study unified FN and CL with the Mott-Gurney (MG) law for collisional SCLC. However, thermionic emission, which introduces a nonzero injection velocity, may also occur in gas, motivating this analysis to unify RLD, FN, CL, and MG. We exactly calculate the current density as a function of applied voltage over a range of injection velocity (i.e., temperature), mobility, and gap distance. This exact solution approaches RLD, FN, and generalized CL (GCL) and MG (GMG) for nonzero injection velocity under appropriate limits. For nonzero initial velocity, GMG approaches zero for sufficiently small applied voltage and mobility, making these gaps always space-charge limited by either GMG at low voltage or GCL at high voltage. The third-order nexus between FN, GMG, and GCL changes negligibly from the zero initial velocity calculation over ten orders of magnitude of applied voltage. These results provide a closed form solution for GMG and guidance on thermionic emission in a collisional gap.
Autonomic function and motor subtypes in Parkinson’s disease: a multicentre cross-sectional study
Authors: Gu Si-Chun , Shi Rong , Gao Chen , Yuan Xiao-Lei , Wu You , Liu Zhen-Guo , Wang Chang-De , Zhao Shao-Rong , Chen Xiqun , Yuan Can-Xing , Ye Qing
Published: September 2023

Autonomic symptoms (AS) are critical in Parkinson’s disease (PD). We aimed to determine the relative significance of clinical factors allowing predictions about incidence of AS, and examine AS profiles among PD patients by motor subtype and its relation to AS. The cross-sectional data of a multicentre sample, including 714 PD patients and 194 healthy controls from Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative study and Pingchan granule study were analyzed, stratified by PD subtypes [postural instability and gait disturbances (PIGD), tremor dominant (TD), and indeterminate] and domain autonomic dysfunction. Compared with healthy controls, PD patients scored higher in the total Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease-Autonomic dysfunction score and in several domain scores in particular, and there was a significant overlap in domain AS. Risk factors of individual domain autonomic dysfunction were heterogeneous. PIGD and indeterminate were the predominant subtypes in pupillomotor and thermoregulatory symptoms. TD and indeterminate were more likely to suffer from cardiovascular problem. The odd in sexual dysfunction was significant for PIGD. Gastrointestinal and urinary symptoms seemed not to be associated with a specific subtype. Our study demonstrated that AS were highly heterogeneous and 3 subtypes differed in autonomic performance, providing clues to understand mechanisms underlying AS in PD.
Robust analysis of a novel PANoptosis-related prognostic gene signature model for hepatocellular carcinoma immune infiltration and therapeutic response
Authors: Wei Yongguang , Lan Chenlu , Yang Chengkun , Liao Xiwen , Zhou Xin , Huang Xinlei , Xie Haixiang , Zhu Guangzhi , Peng Tao
Published: September 2023

PANoptosis, an interplay between pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, is deeply involved in cancer development and immunity. However, the influence of PANoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains to be further investigated. The differentially expressed PANoptosis-related genes (PANRGs) was screened in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Accordingly, mutation, bioinformatics, and consensus clustering analyses were performed. Then, a prognostic risk model was developed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression. Furthermore, the prognostic value, immunity correlation and therapeutic response prediction ability of risk model were explored. A total of 18 PANRGs were differently expressed in the TCGA-HCC cohort and were mainly involved in cancer- and cell death-related signal pathways. Using unsupervised clustering method, we identified two PANRGs-mediated clustering patterns. The remarkable differences between the two clusters on overall survival (OS) and clinical features were demonstrated respectively. Based on the five-gene prognostic risk model, the calculated PANRG-scores were used to categorize the subgroups as high- and low-risk. Notably, the high-risk subgroup had a dismal prognosis and exhibited much lower immune infiltration levels of mast cells, nature killer cells and pDCs, but higher levels of aDCs, iDCs and Treg cells than those in the low-risk subgroup. Furthermore, we constructed a reliable nomogram combining clinical traits and PANRG-score to predict the OS of HCC patients. The significantly negative correlation between PANoptosis and tumor mutation burden (TMB), ferroptosis were revealed. In drug sensitivity analysis, the high-risk subgroup had a considerably lower TIDE score, suggesting a preferable response to immunotherapy, and may be more sensitive to Tipifarnib, Imatinib, Doxorubicin, and Gemcitabine. The upregulated mRNA expressions of FADD were validated in 16 paired HCC tissues of Guangxi cohort. Based on PANoptosis-related genes, an integrated risk signature was constructed to provide a roadmap for patient stratification and predict HCC patient's prognosis. The patients with the higher PANRG-score may carry a dismal survival and relatively low immune infiltration, but a potential better immunotherapy response. Therefore, future HCC therapy perspectives should emphasize the setting of PANoptosis to achieve a personalized, practicable and effective therapeutic regimen.
EEG feature selection method based on maximum information coefficient and quantum particle swarm
Authors: Chen Wan , Cai Yanping , Li Aihua , Su Yanzhao , Jiang Ke
Published: September 2023

To reduce the dimensionality of EEG features and improve classification accuracy, we propose an improved hybrid feature selection method for EEG feature selection. First, MIC is used to remove irrelevant features and redundant features to reduce the search space of the second stage. QPSO is then used to optimize the feature in the second stage to obtain the optimal feature subset. Considering that both dimensionality and classification accuracy affect the performance of feature subsets, we design a new fitness function. Moreover, we optimize the parameters of the classifier while optimizing the feature subset to improve the classification accuracy and reduce the running time of the algorithm. Finally, experiments were performed on EEG and UCI datasets and compared with five existing feature selection methods. The results show that the feature subsets obtained by the proposed method have low dimensionality, high classification accuracy, and low computational complexity, which validates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Physical function and mental health trajectories in COVID-19 patients following invasive mechanical ventilation: a prospective observational study
Authors: Yamamoto Hiromasa , Tanaka Shinya , Kasugai Daisuke , Shimizu Miho , Tsuchikawa Yohei , Hori Yuto , Fugane Yuki , Inoue Takayuki , Nagaya Motoki , Omote Norihito , Higashi Michiko , Yamamoto Takanori , Jingushi Naruhiro , Numaguchi Atsushi , Goto Yukari , Nishida Yoshihiro
Published: September 2023

This prospective observational cohort study was performed to investigate the physical function and mental health trajectories of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) after discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU). The study population consisted of 64 patients (median age, 60 years; 85.9% male; median IMV duration, 9 days). At ICU discharge, 28.1% of the patients had Medical Research Council (MRC) sum score < 48 points, and prolonged IMV was significantly associated with lower MRC sum score and handgrip strength. Symptoms were similar between groups at ICU discharge, and the symptoms most commonly reported as moderate-to-severe were impaired well-being (52%), anxiety (43%), tiredness (41%), and depression (35%). Although muscle strength and mobility status were significantly improved after ICU discharge, Edmonton Symptom Assessment System score did not improve significantly in the prolonged IMV group. EuroQol five-dimension five-level summary index was significantly lower in the prolonged than short IMV group at 6 months after ICU discharge. We found substantial negative physical function and mental health consequences in the majority of surviving COVID-19 patients requiring IMV, with prolonged period of IMV showing greater negative effects not only immediately but also at 6 months after discharge from the ICU.
Expression of hypoxia-inducible genes is suppressed in altered gravity due to impaired nuclear HIF1α accumulation
Authors: Aboouf Mostafa A. , Thiel Cora S. , Borisov Sergey M. , Tauber Svantje , Bönzli Eva , Schetle Nelli , Ullrich Oliver , Gassmann Max , Vogel Johannes
Published: September 2023

Extravehicular activities, the backbone of manned space exploration programs, set astronauts into mild hypoxia. Unfortunately, microgravity aggravates threatening symptoms of hypoxia such as vision impairment and brain edema. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) sense cellular hypoxia and, subsequently, change the cells’ expression profile instantaneously by rapidly translocating—most likely cytoskeleton-dependently—into the nucleus and subsequently forming transcription complexes with other proteins. We tested the hypothesis that this fundamental process could be altered by sudden changes in gravitational forces in parabolic flights using a newly developed pocket-size cell culture lab that deoxygenizes cells within 15 min. Sudden gravity changes (SGCs 1g–1.8g–0g–1.8g–1g) during hypoxic exposure suppressed expression of the HIF1α-dependent genes investigated as compared with hypoxia at constant 1g. Normoxic cells subjected to SGCs showed reduced nuclear but not cytoplasmatic HIF1α signal and appeared to have disturbed cytoskeleton architecture. Inhibition of the actin-dependent intracellular transport using a combination of myosin V and VI inhibitors during hypoxia mimicked the suppression of the HIF1α-dependent genes observed during hypoxic exposure during SGCs. Thus, SGCs seem to disrupt the cellular response to hypoxia by impairing the actin-dependent translocation of HIF1α into the nucleus.
Laminin fragments conjugated with perlecan’s growth factor-binding domain differentiate human induced pluripotent stem cells into skin-derived precursor cells
Authors: Sugiyama-Nakagiri Yoriko , Yamashita Shiho , Taniguchi Yukimasa , Shimono Chisei , Sekiguchi Kiyotoshi
Published: September 2023

Deriving stem cells to regenerate full-thickness human skin is important for treating skin disorders without invasive surgical procedures. Our previous protocol to differentiate human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into skin-derived precursor cells (SKPs) as a source of dermal stem cells employs mouse fibroblasts as feeder cells and is therefore unsuitable for clinical use. Herein, we report a feeder-free method for differentiating iPSCs into SKPs by customising culture substrates. We immunohistochemically screened for laminins expressed in dermal papillae (DP) and explored the conditions for inducing the differentiation of iPSCs into SKPs on recombinant laminin E8 (LM-E8) fragments with or without conjugation to domain I of perlecan (PDI), which binds to growth factors through heparan sulphate chains. Several LM-E8 fragments, including those of LM111, 121, 332, 421, 511, and 521, supported iPSC differentiation into SKPs without PDI conjugation. However, the SKP yield was significantly enhanced on PDI-conjugated LM-E8 fragments. SKPs induced on PDI-conjugated LM111-E8 fragments retained the gene expression patterns characteristic of SKPs, as well as the ability to differentiate into adipocytes, osteocytes, and Schwann cells. Thus, PDI-conjugated LM-E8 fragments are promising agents for inducing iPSC differentiation into SKPs in clinical settings.
Conversational agents enhance women's contribution in online debates
Authors: Hadfi Rafik , Okuhara Shun , Haqbeen Jawad , Sahab Sofia , Ohnuma Susumu , Ito Takayuki
Published: September 2023

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fostering the development of innovative methods of communication and collaboration. Integrating AI into Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is now ushering in an era of social progress that has the potential to empower marginalized groups. This transformation paves the way to a digital inclusion that could qualitatively empower the online presence of women, particularly in conservative and male-dominated regions. To explore this possibility, we investigated the effect of integrating conversational agents into online debates encompassing 240 Afghans discussing the fall of Kabul in August 2021. We found that the agent leads to quantitative differences in how both genders contribute to the debate by raising issues, presenting ideas, and articulating arguments. We also found increased ideation and reduced inhibition for both genders, particularly females, when interacting exclusively with other females or the agent. The enabling character of the conversational agent reveals an apparatus that could empower women and increase their agency on online platforms.
Impact of prolonged carbapenem use-focused antimicrobial stewardship on antimicrobial consumption and factors affecting acceptance of recommendations: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Yoo Jin Sae , Park Jeong Yong , Chun Ha-Jin , Kim Young Rong , Kim Eun Jin , Choi Young Hwa , Ha Kyoung Hwa , Heo Jung Yeon
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the impact of a prolonged carbapenem use-focused antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) on antimicrobial consumption and clinical outcomes and to analyze factors affecting adherence to interventions. Patients prescribed carbapenems for ≥ 2 weeks received intervention. Interrupted time-series analysis was performed to compare antimicrobial consumption before and after intervention. Factors associated with non-adherence to intervention were investigated. Of 273 patients who were eligible for intervention, discontinuation or de-escalation was recommended in 256 (94.1%) and intervention was accepted in 136 (53.1%) patients. Before intervention, carbapenem consumption significantly increased to 1.14 days of therapy (DOT)/1000 patient days (PD)/month (P = 0.018). However, it significantly declined by − 2.01 DOT/1000 PD/month without an increase in other antibiotic consumption (P < 0.001). Factors affecting non-adherence to intervention were younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96–1.00), solid organ malignancy (OR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.16–5.50), and pneumonia (OR = 2.59, 95% CI 1.08–6.17). However, ASP intervention was not associated with clinical outcomes such as length of hospital stay or mortality. Prolonged carbapenem prescription-focused ASP significantly reduced carbapenem consumption without adverse outcomes. Non-adherence to interventions was attributed more to prescriber-related factors, such as attitude, than patient-related factors including clinical severity.
Streamflow classification by employing various machine learning models for peninsular Malaysia
Authors: AlDahoul Nouar , Momo Mhd Adel , Chong K. L. , Ahmed Ali Najah , Huang Yuk Feng , Sherif Mohsen , El-Shafie Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Due to excessive streamflow (SF), Peninsular Malaysia has historically experienced floods and droughts. Forecasting streamflow to mitigate municipal and environmental damage is therefore crucial. Streamflow prediction has been extensively demonstrated in the literature to estimate the continuous values of streamflow level. Prediction of continuous values of streamflow is not necessary in several applications and at the same time it is very challenging task because of uncertainty. A streamflow category prediction is more advantageous for addressing the uncertainty in numerical point forecasting, considering that its predictions are linked to a propensity to belong to the pre-defined classes. Here, we formulate streamflow prediction as a time series classification with discrete ranges of values, each representing a class to classify streamflow into five or ten, respectively, using machine learning approaches in various rivers in Malaysia. The findings reveal that several models, specifically LSTM, outperform others in predicting the following n-time steps of streamflow because LSTM is able to learn the mapping between streamflow time series of 2 or 3 days ahead more than support vector machine (SVM) and gradient boosting (GB). LSTM produces higher F1 score in various rivers (by 5% in Johor, 2% in Kelantan and Melaka and Selangor, 4% in Perlis) in 2 days ahead scenario. Furthermore, the ensemble stacking of the SVM and GB achieves high performance in terms of F1 score and quadratic weighted kappa. Ensemble stacking gives 3% higher F1 score in Perak river compared to SVM and gradient boosting.
The effective deficiency of biochemical networks
Authors: Langary Damoun , Küken Anika , Nikoloski Zoran
Published: September 2023

The deficiency of a (bio)chemical reaction network can be conceptually interpreted as a measure of its ability to support exotic dynamical behavior and/or multistationarity. The classical definition of deficiency relates to the capacity of a network to permit variations of the complex formation rate vector at steady state, irrespective of the network kinetics. However, the deficiency is by definition completely insensitive to the fine details of the directionality of reactions as well as bounds on reaction fluxes. While the classical definition of deficiency can be readily applied in the analysis of unconstrained, weakly reversible networks, it only provides an upper bound in the cases where relevant constraints on reaction fluxes are imposed. Here we propose the concept of effective deficiency, which provides a more accurate assessment of the network’s capacity to permit steady state variations at the complex level for constrained networks of any reversibility patterns. The effective deficiency relies on the concept of nonstoichiometric balanced complexes, which we have already shown to be present in real-world biochemical networks operating under flux constraints. Our results demonstrate that the effective deficiency of real-world biochemical networks is smaller than the classical deficiency, indicating the effects of reaction directionality and flux bounds on the variation of the complex formation rate vector at steady state.
A nationwide study on the current treatment status and natural prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in elderly
Authors: Yoo Jeong-Ju , Lee Jayoun , Choi Gi Hong , Lee Min Woo , Park Dong Ah
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to identify the treatment status and natural prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients aged 65 years or older in Korea. We analyzed 3,492 patients’ data from the liver cancer stage of the Central Cancer Registry of National Cancer Center. The most common etiology of HCC was hepatitis B (32.7%), followed by hepatitis C. 2624 patients (69.2%) received first-line active treatment for HCC. The most frequently selected treatment was transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), followed by surgical resection and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). The proportion of patients receiving supportive care increased with age. Second-line treatment was performed in only 36.7% of cases, with all others choosing supportive care. Among the various treatments, liver transplantation was found to have the greatest effect in reducing the risk of death (HR [hazard ratio] 0.164, 95% CI [confidence interval] 0.061–0.444), followed by resection, RFA, radioembolization, and TACE. A similar pattern was observed when sub-analyzing the age group over 75 years old. The median survival for untreated HCC in Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage 0/A/B/C/D was 3.7 years, 2.3 years, 7.9 months, 3.9 months, and 2.9 months, respectively. This study highlights the current status of elderly patients with HCC in Korea. While the proportion of patients receiving supportive care is high among the elderly, effective treatment can improve their survival rate.
Randomized clinical trial on the effects of a computerized cognitive training for pediatric patients with acquired brain injury or congenital malformation
Authors: Corti Claudia , Oldrati Viola , Papini Marta , Strazzer Sandra , Poggi Geraldina , Romaniello Romina , Borgatti Renato , Urgesi Cosimo , Bardoni Alessandra
Published: September 2023

Both acquired injuries and congenital malformations often cause lifelong disabilities in children, with a significant impact on cognitive abilities. Remote computerized cognitive training (CCT) may be delivered in ecological settings to favour rehabilitation continuity. This randomized clinical trial (RCT) evaluated the efficacy of an 8-week multi-domain, home-based CCT in a sample of patients aged 11–16 years with non-progressive acquired brain injury (ABI), brain tumor (BT) and congenital brain malformation (CBM). Following a stepped-wedge research design, patients were randomized into two groups: Training-first group, which started the CCT immediately after baseline assessment and Waiting-first group, which started the CCT after a period of time comparable to that required by the training (8 weeks). Post-training and long-term (6 months) changes were assessed. Both groups improved on visual–spatial working memory after the CCT, with benefits maintained after 6 months, while no other changes in cognitive or psychological measures were found. These findings suggest that a multi-domain CCT can generate benefits in visual–spatial working memory, in accordance with data from extant literature reporting that computer games heavily engage visuo-spatial abilities. We speculate that is tapping on the same cognitive ability with a prolonged training that may generate the greatest change after a CCT.
The association between the number of oocytes retrieved and cumulative live birth rate in different female age strata
Authors: Wang Peixin , Zhao Chenqiong , Xu Wen , Jin Xiaoying , Zhang Songying , Zhu Haiyan
Published: September 2023

To evaluate the association between the number of oocytes retrieved and cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) in different female age strata. 17,931 women undergoing their first IVF/ICSI-ET cycle in the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University were grouped by age (A: ≤ 35 years; B: ≥ 36 years) as well as the number of oocytes retrieved (a: ≤ 5; b:6–9; c:10–14; d: ≥ 15). Multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess the OR of CLBR for the variable ‘age’ and ‘number of oocytes retrieved’. The group ≥ 36 years exhibited lower cumulative pregnancy rates (CPRs) and cumulative live birth rates (CLBRs), which are proportional to the number of oocytes retrieved but opposite to increasing age. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the age and number of oocytes retrieved remain significant independent predictive factors (P < 0.001). Age and number of oocytes retrieved are two independent factors affecting the CLBR. The discrepancy of the minimum number of oocytes retrieved for patients with different ages to achieve ideal CLBR is instructive for clinical practice. The practice of controlling the stimulation dose is feasible for patients ≤ 35 years who can achieve over 60% CLBR once the number of oocytes obtained is more than 6. However, additional stimulation cycles and accumulation of embryos are necessary for elderly group especially those ≥ 38 years old who need more than 14 oocytes to obtain higher live birth rate.
SELEX based aptamers with diagnostic and entry inhibitor therapeutic potential for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Halder Sayanti , Thakur Abhishek , Keshry Supriya Suman , Jana Pradip , Karothia Divyanshi , Das Jana Indrani , Acevedo Orlando , Swain Rajeeb K. , Mondal Arindam , Chattopadhyay Soma , Jayaprakash Venkatesan , Dev Abhimanyu
Published: September 2023

Frequent mutation and variable immunological protection against vaccination is a common feature for COVID-19 pandemic. Early detection and confinement remain key to controlling further spread of infection. In response, we have developed an aptamer-based system that possesses both diagnostic and therapeutic potential towards the virus. A random aptamer library (~ 1017 molecules) was screened using systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) and aptamer R was identified as a potent binder for the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain (RBD) using in vitro binding assay. Using a pseudotyped viral entry assay we have shown that aptamer R specifically inhibited the entry of a SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped virus in HEK293T-ACE2 cells but did not inhibit the entry of a Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) glycoprotein (G) pseudotyped virus, hence establishing its specificity towards SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The antiviral potential of aptamers R and J (same central sequence as R but lacking flanked primer regions) was tested and showed 95.4% and 82.5% inhibition, respectively, against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Finally, intermolecular interactions between the aptamers and the RBD domain were analyzed using in silico docking and molecular dynamics simulations that provided additional insight into the binding and inhibitory action of aptamers R and J.
It’s about time: small mammal communities and Lyme disease emergence
Authors: Millien V. , Leo S. S. T. , Turney S. , Gonzalez A.
Published: September 2023

Theory predicts that biodiversity changes due to climate warming can mediate the rate of disease emergence. The mechanisms linking biodiversity-disease relationships have been described both theoretically and empirically but remain poorly understood. We investigated the relations between host diversity and abundance and Lyme disease risk in southern Quebec, a region where Lyme disease is rapidly emerging. We found that both the abundance of small mammal hosts and the relative abundance of the tick’s natural host, the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus), influenced measures of disease risk in tick vectors (Borrelia burgdorferi infection abundance and prevalence in tick vectors). Our results suggest that the increase in Lyme disease risk is modulated by regional processes involving the abundance and composition of small mammal assemblages. However, the nature and strength of these relationships was dependent both on time and geographic area. The strong effect of P. leucopus abundance on disease risk we report here is of significant concern, as this competent host is predicted to increase in abundance and occurrence in the region, with the northern shift in the range of North American species under climate warming.
The canonical E2Fs together with RETINOBLASTOMA-RELATED are required to establish quiescence during plant development
Authors: Gombos Magdolna , Raynaud Cécile , Nomoto Yuji , Molnár Eszter , Brik-Chaouche Rim , Takatsuka Hirotomo , Zaki Ahmad , Bernula Dóra , Latrasse David , Mineta Keito , Nagy Fruzsina , He Xiaoning , Iwakawa Hidekazu , Őszi Erika , An Jing , Suzuki Takamasa , Papdi Csaba , Bergis Clara , Benhamed Moussa , Bögre László , Ito Masaki , Magyar Zoltán
Published: September 2023

Maintaining stable and transient quiescence in differentiated and stem cells, respectively, requires repression of the cell cycle. The plant RETINOBLASTOMA-RELATED (RBR) has been implicated in stem cell maintenance, presumably by forming repressor complexes with E2F transcription factors. Surprisingly we find that mutations in all three canonical E2Fs do not hinder the cell cycle, but similarly to RBR silencing, result in hyperplasia. Contrary to the growth arrest that occurs when exit from proliferation to differentiation is inhibited upon RBR silencing, the e2fabc mutant develops enlarged organs with supernumerary stem and differentiated cells as quiescence is compromised. While E2F, RBR and the M-phase regulatory MYB3Rs are part of the DREAM repressor complexes, and recruited to overlapping groups of targets, they regulate distinct sets of genes. Only the loss of E2Fs but not the MYB3Rs interferes with quiescence, which might be due to the ability of E2Fs to control both G1-S and some key G2-M targets. We conclude that collectively the three canonical E2Fs in complex with RBR have central roles in establishing cellular quiescence during organ development, leading to enhanced plant growth.
Multi-omics data provide insight into the adaptation of the glasshouse plant Rheum nobile to the alpine subnival zone
Authors: Li Ying , Niu Zhimin , Zhu Mingjia , Wang Zhenyue , Xu Renping , Li Minjie , Zheng Zeyu , Lu Zhiqiang , Dong Congcong , Hu Hongyin , Yang Yingbo , Wu Ying , Wang Dandan , Yang Jinli , Zhang Jin , Wan Dongshi , Abbott Richard , Liu Jianquan , Yang Yongzhi
Published: September 2023

Subnival glasshouse plants provide a text-book example of high-altitude adaptation with reproductive organs enclosed in specialized semi-translucent bracts, monocarpic reproduction and continuous survival under stress. Here, we present genomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses for one such plant, the Noble rhubarb (Rheum nobile). Comparative genomic analyses show that an expanded number of genes and retained genes from two recent whole-genome duplication events are both relevant to subnival adaptation of this species. Most photosynthesis genes are downregulated within bracts compared to within leaves, and indeed bracts exhibit a sharp reduction in photosynthetic pigments, indicating that the bracts no longer perform photosynthesis. Contrastingly, genes related to flavonol synthesis are upregulated, providing enhanced defense against UV irradiation damage. Additionally, anatomically abnormal mesophyll combined with the downregulation of genes related to mesophyll differentiation in bracts illustrates the innovation and specification of the glass-like bracts. We further detect substantial accumulation of antifreeze proteins (e.g. AFPs, LEAs) and various metabolites (e.g. Proline, Protective sugars, procyanidins) in over-wintering roots. These findings provide new insights into subnival adaptation and the evolution of glasshouse alpine plants.
Simultaneous detection of dopamine and ascorbic acid by using a thread-based microfluidic device and multiple pulse amperometry
Authors: dos Santos Vanessa W. , Martins Gustavo , Gogola Jeferson L. , Kalinke Cristiane , Agustini Deonir , Bergamini Márcio F. , Marcolino-Junior Luiz H.
Published: September 2023

This study presents a novel approach for the simultaneous detection of ascorbic acid (AA) and dopamine (DA) using an affordable and user-friendly microfluidic device.
Beneficial effects of a new neuroprotective compound in neuronal cells and MPTP-administered mouse model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Kato Izumi , Ogawa Yudai , Yakushiji Fumika , Ogura Jiro , Kobayashi Masaki , Shindo Naoya , Ichikawa Satoshi , Maenaka Katsumi , Sakaitani Masahiro
Published: September 2023

A new compound, a derivative of 3,4,5-trimethoxy-N-phenyl benzamide bearing an 8′′-methylimidazopyridine moiety, is found to demonstrate neuroprotective effects by preventing cell death caused by oxidative stress.
Ligand binding of interleukin-8: a comparison of glycosaminoglycans and acidic peptides
Authors: Schulze Christian , Danielsson Annemarie , Liwo Adam , Huster Daniel , Samsonov Sergey A. , Penk Anja
Published: September 2023

The binding of acidic peptides with varying charge density is compared with the binding of glycosaminoglycans to IL-8. While binding epitopes are similar, the affinity significantly differs even if peptide and sugar have the same charge density.
Identification and characterization of the conformation and size of amyloid-β (42) oligomers targeting the receptor LilrB2
Authors: Mei Jinfei , Xu Wen , Gao Wenqi , Wang Chuanbo , Guan Yvning , Ahmad Sajjad , Ai Hongqi
Published: September 2023

Two additional regions of the LilrB2 receptor have been identified and characterized as suitable for binding to larger AβO species with different molecular weights and conformations, establishing specific target for Alzheimer's disease treatment.
Assessing formic and acetic acid emissions and chemistry in western U.S. wildfire smoke: implications for atmospheric modeling
Authors: Permar Wade , Wielgasz Catherine , Jin Lixu , Chen Xin , Coggon Matthew M. , Garofalo Lauren A. , Gkatzelis Georgios I. , Ketcherside Damien , Millet Dylan B. , Palm Brett B. , Peng Qiaoyun , Robinson Michael A. , Thornton Joel A. , Veres Patrick , Warneke Carsten , Yokelson Robert J. , Fischer Emily V. , Hu Lu
Published: September 2023

Rapid production of formic acid in biomass burning smoke is not captured by the Master Chemical Mechanism (MCM) nor simplified GEOS-Chem chemistry, likely due to missing secondary chemical production.
Giant Seebeck effect over 0.1 V K−1 – is this an intrinsic phenomenon in organic semiconductors?
Authors: Nakamura Masakazu , Kojima Hirotaka , Abe Ryo , Cho Yongyoon , Hayashi Shotaro , Hiramoto Masahiro
Published: September 2023

The mechanism of the giant Seebeck effect over 0.1 V K−1 in pure organic semiconductors is discussed based on recent experimental findings.
Ultra-processed food consumption, mediating biomarkers, and risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a prospective cohort study in the UK Biobank
Authors: He Qida , Sun Mengtong , Zhao Hanqing , Sun Na , Han Qiang , Feng Zhaolong , Li Tongxing , Wang Yu , Li Guoxian , Ma Ze , Liu Xiaoqin , Shen Yueping
Published: September 2023

Ultra-processed food (UPF) is a popular supplement in the UK and other developed countries.
Recent progress in high-loading single-atom catalysts and their applications
Authors: Luo Jiahui , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Peng Lishan , Chen Qingjun
Published: September 2023

Achieving single-atom dispersion of metal active components remains daunting. Here, we summarized several key synthesis methods and applications of high-loading SACs, hoping to highlight important research areas for future development.
Differences between surfactant-free Au@Ag and CTAB-stabilized Au@Ag star-like nanoparticles in the preparation of nanoarrays to improve their surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) performance
Authors: Van Vu Sy , Nguyen Anh-Thu , Cao Tran Anh-Thi , Thi Le Viet-Ha , Lo Tien Nu Hoang , Ho Thi H. , Pham Nguyet. N. T. , Park In , Vo Khuong Quoc
Published: September 2023

Illustrating the differences in the structure and morphology of Au@Ag star-like nanoparticles between synthesized with and without surfactant in developing SERS substrates.
(E)-2-Methoxyethene-1-sulfonyl fluoride as a precursor of acetylene for synthesis of C1/C2 non-functionalized pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline derivatives
Authors: Ma Jiahong , Lin Weikang , Qin Hua-Li
Published: September 2023

A exclusive synthesis of pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline derivatives involving (E)-2-methoxyethene-1-sulfonyl fluoride (MESF) and isoquinolinium N-ylides is described and a variety of C1/C2 non-functionalized pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines were prepared.
3D hierarchical tri-doped porous carbon derived from calcium lignosulfonate for high-performance zinc ion hybrid capacitors
Authors: Ma Jianhui , Yang Shunsheng , Huang Tao , Zu Xihong , Sun Yingjuan , Zhang Wenli
Published: September 2023

Low-cost calcium lignosulfonate (CLS) as a carbon source was used to prepare N, O, and S tri-doped hierarchical porous carbon (LHPC) electrode material by a one-step carbonization method without additional pore-forming agents.
First principles insights into stability of defected MXenes in water
Authors: Song Haohong , Jiang De-en
Published: September 2023

First principles molecular dynamics reveals how different types of defects on the Ti3C2Tx MXene surface influence its interaction with water.
Multifunctional polyimide-based femtosecond laser micro/nanostructured films with triple Janus properties
Authors: Pei Jiaqing , Yin Kai , Wu Tingni , Wang Lingxiao , Deng Qinwen , Huang Yin , Wang Kai , Arnusch Christopher J.
Published: September 2023

We propose a facile method for manufacturing multifunctional Janus films using femtosecond lasers.
Bifunctional diazirine reagent for covalent dyeing of Kevlar and inert polymer materials
Authors: Liu Richard Y. , Luo Shao-Xiong Lennon , Hirst Elizabeth S. , Doona Christopher J. , Swager Timothy M.
Published: September 2023

A bifunctional reagent containing a diazirine carbene precursor and a benzyl bromide electrophile can be used to photofunctionalize Kevlar and other inert polymers, providing sites for covalent attachment of dyes.
Ga-induced electronic structure engineering of NiFe2O4 nanosheet arrays for stable and efficient oxygen evolution
Authors: Chen Sijie , Liao Haijun , Xu Xiaocheng , Wang Rui , Sun Zhipeng , Huang Le
Published: September 2023

Ga-NiFe2O4 is fabricated by a straightforward hydrothermal method and exhibits outstanding OER electroactivity with a low overpotential and excellent stability over an electrolysis period of 48 h even at a high current density of 400 mA cm−2.
Electron-rich biochar enhanced Z-scheme heterojunctioned bismuth tungstate/bismuth oxyiodide removing tetracycline
Authors: Kang Fuyan , Jiang Xiaona , Wang Yao , Ren Juanna , Xu Ben Bin , Gao Guoyang , Huang Zhanhua , Guo Zhanhu
Published: September 2023

In the synthesized BC/BWI catalyst, the introduction of biochar and construction of Z-type heterojunctions accelerated the photogenerated carrier separation to reach an efficient removal of tetracycline.
Estimation of spectroscopic parameters and TL glow curve analysis of Eu3+-activated CaY2O4 phosphor
Authors: Ram Tirath , Verma Neeraj , Kaur Jagjeet , Misra Abhishek Kumar , Dubey Vikas , Dubey Neha , Michalska-Domańska Marta , Saji Janita , Yadav Ram Sagar
Published: September 2023

The solid-state reaction method was utilised to create a down-conversion phosphor in an air environment in CaY2O4:Eu3+ nanocrystalline material.
Development of substituted benzylidene derivatives as novel dual cholinesterase inhibitors for Alzheimer's treatment
Authors: Gupta Shraddha Manish , Behera Ashok , Jain Neetesh K. , Tripathi Avanish , Rishipathak Dinesh , Singh Siddharth , Ahemad Nafees , Erol Meryem , Kumar Devendra
Published: September 2023

Leading pathological markers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) include Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), Amyloid beta (Aβ) and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Lanthanide-MOFs as multi-responsive photoluminescence sensor for sensitively detecting Fe3+, Cr2O72− and nitrofuran antibiotics
Authors: Feng Jingjuan , Kong Cunding , Chen Yunhui , Cen Peipei , Ding Yi , Guo Yan , Zhang Fengyuan , Liu Xiangyu
Published: September 2023

Stable Eu-MOF constructed with 2-(4-pyridyl)-terephthalic acid ligand can be used as a multifunctional sensing platform for selective detection of Fe3+, Cr2O72− and nitrofuran antibiotics.
End group modulation of A–D–A type small donor molecules for DTP based organic photovoltaic solar cells: a DFT approach
Authors: Bora Smiti Rani , Kalita Dhruba Jyoti
Published: September 2023

Here, five new acceptor–donor–acceptor (A–D–A) type small donor molecules C1–C5, have been designed based on the central D unit, dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]pyrrole (DTP).
In vitrostudies on the pharmacological potential, anti-tumor, antimicrobial, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of marine-derivedBacillus velezensisAG6 exopolysaccharide
Authors: Alharbi Maha A. , Alrehaili Amani A. , Albureikan Mona Othman I. , Gharib Amal F. , Daghistani Hussam , Bakhuraysah Maha M. , Aloraini Ghfren S. , Bazuhair Mohammed A. , Alhuthali Hayaa M. , Ghareeb Ahmed
Published: September 2023

In the current study,Bacillus velezensisAG6 was isolated from sediment samples in the Red Sea, identified by traditional microbiological techniques and phylogenetic 16S rRNA sequences.
Engineering electronic structures and optical properties of a MoSi2N4 monolayer via modulating surface hydrogen chemisorption
Authors: Zhang Yumei , Dong Shunhong , Murugan Pachaiyappan , Zhu Ting , Qing Chen , Liu Zhiyong , Zhang Weibin , Wang Hong-En
Published: September 2023

Surface engineering of a MoSi2N4 monolayer through hydrogenation can lead to a continuous tuning of its bandgap with an enhanced light absorption in visible/near-infrared regions, enabling promising applications in optoelectronic fields.
Surface-modified magnetite nanoparticles using polyethylene terephthalate waste derivatives for oil spill remediation
Authors: Abdullah Mahmood M. S. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Faqihi Noorah A.
Published: September 2023

Oil spill recovery using surface-modified magnetite nanoparticles.
Novel practical stereoselective synthesis of a bicyclic hydantoino-thiolactone as the key intermediate for production of (+)-biotin
Authors: Shu Lei , Yang Zhi-Wei , Cao Ren-Xu , Qiu Xiao-Xia , Ni Feng , Shi Xiao-Xin
Published: September 2023

Bicyclic hydantoinothiolactone, as the key intermediate for production of (+)-biotin, has been efficiently and high-stereoselectively synthesized from the cheap starting materiall-cystinevianine steps in 44% overall yield.
Controlled synthesis of Mo2C micron flowers via vapor–liquid–solid method as enhanced electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Wang Yuwei , He Jian , Zang Yipeng , Zhao Changbao , Di Miaomiao , Wang Bin
Published: September 2023

Mo2C demonstrates excellent performance in catalysis, and it has been found to possess excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalytic activity and highly efficient nitrogen fixation.
Self-assembled molybdenum disulfide nanoflowers regulated by lithium sulfate for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Li Yunan , Sun Yang , Zhang Sen , Wu Xueling , Song Meng , Jiao Mingli , Qin Qi , Mi Liwei
Published: September 2023

The self-assembled L-MoS2 nanoflowers exhibited superior specific capacitance and rate capability.
Tetranuclear lanthanide-based silsesquioxanes: towards a combination of a slow relaxation of the magnetization and a luminescent thermometry
Authors: Félix Gautier , Sene Saad , Kulakova Alena , Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Shubina Elena S. , Guari Yannick , Larionova Joulia
Published: September 2023

Mixed-lanthanide silsesquioxane cages: to combine a slow relaxation of the magnetization and a luminescent thermometry.
Emerging developments in dye-sensitized metal oxide photocatalysis: exploring the design, mechanisms, and organic synthesis applications
Authors: Kader Dana A. , Mohammed Sewara J.
Published: September 2023

In the present day, the incorporation of environmentally conscious practices in the realm of photocatalysis holds a prominent position within the domain of organic synthesis.