bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of spatial pattern of prickles on stem of Rosa hybrida ‘Red Queen’ and mathematical model of the pattern
Authors: Amikura Kazuaki , Ito Hiroshi , Kitazawa Miho S.
Published: July 2021

The developmental patterns of many organisms are orchestrated by the diffusion of factors. Here, we report a novel pattern on plant stems that appears to be controlled by inhibitor diffusion. Prickles on rose stems appear to be randomly distributed, but we deciphered spatial patterns of prickles on Rosa hybrida cv. ‘Red Queen’ stem. The prickles primarily emerged at 90 to 135 degrees from the spiral phyllotaxis that connected leaf primordia. We proposed a simple mathematical model that explained the emergence of the spatial patterns and reproduced the prickle density distribution on rose stems. We confirmed the model can reproduce the observed prickle patterning on stems of other plant species using other model parameters. These results indicated that the spatial patterns of prickles on stems of different plant species are organized by similar systems. Rose cultivation by humans has a long history. However, prickle development is still unclear and this is the first report of prickle spatial pattern with a mathematical model. Comprehensive analysis of the spatial pattern, genome, and metabolomics of other plant species may lead to novel insights for prickle development.
The stability of flow velocity and intracoronary resistance in the intracoronary electrocardiogram-triggered pressure ratio
Authors: Nakayama Masafumi , Tanaka Nobuhiro , Uchiyama Takashi , Ohkawauchi Takaaki , Tsuboko Yusuke , Iwasaki Kiyotaka , Kawase Yoshiaki , Matsuo Hitoshi
Published: July 2021

Assessment of coronary artery lesions using the fractional flow reserve and instantaneous flow reserve (iFR) measurements has been found to reduce the incidence of further cardiovascular events. Here, we investigated differences in terms of coronary flow velocity and resistance within the analysis interval between the iFR and the intracoronary electrocardiogram (IC-ECG)-triggered distal/aortic pressure (Pd/Pa) ratio (ICE-T). We enrolled 23 consecutive patients (n = 33 stenoses) who required coronary flow measurements. ICE-T was defined as the average Pd/Pa ratio in the period corresponding to the isoelectric line of the IC-ECG. We compared the index value, flow velocity, and intracoronary resistance during the analysis intervals of the iFR and the ICE-T, both at rest and under hyperemia. ICE-T values and ICE-T intracoronary resistance were both found to be significantly lower, whereas flow velocity was significantly higher than those of the iFR at both rest and under hyperemia (P < 0.001), and all fluctuations in ICE-T values were also significantly smaller than those in the iFR. In conclusion, the ICE-T appears theoretically superior to pressure-dependent indices for analyzing phases with low and stable resistance, without an increase in invasiveness.
Eight months follow-up study on pulmonary function, lung radiographic, and related physiological characteristics in COVID-19 survivors
Authors: Zhang Shengding , Bai Wenxue , Yue Junqing , Qin Lu , Zhang Cong , Xu Shuyun , Liu Xiansheng , Ni Wang , Xie Min
Published: July 2021

To describe the long-term health outcomes of patients with COVID-19 and investigate the potential risk factors. Clinical data during hospitalization and at a mean (SD) day of 249 (15) days after discharge from 40 survivors with confirmed COVID-19 (including 25 severe cases) were collected and analyzed retrospectively. At follow-up, severe cases had higher incidences of persistent symptoms, DLCO impairment, and higher abnormal CT score as compared with mild cases. CT score at follow-up was positively correlated with age, LDH level, cumulative days of oxygen treatment, total dosage of glucocorticoids used, and CT peak score during hospitalization. DLCO% at follow-up was negatively correlated with cumulative days of oxygen treatment during hospitalization. DLCO/VA% at follow-up was positively correlated with BMI, and TNF-α level. Among the three groups categorized as survivors with normal DLCO, abnormal DLCO but normal DLCO/VA, and abnormal DLCO and DLCO/VA, survivors with abnormal DLCO and DLCO/VA had the lowest serum IL-2R, IL-8, and TNF-α level, while the survivors with abnormal DLCO but normal DLCO/VA had the highest levels of inflammatory cytokines during hospitalization. Altogether, COVID-19 had a greater long-term impact on the lung physiology of severe cases. The long-term radiological abnormality maybe relate to old age and the severity of COVID-19. Either absent or excess of inflammation during COVID-19 course would lead to the impairment of pulmonary diffusion function.
Quantum dot assisted luminescent hexarhenium cluster dye for a transparent luminescent solar concentrator
Authors: Choi Jun , Kim Kyungkon , Kim Sung-Jin
Published: July 2021

A luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) is a solar-light harvesting device that concentrates light on a photovoltaic cell placed at the edge of an LSC panel to convert it into electricity. The nano-sized inorganic–organic cluster complex (dMDAEMA)4[Re6S8(NCS)6] (this refers to RMC where dMDAEMA is 2-dimethyl amino ethyl methacrylate) is a promising candidate for LSC luminophores due to its downshifted broad photoluminescence suitable for photovoltaic cells. However, the low quantum yield (QY) of RMC limits the performance. Here, zinc-doped CuGaS/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (ZQD) were used as energy transferring donor with high QY to improve the performance of the LSC. The two metal chalcogenide luminophores, RMC and ZQD, are chemically suitable for dispersion in an amphiphilic polymer matrix, producing a transparent waveguide with suppressed reabsorption and extended harvesting coverage of the solar spectrum. We achieved an ηopt of 3.47% and a PCE of 1.23% while maintaining greater than 80% transparency in the visible range. The high performance of this dual-dye LSC with suppressed reabsorption, and scattering losses is not only due to uniform dispersion of dyes in a polymer matrix, but also energy transfer from ZQD to RMC. This report suggests a new possibility for promising various multi-dye LSCs for use in building-integrated photovoltaic windows.
Low-cost alternative biodiesel production apparatus based on household food blender for continuous biodiesel production for small communities
Authors: Wongjaikham Wijittra , Wongsawaeng Doonyapong , Ratnitsai Vareeporn , Kamjam Manita , Ngaosuwan Kanokwan , Kiatkittipong Worapon , Hosemann Peter , Assabumrungrat Suttichai
Published: July 2021

Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) are sustainable biofuel that can alleviate high oil costs and environmental impacts of petroleum-based fuel. A modified 1200 W high-efficiency food blender was employed for continuous transesterification of various refined vegetable oils and waste cooking oil (WCO) using sodium hydroxide as a homogeneous catalyst. The following factors have been investigated on their effects on FAME yield: baffles, reaction volume, total reactant flow rate, methanol-oil molar ratio, catalyst concentration and reaction temperature. Results indicated that the optimal conditions were: 2000 mL reaction volume, 50 mL/min total flow rate, 1% and 1.25% catalyst concentration for refined palm oil and WCO, respectively, 6:1 methanol-to-oil molar ratio and 62–63 °C, obtaining yield efficiency over 96.5% FAME yield of 21.14 × 10–4 g/J (for palm oil) and 19.39 × 10–4 g/J (for WCO). All the properties of produced FAMEs meet the EN 14214 and ASTM D6751 standards. The modified household food blender could be a practical and low-cost alternative biodiesel production apparatus for continuous biodiesel production for small communities in remote areas.
UVC disinfects SARS-CoV-2 by induction of viral genome damage without apparent effects on viral morphology and proteins
Authors: Lo Chieh-Wen , Matsuura Ryosuke , Iimura Kazuki , Wada Satoshi , Shinjo Atsushi , Benno Yoshimi , Nakagawa Masaru , Takei Masami , Aida Yoko
Published: July 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a pandemic threat worldwide and causes severe health and economic burdens. Contaminated environments, such as personal items and room surfaces, are considered to have virus transmission potential. Ultraviolet C (UVC) light has demonstrated germicidal ability and removes environmental contamination. UVC has inactivated SARS-CoV-2; however, the underlying mechanisms are not clear. It was confirmed here that UVC 253.7 nm, with a dose of 500 μW/cm2, completely inactivated SARS-CoV-2 in a time-dependent manner and reduced virus infectivity by 10–4.9-fold within 30 s. Immunoblotting analysis for viral spike and nucleocapsid proteins showed that UVC treatment did not damage viral proteins. The viral particle morphology remained intact even when the virus completely lost infectivity after UVC irradiation, as observed by transmission electronic microscopy. In contrast, UVC irradiation-induced genome damage was identified using the newly developed long reverse-transcription quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay, but not conventional RT-qPCR. The six developed long RT-PCR assays that covered the full-length viral genome clearly indicated a negative correlation between virus infectivity and UVC irradiation-induced genome damage (R2 ranging from 0.75 to 0.96). Altogether, these results provide evidence that UVC inactivates SARS-CoV-2 through the induction of viral genome damage.
An immunoinformatics approach to design a multi-epitope vaccine against Mycobacterium tuberculosis exploiting secreted exosome proteins
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Rajput Vikrant Singh , Jamal Salma , Grover Abhinav , Grover Sonam
Published: July 2021

Tuberculosis is one the oldest known affliction of mankind caused by the pathogenMycobacterium tuberculosis. Till date, there is no absolute single treatment available to deal with the pathogen, which has acquired a great potential to develop drug resistance rapidly. BCG is the only anti-tuberculosis vaccine available till date which displays limited global efficacy due to genetic variation and concurrent pathogen infections. Extracellular vesicles or exosomes vesicle (EVs) lie at the frontier cellular talk between pathogen and the host, and therefore play a significant role in establishing pathogenesis. In the present study, an in-silico approach has been adopted to construct a multi-epitope vaccine from selected immunogenic EVs proteins to elicit a cellular as well as a humoral immune response. Our designed vaccine has wide population coverage and can effectively compensate for the genetic variation among different populations. For maximum efficacy and minimum adverse effects possibilities the antigenic, non-allergenic and non-toxic B-cell, HTL and CTL epitopes from experimentally proven EVs proteins were selected for the vaccine construct. TLR4 agonist RpfE served as an adjuvant for the vaccine construct. The vaccine construct structure was modelled, refined and docked on TLR4 immune receptor. The designed vaccine construct displayed safe usage and exhibits a high probability to elicit the critical immune regulators, like B cells, T-cells and memory cells as displayed by the in-silico immunization assays. Therefore, it can be further corroborated using in vitro and in vivo assays to fulfil the global need for a more efficacious anti-tuberculosis vaccine.
Development and validation of an institutional nomogram for aiding aneurysm rupture risk stratification
Authors: Liu QingLin , Jiang Peng , Jiang YuHua , Ge HuiJian , Li ShaoLin , Jin HengWei , Liu Peng , Li YouXiang
Published: July 2021

Rupture risk stratification is critical for incidentally detected intracranial aneurysms. Here we developed and validated an institutional nomogram to solve this issue. We reviewed the imaging and clinical databases for aneurysms from January 2015 to September 2018. Aneurysms were reconstructed and morphological features were extracted by the Pyradiomics in python. Multiple logistic regression was performed to develop the nomogram. The consistency of the nomogram predicted rupture risks and PHASES scores was assessed. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by the discrimination, calibration, and decision curve analysis (DCA). 719 aneurysms were enrolled in this study. For each aneurysm, twelve morphological and nine clinical features were obtained. After logistic regression, seven features were enrolled in the nomogram, which were SurfaceVolumeRatio, Flatness, Age, Hyperlipemia, Smoker, Multiple aneurysms, and Location of the aneurysm. The nomogram had a positive and close correlation with PHASES score in predicting aneurysm rupture risks. AUCs of the nomogram in discriminating aneurysm rupture status was 0.837 in a separate testing set. The calibration curves fitted well and DCA demonstrated positive net benefits of the nomogram in guiding clinical decisions. In conclusion, Pyradiomics derived morphological features based institutional nomogram was useful for aneurysm rupture risk stratification.
A holistic seismotectonic model of Delhi region
Authors: Bansal Brijesh K. , Mohan Kapil , Verma Mithila , Sutar Anup K.
Published: July 2021

Delhi region in northern India experiences frequent shaking due to both far-field and near-field earthquakes from the Himalayan and local sources, respectively. The recent M3.5 and M3.4 earthquakes of 12th April 2020 and 10th May 2020 respectively in northeast Delhi and M4.4 earthquake of 29th May 2020 near Rohtak (~ 50 km west of Delhi), followed by more than a dozen aftershocks, created panic in this densely populated habitat. The past seismic history and the current activity emphasize the need to revisit the subsurface structural setting and its association with the seismicity of the region. Fault plane solutions are determined using data collected from a dense network in Delhi region. The strain energy released in the last two decades is also estimated to understand the subsurface structural environment. Based on fault plane solutions, together with information obtained from strain energy estimates and the available geophysical and geological studies, it is inferred that the Delhi region is sitting on two contrasting structural environments: reverse faulting in the west and normal faulting in the east, separated by the NE-SW trending Delhi Hardwar Ridge/Mahendragarh-Dehradun Fault (DHR-MDF). The WNW-ESE trending Delhi Sargoda Ridge (DSR), which intersects DHR-MDF in the west, is inferred as a thrust fault. The transfer of stress from the interaction zone of DHR-MDF and DSR to nearby smaller faults could further contribute to the scattered shallow seismicity in Delhi region.
Differential binding of human and murine IgGs to catalytic and cell wall binding domains of Staphylococcus aureus peptidoglycan hydrolases
Authors: Wang Min , van den Berg Sanne , Mora Hernández Yaremit , Visser Aafke Hinke , Vera Murguia Elias , Koedijk Dennis G.A.M. , Bellink Channah , Bruggen Hilde , Bakker-Woudenberg Irma A. J. M. , van Dijl Jan Maarten , Buist Girbe
Published: July 2021

Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen causing high morbidity and mortality. Since multi-drug resistant S. aureus lineages are nowadays omnipresent, alternative tools for preventive or therapeutic interventions, like immunotherapy, are urgently needed. However, there are currently no vaccines against S. aureus. Surface-exposed and secreted proteins are regarded as potential targets for immunization against S. aureus infections. Yet, many potential staphylococcal antigens of this category do not elicit protective immune responses. To obtain a better understanding of this problem, we compared the binding of serum IgGs from healthy human volunteers, highly S. aureus-colonized patients with the genetic blistering disease epidermolysis bullosa (EB), or immunized mice to the purified S. aureus peptidoglycan hydrolases Sle1, Aly and LytM and their different domains. The results show that the most abundant serum IgGs from humans and immunized mice target the cell wall-binding domain of Sle1, and the catalytic domains of Aly and LytM. Interestingly, in a murine infection model, these particular IgGs were not protective against S. aureus bacteremia. In contrast, relatively less abundant IgGs against the catalytic domain of Sle1 and the N-terminal domains of Aly and LytM were almost exclusively detected in sera from EB patients and healthy volunteers. These latter IgGs may contribute to the protection against staphylococcal infections, as previous studies suggest that serum IgGs protect EB patients against severe S. aureus infection. Together, these observations focus attention on the use of particular protein domains for vaccination to direct potentially protective immune responses towards the most promising epitopes within staphylococcal antigens.
Enzymatic liver function measured by LiMAx is superior to current standard methods in predicting transplant-free survival after TIPS implantation
Authors: Rashidi-Alavijeh Jassin , Kahraman Alisan , Gerken Guido , Theysohn Jens M. , Willuweit Katharina , Hoyer Dieter P. , Lange Christian M. , Buechter Matthias
Published: July 2021

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is one of the main treatment options in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis but is still associated with partly severe complications. For adequate patient selection, prognostic parameters are of crucial importance. The liver maximum capacity (LiMAx) breath test measures enzymatic liver function and could potentially represent an efficient prognostic marker. We therefore aimed to assess the role of LiMAx in predicting survival of TIPS patients in a prospective analysis. LiMAx was performed for patients who underwent TIPS implantation between October 2016 and February 2018. Associations with transplant-free survival after 24 weeks were assessed by logistic regression. A total number of 30 patients were included, of whom seven received liver transplantation (N = 2) or died (N = 5) during follow-up. LiMAx values after (P = 0.01, OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.04–1.47) and before (P = 0.03, OR 1.21, 95% CI = 1.02–1.43) TIPS implantation and MELD score (P = 0.03, OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63–0.98) were significantly associated with transplant-free survival according to univariate logistic regression. In AUROC analysis, LiMAx at day one after TIPS (sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 78.3%, AUROC 0.85, cut-off ≤ 165 µg/kg/h), LiMAx value at the day before TIPS (sensitivity 100%, specificity 73.9%, AUROC 0.82, cut-off ≤ 205 µg/kg/h) and MELD score (sensitivity 71.4%, specificity 73.9%, AUROC 0.82, cut-off ≥ 15) had the highest prognostic accuracy. LiMAx values prior and after TIPS procedure seem to be good prognostic parameters regarding prediction of transplant-free survival of patients undergoing TIPS implantation.
The carotid axis revisited
Authors: Cobiella R. , Quinones S. , Konschake M. , Aragones P. , León X. , Vazquez T. , Sanudo J. , Maranillo E.
Published: July 2021

The aim was to determine the variations in the level of origin of carotid bifurcation and diameters of the common, internal, and external carotid arteries which is clinically important for several interventional procedures. Therefore, 165 human embalmed corpses were dissected. The data collected were analyzed using the Chi square-test and the Pearson correlation test. The results of previous studies have been reviewed. In relation to the level of the carotid bifurcation, taking as a reference point the hyoid bone, the values ranged from 4 cm below the hyoid body to 2.5 cm above the body of the hyoid, being the average height—0.33 cm, with a standard deviation of 1.19 cm. The right carotid bifurcation was established at a higher level (x = − 0.19 cm.) than the left one (x = − 0.48 cm.) (p = 0.046). On the contrary, no significant gender differences could be observed. The arterial calibres of the common and internal carotid arteries were higher in male than female. In the internal carotid artery (X = 0.76 cm.), the left was greater than the right (X = 0.72 cm.) (P = 0.047). However, no differences in the distribution of the calibre of the external carotid artery were found neither by side nor gender. Variations in the level of bifurcation and calibres of carotid arteries are relevant for interventional radiology procedures and head and neck surgeries. Knowledge of these anatomical references might help clinicians in the interpretation of the carotid system.
The FibroScan-aspartate aminotransferase score can stratify the disease severity in a Japanese cohort with fatty liver diseases
Authors: Fujii Hideki , Fukumoto Shinya , Enomoto Masaru , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Kimura Tatsuo , Tamori Akihiro , Nadatani Yuji , Takashima Shingo , Nishimoto Naoki , Kawada Norifumi
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to prove that the FibroScan-aspartate aminotransferase (FAST) scores can be used to stratify disease severity in a Japanese cohort with fatty liver diseases [metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)]. All the participants (n = 2254) underwent liver stiffness measurements and controlled attenuation parameter assessments. We compared the clinical characteristics of the patients with MAFLD and NAFLD using the FAST scores and explored the independent determinants of FAST scores ≥ 0.35, which indicated possible progressive disease. Overall, MAFLD was diagnosed in 789 patients (35.0%), while NAFLD was diagnosed in 618 (27.4%). The proportion of patients that had a condition that suggested progressive liver disease was higher in those with MAFLD than in those with NAFLD [68 (8.6%) vs 48 (7.7%)]. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of the FAST score for diagnosing advanced fibrosis was 0.969 in MAFLD and 0.965 in NAFLD. Multivariate analyses determined that diabetes mellitus, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, fatty liver index, and Fibrosis-4 index independently predict FAST scores ≥ 0.35 in patients with MAFLD. ALT levels had the strongest correlation with the FAST scores (p = 0.7817). The FAST score could stratify the disease severity in the Japanese cohort with fatty liver diseases.
Alterations in cartilage quantification before and after injections of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoarthritic knees
Authors: Sekiya Ichiro , Katano Hisako , Mizuno Mitsuru , Koga Hideyuki , Masumoto Jun , Tomita Makoto , Ozeki Nobutake
Published: July 2021

Several studies have reported improvement in knee pain following mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) injections for knee osteoarthritis (OA). We developed a novel 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis software program that provides “projected cartilage area ratios” for automatic detection of changes in cartilage amounts. The primary objective of this prospective interventional study was to compare alterations in the projected cartilage area ratio (thickness ≥ 1.5 mm) at the femoral posteromedial region between 30 weeks before and 30 weeks after synovial MSC injections. Secondary objectives were to assess the clinical scores and safety of MSC injections. Patients with OA who complained of knee pain underwent autologous synovial MSC injections into the knee at time 0 and again 15 weeks later. MRI examinations were performed at − 30, − 15, − 1, and 30 weeks. Patients showing < 3% decreases in the projected cartilage area ratio (thickness ≥ 1.5 mm) at the femoral the posteromedial region from − 30 weeks to − 15 weeks were excluded from the study. The Lysholm Knee Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS), and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores were evaluated at − 30, − 15, − 5, − 2, 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 weeks. Five patients were excluded because 3D MRI analysis showed no cartilage loss at − 15 weeks. Ultimately, eight OA patients underwent MSC injections. The projected cartilage area ratio significantly decreased by 0.07 in the 30 weeks before MSC injections (p = 0.01), but no further decreases occurred in the 30 weeks after MSC injections. The projected cartilage area ratio at the femoral posteromedial region showed a significant difference between 30 weeks before and 30 weeks after MSC injections. The Lysholm Knee Score, KOOS, and NRS values improved significantly after the injections. MSC injection could not be ruled out as the cause of two adverse events: transient knee pain and itching in both hands. Fully automatic 3D MRI analysis showed that synovial MSC injections suppressed cartilage loss in patients with progressive OA.

Trial registration: Intraarticular injections of synovial stem cells for osteoarthritis of the knee (Number UMIN 000026732). Date of registration; June 1, 2017. https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000029967.
An assessment of urbanization sustainability in China between 1990 and 2015 using land use efficiency indicators
Authors: Jiang Huiping , Sun Zhongchang , Guo Huadong , Weng Qihao , Du Wenjie , Xing Qiang , Cai Guoyin
Published: July 2021

The sustainability of China’s rapid urbanization is of significance in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Here we integrated Earth observation and census data to estimate the relationship between land, population and economic domains of urbanization in 433 cities over 25 years using land use efficiency indicators. We find that the rise in ratio of land consumption to population growth rates (LCRPGR) was paralleled by a decline in ratio of economic growth to land consumption rates (EGRLCR). LCRPGR and EGRLCR of cities in Northeast China showed an abnormal and intense dynamics compared to other regions, suggesting that the northeastern region is more vulnerable to socioeconomic and environmental changes. The spatial expansion of superlarge cities in Central China may be unrestrained and should be the focus of strengthened regulations now and in the near future. The resource-dependent cities faced severe challenges for more effective actions of both economic transformation and population migration. Nonetheless, the gap of land use efficiency indicators between different income groups of the cities has been narrowed between 1990 and 2015, indicating that the evolution of urbanization in China is heading toward a more sustainable and coordinated process.
Decoupling density from tallness in analysing the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of cities
Authors: Pomponi Francesco , Saint Ruth , Arehart Jay H. , Gharavi Niaz , D’Amico Bernardino
Published: July 2021

The UN estimate 2.5 billion new urban residents by 2050, thus further increasing global greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions and energy demand, and the environmental impacts caused by the built environment. Achieving optimal use of space and maximal efficiency in buildings is therefore fundamental for sustainable urbanisation. There is a growing belief that building taller and denser is better. However, urban environmental design often neglects life cycle GHG emissions. Here we offer a method that decouples density and tallness in urban environments and allows each to be analysed individually. We test this method on case studies of real neighbourhoods and show that taller urban environments significantly increase life cycle GHG emissions (+154%) and low-density urban environments significantly increase land use (+142%). However, increasing urban density without increasing urban height reduces life cycle GHG emissions while maximising the population capacity. These results contend the claim that building taller is the most efficient way to meet growing demand for urban space and instead show that denser urban environments do not significantly increase life cycle GHG emissions and require less land.
The largest plagiogranite on Earth formed by re-melting of juvenile proto-continental crust
Authors: Gamal El Dien Hamed , Li Zheng-Xiang , Abu Anbar Mohamed , Doucet Luc S. , Murphy J. Brendan , Evans Noreen. J. , Xia Xiao-Ping , Li Jiangyu
Published: July 2021

The growth of continental crust through melt extraction from the mantle is a critical component of the chemical evolution of the Earth and the development of plate tectonics. However, the mechanisms involved remain debated. Here, we conduct petrological and geochemical analyses on a large (up to 5000 km2) granitoid body in the Arabian-Nubian shield near El-Shadli, Egypt. We identify these rocks as the largest known plagiogranitic complex on Earth, which shares characteristics such as low potassium, high sodium and flat rare earth element chondrite-normalized patterns with spatially associated gabbroic rocks. The hafnium isotopic compositions of zircon indicate a juvenile source for the magma. However, low zircon δ18O values suggest interaction with hydrothermal fluids. We propose that the El-Shadli plagiogranites were produced by extensive partial melting of juvenile, previously accreted oceanic crust and that this previously overlooked mechanism for the formation of plagiogranite is also responsible for the transformation of juvenile crust into a chemically stratified continental crust.
Electrokinetic elucidation of the interactions between persistent luminescent nanoprobes and the binary apolipoprotein-E/albumin protein system
Authors: Ramírez García Gonzalo , d'Orlyé Fanny , Richard Cyrille , Mignet Nathalie , Varenne Anne
Published: July 2021

The interactions between NPs and a binary system of proteins were studied through a systematic set of capillary electrophoresis models. The results revealed precise details of the soft and hard protein corona formation and dynamics.
Insight into metastatic oral cancer tissue from novel analyses using FTIR spectroscopy and aperture IR-SNOM
Authors: Ellis Barnaby G. , Whitley Conor A. , Al Jedani Safaa , Smith Caroline I. , Gunning Philip J. , Harrison Paul , Unsworth Paul , Gardner Peter , Shaw Richard J. , Barrett Steve D. , Triantafyllou Asterios , Risk Janet M. , Weightman Peter
Published: July 2021

A SNOM image (a) provides chemical insight into a metastatic tumour identified by H&E staining (b).
Synthesis of a zwitterionic N-Ser–Ser-C dimethacrylate cross-linker and evaluation in polyampholyte hydrogels
Authors: Chakraborty Moubani , Haag Stephanie L. , Bernards Matthew T. , Waynant Kristopher V.
Published: July 2021

Polyampholyte hydrogels are attractive materials for tissue engineering scaffolds as they offer a wide variety of features including nonfouling, selective protein delivery, and tunable physical characteristics.
The role of gold nanoparticles’ aspect ratio in plasmon-enhanced luminescence and the singlet oxygen generation rate of Mo6 clusters
Authors: Novikova Evgeniya D. , Vorotnikov Yuri A. , Nikolaev Nazar A. , Tsygankova Alphiya R. , Shestopalov Michael A. , Efremova Olga A.
Published: July 2021

The plasmon-enhanced luminescence and singlet oxygen production rate of hybrid materials containing gold nanoparticles and photoactive cluster complexes are rising with the increase of the aspect ratio.
Improved lifetime and stability of copper species in hierarchical, copper-incorporated CuSAPO-34 verified by catalytic model reactions
Authors: Sørli Guro , Azim Muhammad Mohsin , Rønning Magnus , Mathisen Karina
Published: July 2021

The first successful synthesis of hierarchical CuSAPO-34 (3.9 wt% Cu) is reported using the polymer Pluronic F127 as a mesoporous structure directing agent (SDA).
Temperature-driven phase transition and transition dipole moment of two-dimensional (BA)2CsPb2Br7 perovskite
Authors: Wang Yajing , Song Qilin , Hu Wenjing , Wang Dan , Peng Lin , Shi Tingting , Liu Xiaolin , Zhu Yanyan , Lin Jia
Published: July 2021

The structural phase transitions of two-dimensional (BA)2CsPb2Br7 perovskite in the temperature range of 100 to 450 K were systematically investigated by first-principles calculations.
Carbon nanohorns as nanocontainers for cisplatin: insight into their interaction with the plasma membranes of normal and breast cancer cells
Authors: Almeida Eduardo R. , Dos Santos Hélio F. , Capriles Priscila V. S. Z.
Published: July 2021

Interactions between carbon nanohorns loaded with cisplatin molecules and membranes of cancerous and normal cells referring to a human breast are reported.
Partial oxidation of methane to formaldehyde over copper–molybdenum complex oxide catalysts
Authors: Akiyama Taiki , Sei Ryota , Takenaka Sakae
Published: July 2021

The Cu3Mo2O9 catalyst forms formaldehyde selectively in the methane oxidation with O2 in the presence of water.
NADH accumulation during DPAO denitrification in a simultaneous nitrification, denitrification and phosphorus removal system
Authors: Zhao Jianqiang , Xie Shuting , Luo Yihan , Li Xiaoling
Published: July 2021

Denitrifying polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (DPAOs) and denitrifying glycogen-accumulating organisms (DGAOs) are jointly complete the denitrification in a simultaneous nitrification, denitrification and phosphorus removal (SNDPR) system.
Tomatoes consumed in-season prevent oxidative stress in Fischer 344 rats: impact of geographical origin
Authors: Cruz-Carrión Álvaro , Ruiz de Azua Ma. Josefina , Bravo Francisca Isabel , Aragonès Gerard , Muguerza Begoña , Suárez Manuel , Arola-Arnal Anna
Published: July 2021

In-season consumption of tomatoes improved or sustained antioxidant biomarkers, thus reducing oxidative stress values. The protective effect of tomatoes against oxidative stress depends on the geographical origin of the crop (LT or NLT).
Identification of a Zika NS2B epitope as a biomarker for severe clinical phenotypes
Authors: Loeffler Felix F. , Viana Isabelle F. T. , Fischer Nico , Coêlho Danilo F. , Silva Carolina S. , Purificação Antônio F. , Araújo Catarina M. C. S. , Leite Bruno H. S. , Durães-Carvalho Ricardo , Magalhães Tereza , Morais Clarice N. L. , Cordeiro Marli T. , Lins Roberto D. , Marques Ernesto T. A. , Jaenisch Thomas
Published: July 2021

The identification of specific biomarkers for Zika infection and its clinical complications is fundamental to mitigate the infection spread, which has been associated with a broad range of neurological sequelae.
Hidden spontaneous polarisation in the chalcohalide photovoltaic absorber Sn2SbS2I3
Authors: Kavanagh Seán R. , Savory Christopher N. , Scanlon David O. , Walsh Aron
Published: July 2021

We reveal spontaneous symmetry breaking in an emerging class of mixed-metal chalcohalides, yielding strong lattice polarisation which could aid electron–hole separation in solar photovoltaics.
Synthesis of N-alkylated lipopeptides and their application as organocatalysts in asymmetric Michael addition in aqueous environments
Authors: Delgado José A. C. , Vicente Fidel E. M. , de la Torre Alexander F. , Fernandes Vitor A. , Corrêa Arlene G. , Paixão Márcio W.
Published: July 2021

A library of N-alkylated lipopeptide organocatalysts were synthesized through an isocyanide-based multicomponent reaction.
Enhancement of visible light driven dye degradation and photocatalytic H2 evolution over MoS2 through combination with perylene diimide aggregates
Authors: Ma Yongshan , Cui Jingcheng , Yin Mengmeng , Li Xuemei , Jiang Tianyi , Zhang Fengxia , Zhu Yanyan , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: July 2021

The incorporation of PPDI MBs into MoS2 NFs changes the nature of their edge, increases the driving force to effectively separate and transfer the photogenerated charge carriers, and improves the overall photocatalytic performance of the material.
Precise synthesis of pillared graphene nanosheets with superior potassium storage via an in situ growth strategy
Authors: Qiao Xiaohua , Sun Jianhua , Hou Chaoyang , Bian Shuaijuan , Sun Lixia , Liao Dankui
Published: July 2021

We report a simple in situ growth strategy to synthesize pillared graphene nanosheets with an expanded interlayer spacing. The graphene nanosheet/NiO-500 composite assembled binder-free flexible anode shows excellent potassium storage performance.
A theoretical study of the hydroboration of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds catalyzed by a metal-free complex and subsequent C–C coupling with acetonitrile
Authors: Zhu Ling , Zhang Lin , Yang Zuoyin , Pu Min , Lei Ming
Published: July 2021

Herein, the density functional theory (DFT) method was employed to investigate the reaction mechanism of the selective hydroboration of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds catalyzed by the metal-free complex 1,3,2-diazaphospholene (DAP).
Fluorogenic naked eye “turn-on” sensing of hypochlorous acid by a Zr-based metal organic framework
Authors: Nandi Soutick , Ghosh Subhrajyoti , S. K. Mostakim , Biswas Shyam
Published: July 2021

A (dimethylthiocarbamoyl)oxy functionalized Zr-based UiO-66 MOF was utilized for the first time as a fluorogenic turn-on detector for the sensitive and specific sensing of HOCl in an aqueous medium.
Stochasticvs.deterministic magnetic coding in designed cylindrical nanowires for 3D magnetic networks
Authors: Bran Cristina , Saugar Elias , Fernandez-Roldan Jose Angel , del Real Rafael P. , Asenjo Agustina , Aballe Lucia , Foerster Michael , Fraile Rodríguez Arantxa , Palmero Ester M. , Vazquez Manuel , Chubykalo-Fesenko Oksana
Published: July 2021

Control over the stochastic and deterministic coding of 3D vortex configurations in cylindrical multilayered nanowires.
Molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate translocation and permeation of active from lipid nanoparticle to skin: complemented by experiments
Authors: Gupta Krishna M. , Das Surajit , Chow Pui Shan
Published: July 2021

A simulation platform to elucidate the translocation and permeation of an active from a nanoparticle to the skin was demonstrated.
Ferromagnetism of two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides: both theoretical and experimental investigations
Authors: Xia Baorui , Gao Daqiang , Xue Desheng
Published: July 2021

In this manuscript, we review progress and problems related to magnetism in transition-metal chalcogenides and provide an outlook for this research field.
Recent advances for the synthesis of chiral sulfones with the sulfone moiety directly connected to the chiral center
Authors: Zhu Chuanle , Cai Yingying , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: July 2021

The recent development of strategies for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral sulfones with sulfone moieties directly connected to the stereocenters.
A novel coumarin-based colorimetric and fluorescent probe for detecting increasing concentrations of Hg2+in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Huang Li , Sheng Wenlong , Wang Lizhen , Meng Xia , Duan Hongdong , Chi Liqun
Published: July 2021

Mercury has complex biological toxicity and can cause a variety of physiological diseases and even death, so it is of great importance to develop novel strategies for detecting trace mercury in environmental and biological samples.
On-demand retrieval of cells three-dimensionally seeded in injectable thioester-based hydrogels
Authors: Ishikawa Shohei , Kamata Hiroyuki , Chung Ung-il , Sakai Takamasa
Published: July 2021

Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells can be three-dimensionally encapsulated in hydrogels cross-linked with thioester linkages. Degrading the cell-embedded hydrogels by l-cysteine molecules enables safe on-demand retrieval of the cells.
The study of zirconium vanadate as a cathode material for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Yuan Baohe , Zhang Lilei , Ge Xianghong , Qi Heng , Xu Qi , Chen Lulu , Liang Erjun , Li Baojun , Guo Juan
Published: July 2021

The carbon content in the electrode is not the only factor that determines the internal resistance. The high capacity of lithium ion batteries is related to high conductivity. The lattice is stable (expect for shrinkage) when Li ions insert into ZVO.
In situ synthesis of nanostructured Fe3O4@TiO2 composite grown on activated carbon cloth as a binder-free electrode for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Hai , Xu Xingping , Neville Anne
Published: July 2021

Transition metal oxide (TMO) nanomaterials with regular morphology have received widening research attention as electrode materials due to their improved electrochemical characteristics.
Achieving highly efficient aggregation-induced emission, reversible and irreversible photochromism by heavy halogen-regulated photophysics and D–A molecular pattern-controlled photochemistry of through-space conjugated luminogens
Authors: Xiong Zuping , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Liu Longxiang , Zhu Qiaozhi , Wang Zhenni , Feng Hui , Qian Zhaosheng
Published: July 2021

Highly efficient aggregation-induced emission, reversible and irreversible photochromism are achieved by regulating heavy halogen-regulated photophysics and D–A molecular pattern-controlled photochemistry of through-space conjugated luminogens.
Azanone (HNO): generation, stabilization and detection
Authors: Gallego Cecilia Mariel , Mazzeo Agostina , Vargas Paola , Suárez Sebastián , Pellegrino Juan , Doctorovich Fabio
Published: July 2021

HNO (nitroxyl, azanone), joined the ‘biologically relevant reactive nitrogen species’ family in the 2000s.
Halogen bonding in polymer science: towards new smart materials
Authors: Kampes Robin , Zechel Stefan , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: July 2021

The incorporation of halogen bonding into polymer architectures is a new approach for the design of functional materials. This perspective emphasizes the current development in the field of halogen bonding featuring polymer materials.
Optimization of crystal packing in semiconducting spin-crossover materials with fractionally charged TCNQδ− anions (0 < δ < 1)
Authors: Üngör Ökten , Choi Eun Sang , Shatruk Michael
Published: July 2021

Co-crystallization of the cationic complex [Fe(3-bpp)2]2+ with fractionally charged TCNQδ− anions (0 < δ < 1) affords semiconducting spin-crossover (SCO) materials. The abruptness of SCO is strongly dependent on the interstitial solvent content.
Discovery of a photochemical cascade process by flow-based interception of isomerising alkenes
Authors: Di Filippo Mara , Trujillo Cristina , Sánchez-Sanz Goar , Batsanov Andrei S. , Baumann Marcus
Published: July 2021

A photochemical cascade process is reported affording complex pentacyclic scaffolds in high yields from readily available substrates. Flow processing provided high reaction control and scalability to generate gram quantities of these intriguing scaffolds for further studies.
Accelerated exciton dissociation and electron extraction across the metallic sulfide–carbon nitride ohmic interface for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Zhou Jun , Zhang Junjie , Zhao Jing , Wang Haozhi , Liu Rui
Published: July 2021

The metallic sulfide–CN ohmic junction has been rationally designed and prepared for modulating charge separation in a semiconductor photocatalyst.
Structural effect of phenylcarbazole-based molecules on the exciplex-forming co-host system to achieve highly efficient phosphorescent OLEDs with low efficiency roll-off
Authors: Lee Chih-Chien , Amin Nurul Ridho Al , Xu Jing-Jie , Wang Bo-Cheng , Luo Dian , Sutanto Kevin , Biring Sajal , Liu Shun-Wei , Chen Chih-Hsin
Published: July 2021

The structural effect of phenylcarbazole-based molecules on the exciplex-forming co-host system was investigated to achieve a green phosphorescent OLED with a high external quantum efficiency of 31.5%.
Food security of Russia - modern challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Abdullin Asat , Vafin Rashit , Turgel Irina , Khoroshkevich Natalia
Published: July 2021

The article is devoted to the study of normative and legal support problems of modern state food policy affecting the food security provision as one of the main components of the economic and national security of modern Russia. Evolution of the legal “food security” concept definition of the Russian Federation in domestic legislation. The current challenges of food security of the country related to both external and internal factors, including those caused by the COVID pandemic — 19 were considered. Supporting the approach of S.Yu. Glazyev on basic models of ensuring food security, considering the economy’s modern digital transformation and in particular the agro-industrial complex, authors suggest that we are in a transition period from an existing dynamic model to a new future innovation model for food security. Based on the studied and generalized scientific material, substantiate the conclusion that the most promising directions of food security is the use of innovative digital technologies in the agro-industrial complex of the country. It is noted that the existing normative and legal framework in modern conditions requires further development, and for this it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive Federal Law “On food security in the Russian Federation.” In it, the consolidation of the strategic goal “social and economic development of the country to improve the quality of Russian citizens’ life” by applying innovative technologies in the AIC would be set.
Scientific support and advanced research in dairy farming in the Russian Federation
Authors: Marinchenko Tatiana
Published: July 2021

Increasing the output of agricultural products and improving their quality is one of the most important tasks of ensuring the food security of the Russian Federation. The solution to this problem is impossible without the introduction of up-to-date technologies that ensure the competitiveness and output growth, which are the result of scientific research and development. The basis for increasing the efficiency of dairy farming and, as a consequence, increasing milk production is the genetic improvement of the breeding base. The organization of selection and breeding work based on the use of our own genetic resources is a strategic task of the industry, which allows increasing the output of livestock products, reducing the technological import dependence of animal husbandry and minimizing the risk of the introduction of infectious diseases into the country. At the same time, the breeding base of dairy cattle breeding is on average 13.8% of the total livestock in the Russian Federation. The breeding progress is ensured by agricultural organizations, in which less than half of the total head of cows is concentrated. They are also the main consumers of research and development results. The purpose of the study is to analyze the state of the industry and its scientific potential, as well as formulate proposals for improving scientific support to create conditions for solving the tasks set by the state.
Intensity of ecotoxicants’ accumulation in internal organs and milk of dairy cows in the North-West of Transurals
Authors: Koshelev S.N. , Bakharev A.A. , Romanova O.V.
Published: July 2021

The work of the agrarian sector of the economy is impossible without deep awareness of the serious environmental situation threat of anthropogenic factors’ influence due to the increasing intensification system of processes in animal husbandry. In addition to understanding the processes occurring in connection with the increase in anthropogenic load, real-time information about the real situation in the agroecosystem is necessary. Forecast of decision-making, consequences of certain actions. Control and monitoring of changes in the environmental situation. Therefore, the current control and the real system for assessing the ecological situation is important for the correct ecological activity of the agrarian organization. The greatest ecotoxicants’ concentration is observed in the body of experimental animals, most of all in the respiratory and excretory organs. The minimum level of ecotoxicants was observed in muscle tissue, hence it is an environmentally friendly livestock product. The concentration of arsenic, mercury in the experiment is at the level of trace indicators. The level of ecotoxicants’ accumulation in drinking cow’s milk was established, the correlation between the pollutants’ level in the product and the location of agricultural production, season and production time was found.