bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noninvasive intracranial pressure monitoring in women with migraine
Authors: Rossi Denise Martineli , Bevilaqua-Grossi Débora , Mascarenhas Sérgio , de Souza Hugo Celso Dutra , Carvalho Gabriela Ferreira , Vendramim Ana Carolina Carmona , Philbois Stella Vieira , Dach Fabíola , Tallarico Francisco José , de Oliveira Anamaria Siriani
Published: February 2022

This cross-sectional study aimed to compare the waveform morphology through noninvasive intracranial pressure (ICP-NI) measurement between patients with migraine and controls, and to analyze the association with clinical variables. Twenty-nine women with migraine, age 32.4 (11.2) years and headache frequency of 12.6 (7.5) days per month and twenty-nine women without headache, age 32.1 (9.0) years, were evaluated. Pain intensity, migraine disability, allodynia, pain catastrophizing, central sensitization and depression were evaluated. The ICP-NI monitoring was performed by a valid method consisting of an extracranial deformation sensor positioned in the patients’ scalp, which allowed registration of intracranial pressure waveforms. Heart rate and blood pressure measurements were simultaneously recorded during 20 min in the supine position. The analyzed parameter was the P2/P1 ratio based on mean pulse per minute which P1 represents the percussion wave related to the arterial blood pression maximum and P2 the tidal wave, middle point between the P1 maximum and the dicrotic notch. There was no between-groups difference in the P2/P1 ratio (mean difference: 0.04, IC95%: -0.07 to 0.16, p = 0.352, F (1,1) = 0.881) adjusted by body mass index covariable. The Multiple Linear Regression showed non-statistical significance [F (5,44) = 1.104; p = 0.372; R2 = 0.11)] between the P2/P1 ratio and body mass index, presence of migraine, central sensitization, pain catastrophizing and depression. We found no correlation (p > 0.05) between P2/P1 ratio and migraine frequency, migraine onset, pain intensity, pain intensity at day of examination, disability, allodynia. Migraine patients did not present alterations in the waveform morphology through ICP-NI compared to women without headache and no association with clinical variables was found.
Placental pathology predicts infantile neurodevelopment
Authors: Ueda Megumi , Tsuchiya Kenji J. , Yaguchi Chizuko , Furuta-Isomura Naomi , Horikoshi Yoshimasa , Matsumoto Masako , Suzuki Misako , Oda Tomoaki , Kawai Kenta , Itoh Toshiya , Matsuya Madoka , Narumi Megumi , Kohmura-Kobayashi Yukiko , Tamura Naoaki , Uchida Toshiyuki , Itoh Hiroaki
Published: February 2022

The aim of present study was to investigate the association of placental pathological findings with infantile neurodevelopment during the early 40 months of life. 258 singleton infants were enrolled in the Hamamatsu Birth Cohort for Mothers and Children (HBC Study) whose placentas were saved in our pathological division. To assess the infantile neurodevelopment, we used Mullen Scales of Early Learning (gross motor, visual reception, fine motor, receptive language, expressive language) at 10, 14, 18, 24, 32, and 40 months. For obtaining placental blocks, we carried out random sampling and assessed eleven pathological findings using mixed modeling identified ‘Accelerated villous maturation’, ‘Maternal vascular malperfusion’, and ‘Delayed villous maturation’ as significant predictors of the relatively lower MSEL composite scores in the neurodevelopmental milestones by Mullen Scales of Early Learning. On the other hand, ‘Avascular villi’, ‘Thrombosis or Intramural fibrin deposition’, ‘Fetal vascular malperfusion’, and ‘Fetal inflammatory response’ were significant predictors of the relatively higher MSEL composite scores in the neurodevelopmental milestones by Mullen Scales of Early Learning. In conclusion, the present study is the first to report that some placental pathological findings are bidirectionally associated with the progression of infantile neurodevelopment during 10–40 months of age.
Phylogenetic analysis and genetic diversity of the xylariaceous ascomycete Biscogniauxia mediterranea from cork oak forests in different bioclimates
Authors: Costa Daniela , Ramos Vitor , Tavares Rui M. , Baptista Paula , Lino-Neto Teresa
Published: February 2022

Cork oak is a tree species with ecological importance that contributes to economic and social development in the Mediterranean region. Cork oak decline is a major concern for forest sustainability and has negative impacts on cork oak growth and production. This event has been increasingly reported in the last decades and seems to be related with climate changes. Biscogniauxia mediterranea is an endophytic fungus of healthy cork oak trees that turns into a pathogen in trees weaken by environmental stress. Understanding the drivers of B. mediterranea populations diversity and differentiation is expected to allow a better control of cork oak decline and preserve forest sustainability. Endophyte isolates from different cork oak forests were identified as B. mediterranea and their genetic diversity was evaluated using phylogenetic and microsatellite-primed PCR analyses. Genetic diversity and variability of this fungus was correlated with environmental/phytosanitary conditions present in forests/trees from which isolates were collected. High genetic diversity and variability was found in B. mediterranea populations obtained from different forests, suggesting some degree of isolation by distance. Bioclimate was the most significant effect that explained the genetic variability of B. mediterranea, rather than precipitation or temperature intensities alone or disease symptoms. These findings bring new implications for the changing climate to cork oak forests sustainability, cork production and quality.
Combining CNN and Q-learning for increasing the accuracy of lost gamma source finding
Authors: Fathi Atefeh , Masoudi S. Farhad
Published: February 2022

The increasing use of nuclear technology in various fields makes it necessary to provide the required safety to work with this industry. Gamma source is one of the most widely used sources in industry and medicine. Finding a lost gamma source in a gamma irradiation room without human presence is challenging due to the particular arrangements and barriers in the room for radiation shielding and requires an efficient and robust method. In this paper, locating and routing the lost gamma source in the gamma irradiation room containing radiation blocking barriers are done simultaneously by using two methods, convolutional neural network (CNN) and Q-learning, which are powerful algorithms for deep learning and machine learning. Environment simulation with gamma source was performed using Geant4 simulation. The results show that by combining these two methods in geometries with radiation blocking barriers, in addition to locating with 90% accuracy, routing can also be performed. Although the presence of thick barriers in the room reduces the accuracy, increases the time required to finding the lost gamma source or the inefficiency of other methods, nevertheless, the results show that combination of CNN and Q-learning reduces the time and greatly increases the accuracy.
Strain-mediated ferromagnetism and low-field magnetic reversal in Co doped monolayer $$WS_2$$
Authors: Jena Anjan Kumar , Mallik Sameer Kumar , Sahu Mousam Charan , Sahoo Sandhyarani , Sahoo Ajit Kumar , Sharma Neha Kapila , Mohanty J. , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Ahuja Rajeev , Sahoo Satyaprakash
Published: February 2022

Strain-mediated magnetism in 2D materials and dilute magnetic semiconductors hold multi-functional applications for future nano-electronics. Herein, First principles calculations are employed to study the influence of biaxial strain on the magnetic properties of Co-doped monolayer $$WS_2$$

W

S
2

. The non-magnetic $$WS_2$$

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S
2

shows ferromagnetic signature upon Co doping due to spin polarization, which is further improved at low compressive (-2 %) and tensile (+2 %) strains. From the PDOS and spin density analysis, the opposite magnetic ordering is found to be favourable under the application of compressive and tensile strains. The double exchange interaction and p-d hybridization mechanisms make Co-doped $$WS_2$$

W

S
2

a potential host for magnetism. More importantly, the competition between exchange and crystal field splittings, i.e. ($$\Delta _{ex}>\Delta _{cfs}$$

Δ

ex

>

Δ

cfs

), of the Co-atom play pivotal roles in deciding the values of the magnetic moments under applied strain. Micromagnetic simulation reveals, the ferromagnetic behavior calculated from DFT exhibits low-field magnetic reversal (190 Oe). Moreover, the spins of Co-doped $$WS_2$$

W

S
2

are slightly tilted from the easy axis orientations showing slanted ferromagnetic hysteresis loop. The ferromagnetic nature of Co-doped $$WS_2$$

W

S
2

suppresses beyond $$\pm 2~\%$$

±
2

%

strain, which is reflected in terms of decrease in the coercivity in the micromagnetic simulation. The understanding of low-field magnetic reversal and spin orientations in Co-doped $$WS_2$$

W

S
2

may pave the way for next-generation spintronics and straintronics applications.
Glucocorticoids coordinate changes in gut microbiome composition in wild North American red squirrels
Authors: Petrullo Lauren , Ren Tiantian , Wu Martin , Boonstra Rudy , Palme Rupert , Boutin Stan , McAdam Andrew G. , Dantzer Ben
Published: February 2022

The gut microbiome impacts host health and fitness, in part through the diversification of gut metabolic function and pathogen protection. Elevations in glucocorticoids (GCs) appear to reduce gut microbiome diversity in experimental studies, suggesting that a loss of microbial diversity may be a negative consequence of increased GCs. However, given that ecological factors like food availability and population density may independently influence both GCs and microbial diversity, understanding how these factors structure the GC-microbiome relationship is crucial to interpreting its significance in wild populations. Here, we used an ecological framework to investigate the relationship between GCs and gut microbiome diversity in wild North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). As expected, higher GCs predicted lower gut microbiome diversity and an increase in metabolic taxa. Surprisingly, but in line with prior empirical studies on wild animals, gastrointestinal pathogens decreased as GCs increased. Both dietary heterogeneity and an upcoming food pulse exhibited direct effects on gut microbiome diversity, whereas conspecific density and reproductive activity impacted diversity indirectly via changes in host GCs. Our results provide evidence of a gut–brain axis in wild red squirrels and highlight the importance of situating the GC-gut microbiome relationship within an ecological framework.
The influence of the respiratory cycle on reaction times in sensory-cognitive paradigms
Authors: Johannknecht Michelle , Kayser Christoph
Published: February 2022

Behavioural and electrophysiological studies point to an apparent influence of the state of respiration, i.e., whether we inhale or exhale, on brain activity and cognitive performance. Still, the prevalence and relevance of such respiratory-behavioural relations in typical sensory-cognitive tasks remain unclear. We here used a battery of six tasks probing sensory detection, discrimination and short-term memory to address the questions of whether and by how much behaviour covaries with the respiratory cycle. Our results show that participants tend to align their respiratory cycle to the experimental paradigm, in that they tend to inhale around stimulus presentation and exhale when submitting their responses. Furthermore, their reaction times, but not so much their response accuracy, consistently and significantly covary with the respiratory cycle, differing between inhalation and exhalation. This effect is strongest when analysed contingent on the respiratory state around participants’ responses. The respective effect sizes of these respiration-behaviour relations are comparable to those seen in other typical experimental manipulations in sensory-cognitive tasks, highlighting the relevance of these effects. Overall, our results support a prominent relation between respiration and sensory-cognitive function and show that sensation is intricately linked to rhythmic bodily or interoceptive functions.
Automating insect monitoring using unsupervised near-infrared sensors
Authors: Rydhmer Klas , Bick Emily , Still Laurence , Strand Alfred , Luciano Rubens , Helmreich Salena , Beck Brittany D. , Grønne Christoffer , Malmros Ludvig , Poulsen Knud , Elbæk Frederik , Brydegaard Mikkel , Lemmich Jesper , Nikolajsen Thomas
Published: February 2022

Insect monitoring is critical to improve our understanding and ability to preserve and restore biodiversity, sustainably produce crops, and reduce vectors of human and livestock disease. Conventional monitoring methods of trapping and identification are time consuming and thus expensive. Automation would significantly improve the state of the art. Here, we present a network of distributed wireless sensors that moves the field towards automation by recording backscattered near-infrared modulation signatures from insects. The instrument is a compact sensor based on dual-wavelength infrared light emitting diodes and is capable of unsupervised, autonomous long-term insect monitoring over weather and seasons. The sensor records the backscattered light at kHz pace from each insect transiting the measurement volume. Insect observations are automatically extracted and transmitted with environmental metadata over cellular connection to a cloud-based database. The recorded features include wing beat harmonics, melanisation and flight direction. To validate the sensor’s capabilities, we tested the correlation between daily insect counts from an oil seed rape field measured with six yellow water traps and six sensors during a 4-week period. A comparison of the methods found a Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient of 0.61 and a p-value = 0.0065, with the sensors recording approximately 19 times more insect observations and demonstrating a larger temporal dynamic than conventional yellow water trap monitoring.
Thermography based skin allergic reaction recognition by convolutional neural networks
Authors: Neumann Łukasz , Nowak Robert , Stępień Jacek , Chmielewska Ewelina , Pankiewicz Patryk , Solan Radosław , Jahnz-Różyk Karina
Published: February 2022

In this work we present an automated approach to allergy recognition based on neural networks. Allergic reaction classification is an important task in modern medicine. Currently it is done by humans, which has obvious drawbacks, such as subjectivity in the process. We propose an automated method to classify prick allergic reactions using correlated visible-spectrum and thermal images of a patient’s forearm. We test our model on a real-life dataset of 100 patients (1584 separate allergen injections). Our solution yields good results—0.98 ROC AUC; 0.97 AP; 93.6% accuracy. Additionally, we present a method to segment separate allergen injection areas from the image of the patient’s forearm (multiple injections per forearm). The proposed approach can possibly reduce the time of an examination, while taking into consideration more information than possible by human staff.
Effects of linear periodization of combined training on quality of life of adults with obesity: a blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tozetto Willen Remon , Leonel Larissa dos Santos , Turnes Tiago , Del Duca Giovani Firpo
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to compare the effect of 16-weeks of combining aerobic and strength training with a linear increase or fixed intensity on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of obese adults. This single-blinded clinical trial involved adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), randomized into control (CG), fixed intensity (FG), or linear increase (LG) groups. The FG and LG performed 16 weeks of combined (aerobic + strength) training for 60 min, three times a week. The FG performed aerobic exercises between 50 and 59% of the heart rate reserve (HRres) and strength at 10–12 maximum repetitions (RM). The LG started with 40–49% of HRres and 12–14 RM and progressively increased the intensity (50–59% and 10–12 RM; 60–69% and 8–10 RM). The HRQoL was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. Generalized estimation equations and mean differences (∆) were used. Of the 69 participants (23 per group), 36 completed the intervention (CG = 13, FG = 9, and LG = 14). A significant difference was observed in the time of the physical function, with superiority in the training groups (CG: ∆ = 1.2 vs. FG and LG, respectively: ∆ = 10.0). The mental health component and mental health domain showed significant differences for the FG (∆ = 30.2 and ∆ = 23.1, respectively). In conclusion, the combined training improved physical functioning. Specifically, fixed-intensity training effectively enhanced mental health indicators.

Trial Registration:This study is registered atwww.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/(No. RBR-3c7rt3), Date of registration: 07/02/2018.
Changes of operative performance of pulse pressure variation as a predictor of fluid responsiveness in endotoxin shock
Authors: Alvarado Sánchez Jorge Iván , Caicedo Ruiz Juan Daniel , Diaztagle Fernández Juan Jose , Ospina Tascon Gustavo Adolfo , Monge Garcia Manuel Ignacio , Ruiz Narvaez Guillermo Arturo , Cruz Martínez Luis Eduardo
Published: February 2022

Several limitations regarding pulse pressure variation (PPV) use have been reported. Our aim was to describe changes in the PPV operative performance as a predictor of fluid responsiveness during the development of a swine endotoxin shock model and to assess hemodynamic variables associated with PPV changes. A swine porcine endotoxin shock model was established (Escherichia Coli 055:B5 endotoxin) in 7 pigs, and 3 pigs were included in the control group. The endotoxin was infused until the mean arterial pressure (MAP) dropped below 50 mmHg (TH0); then, the model animal was reanimated with fluids and vasopressors. We performed fluid challenges every hour for 6 h. ROC curve analysis and a linear mixed model were performed. The area under the curve of PPV decreased from 0.95 (0.81–1.00) to 0.60 (0.17–1.00) at TH0. Its cutoff increased from 10.5 to 22.00% at TH0. PPV showed an inverse relationship with stroke volume, mean systemic filling pressure, MAP, and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) (p < 0.001, AIC = 111.85). The PPV operative performance as a predictor of fluid responsiveness decreased with the progression of shock. This could lead to an inverse association between PPV and the following variables: MAP and SVR.
Spontaneous emergence of counterclockwise vortex motion in assemblies of pedestrians roaming within an enclosure
Authors: Echeverría-Huarte Iñaki , Nicolas Alexandre , Hidalgo Raúl Cruz , Garcimartín Angel , Zuriguel Iker
Published: February 2022

The emergence of coherent vortices has been observed in a wide variety of many-body systems such as animal flocks, bacteria, colloids, vibrated granular materials or human crowds. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that pedestrians roaming within an enclosure also form vortex-like patterns which, intriguingly, only rotate counterclockwise. By implementing simple numerical simulations, we evidence that the development of swirls in many-particle systems can be described as a phase transition in which both the density of agents and their dissipative interactions with the boundaries play a determinant role. Also, for the specific case of pedestrians, we show that the preference of right-handed people (the majority in our experiments) to turn leftwards when facing a wall is the symmetry breaking mechanism needed to trigger the global counterclockwise rotation observed.
Experimental measurements of the viscosity and melt structure of alkali basalts at high pressure and temperature
Authors: Bonechi Barbara , Stagno Vincenzo , Kono Yoshio , Hrubiak Rostislav , Ziberna Luca , Andreozzi Giovanni B. , Perinelli Cristina , Gaeta Mario
Published: February 2022

Volcanic eruptions are shallow phenomena that represent the final stage of density- and viscosity- driven processes of melt migration from source rocks at upper mantle depths. In this experimental study, we investigated the effect of pressure (0.7–7.0 GPa) and temperature (1335–2000 °C) on the viscosity and the atomic melt structure of a synthetic anhydrous primitive alkaline basalt, an analogue of the pre-eruptive magma that likely feeds the Campi Flegrei Volcanic District at present day. Obtained viscosities (0.5–3.0 Pa s), mobility (0.1–0.4 g cm3 Pa−1 s−1) and ascent velocity (1.5–6.0 m yr−1) are presented to support geochemical and geophysical observations of Campi Flegrei as a critical volcanic district currently undergoing gradual magma recharge at depth.
Transcriptomic analysis of Mesoamerican and Andean Phaseolus vulgaris accessions revealed mRNAs and lncRNAs associated with strain selectivity during symbiosis
Authors: Clúa Joaquín , Rivero Claudio Hernán , Roda Carla , Giorgis Carolina , Donna Soledad , Zanetti María Eugenia , Blanco Flavio Antonio
Published: February 2022

Legume plants establish a nitrogen-fixing symbiosis with soil bacteria known as rhizobia. Compatibility between legumes and rhizobia is determined at species-specific level, but variations in the outcome of the symbiotic process are also influenced by the capacity of the plant to discriminate and select specific strains that are better partners. We compared the transcriptional response of two genetically diverse accessions of Phaseolus vulgaris from Mesoamerica and South Andes to Rhizobium etli strains that exhibit variable degrees of symbiotic affinities. Our results indicate that the plant genotype is the major determinant of the transcriptional reprogramming occurring in roots at early stages of the symbiotic interaction. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) regulated in the Mesoamerican and the Andean accessions in response to specific strains are different, but they belong to the same functional categories. The common and strain-specific transcriptional responses to rhizobia involve distinct transcription factors  and cis-elements present in the promoters of DEGs in each accession, showing that diversification and domestication of common bean at different geographic regions influenced the evolution of symbiosis differently in each genetic pool. Quantitative PCR analysis validated our transcriptional datasets, which constitute a valuable source of coding and non-coding candidate genes to further unravel the molecular determinants governing the mechanisms by which plants select bacterial strains that produce a better symbiotic outcome.
Exploring protective associations between the use of classic psychedelics and cocaine use disorder: a population-based survey study
Authors: Jones Grant M. , Nock Matthew K.
Published: February 2022

Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) is a significant public health problem associated with elevated morbidity and mortality within the United States. Current behavioral treatments have limited efficacy and there are currently no FDA approved pharmacological treatments for CUD. Classic psychedelics might be associated with lowered odds of substance misuse and may effectively treat various forms of addiction. Thus, the goal of this study is to assess protective associations that lifetime use of classic psychedelics may share with CUD within a nationally representative sample of the U.S. We used data from The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) (2015–2019) and conducted survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression to test whether each of four classic psychedelics (peyote, mescaline, psilocybin, LSD) conferred lowered odds of CUD and its related 11 sub-criteria. Participants were 214,505 adults in the NSDUH (2015–2019) aged 18 and older. Peyote conferred lowered odds of CUD, reducing the odds of CUD by over 50% (aOR: 0.47). All other substances (including other classic psychedelics) either shared no association to CUD or conferred increased odds of CUD. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses revealed peyote to confer sharply lowered odds of the majority (seven of 11) of CUD criteria as well (aOR range: 0.26–0.47). Peyote use is associated with lowered odds of CUD. Future inquiries into third variable factors (i.e., demographic/personality profiles of individuals who use peyote, motivational/contextual factors surrounding peyote use) that may underlie our observed associations may reveal protective factors that can inform treatment development for CUD. Additionally, future longitudinal studies can shed further light on whether there is a temporal link between peyote use and lowered odds of CUD.
Willingness to sacrifice among convicted Islamist terrorists versus violent gang members and other criminals
Authors: Gómez Angel , Atran Scott , Chinchilla Juana , Vázquez Alexandra , López-Rodríguez Lucia , Paredes Borja , Martínez Mercedes , Blanco Laura , Alba Beatriz , Bautista Hend , Fernández Saulo , Pozuelo-Rubio Florencia , González-Álvarez José Luis , Chiclana Sandra , Valladares-Narganes Héctor , Alonso María , Ruíz-Alvarado Alfredo , López-Novo José Luis , Davis Richard
Published: February 2022

Is terrorism just another form of criminal activity, as many nations’ justice systems assume? We offer an initial answer using face-to-face interviews and structured surveys in thirty-five Spanish prisons. Recent theories of extreme sacrifice inform this direct observational and comparative study. Islamist terrorists display levels of self-sacrifice for their primary reference group similar to that of Latino gangs, but greater willingness to sacrifice for primary values than other inmates (non-radical Muslims, Latino gangs, and delinquent bands). This disposition is motivated by stronger perceived injustice, discrimination, and a visceral commitment to such values (risk/radicalization factors). Nevertheless, state authorities, prison staff, and families are (protective/de-radicalization) factors apt to reduce willingness to sacrifice and keep foreign fighters, now being released in large numbers, from returning to terrorism.
Oxidative coupling of methane—comparisons of MnTiO3–Na2WO4 and MnOx–TiO2–Na2WO4 catalysts on different silica supports
Authors: Tiyatha Worapinit , Chukeaw Thanaphat , Sringam Sarannuch , Witoon Thongthai , Chareonpanich Metta , Rupprechter Günther , Seubsai Anusorn
Published: February 2022

The oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) converts CH4 to value-added chemicals (C2+), such as olefins and paraffin. For a series of MnTiO3-Na2WO4 (MnTiO3-NW) and MnOx-TiO2-Na2WO4 (Mn-Ti-NW), the effect of loading of MnTiO3 or MnOx-TiO2, respectively, on two different supports (sol–gel SiO2 (SG) and commercial fumed SiO2 (CS)) was examined. The catalyst with the highest C2+ yield (21.6% with 60.8% C2+ selectivity and 35.6% CH4 conversion) was 10 wt% MnTiO3-NW/SG with an olefins/paraffin ratio of 2.2. The catalyst surfaces with low oxygen-binding energies were associated with high CH4 conversion. Stability tests conducted for over 24 h revealed that SG-supported catalysts were more durable than those on CS because the active phase (especially Na2WO4) was more stable in SG than in CS. With the use of SG, the activity of MnTiO3-NW was not substantially different from that of Mn-Ti-NW, especially at high metal loading.
On a high photocatalytic activity of high-noble alloys Au–Ag/TiO2 catalysts during oxygen evolution reaction of water oxidation
Authors: Malik Anum Shahid , Liu Taifeng , Rittiruam Meena , Saelee Tinnakorn , Da Silva Juarez L. F. , Praserthdam Supareak , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: February 2022

The analysis via density functional theory was employed to understand high photocatalytic activity found on the Au–Ag high-noble alloys catalysts supported on rutile TiO2 during the oxygen evolution of water oxidation reaction (OER). It was indicated that the most thermodynamically stable location of the Au–Ag bimetal-support interface is the bridging row oxygen vacancy site. On the active region of the Au–Ag catalyst, the Au site is the most active for OER catalyzing the reaction with an overpotential of 0.60 V. Whereas the photocatalytic activity of other active sites follows the trend of Au > Ag > Ti. This finding evident from the projected density of states revealed the formation of the trap state that reduces the band gap of the catalyst promoting activity. In addition, the Bader charge analysis revealed the electron relocation from Ag to Au to be the reason behind the activity of the bimetallic that exceeds its monometallic counterparts.
Hemicellulosa-derived Arenga pinnata bunches as free-standing carbon nanofiber membranes for electrode material supercapacitors
Authors: Farma Rakhmawati , Apriyani Irma , Awitdrus Awitdrus , Taer Erman , Apriwandi Apriwandi
Published: February 2022

Carbon nanofibers derived from lignocellulosic materials have become the most prevalent free-standing electrode material for supercapacitors due to their renewable and sustainable nature. This study usedArenga pinnatabunches (APB) as raw material for hemicellulose compounds to produce carbon electrodes through carbonization processes at 650 °C, 700 °C, 750 °C, and 800 °C, in the presence of flowing N2gas. The variations in carbonization temperature resulted in carbon electrodes with surface morphology having a nanofiber structure with micro-meso pore distribution. According to the results, the carbonization temperature of 700 °C (APB-700) is the optimum temperature for producing electrode surface morphology with a combination of nanofiber, micro-and mesopore distributions, as well as specific surface area, specific capacitance, energy density, and power density of 1231.896 m2 g−1, 201.6 F g−1, 28.0 Wh kg−1, and 109.5 W kg−1, respectively, for the two electrode systems. This shows the combination of nanofibers and the distribution of micro-and mesopores produced with variations in carbonization temperature has the capacity to improve the performance of supercapacitor cells. Therefore, carbon nanofibers derived fromArenga pinnatabunches have the potential to be used as free-standing electrode materials for supercapacitors without employing doping, binder, electrospinning, and heteroatom template methods.
mRNA vaccine-induced antibodies more effective than natural immunity in neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 and its high affinity variants
Authors: Yu Yunkai , Esposito Dominic , Kang Zhigang , Lu Jianming , Remaley Alan T. , De Giorgi Valeria , Chen Leonard N. , West Kamille , Cao Liang
Published: February 2022

Several variants of SARS-CoV-2 have emerged. Those with mutations in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor binding domain (RBD) are associated with increased transmission and severity. In this study, we developed both antibody quantification and functional neutralization assays. Analyses of both COVID-19 convalescent and diagnostic cohorts strongly support the use of RBD antibody levels as an excellent surrogate to biochemical neutralization activities. Data further revealed that the samples from mRNA vaccinated individuals had a median of 17 times higher RBD antibody levels and a similar degree of increased neutralization activities against RBD-ACE2 binding than those from natural infections. Our data showed that N501Y RBD had fivefold higher ACE2 binding than the original variant. While some antisera from naturally infected subjects had substantially reduced neutralization ability against N501Y RBD, all blood samples from vaccinated individuals were highly effective in neutralizing it. Thus, our data indicates that mRNA vaccination may generate more neutralizing RBD antibodies than natural immunity. It further suggests a potential need to maintain high RBD antibody levels to control the more infectious SARS-CoV-2 variants.
The lipid components of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) are essential for the binding and transportation of antimicrobial peptides in human serum
Authors: Tang Wen-Hung , Wang Shi-Han , Wang Chiu-Feng , Mou Yun , Lin Min-Guan , Hsiao Chwan-Deng , Liao You-Di
Published: February 2022

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been developed for the treatment of bacterial infections, but their applications are limited to topical infections since they are sequestered and inhibited in serum. Here we have discovered that the inhibition of AMPs by human serum was mediated through high-density lipoproteins (HDL) which are known to remove cholesterol from peripheral tissues. The susceptibility of AMPs to HDL varied depending on the degree of hydrophobicity of AMPs and their binding affinities to HDL. The phospholipids, such as phosphatidylcholine, of HDL were essential for AMP-binding. The dynamic binding interactions between AMPs and HDL were mediated through the hydrophobic interactions rather than by ionic strength. Interestingly, some AMPs, such as SMAP29, dissociated from the AMP-HDL complex and translocated to bacteria upon contact, while some AMPs, such as LL37, remained in complex with HDL. These results suggest that HDL binds AMPs and facilitates the translocation of them to the bacteria.
Modern livestock farming under tropical conditions using sensors in grazing systems
Authors: Romanzini Eliéder Prates , Watanabe Rafael Nakamura , Fonseca Natália Vilas Boas , Berça Andressa Scholz , Brito Thaís Ribeiro , Bernardes Priscila Arrigucci , Munari Danísio Prado , Reis Ricardo Andrade
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate a commercial sensor—a three-axis accelerometer—to predict animal behavior with a variety of conditions in tropical grazing systems. The sensor was positioned on the underjaw of young bulls to detect the animals’ movements. A total of 22 animals were monitored in a grazing system, during both seasons (wet and dry), with different quality and quantity forage allowance. The machine learning (ML) methods used were random forest (RF), convolutional neural net and linear discriminant analysis; the metrics used to determine the best method were accuracy, Kappa coefficient, and a confusion matrix. After predicting animal behavior using the best ML method, a forecast for animal performance was developed using a mechanistic model: multiple linear regression to correlate intermediate average daily gain (iADG) observed versus iADG predicted. The best ML method yielded accuracy of 0.821 and Kappa coefficient of 0.704, was RF. From the forecast for animal performance, the Pearson correlation was 0.795 and the mean square error was 0.062. Hence, the commercial Ovi-bovi sensor, which is a three-axis accelerometer, can act as a powerful tool for predicting animal behavior in beef cattle production developed under a variety tropical grazing condition.
Antibacterial action and target mechanisms of zinc oxide nanoparticles against bacterial pathogens
Authors: Mendes Carolina Rosai , Dilarri Guilherme , Forsan Carolina Froes , Sapata Vinícius de Moraes Ruy , Lopes Paulo Renato Matos , de Moraes Peterson Bueno , Montagnolli Renato Nallin , Ferreira Henrique , Bidoia Ederio Dino
Published: February 2022

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are one of the most widely used nanoparticulate materials due to their antimicrobial properties, but their main mechanism of action (MOA) has not been fully elucidated. This study characterized ZnO NPs by using X-ray diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs against the clinically relevant bacteria Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the Gram-positive model Bacillus subtilis was evaluated by performing resazurin microtiter assay (REMA) after exposure to the ZnO NPs at concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 1.4 mM. Sensitivity was observed at 0.6 mM for the Gram-negative and 1.0 mM for the Gram-positive cells. Fluorescence microscopy was used to examine the interference of ZnO NPs on the membrane and the cell division apparatus of B. subtilis (amy::pspac-ftsZ-gfpmut1) expressing FtsZ-GFP. The results showed that ZnO NPs did not interfere with the assembly of the divisional Z-ring. However, 70% of the cells exhibited damage in the cytoplasmic membrane after 15 min of exposure to the ZnO NPs. Electrostatic forces, production of Zn2+ ions and the generation of reactive oxygen species were described as possible pathways of the bactericidal action of ZnO. Therefore, understanding the bactericidal MOA of ZnO NPs can potentially help in the construction of predictive models to fight bacterial resistance.
Feasibility analysis of novel Maglev EDM by comparing with conventional micro EDM
Authors: Sisodiya Mangal Singh , Shukla Shashank , Bajpai Vivek
Published: February 2022

EDM is the most popular unconventional machining process. The present technology of EDM consists of a pulsed or capacitive type power supply in which the pulsed type power supply is more popular and effective. The following essential component of an EDM is its servo mechanism, which controls the gap between the electrodes and maintains the gap voltage. A low machining speed, complex power supply, and servo mechanism increase the cost of machining and the maintenance cost of an EDM machine. To resolve the above issues from the EDM, a novel servo mechanism has been developed, which is simple in design and low in cost and has the capacity to use direct current as a power source. The current work elaborates a brief description of the novel servo mechanism and its feasibility analysis. Pure DC power is employed with the conjunction of Maglev lucidity to refine the shortcomings of conventional micro EDM. The novel technology addresses the prime concerns of conventional micro EDMs and deficiencies such as the delayed response of mechanical actuators and a servo mechanism. The novel technology uses the logical arrangement of permanent magnets and electromagnets to address inadequacies such as short circuiting and arcing. The work outlook is to establish the viability of the novel Maglev EDM by a comparison with a similar range of parameters. The results on the novel technology showed an improved material removal rate (MRR), which was in the range of 76.6 μgm/min, whereas the specific energy and surface roughness were 33.4 Joule/microgram and 4.3 μm, respectively, while machining commercially pure titanium.
Disentangling surface atomic motions from surface field effects in ultrafast low-energy electron diffraction
Authors: Lee Chiwon , Marx Alexander , Kassier Günther H. , Miller R. J. Dwayne
Published: February 2022

Ultrafast low-energy electron diffraction holds potential to provide atomic level details to the surface dynamics controlling processes from surface chemistry to exotic collective effects. Accessing the primary timescales requires subpicosecond excitation pulses to prepare the corresponding nonequilibrium state. The needed excitation for maximum contrast above background invariably leads to photoinduced electron emission with the creation of surface fields that affect diffraction and must be quantified to recover the key structural dynamics. Using 2 keV ultrashort low-energy electron bunches, we investigate this field effect on the ensuing electron distribution in projection imaging and diffraction as a function of excitation intensity. Using a structural model, we demonstrate a quantitative separation of the surface field effect on electron diffraction, enabling isolation of the structural dynamics of interest. Particle trajectory simulations provide insight into the correlation between geometrical characteristics of the charge separated region and the corresponding intensity modulation at the detector.
Picosecond-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) in diffuse reflectance spectroscopy explores biologically relevant hidden molecular contacts in a non-invasive way
Authors: Bhattacharyya Neha , Singh Soumendra , Mukherjee Dipanjan , Das Nairit , Chatterjee Arka , Adhikari Aniruddha , Mondal Susmita , Mondal Pulak , Mallick Asim Kumar , Pal Samir Kumar
Published: February 2022

The potentiality of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) for studying molecular interactions inside biological tissues with improved spatial (Angström) and temporal (picosecond) resolution is well established.
Cohesive properties of PbBi/Fe3O4 and PbBi/(Fe,Cr)3O4 interfaces
Authors: Sun L. , Deng P. , Zhao J. , Gong H. R. , Liang C. P.
Published: February 2022

Cohesive properties of PbBi/Fe3O4 and PbBi/(Fe,Cr)3O4 interfaces have been investigated by first-principles calculations. The influence of the terminated states, insufficient oxygen concentration and low degree of wetting has been studied.
10-Gingerol, a natural AMPK agonist, suppresses neointimal hyperplasia and inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation
Authors: Deng Bo , Jiang Xiao-li , Xu You-Cai , Chen Si , Cai Min , Deng Sui-Hui , Ding Wen-Jun , Xu Hong-Lin , Zhang Shuang-wei , Tan Zhang-Bin , Chen Rui-Xue , Liu Bin , Zhang Jing-zhi
Published: February 2022

10-Gingerol inhibits neointimal hyperplasia and suppresses VSMC proliferation by the activation of AMPKin vivoandin vitroand acts as a natural AMPK agonist.
Reagent-free intramolecular hydrofunctionalization: a regioselective 6-endo-dig cyclization of o-alkynoylphenols
Authors: Jung Chanhyun , Li Siyuan , Lee Kwanghee , Viji Mayavan , Lee Heesoon , Hyun Soonsil , Lee Kiho , Kang Young Kee , Chaudhary Chhabi Lal , Jung Jae-Kyung
Published: February 2022

Solvent-directed intramolecular hydrofunctionalization of readily available o-alkynoylphenols 1 was successfully achieved under reagent-free conditions.
Design and thermophysical characterization of betaine hydrochloride-based deep eutectic solvents as a new platform for CO2 capture
Authors: Jangir Anil Kumar , Bhawna  , Verma Gunjan , Pandey Siddharth , Kuperkar Ketan
Published: February 2022

A schematic representation depicting the preparation and thermophysical insight into new deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and their utilization for CO2 capture.
Substantial enhancement in the photocatalytic degradation of organic/inorganic pollutants in water and photoelectrochemical activity using TiO2@Ag@LaFeO3 core–shell nanorods
Authors: Misra Mrinmoy , Roy Chowdhury Shambo , Singh Narinder , Kumar Vanish , Lee Sang-Wha , Kadam Abhijit N.
Published: February 2022

Designing of novel and efficient TiO2@Ag@LaFeO3 core–shell nanorods towards advanced remediation of toxic ions/organic compounds and photoelectrochemical activity under simulated solar light is demonstrated.
Reduced graphene oxide-incorporated calcium phosphate cements with pulsed electromagnetic fields for bone regeneration
Authors: Seonwoo Hoon , Choung Han-Wool , Park Sangbae , Choi Kyoung Soon , Jang Kyoung-Je , Kim Jangho , Lim Ki-Taek , Kim Yeonju , Garg Pankaj , Pandey Shambhavi , Lee Juo , Park Joo-Cheol , Choung Yun-Hoon , Choung Pill-Hoon , Kim Soo Young , Chung Jong Hoon
Published: February 2022

Natural calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) derived from sintered animal bone have been investigated to treat bone defects, but their low mechanical strength remains a critical limitation.
The synthesis and properties of isocyanate-based polyimide foam composites containing MWCNTs of various contents and diameters
Authors: Xu Xinyu , Cao Jingjing , Zhang Yudi , Yang Fukai , Deng Yuyuan
Published: February 2022

PIFs were synthesized usingin situpolymerization from PAPI, PMDA, and MWCNTs (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 wt%) functionalized with –OH; the diameters were 10–20 nm, 20–30 nm, and >50 nm.
Evolution of graphene oxide (GO)-based nanohybrid materials with diverse compositions: an overview
Authors: Majumder Pampi , Gangopadhyay Rupali
Published: February 2022

GO undergoes synergistic interaction with MO nanoparticles and the hybrid can be used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of dyes.
Mitoxantrone dihydrochloride, an FDA approved drug, binds with SARS-CoV-2 NSP1 C-terminal
Authors: Kumar Prateek , Bhardwaj Taniya , Giri Rajanish
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2 NSP1 is believed to be a potential drug target. Its C-terminal region which associates with ribosomal subunit has shown good binding with an anticancer drug, Mitoxantrone.
Network tailoring of organosilica membranesviaaluminum doping to improve the humid-gas separation performance
Authors: Moriyama Norihiro , Ike Misato , Nagasawa Hiroki , Kanezashi Masakoto , Tsuru Toshinori
Published: February 2022

Al doping densified and hydrophilized the pore structure of organosilica membranes, which resulted in improved permselectivity in humid-gas separation at moderate-to-high temperature.
Tapping the potential of a glucosamine polysaccharide-diatomaceous earth hybrid adsorbent in the solid phase extraction of a persistent organic pollutant and toxic pesticide 4,4′-DDT from water
Authors: Kodali Jagadeesh , Pavuluri Srinivas , Arunraj Balasubramanian , Krishna Kumar A. Santhana , Rajesh N.
Published: February 2022

A chitosan (a glucosamine polysaccharide)-diatomaceous earth hybrid was studied for the adsorption of 4,4′-dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (4,4′-DDT), a persistent organic pollutant and organochlorine pesticide compound from water.
Metal–support interaction induced ZnO overlayer in Cu@ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts toward low-temperature water–gas shift reaction
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Li Na , Wang Nan , Zhou Bing , Yu Jun , Song Boyu , Yin Pan , Yang Yusen
Published: February 2022

The water–gas shift reaction (WGSR) plays a pivotal role in many important industrial processes as well as in the elimination of residual CO in feed gas for fuel cells.
DFT study on the electronic structure and optical properties of an Au-deposited α-Fe2O3(001) surface
Authors: Shi Yong , Zhao Cuihua , Chen Xing , Chen Cuiting , Zhou Xi , Chen Jianhua
Published: February 2022

The electronic structure and optical properties of gold clusters deposited on an α-Fe2O3surface were studied by using density functional theory (DFT), with a special emphasis on the influence of Au cluster sizes.
Comments on “Removal of methylene blue dye using nano zerovalent iron, nanoclay and iron impregnated nanoclay – a comparative study” by M. M. Tarekegn, R. M. Balakrishnan, A. M. Hiruy and A. H. Dekebo, RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 30109
Authors: Bollinger Jean-Claude , Tran Hai Nguyen , Lima Eder C.
Published: February 2022

The study mentioned in the title of this comment paper contains some calculations/results that disagree with some basic chemistry concepts.
Bio-electrochemical frameworks governing microbial fuel cell performance: technical bottlenecks and proposed solutions
Authors: Mahmoud Rehab H. , Gomaa Ola M. , Hassan Rabeay Y. A.
Published: February 2022

Sustainable operation requires addressing key MFC-bottleneck issues. Enhancing extracellular electron transfer is the key to elevated MFC performance.
Large refractive index changes in ZIF-8 thin films of optical quality
Authors: Keppler Nils Christian , Hindricks Karen Deli Josephine , Behrens Peter
Published: February 2022

The refractive index (RI) of ZIF-8 thin films with optical quality was determined over the whole visible spectrum. The RI can be fine-tuned over a wide range by loading with different organic guest molecules for various optical applications.
A novel metallic silvery color caused by pointillistic mixing of disordered nano-to micro-pixels of iridescent colors
Authors: Pan Xijin , Chi Haoyang , Luo Chunyi , Feng Xin , Huang YongChun , Zhang Gangsheng
Published: February 2022

We report a new metallic silvery color caused by nano-to micro-pointillistic mixing of disordered pixels of iridescent colors, which result from a multilayer reflector.
Efficient adsorption of methyl orange and methyl blue dyes by a novel triptycene-based hyper-crosslinked porous polymer
Authors: He Yan , Bao Wenli , Hua Yingcen , Guo Zhulei , Fu Xiaolei , Na Bing , Yuan Dingzhong , Peng Changjun , Liu Honglai
Published: February 2022

A novel triptycene-based hyper-crosslinked porous polymer was developed for the highly efficient entrapment of organic dyes from aqueous solution.
High-performance quasi-solid-state flexible supercapacitors based on a flower-like NiCo metal–organic framework
Authors: Du Yongquan , Liang Ruibin , Wu Junxi , Ye Yingyi , Chen Shaoyong , Yuan Jian , Chen Jianwen , Xiao Peng
Published: February 2022

The flower-like NiCo MOF prepared by a hydrothermal has a specific capacitance of 927.1 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and a capacitance retention of 69.7% from 1 A g−1 to 10 A g−1, showing excellent electrochemical performance.