bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular senescence is associated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head while mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium inhibits bone collapse
Authors: Okamoto Masanori , Nakashima Hiroaki , Sakai Kiyoshi , Takegami Yasuhiko , Osawa Yusuke , Watanabe Junna , Ito Sadayuki , Hibi Hideharu , Imagama Shiro
Published: February 2024

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a type of ischemic osteonecrosis that causes pain, loss of function, and femoral head collapse. Here, we analyzed samples of femoral heads excised from patients with ONFH to clarify the relationship between ischemic osteonecrosis and cellular senescence. X-gal staining was strong and p16INK4a-positive cells were abundant in the transitional region of ONFH. The β-galactosidase-positive cells in the transitional region were also positive for nestin, periostin, or DMP-1. In contrast, no β-galactosidase-positive cells were detected in the healthy region. The senescence-associated p16INK4a, p21, and p53 were upregulated in ONFH tissue. We also examined and analyzed a mouse ischemic femoral osteonecrosis model in vivo to verify the association between ONFH and cellular senescence. Human mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) was administered to determine its therapeutic efficacy against cellular senescence and bone collapse. MSC-CM reduced the number of senescent cells and downregulated the aforementioned senescence-related genes. It also decreased the number of empty lacunae 4 weeks after ischemia induction and promoted bone formation. At 6 weeks post-surgery, MSC-CM increased the trabecular bone volume, thereby suppressing bone collapse. We conclude that cellular senescence is associated with ONFH and that MSC-CM suppresses bone collapse in this disorder.
Fluvastatin-induced myofibrillar damage is associated with elevated ROS, and impaired fatty acid oxidation, and is preceded by mitochondrial morphological changes
Authors: Al-Sabri Mohamed H. , Ammar Nourhane , Korzh Stanislava , Alsehli Ahmed M. , Hosseini Kimia , Fredriksson Robert , Mwinyi Jessica , Williams Michael J. , Boukhatmi Hadi , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: February 2024

Previously, we showed that fluvastatin treatment induces myofibrillar damage and mitochondrial phenotypes in the skeletal muscles of Drosophila. However, the sequential occurrence of mitochondrial phenotypes and myofibril damage remains elusive. To address this, we treated flies with fluvastatin for two and five days and examined their thorax flight muscles using confocal microscopy. In the two-day fluvastatin group, compared to the control, thorax flight muscles exhibited mitochondrial morphological changes, including fragmentation, rounding up and reduced content, while myofibrils remained organized in parallel. In the five-day fluvastatin treatment, not only did mitochondrial morphological changes become more pronounced, but myofibrils became severely disorganized with significantly increased thickness and spacing, along with myofilament abnormalities, suggesting myofibril damage. These findings suggest that fluvastatin-induced mitochondrial changes precede myofibril damage. Moreover, in the five-day fluvastatin group, the mitochondria demonstrated elevated H2O2 and impaired fatty acid oxidation compared to the control group, indicating potential mitochondrial dysfunction. Surprisingly, knocking down Hmgcr (Drosophila homolog of HMGCR) showed normal mitochondrial respiration in all parameters compared to controls or five-day fluvastatin treatment, which suggests that fluvastatin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction might be independent of Hmgcr inhibition. These results provide insights into the sequential occurrence of mitochondria and myofibril damage in statin-induced myopathy for future studies.
Analysis of US Food and Drug Administration new drug and biologic approvals, regulatory pathways, and review times, 1980–2022
Authors: Seoane-Vazquez Enrique , Rodriguez-Monguio Rosa , Powers John H.
Published: February 2024

U.S. laws enacted since 1983 have aimed to enhance the development and marketing of new pharmaceutical products. We thoroughly characterized all new molecular entities, therapeutic biologics, and gene and cell therapies approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) during the period 1980–2022 in the context of these laws and regulations. Throughout the study period, the FDA approved 1355 new pharmaceutical products. The median FDA review time decreased from 26.6 months prior to the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (1992), which authorized the FDA to collect fees from drug companies to 9.9 months after the Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act (2012), which created new designations that eliminated the requirement for evidence of added therapeutic benefit for FDA expedited drug review. The greatest increase in approvals occurred in antineoplastic and immunomodulating drugs, biologics, and orphan drugs. More than half of new drug approvals benefited from regulatory designations and pathways that did not require addressing unmet medical needs or demonstrating therapeutic benefit over available alternatives. The legislative goal of bringing more drugs to the market faster has been achieved. Further studies are needed to determine the therapeutic value to patients of new drugs approved using expedited approval pathways.
Cross-regulation of Aps-promoters in Lacticaseibacillus paracasei by the PsdR response regulator in response to lantibiotics
Authors: Zhang Qian , Zúñiga Manuel , Alcántara Cristina , Wolf Diana , Mascher Thorsten , Revilla-Guarinos Ainhoa
Published: February 2024

The PsdRSAB and ApsRSAB detoxification modules, together with the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)-resistance determinants Dlt system and MprF protein, play major roles in the response to AMPs in Lacticaseibacillus paracasei BL23. Sensitivity assays with a collection of mutants showed that the PsdAB ABC transporter and the Dlt system are the main subtilin resistance determinants. Quantification of the transcriptional response to subtilin indicate that this response is exclusively regulated by the two paralogous systems PsdRSAB and ApsRSAB. Remarkably, a cross-regulation of the derAB, mprF and dlt-operon genes—usually under control of ApsR—by PsdR in response to subtilin was unveiled. The high similarity of the predicted structures of both response regulators (RR), and of the RR-binding sites support this possibility, which we experimentally verified by protein-DNA binding studies. ApsR-P shows a preferential binding in the order PderA > Pdlt > PmprF > PpsdA. However, PsdR-P bound with similar apparent affinity constants to the four promoters. This supports the cross-regulation of derAB, mprF and the dlt-operon by PsdR. The possibility of cross-regulation at the level of RR-promoter interaction allows some regulatory overlap with two RRs controlling the expression of systems involved in maintenance of critical cell membrane functions in response to lantibiotics.
Implementation of high step-up power converter for fuel cell application with hybrid MPPT controller
Authors: Prashanth V. , Rafikiran Shaik , Hussaian Basha C. H. , Kumar Jinka Anil , Dhanamjayulu C. , Kotb Hossam , ELrashidi Ali
Published: February 2024

As of now, there are multiple types of renewable energy sources available in nature which are hydro, wind, tidal, and solar. Among all of that the solar energy source is used in many applications because of its features are low maitainence cost, less human power for handling, a clean source, more availability in nature, and reduced carbon emissions. However, the disadvantages of solar networks are continuously depending on the weather conditions, high complexity of the solar energy storage, and lots of installation place is required. So, in this work, the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Stack (PEMFS) is utilized for supplying the power to the local consumers. The merits of this fuel stack are high power density, ability to work at very less temperature values, efficient heat maintenance, and water management. Also, this fuel stack gives a quick startup response. The only demerit of PEMFS is excessive current production, plus very less output voltage. To optimize the current supply of the fuel stack, a Wide Input Operation Single Switch Boost Converter (WIOSSBC) circuit is placed across the fuel stack output to improve the load voltage profile. The advantages of the WIOSSBC are less current ripples, uniform voltage supply, plus good voltage conversion ratio. Another issue of the fuel stack is nonlinear power production. To linearize the issue of fuel stack, the Grey Wolf Algorithm Dependent Fuzzy Logic Methodology (GWADFLM) is introduced in this article for maintaining the operating point of the fuel cell near to Maximum Power Point (MPP) place. The entire system is investigated by utilizing the MATLAB software.
VagiBIOM Lactobacillus suppository improves vaginal health index in perimenopausal women with bacterial vaginosis: a randomized control trial
Authors: Vivekanandan Vijitha , Khan Zaiba Hasan , Venugopal Giriprasad , Musunuru Bhavana , Mishra Priyanka , Srivastava Shalini , Ramadass Balamurugan , Subhadra Bobban
Published: February 2024

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can cause vaginal dysbiosis that may influence general vaginal health and pregnancy complications. Balancing vaginal microbiome using Lactobacillus spp. may be a new way to prevent and treat mild BV. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study aimed at evaluating the effect of the product VagiBIOM, a multi-Lactobacillus vaginal suppository, on peri- and premenopausal women with BV in restoring vaginal pH and overall vaginal health by resetting the vaginal microbiome composition. Sixty-six peri- and premenopausal women with BV symptoms were randomized with a 2:1 ratio to be treated with VagiBIOM or placebo suppositories. Vaginal pH, VAS itching score, total Nugent score, and vaginal health index (VHI) were measured. Vaginal microbiome changes before and after the treatment were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. After 4 weeks of intervention with VagiBIOM or a placebo, the mean score for vaginal pH, VAS itching, and total Nugent score was significantly decreased from the baseline. Compared to the baseline scores, the VHI scores improved significantly following 28-day intervention (p < 0.001). Our results revealed two Lactobacillus species, L. hamsteri, and L. helveticus, as indicator species occurring differentially in the VagiBIOM-treated group. Furthermore, the regression and species network analyses revealed significant bacterial associations after VagiBIOM treatment. Lactobacillus hamsteri was positively associated with the Nugent score and negatively associated with vaginal pH. L. iners and L. salivarius were positively and inversely associated with VHI. As is typical, Bacteroides fragilis was positively associated with vaginal pH and negatively associated with the Nugent score. Interestingly, the Lactobacillus spp. diversity improved after VagiBIOM treatment. The VagiBIOM suppository treatment for peri- and premenopausal women with BV significantly relieved vaginal itching by decreasing vaginal pH and Nugent scores and improving the overall VHI after 4 weeks’ intervention. This effect was primarily the result of VagiBIOM improving vaginal Lactobacillus diversity.

Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT05060029, first registration 09/28/2021: Title: A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Lactobacillus Species Suppositories on Vaginal Health and pH.
Comparative efficacy of different growth hormone supplementation protocols in improving clinical outcomes in women with poor ovarian response undergoing assisted reproductive therapy: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Zheyun , Tong Weiquan , Yang Ze , Zhang Hongyan , Chen Xingbei
Published: February 2024

Growth hormone (GH) has a long-standing history of use as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of poor ovarian response (POR), but the optimal dosage and timing remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different GH supplementation protocols through a network meta-analysis (NMA) and determine the optimal treatment protocol. This study was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews for Network Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-NMA) statement. Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase were searched until June 2023. A total of 524 records were retrieved in our search, and 23 clinical studies comprising 4889 cycles were involved. Seven different GH protocols were identified. Results showed that compared to the control group, daily administration of 4–8 IU of GH during the follicular phase of the stimulation cycle had the best comprehensive therapeutic effects on improving the number of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes, endometrial thickness, and reducing gonadotropin requirements in POR patients undergoing assisted reproductive therapy, with a relatively brief treatment duration and a moderate total GH dose. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that this protocol could significantly improve the clinical pregnancy rate of POR patients in the randomized controlled trials (RCT) subgroup and the African subgroup. Therefore, its clinical application is suggested. Besides, the potential advantages of long-term GH supplementation protocol (using GH for at least 2 weeks before oocyte retrieval) has merit for further research. Rigorous and well-designed multi-arm RCTs are needed in the future to confirm the conclusions drawn from this study.
Environmental enrichments and data-driven welfare indicators for sheltered dogs using telemetric physiological measures and signal processing
Authors: Travain Tiziano , Lazebnik Teddy , Zamansky Anna , Cafazzo Simona , Valsecchi Paola , Natoli Eugenia
Published: February 2024

Shelters are stressful environments for domestic dogs which are known to negatively impact their welfare. The introduction of outside stimuli for dogs in this environment can improve their welfare and life conditions. However, our current understanding of the influence of different stimuli on shelter dogs’ welfare is limited and the data is still insufficient to draw conclusions. In this study, we collected 28 days (four weeks) of telemetry data from eight male dogs housed in an Italian shelter for a long period of time. During this period, three types of enrichment were introduced into the dogs’ pens for one week each: entertaining objects, intraspecific, and interspecific social enrichment, by means of the presence of female conspecifics and the presence of a human. To quantify their impact, we introduce novel metrics as indicators of sheltered dogs’ welfare based on telemetry data: the variation of heart rate, muscle activity, and body temperature from an average baseline day, quality of sleep, and the regularity for cyclicity of the aforementioned parameters, based on the day-night cycle. Using these metrics, we show that while all three stimuli statistically improve the dogs’ welfare, the variance between individual dogs is large. Moreover, our findings indicate that the presence of female conspecific is the best stimulus among the three explored options which improves both the quality of sleep and the parameters’ cyclicity. Our results are consistent with previous research findings while providing novel data-driven welfare indicators that promote objectivity. Thus, this research provides some useful guidelines for managing shelters and improving dogs’ welfare.
Montelukast, an available and safe anti-asthmatic drug, prevents maladaptive remodelling and maintains cardiac functionality following myocardial infarction
Authors: Muluhie Majeda , Castiglioni Laura , Rzemieniec Joanna , Mercuriali Benedetta , Gelosa Paolo , Sironi Luigi
Published: February 2024

Preclinical and clinical data indicate that the 5-lipoxygenase pathway becomes activated in cardiovascular diseases suggesting an important role of CysLTs in atherosclerosis and in its ischemic complications. This study aims to investigate the effects of montelukast, a CysLTR-1 antagonist, in a mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI). C57BL/6N female mice were subjected to coronary artery ligation and received montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) or vehicle. Montelukast exerted beneficial effects in the infarcted area, decreasing mRNA expression of inflammatory genes, such Il1β and Ccl2 (p < 0.05), at 48 h after MI, and reducing infarct size and preventing ischemic wall thinning (p < 0.05) at 4 weeks. Furthermore, montelukast counteracted maladaptive remodelling of whole heart. Indeed, montelukast reduced LV mass (p < 0.05) and remote wall thickening (p < 0.05), and improved cardiac pumping function, as evidenced by increased global ejection fraction (p < 0.01), and regional contractility in infarcted (p < 0.05) and in remote non-infarcted (p < 0.05) myocardium. Finally, montelukast prevented cardiomyocytes hypertrophy (p < 0.05) in remote myocardium, reducing the phosphorylation of GSK3β, a regulator of hypertrophic pathway (p < 0.05). Our data strongly demonstrate the ability of montelukast to contrast the MI-induced maladaptive conditions, thus sustaining cardiac contractility. The results provide evidences for montelukast “repurposing” in cardiovascular diseases and in particular in myocardial infarction.
Quantitative probability estimation of light-induced inactivation of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Quintana Jaime , Alda Irene , Alda Javier
Published: February 2024

During the COVID pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, studies have shown the efficiency of deactivating this virus via ultraviolet light. The damage mechanism is well understood: UV light disturbs the integrity of the RNA chain at those locations where specific nucleotide neighbors occur. In this contribution, we present a model to address certain gaps in the description of the interaction between UV photons and the RNA sequence for virus inactivation. We begin by exploiting the available information on the pathogen’s morphology, physical, and genomic characteristics, enabling us to estimate the average number of UV photons required to photochemically damage the virus’s RNA. To generalize our results, we have numerically generated random RNA sequences and checked that the distribution of pairs of nucleotides susceptible of damage for the SARS-CoV-2 is within the expected values for a random-generated RNA chain. After determining the average number of photons reaching the RNA for a preset level of fluence (or photon density), we applied the binomial probability distribution to evaluate the damage of nucleotide pairs in the RNA chain due to UV radiation. Our results describe this interaction in terms of the probability of damaging a single pair of nucleotides, and the number of available photons. The cumulative probability exhibits a steep sigmoidal shape, implying that a relatively small change in the number of affected pairs may trigger the inactivation of the virus. Our light-RNA interaction model quantitatively describes how the fraction of affected pairs of nucleotides in the RNA sequence depends on the probability of damaging a single pair and the number of photons impinging on it. A better understanding of the underlying inactivation mechanism would help in the design of optimum experiments and UV sanitization methods. Although this paper focuses on SARS-CoV-2, these results can be adapted for any other type of pathogen susceptible of UV damage.
Comparative study on measurements of radiochromic films using portable colorimeters
Authors: Yasuda Hiroshi , Morioka Shido
Published: February 2024

The recently proposed method for on-site radiation dosimetry by a combination of radiochromic film and portable colorimeter was tested for six combinations of two popular Gafchromic films (EBT3 and EBT-XD) and three commercially available portable colorimeters (nix pro2, nix spectro2 and Spectro1 Pro; abbreviated to “NixP”, “NixS” and “SpoP”, respectively). EBT3 and EBT-XD were irradiated with X-rays (160 kV, 6.3 mA) up to 40 Gy and 80 Gy, respectively, and the radiation-induced color levels of RGB and CMYK components were measured with the three colorimeters. Angle dependence was examined by reading at 15° intervals. As a result, it was judged that all combinations would work effectively under certain irradiation conditions. NixP and NixS were applicable to a wider dose range for both films, while SpoP fit a lower dose range. On the other hand, SpoP showed an advantageous feature of no angular dependence in reading films, while NixP and NixS showed significant angle-dependent changes. These differences are considered to be attributable to the different geometries of LED light emission, which came from all directions (360°) in SpoP, 4 directions in NixP, and 8 directions in NixS. These findings are expected to expand the applicability of the novel method to various occasions of on-site dosimetry.
An economic feasibility assessment of implementing photovoltaic module reflectors under Malaysian meteorological conditions
Authors: Sultan Sakhr M. , Abdullah M. Z. , Tso C. P. , Abllah N. F. Nik , Zakaria N. , Ajeel Raheem K. , Sobayel K.
Published: February 2024

The use of a reflector can increase the solar radiation on the photovoltaic module (PV) surface, whereby the energy output can be improved. However, the economic feasibility may need to be considered too. This study is conducted, for the first time, due to the lack of studies regarding the economic feasibility assessment of implementing reflectors under the Malaysian meteorological conditions. The outcome will give information about the suitability for implementing a PV reflector in Malaysia through an experimental setup at a sewage treatment site, for two months in 2022. The Malaysian meteorological data, which include daily solar radiation, ambient temperature and wind velocity, were collected to study the output energy, efficiency and the economic perspective of a PV. In February 2022, the PV was operating without a reflector and the averaged values for the monthly solar radiation, ambient temperature and wind velocity were 539.9 MJ/m2, 28.4 °C and 2.2 m/s, respectively, which resulted in an output energy of 106.43 kWh. On the other hand, for April 2022, the PV was operating with a reflector. With the respective averaged input parameters 544.98 MJ/m2, 28.9 °C and 1.51 m/s, the output energy was 121.94 kWh. It is thus shown that the PV with a reflector increases the PV’s output energy by 14.57%. Also, it is shown that the cost-effective factor value is 0.955 which means that the PV reflector is economically feasible to be implemented under the Malaysian meteorological conditions. Hence, extensive research should be conducted to improve the performance of PV reflectors. The findings of this paper maybe useful for researchers and/or manufacturers of PV reflectors.
Emergent memory from tapping collisions in active granular matter
Authors: Caprini Lorenzo , Ldov Anton , Gupta Rahul Kumar , Ellenberg Hendrik , Wittmann René , Löwen Hartmut , Scholz Christian
Published: February 2024

In an equilibrium thermal environment, random elastic collisions between background particles and a tracer establish the picture of Brownian motion fulfilling the celebrated Einstein relation between diffusivity and mobility. However, extensions of the Einstein relation to link dissipation, fluctuations, and nonequilibrium dynamical mechanisms in active matter systems are still debated. Here, we investigate experimentally the impact of an active background on a passive tracer using vibrationally excited active particles, that result in multiple correlated tapping collisions with the tracer, for which a persistent memory emerges in the dynamics. The system is described by a generalized active Einstein relation that constrains fluctuations, dissipation, and effective activity, by taking the emerging tracer memory into account. Since the resulting persistence can largely be tuned by the environmental density and motility, our findings can be useful to engineer properties of various active systems in biomedical applications, microfluidics, chemical engineering, or swarm robotics.
A superior mulberry-like nanoparticle NiB binary catalyst for borohydride oxidation
Authors: Cai Jinliang , Yi Caini , Xie Yuxin , Yang Ying , Yang Hang , Liu Yuping , Chen Changguo , Yu Danmei , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: February 2024

A NiB binary catalyst composed of mulberry-like nanoparticles exhibits exceptional BOR performance due to the introduction of an appropriate amount of boron element.
Ni introduction induced non-radical degradation of bisphenol A in spinel ferrite/H2O2 systems
Authors: Jiang Yilan , Gao Keyi , Li Yingying , Chen Yuanyuan , Cai Xinyang , Wang Dawei
Published: February 2024

Herein, we achieved reactive oxygen species manipulation using transition metal spinel ferrites (NixCo1−xFe2O4, x = 0, 0.5, 1) as Fenton-like agents.
Iron-catalyzed cascade C–C/C–O bond formation of 2,4-dienals with donor–acceptor cyclopropanes: access to functionalized hexahydrocyclopentapyrans
Authors: Mishra Manmath , Verma Kshitiz , Banerjee Sonbidya , Punniyamurthy Tharmalingam
Published: February 2024

Iron-catalyzed stereospecific cascade C–C and C–O bond formation of 2,4-dienals with D–A cyclopropanes has been developed to furnish functionalized cyclopentapyran derivatives.
Photoinduced enhancement of intraligand charge-transfer of a crystalline 3,3′-diindolyl(3-pyridyl)methane
Authors: Kaenpracha Chaowat , Katrun Praewpan , Chainok Kittipong , Sukpattanacharoen Chattarika , Kungwan Nawee , Boonmak Jaursup
Published: February 2024

The photoexcitation facilitating the efficient charge-transfer in a crystalline solid of 3,3′-diindolyl(3-pyridyl)methane with solvated methanol.
Two-photon absorption properties of simple neutral Ir(iii) complexes
Authors: Garoni Eleonora , Colombo Alessia , Roberto Dominique , Dragonetti Claudia , Guerchais Veronique , Kamada Kenji
Published: February 2024

Neutral Ir(2-phenylpyridine)3 derivatives substituted on the para-position of the pyridyl ligands with different π-conjugated donor substituents have been prepared. They are easy to synthesize and show good two-photon absorption activity.
The crucial role of transient tri-coordinated oxygen in the flow of silicate melts
Authors: Gao Longfei , Liu Xingchen , Bai Jin , Chen Bo , Wu Min , Kong Lingxue , Bai Zongqing , Li Wen
Published: February 2024

This work presents a dynamic perspective for comprehending melt flow at the atomic scale and elucidates the mechanism by which oxygen bond structures modify the viscosity of the melt.
Alginate di-aldehyde-modified metal–organic framework nanocarriers as delivery platform and adjuvant in inactivated pseudorabies vaccination
Authors: Yin Wenzhu , Xu Zeyu , Chang Chen , Zhao Yanhong , Wang Haiyan , Zhang Jinqiu , Ma Fang , Zuo Xiaoxin , Tang Bo , Lu Yu
Published: February 2024

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a highly contagious viral disease, which leads to severe financial losses in the breeding industry worldwide.
Validating superior electrochemical properties of Ti3C2 MXene for supercapacitor applications through first-principles calculations
Authors: Irfan Sheheera , Haleem Yasir A. , Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Naseeb , Arshad Muhammad , Irshad Muhammad Imran , Saleem Muhammad Farooq , Habib Muhammad , Khan Rashid , Altin Serdar
Published: February 2024

This work investigates the performance of Ti3C2 MXene for supercapacitor applications and validated its efficacy as an electrode material utilizing first-principles calculations.
Magnetically separable Ag@Fe3O4-GO nanocomposites for SERS detection, removal of organic pollutants and oil from water, and antibacterial applications
Authors: Sharma Keshav , Majhi Shukla , Singh Renuka , Sharma Surbhi , Dhyani Priya , Goyal Chhaya , Tripathi Chandra Shekhar Pati , Guin Debanjan
Published: February 2024

Development of magnetically separable Ag@Fe3O4-GO nanocomposites for wastewater treatment and antibacterial applications.
From trials on rosuvastatin production waste valorization to development of new catalytic methods for Z → E isomerization of alkenes
Authors: Tyszka-Gumkowska Agata , Peta Błażej , Kosik Kamil , Szepiński Emil , Kajetanowicz Anna , Grela Karol
Published: February 2024

A convenient method for Z → E geometry isomerization of aryl–aryl (stilbenes), alkyl–aryl, and alkyl–alkyl alkenes was developed.
Emerging transmission electron microscopy solutions for electrocatalysts: from synthesis to deactivation
Authors: Wei Le , Xu Zhanyong , Wu Xiaomei , Ke Xiaoxing , Sui Manling
Published: February 2024

Emerging TEM techniques are reviewed to address challenges in three stages of electrocatalysts from synthesis, function to deactivation, offering solutions for structural characterization for different needs.
Nano-enabled antimicrobial thin films: design and mechanism of action
Authors: Finina Bilisuma Fekadu , Mersha Anteneh Kindu
Published: February 2024

Antimicrobial thin films are types of protective coatings that are applied to surfaces such as medical devices, food packaging materials, water treatment membranes, water-resistant coatings, and other systems.
Comparing SG1 and TEMPO for NMP of n-butyl acrylate in miniemulsion to optimize the average particle size for rate and molecular control
Authors: Zeinali Elnaz , Marien Yoshi W. , Edeleva Mariya , George Sean R. , Cunningham Michael F. , D'hooge Dagmar R. , Van Steenberge Paul H. M.
Published: February 2024

The interplay between compartmentalization and phase transfer effects in NMP of n-butyl acrylate in miniemulsion. Optimal average particle sizes are identified for the two most important nitroxides and different reaction conditions.
Electrochemical control over stoichiometry via cation intercalation into Chevrel-phase sulphides (CuxMo6S8, x = 1–3)
Authors: Ritter Kabian A. , Mason Konstantina G. , Yew Suxuen , Perryman Joseph T. , Ortiz-Rodríguez Jessica C. , Singstock Nicholas R. , Wuille Bille Brian A. , Musgrave Charles B. , Velázquez Jesús M.
Published: February 2024

This work presents a systematic investigation of the electrochemical intercalation of aqueous copper cations into the Chevrel phase (CP) Mo6S8 and its effect on the host's electronic and structural characteristics as a function of stoichiometry.
Correction: Micro-flow heteroatom alkylation via TfOH-mediated rapid in situ generation of carbocations and subsequent nucleophile addition
Authors: Matsuura Yuma , Fuse Shinichiro
Published: February 2024

Correction for ‘Micro-flow heteroatom alkylation via TfOH-mediated rapid in situ generation of carbocations and subsequent nucleophile addition’ by Yuma Matsuura et al., Chem. Commun., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3CC06308A.
Furanyl bis(indolyl)methane as a palladium ion-selective chromogenic agent
Authors: Ban Kazuho , Nozaki Shiho , Aijima Takaaki , Oyama Shuki , Tsujino Hirofumi , Kanematsu Yusuke , Akai Shuji , Sawama Yoshinari
Published: February 2024

5-(N-Methyl-N-phenyl-aminomethyl)-furan-2-yl bis(indolyl)methane, synthesized from 5-CMF as a biorenewable feedstock, serves as a Pd2+ ion-selective sensor.
Graphene oxide functionalized with N-methyl-d-glucamine as a novel sorbent for boron removal from produced and formation waters
Authors: de Lucena Izylla O. , de Gois Jefferson S. , Cassella Ricardo J.
Published: February 2024

This work describes the synthesis of a novel material based on graphene oxide (GO) for the selective removal of boron in an aqueous medium.
A nature-inspired multifunctional adhesive for cartilage tissue—biomaterial integration
Authors: Chu Bin , Chu Yun-Feng , He Jin-Mei , Lin Zhi-Wei , Chen Chang-Sheng , Wang Song , Liu Wei-Qiang , Li Xiao-Li
Published: February 2024

A three-armed hyaluronic acid derivative adhesive was prepared to function as a bio-inspired adhesive. The adhesive demonstrated enhanced interfacial bonding strength, making it highly suitable for use in cartilage tissue repair applications.
Understanding and fighting cancer
Authors: Aggrwal Divyansha
Published: February 2024

The Biochemical Society identifies and celebrates outstanding science communication talent in molecular biosciences with its annual Science Communication Prize. Divyansha Aggrwal, from the UK, won the second prize in the media category for students studying for A-level/T-level/BTEC National/Scottish Highers or equivalent qualifications. Divyansha’s entry is titled ‘Understanding and Fighting Cancer’.
Zero-polarization candidate regions for the calibration of wide-field optical polarimeters
Authors: Mandarakas N. , Panopoulou G. V. , Pelgrims V. , Potter S. B. , Pavlidou V. , Ramaprakash A. , Tassis K. , Blinov D. , Kiehlmann S. , Koutsiona E. , Maharana S. , Romanopoulos S. , Skalidis R. , Vervelaki A. , Clark S. E. , Kypriotakis J. A. , Readhead A. C. S.
Published: February 2024

Context. The calibration of optical polarimeters relies on the use of stars with negligible polarization (i.e., unpolarized standard stars) for determining the instrumental polarization zero point. For wide-field polarimeters, calibration is often done by imaging the same star over multiple positions in the field of view (FoV), which is a time-consuming process. A more effective technique is to target fields containing multiple standard stars. While this method has been used for fields with highly polarized stars, there are no such sky regions with well measured unpolarized standard stars.

Aims. We aim to identify sky regions with tens of stars exhibiting negligible polarization that are suitable for a zero-point calibration of wide-field polarimeters.

Methods. We selected stars in regions with extremely low reddening, located at high Galactic latitudes. We targeted four ~40′ × 40′ fields in the northern and eight in the southern equatorial hemispheres. Observations were carried out at the Skinakas Observatory and the South African Astronomical Observatory.

Results. We found two fields in the north and seven in the south characterized by a mean polarization lower than p < 0.1%.

Conclusions. At least 9 out of the 12 fields can be used for a zero-point calibration of wide-field polarimeters.
Automated eccentricity measurement from raw eclipsing binary light curves with intrinsic variability
Authors: IJspeert L. W. , Tkachenko A. , Johnston C. , Prša A. , Wells M. A. , Aerts C.
Published: February 2024

Context. Eclipsing binary systems provide the opportunity to measure the fundamental parameters of their component stars in a stellar-model-independent way. This makes them ideal candidates for testing and calibrating theories of stellar structure and (tidal) evolution. Large photometric (space) surveys provide a wealth of data for both the discovery and the analysis of these systems. Even without spectroscopic follow-up there is often enough information in their photometric time series to warrant analysis, especially if there is an added value present in the form of intrinsic variability, such as pulsations.

Aims. Our goal is to implement and validate a framework for the homogeneous analysis of large numbers of eclipsing binary light curves, such as the numerous high-duty-cycle observations from space missions like TESS. The aim of this framework is to be quick and simple to run and to limit the user's time investment when obtaining, amongst other parameters, orbital eccentricities.

Methods. We developed a new and fully automated methodology for the analysis of eclipsing binary light curves with or without additional intrinsic variability. Our method includes a fast iterative pre-whitening procedure that results in a list of extracted sinusoids that is broadly applicable for purposes other than eclipses. After eclipses are identified and measured, orbital and stellar parameters are measured under the assumption of spherical stars of uniform brightness.

Results. We tested our methodology in two settings: a set of synthetic light curves with known input and the catalogue of Kepler eclipsing binaries. The synthetic tests show that we can reliably recover the frequencies and amplitudes of the sinusoids included in the signal as well as the input binary parameters, albeit to varying degrees of accuracy. Recovery of the tangential component of eccentricity is the most accurate and precise. Kepler results confirm a robust determination of orbital periods, with 80.5% of periods matching the catalogued ones. We present the eccentricities for this analysis and show that they broadly follow the theoretically expected pattern as a function of the orbital period.

Conclusions. Our analysis methodology is shown to be capable of analysing large numbers of eclipsing binary light curves with no user intervention, and in doing so provide a basis for a further in-depth analysis of systems of particular interest as well as for statistical analysis at the sample level. Furthermore, the computational performance of the frequency analysis, extracting hundreds of sinusoids from Kepler light curves in a few hours, demonstrates its value as a tool for a field like asteroseismology.
Long-term spatiotemporal surface water dynamics using Google Earth Engine in southeastern Morocco
Authors: Acharki Siham , Arjdal Youssef , Taia Soufiane , El Mansouri Bouabid
Published: February 2024

Monitoring changes in water areas within arid regions is vital for directing water resource development and ensuring efficient use, and addressing the impacts of drought and climate change. Thus, in this research, we examined the annual changes in surface water at the El Mansour Eddahbi (EME) dam (southeastern Morocco) from 1984 to 2023. To achieve this, we exploited the Google Earth Engine’s potential and applied four water indices – MNDWI, EWI, NWI, and AWEI – to Landsat satellite images. Subsequently, for each year, a supervised classification utilizing random forest was implemented to accurately extract and identify water areas. The findings revealed that the EME dam’s water surface area fluctuates substantially on an inter-annual basis. Besides, Pearson’s analysis demonstrates that the EME dam’s water surface area has a strong positive correlation with drought indices such as SPI-12 and SPEI-12. This highlights the link between changing surface water, drought, and the need for adaptive water management under climate change.
Current research priorities on fog harvesting as a clean water resource: A bibliometric approach
Authors: Boutracheh Hicham , El Bouhaddioui Mohamed , Moumen Aniss
Published: February 2024

By 2050, more than 50% of the world’s population will face water stress. Global demand for drinking water will also increase due to economic development, population growth and other needs. To alleviate this growing problem, the scientific community is called upon to explore all potential water resources and develop appropriate technologies. One such promising resource is fog, especially when climatic conditions are favorable and nearby conventional resources are insufficient. The present bibliometric study is an attempt to explore the topic of “fog harvesting” and understand the dynamics in this area. Indeed, three significant directions have been identified: 1- materials, their properties and characteristics; 2- biological mimicry to collect fog; 3- interaction with other nearby issues (energy, solar, desalination, etc.). In summary, “fog harvesting” is a relatively premature but promising area of research. Due to the strong dependence on climate and topography, this area is still hesitant in terms of collaboration. This may be a good avenue to explore.
Intérêt des essais par la méthode des vérins embarqués – exemple de l’essai de barrette mené sur le bassin d’orage Austerlitz à Paris
Authors: Berthelot Patrick , Maron Michel , Reynaud Alexandre , Ghegediban Sabika , Fonty Maxime
Published: February 2024

L’article revient sur les travaux récents du bassin d’orage Austerlitz réalisé à Paris, et pour lequel la conception du radier ancré a su tirer les bénéfices d’un essai de chargement sur une barrette de fondation de type foré boue. Le contexte réglementaire de ce type d’ouvrage et l’intérêt de mener des essais de chargement pour des fondations en traction sont d’abord rappelés. L’essai sur la barrette de fondation de 2,8 m par 1,0 m, profonde de 73,5 m et ancrée dans la craie campanienne a nécessité la mise en œuvre, pour la première fois en France, d’un système de vérins embarqués appelés cellules Osterberg, qui a permis l’application par palier d’une charge allant jusqu’à 27 MN à 64 m de profondeur. L’article décrit la conception, la réalisation et les résultats de l’essai. Une interprétation est proposée et conduit à retenir une valeur de frottement limite pour ce type de fondation dans la craie campanienne au droit du site autour de 250 à 300 kPa. Ces résultats sont enfin mis en perspective avec une brève description de la manière dont la conception de l’ancrage du radier a pu évoluer à la suite de l’essai.
Investigating ultra-thin Ag and Au layers using spectrophotometry and AFM imaging
Authors: Shurvinton Riley , Allard Valentin , Lereu Aude , Moreau Antonin , Lemarchand Fabien , Lumeau Julien
Published: February 2024

A spectrophotometric method is demonstrated for refractive index and thickness determination of thin and ultrathin metallic films. The method involves a three-layer stack where the metallic layer of interest is deposited on an opaque Si wafer coated with SiO2. This stack creates oscillations in the reflectance spectrum, which are highly sensitive to the index of the metallic film, allowing precise determination of the index of layers down to 1 nm. Experimental index values are given for Ag and Au over the wavelength range of 370–835 nm. These results are correlated with Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images of the films, which reveal dramatic changes in structure for layers of different thickness.
Intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound has an outcome-relevant impact on surgery of primary and metastatic liver lesions
Authors: Bitterer Florian , Bauer Andreas , Glehr Gunther , Brunner Stefan , Schmidt Katharina , Schlitt Hans Jürgen , Jung Ernst Michael , Hackl Christina
Published: February 2024

Purpose Complete resection of the affected tissue remains the best curative treatment option for liver-derived tumors and colorectal liver metastases. In addition to preoperative cross-sectional imaging, contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasound (CE-IOUS) plays a crucial role in the detection and localization of all liver lesions. However, its exact role is unclear. This study was designed to evaluate the clinical and oncological impact of using CE-IOUS in the surgical treatment of these diseases.

Materials and Methods Over the three-year study period, 206 patients with primary liver tumors and hepatic metastases were enrolled in this prospective, monocentric study to evaluate the impact of CE-IOUS in liver surgery. Secondary outcomes included comparing the sensitivity and specificity of CE-IOUS with existing preoperative imaging modalities and identifying preoperative parameters that could predict a strategic impact of CE-IOUS. In addition, the oncological significance of CE-IOUS was evaluated using a case-cohort design with a minimum follow-up of 18 months.

Results CE-IOUS findings led to a change in surgical strategy in 34% of cases (n=70/206). The accuracy in cases with a major change could be confirmed histopathologically in 71.4% of cases (n=25/35). The impact could not be predicted using parameters assumed to be clinically relevant. An oncological benefit of a CE-IOUS adapted surgical approach was demonstrated in patients suffering from HCC and colorectal liver metastases.

Conclusion CE-IOUS may significantly increase R0 resection rates and should therefore be used routinely as an additional staging method, especially in complex liver surgery.
Risk of a post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer in patients with diverticular disease: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Troelsen Frederikke S. , Sørensen Henrik T. , Erichsen Rune
Published: February 2024

Background Post-colonoscopy colorectal cancers (PCCRCs) may account for up to 30% of all colorectal cancers (CRCs) diagnosed in patients with diverticular disease; however, absolute and relative risks of PCCRC among these patients undergoing colonoscopy remain unknown.

Methods We performed a cohort study (1995–2015) including patients with and without diverticular disease who underwent colonoscopy. We calculated 7–36-month cumulative incidence proportions (CIPs) of PCCRC. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to compute hazard ratios (HRs) of PCCRC, comparing patients with and without diverticular disease, as a measure of relative risk. We calculated 3-year PCCRC rates, as per World Endoscopy Organization recommendations, to estimate the proportion of CRC patients with and without diverticular disease who were considered to have PCCRC. We stratified all analyses by PCCRC location.

Results We observed 373 PCCRCs among 56 642 patients with diverticular disease and 1536 PCCRCs among 306 800 patients without diverticular disease. The PCCRC CIP after first-time colonoscopy was 0.45% (95%CI 0.40%–0.51%) for patients with and 0.36% (95%CI 0.34%–0.38%) for patients without diverticular disease. Comparing patients with and without diverticular disease undergoing first-time colonoscopy, the adjusted HR was 0.84 (95%CI 0.73–0.97) for PCCRC and 1.23 (95%CI 1.01–1.50) for proximal PCCRCs. The 3-year PCCRC rate was 19.0% (22.3% for proximal PCCRCs) for patients with and 6.5% for patients without diverticular disease.

Conclusions Although the absolute risk was low, the relative risk of proximal PCCRCs may be elevated in patients with diverticular disease undergoing colonoscopy compared with patients without the disease.
The Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride as a Caries Preventive Agent on Permanent Teeth: A Scoping Review
Authors: Irmaleny Irmaleny , Phienna Kindys Zulva , Muryani Anna
Published: February 2024

Dental caries is a chronic condition that affects people of all ages and has a high prevalence in Indonesia. Applying silver diamine fluoride (SDF) as a topical fluoridation agent is one of the approaches to prevent bacterial interactions that lead to the development of carious lesions. This study aims to determine the efficacy of SDF as a caries preventive agent on permanent teeth. Article searches were conducted using the keywords “silver diamine fluoride” AND “permanent tooth OR permanent teeth” AND “caries OR dental caries” AND “remineralize” through digital databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Articles with randomized controlled trial or nonrandomized controlled trial designs, articles written in Indonesian or English, publications published within the last 5 years (2016–2021), and aligned with the PCC (population, concept, and context) framework were included. Articles that were not accessible in full text or in a paid format, those that were of the meta-analysis or systematic review study type, and those that did not evaluate the use of SDF as a caries preventive agent were excluded from consideration. This scoping review refers to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extensions for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A total of 8 articles were reviewed, encompassing various locations, designs, and samples, which demonstrated the use of SDF resulted in a high percentage of fluoride release with a high degree of remineralization efficacy. The deposition of crystals or minerals into fissures and crevices caused by demineralization indicated a reduction in lesion depth and influenced the microhardness of enamel. SDF can stimulate the rehardening of tooth structures rich in calcium and phosphate. The solution of SDF has the potential to serve as an alternative substance for preventing caries in permanent teeth because it enhances mineral precipitation and mineral density, promotes the remineralization of hydroxyapatite in enamel by increasing fluoride, and increases tooth structure resistance to acid attack.