bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alterations in seminal plasma proteomic profile in men with primary and secondary infertility
Authors: Martins Ana D. , Panner Selvam Manesh Kumar , Agarwal Ashok , Alves Marco G. , Baskaran Saradha
Published: May 2020

Proteome of seminal plasma provides profound information related to the male reproductive health. This pilot study was conducted to characterize proteomic profile of seminal plasma from men with primary, or secondary infertility and compare it with proven fertile men. Study participants (n = 59) were recruited at the Cleveland Clinic and divided according to their fertility status: proven fertile (n = 39); primary infertility (n = 11) and secondary infertility (n = 9). Proteomic shotgun analysis revealed a total of 515 peptides common to primary infertility and control group; whereas 523 peptides were common to secondary infertility and control group. Bioinformatic analysis revealed dysregulation of biological processes such as cell secretion and vesicle mediated transport in primary infertility, whereas immune system response, regulation of proteolysis and iron homeostasis were dysregulated in secondary infertility. Western blot validation showed overexpression of ANXA2 and CDC42, and underexpression of SEMG2 proteins in primary infertility; and overexpression of ANXA2 and APP proteins in secondary infertility. This study elucidates the potential role of differentially expressed proteins in the seminal plasma as diagnostic biomarker for primary and secondary infertility. Furthermore, our results suggest maturation failure and immune reaction response as the main cause of infertility in men with primary and secondary infertility, respectively. Additional validation of the proteins involved in the above pathways is warranted.
Author Correction: CRISPR/Cas9 microinjection in oocytes disables pancreas development in sheep
Authors: Vilarino Marcela , Rashid Sheikh Tamir , Suchy Fabian Patrik , McNabb Bret Roberts , van der Meulen Talitha , Fine Eli J. , Ahsan Syed Daniyal , Mursaliyev Nurlybek , Sebastiano Vittorio , Diab Santiago Sain , Huising Mark O. , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Ross Pablo J.
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: RNA-Seq transcriptome profiling in three liver regeneration models in rats: comparative analysis of partial hepatectomy, ALLPS, and PVL
Authors: Colak Dilek , Al-Harazi Olfat , Mustafa Osama M. , Meng Fanwei , Assiri Abdullah M. , Dhar Dipok K. , Broering Dieter C.
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Feasibility and accuracy of a robotic guidance system for navigated spine surgery in a hybrid operating room: a cadaver study
Authors: Burström Gustav , Balicki Marcin , Patriciu Alexandru , Kyne Sean , Popovic Aleksandra , Holthuizen Ronald , Homan Robert , Skulason Halldor , Persson Oscar , Edström Erik , Elmi-Terander Adrian
Published: May 2020

The combination of navigation and robotics in spine surgery has the potential to accurately identify and maintain bone entry position and planned trajectory. The goal of this study was to examine the feasibility, accuracy and efficacy of a new robot-guided system for semi-automated, minimally invasive, pedicle screw placement. A custom robotic arm was integrated into a hybrid operating room (OR) equipped with an augmented reality surgical navigation system (ARSN). The robot was mounted on the OR-table and used to assist in placing Jamshidi needles in 113 pedicles in four cadavers. The ARSN system was used for planning screw paths and directing the robot. The robot arm autonomously aligned with the planned screw trajectory, and the surgeon inserted the Jamshidi needle into the pedicle. Accuracy measurements were performed on verification cone beam computed tomographies with the planned paths superimposed. To provide a clinical grading according to the Gertzbein scale, pedicle screw diameters were simulated on the placed Jamshidi needles. A technical accuracy at bone entry point of 0.48 ± 0.44 mm and 0.68 ± 0.58 mm was achieved in the axial and sagittal views, respectively. The corresponding angular errors were 0.94 ± 0.83° and 0.87 ± 0.82°. The accuracy was statistically superior (p < 0.001) to ARSN without robotic assistance. Simulated pedicle screw grading resulted in a clinical accuracy of 100%. This study demonstrates that the use of a semi-automated surgical robot for pedicle screw placement provides an accuracy well above what is clinically acceptable.
Isolation of large dense-core vesicles from bovine adrenal medulla for functional studies
Authors: Birinci Yelda , Preobraschenski Julia , Ganzella Marcelo , Jahn Reinhard , Park Yongsoo
Published: May 2020

Large dense-core vesicles (LDCVs) contain a variety of neurotransmitters, proteins, and hormones such as biogenic amines and peptides, together with microRNAs (miRNAs). Isolation of LDCVs is essential for functional studies including vesicle fusion, vesicle acidification, monoamine transport, and the miRNAs stored in LDCVs. Although several methods were reported for purifying LDCVs, the final fractions are significantly contaminated by other organelles, compromising biochemical characterization. Here we isolated LDCVs (chromaffin granules) with high yield and purity from bovine adrenal medulla. The fractionation protocol combines differential and continuous sucrose gradient centrifugation, allowing for reducing major contaminants such as mitochondria. Purified LDCVs show robust acidification by the endogenous V-ATPase and undergo SNARE-mediated fusion with artificial membranes. Interestingly, LDCVs contain specific miRNAs such as miR-375 and miR-375 is stabilized by protein complex against RNase A. This protocol can be useful in research on the biological functions of LDCVs.
The polygenic architecture of left ventricular mass mirrors the clinical epidemiology
Authors: Mosley Jonathan D. , Levinson Rebecca T. , Farber-Eger Eric , Edwards Todd L. , Hellwege Jacklyn N. , Hung Adriana M. , Giri Ayush , Shuey Megan M. , Shaffer Christian M. , Shi Mingjian , Brittain Evan L. , Chung Wendy K. , Kullo Iftikhar J. , Arruda-Olson Adelaide M. , Jarvik Gail P. , Larson Eric B. , Crosslin David R. , Williams Marc S. , Borthwick Ken M. , Hakonarson Hakon , Denny Joshua C. , Wang Thomas J. , Stein Charles M. , Roden Dan M. , Wells Quinn S.
Published: May 2020

Left ventricular (LV) mass is a prognostic biomarker for incident heart disease and all-cause mortality. Large-scale genome-wide association studies have identified few SNPs associated with LV mass. We hypothesized that a polygenic discovery approach using LV mass measurements made in a clinical population would identify risk factors and diseases associated with adverse LV remodeling. We developed a polygenic single nucleotide polymorphism-based predictor of LV mass in 7,601 individuals with LV mass measurements made during routine clinical care. We tested for associations between this predictor and 894 clinical diagnoses measured in 58,838 unrelated genotyped individuals. There were 29 clinical phenotypes associated with the LV mass genetic predictor at FDR q < 0.05. Genetically predicted higher LV mass was associated with modifiable cardiac risk factors, diagnoses related to organ dysfunction and conditions associated with abnormal cardiac structure including heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Secondary analyses using polygenic predictors confirmed a significant association between higher LV mass and body mass index and, in men, associations with coronary atherosclerosis and systolic blood pressure. In summary, these analyses show that LV mass-associated genetic variability associates with diagnoses of cardiac diseases and with modifiable risk factors which contribute to these diseases.
Tetranectin, a potential novel diagnostic biomarker of heart failure, is expressed within the myocardium and associates with cardiac fibrosis
Authors: McDonald Kenneth , Glezeva Nadezhda , Collier Patrick , O’Reilly James , O’Connell Eoin , Tea Isaac , Russell-Hallinan Adam , Tonry Claire , Pennington Steve , Gallagher Joe , Ledwidge Mark , Baugh John , Watson Chris J.
Published: May 2020

Heart failure (HF) screening strategies require biomarkers to predict disease manifestation to aid HF surveillance and management programmes. The aim of this study was to validate a previous proteomics discovery programme that identified Tetranectin as a potential HF biomarker candidate based on expression level changes in asymptomatic patients at future risk for HF development. The initial study consisted of 132 patients, comprising of HF (n = 40), no-HF controls (n = 60), and cardiac surgery patients (n = 32). Serum samples were quantified for circulating levels of Tetranectin and a panel of circulating fibro-inflammatory markers. Cardiac tissue served as a resource to investigate the relationship between cardiac Tetranectin levels and fibrosis and inflammation within the myocardium. An independent cohort of 224 patients with or without HF was used to validate serum Tetranectin levels. Results show that circulating Tetranectin levels are significantly reduced in HF patients (p < 0.0001), and are associated with HF more closely than B-type natriuretic peptide (AUC = 0.97 versus 0.84, p = 0.011). Serum Tetranectin negatively correlated with circulating fibrosis markers, whereas cardiac tissue Tetranectin correlated positively with fibrotic genes and protein within the myocardium. In conclusion, we report for the first time that Tetranectin is a promising HF biomarker candidate linked with fibrotic processes within the myocardium.
Prognostic Factors of Disease Recurrence in Breast Cancer Using Quantitative and Qualitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Parameters
Authors: Lee Jeongmin , Kim Sung Hun , Kang Bong Joo
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate prognostic factors predicting recurrence of breast cancer, focusing on imaging factors including morphologic features, quantitative MR parameters, and clinicopathologic factors. This retrospective study was approved by our institutional review board, and the requirement to obtain informed consent was waived. A total of 267 patients with breast cancer were enrolled in this study, who underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before surgery from February 2014 to June 2016. Imaging parameters of MRI, including morphologic features, perfusion parameters, and texture analysis, were retrospectively reviewed by two expert breast radiologists. Clinicopathologic information of enrolled patients was also reviewed using medical records. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with cancer recurrence. C statistics was used to discriminate low and high risk patients for disease recurrence. Using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, disease-free survival was compared between patients who experienced recurrence and those who did not. At a median follow up of 49 months, 32 patients (12%) showed disease: six cases of ipsilateral breast or axilla recurrence, one case of contralateral breast recurrence, 24 cases of distant metastasis, and one case of both ipsilateral breast recurrence and distant metastasis. Of multiple imaging features and parameters, increased ipsilateral vascularity and higher positive skewness of texture analysis showed significant association with disease recurrence in every multivariable model regardless of tumor subtype and pathologic stage. Pathologic stage, especially if higher than stage II, showed significant association with disease recurrence and its highest hazard ratio was 3.45 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37–8.67, p = 0.008]. Of the multivariable models, the model including clinico-pathologic factors and both qualitative and quantitative imaging parameters showed good discrimination with a high C index value of 0.825 (95% CI: 0.755–0.896). In addition, recurrence associated factors were associated with short interval time to disease recurrence by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Therefore, comprehensive analysis using both clinico-pathologic factors and qualitative and quantitative imaging parameters is more effective in predicting breast cancer recurrence. Among those factors, higher pathologic stage, increased ipsilateral vascularity and higher positive skewness of texture analysis could be good predictors of breast cancer recurrence. Moreover, when these three factors are applied comprehensively, they may also be the predictors for poor survival.
Correlation between total sperm count and sperm motility and pregnancy rate in couples undergoing intrauterine insemination
Authors: Findeklee Sebastian , Radosa Julia Caroline , Radosa Marc Philipp , Hammadeh Mohamad Eid
Published: May 2020

The frequency and significance of sterility is increasing due to different socio-demographic factors in the industrialized countries. At the same time, the patients’ demand for more natural and less invasive fertility treatments is increasing. The most common method used in subfertility is intrauterine insemination (IUI). Retrospectively, the data from the patients were analyzed, in which at least one insemination and a maximum of eight inseminations were performed in the last five years (observation period 01.01.2014–31.12.2018) at the Women’s University Hospital Homburg. The primary endpoint was the onset of a clinical pregnancy. Clinical pregnancy was correlated with the partner’s total sperm count (sperm density in millions), sperm concentration and motility during insemination. These three parameters were evaluated according the World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 guidelines. The results of the spermiograms were correlated with clinical pregnancy outcome. The data were examined for 138 women with sterility, in which a total of 345 inseminations were performed (median 2.5 per woman, range 8 inseminations). There was no correlation found between spermiogram parameters and pregnancy probability in any of the inseminations. After 5 inseminations no further pregnancy occurred. The present study showed no correlation between the conception probability of intrauterine insemination (IUI) and the total sperm count/concentration/motility. After the sixth IUI, we no longer found conceptions in our patient collective. Therefore, data from this study indicate that intrauterine inseminations can be performed at all severity levels of oligoasthenozoospermia. However, the treatment should be limited to five attempts.
Characterization of experimental diabetic neuropathy using multicontrast magnetic resonance neurography at ultra high field strength
Authors: Schwarz Daniel , Hidmark Asa S. , Sturm Volker , Fischer Manuel , Milford David , Hausser Ingrid , Sahm Felix , Breckwoldt Michael O. , Agarwal Nitin , Kuner Rohini , Bendszus Martin , Nawroth Peter P. , Heiland Sabine , Fleming Thomas
Published: May 2020

In light of the limited treatment options of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) available, suitable animal models are essential to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms and to identify potential therapeutic targets. In vivo evaluation with current techniques, however, often provides only restricted information about disease evolution. In the study of patients with DPN, magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) has been introduced as an innovative diagnostic tool detecting characteristic lesions within peripheral nerves. We developed a novel multicontrast ultra high field MRN strategy to examine major peripheral nerve segments in diabetic mice non-invasively. It was first validated in a cross-platform approach on human nerve tissue and then applied to the popular streptozotocin(STZ)-induced mouse model of DPN. In the absence of gross morphologic alterations, a distinct MR-signature within the sciatic nerve was observed mirroring subtle changes of the nerves’ fibre composition and ultrastructure, potentially indicating early re-arrangements of DPN. Interestingly, these signal alterations differed from previously reported typical nerve lesions of patients with DPN. The capacity of our approach to non-invasively assess sciatic nerve tissue structure and function within a given mouse model provides a powerful tool for direct translational comparison to human disease hallmarks not only in diabetes but also in other peripheral neuropathic conditions.
Prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy outcomes of 1492 fetuses with congenital heart disease: role of multidisciplinary-joint consultation in prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Qiu Xiuqing , Weng Zongjie , Liu Min , Chen Xiujuan , Wu Qiumei , Ling Wen , Ma Hong , Huang Hailong , Lin Yuan
Published: May 2020

Early diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD) can improve the prognosis of neonates with CHD. We retrospectively evaluated the value of prenatal diagnosis of CHD by comparing the pregnancy outcomes. Prenatal diagnosis of CHD was established by echocardiographic evaluation of fetal heart. Amniotic fluid and/or cord blood genetic examination, pathological anatomy, casting specimen, and/or multidisciplinary-joint consultation (MDJC) were performed. A total of 1492 fetuses with CHD were diagnosed by prenatal echocardiography from 67834 pregnant women. There were 445, 236, 583, and 228 cases in groups A (simple CHD), B (simple CHD plus extra-cardiac abnormality), C (complex CHD), and D (complex CHD plus extra-cardiac abnormality), respectively. The pregnancy continuation rate in the four groups was 98.67%, 85.71%, 67.65%, and 36.84%, respectively (P < 0.001). The pregnancy termination rate for fetal CHD with extra-cardiac abnormalities was significantly higher than that for fetuses with only CHD (81.24% vs. 53.6%, P < 0.05). Prenatal genetic test revealed chromosomal abnormalities in 20.43% of fetuses with CHD. MDJC significantly decreased the pregnancy termination rate. In 88 cases, the original decision to terminate the pregnancy was changed after consultation and the pregnancy was continued. Of these, 87 cases culminated in live births; 65 of these children had better prognosis. Nine-segment sequential segment analysis method for prenatal fetal echocardiography was compared with the results of pathological anatomy, cast specimen, postoperative diagnosis, and postnatal ultrasound. The accuracy of prenatal ultrasound for diagnosis of fetal complex CHD and fetal simple CHD was 90.5–91.66% and 98.6%, respectively. Prenatal ultrasound is still the most effective method for fetal CHD diagnosis.
Associations between pattern separation and hippocampal subfield structure and function vary along the lifespan: A 7 T imaging study
Authors: Riphagen Joost M. , Schmiedek Lisa , Gronenschild Ed H. B. M. , Yassa Michael A. , Priovoulos Nikos , Sack Alexander T. , Verhey Frans R. J. , Jacobs Heidi I. L.
Published: May 2020

Pattern separation (PS) describes the process by which the brain discriminates similar stimuli from previously encoded stimuli. This fundamental process requires the intact processing by specific subfields in the hippocampus and can be examined using mnemonic discrimination tasks. Previous studies reported different patterns for younger and older individuals between mnemonic discrimination performance and hippocampal subfield activation. Here, we investigated the relationship between the lure discrimination index (LDI) and hippocampal subfield volume and activity across the adult lifespan (20–70 years old). Using ultra-high field functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging at 7 T, we found that lower DG volume and higher CA3 activation was associated with worse LDI performance in individuals (>60 years), suggesting that this higher activation may be an indication of aberrant neurodegenerative-related processes. In fact, higher activation in the CA1 and DG was associated with lower volumes in these subfields. For individuals around 40–50 years old, we observed that greater left and right DG volume, and greater activity in the CA3 was associated with lower LDI performance. Taken together, these results suggest that the relationship between memory and hippocampal subfield structure or function varies nonlinearly and possibly reciprocally with age, with midlife being a critically vulnerable period in life.
Organocatalyzed ring opening polymerization of regio-isomeric lactones: reactivity and thermodynamics considerations
Authors: Delgove Marie A. F. , Wróblewska Aleksandra A. , Stouten Jules , van Slagmaat Christian A. M. R. , Noordijk Jurrie , De Wildeman Stefaan M. A. , Bernaerts Katrien V.
Published: May 2020

Study of the kinetics and thermodynamics of the organocatalyzed ring opening polymerization of a regio-isomeric mixture of β,δ-trimethyl-ε-caprolactones (TMCL).
Quantification of anthracene after dermal absorption test via APCI-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sui Xinyi , Terán Julio E. , Feng Chengcheng , Wustrow Killian , Smith Caroline J. , Vinueza Nelson R.
Published: May 2020

An analytical method for the detection and quantification of anthracene from dermal samples was developed by using Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (APCI-MS/MS).
One-step synthesis of mitochondrion-targeted fluorescent carbon dots and fluorescence detection of silver ions
Authors: Hou Yue , Liu Hanxiao , Li Zhanxian , Zhang Hongyan , Wei Liuhe , Yu Mingming
Published: May 2020

Silver ions (Ag+) are the most representative harmful ions found in polluted water and widely used in many industries; excessive ingestion of Ag+ may result in interaction with different metabolites in the human body, leading to many diseases.
Multifunctional antibacterial dental sealants suppress biofilms derived from children at high risk of caries
Authors: Ibrahim Maria Salem , Garcia Isadora Martini , Vila Taissa , Balhaddad Abdulrahman A. , Collares Fabrício Mezzomo , Weir Michael D. , Xu Hockin H. K. , Melo Mary Anne S.
Published: May 2020

Dental sealant containing antibacterial and bioactive agents decreased biofilm formation due to the saliva of children at low and high risk of caries.
Conductive zigzag Pd(iii)–Br chain complex realized by a multiple-hydrogen-bond approach
Authors: Mian Mohammad Rasel , Afrin Unjila , Iguchi Hiroaki , Takaishi Shinya , Yoshida Takefumi , Miyamoto Tatsuya , Okamoto Hiroshi , Tanaka Hisaaki , Kuroda Shin-ichi , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: May 2020

Coexistence of zigzag structure and the uncommon Pd(iii) oxidation state in quasi-1D halogen-bridged metal complexes was realized in a conductive Br-bridged Pd chain complex, [Pd(dabdOH)2Br]SO4·3H2O (2), for the first time.
Phase transformations in a double complex salt of the ruthenium nitrosyl anion and tetraamine-palladium cation
Authors: Kostin G. A. , Filatov E. Yu. , Pischur D. P. , Kuratieva N. V. , Korenev S. V.
Published: May 2020

A reversible order–disorder phase transition in [Pd(NH3)4][RuNO(NO2)4OH] in the temperature range of 370–390 K was confirmed by DSC, single crystal and powder diffraction data.
Heterogenization of polyoxometalates as solid catalysts in aerobic oxidation of glycerol
Authors: Tao Meilin , Li Yue , Li Yiming , Zhang Xueyan , Geletii Yurii V. , Wang Xiaohong , Hill Craig L.
Published: May 2020

A series of heterogeneous catalysts LnPMo12O40 (L = Al3+, Fe3+, Cr3+, Ti4+, Zr4+, Zn2+) and HxPMo11LO39 (L = Zn2+, Cr3+, Fe3+, Al3+, Ti4+) were prepared using a simple calcination treatment and were evaluated in aerobic oxidation of glycerol.
Temperature-dependent hysteretic two-step spin crossover in two-dimensional Hofmann-type compounds
Authors: Li Yue , Liu Min , Yao Zi-Shuo , Tao Jun
Published: May 2020

Two 2D Hofmann-type compounds [FeII(ppe)2MII(CN)4]·3H2O [ppe = 1-(2-pyridyl)-2-(4-pyridyl)ethylene; M = Pd for 1 and Pt for 2] have been synthesized. Both of them show complete two-step hysteretic SCO transitions HS1.0 ⇌ HS0.6–0.5LS0.4–0.5 ⇌ LS1.0.
Influence of Eu valence on the optical activity of BaTiO3 decorated with CaF2 synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method
Authors: Strelow Lilge Tatiane , dos Santos Bezerra Claudiane , da Cunha Bispo Giordano Frederico , Borges Andrade Adriano , Soares Macedo Zélia , Moreira Mario Lucio , Giroldo Valerio Mário Ernesto
Published: May 2020

A study of the optical properties and influence of Eu ions on a hybrid inorganic system synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method.
Self-assembly of mixed-valence and heterometallic metallocycles: efficient catalysts for the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes in ambient air
Authors: Lai Ya-Liang , Wang Xue-Zhi , Dai Rui-Rong , Huang Yong-Liang , Zhou Xian-Chao , Zhou Xiao-Ping , Li Dan
Published: May 2020

Two mixed-valence CuII/CuI and two heterometallic CuII/AgI metallocycles have been synthesized by the assembly of designed metalloligands and CuI/AgI ions, respectively.
Kinetic profile and urinary excretion of phenyl-γ-valerolactones upon consumption of cranberry: a dose–response relationship
Authors: Favari Claudia , Mena Pedro , Curti Claudio , Istas Geoffrey , Heiss Christian , Del Rio Daniele , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana
Published: May 2020

Cranberries are a rich source of poly(phenols), mainly monomeric and oligomeric flavan-3-ols. The metabolism of their main colonic compounds has been assessed.
A liver-targeting Cu(i) chelator relocates Cu in hepatocytes and promotes Cu excretion in a murine model of Wilson’s disease
Authors: Monestier Marie , Pujol Anaïs M , Lamboux Aline , Cuillel Martine , Pignot-Paintrand Isabelle , Cassio Doris , Charbonnier Peggy , Um Khémary , Harel Amélie , Bohic Sylvain , Gateau Christelle , Balter Vincent , Brun Virginie , Delangle Pascale , Mintz Elisabeth
Published: May 2020

Copper chelation is the most commonly used therapeutic strategy nowadays to treat Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder primarily inducing a pathological accumulation of Cu in the liver. The mechanism of action of Chel2, a liver-targeting Cu(i) chelator known to promote intracellular Cu chelation, was studied in hepatic cells that reconstitute polarized epithelia with functional bile canaliculi, reminiscent of the excretion pathway in the liver. The interplay between Chel2 and Cu localization in these cells was demonstrated through confocal microscopy using a fluorescent derivative and nano X-ray fluorescence. The Cu(i) bound chelator was found in vesicles potentially excreted in the canaliculi. Moreover, injection of Chel2 either intravenously or subcutaneously to a murine model of Wilson’s disease increased excretion of Cu in the faeces, confirming in vivo biliary excretion. Therefore, Chel2 turns out to be a possible means to collect and excrete hepatic Cu in the faeces, hence restoring the physiological pathway.
Multifunctional polymers with interpenetrating structures: luminescence sensing, ECL behaviors, selective detection of Fe3+ ion and rapid removal of anionic dyes
Authors: Meng Lingshu , Zhao Lun , Guo Guanlin , Liu Xin
Published: May 2020

Three unprecedented metal–organic frameworks with interspersed structures have been synthesized and structurally characterized.
Nitrogen doped graphitic porous carbon from almond shells as an efficient persulfate activator for organic compound degradation
Authors: Anfar Zakaria , Ait El Fakir Abdellah , Ait Ahsaine Hassan , Zbair Mohamed , Farsad Salaheddine , Morlet-Savary Fabrice , Jada Amane , El Alem Noureddine
Published: May 2020

Here, we have developed a simple and efficient low-temperature process for doping N into graphitic porous carbon to prepare a catalyst: N-GPC.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of selenopheno[2,3-b]quinoxaline and selenopheno[2,3-b]pyrazine heteroacenes
Authors: Sonawane Amol D. , Shimozuma Atsushi , Udagawa Taro , Ninomiya Masayuki , Koketsu Mamoru
Published: May 2020

Novel synthesis of 2-arylselenopheno[2,3-b]quinoxaline, 3-(aryl/alkylselanyl)-2-arylselenopheno[2,3-b]quinoxaline and 6-phenyl-7-(arylselanyl)selenopheno[2,3-b]pyrazine derivatives, from the corresponding 2,3-dichloroquinoxaline and 2,3-dichloropyrazine derivatives.
Cost-effective smart microfluidic device with immobilized silver nanoparticles and embedded UV-light sources for synergistic water disinfection effects
Authors: Prabhakar Amit , Agrawal Mehul , Mishra Neha , Roy Nimisha , Jaiswar Ankur , Dhwaj Amar , Verma Deepti
Published: May 2020

A novel microfluidic-device for water disinfection via diverse physiochemical effects has been demonstrated.
Synthesis and gas permeation properties of thermally rearranged poly(ether-benzoxazole)s with low rearrangement temperatures
Authors: Lu Yunhua , Zhang Jianhua , Xiao Guoyong , Li Lin , Hou Mengjie , Hu Junyi , Wang Tonghua
Published: May 2020

A series of poly(ether-benzoxazole)(PEBO) for gas separation were prepared from 9,9-bis[4-(4-amino-3-hydroxylphenoxy)phenyl]fluorene based hydroxyl-containing poly(ether-imide)s (HPEIs) with low rearrangement temperatures.
The influence of structural gradients in large pore organosilica materials on the capabilities for hosting cellular communities
Authors: Bronner Hannah , Holzer Anna-Katharina , Finke Alexander , Kunkel Marius , Marx Andreas , Leist Marcel , Polarz Sebastian
Published: May 2020

Chemical and structural gradients in biofunctionalized organosilica–polymer nanocomposites control cell adhesion properties and open perspectives for artificial cellular community systems.
Molecular dynamics study of the frictional properties of multilayer MoS2
Authors: Hu Chengzhi , Yi Changli , Bai Minli , Lv Jizu , Tang Dawei
Published: May 2020

Deformation of MoS2 layers directly leads to decrease in potential and ultimately leads to decrease in friction coefficient.
Promoting formic acid oxidation performance of Pd nanoparticles via Pt and Ru atom mediated surface engineering
Authors: Bhalothia Dinesh , Huang Tzu-Hsi , Chou Pai-Hung , Wang Kuan-Wen , Chen Tsan-Yao
Published: May 2020

Pt atoms attract electrons from neighboring atoms. Ru atoms attract hydroxide ligands. These two characteristics respectively weaken the bonding and recovering of the Pt site from CO oxidation and then facilitate the FAO in ternary PdPtRu NCs.
A compatibility study on the glycosylation of 4,4′-dihydroxyazobenzene
Authors: Berry Jonathan , Despras Guillaume , Lindhorst Thisbe K.
Published: May 2020

The glycosylation of 4,4′-dihydroxyazobenzene was investigated to identify suitable conditions providing access to valuable photoswitchable glycoconjugates.
Simple organocatalyst component system for asymmetric hetero Diels–Alder reaction of isatins with enones
Authors: Parasuraman Perumalsamy , Begum Zubeda , Chennapuram Madhu , Seki Chigusa , Okuyama Yuko , Kwon Eunsang , Uwai Koji , Tokiwa Michio , Tokiwa Suguru , Takeshita Mitsuhiro , Nakano Hiroto
Published: May 2020

A simple two catalysts component system of β-amino alcohols (catalyst) and amino acids (co-catalyst) works as an efficient organocatalysts in hetero Diels–Alder reaction of isatins with enones to afford chiral spirooxindole-tetrahydropyranones.
Speciation of Be2+ in acidic liquid ammonia and formation of tetra- and octanuclear beryllium amido clusters
Authors: Müller Matthias , Karttunen Antti J. , Buchner Magnus R.
Published: May 2020

The boundaries of beryllium metal oxidation in acidic ammonia have been explored. This enabled the isolation of the tetra- and octa-nuclear beryllium amide complexes. The latter exhibits a completely new structural motive in coordination chemistry.
Regioselective B(3,4)–H arylation of o-carboranes by weak amide coordination at room temperature
Authors: Liang Yu-Feng , Yang Long , Jei Becky Bongsuiru , Kuniyil Rositha , Ackermann Lutz
Published: May 2020

B–H: site-selective B(3,4)–H arylations were accomplished at room temperature by versatile palladium catalysis enabled by weakly coordinating amides.
Impact of a chiral supramolecular nanostructure on the mechanical and electrical performances of triphenylene-based discotic physical gels
Authors: Zhang Hongli , Cheng Junjie , Zhou Qiang , Zhang Qijin , Zou Gang
Published: May 2020

Differential mechanical and electrical performances of the supramolecular chiral gels based on discotic triphenylene derivatives.
Simultaneous determination of interfacial molarities of an alcohol, bromide ion, and water during an alcohol induced microstructural transition: the difference between medium and long chain alcohols
Authors: Yao Kaixin , Sun Lijie , Ding Xiaoxuan , Wang Yuzhao , Liu Tianze , Liu Changyao , Tan Jiajing , Zhao Li , Xu Baocai , Romsted Larry
Published: May 2020

Long-chain alcohol induced micelle-to-vesicle transition is accompanied with concurrent increase of interfacial water molarity and decrease of interfacial counterion molarity.
Hollow PtCu nanoparticles encapsulated into a carbon shellviamild annealing of Cu metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Chen Guanjun , Shan Huaqiang , Li Yan , Bao Hongwei , Hu Tingwei , Zhang Long , Liu Shuai , Ma Fei
Published: May 2020

Hollow PtCu NPs is encapsulated into a carbon shell to prevent the degradation of PtCu alloys. Consequently, the S-H-PtxCuy@C catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity and durability toward the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR).
Water-responsive materials for sustainable energy applications
Authors: Park Yaewon , Chen Xi
Published: May 2020

Up-to-date studies of water-responsive materials for energy-related applications are reviewed. Future research endeavours could advance scientific and technical challenges.
Structure–property trends in a hollandite multiferroic by Fe doping: structural, magnetic and dielectric characterization of nanocrystalline BaMn3−xFexTi4O14+δ
Authors: Pearsall Frederick , Farahmand Nasim , Lombardi Julien , Dehipawala Sunil , Gai Zheng , O’Brien Stephen
Published: May 2020

BaMn3Ti4O14+δ (δ = 0.25, BMT-134), a recently discovered single-phase multiferroic complex oxide was doped with varying concentrations of Fe in order to assess the effect on magnetic and dielectric behavior.
CODEX clusters
Authors: Finoguenov A. , Rykoff E. , Clerc N. , Costanzi M. , Hagstotz S. , Ider Chitham J. , Kiiveri K. , Kirkpatrick C. C. , Capasso R. , Comparat J. , Damsted S. , Dupke R. , Erfanianfar G. , Patrick Henry J. , Kaefer F. , Kneib J.-P. , Lindholm V. , Rozo E. , van Waerbeke L. , Weller J.
Published: May 2020

Context. Large area catalogs of galaxy clusters constructed from ROSAT All-Sky Survey provide the basis for our knowledge of the population of clusters thanks to long-term multiwavelength efforts to follow up observations of these clusters.

Aims. The advent of large area photometric surveys superseding previous, in-depth all-sky data allows us to revisit the construction of X-ray cluster catalogs, extending the study to lower cluster masses and higher redshifts and providing modeling of the selection function.

Methods. We performed a wavelet detection of X-ray sources and made extensive simulations of the detection of clusters in the RASS data. We assigned an optical richness to each of the 24 788 detected X-ray sources in the 10 382 square degrees of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey area using red sequence cluster finder redMaPPer version 5.2 run on Sloan Digital Sky Survey photometry. We named this survey COnstrain Dark Energy with X-ray (CODEX) clusters.

Results. We show that there is no obvious separation of sources on galaxy clusters and active galactic nuclei (AGN) based on the distribution of systems on their richness. This is a combination of an increasing number of galaxy groups and their selection via the identification of X-ray sources either by chance or by groups hosting an AGN. To clean the sample, we use a cut on the optical richness at the level corresponding to the 10% completeness of the survey and include it in the modeling of the cluster selection function. We present the X-ray catalog extending to a redshift of 0.6.

Conclusions. The CODEX suvey is the first large area X-ray selected catalog of northern clusters reaching fluxes of 10−13 ergs s−1 cm−2. We provide modeling of the sample selection and discuss the redshift evolution of the high end of the X-ray luminosity function (XLF). Our results on z <  0.3 XLF agree with previous studies, while we provide new constraints on the 0.3 <  z <  0.6 XLF. We find a lack of strong redshift evolution of the XLF, provide exact modeling of the effect of low number statistics and AGN contamination, and present the resulting constraints on the flat ΛCDM.
Increasing the raw contrast of VLT/SPHERE with the dark hole technique
Authors: Potier A. , Galicher R. , Baudoz P. , Huby E. , Milli J. , Wahhaj Z. , Boccaletti A. , Vigan A. , N’Diaye M. , Sauvage J.-F.
Published: May 2020

Context. Since 1995 and the first discovery of an exoplanet orbiting a main-sequence star, 4000 exoplanets have been discovered using several techniques. However, only a few of these exoplanets were detected through direct imaging. Indeed, the imaging of circumstellar environments requires high-contrast imaging facilities and accurate control of wavefront aberrations. Ground-based planet imagers such as VLT/SPHERE or Gemini/GPI have already demonstrated great performance. However, their limit of detection is hampered by suboptimal correction of aberrations unseen by adaptive optics (AO).

Aims. Instead of focusing on the phase minimization of the pupil plane as in standard AO, we aim to directly minimize the stellar residual light in the SPHERE science camera behind the coronagraph to improve the contrast as close as possible to the inner working angle.

Methods. We propose a dark hole (DH) strategy optimized for SPHERE. We used a numerical simulation to predict the global improvement of such a strategy on the overall performance of the instrument for different AO capabilities and particularly in the context of a SPHERE upgrade. Then, we tested our algorithm on the internal source with the AO in closed loop.

Results. We demonstrate that our DH strategy can correct for aberrations of phase and amplitude. Moreover, this approach has the ability to strongly reduce the diffraction pattern induced by the telescope pupil and the coronagraph, unlike methods operating at the pupil plane. Our strategy enables us to reach a contrast of 5e−7 at 150 mas from the optical axis in a few minutes using the SPHERE internal source. This experiment establishes the grounds for implementing the algorithm on sky in the near future.
Determination of the shelf life of a functional beverage by accelerated testing
Authors: Khasanov Arthur , Matveeva Natalia
Published: May 2020

In the course of research, the shelf life of a functional beverage based on plant raw materials was determined. To determine the shelf life the method of accelerated shelf life testing based on the Arrhenius model was used. As a controlled indicator, the concentration of anthocyanins is selected, which determine the functionality of this beverage. The test was carried out at a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius. The control sample was stored at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Fixing the value of anthocyanins was performed every 3-4 days. As a result, the critical value was the value of anthocyanins on day 14. It fell by 55% from the original value. Thus, according to the calculations and the law of Arrhenius, the shelf life of the drink was 3.7 months.
Simulation of the pump-battery power supply control system based on the unloading machine
Authors: Rybak Alexander , Tsibriy I
Published: May 2020

The aim of this article is to create a control system for a constant hydraulic power source pressure, a pump -battery power source equipped with an original design of the hydraulic pump discharge machine that provides relay switching of its operation mode. This aim is achieved by using a simulation method based on the application of volumetric stiffness theory of hydraulic systems and their elements. As a result of a numerical experiment conducted by solving the equations that make up the mathematical model of power supply, its main technical characteristics and the influence of its main design parameters on its functional features and operational properties are obtained. The obtained results showed that by changing the various design parameters of unloading machine, it is possible not only to change the upper (maximum) and lower (minimum) values of the battery charging pressure, but also to adjust their difference depending on the requirements for the power source. The main result of this study is that as a result of a numerical experiment, it is proved that the unloading machine provides a clear relay switching of the pump operation mode from unloading to operating mode and Vice versa. The identified properties make a very promising use of a pump -battery power source in the hydraulic systems of mobile machines and process equipment.
The gasoline vapors spread from “small” spills in an urban environment at low wind speeds
Authors: Khrestenko Ruslan , Sokolova Ekaterina , Okulovsky Dmitrii , Azarov Valeri
Published: May 2020

It is noted that the urban environment is polluted by oil products; in particular, there is a large pollution of atmospheric air. It is indicated that one of the pollution sources is the “small” spills, which are characteristic of urban areas. Experimental studies have been carried out on the gasoline distribution in atmospheric air at “small” spills. A single experiment at a low wind speed is considered. Data were obtained on the dependence of gasoline concentration in atmospheric air on the distance from the spill, the height above the level of the spill and the time of the spill. The component composition was studied using chromatographic studies. It is indicated that the distribution of gasoline vapors in the atmosphere is influenced by the ambient temperature, wind speed, surface area of the spill, time from the moment of spilling and the distance above the level of the spill. The gasoline dispersion in atmospheric air was calculated with the software using experimental and calculated data on the surface area of the spill. It is indicated that at low wind speeds (up to 0.5 m/s) from “small” spills of gasoline (up to 3 liters), significant excesses of standards for the content of harmful substances in the atmospheric air can be observed. It was determined that during spilling there is an excess of maximum permissible concentrations of single, hazardous substances such as ethyl benzene, m-xylene and amyl alcohol in the air.
Bottom (70,1-) baryon multiplet
Authors: Matskevich Elena
Published: May 2020

The aim of this paper is to derive systems of equations for the amplitudes for the case of negative parity (70,1-) bottom nonstrange baryons and to calculate the masses of these particles. In order to calculate masses of (70,1-) bottom baryons we use the relativistic quark model. The relativistic three-quark equations of the (70,1-) bottom baryon multiplet are derived in the framework of the dispersion relation technique. The relativistic three-quark equations of the (70,1-) bottom baryon multiplet are derived. The approximate solutions of these equations using the method based on the extraction of leading singularities of the amplitude are obtained. The masses of 21 baryons are predicted.
Geodetic, geophysical and geographical methods in landslide investigation: Luar case study
Authors: Zaalishvili Vladislav , Chotchaev Khisa , Melkov Dmitry , Burdzieva Olga , Dzeranov Boris , Kanukov Aleksandr , Archireeva Inga , Gabaraev Akhsarbek , Dzobelova Laura
Published: May 2020

According to the variety and the intensity of dangerous natural processes occurence, the Greater Caucasus can serve as a natural laboratory, where geodynamic processes of a different order proceed continuously. One of the most destructive natural processes are the landslides. A reference object in this regard is the Luar landslide, which has included all the extreme features of landslide structures known in the Central Caucasus, but has not revealed the secrets of its static state, the determination of which is the most important task of the scientific research. An active landslide formed as a result of anthropogenic activity (slope cutting ) is also considered. The mentioned objects were examined by the geodetic and geophysical methods. Appropriate monitoring systems have been created.
The research of fluoride ions concentration in household water supply
Authors: Martsev Anton , Selivanov Oleg
Published: May 2020

Poor quality water is the second risk factor after poverty for diseases dynamics. Fluorine is important for human health, and since the main route for its introduction into the body is water, hygienic assessment of drinking water quality based on the content of this microelement at the regional level is very relevant, thus it has become our research objective.Eight districts of the region are characterized by such fluoride content in water which is significantly lower than optimal values; five districts by the concentrations exceeding maximum permissible values; and only three districts by approximately optimal average values. Different concentration of fluoride in the regional water supplies depends on the natural factor of this geographical zone. To provide the population of the region with high-quality drinking water a complex of various measures including the development and implementation of programs for improving local water supplies are required.
Effective engineering solutions for drainage systems in peat soils
Authors: Nikitin Andrey , Zaborskaya Olga
Published: May 2020

The article describes the feasibility of using a stone-free drainage system for water depression in peaty soils. The purpose of the research is to develop economical and technological engineering solutions for drainage in peat soils. A specimen of a stone-free drainage system, including a perforated corrugated pipe 150 mm in diameter and expanded polysterene pellets as aggregate, was studied in laboratory conditions. Geotextile filters were wrapped around both the aggregate and the drain pipe. The drainage system specimen was subjected to a load equivalent to that applied by 1 to 4 m of backfilling sand. The study established high deformability of the drain pipe and the pelletized expanded polysterene aggregate, as well as a considerable decrease in the aggregate water permeability. Тhe burial depth of a typical stone-free drainage system shall be limited by 2.5 m. The article shows that the presence of clogging particles in drain water may lead to a considerable decrease in permeability of geotextile filters on drain pipes. The proposed design of stone-free drainage system in peaty soils ensures lower material consumption, cost, and workload. To reduce deformations of stone-free drainage system structural components, pipes and aggregate of non-yielding (stiff) materials shall be used.
Sewage cleaning by using a phase separator
Authors: Serpokrylov Nikolay S. , Smolyanichenko Alla S. , Yakovleva Elena V.
Published: May 2020

This article proposes a solution to the urgent problem of treating oil-, fat-containing wastewater. A phase separator of dispersions for preliminary purification of industrial wastewater contaminated with fats is proposed, its effectiveness in the treatment of wastewater at local treatment facilities of an industrial plant for the production of sunflower oil is tested. In order to reduce the cost of acquiring reagents and increase the efficiency of purification of fat-containing wastewater, the use of carbide sludge and sodium hydroaluminate was studied. Laboratory studies conducted by the method of an active experiment.