bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality control in SARS-CoV-2 RBD-Fc vaccine production using LC–MS to confirm strain selection and detect contaminations from other strains
Authors: Suwanchaikasem Pipob , Rattanapisit Kaewta , Strasser Richard , Phoolcharoen Waranyoo
Published: April 2024

Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an ongoing outbreak, disrupting human life worldwide. Vaccine development was prioritized to obtain a biological substance for combating the viral pathogen and lessening disease severity. In vaccine production, biological origin and relevant materials must be carefully examined for potential contaminants in conformity with good manufacturing practice. Due to fast mutation, several SARS-CoV-2 variants and sublineages have been identified. Currently, most of COVID-19 vaccines are developed based on the protein sequence of the Wuhan wild type strain. New vaccines specific for emerging SARS-CoV-2 strains are continuously needed to tackle the incessant evolution of the virus. Therefore, in vaccine development and production, a reliable method to identify the nature of subunit vaccines is required to avoid cross-contamination. In this study, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry using quadrupole-time of flight along with tryptic digestion was developed for distinguishing protein materials derived from different SARS-CoV-2 strains. After analyzing the recombinantly produced receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, nine characteristic peptides were identified with acceptable limits of detection. They can be used together to distinguish 14 SARS-CoV-2 strains, except Kappa and Epsilon. Plant-produced RBD-Fc protein derived from Omicron strains can be easily distinguished from the others with 4–5 unique peptides. Eventually, a peptide key was developed based on the nine peptides, offering a prompt and precise flowchart to facilitate SARS-CoV-2 strain identification in COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing.
Strategies for overcoming data scarcity, imbalance, and feature selection challenges in machine learning models for predictive maintenance
Authors: Hakami Ali
Published: April 2024

Predictive maintenance harnesses statistical analysis to preemptively identify equipment and system faults, facilitating cost- effective preventive measures. Machine learning algorithms enable comprehensive analysis of historical data, revealing emerging patterns and accurate predictions of impending system failures. Common hurdles in applying ML algorithms to PdM include data scarcity, data imbalance due to few failure instances, and the temporal dependence nature of PdM data. This study proposes an ML-based approach that adapts to these hurdles through the generation of synthetic data, temporal feature extraction, and the creation of failure horizons. The approach employs Generative Adversarial Networks to generate synthetic data and LSTM layers to extract temporal features. ML algorithms trained on the generated data achieved high accuracies: ANN (88.98%), Random Forest (74.15%), Decision Tree (73.82%), KNN (74.02%), and XGBoost (73.93%).
Knowledge, attitudes and demographic drivers for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Malawi
Authors: Ndasauka Yamikani , Twabi Halima Sumayya , Kainja Jimmy , Gunde Anthony Mavuto , Makhumula-Mtimuni Catherine
Published: April 2024

This study assessed the association among knowledge, attitudes and uptake of COVID-19 vaccine in Malawi, examining demographic factors influencing these variables. The study employed a quantitative research design. It thus sampled 394 participants from Malawi’s three districts of Zomba, Dowa and Nkhatabay. Results showed that 163 (41.4%) participants had low levels of knowledge of COVID-19 vaccine, 231 (58.6%) had high levels of knowledge, 237 (60.2%) had a positive attitude, and 156 (39.8%) had a negative attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine. On vaccine uptake, the study found that only 29 (17%) male and 52 (23%) female participants had received the vaccine. Further, participants with low levels of knowledge and a positive attitude towards the vaccine were 5.9 times more likely (p-value = 0.001) to be vaccinated than those with low levels of knowledge and negative attitudes towards the vaccine. On the other hand, those with high knowledge and a positive attitude towards the vaccine were 8.2 times more likely (p-value < 0.001) to be vaccinated compared to those with low knowledge and negative attitudes towards the vaccine. The findings highlight the importance of vaccine-related knowledge and attitudes in shaping uptake and reveal disparities across demographic groups. To improve vaccination coverage in Malawi, targeted interventions focusing on enhancing COVID-19 vaccine knowledge, addressing attitudinal barriers, and countering misinformation are needed. Strategies should be tailored to reach populations with lower uptake, such as males, younger adults, and those with lower education levels. Strengthening public health messaging, engaging community leaders, and building trust in healthcare systems are crucial for promoting widespread acceptance and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in Malawi.
Integrated aerobic exercise with LDE-docetaxel treatment: a novel approach to combat prostate cancer progression
Authors: Veras Allice Santos Cruz , Batista Victor Rogério Garcia , Correia Rafael Ribeiro , de Almeida Tavares Maria Eduarda , Rubira Rafael Jesus Gonçalves , Tavares Elaine Rufo , Giometti Inês Cristina , Maranhão Raul Cavalcante , Teixeira Giovana Rampazzo
Published: April 2024

The variability in response to conventional prostate cancer (PC) therapies, coupled with the emergent issue of drug resistance, underscores the critical need for innovative treatment strategies. Aerobic physical exercise reduced incidence of several cancers, but the mechanism underlying these effects associated the nanoemulsion not fully understood. The application of a lipid nanoemulsion (LDE) delivery system for docetaxel (DTX), showing marked enhancement in therapeutic efficacy when combined with aerobic physical exercise. This novel intervention potentiates the antitumor activity of LDE-delivered DTX by augmenting nanoparticle internalization and inducing cell cycle arrest. Our findings reveal that this synergistic treatment not only significantly reduces prostate weight and mitigates adenocarcinoma proliferation but also attenuates anti-apoptotic BCL-2 protein expression. Concurrently, it elevates pro-apoptotic proteins and diminishes inflammatory markers. Metabolic profiling of the combined therapy group disclosed additional benefits, such as reduced lipid and plasma glucose levels. Collectively, our data illuminate the profound impact of integrating LDE-mediated DTX delivery with structured physical exercise, which together spearhead a dual-front assault on PC. This multimodal approach heralds a new paradigm in PC management, accentuating the promise of combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to elevate tumor suppressor protein activity and refine patient outcomes.
Agonist-selective activation of individual G-proteins by muscarinic receptors
Authors: Nelic Dominik , Chetverikov Nikolai , Hochmalová Martina , Diaz Christina , Doležal Vladimír , Boulos John , Jakubík Jan , Martemyanov Kirill , Janoušková-Randáková Alena
Published: April 2024

Selective activation of individual subtypes of muscarinic receptors is a promising way to safely alleviate a wide range of pathological conditions in the central nervous system and the periphery as well. The flexible G-protein interface of muscarinic receptors allows them to interact with several G-proteins with various efficacy, potency, and kinetics. Agonists biased to the particular G-protein mediated pathway may result in selectivity among muscarinic subtypes and, due to the non-uniform expression of individual G-protein alpha subunits, possibly achieve tissue specificity. Here, we demonstrate that novel tetrahydropyridine-based agonists exert specific signalling profiles in coupling with individual G-protein α subunits. These signalling profiles profoundly differ from the reference agonist carbachol. Moreover, coupling with individual Gα induced by these novel agonists varies among subtypes of muscarinic receptors which may lead to subtype selectivity. Thus, the novel tetrahydropyridine-based agonist can contribute to the elucidation of the mechanism of pathway-specific activation of muscarinic receptors and serve as a starting point for the development of desired selective muscarinic agonists.
Color discrimination repetition distorts color representations
Authors: Horiuchi Suzuha , Nagai Takehiro
Published: April 2024

Perceptual learning is the improvement of perceptual performance after repeated practice on a perceptual task. Studies on perceptual learning in color vision are limited. In this study, we measured the impact of color discrimination repetitions at a specific base color on color perception for entire hues. Participants performed five sessions of color discrimination training (200 or 300 trials per session) over five days, at colors on either the negative or positive direction of the L-M color axis, based on group assignment. We administered three color perception assessments (unique hues, color category boundaries, and color appearance) before and after the sessions to evaluate perceptual changes after training. The results showed declines in color discrimination thresholds after training, as expected. Additionally, the training influenced outcomes across all three assessment types. After the training, the perceived color appearance changed near the trained color along the stimulus hue, and some of the unique hues and the color category boundaries moved significantly toward the trained color. These findings indicate that short-term repetitions of color discrimination training can alter color representations in the visual system, distorting color perception around the trained color.
Study on progressive failure mode of surrounding rock of shallow buried bias tunnel considering strain-softening characteristics
Authors: Tian Xiaoxu , Song Zhanping , Shen Xiaole , Xue Qinsong
Published: April 2024

Mountain tunnels portal often have to pass through slope terrain unavoidably, thus forming a shallow buried bias tunnel. During the construction of shallow buried bias tunnel, disasters such as slope sliding and tunnel collapse frequently occur. The failure mode of surrounding rock obtained by current research is based on the limit equilibrium theory, which cannot reflect the progressive failure characteristics of the surrounding rock of shallow buried bias tunnel. In order to reveal the failure mechanism of the gradual instability of surrounding rock of shallow buried bias tunnel, the problem of gradual failure of the surrounding rock is reduced to an elastic–plastic analysis problem for surrounding rock considering the strain-softening characteristics. Based on the elastic–plastic analysis of the failure process of shallow buried bias tunnel, MATLAB was used to compile a program to read the finite-difference calculation result file, extract the effective information such as shear strain and tensile strain at the center point of each unit, and establish the analysis method of the progressive failure mode of shallow buried bias tunnel. The reliability of the method proposed was verified by comparing the failure process of the model test with the development process of shear strain increment. Under the condition of no support, the formation mechanism of failure plane of surrounding rock on both sides of shallow buried bias tunnel is different. The shallow buried side is the shear failure plane formed by the collapse of surrounding rock, while the deep buried side of the tunnel is the shear failure plane formed by the collapse of surrounding rock and slope sliding. Under the conditions of excavation and support, the failure plane of the shallow buried bias tunnel can be divided into three parts according to the formation sequence and reasons. The part I is the failure plane, which is formed by active shear under the influence of tunnel excavation. The part II is the failure plane formed by tensile crack of slope top. The part III is the failure plane formed by passive shear under the push of the soil in the upper part of the slope.
Comprehensive analysis of long-term trends, meteorological influences, and ozone formation sensitivity in the Jakarta Greater Area
Authors: Kusumaningtyas Sheila Dewi Ayu , Tonokura Kenichi , Muharsyah Robi , Gunawan Dodo , Sopaheluwakan Ardhasena , Iriana Windy , Lestari Puji , Permadi Didin Agustian , Rahmawati R. , Samputra Nofi Azzah Rawaani
Published: April 2024

Jakarta Greater Area (JGA) has encountered recurrent challenges of air pollution, notably, high ozone levels. We investigate the trends of surface ozone (O3) changes from the air quality monitoring stations and resolve the contribution of meteorological drivers in urban Jakarta (2010–2019) and rural Bogor sites (2017–2019) using stepwise Multi Linear Regression. During 10 years of measurement, 41% of 1-h O3 concentrations exceeded Indonesia’ s national threshold in Jakarta. In Bogor, 0.1% surpassed the threshold during 3 years of available data records. The monthly average of maximum daily 8-h average (MDA8) O3 anomalies exhibited a downward trend at Jakarta sites while increasing at the rural site of Bogor. Meteorological and anthropogenic drivers contribute 30% and 70%, respectively, to the interannual O3 anomalies in Jakarta. Ozone formation sensitivity with satellite demonstrates that a slight decrease in NO2 and an increase in HCHO contributed to declining O3 in Jakarta with 10 years average of HCHO to NO2 ratio (FNR) of 3.7. Conversely, O3 increases in rural areas with a higher FNR of 4.4, likely due to the contribution from the natural emission of O3 precursors and the influence of meteorological factors that magnify the concentration.
A systematic review of animal and human data comparing the nasal potential difference test between cystic fibrosis and control
Authors: Leenaars Cathalijn H. C. , Stafleu Frans R. , Häger Christine , Nieraad Hendrik , Bleich André
Published: April 2024

The nasal potential difference test (nPD) is an electrophysiological measurement which is altered in patients and animal models with cystic fibrosis (CF). Because protocols and outcomes vary substantially between laboratories, there are concerns over its validity and precision. We performed a systematic literature review (SR) of the nPD to answer the following review questions: A. Is the nasal potential difference similarly affected in CF patients and animal models?”, and B. “Is the nPD in human patients and animal models of CF similarly affected by various changes in the experimental set-up?”. The review protocol was preregistered on PROSPERO (CRD42021236047). We searched PubMed and Embase with comprehensive search strings. Two independent reviewers screened all references for inclusion and extracted all data. Included were studies about CF which described in vivo nPD measurements in separate CF and control groups. Risk of bias was assessed, and three meta-analyses were performed. We included 130 references describing nPD values for CF and control subjects, which confirmed substantial variation in the experimental design and nPD outcome between groups. The meta-analyses showed a clear difference in baseline nPD values between CF and control subjects, both in animals and in humans. However, baseline nPD values were, on average, lower in animal than in human studies. Reporting of experimental details was poor for both animal and human studies, and urgently needs to improve to ensure reproducibility of experiments within and between species.
Diffraction-based approach for real-time monitoring of nanosecond direct laser interference patterning structure formation on stainless steel
Authors: Tabares Ignacio , Soldera Marcos , Voisiat Bogdan , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: April 2024

Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) stands out as a versatile and cost-effective method for functionalizing material surfaces at high throughputs. Monitoring the dynamics of the structure formation can lead to a deeper understanding of the interplay between the main factors governing the process and ultimately to optimize the final texture. Here, the formation of gratings on stainless steel by DLIP with ns-pulses is studied using a diffraction-based approach, which measures the time-resolved reflectivity (TRR) of the sample. Measurements are performed for single pulses across different laser fluences. The melting dynamics are analyzed and compared with numerical results. By correlating the recorded signals with the structure depths, growth rates of 11 nm/ns and 57 nm/ns were estimated for fluences of 1.9 J/cm2 and 5.3 J/cm2, respectively. Furthermore, two growth regimes are identified. In the fast growth phase, the melting time increased from 73 to 380 ns for fluences of 1.9 J/cm2 and 5.9 J/cm2, respectively, showing a good agreement with the performed thermal simulations.
Enhancing hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride hydrolysis and the role of a Co/CuFe2O4 nanocatalyst in a continuous flow system
Authors: Mirshafiee Faezeh , Rezaei Mehran
Published: April 2024

In this study, a series of cobalt-based spinel ferrites catalysts, including nickel, cobalt, zinc, and copper ferrites, were synthesized using the sol–gel auto-combustion method followed by a chemical reduction process. These catalysts were employed for accelerating hydrogen generation via the sodium borohydride hydrolysis process. A continuous stirred tank reactor was used to perform catalytic reactor tests. All samples were subjected to analysis using XRD, FESEM, EDX, FTIR, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption techniques. The results revealed that the cobalt-based copper ferrite sample, Co/Cu-Ferrite, exhibited superior particle distribution, and porosity characteristics, as it achieved a high hydrogen generation rate of 2937 mL/min.gcat. In addition, the higher electrical donating property of Cu-Ferrite which leads to the increase in the electron density of the cobalt active sites can account for its superior performance towards hydrolysis of NaBH4. Using the Arrhenius equation and the zero-order reaction calculation, activation energy for the sodium borohydride hydrolysis reaction on the Co/Cu-Ferrite catalyst was determined to be 18.12 kJ/mol. This low activation energy compared to other cobalt-based spinel ferrite catalysts confirms the catalyst's superior performance as well. Additionally, the outcomes from the recycling experiments revealed a gradual decline in the catalyst's performance after each cycle during 4 repetitive cycles. The aforementioned properties render the Co/Cu-Ferrite catalyst an efficient catalyst for hydrogen generation through NaBH4 hydrolysis.
Analysis of spatial characteristics and influencing factors of the flow network of highly educated talents from national and local perspective
Authors: Shi Wentian , Yang Wenlong , Mu Xueying , Yang Fan
Published: April 2024

Based on dynamic monitoring data on China’s population, by using complex networks, spatial analysis and mathematical measurement, this study reveals the spatial characteristics and influencing factors of the network of flows of highly educated talents in the Yangtze River Delta region from the national and local perspectives. In the two perspectives, the network has strong isomorphism and certain differences. The in-flow of highly educated talents from cities with high administrative levels and more developed economies to Shanghai constitutes the core of the entire network. From a national perspective, highly educated talents tend to converge to the Yangtze River Delta region. From a local perspective, it was found that these talents cluster towards a limited number of cities in the region. From both perspectives, the flow network has developed into a “core-periphery” progressive hierarchical structure, with Shanghai becoming the sole core city. There is little difference in the influencing factors of talent mobility from both macro and meso perspectives. Highly educated talents would frequently flow between cities with strong economic development levels, and cities with high education level, scientific and technological level, complete infrastructure, and good aesthetics. However, geographical distance still plays a hindering role in the flow of highly educated talents, and factors such as cultural identity, institutional, and social modality differences among regions also have a certain effect on the flow of these talents.
Surface charge-dependent cytokine production using near-infrared emitting silicon quantum dots
Authors: Chinnathambi Shanmugavel , Shirahata Naoto , Lesani Pooria , Thangavel Vaijayanthi , Pandian Ganesh N.
Published: April 2024

Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR-9) is a protein that helps our immune system identify specific DNA types. Upon detection, CpG oligodeoxynucleotides signal the immune system to generate cytokines, essential proteins that contribute to the body’s defence against infectious diseases. Native phosphodiester type B CpG ODNs induce only Interleukin-6 with no effect on interferon-α. We prepared silicon quantum dots containing different surface charges, such as positive, negative, and neutral, using amine, acrylate-modified Plouronic F-127, and Plouronic F-127. Then, class B CpG ODNs are loaded on the surface of the prepared SiQDs. The uptake of ODNs varies based on the surface charge; positively charged SiQDs demonstrate higher adsorption compared to SiQDs with negative and neutral surface charges. The level of cytokine production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was found to be associated with the surface charge of SiQDs prior to the binding of the CpG ODNs. Significantly higher levels of IL-6 and IFN-α induction were observed compared to neutral and negatively charged SiQDs loaded with CpG ODNs. This observation strongly supports the notion that the surface charge of SiQDs effectively regulates cytokine induction.
Metallic local-moment magnetocalorics as a route to cryogenic refrigeration
Authors: Gruner Thomas , Chen Jiasheng , Jang Dongjin , Banda Jacintha , Geibel Christoph , Brando Manuel , Grosche F. Malte
Published: April 2024

Commercial adiabatic demagnetisation refrigerators still employ the same hydrated salts that were first introduced over 85 years ago. The inherent limitations of these insulating magnetocalorics – poor thermal conductivity at sub-Kelvin temperatures, low entropy density, corrosiveness – can be overcome by a new generation of rare-earth based metallic magnetocalorics. Here, we present the metallic magnetocaloric YbNi1.6Sn as an attractive alternative to conventional refrigerants. YbNi1.6Sn retains high entropy into the 100 mK regime and avoids the noble metal constituents of alternative refrigerants. Demagnetisation tests demonstrate that YbNi1.6Sn enables economical and durable alternatives to traditional cooling devices for temperatures reaching below 120 mK. We find that the magnetocaloric properties of this material are facilitated by unusually small Kondo and RKKY interactions, which position YbNi1.6Sn in the extreme local moment limit on the generalised Kondo lattice phase diagram.
Aryl ether-free polymer electrolytes for electrochemical and energy devices
Authors: Park Eun Joo , Jannasch Patric , Miyatake Kenji , Bae Chulsung , Noonan Kevin , Fujimoto Cy , Holdcroft Steven , Varcoe John R. , Henkensmeier Dirk , Guiver Michael D. , Kim Yu Seung
Published: April 2024

This review provides a depth of knowledge on the synthesis, properties and performance of aryl ether-free anion exchange polymer electrolytes for electrochemical and energy devices.
A microfluidic-based quantitative analysis system for the multiplexed genetic diagnosis of human viral infections using colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification
Authors: Natsuhara Daigo , Miyajima Akira , Bussho Tomoya , Okamoto Shunya , Nagai Moeto , Ihira Masaru , Shibata Takayuki
Published: April 2024

We developed a microfluidic-based system employing the colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification for the quantitative analysis of nucleic acid targets.
Acrylamide in food products and the role of electrochemical biosensors in its detection: a comprehensive review
Authors: Bounegru Alexandra Virginia , Bounegru Iulian
Published: April 2024

This review highlights the complexity of acrylamide formation and detection in foods, emphasizing the importance of electrochemical biosensors and the ongoing need for research progress to ensure food safety.
Correction: High-resolution magic-angle spinning NMR metabolic profiling with spatially localized spectroscopy under slow sample spinning
Authors: Wong Alan
Published: April 2024

Correction for ‘High-resolution magic-angle spinning NMR metabolic profiling with spatially localized spectroscopy under slow sample spinning’ by Alan Wong, Anal. Methods, 2023, 15, 6302–6308, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3AY01812A.
Organophotoelectrocatalytic C(sp2)–H alkylation of heteroarenes with unactivated C(sp3)–H compounds
Authors: Wan Qinhui , Wu Xia-Die , Hou Zhong-Wei , Ma Yongmin , Wang Lei
Published: April 2024

An organophotoelectrocatalytic method for the C(sp2)–H alkylation of heteroarenes with unactivated C(sp3)–H compounds via dehydrogenation cross-coupling was developed.
High adsorption of ammonia in a titanium-based metal–organic framework
Authors: Zeng Xiangdi , Li Jiangnan , He Meng , Lu Wanpeng , Crawshaw Danielle , Guo Lixia , Ma Yujie , Kippax-Jones Meredydd , Cheng Yongqiang , Manuel Pascal , Rudić Svemir , Frogley Mark D. , Schröder Martin , Yang Sihai
Published: April 2024

A robust titanium-based metal–organic framework, MFM-300(Ti), exhibits an exceptional NH3 adsorption of 23.4 mmol g−1 with a record-high packing density of 0.84 g cm−3, promoted by strong binding interactions of NH3 to the framework oxygen sites.
Effect and mechanism analysis of surface hydrogenation and fluorination on the electronic properties of th-GeC2
Authors: Luo Guihong , Yang Ying , Zhu Yajie , Peng Xihong , He Li
Published: April 2024

Hydrogenation and fluorination can realize the interconversion of metallic-semiconductor characteristics, tailored band structures, and electronic properties in th-GeC2. The σ + π double bonds determine the electronic properties of th-GeC2.
Band alignment and interfacial charge transfer in sol–gel derived anatase/rutile heterophase TiO2: explaining the synergistic photocatalytic activity
Authors: A. V. Nimmy , V. M. Anandakumar , V. Biju
Published: April 2024

The synergistic photocatalysis in anatase/rutile heterophase TiO2 is explained by determining the band alignment and possible charge transfer across the interface using two distinct experimental techniques.
Co nanoparticle-decorated radix cynanchi daniculati-derived carbon for efficient electrocatalytic nitrite reduction to ammonia
Authors: Ma Chengliang , Bao Li , Fan Xiaoya , He Xun , Liu Xuwei , Chu Wei , Farouk Asmaa , Hamdy Mohamed S. , Sun Shengjun , Li Quan , Wu Min , Sun Xuping
Published: April 2024

As an efficient catalyst for NH3 production via NO2− reduction, Co nanoparticles decorated radix cynanchi paniculati-derived carbon exhibits a high faradaic efficiency of 92.77% with a NH3 yield of 1235.62 μmol h−1 cm−2 at −0.8 V.
Modulating anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties by designing a family of metal-complexes based on 5-nitropicolinic acid
Authors: García-García Amalia , Medina-O'donnell Marta , Rojas Sara , Cano-Morenilla Mariola , Morales Juan , Quesada-Moreno María Mar , Sainz Juan , Vitorica-Yrezabal Iñigo J. , Rodríguez-Diéguez Antonio , Navarro Amparo , Reyes-Zurita Fernando J.
Published: April 2024

Transition metals and 5-nitropicolinic acid were used to create a novel family of metal-complexes. Apart from studying their luminescence properties for bio-imaging, their potential as anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents was assessed.
Vanadium(v) complexes derived from triphenylphosphonium and hydrazides: cytotoxicity evaluation and interaction with biomolecules
Authors: Martins Francisco Mainardi , Iglesias Bernardo Almeida , Chaves Otávio Augusto , Gutknecht da Silva Jean Lucas , Leal Daniela Bitencourt Rosa , Back Davi Fernando
Published: April 2024

This work presents the synthesis, characterization, interactions, and cytotoxicity of dioxidovanadium(v) complexes (C1–C5) with a triphenylphosphonium moiety.
Simultaneous manipulation of iron(ii) spin crossover and LIESST behaviour using pressure, temperature and light
Authors: Handzlik Gabriela , Dziubek Kamil F. , Hanfland Michael , Pinkowicz Dawid
Published: April 2024

Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies of a spin crossover coordination polymer under simultaneous control of temperature, pressure, and light.
Dinuclear ytterbium(iii) benzamidinate complexes with bridging S32−, Se22− and Te22− ligands: synthesis, structure and magnetic properties
Authors: Ma Ying-Zhao , Yu Lian , Zhou Qi , Fu Wensheng
Published: April 2024

The reduction of S8, Se or Te by an Yb(ii) benzamidinate complex afforded a series of dinuclear Yb(iii) chalcogenides and the Te22− bridging one is a rare ytterbium telluride single molecule magnet.
Naphthalimide functionalized metal–organic framework for rapid and nanomolar level detection of hydrazine and anti-hypertensive drug nicardipine
Authors: Hossain Sk Sakir , Volkmer Dirk , Biswas Shyam
Published: April 2024

A naphthalimide functionalized Zr(iv)-MOF achieved ultrafast, nanomolar level fluorometric detection of hydrazine and anti-hypertensive drug nicardipine in real samples.
Theoretical prediction of the electronic structure, optical properties and contact characteristics of a type-I MoS2/MoGe2N4 heterostructure towards optoelectronic devices
Authors: Nguyen S. T. , Pham K. D.
Published: April 2024

The combination of two different 2D semiconductors to generate van der Waals heterostructures is an effective strategy to tailor their physical properties, paving the way for the development of next-generation devices with improved performance and functionality.
Lactobacillus plantarum AR495 improves colonic transport hyperactivity in irritable bowel syndrome through tryptophan metabolism
Authors: Zhang Hongyun , Xia Yongjun , Wang Guangqiang , Xiong Zhiqiang , Wei Guoliang , Liao Zhuan , Qian Yangyan , Cai Zongwei , Ai Lianzhong
Published: April 2024

L. plantarum AR495 could restore the normal levels of 5-HT by inhibiting the abnormal proliferation of enterochromaffin cells and the excessive activation of TPH1 to inhibit the intestinal peristalsis in IBS.
Boosting the catalytic performance of Ru nanoparticles in the cleavage of β-O-4 linkages in lignin by doping Mo
Authors: Lei Puyi , Zhang Jiali , Shen Wenzhuo , Zhong Min , Guo Shouwu
Published: April 2024

The catalytic activities of Ru nanoparticles on rGO can be regulated/boosted by doping Mo properly.
Room temperature chemical transformation of SnSe to Ag2Se nanocrystals via cation exchange
Authors: Huang Yiqiao , Poudeu Pierre F. P.
Published: April 2024

Atomic-scale control of the chemical composition of semiconductor nanocrystals through a cation exchange reaction affords greater tunability in the design of multifunctional semiconductor composite nanocrystals.
PVA–CS polymeric system conjugated with GO–ZnO–Ag2O ternary composite – a multifunctional nanocomposite for wound healing applications
Authors: Unnikrishnan Gayathri , Joy Anjumol , Megha M. , Thomas Jibu , Haris M. , Kolanthai Elayaraja , Muthuswamy Senthilkumar
Published: April 2024

PVA–CS polymeric matrix reinforced with GO–ZnO–Ag2O ternary nanocomposite resulting in an electroactive, antibacterial and cytocompatible polymer nanocomposite, ideal for wound healing applications.
Investigation of protein/DNA binding, and in vitro cytotoxicity of novel Cu(ii) and Zn(ii)-dipyrazinyl pyridine complexes
Authors: Sarkar Parnashabari , Gogoi Munmi , Palo Sonali , Udaya Kumar A. H. , Sutradhar Sourav , Das Dipankar , Lokanath N. K. , Verma Akalesh Kumar , Ghosh Biswa Nath
Published: April 2024

Novel Cu(ii) and Zn(ii) complexes of a dipyrazinyl pyridine (dppy) ligand L, {[CuL2]Cl2 (1) and [ZnL2]Cl2 (2)}, have been prepared and their binding affinity with protein/DNA and in vitro cytotoxicity have been studied.
Advances in the total synthesis of bis- and tris-indole alkaloids containing N-heterocyclic linker moieties
Authors: Dvorak Kyra R. , Tepe Jetze J.
Published: April 2024

This review highlights advances in isolation and synthesis of bis- and tris-indole alkaloids containing N-heterocyclic linker moieties. Natural products in this class are of particular significance due to their potent biological activities.
Visible-light-induced C(sp3)–H bromination of 4-methylthiophene derivatives with HBr/H2O2
Authors: Song Wenbo , Ma Ming , Zhang Wenjing , Feng Ranran , Lu Congcong , Zhang Hong-Yu , Zhang Yuecheng , Zhao Jiquan
Published: April 2024

A method to synthesize ethyl 4-(bromomethyl)thiophene-3-carboxylate derivatives utilizing HBr as the bromo source and H2O2 as the green oxidant under mild conditions is described. Preliminary synthetic applications and scale up experiments are also presented.
Solvent effects on surface-grafted and solution-born poly[N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide] during surface-initiated RAFT polymerization
Authors: Wang Yu-Min , Kálosi Anna , Halahovets Yuriy , Beneš Hynek , de los Santos Pereira Andres , Pop-Georgievski Ognen
Published: April 2024

Solvent effects influence grafting density and cause discrepancy between molar mass of surface-grafted and solution-born poly[N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide] during surface-initiated RAFT polymerization.
Colorimetric detection of Hg2+ based on the enhanced oxidase-mimic activity of CuO/Au@Cu3(BTC)2 triggered by Hg2+
Authors: Yang Min , Wang Jian , Xue Xuan , Jiang Hechun
Published: April 2024

A colorimetric method was designed for Hg2+ detection based on the enhanced oxidase-mimic activity of CuO/Au@Cu3(BTC)2.
In vitro encapsulation and expansion of T and CAR-T cells using 3D synthetic thermo-responsive matrices
Authors: Lizana-Vasquez Gaby D. , Mendez-Vega Janet , Cappabianca Dan , Saha Krishanu , Torres-Lugo Madeline
Published: April 2024

This work employed a biocompatible and synthetic-based thermo-responsive material with tailored mechanical properties as a potential macro-scale scaffold to support ex vivo T and CAR-T cell encapsulation and culture.
Scanning electrochemical microscopy for the differentiation of radical-induced degradation mechanisms in polymer electrolyte membranes
Authors: Thiel Susanne , Eichelbaum Maik
Published: April 2024

In this work, a spatially resolved analytical method based on scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) to distinguish different degradation phenomena in polymer electrolyte membranes was developed.
Automatic microdispenser-integrated multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay device with autonomously driven centrifugal microfluidic system
Authors: Okamoto Shunya , Nagai Moeto , Shibata Takayuki , Ukita Yoshiaki
Published: April 2024

A design theory for an autonomously driven dispenser was established. The multiplexed ELISA device was integrated with the dispenser and CLOCK circuits, and successfully prepared a calibration curve of mouse IgG by rotating at a constant speed.
Mild and catalytic electrocyclizations of heptatrienyl anions
Authors: Rasheed Faizan , Nikolaev Andrei , Dhesi Anmol , Zeng Tao , Guo You Xuan , Krishna Yarkali , Komijani Samira , Orellana Arturo
Published: April 2024

We report the synthesis of functionalized cycloheptanes by thermal electrocyclization of heptatrienyl anions under mild conditions.
Revolutionizing lignin photovalorization: recent advances in TiO2-based materials and beyond in pursuit of optimal solutions for a sustainable future
Authors: Sultana Sabiha , Syrek Karolina , Sulka Grzegorz D.
Published: April 2024

An overview of heterogeneous photocatalytic lignin conversion to value-added feedstock; cutting-edge research for a sustainable future.
In situ single-droplet analysis of emulsified fat using confocal Raman microscopy: insights into crystal network formation within spatial resolution
Authors: Neofytos Dionysios D. , Gregersen Sandra Beyer , Andersen Ulf , Corredig Milena
Published: April 2024

Confocal Raman imaging reveals how emulsifier type and concentration as well as cooling rate, impact crystal nucleation and crystal network formation in fat droplets, highlighting crucial insights into structure formation, in spatial resolution.
Significant anisotropic deformation and optical shifts in stretched cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Mori Saki , Takagi Hideaki , Shimizu Nobutaka , Igarashi Noriyuki , Sakurai Shinichi , Urayama Kenji
Published: April 2024

Stretching cholesteric elastomer films perpendicular to the helical axis yields a blue shift in the reflection band and significant anisotropic contractions, leading to a reduction in reflection selectivity.
The construction of a photocatalytic fuel cell based on piezoelectric-enhanced dual heterojunctions of PVDF–HFP supported 2D/3D composites toward photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline
Authors: Yu Tingting , Yang Bing , Deng Ran , Yang Tao , Jiang Jizhou
Published: April 2024

Degradation sketch of a membrane fuel cell system constructed from I- and S-scheme heterojunction electrodes.
Porous reticular Co@Fe metal–organic gel: dual–function simulated peroxidase nanozyme for both colorimetric sensing and antibacterial applications
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhu Xiaoguang , Yin Yannan , Ling Guixia , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2024

The novel material Co@Fe MOG was designed to treat infected wounds in wound healing. ROS induced by electron transfer between Fe3+/Fe2+ and Co2+/Co3+ was the basis for colorimetric sensing and the non-antibiotic antibacterial activity.
Influence of dimensionality on optical properties of doped assembly of gold nanoclusters
Authors: Dolai Santanu , Basu Srestha , Paul Anumita
Published: April 2024

Doping-induced size variation and optical property shift in gold nanocluster assemblies are reported.
Raman spectroscopy in the study of amyloid formation and phase separation
Authors: Ramos Sashary , Lee Jennifer C.
Published: April 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, share a common pathological feature of amyloid structure accumulation. However, the structure-function relationship between these well-ordered, β-sheet-rich, filamentous protein deposits and disease etiology remains to be defined. Recently, an emerging hypothesis has linked phase separation, a process involved in the formation of protein condensates, to amyloid formation, suggesting that liquid protein droplets serve as loci for amyloid initiation. To elucidate how these processes contribute to disease progression, tools that can directly report on protein secondary structural changes are needed. Here, we review recent studies that have demonstrated Raman spectroscopy as a powerful vibrational technique for interrogating amyloid structures; one that offers sensitivity from the global secondary structural level to specific residues. This probe-free technique is further enhanced via coupling to a microscope, which affords structural data with spatial resolution, known as Raman spectral imaging (RSI). In vitro and in cellulo applications of RSI are discussed, highlighting studies of protein droplet aging, cellular internalization of fibrils, and Raman imaging of intracellular water. Collectively, utilization of the myriad Raman spectroscopic methods will contribute to a deeper understanding of protein conformational dynamics in the complex cellular milieu and offer potential clinical diagnostic capabilities for protein misfolding and aggregation processes in disease states.
Correlation of Grading and Number of Ear Subunits With Auditory Brainstem Response Findings in Children With Microtia
Authors: Widodo Dini Widiarni , Zizlavsky Semiramis
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

The association between microtia severity and hearing function has been thoroughly investigated. This study examined the relationship between microtia grade, number of ear subunits (i.e., helix, antihelix, scapha, triangularis fossa, concha, lobule, tragus, and antitragus) with auditory brainstem response (ABR) findings in children with microtia.

Study Design:

A retrospective chart review was employed in this study.

Method:

We analyzed the ABR test results and photographs of 22 children with 30 microtia ears at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Hospital, Jakarta. The ABR test results were acquired using click (air conduction only) and 500-Hz tone burst stimuli (air- and bone-conduction). Ear photographs were overlaid with a template of a normal ear to determine the number of ear subunits present and the subsequent microtia grade. Number of ear subunits and ABR results were analyzed using the chi-square, Mann–Whitney
U
, and Spearman's correlation tests.

Results:

ABR thresholds for click and 500-Hz tone bursts air-conduction were significantly poorer for ears with a subunit < 5 compared to ears with a subunit ≥ 5. No significant difference was observed in 500 Hz bone-conduction ABR thresholds between these groups. Correlation analysis showed a significant negative correlation between increased ear subunits and click ABR thresholds. No significant correlation was found between ear subunits and 500-Hz air- and bone-conduction ABR thresholds.

Conclusions:

A higher number of ear subunits are associated with a lower hearing threshold, as assessed using ABR with click stimuli. Therefore, the number of ear subunits and microtia grades can be used to examine the hearing level thresholds in infants and children with microtia.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25669440
Core loss determination in electric machines using short‐time transient thermal measurements
Authors: Osemwinyen Osaruyi , Hemeida Ahmed , Martin Floran , Gürbüz Ismet Tuna , Belahcen Anouar
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a novel application of the inverse modelling method, which is designed to estimate core losses in both the stator and rotor regions of an electrical machine. The technique focuses on the use of short‐term transient temperature measurements obtained from the stator core of a slotless induction machine, with a focus on validating the measured temperature rise through a forward model. The measurement setup involves two primary approaches: (i) the use of thermal sensors embedded in a printed circuit board inside the stator core and (ii) surface sensors embedded on the stator yoke. Through the use of this innovative approach, the results indicate that the inverse modelling technique is highly effective in predicting core losses based on short‐time transient temperature rise measurements.
Accurate reference spectra of HD in an H2–He bath for planetary applications
Authors: Jóźwiak H. , Stolarczyk N. , Stankiewicz K. , Zaborowski M. , Lisak D. , Wójtewicz S. , Jankowski P. , Patkowski K. , Szalewicz K. , Thibault F. , Gordon I. E. , Wcisło P.
Published: April 2024

Context. The hydrogen deuteride (HD) molecule is an important deuterium tracer in astrophysical studies. The atmospheres of gas giants are dominated by molecular hydrogen, and the simultaneous observation of H2 and HD lines provides reliable information on the D/H ratios on these planets. The reference spectroscopic parameters play a crucial role in such studies. Under the thermodynamic conditions encountered in these atmospheres, spectroscopic studies of HD require not only the knowledge of line intensities and positions but also accurate reference data on pressure-induced line shapes and shifts.

Aims. Our aim is to provide accurate collision-induced line-shape parameters for HD lines that cover any thermodynamic conditions relevant to the atmospheres of giant planets, namely any relevant temperature, pressure, and perturbing gas composition (the H2–He mixture).

Methods. We performed quantum-scattering calculations on our new, highly accurate ab initio potential energy surface (PES), and we used scattering S matrices obtained in this way to determine the collision-induced line-shape parameters. We used cavity ring-down spectroscopy to validate our theoretical methodology.

Results. We report accurate collision-induced line-shape parameters for the pure rotational R(0), R(1), and R(2) lines, the most relevant HD lines for investigations of the atmospheres of the giant planets. Besides the basic Voigt-profile collisional parameters (i.e., the broadening and shift parameters), we also report their speed dependences and the complex Dicke parameter, which can influence the effective width and height of the HD lines up to almost a factor of 2 for giant planet conditions. The sub-percent-level accuracy reached in this work is a considerable improvement over previously available data. All the reported parameters (and their temperature dependences) are consistent with the HITRAN database format, hence allowing for the use of the HITRAN Application Programming Interface (HAPI) for generating the beyond-Voigt spectra of HD.
Gaia DR3 detectability of unresolved binary systems
Authors: Castro-Ginard Alfred , Penoyre Zephyr , Casey Andrew R. , Brown Anthony G. A. , Belokurov Vasily , Cantat-Gaudin Tristan , Drimmel Ronald , Fouesneau Morgan , Khanna Shourya , Kurbatov Evgeny P. , Price-Whelan Adrian M. , Rix Hans-Walter , Smart Richard L.
Published: April 2024

Context.Gaia cannot individually resolve very close binary systems; however, the collected data can still be used to identify them. A powerful indicator of stellar multiplicity is the sources’ reported re-normalised unit weight error (RUWE), which effectively captures the astrometric deviations from single-source solutions.

Aims. We aim to characterise the impact of binarity on the RUWE. By flagging potential binary systems based on RUWE, we aim to determine which of their properties will contribute the most to their detectability.

Methods. We developed a model to estimate the RUWEs for observations of Gaia sources, based on the biases to the single-source astrometric track arising from the presence of an unseen companion. Then, using the recipes from previous GaiaUnlimited selection functions, we estimated the selection probability of sources with high RUWEs, and discussed what binary properties contribute to increasing the sources’ RUWEs.

Results. We computed the maximum RUWE that is compatible with single-source solutions as a function of their location on-sky. We see that binary systems selected as sources with a RUWE higher than this sky-varying threshold have a strong detectability window in their orbital period distribution, which peaks at periods equal to the Gaia observation time baseline.

Conclusions. We demonstrate how our sky-varying RUWE threshold provides a more complete sample of binary systems when compared to single sky-averaged values by studying the unresolved binary population in the Gaia Catalogue of Nearby Stars. We provide the code and tools used in this study, as well as the sky-varying RUWE threshold, through the GaiaUnlimited Python package.
Results of acceptance tests of the disk plow for tillage in agriculture
Authors: Ishmuradov Shukhrat , Abdumajidov Rustamjon
Published: April 2024

Soil is the main natural resource for agriculture. All vital crops necessary for humanity and livestock are cultivated in it. As a result, a lot of research is being done on the creation of new technical tools and technologies for agriculture, including soil cultivation. The following years, disk plows, the working tools are in the shape of a spherical disk, have been widely used for plowing all over the world. Due to the fact that in addition to the forward movement of the working parts, the disc plows have less traction resistance than rotary plows and work without getting stuck in weeds and plant residues. In addition, disk plows are simpler in design than rotary plows, require less care and maintenance, as the cutting blades wear less and are constantly self-sharpening (due to rotation), and due to their length (compared to plow plows), disks work several times longer than plows with plowshares. The developed disc plow provides better soil compaction than a tipping plow, i.e. the number of fractions less than 50 mm in the area of its passage was 3.1-4.3 percent more, and the number of fractions more than 100 mm was 2.0-3 decreased by 6 percent.