bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prospective effect of fucoidan on splenic dysfunction caused by oxaliplatin in male rats through endoplasmic stress dynamics
Authors: Basha Eman H. , ElShamy Amira M. , Ibrahim Hoda A. , Safa Mohamed A. , Heabah Nehal A. E. , Awad Radwa , Ismail Radwa , Amer Rabab M. , Salem Ola M. , Faheem Heba , El-Harty Yasmeen M.
Published: December 2022

Fucoidans (FUCs) are highly sulfated polysaccharides demonstrating multiple actions in different systems. Oxaliplatin (OXA) is a platinum-containing chemotherapeutic agent with several side effects that restrict its usage. The current study aimed to determine the potential effect of FUC in male rats with splenic dysfunction induced by OXA. Eighty adult male rats aged (8–9 weeks) weighing (190–230 g) were divided into four groups: (Group I: the control group): Rats were administrated normal saline; (Group II: controls treated by FUC): Rats were treated with FUC; (Group III: Splenic dysfunction group): Rats were treated with 8 mg/kg OXA. (IV: Splenic dysfunction treated by FUC): Rats were treated by OXA as Group III, then fucoidan was given. At the end of the experiment, blood was collected to determine red blood cells and white blood cells. Splenic tissues were divided into one part for biochemical assays, oxidative stress markers as MDA and catalase, inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha, IL6), and apoptotic markers (caspase 3) and gene expression of Nrf2, Mapk1 gene expression, and endoplasmic stress parameters and the other part was used for immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. Compared to the OXA-induced splenic dysfunction group, FUC significantly decreased high levels of MDA, TNF- alpha, IL6, caspase-3, Mapk1, endoplasmic stress induced by OXA, and increased the level of catalase and Nrf2. Fucoidan has corrected the histopathological and immunohistochemical changes compared to the OXA-induced splenic dysfunction group. In conclusion, our findings suggest that fucoidan has a significant role in the treatment of splenic dysfunction induced by OXA.
Effects of thickened carbonated cola in older patients with dysphagia
Authors: Saiki Akino , Yoshimi Kanako , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Nagasawa Yuki , Yoshizawa Akira , Yanagida Ryosuke , Yamaguchi Kohei , Nakane Ayako , Maeda Keisuke , Tohara Haruka
Published: December 2022

Carbonated beverages initiate the swallowing reflex earlier than water and have a shorter pharyngeal transit time. However, the effects of carbonation in thickened beverages of the same flavor on swallowing dynamics have not been reported. Therefore, we investigated the effects of thickened carbonated beverages on swallowing in patients with dysphagia by comparing the swallowing dynamics between thickened carbonated and thickened non-carbonated beverages. We enrolled 38 patients with dysphagia and divided them into two groups. Thickened carbonated and thickened non-carbonated beverages were used. Videoendoscopic swallowing evaluations were performed. Aspiration, penetration, pharyngeal residue, and initiation position of the swallowing reflex were evaluated. The reduction in the amount of residue in both the vallecula (p = 0.007) and pyriform sinus (p = 0.004) was greater after ingestion of thickened carbonated cola than thickened non-carbonated cola. The onset of the swallowing reflex was significantly earlier after ingestion of thickened carbonated cola than thickened non-carbonated cola (p = 0.007). There were no significant differences in the extent of penetration. Thickened carbonated beverages positively affected swallowing compared with thickened non-carbonated beverages. Thus, the use of thickened carbonated beverages may be helpful for patients with dysphagia.
2-D sex images elicit mate copying in fruit flies
Authors: Nöbel Sabine , Monier Magdalena , Villa David , Danchin Étienne , Isabel Guillaume
Published: December 2022

Although the environment is three-dimensional (3-D), humans are able to extract subtle information from two-dimensional (2-D) images, particularly in the domain of sex. However, whether animals with simpler nervous systems are capable of such information extraction remains to be demonstrated, as this ability would suggest a functional generalisation capacity. Here, we performed mate-copying experiments inDrosophila melanogasterusing 2-D artificial stimuli. Mate copying occurs when naïve females observe the mating success of potential mates and use that social information to build their own mating preference. By replacing live demonstrations with (i) photos or (ii) simplified images of copulating pairs, we found that even crudely simplified images of sexual intercourse still elicit mate copying, suggesting thatDrosophilais able to extract sex-related information even from a degraded image. This new method constitutes a powerful tool to further investigate mate copying in that species and sexual preferences in general.
Blood-based gene expression as non-lethal tool for inferring salinity-habitat history of European eel (Anguilla anguilla)
Authors: Bertolini Francesca , Rohtla Mehis , Parzanini Camilla , Tomkiewicz Jonna , Durif Caroline M. F.
Published: December 2022

The European eel is a facultative catadromous species, meaning that it can skip the freshwater phase or move between marine and freshwater habitats during its continental life stage. Otolith microchemistry, used to determine the habitat use of eel or its salinity history, requires the sacrifice of animals. In this context, blood-based gene expression may represent a non-lethal alternative. In this work, we tested the ability of blood transcriptional profiling to identify the different salinity-habitat histories of European eel. Eels collected from different locations in Norway were classified through otolith microchemistry as freshwater residents (FWR), seawater residents (SWR) or inter-habitat shifters (IHS). We detected 3451 differentially expressed genes from blood by comparing FWR and SWR groups, and then used that subset of genes in a machine learning approach (i.e., random forest) to the extended FWR, SWR, and IHS group. Random forest correctly classified 100% of FWR and SWR and 83% of the IHS using a minimum of 30 genes. The implementation of this non-lethal approach may replace otolith-based microchemistry analysis for the general assessment of life-history tactics in European eels. Overall, this approach is promising for the replacement or reduction of other lethal analyses in determining certain fish traits.
Neural Inverse Design of Nanostructures (NIDN)
Authors: Gómez Pablo , Toftevaag Håvard Hem , Bogen-Storø Torbjørn , Aranguren van Egmond Derek , Llorens José M.
Published: December 2022

In the recent decade, computational tools have become central in material design, allowing rapid development cycles at reduced costs. Machine learning tools are especially on the rise in photonics. However, the inversion of the Maxwell equations needed for the design is particularly challenging from an optimization standpoint, requiring sophisticated software. We present an innovative, open-source software tool calledNeural Inverse Design of Nanostructures(NIDN) that allows designing complex, stacked material nanostructures using a physics-based deep learning approach. Instead of a derivative-free or data-driven optimization or learning method, we perform a gradient-based neural network training where we directly optimize the material and its structure based on its spectral characteristics. NIDN supports two different solvers, rigorous coupled-wave analysis and a finite-difference time-domain method. The utility and validity of NIDN are demonstrated on several synthetic examples as well as the design of a 1550 nm filter and anti-reflection coating. Results match experimental baselines, other simulation tools, and the desired spectral characteristics. Given its full modularity in regard to network architectures and Maxwell solvers as well as open-source, permissive availability, NIDN will be able to support computational material design processes in a broad range of applications.
The widely distributed soft coral Xenia umbellata exhibits high resistance against phosphate enrichment and temperature increase
Authors: Mezger Selma D. , Klinke Annabell , Tilstra Arjen , El-Khaled Yusuf C. , Thobor Bianca , Wild Christian
Published: December 2022

Both global and local factors affect coral reefs worldwide, sometimes simultaneously. An interplay of these factors can lead to phase shifts from hard coral dominance to algae or other invertebrates, particularly soft corals. However, most studies have targeted the effects of single factors, leaving pronounced knowledge gaps regarding the effects of combined factors on soft corals. Here, we investigated the single and combined effects of phosphate enrichment (1, 2, and 8 μM) and seawater temperature increase (26 to 32 °C) on the soft coralXenia umbellataby quantifying oxygen fluxes, protein content, and stable isotope signatures in a 5-week laboratory experiment. Findings revealed no significant effects of temperature increase, phosphate enrichment, and the combination of both factors on oxygen fluxes. However, regardless of the phosphate treatment, total protein content and carbon stable isotope ratios decreased significantly by 62% and 7% under temperature increase, respectively, suggesting an increased assimilation of their energy reserves. Therefore, we hypothesize that heterotrophic feeding may be important forX. umbellatato sustain their energy reserves under temperature increase, highlighting the advantages of a mixotrophic strategy. Overall,X. umbellatashows a high tolerance towards changes in global and local factors, which may explain their competitive advantage observed at many Indo-Pacific reef locations.
No evidence for an association between alcohol consumption and Multiple Sclerosis risk: a UK Biobank study
Authors: Dreyer-Alster Sapir , Achiron Anat , Giovannoni Gavin , Jacobs Benjamin M. , Dobson Ruth
Published: December 2022

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been linked to a variety of environmental risk factors, including smoking, Epstein-Barr Virus infection, and childhood obesity. There is some evidence to support a relationship between alcohol consumption and MS risk, but this finding has been inconsistent across cohorts. A protective link between alcohol consumption and MS risk is seen in Swedish and Danish cohorts, however evidence from other cohorts and mendelian randomisation studies have failed to support this relationship. We assessed the relationship between alcohol consumption (never vs. ever drinking) and MS in 409,228 individuals (2100 with MS) from UK Biobank (UKB). We used multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for age and sex. To determine whether there was evidence of statistical interaction between alcohol consumption and HLA-DRB1*15:01 genotype, we calculated interaction on the additive and multiplicative scales. We analysed data from 2100 individuals with MS (72.3% female, median age at recruitment 56) and 407,128 controls (53.9% female, median age at recruitment 58). We found no evidence for an association between alcohol consumption and MS risk (OR = 1.12, 95% CI 0.61–2.08, p = 0.314). As expected, the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele was strongly associated with MS risk (OR = 2.72, 95% CI 2.72–2.72, p < 2 × 10−16). We found no evidence of statistical interaction between non-drinking and MS risk on either the multiplicative scale (p = 0.8) or on the additive scale (Attributable Proportion = 0.03, 95% CI − 0.43–0.29, P = 0.45). Empirical power calculations indicated reasonable statistical power (85%) to detect a protective effect of alcohol consumption of Relative Risk ≤ 0.7. We were thus unable to replicate findings from other cohorts within UK Biobank. The inconsistent association seen between studies may reflect limited statistical power to detect a weak effect, differences in population characteristics, or the lack of a true causal association.
Photobiological production of high-value pigments via compartmentalized co-cultures using Ca-alginate hydrogels
Authors: Zhao Runyu , Sengupta Annesha , Tan Albern X. , Whelan Ryan , Pinkerton Taylor , Menasalvas Javier , Eng Thomas , Mukhopadhyay Aindrila , Jun Young-Shin , Pakrasi Himadri B. , Tang Yinjie J.
Published: December 2022

Engineered cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus can use light and CO2 to produce sucrose, making it a promising candidate for use in co-cultures with heterotrophic workhorses. However, this process is challenged by the mutual stresses generated from the multispecies microbial culture. Here we demonstrate an ecosystem where S. elongatus is freely grown in a photo-bioreactor (PBR) containing an engineered heterotrophic workhorse (either β-carotene-producing Yarrowia lipolytica or indigoidine-producing Pseudomonas putida) encapsulated in calcium-alginate hydrogel beads. The encapsulation prevents growth interference, allowing the cyanobacterial culture to produce high sucrose concentrations enabling the production of indigoidine and β-carotene in the heterotroph. Our experimental PBRs yielded an indigoidine titer of 7.5 g/L hydrogel and a β-carotene titer of 1.3 g/L hydrogel, amounts 15–22-fold higher than in a comparable co-culture without encapsulation. Moreover, 13C-metabolite analysis and protein overexpression tests indicated that the hydrogel beads provided a favorable microenvironment where the cell metabolism inside the hydrogel was comparable to that in a free culture. Finally, the heterotroph-containing hydrogels were easily harvested and dissolved by EDTA for product recovery, while the cyanobacterial culture itself could be reused for the next batch of immobilized heterotrophs. This co-cultivation and hydrogel encapsulation system is a successful demonstration of bioprocess optimization under photobioreactor conditions.
Switching azide and alkyne tags on bioorthogonal reporters in metabolic labeling of sialylated glycoconjugates: a comparative study
Authors: Scache Jodie , Rigolot Vincent , Lion Cédric , Mortuaire Marlène , Lefebvre Tony , Biot Christophe , Vercoutter-Edouart Anne-Sophie
Published: December 2022

Sialylation of cell surface glycans plays an essential role in cell–cell interaction and communication of cells with their microenvironment. Among the tools that have been developed for the study of sialylation in living cells, metabolic oligosaccharide engineering (MOE) exploits the biosynthetic pathway of sialic acid (Sia) to incorporate unnatural monosaccharides into nascent sialylatedglycoconjugates, followed by their detection by a bioorthogonal ligation of a molecular probe. Among bioorthogonal reactions, the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) is the only ligation where both reactive tags can be switched on the chemical reporter or on the probe, making this reaction very flexible and adaptable to various labeling strategies. Azide- and alkyne-modified ManNAc and Sia reporters have been widely used, but per-O-acetylated ManNAz (Ac4ManNAz) remains the most popular choice so far for tracking intracellular processing of sialoglycans and cell surface sialylation in various cells. Taking advantage of CuAAC, we compared the metabolic incorporation of ManNAl, ManNAz, SiaNAl, SiaNAz and Ac4ManNAz in the human colon cell lines CCD841CoN, HT29 and HCT116, and in the two gold standard cell lines, HEK293 and HeLa. Using complementary approaches, we showed marked differences in the efficiency of labeling of sialoglycoproteins between the different chemical reporters in a given cell line, and that switching the azide and alkyne bioorthogonal tags on the analogs highly impacted their metabolic incorporation in the human colon cell lines. Our results also indicated that ManNAz was the most promiscuous metabolized reporter to study sialylation in these cells.
Experimental study of an asymmetric valveless pump to elucidate insights into strategies for pediatric extravascular flow augmentation
Authors: Anatol J. , García-Díaz M. , Barrios-Collado C. , Moneo-Fernández J. A. , Horvath M. , Parra T. , Castro-Ruiz F. , Roche E. T. , Sierra-Pallares J.
Published: December 2022

Asymmetric pumping is a sub-category of valveless pumping in which a flexible tube is rhythmically compressed in the transverse symmetry plane. Due to the resulting asymmetry between the suction and discharge pipes, a net pumping head is achieved. Asymmetric pumping is regarded as one of the main mechanisms responsible for the Liebau effect in addition to impedance pumping. However, there remains a paucity of research surrounding the governing parameters of asymmetric pumping. Here, we conducted an experimental study of the performance of an asymmetric pump, with an aim to assess its potential for extravascular flow augmentation. A custom flexible latex tube and experimental platform were developed for this purpose. We tested various tube thicknesses and pinching frequencies. Our results demonstrate that the performance is within the range of physiological requirements for pediatric circulatory devices (~ 1 L/min and < 30 mmHg). We conclude that due to the absence of reverse flow and its mechanical simplicity, pure asymmetric pumping is promising for selected cardiovascular applications with less complexity than other valveless techniques.
Doctoral researchers’ mental health and PhD training satisfaction during the German COVID-19 lockdown: results from an international research sample
Authors: Naumann Sandra , Matyjek Magdalena , Bögl Katharina , Dziobek Isabel
Published: December 2022

Academia has been facing a mental health crisis particularly affecting early career researchers (ECRs). Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecedented burden on the mental health of many individuals. Therefore, we cross-sectionally investigated how doctoral researchers (N = 222) evaluate their mental health status and satisfaction with their PhD training before and during the pandemic. As compared to self-reported, retrospective evaluations about the pre-pandemic state, we found decreased satisfaction with PhD training and overall well-being. The whole sample exhibited high levels of personal and work-related burnout, a fifth indicated clinically meaningful levels of depressive symptoms and almost 25% experienced severe loneliness. When exploring predictors of depression, anxiety, and burnout, we identified low satisfaction with PhD training as the most prominent predictor for poor mental health, suggesting a link between the doctoral work and their mental health status. Females vs. males and doctoral researchers in individual doctorate vs. structured PhD programs reported higher symptoms of burnout. Our study replicates previous findings of poor mental health in doctoral researchers and indicates further decreases of mental wellbeing under the influence of the pandemic. Systematic adjustments in academia are required to improve the mental health of ECRs.
Psychometric functioning, measurement invariance, and external associations of the Relationship Assessment Scale in a sample of Polish Adults
Authors: Adamczyk Katarzyna , Kleka Paweł , Frydrychowicz Monika
Published: December 2022

The current article reports data from three Polish samples to examine the Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS) with respect to its unidimensionality, invariance across countries, gender, formal and informal relationships, degree of precision (or information) across latent levels of relationship satisfaction, and the functioning of individual items. The analyses of the data from the reference sample (n = 733) confirmed a clear 1-factor structure of the RAS-PL and good internal consistency. Configural, metric, and scalar invariance for countries (Poland, Hungary, USA), gender (women and men) and relationship types (formal and informal relationships) were achieved. Item Response Theory Analysis (IRT) suggested that the RAS-PL assesses relationship satisfaction most reliably at low to average levels. Analyses of the data from validation samples (n = 203 and n = 209) confirmed the convergent and divergent validity by weak, medium, and large correlations of the RAS-PL with measures of other theoretically related constructs. Concurrent criterion validity was demonstrated by a strong positive correlation between the RAS-PL and the intent to continue the current relationship. This investigation provides considerable psychometric information about the items and scale of the RAS-PL.
No difference in cerebral perfusion between the wild-type and the 5XFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: DeBay Drew R. , Phi Tân-Trào , Bowen Chris V. , Burrell Steven C. , Darvesh Sultan
Published: December 2022

Neuroimaging with [2,2-dimethyl-3-[(2R,3E)-3-oxidoiminobutan-2-yl]azanidylpropyl]-[(2R,3E)-3-hydroxyiminobutan-2-yl]azanide;oxo(99Tc)technetium-99(3+) ([99mTc]HMPAO) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is used in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) to evaluate regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). Hypoperfusion in select temporoparietal regions has been observed in human AD. However, it is unknown whether AD hypoperfusion signatures are also present in the 5XFAD mouse model. The current study was undertaken to compare baseline brain perfusion between 5XFAD and wild-type (WT) mice using [99mTc]HMPAO SPECT and determine whether hypoperfusion is recapitulated in 5XFAD mice. 5XFAD and WT mice underwent a 45 min SPECT scan, 20 min after [99mTc]HMPAO administration. Whole brain and regional standardized uptake values (SUV) and regional relative standardized uptake values (SUVR) with whole brain reference were compared between groups. Brain perfusion was similar between WT and 5XFAD brains. Whole brain [99mTc]HMPAO retention revealed no significant difference in SUV (5XFAD, 0.372 ± 0.762; WT, 0.640 ± 0.955; p = 0.536). Similarly, regional analysis revealed no significant differences in [99mTc]HMPAO metrics between groups (SUV: 0.357 ≤ p ≤ 0.640; SUVR: 0.595 ≤ p ≤ 0.936). These results suggest apparent discrepancies in rCBF between human AD and the 5XFAD model. Establishing baseline perfusion patterns in 5XFAD mice is essential to inform pre-clinical diagnostic and therapeutic drug discovery programs.
Laboratory and semi-field efficacy evaluation of permethrin–piperonyl butoxide treated blankets against pyrethroid-resistant malaria vectors
Authors: Azizi Salum , Matowo Johnson , Mbewe Njelembo Joshua , Protopopoff Natacha , Athumani Rashid , Matiku Wambura , Shayo Magreth , Tenu Filemoni , Rowland Mark , Mosha Franklin , Kitau Jovin
Published: December 2022

To control pyrethroid-resistant malaria vectors, Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) that include additional ingredients to pyrethroid are being developed. Same progress needs to be made to the pyrethroid-treated blankets, which are more compatible with shelter structures found in emergency settings such as displaced populations. In the current study, efficacy of blankets treated with permethrin and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) was evaluated against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto. Efficacy was compared with that of Olyset LLIN, Olyset Plus LLIN and untreated blanket in terms of mortality and blood-feeding inhibition against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The current study indicates that, in emergency shelters such as migrant and refugee camps where LLINs cannot be used, PBO–permethrin blankets may provide protection against resistant mosquitoes if widely used. No side effects related to the use of the treated blankets were reported from the participants. These results need validation in a large-scale field trial to assess the epidemiological impact of the intervention, durability and acceptability of this new vector control strategy for malaria vector control.
On-surface synthesis and spontaneous segregation of conjugated tetraphenylethylene macrocycles
Authors: Li En , Lyu Cheng-Kun , Chen Chengyi , Xie Huilin , Zhang Jianyu , Lam Jacky Wing Yip , Tang Ben Zhong , Lin Nian
Published: December 2022

Creating conjugated macrocycles has attracted extensive research interest because their unique chemical and physical properties, such as conformational flexibility, intrinsic inner cavities and aromaticity/antiaromaticity, make these systems appealing building blocks for functional supramolecular materials. Here, we report the synthesis of four-, six- and eight-membered tetraphenylethylene (TPE)-based macrocycles on Ag(111) via on-surface Ullmann coupling reactions. The as-synthesized macrocycles are spontaneously segregated on the surface and self-assemble as large-area two-dimensional mono-component supramolecular crystals, as characterized by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). We propose that the synthesis benefits from the conformational flexibility of the TPE backbone in distinctive multi-step reaction pathways. This study opens up opportunities for exploring the photophysical properties of TPE-based macrocycles.
Droplet lift-off from hydrophobic surfaces from impact with soft-hydrogel spheres
Authors: Rabbi Rafsan , Kiyama Akihito , Allen John S. , Truscott Tadd
Published: December 2022

Droplet impacts on superhydrophobic surfaces may result in complete bouncing, with the absence of contact hysteresis and viscous dissipation leading the droplet to fully rebound off the surface. This rebound usually happens in the retraction phase, when the droplet retracts back after reaching a maximum spread diameter. Here, we present experimental evidence of a bouncing phenomenon where a sessile droplet on a hydrophobic surface bounces off the surface in its spreading phase when a soft deformable hydrogel sphere axisymmetrically impacts the droplet. We term this as ‘Lift-Off’ and propose a simple force balance based on the deformation characteristics of the hydrogel sphere to explain the out-of-plane jump of the droplet during spreading. We observe three different impact regimes, and propose their dependency on a modified elastic ‘Mach’ number (Ma*) with Ma* ≈ 0.1 corresponding to the onset of lift-off. We also report on the unique acoustic signatures of lift-off cases, associated with the capture of air-bubbles through the air-borne retracting droplet rim. These results may have potential applications for drainage and surface cleaning, non-stick surface coating, industrial mixing and plant disease spreading.
Silent Raman imaging of highly effective anti-bacterial activity synchronous with biofilm breakage using poly(4-cyanostyrene)@silver@polylysine nanocomposites
Authors: Zhu Wei , Tang Jing-Yi , Yu Dong , Shen Ai-Guo
Published: December 2022

Biofilms are known to be a great challenge for their anti-bacterial activity as they obstruct drug action for deeper and more thorough bacteria-killing effects.
Ultrasound-enhanced cascade chemodynamic tumor nanotherapy with lactic acid-enabled hydrogen peroxide self-production
Authors: Zhang Li , Liu Zhuang , Yu Luodan , Peng Weijun , Chen Yu , Zhang Shengjian
Published: December 2022

The ultrasound-enhanced cascade chemodynamic therapy with lactic acid-enabled H2O2 self-production, in cooperation with T1-weighted MRI.
Apt-clean: aptamer-mediated cleavage of extracellular antigens for the inhibition of membrane protein functions
Authors: Hoshiyama Junya , Okada Yuga , Cho Seojung , Ueki Ryosuke , Sando Shinsuke
Published: December 2022

A novel TPD strategy called aptamer-mediated cleavage of extracellular antigen (Apt-clean) induces selective degradation of the target membrane protein.
Catalytic nanotechnology of X-ray photodynamics for cancer treatments
Authors: Zhang Gang , Guo Meili , Ma Huizhen , Wang Junying , Zhang Xiao-Dong
Published: December 2022

This review systematically elucidates the current development of the X-PDT and related immunotherapy, and highlights its broad prospects in medical applications, discussing the connection between fundamental science and clinical translation.
Harnessing nanobiotechnology for cerebral ischemic stroke management
Authors: Tang Lu , Fu Cong , Zhang Aining , Li Xiyue , Cao Yuqi , Feng Jingwen , Liu Hening , Dong Haijuan , Wang Wei
Published: December 2022

This review highlights the recent achievements of nanobiotechnology for cerebral ischemic stroke management based on its pathophysiologic features.
Synthesis strategies to control the Al distribution in zeolites: thermodynamic and kinetic aspects
Authors: Bae Juna , Dusselier Michiel
Published: December 2022

Recent strategies to steer Aluminum contents and their location in zeolite synthesis are interpreted from both a kinetic and thermodynamic view.
Targeting G-quadruplexes in an ageing epigenetic regulator promoter for rescuing mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Yang Jie , Qin Geng , Niu Jingsheng , Wei Yue , Li Xuexia , Zhao Chuanqi , Wang Chunyu , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: December 2022

Putative G4-forming sequences (PQSs) in BAZ2B promoter have been predicted and verified to form stable DNA G-quadruplex structures. G4-specific targeting ligands can significantly down-regulate the BAZ2B expression and rescue brain energy.
Structures, photoluminescence, and principles of self-activated phosphors
Authors: Zhang Jiawei , Song Ziling , Cai Peiqing , Wang Xiangfu
Published: December 2022

We reviewed the structures, photoluminescence principles, properties, and applications of state-of-the-art self-activated phosphors, such as rare-earth and transition metal ions, some oxide compounds, and all-inorganic semiconductors.
Multivalent glycosystems for human lectins
Authors: Martínez-Bailén Macarena , Rojo Javier , Ramos-Soriano Javier
Published: December 2022

This review summarises major contributions based on carbohydrate multivalent systems to study their interaction with human lectins.
Interfacial energy band engineered CsPbBr3/NiFe-LDH heterostructure catalysts with tunable visible light driven photocatalytic CO2 reduction capability
Authors: Sun Haoyue , Tang Rui , Zhang Xingmo , Zhang Shuzhen , Yang Wenjie , Wang Lizhuo , Liang Weibin , Li Fengwang , Zheng Rongkun , Huang Jun
Published: December 2022

CsPbBr3/NiFe-LDH heterostructure photocatalysts are developed with tuneable Z-scheme reduction capability for efficient CO2 reduction performance.
Solution and solid-state studies of hydrogen and halogen bonding with N-heterocyclic carbene supported nickel(ii) fluoride complexes
Authors: Thangavadivale Vargini G. , Tendera Lukas , Bertermann Rüdiger , Radius Udo , Beweries Torsten , Perutz Robin N.
Published: December 2022

Halogen and hydrogen bonding using bis(carbene) nickel fluoride complexes as acceptors and suitable halogen and hydrogen bond donors is presented, showing interactions that are much stronger than those of related phosphine supported nickel fluorides.
Ascophyllum nodosum polysaccharide regulates gut microbiota metabolites to protect against colonic inflammation in mice
Authors: Wang Lilong , Yan Chunhong , Wang Linlin , Ai Chunqing , Wang Songtao , Shen Caihong , Tong Yuqin , Song Shuang
Published: December 2022

Ascophyllum nodosum polysaccharide could regulate metabolite profiles of gut microbiota to inhibit inflammation progression and maintain intestinal health.
In vitro oxidation and digestibility profiles of iron-loaded whey protein isolate/gum Arabic complexes with different morphologies
Authors: Li Dan , Yao Xiaolin , Gou Qingxia , Cao Guifang , Xu Kai , Yang Yongli
Published: December 2022

The promoting oxidation on lipids in oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion and the digestive property in bionic dynamic gastrointestinal system of whey protein isolate (WPI) and gum arabic (GA) complexes loaded with iron ions were studied.
Correction: Fully biomass-derived vitrimeric material with water-mediated recyclability and monomer recovery
Authors: Png Zhuang Mao , Zheng Jie , Kamarulzaman Sirin , Wang Sheng , Li Zibiao , Goh Shermin S.
Published: December 2022

Correction for ‘Fully biomass-derived vitrimeric material with water-mediated recyclability and monomer recovery’ by Zhuang Mao Png et al., Green Chem., 2022, 24, 5978–5986, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2GC01556K.
Paper-based multi-well depletion ELISA
Authors: Lee Dohwan , Asmare Norh , Sarioglu A. Fatih
Published: December 2022

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is widely employed for detecting target molecules in bioassays including the serological assays that measure specific antibody titers.
Emerging homogeneous superlattices in CaTiO3bulk thermoelectric materials
Authors: Li Jianbo , Wang Yanxia , Jiang Xue , Tian Zhen , Kang Huijun , Chen Zongning , Guo Enyu , Cao Zhiqiang , Wang Tongmin
Published: December 2022

Homogenous superlattices consisting of homogenous structural CeδCa1−δTiO3and CaTi1−δCeδO3alternate layers were obtained through a variable-valence Ce doping, providing multi-quantum well interfaces between the alternate layers.
Biomimicry in nanotechnology: a comprehensive review
Authors: Himel Mehedi Hasan , Sikder Bejoy , Ahmed Tanvir , Choudhury Sajid Muhaimin
Published: December 2022

This review article illustrates briefly the progress and innovations made in the field of nanotechnology with the integration of biomimicry. A simple Venus-fly-trap can inspire shape shifting through heating and cooling.
Advances in micro and nanoengineered surfaces for enhancing boiling and condensation heat transfer: a review
Authors: Upot Nithin Vinod , Fazle Rabbi Kazi , Khodakarami Siavash , Ho Jin Yao , Kohler Mendizabal Johannes , Miljkovic Nenad
Published: December 2022

This review highlights recent developments in improving thermal-hydraulic performance through two phase heat transfer facilitated by microstructured and nanostructured surfaces.
Plasmonic Ag/Cu/PEG nanofluids prepared when solids meet liquids in the gas phase
Authors: Biliak Kateryna , Nikitin Daniil , Ali-Ogly Suren , Protsak Mariia , Pleskunov Pavel , Tosca Marco , Sergievskaya Anastasiya , Cornil David , Cornil Jérôme , Konstantinidis Stephanos , Košutová Tereza , Černochová Zulfiya , Štěpánek Petr , Hanuš Jan , Kousal Jaroslav , Hanyková Lenka , Krakovský Ivan , Choukourov Andrei
Published: December 2022

Yellow, green, and blue plasmonic nanofluids were produced without wet chemistry by direct deposition of Ag, Cu, and simultaneous co-deposition of Ag + Cu nanoparticles from sputter-based gas aggregation cluster sources in liquid polyethylene glycol.
Correction: Organocatalytic atroposelective construction of axially chiral nonsymmetric biaryltriols and their applications in asymmetric synthesis and heavy metal ion detection
Authors: Jia Shiqi , Qin Wenling , Wang Pengfei , Yan Hailong
Published: December 2022

Correction for ‘Organocatalytic atroposelective construction of axially chiral nonsymmetric biaryltriols and their applications in asymmetric synthesis and heavy metal ion detection’ by Shiqi Jia et al., Org. Chem. Front., 2022, 9, 923–928, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QO01821C.
Preparation and properties of cellulose nanocrystal-based ion-conductive hydrogels
Authors: Huang Xinmin , Ao Xiang , Yang Lianhe , Ye Jing , Wang Chengwei
Published: December 2022

Ion-conductive hydrogels were prepared by a simple one-pot method based on cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). PVA–CNC hydrogels were prepared with different contents of CNC and Al3+ ions to enhance the performance of ion-conductive hydrogels.
Computational insights for predicting the binding and selectivity of peptidomimetic plasmepsin IV inhibitors against cathepsin D
Authors: Martins Lucas Sousa , Kruger Hendrik Gerhardus , Naicker Tricia , Alves Cláudio Nahum , Lameira Jerônimo , Araújo Silva José Rogério
Published: December 2022

Free energy calculations explain the selectivity of peptidomimetic inhibitors to PlmIV and CatD enzymes. Insights for the development of novel potent and selective PlmIV inhibitors are provided.
Crystal defect induced zero thermal quenching β-NaYF4: Eu3+, Sm3+ red-emitting phosphor
Authors: Ling Shaokun , Qin Xiaoyan , Yan Yifeng , Chen Chang , Meng Kai , Ming Junyun , Liao Sen , Huang Yingheng , Hou Lei
Published: December 2022

The mechanism of zero thermal quenching of β-NaYF4: 0.065Eu3+, 0.002Sm3+.
Insights into the adsorption and corrosion inhibition properties of newly synthesized diazinyl derivatives for mild steel in hydrochloric acid: synthesis, electrochemical, SRB biological resistivity and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Bedair Mahmoud A. , Elaryian Hani M. , Gad Ehab S. , Alshareef Mubark , Bedair Ahmed H. , Aboushahba Rabab M. , Fouda Abd El-Aziz S.
Published: December 2022

Two azo derivatives (TODB) and (DODB) were synthesized and characterized as mild steel (MS) corrosion inhibitors in 1 M HCl. Electrochemical data suggest that TODB and DODB are excellent inhibitors. They show anti-bacterial effect against SRB.
Ultrasound-assisted bromination of indazoles at the C3 position with dibromohydantoin
Authors: Ying Shengneng , Liu Xingru , Guo Tao , Li Xuan , Zhou Min , Wang Xia , Zhu Mengxue , Jiang Hongmei , Gui Qing-Wen
Published: December 2022

Bromoaryl compounds have attracted great attention in organic chemistry, especially for the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates.
Study on ethanol electro-oxidation over a carbon-supported Pt–Cu alloy catalyst by pinhole on-line electrochemical mass spectrometry
Authors: Ju Kyong-Sik , Jang In-Ho , Choe Yong-A. , Ri Song-Chun , Pak Hyon-Tae , Hong Su-Ok
Published: December 2022

A carbon supported Pt–Cu electrocatalyst was synthesized by the microwave-polyol method following acid-treatment and physically characterized by different techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Modulating local electronic structure enhances superior electrochemical activity in Li-rich oxide cathodes
Authors: Li Xin-Yu , Yu Fu-Da , Ke Wang , Jiang Yun-Shan , Que Lan-Fang , Zhao Lei , Hao Su-E , Wang Zhen-Bo
Published: December 2022

The electrochemical activity and stability of Li2MnO3are affected synchronously by lattice vacancies and local coordination configuration.
Rational design and regulation of tremella-like selenium-doped MoS2 for highly reversible sodium storage
Authors: Zhu Ruiyu , Li Shiying , Li Lixiang , Liu Chengxin , Liu Xiaojie
Published: December 2022

In order to achieve the goal of NayMoS2(1−x)Se2x generation during sodium insertion, Se doping and cut-off voltage regulation are combined to expand interlayer spacing and increase bond strength, thereby enhancing sodium storage performance.
Rarely negative-thermovoltage cellulose ionogel with simultaneously boosted mechanical strength and ionic conductivity via ion-molecular engineering
Authors: Chen Qunfeng , Cheng Binbin , Wang Zequn , Sun Xuhui , Liu Yang , Sun Haodong , Li Jianwei , Chen Lihui , Zhu Xuhai , Huang Liulian , Ni Yonghao , An Meng , Li Jianguo
Published: December 2022

Ion-molecular engineered negative-thermovoltage cellulose ionogel overcoming the trade-off mechanical strength and conductivity.
Experimental and theoretical study of β-As2Te3under hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Vilaplana R. , Gallego-Parra S. , Lora da Silva E. , Martínez-García D. , Delaizir G. , Muñoz A. , Rodríguez-Hernández P. , Cuenca-Gotor V. P. , Sans J. A. , Popescu C. , Piarristeguy A. , Manjón F. J.
Published: December 2022

Schematic view of the β-As2Te3polymorph (S. G.R3̄m) including the polyhedral units (AsTe6, TeAS6, and Te2 antiprism of β-As2Te3) of the hexagonal unit cell. Images of the experimental and theoretical techniques used are shown as well as the main results reported.
The race between complicated multiple cation/anion compositions and stabilization of FAPbI3 for halide perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lin Quanyao , Kubicki Dominik J. , Omrani MirKazem , Alam Firoz , Abdi-Jalebi Mojtaba
Published: December 2022

Recent advances in stabilizing simple FAPbI3 perovskite composition have challenged the use of complex multiple cation/anion compositions for fabrication of highly efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.
Interview with Dr Nita Pillai, Director of Programmes and Operations at Sense about Science
Authors: Pillai Nita
Published: December 2022

For this issue on disproving urban myths and false science, The Biochemist interviewed Dr Nita Pillai, Director of Programmes and Operations at Sense about Science. Sense about Science is an independent charity that promotes public interest in sound science and evidence, working with decision makers, world-leading researchers and community groups to raise the standard of evidence in public life. It focuses on socially or scientifically difficult issues where evidence is neglected, conflicting or misunderstood.
Effects of Maturation and Chronological Aging on Auditory Spatial Processing: A Cross-Sectional Study Across Life Span
Authors: Nisha Kavassery Venkateswaran , Uppunda Ajith Kumar , Konadath Sreeraj
Published: December 2022

Objective:

The primary aim of the research was to document spatial acuity changes across the life span using a battery of psychoacoustical and perceptual tests. The secondary aim was to identify the optimal metric for measuring spatial processing changes across the life span (ages 10–70 years).

Design and Study Sample:

A cross-sectional study comprising 115 participants with clinically normal hearing was conducted. Purposive sampling was adopted to recruit participants in the study, who were divided into six groups based on their chronological age.

Method:

Temporal, intensity, spectral, and composite correlates of spatial acuity were assessed using psychoacoustic measures and perceptual questionnaires. The temporal (interaural time difference [ITD]) and intensity correlates (interaural level difference [ILD]) of spatial perception were obtained using a MATLAB (v 2020a), whereas the composite correlate (virtual auditory space identification scores [VASIs]) and perceptual ratings of spatial processing were measured using Paradigm software and speech spatial and qualities in Kannada (SSQ-K).

Results:

Results across all tests (multivariate analyses variance: 6 age groups × 4 tests, followed by post hoc tests) consistently demonstrate poor ITD and ILD thresholds and overall lower spatial accuracy (VASI, SSQ-K) with increasing age. Discriminant function analyses (DFAs) revealed that VASI had a higher predictive power in capturing age-related changes in auditory spatial processing. The group segregation on spatial performance in DFA became evident after 50 years.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence of gradual change in all three correlates of spatial processing, with statistically demonstrable deficits appearing from fourth decade of life on VASI and fifth decade of life on binaural processing.
Evolution of eccentric high-mass X-ray binaries
Authors: Simaz Bunzel Adolfo , García Federico , Combi Jorge A. , Chaty Sylvain
Published: December 2022

Context. The formation of neutron stars is associated with powerful astrophysical transients such as supernovae. In many cases, asymmetries in the supernova explosions are thought to be responsible for the large observed velocities of neutron stars.

Aims. We aim to study the complete evolutionary history of one particular eccentric high-mass X-ray binary containing a neutron star, GX 301–2, and characterize the natal kick at the time of neutron star formation.

Methods. We used the publicly available stellar-evolution code MESA to evolve binaries from their initial stages until the core-collapse scenario. We incorporated a natal kick distribution based on observations to continue the evolution during the X-ray binary phase and search for candidates matching current observations of GX 301–2.

Results. We find that the range of initial masses is constrained to be less than around 30 M⊙ depending on the initial mass ratio, as higher initial masses will most likely end up producing a black hole. In the completely conservative mass-transfer scenario under study, only is an interaction between the stars when the donor is still burning Hydrogen in its core, the so-called Case A of mass transfer, able to produce progenitors for GX 301–2. The natal kick study favours kicks of variable strength, which in turn increases the tilt angle between the orbital angular momentum and the spin of the neutron star.

Conclusions. We conclude that only a narrow initial progenitor parameter space is able to produce a binary such as GX 301–2 when assuming a completely conservative mass transfer. Additionally, the strength of the natal kick can span a wide range of values, but it can be constrained when considering new data concerning the systemic velocity of the binary. Finally, we derive the fraction of the expected number of binaries such as GX 301–2 in the Galaxy to be ∼6 × 10−5, implying a really low chance of finding a binary similar to GX 301–2.
Neutron Star Mergers and the Quark Matter Equation of State
Authors: Mathews Grant J. , Kedia Atul , Kim Hee Il , Suh In-Saeng
Published: December 2022

As neutron stars merge they can approach very high nuclear density. Here, we summarized recent results for the evolution and gravitational wave emission from binary-neutron star mergers using a a variety of nuclear equations of state with and without a crossover transition to quark matter. We discuss how the late time gravitational wave emission from binary neutron star mergers may possibly reveal the existence of a crossover transition to quark matter.
The static potential using trial states from Laplacian eigenmodes
Authors: Höllwieser Roman , Knechtli Francesco , Peardon Mike
Published: December 2022

We compute the static potential of a quark-antiquark pair in lattice QCD using a method which is not based on Wilson loops, but where the trial states are formed by eigenvector components of the covariant lattice Laplace operator. The computational effort of this method is significantly lower than the standard Wilson loop calculation, when computing the static potential not only for on-axis, but also for many off-axis quark-antiquark separations, i.e., when a fine spatial resolution is required, e.g., for string breaking calculations. We further improve the signal by using multiple eigenvector pairs, weighted with Gaussian profile functions of the eigenvalues, providing a basis for a generalized eigenvalue problem (GEVP), as it was recently introduced to improve distillation in meson spectroscopy. We show results from the new method for the static potential with dynamical fermions and demonstrate its efficiency compared to traditional Wilson loop calculations.
Modified TMD Factorization and Sub-leading Power Corrections
Authors: Leal-Gomez Sergio , Procura Massimiliano
Published: December 2022

Collinear factorization and transverse-momentum-dependent (TMD) factorization are two complementary approaches to perform QCD calculations of Drell-Yan differential cross sections. The former is designed to correctly describe the behavior of the observable at large values of the gauge boson transverse momentum qT, while the latter accounts for non-perturbative effects relevant at small qT. We present basic features and first numerical results of a novel method which is related to both previous frameworks and allows for an improved description of the intermediate-qT region.
Emergence of ghost in once-subtracted on-shell unitarization in glueball-glueball scattering
Authors: Trotti Enrico
Published: December 2022

We investigate the scattering of two scalar glueballs in pure YM theory, using the well known dilaton potential. We perform the calculations considering a glueball mass of about mG ≈ 1.7 GeV, as predicted by lattice QCD. We begin with the tree-level theory, but the question about the presence of a bound state needs a deeper study to be answered. Thus we unitarize the theory through a self energy loop function consisting of a single subtraction at the single glueball resonance pole. We show that this choice is inconsistent as it leads to the emergence of a ghost-like state with negative norm. This problem is related with the sign of the coefficient in the first order term of the expansion of the reverse unitarized amplitude. We briefly discuss the solution which consists of an additional subtraction in the loop function, as presented in Eur.Phys.J.C 82 (2022) 5, 487.