bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome, demography and resource utilization in ICU Patients with delirium and malignancy
Authors: Sieber Mattia , Rudiger Alain , Schüpbach Reto , Krüger Bernard , Schubert Maria , Bettex Dominique
Published: September 2021

Delirium in the general intensive care unit (ICU) population is common, associated with adverse outcomes and well studied. However, knowledge on delirium in the increasing number of ICU patients with malignancy is scarce. The aim was to assess the frequency of delirium and its impact on resource utilizations and outcomes in ICU patients with malignancy. This retrospective, single-center longitudinal cohort study included all patients with malignancy admitted to ICUs of a University Hospital during one year. Delirium was diagnosed by an Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC) score ≥ 4. Of 488 ICU patients with malignancy, 176/488 (36%) developed delirium. Delirious patients were older (66 [55–72] vs. 61 [51–69] years, p = 0.001), had higher SAPS II (41 [27–68] vs. 24 [17–32], p < 0.001) and more frequently sepsis (26/176 [15%] vs. 6/312 [1.9%], p < 0.001) and/or shock (30/176 [6.1%] vs. 6/312 [1.9%], p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, delirium was independently associated with lower discharge home (OR [95% CI] 0.37 [0.24–0.57], p < 0.001), longer ICU (HR [95% CI] 0.30 [0.23–0.37], p < 0.001) and hospital length of stay (HR [95% CI] 0.62 [0.50–0.77], p < 0.001), longer mechanical ventilation (HR [95% CI] 0.40 [0.28–0.57], p < 0.001), higher ICU nursing workload (B [95% CI] 1.92 [1.67–2.21], p < 0.001) and ICU (B [95% CI] 2.08 [1.81–2.38], p < 0.001) and total costs (B [95% CI] 1.44 [1.30–1.60], p < 0.001). However, delirium was not independently associated with in-hospital mortality (OR [95% CI] 2.26 [0.93–5.54], p = 0.074). In conclusion, delirium was a frequent complication in ICU patients with malignancy independently associated with high resource utilizations, however, it was not independently associated with in-hospital mortality.
Chronic exposure to tramadol induces cardiac inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in mice
Authors: Bakr Marwa H. , Radwan Eman , Shaltout Asmaa S. , Farrag Alshaimaa A. , Mahmoud Amany Refaat , Abd-Elhamid Tarek Hamdy , Ali Maha
Published: September 2021

Tramadol is an opioid extensively used to treat moderate to severe pain; however, prolonged therapy is associated with several tissues damage. Chronic use of tramadol was linked to increased hospitalizations due to cardiovascular complications. Limited literature has described the effects of tramadol on the cardiovascular system, so we sought to investigate these actions and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Mice received tramadol hydrochloride (40 mg/kg body weight) orally for 4 successive weeks. Oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiac toxicity were assessed. In addition, eNOS expression was evaluated. Our results demonstrated marked histopathological alteration in heart and aortic tissues after exposure to tramadol. Tramadol upregulated the expression of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in mice heart and aorta, whereas downregulated eNOS expression. Tramadol caused cardiac damage shown by the increase in LDH, Troponin I, and CK-MB activities in serum samples. Overall, these results highlight the risks of tramadol on the cardiovascular system.
Eye symptoms in patients with benign thyroid diseases
Authors: Sawicka-Gutaj Nadia , Ziółkowska Paulina , Wojciechowska Klaudia , Shawkat Sara , Czarnywojtek Agata , Warchoł Wojciech , Sowiński Jerzy , Szczepanek-Parulska Ewelina , Ruchała Marek
Published: September 2021

Thyroid diseases may cause a variety of functional and structural body changes, including eye and vision abnormalities, which can have a negative impact on a patient’s well-being. However, only a few studies on the impact of other benign thyroid diseases on the visual process are available in the literature. In this study, using the Polish version of the thyroid-specific quality of life (ThyPROpl) questionnaire, we aimed to determine the self-reported influence of benign thyroid diseases (e.g., nodular goiter, toxic nodular goiter, Graves’ disease, thyroid orbitopathy, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and surgical hypothyroidism) on patients’ eyes and vision. This was a prospective study. In total, 374 randomly selected euthyroid patients and 255 control subjects responded to the ThyPROpl questionnaire and the results were evaluated. Nearly 69% of the respondents reported that the most frequent condition was “reduced sight.” Men most often reported wet/tearing eyes (66%). The occurrence of eyelid sacks or swollen eyelids (64%), ophthalmalgia (62%), and eye dryness (61%) was marked almost as often. In total, 29% of the patients reported diplopia, and it was found to be most prevalent among those with thyroid orbitopathy. Other complaints were similarly prevalent among all the subgroups. A positive correlation was also observed between the scores of the “eye symptoms” and other ailments. Except for swelling around the lower eyelids, patients with thyroid diseases more frequently experienced all of the ocular complaints analyzed in this study compared with controls. This study showed that eye complaints are common in patients with benign thyroid diseases and ocular disturbances have a negative impact on the overall quality of life of patients.
Cyp2c44 epoxygenase-derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acids in vascular smooth muscle cells elicit vasoconstriction of the murine ophthalmic artery
Authors: Hu Jiong , Sisignano Marco , Brecht Roman , Perumal Natarajan , Angioni Carlo , Bibli Iris-Sofia , Fisslthaler Beate , Kleinert Hartmut , Pfeiffer Norbert , Fleming Ingrid , Manicam Caroline
Published: September 2021

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) signalling pathway has been shown to play a vital role in the vasoreactivity of wild type mouse ophthalmic artery. In this study, we determined the expression, vascular responses and potential mechanisms of the CYP-derived arachidonic acid metabolites. The expression of murine CYP (Cyp2c44) and soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) in the wild type ophthalmic artery was determined with immunofluorescence, which showed predominant expression of Cyp2c44 in the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), while sEH was found mainly in the endothelium of the wild type ophthalmic artery. Artery of Cyp2c44−/− and sEH−/− mice were used as negative controls. Targeted mass spectrometry-based lipidomics analysis of endogenous epoxide and diols of the wild type artery detected only 14, 15-EET. Vasorelaxant responses of isolated vessels in response to selective pharmacological blockers and agonist were analysed ex vivo. Direct antagonism of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) with a selective inhibitor caused partial vasodilation, suggesting that EETs may behave as vasoconstrictors. Exogenous administration of synthetic EET regioisomers significantly constricted the vessels in a concentration-dependent manner, with the strongest responses elicited by 11, 12- and 14, 15-EETs. Our results provide the first experimental evidence that Cyp2c44-derived EETs in the VSMC mediate vasoconstriction of the ophthalmic artery.
Deep learning-based prediction of early cerebrovascular events after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Okuno Taishi , Overtchouk Pavel , Asami Masahiko , Tomii Daijiro , Stortecky Stefan , Praz Fabien , Lanz Jonas , Siontis George C. M. , Gräni Christoph , Windecker Stephan , Pilgrim Thomas
Published: September 2021

Cerebrovascular events (CVE) are among the most feared complications of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). CVE appear difficult to predict due to their multifactorial origin incompletely explained by clinical predictors. We aimed to build a deep learning-based predictive tool for TAVR-related CVE. Integrated clinical and imaging characteristics from consecutive patients enrolled into a prospective TAVR registry were analysed. CVE comprised any strokes and transient ischemic attacks. Predictive variables were selected by recursive feature reduction to train an autoencoder predictive model. Area under the curve (AUC) represented the model’s performance to predict 30-day CVE. Among 2279 patients included between 2007 and 2019, both clinical and imaging data were available in 1492 patients. Median age was 83 years and STS score was 4.6%. Acute (< 24 h) and subacute (day 2–30) CVE occurred in 19 (1.3%) and 36 (2.4%) patients, respectively. The occurrence of CVE was associated with an increased risk of death (HR [95% CI] 2.62 [1.82–3.78]). The constructed predictive model uses less than 107 clinical and imaging variables and has an AUC of 0.79 (0.65–0.93). TAVR-related CVE can be predicted using a deep learning-based predictive algorithm. The model is implemented online for broad usage.
Micro-Chamber/Thermal Extractor (µ-CTE) as a new sampling system for VOCs emitted by feces
Authors: Ratiu Ileana Andreea , Mametov Radik , Ligor Tomasz , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: September 2021

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are increasingly wished to be used in diagnosis of diseases. They present strategic advantages, when compared to classical methods used, such as simplicity and current availability of performant non-invasive sample collection methods/systems. However, standardized sampling methods are required in order to achieve reproducible results. In the current study we developed a method to be used for feces sampling using a Micro-Chamber/Thermal Extractor (µ-CTE). Design Expert software (with Box–Behnken design) was used to predict the solutions. Therefore, by using the simulation experimental plan that was further experimentally verified, extraction time of 19.6 min, at extraction temperature of 30.6 °C by using a flow rate of 48.7 mL/min provided the higher response. The developed method was validated by using correlation tests and Network analysis, which both proved the validity of the developed model.
Presence and biodistribution of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in Paracentrotus lividus highlight its potential application for environmental biomonitoring
Authors: Savoca Dario , Melfi Raffaella , Palumbo Piccionello Antonio , Barreca Salvatore , Buscemi Silvestre , Arizza Vincenzo , Arculeo Marco , Pace Andrea
Published: September 2021

The first determination of presence and biodistribution of PFOA in ninety specimens of sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus from two differently contaminated sites along Palermo’s coastline (Sicily) is reported. Analyses were performed on the sea urchins’ coelomic fluids, coelomocytes, gonads or mixed organs, as well as on seawater and Posidonia oceanica leaves samples from the collection sites. PFOA concentration ranged between 1 and 13 ng/L in seawater and between 0 and 794 ng/g in P. oceanica. The analyses carried out on individuals of P. lividus from the least polluted site (A) showed PFOA median values equal to 0 in all the matrices (coelomic fluid, coelomocytes and gonads). Conversely, individuals collected from the most polluted site (B) showed median PFOA concentrations of 21 ng/g in coelomic fluid, 153 ng/g in coelomocytes, and 195 ng/g in gonads. Calculated bioconcentration factors of log10BCF > 3.7 confirmed the very bioaccumulative nature of PFOA. Significant correlations were found between the PFOA concentration of the coelomic fluid versus the total PFOA concentration of the entire sea urchin. PERMANOVA (p = 0.001) end Welch's t-test (p < 0.001) analyses showed a difference between specimens collected from the two sites highlighting the potential application of P. lividus as sentinel species for PFOA biomonitoring.
Screening prefrailty in Japanese community-dwelling older adults with daily gait speed and number of steps via tri-axial accelerometers
Authors: Takayanagi Naoto , Sudo Motoki , Yamashiro Yukari , Chiba Ippei , Lee Sangyoon , Niki Yoshifumi , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

Prefrailty is an intermediate stage between non-frailty and frailty. It is associated with an increased risk of progression to frailty, which makes it important to screen older adults for prefrailty at an early stage. This study verified whether daily gait speed and number of steps measured using a tri-axial accelerometer could be used to identify prefrailty. In total, 1692 Japanese community-dwelling older adults were divided into robust (n = 1032) and prefrail (n = 660) groups based on the Kihon Checklist, which is a self-administered questionnaire. Both daily gait speed and number of steps were measured for two weeks using tri-axial accelerometers. We also calculated the area under the ROC curve and the cut-off values for these parameters. Our results showed that the cut-off value for daily gait speed was 106.3 cm/s, while that for number of steps was 6342.2. In addition, we found that the combined assessment of both cut-off values was a more effective way to screen older adults with prefrailty status compared to either parameter alone. This is also considered an effective way to reduce national expenditures for daily care assistance.
Quantifying and predicting antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance genes in waterbodies through a holistic approach: a study in Minnesota, United States
Authors: Bueno Irene , Beaudoin Amanda , Arnold William A. , Kim Taegyu , Frankson Lara E. , LaPara Timothy M. , Kanankege Kaushi , Wammer Kristine H. , Singer Randall S.
Published: September 2021

The environment plays a key role in the spread and persistence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG) are released into the environment from sources such as wastewater treatment plants, and animal farms. This study describes an approach guided by spatial mapping to quantify and predict antimicrobials and ARG in Minnesota’s waterbodies in water and sediment at two spatial scales: macro, throughout the state, and micro, in specific waterbodies. At the macroscale, the highest concentrations across all antimicrobial classes were found near populated areas. Kernel interpolation provided an approximation of antimicrobial concentrations and ARG abundance at unsampled locations. However, there was high uncertainty in these predictions, due in part to low study power and large distances between sites. At the microscale, wastewater treatment plants had an effect on ARG abundance (sul1 and sul2 in water; blaSHV, intl1, mexB, and sul2 in sediment), but not on antimicrobial concentrations. Results from sediment reflected a long-term history, while water reflected a more transient record of antimicrobials and ARG. This study highlights the value of using spatial analyses, different spatial scales, and sampling matrices, to design an environmental monitoring approach to advance our understanding of AMR persistence and dissemination.
Tracing the subducting Pacific slab to the mantle transition zone with hydrogen isotopes
Authors: Kuritani Takeshi , Shimizu Kenji , Ushikubo Takayuki , Xia Qun-Ke , Liu Jia , Nakagawa Mitsuhiro , Taniuchi Hajime , Sato Eiichi , Doi Nobuo
Published: September 2021

Hydrogen isotopes have been widely used as powerful tracers to understand the origin of terrestrial water and the water circulation between the surface and the deep interior of the Earth. However, further quantitative understanding is hindered due to a lack of observations about the changes in D/H ratios of a slab during subduction. Here, we report hydrogen isotope data of olivine-hosted melt inclusions from active volcanoes with variable depths (90‒550 km) to the subducting Pacific slab. The results show that the D/H ratio of the slab fluid at the volcanic front is lower than that of the slab fluid just behind the volcanic front. This demonstrates that fluids with different D/H ratios were released from the crust and the underlying peridotite portions of the slab around the volcanic front. The results also show that the D/H ratios of slab fluids do not change significantly with slab depths from 300 to 550 km, which demonstrates that slab dehydration did not occur significantly beyond the arc. Our estimated δD‰ value for the slab materials that accumulated in the mantle transition zone is > − 90‰, a value which is significantly higher than previous estimates.
Anomalous dielectric behaviors of electrolyte solutions confined in graphene oxide nanochannels
Authors: Hu Bo , Zhu Haochen
Published: September 2021

Dielectric behavior of salt aqueous solutions with various concentration in pristine and oxide graphene nanochannels has been investigated by means of molecular dynamic simulations. The motivation in performing this integrated set of simulations was to provide deep insight into the interaction between the size of the enclosure and the oxidation degree of the membrane sheets on the dielectric properties. It was shown that the dielectric permittivity of both aqueous and NaCl solution in confined phase exhibits an anisotropic behavior. The in-plane component decreases with the increase of the concentration of NaCl solution while an increase of the out-of-plane dielectric is observed and these out-of-plane components exhibit a non-monotonous trend and thus exist a critical concentration of NaCl solution with 0.2 mol/L and 0.4 mol/L for both pristine and oxide graphene nanochannels, respectively. This peculiar dielectric behavior results from the addition of ions that significantly perturb the hydrogen bonding network of the confined system, and hence leading to a fluctuation of dipolar of water molecules and dielectric permittivity.
Inhibition of cardiac PERK signaling promotes peripartum cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Shimizu Takashi , Taguchi Akashi , Higashijima Yoshiki , Kanki Yasuharu , Nakaki Ryo , Urade Yoshihiro , Wada Youichiro
Published: September 2021

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a life-threatening heart failure occurring in the peripartum period. Although mal-angiogenesis, induced by the 16-kDa N-terminal prolactin fragment (16 K PRL), is involved in the pathogenesis, the effect of full-length prolactin (23 K PRL) is poorly understood. We transfected neonate rat cardiomyocytes with plasmids containing 23 K PRL or 16 K PRL in vitro and found that 23 K PRL, but not 16 K PRL, upregulated protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) signaling, and hypoxia promoted this effect. During the perinatal period, cardiomyocyte-specific PERK homogenous knockout (CM-KO) mice showed PPCM phenotypes after consecutive deliveries. Downregulation of PERK or JAK/STAT signaling and upregulation of apoptosis were observed in CM-KO mouse hearts. Moreover, in bromocriptine-treated CM-KO mice, cardiac function did not improve and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was not suppressed during the peripartum period. These results demonstrate that interaction between 23 K PRL and PERK signaling is cardioprotective during the peripartum term.
Yield and quality of brown rice noodles processed from early-season rice grains
Authors: Huang Min , Xiao Zhengwu , Chen Jiana , Cao Fangbo
Published: September 2021

Producing rice noodles using early-season rice grains is a way to bypass difficulties in marketing early-season rice that does not meet consumer preference for soft-textured rice. In recent years, brown rice foods including noodles have attracted great attention due to their health and nutritional benefits. This study was conducted to evaluate the yield and quality of brown rice noodles processed from two early-season rice cultivars. Results showed that the yield of brown rice noodles was 12–19% higher than that of white rice noodles. Although the cooked break rate and cooking loss rate were 5–10% higher in brown rice noodles compared to white rice noodles, both were within an acceptable range for brown rice noodles. Cooked brown rice noodles had 21–27% lower hardness and chewiness than cooked white rice noodles, though differences in the elasticity parameters springiness, cohesiveness, and resilience were not significant or were inconsistent between cooked brown and white rice noodles. These results suggest that it is feasible to process early-season rice to produce brown rice noodles of desirable yield and quality.
Electric field detection as floral cue in hoverfly pollination
Authors: Khan Shahmshad Ahmed , Khan Khalid Ali , Kubik Stepan , Ahmad Saboor , Ghramh Hamed A. , Ahmad Afzal , Skalicky Milan , Naveed Zeenat , Malik Sadia , Khalofah Ahlam , Aljedani Dalal M.
Published: September 2021

Pollinators can detect the color, shape, scent, and even temperature of the flowers they want to visit. Here, we present the previously unappreciated capacity of hoverflies (Eristalis tenax and Cheilosia albipila) to detect the electric field surrounding flowers. Using hoverflies as key dipteran pollinators, we explored the electrical interactions between flies and flowers—how a hoverfly acquired a charge and how their electrical sensing ability for target flowers contributed to nectar identification and pollination. This study revealed that rapid variations in a floral electric field were related to a nectar reward and increased the likelihood of the fly’s return visits. We found that thoracic hairs played a role in the polarity of hoverfly charge, revealing their electro-mechanosensory capability, as in bumblebees (Bombus terrestris). Electrophysiological analysis of the hoverfly’s antennae did not reveal neural sensitivity to the electric field, which favors the mechanosensory hairs as putative electroreceptive organs in both species of hoverflies.
Unconventional critical behaviour in weak ferromagnets Fe2-xMnxCrAl (0 ≤ x < 1)
Authors: Yadav Kavita , Ranaut Dheeraj , Mukherjee K.
Published: September 2021

Recent investigation on weak ferromagnets Fe2-xMnxCrAl (0 ≤ x < 1) reveal the existence of a cluster glass phase (CGP) and a Griffiths-like phase (GP) below and above the ferromagnetic transition temperature (TC), respectively [(2019) Sci. Rep.9 15888]. In this work, the influence of these inhomogeneous phases on the critical behaviour (around TC) of the above-mentioned series of alloys has been investigated in detail. For the parent alloy Fe2CrAl, the critical exponent γ is estimated as ~ 1.34, which lies near to the ordered 3D Heisenberg class, whereas the obtained value of the critical exponent β ~ 0.273 does not belong to any universality class. With increment in Mn concentration, both exponents γ and β increase, where γ and β approach the disordered and ordered 3D Heisenberg class, respectively. The observed deviation of γ and unconventional value of δ can be ascribed to the increment of GP with Mn-concentration. The trend noted for β can be attributed to the increment in CGP regime with an increase in Mn-content. The estimated critical exponents are consistent and reliable as corroborated using the scaling law and equations of state. Our studies indicate that the critical phenomenon of Fe2-xMnxCrAl (0 ≤ x < 1) alloys possibly belong to a separate class, which is not described within the framework of any existing universal model.
The effect of the metal and selenium precursors on the properties of NbSe2and Nb2Se9nanostructures and their application in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Kolokoto T. , Mashindi V. , Kadzutu-Sithole R. , Machogo-Phao Lerato F. E. , Ndala Z. B. , Shumbula N. P. , Nkabinde S. S. , Ngubeni G. N. , Gqoba S. S. , Mubiayi K. P. , Moloto N.
Published: September 2021

NbSe2and Nb2Se9as counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Isolation of pathogenic bacteria from sputum samples using a 3D-printed cartridge system
Authors: Pahlow Susanne , Hentschel Stefanie , Horbert Peter , Romero Cynthia , Lehniger Lydia , Wagner Sascha , Popp Jürgen , Weber Karina
Published: September 2021

We introduce a 3D-printed cartridge system enabling the convenient and cost-efficient sample preparation from sputum for PCR based detection schemes.
Shape-memory balloon offering simultaneous thermo/chemotherapies to improve anti-osteosarcoma efficacy
Authors: Ouchi Sosuke , Niiyama Eri , Sugo Ken , Uto Koichiro , Takenaka Satoshi , Kikuchi Akihiko , Ebara Mitsuhiro
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a shape-memory balloon (SMB) to improve bone cement injection efficiency and postoperative thermo/chemotherapy for bone tumors.
Deep learning-driven scaffold hopping in the discovery of Akt kinase inhibitors
Authors: Wang Zuqin , Ran Ting , Xu Fang , Wen Chang , Song Shukai , Zhou Yang , Chen Hongming , Lu Xiaoyun
Published: September 2021

A deep conditional transformer neural network, SyntaLinker, was used for scaffold hopping in the discovery of Akt inhibitors. A novel Akt kinase inhibitor 1d with high potency (Akt1 IC50 = 88 nM, U937 IC50 = 0.39 μM) was discovered.
Surface modification by high-energy heavy-ion irradiation in various crystalline ZnO facets
Authors: Jagerová Adéla , Mikšová Romana , Romanenko Oleksander , Plutnarova Iva , Sofer Zdeněk , Slepička Petr , Mistrík Jan , Macková Anna
Published: September 2021

The high-energy ion irradiation induces the creation of ZnO surface nanostructures affecting optical properties, which may be promising for photocatalysis and optoelectronics.
An augmented (multi-descriptor) grouping algorithm to optimize chemical ordering in nanoalloys
Authors: Fioravanti Davide , Barcaro Giovanni , Fortunelli Alessandro
Published: September 2021

We propose the Augmented Grouping Approach (AugGA) and its deployment in the Augmented Grouping GO (AugGGO) scheme, for an efficient exploration of the chemical ordering (or compositional structure) of multi-component (alloyed) nanoparticles.
Unraveling the activity of iron carbide clusters embedded in silica for thermocatalytic conversion of methane
Authors: Dixit Gopal K. , Kumar Manish , Katiyar Ankita , Jansen Antonius P. J. , van Bavel Alexander P. , Agrawal Ravi , Shenai Prathamesh M. , Srinivasan Varadharajan
Published: September 2021

We report the detailed mechanism of direct nonoxidative CH4 conversion on iron carbide clusters embedded in silica, revealing that the FeC3 sites generated in situ from FeC2 are mainly responsible for CH4 conversion to CH3 and H2.
Iron phosphate nanoparticle catalyst for direct oxidation of methane into formaldehyde: effect of surface redox and acid–base properties
Authors: Matsuda Aoi , Tateno Haruka , Kamata Keigo , Hara Michikazu
Published: September 2021

The surface redox and the weakly basic properties of FePO4 nanoparticles would contribute to the selective CH4 oxidation to HCHO and the suppression of over-oxidation, respectively.
Self-supported Ni3S2@Ni2P/MoS2 heterostructures on nickel foam for an outstanding oxygen evolution reaction and efficient overall water splitting
Authors: Yu Xin , Xu Siran , Wang Zhe , Wang Shan , Zhang Jing , Liu Qian , Luo Yonglan , Du Yeshuang , Sun Xuping , Wu Qi
Published: September 2021

A self-supported Ni3S2@Ni2P/MoS2 heterostructure on nickel foam as a highly effective bifunctional electrolytic water electrocatalyst.
Molecular basis of cerium oxide nanoparticle enhancement of rice salt tolerance and yield
Authors: Zhou Heng , Wu Honghong , Zhang Feng , Su Ye , Guan Wenxue , Xie Yanjie , Giraldo Juan Pablo , Shen Wenbiao
Published: September 2021

Cerium oxide nanoparticles enhance rice salt tolerance and yield via modulating nitrate reductase activity to improve nitric oxide production.
Tuning the effective utilization of adsorption sites in La-MOFs via a steric hindrance effect towards enhanced As(iii) removal
Authors: You Deng , Shi Hui , Yang Liming , Shao Penghui , Luo Xubiao , Yin Kai , Luo Shenglian
Published: September 2021

The most accessible adsorption sites were well designed and constructed on La-o-PTA frameworks for improving the As(iii) removal performance via using the strongest interaction force between La-o-PTAs and As(iii).
MET-targeted NIR II luminescence diagnosis and up-conversion guided photodynamic therapy for triple-negative breast cancer based on a lanthanide nanoprobe
Authors: Wang Yanxing , Feng Miao , Lin Bi , Peng Xiangrong , Wang Zhan , Lv Ruichan
Published: September 2021

In this research, degradable peptide-modified upconversion nanoparticles (ZUPEA) were designed for the NIR II imaging and upconversion luminescence (UCL) guided photodynamic therapy (PDT) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
C
1-Symmetric diphosphorus ligands in metal-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation to prepare chiral compounds
Authors: Sen Anirban , Chikkali Samir H.
Published: September 2021

This review examines the potential of C1-symmetric diphosphorus ligands in metal-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of alkenes to produce pharmaceutical intermediates, bioactive molecules, drug molecules, agrochemicals, and fragrances.
Expanding the PET radioisotope universe utilizing solid targets on small medical cyclotrons
Authors: George K. J. H. , Borjian S. , Cross M. C. , Hicks J. W. , Schaffer P. , Kovacs M. S.
Published: September 2021

The production of novel radioisotopes on small-to-medium cyclotrons equipped with solid targets will be vital to meet the demand of theragnostics research.
Anisotropic colloidal interactions & assembly in AC electric fields
Authors: Hendley Rachel S. , Torres-Díaz Isaac , Bevan Michael A.
Published: September 2021

We match experimental and simulated configurations of anisotropic epoxy colloidal particles in high frequency AC electric fields by identifying analytical potentials for dipole–field and dipole–dipole interactions.
Early-stage decomposition of solid polymer electrolytes in Li-metal batteries
Authors: Andersson Edvin K. W. , Sångeland Christofer , Berggren Elin , Johansson Fredrik O. L. , Kühn Danilo , Lindblad Andreas , Mindemark Jonas , Hahlin Maria
Published: September 2021

The electrode electrolyte interface is essential to our understanding of batteries and how they operate. In this article we examine the interface between three polymer electrolytes and lithium metal using photoelectron spectroscopy.
Protagonists and spectators during photocatalytic solar water splitting with SrTaOxNy oxynitride
Authors: Lawley Craig , Tehrani Zahra Pourmand , Clark Adam H. , Safonova Olga V. , Döbeli Max , Strocov Vladimir N. , Schmidt Thomas J. , Lippert Thomas , Nachtegaal Maarten , Pergolesi Daniele
Published: September 2021

With a new photoelectrochemical cell we perform operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy on SrTaOxNy during photocatalytic solar water splitting. Operando characterisation proves to be an invaluable tool for the design and discovery of novel materials.
Concomitant shape and palladium engineering of hollow conjugated microporous photocatalysts to boost visible light-induced hydrogen evolution
Authors: Ryu Sang Hyun , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Hae Jin , Ko Yoon-Joo , Ko Kyoung Chul , Son Seung Uk
Published: September 2021

Hollow conjugated microporous polymer photocatalysts bearing Pd nanoparticles were engineered to show visible light-induced HERs up to 7100 μmol h−1 g−1 and AQYs up to 3.72% (@420 nm).
The magical photoelectric and optoelectronic properties of graphene nanoribbons and their applications
Authors: Miao Wenjing , Wang Li , Mu Xijiao , Wang Jingang
Published: September 2021

Different boundary configurations can adjust the variable photoelectric characteristics of atomically accurate GNRs. All these make GNRs a promising prospect for potential applications in optics and optoelectronics.
Hollow polyhedral ZnCo2O4 superstructure as an ethanol gas sensor and sensing mechanism study using near ambient pressure XPS
Authors: Yuan Guotao , Zhang Hui , Cheng Yufeng , Zhong Yihong , Zhuo Qiqi , Sun Xuhui
Published: September 2021

ZnCo2O4 hollow polyhedrons assembled by small nanoparticle building blocks were prepared and exhibited high response to ethanol. NAPXPS spectral indicate that oxygen abosorbed on the surface can react with ethanol molecules to form carboxylates.
Mixed dimensional 0D/3D perovskite heterostructure for efficient green light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhuang Lyuchao , Zhai Lingling , Li Yanyong , Ren Hui , Li Mingjie , Lau Shu Ping
Published: September 2021

The construction of 0D/3D Cs4−xKxPbBr6/CsPbBr3 perovskite heterostructure facilitates efficient radiative recombination in the 3D phase. As a result, the EQE of the PeLEDs increased from 2.1% to 12.8%.
Efficiency and equity in origin licensing to ensure complete DNA replication
Authors: Mei Liu , Cook Jeanette Gowen
Published: September 2021

The cell division cycle must be strictly regulated during both development and adult maintenance, and efficient and well-controlled DNA replication is a key event in the cell cycle. DNA replication origins are prepared in G1 phase of the cell cycle in a process known as origin licensing which is essential for DNA replication initiation in the subsequent S phase. Appropriate origin licensing includes: (1) Licensing enough origins at adequate origin licensing speed to complete licensing before G1 phase ends; (2) Licensing origins such that they are well-distributed on all chromosomes. Both aspects of licensing are critical for replication efficiency and accuracy. In this minireview, we will discuss recent advances in defining how origin licensing speed and distribution are critical to ensure DNA replication completion and genome stability.
A power system transient stability assessment method based on active learning
Authors: Zhang Yuqiong , Zhao Qiang , Tan Bendong , Yang Jun
Published: September 2021

Due to the wide deployment of phasor measurement unit, the real‐time assessment of transient stability based on machine learning shows great potential for development. In order to solve the problem of time‐consuming data generation of offline training in such methods and the difficulty of quickly updating the model after the grid changes, the paper proposes a method for transient stability assessment (TSA) of power systems based on active learning. Firstly, different operation conditions and different faults are considered to perform short‐time simulation (simulation to the instant of fault clearance) to generate unlabelled samples. After the careful selection of critical TSA features, a part of samples are randomly selected for long‐term simulation to label the transient status of these samples, and random forest is further trained to construct TSA model. Finally some data is selected in the remaining unlabelled samples with higher information entropy to label and retrain the model until the model accuracy no longer changes. The simulation on the test power system shows that the method proposed in this paper can effectively reduce the time of offline simulation, and greatly improve the efficiency of model, and is also robust to wide‐area noise.
PENELLOPE
Authors: Frasca A. , Boffin H. M. J. , Manara C. F. , Alcalá J. M. , Ábrahám P. , Covino E. , Fang M. , Gangi M. , Herczeg G. J. , Kóspál Á. , Venuti L. , Walter F. M. , Alonso-Santiago J. , Grankin K. , Siwak M. , Alecian E. , Cabrit S.
Published: September 2021

We present the results of our study of the close pre-main sequence spectroscopic binary CVSO 104 in Ori OB1, based on data obtained within the PENELLOPE legacy program. We derive, for the first time, the orbital elements of the system and the stellar parameters of the two components. The system is composed of two early M-type stars and has an orbital period of about five days and a mass ratio of 0.92, but contrary to expectations, it does not appear to have a tertiary companion. Both components have been (quasi-)synchronized, but the orbit is still very eccentric. The spectral energy distribution clearly displays a significant infrared excess that is compatible with a circumbinary disk. The analysis of He I and Balmer line profiles, after the removal of the composite photospheric spectrum, reveals that both components are accreting at a similar level. We also observe excess emission in Hα and Hβ, which appears redshifted or blueshifted by more than 100 km s−1 with respect to the mass center of the system, depending on the orbital phase. This additional emission could be connected with accretion structures, such as funnels of matter from the circumbinary disk. We also analyze the optical companion located at about 2.″4 from the spectroscopic binary. This companion, which we named CVSO 104 B, turns out to be a background Sun-like star that is not physically associated with the PMS system and does not belong to Ori OB1.
Can nebular He II emission be explained by ultra-luminous X-ray sources?
Authors: Simmonds Charlotte , Schaerer Daniel , Verhamme Anne
Published: September 2021

Context. The shape of the ionising spectra of galaxies is a key ingredient to reveal their physical properties and for our understanding of the ionising background radiation. A long-standing unsolved problem is the presence of He II nebular emission in many low-metallicity star-forming galaxies. This emission requires ionising photons with an energy > 54 eV; it is important to note that these particular photons are not produced in sufficient amounts by normal stellar populations.

Aims. To examine if high mass X-ray binaries and ultra-luminous X-ray sources (HMXBs and ULXs) can explain the observed He II nebular emission and how their presence alters other emission lines, we computed photoionisation models of galaxies including such sources.

Methods. We combined spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of integrated stellar populations with constrained SEDs of ULXs to obtain composite spectra with varying amounts of X-ray luminosity, parameterised by LX/SFR. With these, we computed photoionisation models to predict the emission line fluxes of the optical recombination lines of H and He+, as well as the main metal lines of [O III], [O II], [O I], and [N II]. The predictions were then compared to a large sample of low-metallicity galaxies.

Results. We find that it is possible to reproduce the nebular He II λ4686 and other line observations with our spectra and with amounts of LX/SFR compatible with the observations. Our work suggests that HMBXs and ULXs could be responsible for the observed nebular He II emission. However, the strengths of the high and low ionisation lines, such as He II and [O I] λ6300, strongly depend on the X-ray contribution and on the assumed SEDs of the high energy source(s), the latter being poorly known.
The C60:C60+
ratio in diffuse and translucent interstellar clouds
Authors: Rouillé Gaël , Krasnokutski Serge A. , Carpentier Yvain
Published: September 2021

Context. Insight into the conditions that drive the physics and chemistry in interstellar clouds is gained from determining the abundance and charge state of their components.

Aims. We propose an evaluation of the C60:C60+ ratio in diffuse and translucent interstellar clouds that exploits electronic absorption bands so as not to rely on ambiguous IR emission measurements.

Methods. The ratio is determined by analyzing archival spectra and literature data. Information on the cation population is obtained from published characteristics of the main diffuse interstellar bands attributed to C60+ and absorption cross sections already reported for the vibronic bands of the cation. The population of neutral molecules is described in terms of upper limits because the relevant vibronic bands of C60 are not brought out by observations. We revise the oscillator strengths reported for C60 and measure the spectrum of the molecule isolated in Ne ice to complete them.

Results. We scale down the oscillator strengths for absorption bands of C60 and find an upper limit of approximately 1.3 for the C60:C60+ ratio.

Conclusions. We conclude that the fraction of neutral molecules in the buckminsterfullerene population of diffuse and translucent interstellar clouds may be notable despite the non-detection of the expected vibronic bands. More certainty will require improved laboratory data and observations.
Ride comfort evaluation for a double-drum vibratory roller with semi-active hydraulic cab mount system
Authors: Duy Nguyen Tien , Van Quynh Le , Ha Dang Viet , Van Cuong Bui , Long Le Xuan
Published: September 2021

The construction machinery market has required increasingly not only on working capacity but also ride comfort quality, therefore it has required increasing toward researchers and manufacturers. The main objective of this paper proposes and evaluates the performance of semi-active hydraulic cab mount system (SHCMs) of a double-drum vibratory roller in the direction of enhancing vehicle ride comfort under different operating conditions. Firstly, a nonlinear dynamic model of passive hydraulic cab mount system (PHCMs) is established to determine its vertical force which is connected with a dynamic model of vehicle - ground surface interaction. And then, a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) is designed to control the value of the damping force of SHCMs. Both the differential equations of motion and FLC are implemented in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. Finally, the ride performance of SHCMs is evaluated under different conditions according to ISO 2631: 1997 (E) standard. The obtained results show that the values of objective functions with SHCMs significantly reduce in comparison with PHCMs under different operating conditions.
Development of an experimental facility for cooling circulated water of industrial plants
Authors: Usmonov Nzomjon , Abdullabekov Yusufbek , Axmatova Saodat
Published: September 2021

The article discusses the installation and the hydrodynamic results analysis of three-phase fluidized bed experimental studies. An energy coefficient linear dependence of the circulating water evaporative cooler of the considered type on the irrigation coefficient has been experimentally established. The dependence of the fraction of circulating water evaporated moisture in an evaporative cooler of the type under consideration on the cooled water temperature at the inlet to the cooler and the irrigation coefficient has been established. The analysis of hydrodynamic and thermal processes occurring in a three-phase fluidized bed is carried out, and the main technological parameters for the optimal operation of installations with the specified bed are obtained in relation to solving the problem of cooling the circulating water. The dependence of the expansion of a three-phase fluidized bed on air velocity and irrigation density has been investigated. On the basis of the performed experimental studies, empirical formulas for calculations are derived.
Comprehensive study on the amount of CO2absorbed by vegetation: A case study in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen X Truong , Cao H H Phan , Nguyen N Hao , Duong T T Huyen , Tran T Nhat , Q Bui Khang , Ho T T Van
Published: September 2021

The city Ho Chi Minh (HCMC) is one of the largest cities in Vietnam with the most dramatically economic development rate. Along with the economic development, the urbanization process in this city is also taking place very fastly. Due to the rapid urbanization and development, the emission rate from the industry and transportation leads to the increase in the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) which has been worsening the climate change. Protecting forests and conducting afforestation so that CO2is transformed to nutrition through photosynthetic conversion is one of the most effective ways to mitigate the effects of climate change. As a result, the accumulation of CO2emissions has become a global concern. Vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide, helps to conserve the environment, produces oxygen, reduces noise, and helps to stabilize subsurface water. This paper highlights the results of ENVI software which was used to interpret remote sensing images and Arcgis to evaluate the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed by vegetation in each administrative unit: district in HCMC and ward. According to the obtained results, the amount of CO2absorbed in urban districts “District 1”, “District 3”, “District 4”, “District 5”, “Phu Nhuan District” is immensely low due to the high population density in the center of city. The population is mainly concentrated in the center districts but land area for vegetation is low. Regarding the suburban area, with mangrove forests, Can Gio District has the highest amount of CO2absorbed of 35,894.075 tons/day and followed by Cu Chi District with 21,548.48 tons/day. It can be indicated that Can Gio and Cu Chi districts improtantly function like the greenhouse gas sinks for the whole HCMC. The success of this study could contribute to climate change mitigation and support in urban and land planning, as well as resettlement policies. Aside from that, CO2emission and absorption assessment and evaluation in large–scale cities like HCMC has become a crucial, urgent, and practical issue nowadays.
Influence of mineral fertilizers on growth and formation of large-sized saplings of small-leaved linden (Tilia Cordata Mill.) and silver birch (Betula Pendula Roth.)
Authors: Yuldashev Khamza , Yuldashov Yakubjan , Bahramov Ruziboy , Kalandarov Mukhitdin
Published: September 2021

This article presents the results of a study on the effect of mineral fertilizers on the growth and formation of large-sized saplings of small-leaved linden (Tilia Cordata Mill) and silver birch (Betula Pendula Roth.) in a typical sierozem of the Tashkent region. The main criterion for assessing the effect of fertilizers and the feasibility of their use is the growth of saplings. It has been established that the growth of saplings of small-leaved linden and silver birch is enhanced by the use of mineral fertilizers. At the same time, the growth rate depends on the doses and the ratio of the fertilizers used.
Des mers anthropocéniques ? Un colloque au Muséum national d’histoire naturelle
Authors: Artaud Hélène , Chlous Frédérique , Mariat-Roy Émilie
Published: September 2021

Le 6 février 2020 a eu lieu, à l’auditorium de la grande galerie du Muséum national d’histoire naturelle, le colloque intitulé « Mer et Anthropocène », organisé par H. Artaud, F.  Chlous et É. Mariat-Roy. Cet évènement entendait réfléchir à un objet devenu désormais incontournable et pourtant relativement peu exploré dans une perspective interdisciplinaire par les études récentes menées sur la mer : la notion d’Anthropocène. L’objectif du colloque était donc d’ouvrir frontalement ce débat, en interrogeant le caractère tardif et relativement marginal de son application à la mer, et en précisant les façons dont ces mers anthropocéniques se déclinent dans l’histoire environnementale, l’anthropologie, l’histoire de l’art, l’art plastique ou les sciences politiques. Nous présentons dans ce compte rendu le contexte scientifique qui a stimulé cet évènement, l’apport de chacune des communications ainsi que les principales pistes de réflexion ouvertes par les débats.
Tire noise optimization problem: a mixed integer linear programming approach
Authors: Becker Matthias , Ginoux Nicolas , Martin Sébastien , Róka Zsuzsanna
Published: September 2021

We present a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) approach in order to model the non-linear problem of minimizing the tire noise function. In a recent work, we proposed an exact solution for the Tire Noise Optimization Problem, dealing with an APproximation of the noise (TNOP-AP). Here we study the original non-linear problem modeling the EXact- or real-noise (TNOP-EX) and propose a new scheme to obtain a solution for the TNOP-EX. Relying on the solution for the TNOP-AP, we use a Branch&Cut framework and develop an exact algorithm to solve the TNOP-EX. We also take more industrial constraints into account. Finally, we compare our experimental results with those obtained by other methods.