bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red blood cell distribution width as a predictor of mortality among patients regularly visiting the nephrology outpatient clinic
Authors: Yoo Kyung Don , Oh Hyung Jung , Park Sehoon , Kang Min Woo , Kim Yong Chul , Park Jae Yoon , Lee Jeonghwan , Lee Jong Soo , Kim Dong Ki , Lim Chun Soo , Kim Yon Su , Lee Jung Pyo ,   Korean Association for the study of Renal Anemia and artificial Intelligence (KARAI), Kim Dong Ki , Lim Chun Soo , Lee Jung Pyo
Published: December 2021

The association between increased red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and mortality among patients treated on an outpatient basis in the nephrology outpatient clinic is unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the association between baseline and time-averaged RDW and mortality risk in patients treated in our nephrology outpatient clinic. Our multi-center retrospective analysis was based on data of 16,417 outpatient nephrology patients with available baseline renal function and RWD values. The median baseline RDW was 13.0% (range, 10.0–32.1%). The high-RDW group was defined as the top quartile (≥ 13.8%, n = 4302). The crude mortality rate was 15.0% (n = 1806) at a median follow-up of 127.5 months. From the results of the multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model adjusted for covariates, including eGFR, hemoglobin, and factors of anemia treatment, patients with a high time-averaged RDW had increased mortality risk (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.505; 95% confidence interval, 1.326–1.708; P < 0.001), irrespective of sex, presence of anemia, and chronic kidney disease, except in individuals aged < 45 years. Thus, increased baseline and time-averaged RDW were significantly associated with increased mortality in patients aged > 45 years treated on an outpatient basis in the nephrology clinic.
Population structure and adaptive variation of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don along eastern Adriatic temperature and precipitation gradient
Authors: Ninčević Tonka , Jug-Dujaković Marija , Grdiša Martina , Liber Zlatko , Varga Filip , Pljevljakušić Dejan , Šatović Zlatko
Published: December 2021

Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum(Roth) G. Don; Asteraceae) is a perennial plant species native to the Mediterranean region, known for many properties with wide application mainly in perfume and cosmetic industry. A total of 18 wildH. italicumpopulations systematically sampled along the eastern Adriatic environmental gradient were studied using AFLP markers to determine genetic diversity and structure and to identify loci potentially responsible for adaptive divergence. Results showed higher levels of intrapopulation diversity than interpopulation diversity. Genetic differentiation among populations was significant but low, indicating extensive gene flow between populations. Bayesian analysis of population structure revealed the existence of two genetic clusters. Combining the results ofFST - outlier analysis (Mcheza and BayeScan) and genome-environment association analysis (Samβada, LFMM) four AFLP loci strongly associated with the bioclimatic variables Bio03 Isothermality, Bio08 Mean temperature of the wettest quarter, Bio15 Precipitation seasonality, and Bio17 Precipitation of driest quarter were found to be the main variables driving potential adaptive genetic variation inH. italicumalong the eastern Adriatic environmental gradient. Redundancy analysis revealed that the partitioning of genetic variation was mainly associated with the adaptation to temperature oscillations. The results of the research may contribute to a clearer understanding of the importance of local adaptations for the genetic differentiation of Mediterranean plants and allow the planning of appropriate conservation strategies. However, considering that the identified outlier loci may be linked to genes under selection rather than being the target of natural selection, future studies must aim at their additional analysis.
Neurokinin receptor mechanisms in forebrain medial septum modulate nociception in the formalin model of inflammatory pain
Authors: Ng Si Yun , Ariffin Mohammed Zacky , Khanna Sanjay
Published: December 2021

The present study has explored the hypothesis that neurokinin1 receptors (NK1Rs) in medial septum (MS) modulate nociception evoked on hind paw injection of formalin. Indeed, the NK1Rs in MS are localized on cholinergic neurons which have been implicated in nociception. In anaesthetized rat, microinjection of L-733,060, an antagonist at NK1Rs, into MS antagonized the suppression of CA1 population spike (PS) evoked on peripheral injection of formalin or on intraseptal microinjection of substance P (SP), an agonist at NK1Rs. The CA1 PS reflects the synaptic excitability of pyramidal cells in the region. Furthermore, microinjection of L-733,060 into MS, but not LS, attenuated formalin-induced theta activation in both anaesthetized and awake rat, where theta reflects an oscillatory information processing by hippocampal neurons. The effects of L-733,060 on microinjection into MS were nociceptive selective as the antagonist did not block septo-hippocampal response to direct MS stimulation by the cholinergic receptor agonist, carbachol, in anaesthetized animal or on exploration in awake animal. Interestingly, microinjection of L-733,060 into both MS and LS attenuated formalin-induced nociceptive flinches. Collectively, the foregoing novel findings highlight that transmission at NK1R provide an affective valence to septo-hippocampal information processing and that peptidergic transmission in the septum modulates nociceptive behaviours.
Antimicrobial efficacy of Egyptian Eremina desertorum and Helix aspersa snail mucus with a novel approach to their anti-inflammatory and wound healing potencies
Authors: EL-Zawawy Nessma A. , Mona Mahy M.
Published: December 2021

Snail mucus is composed of bioactive compounds thought to have different biological properties for the treatment of some skin problems. Although Helix aspersa mucus is used in several cosmetic products, a detailed characterization of Eremina desertorum mucus composition and its biological activities is still missing. Mucus extracts (MEs) from H. aspersa and E. desertorum were prepared and tested for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities with their potencies in wound healing. Also, chemical characterization was performed by GC–MS analysis. Results showed that ME of E. desertorum gave higher inhibitory activity against resistant strains related to burn wound infections compared to ME of H. aspersa. Additionally, it revealed a significant anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, we found that ME of E. desertorum lacked cytotoxicity and was able to significantly induce cell proliferation and migration through up-regulation of TGF-β1 and VEGF gene expression. Our results suggested that MEs of E. desertorum have higher biological effects than H. aspersa, which are attributable to antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activities, cell proliferation and pave the way for further investigating its potential effect as a human therapeutic agent.
Machine learning-assisted ammonium detection using zinc oxide/multi-walled carbon nanotube composite based impedance sensors
Authors: Aliyana Akshaya Kumar , Naveen Kumar S. K. , Marimuthu Pradeep , Baburaj Aiswarya , Adetunji Michael , Frederick Terrance , Sekhar Praveen , Fernandez Renny Edwin
Published: December 2021

We report a machine learning approach to accurately correlate the impedance variations in zinc oxide/multi walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite (F-MWCNT/ZnO-NFs) to NH4+ ions concentrations. Impedance response of F-MWCNT/ZnO-NFs nanocomposites with varying ZnO:MWCNT compositions were evaluated for its sensitivity and selectivity to NH4+ ions in the presence of structurally similar analytes. A decision-making model was built, trained and tested using important features of the impedance response of F-MWCNT/ZnO-NF to varying NH4+ concentrations. Different algorithms such as kNN, random forest, neural network, Naïve Bayes and logistic regression are compared and discussed. ML analysis have led to identify the most prominent features of an impedance spectrum that can be used as the ML predictors to estimate the real concentration of NH4+ ion levels. The proposed NH4+ sensor along with the decision-making model can identify and operate at specific operating frequencies to continuously collect the most relevant information from a system.
Cx43 carboxyl terminal domain determines AQP4 and Cx30 endfoot organization and blood brain barrier permeability
Authors: Cibelli Antonio , Stout Randy , Timmermann Aline , de Menezes Laura , Guo Peng , Maass Karen , Seifert Gerald , Steinhäuser Christian , Spray David C. , Scemes Eliana
Published: December 2021

The neurovascular unit (NVU) consists of cells intrinsic to the vessel wall, the endothelial cells and pericytes, and astrocyte endfeet that surround the vessel but are separated from it by basement membrane. Endothelial cells are primarily responsible for creating and maintaining blood–brain-barrier (BBB) tightness, but astrocytes contribute to the barrier through paracrine signaling to the endothelial cells and by forming the glia limitans. Gap junctions (GJs) between astrocyte endfeet are composed of connexin 43 (Cx43) and Cx30, which form plaques between cells. GJ plaques formed of Cx43 do not diffuse laterally in the plasma membrane and thus potentially provide stable organizational features to the endfoot domain, whereas GJ plaques formed of other connexins and of Cx43 lacking a large portion of its cytoplasmic carboxyl terminus are quite mobile. In order to examine the organizational features that immobile GJs impose on the endfoot, we have used super-resolution confocal microscopy to map number and sizes of GJ plaques and aquaporin (AQP)-4 channel clusters in the perivascular endfeet of mice in which astrocyte GJs (Cx30, Cx43) were deleted or the carboxyl terminus of Cx43 was truncated. To determine if BBB integrity was compromised in these transgenic mice, we conducted perfusion studies under elevated hydrostatic pressure using horseradish peroxide as a molecular probe enabling detection of micro-hemorrhages in brain sections. These studies revealed that microhemorrhages were more numerous in mice lacking Cx43 or its carboxyl terminus. In perivascular domains of cerebral vessels, we found that density of Cx43 GJs was higher in the truncation mutant, while GJ size was smaller. Density of perivascular particles formed by AQP4 and its extended isoform AQP4ex was inversely related to the presence of full length Cx43, whereas the ratio of sizes of the particles of the AQP4ex isoform to total AQP4 was directly related to the presence of full length Cx43. Confocal analysis showed that Cx43 and Cx30 were substantially colocalized in astrocyte domains near vasculature of truncation mutant mice. These results showing altered distribution of some astrocyte nexus components (AQP4 and Cx30) in Cx43 null mice and in a truncation mutant, together with leakier cerebral vasculature, support the hypothesis that localization and mobility of gap junction proteins and their binding partners influences organization of astrocyte endfeet which in turn impacts BBB integrity of the NVU.
Generation of a lung squamous cell carcinoma three-dimensional culture model with keratinizing structures
Authors: Kawai Shigeto , Nakano Kiyotaka , Tamai Keiichi , Fujii Etsuko , Yamada Mimori , Komoda Hiroshi , Sakumoto Hirofumi , Natori Osamu , Suzuki Masami
Published: December 2021

Tumor nests in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) have a hierarchical structure resembling squamous epithelium. The nests consist of basal-like cells on the periphery and layers of keratinocyte-like cells that differentiate towards the center of the nest, forming keratin pearls. Reproducing this spatial heterogeneity in in vitro models would be useful for understanding the biology of LUSC. Here, we established a three-dimensional (3D) culture model with a squamous epithelial structure using LUSC cell lines PLR327F-LD41 and MCC001F, established in-house. When PLR327F-LD41 cells were cultured in a mixture of Matrigel and collagen I, they generated 3D colonies (designated cancer organoids, or COs) with involucrin (IVL)-positive keratinizing cells in the center (IVLinner COs). COs with uniform size were generated by seeding PLR327F-LD41 cells in a form of small cell aggregates. Since Notch signaling induces the differentiation of squamous epithelium, we confirmed the effect of γ-secretase inhibitor in inhibiting Notch signaling in IVLinner COs. Surprisingly, γ-secretase inhibitor did not block induction of IVL-positive cells; however, cells residing between the CK5-positive basal-like layer and IVL-positive layer decreased significantly. Thus, our 3D culture model with uniform size and structure promises to be a useful tool for elucidating the biology of LUSC and for screening drug-candidates.
Postmarketing safety surveillance data reveals protective effects of botulinum toxin injections against incident anxiety
Authors: Wollmer M. Axel , Makunts Tigran , Krüger Tillmann H. C. , Abagyan Ruben
Published: December 2021

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown an antidepressant effect of glabellar botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections. In the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, BoNT injection is associated with reduced incidence rates of depression across various non-psychiatric indications, which confirms the previous findings independently of specific expectations to an antidepressant effect of BoNT. The rationale of using BoNT to treat depression is to interrupt proprioceptive body feedback that may reinforce negative emotions. Negative emotions also occur in other mental disorders, suggesting a transdiagnostic therapeutic potential of BoNT in psychiatry. Here we report an analysis of the FAERS database, in which we found that, compared to alternative treatments, BoNT injections were associated with lower incidence of anxiety symptoms and related disorders. Among seven indications/injection sites, we found this protective effect of BoNT in cosmetic use/facial muscles, migraine/facial and head muscles, spasms and spasticity/upper and lower limbs, torticollis and neck pain/neck muscles, and sialorrhea/parotid and submandibular glands (reporting odds ratios 0.79–0.27). These findings are encouraging for possible future RCTs on the use of BoNT as a treatment for anxiety and related disorders.
Synthesis and multifaceted pharmacological activity of novel quinazoline NHE-1 inhibitors
Authors: Spasov Alexander , Ozerov Alexander , Vassiliev Pavel , Kosolapov Vadim , Gurova Natalia , Kucheryavenko Aida , Naumenko Ludmila , Babkov Denis , Sirotenko Viktor , Taran Alena , Litvinov Roman , Borisov Alexander , Klochkov Vladlen , Merezhkina Darya , Miroshnikov Mikhail , Uskov Georgy , Ovsyankina Nadezhda
Published: December 2021

The Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE-1) attracts ongoing attention as a validated drug target for the management of cardiovascular and ocular diseases owing to cytoprotective, anti-ischemic and anti-inflammatory properties of NHE-1 inhibitors. Herein we report novel NHE-1 inhibitors realized via functionalization of N1-alkyl quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione and quinazoline-4(3H)-one with N-acylguanidine or 3-acyl(5-amino-1,2,4-triazole) side chain. Lead compounds show activity in a nanomolar range. Their pharmacophoric features were elucidated with neural network modeling. Several compounds combine NHE-1 inhibition with antiplatelet activity. Compound 6b reduces intraocular pressure in rats and effectively inhibits the formation of glycated proteins. Compounds 3e and 3i inhibit pro-inflammatory activation of murine macrophages, LPS-induced interleukin-6 secretion and also exhibit antidepressant activity similar to amiloride. Hence, novel compounds represent an interesting starting point for the development of agents against cardiovascular diseases, thrombotic events, excessive inflammation, long-term diabetic complications and glaucoma.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Human blood type influences the host-seeking behavior and fecundity of the Asian malaria vector Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Khan Shahmshad Ahmed , Kassim Nur Faeza Abu , Webb Cameron Ewart , Aqueel Muhammad Anjum , Ahmad Saboor , Malik Sadia , Hussain Taimoor
Published: December 2021

The nutritional requirements of mosquitoes include both sugar (generally derived from the nectar of flowers) and blood (humans or animals). Mosquitoes express different degrees of preferences towards hosts depending on behavioral, ecological, and physiological factors. These preferences have implications for mosquito-borne disease risk. The present study is directed to reveal the effect of the human blood groups on the fecundity and fertility of the malaria vectorAnopheles stephensi. In laboratory tests, mosquitoes were fed on ABO blood groups via artificial membrane feeders, and the level of attraction against different blood groups was tested by the electroantennogram and wind tunnel bioassay under control conditions. Results indicate that the female mosquitoes had a strong preference towards the blood group B, while in the case of females fed on O blood group had the highest digestibility rate. Overall, the human blood type had a significant impact on the fecundity and fertility of femaleAn. stephensi.The highest numbers of eggs are laid, in the case of blood group B, (mean (± SD)) 216.3 (8.81) followed by the AB, 104.06 (7.67), and O, 98.01 (7.04). In the case of blood group B, females attain the highest fertility of about 92.1 (9.98). This study provides novel insight into the ABO blood type host choice of the mosquitoes that are still partially unknown and suggests encouraging personal protection for relevant individuals within communities at risk, which is a useful tool for preventing malaria where theAn. stephensiis present as a dominant vector.
Empirical leucine-to-carbon conversion factors in north-eastern Atlantic waters (50–2000 m) shaped by bacterial community composition and optical signature of DOM
Authors: Orta-Ponce C. Pamela , Rodríguez-Ramos Tamara , Nieto-Cid Mar , Teira Eva , Guerrero-Feijóo Elisa , Bode Antonio , Varela Marta M.
Published: December 2021

Microbial heterotrophic activity is a major process regulating the flux of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the ocean, while the characteristics of this DOM strongly influence its microbial utilization and fate in the ocean. In order to broaden the vertical resolution of leucine-to-carbon conversion factors (CFs), needed for converting substrate incorporation into biomass production by heterotrophic bacteria, 20 dilution experiments were performed in the North Atlantic Ocean. We found a depth-stratification in empirical CFs values from epipelagic to bathypelagic waters (4.00 ± 1.09 to 0.10 ± 0.00 kg C mol Leu−1). Our results demonstrated that the customarily used theoretical CF of 1.55 kg C mol Leu−1 in oceanic samples can lead to an underestimation of prokaryotic heterotrophic production in epi- and mesopelagic waters, while it can overestimate it in the bathypelagic ocean. Pearson correlations showed that CFs were related not only to hydrographic variables such as temperature, but also to specific phylogenetic groups and DOM quality and quantity indices. Furthermore, a multiple linear regression model predicting CFs from relatively simple hydrographic and optical spectroscopic measurements was attempted. Taken together, our results suggest that differences in CFs throughout the water column are significantly connected to DOM, and also reflect differences linked to specific prokaryotic groups.
Effect of ocular demodicosis on the stability of the tear film and the tear break up time
Authors: Sędzikowska Aleksandra , Tarkowski Witold , Moneta-Wielgoś Joanna , Grzyliński Krzysztof , Tarkowski Grzegorz , Młocicki Daniel
Published: December 2021

The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between the presence of Demodex mites in the hair follicles of patients' eyelashes and the stability and break up time of the tear film assessed with the Non-Invasive Tear Break Up Times (NIBUT) method. 319 patients were included in the study (195 women, 124 men). The patients were divided into two groups: those with Demodex infestation and without visible symptoms of eyelid or eye surface diseases, and asymptomatic non-infested patients. The NIBUT analysis was performed with a 5 M keratograph (oculus). Non-invasive tests were performed to identify the first and mean values of the tear break up time. The first and mean tear break up time in the Demodex-infested group was lower than in the non-infested subjects. The difference was a highly statistically significant. There was a significant correlation with the age of the patients for the first break up time. The first break up time in both eyes decreased with the age of the Demodex-infested and non-infested patients. The NIBUT analyses indicate the impact of Demodex mites on the tear film stability. This may suggest possible association of demodicosis with dry eye syndrome.
Development of an in vitro tissue culture system for hammer coral (Fimbriaphyllia ancora) ovaries
Authors: Chiu Yi-Ling , Chang Ching-Fong , Shikina Shinya
Published: December 2021

In vitro gonad culture systems have proven useful to investigate intrinsic mechanisms of sexual reproduction in animals. Here we describe development of an in vitro culture method for coral ovaries. Mesenterial tissues containing both ovaries and mesenterial filaments were microscopically isolated from the scleractinian coral, Fimbriaphyllia ancora, and culture conditions were optimized. M199 diluted 10× (10% M199, pH 8.1) and supplemented with 25 mM HEPES and the antibiotics, ampicillin, penicillin and streptomycin, supported oocyte survival and maintained the structural integrity of ovaries during short-term culture (~ 6 days). Addition of a commercial antibiotic–antimycotic solution (Anti–Anti) and fetal bovine serum adversely affected ovary maintenance and caused tissue disintegration. Characterization of cultured ovaries showed that there is no difference in cell proliferation of ovarian somatic cells between culture Days 1 and 6. Moreover, the presence of oogonia and expression of a major yolk protein, vitellogenin, were confirmed in ovaries cultured for 6 days. This system will be useful for studying effects of a wide range of substances on coral oogenesis.
CD99 antibody disrupts T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia adhesion to meningeal cells and attenuates chemoresistance
Authors: Ebadi Maryam , Jonart Leslie M. , Ostergaard Jason , Gordon Peter M.
Published: December 2021

Central nervous system (CNS) relapse is a significant cause of treatment failure among patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In prior work we found that the meninges, the thin layer of tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord, harbor leukemia cells in the CNS. Importantly, direct interactions between leukemia and meningeal cells enabled leukemia chemoresistance. Herein, we show that an antibody targeting CD99, a transmembrane protein expressed on meningeal cells and many leukemia cells, disrupts adhesion between leukemia and meningeal cells and restores sensitivity of the leukemia cells to chemotherapy. This work identifies a mechanism regulating critical intercellular interactions within the CNS leukemia niche and may lead to novel therapeutic approaches for overcoming niche-mediated chemoresistance.
Author Correction: Cellular basis of omentum activation and expansion revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing using a parabiosis model
Authors: Ishigaki Kazuhiko , Kumano Keiki , Fujita Kyohei , Ueno Hiroo
Published: December 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A self-oriented beacon liquid crystal assay for kanamycin detection with AuNPs signal enhancement
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Bing , Xiong Xingliang , Deng Shixiong
Published: December 2021

In this study, an assay was proposed for Kana detection using an aptamer as the self-oriented beacon.
Muscle-inspired MXene/PVA hydrogel with high toughness and photothermal therapy for promoting bacteria-infected wound healing
Authors: Li Yan , Han Miaomiao , Cai Yue , Jiang Bing , Zhang Yuanxin , Yuan Biao , Zhou Feng , Cao Chongjiang
Published: December 2021

MXene@PVA antibacterial hydrogel with excellent mechanical properties was prepared using a directional freezing-assisted salt dissolution method. Combined with photothermal treatment, it could effectively promote bacteria-infected wound healing.
Preparation of antibacterial polypeptides with different topologies and their antibacterial properties
Authors: Wang Xiaodan , Yang Fangping , Yang Huawei , Zhang Xu , Tang Haoyu , Luan Shifang
Published: December 2021

In this research, two series of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with linear and star-shaped topological structures were synthesized and the antibacterial performances of the tailored AMPs were comprehensively evaluated in both solution states and surface-bonded states.
PANa/Covalent organic framework composites with improved water uptake and proton conductivity
Authors: Yang Jianjian , Xie Changsong , Yang Qianqian , Wang Shuang , Gao Yun , Ji Jiahui , Du Zecheng , Kang Zixi , Wang Rongming , Sun Daofeng
Published: December 2021

In this communication, we construct composite-type PANa@UCOF-x by the in situ reaction strategy, which combines the advantages of UCOF with ordered channels and PANa with high water uptake, thus improving the proton conductivity of UCOF.
Accurate prediction of grain boundary structures and energetics in CdTe: a machine-learning potential approach
Authors: Yokoi Tatsuya , Adachi Kosuke , Iwase Sayuri , Matsunaga Katsuyuki
Published: December 2021

Errors with respect to GB energies calculated by DFT calculations. The ANN potential constructed accurately predicts the DFT values of both low-to high-energy states.
Sustainable and cost-effective ternary electrolyte Et3NHCl–AlCl3–Mg(DEP)2 for high-performance rechargeable magnesium batteries
Authors: Prabhakar Seggem , Chavan Santosh N. , Basak Pratyay , Jetti Vatsala Rani
Published: December 2021

The cost-effective and sustainable electrolyte is needed for scaling up high-performance battery technologies. The simple ternary mixture of Et3NHCl–AlCl3–Mg(DEP)2 presented as an effective electrolyte for Mg batteries.
A molecular insight into the photophysics of barbituric acid, a candidate for canonical nucleobases’ ancestor
Authors: Romeo-Gella Fernando , Arpa Enrique M. , Corral Inés
Published: December 2021

Quantum mechanical calculations uncover the relaxation mechanism of UV excited barbituric acid, suggested as an ancestor for current DNA/RNA nucleobases.
Electronic structure and bonding in endohedral Zintl clusters
Authors: McGrady John E. , Weigend Florian , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: December 2021

Despite many different views on the bonding in endohedral Zintl clusters, the relationship between their valence electron count and their structure and bonding patterns is much more uniform than previously anticipated, as highlighted in this article.
Exploring the adsorption site coordination as a strategy to tune copper catalysts for CO2 electro-reduction
Authors: Verga Lucas G. , Mendes Paulo C. D. , Ocampo-Restrepo Vivianne K. , Da Silva Juarez L. F.
Published: December 2021

The atomistic engineering of the catalyst substrate was explored as a strategy to tune Cu catalysts for CO2 reduction towards different C1 products.
Predominance of the second cycle in homogeneous Os-catalyzed dihydroxylation: the nature of Os(vi) → Os(viii) reoxidation and unprecedented roles of amine-N-oxides
Authors: Hussein Aqeel A. , Ma Yumiao , Moustafa Gamal A. I.
Published: December 2021

Our detailed DFT study of Os-catalyzed alkene dihydroxylation revealed that the reaction predominantly proceedsviaa second cycle initiated by the formation of a putative Os(viii)trioxoglycolate as a highly reactive intermediate.
Relevance of the electron transfer pathway in photodynamic activity of Ru(ii) polypyridyl complexes containing 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline ligands under normoxic and hypoxic conditions
Authors: Mazuryk Olga , Janczy-Cempa Ewelina , Łagosz Justyna , Rutkowska-Zbik Dorota , Machnicka Agata , Krasowska Aneta , Pietrzyk Piotr , Stochel Grażyna , Brindell Małgorzata
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between the spectroscopic and photophysical properties of Ru(ii) polypyridyl complexes and their photodynamic activity in vitro.
Combined bioderivatization and engineering approach to improve the efficiency of geraniol production
Authors: Wang Xun , Xiao Longjie , Zhang Xinyi , Zhang Jia , Zhang Yu , Wang Fei , Li Xun
Published: December 2021

We design a ‘bioderivatization-whole cell catalysis-resinin situadsorption separation’ system for thede novobiosynthesis of geraniol inE. coli.
Heterogeneous graphitic carbon nitrides in visible-light-initiated organic transformations
Authors: Verma Santosh Kumar , Verma Rameshwari , Girish Yarabahally R. , Xue Fan , Yan Long , Verma Shekhar , Singh Monika , Vaishnav Yogesh , Shaik Afzal B. , Bhandare Richie R. , Rakesh Kadalipura P. , Sharath Kumar Kothanahally S. , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S.
Published: December 2021

Carbon nitride-catalyzed photocatalytic strategies for the oxidation of alcohols, reduction of nitro compounds, coupling reactions, and synthesis of esters, phenols, and sulfoxides have been summarized.
Engineering bacteria to control electron transport altering the synthesis of non-native polymer
Authors: Bennett Mechelle R. , Jain Akhil , Kovacs Katalin , Hill Phil J. , Alexander Cameron , Rawson Frankie J.
Published: December 2021

The use of bacteria as catalysts for radical polymerisations of synthetic monomers has recently been established.
Sample preparation induced phase transitions in solution deposited copper selenide thin films
Authors: Koren Bar , Friedman Ofir , Maman Nitzan , Hayun Shmuel , Ezersky Vladimir , Golan Yuval
Published: December 2021

Ion beam irradiation causes Klockmannite CuSe to lose Se and transform into β-Cu2Se. Caution must be taken when using the dual beam FIB for preparing TEM specimen.
Lithium-based ceramics in nonsilicates for CO2capture: current status and new trends
Authors: Hu Yingchao , Fu Ruicheng , Liu Wenqiang , Yao Dingding , Yan Shuiping
Published: December 2021

Lithium-based ceramics in nonsilicates have emerged as promising CO2sorbent candidates and gained worldwide attention.
The syntheses, structures and spectroelectrochemical properties of 6-oxo-verdazyl derivatives bearing surface anchoring groups
Authors: Kumar Varshini J. , Wu Jian-Zhong , Judd Martyna , Rousset Elodie , Korb Marcus , Moggach Stephen A. , Cox Nicholas , Low Paul J.
Published: December 2021

The electronic properties of 6-oxo-verdazyl radicals are tuned by substituents at the 1- and 5-positions, with frontier orbital analysis indicating that each system should display constructive quantum interference in a molecular junction.
Prognostic value of miR-21 for prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stafford M.Y. Cynthia , Willoughby Colin E. , Walsh Colum P. , McKenna Declan J.
Published: December 2021

Elevated levels of miR-21 expression are associated with many cancers, suggesting it may be a promising clinical biomarker. In prostate cancer (PCa), however, there is still no consensus about the usefulness of miR-21 as an indicator of disease progression. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the value of miR-21 expression as a prognostic measurement in PCa patients. Medline (Ovid), EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for relevant publications between 2010 to 2021. Studies exploring the relationship between miR-21 expression, PCa prognosis and clinicopathological factors were selected for review. Those reporting hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were subject to meta-analyses. Fixed-effect models were employed to calculated pooled HRs and 95% CIs. Risk of bias in each study was assessed using QUIPS tool. Certainty of evidence in each meta-analysis was assessed using GRADE guidelines. A total of 64 studies were included in the systematic review. Of these, 11 were eligible for inclusion in meta-analysis. Meta-analyses revealed that high miR-21 expression was associated with poor prognosis: HR = 1.58 (95% CI = 1.19–2.09) for biochemical recurrence, MODERATE certainty; HR = 1.46 (95% CI = 1.06–2.01) for death, VERY LOW certainty; and HR = 1.26 (95% CI = 0.70–2.27) for disease progression, VERY LOW certainty. Qualitative summary revealed elevated miR-21 expression was significantly positively associated with PCa stage, Gleason score and risk groups. This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that elevated levels of miR-21 are associated with poor prognosis in PCa patients. miR-21 expression may therefore be a useful prognostic biomarker in this disease.
Integral backstepping Lyapunov redesign control of uncertain nonlinear systems
Authors: Jalalabadi Esmaeil , Paylakhi Seyedeh Zahra , Rahimi‐kian Ashkan , Moshiri Behzad
Published: December 2021

This paper intends to design an integral backstepping Lyapunov redesign controller (IBLRC) for various uncertain strict‐feedback‐form nonlinear systems. The pros and cons of backstepping Lyapunov redesign resulted in the design idea. An integral term is incorporated in conventional backstepping with Lyapunov redesign to indirectly decrease chattering and steady‐state error of a reference signal tracking when unknown static parameters and matched and unmatched dynamic uncertainties exist. The closed‐loop system is mathematically confirmed as stable in a Lyapunov frame, and we ultimately reach uniformly semi‐global boundedness of all signals. Simulation results of the proposed IBLRC are juxtaposed with those of the classic backstepping with the Lyapunov redesign. The proposed IBLRC realizes excellent tracking and enhanced robust performance than the BLRC for time‐varying and step tracking references.
The Fornax Cluster VLT Spectroscopic Survey
Authors: Chaturvedi Avinash , Hilker Michael , Cantiello Michele , Napolitano Nicola R. , van de Ven Glenn , Spiniello Chiara , Fahrion Katja , Paolillo Maurizio , Gatto Massimiliano , Puzia Thomas
Published: December 2021

The Fornax cluster provides an unparalleled opportunity of investigating the formation and evolution of early-type galaxies in a dense environment in detail. We aim at kinematically characterising photometrically detected globular cluster (GC) candidates in the core of the cluster. We used spectroscopic data from the Visible Multi Object Spectrograph at Very Large Telescope (VLT/VIMOS) from the FVSS survey in the Fornax cluster, covering one square degree around the central massive galaxy NGC 1399. We confirm a total of 777 GCs, almost doubling previously detected GCs, using the same dataset as was used before. Combined with previous literature radial velocity measurements of GCs in Fornax, we compile the most extensive spectroscopic GC sample of 2341 objects in this environment. We found that red GCs are mostly concentrated around major galaxies, while blue GCs are kinematically irregular and are widely spread throughout the core region of the cluster. The velocity dispersion profiles of blue and red GCs show a quite distinct behaviour. Blue GCs exhibit a sharp increase in the velocity dispersion profile from 250 to 400 km s−1within 5 arcmin (∼29 kpc/∼1reffof NGC 1399) from the central galaxy. The velocity dispersion profile of red GCs follows a constant value between 200 and 300 km s−1until 8 arcmin (∼46 kpc/∼1.6reff), and then rises to 350 km s−1at 10 arcmin (∼58 kpc/∼2reff). Beyond 10 arcmin and out to 40 arcmin (∼230 kpc/ ∼8reff), blue and red GCs show a constant velocity dispersion of 300 ± 50 km s−1, indicating that both GC populations trace the cluster potential. We kinematically confirm and characterise the previously photometrically discovered overdensities of intra-cluster GCs. We found that these substructured intra-cluster regions in Fornax are dominated mostly by blue GCs.
The first study of four doubly eclipsing systems
Authors: Zasche P. , Henzl Z. , Kára J.
Published: December 2021

We present the discovery and the very first analysis of four stellar systems showing two periods of eclipses, that are the objects classified as doubly eclipsing systems. Some of them were proved to orbit each other thanks to their eclipse-timing-variations (ETVs) of both pairs, hence they really constitute rare quadruples with two eclipsing pairs. Some of them do not, as we are still waiting for more data to detect their mutual movement. Their light curves and period changes were analysed. All of them are detached and near-contact, but none of them contact; moreover, to our knowledge none of these stars can be considered as blend of two spatially unresolved close components on the sky. These systems are CzeV2647 (0.5723296 + 0.9637074 days), proved to orbit with 4.5-year periodicity; CzeV1645 (1.0944877 + 1.6594641 days), with a rather questionable detection of ETV; CzeV3436 (0.6836870 + 0.3833930 days); and, finally, OGLE SMC-ECL-1758 (0.9291925 + 3.7350826 days), proved to move on its 30-year orbit. Even more surprising is the fact that most of these systems show the ratio of their two orbital periods close to coupling near some resonant values of small integers, namely CzeV2647, with only 1% from 3:5 resonance, CzeV1645 1% from 2:3 resonance, and OGLE SMC-ECL-1758 with only 0.49% from 1:4 resonance. The nature of these near-resonant states still remains a mystery.
Clinical and Obstetric Aspects of Pregnant Women with COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bastos Sarah Nilkece Mesquita Araújo Nogueira , Barbosa Bárbara Louise Freire , Cruz Larisse Giselle Barbosa , Souza Rayza Pereira de , Silva Melo Simone Santos e , Luz Caroline Camargo Bandeira da Silveira
Published: December 2021

Objective To analyze the clinical and obstetric aspects of pregnant women with COVID-19.

Methods A systematic literature review in the MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, SCIELO, and CNKI databases was performed from March to May 2020, with the descriptors: Pregnancy; 2019-nCov; Coronavirus; SARS-Cov-2, Covid-19. Of those chosen were original titles, without language and period restriction and that addressed pregnant women with a clinical and/or laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19. Revisions, editorials, and duplicate titles were excluded. The Newcastle-Ottawa (NOS) and Murad et al. scales were used to assess the quality of the studies.

Results We included 34 articles with 412 pregnant women infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-Cov-2), with an average age of 27.5 years of age and 36.0 gestational weeks. The most common symptom was fever (205 [49.7%]), and 89 (21.6%) pregnant women progressed to severe viral pneumonia. Laboratory tests showed an increase in C-reactive protein (154 [37.8%]), and radiological tests showed pneumonia with peripheral ground-glass pattern (172 [51.4%]). Emergency cesarean delivery was indicated for most pregnant women, and the most common gestational complication was premature rupture of ovarian membranes (14 [3.4%;]). We detected 2 (0.5%) neonatal deaths, 2 (0.5%) stillbirths, and 1 (0.2%) maternal death.

Conclusion Pregnant women with COVID-19 presented a clinical picture similar to that of non-infected pregnant women, with few obstetric or neonatal repercussions. There was a greater indication of cesarean deliveries before the disease aggravated, and there was no evidence of vertical transmission of the infection.
Overview of the Effect of Complementary Medicine on Treating or Mitigating the Risk of Endometriosis
Authors: Mirzaee Firoozeh , Ahmadi Atefeh
Published: December 2021

Objective Endometriosis is a hormone-dependent chronic inflammatory disease with symptoms such as pelvic pain, which affect the physical, emotional, and social health of women in reproductive age. The current overview article aims to explore the effect of complementary medicine on the treatment or in mitigating the risk of endometriosis.

Methods This is an overview article done in Iran. Two separate researchers systematically searched 3 databases (Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register Trials) until September 2020. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the assessment of multiple systematic reviews (AMSTAR) tool.

Results The results of two reviews suggested that physical activity, tobacco smoking, diet, coffee and caffeine intake had no effect on mitigating the risk of endometriosis or improving its treatment, but acupuncture successfully reduced pain and related marker (serum CA-125) levels.

Conclusion As endometriosis is an annoying disease with many complications and is hard to diagnose and treat, related studies in complementary medicine can help patients with endometriosis. Based on the relevant literature review, among the complementary medicine available for the treatment or to mitigate the risk of endometriosis, only acupuncture seems to alleviate the pain of endometriosis.
Intermittent versus Continuous Catheterization and Differences in the Evolution of Labor: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Reis Inês , Cunha Sara , Martins Matilde , Sousa Luísa , Seixas Adérito , Rasteiro Cátia
Published: December 2021

Objective To evaluate the differences between bladder emptying options (permanent catheterization and intermittent bladder emptying/spontaneous urination) regarding the effects on labor length, need of operative vaginal deliveries, and cesarean section rate.

Data Sources The search was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases.

Selection of Studies The survey returned 964 studies. A total of 719 studies were evaluated by title and abstract, of which 4 were selected for inclusion.

Data Collection All references were inserted in the Rayyan QCRI tool (Rayyan Systems Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA). The full text of the selected articles was obtained so we could later decide whether or not to include them in this systematic review.

Data Synthesis No differences were found in the number of instrumented deliveries or in cesarean section rate between groups.

Conclusions After evaluating the studies performed on the topic, we concluded that there is no clear advantage to either method, although continuous catheterization was associated with a greater occurrence of eutocic births. In the remaining outcomes, there were no differences between catheterization types.
Uterine Artery Pulsatility Index as a Pre-eclampsia Predictor in the 3 Trimesters in Women with Singleton Pregnancies
Authors: Guzmán Yuly Natalia , Uriel Montserrat , Ramírez Alexandra Porras , Romero Ximena Carolina
Published: December 2021

Objective To evaluate the mean uterine artery pulsatility index (UtAPI) in each trimester of pregnancy as a predictor of early or late pre-eclampsia (PE) in Colombian pregnant women.

Methods The UtAPI was measured in singleton pregnancies in each trimester. Uterine artery pulsatility index as predictor of PE was evaluated by odds ratio (OR), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and Kaplan-Meier diagram.

Results Analysis in the 1st and 3rd trimester showed that abnormal UtAPI was associated with early PE (OR: 5.99: 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64–21.13; and OR: 10.32; 95%CI: 2.75–42.49, respectively). Sensitivity and specificity were 71.4 and 79.6%, respectively, for developing PE (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.922). The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that a UtAPI of 0.76 (95%CI: 0.58–1.0) in the 1st trimester was associated with early PE, and a UtAPI of 0.73 (95%CI: 0.55–0.97) in the 3rd trimester was associated with late PE.

Conclusion Uterine arteries proved to be a useful predictor tool in the 1st and 3rd trimesters for early PE and in the 3rd trimester for late PE in a pregnant population with high prevalence of PE.
School-based HPV Vaccination: The Challenges in a Brazilian Initiative
Authors: Teixeira Julio Cesar , Vianna Mariana Silva Castro , Vale Diama Bhadra , Arbore Daniella Moretti , Perini Thais Helena Wilmers , Couto Tulio Jose Tomass , Neto Jose Pedroso , Zeferino Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2021

Objective The present study assesses the implementation and the impact after 2 years of a school-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program in a Brazilian city.

Methods A prospective study assessing the implementation of the program, offering quadrivalent HPV vaccine in two annual doses to girls and boys aged from 9 to 10 years old. The program was started in the city of Indaiatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil, in 2018, and had authorization from the National Immunization Program. The number of HPV vaccine first doses applied and the coverage in 2018 was calculated and compared to the year 2017. There were described events that have influenced the results.

Results The program invited 4,878 children through schools (87.1% of the target population), and 7.5% refused vaccination. Several concurrent events required or competed for health professionals of the vaccination teams. The coverage of the first dose (between 9 and 10 years old) was 16.1% in 2017 and increased to 50.5% in 2018 (p < 0.0001). The first dose in all ages increased 78% in 2018 compared with 2017 (6,636/3,733). Competing demands over the program continued in 2019, and the first dose coverage dropped (26.9%). For 2020, a municipal law instituted school-based vaccination and the creation of dedicated teams for vaccination, and these strategies are waiting to be tested.

Conclusion School-based annual HPV vaccination in children between 9 and 10 years old was feasible and increased vaccination coverage, regardless of gender, although the program was vulnerable to competing events.
Reentrant superconductivity in a hybrid heterostructure with a high transparency barrier
Authors: Zubov E. E.
Published: December 2021

Within the framework of the self-consistent effective field approximation of the time-dependent perturbation theory, an influence of the electron tunneling on the spontaneously induced order parameters in a normal metal–superconductor hybrid structure is considered. For a normal-metal model, which does not take into account electron-electron scattering, as well as electron-phonon coupling, a critical barrier transparency, corresponding to the disappearance of superconductivity in the ground state, was obtained. The presence of incoherent excitations leads to a complex relationship between the effects of ordering, thermal fluctuations, and tunneling. Near the critical barrier transparency, this can stabilize a superconducting state in the certain temperature intervals. As a result, a reentrant superconductivity phenomenon was observed. The studied spectral properties of the hybrid structure reflect the existence of both coherent and incoherent elementary excitations.
Development of experimental techniques for antibiotics detection in aqueous solutions: Real-time microwave dielectrometry and UV-Vis spectrophotometry study
Authors: Eremenko Z. E. , Pashynska V. A. , Kuznetsova K. S. , Martunov A. V.
Published: December 2021

Microwave dielectrometry and UV/Vis spectrophotometry methods have been used to study the aqueous solutions of selected antibiotics of different classes: lincomycin hydrochloride, levofloxacin hemihydrate, amikacin sulfate, and gentamicin sulfate. The microwave dielectrometry technique demonstrates high sensitivity of complex permittivity values of antibiotics water solutions from antibiotics concentration in such solutions. In our study, the microwave dielectrometry data are validated by the UV-Vis spectrophotometry results for levofloxacin and lincomycin aqueous solutions. The Fisher’s correlation coefficients for the electromagnetic waves absorbance values, obtained by the different methods, are close to unity for the mentioned antibiotics. The obtained experimental results confirm that the microwave dielectrometry method developed by us is prospective to be applied for antibiotics determination in aqueous solutions including environmental water samples.