bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of post‐silking drought stress degree on grain yield and quality of waxy maize
Authors: Guo Jian , Qu Lingling , Wang Longfei , Lu Weiping , Lu Dalei
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Drought stress (DS) induced by post‐silking have a major impact on the yield and quality of maize. In this study, the effects of different degrees of DS after pollination on grain filling, starch and protein metabolism, and functional properties were investigated using two waxy maize cultivars as materials. The levels of DS that were investigated were ‘mild water stress’ (WS1), ‘moderate water stressed’ (WS2), and ‘severe waterstressed’ (WS3).

RESULTS

Drought stress decreased grain fresh weight, dry weight, and moisture content in both cultivars during grain filling, and reduced kernel number, kernel weight, and grain yield at maturity. The effect on grain development and yield formation gradually increased with drought aggravation. The water stress (WS) treatment downregulated the enzymatic activities related to starch biosynthesis during grain‐filling process, accompanied by a decrease in soluble sugar and starch deposition. The WS treatment increased the enzymatic activities involved in protein synthesis during grain‐filling process, thereby increasing the protein content of grains. On average, WS2 and WS3 treatments reduced the pasting viscosities and increased the gelatinization temperatures of grains, with WS3 having the greatest effect. However, the changes of setback viscosity, gelatinization enthalpy, retrogradation enthalpy, and retrogradation percentage under WS treatment were inconsistent in both cultivars. Pearson correlation analysis showed that starch content was negatively correlated with gelatinization temperatures and positively correlated with pasting viscosities in both cultivars. However, grain pasting  and gelatinization properties have opposite correlations with protein content and starch content.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that post‐silking DS regulated the grain‐filling process and starch and protein biosynthesis, which influenced grain yield and quality. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Disruptive infrared image sensors enabled by quantum dots
Authors: Malinowski Paweł E. , Lee Jiwon , Georgitzikis Epimitheas , Pejovic Vladimir , Lieberman Itai , Kim Joo‐Hyoung , Lim Myung‐Jin , Uytterhoeven Griet , Moreno Hagelsieb Luis , Ke Tung Huei , Li Yunlong , Puybaret Renaud , Karve Gauri , Verschooten Tom , Thijs Steven , Heremans Paul , Cheyns David
Published: October 2022

Sensors based on quantum dot photodiodes promise quality and accessibility improvement of infrared imaging. We demonstrate miniaturization by sub‐2‐μm pixel pitch arrays. Functionality is confirmed with external quantum efficiencies above 40% at 1450 nm. Monolithic integration enables high throughput and wide deployment of short‐wave infrared (SWIR) imagers in applications that previously could not afford them.
Shear‐Force Photoacoustic Microscopy: Toward Super‐Resolution Near‐Field Imaging
Authors: Park Byullee , Han Moongyu , Kim Hongyoon , Yoo Jinhee , Oh Dong Kyo , Moon Seongwon , Ahn Joongho , Lim Hae Gyun , Kim Inki , Kim Hyung Ham , Rho Junsuk , Kim Chulhong
Published: October 2022

Optical‐resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR‐PAM) enables both high‐resolution and high‐contrast imaging of optical chromophores ranging from biological tissues to inorganic samples. The lateral spatial resolution of OR‐PAM depends on its optical configuration and is primarily determined by the numerical aperture of the objective lens. This study demonstrates a novel, lens‐free, shear‐force photoacoustic microscopy system using a tapered fiber, serving as a proof‐of‐concept toward the implementation of super‐resolution, near‐field scanning photoacoustic microscopy. An uncoated tapered fiber is attached to a quartz tuning fork, thereby maintaining the near‐field distance between the fiber and sample surface via a shear‐force detection mechanism. Light‐field simulation confirms an evanescent wave at the end of the uncoated, tapered fiber. Based on the photoacoustic simulation and 2D photoacoustic scanning experimental results, targets are imaged with high‐lateral resolutions of the order of 1.0 ± 0.3 µm. These results demonstrate the existence of near‐field photoacoustic signals and the potential for future development of super‐resolution, near‐field, scanning photoacoustic microscopy.
Role of Draw Rate and Molecular Weight when Electrospun Nanofibers are Post‐Drawn with Residual Solvent
Authors: Conte Adriano A. , Hu Xiao , Beachley Vince
Published: October 2022

The postdrawing process is poorly understood for polymer nanofibers due to the difficulty of manipulating nanofiber structures. Here, an angled track system facilitates postdrawing of individual nanofibers with control of parameters including molecular weight, draw rate, draw ratio, and solvent evaporation time. In this study, the effects of molecular weight, draw rate, and relative residual solvent content on final nanofiber properties are investigated. Molecular weight is first investigated to clarify any influence polymer chain length can have on drawing in facilitating or hindering chain extensibility. Polyacrylonitrile nanofibers with 50 and 150 kDa molecular weights behave similarly with postdrawing resulting in reduced diameters and enhanced mechanics. Since solvent quantity during drawing is a time sensitive component it is meaningful to assess the impact of draw rate on the chemical and structural makeup of postdrawn fibers. Chemical bond vibrations and chain orientation are sensitive to draw rate when polycaprolactone nanofibers are dried for 3 minutes prior to postdrawing, but this dependency to draw rate is not observed when fibers are postdrawn immediately upon collection. These findings demonstrate that the amount of retained solvent at collection is relevant to this postprocessing approach, and highlights the dynamics of solvent evaporation during postdrawing.
Transcription factor Nrf2 binds to circRNAPIBF1 to regulate SOD2 in lung adenocarcinoma progression
Authors: Zhang Zuxiong , Chen Qianshun , Huang Chen , Rao Dingyu , Sang Chengpeng , Zhu Shenyu , Gu Liang , Xie Chunfa , Tang Zhixian , Xu Xunyu
Published: October 2022

Emerging evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in disease development, especially in cancers. Analysis of circRNA expression microarrays from the Gene Expression Omnibus database revealed that circPIBF1 was highly upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The main aim of this study was to probe the function of circPIBF1 in pyroptosis of LUAD cells and the signal transduction pathways involved. CircPIBF1 was significantly overexpressed in LUAD and was related to the dismal prognosis of patients with LUAD. CircPIBF1 could bind to nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), which further promoted the expression of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2). In addition, Nrf2 was also observed to recruit histone acetyltransferase E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) to enhance H3K27ac modification of SOD2, thus modulating the Nrf2‐Keap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, we found that knockdown of circPIBF1 significantly suppressed the expression of SOD2 in cells and LUAD cell growth, while enhanced the expression of pyroptosis‐related factors, which were further reversed by overexpression of SOD2 or EP300. Collectively, our findings suggest a direct involvement of circPIBF1 in pyroptosis‐related LUAD carcinogenesis and implicate a role of Nrf2/EP300/SOD2 signaling in this process.
Some novel mathematical analysis on the fractional‐order 2019‐nCoV dynamical model
Authors: Owoyemi Abiodun Ezekiel , Sulaiman Ibrahim Mohammed , Kumar Pushpendra , Govindaraj Venkatesan , Mamat Mustafa
Published: October 2022

Since December 2019, the whole world has been facing the big challenge of Covid‐19 or 2019‐nCoV. Some nations have controlled or are controlling the spread of this virus strongly, but some countries are in big trouble because of their poor control strategies. Nowadays, mathematical models are very effective tools to simulate outbreaks of this virus. In this research, we analyze a fractional‐order model of Covid‐19 in terms of the Caputo fractional derivative. First, we generalize an integer‐order model to a fractional sense, and then, we check the stability of equilibrium points. To check the dynamics of Covid‐19, we plot several graphs on the time scale of daily and monthly cases. The main goal of this content is to show the effectiveness of fractional‐order models as compared to integer‐order dynamics.
Compact design of first‐order microwave integrator for Ku band applications
Authors: Gautam Usha , Rawat Tarun K.
Published: October 2022

This article demonstrates the design and implementation of a stable wideband first‐order microwave integrator. The proposed design is attained by the cascading of eight equal‐length serial transmission lines. The meta‐heuristic optimization algorithms namely real‐coded genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and sine–cosine algorithm are applied to attain the characteristic impedance of serial lines. Further, the proposed integrator, fabricated on RT/Duroid 5880 substrate with permittivity () = 2.2 and height  = 0.762 mm. The results are measured using a vector network analyzer, show its conformity with the simulated and ideal result within the frequency range of 4–18 GHz in MATLAB environment, and confirm its eligibility for Ku‐band application, which is compact in size.
Interscapular fat is associated with impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance independent of visceral fat mass
Authors: Vosseler Andreas , Machann Jürgen , Fritsche Louise , Prystupa Katsiaryna , Kübler Christian , Häring Hans‐Ulrich , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Stefan Norbert , Peter Andreas , Fritsche Andreas , Wagner Robert , Heni Martin
Published: October 2022

Objective

Dysregulated body fat distribution is a major determinant of various diseases. In particular, increased visceral fat mass and ectopic lipids in the liver are linked to metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, interscapular fat is considered to be a metabolically active fat compartment.

Methods

This study measured interscapular fat mass and investigated its relationship with glucose metabolism in 822 individuals with a wide range of BMI values and different glucose tolerance statuses. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to quantify body fat depots, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed to determine glucose metabolism.

Results

Elevated interscapular fat mass was positively associated with age, BMI, and total body, visceral, and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass. High interscapular fat mass associated with elevated fasting glucose levels, glucose levels at 2 hours during the oral glucose tolerance test, glycated hemoglobin, and insulin resistance, independent of sex, age, and total body and visceral fat mass.

Conclusions

In conclusion, interscapular fat might be a highly specific fat compartment with a potential impact on glucose metabolism and the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus.
Imaging of pediatric adrenal tumors: A COG Diagnostic Imaging Committee/SPR Oncology Committee White Paper
Authors: Rees Mitchell A. , Morin Cara E. , Behr Gerald G. , Davis J. Christopher , Lai Hollie , Morani Ajaykumar C. , Parisi Marguerite T. , Saigal Gaurav , Singh Sudha , Yedururi Sireesha , Towbin Alexander J. , Shulkin Barry L.
Published: October 2022

Adrenal tumors other than neuroblastoma are uncommon in children. The most frequently encountered are adrenocortical carcinoma and pheochromocytoma. This paper offers consensus recommendations for imaging of pediatric patients with a known or suspected primary adrenal malignancy other than neuroblastoma at diagnosis and during follow‐up.
The electromagnetic wave absorption properties of woven glass fiber composites filled with Sb2O3 and SnO2 nanoparticles doped mica pigments
Authors: Akinay Yuksel , Çolak Bektaş , Turan Muhammet Emre , Akkuş Ihsan Nuri , Kazici Hilal Çelik , Kizilçay Abdullah Oğuz
Published: October 2022

In this study, the electromagnetic wave absorption properties of woven glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites with Sb2O3 and SnO2 nanoparticles doped mica pigments were investigated. Herein, we synthesized SnO2/mica, Sb2O3/mica, and Sb2O3:SnO2/mica pigments using the sol–gel method. Subsequently, mica pigments filled glass fiber/epoxy composite panels were fabricated with a vacuum assisted resin mold. The phase, crystal, and morphological examinations of particles confirm the deposition of SnO2 and Sb2O3 nanoparticles on the mica surfaces. The electromagnetic wave absorption properties of samples were measured using the S parameters and obtained dielectric data. Sb2O3:SnO2/mica particles display higher complex permittivity and dielectric loss values due to the strong interfacial polarization between conductive nano metal‐oxide shells and mica surfaces. According to the calculated reflection loss values, Sb2O3:SnO2/mica particles exhibit superior electromagnetic wave absorption performance with a minimum reflection loss of −25.62 dB for 2.4 mm thicknesses with effective bandwidth between 9.3 and 12.4 GHz. The S parameters of the prepared structural composites with the size of 30 cm × 30 cm × 3 mm was determined by the free‐space technique using the transmission line technique. According to the S12 parameters, filled glass fiber/epoxy composite containing 25 wt% Sb2O3:SnO2/mica show a minimum reflection loss of −20.426 dB at 8.2 GHz with effective bandwidth between 8.2 and 9.67 GHz. These results indicate that Sb2O3:SnO2/mica‐filled fiber/epoxy composite is an excellent candidate for the practical application of electromagnetic wave absorbers.
Inverse determine the interfacial strength and surface geometry effects concerning carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites by experiment aided FFT‐based spectral analysis
Authors: Wang Bing , Wang Zhangwen , Fang Guodong , Li Menglei , Zhu Jiaqi , Zhao Yuan , Meng Songhe
Published: October 2022

The interfacial strength of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites is determined inversely by the combination of the transverse fiber bundle tensile experiment and fast Fourier transforms based spectral method. A representative volume element with transverse random fiber distribution is established to predict the strength of the composites, where the nanoscale interphase region between fiber and matrix is discretized by multi‐layer pixels. The interfacial stiffness is described by an exponential function, while the interfacial strength is a variable input. By using the spectral method, the interfacial strength of composites with different fiber types is analyzed rapidly. The effects of fiber modulus and interfacial geometric features (including interface topology and interphase thickness) on the mechanical behaviors and interfacial strength inversion are investigated to reveal the interface enhancement mechanisms. This study can be greatly helpful for interface design and performance evaluation of new‐type carbon fiber reinforced composites in engineering application.
Respiratory characteristics in children with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 receiving nusinersen
Authors: Xiao Lena , Chiang Jackie , Castro‐Codesal Maria , Kolski Hanna , Bedi Prabhjot , Al Amrani Fatema , Gonorazky Hernan D. , Amin Reshma ,   SickKids SMA Group
Published: October 2022

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) is a neuromuscular disorder with a natural history of chronic respiratory failure and death during infancy without ventilation. Recently, disease‐modifying therapies such as nusinersen have improved disease trajectory. However, objective data on the trajectory of polysomnography outcomes, the relationship between motor scores and respiratory parameters, respiratory technology dependence and healthcare utilization in children with SMA1 remain to be elucidated.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of children with SMA1 receiving nusinersen between October 2016 and February 2021 at two tertiary care hospitals in Canada. Baseline polysomnography data, motor scores, respiratory technology, and unanticipated healthcare utilization were examined.

Results

Eleven children (five females, two SMN2 copies each) were included. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) age at diagnosis was 3.6 (2.8–5.0) months and age at diagnostic polysomnogram following nusinersen initiation was 9.4 (5.3–14.0) months. Nusinersen was initiated at a median (IQR) age of 5.4 (3.4–7.6) months and 8/11 children had respiratory symptoms at that time. Diagnostic polysomnography data showed a median (IQR) central apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) of 4.1 (1.8–10.0) and obstructive AHI of 2.2 (0–8.0) events/h. We observed an inverse relationship between motor scores and central apnea‐hypopnea indices. All children required ventilatory support at the end of the study period.

Conclusion

This study showed abnormal polysomnography parameters and need for ventilation despite nusinersen suggesting ongoing need for regular monitoring with polysomnography. Understanding the respiratory disease trajectory of children undergoing treatment with nusinersen will inform decision‐making regarding optimal timing of ventilatory support initiation.
β‐adrenergic sweat test in children with inconclusive cystic fibrosis diagnosis: Do we need new reference ranges?
Authors: Zampoli Marco , Verstraete Janine , Nguyen‐Khoa Thao , Sermet‐Gaudelus Isabelle , Zar Heather J. , Gonska Tanja , Morrow Brenda M.
Published: October 2022

Background

Investigating inconclusive cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis in children is difficult without advanced cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) function tests. This study investigated the utility of beta (β)‐adrenergic sweat test to exclude CF in participants with inconclusive diagnosis (CF suspects) in South Africa.

Methods

β‐adrenergic sweat test and sweat chloride tests (SCT) were performed simultaneously in CF suspects and adult controls (healthy, CFTR heterozygotes and CF). Cholinergic and β‐adrenergic induced sweat rate was measured by evaporimetry (transepithelial water loss [TEWL]: g H2O/m2/h) following intradermal injections. Next‐generation sequencing of CFTR was performed in CF suspects. CF diagnosis was defined by genotype.

Results

Thirty‐seven controls (10 healthy, 14 CF, 13 CFTR heterozygotes) and 32 CF suspects (26 children; 6 adults) were enrolled. Six were excluded from formal analyses due to β‐adrenergic sweat test failure. In adults, evaporimetry was superior to SCT for diagnosis of CF with β‐adrenergic:cholinergic ratio TEWL ≤ 0.05 achieving 100% sensitivity and specificity. Twenty‐two CF suspect children (age range: 3.4–15.6 years) completed β‐adrenergic sweat testing of which none had CF confirmed by genotyping: β‐adrenergic:cholinergic ratio > 0.05 successfully excluded CF in all but one child who was CFTR heterozygous. Median peak β‐adrenergic TEWL and β‐adrenergic:cholinergic ratio in CFTR negative and CFTR heterozygous children was significantly lower than adult controls.

Conclusion

β‐adrenergic sweat test is more accurate than SCT for excluding CF in children with inconclusive diagnosis. Established reference ranges for β‐adrenergic sweat test may not be suitable for children due to lower β‐adrenergic sweat secretion compared to adults.
Bayesian forecasting of tumor size metrics and overall survival
Authors: Krishnan Sreenath M. , Friberg Lena E.
Published: October 2022

The tumor size ratio (TSR), time‐to‐tumor growth (TTG), and tumor growth rate (kG) are frequently suggested as model‐based predictors of overall survival (OS) for different types of tumors. When the tumor metrics are applied in forecasting of the outcome for individual patients at an early stage, the tumor data might be sparse resulting in imprecise prediction. This simulation study aimed to investigate how the tumor follow‐up data and estimation approaches influence the accuracy in the tumor size metrics and the predicted hazard of death for individual patients. Longitudinal tumor size and OS data were simulated using tumor growth inhibition and Weibull distribution models, respectively. Based on the model and increasing measurement durations, the accuracy (defined as 80–125% of the simulated “true” value) in individual metrics and hazard was computed. TSR week 6 (TSRw6) accuracy was adequate for 91% of the patients when tumor size was measured up to 12 weeks. For TTG and kG metrics, the highest accuracy observed was lower (43 and 77%, respectively) and occurred later (42 and 60 weeks, respectively). The simultaneous (joint) and sequential estimation approaches resulted in similar accuracies, however, in general, the sequential approach where individual tumor size parameters are fixed, demonstrated inferior estimation properties. The TSRw6 and the model‐predicted tumor time course (absolute or relative change) had better forecasting properties than TTG or kG. The population pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and data approach performed similarly or better than the simultaneous approach and had a better accuracy in estimating individuals' hazard of death than the individual PK parameters method.
Applying interpretable machine learning workflow to evaluate exposure–response relationships for large‐molecule oncology drugs
Authors: Liu Gengbo , Lu James , Lim Hong Seo , Jin Jin Yan , Lu Dan
Published: October 2022

The application of logistic regression (LR) and Cox Proportional Hazard (CoxPH) models are well‐established for evaluating exposure–response (E–R) relationship in large molecule oncology drugs. However, applying machine learning (ML) models on evaluating E–R relationships has not been widely explored. We developed a workflow to train regularized LR/CoxPH and tree‐based XGboost (XGB) models, and derive the odds ratios for best overall response and hazard ratios for overall survival, across exposure quantiles to evaluate the E–R relationship using clinical trial datasets. The E–R conclusions between LR/CoxPH and XGB models are overall consistent, and largely aligned with historical pharmacometric analyses findings. Overall, applying this interpretable ML workflow provides a promising alternative method to assess E–R relationships for impacting key dosing decisions in drug development.
Harvesting a Wide Spectral Range of Electronic Coherences with Disordered Quasi‐Homo Dimeric Assemblies at Room Temperature
Authors: Hamilton James R. , Amarotti Edoardo , Dibenedetto Carlo Nazareno , Striccoli Marinella , Levine R. D. , Collini Elisabetta , Remacle F.
Published: October 2022

A wide variety of photoinduced electronic coherences are shown to be robust with respect to dephasing in ensembles of quasi‐homodimers assembled with sub‐nm ligands from colloidal 3 nm CdSe quantum dots (QDs) with controlled 9% size dispersion, both in solution and in solid‐state. Coherence periods ranging from 40 to 300 fs are consistently characterized by multidimensional electronic spectroscopy in the Vis range in solution and solid‐state samples. A theoretical model that includes size dispersion, spin orbit coupling, and crystal field splitting supports the assignment of electronic coherences. Further, this model provides a guide for optimizing the coherences by tuning the interplay between dimer electronic delocalization, optical activity, and size dispersion. The experimental persistence of many QD electronic coherences at the level of the size dispersed ensemble in the solid‐state and in solution opens the way for building versatile bottom‐up materials well suited to quantum technology applications.
Sulfate Modification and Evaluation of in vitro Anti‐HIV Activity of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharides
Authors: Zhao Yanping , Wang Hongjun , Tian Nana , Wang Huiqin , Yan Hong
Published: October 2022

This study investigated the feasibility of sulfate modification of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) and their potential anti‐HIV‐1 application. LBPs with different molecular weights were prepared by fractional precipitation from crude LBP via aqueous extraction, ethanol precipitation, and deproteinization. The purified LBPs (G1, G2, and G3) were sulfated using the chlorosulfonic acid pyridine method to obtain sulfated LBPs (G1S1–G1S4, G2S1–G2S4, and G3S1–G3S4) with different sulfur degrees of substitution. The anti‐HIV‐1 activity in vitro was evaluated via the TD50 from the cytotoxicity test and the IC50 inhibitory activity. The cytotoxicity and inhibitory activity in vitro were carried out using the CCK‐8 assay and MAGI test with Azidothymidine (AZT) as a positive control. The results show that the LBPs and the sulfated derivatives were not toxic towards CCK‐8 cells with TD50>100 μg/mL and they had strong anti‐HIV‐1 activity with IC50 values of 0.02–0.12 μg/mL. Compared with the LBPs, the anti‐HIV‐1 activity of the sulfated LBPs increased with IC50 values from 0.0924–0.1206 μg/mL to 0.0206–0.0722 μg/mL. Sulfate modification of LBPs can increase their anti‐HIV pharmacological activity, the G1S4 (Mw=2.13×104 Da and DS=1.12) showed relatively good in vitro anti‐HIV‐1 activity with an IC50 value near that of AZT (0.0200 μg/mL). The results suggest further detailed in vivo studies are warranted for these promising candidates with anti‐HIV‐1 activity.
A Study of Temperature Effects on Cisplatin Capsulation Process in Various Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks: Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Ahmadzadi Haida , Khorshidi Alireza , Fallah Shojaei Abdollah
Published: October 2022

In the present Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, the cisplatin capsulation process inside ZIF‐7, ZIF‐8, and ZIF‐9 matrices is described at various temperatures (T=250–350 K). The ZIF‐based matrices behavior for drug capsulation, was studied in terms of temperature, potential energy, diffusion coefficient, interaction energy, adsorption capacity, and volume of capsulated drug calculations. MD simulation results showed that the temperature and potential energy of various structures converged to a finite value after t=5 ns. Furthermore, our calculations showed that the diffusion coefficient/ atomic interaction/ adsorption capacity of cisplatin in various ZIF matrices reach to a constant value after t=5 ns. It was found that, temperature is an important parameter in capsulation process and by increasing this parameter from 250 to 350 K, the adsorption capacity of cisplatin in ZIF matrices was raised from 3.36 mmol/g to 3.97 mmol/g, respectively. This atomic evolution occurred in the ZIF‐8 matrix more intensely than ZIF‐7 and ZIF‐9 matrices.
Chitosan‐Based Formulations Intended as Protective Spray for Mask Surfaces in Prevention of Coronavirus Dissemination
Authors: Ayala‐Peña Victoria Belen , Martin María Julia , Favatela Florencia , Otarola Jessica , Morán Pedro , Ventura María , Gentili Claudia , Salcedo María Florencia , Mansilla Andrea , Pérez Sandra , Dolcini Guillermina , Alvarez Vera , Lassalle Verónica
Published: October 2022

The extraordinary occurrence of COVID‐19 by the fast expansion of viral infections has propelled particular interest in developing novel antiviral and virucidal agents to guarantee personal security. The main objective of this work is to propose novel formulations able to optimize the use of personal protection elements. In recent years, chitosan (CH) has attracted attention for being an interesting multifunctional, biodegradable, non‐antigenic, non‐toxic, and biocompatible natural polymer with antimicrobial properties. In this work, formulations based on a CH matrix containing silver, and Copper based nanoparticles have been developed. The novelty of this proposal is that almost liquid formulations have been reached, possessing verified properties to inhibit evolved virus such as herpes simplex type 1 (HSV‐1) and bovine betacoronavirus (BCoV), the latter belonging to the same family of the well‐known the well‐known SARS‐CoV‐2. Besides antibacterial bioactivity; as well as the ability of these formulations to be easily sprayed on various surfaces, including conventional face masks, have been verified and discussed. The results presented in this contribution provide strong evidence on CH films as an ideal biosafe surface‐protective for several daily used materials including the conventional face masks.
Mass Transfer Characteristic Analysis and Optimization of Flow Field for Neutral Organic Redox Flow Battery Based on 1‐DPAQCl
Authors: Chu Fengming , Xiao Guozhen , Yang Guoan , Zhong Longchun , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: October 2022

A novel negative electrolyte for organic redox flow battery has been synthesized, which has higher solubility in neutral solution. In order to promote the commercialization of the novel electrolyte(1‐DPAQCl), a series of optimization should be carried out, in which the first is the operating conditions and mass transfer. A 3D steady state finite element model was established, which was compared with a lot of experimental data. The effects of only increasing the positive concentrations and only increasing the negative concentrations on the battery behaviors have been analyzed and the results showed that the setting of only increasing the positive concentrations can improve the discharge voltage up to 1.8 % and decrease the charging voltage by 1.21 %. The battery performances under four flow fields were investigated based on this model and the concentration uniformity factor of the four flow design were obtained. The results presented that the charge‐discharge voltages of the interdigital flow field (IFF) was the best, which was followed by the rotary flow field (RFF) and serpentine flow field (SFF), the parallel flow field (PFF) was worst. The uniformity factors of IFF were 23.5 % higher than that of PFF and 12.5 % higher than that of SFF.
Concise Total Syntheses of Amorfrutin A and B
Authors: Chen Wenzhang , Xu Tingxiao , Zhu Gaofeng , Guo Bing , Tang Lei , Wang Jianta
Published: October 2022

The convenient and facile syntheses of amorfrutin A and amorfrutin B have been realized in five steps starting from commercially available 2,4‐dimethoxybenzoic acid with an overall yield of 32 % and 22 %, respectively. The key steps involved Ru(II)‐catalyzed olefination and straightforward C‐alkylation.
Heparin‐Peptide Nanogranules for Thrombosis‐Actuated Anticoagulation
Authors: Lawanprasert Atip , Pimcharoen Sopida , Sumner Sarah E. , Watson Connor T. , Manning Keefe B. , Kirimanjeswara Girish S. , Medina Scott H.
Published: October 2022

Despite nearly a century of clinical use as a blood thinner, heparin's rapid serum clearance and potential to induce severe bleeding events continue to urge the development of more effective controlled delivery strategies. Subcutaneous depots that steadily release the anticoagulant into circulation represent a promising approach to reducing overdose frequency, sustaining therapeutic concentrations of heparin in plasma, and prolonging anticoagulant activity in a safe and effective manner. Subcutaneously deliverable heparin‐peptide nanogranules that allow for long‐lasting heparin bioavailability in the circulatory system, while enabling on‐demand activation of heparin's anticoagulant effects in the thrombus microenvironment, are reported. Biophysical studies demonstrate this responsive behavior is due to the sequestration of heparin within self‐assembling peptide nanofibrils and its mechanically actuated decoupling to elicit antithrombotic effects at the clotting site. In vivo studies show these unique properties converge to allow subcutaneous nanogranule depots to extend heparin serum concentrations for an order of magnitude longer than standard dosing regimens while enabling prolonged and controlled anticoagulant activity. This biohybrid delivery system demonstrates a potentially scalable platform for the development of safer, easier to administer, and more effective antithrombotic nanotechnologies.
High Corrosion Resistance of NiFe‐Layered Double Hydroxide Catalyst for Stable Seawater Electrolysis Promoted by Phosphate Intercalation
Authors: Zhang Baoshan , Liu Shuo , Zhang Shaojie , Cao Yu , Wang Huili , Han Chengyu , Sun Jie
Published: October 2022

Sustainable production of hydrogen from seawater electrolysis has attracted much attention in recent years. Considering that Cl‐ might corrode metal substrate by crossing through the covered catalyst, the conventional Ni(II)Fe(III)‐layered double hydroxide (NiFe‐LDH) loaded on metal substrate, as a favorable oxygen evolution catalyst, cannot be directly used for seawater electrolysis. Herein, an anti‐corrosion strategy of PO43‐ intercalation in NiFe‐LDH is proposed, in which the highly negatively charged PO43‐ in the interlayers can prevent the Ni substrate from Cl‐ corrosion by electrostatic repulsion. In order to verify the anti‐corrosion effect, the two electrodes of the pristine NiFe‐LDH and the PO43‐ intercalated NiFe‐LDH are evaluated in a solution with high Cl‐ concentration. PO43‐ can effectively hinder the migration of Cl‐ between the interlayers of NiFe‐LDH, thus the corrosion life of the PO43‐ intercalated NiFe‐LDH is more than 100 times longer than that of the pristine NiFe‐LDH. The improvement of stability is attributed to the inhibition effect of Cl‐ passing through the interlayers of NiFe‐LDH, leading to the protection of Ni substrate. This work provides a design strategy for the catalysts loaded on the metal substrate, which has excellent Cl‐‐corrosion resistance and can be widely used in hydrogen generation from seawater electrolysis.
Special Superwetting Materials from Bioinspired to Intelligent Surface for On‐Demand Oil/Water Separation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Yang Yong , Guo Zhiguang , Liu Weimin
Published: October 2022

Since superwetting surfaces have emerged, on‐demand oil/water separation materials serve as a new direction for meeting practical needs. This new separation mode uses a single porous material to allow oil‐removing and water‐removing to be achieved alternately. In this review, the fundamentals of wettability are systematically summarized in oil/water separation. Most importantly, the two states, bioinspired surface and intelligent surface, are summarized for on‐demand oil/water separation. Specifically, bioinspired surfaces include micro/nanostructures, bioinspired chemistry, Janus‐featured surfaces, and dual‐superlyophobic surfaces that these superwetting materials can possess asymmetric wettability in one structure system or opposite underliquid wettability by prewetting. Furthermore, an intelligent surface can be adopted by various triggers such as pH, thermal and photo stimuli, etc., to control wettability for switchable oil/water separation reversibly, expressing a thought beyond nature to realize innovative oil/water separation by external stimuli. Remarkably, this review also discusses the advantages of all the materials mentioned above, expanding the separation scope from the on‐demand oil/water mixtures to the multiphase immiscible liquid–liquid mixtures. Finally, the prospects of on‐demand oil/water separation materials are also concluded.
N, S‐Coordinated Co Single Atomic Catalyst Boosting Adsorption and Conversion of Lithium Polysulfides for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Liu Kun , Wang Xinyang , Gu Shuai , Yuan Huimin , Jiang Feng , Li Yingzhi , Tan Wen , Long Qiurong , Chen Jingjing , Xu Zhenghe , Lu Zhouguang
Published: October 2022

Boosting reversible solid‐liquid phase transformation from lithium polysulfides to Li2S and suppressing the shuttling of lithium polysulfides from the cathode to the lithium anode are critical challenges in lithium‐sulfur batteries. Here, sulfiphilic single atomic cobalt implanted in lithiophilic heteroatoms‐dopped carbon (SACo@HC) matrix with a CoN3S structure for high‐performance lithium‐sulfur batteries is reported. Density functional theory calculation and in situ experiments demonstrate that the optimal CoN3S structure in SACo@HC can effectively improve the adsorption and redox conversion efficiency of lithium polysulfides. Consequently, the S‐SACo@HC composite with sulfur loading of 80 wt% delivers a high capacity of 1425.1 mAh g−1 at 0.05 C and outstanding rate performance with 745.9 mAh g−1 at 4 C. Furthermore, a capacity of 680.8 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C with a low electrolyte/sulfur ratio (6 µL mg−1) can be achieved even after 300 cycles. With the harsh conditions of lean electrolyte (E/S = 4 µL mg−1) and high sulfur loading (5.4 mg cm−2), a superior area capacity of 5.8 mAh cm−2 can be obtained. This work contributes to building a profound understanding of the adsorption and interface engineering of lithium polysulfides and provides ideas to tackle the long‐standing polysulfide shuttle problem of lithium‐sulfur batteries.
Nonviral nanoparticle gene delivery into the CNS for neurological disorders and brain cancer applications
Authors: Yang Joanna , Luly Kathryn M. , Green Jordan J.
Published: October 2022

Nonviral nanoparticles have emerged as an attractive alternative to viral vectors for gene therapy applications, utilizing a range of lipid‐based, polymeric, and inorganic materials. These materials can either encapsulate or be functionalized to bind nucleic acids and protect them from degradation. To effectively elicit changes to gene expression, the nanoparticle carrier needs to undergo a series of steps intracellularly, from interacting with the cellular membrane to facilitate cellular uptake to endosomal escape and nucleic acid release. Adjusting physiochemical properties of the nanoparticles, such as size, charge, and targeting ligands, can improve cellular uptake and ultimately gene delivery. Applications in the central nervous system (CNS; i.e., neurological diseases, brain cancers) face further extracellular barriers for a gene‐carrying nanoparticle to surpass, with the most significant being the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Approaches to overcome these extracellular challenges to deliver nanoparticles into the CNS include systemic, intracerebroventricular, intrathecal, and intranasal administration. This review describes and compares different biomaterials for nonviral nanoparticle‐mediated gene therapy to the CNS and explores challenges and recent preclinical and clinical developments in overcoming barriers to nanoparticle‐mediated delivery to the brain.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
Chapter 7: Rectangular Matrix-Variate Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans
Published: October 2022

Thus far, we have primarily been dealing with distributions involving real positive definite or Hermitian positive definite matrices. Rectangular matrices have already been discussed in the matrix-variate Gaussian case. In this chapter, we examine real and complex rectangular matrix-variate gamma and beta distributions. More general structures and rectangular Dirichlet models are also considered.
Sequential deconfinement and self-dualities in 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 gauge theories
Authors: Bajeot Stephane , Benvenuti Sergio
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We apply the technique of sequential deconfinement to the four dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 U sp(2N) gauge theory with an antisymmetric field and 2F fundamentals. The fully deconfined frame is a length-N quiver. We use this deconfined frame to prove the known self-duality of U sp(2N) with an antisymmetric field and 8 fundamentals. Along the way we encounter a subtlety: in certain quivers with degenerate holomorphic operators, a naive application of Seiberg duality rules leads to an incorrect superpotential or chiral ring.

We also consider the reduction to 3d$$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 theories, recovering known fully deconfined duals of U sp(2N) and U(N) gauge theories, and obtaining new ones.
Interdisziplinäre Neukonzeption der Lehre im Querschnittsfach „Allergologie“ im Studiengang Humanmedizin
Authors: Schuppe Marie Charlotte , Lex Christiane , Gliem Nina , Olgemüller Ulrike , Koziolek Michael , Forkel Susann , Gupta Sidhi , Dombrowski Tobias , Czech-Zechmeister Bozena A. , Geier Johannes , Beutner Caroline , Buhl Timo
Published: October 2022

Hintergrund

Obwohl allergologische Erkrankungen zu den wichtigen Gesundheitsstörungen laut ärztlicher Approbationsordnung zählen, ist die Allergologie in Deutschland nicht als selbstständiges Fach im Studium der Humanmedizin verankert.

Ziel der Arbeit

Da sämtliche Universitäts- und Hochschulstandorte mit dieser Herausforderung umgehen müssen, war es Ziel unseres Lehrprojekts, eine exemplarische und mit allen beteiligten Kliniken und Instituten abgestimmte Koordination und Verzahnung der allergologischen Lehre an einem Standort zu etablieren. Insbesondere Comprehensive Allergy Centers (CAC) bieten eine bereits vorhandene Infrastruktur, in der diese Neukonzeption der allergologischen Lehre auf andere Standorte übertragen werden könnte.

Material und Methoden

Nach umfangreicher Bestandsaufnahme der aktuellen allergologischen Lehre an der Universitätsmedizin Göttingen wurde im interdisziplinären Konsens ein neues Lehrkonzept entwickelt, durch die Bereitstellung zusätzlicher digitaler Lehr- und Lernanteile ergänzt („blended learning“) und schließlich evaluiert.

Ergebnisse

Die allergologische Lehre im klinischen Studienabschnitt zeigte eine starke Fragmentierung, die ohne Koordination der zwölf beteiligten Kliniken/Institute und ohne Abstimmung der jeweiligen Lerninhalte stattfand. In der etablierten Struktur des interdisziplinären CAC erfolgte eine Neukonzeption, Koordination und Schwerpunktsetzung der studentischen Lehre zur klinischen Allergologie. Die Bereitstellung von neuen interaktiven Lerneinheiten sowie ergänzender Materialien zum Selbststudium wurden von den Studierenden positiv bewertet. Eine vergleichende Evaluation von Studierenden nach Absolvieren der unterschiedlichen Curricula zeigte signifikante Verbesserungen im Erreichen der gewünschten Lernziele.
Functional characterization and transcriptional repression by Lacticaseibacillus paracasei DinJ-YafQ
Authors: Bonini Aleksandra Anna , Maggi Stefano , Mori Giulia , Carnuccio Dario , Delfino Danila , Cavazzini Davide , Ferrari Alberto , Levante Alessia , Yamaguchi Yoshihiro , Rivetti Claudio , Folli Claudia
Published: October 2022

DinJ-YafQ is a bacterial type II TA system formed by the toxin RNase YafQ and the antitoxin protein DinJ. The activity of YafQ and DinJ has been rigorously studied in Escherichia coli, but little has been reported about orthologous systems identified in different microorganisms. In this work, we report an in vitro and in vivo functional characterization of YafQ and DinJ identified in two different strains of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei and isolated as recombinant proteins. While DinJ is identical in both strains, the two YafQ orthologs differ only for the D72G substitution in the catalytic site. Both YafQ orthologs digest ribosomal RNA, albeit with different catalytic efficiencies, and their RNase activity is neutralized by DinJ. We further show that DinJ alone or in complex with YafQ can bind cooperatively to a 28-nt inverted repeat overlapping the −35 element of the TA operon promoter. Atomic force microscopy imaging of DinJ-YafQ in complex with DNA harboring the cognate site reveals the formation of different oligomeric states that prevent the binding of RNA polymerase to the promoter. A single amino acid substitution (R13A) within the RHH DNA-binding motif of DinJ is sufficient to abolish DinJ and DinJ-YafQ DNA binding in vitro. In vivo experiments confirm the negative regulation of the TA promoter by DinJ and DinJ-YafQ and unveil an unexpected high expression-related toxicity of the gfp reporter gene. A model for the binding of two YafQ-(DinJ)2-YafQ tetramers to the promoter inverted repeat showing the absence of protein-protein steric clash is also presented.

Key points

• The RNase activity of L. paracasei YafQ toxin is neutralized by DinJ antitoxin.

• DinJ and DinJ-YafQ bind to an inverted repeat to repress their own promoter.

• The R13A mutation of DinJ abolishes DNA binding of both DinJ and DinJ-YafQ.
The potential of rectal swabs to differentiate simple and complex appendicitis in children with a microbiota-based test
Authors: The Sarah-May M. L. , de Meij Tim G. J. , Budding Andries E. , Bakx Roel , van der Lee Johanna H. , Poort Linda , Cense Huib A. , Heij Hugo A. , van Heurn L. W. Ernst , Gorter Ramon R.
Published: October 2022

Currently, accurate biomarkers differentiating simple (phlegmonous) from complex (gangrenous and/or perforated) appendicitis in children are lacking. However, both types may potentially require different treatment strategies, and the search for diagnostic modalities remains warranted. Previously, we demonstrated a distinct microbiota (both an increased bacterial diversity and abundance) in the appendix of children with complex compared to simple appendicitis. From the same cohort of patients we have collected 35 rectal swabs under general anesthesia prior to appendectomy and microbiota analysis was performed by IS-pro, a 16S-23S rDNA–based clinical microbiota profiling technique. Using the obtained IS-profiles, we performed cluster analyses (UPGMA), comparison of diversity (Shannon Diversity Index) and intensity (abundance in relative fluorescence units) on phylum level, and comparison on species level of bacteria between simple and complex appendicitis. Regarding these analyses, we observed no clear differences between simple and complex appendicitis. However, increased similarity of the microbial composition of the appendix and rectal swab was found within children with complex compared to simple appendicitis. Furthermore, PLS-DA regression analysis provided clear visual differentiation between simple and complex appendicitis, but the diagnostic power was low (highest AUC 0.65).

   Conclusion: Microbiota analysis of rectal swabs may be viable to differentiate between simple and complex appendicitis prior to surgery as a supervised classification model allowed for discrimination of both types. However, the current diagnostic power was low and further validation studies are needed to assess the value of this method.

What is Known:• Simple and
complex appendicitis in children may require different treatment strategies,
but accurate preoperative biomarkers are lacking.• Clear differentiation
can be made between both types in children based upon the microbial composition
in the appendix.

What is New:• Increased similarity
was found between the microbial composition of the appendix and rectal swab
within children with complex compared to simple appendicitis.• Using
a supervised classification model rectal swabs may be viable to discriminate
between simple and complex appendicitis, but the diagnostic power was low.
A Lower Bound on the Number of Generators of a Defect Group
Authors: Rodríguez Carolina Vallejo
Published: October 2022

Assuming that the statement of the Alperin–McKay–Navarro conjecture holds for a p-block B with defect group D, we show that the number of generators of D is bounded from below by the number of height-zero characters in B fixed by a specific element of the absolute Galois group of the rational numbers.