bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active and stable alcohol dehydrogenase-assembled hydrogels via synergistic bridging of triazoles and metal ions
Authors: Chen Qiang , Qu Ge , Li Xu , Feng Mingjian , Yang Fan , Li Yanjie , Li Jincheng , Tong Feifei , Song Shiyi , Wang Yujun , Sun Zhoutong , Luo Guangsheng
Published: April 2023

Biocatalysis is increasingly replacing traditional methods of manufacturing fine chemicals due to its green, mild, and highly selective nature, but biocatalysts, such as enzymes, are generally costly, fragile, and difficult to recycle. Immobilization provides protection for the enzyme and enables its convenient reuse, which makes immobilized enzymes promising heterogeneous biocatalysts; however, their industrial applications are limited by the low specific activity and poor stability. Herein, we report a feasible strategy utilizing the synergistic bridging of triazoles and metal ions to induce the formation of porous enzyme-assembled hydrogels with increased activity. The catalytic efficiency of the prepared enzyme-assembled hydrogels toward acetophenone reduction is 6.3 times higher than that of the free enzyme, and the reusability is confirmed by the high residual catalytic activity after 12 cycles of use. A near-atomic resolution (2.1 Å) structure of the hydrogel enzyme is successfully analyzed via cryogenic electron microscopy, which indicates a structure–property relationship for the enhanced performance. In addition, the possible mechanism of gel formation is elucidated, revealing the indispensability of triazoles and metal ions, which guides the use of two other enzymes to prepare enzyme-assembled hydrogels capable of good reusability. The described strategy can pave the way for the development of practical catalytic biomaterials and immobilized biocatalysts.
Babesia duncani multi-omics identifies virulence factors and drug targets
Authors: Singh Pallavi , Lonardi Stefano , Liang Qihua , Vydyam Pratap , Khabirova Eleonora , Fang Tiffany , Gihaz Shalev , Thekkiniath Jose , Munshi Muhammad , Abel Steven , Ciampossin Loic , Batugedara Gayani , Gupta Mohit , Lu Xueqing Maggie , Lenz Todd , Chakravarty Sakshar , Cornillot Emmanuel , Hu Yangyang , Ma Wenxiu , Gonzalez Luis Miguel , Sánchez Sergio , Estrada Karel , Sánchez-Flores Alejandro , Montero Estrella , Harb Omar S. , Le Roch Karine G. , Mamoun Choukri Ben
Published: April 2023

Babesiosis is a malaria-like disease in humans and animals that is caused by Babesia species, which are tick-transmitted apicomplexan pathogens. Babesia duncani causes severe to lethal infection in humans, but despite the risk that this parasite poses as an emerging pathogen, little is known about its biology, metabolic requirements or pathogenesis. Unlike other apicomplexan parasites that infect red blood cells, B. duncani can be continuously cultured in vitro in human erythrocytes and can infect mice resulting in fulminant babesiosis and death. We report comprehensive, detailed molecular, genomic, transcriptomic and epigenetic analyses to gain insights into the biology of B. duncani. We completed the assembly, 3D structure and annotation of its nuclear genome, and analysed its transcriptomic and epigenetics profiles during its asexual life cycle stages in human erythrocytes. We used RNA-seq data to produce an atlas of parasite metabolism during its intraerythrocytic life cycle. Characterization of the B. duncani genome, epigenome and transcriptome identified classes of candidate virulence factors, antigens for diagnosis of active infection and several attractive drug targets. Furthermore, metabolic reconstitutions from genome annotation and in vitro efficacy studies identified antifolates, pyrimethamine and WR-99210 as potent inhibitors of B. duncani to establish a pipeline of small molecules that could be developed as effective therapies for the treatment of human babesiosis.
A dataset of global ocean alkaline phosphatase activity
Authors: Su Bei , Song Xianrui , Duhamel Solange , Mahaffey Claire , Davis Clare , Ivančić Ingrid , Liu Jihua
Published: April 2023

Utilisation of dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) by marine microbes as an alternative phosphorus (P) source when phosphate is scarce can help sustain non-Redfieldian carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus ratios and efficient ocean carbon export. However, global spatial patterns and rates of microbial DOP utilisation are poorly investigated. Alkaline phosphatase (AP) is an important enzyme group that facilitates the remineralisation of DOP to phosphate and thus its activity is a good proxy for DOP-utilisation, particularly in P-stressed regions. We present a Global Alkaline Phosphatase Activity Dataset (GAPAD) with 4083 measurements collected from 79 published manuscripts and one database. Measurements are organised into four groups based on substrate and further subdivided into seven size fractions based on filtration pore size. The dataset is globally distributed and covers major oceanic regions, with most measurements collected in the upper 20 m of low-latitude oceanic regions during summer since 1997. This dataset can help support future studies assessing global ocean P supply from DOP utilisation and provide a useful data reference for both field investigations and modelling activities.
Dichotomous versus 5-scale grading system for the interpretation of the point-of-care immunoassay for tear matrix metalloproteinase-9 in dry eye
Authors: Oh Ja Young , Chun Yeoun Sook , Kim Kyoung Woo
Published: April 2023

In this study, we compared the dichotomous and 5-scale grading systems for point-of-care immunoassay of tear matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in dry eye disease (DED) patients and identified the optimal dichotomous system to correlate with DED parameters. We included 167 DED patients without primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) (Non-SS DED) and 70 DED patients with pSS (SS DED). We graded MMP-9 expression in InflammaDry® (Quidel, San Diego, CA, USA) using a 5-scale grading system and dichotomous grading systems with four different cut-off grades (D1 to D4 systems). The only DED parameter that showed a significant correlation with the 5-scale grading method was tear osmolarity (Tosm). In both groups, subjects with positive MMP-9 had lower tear secretion and higher Tosm than those with negative MMP-9 according to the D2 dichotomous system. Tosm determined D2 positivity at cutoffs > 340.5 and > 317.5 mOsm/L in the Non-SS DED and SS DED groups, respectively. Tear secretion < 10.5 mm or tear break-up time < 5.5 s stratified D2 positivity in the Non-SS DED group. In conclusion, the dichotomous grading system of InflammaDry reflects ocular surface indices better than the 5-scale grading system and may be more practical in real clinical circumstances.
Neural networks determination of material elastic constants and structures in nematic complex fluids
Authors: Zaplotnik Jaka , Pišljar Jaka , Škarabot Miha , Ravnik Miha
Published: April 2023

Supervised machine learning and artificial neural network approaches can allow for the determination of selected material parameters or structures from a measurable signal without knowing the exact mathematical relationship between them. Here, we demonstrate that material nematic elastic constants and the initial structural material configuration can be found using sequential neural networks applied to the transmmited time-dependent light intensity through the nematic liquid crystal (NLC) sample under crossed polarizers. Specifically, we simulate multiple times the relaxation of the NLC from a random (qeunched) initial state to the equilibirum for random values of elastic constants and, simultaneously, the transmittance of the sample for monochromatic polarized light. The obtained time-dependent light transmittances and the corresponding elastic constants form a training data set on which the neural network is trained, which allows for the determination of the elastic constants, as well as the initial state of the director. Finally, we demonstrate that the neural network trained on numerically generated examples can also be used to determine elastic constants from experimentally measured data, finding good agreement between experiments and neural network predictions.
Sex and age affect acute and persisting COVID-19 illness
Authors: Vasilevskaya Anna , Mushtaque Asma , Tsang Michelle Y. , Alwazan Batoul , Herridge Margaret , Cheung Angela M. , Tartaglia Maria Carmela
Published: April 2023

Long COVID is associated with neurological and neuropsychiatric manifestations. We conducted an observational study on 97 patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and persisting cognitive complaints that presented to the University Health Network Memory Clinic between October 2020 and December 2021. We assessed the main effects of sex, age, and their interaction on COVID-19 symptoms and outcomes. We also examined the relative contribution of demographics and acute COVID-19 presentation (assessed retrospectively) on persistent neurological symptoms and cognition. Among our cohort, males had higher hospitalization rates than females during the acute COVID-19 illness (18/35 (51%) vs. 15/62 (24%); P = .009). Abnormal scores on cognitive assessments post-COVID were associated with older age (AOR = 0.84; 95% CI 0.74–0.93) and brain fog during initial illness (AOR = 8.80; 95% CI 1.76–65.13). Female sex (ARR = 1.42; 95% CI 1.09–1.87) and acute shortness of breath (ARR = 1.41; 95% CI 1.09–1.84) were associated with a higher risk of experiencing more persistent short-term memory symptoms. Female sex was the only predictor associated with persistent executive dysfunction (ARR = 1.39; 95% CI 1.12–1.76) and neurological symptoms (ARR = 1.66; 95% CI 1.19–2.36). Sex differences were evident in presentations and cognitive outcomes in patients with long COVID.
Pan-cancer investigation of psoriasis-related BUB1B gene: genetical alteration and oncogenic immunology
Authors: Li Xiaobin , Wang Wenwen , Ding Xiaoxia
Published: April 2023

Unknown factors contribute to psoriasis' hyperproliferative, chronic, inflammatory, and arthritic features. Psoriasis patients have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, though the underlying genetics remain unknown. Since our prior research indicated that BUB1B contributes to the development of psoriasis, we designed and carried out this investigation using bioinformatics analysis. Using the TCGA database, we investigated the oncogenic function of BUB1B in 33 tumor types. To sum up, our work sheds light on BUB1B's function in pan-cancer from various perspectives, including its pertinent signaling pathways, mutation locations, and connection to immune cell infiltration. BUB1B was shown to have a non-negligible role in pan-cancer, which is connected to immunology, cancer stemness, and genetic alterations in a variety of cancer types. BUB1B is highly expressed in a variety of cancers and may serve as a prognostic marker. This study is anticipated to offer molecular details on the elevated cancer risk that psoriasis sufferers experience.
Measuring antigen expression of cancer cell lines and circulating tumour cells
Authors: Mentink Anouk , Isebia Khrystany T. , Kraan Jaco , Terstappen Leon W. M. M. , Stevens Michiel
Published: April 2023

When evaluating EpCAM-based enrichment technologies for circulating tumour cells (CTCs), the cell lines used should closely resemble real CTCs, meaning the EpCAM expression of CTCs needs to be known, but also the EpCAM expression of cell lines at different institutions and times is important. As the number of CTCs in the blood is low, we enriched CTCs through the depletion of leukocytes from diagnostic leukapheresis products of 13 prostate cancer patients and measured EpCAM expression using quantitative flow cytometry. Antigen expression was compared between multiple institutions by measuring cultures from each institution. Capture efficiency was also measured for one of the used cell lines. Results show CTCs derived from castration-sensitive prostate cancer patients have varying but relatively low EpCAM expression, with median expression per patient ranging from 35 to 89,534 (mean 24,993) molecules per cell. A large variation in the antigen expression of identical cell lines cultured at different institutions was found, resulting in recoveries when using the CellSearch system ranging from 12 up to 83% for the same cell line. We conclude that large differences in capture efficiency can occur while using the same cell line. To closely resemble real CTCs from castration-sensitive prostate cancer patients, a cell line with a relatively low EpCAM expression should be used, and its expression should be monitored frequently.
The risk of post-polio syndrome among immigrant groups in Sweden
Authors: Wändell Per , Borg Kristian , Li Xinjun , Carlsson Axel C. , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: April 2023

To examine the risk of post-polio syndrome (PPS) in immigrant groups using native Swedish-born individuals as referents. This is a retrospective study. The study population included all individuals aged 18 years and older registered in Sweden. PPS was defined as having at least one registered diagnosis in the Swedish National Patient Register. The incidence of post-polio in different immigrant groups, using Swedish-born individuals as referents, was assessed by Cox regression, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 99% confidence intervals (CI). The models were stratified by sex and adjusted for age, geographical residence in Sweden, educational level, marital status, co-morbidities, and neighbourhood socioeconomic status. In total 5300 post-polio cases were registered, 2413 males and 2887 females. Fully adjusted HRs (99% CI) in immigrants versus Swedish-born were 1.77 in men (1.52–2.07) and 1.39 (1.19–1.62) in women. Statistically significant excess risks of post-polio were found in the following subgroups: men and women from Africa, HRs (with 99% CI) 7.40 (5.17–10.59) and 8.39 (5.44–12.95), respectively, and Asia, HRs 6.32 (5.11–7.81) and 4.36 (3.38–5.62) respectively, and in men from Latin America, HR 3.66 (2.17–6.18). It is of importance to be aware of risks of PPS in immigrants settled in Western countries, and that it is more common in immigrants from regions of the world where polio is still prevalent. Patients with PPS need treatment and proper follow-up until polio has been eradicated through global vaccination programs.
Antiviral effect of melatonin on Japanese encephalitis virus infection involves inhibition of neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammation in SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Kitidee Kuntida , Samutpong Arisara , Pakpian Nattaporn , Wisitponchai Tanchanok , Govitrapong Piyarat , Reiter Russel J. , Wongchitrat Prapimpun
Published: April 2023

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, causes high mortality rates in humans and it is the most clinically important and common cause of viral encephalitis in Asia. To date, there is no specific treatment for JEV infection. Melatonin, a neurotropic hormone, is reported to be effective in combating various bacterial and viral infections. However, the effects of melatonin on JEV infection have not yet been studied. The investigation tested the antiviral effects of melatonin against JEV infection and elucidated the possible molecular mechanisms of inhibition. Melatonin inhibited the viral production in JEV-infected SH-SY5Y cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Time-of-addition assays demonstrated a potent inhibitory effect of melatonin at the post-entry stage of viral replication. Molecular docking analysis revealed that melatonin negatively affected viral replication by interfering with physiological function and/or enzymatic activity of both JEV nonstructural 3 (NS3) and NS5 protein, suggesting a possible underlying mechanism of JEV replication inhibition. Moreover, treatment with melatonin reduced neuronal apoptosis and inhibited neuroinflammation induced by JEV infection. The present findings reveal a new property of melatonin as a potential molecule for the further development of anti-JEV agents and treatment of JEV infection.
Deep learning synthesis of cone-beam computed tomography from zero echo time magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Choi Hyeyeon , Yun Jong Pil , Lee Ari , Han Sang-Sun , Kim Sang Woo , Lee Chena
Published: April 2023

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces high-resolution of hard tissue even in small voxel size, but the process is associated with radiation exposure and poor soft tissue imaging. Thus, we synthesized a CBCT image from the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using deep learning and to assess its clinical accuracy. We collected patients who underwent both CBCT and MRI simultaneously in our institution (Seoul). MRI data were registered with CBCT data, and both data were prepared into 512 slices of axial, sagittal, and coronal sections. A deep learning-based synthesis model was trained and the output data were evaluated by comparing the original and synthetic CBCT (syCBCT). According to expert evaluation, syCBCT images showed better performance in terms of artifacts and noise criteria but had poor resolution compared to the original CBCT images. In syCBCT, hard tissue showed better clarity with significantly different MAE and SSIM. This study result would be a basis for replacing CBCT with non-radiation imaging that would be helpful for patients planning to undergo both MRI and CBCT.
Synthetic symbiosis between a cyanobacterium and a ciliate toward novel chloroplast-like endosymbiosis
Authors: Azuma Yuki , Tsuru Saburo , Habuchi Masumi , Takami Risa , Takano Sotaro , Yamamoto Kayo , Hosoda Kazufumi
Published: April 2023

Chloroplasts are thought to have co-evolved through endosymbiosis, after a cyanobacterial-like prokaryote was engulfed by a eukaryotic cell; however, it is impossible to observe the process toward chloroplasts. In this study, we constructed an experimental symbiosis model to observe the initial stage in the process from independent organisms to a chloroplast-like organelle. Our system of synthetic symbiosis is capable of long-term coculture of two model organisms: a cyanobacterium (Synechocystis sp. PCC6803) as a symbiont and a ciliate (Tetrahymena thermophila) as a host with endocytic ability. The experimental system was clearly defined, because we used a synthetic medium and the cultures were shaken to avoid spatial complexity. We determined the experimental conditions for sustainable coculture, by analyzing population dynamics using a mathematical model. We experimentally demonstrated that the coculture was sustainable for at least 100 generations, through serial transfers. Moreover, we found that cells isolated after the serial transfer improved the probability of coexistence of both species without extinction in re-coculture. The constructed system will be useful for understanding the initial stage of primary endosymbiosis from cyanobacteria to chloroplasts, i.e., the origin of algae and plants.
Application and limitation of a biological clock-based method for estimating time of death in forensic practices
Authors: Kimura Akihiko , Ishida Yuko , Nosaka Mizuho , Ishigami Akiko , Yamamoto Hiroki , Kuninaka Yumi , Hata Satoshi , Ozaki Mitsunori , Kondo Toshikazu
Published: April 2023

Estimating time of death is one of the most important problems in forensics. Here, we evaluated the applicability, limitations and reliability of the developed biological clock-based method. We analyzed the expression of the clock genes, BMAL1 and NR1D1, in 318 dead hearts with defined time of death by real-time RT-PCR. For estimating the time of death, we chose two parameters, the NR1D1/BMAL1 ratio and BMAL1/NR1D1 ratio for morning and evening deaths, respectively. The NR1D1/BMAL1 ratio was significantly higher in morning deaths and the BMAL1/NR1D1 ratio was significantly higher in evening deaths. Sex, age, postmortem interval, and most causes of death had no significant effect on the two parameters, except for infants and the elderly, and severe brain injury. Although our method may not work in all cases, our method is useful for forensic practice in that it complements classical methods that are strongly influenced by the environment in which the corpse is placed. However, this method should be applied with caution in infants, the elderly, and patients with severe brain injury.
Modelling and simulation of waste tire pyrolysis process for recovery of energy and production of valuable chemicals (BTEX)
Authors: Cao Yan , Taghvaie Nakhjiri Ali , Sarkar Shahin
Published: April 2023

The pyrolysis oil fraction is highly attractive for pyrolysis products. A simulated flowsheet model of a waste tire pyrolysis process is presented in this paper. A kinetic rate-based reaction model and equilibrium separation model are created in the Aspen Plus simulation package. The simulation model is effectively proven against experimental data of literature at temperatures of 400, 450, 500, 600 and 700 °C. Also, the developed model was employed to investigate the impact of temperature on the pyrolysis procedure and demonstrated that there is an optimum temperature for chain fractions. The optimum temperature to have the highest amount of limonene (as a precious chemical product of waste tire pyrolysis process) was found 500 °C. The findings indicated that the pyrolysis process is ecologically benign, although there is still space for development. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to see how altering the heating fuel in the process would affect the non-condensable gases produced in the process. Reactors and distillation columns in the Aspen Plus® simulation model was developed to assess the technical functioning of the process (e.g., upgrading the waste tires into limonene). Furthermore, this work focuses on the optimization of the operating and structure parameters of the distillation columns in the product separation unit. The PR-BM, as well as NRTL property models, were applied in the simulation model. The calculation of non-conventional components in the model was determined using HCOALGEN and DCOALIGT property models.
Generalization of vision pre-trained models for histopathology
Authors: Sikaroudi Milad , Hosseini Maryam , Gonzalez Ricardo , Rahnamayan Shahryar , Tizhoosh H. R.
Published: April 2023

Out-of-distribution (OOD) generalization, especially for medical setups, is a key challenge in modern machine learning which has only recently received much attention. We investigate how different convolutional pre-trained models perform on OOD test data—that is data from domains that have not been seen during training—on histopathology repositories attributed to different trial sites. Different trial site repositories, pre-trained models, and image transformations are examined as specific aspects of pre-trained models. A comparison is also performed among models trained entirely from scratch (i.e., without pre-training) and models already pre-trained. The OOD performance of pre-trained models on natural images, i.e., (1) vanilla pre-trained ImageNet, (2) semi-supervised learning (SSL), and (3) semi-weakly-supervised learning (SWSL) models pre-trained on IG-1B-Targeted are examined in this study. In addition, the performance of a histopathology model (i.e., KimiaNet) trained on the most comprehensive histopathology dataset, i.e., TCGA, has also been studied. Although the performance of SSL and SWSL pre-trained models are conducive to better OOD performance in comparison to the vanilla ImageNet pre-trained model, the histopathology pre-trained model is still the best in overall. In terms of top-1 accuracy, we demonstrate that diversifying the images in the training using reasonable image transformations is effective to avoid learning shortcuts when the distribution shift is significant. In addition, XAI techniques—which aim to achieve high-quality human-understandable explanations of AI decisions—are leveraged for further investigations.
Associations between adoption of eHealth management module and optimal control of HbA1c in diabetes patients
Authors: Huang Junjie , Chan Sze Chai , Ko Samantha , Tong Ellen , Cheung Clement S. K. , Wong Wing Nam , Cheung Ngai Tseung , Wong Martin C. S.
Published: April 2023

In January 2021, the eHealth App was launched in Hong Kong by the Hong Kong government to support the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS). A Health Management Module in the eHealth App introduced new functions to record blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart rate, and downloading and sharing records. This study aims to compare the level of glycaemic control between users of the eHealth App and non-users. Type 2 diabetes patients who have joined the eHRSS with existing haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level records are recruited. Correlations between predictors and optimal HbA1c control (<7%) are examined using logistic regression analyses. A total of 109,823 participants are included, with 76,356 non-users of eHealth App, 31,723 users of eHealth App, and 1744 users of the eHealth Management Module together with the App. We collect HbA1c values from Jan 2021 to May 2022, and they are 6 months after the use of the App on average. Users of the eHealth Management Module are found to have more optimal HbA1c levels across all subgroups, with the strongest effect observed in younger females (aOR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.27–2.17). eHealth App usage is also positively associated with optimal HbA1c levels, particularly amongst younger females (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.08–1.26). Overall, users of eHealth App and eHealth Management Module demonstrate more optimal HbA1c levels when compared with non-users, particularly among younger adults and females. These findings support its potential adoption in diabetes patients. Future studies should examine the impact of eHealth interventions on other clinical targets and diabetes complications.
Antibiofilm surfaces based on the immobilization of a novel recombinant antimicrobial multidomain protein using self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Kyvik Adriana R. , Roca-Pinilla Ramon , Mayolo-Deloisa Karla , Rodriguez Rodriguez Xavier , Martinez-Miguel Marc , Martos Marta , Köber Mariana , Ventosa Nora , Veciana Jaume , Guasch Judith , Garcia-Fruitós Elena , Arís Anna , Ratera Imma
Published: April 2023

Biofunctionalized surfaces with an antimicrobial multidomain protein both in soluble form or nanostructured as nanoparticles to avoid biofilm formation.
Tuning the exchange-coupling effect in raspberry-like γ-Fe2O3@CoO nanoparticles engineered through the single variation of the surfactant concentration in the synthesis process
Authors: Bidaud Clémentine , García-Soriano David , Sánchez Elena H. , Grenèche Jean-Marc , De Toro José A. , Varela Maria , Dhanjani Mónica , Bollero Alberto , Salas Gorka
Published: April 2023

The number of CoO satellites surrounding the γ-Fe2O3 seeds is tuned by a single synthesis parameter (the oleic acid content).
Single liquid aerosol nano-impact electrochemistry: accessing the droplet|air interface
Authors: Kauffmann Philip J. , Dick Jeffrey E.
Published: April 2023

Fabrication of a dual-barrel platinum ultramicroelectrode allows for the stochastic detection of a single liquid aerosol droplet. The new measurement technique has significant potential for studying the microdroplet|air interface using electrochemistry.
Sustainable plant protein: an up-to-date overview of sources, extraction techniques and utilization
Authors: Chandran Akshay S. , Suri Shweta , Choudhary Pintu
Published: April 2023

Protein is a vital macronutrient that helps in the survival of human beings.
Polysaccharides from marine biological resources and their anticancer activity on breast cancer
Authors: Yang Shengfeng , Li Dacheng , Liu Weili , Chen Xiaolin
Published: April 2023

Polysaccharides from marine organisms are potential sources of low side-effect and high efficiency anticancer drugs.
Gold nanoparticles synthesis and immobilization by atmospheric pressure DBD plasma torch method
Authors: Bjelajac Andjelika , Phillipe Adrian-Marie , Guillot Jérôme , Fleming Yves , Chemin Jean-Baptiste , Choquet Patrick , Bulou Simon
Published: April 2023

Well dispersed Au NPs of narrow size distribution were obtained using an atmospheric DBD plasma torch. Ethanol used as solvent for Au precursor served as well as a C source for encapsulation of Au NPs preventing them from agglomeration.
Synthesis of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors bearing a cinnamic ester warhead with in vitro activity against human coronaviruses
Authors: Citarella Andrea , Moi Davide , Pedrini Martina , Pérez-Peña Helena , Pieraccini Stefano , Dimasi Alessandro , Stagno Claudio , Micale Nicola , Schirmeister Tanja , Sibille Giulia , Gribaudo Giorgio , Silvani Alessandra , Giannini Clelia , Passarella Daniele
Published: April 2023

A panel of novel cinnamic ester derivatives showed a potent inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and efficiently impaired the in vitro replication of two human coronaviruses in the low micromolar range.
V modified Ni-based layer hydroxides for the electrocatalytic upgrading of amines to nitriles
Authors: Bai Shaoxiong , Chen Liang , Bai Jingjing , Lv Chenghang , Xu Shoudong , Zhang Ding , Meng Haibin , Guo Chunli , Yang Huimin , Shang Chenjing
Published: April 2023

A NiV-LDH/NF catalyst was fabricated via a novel and inexpensive protocol, and it exhibited superior catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability for the electrochemical oxidative dehydrogenation reaction of benzylamine.
Growth of carbon nanotubes over carbon nanofibers catalyzed by bimetallic alloy nanoparticles as a bifunctional electrode for Zn–air batteries
Authors: Aziz Iram , Chen Xing , Hu Xuhui , Zhang Wenjing (Angela) , Awan Rabiya Javed , Rauf Ali , Arshad Salman Noshear
Published: April 2023

In situ formed bimetallic nanoparticles aided the growth of CNTs over CNFs for enhanced oxygen reduction and evolution reactions in ZABs.
Efficient Cr(vi) removal by expanded graphite synergized with oxalic acid under UV irradiation
Authors: Zhang Ling , Sun Yanqing , Sun Jie , Cao Fengming
Published: April 2023

The high toxic Cr(vi) was easily and effectively photoreduced by oxalic acid (Ox) synergized with expanded graphite (EG).
Preparation of SA/P(U-AM-ChCl) composite hydrogels by frontal polymerization and its performance study
Authors: Li Bin , Wu Aolin , Hao Wenrui , Liu Jizhen , Hu Zhigang , Wang Ying
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we prepare SA/P(U-AM-ChCl) composite hydrogels with good self-healing properties through frontal polymerization.
Biomimetic strain-stiffening in fully synthetic dynamic-covalent hydrogel networks
Authors: Ollier Rachel C. , Xiang Yuanhui , Yacovelli Adriana M. , Webber Matthew J.
Published: April 2023

Strain-stiffening is observed and characterized in flexible PEG hydrogel networks crosslinked via dynamic-covalent boronate ester bonds, revealing an uncommon synthetic mimic of a mechanoresponse found in natural biopolymer networks.
On the existence of low-valent magnesium–calcium complexes
Authors: Mai Jonathan , Rösch Bastian , Patel Neha , Langer Jens , Harder Sjoerd
Published: April 2023

While low-valent β-diketiminate complexes with a Mg–Mg bond are well-established, similar Ca–Ca bound complexes were hitherto too reactive to be isolated. Herein we discuss the possible formation of low-valent heterobimetallic Mg–Ca complexes.
Bioderived furanic compounds as replacements for BTX in chemical intermediate applications
Authors: Al Ghatta Amir , Hallett Jason P.
Published: April 2023

Aromatic building blocks are essential chemicals to deliver high performances for a defined application. The implementation of biobased alternatives is a crucial factor for the reduction of carbon emissions and sustainability.
Dynamically activating Ni-based catalysts with self-anchored mononuclear Fe for efficient water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Luo Yuting , Wang Kun , Yu Qiangmin , Kang Xin , Liu Yingqi , Xie Ke , Lv Zhengxing , Liu Zhibo , Yang Fengning , Liu Heming , Liu Ke , Li Jiong , Zhou Guangmin , Ren Wencai , Cheng Hui-Ming , Li Jia , Zhang Shuo , Liu Bilu
Published: April 2023

A surface engineering strategy to form a highly active Fe–Ni structure on the surfaces of Ni-based catalysts. The surface Fe is readily oxidized under OER conditions, compensating for the charges of Ni and increasing the activity of Ni active sites.
Sucrose-derived hard carbon wrapped with reduced graphene oxide as a high-performance anode for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Shengyuan , Yuan Hong , Ye Chuanren , Wang Yizhe , Wang Long , Ni Kun , Zhu Yanwu
Published: April 2023

The sucrose dehydrated by H2SO4and composited with GO, followed by annealing in NH3/Ar at 800 °C, generates N-HC/rGO hybrid with more ultra-micropores, which makes the electrochemical performance of the hybrid better than hard carbon alone.
Overall water electrolysis on a graphdiyne-iron oxyhydroxide heterostructure
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhang Danyan , Zheng Xuchen , Zhang Chao , Gao Yang , Xing Chengyu , Chen Siao , Wu Han , Xue Yurui , Li Yuliang
Published: April 2023

The incomplete charge transfer between graphdiyne and metal atoms at the interface structures endows the catalyst with excellent catalytic activity.
Absorption-dominated electromagnetic interference shielding composite foam based on porous and bi-conductive network structures
Authors: Peng Qiang , Ma Meng , Chu Qindan , Lin Hao , Tao Wenting , Shao Wenqin , Chen Si , Shi Yanqin , He Huiwen , Wang Xu
Published: April 2023

A porous Ni@MF/CNT/TSM/PDMS composite foam with a bi-conductive network structure was fabricated, which possesses absorption-dominated and excellent EMI shielding properties due to the impedance matching and diversiform dissipation mechanisms.
Design of a novel robust type‐2 fuzzy‐based adaptive backstepping controller optimized with antlion algorithm for buck converter
Authors: Khavari Fatemeh , Ghamari Seyyed Morteza , Abdollahzadeh Mohammd , Mollaee Hasan
Published: April 2023

A type‐2 fuzzy logic‐based adaptive backstepping control (T2F‐ABSC) approach is presented for a DC/DC Buck converter. Lyapunov‐based backstepping control (BSC), which can guarantee convergence along with asymptotic stability of the system. Also, the black‐box technique is applied for the proposed system, which does not require an accurate mathematical model resulting in a lower computational burden, easy implementation, and lower dependency on the states of the model. On the other hand, for wider ranges of disturbances, including parametric variations, load uncertainty, supply voltage variation, and noise, this approach shows an unsuitable practical application based on its fixed gain values; therefore, the control parameters need to be optimized again to provide ideal operations. Type‐2 fuzzy structure is adopted here to optimize the gains of the ABSM in challenging conditions. Type‐2 fuzzy (T2F) has higher efficiency and faster dynamics with more adaptability to the system. To enhance the performance of the T2F, antlion optimization (ALO) has been used in this structure. ALO is a modern nature‐inspired algorithm, and it has some advantages over other optimizing algorithms. Furthermore, it has ability to find optimal answers in a shorter time, more accurately in contrast to the other optimization algorithms and is used to tune the membership function parameters of the (T2F) under the diverse search spaces. To depict the strength of the designed work, fuzzy‐PID and backstepping schemes proposed to carry out an analysis with this work.
Echinacea purpurea as a medicinal plant: characteristics, use as a biologically active component of feed additives and specialized foods (review)
Authors: Miroshina Tatyana , Poznyakovskiy Valeriy
Published: April 2023

Medicinal plants are widely used in the nutrition of farm animals. In addition, the active components of medicinal plants have always been an important source of the ingredient composition of pharmaceuticals and specialized food products, including biologically active additives. However, the study of their molecular pharmacology presents a particular challenge, since they offer a wide chemical diversity of active substances with different multipharmacological activities. The purpose of this study is to analyze the scientific developments of recent years on the use of preparations and functional products based on Echinacea purpurea in medicine and nutrition, taking into account the distribution and availability of Echinacea purpurea as a medicinal plant. Echinacea stimulates the immune system, reduces blood sugar, anxiety and inflammation, improves skin health, has anti-cancer properties, and may serve as a viable alternative to chlorhexidine. Suggested dosages depend on the form of echinacea. It can help prevent colds, shorten their duration or relieve symptoms, and be effective as a preventative treatment for CoV. Echinacea is considered safe and well tolerated when used under controlled conditions. It may be one of the most promising herbal remedies for improving the immunity of various types of farm animals and humans.
Morphometric characters of the whitefish ludoga (coregonus lavaretus ludoga) in connection with the lake Issyk-Kul ecological and geographical conditions and its introduction
Authors: Asanova Eliza , Maygulakova Lydia , Karabaeva Rasida , Almazbekova Begaiym , Irgashev Almazbek
Published: April 2023

This article considers the influence of ecological and geographical conditions in the sequent whitefish ludoga (Coregonus lavaretus ludoga) relocation from Lake Ladoga to Lake Sevan and then from Lake Sevan to Lake Issyk-Kul. Morphometric studies of whitefish ludoga from Lake Issyk-Kul and a comparative analysis with similar data of this fish species of Lake Ladoga and Lake Sevan were carried out, taking into account the ecological and geographical condition of these lakes. In the course of our research, we found that the morphometric characters of whitefish ludoga during the introduction from Lake Ladoga to Lake Sevan and then to Lake Issyk-Kul changed due to the ecological and geographical conditions of these lakes. We have identified changes that occurred sequentially when moving from the plain region lake (Ladoga) to the mountain lake (Sevan) and to the mountain lake with brackish water (Issyk-Kul). These changes were mainly in the quantitative increase of some morphological parameters of these fish, such as raker counts on first branchial arch; scale counts on the lateral line; snout length and lower jaw length; predorsal distance and caudal peduncle length; head depth. In addition, there are changes characteristic of the Issyk-Kul fish, it is an increase in body depth and the dorsal fin height.
The systems-activity concept of innovation – the imperative for sustainable social programming of a solidarity society
Authors: Еrmolenko Vladimir , Zakaryan Mikhail , Lanskaya Daria , Savchenko Andrey P. , El Hellani Hassan
Published: April 2023

Historically, scientific and technological progress has determined the emergence and continuous development of forms of its social organization, objectively forming the images of solidarity society corresponding to these forms. It is argued that the main social phenomenon accompanying scientific and technological progress is innovation, and it is hypothesized that this concept can be based on the ontological concept of innovation. On the basis of well-known methods of ontological research, the method of dialectic-systemic construction of innovation as a system of unitary social activity which generates new opportunities of social development leading to growth of social quality of the solidarity society is proposed. The system-activity concept of innovation is substantiated and its invariant conceptual structure, which is defined as the unity of two innovative structures: the phenomenon of innovation and the manifestation of innovation, which determine the organization and management of innovation, is constructed. The proposed concept of innovation can only be the imperative of sustainable social programming of a solidarity society, which provides a method of dialectical-systemological construction of innovation that allows detailing the original invariant conceptual structure for each specific image of a solidarity society due to a particular stage of scientific and technological progress.
Investments and innovations in sustainable management of green economy in the Kyrgyz Republic (agricultural aspects)
Authors: Sulaimanova Baktygul , Mamatov Adilet , Begalieva Kyyal , Sharsheeva Nurmira
Published: April 2023

Climate change, exacerbating water management and environmental problems, threatening public health, food safety and economic and social development, is a global concern. The adoption of green economy approach can provide the Kyrgyz Republic with a framework for strengthening the in-country and inter-regional cooperation. Faced with the climate change realities and the clear evidence of the fact that continued “brown economy” will only lead to further environmental degradation and ultimately threaten not only the economic growth but also the overall survival of the humanity, the public at large is becoming aware of the urgency and relevance of responding to these challenges. A growing number of influential opinions state that the “business-as-usual” approach cannot be practiced as before and some new ways must be found to drive the economic growth and development at the national, regional and global level. Against this background, the green economy approach is gaining traction in the Kyrgyz Republic, being considered as a very important contribution to the search for new ways to achieve sustainable growth viewed as the growth that meets the requirements of environmental sustainability and social justice.
Institutional trends of Russian agriculture as problems and advantages of development
Authors: Alekseeva Natalia , Sokolov Viacheslav , Timoshkina Elena , Kravchenko Nina , Gorbushina Natalia
Published: April 2023

It is established that the increase in the level of food security in Russia refers to the institutional problems of the economy. It is assumed that the long-standing reproductive imbalances in the economy may manifest themselves differently in the conditions of sanctions and changes in the institutional policy of the state. The purpose and objectives of the study were to analyze the positions of various authors regarding new trends in the development of the institutional factor in their countries. Institutional trends in the Russian economy, including agriculture, are evaluated. The depth of manifestation and the temporal extent of the most important institutional trends are determined: the trend to preserve small-scale production, imbalances in the development of crop production and animal husbandry, the imbalance of prices of agricultural producers and prices of products consumed by them, the uneven spatial development of Russian regions. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the fact that the main structural imbalances and contradictions in the institutional development of agriculture are systematized. To develop a proactive regulatory impact, it is recommended that the authorities and management monitor some new reproductive proportions.
Physicochemical studies of composite coatings during accelerated tests for atmospheric corrosion
Authors: Gerasimenko Mariia , Nadaraia Konstantine , Mashtalyar Dmitry , Imshinetskiy Igor , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: April 2023

In the present paper, the formation of protective coatings on the MA8 magnesium alloy by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) with subsequent treatment of fluoropolymer is considered. The morphology of coatings after accelerated climatic tests was investigated and the elemental composition of coatings was studied after tests in a salt spray chamber (SSC). The analysis of the obtained results demonstrated a higher corrosion resistance of the fluoropolymer-containing layers in comparison with the base PEO coating.
Das kutane Plattenepithelkarzinom – ein Update
Authors: Burda Birgit , Schultz Erwin S.
Published: April 2023

Hintergrund Das kutane Plattenepithelkarzinom (PEK) ist nach dem Basalzellkarzinom der zweithäufigste bösartige Hauttumor. In Deutschland wurden 2014 über 50.000 PEK-Neuerkrankungen dokumentiert. Mit Zunahme der durchschnittlichen Lebenserwartung und Komorbiditäten treten mittlerweile auch gehäuft lokal fortgeschrittene Tumore mit Metastasierung auf.

Methode Selektive Literaturrecherche in PubMed und unter Berücksichtigung der deutschen S3-Leitlinien „Aktinische Keratosen und Plattenepithelkarzinom der Haut“ und „Prävention von Hautkrebs“.

Ergebnisse Beim PEK ist der Goldstandard die vollständige Exzision des Primärtumors mittels histopathologischer Kontrolle der Schnittränder. Eine Radiotherapie kann eingesetzt werden, wenn eine vollständige Exzision nicht erreicht werden kann bzw. Inoperabilität besteht. Im Falle eines metastasierten (mPEK) oder lokal fortgeschrittenen (laPEK) PEK, welches nicht kurativ operiert oder bestrahlt werden kann, werden systemische medikamentöse Therapien eingesetzt. Mit der Zulassung des PD1-Antikörpers Cemiplimab steht seit 2019 in der EU eine neue systemische Therapie zur Behandlung des fortgeschrittenen PEK zur Verfügung. Nach bis zu 3 Jahren Follow-up sprechen noch 46% der Patienten mit mPEK und laPEK auf Cemiplimab an, der Medianwert für das Gesamtüberleben und die Ansprechdauer ist in beiden Gruppen noch nicht erreicht. Weitere Antikörper gegen PD1 oder PDL1, Kombinationstherapien sowie die Immuntherapie mit onkolytischen Viren ermöglichen zahlreiche Therapieoptionen und sind aktuell Gegenstand der Forschung.

Schlussfolgerung Mit der Zunahme von fortgeschrittenen Stadien des PEK nimmt die Wichtigkeit des interdisziplinären Tumorboards für den Therapieentscheid immer mehr zu. Die Weiterentwicklung bestehender therapeutischer Konzepte, die Identifikation von gut wirksamen Kombinationstherapien sowie die Entwicklung weiterer verträglicher zielgerichteter Systemtherapien ist eine entscheidende dermatoonkologische Herausforderung der nächsten Jahre.
Screening Results for Diabetic Retinopathy in Germany in a Real-world
Cohort in a Metropolitan Diabetes Care Center
Authors: Mertes Bernardo , Kuniss Nadine , Piorkowski Michael , Mertes Linus Paul , Hammes Hans-Peter
Published: April 2023

Background Retinal screening is mandatory to prevent vision loss and
blindness due to diabetic retinopathy (DR). The aim of the study was to
determine retinopathy screening rates and potential barriers in a German
metropolitan diabetes care center.

Methods Between May and October 2019, 265 patients with diabetes mellitus
(95% type 2 diabetes; age 62±13.2 years; diabetes duration
11.1±8.5 years, HbA1c 7.4±1.0%) were referred to an
ophthalmologist (referral form with order “Fundoscopy in diabetes
mellitus, findings requested,” completed documentation form
“General practitioner’s/diabetologist’s report
to the ophthalmologist” and prepared documentation form
“Ophthalmologist’s report”). A structured interview was
used to assess the level of compliance with the guidelines and to identify
potential barriers to retinopathy screening in a real-world setting, including
the quantification of extra payments.

Results All patients were interviewed at 7.9±2.5 months after the
referral for retinopathy screening had been issued. According to patient
reporting, fundoscopy was performed in 191 (75%) patients.
Ophthalmological reports were obtained from 119/191 (62%)
patients (46% of the entire cohort). 10/119 (8%)
patients had been previously diagnosed with DR and 6/119 (5%)
with new-onset DR. In 158/191 (83%) of patients, the referral
had been accepted by the ophthalmology practice, of which 25,1% made a
co-payment of 36.2±37.6 €.

Discussion Despite a high screening performance in a real-world setting,
complete screening in compliance with German guidelines, including written
reporting, was found in less than half of the cohort. The prevalence and
incidence of DR are high. Even when referred according to the regulations,
one-quarter of patients made a co-payment. Efficient solutions to current
barriers can emerge with mutual time-saving information prior to examination and
feedback about the implementation of findings into treatment.