bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mining for novel cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferases unravels the carbohydrate metabolism pathway via cyclodextrins in Thermoanaerobacterales
Authors: Centeno-Leija Sara , Espinosa-Barrera Laura , Velazquez-Cruz Beatriz , Cárdenas-Conejo Yair , Virgen-Ortíz Raúl , Valencia-Cruz Georgina , Saenz Roberto A. , Marín-Tovar Yerli , Gómez-Manzo Saúl , Hernández-Ochoa Beatriz , Rocha-Ramirez Luz María , Zataraín-Palacios Rocío , Osuna-Castro Juan A. , López-Munguía Agustín , Serrano-Posada Hugo
Published: January 2022

Carbohydrate metabolism via cyclodextrins (CM-CD) is an uncommon starch-converting pathway that thoroughly depends on extracellular cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferases (CGTases) to transform the surrounding starch substrate to α-(1,4)-linked oligosaccharides and cyclodextrins (CDs). The CM-CD pathway has emerged as a convenient microbial adaptation to thrive under extreme temperatures, as CDs are functional amphipathic toroids with higher heat-resistant values than linear dextrins. Nevertheless, although the CM-CD pathway has been described in a few mesophilic bacteria and archaea, it remains obscure in extremely thermophilic prokaryotes (Topt ≥ 70 °C). Here, a new monophyletic group of CGTases with an exceptional three-domain ABC architecture was detected by (meta)genome mining of extremely thermophilic Thermoanaerobacterales living in a wide variety of hot starch-poor environments on Earth. Functional studies of a representative member, CldA, showed a maximum activity in a thermoacidophilic range (pH 4.0 and 80 °C) with remarkable product diversification that yielded a mixture of α:β:γ-CDs (34:62:4) from soluble starch, as well as G3–G7 linear dextrins and fermentable sugars as the primary products. Together, comparative genomics and predictive functional analysis, combined with data of the functionally characterized key proteins of the gene clusters encoding CGTases, revealed the CM-CD pathway in Thermoanaerobacterales and showed that it is involved in the synthesis, transportation, degradation, and metabolic assimilation of CDs.
Agreement of different OCT scan directions for individual retinal-layer thickness measurements in multiple sclerosis subjects with prior unilateral optic neuritis
Authors: Domínguez-Vicent Alberto , Nilsson Maria , Brautaset Rune , Venkataraman Abinaya Priya
Published: January 2022

The similarities between horizontal and vertical Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans for the individual retinal layer thickness measurements in the macula was evaluated. Two volumetric scans (B-scans oriented horizontally and vertically) were performed in 64 multiple sclerosis subjects with history of unilateral optic neuritis and 64 healthy controls. The agreement between the thickness measurements with horizontal and vertical OCT scans was evaluated in 3 groups of eyes: healthy controls, eyes with history of optic neuritis and the fellow eyes. The mean difference in individual layer thickness between the scans was smaller than the instrument’s axial resolution in all 3 groups. The limit of agreement (LoA) varied among the different layers and sectors analyzed and this trend was similar in all the groups. For the inner retinal layers (retinal nerve fiber layer to inner nuclear layer), the inner macular sectors had a larger LoA compared to the corresponding outer sectors. In the outer plexiform and nuclear layers, the central and inner sectors (except inner temporal) had LoA larger than the other sectors and layers. The larger LoA seen for different layers and sectors suggests that the scan direction must be same for the follow-up OCT measurements and in clinical studies.
Recovery of anosmia in hamsters infected with SARS-CoV-2 is correlated with repair of the olfactory epithelium
Authors: Reyna Rachel A. , Kishimoto-Urata Megumi , Urata Shinji , Makishima Tomoko , Paessler Slobodan , Maruyama Junki
Published: January 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for a pandemic affecting billions of people worldwide. Apart from the extreme global economic impact, the pandemic will likely have a lasting impact through long-term sequelae not yet fully understood. Fully understanding the mechanisms driving the various symptoms and sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection will allow for the eventual development of therapeutics to prevent or treat such life-altering symptoms. In this study, we developed a behavioral test of anosmia in SARS-CoV-2-infected hamsters. We find a moderately strong correlation between the level of anosmia and the score of histological damage within the olfactory epithelium. We also find a moderately strong correlation between the level of anosmia and the thickness of the olfactory epithelium, previously demonstrated to be severely damaged upon infection. Thus, this food-searching behavioral test can act as a simple and effective screening method in a hamster model for various therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2-related anosmia.
Targeting of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cell surface via GP12, an Escherichia coli specific bacteriophage protein
Authors: Ongwae George M. , Chordia Mahendra D. , Cawley Jennie L. , Dalesandro Brianna E. , Wittenberg Nathan J. , Pires Marcos M.
Published: January 2022

Bacteriophages are highly abundant molecular machines that have evolved proteins to target the surface of host bacterial cells. Given the ubiquity of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, we reasoned that targeting proteins from bacteriophages could be leveraged to target the surface of Gram-negative pathogens for biotechnological applications. To this end, a short tail fiber (GP12) from the T4 bacteriophage, which infects Escherichia coli (E. coli), was isolated and tested for the ability to adhere to whole bacterial cells. We found that, surprisingly, GP12 effectively bound the surface of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells despite the established preferred host of T4 for E. coli. In efforts to elucidate why this binding pattern was observed, it was determined that the absence of the O-antigen region of LPS on E. coli improved cell surface tagging. This indicated that O-antigens play a significant role in controlling cell adhesion by T4. Probing GP12 and LPS interactions further using deletions of the enzymes involved in the biosynthetic pathway of LPS revealed the inner core oligosaccharide as a possible main target of GP12. Finally, we demonstrated the potential utility of GP12 for biomedical applications by showing that GP12-modified agarose beads resulted in the depletion of pathogenic bacteria from solution.
Improving smoking cessation after myocardial infarction by systematically implementing evidence-based treatment methods
Authors: Leosdottir Margret , Wärjerstam Sanne , Michelsen Halldora Ögmundsdottir , Schlyter Mona , Hag Emma , Wallert John , Larsson Matz
Published: January 2022

We compared the odds of smoking cessation at 2-months post-myocardial infarction (MI), before and after implementing routines optimizing use of evidence-based smoking cessation methods, with start during admission. The following routines were implemented at six Swedish hospitals: cardiac rehabilitation nurses offering smokers consultation during admission, optimizing nicotine replacement therapy and varenicline prescription, and contacting patients by telephone during the 1st week post-discharge. Using logistic regression, odds for smoking cessation at 2-months before (n smokers/n admitted = 188/601) and after (n = 195/632) routine implementation were compared. Secondary outcomes included adherence to implemented routines and assessing the prognostic value of each routine on smoking cessation. After implementation, a larger proportion of smokers (65% vs. 54%) were abstinent at 2-months (OR 1.60 [1.04–2.48]). Including only those counselled during admission (n = 98), 74% were abstinent (2.50 [1.42–4.41]). After implementation, patients were more often counselled during admission (50% vs. 6%, p < 0.001), prescribed varenicline (23% vs. 7%, p < 0.001), and contacted by telephone post-discharge (18% vs. 2%, p < 0.001). Being contacted by telephone post-discharge (adjusted OR 2.74 [1.02–7.35]) and prescribed varenicline (adjusted OR 0.39 [0.19–0.83]) predicted smoking cessation at 2-months. In conclusion, readily available methods for aiding smoking cessation can be implemented effectively in routine practice, with beneficial effects for post-MI patients.
Association of plasma tryptophan concentration with periaqueductal gray matter functional connectivity in migraine patients
Authors: Gecse Kinga , Dobos Dóra , Aranyi Csaba Sándor , Galambos Attila , Baksa Daniel , Kocsel Natália , Szabó Edina , Pap Dorottya , Virág Dávid , Ludányi Krisztina , Kökönyei Gyöngyi , Emri Miklós , Bagdy Gyorgy , Juhasz Gabriella
Published: January 2022

Altered periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) functional connectivity contributes to brain hyperexcitability in migraine. Although tryptophan modulates neurotransmission in PAG projections through its metabolic pathways, the effect of plasma tryptophan on PAG functional connectivity (PAG-FC) in migraine has not been investigated yet. In this study, using a matched case-control design PAG-FC was measured during a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging session in migraine without aura patients (n = 27) and healthy controls (n = 27), and its relationship with plasma tryptophan concentration (TRP) was assessed. In addition, correlations of PAG-FC with age at migraine onset, migraine frequency, trait-anxiety and depressive symptoms were tested and the effect of TRP on these correlations was explored. Our results demonstrated that migraineurs had higher TRP compared to controls. In addition, altered PAG-FC in regions responsible for fear-cascade and pain modulation correlated with TRP only in migraineurs. There was no significant correlation in controls. It suggests increased sensitivity to TRP in migraine patients compared to controls. Trait-anxiety and depressive symptoms correlated with PAG-FC in migraine patients, and these correlations were modulated by TRP in regions responsible for emotional aspects of pain processing, but TRP did not interfere with processes that contribute to migraine attack generation or attack frequency.
Psychometric validation of diabetes distress scale in Bangladeshi population
Authors: Akter Jesmin , Islam Rakibul M. , Chowdhury Hasina Akhter , Selim Shahjada , Biswas Animesh , Mozumder Tanvir Ahmed , Broder Jonathan , Ilic Dragan , Karim Md Nazmul
Published: January 2022

Diabetes Distress (DD)—an emotional or affective state arise from challenge of living with diabetes and the burden of self-care—negatively impact diabetes management and quality of life of T2DM patients. Early detection and management of DD is key to efficient T2DM management. The study aimed at developing a valid and reliable instrument for Bangladeshi patients as unavailability such a tool posing challenge in diabetes care. Linguistically adapted, widely used, 17-item Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS), developed through forward–backward translation from English to Bengali, was administered on 1184 T2DM patients, from four diabetes hospitals in Bangladesh. Psychometric assessment of the instrument included, construct validity using principal component factor analysis, internal consistency using Cronbach’s α and discriminative validity through independent t-test and test–retest reliability using intraclass-correlation coefficient (ICC) and Kappa statistics. Factor analysis extracted 4 components similar to original DDS domains, confirms the construct validity. The scale demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.838), stability (test–retest ICC = 0.941) and good agreement across repeated measurements (Kappa = 0.584). Discriminative validity revealed that patients with complication (p < 0.001) and those are on insulin (p < 0.001) had significantly higher distress scores in all domains. Bengali version of DDS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing distress among Bangladeshi T2DM patients.
Estimating null and potent modes of feedforward communication in a computational model of cortical activity
Authors: Thivierge Jean-Philippe , Pilzak Artem
Published: January 2022

Communication across anatomical areas of the brain is key to both sensory and motor processes. Dimensionality reduction approaches have shown that the covariation of activity across cortical areas follows well-delimited patterns. Some of these patterns fall within the "potent space" of neural interactions and generate downstream responses; other patterns fall within the "null space" and prevent the feedforward propagation of synaptic inputs. Despite growing evidence for the role of null space activity in visual processing as well as preparatory motor control, a mechanistic understanding of its neural origins is lacking. Here, we developed a mean-rate model that allowed for the systematic control of feedforward propagation by potent and null modes of interaction. In this model, altering the number of null modes led to no systematic changes in firing rates, pairwise correlations, or mean synaptic strengths across areas, making it difficult to characterize feedforward communication with common measures of functional connectivity. A novel measure termed the null ratio captured the proportion of null modes relayed from one area to another. Applied to simultaneous recordings of primate cortical areas V1 and V2 during image viewing, the null ratio revealed that feedforward interactions have a broad null space that may reflect properties of visual stimuli.
Sex-differences in psychosocial sequelae after spontaneous cervical artery dissection
Authors: Mayer-Suess Lukas , Geiger Moritz , Dejakum Benjamin , Boehme Christian , Domig Lena M. , Komarek Silvia , Toell Thomas , Kiechl Stefan , Knoflach Michael
Published: January 2022

Short- to mid-term functional outcome in spontaneous cervical artery dissection is favorable, but the concomitant psychosocial impact is underreported. We aimed to determine these possible sequelae, with a special focus on sex differences, in our cohort of spontaneous cervical artery dissection subjects. During a standardized prospective in-house follow-up visit we, among other values, evaluated functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS]), psychosocial measures (return to work-, divorce rate) and health-related quality of life (WHO-QoL-BREF and SF-36-questionnaires). 145 patients participated in the long-term prospective follow-up. Median follow-up time was 6.5 years and excellent functional outcome (mRS ≤ 1) was achieved in 89.0% subjects. 87.6% returned to work and 17.6% married patients had a divorce during follow-up. Even though relevant baseline-/discharge characteristics and functional outcome did not differ between the sexes, women were less likely to return to work compared to men (79.7% vs. 93.8%; P = 0.010) and divorce rate was considerably higher in women (30.2% vs. 9.2%; P = 0.022). Health related quality of life did not differ significantly between the sexes, but women consistently reported lower values. Even though functional outcome is beneficial in most patients, measures to prevent poor psychosocial outcome should be considered in the long-term care of patients with spontaneous cervical artery dissection, especially women.
Risk factors for early TB treatment interruption among newly diagnosed patients in Malaysia
Authors: Suliman Qudsiah , Lim Poh Ying , Md. Said Salmiah , Tan Kit-Aun , Mohd. Zulkefli Nor Afiah
Published: January 2022

TB treatment interruption has resulted in delayed sputum conversion, drug resistance, and a high mortality rate and a prolonged treatment course, hence leading to economic and psychosocial affliction. To date, there are limited studies investigating the physico-social risk factors for early treatment interruptions. This prospective multicenter cohort study aimed to investigate the risk factors for early treatment interruption among new pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) smear-positive patients in Selangor, Malaysia. A total of 439 participants were recruited from 39 public treatment centres, 2018–2019. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed to analyse the risk factors for early treatment interruption. Of 439 participants, 104 (23.7%) had early treatment interruption, with 67.3% of early treatment interruption occurring in the first month of treatment. Being a current smoker and having a history of hospitalization, internalized stigma, low TB symptoms score, and waiting time spent at Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course centre were risk factors for early treatment interruption. An appropriate treatment adherence strategy is suggested to prioritize the high-risk group with high early treatment interruption. Efforts to quit smoking cessation programs and to promote stigma reduction interventions are crucial to reduce the probability of early treatment interruption.
Subgroup analysis reveals higher reliability of the new comprehensive evaluation of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease 2019
Authors: Dai Zhongshang , Zeng Huihui , Cui Yanan , Chen Ping , Chen Yan
Published: January 2022

To estimate the severity of the disease in outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Hunan Province, China and use the subgroup analysis to evaluate the reliability of the new comprehensive evaluation of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). COPD outpatients from 12 medical centers in Hunan Province, China were stratified into groups A–D, and group D patients were further stratified into subgroups D1–D3according to the GOLD 2016 and 2019 comprehensive assessment. Demography, clinical characteristics and medications were compared among groups. In 1017 COPD outpatients, the distribution from group A to D and subgroup D1to D3was 41 (4.0%), 249 (24.5%), 17 (1.7%), 710 (69.8%) and 214 (30.2%), 204 (28.7%), 292 (41.1%), according to GOLD 2016. In terms of demographic and clinical characteristics related to A–D groups, there was a significant difference in COPD assessment test (CAT), modified Medical British Research Council (mMRC), the clinical COPD questionnaire(CCQ), age, BMI, education level, smoking history, comorbidities, the course of chronic bronchitis/emphysema, number of exacerbations/hospitalisations in the previous year, treatment protocols, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted, and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) (p < 0.01). Furthermore, some patients in groups C–D regrouped to groups A–B were all C1and D1subgroups according to GOLD 2019. Comparing subgroup D1with group B, subgroup D2and subgroup D3, it was found that the demography, clinical characteristics and medications of subgroup D1were the closest to group B, according to GOLD 2016 (p < 0.01). The disease severity of outpatients with COPD in Hunan Province was more pronounced in group B and D and patients in groups A–D had different demography, clinical characteristics and medications. Subgroup analysis can explain to a certain extent that GOLD2019’s new comprehensive assessment is more reliable than GOLD 2016.
Chemical residue trends for Australian and New Zealand wool
Authors: Ranford Stephen , Swan Paul , van Koten Chikako
Published: January 2022

Textile consumer trends towards improved product safety and high environmental standards have significantly influenced regulators in key consumer markets. The apparel wool industry sector has responded to regulators, and for three decades the Australia and New Zealand wool industries have managed advancements in ectoparasiticides and improved sheep treatments targeting high environmental, animal health and welfare standards leading to safe wool products. Australian and New Zealand chemical residue data from greasy wool have been consolidated and analysed for organophosphate, synthetic pyrethroid, insect growth regulator, neonicotinoid, macrocyclic lactone and spinosad active. Trend analysis has been applied to time domain data to evaluate advancements in ectoparasiticide technology after revising environmental, animal health and welfare standards. Analysis shows impacts from technology improvement, regulatory change and compliance by sheep farmers meeting or exceeding published European Union residue limits for regulated ectoparasiticides namely organochlorine, organophosphate, synthetic pyrethroid and insect growth regulators. Implications from advancements in ectoparasiticide technology, industry management and regulatory measures, include healthy sheep growing in clean pastoral environments with evidence of reduced wool residue levels which complement high and rising proportions of Australian and New Zealand wool fibre meeting European Union Ecolabel criteria.
Manipulating the interlayer carrier diffusion and extraction process in organic-inorganic heterojunctions: from 2D to 3D structures
Authors: Qiao Jia-Wei , Zhang Wen-Qing , Cui Feng-Zhe , Yin Hang , Feng Lin , Hao Xiao-Tao
Published: January 2022

Interlayer carrier transfer at heterointerfaces plays a critical role in light to electricity conversion using organic and nanostructured materials. However, how interlayer carrier extraction at these interfaces is poorly understood, especially in organic-inorganic heterogeneous systems. Here, we provide a direct strategy for manipulating the interlayer carrier diffusion process, transfer rate and extraction efficiency in tetracene/MoS2 type-II band alignment heterostructure by constructing the 2D–3D organic-inorganic (O-I) system. As a result, the prolonged diffusion length (12.32 nm), enhanced electron transfer rate (9.53 × 109 s−1) and improved carrier extraction efficiency (60.9%) are obtained in the 2D O-I structure which may be due to the more sufficient charge transfer (CT) state generation. In addition, we have demonstrated that the interlayer carrier transfer behavior complied with the diffusion mechanism based on the one-dimensional diffusion model. The diffusion coefficients have varied from 0.0027 to 0.0036 cm2 s−1 as the organic layer changes from 3D to 2D structures. Apart from the relationship between the carrier injection and diffusion process, temperature-dependent time-resolved spectra measurement is used to reveal the trap-related recombination that may limit the interlayer carrier extraction. The controllable interlayer carrier transfer behavior enables O-I heterojunction to be optimized for optoelectronic applications.
Single-chain tandem macrocyclic peptides as a scaffold for growth factor and cytokine mimetics
Authors: Ito Kenichiro , Matsuda Yoshihiko , Mine Ayako , Shikida Natsuki , Takahashi Kazutoshi , Miyairi Kyohei , Shimbo Kazutaka , Kikuchi Yoshimi , Konishi Atsushi
Published: January 2022

Mimetics of growth factors and cytokines are promising tools for culturing large numbers of cells and manufacturing regenerative medicine products. In this study, we report single-chain tandem macrocyclic peptides (STaMPtides) as mimetics in a new multivalent peptide format. STaMPtides, which contain two or more macrocyclic peptides with a disulfide-closed backbone and peptide linkers, are successfully secreted into the supernatant by Corynebacterium glutamicum-based secretion technology. Without post-secretion modification steps, such as macrocyclization or enzymatic treatment, bacterially secreted STaMPtides form disulfide bonds, as designed; are biologically active; and show agonistic activities against respective target receptors. We also demonstrate, by cell-based assays, the potential of STaMPtides, which mimic growth factors and cytokines, in cell culture. The STaMPtide technology can be applied to the design, screening, and production of growth factor and cytokine mimetics.
Curvature and self-assembly of semi-conducting nanoplatelets
Authors: Guillemeney Lilian , Lermusiaux Laurent , Landaburu Guillaume , Wagnon Benoit , Abécassis Benjamin
Published: January 2022

Semi-conducting nanoplatelets are two-dimensional nanoparticles whose thickness is in the nanometer range and controlled at the atomic level. They have come up as a new category of nanomaterial with promising optical properties due to the efficient confinement of the exciton in the thickness direction. In this perspective, we first describe the various conformations of these 2D nanoparticles which display a variety of bent and curved geometries and present experimental evidences linking their curvature to the ligand-induced surface stress. We then focus on the assembly of nanoplatelets into superlattices to harness the particularly efficient energy transfer between them, and discuss different approaches that allow for directional control and positioning in large scale assemblies. We emphasize on the fundamental aspects of the assembly at the colloidal scale in which ligand-induced forces and kinetic effects play a dominant role. Finally, we highlight the collective properties that can be studied when a fine control over the assembly of nanoplatelets is achieved.
Aortic intimal resident macrophages are essential for maintenance of the non-thrombogenic intravascular state
Authors: Hernandez Gloria E. , Ma Feiyang , Martinez Guadalupe , Firozabadi Nadia B. , Salvador Jocelynda , Juang Lih Jiin , Leung Jerry , Zhao Peng , López Diego A. , Ardehali Reza , Beaudin Anna E. , Kastrup Christian J. , Pellegrini Matteo , Flick Matthew J. , Iruela-Arispe M. Luisa
Published: January 2022

Leukocytes and endothelial cells frequently cooperate to resolve inflammatory events. In most cases, these interactions are transient in nature and triggered by immunological insults. Here, we report that, in areas of disturbed blood flow, aortic endothelial cells permanently and intimately associate with a population of specialized macrophages. These macrophages are recruited at birth from the closing ductus arteriosus and share the luminal surface with the endothelium, becoming interwoven in the tunica intima. Anatomical changes that affect hemodynamics, such as in patent ductus arteriosus, alter macrophage seeding to coincide with regions of disturbed flow. Aortic resident macrophages expand in situ via direct cell renewal. Induced depletion of intimal macrophages leads to thrombin-mediated endothelial cell contraction, progressive fibrin accumulation and formation of microthrombi that, once dislodged, cause blockade of vessels in several organs. Together the findings reveal that intravascular resident macrophages are essential to regulate thrombin activity and clear fibrin deposits in regions of disturbed blood flow.
Nonoxidative coupling of ethane with gold loaded photocatalysts
Authors: Singh Surya Pratap , Yamamoto Akira , Yoshida Hisao
Published: January 2022

Direct and continuous conversion of ethane to yield n-butane and hydrogen at near room temperature (ca. 320 K) was examined with gold loaded gallium oxide and titanium dioxide photocatalysts without the aid of any oxidant in a flow reactor.
Antihypertensive effect and underlying mechanism of tripeptide NCW on spontaneously hypertensive rats using metabolomics analysis
Authors: Wu Sijia , Zhao Wenzhu , Yu Zhipeng , Liu Jingbo
Published: January 2022

Tripeptide NCW identified in our previous study displayed a strong ACE inhibitory activity, but whether it has any antihypertensive effectin vivoremains unknown.
Hypertension- and glycaemia-lowering effects of a grape-pomace-derived seasoning in high-cardiovascular risk and healthy subjects. Interplay with the gut microbiome
Authors: Taladrid Diego , de Celis Miguel , Belda Ignacio , Bartolomé Begoña , Moreno-Arribas M. Victoria
Published: January 2022

Grape pomace (GP) is a winery by-product rich in polyphenols and dietary fibre.
Simple strategies deployed for developing efficient and stable solution processed quantum dot solar cells
Authors: Kumar Pendyala Naresh , Das Aparajita , Kolay Ankita , Deepa Melepurath
Published: January 2022

Photoanode passivation, electrolyte additives and electrocatalytic and high surface area counter electrodes control the liquid junction quantum dot solar cell (QDSC) performance.
Microfluidic sensors based on two-dimensional materials for chemical and biological assessments
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sithara , Mathew Minu , Rout Chandra Sekhar
Published: January 2022

Different 2D materials for microfluidic sensors and their possible use in various health care and environmental applications including wearable sensors are critically addressed.
Iron(iii)-cross-linked alginate hydrogels: a critical review
Authors: Massana Roquero Daniel , Othman Ali , Melman Artem , Katz Evgeny
Published: January 2022

Preparation, characterization and applications, particularly for signal-stimulated molecule release, of Fe3+-cross-linked alginate hydrogels are critically overviewed.
Realization of a multi-band terahertz metamaterial absorber using two identical split rings having opposite opening directions connected by a rectangular patch
Authors: Wang Ben-Xin , Xu Wei , Wu Yangkuan , Yang Zhuchuang , Lai Shengxiong , Lu Liming
Published: January 2022

A multi-band metamaterial absorber in the terahertz regime using a periodically arranged surface structure placed on an ultra-thin insulating dielectric slab backed by a metallic ground plane is demonstrated in this paper.
Selective desolvation in two-step nucleation mechanism steers crystal structure formation
Authors: Dighe Anish V. , Coliaie Paria , Podupu Prem K. R. , Singh Meenesh R.
Published: January 2022

Illustrated is a two-step nucleation process, where solute molecules in the solution are first partially desolvated to form locally dense liquid clusters followed by selective desolvation to yield crystalline solids.
RNA cancer nanomedicine: nanotechnology-mediated RNA therapy
Authors: Ferdows Bijan Emiliano , Patel Dylan Neal , Chen Wei , Huang Xiangang , Kong Na , Tao Wei
Published: January 2022

We review the recent progress in nanotechnology-mediated delivery of therapeutic RNAs that have been employed to evoke tumor suppressing responses for cancer therapy.
Tosyl iodide – a new initiator for the photo-controlled iodine transfer polymerization of methacrylates under sunlight irradiation
Authors: Costa João R. C. , Góis Joana R. , Fernandes José R. , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof , Coelho Jorge F. J. , Serra Arménio C.
Published: January 2022

A very simple photo-controlled iodine transfer polymerization system consisting only of methacrylate monomers, solvent (dimethylacetamide), and initiator (tosyl iodide) under violet and sunlight irradiation is reported.
Interfacial photocrosslinking of polymer particles possessing nucleobase photoreactive groups for hollow/capsule polymer fabrication
Authors: Kitayama Yukiya , Dosaka Akali , Harada Atsushi
Published: January 2022

Herein, polystyrene-based particles possessing nucleobases in polymer side chains were prepared and nucleobase groups were applied to the interfacial photocrosslinking as photoreactive groups for the first time for fabricating hollow/capsule particles.
Fabrication of a light-responsive polymer nanocomposite containing spiropyran as a sensor for reversible recognition of metal ions
Authors: Arjmand Fakhri , Mohamadnia Zahra
Published: January 2022

Poly(spiropyran ethylacrylate-co-glycidyl methacrylate) grafted onto the surface of modified TiO2 (TiO2-g-P(SPEA-co-GMA)) as a novel stimuli-responsive polymer was fabricated and employed as sensor for reversible recognition of metal ions.
From initial treatment design to final disposal of chelating agents: a review of corrosion and degradation mechanisms
Authors: Almubarak Tariq , Ng Jun Hong , Ramanathan Raja , Nasr-El-Din Hisham A.
Published: January 2022

In this review, we discuss how chelating agents and their products can cause corrosion and how it goes through the oilfield cycle including thermal, photo, and biodegradation.
A minireview on catalysts for photocatalytic N2 fixation to synthesize ammonia
Authors: Qi Ping , Gao Xiaoxu , Wang Jian , Liu Huimin , He Dehua , Zhang Qijian
Published: January 2022

This review will describe several PNF catalysts' research progress and also point out the remaining challenges and future opportunities.
Biochemical characterization of a novel azo reductase named BVU5 from the bacterial flora DDMZ1: application for decolorization of azo dyes
Authors: Cong Junhao , Xie Xuehui , Liu Yanbiao , Qin Yan , Fan Jiao , Fang Yingrong , Liu Na , Zhang Qingyun , Song Xinshan , Sand Wolfgang
Published: January 2022

The combination of BVU5 enzyme and coenzyme NADH can quickly degrade the azo dye RB5.
Nanozymes with reductase-like activities: antioxidant properties and electrochemical behavior
Authors: Stasyuk Nataliya , Gayda Galina , Kavetskyy Taras , Gonchar Mykhailo
Published: January 2022

Novel Zn/Cd/Cubd nanozymes possesses the ability to mimic coenzyme-dependent selenite reductase. A new amperometric biosensor for determination of selenite was constructed.
Graphene nanosheet-sandwiched platinum nanoparticles deposited on a graphite pencil electrode as an ultrasensitive sensor for dopamine
Authors: Baig Nadeem , Kawde Abdel-Nasser , Elgamouz Abdelaziz , Morsy Mohamed , Abdelfattah Ahmed Mohsen , Othaman Rizafizah
Published: January 2022

An efficient, highly sensitive, and selective electrochemical sensor using PtNPs sandwiched graphene layered modified graphite pencil electrode.
Preparation and application of polyethyleneimine-modified corncob magnetic gel for removal of Pb(ii) and Cu(ii) ions from aqueous solution
Authors: Chen Zhi , Zeng Jun , Zhang Zhi-Bo , Zhang Zhi-Jie , Ma Shan , Tang Cong-Ming , Xu Jun-Qiang
Published: January 2022

A kind of magnetic gel material was synthesized by cross-linking PEI modified chitosan and corncob biomass with good adsorption properties of heavy metal ions.
Exploring divalent conjugates of 5-N-acetyl-neuraminic acid as inhibitors of coxsackievirus A24 variant (CVA24v) transduction
Authors: Johansson Emil , Caraballo Rémi , Zocher Georg , Mistry Nitesh , Arnberg Niklas , Stehle Thilo , Elofsson Mikael
Published: January 2022

Coxsackievirus A24 variant (CVA24v) is responsible for several outbreaks and two pandemics of the highly contagious eye infection acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC).
Optimizing the quasi-equilibrium state of hot carriers in all-inorganic lead halide perovskite nanocrystals through Mn doping: fundamental dynamics and device perspectives
Authors: Meng Jie , Lan Zhenyun , Lin Weihua , Liang Mingli , Zou Xianshao , Zhao Qian , Geng Huifang , Castelli Ivano E. , Canton Sophie E. , Pullerits Tönu , Zheng Kaibo
Published: January 2022

Mn doping modulates the hot carrier dynamics in all-inorganic lead halide perovskite nanocrystals according to the excitation energy.
On the formation of hydrogen peroxide in water microdroplets
Authors: Gallo Jr. Adair , Musskopf Nayara H. , Liu Xinlei , Yang Ziqiang , Petry Jeferson , Zhang Peng , Thoroddsen Sigurdur , Im Hong , Mishra Himanshu
Published: January 2022

A. Gallo Jr, H. Mishra et al., pinpoint the origins of the spontaneous H2O2 formation in water microdroplets formed via spraying or condensation, i.e., without the addition of electrical energy, catalyst, or co-solvent.
Competing C–H and C–F bond activation reactions of a fluorinated olefin at Rh: a fluorido vinylidene complex as an intermediate in an unprecedented dehydrofluorination step
Authors: Talavera Maria , Braun Thomas
Published: January 2022

Dehydrofluorination of a fluorinated vinyl ligand takes place after C–H bond activation of Z-1,3,3,3-tetrafluropropene at a rhodium vinyl complex. Model studies support a vinylidene as reaction intermediate for the dehydrofluorination.
Ionophore-based ion-selective electrodes: signal transduction and amplification from potentiometry
Authors: Zhai Jingying , Yuan Dajing , Xie Xiaojiang
Published: January 2022

Focusing on ionophore-based ion-selective electrodes (ISEs), this work highlights recent advances in increasing sensor sensitivity by converting potentiometric response to a variety of electrical and optical signals including charge, current, luminescence, and color change.
Defect-controlled softness, diffusive permeability, and mesh-topology of metallo-supramolecular hydrogels
Authors: Nicolella Paola , Koziol Martha Franziska , Löser Lucas , Saalwächter Kay , Ahmadi Mostafa , Seiffert Sebastian
Published: January 2022

In a model 4-arm pEG supramolecular network, connectivity defects are systematically introduced with different ratios of 8-arm pEG, resulting in intra-molecular loops, and providing a softer polymer network and higher self-diffusion coefficients.
Structure and dynamics of an active polymer adsorbed on the surface of a cylinder
Authors: Shen Chen , Qin Chao-ran , Xu Tian-liang , Chen Kang , Tian Wen-de
Published: January 2022

Three states of an active polymer adsorbed on a cylinder were found: spiral state, helix-like state, and rod-like state. In the spiral state, the rotation velocity and chain length follow a power-law relation ω ∼ N−0.42.
Structures of cationic and anionic polyelectrolytes in aqueous solutions: the sign effect
Authors: Lin Chengjiang , Wei Hao , Li Hongfei , Duan Xiaozheng
Published: January 2022

We use MD simulation to study the disparity in structures/architectures between anionic and cationic polyelectrolytes in aqueous solution caused by the multi-body interactions of ionic species and asymmetric dipolar solvent.
Enhanced cocatalyst-free photocatalytic H2 evolution by the synergistic AIE and FRET for an Ir-complex conjugated porphyrin
Authors: Zheng Kailin , Bodedla Govardhana Babu , Hou Yuqi , Zhang Jie , Liang Runhui , Zhao Jianzhang , Lee Phillips David , Zhu Xunjin
Published: January 2022

A new Ir-complex conjugated porphyrin exhibits AIE property for the Ir-complex unit, inhibition of ACQ of the porphyrin unit and efficient energy transfer from the Ir-complex to the porphyrin, therefore, enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution.
Prioritization‐based subsampling quality assessment methodology for mobility‐related information systems
Authors: Gomari Syrus , Knoth Christoph , Antoniou Constantinos
Published: January 2022

Mobility‐related information systems, such as on‐street parking information (OSPI) systems have become more popular in the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) industry over the last decade. However, there is a lack of methods to assess their quality at a large scale. This paper introduces a data‐driven methodology to measure the true quality by fleet data prioritization‐based subsampling strategies (PSSs). It is applied to the use case of OSPI using parking events (PE), but is applicable to other mobility‐related information systems utilizing their respective fleet data. PSSs are defined based on neighbourhoods and time periods. Each PSS generates a unique set of spatio‐temporally important areas at different quadkey zoom levels over 168 week‐hours, called slices. The importance weight in each slice depends on the volume of PE within them. The algorithm for each PSS automatically selects important areas and time frames that are vital to be observed. Sample prediction models are used for the benefits assessment of the methodology by comparing it against non‐prioritized randomized selection of ground truth. It is proven that the methodology can lessen the effort of ground truth collection, while maintaining the amount of information necessary to assess the true quality of a prediction model.
Modelling, analysis, and parameters design of filter‐integrated three‐switch boost inverter
Authors: Liu Shuo , Zhou Xu , Li Jianlin , Yang Liyong
Published: January 2022

By combining the filter circuit and boost circuit, the filter‐integrated three‐switch boost inverter (TSBI) is proposed in this paper. Different from the traditional boost inverter, TSBI achieves the boost function at the AC side, so the voltage stress on the switches is small. Through modelling and analysis, the boosting characteristics and filtering characteristics of the system are obtained. The proposed topology can significantly suppress the resonance spike and does not need to add additional filtering equipment, which can reduce the volume of equipment and system loss. In order to clearly illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed topology, this paper makes a detailed comparison with other types of inverters. Finally, the feasibility of the system is verified by experiment and simulation.
The similarity of multi-planet systems
Authors: Otegi J. F. , Helled R. , Bouchy F.
Published: January 2022

Previous studies using Kepler data suggest that planets orbiting the same star tend to have similar sizes. However, due to the faintness of the stars, only a few of the planets were also detected with radial velocity follow-ups, and therefore the planetary masses were mostly unknown. It is therefore yet to be determined whether planetary systems indeed behave like “peas in a pod”. Follow-up programs of TESS targets significantly increased the number of confirmed planets with mass measurements, allowing for a more detailed statistical analysis of multi-planet systems. In this work we explore the similarity in radii, masses, densities, and period ratios of planets within planetary systems. We show that planets in the same system that are similar in radii could be rather different in mass and vice versa, and that typically the planetary radii of a given planetary system are more similar than the masses. We also find a transition in the peas in a pod pattern for planets more massive than ~100 M⊕ and larger than ~10 R⊕. Planets below these limits are found to be significantly more uniform. We conclude that other quantities, such as density, may be crucial to fully understanding the nature of planetary systems and that, due to the diversity of planets within a planetary system, increasing the number of detected systems is crucial for understanding the exoplanetary demographics.
Reconstruction of the magnetic connection from Mercury to the solar corona during enhancements in the solar proton fluxes at Mercury
Authors: Ippolito A. , Plainaki C. , Zimbardo G. , Alberti T. , Massetti S. , Milillo A. , Orsini S.
Published: January 2022

Aims. We study the magnetic connection between Mercury and the solar corona based on energetic proton events measured near Mercury by MESSENGER during 2011−2013 in order to identify the possible source of the accelerated particles on the solar surface.

Methods. The transport of the magnetic field lines in the heliosphere was evaluated with a Monte Carlo code that gives a random displacement at each step of the integration along the Parker magnetic field model. The simulation was tailored to each specific event by using the magnetic fluctuation levels obtained at Mercury by MESSENGER and the values of the solar wind velocity measured at 1 AU by the Advanced Composition Explorer satellite. We selected seven case studies for which an increase in the proton fluxes of at least two orders of magnitude with respect to the background level was observed. For each selected case, we took the background magnetic field map (magnetogram) at the source surface of the solar wind (r = 2.5 R⊙) into account. By considering the relative position of Mercury and the Earth on the day on which the enhancement in the proton fluxes was observed by MESSENGER, we obtained the position of the active regions on the solar surface as seen by Mercury.

Results. The footpoint of the Parker spiral passing Mercury was reconstructed for all of the selected events. By considering the values of the fluctuation levels of the interplanetary magnetic field recorded by MAG-MESSENGER two days before the event and the values of the fluctuation levels of the interplanetary magnetic field on the day on which the event was observed, we are also able to appreciate the effects on the solar wind magnetic field perturbations induced by the shock of the coronal mass ejection. This technique will also be useful for the interpretation of energetic particle observations by BepiColombo.
Influence of road traffic noise peaks on reading task performance and disturbance in a laboratory context
Authors: Lavandier Catherine , Regragui Mehdi , Dedieu Romain , Royer Carine , Can Arnaud
Published: January 2022

The influence of fluctuating road traffic noise on perceived disturbance during a reading task as well as on performance, inside a living room with closed windows, is presented in this paper. Sixteen 2-min sound sequences were created combining two variables: the number of events (four levels varying from one to four car pass-bys) and the peak emergence above the background noise (four levels with a 5 dB(A) step) keeping limited variations ofLAmax, 1s. The noise impact was evaluated through a reading task of texts synchronized with the sound sequences, for participants classified into fast or slow readers, and sensitive or non-sensitive to noise. The comprehension rate of the texts decreases as the background sound level increases. The reading speed decreases during the rising front of a peak, and goes back to its former regular reading speed during the descending front of the peak. This slowdown during the rising front reaches 14% for slow readers. The declared disturbance is higher for slow readers compared to fast readers, and higher for noise sensitive persons compared to non-sensitive persons. The influence of the acoustic indicators on the reading disturbance is very small compared to the influence of personal factors. There is even no influence of the number of events on this disturbance.
Diversity of milk traits in 25 goat breeds
Authors: Saputra Ferdy , Anggraeni Anneke
Published: January 2022

Goats are livestock that is mostly raised by small farmers in Indonesia because they are easier to raise. Apart from having the potential to become meat, several breeds of which are kept as milk-purpose. Milk traits of each breed differ from one another. Therefore, this study tried to observe genetic differences of 25 goat breeds with statistical approach. Information about milk traits from 25 goat breeds is obtained from published journal. Multidimensional preference analysis and average linkage cluster analysis were performed using SAS 9.4 to determine the differences in goat breeds from three traits, namely milk yield, fat content, and protein content. Multidimensional preference analysis was able to see the advantages of breeds from the three observed traits. Goat breeds with superior milk yields are Saanen, Camosciata delle Alpi, and Charmoisée. Sarda Primitiva, Sarda, Etawah Grade have high fat content in milk. In addition, Arsi-Bale and Somali have high protein content. Average linkage cluster analysis is able to observe the genetic relationship of goat breeds based on three traits. According to average linkage cluster analysis, we found four clusters for goat breeds in this study. With existing statistical approaches, we can evaluate genetic diversity in milk traits.
Identification of 19-bp indel of the Pleomorphic Adenoma Gene 1 in Bali cattle population
Authors: Sukaryo Sukaryo , Augustin Rizka , Yanti Yuli , Riyanto Joko , Volkandari Slamet Diah , Sudrajad Pita , Cahyadi Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) is a zinc finger transcription factor gene located on bovine chromosome 14 (BTA14) affecting body size and reproduction traits in cattle. The objective of this study was to identify 19-bp indel of the PLAG1 gene in Bali cattle population. A total of 96 blood samples of Bali Cattle were collected from Balai Pembibitan Ternak Unggul dan Hijauan Pakan Ternak (BPTU-HPT) Denpasar. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples and used to detect 19-bp indel of the PLAG1 gene using following primer pair 5’-TCCGAACAACAGGTGAGGGAGAAAT-3’ and 5’-CCACTTCAGG-GGTGCTCTAGGTTTG-3’. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products using DNA pool samples were sequenced to validate the PCR product and to find out novel polymorphism in Bali cattle population. The result showed that there was no variation found in Bali cattle population based on 19-bp indel of the PLAG1 gene, which is indicated by 123 bp DNA band. However, sequence analysis of the PLAG1 gene resulted in a novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at nucleotide number 32235 of the PLAG1 gene that changed guanine (G) to adenine (A). This novel SNP could be furthermore genotyped and it might be a potential candidate marker for body size and reproduction traits in Bali cattle.