bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-collected gargle specimen as a patient-friendly sample collection method for COVID-19 diagnosis in a population context
Authors: Utama Revata , Hapsari Rebriarina , Puspitasari Iva , Sari Desvita , Hendrianingtyas Meita , Nurainy Neni
Published: March 2022

Scaling up SARS-CoV-2 testing and tracing continues to be plagued with the limitation of the sample collection method, which requires trained healthcare workers to perform and causes discomfort to the patients. In response, we assessed the performance and user preference of gargle specimens for qRT-PCR-based detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Indonesia. Inpatients who had recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 and outpatients who were about to perform qRT-PCR testing were asked to provide nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal (NPOP) swabs and self-collected gargle specimens. We demonstrated that self-collected gargle specimens can be an alternative specimen to detect SARS-CoV-2 and the viral RNA remained stable for 31 days at room temperature storage. The developed method was validated for use on multiple RNA extraction kits and commercially available COVID-19 RT-PCR kits. Our developed method achieved a sensitivity of 91.38% when compared to paired NPOP swab specimens (Ct < 35), with 97.10% of patients preferring the self-collected gargle method.
Rehydration of the sleeping chironomid, Polypedilum vanderplanki Hinton, 1951 larvae from cryptobiotic state up to full physiological hydration (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: Knutelski Stanisław , Harańczyk Hubert , Nowak Piotr , Wróbel Andrzej , Leszczyński Bartosz , Okuda Takashi , Strzałka Kazimierz , Baran Ewelina
Published: March 2022

During desiccation the Polypedilum vanderplanki larva loses 97% of its body water, resulting in the shutdown of all metabolic and physiological processes. The larvae are able to resume active life when rehydrated. As dehydration process has already been largely understood, rehydration mechanisms are still poorly recognized. X-ray microtomograms and electron scanning microscopy images recorded during the hydration showed that the volume of the larva's head hardly changes, while the remaining parts of the body increase in volume. In the 1H-NMR spectrum, as recorded for active larvae, component characteristic of solid state matter is absent. The spectrum is superposition of components coming from tightly and loosely bound water fraction, as well as from lipids. The value of the c coefficient (0.66 ± 0.02) of the allometric function describing the hydration models means that the increase in the volume of rehydrated larvae over time is linear. The initial phase of hydration does not depend on the chemical composition of water, but the amount of ions affects the further process and the rate of return of larva’s to active life. Diffusion and ion channels play a major role in the permeability of water through the larva's body integument.
ATP13A3 facilitates polyamine transport in human pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Sekhar Vandana , Andl Thomas , Phanstiel Otto
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study is to provide an increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for mammalian polyamine transport, a process that has been a long-standing ‘black box’ for the polyamine field. Here, we describe how ATP13A3, a P-type ATPase, functions as a polyamine transporter in response to different polyamine stimuli and polyamine-targeted therapies in highly proliferating pancreatic cancer cells. We assessed the expression, cellular localization and the response of the human ATP13A3 protein to polyamine treatments in different pancreatic cancer cell lines using Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy. Using CRISPR mutagenesis and radiolabeled polyamine uptake assays, we investigated the role of ATP13A3 protein in polyamine transport. Highly metastatic cancer cells with high polyamine import express higher levels of the full-length ATP13A3 compared to cells with slow proliferation and low import activity. Highlighting its role in polyamine trafficking, the localization of ATP13A3 is altered in the presence of polyamine stimuli and polyamine-targeted therapies in these cells. Using CRISPR mutagenesis, we demonstrate that the first membrane-associated domain of this protein is critical and indispensable for its function as a spermidine and spermine transporter in cells. Further analysis of existing databases revealed that pancreatic cancer patients with high expression of ATP13A3 have decreased overall survival consistent with the role of intracellular polyamines in supporting tumor growth. Our studies shed light on the mysterious polyamine transport process in human cells and clearly establishes ATP13A3 as an intrinsic component of the spermidine and spermine transport system in humans.
Development of a fibrin-mediated gene delivery system for the treatment of cystinosis via design of experiment
Authors: Graceffa Valeria
Published: March 2022

Cystinosis is a rare disease, caused by a mutation in the gene cystinosin and characterised by the accumulation of cystine crystals. Advantages of biomaterial-mediated gene delivery include reduced safety concerns and the possibility to cure organs that are difficult to treat using systemic gene transfer methods. This study developed novel fibrin hydrogels for controlled, localised gene delivery, for the treatment of cystinosis. In the first part, fabrication parameters (i.e., DNA, thrombin, and aprotinin concentrations) were optimised, using a Design of Experiment (DOE) methodology. DOE is a statistical engineering approach to process optimisation, which increases experimental efficiency, reduces the number of experiments, takes into consideration interactions between different parameters, and allows the creation of predictive models. This study demonstrated the utility of DOE to the development of gene delivery constructs. In the second part of the study, primary fibroblasts from a patient with cystinosis were seeded on the biomaterials. Seeded cells expressed the recombinant CTNS and showed a decrease in cystine content. Furthermore, conditioned media contained functional copies of the recombinant CTNS. These were taken up by monolayer cultures of non-transfected cells. This study described a methodology to develop gene delivery constructs by using a DOE approach and ultimately provided new insights into the treatment of cystinosis.
Metabolite profile of African horned cucumber (Cucumis metuliferus E. May. Ex Naudin) fruit grown under differing environmental conditions
Authors: Maluleke Mdungazi Knox.
Published: March 2022

Plant metabolites are known as biological compounds that are essential to the growth and development of a plant and have a direct impact on yield and biochemical constituents of plants. For this study, the objective was to conduct primary metabolomics analysis using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. African horned cucumber fruits were harvested from plants grown under pots experiment (greenhouse, shade net and open field), soil types (loamy soil and sandy loam) and three water stress levels (no water stress-100%—3L, moderate water stress-75%—2L, and severe water stress-35%—1L) during 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons. Results showed that the treatment of no water stress combined with sandy loam under shade net environment, significantly increased asparagine content from 10 × 106to 80 × 106peak intensity. The treatment of no water stress, in combination with sandy loam soil under open field environment increased 4-hydroxyproline from 10 × 106to 90 × 106peak intensity compared to other treatments. It can be deduced that the treatment combination of (no water stress and moderate water stress) and all soil types, under greenhouse environment increased most metabolites content of the fruit when compared to other treatments. Therefore, it subsequently has potential to affect fruit quality such as taste and other biochemical constituents.
Decreased thalamic monoamine availability in drug-induced parkinsonism
Authors: Oh Yoon-Sang , Yoo Sang-Won , Lyoo Chul Hyoung , Kim Joong-Seok
Published: March 2022

Drug-induced parkinsonism (DIP) is caused by a dopamine receptor blockade and is a major cause of misleading diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Striatal dopamine activity has been investigated widely in DIP; however, most studies with dopamine transporter imaging have focused on the clinical characteristics and prognosis. This study investigated differences in striatal subregional monoamine availability among patients with DIP, normal controls, and patients with early PD. Thirty-five DIP patients, the same number of age-matched PD patients, and 46 healthy controls were selected for this study. Parkinsonian motor status was examined. Brain magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography with 18F-N-(3-fluoropropyl)-2beta-carbon ethoxy-3beta-(4-iodophenyl) nortropane were performed, and the regional standardized uptake values were analyzed with a volume-of-interest template and compared among the groups. The groups were evenly matched for age, but there were numerically more females in the DIP group. Parkinsonian motor symptoms were similar in the DIP and PD groups. Monoamine availability in the thalamus of the DIP group was lower than that of the normal controls and similar to that of the PD group. In other subregions (putamen, globus pallidus, and ventral striatum), monoamine availability in the DIP group and normal controls did not differ and was higher than that in the PD group. This difference compared to healthy subject suggests that low monoamine availability in the thalamus could be an imaging biomarker of DIP.
Potentially preventable hospital readmissions after patients’ first stroke in Taiwan
Authors: Chiou Ling-Jan , Lang Hui-Chu
Published: March 2022

Readmission is an important indicator of the quality of care. The purpose of this study was to explore the probabilities and predictors of 30-day and 1-year potentially preventable hospital readmission (PPR) after a patient’s first stroke. We used claims data from the National Health Insurance (NHI) from 2010 to 2018. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the predictors of 30-day and 1-year PPR. A total of 41,921 discharged stroke patients was identified. We found that hospital readmission rates were 15.48% within 30-days and 47.25% within 1-year. The PPR and non-PPR were 9.84% (4123) and 5.65% (2367) within 30-days, and 30.65% (12,849) and 16.60% (6959) within 1-year, respectively. The factors of older patients, type of stroke, shorter length of stay, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), higher stroke severity index (SSI), regional hospital, public and private hospital, and hospital in the lower urbanized area were associated significantly with the 30-day PPR. In addition, the factors of male, hospitalization year, and monthly income were associated significantly with 1-year PPR. The ORs of long-term PPR showed a decreasing trend since implementing the national health insurance post-acute care (PAC) program in 2014 and a dramatic drop in 2018 after the government expanded the long-term care plan-LTC 2.0 in 2017. The results showed that better discharge planning, implementing post-acute care programs and long-term care plan-LTC 2.0 may benefit the care of stroke patients and help reduce long-term readmission in Taiwan.
Rotational symmetry engineered, polarization and incident angle-insensitive, perfect metamaterial absorber for X and Ku band wireless applications
Authors: Hannan Saif , Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Almalki Sami H. A. , Faruque Mohammad Rashed Iqbal , M M. Salaheldeen , Islam Md. Shabiul
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a square enclosed split-maze shaped metamaterial absorber is proposed for X and Ku band wireless applications. Two square metal enclosures were introduced around the split-maze structure to make it rotational symmetric and thus insensitive to cross-polarization. The proposed absorber has shown maximum absorptions at 9.33 GHz, 12.83 GHz, 13.86 GHz, and 15.61 GHz with single negative value of permittivity. The absorber is insensitive to the incident angle of applied EM waves for normal and oblique incidence up to 180 degrees. In addition, it was proved co- & cross-polarization insensitive due to the symmetric structure of the patch. A comprehensive equivalent circuit analysis was done to explain the fundamental EM behaviour of the metamaterial structure, and the circuit outputs coincided with the simulation results. Finally, the metamaterial was measured for both unit cell, and the array after fabrication and simulation results were validated. The proposed MMA is suitable for wireless applications in devices, especially for sensing, EM energy harvesting, EM coupling reduction, and antenna gain enhancement purposes.
Immunity elicitors for induced resistance against the downy mildew pathogen in pearl millet
Authors: Lavanya Senapathyhally Nagaraju , Niranjan-Raj Sathyanarayana , Jadimurthy Ragi , Sudarsan Sujesh , Srivastava Rakesh , Tarasatyavati C. , Rajashekara H. , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Nayaka Siddaiah Chandra
Published: March 2022

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a globally important cereal whose production is severely constrained by downy mildew caused by Sclerospora graminicola (Sacc.). In this study, immunity eliciting properties of 3,5-dichloroanthranilic acid (DCA), Cell Wall Glucan (CWG), Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and Glycinebetaine (GB) was deciphered through enzymatic and protein studies based on elicitor treatment activated defense mechanisms. Glycinebetaine, LPS, CWS and DCA elicited enzyme activities and gene expression of the defense enzymes, such as β-1,3-glucanase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), lipoxygenase (LOX) and defense protein hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs). However, the speed and the extent of elicitation differed. High levels of enzyme activities and gene expression in elicitor-treated P. glaucum positively correlated with the increased downy mildew resistance. A very rapid and large changes in elicitor-treated seedlings, in contrast to the delayed, smaller changes in the untreated susceptible control seedlings suggests that the rate and magnitude of defense gene expression are important for effective manifestation of defense against pathogen. As compared to other elicitors and control, GB promoted increase in enzyme activities and gene expression, implicating that GB is a promising elicitor of downy mildew resistance in P. glaucum.
Transmissibility of hand, foot, and mouth disease in 97 counties of China
Authors: Zhang Wei , Rui Jia , Cheng Xiaoqing , Deng Bin , Zhang Hesong , Huang Lijing , Zhang Lexin , Zuo Simiao , Li Junru , Huang XingCheng , Su Yanhua , Zhao Benhua , Niu Yan , Li Hongwei , Hu Jian-li , Chen Tianmu
Published: March 2022

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a serious disease burden in the Asia–Pacific region, including China. This study calculated the transmissibility of HFMD at county levels in Jiangsu Province, China, analyzed the differences of transmissibility and explored the possible influencing factors of its transmissibility. We built a mathematical model for seasonal characteristics of HFMD, estimated the effective reproduction number (Reff), and compared the incidence rate and transmissibility in different counties using non-parametric tests, rapid cluster analysis and rank-sum ratio in 97 counties in Jiangsu Province from 2015 to 2020. The average daily incidence rate was between 0 and 4 per 100,000 people in Jiangsu Province from 2015–2020. The Quartile of Reff in Jiangsu Province from 2015 to 2020 was 1.54 (0.49, 2.50). Rugao District and Jianhu District had the highest transmissibility according to the rank-sum ratio. Reff generally decreased in 2017 and increased in 2018 in most counties, and the median level of Reff was the lowest in 2017 (P < 0.05). The transmissibility was different in 97 counties in Jiangsu Province. The reasons for the differences may be related to the climate, demographic characteristics, virus subtypes, vaccination, hygiene and other infectious diseases.
Unusual clinical manifestations and predominant stopgain ATM gene variants in a single centre cohort of ataxia telangiectasia from North India
Authors: Rawat Amit , Tyagi Rahul , Chaudhary Himanshi , Pandiarajan Vignesh , Jindal Ankur Kumar , Suri Deepti , Gupta Anju , Sharma Madhubala , Arora Kanika , Bal Amanjit , Madaan Priyanka , Saini Lokesh , Sahu Jitendra Kumar , Ogura Yumi , Kato Tamaki , Imai Kohsuke , Nonoyama Shigeaki , Singh Surjit
Published: March 2022

Germline ATM gene variations result in phenotypic heterogeneity characterized by a variable degree of disease severity. We retrospectively collected clinical, genetic, and immunological data of 26 cases with A-T. Clinical manifestations included oculocutaneous telangiectasia (100%), ataxia (100%), fever, loose stools or infection (67%), cerebellar atrophy (50%), nystagmus (8%), dysarthria (15.38%), and visual impairment (8%). Genetic analysis confirmed ATM gene variations in 16 unrelated cases. The most common type of variation was stopgain variants (56%). Immunoglobulin profile indicated reduced IgA, IgG, and IgM in 94%, 50%, and 20% cases, respectively. T cell lymphopenia was observed in 80% of cases among those investigated. Unusual presentations included an EBV-associated smooth muscle tumour located in the liver in one case and Hyper IgM syndrome-like presentation in two cases. Increased immunosenescence was observed in T-cell subsets (CD4+CD57+ and CD8+CD57+). T-cell receptor excision circles (TRECs) were reduced in 3/8 (37.50%) cases.
Mass COVID-19 patient screening using UvsX and UvsY mediated DNA recombination and high throughput parallel sequencing
Authors: Palmieri Dario , Javorina Amanda , Siddiqui Jalal , Gardner Anne , Fries Anthony , Chapleau Richard R. , Starr Clarise , Fishel Richard , Miles Wayne O.
Published: March 2022

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), is a highly infectious RNA virus. A percentage of patients develop coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after infection, whose symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and fatigue. Acute and life-threatening respiratory symptoms are experienced by 10–20% of symptomatic patients, particularly those with underlying medical conditions. One of the main challenges in the containment of COVID-19 is the identification and isolation of asymptomatic/pre-symptomatic individuals. A number of molecular assays are currently used to detect SARS-CoV-2. Many of them can accurately test hundreds or even thousands of patients every day. However, there are presently no testing platforms that enable more than 10,000 tests per day. Here, we describe the foundation for the REcombinase Mediated BaRcoding and AmplificatioN Diagnostic Tool (REMBRANDT), a high-throughput Next Generation Sequencing-based approach for the simultaneous screening of over 100,000 samples per day. The REMBRANDT protocol includes direct two-barcoded amplification of SARS-CoV-2 and control amplicons using an isothermal reaction, and the downstream library preparation for Illumina sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. This protocol represents a potentially powerful approach for community screening of COVID-19 that may be modified for application to any infectious or non-infectious genome.
Mass production-enabled computational spectrometers based on multilayer thin films
Authors: Kim Cheolsun , Ni Pavel , Lee Kang Ryeol , Lee Heung-No
Published: March 2022

Multilayer thin film (MTF) filter arrays for computational spectroscopy are fabricated using stencil lithography. The MTF filter array is a 6 × 6 square grid, and 169 identical arrays are fabricated on a single wafer. A computational spectrometer is formed by attaching the MTF filter array on a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. With a single exposure, 36 unique intensities of incident light are collected. The spectrum of the incident light is recovered using collected intensities and numerical optimization techniques. Varied light sources in the wavelength range of 500 to 849 nm are recovered with a spacing of 1 nm. The reconstructed spectra are a good match with the reference spectra, measured by a grating-based spectrometer. We also demonstrate computational pinhole spectral imaging using the MTF filter array. Adapting a spectral scanning method, we collect 36 monochromatic filtered images and reconstructed 350 monochromatic images in the wavelength range of 500 to 849 nm, with a spacing of 1 nm. These computational spectrometers could be useful for various applications that require compact size, high resolution, and wide working range.
Temporospatial characterization of ventricular wall motion with real-time cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in health and disease
Authors: Li Yu Y. , Rashid Shams , Craft Jason , Cheng Yang J. , Schapiro William , Gliganic Kathleen , Yamashita Ann-Marie , Grgas Marie , Haag Elizabeth , Cao J. Jane
Published: March 2022

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been largely dependent on retrospective cine for data acquisition. Real-time imaging, although inferior in image quality to retrospective cine, is more informative about motion dynamics. We herein developed a real-time cardiac MRI approach to temporospatial characterization of left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) wall motion. This approach provided two temporospatial indices, temporal periodicity and spatial coherence, for quantitative assessment of ventricular function. In a cardiac MRI study, we prospectively investigated temporospatial characterization in reference to standard volumetric measurements with retrospective cine. The temporospatial indices were found to be effective for evaluating the difference of ventricular performance between the healthy volunteers and the heart failure (HF) patients (LV temporal periodicity 0.24 ± 0.037 vs. 0.14 ± 0.021; RV temporal periodicity 0.18 ± 0.030 vs. 0.10 ± 0.014; LV spatial coherence 0.52 ± 0.039 vs. 0.38 ± 0.040; RV spatial coherence 0.50 ± 0.036 vs. 0.35 ± 0.035; all in arbitrary unit). The HF patients and healthy volunteers were well differentiated in the scatter plots of spatial coherence and temporal periodicity while they were mixed in those of end-systolic volume (ESV) and ejection fraction (EF) from volumetric measurements. This study demonstrated the potential of real-time cardiac MRI for intricate analysis of ventricular function beyond retrospective cine.
PET/MRI-evaluated brown adipose tissue activity may be related to dietary MUFA and omega-6 fatty acids intake
Authors: Maliszewska Katarzyna , Adamska-Patruno Edyta , Miniewska K. , Bauer W. , Mojsak M. , Kretowski A.
Published: March 2022

An investigation of new ways to activate brown adipose tissue (BAT) is highly valuable, as it is a possible tool for obesity prevention and treatment. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationships between dietary intake and BAT activity. The study group comprised 28 healthy non-smoking males aged 21–42 years. All volunteers underwent a physical examination and 75-g OGTT and completed 3-day food intake diaries to evaluate macronutrients and fatty acid intake. Body composition measurements were assessed using DXA scanning. An FDG-18 PET/MR was performed to visualize BAT activity. Brown adipose tissue was detected in 18 subjects (67% normal-weight individuals and 33% overweight/obese). The presence of BAT corresponded with a lower visceral adipose tissue (VAT) content (p = 0.04, after adjustment for age, daily kcal intake, and DXA Lean mass). We noted significantly lower omega-6 fatty acids (p = 0.03) and MUFA (p = 0.02) intake in subjects with detected BAT activity after adjustment for age, daily average kcal intake, and DXA Lean mass, whereas omega-3 fatty acids intake was comparable between the two groups. BAT presence was positively associated with the concentration of serum IL-6 (p = 0.01) during cold exposure. Our results show that BAT activity may be related to daily omega-6 fatty acids intake.
Effect of severity and cause of preoperative anemia on the transfusion rate after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Tae Woo , Park Hyung Jun , Chang Moon Jong , Kang Sang Yoon , Kang Kee Soo , Chang Chong Bum , Kang Seung-Baik
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to (1) evaluate the preoperative Hb cut-off value for transfusion after unilateral and bilateral staged (1 week apart) TKAs, respectively, and (2) determine whether cause of preoperative anemia can affect transfusion rate after TKA. A total of 951 patients who underwent TKA (unilateral: 605, bilateral staged: 346) from 2016 to 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographics, comorbidities, preoperative Hb level, surgery types, and cause of anemia were evaluated as possible risk factors. The cut-off values for preoperative Hb level to reduce transfusion after TKA were evaluated in each surgery type. Preoperative Hb level, surgery type, and cardiac disease were identified as the risk factors for transfusion after TKA, and preoperative Hb levels of 11.8 (AUC 0.88) and 12.8 (AUC 0.76) were the cut-off values for transfusion after unilateral and staged bilateral TKAs, respectively. Although transfusion rate was higher in anemia with iron deficiency (ID) group than anemia without ID group, preoperative Hb level was also lower in anemia with ID group than anemia without ID group. Single use of preoperative Hb level with different cut-offs depending on the surgery types can be useful indicator for preoperative optimization regardless of cause of anemia.
Refractive errors in a large dataset of French children: the ANJO study
Authors: Guillon-Rolf Rébecca , Grammatico-Guillon Leslie , Leveziel Nicolas , Pelen Francois , Durbant Eve , Chammas Jimmy , Khanna Raoul K.
Published: March 2022

Undetected refractive errors (REs) in children can lead to irreversible vision loss. This study aimed to show the proportions of REs in French children using cycloplegic refraction. Multicentre cross-sectional retrospective study including children with cycloplegic refraction and without associated ocular conditions from 2015 to 2018 in French eye clinics. The following data were collected: age, symptoms of eye strain, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), cycloplegic refraction. The analysis included 48,163 children (mean age: 7.75 years, range: 2 to 12 years). The proportion of each RE was as follows: emmetropia (− 0.50 < Spherical Equivalent (SE) ≤  + 2.0; 58.3%), hyperopia (+ 2.0 $$<$$
<
SE $$\le$$
≤
+5; 17.2%), myopia (− 6 $$\le$$
≤
SE $$\le$$
≤
− 0.50; 15.5%), high myopia (SE < − 6; 0.5%), high hyperopia (SE >  + 5; 3.6%), mixed astigmatism (4.9%). Anisometropia (SE difference ≥ 1.5) was found in 5.0%. Functional amblyopia in children attending primary school (aged over 6 years) was encountered in 2.7%. Symptoms of eye strain were frequent (70%) but not specific to any RE. REs are frequently found in French children and may remain undetected in the absence of symptoms of eye strain. Few studies have investigated REs in children using cycloplegic refraction, which has been shown to be the gold standard for RE assessment.
Bitumen and asphaltene derived nanoporous carbon and nickel oxide/carbon composites for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Mishra Dinesh , Zhou Rufan , Hassan Md. Mehadi , Hu Jinguang , Gates Ian , Mahinpey Nader , Lu Qingye
Published: March 2022

Asphaltenes from bitumen are abundant resource to be transformed into carbon as promising supercapacitor electrodes, while there is a lack of understanding the impact from different fractions of bitumen and asphaltenes, as well as the presence of transition metals. Here, nanoporous carbon was synthesized from bitumen, hexane-insoluble asphaltenes and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF)-fractionated asphaltenes by using Mg(OH)2 nanoplates as the template with in-situ KOH activation, and used as an supercapacitor electrode material. All of the carbon exhibited large surface area (1500–2200 m2 g−1) with a distribution of micro and mesopores except for that derived from the DMF-soluble asphaltenes. The pyrolysis of asphaltenes resulted in the formation of nickel oxide/carbon composite (NiO/C), which demonstrated high capacitance of 380 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 discharge current resulting from the pseudocapacitance of NiO and the electrochemical double layer capacitance of the carbon. The NiO/C composite obtained from the DMF-insoluble portion had low NiO content which led to lower capacitance. Meanwhile, the specific capacitance of NiO/C composite from the DMF-soluble part was lower than the unfractionated asphaltene due to the higher NiO content resulting in lower conductivity. Therefore asphaltenes derived from nickel-rich crude bitumen is suitable for the synthesis of nanoporous NiO/C composite material with high capacitance.
Expression of whole blood miR-126-3p, -30a-5p, -1299, -182-5p and -30e-3p in chronic kidney disease in a South African community-based sample
Authors: Motshwari Dipuo D. , George Cindy , Matshazi Don M. , Weale Cecil J. , Davids Saarah F. G. , Zemlin Annalise E. , Erasmus Rajiv T. , Kengne Andre P. , Matsha Tandi E.
Published: March 2022

The burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Africa remains poorly characterized, due partly to the lack of appropriate diagnostic strategies. Although in recent years the diagnostic and prognostic utility of microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained prominence in the context of CKD, its value has not been evaluated in African populations. We investigated the expression of whole blood miRNAs (miR-126-3p, -30a-5p, -1299, -182-5p and -30e-3p) in a total sample of 1449 comprising of 13.3% individuals with CKD (stage 1–5) and 26.4% male participants, as well as the association of these miRNAs with prevalent CKD, in a community-based sample of South African adults. We used Reverse Transcription Quantitative Real-Time PCR (RT-qPCR) to analyze miRNA expression. There was an increased expression in whole blood miR-126-3p, -30a-5p, -1299 and -182-5p in individuals with CKD, compared to those without (all p ≤ 0.036), whereas miR-30e-3p showed no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.482). Only miR-126-3p, -182-5p and -30e-3p were independently associated with increased risk of CKD (all p ≤ 0.022). This study showed for the first time that there is a dysregulation of whole blood miR-126-3p, -30a-5p, -1299 and -182-5p in South Africans of mixed-ancestry with CKD. More research is needed to ascertain their role in CKD risk screening in African populations.
Application of choosing by advantages to determine the optimal site for solar power plants
Authors: Goh Hui Hwang , Li Chunyu , Zhang Dongdong , Dai Wei , Lim Chee Shen , Kurniawan Tonni Agustiono , Goh Kai Chen
Published: March 2022

Solar energy is a critical component of the energy development strategy. The site selection for solar power plants has a significant impact on the cost of energy production. A favorable situation would result in significant cost savings and increased electricity generation efficiency. California is located in the southwest region of the United States of America and is blessed with an abundance of sunlight. In recent years, the state's economy and population have expanded quickly, resulting in an increased need for power. This study examines the south of California as a possibly well-suited site for the constructing large solar power plants to meet the local electricity needs. To begin, this article imposed some limits on the selection of three potential sites for constructing solar power plants (S1, S2, and S3). Then, a systematic approach for solar power plant site selection was presented, focusing on five major factors (economic, technological, social, geographical, and environmental). This is the first time that the choosing by advantages (CBA) method has been used to determine the optimal sites for solar power plant construction, with the possible sites ranked as S2 > S1 > S3. The results were then compared with traditional methods such as the multi-criteria decision-making method. The findings of this study suggest that the CBA method not only streamlines the solar power plant site selection process but also closely aligns with the objectives and desires of the investors.
Targeted metabolomics analysis of serum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen-stimulated blood cultures of pediatric patients with active and latent tuberculosis
Authors: Magdalena Druszczynska , Michal Seweryn , Marta Sieczkowska , Magdalena Kowalewska-Pietrzak , Anna Pankowska , Magdalena Godkowicz , Rafał Szewczyk
Published: March 2022

Profound tuberculosis (TB)-induced metabolic changes reflected in the blood metabolomic profile may provide an opportunity to identify specific markers of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Using targeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, we compared the levels of 30 small metabolites, including amino acids and derivatives, and small organic compounds in serum and M.tb antigen-stimulated whole blood cultures of active TB children, latent TB (LTBI) children, nonmycobacterial pneumonia (NMP) children, and healthy controls (HCs) to assess their potential as biomarkers of childhood TB. We found elevated levels of leucine and kynurenine combined with reduced concentrations of citrulline and glutamine in serum and blood cultures of TB and LTBI groups. LTBI status was additionally associated with a decrease in valine levels in blood cultures. The NMP metabolite profile was characterized by an increase in citrulline and glutamine and a decrease in leucine, kynurenine and valine concentrations. The highest discriminatory potential for identifying M.tb infection was observed for leucine detected in serum and kynurenine in stimulated blood cultures. The use of targeted metabolomics may reveal metabolic changes in M.tb-infected children, and the obtained results are a proof of principle of the usefulness of metabolites in the auxiliary diagnosis of TB in children.
Isotopic variability in tropical cyclone precipitation is controlled by Rayleigh distillation and cloud microphysics
Authors: Sun Chijun , Tian Lijun , Shanahan Timothy M. , Partin Judson W. , Gao Yongli , Piatrunia Natasha , Banner Jay
Published: March 2022

Tropical cyclones produce rainfall with extremely negative isotope values (δ18O and δ2H), but the controls on isotopic fractionation during tropical cyclones are poorly understood. Here we studied the isotopic composition of rainfall at sites across central Texas during Hurricane Harvey (2017) to better understand these processes. Rainfall δ18O trend towards more negative values as a result of Rayleigh distillation of precipitation-generating airmasses as they travel towards the center of the storm. Superimposed on these gradual changes are abrupt isotopic shifts with exceptionally low deuterium excess values. These appear to be controlled by microphysical processes associated with the passage of spiral rainbands over the sampling locations. Isotope-enabled climate modeling suggests that it may be possible to identify the signature of tropical cyclones from annually resolved isotopic proxy records, but will depend on the size of the storm and the proximity of the site to the core of the storm system.
Pentazolate coordination polymers self-assembled by in situ generated [Pb4(OH)4]4+ cubic cations trapping cyclo-N5−
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Xu Yuangang , Xie Qiang , Li Dongxue , Lin Qiuhan , Wang Pengcheng , Lu Ming
Published: March 2022

A series of cyclo-N5−-based energetic coordination polymers [Pb(OH)]4(N5)4, [Pb(OH)]4(N5)3(NO3)(H2O)3, and [Pb(OH)]4(N5)3(ClO4)(H2O) were self-assembled by in situ generated [Pb4(OH)4]4+ cubic cations trapping cyclo-N5−.
Preparation and related properties of melanin iron supplement
Authors: Gao Li , Liu Linlin , Liu Panpan , Zhao Yinghu , Zhang Shuli , Xu Hongyu
Published: March 2022

The black sesame melanin iron complex (BM-Fe) was prepared. The relative properties of BM-Fe and FST were compared. The BM-Feretained the excellent characteristics of BSM. BM-Fe is expected to become a multi-functional iron supplement.
4,4′-Dimethoxychalcone protects the skin from AAPH-induced senescence and UVB-induced photoaging by activating autophagy
Authors: Gu Yanpei , Han Jianxin , Xue Fan , Xiao Hongrui , Chen Lihuan , Zhao Zhenlei , Zhang Ying
Published: March 2022

Treatment with 1 mM AAPH for 48 h can successfully induce senescence of HaCaT cells, and 4,4′-dimethoxychalcone can inhibit cellular senescence by modulating the p38 MAPK and JNK signaling to activate autophagy.
Facile synthesis of food-grade and size-controlled nanocarriers based on self-assembly of procyanidins and phycocyanin
Authors: Tie Shanshan , Xiang Siyuan , Chen Yannan , Qiao Fengzhi , Cui Weina , Su Wentao , Tan Mingqian
Published: March 2022

The designed food-grade nanocarriers are size-controllable, strong antioxidative and biocompatible, and have an inhibitory effect on cell damage induced by acrylamide and H2O2.
Investigation of interactions between organophosphorus compounds and TiO2 modified microcantilevers for molecule detection in air
Authors: Biapo Urelle , Keller Valérie , Bazin Philippe , Cottineau Thomas
Published: March 2022

In order to develop a detector working in the gas phase for organophosphorus molecules, resonant microcantilever surfaces were nanostructurated with TiO2 nanorods and chemically modified with functional molecules.
A review of 3D printing technology for rapid medical diagnostic tools
Authors: Shakibania Sara , Khakbiz Mehrdad , Bektas Cemile Kilic , Ghazanfari Lida , Banizi Milad Tavakoli , Lee Ki-Bum
Published: March 2022

Additive manufacturing has been identified as a cost-effective method for producing diagnostic equipment that is easily available, inexpensive, sensitive, versatile, and small.
Directional effects in plasmon excitation and transition radiation from an anisotropic 2D material induced by a fast charged particle
Authors: Akbari Kamran , Mišković Zoran L.
Published: March 2022

We present a relativistic formulation of the energy loss of a charged particle traversing an anisotropic layer under arbitrary angle of incidence.
Molecular insights into the resistance of phospholipid heads to the membrane penetration of graphene nanosheets
Authors: Li Zhen , Zhu Xiaohong , Li Jiawei , Zhong Jie , Zhang Jun , Fan Jun
Published: March 2022

Physical insights into the resistance of phospholipid heads to the penetration of hydrophobic nanosheets are obtained using molecular dynamics simulations.
Quantum emitters and detectors based on 2D van der Waals materials
Authors: Ghosh Dastidar Madhura , Thekkooden Immanuel , Nayak Pramoda K. , Praveen Bhallamudi Vidya
Published: March 2022

Single-photon sources and detectors are crucial for the development of quantum technologies. Solid-state emitters and detection schemes based on 2D van der Waals materials are emerging platforms for realizing these sources and detectors.
In vivo MRI tracking and therapeutic efficacy of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells labeled with ferrimagnetic vortex iron oxide nanorings for liver fibrosis repair
Authors: Wang Yujie , Yu Chenggong , Li Yuxuan , Bao Hongying , Li Xiaodi , Fan Haiming , Huang Jie , Zhang Zhijun
Published: March 2022

The development and application of PEGylated ferrimagnetic vortex iron oxide nanoring (FVIO@PEG) nanotracers for long-term MRI tracking of transplanted hMSCs in the treatment of liver fibrosis are reported.
Electrochemical synthesis for α-arylation of ketones using enol acetates and aryl diazonium salts
Authors: Zhou Pengcheng , Liu Yunlong , Xu Yingli , Wang Dong
Published: March 2022

A new electrochemical method has been developed to achieve the α-arylation of ketones by reacting aryl diazonium salts with enol acetates.
Comments on “Size dependence of the lattice parameters of carbon supported platinum nanoparticles: X-ray diffraction analysis and theoretical considerations,” RSC Adv., 2014, 4, 35959–35965
Authors: Rothe Erhard W.
Published: March 2022

Leontyev and colleagues presented the results of an experiment and of its theoretical consequences.
Interactions between pH, reactive species, and cells in plasma-activated water can remove algae
Authors: Mizoi Ken , Rodríguez-González Vicente , Sasaki Mao , Suzuki Shoki , Honda Kaede , Ishida Naoya , Suzuki Norihiro , Kuchitsu Kazuyuki , Kondo Takeshi , Yuasa Makoto , Fujishima Akira , Teshima Katsuya , Terashima Chiaki
Published: March 2022

PAW is effective in inactivating microorganisms. We have measured a local pH to reveal the mechanism of algicidal effect in PAW. This is because protons pumped from the cell generate peroxynitrite around the cell to generate an acidic region.
Controllable fabrication of a hybrid containing dodecyl dihydrogen phosphate modified magnesium borate whisker/hydrated alumina for enhancing the fire safety and mechanical properties of epoxy resin
Authors: Zou Sai , Lan Shengjie , Dang Li , Li Ping , Zhu Donghai , Li Le
Published: March 2022

A novel hybrid containing dodecyl dihydrogen phosphate modified magnesium borate whisker/hydrated alumina (MBW@HA–DDP) was fabricated with good flame retardant and reinforcing properties for epoxy resin (EP).
Oriented exchange-coupled L10-FePt/Co core-shell nanoparticles with variable Co thickness
Authors: Liu Xin , Zuo Shulan , Wang Hui , Zhang Tianli , Dong Ying , Jiang Chengbao
Published: March 2022

With the increase of Co layer thickness, the outer layer Co and the core gradually decoupled.
Microwave-induced combustion for petroleum coke digestion: a promising sample preparation strategy for subsequent elemental determination
Authors: Souza J. P. , Boff J. L. , Rodrigues L. F. , Moraes D. P. , Pereira J. S. F.
Published: March 2022

The increasing demand for the elemental determination of petrochemical samples by inductively coupled plasma techniques requires the development of suitable sample preparation methods that are in accordance with green chemistry recommendations.
Divergent oxidative dearomatization coupling reactions to construct polycyclic cyclohexadienones
Authors: Pu Qian , Huo Mingming , Liang Guojuan , Bai Lijuan , Chen Genhui , Li Hongjiao , Xiang Peng , Zhou Hui , Zhou Jing
Published: March 2022

Divergent oxidative dearomatization coupling reactions, in which the chemoselectivity is controlled by catalysts and bases, are reported. Our method marks a novel copper- and palladium-catalyzed C–H oxidative dearomatization of phenolic derivatives.
Introduction to flexible nanomaterials: microscopic mechanisms and macroscopic applications
Authors: Cheng Yuan , Li Zibiao , Gao Junfeng , Yu Hai-Dong , Zhang Gang
Published: March 2022

Yuan Cheng, Zibiao Li, Junfeng Gao, Hai-Dong Yu and Gang Zhang introduce this themed collection on flexible nanomaterials.
An effect of scandium substitution on the phase purity and structural, magnetic, and electrochemical features of ε-Fe2O3 nanoparticle systems
Authors: Polášková Michaela , Malina Ondřej , Tuček Jiří , Jakubec Petr
Published: March 2022

A series of Sc-substituted ε-Fe2O3 nanoparticles embedded in a silica matrix were synthesized by a sol–gel process.
Atropselective synthesis of N-aryl pyridones via dynamic kinetic resolution enabled by non-covalent interactions
Authors: Sweet Jamie S. , Wang Ruichen , Manesiotis Panagiotis , Dingwall Paul , Knipe Peter C.
Published: March 2022

Hydrogen bonding in ortho-phenols enables enantioselective synthesis of axially chiral 2-pyridones via dynamic kinetic resolution.
Nickel phosphonate-derived Ni2P@N-doped carbon co-catalyst with built-in electron-bridge for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Gao Li-Jiao , Song Xin-Lian , Ren Jin-Tao , Yuan Zhong-Yong
Published: March 2022

Ni2P@CN is employed to construct a novel Cd0.5Zn0.5S/Ni2P@CN composite photocatalyst which guarantees highly efficient interfacial charge separation and transfer between Ni2P@CN and Cd0.5Zn0.5S, resulting in enhanced photocatalytic activity.
Tunable third-order nonlinear optical effect via modifying Ti4(embonate)6 cage-based ionic pairs
Authors: Chen Guang-Hui , He Yan-Ping , Wang Zi-Rui , Li Qiao-Hong , Ma Zhi-Zhou , Zhang Jian
Published: March 2022

The integration of Ti4L6 (L = embonate) cages and various N,N-chelated transition-metal cations into tightly packed structures accurately leads to high-performance materials with adjustable nonlinear optical (NLO) effects.
Synthesis of tetrasubstituted alkenyl nitriles via cyanocarbene addition of [1.1.1]propellane
Authors: Jiang Xinpeng , Zheng Zicong , Gao Yan , Lan Deyou , Xu Wenhao , Zhang Wang , Chen Guofei
Published: March 2022

Methylenecyclobutane containing tetrasubstituted alkenyl nitriles were synthesized via strain-release driven cyanocarbene addition reaction of [1.1.1]propellane under metal-free and mild conditions.
Transforming waste into value: pomelo-peel-based nitrogen-doped carbon dots for the highly selective detection of tetracycline
Authors: Qi Haiyan , Huang Demin , Jing Jing , Ran Maoxia , Jing Tao , Zhao Ming , Zhang Chenqi , Sun Xiaona , Sami Rokayya , Benajiba Nada
Published: March 2022

We developed an eco-friendly approach utilizing pomelo peel as a carbon source to synthesize P-NCDs, obtaining a high quantum yield of up to 76.47%. Our prepared P-NCDs can recognize tetracycline, and their fluorescence was quenched based on an IFE.
Recent progress in the applications of gold-based nanoparticles towards tumor-targeted imaging and therapy
Authors: Li Xinxin , Zhang Yiwei , Liu GuangKuo , luo Ziyi , Zhou Lu , Xue Yanan , Liu Min
Published: March 2022

We summarize the latest developments of gold nanomaterials in imaging and combined therapy as well as prospects for the future application of gold-based theranostic nanoplatforms.
Correction: Effect of heterocycle content on metal binding isostere coordination
Authors: Dick Benjamin L. , Patel Ashay , Cohen Seth M.
Published: March 2022

Correction for ‘Effect of heterocycle content on metal binding isostere coordination’ by Benjamin L. Dick et al., Chem. Sci., 2020, 11, 6907–6914, DOI: 10.1039/D0SC02717K.
Fabrication of p-type silicon nanowire array based photoelectrodes for the efficient photoelectrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to fuels and chemicals
Authors: Wei Longfu , Li Rongxing , Fan Qizhe , Yu Changlin , Tan Peng
Published: March 2022

This review highlights recent advances in the photoelectrocatalytic reduction of CO2 into fuels and chemicals over p-type silicon nanowire array based photoelectrodes.
A synergistic electrochemical approach of boron-doped carbon/cobalt pyrophosphate//MXene for high-performance all solid-state asymmetric devices
Authors: Padhy Abhisek , Samal Rutuparna , Rout Chandra Sekhar , Behera J. N.
Published: March 2022

An asymmetric device was fabricated by taking boron doped carbon/cobalt pyrophosphate hybrid (B-GC@CPP) as positive and MXene as negative active material.
Optimal dispatch of integrated energy system considering integrated demand response resource trading
Authors: Wang Lei , Tao Zhengxuan , Zhu Liuzhu , Wang Xuli , Yin Chenxu , Cong Hao , Bi Rui , Qi Xianjun
Published: March 2022

In order to reduce the impact of renewable energy output and load fluctuations and improve the flexibility of the integrated energy system (IES), it is necessary to further promote user participation in integrated demand response (IDR). Therefore, this paper constructs a hierarchical framework that enables the transaction of IDR resources among users by combining the information interaction network established by blockchain and the energy management network established by energy management system. This paper also analyses the comfort of users, the cost of energy purchase by users and the cost of energy use by load aggregators, and then develops a two‐layer optimization model. The results of the simulation show that the model and trading framework constructed in this paper can realize the trading of IDR resources among users, which effectively promotes the participation of users in IDR, reduces the cost of users and load aggregators, reduces the loss of IDR resources, enables more effective integration of dispersed IDR resources and improves the flexibility of IES.