bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MGMT is frequently inactivated in pancreatic NET-G2 and is associated with the therapeutic activity of STZ-based regimens
Authors: Yagi Kohei , Ono Hiroaki , Kudo Atsushi , Kinowaki Yuko , Asano Daisuke , Watanabe Shuichi , Ishikawa Yoshiya , Ueda Hiroki , Akahoshi Keiichi , Tanaka Shinji , Tanabe Minoru
Published: May 2023

O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) has been linked with alkylating agent resistance and tumor growth suppression. However, its role remains undetermined in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (Pan-NET). The MGMT expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in 142 patients to evaluate MGMT immunoreactivity and clinicopathological factors. We analyzed the relationship between MGMT expression and treatment efficacy in 19 patients who received STZ-based regimens. In 142 Pan-NET, 97 cases (68.3%) were judged as MGMT-positive and 45 cases (31.6%) as negative. MGMT negativity was significantly more common in NET-G2 (62.5%) than in NET-G1 (11.2%, p < 0.001). MGMT-negative cases were associated significantly with larger tumor size (p < 0.01), higher Ki-67 index (p < 0.01), higher mitotic index (p < 0.05), and more frequent liver metastasis (p < 0.05). Of the 19 cases treated with STZ, 6 cases were determined as SD and 4 cases as PD in MGMT-positive patients (N = 10), while 5 cases were determined as PR and 4 cases as SD in MGMT-negative patients (N = 9). Progression-free survival in MGMT-negative cases was significantly better than in MGMT-positive cases (p < 0.05). MGMT expression was lower in NET-G2 than in NET-G1, and STZ-based regimens improved the therapeutic outcomes of MGMT-negative Pan-NET. These findings indicate that NET-G2 may represent a better therapeutic target for STZ treatment.
Assessments of sarcopenia and its associated factors in community-dwelling middle-aged and older Chinese adults in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Foo Leng Huat , Wen Yin Siew , Kadir Azidah Abdul
Published: May 2023

Sarcopenia is an emerging public health problem worldwide, but very limited information exits concerning the influence of lifestyle factors and inflammation on sarcopenia among community-dwelling older populations in Asia, including Malaysia. A total of 230 apparently healthy community-dwelling middle-aged and older Chinese adults were included in the study. Validated questionnaires were used to assess dietary and lifestyle practices, while pro-inflammatory cytokine status was assessed by blood interleukin-6 concentrations (IL-6). Sarcopenia risk was assessed by the newly revised diagnostic criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The prevalence of sarcopenia was 12.5% with similar proportions of males and females. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older age and higher concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels of IL-6 were significantly associated with a greater risk of sarcopenia, after adjustments for potential known biological and body composition factors. The present findings indicate that older adults aged 70 years and above with higher inflammation levels had a significantly increased risk of sarcopenia. Hence, effective dietary and lifestyle intervention strategies should emphasize reducing the inflammation associated with aging to prevent the rapid loss of muscle mass and strength that can lead to sarcopenia.
Fim3-dependent autoagglutination of Bordetella pertussis
Authors: Otsuka Nao , Koide Kentaro , Goto Masataka , Kamachi Kazunari , Kenri Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2023

Autoagglutination (Agg) of Bordetella pertussis is often observed in clinical laboratory. However, its causal factors and frequency in circulating strains are unknown. Repeated single colony isolation enabled us to detect an Agg- mutant in the supernatant of an Agg+ strain of B. pertussis. Whole-genome sequencing and immunoblot analysis disclosed that the Agg- mutant had a single C-deletion in its fim3 promoter region (Pfim3) which abolished Fim3 fimbriae production. A B. pertussis fim3-knock out mutant also lacked the Agg+ phenotype. Agg+ clinical isolates were detected a higher production of Fim3 than Fim3-producing Agg- isolates. B. pertussis is known to harbor multiple Pfim3 poly(C) lengths within a single strain culture and our newly developed PCR/LDR assay revealed that Agg+ isolates harbor the highest Pfim3 poly-14C abundance. We evaluated the frequency of autoagglutination in clinical B. pertussis isolates collected in Japan between 1994 and 2018 (n = 203). Fim3 production was confirmed for 190 isolates and 74.7% of them displayed the Agg+ phenotype. The Agg+ phenotype was strongly associated with Pfim3 poly-14C abundance. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that B. pertussis autoagglutination occurs in response to high Fim3 levels and the Agg+ strain has predominated in Japan over the past two decades.
Prediction of SMEs’ R&D performances by machine learning for project selection
Authors: Yoo Hyoung Sun , Jung Ye Lim , Jun Seung-Pyo
Published: May 2023

To improve the efficiency of government-funded research and development (R&D) programs for small and medium enterprises, it is necessary to make the process of selecting beneficiary firm objective. We aimed to develop machine learning models to predict the performances of individual R&D projects in advance, and to present an objective method that can be utilized in the project selection. We trained our models on data from 1771 R&D projects conducted in South Korea between 2011 and 2015. The models predict the likelihood of R&D success, commercialization, and patent applications within 5 years of project completion. Key factors for predicting the performances include the research period and area, the ratio of subsidy to research budget, the firm’s region and venture certification, and the average debt ratio of the industry. Our models’ precisions were superior to qualitative expert evaluation, and the machine learning rules could be explained theoretically. We presented a methodology for objectively scoring new R&D projects based on their propensity scores of achieving the performances and balancing them with expert evaluation scores. Our methodology is expected to contribute to improving the efficiency of R&D investment by supplementing qualitative expert evaluation and selecting projects with a high probability of success.
Photogrammetry as a promising tool to unveil marine caves’ benthic assemblages
Authors: Pulido Mantas Torcuato , Roveta Camilla , Calcinai Barbara , Coppari Martina , Di Camillo Cristina Gioia , Marchesi Veronica , Marrocco Teo , Puce Stefania , Cerrano Carlo
Published: May 2023

Traditionally, monitoring approaches to survey marine caves have been constrained by equipment limitations and strict safety protocols. Nowadays, the rise of new approaches opens new possibilities to describe these peculiar ecosystems. The current study aimed to explore the potential of Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry to assess the abundance and spatial distribution of the sessile benthic assemblages inside a semi-submerged marine cave. Additionally, since impacts of recent date musselLithophaga lithophagaillegal fishing were recorded, a special emphasis was paid to its distribution and densities. The results of SfM were compared with a more “traditional approach”, by simulating photo-quadrats deployments over the produced orthomosaics. A total of 22 sessile taxa were identified, with Porifera representing the dominant taxa within the cave, andL. lithophagapresenting a density of 88.3 holes/m2. SfM and photo-quadrats obtained comparable results regarding species richness, percentage cover of identified taxa and most of the seascape metrics, while, in terms of taxa density estimations, photo-quadrats highly overestimated their values. SfM resulted in a suitable non-invasive technique to record marine cave assemblages. Seascape indexes proved to be a comprehensive way to describe the spatial pattern of distribution of benthic organisms, establishing a useful baseline to assess future community shifts.
Extracellular vesicles of trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma cruzi induce changes in ubiquitin-related processes, cell-signaling pathways and apoptosis
Authors: Cornet-Gomez Alberto , Retana Moreira Lissette , Kronenberger Thales , Osuna Antonio
Published: May 2023

Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The disease has an acute and a chronic phase in which approximately 30% of the chronic patients suffer from heart disease and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. The pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and involves the virulence of the strains, immunological factors and extracellular vesicles (EV) shed by the parasite which participate in cell–cell communication and evasion of the immune response. In this work, we present a transcriptomic analysis of cells stimulated with EV of the trypomastigote stage of T. cruzi. Results after EV-cell incubation revealed 322 differentially expressed genes (168 were upregulated and 154 were downregulated). In this regard, the overexpression of genes related to ubiquitin-related processes (Ube2C, SUMO1 and SUMO2) is highlighted. Moreover, the expression of Rho-GTPases (RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42) after the interaction was analyzed, revealing a downregulation of the analyzed genes after 4 h of interaction. Finally, a protective role of EV over apoptosis is suggested, as relative values of cells in early and late apoptosis were significantly lower in EV-treated cells, which also showed increased CSNK1G1 expression. These results contribute to a better understanding of the EV-cell interaction and support the role of EV as virulence factors.
Identification of a new gibberellin receptor agonist, diphegaractin, by a cell-free chemical screening system
Authors: Nozawa Akira , Miyazaki Ryoko , Aoki Yoshinao , Hirose Reina , Hori Ryosuke , Muramatsu Chihiro , Shigematsu Yukinori , Nemoto Keiichirou , Hasegawa Yoshinori , Fujita Keiko , Miyakawa Takuya , Tanokura Masaru , Suzuki Shunji , Sawasaki Tatsuya
Published: May 2023

Gibberellin (GA) is a phytohormone that regulates various developmental processes during the plant life cycle. In this study, we identify a new GA agonist, diphegaractin, using a wheat cell-free based drug screening system with grape GA receptor. A GA-dependent interaction assay system using GA receptors and DELLA proteins fromVitis viniferawas constructed using AlphaScreen technology and cell-free produced proteins. From the chemical compound library, diphegaractin was found to enhance the interactions between GA receptors and DELLA proteins from grape in vitro. In grapes, we found that diphegaractin induces elongation of the bunch and increases the sugar concentration of grape berries. Furthermore, diphegaractin shows GA-like activity, including promotion of root elongation in lettuce and Arabidopsis, as well as reducing peel pigmentation and suppressing peel puffing in citrus fruit. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to successfully identify a GA receptor agonist showing GA-like activity in agricultural plants using an in vitro molecular-targeted drug screening system.
Thermal transport in warm dense matter revealed by refraction-enhanced x-ray radiography with a deep-neural-network analysis
Authors: Jiang S. , Landen O. L. , Whitley H. D. , Hamel S. , London R. , Clark D. S. , Sterne P. , Hansen S. B. , Hu S. X. , Collins G. W. , Ping Y.
Published: May 2023

Transport properties of high energy density matter affect the evolution of many systems, ranging from the geodynamo in the Earth’s core, to hydrodynamic instability growth in inertial confinement fusion capsules. Large uncertainties of these properties are present in the warm dense matter regime where both plasma models and condensed matter models become invalid. To overcome this limit, we devise an experimental platform based on x-ray differential heating and time-resolved refraction-enhanced radiography coupled to a deep neural network. We retrieve the first measurement of thermal conductivity of CH and Be in the warm dense matter regime and compare our measurement with the most commonly adopted models. The discrepancies observed are related to the estimation of a correction term from electron-electron collisions. The results necessitate improvement of transport models in the warm dense matter regime and could impact the understanding of the implosion performance for inertial confinement fusion.
Integrated algorithm combining plasma biomarkers and cognitive assessments accurately predicts brain β-amyloid pathology
Authors: Pan Fengfeng , Huang Yanlu , Cai Xiao , Wang Ying , Guan Yihui , Deng Jiale , Yang Dake , Zhu Jinhang , Zhao Yike , Xie Fang , Fang Zhuo , Guo Qihao
Published: May 2023

Background

Accurate prediction of cerebral amyloidosis with easily available indicators is urgently needed for diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods

We examined plasma Aβ42, Aβ40, T-tau, P-tau181, and NfL, with APOE genotypes, cognitive test scores and key demographics in a large Chinese cohort (N = 609, aged 40 to 84 years) covering full AD spectrum. Data-driven integrated computational models were developed to predict brain β-amyloid (Aβ) pathology.

Results

Our computational models accurately predict brain Aβ positivity (area under the ROC curves (AUC) = 0.94). The results are validated in Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. Particularly, the models have the highest prediction power (AUC = 0.97) in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) participants. Three levels of models are designed with different accuracies and complexities. The model which only consists of plasma biomarkers can predict Aβ positivity in amnestic MCI (aMCI) patients with AUC = 0.89. Generally the models perform better in participants without comorbidities or family histories.

Conclusions

The innovative integrated models provide opportunity to assess Aβ pathology in a non-invasive and cost-effective way, which might facilitate AD-drug development, early screening, clinical diagnosis and prognosis evaluation.
Intradiscal pharmacokinetics of oral antibiotics to treat Chronic Lower Back Pain
Authors: Czaplewski Lloyd G. , Zeitlinger Marcus , Standing Joseph F.
Published: May 2023

Oral coamoxiclav and amoxicillin, for extended dose regimens of up to 100 days, have shown benefit in the treatment of Chronic Lower Back Pain (CLBP) associated with vertebral bone oedema, known as Modic type 1 changes, which may be caused by a bacterial infection, but the magnitude of clinical improvement has been variable. The objectives of this review were to use sparse data from the literature to estimate the exposure of amoxicillin in the intervertebral disc, and to determine whether adequate antimicrobial exposure may have been achieved. Exposure to amoxicillin in herniated disc tissue was approximately 6.5% of the serum concentration. Dosing of oral amoxicillin, Q12h, at doses of up to 1,000 mg is unlikely to lead to effective exposure in disc tissue. Mean exposure to 500 mg or 750 mg of oral Q8h amoxicillin may reach the efficacy target for ~50% ofCutibacterium acnesstrains, but not for 90% ofC. acnesstrains. Mean exposure to 1,000 mg of oral amoxicillin Q8h may reach the target exposure for 90% of strains. Oral amoxicillin CLBP studies may all be underdosed. More than 1400 patients with CLBP and Modic type 1 changes have been exposed to oral amoxicillin for up to 100 days, with no apparent evaluation of systemic or intradiscal pharmacokinetics. Additional clinical evaluations of amoxicillin and alternative antibiotics, their dose regimens, and intradiscal pharmacokinetics are warranted to optimize treatment for this indication. Expertise in antibacterial pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics should be included in the design and execution of future studies.
Medical Applications of Activated Carbon
Authors: Joshi Payal B. , Chavali Murthy , Tripati Gagan Kant , Tondwalkar Surabhi
Published: May 2023

Since ancient times, activated carbon (AC) has been known for its medicinal uses. Egyptians and Hippocrates used AC to treat epilepsy, vertigo, wounds, and anthrax. Due to its large surface area in the range of about 950–2000 m2 g−1 and high porosity, AC is an excellent adsorbent, especially for adsorbing toxins of high molecular masses. The medical uses of AC can be external-type or internal-type depending on the course of treatment administered to the patient. It is commonly used as a universal antidote for the poisoned human body, and in wound dressing materials and gas masks. Usually, AC is non-specific in its absorption capacity and thus can be used to remove almost all undesirable, unwanted, and even important metabolites from the body. Various routes for administering ‘medical grade’ AC have been widely studied, especially in the post-Chernobyl nuclear disaster cleanup. However, AC has limitations since it cannot be excreted easily from the human body. Also, AC may reduce the absorption of other oral drugs if administered in a combined dosage form. The present chapter discusses the use of AC in intoxication treatment, wound healing agents, and drug delivery systems with a detailed discussion on its cytotoxicity, limitations, and current scenario in medicine.
Trends and Perspectives Towards Activated Carbon and Activated Carbon-derived Materials in Environmental Catalysis Applications
Authors: Vieira Yasmin , Dotto Guilherme Luiz
Published: May 2023

Activated carbons (ACs) have been used in bygone years in environmental applications because of their high efficiency in many remediation and degradation processes. Due to their many desirable properties, such as chemical stability, inertness, mechanical resistance, high surface area, porosity, low cost, and availability, ACs have been explored as auxiliary materials in many new catalysis applications employing new process intensification technologies, or in the form of composites. In this chapter, AC's state of the art is explored while discussing the main methods for its production from several distinct carbon sources. The effects of AC in environmental remediation catalysis assisted by microwave and ultrasound methods are presented, and the mechanisms behind the synergistic effects occurring in these processes are discussed. In sequence, the synthesis and preparation of novel AC composites and their application in the removal of emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), pesticides, microplastics, and endocrine disruptors are presented in detail, unveiling the ultimate key role and relevance of AC in 21st-century environmental catalysis.
Chiral metal–organic frameworks for photonics
Authors: Hall Lyndon A. , D’Alessandro Deanna M. , Lakhwani Girish
Published: May 2023

This review explores recent progress in the use of chiral metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as platforms for circularly polarised luminescence (CPL), chiroptical switching, and second-order nonlinear optics (NLO).
A modular RNA delivery system comprising spherical nucleic acids built on endosome-escaping polymeric nanoparticles
Authors: Garcia-Guerra Antonio , Ellerington Ruth , Gaitzsch Jens , Bath Jonathan , Kye Mahnseok , Varela Miguel A. , Battaglia Giuseppe , Wood Matthew J. A. , Manzano Raquel , Rinaldi Carlo , Turberfield Andrew J.
Published: May 2023

Polymeric spherical nucleic acids comprise pH-sensitive, polymer-conjugated oligonucleotides that self-assemble into nanoparticles with the ability to escape endosomes, overcoming a major obstacle in nucleic acid delivery.
CuO nanorod-decorated hemin-graphene with enhanced peroxidase-mimicking performance for the colorimetric and electrochemical determination of 4-aminophenol with a smartphone
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Peng Xiuying , Liu Zhiguang , Dai Yan , Han Yujie , Fan Lifang , Guo Yujing
Published: May 2023

A facile dual-mode sensor based on CuO nanorod-decorated hemin-graphene was constructed for the detection of 4-aminophenol (4-AP). In addition, a smartphone-based assay was developed, which opened a new path for the on-site detection of 4-AP.
Rational design of a functionalized metal–organic framework for ratiometric fluorimetric sensing of Hg2+ in environmental water
Authors: Li Yanli , Si Yanmei , Yang Genmei , Yang Lixia , Wang Hua
Published: May 2023

An arylboronic acid with the capability of Hg2+ recognition response was coordinated to Eu-MOF to construct a novel target-responsive dual-emission fluorescence nanoprobe for the ratiometric sensing detection of Hg2+ in environmental water.
Recent progress of oxidative stress associated biomarker detection
Authors: Li Jingjing , Pan Limeng , Pan Wei , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: May 2023

Various oxidative stress associated biomarkers used for analysis and evaluation of the oxidative stress status are summarized in this manuscript.
Designing strong, fast, high-performance hydrogel actuators
Authors: Bin Asghar Abbasi Burhan , Gigliotti Matthew , Aloko Sinmisola , Jolfaei Maryam Adavoudi , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Jiang Zhen
Published: May 2023

This highlight summarizes the strategies to improve mechanical and actuation performance of hydrogel actuators, which could broaden their potential applications.
Iron(iii) ion-assisted transformation of ZIF-67 to a self-supported FexCo-layered double hydroxide for improved water oxidation
Authors: Maurya Priyanka , Vyas Ved , Singh Abhay Narayan , Indra Arindam
Published: May 2023

The incorporation of Fe(iii) into the structure of cobalt-layered hydroxide improved the electrochemical oxygen evolution activity of the catalyst in the alkaline medium.
Integrating resonance energy transfer with enzyme-triggered hydrolysis for ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence detection of exosomes
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Kan Xianwen
Published: May 2023

A facile electrochemiluminescence biosensor was constructed based on resonance energy transfer and enzyme-triggered hydrolysis for the ultrasensitive detection of exosomes.
Correction: Copper coordination-based conjugated polymer nanoparticles for synergistic photodynamic and chemodynamic therapy
Authors: Cheng Qiang , Li Yuyan , Huang Wei , Li Ke , Lan Minhuan , Wang Benhua , Wang Jianxiu , Song Xiangzhi
Published: May 2023

Correction for ‘Copper coordination-based conjugated polymer nanoparticles for synergistic photodynamic and chemodynamic therapy’ by Qiang Cheng et al., Chem. Commun., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3cc01107k.
P-type nitrogen-doped β-Ga2O3: the role of stable shallow acceptor NO–VGa complexes
Authors: Ma Congcong , Wu Zhengyuan , Zhang Hao , Zhu Heyuan , Kang Junyong , Chu Junhao , Fang Zhilai
Published: May 2023

A shallow acceptor level is formed for the thermally stable β-Ga2O3:NO(II)–VGa(I) complexes due to the Coulomb binding between NO(II) and VGa(I).
Dirhodium tetraacetate binding to a B-DNA double helical dodecamer probed by X-ray crystallography and mass spectrometry
Authors: Tito Gabriella , Troisi Romualdo , Ferraro Giarita , Geri Andrea , Massai Lara , Messori Luigi , Sica Filomena , Merlino Antonello
Published: May 2023

The reaction of the cytotoxic compound dirhodium tetraacetate with a B-DNA double helical dodecamer was studied by X-ray crystallography and mass spectrometry.
Preparation and characterization of an iron–β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex: factors influencing the host–guest interaction
Authors: Saffarionpour Shima , Diosady Levente L.
Published: May 2023

Thermal stability of ferrous ammonium phosphate is significantly improved by complexation with β-cyclodextrin. The formed complex can be used for iron delivery in foods processed at elevated temperatures.
PARP-1 inhibitor alleviates liver lipid accumulation of atherosclerosis via modulating bile acid metabolism and gut microbes
Authors: Sheng Yingkun , Meng Guibing , Zhou Zhirong , Du Ruijiao , Wang Yuefei , Jiang Miaomiao
Published: May 2023

Inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1,3-AB, improves liver lipid accumulation in atherosclerosis by increasing liver FXR/BSEP and decreasing ileal FXR/FGF15 levels, modulating bile acid metabolism and bile salt hydrolase-related gut microbes, especially Bifidobacterium.
Nanoarchitectonics on Z-scheme and Mott–Schottky heterostructure for photocatalytic water oxidation via dual-cascade charge-transfer pathways
Authors: Li Yao , Liu Siyuan , Liu Runlu , Pan Jian , Li Xin , Zhang Jianyu , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Zhao Yixin , Wang Dawei , Quan Hengdao , Zhu Shenmin
Published: May 2023

A face-contact C3N4/m-BiVO4/rGO ternary composite was constructed for excessive surface recombination during water oxidation. Spatial separation of electron–hole pairs occurs, and strong redox potentials are maintained by the Z-scheme electron transfer.
Bifunctional ZnMn2O4/reduced graphene oxide microspheres with a needle-like surface architecture as effective electrodes for energy storage
Authors: Pitcheri Rosaiah , Nunna Guru Prakash , Merum Dhananjaya , Al-Asbahi Bandar Ali , Sangaraju Sambasivam , Uppala Chalapathi , Park Si-Hyun
Published: May 2023

The synthesis procedure of the ZNMO/rGO composites.
Construction of spin crossover-fluorescence bifunctional iron(ii) complexes with modified bis(pyrazole)pyridine ligands
Authors: Zhao Guo-Hui , Zhang Shi-Hui , Yi Cheng , Liu Tao , Meng Yin-Shan
Published: May 2023

Two Feii-based spin crossover complexes were synthesized by modifying tridentate bis(pyrazole)pyridine ligand with naphthalene and pyrene groups. The naphthalene-decorated FeII-complex showed the synergistic effect of spin-crossover and fluorescence.
The preparation of difluoromethylated indoles via electrochemical oxidation under catalyst- and oxidant-free conditions
Authors: Zhang Dong , Chang Wenqiao , Li Yun , Zhan Songying , Pan Junjie , Cai Shunhui , Li Na , Yang Xiaoqin , Fang Zheng
Published: May 2023

An efficient electrochemical method has been developed for obtaining C-2 difluoromethylated indoles. A series of indole derivatives were synthesized in an undivided cell under oxidant- and catalyst-free conditions.
β-FeOOH/TiO2/cellulose nanocomposite aerogel as a novel heterogeneous photocatalyst for highly efficient photo-Fenton degradation
Authors: Jing Jun , Feng Yucheng , Wu Shuying , Ye Zhangjie , Yang Liu , Li Jiaolong , Chen Youyan , Yang Fei
Published: May 2023

This work provides a novel strategy for the preparation of an efficient green heterogeneous catalyst by using renewable resources, and the β-FeOOH/TiO2/cellulose nanocomposite aerogel has great potential for application in wastewater treatment.
Asymmetric membranes for gas separation: interfacial insights and manufacturing
Authors: Alkandari Sharifah H. , Lightfoot Jasmine , Castro-Dominguez Bernardo
Published: May 2023

Asymmetric membranes were manufactured via electrohydrodynamic emission, displaying enhanced performance compared to mixed matrix membranes. These membranes leveraged MOF–polymer crystalline interfaces to promote the separation of gas.
Hard carbon microspheres with bimodal size distribution and hierarchical porosity via hydrothermal carbonization of trehalose
Authors: Wortmann Martin , Keil Waldemar , Diestelhorst Elise , Westphal Michael , Haverkamp René , Brockhagen Bennet , Biedinger Jan , Bondzio Laila , Weinberger Christian , Baier Dominik , Tiemann Michael , Hütten Andreas , Hellweg Thomas , Reiss Günter , Schmidt Claudia , Sattler Klaus , Frese Natalie
Published: May 2023

Hydrothermal carbonization of trehalose, in contrast to other saccharides, leads to the formation of microspheres with a bimodal size distribution. The microspheres develop hierarchical porosity with micro-, meso-, and macro-pores after pyrolysis.
Electroactive nanofibrous membrane with temperature monitoring for wound healing
Authors: Yang Liguo , Li Chenglin , Wang Xuefang , Zhang Xiangyan , Li Yongxin , Liu Shangpeng , Li Jiwei
Published: May 2023

Developing functional dressings for promoting cellular activities and monitoring the healing progress is receiving increasingly widespread attention.
Exploring the therapeutic mechanisms of Gleditsiae Spina acting on pancreatic cancervianetwork pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Duan Hongtao , Zhang Rui , Yuan Lu , Liu Yiyuan , Asikaer Aiminuer , Liu Yang , Shen Yan
Published: May 2023

Exploring the active ingredients and important targets of Gleditsiae Spina for the treatment of pancreatic cancer through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations.
Optimizing the performance of Auy/Nix/TiO2NTs photoanodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Mohamed Shaimaa K. , Bashat Amany M. A. , Hassan Hassan M. A. , Ismail Nahla , El Rouby Waleed M. A.
Published: May 2023

Water splitting using photoelectrochemical (PEC) techniques is thought to be a potential method for creating green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.
Confocal Raman microscopy to evaluate anisotropic structures and hydration development. Methodological considerations
Authors: Dahl Julie Frost , Gregersen Sandra Beyer , Andersen Ulf , Corredig Milena
Published: May 2023

This study demonstrates using confocal Raman microscopy to identify water regions and map the composition of various phases in situ, without sample disruption or the addition of dyes, while emphasizing the importance of proper data handling.
Probing the tightly bound layer in poly(vinyl alcohol) thin films using swelling measurements
Authors: Bhutia Sonam Zangpo , Lairenjam Pradipkanti Devi , Sukumaran Sathish K. , Satapathy Dillip K.
Published: May 2023

The existence of a tightly bound layer of polymer chains at the substrate/polymer interface in a thin polymer film is revealed by in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry and X-ray reflectivity measurements during exposure to solvent vapour.
Correction: Environmentally responsive hydrogel composites for dynamic body thermoregulation
Authors: Garzón Altamirano Marjorie G. , Abebe M. G. , Hergué N. , Lejeune J. , Cayla A. , Campagne C. , Maes B. , Devaux E. , Odent J. , Raquez J. M.
Published: May 2023

Correction for ‘Environmentally responsive hydrogel composites for dynamic body thermoregulation’ by M. Garzón Altamirano et al., Soft Matter, 2023, 19, 2360–2369, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SM01548J.
Electrolyte-mediated assembly of graphene-based supercapacitors using adsorbed ionic liquid/non-ionic surfactant complexes
Authors: Lashkari Sima , Ozhukil Valappil Manila , Pal Rajinder , Pope Michael A.
Published: May 2023

Electrolyte mediated assembly of graphene based supercapacitor using adsorbed IL/non ionic surfactant.
Enhancing the performance of tin-based perovskite solar cells through solvent purification of tin iodide
Authors: Zeng Guojun , Pu Dexin , Huang Lishuai , Guan Hongling , Zhou Shun , Zhou Jin , Shen Weicheng , Li Guang , Fang Guojia , Ke Weijun
Published: May 2023

Tin (Sn)-based perovskites are very promising for the fabrication of low-toxicity lead-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs), but they suffer from easy oxidation of Sn2+to Sn4+which leads to poor performance.
Commercial and novel anticoagulant ECMO coatings: a review
Authors: Zhao Chang-ying , Sheng Kang-jia , Bao Tao , Shi Tao , Liu Pei-nan , Yan Yang , Zheng Xing-long
Published: May 2023

To address the problem of thrombosis, anticoagulant coatings have been developed for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits. This article reviews commercial and novel anticoagulant coatings recently and proposes a new classification of them.
Recent advances in novel materials and techniques for developing transparent wound dressings
Authors: Kuddushi Muzammil , Shah Aatif Ali , Ayranci Cagri , Zhang Xuehua
Published: May 2023

This review article provides an overview of types of wound dressings, wound-dressing materials, advanced fabrication techniques, and key features and applications of transparent dressings for the healing process, as well as how they can improve healing outcomes.
Outflows in the gaseous disks of active galaxies and their impact on black hole scaling relations
Authors: Menci N. , Fiore F. , Shankar F. , Zanisi L. , Feruglio C.
Published: May 2023

To solve the still unsolved and fundamental problem of the role of active galactic nucleus (AGN) feedback in the shaping of galaxies, we implement eda new physical treatment of AGN-driven winds into our semi-analytic model of galaxy formation. With each galaxy in our model, we associated solutions for the outflow expansion and the mass outflow rates in different directions, depending on the AGN luminosity, on the circular velocity of the host halo and on the gas content of the considered galaxy. We also assigned an effective radius to each galaxy that we derived from energy conservation during merger events, and a stellar velocity dispersion that we self-consistently computed via Jeans modeling. We derived all the main scaling relations between the black hole (BH) mass and the stellar mass of the host galaxy and of the bulge, the velocity dispersion, the host halo dark matter mass, and the star formation efficiency. We find that our improved AGN feedback mostly controls the dispersion around the relations, but it plays a subdominant role in shaping slopes and/or normalizations of the scaling relations. The models agree better with the available data when possible limited-resolution selection biases are included. The model does not indicate that any more fundamental galactic property is linked to BH mass. The velocity dispersion plays a similar role as stellar mass, which disagrees with current data. In line with other independent studies carried out on comprehensive semi-analytic and hydrodynamic galaxy-BH evolution models, our current results signal either that the current cosmological models of galaxy formation are inadequate in their reproduction of the local scaling relations in terms of both shape and residuals, and/or they indicate that the local sample of dynamically measured BHs is only incompletely known.
An unusually low-density super-Earth transiting the bright early-type M-dwarf GJ 1018 (TOI-244)
Authors: Castro-González A. , Demangeon O. D. S. , Lillo-Box J. , Lovis C. , Lavie B. , Adibekyan V. , Acuña L. , Deleuil M. , Aguichine A. , Zapatero Osorio M. R. , Tabernero H. M. , Davoult J. , Alibert Y. , Santos N. , Sousa S. G. , Antoniadis-Karnavas A. , Borsa F. , Winn J. N. , Allende Prieto C. , Figueira P. , Jenkins J. M. , Sozzetti A. , Damasso M. , Silva A. M. , Astudillo-Defru N. , Barros S. C. C. , Bonfils X. , Cristiani S. , Di Marcantonio P. , González Hernández J. I. , Curto G. Lo , Martins C. J. A. P. , Nunes N. J. , Palle E. , Pepe F. , Seager S. , Suárez Mascareño A.
Published: May 2023

Context. Small planets located at the lower mode of the bimodal radius distribution are generally assumed to be composed of iron and silicates in a proportion similar to that of the Earth. However, recent discoveries are revealing a new group of low-density planets that are inconsistent with that description.

Aims. We intend to confirm and characterize the TESS planet candidate TOI-244.01, which orbits the bright (K = 7.97 mag), nearby (d = 22 pc), and early-type (M2.5 V) M-dwarf star GJ 1018 with an orbital period of 7.4 days.

Methods. We used Markov chain Monte Carlo methods to model 57 precise radial velocity measurements acquired by the ESPRESSO spectrograph together with TESS photometry and complementary HARPS data. Our model includes a planetary component and Gaussian processes aimed at modeling the correlated stellar and instrumental noise.

Results. We find TOI-244 b to be a super-Earth with a radius of Rp = 1.52 ± 0.12 R⊕ and a mass of Mp = 2.68 ± 0.30 M⊕. These values correspond to a density of ρ = 4.2 ± 1.1 g cm−3, which is below what would be expected for an Earth-like composition. We find that atmospheric loss processes may have been efficient to remove a potential primordial hydrogen envelope, but high mean molecular weight volatiles such as water could have been retained. Our internal structure modeling suggests that TOI-244 b has a 479−96+128 km thick hydrosphere over a 1.17 ± 0.09 R⊕ solid structure composed of a Fe-rich core and a silicate-dominated mantle compatible with that of the Earth. On a population level, we find two tentative trends in the density-metallicity and density-insolation parameter space for the low-density super-Earths, which may hint at their composition.

Conclusions. With a 8% precision in radius and 12% precision in mass, TOI-244 b is among the most precisely characterized super-Earths, which, together with the likely presence of an extended hydrosphere, makes it a key target for atmospheric observations.
Acute Responses in Blood Flow Restriction Low-intensity Aerobic
Training: A Meta-analysis
Authors: de Queiros Victor Sabino , Rolnick Nicholas , Sabag Angelo , de França Ingrid Martins , Wilde Phelipe , Vieira João Guilherme , Reis Victor Machado , Formiga Magno F. , Cabral Breno Guilherme de Araújo Tinôco , Dantas Paulo Moreira Silva
Published: May 2023

The purpose was to determine the effect low-intensity training with blood flow
restriction (LI-BFR) versus high-intensity aerobic training (HIT) on acute
physiological and perceptual responses. The Cumulative Index to Nursing and
Allied Health Literature, National Library of Medicine, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and
Web of Science databases and the reference list of eligible studies were
consulted to identify randomized experimental studies, published until July 4,
2022, that analyzed physiological or perceptual responses between LI-BFR versus
HIT in healthy young individuals. Mean difference (MD) and standardized mean
difference (SMD) were used as effect estimates and random effects models were
applied in all analyses. Twelve studies were included in this review. During
exercise sessions, HIT promoted higher values of heart rate (MD=28.9
bpm; p<0.00001; I

2
=79%), oxygen
consumption (SMD=4.01; p<0.00001;
I

2
=83%), ventilation
(MD=48.03 l/min; p=0.0001;
I

2
=97%), effort (SMD=1.54;
p=0.003; I

2
=90%) and blood
lactate (MD=3.85 mmol/L; p=0.002;
I

2
=97%). Perception of
pain/discomfort was lower in HIT (SMD=−1.71;
p=0.04; I

2
=77.5%). In
conclusion, LI-BFR promotes less pronounced physiological responses than HIT but
with greater perception of pain.
Muscle Hypertrophy Responses to Changes in Training Volume: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: de Camargo Júlio Benvenutti Bueno , Barbosa Paulo Henrique , Brigatto Felipe Alves , Braz Tiago Volpi , Lopes Charles Ricardo
Published: May 2023

This study assessed associations between changes in the weekly number of sets performed and the percentage change in muscle thickness of the biceps (MTBB) and triceps (MTTB) brachii muscles. Through a retrospective analysis, sixty-eight resistance-trained subjects that participated in previous studies had their previous training volumes analyzed and compared to the volume imposed during each individual study. The relationship between variables was determined through Spearman correlation and a k-cluster analysis was performed to subdivide the participants into three groups and classified as:<0%; 0–50%, and >50% increase in the number of sets for both muscle groups. Moderate and weak correlations were observed between the alterations in training volume and changes in MTBB (rs=0.44, p=0.001) and MTTB (rs=0.35, p=0.002), respectively. A significant difference was noted between<0% to >50% for MTBB and MTTB (p=0.017; p=0.042, respectively), while no significant difference was observed between<0% to 0–50% and 0–50% to >50% (both p >0.05) for both muscle groups. In conclusion, muscle hypertrophy of the upper limbs is only weakly to moderately associated with changes in training volume of trained subjects.
Sarcopenia, More Than Just Muscle Atrophy: Imaging Methods for the Assessment of Muscle Quantity and Quality
Authors: Vasilevska Nikodinovska Violeta , Ivanoski Slavcho
Published: May 2023

Background Sarcopenia, a progressive reduction of muscle mass and function, is associated with adverse outcomes in the elderly. Sarcopenia and muscle atrophy are not equal processes. Low muscle strength in association with muscle quantity/quality reduction is currently the optimal method for assessing sarcopenia. There is a practical need for indirect measurement of muscle strength using state-of-the-art imaging techniques.

Methods The following provides a narrative, broad review of all current imaging techniques for evaluating muscles and identifying sarcopenia, including DEXA, CT, MRI, and high-resolution ultrasound, their main strengths, weaknesses, and possible solutions to problems regarding each technique.

Results and Conclusion Well-recognized imaging methods for the assessment of muscle mass are explained, including evaluation with DEXA, CT, and MRI muscle quantity assessment, ultrasound evaluation of muscle thickness and CSA, and their correlations with established muscle mass calculation methods. A special focus is on imaging methods for muscle quality evaluation. Several innovative and promising techniques that are still in the research phase but show potential in the assessment of different properties of muscle quality, including MRI DIXON sequences, MRI spectroscopy, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, ultrasound echo intensity, ultrasound elastography, and speed-of-sound ultrasound imaging are briefly mentioned.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Unexpected metallic foreign bodies on panoramic scans – a narrative review
Authors: Brauer Hans Ulrich , Bartols Andreas , Hellmann Daniel , Boldt Julian
Published: May 2023

Background The digital panoramic radiograph (orthopantomogram, OPG) is the standard radiographic technique for basic diagnostics in dental practice. A correctly taken image provides a good overview of teeth and jaw, whereas radiopaque foreign materials, e. g. metal, can obscure relevant findings.

Methods A literature review on unexpected metallic foreign bodies in OPG was performed to determine the spectrum of metallic foreign bodies that may cause radiopaque areas on panoramic radiographs in routine clinical use.

Results and Conclusion A total of 37 different unexpected metallic foreign bodies were found. They can be categorized as jewelry, clothing, personal protective equipment, medical devices, iatrogenic foreign bodies, and rare incidental findings. Radiopaque foreign materials in the OPG are often relatively easy to recognize as artifacts because of their location, and they are avoidable in most cases. If unclear, a three-dimensional radiograph was helpful for determining the location. Radiopaque areas caused by foreign bodies can lead to misinterpretation or partial or complete non-evaluability and should therefore be avoided.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Modulation of Extravascular Binding of Recombinant Factor IX Impacts the Duration of Efficacy in Mouse Models
Authors: Pestel Sabine , Ponnuswamy Padmapriya , Machado Steffi Knoll , Peil Hendrik , Kraushaar Timo , Claar Philipp , Mischnik Marcel , Lind Holger , Herzog Eva , Bacher Michael , Nolte Marc Wolfgang , Bielohuby Maximilian
Published: May 2023

Background There is an emerging concept that in addition to circulating coagulation factor IX (FIX), extravascular FIX contributes to hemostasis.

Objective Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of extravascular FIX using animal models of tail clip bleeding and ferric chloride-induced thrombosis.

Methods Mutant rFIX proteins with described enhanced (rFIXK5R) or reduced (rFIXK5A) binding to extracellular matrix were generated and characterized using in vitro aPTT, one-stage clotting, and modified FX assays. Using hemophilia B mice, pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and in vivo efficacy of these proteins were compared against rFIX wild-type protein (rFIXWT) in a tail clip bleeding and FeCl3-induced thrombosis model. Respective tissue disposition of FIX was evaluated using immunofluorescence.

Results In vitro characterization demonstrated comparable clotting activity of rFIX proteins. The PK profile showed that rFIXK5A displayed the highest plasma exposure compared to rFIXWT and rFIXK5R. Immunofluorescence evaluation of liver tissue showed that rFIXK5R was detectable up to 24 hours, whereas rFIXWT and rFIXK5A were detectable only up to 15 minutes. In the tail clip bleeding model, rFIXK5R displayed significant hemostatic protection against bleeding incidence for up to 72 hours postintravenous administration of 50 IU/kg, whereas the efficacy of rFIXK5A was already reduced at 24 hours. Similarly, in the mesenteric artery thrombus model, rFIXK5R and rFIXWT demonstrated prolonged efficacy compared to rFIXK5A.

Conclusion Using two different in vivo models of hemostasis and thrombosis, we demonstrate that mutated rFIX protein with enhanced binding (rFIXK5R) to extravascular space confers prolonged hemostatic efficacy in vivo despite lower plasma exposure, whereas rFIXK5A rapidly lost its efficacy despite higher plasma exposure.
Short Synthesis of a Biphenyl-Based Amino Triflamide Catalyst and Its Application in Enamine Catalysis
Authors: Kano Taichi , Uwaso Yuki , Yokoyama Naoki
Published: May 2023

A novel axially chiral biphenyl-based amino triflamide has been designed and successfully synthesized from 1-nitropyrene in 6 steps. This chiral amino triflamide functions as effective catalyst for asymmetric Mannich reaction through enamine intermediates.
Measurement properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Lower-Extremity Motor Activity Log for chronic hemiparetic poststroke patients
Authors: Menezes-Oliveira Elaine , Cecconi Marília Escudero , Oliveira Clarissa Barros de , Vegas Milena , Alouche Sandra Regina , Arida Ricardo Mario , Matuti Gabriela da Silva
Published: May 2023

Background Stroke is among the three leading causes of disability around the world, and it results in immediate difficulty in mobility and gait. There is a lack of instruments to evaluate what daily life is like for these individuals using their lower limbs in real-life environments (outside of the clinical environment).

Objective To perform the translation and cultural adaptation to Brazilian Portuguese of the Lower-Extremity Motor Activity Log (LE-MAL) and test its measurement properties in chronic poststroke individuals.

Methods The LE-MAL was translated into Brazilian Portuguese and adapted to the Brazilian culture. The comprehension and relevance of the final version were analyzed by a committee of specialists. The reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the LE-MAL/Brazil to detect changes after lower extremity constraint-induced movement therapy (LE-CIMT) and an intensive conventional therapy were tested.

Results The LE-MAL/Brazil showed excellent inter- and intrarater reliability, with an intraclass correlation coefficient and Cronbach alpha > 0.70, as well as standard error of measurement and smallest detectable change < 10% of the total instrument score when applied by the same evaluators.

Conclusion The responsiveness of the LE-MAL/Brazil to detect changes showed better results after LE-CIMT than after the intensive conventional therapy, with most of the correlations > 0.50.
Impact of boardroom diversity on corporate financial performance
Authors: Bagh Tanveer , Khan Muhammad Asif , Meyer Natanya , Riaz Hammad
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the impact of boardroom diversity (BD) on firms’ financial performance (FP), drawing on economic and resource dependency theory. The study further explores the influence of strategic change (SC) on this nexus, using a six-dimensional index to measurse BD and SC. A dataset of 240 non-financial firms listed on four stock exchanges (Moscow, Shanghai, Bombay, and Pakistan) over a 13-year period (2008–2020) is analyzed employing the generalized method of moments to address the common endogeneity problem in econometrics specification. The empirical results indicate that BD has a positive impact on FP, however, the impact is weakened by SC. The robustness of the findings is confirmed through alternative estimators. The study provides useful policy implications for managers and practitioners, suggesting that increasing BD can lead to improved FP, but careful consideration must be given to how SC may influence this connection.