bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term monitoring of intravital biological processes using fluorescent protein-assisted NIR-II imaging
Authors: Chen Muxiong , Feng Zhe , Fan Xiaoxiao , Sun Jun , Geng Weihang , Wu Tianxiang , Sheng Jinghao , Qian Jun , Xu Zhengping
Published: November 2022

High spatial resolution, low background, and deep tissue penetration have made near-infrared II (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging one of the most critical tools for in vivo observation and measurement. However, the relatively short retention time and potential toxicity of synthetic NIR-II fluorophores limit their long-term application. Here, we report the use of infrared fluorescent proteins (iRFPs) as in vitro and in vivo NIR-II probes permitting prolonged continuous imaging (up to 15 months). As a representative example, iRFP713 is knocked into the mouse genome to generate a transgenic model to allow temporal and/or spatial expression control of the probe. To demonstrate its feasibility in a genuine diagnostic context, we adopt two liver regeneration models and successfully track the process for a week. The performance and monitoring efficacy are comparable to those of μCT and superior to those of indocyanine green dye. We are also able to effectively observe the pancreas, despite its deep location, under both physiological and pathological conditions. These results indicate that the iRFP-assisted NIR-II fluorescence system is suitable for monitoring various tissues and in vivo biological processes, providing a powerful noninvasive long-term imaging platform.
Osteocytes directly regulate osteolysis via MYD88 signaling in bacterial bone infection
Authors: Yoshimoto Tetsuya , Kittaka Mizuho , Doan Andrew Anh Phuong , Urata Rina , Prideaux Matthew , Rojas Roxana E. , Harding Clifford V. , Henry Boom W. , Bonewald Lynda F. , Greenfield Edward M. , Ueki Yasuyoshi
Published: November 2022

The impact of bone cell activation on bacterially-induced osteolysis remains elusive. Here, we show that matrix-embedded osteocytes stimulated with bacterial pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) directly drive bone resorption through an MYD88-regulated signaling pathway. Mice lacking MYD88, primarily in osteocytes, protect against osteolysis caused by calvarial injections of bacterial PAMPs and resist alveolar bone resorption induced by oral Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) infection. In contrast, mice with targeted MYD88 restoration in osteocytes exhibit osteolysis with inflammatory cell infiltration. In vitro, bacterial PAMPs induce significantly higher expression of the cytokine RANKL in osteocytes than osteoblasts. Mechanistically, activation of the osteocyte MYD88 pathway up-regulates RANKL by increasing binding of the transcription factors CREB and STAT3 to Rankl enhancers and by suppressing K48-ubiquitination of CREB/CREB binding protein and STAT3. Systemic administration of an MYD88 inhibitor prevents jawbone loss in Pg-driven periodontitis. These findings reveal that osteocytes directly regulate inflammatory osteolysis in bone infection, suggesting that MYD88 and downstream RANKL regulators in osteocytes are therapeutic targets for osteolysis in periodontitis and osteomyelitis.
Parkin regulates adiposity by coordinating mitophagy with mitochondrial biogenesis in white adipocytes
Authors: Moore Timothy M. , Cheng Lijing , Wolf Dane M. , Ngo Jennifer , Segawa Mayuko , Zhu Xiaopeng , Strumwasser Alexander R. , Cao Yang , Clifford Bethan L. , Ma Alice , Scumpia Philip , Shirihai Orian S. , Vallim Thomas Q. de Aguiar , Laakso Markku , Lusis Aldons J. , Hevener Andrea L. , Zhou Zhenqi
Published: November 2022

Parkin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, plays an essential role in mitochondrial quality control. However, the mechanisms by which Parkin connects mitochondrial homeostasis with cellular metabolism in adipose tissue remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Park2 gene (encodes Parkin) deletion specifically from adipose tissue protects mice against high-fat diet and aging-induced obesity. Despite a mild reduction in mitophagy, mitochondrial DNA content and mitochondrial function are increased in Park2 deficient white adipocytes. Moreover, Park2 gene deletion elevates mitochondrial biogenesis by increasing Pgc1α protein stability through mitochondrial superoxide-activated NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (Nqo1). Both in vitro and in vivo studies show that Nqo1 overexpression elevates Pgc1α protein level and mitochondrial DNA content and enhances mitochondrial activity in mouse and human adipocytes. Taken together, our findings indicate that Parkin regulates mitochondrial homeostasis by balancing mitophagy and Pgc1α-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in white adipocytes, suggesting a potential therapeutic target in adipocytes to combat obesity and obesity-associated disorders.
Computational analysis of arrhythmogenesis in KCNH2 T618I mutation-associated short QT syndrome and the pharmacological effects of quinidine and sotalol
Authors: Zhang Shugang , Lu Weigang , Yang Fei , Li Zhen , Wang Shuang , Jiang Mingjian , Wang Xiaofeng , Wei Zhiqiang
Published: November 2022

Short QT syndrome (SQTS) is a rare but dangerous genetic disease. In this research, we conducted a comprehensive in silico investigation into the arrhythmogenesis in KCNH2 T618I-associated SQTS using a multi-scale human ventricle model. A Markov chain model of IKr was developed firstly to reproduce the experimental observations. It was then incorporated into cell, tissue, and organ models to explore how the mutation provided substrates for ventricular arrhythmias. Using this T618I Markov model, we explicitly revealed the subcellular level functional alterations by T618I mutation, particularly the changes of ion channel states that are difficult to demonstrate in wet experiments. The following tissue and organ models also successfully reproduced the changed dynamics of reentrant spiral waves and impaired rate adaptions in hearts of T618I mutation. In terms of pharmacotherapy, we replicated the different effects of a drug under various conditions using identical mathematical descriptions for drugs. This study not only simulated the actions of an effective drug (quinidine) at various physiological levels, but also elucidated why the IKr inhibitor sotalol failed in SQT1 patients through profoundly analyzing its mutation-dependent actions.
DNA sequence and chromatin modifiers cooperate to confer epigenetic bistability at imprinting control regions
Authors: Butz Stefan , Schmolka Nina , Karemaker Ino D. , Villaseñor Rodrigo , Schwarz Isabel , Domcke Silvia , Uijttewaal Esther C. H. , Jude Julian , Lienert Florian , Krebs Arnaud R. , de Wagenaar Nathalie P. , Bao Xue , Zuber Johannes , Elling Ulrich , Schübeler Dirk , Baubec Tuncay
Published: November 2022

Genomic imprinting is regulated by parental-specific DNA methylation of imprinting control regions (ICRs). Despite an identical DNA sequence, ICRs can exist in two distinct epigenetic states that are memorized throughout unlimited cell divisions and reset during germline formation. Here, we systematically study the genetic and epigenetic determinants of this epigenetic bistability. By iterative integration of ICRs and related DNA sequences to an ectopic location in the mouse genome, we first identify the DNA sequence features required for maintenance of epigenetic states in embryonic stem cells. The autonomous regulatory properties of ICRs further enabled us to create DNA-methylation-sensitive reporters and to screen for key components involved in regulating their epigenetic memory. Besides DNMT1, UHRF1 and ZFP57, we identify factors that prevent switching from methylated to unmethylated states and show that two of these candidates, ATF7IP and ZMYM2, are important for the stability of DNA and H3K9 methylation at ICRs in embryonic stem cells.
Impact of curcumin loading on the physicochemical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties of a methacrylate-based experimental dental resin
Authors: Comeau Patricia , Panariello Beatriz , Duarte Simone , Manso Adriana
Published: November 2022

Oral biofilms are directly linked to one of the most common chronic human diseases, dental caries. Resin-based dental materials have significant potential to replace amalgam, however they lack sufficient antimicrobial power. This innovative study investigates a curcumin-loaded dental resin which can be utilized in an antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) approach. The study evaluated the effects of curcumin loading on resin physicochemical, mechanical, and adhesive properties, as well as the antimicrobial response associated with blue light activation. Preliminary tests involving degree of conversion (DC) and sample integrity determined the optimal loading of curcumin to be restricted to 0.05 and 0.10 wt%. These optimal loadings were tested for flexural strength (FS), water sorption (WS) and solubility (SL), shear bond strength to dentin (SBS), and viability of Streptococcus mutans under 14.6 J/cm2 blue light or dark conditions, in 6 h and 24 h biofilms. The results demonstrated that 0.10 wt% curcumin had minimal impact on either FS or SBS, but detectably increased WS and SL. A 2 log10 (CFU/mL) reduction in S. mutans after light application in both 6 h and 24 h biofilms were corroborated by CLSM imaging and highlighted the significant potential of this novel aPDT approach with resin-based dental materials.
Radiation dose and gene expression analysis of wild boar 10 years after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant accident
Authors: Morimoto Motoko , Kobayashi Jin , Kino Yasushi
Published: November 2022

The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident led to contamination with radioactive cesium in an extensive environment in Japan in 2011. We evaluated the concentration of radioactive cesium in the skeletal muscles of 22 wild boars and the expression of IFN-γ, TLR3, and CyclinG1 in the small intestine and compared them with those of wild boar samples collected from Hyogo prefecture. The average 137Cs radioactivity concentration in wild boars in the ex-evacuation zone was 470 Bq/kg. Most of samples still showed radioactivity concentration that exceeded the regulatory limit for foods, but the dose remarkably decreased compared with samples just after the accident. IFN-γ expression was significantly higher in wild boars in the ex-evacuation zone than in samples from Hyogo prefecture. TLR3 expression was also upregulated. CyclinG1 expression also tended to be high. Hence, wild boars might have received some effects of low-dose radiation, and immune cells were activated to some extent. However, pathological examination revealed no inflammatory cell infiltration or pathological damage in the small intestine of wild boars in the ex-evacuation area. Long-term monitoring would be necessary, but we consider that the living body responds appropriately to a stimulus from a contaminated environment.
Epidemiology, risk profile, management, and outcome in geriatric patients with atrial fibrillation in two long-term care hospitals
Authors: Wagner Gernot , Smeikal Michael , Gisinger Christoph , Moertl Deddo , Nopp Stephan , Gartlehner Gerald , Pabinger Ingrid , Ohrenberger Gerald , Ay Cihan
Published: November 2022

Aim of this study was investigate the prevalence and incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and to describe the clinical characteristics, risk profiles, and types of anticoagulant therapy for stroke prevention and the clinical outcomes in persons admitted to a long-term care hospital. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the electronic medical records of patients aged 65 years or older living in two long-term care hospitals between January 1, 2014 and October 31, 2017. Overall data from 1148 patients (mean age 84.1 ± 7.9 years, 74.2% women) were analyzed. At baseline, the median CHA2DS2-VASc score was 4 (IQR 3–5) and the HAS-BLED score 2 (IQR 2–3). We observed patients over a median period of 3.7 years. The point prevalence of AF was 29.6% (95% CI 25.8–33.7) on January 1, 2014. The 1-year cumulative incidence of de novo AF was 4.0% (2.8–5.6). Oral anticoagulants were prescribed in 48% of patients with AF. The cumulative incidence at 1 year for a composite outcome of TIA, stroke, or systemic arterial embolism was 0.6% (0.1–3.1) and 1.7% (0.5–4.6) and for bleeding 2.6% (0.9–6.2) and 1.8% (0.5–4.8) in patients with AF and oral anticoagulants or no oral anticoagulants, respectively. In long-term care hospital patients, we observed a high burden of AF. However, only about half of patients with AF received oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention.
Assessment of the biofilm-forming ability on solid surfaces of periprosthetic infection-associated pathogens
Authors: Cho Jung-Ah , Roh Yoo Jin , Son Hye Rim , Choi Hojung , Lee Jeong-Won , Kim Sung Jae , Lee Chang-Hun
Published: November 2022

Biofilm formation is one of the leading causes of complications after surgery in clinical settings. In this study, we profiled the biofilm-forming ability of various periprosthetic infection-associated pathogens on medically relevant surfaces, polystyrene (PS) and titanium (Ti). We also explored how a specific environmental stressor, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), affected biofilm formation. First, Congo red tests revealed that all microorganisms formed biofilms within 72 h. Then, the amounts of biofilm formation on PS at 24, 48 and 72 h and also on a Ti plate for 72 h were determined. Some microbes preferred one surface over the other, whereas other microbes formed consistent levels of biofilm regardless of the surface material. Staphylococcus lugdunenensis was the most potent, while Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus were the weakest. Bacterial adhesion to hydrocarbon (BATH) tests indicated that the biofilm-forming abilities were not directly correlated with cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH). Finally, an external signal, EGCG, was applied to challenge the biofilm formation of each microorganism. EGCG regulated each microorganism’s ability differently, though the change was consistent across surfaces for most pathogens. This study can help a better understanding of a broad spectrum of periprosthetic infection-associated pathogens by relative comparison of their biofilm-forming abilities.
Unraveling the complexities of urban fluvial flood hydraulics through AI
Authors: Mehedi Md Abdullah Al , Smith Virginia , Hosseiny Hossein , Jiao Xun
Published: November 2022

As urbanization increases across the globe, urban flooding is an ever-pressing concern. Urban fluvial systems are highly complex, depending on a myriad of interacting variables. Numerous hydraulic models are available for analyzing urban flooding; however, meeting the demand of high spatial extension and finer discretization and solving the physics-based numerical equations are computationally expensive. Computational efforts increase drastically with an increase in model dimension and resolution, preventing current solutions from fully realizing the data revolution. In this research, we demonstrate the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI), in particular, machine learning (ML) methods including the emerging deep learning (DL) to quantify urban flooding considering the lower part of Darby Creek, PA, USA. Training datasets comprise multiple geographic and urban hydraulic features (e.g., coordinates, elevation, water depth, flooded locations, discharge, average slope, and the impervious area within the contributing region, downstream distance from stormwater outfalls and dams). ML Classifiers such as logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), support vector machine (SVM), and K-nearest neighbors (KNN) are used to identify the flooded locations. A Deep neural network (DNN)-based regression model is used to quantify the water depth. The values of the evaluation matrices indicate satisfactory performance both for the classifiers and DNN model (F-1 scores- 0.975, 0.991, 0.892, and 0.855 for binary classifiers; root mean squared error- 0.027 for DNN regression). In addition, the blocked K-folds Cross Validation (CV) of ML classifiers in detecting flooded locations showed satisfactory performance with the average accuracy of 0.899, which validates the models to generalize to the unseen area. This approach is a significant step towards resolving the complexities of urban fluvial flooding with a large multi-dimensional dataset in a highly computationally efficient manner.
Study on micro crack propagation mechanism of ferrite–pearlite gas transmission pipeline steel with lamellar structure
Authors: Xu Taolong , Wang Wei , Jiang Hongye , He Gongzhen
Published: November 2022

The deformation and failure characteristics of pipeline steel depend on its atomic structure and microstructure. Based on the serial multi-scale analysis technology, the ferrite/cementite (α-Fe/Fe3C) lamellar atomic structure with Bagaryatskii orientation relationship is established. In order to obtain the experimental sample of the lowest energy state, The step-by-step relaxation method of conjugate gradient energy minimization and constant temperature and constant pressure relaxation under NPT conditions is carried out, and the energy state and atomic structure of the relaxed samples are analyzed. For the models of different cementite terminal plane structures, the tension displacement curves on the propagation path of mode I central through crack are extracted respectively, combined with the bilinear cohesion zone model, The cohesion parameters at the atomic scale are successfully transferred from bottom to top to the macro and micro scales. By simulating the reaction force and displacement response law at the loading point, the critical fracture toughness of each terminal interface of ferrite–pearlite pipeline steel at different scales is calculated, which provides a reliable path for exploring the micro mechanism of macro cracking behavior of pipeline steel.
A generalized framework for the quantum Zeno and anti-Zeno effects in the strong coupling regime
Authors: Khan Ghazi , Soomro Hudaiba , Baig Muhammad Usman , Javed Irfan , Chaudhry Adam Zaman
Published: November 2022

It is well known that repeated projective measurements can either slow down (the Zeno effect) or speed up (the anti-Zeno effect) quantum evolution. Until now, studies of these effects for a two-level system interacting with its environment have focused on repeatedly preparing the excited state via projective measurements. In this paper, we consider the repeated preparation of an arbitrary state of a two-level system that is interacting strongly with an environment of harmonic oscillators. To handle the strong interaction, we perform a polaron transformation and then use a perturbative approach to calculate the decay rates for the system. Upon calculating the decay rates, we discover that there is a transition in their qualitative behaviors as the state being repeatedly prepared continuously moves away from the excited state and toward a uniform superposition of the ground and excited states. Our results should be useful for the quantum control of a two-level system interacting with its environment.
Adulteration and Safety Issues in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods
Authors: Egea Mariana Buranelo , Filho Josemar Gonçalves de Oliveira , Gautério Gabrielle Victoria , dos Santos Daiane Costa , Ferreira Flávia Pederiva , Rodrigues Camilla Alves Pereira , Coutinho Gabriela Silva Mendes , Lemes Ailton Cesar
Published: November 2022

The search for foods capable of providing positive impacts on human health has grown in recent times due to the desire for more conscious and healthier lifestyles. In this sense, nutraceuticals and functional foods have been recognized for the various beneficial health effects associated with their ingestion, presenting several biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antiobesity, anticholinesterase, and anticarcinogenic activities. As such they can play a potentially beneficial role in reducing the risk of chronic degenerative diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, among others. Despite the reported effects, there is no internationally accepted definition for these products and their respective labels, which leads to different regulations between countries and difficulties in market integration. Additionally, there are many counterfeit or adulterated products available, which pose a serious threat to the health of consumers. The most common inadequacies and problems are formulation adulteration, absence or insufficient amounts of the functional component, as well as traces of contamination by pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and adulterants. Accordingly, this chapter provides an overview of the adulteration and safety issues in nutraceuticals and functional foods around the world.
Recent Progress on Biopolymer-based Technologies on Nutraceutical and Natural Plant-based Extracts
Authors: Boostani S. , Babajafari S. , Mazloomi S. M.
Published: November 2022

Innovative types of bio-based technologies help better maintain nutrients and nutraceuticals in various food systemsas well as being eco-friendly. This chapter introduces encapsulation systems, edible and active packaging and coatings, and innovative engineered nanostructures such as oleocolloids and hydrogels that are assumed to be applicable as bio-based technologies on bioactive components. Here, some general health-related beneficial effects were made in relation to nutraceutical and natural plant-based extracts. Conjugation is still the most common technique for the creation of innovative food biopolymers through which bio-conjugates can be created through simple, easy-scalable operations. Therefore, this study takes a cue from nature to discuss the modification of plant-proteins with polysaccharides, polyphenols, and lipid compounds to provide a robust background for the design of green plant-based nano-composites, the use of which can be appropriate for biomaterial-based systems. This chapter is intended to benefit researchers who work with bio-composite materials and nanoencapsulation systems.
Applications of Biopolymers as Encapsulating and Binding Agents in Bioactive Compounds and Functional Food Products
Authors: Pereira Camilly Fratelli , Ribeiro Leonardo , Nakamoto Monica Masako , Burck Monize , Braga Anna Rafaela Cavalcante
Published: November 2022

Bioactive compounds are defined as non-nutritional and non-essential compounds which have the capability and the ability to interact with one or more components of living tissue by presenting a wide range of beneficial effects in health such as in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome through the modulation of mitochondrial activity. To effectively utilize the properties of bioactive compounds, specialized literature has highlighted encapsulation and nanotechnology as potential paths to stabilize them. Encapsulation involves entrapping a functionally active material, known as the core, fill, internal phase, or payload, into a matrix of an inert material, distinguished as the coating material, wall, capsule, membrane, shell, matrix, or carrier material. From the data collected and analyzed, the applications of biopolymers as encapsulating and binding agents in bioactive compounds allow effective use of the properties of the bioactive compounds, aiding in the tailoring of food ingredients with their full potential in terms of beneficial biological effects.
Food-based Polymers for Encapsulation and Delivery of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Ekrami Mohammad , Ekrami Ali , Moghadam Rozhin Hamidi , Joolaei-Ahranjani Parham , Emam-Djomeh Zahra
Published: November 2022

Nutrient delivery systems are a new and fast-growing topic that covers various disciplines and has various applications in the food industry. This chapter seeks to bring current understanding on food-grade biopolymer-based approaches to developing nutrient compound delivery facilities up to date. The development of carriers derived from food biopolymers is a particular focus of research. In addition, several types of specifically updated nutrition delivery systems and their applications are reviewed. The different biopolymers employed for the assembly of carriers and particular synthesis techniques are studied in this chapter, emphasizing the aforementioned biological molecules. The prepared carriers will next be described in terms of characterization techniques and associated applications.
A nano curcumin–multi-walled carbon nanotube composite as a fluorescence chemosensor for trace determination of celecoxib in serum samples
Authors: Pourreza Nahid , Zargar Behrooz , Hoveizavi Reza
Published: November 2022

A novel method was developed for trace determination of celecoxib by monitoring its quenching effect on fluorescence intensity of curcumin nanoparticles loaded on multi-walled carbon nanotubes–COOH (Cur–MWCNT–COOH) composite.
Customizable assembly of free-standing integrated electronics for wearables by phase separation
Authors: Ma Hongting , Chen Chuanrui , Cheng Peihao , Yang Kaizhou , Geng Xiaodong , Ma Junlin , Lv Fengjuan , Jiang Yue , Liu Quanli , Su Yan , Li Jian , Zhu Nan
Published: November 2022

A free-standing electronic device, including an ethanol fuel cell, a supercapacitor and a motion sensor, was fabricated by non-solvent induced phase separation.
Supramolecular synthon hierarchy in cyclopropyl-containing peptide-derived compounds
Authors: Bojarska Joanna , Breza Martin , Remko Milan , Borowiecki Paweł , Fruziński Andrzej , Madura Izabela D. , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Leśnikowski Zbigniew , Kraj Agata , Zielenkiewicz Piotr , Wolf Wojciech M.
Published: November 2022

Experimental–computational study of five novel cyclopropyl-containing peptide-derived compounds is focussed on the synthons preferences in (bio)supramolecular architecture. As a bonus, the promising activity of new molecules against prostate cancer is revealed.
The phase stability of predicted pentazole derivate compounds under high pressure
Authors: Huang Xin , Wu Panpan , Cheng Longjiu , Zhang Jianguo , Wang Kun
Published: November 2022

The pressure-induced phase transition is determined by the competition between the bond splitting and molecular deformability of the pentazolate compounds.
Understanding the impact of different source water types on the biofilm characteristics and microbial communities of manganese removing biofilters
Authors: McCormick N. E. , Earle M. , Stoddart A. K. , Langille M. G. I. , Gagnon G. A.
Published: November 2022

Biomass and EPS composition differed by source water type in full-scale Mn removing biofilters. The composition of microbial communities were shaped by source water contaminants.
Microalgae oil fromSchizochytriumsp. alleviates obesity and modulates gut microbiota in high-fat diet-fed mice
Authors: Ran Liyuan , Yu Jinhui , Ma Rui , Yao Qing , Wang Mingjie , Bi Yuping , Yu Zichao , Wu Yingjie
Published: November 2022

Oil fromSchizochytriumsp. alleviates obesity efficiently by modulating gut microbiota in high-fat diet-fed mice.
Regeneration of anode materials from complex graphite residue in spent lithium-ion battery recycling process
Authors: Li Yukun , Lv Weiguang , Zhao He , Xie Yongbing , Ruan Dingshan , Sun Zhi
Published: November 2022

This study provides an economical and environmentally friendly method for regenerating complex graphite residues from spent lithium-ion battery processing.
A review on catalysts for electrocatalytic and photocatalytic reduction of N2to ammonia
Authors: Lin Shanshan , Zhang Xinghua , Chen Lungang , Zhang Qi , Ma Longlong , Liu Jianguo
Published: November 2022

This review highlights the recent progress of photocatalysts and electrocatalysts for the synthesis of NH3from N2. It is expected to provide a reference for the development of new processes that can produce high value-added chemicals.
Proteinaceous microstructure in a capillary: a study of non-linear bending dynamics
Authors: Marini Mario , Zeynali Amirbahador , Collini Maddalena , Bouzin Margaux , Sironi Laura , D'Alfonso Laura , Mantegazza Francesco , Cassina Valeria , Chirico Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Hollow elongated microstructures of protein hydrogels display undamped bending oscillations under continuous microfluidic flow, opening the door to applications in energy harvesting and micro-mixing devices.
A conjugated polymeric photocatalyst with a heterostructure and visible-light response for organic pollutant removal
Authors: Wang Doudou , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Ye , Huang Zhixuan , Li Lili
Published: November 2022

The design of organic photocatalysts with visible-light-response is an important way to solve energy crisis and environmental pollution.
Carbazole and dibenzo[b,d]furan-based hole transport materials with high thermal stability
Authors: Zhu Jiangnan , Zhang Tianmei , Ding Yuxi , Zhou Haitao , Huang Jinhai , Guo Lifang , Su Jianhua
Published: November 2022

Carbazole and dibenzo[b,d]furan-based HTMs with high thermal stability for developing red high-performance PhOLEDs.
Insights into the performance and degradation of Ru@Pt core–shell catalysts for fuel cells by advanced (scanning) transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Garzón Manjón Alba , Vega-Paredes Miquel , Berova Viktoriya , Gänsler Thomas , Schwarz Torsten , Rivas Rivas Nicolas A. , Hengge Katharina , Jurzinsky Tilman , Scheu Christina
Published: November 2022

Ru@Pt core–shell nanoparticles are investigated as carbon monoxide tolerant anode catalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel cells by (scanning) transmission electron microscopy.
Prediction of boridenes as high-performance anodes for alkaline metal and alkaline Earth metal ion batteries
Authors: Chen Baiyi , Liu Haoliang , Bai Tianyu , Song Zifeng , Xie Jinan , Wu Kai , Cheng Yonghong , Xiao Bing
Published: November 2022

Using the r2SCAN-rVV10 functional, the structural and electrochemical properties of boridenes for their use as anode materials in rechargeable metal-ion batteries (Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+) are evaluated.
Geared photochemistry: an interdependent heterogeneous near-infrared catalytic system using up-conversion glass and g-CN for CuAAC chemistry
Authors: Kocaarslan Azra , Sumer Isik , Esen Cansu , Kumru Baris , Eryurek Gonul , Yagci Yusuf
Published: November 2022

Near-infrared induced CuAAC click reaction using an interdependent heterogeneous catalytic system.
Array configurations of oxometallate–Ag cluster hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Jia-Qi , Yan Min-Hong , Xiang Shengchang , Fan Xi , Zhang Zhangjing
Published: November 2022

This review provides a classification of oxometallate–Ag cluster hybrid nanocomposites based on their array configurations and introduces the fascinating properties and cooperative effects of oxometallate and Ag clusters.
A focus on the discovery of potent and selective cyclic peptide scaffolds for drug development
Authors: Saunders George J. , Yudin Andrei K.
Published: November 2022

Library-based screening methods such as mRNA display are paving the way for the discovery of cyclic peptides towards previously undruggable space.
Cardiomyocyte BRAF is a key signalling intermediate in cardiac hypertrophy in mice
Authors: Alharbi Hajed O. , Hardyman Michelle A. , Cull Joshua J. , Markou Thomais , Cooper Susanna T.E. , Glennon Peter E. , Fuller Stephen J. , Sugden Peter H. , Clerk Angela
Published: November 2022

Cardiac hypertrophy is necessary for the heart to accommodate an increase in workload. Physiological, compensated hypertrophy (e.g. with exercise) is reversible and largely due to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Pathological hypertrophy (e.g. with hypertension) is associated with additional features including increased fibrosis and can lead to heart failure. RAF kinases (ARAF/BRAF/RAF1) integrate signals into the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 cascade, a pathway implicated in cardiac hypertrophy, and activation of BRAF in cardiomyocytes promotes compensated hypertrophy. Here, we used mice with tamoxifen-inducible cardiomyocyte-specific BRAF knockout (CM-BRAFKO) to assess the role of BRAF in hypertension-associated cardiac hypertrophy induced by angiotensin II (AngII; 0.8 mg/kg/d, 7 d) and physiological hypertrophy induced by phenylephrine (40 mg/kg/d, 7 d). Cardiac dimensions/functions were measured by echocardiography with histological assessment of cellular changes. AngII promoted cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and increased fibrosis within the myocardium (interstitial) and around the arterioles (perivascular) in male mice; cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and interstitial (but not perivascular) fibrosis were inhibited in mice with CM-BRAFKO. Phenylephrine had a limited effect on fibrosis but promoted cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and increased contractility in male mice; cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was unaffected in mice with CM-BRAFKO, but the increase in contractility was suppressed and fibrosis increased. Phenylephrine induced a modest hypertrophic response in female mice and, in contrast with the males, tamoxifen-induced loss of cardiomyocyte BRAF reduced cardiomyocyte size, had no effect on fibrosis and increased contractility. The data identify BRAF as a key signalling intermediate in both physiological and pathological hypertrophy in male mice, and highlight the need for independent assessment of gene function in females.
Extra‐large MIMO enabling slow fluid antenna massive access for millimeter‐wave bands
Authors: Wong Kai‐Kit , Tong Kin‐Fai , Chen Yu , Zhang Yangyang
Published: November 2022

Fluid antenna multiple access (FAMA) is a new way of accommodating a large number of users on a single channel for massive connectivity, with slow FAMA (s‐FAMA) being the practical version for achieving this. The impressive performance is understood to be achievable if the users have independent Rayleigh fading envelopes. With mobile networks vamping up the operating frequencies in 5G and beyond, nevertheless, the channel will have less multipath and become more directional. It is unclear if s‐FAMA still performs well and how its performance is affected by different channel parameters. To address this, this letter first develops a multipath fading channel model capable of modelling a mixture of directional line‐of‐sight (LoS) and non‐LoS paths over the ports of a fluid antenna system. The results indicate that a large number of paths in the channel is essential to the performance and a large Rice factor will degrade the performance rapidly. Also, contrast to the initial belief, the size of the fluid antenna plays a more important role than the number of ports or resolution of the fluid antenna. To restore the gain of s‐FAMA, it is proposed to employ extra‐large multiple‐input multiple‐output (XL‐MIMO) at the base station (BS) to scramble the channel and create artificial multipath so that the users' envelopes can become independent Rayleigh again. The results confirm that XL‐MIMO enabling s‐FAMA is an effective technique for massive connectivity in the directional millimeter‐wave (mmWave) bands.
High precision modeling of polarized signals: Moment expansion method generalized to spin-2 fields
Authors: Vacher L. , Chluba J. , Aumont J. , Rotti A. , Montier L.
Published: November 2022

The modeling and removal of foregrounds poses a major challenge to searches for signals from inflation using the cosmic microwave background (CMB). In particular, the modeling of CMB foregrounds including various spatial averaging effects introduces multiple complications that will have to be accounted for in upcoming analyses. In this work, we introduce the generalization of the intensity moment expansion to the spin-2 field of linear polarization: the spin-moment expansion. Within this framework, moments become spin-2 objects that are directly related to the underlying spectral parameter and polarization angle distribution functions. In obtaining the required expressions for the polarization modeling, we highlight the similarities and differences with the intensity moment methods. A spinor rotation in the complex plane with frequency naturally arises from the first order moment when the signal contains both spectral parameter and polarization angle variations. Additional dependencies are introduced at higher order, and we demonstrate how these can be accounted with several illustrative examples. Our new modeling of the polarized signals reveals to be a powerful tool to model the frequency dependence of the polarization angle. As such, it can be immediately applied to numerous astrophysical situations.
Laboratory spectroscopy of allylimine and tentative detection towards the G+0.693-0.027 molecular cloud
Authors: Alberton D. , Bizzocchi L. , Jiang N. , Melosso M. , Rivilla V. M. , Charmet A. Pietropolli , Giuliano B. M. , Caselli P. , Puzzarini C. , Alessandrini S. , Dore L. , Jiménez-Serra I. , Martín-Pintado J.
Published: November 2022

Context. Substituted methanimines and ethylenes have been identified in the interstellar medium. Therefore, allylimine (CH2 =CH–CH=NH) represents a promising candidate for a new interstellar detection.

Aims. The goal of the present work is to perform a comprehensive laboratory investigation of the rotational spectrum of allylimine in its ground vibrational state in order to obtain a highly precise set of rest frequencies to assist its search for astronomical sources.

Methods. The rotational spectra of the two most stable trans–anti and trans–syn geometrical isomers of allylimine were recorded in the laboratory in the 84–300 GHz frequency interval. Measurements were performed using a source-modulation millimetre-wave spectrometer equipped with a pyrolysis system for the production of unstable species. High-level ab initio calculations were performed to assist the analysis and to obtain reliable estimates for an extended set of spectroscopic parameters. Guided by new laboratory data, allylimine was searched for in space using a sensitive spectral survey of the G+0.693-0.027 molecular cloud, located at the Galactic centre.

Results. Almost 1000 rotational transitions have been recorded for trans–anti and trans–syn allylimine. These new data have enabled the determination of a very accurate set of spectroscopic parameters including rotational, quartic and sextic centrifugal distortion con-stants, as well as nuclear quadrupole coupling constants. The improved spectral data allowed us to report a tentative detection for both allylimine isomers in the G+0.693-0.027 molecular cloud, located at the Galactic centre.
Correlation Coefficients in Lee’s Model of Multiphase Flows
Authors: Holešová Natália , Lenhard Richard , Kaduchová Katarína , Malcho Milan
Published: November 2022

Multiple technical and biological systems exhibit multiphase flow phenomena. The demands for accurate calculations of the physical phenomena that occur in engineering technologies have increased along with their rapid advancement. However, it is very hard to identify two- and multi-phase flow through experimental measurements, as a result, in addition to experimental measurements, numerical simulations are also performed, which can help improve our physical understanding of the complex phenomenon of phase transformations. The goal of numerical simulations of phase changes is to precisely simulate the real progress and experiment. These simulations operate on the basis of physical principles and correlation coefficients of phase changes. These correlation coefficients have a different range of values. The examination of the Lee model's correlation coefficients from the ANSYS Fluent environment, which is now the most popular for multiphase flow simulations, is the subject of the article that is being given. In this article is also described and tested the numerical simulation of interphase mass transport in a closed space.

Research background: The article is focused on the problematics of multiphase flows. In ANSYS Fluent, there are many types of models, which are used for the numerical simulations of this phenomena. In models are included correlation parameters, which are specific for every single situation and are within the given ranges. This paper is about the Lee model, which correlation coefficients are in the range from 10-3 to 102.

Purpose of the article: A detailed description of Lee's model with its testing on a heat pipe in the ANSYS Fluent program with determined correlation coefficients.

Methods: The use of CFD simulation of multiphase flow to determine correlation coefficients.

Findings & Value added: Testing the correlation coefficients of Lee's model and finding their appropriate values for the given situation.
Study on Losses in the Intermediate-Pressure Steam Turbine Inlet Chamber
Authors: Slama Vaclav , Simurda David , Lenhard Richard
Published: November 2022

Know-how about energy and pressure losses in all steam turbine parts is crucial to guarantee enhanced operational reliability and efficiency. This paper focuses on studying pressure losses in the intermediate-pressure turbine inlet chamber. Measurements were performed on a complex model consisting of the turbine inlet chamber, a compact valve assembly situated upstream, and nozzles located downstream. These intermediate-pressure turbine parts are larger due to the greater volumetric mass flow than the high-pressure turbine parts. However, their inner parts are proportionately smaller, which causes greater pressure losses. Measurements were carried out in the Aerodynamic laboratory of the Institute of Thermomechanics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, where the model was installed in an in-draft wind tunnel. The results were complemented by numerical simulations performed in the Doosan Skoda Power company using ANSYS software tools. Pressure losses were evaluated using the total pressure loss coefficient and, as a result, can be predicted in similar turbine inlet chambers with the required accuracy.
Numerical Study of Flow Field Characteristics in the Trachea During Growth of Human Upper Airways
Authors: Elcner Jakub , Jícha Miroslav
Published: November 2022

The development of organs in the human body does not end at birth. During the first five years of life, changes occur in the respiratory tract, not only in terms of its dimensions but also in the way it is used. Efforts to provide non-invasive treatment in the form of medical aerosols administered to children´s lungs during this period must be supported by knowledge of the flow pattern that significantly influences their transport and deposition. Research related to flow patterns in the adult human respiratory tract is quite widespread and the phenomena that occur during inhalation in different parts of the respiratory tract have been widely documented. In the case of the paediatric respiratory tract, research is relatively scarce due to the age of the patient and the desire to minimise interference with the paediatric organism. At the Brno University of Technology, we have the geometry of the airway of a ten-month-old infant, a scaled model of an adult to match the geometry of a five-year-old child based on scientific knowledge and also an adult model of the human respiratory tract. These geometries, together with knowledge of respiratory physiology were used to compare the changes in airflow behaviour that occur in the trachea during the first five years and compare it to fully developed adult human geometry. Computational Fluid Dynamics was used to investigate the model using a Large Eddy Simulation approach. The periods of life captured by the geometries differ not only in their dimensional difference but also in their approach to airway use. The impact of these differences has been captured in the paper.
Measurement of Fluid Flow with Different Velocity Profiles by New Built Ultrasonic Flowmeter
Authors: Barraclough Veronika , Strob Miroslav , Pulec Jaroslav , Novosád Jan , Dančová Petra , Čížek Jan
Published: November 2022

The paper describes the development of a non-invasive flowmeter for lower flow rates and its first tests. This gauge is physically based on the interaction of fluid flow with an ultrasonic signal that passes through the fluid from the transmitter to the receiver. Ultrasonic flowmeters are currently relatively commonly used gauges, whose advantages such as non-invasiveness (i.e. zero pressure losses) and the ability to seamlessly measure the flow rates of any (for example opaque) liquids, without contact with the liquid, are widely known. However, there are still parts of the ultrasonic flowmeter measurement chain that are undergoing research and development. It can be signal processing itself (mainly), its design solution, measurement for different flow cases (measurement in a flow field with a uniform velocity profile, in a flow field with an axisymmetric velocity profile, in a flow field with a general velocity profile), validation of the applied signal processing approaches, evaluation of uncertainties. The flowmeter itself, which development is described in the paper, will be used for trouble-free measurement in air engineering, but also serves as a training device for building a more complex ultrasonic gauge. Therefore, this flowmeter contains more signal transmitters and receivers than it is usual and all transmitter-receiver combinations are captured during the measurement. This gauge is called ultrasonic tomograph and its principle is also outlined in the paper. Here, so far, without a reconstructed vector field.
Comparison of Thermal Sensations Under the Same Conditions in the Climatic Chamber and the Lecture Hall
Authors: Dębska Luiza , Krawczyk Natalia
Published: November 2022

For many people, the feeling of thermal comfort becomes an important aspect of helping to increase concentration at work or study. Creating an appropriate indoor microclimate becomes a huge challenge for many designers of modern construction. The most important assumption of the work is to compare the thermal sensations of a group of four, aged 23 to 30, staying in the lecture class of an intelligent building and in a climatic chamber with the same internal parameters. For this purpose, the Testo 400 environmental meter was used, collecting the necessary parameters from the environment, and specially created surveys describing people's thermal feelings during the study. The air temperature and relative humidity were as follows: 21.7 °C and 30.80 %, while for the climatic chamber the same data was applied, but at the end of the study both parameters increased to 21.9 °C and 40.50 %. Moreover, it turned out that people in the lecture hall felt worse than in the climatic chamber with similar internal values. In addition, the average Thermal Sensation Vote (TSV) response showed that the perceived environment is comfortable for the study group staying in the climatic chamber, as opposed to the feeling of influenza in the room. Unfortunately, the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) for the room and chamber exceeded the set value described in the ISO 7730 standard.
Aerosol Measurements Before and During Combustion of Various Pellets from Spruce Sawdust and Face Masks FFP2
Authors: Čajová Kantová Nikola , Čaja Alexander , Hrabovský Peter
Published: November 2022

Aerosols in the atmosphere affect our health and quality of life. The most commonly measured property is their mass concentration. In this work was measured the mass concentration of aerosols by optical particle sizer in the range from 0.3 μm to 10 μm. It was realized in the laboratory with an automatic heat source for pellet combustion. Aerosols were firstly measured before the combustion process, then during combustion of three types of samples: pellets from pure sawdust, pellets from 5 % of disintegrated face masks FFP2 blended with spruce sawdust and from10 % of disintegrated face masks FFP2 blended with spruce sawdust. The lowest total mass concentration was measured during the combustion of pellets from pure spruce sawdust. However, results indicate that the combustion process does not have an impact on aerosol mass concentration in the laboratory space for the particle range 0.3-10 μm when an automatic heat source for pellets is used.