bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negative coping style mediates the relationship between negative mental and suicide risk among migrant workers in China
Authors: Xiao Han , Li Xiaoyi , Zhou Zhijian , Liu Huiming , Hu Chiyi , Liu Tiebang , Chen Dafang , You Liqing
Published: January 2022

Suicide is increasingly recognized as a major public health concern among migrant workers in China. Despite negative mental and negative coping styles being core themes found in suicide notes, there is scarce research addressing the theoretical framework of underlying mechanisms between these variables. The study was designed to examine the relationships of negative mental, negative coping styles, and suicide risk among migrant workers. It hypothesized that negative mental would exert a positive effect on suicide risk via increased negative coping. Using a cross-sectional design, the study was conducted using a sample of 3095 migrant workers from Shenzhen, China. Self-made Suicide Risk Scale (SRS), Short-form of the ULCA Loneliness Scale (USL-6), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Scale (GAD-7), Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ) were used to collect data. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed to quantitatively explore the path effects between negative mental, negative coping styles and suicide risk. Results showed that negative coping style had a positive association with suicide risk (β = 0.029, P < 0.001). Negative mental had both direct and indirect positive effects on suicide risk through negative coping styles (β = 0.109, β = 0.013, P < 0.001). Therefore, to prevent suicidal behaviors among migrant workers, targeted interventions focusing on improving their mental health and coping strategies are needed.
Cannabinoid receptor type 2 agonist JWH-133 decreases cathepsin B secretion and neurotoxicity from HIV-infected macrophages
Authors: Rosario-Rodríguez Lester J. , Gerena Yamil , García-Requena Luis A. , Cartagena-Isern Luz J. , Cuadrado-Ruiz Juan C. , Borges-Vélez Gabriel , Meléndez Loyda M.
Published: January 2022

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are prevalent despite combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), affecting 52% of people living with HIV. Our laboratory has demonstrated increased expression of cathepsin B (CATB) in postmortem brain tissue with HAND. Increased secretion of CATB from in vitro HIV-infected monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) induces neurotoxicity. Activation of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R) inhibits HIV-1 replication in macrophages and the neurotoxicity induced by viral proteins. However, it is unknown if CB2R agonists affect CATB secretion and neurotoxicity in HIV-infected MDM. We hypothesized that HIV-infected MDM exposed to CB2R agonists decrease CATB secretion and neurotoxicity. Primary MDM were inoculated with HIV-1ADA and treated with selective CB2R agonists JWH-133 and HU-308. HIV-1 p24 and CATB levels were determined from supernatants using ELISA. MDM were pre-treated with a selective CB2R antagonist SR144528 before JWH-133 treatment to determine if CB2R activation is responsible for the effects. Neuronal apoptosis was assessed using a TUNEL assay. Results show that both agonists reduce HIV-1 replication and CATB secretion from MDM in a time and dose-dependent manner and that CB2R activation is responsible for these effects. Finally, JWH-133 decreased HIV/MDM-CATB induced neuronal apoptosis. Our results suggest that agonists of CB2R represent a potential therapeutic strategy against HIV/MDM-induced neurotoxicity.
Dietary supplementation with inosine-5′-monophosphate improves the functional, energetic, and antioxidant status of liver and muscle growth in pigs
Authors: Bonagurio Lucas P. , Murakami Alice E. , Moreira Camila A. , Comar Jurandir F. , Pozza Paulo C.
Published: January 2022

Inosine 5′-monophosphate (5′-IMP) is an essential nucleotide for de novo nucleotide biosynthesis and metabolism of energy, proteins, and antioxidants. Nucleotides are conditionally essential, as they cannot be produced sufficiently rapidly to meet the needs of the body in situations of oxidative stress or rapid muscle growth. A deficient intake of nucleotides can result in decreased ATP and GTP synthesis and impaired metabolism. We demonstrated that supplementation of finishing pig diets with 5′-IMP reduces the relative weight of the liver, and increases oxygen consumption during mitochondrial respiration without changing the ADP/O ratio, indicating an increase in the respiratory efficiency of liver mitochondria. We also observed a reduction in liver lipid peroxidation and an increase in muscle creatine. Moreover, 5′IMP supplementation increases slaughter weight, lean meat yield, sarcomere length, and backfat thickness in finishing barrows, demonstrating influence on protein metabolism. We suggest that 5′-IMP supplementation increase the mitochondrial respiratory capacity when the liver metabolic activity is stimulated, enhances antioxidant defense, and promotes muscle growth in finishing barrows.
Sustainable phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles using Gmelina arborea exhibit antimicrobial and biofilm inhibition activity
Authors: Chandrasekharan Smitha , Chinnasamy Gandhimathi , Bhatnagar Somika
Published: January 2022

Increase in bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics is a major public health concern generating interest in novel antibacterial treatments. Aim of this scientific endeavor was to find an alternative efficient antibacterial agent from non-conventional plant source for human health applications. We used an eco-friendly approach for phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by utilizing logging residue from timber trees Gmelina arborea (GA). GC–MS analysis of leaves, barks, flowers, fruits, and roots was conducted to determine the bioactive compounds. Biosynthesis, morphological and structural characterization of GA-AgNPs were undertaken by UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). GA-AgNPs were evaluated for antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, wound healing properties and their toxicity studies were carried out. Results identified the presence of terpenoids, sterols, aliphatic alcohols, aldehydes, and flavonoids in leaves, making leaf extract the ideal choice for phyto-fabrication of silver nanoparticles. The synthesis of GA-AgNPs was confirmed by dark brown colored colloidal solution and spectral absorption peak at 420 nm. Spherical, uniformly dispersed, crystalline GA-AgNPs were 34–40 nm in diameter and stable in solutions at room temperature. Functional groups attributed to the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenols that acted as reducing and capping agents. Antibacterial potency was confirmed against pathogenic bacteria Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus by disc diffusion assay, MIC and MBC assay, biofilm inhibition assay, electron-microscopy, cell staining and colony counting techniques. The results from zone of inhibition, number of ruptured cells and dead-cell-count analysis confirmed that GA-AgNPs were more effective than GA-extract and their bacteria inhibition activity level increased further when loaded on hydrogel as GA-AgNPs-PF127, making it a novel distinguishing feature. Antioxidant activity was confirmed by the free radical scavenging assays (DPPH and ABTS). Wound healing potential was confirmed by cell scratch assay in human dermal fibroblast cell lines. Cell-proliferation study in human chang liver cell lines and optical microscopic observations confirmed non-toxicity of GA-AgNPs at low doses. Our study concluded that biosynthesized GA-AgNPs had enhanced antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and wound healing properties.
In vitro assessment of intra-operative and post-operative environment in reducing bladder cancer recurrence
Authors: Tse Ryan Tsz-Hei , Zhao Hongda , Wong Christine Yim-Ping , Kong Angel Wing-Yan , Chan Ronald Cheong-Kin , To Ka-Fai , Ng Chi-Fai , Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun
Published: January 2022

Urinary bladder cancer is a common cancer worldwide. Currently, the modality of treating and monitoring bladder cancer is wide. Nonetheless, the high recurrence rate of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer after surgical resection is still unsatisfactory. Hereby, our study demonstrated whether the intra-operative and post-operative environments will affect bladder cancer recurrence utilizing in vitro cell line model. Bladder cancer cell lines were submerged in four different irrigating fluids for assessing their tumorigenic properties. Our results showed that sterile water performed the best in terms of the magnitude of cytotoxicity to cell lines. Besides, we also investigated cytotoxic effects of the four irrigating agents as well as mitomycin C (MMC) in normothermic and hyperthermic conditions. We observed that sterile water and MMC had an increased cytotoxic effect to bladder cancer cell lines in hyperthermic conditions. Altogether, our results could be translated into clinical practice in the future by manipulating the intra-operative and post-operative conditions in order to lower the chance of residual cancer cells reimplant onto the bladder, which in turns, reducing the recurrence rate of bladder cancers.
Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of the humeral shaft with regard to adjacent anatomical characteristics
Authors: Hohenberger Gloria Maria , Lipnik Georg , Schwarz Angelika Maria , Grechenig Peter , Holter Magdalena , Weiglein Andreas Heinrich
Published: January 2022

The study goal was to evaluate the distances from the radial (RN), the musculocutaneous (MN) and axillary nerves (AN) and the medial neurovascular bundle of the upper arm to a minimally invasive applied plate and to define its relation to the RN during different degrees of malrotation during MIPO. The sample involved ten upper extremities. Application of a PHILOS plate was performed through a Delta-split. Intervals between the AN, MN, RN and the medial vascular bundle were defined at various positions. The humeral shaft was artificially fractured at a height of about the mean of the plate. The distal fragment was brought into 15° and 30° internal (IR) as well as external rotation (ER) and here, the plate’s relation to the RN was evaluated. The medial neurovascular bundle intersected the plate at its distal part in two specimens. Regarding the distances from the RN to the plate during different rotation positions the distances became significantly longer during ER, respectively shorter during IR. The medial neurovascular bundle and the RN were identified as the main structures at risk. Care must be taken during distal screw placement and malrotation exceeding 15° must be avoided during MIPO.
Split flow humidity generator equilibration and stability study
Authors: Curtiss Justin M. , Emge Darren K.
Published: January 2022

Generation and control of humidity in a testing environment is crucial when evaluating a chemical vapor sensor as water vapor in the air can not only interfere with the sensor itself, but also react with a chemical analyte changing its composition. Upon constructing a split-flow humidity generator for chemical vapor sensor development, numerous issues were observed due to instability of the generated relative humidity level and drift of the humidity over time. By first fixing the initial relative humidity output of the system at 50%, we studied the effects of flowrate on stabilization time along with long term stability for extended testing events. It was found that the stabilization time can be upwards of 7 h, but can be maintained for greater than 90 h allowing for extended experiments. Once the stabilization time was known for 50% relative humidity output, additional studies at differing humidity levels and flowrates were performed to better characterize the system. At a relative humidity of 20% there was no time required to stabilize, but when increased to 80% this time increased to over 4 h. With this information we were better able to understand the generation process and characterize the humidity generation system, output stabilization and possible modifications to limit future testing issues.
Association between vitamin D3 levels and insulin resistance: a large sample cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Zixin , Gong Rongpeng , Luo Gang , Wang Mingxiang , Li Da , Chen Yue , Shen Xiaofang , Wei Xiaoxing , Feng Niran , Wang Shuangquan
Published: January 2022

Previous studies have shown that vitamin D3 may be a potential factor in insulin resistance, but the relationship between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance still remains controversial. At present, more research is needed to explore the relationship between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance. The samples from 2009 to 2018 in NHANES database were analyzed to Investigate the relationship and the potential mechanism. We performed a cross-sectional study of five periods in the NHANES database. Finally, 9298 participants were selected through strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, Multivariate logistic regression analysis and curve fitting were conducted to explore the relationship between vitamin D3 level and insulin resistance. Moreover, subgroup analysis was used to further prove the association. The results revealed that there was a strong association between vitamin D3 and insulin resistance (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.72–0.93). However, subgroup analyses indicated that this correlation varied between individuals and races. There was a negative correlation between vitamin D3 level and insulin resistance, which provides a new proof for exploring the influencing factors of insulin resistance. More well-designed studies are still needed to further elaborate on these associations.
Identification and validation of plasma biomarkers for diagnosis of breast cancer in South Asian women
Authors: Rajkumar Thangarajan , Amritha Sathyanarayanan , Sridevi Veluswami , Gopal Gopisetty , Sabitha Kesavan , Shirley Sundersingh , Swaminathan Rajaraman
Published: January 2022

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women globally. Development of a reliable plasma biomarker panel might serve as a non-invasive and cost-effective means for population-based screening of the disease. Transcriptomic profiling of breast tumour, paired normal and apparently normal tissues, followed by validation of the shortlisted genes using TaqMan® Low density arrays and Quantitative real-time PCR was performed in South Asian women. Fifteen candidate protein markers and 3 candidate epigenetic markers were validated first in primary breast tumours and then in plasma samples of cases [N = 202 invasive, 16 DCIS] and controls [N = 203 healthy, 37 benign] using antibody array and methylation specific PCR. Diagnostic efficiency of single and combined markers was assessed. Combination of 6 protein markers (Adipsin, Leptin, Syndecan-1, Basic fibroblast growth factor, Interleukin 17B and Dickopff-3) resulted in 65% sensitivity and 80% specificity in detecting breast cancer. Multivariate diagnostic analysis of methylation status of SOSTDC1, DACT2, WIF1 showed 100% sensitivity and up to 91% specificity in discriminating BC from benign and controls. Hence, combination of SOSTDC1, DACT2 and WIF1 was effective in differentiating breast cancer [non-invasive and invasive] from benign diseases of the breast and healthy individuals and could help as a complementary diagnostic tool for breast cancer.
Recent atmospheric changes and future projections along the Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast
Authors: Bawadekji Abdulhakim , Tonbol Kareem , Ghazouani Nejib , Becheikh Nidhal , Shaltout Mohamed
Published: January 2022

Recent and future climate diagrams (surface air temperature, surface relative humidity, surface wind, and mean sea level pressure) for the Saudi Arabian Red Sea Coast are analysed based on hourly observations (2016–2020) and hourly ERA5 data (1979–2020) with daily GFDL mini-ensemble means (2006–2100). Moreover, GFDL mini-ensemble means are calculated based on the results of three GFDL simulations (GFDL-CM3, GFDL-ESM2M, and GFDL-ESM2G). Observation data are employed to describe the short-term current weather variability.
However, ERA5 data are considered to study the long-term current weather variability after bias removal via a comparison to observations. Finally, a bias correction statistical model was developed by matching the cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) of corrected ERA5 and mini-ensemble mean data over 15 years (2006–2020). The obtained local statistic were used to statically downscale GFDL mini-ensemble means to study the future uncertainty in the atmospheric parameters studied. There occurred significant spatial variability across the study area, especially regarding the surface air temperature and relative humidity, based on monthly analysis of both observation and ERA5 data. Moreover, the results indicated that the ERA5 data suitably describe Tabuk, Jeddah and Jizan weather conditions with a marked spatial variability. The best performance of ERA5 surface air temperature and relative humidity (surface wind speed and sea level pressure) data was detected in Tabuk (Jeddah). These data for the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast, 1979–2020, exhibit significant positive trends of the surface air temperature and surface wind speed and significant negative trends of the relative humidity and sea level pressure. The GFDL mini-ensemble mean projection result, up to 2100, contains a significant bias in the studied weather parameters. This is partly attributed to the coarse GFDL resolution (2° × 2°). After bias removal, the statistically downscaled simulations based on the GFDL mini-ensemble mean indicate that the climate in the study area will experience significant changes with a large range of uncertainty according to the considered scenario and regional variations.
Relationship between delayed luminescence emission and mitochondrial status in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Tian Miao , Li Qing , Liu Yang , Zheng Peng , Li Danyu , Zhao Yanpeng , Wang Bing , Li Chenhao , Wang Jing , Gao Peng , Tang Qing , Zhang Xiaochun , Wu Hong
Published: January 2022

Delayed luminescence (DL) is gradually used in various detection of biological systems as a rapid detection technique, however, its biological mechanism was still not clear. In this study, a new model of DL detection system for liquid biological samples is established to investigate the DL emission of Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells cultured in different glucose concentrations. We analyzed the relationship between the DL emission and cell growth, cell vitality, mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), as well as mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) in S. cerevisiae cells cultured with 0.01, 0.05, 0.15, 3, 10 and 20 g/L glucose respectively. It was found that the DL emission had strong correlation with mitochondrial morphology, OCR, and MMP. The results suggested that DL is an indicator of mitochondria status under different glucose supply conditions, and may be an effective method to detect mitochondrial metabolism related disorders.
FTY720 in resistant human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer
Authors: Chung Wei-Pang , Huang Wei-Lun , Liao Wei-An , Hung Chun-Hua , Chiang Chi-Wu , Cheung Chun Hei Antonio , Su Wu-Chou
Published: January 2022

The prognosis of patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer has considerably improved. However, no reliable treatment besides anti-HER2 strategies has been available. FTY720, a small-molecule compound used for treating refractory multiple sclerosis, has been reported to have beneficial effects against cancers. We therefore evaluated the efficacy of FTY720 in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cells and investigated the possible mechanism involved. This study evaluated morphological changes after FTY720 treatment. Antiproliferative WST-1 assays and LDH Cytotoxicity Assay Kits were used to determine the treatment effects of drugs, whereas Western blot analysis was used to evaluate protein expression. Apoptotic events were investigated through annexin V staining and TUNEL assays using flow cytometry. FTY720 was effective in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cell lines despite the presence of PIK3CA mutation. Studied on a xenograft mouse model, FTY720-treated groups had statistically significantly poorer HCC1954 xenograft growth in vivo compared with the control group. Our findings suggest that FTY720 can overcome resistance to trastuzumab therapy in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, with FTY720 plus trastuzumab might offer even better efficacy in vitro and in vivo.
Bioepoxy based hybrid composites from nano-fillers of chicken feather and lignocellulose Ceiba Pentandra
Authors: Rangappa Sanjay Mavinkere , Parameswaranpillai Jyotishkumar , Siengchin Suchart , Jawaid Mohammad , Ozbakkaloglu Togay
Published: January 2022

In this work, fillers of waste chicken feather and abundantly available lignocellulose Ceiba Pentandra bark fibers were used as reinforcement with Biopoxy matrix to produce the sustainable composites. The aim of this work was to evaluate the mechanical, thermal, dimensional stability, and morphological performance of waste chicken feather fiber/Ceiba Pentandra bark fiber filler as potential reinforcement in carbon fabric-layered bioepoxy hybrid composites intended for engineering applications. These composites were prepared by a simple, low cost and user-friendly fabrication methods. The mechanical (tensile, flexural, impact, hardness), dimensional stability, thermal stability, and morphological properties of composites were characterized. The Ceiba Pentandra bark fiber filler-reinforced carbon fabric-layered bioepoxy hybrid composites display better mechanical performance compared to chicken feather fiber/Ceiba Pentandra bark fiber reinforced carbon fabrics layered bioepoxy hybrid composites. The Scanning electron micrographs indicated that the composites exhibited good adhesion at the interface of the reinforcement material and matrix system. The thermogravimetric studies revealed that the composites possess multiple degradation steps, however, they are stable up to 300 °C. The thermos-mechanical studies showed good dimensional stability of the composites. Both studied composites display better thermal and mechanical performance compared to neat bioepoxy or non-bioepoxy thermosets and are suitable for semi-structural applications.
Ensemble learning from ensemble docking: revisiting the optimum ensemble size problem
Authors: Mohammadi Sara , Narimani Zahra , Ashouri Mitra , Firouzi Rohoullah , Karimi‐Jafari Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2022

Despite considerable advances obtained by applying machine learning approaches in protein–ligand affinity predictions, the incorporation of receptor flexibility has remained an important bottleneck. While ensemble docking has been used widely as a solution to this problem, the optimum choice of receptor conformations is still an open question considering the issues related to the computational cost and false positive pose predictions. Here, a combination of ensemble learning and ensemble docking is suggested to rank different conformations of the target protein in light of their importance for the final accuracy of the model. Available X-ray structures of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) in complex with different ligands are used as an initial receptor ensemble, and its redundancy is removed through a graph-based redundancy removal, which is shown to be more efficient and less subjective than clustering-based representative selection methods. A set of ligands with available experimental affinity are docked to this nonredundant receptor ensemble, and the energetic features of the best scored poses are used in an ensemble learning procedure based on the random forest method. The importance of receptors is obtained through feature selection measures, and it is shown that a few of the most important conformations are sufficient to reach 1 kcal/mol accuracy in affinity prediction with considerable improvement of the early enrichment power of the models compared to the different ensemble docking without learning strategies. A clear strategy has been provided in which machine learning selects the most important experimental conformers of the receptor among a large set of protein–ligand complexes while simultaneously maintaining the final accuracy of affinity predictions at the highest level possible for available data. Our results could be informative for future attempts to design receptor-specific docking-rescoring strategies.
Iodine-catalyzed oxidative annulation: facile synthesis of pyrazolooxepinopyrazolones via methyl azaarene sp3 C–H functionalization
Authors: Zhang Xin-Ke , Miao Xiao-Yu , Zhou Yu , Wang Yu-Mei , Song Ying-Chun , Liu Hang , Xiong Yi-Lu , Li Ling-Yu , Wu An-Xin , Zhu Yan-Ping
Published: January 2022

An iodine-catalyzed methyl azaarene sp3 C–H functionalization has been developed for the synthesis of pyrazolooxepinopyrazolones. This method has wide range of substrates, low catalyst loading, good functional group tolerance and metal-free conditions.
Phosphorus doping induced the co-construction of sulfur vacancies and heterojunctions in tin disulfide as a durable anode for lithium/sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Kong Zhen , Huang Meiling , Liang Zhenyan , Tu Huayao , Zhang Kang , Shao Yongliang , Wu Yongzhong , Hao Xiaopeng
Published: January 2022

A tin-based sulfide composite with heterojunctions and sulfur vacancies induced by phosphorus doping was successfully synthesized. The obtained SnS2−xPx/RGO electrodes exhibit superior high-rate, long-term cycling stability for both LIBs and SIBs.
Characteristics, properties, synthesis and advanced applications of 2D graphdiyne versus graphene
Authors: Zhao Ying , Chai Luxiao , Yan Xiaobing , Huang Weichun , Fan Taojian , Al-Hartomy Omar A. , Al-Ghamdi Ahmed , Wageh Swelm , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Xie Zhongjian , Zhang Han
Published: January 2022

Graphdiyne is a newly discovered two-dimensional planar carbon allotrope with highly π-conjugated interactions. This review aims to introduce graphdiyne and describe its similarities and differences with graphene to better understand the graphdiyne.
The phase behaviour of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride surfactant aqueous solutions at high concentrations: an all-atom molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Tsourtou Flora D. , Peroukidis Stavros D. , Peristeras Loukas D.
Published: January 2022

The hexagonal columnar phase of CTAC surfactant as spontaneously occurred in our all atoms MD simulations visualized with two different viewpoints.
Unveiling the substructure of the massive clump AGAL G035.1330−00.7450
Authors: Ortega M. E. , Marinelli A. , Isequilla N. L. , Paron S.
Published: January 2022

Context. It is known that high-mass stars form as the result of the fragmentation of massive molecular clumps. However, it is not clear whether this fragmentation gives rise to cores that are massive enough to directly form high-mass stars, or if leads to cores of low and intermediate masses that generate high-mass stars by acquiring material from their environment.

Aims. Detailed studies of massive clumps at the early stage of star formation are needed to collect observational evidence that sheds light on the fragmentation processes from clump to core scales. The infrared-quiet massive clump AGAL G035.1330−00.7450 (AGAL35) located at a distance of 2.1 kpc is a promising object for studying the fragmentation and the star formation activity at early stages.

Methods. Using millimeter observations of continuum and molecular lines obtained from the Atacama Large Millimeter Array database at Bands 6 and 7, we studied the substructure of the source AGAL35. The angular resolution of the data at Band 7 is about 0.′′7, which allowed us to resolve structures of about 0.007 pc (~1500 au).

Results. The continuum emission at Bands 6 and 7 shows that AGAL35 harbors four dust cores, labeled C1 to C4, with masses lower than 3 M⊙. Cores C3 and C4 exhibit well-collimated, young, and low-mass molecular outflows related to molecular hydrogen emission-line objects that were previously detected. Cores C1 and C2 present CH3CN J = 13–12 emission, from which we derive rotational temperatures of about 180 and 100 K, respectively. These temperatures allow us to estimate masses of about 1.4 and 0.9 M⊙ for C1 and C2, respectively, which are about an order of magnitude lower than those estimated in previous works and agree with the Jeans mass of this clump. In particular, the moment 1 map of CH3CN emission suggests the presence of a rotating disk towards C1, which is confirmed by the CH3OH and CH3OCHO (20–19) emissions. On the other hand, the CN N = 2–1 emission shows a clumpy and filamentary structure that seems to connect all the cores. These filaments might be tracing the remnant gas of the fragmentation processes taking place within the massive clump AGAL35 or the gas that is being transported toward the cores, which would imply a competitive accretion scenario.

Conclusions. The massive clump AGAL35 harbors four low- to intermediate-mass cores with masses lower than 3 M⊙, which is about an order of magnitude smaller than the masses estimated in previous works. This study shows that in addition to the importance of high-resolution and sensitivity observations for a complete detection of all fragments, it is very important to accurately determine the temperature of these cores for a correct mass estimation. Finally, although no high-mass cores were detected toward AGAL35, the filamentary structure connecting all the cores means that high-mass stars might form through the competitive accretion mechanism.
A WISE view on extreme AGB stars
Authors: Groenewegen M. A. T.
Published: January 2022

Context. Variability is a key property of stars on the asymptotic giant branch (AGB). Their pulsation period is related to the luminosity and mass-loss rate (MLR) of the star. Long-period variables (LPVs) and Mira variables are the most prominent of all types of variability of evolved stars. However, the reddest, most obscured AGB stars are too faint in the optical and have eluded large variability surveys.

Aims. Our goal is to obtain a sample of LPVs with large MLRs by analysing WISE W1 and W2 light curves (LCs) for about 2000 sources, photometrically selected to include known C-stars with the 11.3 μm silicon carbide dust feature in absorption, and Galactic O-stars with periods longer than 1000 days.

Methods. Epoch photometry was retrieved from the AllWISE and NEOWISE database and fitted with a sinus curve. Photometry from other variability surveys was also downloaded and fitted. For a subset of 316 of the reddest stars, spectral energy distributions (SEDs) were constructed, and, together with mid-infrared (MIR) spectra when available, fitted with a dust radiative transfer programme in order to derive MLRs.

Results. WISE based LCs and fits to the data are presented for all stars. Periods from the literature and periods from refitting other literature data are presented. The results of the spatial correlation with several (IR) databases is presented. About one-third of the sources are found to be not real, but it appears that these cannot be easily filtered out by using WISE flags. Some are clones of extremely bright sources, and in some cases the LCs show the known pulsation period. Inspired by a recent paper, a number of non-variable OH/IRs are identified. Based on a selection on amplitude, a sample of about 750 (candidate) LPVs is selected of which 145 have periods > 1000 days, many of them being new. For the subset of the stars with the colours of C-rich extremely red objects (EROs) the fitting of the SEDs (and available MIR spectra) separates them into C- and O-rich objects. Interestingly, the fitting of MIR spectra of mass-losing C-stars is shown to be a powerful tracer of interstellar reddening when AV ≳ 2 mag. The number of Galactic EROs appears to be complete up to about 5 kpc and a total dust return rate in the solar neighbourhood for this class is determined. In the LMC 12 additional EROs are identified. Although this represents only about 0.15% of the total known LMC C-star population adding their MLRs increases the previously estimated dust return by 8%. Based on the EROs in the Magellanic Clouds, a bolometric period luminosity is derived. It is pointed out that due to their faintness, EROs and similar O-rich objects are ideal targets for a NIR version of Gaia to obtain distances, observing in the K-band or, even more efficiently, in the L-band.
disnht: Modeling X-ray absorption from distributed column densities
Authors: Locatelli Nicola , Ponti Gabriele , Bianchi Stefano
Published: January 2022

Collecting and analyzing X-ray photons over either spatial or temporal scales encompassing varying optical depth values requires knowledge about the optical depth distribution. For a sufficiently broad optical depth distribution, assuming a single column density value leads to a misleading interpretation of the source emission properties, nominally its spectral model. We present a model description for the interstellar medium absorption in X-ray spectra at moderate energy resolution, extracted over spatial or temporal regions encompassing a set of independent column densities. The absorption model (called disnht) approximates the distribution with a lognormal distribution and is presented in table format. The solution table and source code are made available and can be further generalized or tailored for arbitrary optical depth distributions encompassed by the extraction region. The disnht absorption model and its generalized solution are expected to be relevant for current and upcoming large angular scale analyses of diffuse X-ray emission, such as those from the extended ROentgen Survey with an Imaging Telescope Array (eROSITA) and the future Athena missions.
Carbon-coated stainless steel as a bipolar plate material in PEM water electrolyzers
Authors: Proch Sebastian , Bexell Ulf , Moffatt Claire , Stenström Mikael , Bernuy-Lopez Carlos , Westlinder Jörgen , Becker Hans , Smith Graham , Dickinson Edmund J.F. , Hinds Gareth , Wilke Vincent , Stiber Svenja , Gago Aldo
Published: January 2022

The kinetically sluggish oxygen evolution reaction in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWEs) leads to high potentials of >1.5 V vs RHE at the anode electrode during operation. In contrast, an investigation with an in situ reference electrode indicates a much lower potential at the anode side of the bipolar plate which would allow the use of stainless steel and carbon as the bipolar plate materials. This decoupling is induced by the low conductivity of the circulating deionized water. In single cell electrolyzer tests, we show that carbon-coated 316L (C-316L) stainless steel is suitable as a bipolar plate material in contact with the anode and cathode sides of the PEMWE. The coating remains stable throughout the experiments, i.e., 720 h at the anode and 1000 h at the cathode side. Based on these results we regard carbon-coated stainless steel as a sustainable solution for the large-scale application of PEM water electrolysis since it might replace (Pt-coated) titanium in the bipolar plate.
Towards stable and highly active IrO2 catalysts supported on doped tin oxides for the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media
Authors: Delgado Sofia , Lakhtaria Paranjeet , Sousa Eva , Lagarteira Tiago , Friedrich K.A. , Mendes Adélio
Published: January 2022

Iridium oxide is the preferred catalyst for water oxidation but it is required to maximize its utilization to deploy Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers (PEMWEs) into the large-scale applications panorama. A promising pathway for dispersing this precious catalyst is on an electric conductive and stable support. However, there is a lack of understanding how the support-catalyst interactions affect the stability/activity of the electrocatalyst under anodic conditions. This work discloses a modified, easy-scalable, polyol synthesis protocol to produce a highly active and stable iridium-based catalyst, supported on metal-doped tin oxides. The loading of Ir was reduced 30 wt.% compared to the reference IrO2, and dispersed on Sb-SnO2 (IrOx/ATO), In-SnO2 (IrOx/ITO) and SnO2 supports. All synthesized electrocatalysts not only surpassed the OER-mass activity of a commercial catalyst (IrO2) – reference – but also reached higher electrochemical active surface areas and enhanced stability under the OER conditions. The highest performance was achieved with Ir NPs supported on ITO (176 A/gIr vs. 15.5 A/gIr for the reference catalyst @ 1.51 V vs. RHE) and both IrOx/ITO and IrOx/SnO2 catalysts demonstrated remarkable stability after cycling the electrode and performing long-term chronopotentiometry. ITO is, therefore, an auspicious support to serve Ir-based catalysts as it favors a good bargain between activity and stability, while drastically reducing the amount of noble metal.
Thermal integration of PEM Fuel Cells and metal hydrides storage system for Zero Emission Ultimate Ship (ZEUS)
Authors: Cavo Matteo , Gadducci Eleonora , Rivarolo Massimo , Magistri Loredana , Dellacasa Andrea , Romanello Matteo , Borgogna Gerardo , Davico Christian
Published: January 2022

The ZEUS (Zero Emission Ultimate Ship), developed in the framework of the national research project TecBia conducted by Fincantieri and co-founded by Italian Ministry of Economic Development, is a 25m length vessel characterized by a zero-emissions propulsion system. The on-board power generation is provided by 4 PEM Fuel Cell modules (140 kW power installation) fed by hydrogen stored into 48 Metal Hydride tanks (MH). PEMFC and MH thermal systems are coupled to recover the heat produced by PEMFC and to feed the endothermic dissociation reactions of hydrogen from MHs. This paper provides a Matlab-Simulink model to simulate the dynamic behaviour of the PEMFC power generation system and the thermal coupling with MH racks installed onboard. Three typical operative profiles are simulated to verify the thermal management control system and the impact of transient conditions on the propulsion plant. Furthermore, the effects of the major exogenous parameters are investigated. Results verify that thermal coupling between the two systems is guaranteed; however, an excessive load increase can lead the stacks to operate under non-optimal conditions for significant periods of time. The effect of exogenous parameters has been verified to be negligible and does not significantly affect the control system.
Distribution of current density across the active area at various stoichiometry ratios using the JRC ZERO∇CELL single cell PEM fuel cell testing hardware
Authors: Bednarek Tomasz
Published: January 2022

The performance of the PEM fuel cell directly depends on the partial pressure of provided reactants, namely hydrogen and oxygen. Since reactants are consumed in the fuel cell reaction, partial pressure of reactants decreases in the direction of reactants flow. This well-known mechanism makes the performance of the fuel cell dependent on the stoichiometry ratios of input reactants. The JRC ZERO∇CELL, a single cell PEM fuel cell testing setup, is developed to provide as much as possible uniform operating conditions at the 10cm2 active area specimen, hence giving uniform current density across the active area of the cell. To investigate what is the real gradient of current density across the active area for the JRC ZERO∇CELL at various reactant stoichiometry ratios, segmented bi-polar plates and current collectors are developed. This study presents experimental investigation of the current density distribution across the active area of the JRC ZERO∇CELL setup at range of reactant stoichiometry ratios from λ = 2 up to λ = 15. Current density gradients are considered along the gas flow as well as in the transverse direction. The experimental results show that the current density gradient across the active area, although dependant on the reactants stoichiometry ratios, is relatively small as compared with a wide range of investigated stoichiometry ratios.
Diagnostic Benefit of the Detection of Mitotic Figures in Endometriotic Lesions
Authors: Wetzk Michelle , Grübling Nannette , Forberger Almuth , Klengel Jörg , Kuhlmann Jan Dominik , Wimberger Pauline , Goeckenjan Maren
Published: January 2022

Objectives Endometriosis is a chronic disease which is diagnosed by surgical intervention combined with a histological work-up. Current international and national recommendations do
not require the histological determination of the proliferation rate. The diagnostic and clinical importance of the mitotic rate in endometriotic lesions still remains to be elucidated.

Methods In this retrospective study, the mitotic rates and clinical data of 542 patients with histologically diagnosed endometriosis were analyzed. The mean patient age was
33.5 ± 8.0 (17 – 72) years, and the mean reproductive lifespan was 21.2 ± 7.8 (4 – 41) years. Patients were divided into two groups and patientsʼ reproductive history and clinical
endometriosis characteristics were compared between groups. The study group consisted of women with confirmed mitotic figures (n = 140, 25.83%) and the control group comprised women without
proliferative activity according to their mitotic rates (n = 402, 74.27%).

Results Women with endometriotic lesions and histologically confirmed mitotic figures were significantly more likely to have a higher endometriosis stage (p = 0.001), deep
infiltrating endometriosis (p < 0.001), ovarian endometrioma (p = 0.012), and infertility (p = 0.049). A mitotic rate > 0 was seen significantly less often in cases with incidental
findings of endometriosis (p = 0.031). The presence of symptoms and basic characteristics such as age, age at onset of menarche, reproductive lifespan and parity did not differ between the
group with and the group without mitotic figures.

Conclusion This study shows that a simple histological assessment of the mitotic rate offers additional diagnostic value for the detection of advanced stages of endometriosis. The
possible role as a predictive marker for the recurrence of endometriosis or the development of endometriosis-associated cancer will require future study.
Fetale Alkoholspektrum-Störungen im Erwachsenenalter
– Ergebnisse aus einer diagnostischen Sprechstunde
Authors: Sappok Tanja , Tergeist Marlene , Kruse Björn , Wagner Jessica
Published: January 2022

Ziel der Studie Fetale Alkoholspektrum-Störungen sind nicht nur
häufig, sie sind aufgrund des hohen Risikos für psychiatrische
Komorbiditäten auch im Erwachsenenalter klinisch relevant. Die
diagnostische Abklärung im Erwachsenenalter ist die Voraussetzung
für eine zielgerichtete Behandlung und bedarfsgerechte
Unterstützung.

Methodik In einer Metropolenregion wurde zwischen Mai 2015
und Juli 2020 bei 80 Personen der Verdacht auf eine FASD diagnostisch
abgeklärt. Die Ergebnisse dieser interdisziplinären Diagnostik
wurden systematisch ausgewertet und die klinischen Charakteristika der Personen
mit bzw. ohne FASD analysiert.

Ergebnisse Bei ca. 70% der
Inanspruchnahmepopulation wurde eine Diagnose aus dem FAS-Spektrum gestellt.
Personen mit FASD zeigten häufiger eine Lernbehinderung (50 vs.
33%) oder Intelligenzminderung (40 vs. 10%), während
keine Gruppenunterschiede für Alter und Geschlecht bestanden.
Psychiatrische Komorbiditäten, insbesondere Depressionen (39%)
und Abhängigkeitserkrankungen (31%), waren in beiden Gruppen
häufig.

Schlussfolgerung Im Rahmen einer multiprofessionellen
standardisierten Diagnostik ist die FASD Abklärung auch im
Erwachsenenalter möglich und nötig. Die Entwicklung
standardisierter und spezifischer Diagnosekriterien für Erwachsene ist
sinnvoll.
Mechanochemiluminescent Hydrogels for Real-Time Visualization of Chemical Bond Scission
Authors: Chen Yulan , Li Qing , Wang Qi , Yuan Yuan
Published: January 2022

Quantitative and real-time characterization of mechanically induced bond-scission events taken place in polymeric hydrogels is essential to uncover their fracture mechanics. Herein, a class of mechanochemiluminescent swelling hydrogels have been synthesized through a facile micellar copolymerization method using chemiluminescent bisacrylate-modified bis(adamantyl)-1,2-dioxetane (Ad) as a crosslinker. This design and synthetic strategy ensure intense mechanochemiluminescence from Ad located in a hydrophobic network inside micelles. Moreover, the mechanochemiluminescent colors can be tailored from blue to red by mixing variant acceptors. Taking advantages of the transient nature of dioxetane chemiluminescence, the damage distribution and crack evolution of the hydrogels can be visualized and analyzed with high spatial and temporal resolution. The results demonstrate the strengths of the Ad mechanophore and micellar copolymerization method in the study of damage
evolution and fracture mechanism of swelling hydrogels.
Synthesis of Isoquinoline-1,3(2H,4H)-diones by Visible-Light-Mediated Cyclization of Acryloylbenzamides with Alkylboronic Acids, Arylsulfonyl Hydrazides and Oxime Esters
Authors: Cheng Dongping , Xu Xiaoliang , Fu Jiahui , Cai Xingxing , Liu Yihuo , Li Jinghua
Published: January 2022

An efficient visible-light-mediated tandem reaction of acryl­oylbenzamides with alkylboronic acids, arylsulfonyl hydrazides and oxime esters has been developed. The reaction proceeds via radical addition and cyclization to give various isoquinoline-1,3(2H,4H)-diones in satisfactory yields under mild conditions, which provides a good opportunity to discover new meaningful bioactive compounds.
Nasal mucoepidermoid carcinoma after radiotherapy: Case report
Authors: Nery Breno , Costa Victor Ribeiro Xavier , Pinto Glaudir Donato , Diniz Andrey Maia Silva , Freitas Lucas Ribeiro de Moraes , Leone Davi Coutinho Marcelino Guerra , Segundo José Alencar de Sousa , Enout Mariana Junqueira Reis , Quaggio Eduardo , Rivero Renan Lopez
Published: January 2022

Introduction Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a tumor originated from the epithelium of the glandular excretory ducts and has highly variable biological potential. It is the most prevalent cancer of the salivary glands. The present report aims to describe a case of nasal mucoepidermoid carcinoma that developed after adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) treatment of a recurrent pituitary macroadenoma.

Case Report Male patient, 62 years old, presented with recurrent nasal epistaxis on the right, associated with intense pulsatile headache, visual analogical scale (VAS) 10/10, with improvement only with the use of opioids and morphine. After undergoing oncological screening and study by imaging exams, the presence of an expansive seal lesion with suprasellar extension was seen, involving the medial wall of the cavernous segment of the right carotid artery and the anterior cerebral artery, as well as the presence of a new expansive lesion in the right nasal cavity, with ethmoid bone invasion superiorly and medial orbit wall invasion laterally, compressing the ipsilateral optic nerve canal.

Discussion Sinonasal neoplasms represent a small portion of all malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract, accounting for < 5% of these neoplasms. The development of MEC involves risk factors such as occupational issues, history of trauma and surgery involving the nasal area, and radiation exposure, as in previous RT.

Conclusion Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is an uncommon neoplasia and can be associated with RT treatment, as used in cases of recurrent pituitary macroadenoma. In general, surgical resection to obtain free margins of neoplastic tissue is the aimed treatment, seeking better prognosis.