bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost effectiveness analysis of single and sequential testing strategies for tuberculosis infection in adults living with HIV in the United States
Authors: Fekadu Ginenus , Yao Jiaqi , You Joyce H. S.
Published: November 2022

Tuberculosis infection (TBI) frequently progresses to tuberculosis (TB) disease in people co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We examined the cost-effectiveness of single, sequential and no testing (total 12) strategies of TBI in HIV-infected people from the perspective of US healthcare provider. A decision-analytic model (20-year timeframe) was constructed to simulate TB-related outcomes: Direct medical cost and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). In the base-case analysis, the “confirm negative TST followed by QFT-Plus” strategy gained 0.1170 QALY at a total cost of USD3377. In the probabilistic sensitivity analysis of 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations, the probability of “confirm negative TST followed by QFT-Plus” to be accepted as cost-effective was the highest of all 12 strategies when the willingness-to-pay threshold exceeded 2340 USD/QALY. In conclusion, the strategy of “confirm negative TST followed by QFT-Plus” appears to be the preferred cost-effective option for TBI testing in HIV-infected people from the US healthcare provider’s perspective.
A novel refined pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes signature for predicting prognosis and immune microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zuo Jieliang , Yi Chenhe , Chen Zhenmei , Zhou Bo , Yang Tingsong , Lin Jing
Published: November 2022

Pyroptosis is an inflammatory form of cell death, which plays a key role in the development of auto-inflammation and cancer. This study aimed to construct a pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes for predicting prognosis of the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This study was based primarily on the one-way analysis of variance, univariate Cox regression analysis, Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression, a risk-prognostic signature, gene set variation analysis (GSVA), and immune microenvironment analysis, using PDAC data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and International Cancer Genome Consortium databases for the analysis of the role of 676 pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes in PDAC retrieved from the Reactome and GeneCards databases. Lastly, we collected six paired PDAC and matched normal adjacent tissue samples to verify the expression of signature genes by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). We identified 18 candidate pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes that differed significantly between pathologic grades (stages) of PDAC patients. The univariate Cox and LASSO analyses pointed to six genes as the best variables for constructing a prognostic signature, including ACTA2, C1QTNF9, DNAH8, GATM, LBP, and NGF. The results of the risk prognostic model indicated that the AUCs at 1, 3, and 5 years were greater than 0.62. GSVA revealed that ‘GLYCOLYSIS’, ‘P53 PATHWAY’, ‘KRAS SIGNALING UP’, and ‘INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE’ hallmark gene sets were associated with the risk score. The high-risk group was associated with poor prognosis and was characterized by a lower infiltration of cells involved in anti-tumor immunity; whereas the low-risk group with higher T cells, NK cells, and macrophages showed relatively better survival and significantly higher upregulation of cytolytic scores and inflammation scores. Additionally, crucial pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes were further validated by qRT-PCR. Our study revealed the prognostic role of the pyroptosis and inflammasome-related genes in PDAC for the first time. Simultaneously, the biological and prognostic heterogeneity of PDAC had been demonstrated, deepening our molecular understanding of this tumor.
Reference genes expression stability in Avena sativa L. during compatible and incompatible interactions with Puccinia graminis
Authors: Sowa Sylwia , Sozoniuk Magdalena , Toporowska Joanna , Kowalczyk Krzysztof , Paczos-Grzęda Edyta
Published: November 2022

A reliable qPCR experiment requires the selection of reference genes with a stable level of expression in a given experimental system. This study attempts to determine the reference genes (RGs) for the A. sativa–P. graminis experimental setup. We evaluated nine candidate reference genes in A. sativa (oat line Pg4 and the cultivar Kasztan) during compatible and incompatible interactions with different pathotypes of Puccinia graminis f. sp. avenae in six time points post-inoculation. The identification of genes with high expression stability was performed by four algorithms (geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and ΔCt method). We found that the most appropriate combination of RGs for RT-qPCR data normalization were HNR (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein 27C) + EF1A (elongation factor 1-alpha) + EIF4A (eukaryotic initiation factor 4A-3). The worst candidates for normalization in this dataset were CYP (cyclophilin) and TUA (alpha tubulin). Identified reference genes are suitable candidates for the standardization of gene expression studies in the A. sativa–P. graminis interaction system and potentially other related pathogens. To date, this is the first report of RGs selection in this pathosystem.
The influence of Chinese scholars on global research
Authors: Lin Wen-Chiao , Chang Chih-Wei
Published: November 2022

The rise of China as a scientific research superpower has been frequently discussed in media and literature. However, past analyses are usually based on the geographical database and they ignore how the millions of emigrated Chinese students, who are now being considered the major research workforce in many countries, affect their academic outputs. Here we quantitatively analyze the contribution of Chinese scholars in physical science around the globe by their publications in a country’s papers from 2010 to 2021 as well as their citations. Contrary to common perception, we find that increasing the number of Chinese scholars does not correlate with the net publication growth or decline in their host countries before the Chinese population exceeds a critical value. On the other hand, increasing Chinese authors in a paper improves its citations. The phenomena, though anomalous, are observed in many subfields of physics across the globe. Our analysis suggests that although Chinese scholars do not change the perceived publication capabilities of many countries but may have reshaped their research culture as well as workforce distributions. The results would be valuable for R&D, higher education, and immigration policymakers.
Exploring Natura 2000 habitats by satellite image segmentation combined with phytosociological data: a case study from the Čierny Balog area (Central Slovakia)
Authors: Čahojová Lucia , Ambroz Martin , Jarolímek Ivan , Kollár Michal , Mikula Karol , Šibík Jozef , Šibíková Mária
Published: November 2022

Natura 2000 is a network of protected areas covering Europe's most valuable and threatened species and habitats. Recently, biota belonging to these networks have been threatened by both climate change and various human impacts. Regular monitoring is needed to ensure effective protection and proper management measures in these sites and habitats, but conventional field approaches are often time-consuming and inaccurate. New approaches and studies with different focuses and results are being developed. Our approach includes point data from field research and phytosociological databases as starting points for automatic segmentation, which has been developed just recently as a novel method that could help to connect ground-based and remote sensing data. Our case study is located in Central Slovakia, in the mountains around the village of Čierny Balog. The main aim of our case study is to apply advanced remote sensing techniques to map the area and condition of vegetation units. We focus on forest habitats belonging mainly to the Natura 2000 network. We concentrated on the verification of the possibilities of differentiation of various habitats using only multispectral Sentinel-2 satellite data. Our software NaturaSat created by our team was used to reach our objectives. After collecting data in the field using phytosociological approach and segmenting the explored areas in the program NaturaSat, spectral characteristics were calculated within identified habitats using software tools, which were subsequently processed and tested statistically. We obtained significant differences between forest habitat types. Also, segmentation accuracy was tested by comparing closed planar curves of ground based filed data and software results. This provided promising results and validation of the methods used. The results of this study have the potential to be used in a wider area to map the occurrence and quality of Natura 2000 habitats.
Near-maximum microwave absorption in a thin metal film at the pseudo-free-standing limit
Authors: Haddadi. M Mahsa , Das Bamadev , Jeong Jeeyoon , Kim Sunghwan , Kim Dai-Sik
Published: November 2022

Electromagnetic absorbers based on ultra-thin metallic film are desirable for many applications such as plasmonics, metamaterials, and long-wavelength detectors. A metallic film will achieve a maximum 50% of electromagnetic wave absorption, frequency independent, at a thickness defined by its conductivity, typically in the sub-Angstrom range for good metals if bulk conductivity is maintained throughout. This makes it extremely difficult to obtain substantial absorption from thin metal films, in contrast to 2D materials such as graphene. Luckily, however, from a practical point of view, metal conductivity is drastically reduced as the film becomes sub-100 nm, to make it a race between the thinnest possible metal thickness experimentally achievable vs the conductivity reduction. Here, we demonstrate a near-50% absorption at a gold film thickness of 6.5 nm, with conductivity much reduced from the bulk value, down to the range of 106 Siemens per meter. Studying the effect of the substrate thickness, we found that the common cover glass, with its thickness much smaller than the wavelength, achieves symmetric absorption of 44%, implying that a pseudo-free-standing limit is achieved. Our work may find applications in infrared sensing as in bolometers and biomedical sensing using microwaves.
Cellular adaptations leading to coral fragment attachment on artificial substrates in Acropora millepora (Am-CAM)
Authors: Lewis Brett M. , Suggett David S. , Prentis Peter J. , Nothdurft Luke D.
Published: November 2022

Reproductive propagation by asexual fragmentation in the reef-building coral Acropora millepora depends on (1) successful attachment to the reef substrate through modification of soft tissues and (2) a permanent bond with skeletal encrustation. Despite decades of research examining asexual propagation in corals, the initial response, cellular reorganisation, and development leading to fragment substrate attachment via a newly formed skeleton has not been documented in its entirety. Here, we establish the first "coral attachment model" for this species ("Am-CAM") by developing novel methods that allow correlation of fluorescence and electron microscopy image data with in vivo microscopic time-lapse imagery. This multi-scale imaging approach identified three distinct phases involved in asexual propagation: (1) the contact response of the coral fragment when contact with the substrate, followed by (2) fragment stabilisation through anchoring by the soft tissue, and (3) formation of a "lappet-like appendage" structure leading to substrate bonding of the tissue for encrustation through the onset of skeletal calcification. In developing Am-CAM, we provide new biological insights that can enable reef researchers, managers and coral restoration practitioners to begin evaluating attachment effectiveness, which is needed to optimise species-substrate compatibility and achieve effective outplanting.
Biological activities and antioxidant potential of different biosynthesized nanoparticles of Moringa oleifera
Authors: Shalaby Emad A. , Shanab Sanaa M. M. , El-Raheem Walaa M. Abd , Hanafy Eman A.
Published: November 2022

The science of nanotechnology is expanding daily and has the potential to benefit people. Moringa oleifera is an abundant source of phenolic compounds, which are bioactive substances. It is recognised as a necessary plant because of its medicinal potential and a wide variety of health benefits. The aim of the current study is to examine the antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxicity effects of five nanoparticles (La2O3, CuO, Fe2O3, Ag, and ZnO) made using bioactive chemicals in the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves on four human cell lines (T47D, HepG2, A549, and Wi38). The UV–visible spectroscopy analysis with a surface plasmon peak in the 300–490 nm range and the value of the zeta potential of the various biosynthesized nanoparticles ranged from + 31 to + 37 mV, indicated the repulsion between the particles and the stability of the formulation nanoparticles confirmed the formation of all nanoparticles. Additionally, the DPPH method was used to assess the antioxidant activity of five distinct metal nanoparticles. The results show that this method works in parallel and is dependent on both the concentration of NPs and the incubation time. The anticancer effect of synthesized nanoparticles against four different cell lines has been tested. The cytotoxicity assay showed a dose-dependent and time-dependent effect of nanoparticles. The obtained results conclude that acceptable potency against T47D and A549 cell lines with IC50 ranged from 38 to 210 μg/mL and 26 to 115 μg/mL, respectively. However, HepG2 and Wi38 cell lines showed relatively higher resistance against all tested nanoparticles when compared with Doxorubicin. Moreover, the antibacterial results revealed that silver nanoparticles exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against both Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Nanoparticles' high therapeutic activity at low concentrations opens up new avenues for the development of novel therapeutic approaches against human pathogens.
Extended coagulation profile of children with Long Covid: a prospective study
Authors: Di Gennaro Leonardo , Valentini Piero , Sorrentino Silvia , Ferretti Maria Antonietta , De Candia Erica , Basso Maria , Lancellotti Stefano , De Cristofaro Raimondo , De Rose Cristina , Mariani Francesco , Morello Rosa , Lazzareschi Ilaria , Sigfrid Louise , Munblit Daniel , Buonsenso Danilo
Published: November 2022

Emerging data suggests that endotheliopathy changes can be associated with post covid condition (PCC) in adults. Research on the matter in children is lacking. We analyzed an extended coagulation profile including biomarkers of endothelial damage in children with PCC and compared it with a control group of children that fully recovered post- SARS-CoV-2 infection. A case-control study enrolling children below 18 years of age with previous microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in a pediatric post-covid unit in Italy ≥ 8 weeks after the initial infection. Samples were taken at 8 and 12 weeks after the SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and analyzed for coagulation profiling (fibrinogen, prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time, d-dimers, factor VIII coagulant activity, plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen and VWF ristocetin cofactor (RC)). We compared coagulation profiles in samples from children identified with PCC (at least one, or three or more symptoms, which could not be explained by an alternative diagnosis, at the 8- and 12-week follow-up assessment using the pediatric Long Covid International Severe Acute Respiratory and Emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) survey. Seventy-five children were enrolled, 49.3% were females, the median age was 10.2 (IQR 4.9) years. Forty-six (61%) of the children had at least one persisting symptom at the eight weeks post-onset, (PCC8); 39/75 (52%) had persistent symptoms for more than 12 weeks (PCC12) and 15/75(32%) had at least three persisting symptoms (PCC ≥ 3) at 12 weeks. Children with PCC presented more frequently with abnormal D-Dimer levels above the reference range compared to children that had fully recovered at the 8–12 weeks (39.1% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.04), and 12 week follow up or more (41% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.05), and in children with three or more symptoms at 12 weeks follow up compared to those that had recovered (64.3% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.002). For the other coagulation profiles, there were abnormal values detected for VWF, FVIII, RC and Fibrinogen but no significant differences between children with PCC compared to controls. Although the majority of children in our cohort showed coagulation profile within or close to normal ranges, we found that a higher proportion of children with PCC, and specifically those with a more severe spectrum characterized with three or more persisting symptoms, had abnormal D-dimer levels compared to other children that fully recovered from an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.
X-ray crystalographic data, absolute configuration, and anticholinesterase effect of dihydromyricitrin 3-O-rhamnoside
Authors: Elsebai Mahmoud Fahmi , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Salmas Ramin Ekhteiari , Orhan Ilkay Erdogan , Senol Deniz Fatma Sezer
Published: November 2022

Based on our continuous effort to investigate chemistry and biology of the plant secondary metabolites, we were able to isolate a glycosidal flavonoid 1 from the Wild Egyptian Artichoke. The activity of dihydromyricetin 3-O-rhamnoside (sin. dihydromyricitrin, ampelopsin 3-O-rhamnoside) (1) against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE); its absolute configuration using X-ray crystallography were determined for the first time. Inhibitory activity of 1 against AChE and BChE enzymes were determined using a slightly modified version of Ellman’s method. Compound 1 was revealed to have a potent inhibition against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) with IC50 values of 0.070 ± 0.008 and 0.071 ± 0.004 mM, respectively, where IC50 values of the reference drug (galanthamine) were 0.023 ± 0.15 and 0.047 ± 0.91 mM. Compound 1 could be a promising molecule against Alzheimer’s disease.
Symbiont genotype influences holobiont response to increased temperature
Authors: Moffat Jennica J. , Coffroth Mary Alice , Wallingford Piper D. , terHorst Casey P.
Published: November 2022

As coral reefs face warming oceans and increased coral bleaching, a whitening of the coral due to loss of microalgal endosymbionts, the possibility of evolutionary rescue offers some hope for reef persistence. In tightly linked mutualisms, evolutionary rescue may occur through evolution of the host and/or endosymbionts. Many obligate mutualisms are composed of relatively small, fast-growing symbionts with greater potential to evolve on ecologically relevant time scales than their relatively large, slower growing hosts. Numerous jellyfish species harbor closely related endosymbiont taxa to other cnidarian species such as coral, and are commonly used as a model system for investigating cnidarian mutualisms. We examined the potential for adaptation of the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea xamachana to increased temperature via evolution of its microalgal endosymbiont, Symbiodinium microadriaticum. We quantified trait variation among five algal genotypes in response to three temperatures (26 °C, 30 °C, and 32 °C) and fitness of hosts infected with each genotype. All genotypes showed positive growth rates at each temperature, but rates of respiration and photosynthesis decreased with increased temperature. Responses varied among genotypes but were unrelated to genetic similarity. The effect of temperature on asexual reproduction and the timing of development in the host also depended on the genotype of the symbiont. Natural selection could favor different algal genotypes at different temperatures, affecting host fitness. This eco-evolutionary interaction may be a critical component of understanding species resilience in increasingly stressful environments.
Anti-liver fibrosis activity of curcumin/chitosan-coated green silver nanoparticles
Authors: Elzoheiry Alya , Ayad Esraa , Omar Nahed , Elbakry Kadry , Hyder Ayman
Published: November 2022

Liver fibrosis results from the hepatic accumulation of the extracellular matrix accompanied by a failure of the mechanisms responsible for matrix dissolution. Pathogenesis of liver fibrosis is associated with many proteins from different cell types. In the present study, in silico molecular docking analysis revealed that curcumin may inhibit the fibrosis-mediating proteins PDGF, PDGFRB, TIMP-1, and TLR-9 by direct binding. Nano-formulation can overcome curcumin problems, increasing the efficacy of curcumin as a drug by maximizing its solubility and bioavailability, enhancing its membrane permeability, and improving its pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and biodistribution. Therefore, green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in the presence of sunlight by means of the metabolite of Streptomyces malachiticus, and coated with curcumin-chitosan mixture to serve as a drug delivery tool for curcumin to target CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model. Fibrosis induction significantly increased hepatic gene expression of COL1A1, α-SMA, PDGFRB, and TIMP1, elevated hepatic enzymes, increased histopathological findings, and increased collagen deposition as determined by Mason’s trichrome staining. Treatment with naked AgNPs tended to increase these inflammatory effects, while their coating with chitosan, similar to treatment with curcumin only, did not prevent the fibrogenic effect of CCl4. The induction of liver fibrosis was reversed by concurrent treatment with curcumin/chitosan-coated AgNPs. In this nano form, curcumin was found to be efficient as anti-liver fibrosis drug, maintaining the hepatic architecture and function during fibrosis development. This efficacy can be attributed to its inhibitory role through a direct binding to fibrosis-mediating proteins such as PDGFRB, TIMP-1, TLR-9 and TGF-β.
Amplitude synchronization of spontaneous activity of medial and lateral temporal gyri reveals altered thalamic connectivity in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Sathe Anish V. , Kogan Michael , Kang KiChang , Miao Jingya , Syed Mashaal , Ailes Isaiah , Matias Caio M. , Middleton Devon , Mohamed Feroze B. , Faro Scott , Tracy Joseph , Sharan Ashwini , Alizadeh Mahdi
Published: November 2022

In this study, we examined whether amplitude synchronization of medial (MTL) and lateral (LTL) temporal lobes can detect unique alterations in patients with MTL epilepsy (mTLE) with mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS). This was a retrospective study of preoperative resting-state fMRI (rsfMRI) data from 31 patients with mTLE with MTS (age 23–69) and 16 controls (age 21–35). fMRI data were preprocessed based on a multistep preprocessing pipeline and registered to a standard space. Using each subject’s T1-weighted scan, the MTL and LTL were automatically segmented, manually revised and then fit to a standard space using a symmetric normalization registration algorithm. Dual regression analysis was applied on preprocessed rsfMRI data to detect amplitude synchronization of medial and lateral temporal segments with the rest of the brain. We calculated the overlapped volume ratio of synchronized voxels within specific target regions including the thalamus (total and bilateral). A general linear model was used with Bonferroni correction for covariates of epilepsy duration and age of patient at scan to statistically compare synchronization in patients with mTLE with MTS and controls, as well as with respect to whether patients remained seizure-free (SF) or not (NSF) after receiving epilepsy surgery. We found increased ipsilateral positive connectivity between the LTLs and the thalamus and contralateral negative connectivity between the MTLs and the thalamus in patients with mTLE with MTS compared to controls. We also found increased asymmetry of functional connectivity between temporal lobe subregions and the thalamus in patients with mTLE with MTS, with increased positive connectivity between the LTL and the lesional-side thalamus as well as increased negative connectivity between the MTL and the nonlesional-side thalamus. This asymmetry was also seen in NSF patients but was not seen in SF patients and controls. Amplitude synchronization was an effective method to detect functional connectivity alterations in patients with mTLE with MTS. Patients with mTLE with MTS overall showed increased temporal-thalamic connectivity. There was increased functional involvement of the thalamus in MTS, underscoring its role in seizure spread. Increased functional thalamic asymmetry patterns in NSF patients may have a potential role in prognosticating patient response to surgery. Elucidating regions with altered functional connectivity to temporal regions can improve understanding of the involvement of different regions in the disease to potentially target for intervention or use for prognosis for surgery. Future studies are needed to examine the effectiveness of using patient-specific abnormalities in patterns to predict surgical outcome.
Microdamage analysis of single-use flexible ureteroscope immediately after lithotripsy use
Authors: Sugino Teruaki , Taguchi Kazumi , Unno Rei , Hamamoto Shuzo , Ando Ryosuke , Okada Atsushi , Yasui Takahiro
Published: November 2022

This prospective ex vivo study investigated microdamage to single-use flexible ureteroscopes (fURS) after ureteroscopy and endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS). The performance of 30 WiScope devices (OTU Medical, San Jose, CA, USA) was examined immediately after use, dividing them into three equal groups: ureteroscopy and ECIRS in the prone and supine positions. The overall scope of microdamage assessment included the scope deflection, bending radius, resolution, and water flow rate. Additionally, we analyzed the association between scope status and surgical parameters. The deflection, bending radius, and resolution remained similarly above the thresholds in all groups. However, the water flow rate was below the threshold in seven scopes (70%) in the ureteroscopy group and none in the ECIRS groups (P = 0.001). Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses demonstrated that basket wire catheter use was associated with an increased risk for overall scope microdamage (odds ratio [OR], 22.70; P = 0.006 and OR, 22.40; P = 0.019, respectively). Stone size, total laser energy, and surgical position were not associated with a risk for scope microdamage. In conclusion, ureteroscopy was more closely associated with scope damage than ECIRS, and basket wire catheter use seemed to inflict more damage to the fURS.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in multiple sclerosis patients with an aggressive relapse: an observational analysis in a high-volume center
Authors: Bunganic R. , Blahutova S. , Revendova K. , Zapletalova O. , Hradilek P. , Hrdlickova R. , Ganesh A. , Cermakova Z. , Bar M. , Volny O.
Published: November 2022

An evidence-based treatment for a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) relapse is an intravenous administration of 3–5 g of Methylprednisolone. In case of insufficient effect or corticosteroids intolerance, the therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is indicated. To assess the clinical effect of TPE in treatment of relapse in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), we enrolled 155 patients meeting the following criteria (study period: January 2011 to February 2021): (1) age > 18, (2) RRMS according to the McDonald´s 2017 criteria, (3) MS relapse and insufficient effect of corticosteroids/corticosteroids intolerance, (4) baseline EDSS < 8. Exclusion criteria: (1) progressive form of disease, (2) history of previous TPE. Following parameters were monitored: EDSS changes (before and after corticosteroid treatment, before and after TPE; EDSS after TPE was assessed at the next clinical follow-up at the MS Center), and improvement of EDSS according to the number of procedures and baseline severity of relapse. 115 females (74%) and 40 males (26%) were included. The median age was 41 years (IQR 33–47)—131 patients underwent the pulse corticosteroids treatment and TPE, while 24 patients underwent only TPE without any previous corticosteroid treatment. Median baseline EDSS was 4.5 (IQR 3.5–5.5), median EDSS after finishing steroids was 4.5 (IQR 4.0–5.5). EDSS prior to the TPE was 4.5 (IQR 4–6), EDSS after TPE was 4.5 (IQR 3.5–5.5). We observed a significant improvement in the EDSS after TPE (p < 0.001). Sex differences were seen in TPE effectiveness, with median improvement of EDSS in females being −0.5 (IQR 1–0) and in males being 0 (IQR −0.5 to 0), p = 0.048. There was no difference in EDSS improvement by age category: 18–30 years, 31–40 years, 41–50 years, > 50 (p = 0.94), nor by total TPE count (p = 0.91). In this retrospective study of patients with an aggressive relapse and insufficient effect of intravenous corticosteroid treatment, a significant effect of TPE on EDSS improvement was observed. There was no significant difference in TPE effectivity according to the number of procedures, age, nor severity of a relapse. In this cohort, TPE was more effective in females.
A decellularized extracellular matrix derived from keratinocytes can suppress cellular senescence induced by replicative and oxidative stresses
Authors: Hoshiba Takashi
Published: November 2022

Keratinocyte senescence is suppressed on a keratinocyte-derived decellularized ECM (dECM) through the increase of antioxidant activity. Keratinocyte function is also increased on this dECM, suggesting that this dECM is useful to establish epidermal models.
Facile fabrication of a biodegradable multi-hollow iron phosphate nanoplatform for tumor-specific nanocatalytic therapy and chemotherapy
Authors: Li Xue , Song Qingxia , Zhou Ting , Chen Hongli , Nan Wenbin , Xie Liqin , Wang Haijiao , Zhang Qiqing , Hao Yongwei
Published: November 2022

Doxorubicin-loaded iron phosphate could be disintegrated in a low pH environment, releasing both ferric and ferrous ions as well as doxorubicin, and achieve combination tumor therapy.
A label-free electrochemical aptasensor based on platinum@palladium nanoparticles decorated with hemin-reduced graphene oxide as a signal amplifier for glypican-3 determination
Authors: Li Guiyin , Li Wenzhan , Li Shengnan , Li Xinhao , Yao Xiaoqing , Xue Wen , Liang Jintao , Chen Jiejing , Zhou Zhide
Published: November 2022

An electrochemical aptasensor for highly sensitive detection of glypican-3 has been developed using the GPC3 aptamer as the biorecognition probe and H-rGO-Pt@Pd NPs as an electroactive reagent.
Structural and mechanistic insights into enantioselectivity toward near-symmetric esters of a novel carboxylesteraseRoCE
Authors: Dou Zhe , Jia Peng , Chen Xiaoyu , Wu Zheng , Xu Guochao , Ni Ye
Published: November 2022

A novel carboxylesteraseRoCE was identified with relatively high enantioselectivity toward “hard-to-be-discriminated” oxyheterocyclic esters. Molecular basis of enantioselectivity was elucidated and applied in increasing enantioselectivity ofRoCE.
Recent advances in non-noble metal-based oxide materials as heterogeneous catalysts for C–H activation
Authors: Mal Diptangshu Datta , Pradhan Debabrata
Published: November 2022

This perspective article summarizes the recent developments of non-noble metal-based oxides, as a new class of catalysts for C−H bond activation, focusing on their essential surface properties.
Lithium selenometallates of triel elements, Li5MSe4 (M = Al and Ga), aliovalent doping and their ionic conductivity
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Santhoshkumar , Chernatynskiy Aleksandr V. , Gerasimchuk Nikolay , Choudhury Amitava
Published: November 2022

Lithium selenometallates of Al and Ga have been synthesized. The Li-ion conductivity increases by almost five times upon Sn doping.
Prediction of biphasic separation in CO2 absorption using a molecular surface information-based machine learning model
Authors: Kataoka Taishi , Hao Yingquan , Hung Ying Chieh , Orita Yasuhiko , Shimoyama Yusuke
Published: November 2022

Phase separation estimation by machine-learning.
Novel quinoline-piperazine hybrids: the design, synthesis and evaluation of antibacterial and antituberculosis properties
Authors: Gnanavelu Karunanidhi , K. S. Vinay Kumar , Eswaran Sumesh , Sivashanmugam Karthikeyan
Published: November 2022

We synthesised a series of 2,4,6-substituted quinoline conjugated piperazine coupled sulfonamides and amides and evaluated their in vitro antibacterial activity against susceptible and resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Spectroscopic analysis of vibrational coupling in multi-molecular excited states
Authors: Hammer Sebastian , Linderl Theresa , Tvingstedt Kristofer , Brütting Wolfgang , Pflaum Jens
Published: November 2022

Temperature dependent luminescence of multi-molecular excited states like excimers and charge-transfer states is described by a Frank–Condon model based on an inter-molecular vibrational mode and different potentials for the ground and excited state.
Correction: Optical humidity sensors based on lead-free Cu-based perovskite nanomaterials
Authors: Lee Hoseok , Lee Donghwa , Jin Haedam , Baek Dohun , Kim Mi Kyong , Cha Jeongbeom , Kim Sung-Kon , Kim Min
Published: November 2022

Correction for ‘Optical humidity sensors based on lead-free Cu-based perovskite nanomaterials’ by Hoseok Lee et al., Nanoscale Adv., 2022, 4, 3309–3317, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2NA00168C.
Construction of targeted drug-loaded composite polysaccharide hydrogels and verification of anti-tumor effect in vitro
Authors: Jia Xiaoyan , Zhang Wenyu , Guo Duoduo , Wang Tingfeng , Xu Zhichao , Wang Tao , Guo Hongyun , Kong Weibao , Zhang Ji , Wang Junlong
Published: November 2022

A targeted composite polysaccharide drug-loaded gel was obtained and characterized. It displayed potent anti-tumor activity via specific binding between the folate in the gel and the folate receptors in the cell membrane.
A rigid–flexible double-layer steric strategy promoting ethylene polymerization and copolymerization in alkane solvents
Authors: Lu Weiqing , Fan Weigang , Dai Shengyu
Published: November 2022

A rigid–flexible double-layer steric strategy enables the practical application of late-transition metal ethylene (co)polymerization systems in industry.
Single-atom substitution in donor–acceptor covalent organic frameworks for tunable visible light photocatalytic Cr(vi) reduction
Authors: Yue Jie-Yu , Wang Yu-Tong , Ding Xiu-Li , Fan Yan-Fei , Song Li-Ping , Yang Peng , Ma Yu , Tang Bo
Published: November 2022

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(vi)) is hazardous and harmful to human health and the ecological environment.
TBHP-mediated denitrogenative synthesis of pyridine carboxamides from pyridine carbohydrazides and amines in water
Authors: Laha Joydev K. , Gupta Anjali , Gulati Upma , Hunjan Mandeep Kaur , Weber J. Patrick , Breugst Martin
Published: November 2022

A metal-free oxidative approach for intermolecular amide bond formation using pyridine carbohydrazides has been developed in water, and is further supported by detailed mechanistic and computational studies.
Controlled growth of ZnO nanoparticles using ethanolic root extract of Japanese knotweed: photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Ravbar Miha , Kunčič Ajda , Matoh Lev , Smole Možina Sonja , Šala Martin , Šuligoj Andraž
Published: November 2022

Synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) was mediated by plant extracts to assist in the reduction of zinc atoms during the synthesis and act as a capping agent during annealing.
PBEsol/HSE functional: a promising candidate for vanadium dioxide (B) characterization
Authors: Mohebbi Elaheh , Pavoni Eleonora , Mencarelli Davide , Stipa Pierluigi , Pierantoni Luca , Laudadio Emiliano
Published: November 2022

A VO2(B) polymorph has been thoroughly investigated by means of density functional theory (DFT) calculations to evaluate the structure, Raman spectrum, cohesive energy, phonon band structure, an delectronic and optical properties.
Vacancy defect engineered BiVO4 with low-index surfaces for photocatalytic application: a first principles study
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Song Yingchao , Xiang Yuqi , Zhu Zhihong
Published: November 2022

We report the OER performance of vacancy defect engineered BiVO4 with low-index surfaces. A modulation mechanism can be achieved by the defects.
Fluorinated covalent organic frameworks for efficient drug delivery
Authors: Ma Baiwei , Xu Yimeng , Hu Fujia , Zhai Lipeng , Huang Yongyu , Qiao Huijie , Xiong Jiabin , Yang Dehong , Ni Zhihui , Zheng Xiaofei , Mi Liwei
Published: November 2022

Two novel fluorinated covalent organic frameworks as drug carriers with good biocompatibility were developed, showing excellent drug loading capacity and sustained release in vitro.
Performance and stability of ether-free high temperature proton exchange membranes with tunable pendent imidazolium groups
Authors: Ju Qing , Tang Hongying , Chao Ge , Guo Tiegen , Geng Kang , Li Nanwen
Published: November 2022

Side-chain imidazolium–phosphate ion pairs PEMs with regulated imidazolium content were constructed by copolymerization and subsequent methylation processes.
Bioresource-derived colloidal nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots as ultrasensitive and stable nanosensors for detection of cancer and neurotransmitter biomarkers
Authors: Chen Yan-Yi , Kurniawan Darwin , Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Fedotov Pavel V. , Obraztsova Elena D. , Chiang Wei-Hung
Published: November 2022

Microplasma synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots from chitosan usable for the selective detection of folic acid, uric acid, dopamine, and epinephrine.
Efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescent emitter based on a spiro-type benzo[b]acridine donor and a benzophenone acceptor
Authors: Song Xiangan , Liu Zhangshan , Lu Mengyao , Zou Shengnan , Guo Fengyun , Gao Shiyong , Zhao Zujin , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhang Yong
Published: November 2022

A novel spiro-type donor 5H-spiro[benzo[b]acridine-12,9′-fluorene] and a thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitter bis(4-(5H-spiro[benzo[b]acridine-12,9′-fluoren]-5-yl)phenyl)methanone were synthesized for a high efficiency organic light-emitting diode.
The probability of galaxy–galaxy strong lensing events in hydrodynamical simulations of galaxy clusters
Authors: Meneghetti Massimo , Ragagnin Antonio , Borgani Stefano , Calura Francesco , Despali Giulia , Giocoli Carlo , Granato Gian Luigi , Grillo Claudio , Moscardini Lauro , Rasia Elena , Rosati Piero , Angora Giuseppe , Bassini Luigi , Bergamini Pietro , Caminha Gabriel B. , Granata Giovanni , Mercurio Amata , Metcalf Robert Benton , Natarajan Priyamvada , Nonino Mario , Pignataro Giada Venusta , Ragone-Figueroa Cinthia , Vanzella Eros , Acebron Ana , Dolag Klaus , Murante Giuseppe , Taffoni Giuliano , Tornatore Luca , Tortorelli Luca , Valentini Milena
Published: November 2022

Context. An excess of galaxy–galaxy strong lensing (GGSL) in galaxy clusters compared to expectations from the Λ cold-dark-matter (CDM) cosmological model has recently been reported. Theoretical estimates of the GGSL probability are based on the analysis of numerical hydrodynamical simulations in ΛCDM cosmology.

Aims. We quantify the impact of the numerical resolution and active galactic nucleus (AGN) feedback scheme adopted in cosmological simulations on the predicted GGSL probability, and determine if varying these simulation properties can alleviate the gap with observations.

Methods. We analyze cluster-size halos (M200 >  5 × 1014 M⊙) simulated with different mass and force resolutions and implementing several independent AGN feedback schemes. Our analysis focuses on galaxies with Einstein radii in the range 0.″5 ≤ θE ≤ 3″.

Results. We find that improving the mass resolution by factors of 10 and 25, while using the same galaxy formation model that includes AGN feedback, does not affect the GGSL probability. We find similar results regarding the choice of gravitational softening. On the contrary, adopting an AGN feedback scheme that is less efficient at suppressing gas cooling and star formation leads to an increase in the GGSL probability by a factor of between 3 and 6. However, we notice that such simulations form overly massive galaxies whose contribution to the lensing cross section would be significant but that their Einstein radii are too large to be consistent with the observations. The primary contributors to the observed GGSL cross sections are galaxies with smaller masses that are compact enough to become critical for lensing. The population with these required characteristics appears to be absent from simulations.

Conclusion. Based on these results, we reaffirm the tension between observations of GGSL and theoretical expectations in the framework of the ΛCDM cosmological model. The GGSL probability is sensitive to the galaxy formation model implemented in the simulations. Still, all the tested models have difficulty simultaneously reproducing the stellar mass function and the internal structure of galaxies.
Open Retroperitoneal Repair for Complex Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Hossack Martin , Simpson Gregory , Shaw Penelope , Fisher Robert , Torella Francesco , Brennan John , Smout Jonathan
Published: November 2022

Background Open surgical repair (OSR) of complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (CAAAs) can be challenging. We frequently utilize the retroperitoneal (RP) approach for such cases. We audited our outcomes with the aim of establishing the utility and safety of this approach.

Methods Retrospective analysis was performed of all patients undergoing OSR of an unruptured CAAA via a RP approach in our center over a 7-year period. Data on repairs via a transperitoneal (TP) approach were collected to provide context. Demographic, operative, radiological, and biochemical data were collected. The primary outcome measure was 30-day/inpatient mortality. Secondary outcomes included the need for reoperation, incidence of postoperative chest infection, acute kidney injury (AKI) and length of stay (LOS). All patients received aortic clamping above at least one main renal artery.

Results One hundred and three patients underwent OSR of an unruptured CAAA; 55 via a RP approach, 48 TP. The RP group demonstrated a more advanced pattern of disease with a larger median maximum diameter (65 vs. 61 mm, p= 0.013) and a more proximal extent. Consequently, the rate of supravisceral clamping was higher in RP repair (66 vs. 15%, p < 0.001). Despite this there were no differences in the observed early mortality (9.1 vs. 10%, NS); incidence of reoperation (10.9 vs. 12.5%, NS), chest infection (32.7 vs. 25%, NS), and AKI (52.7 vs. 45.8%, NS); or median LOS (10 vs. 12 days, NS) following RP and TP repair.

Conclusion OSR of CAAAs carries significant 30-day mortality. In patients unsuitable for fenestrated endovascular aortic repair or those desiring a durable long-term solution, OSR can be performed through the RP or TP approach. This study has demonstrated that in our unit RP repair facilitates treatment of more advanced AAA utilizing complex proximal clamp zones with similar perioperative morbidity and mortality compared with TP cases utilizing more distal clamping.
COVID-19-Associated Large- and Medium-Sized-Vessel Pathology: A Case Series
Authors: Chen Stacey , Malas Jad , Latson Larry A. , Narula Navneet , Rapkiewicz Amy V. , Williams David M. , Pass Harvey I. , Galloway Aubrey C. , Smith Deane E.
Published: November 2022

Background Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) remains a public health crisis. The epidemiology of COVID-19-associated large- and medium-sized-vessel pathology is not well characterized. The aim of this study is to identify patients with possible COVID-19-associated large- and medium-sized-vessel pathology based on computed tomography (CT) imaging to provide insight into this rare, but potentially devastating, cardiovascular manifestation.

Methods This is a single-center retrospective review of patients with CT chest, abdomen, and/or pelvis concerning for large- and medium-vessel pathology and confirmed COVID-19 infection from March 1, 2020 to October 31, 2020.

Results During the study period, 6,553 CT reports were reviewed and pertinent imaging was identified in 139 patients. Of these, 8 patients (median age: 59 years, range 51–82) were COVID-19 positive. All patients had preexisting cardiovascular risk factors and three (37.5%) had an autoimmune disease. Four patients were never hospitalized for COVID-19. Among these, two presented to the hospital at a median of 39 days (range: 27–50) after their initial COVID-19 test with chest and back pain where imaging revealed extensive aortic pathology. One patient required surgical management for aortic pathology. All other patients were treated with expectant management and outpatient follow-up.

Conclusion The clinical and radiological presentations of COVID-19-associated large- and medium-vessel pathology are heterogeneous and can be a late finding after COVID-19 recovery. Close clinical follow-up and surveillance imaging for large- and medium-sized-vessel pathology may be warranted in COVID-19 patients.
Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma Masquerading as an Expansile Osteolytic Lesion in Scapula: A Rare Case of Isolated Appendicular Skeletal Metastatic Involvement of Hepatocellular Carcinoma at Initial Presentation
Authors: John Arun Ravi , Dwivedi Surjeet , Varghese Jeenu , Walia Gurpreet Kaur
Published: November 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is known to be the most common primary tumor of the liver and is also the fifth most common cancer in the world. Chronic hepatitis B and C along with type 2 diabetes mellitus and alcoholic liver disease are quite well-known risk factors for HCC, and it is uncommon in the noncirrhotic liver. HCC favors spreading as multifocal intrahepatic lesions and potential vascular invasion, and extrahepatic spread is uncommon. Skeletal metastasis from HCC occurs infrequently compared to other cancers and is common in the axial skeleton. Metastatic involvement of the appendicular skeleton is a rare entity, and the initial presentation of HCC as metastatic involvement of the appendicular skeleton is even rarer. We report a case of HCC with incidentally detected cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis B infection presenting with pain in the left shoulder.
Sound waves characterize ocean front and its inhabitants
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: November 2022

Shipboard broadband sonars identify and measure species in the New England shelf break, a commercial-fishing zone.
Subwavelength full-field terahertz ptychography via longitudinal shifts
Authors: Li Zeyu , Yan Qiang , Qin Yu , Kong Weipeng , Zou Mingrui , Zhou Xun
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate subwavelength resolution, full-field, and lensless terahertz ptychography via longitudinal shifts of the sample. An extended illumination is adopted to realize full-field recording. Compared to a typical scheme, this implementation requires fewer diffraction patterns, which improves the imaging throughput. To suppress the incoherent infrared background, an optical chopper is introduced and a preprocessing algorithm based on digital phase-locked is proposed. By combining the ideas of multi-plane phase retrieval and ptychographic reconstruction, a reconstruction algorithm is proposed to simultaneously retrieve the object and the probe. Due to the lensless single-beam mode and full-field illumination, the sample is placed as close to the detector as possible, and the aperture of the whole sensor is utilized to achieve the highest numerical aperture. Note that the proposed approach could be applied to other wavebands as well. We apply this method to a biological material, a polymer sample, and a resolution target. The uneven illumination, as well as the diffraction effects associated with detector edges, is separated from the object reconstruction. The secondary veins of the dragonfly forewing, as small as ∼20 µm, are observed, and the lateral resolution achieves 88 µm (0.74λ).