bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying convolutional neural networks to speed up environmental DNA annotation in a highly diverse ecosystem
Authors: Flück Benjamin , Mathon Laëtitia , Manel Stéphanie , Valentini Alice , Dejean Tony , Albouy Camille , Mouillot David , Thuiller Wilfried , Murienne Jérôme , Brosse Sébastien , Pellissier Loïc
Published: June 2022

High-throughput DNA sequencing is becoming an increasingly important tool to monitor and better understand biodiversity responses to environmental changes in a standardized and reproducible way. Environmental DNA (eDNA) from organisms can be captured in ecosystem samples and sequenced using metabarcoding, but processing large volumes of eDNA data and annotating sequences to recognized taxa remains computationally expensive. Speed and accuracy are two major bottlenecks in this critical step. Here, we evaluated the ability of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to process short eDNA sequences and associate them with taxonomic labels. Using a unique eDNA data set collected in highly diverse Tropical South America, we compared the speed and accuracy of CNNs with that of a well-known bioinformatic pipeline (OBITools) in processing a small region (60 bp) of the 12S ribosomal DNA targeting freshwater fishes. We found that the taxonomic labels from the CNNs were comparable to those from OBITools, with high correlation levels for the composition of the regional fish fauna. The CNNs enabled the processing of raw fastq files at a rate of approximately 1 million sequences per minute, which was about 150 times faster than with OBITools. Given the good performance of CNNs in the highly diverse ecosystem considered here, the development of more elaborate CNNs promises fast deployment for future biodiversity inventories using eDNA.
Active surveillance versus initial surgery in the long-term management of Bosniak IIF–IV cystic renal masses
Authors: Luomala Lassi , Rautiola Juhana , Järvinen Petrus , Mirtti Tuomas , Nisén Harry
Published: June 2022

There may be surgical overtreatment of complex cystic renal masses (CRM). Growing evidence supports active surveillance (AS) for the management for Bosniak IIF–III CRMs. We aimed to evaluate and compare oncological and pathological outcomes of Bosniak IIF–IV CRMs treated by initial surgery (IS) or AS. We identified retrospectively 532 patients with CRM counseled during 2006–2017. IS and AS were delivered to, respectively, 1 and 286 patients in Bosniak IIF, to 54 and 85 patients in III and to 85 and 21 patients in Bosniak IV. Median follow-up was 66 months (IQR 50–96). Metastatic progression occurred for 1 (0.3%) AS patient in Bosniak IIF, 1 IS (1.8%) and 1 AS (1.2%) patient in Bosniak III and 5 IS (3.5%) patients in Bosniak IV, respectively. Overall 5-year metastasis-free survival was 98.9% and cancer-specific survival was 99.6% without statistically significant difference between IS and AS in Bosniak IIF–IV categories. AS did not increase the risk of metastatic spread or cancer-specific mortality in patients with Bosniak IIF–IV. Our data indicate AS in Bosniak IIF and III is safe. Surgery is the primary treatment for Bosniak IV due to its high malignancy rate.
A clock synchronization method based on quantum entanglement
Authors: Shi Jianxin , Shen Shanshan
Published: June 2022

This study presents a clock synchronization method based on quantum entanglement which is simple and reliable and more efficient. The clock synchronization method based on quantum entanglement scheme can greatly improve the accuracy and precision of measurement. More importantly, the proposed method avoids synchronization error caused by traditional method due to the asymmetry of two-way delay. The probability of measuring the quantum state oscillates in cosine or sine fashion with propagation delay. The final experimental and simulation results are basically consistent with the theoretical results. The clock synchronization method based on quantum entanglement scheme can greatly imrprove the accuracy and precision of measurement.
Social anhedonia as a Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1-dependent phenotype
Authors: Seidisarouei Mohammad , Schäble Sandra , van Wingerden Marijn , Trossbach Svenja V. , Korth Carsten , Kalenscher Tobias
Published: June 2022

Deficits in social interaction or social cognition are key phenotypes in a variety of chronic mental diseases, yet, their modeling and molecular dissection are only in their infancy. The Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) signaling pathway is considered to play a role in different psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and biopolar disorders. DISC1 is involved in regulating the dopaminergic neurotransmission in, among others, the mesolimbic reward system. A transgenic rat line tgDISC1 has been introduced as a model system to study behavioral phenotypes associated with abnormal DISC1 signaling pathways. Here, we evaluated the impact of impaired DISC1 signaling on social (social interaction) and non-social (sucrose) reward preferences in the tgDISC1 animal model. In a plus-maze setting, rats chose between the opportunity for social interaction with an unfamiliar juvenile conspecific (social reward) or drinking sweet solutions with variable sucrose concentrations (non-social reward). tgDISC1 rats differed from wild-type rats in their social, but not in their non-social reward preferences. Specifically, DISC1 rats showed a lower interest in interaction with the juvenile conspecific, but did not differ from wild-type rats in their preference for higher sucrose concentrations. These results suggest that disruptions of the DISC1 signaling pathway that is associated with altered dopamine transmission in the brain result in selective deficits in social motivation reminiscent of phenotypes seen in neuropsychiatric illness.
Tuneable magnetic nanocomposites for remote self-healing
Authors: Gupta Ranjeetkumar , Gupta Priya , Footer Charles , Stenning Gavin B. G. , Darr Jawwad A. , Pancholi Ketan
Published: June 2022

When polymer composites containing magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are exposed to an alternating magnetic field, heat is generated to melt the surrounding polymer locally, partially filling voids across any cracks or deformities. Such materials are of interest for structural applications; however, structural polymers with high melting temperatures pose the challenge of generating high localised temperatures enabling self-healing. A method to prepare a multiferroic-Polyamide 6 (PA6) nanocomposite with tuneable magnetocaloric properties is reported. Tunability arises from varying the MNP material (and any coating, its dispersion, and agglomerate sizes in the nanocomposite). The superparamagnetic MNPs (SMNPs) and iron oxide MNPs with and without surface functionalization were dispersed into PA6 through in situ polymerization, and their magnetic properties were compared. Furthermore, computer simulations were used to quantify the dispersion state of MNPs and assess the influence of the interaction radius on the magnetic response of the self-healable magnetic nanoparticle polymer (SHMNP) composite. It was shown that maintaining the low interaction radius through the dispersion of the low coercivity MNPs could allow tuning of the bulk magnetocaloric properties of the resulting mesostructures. An in-situ polymerization method improved the dispersion and reduced the maximum interaction radius value from ca. 806 to 371 nm and increased the magnetic response for the silica-coated SMNP composite. This sample displayed ca. three orders of magnitude enhancement for magnetic saturation compared to the unfunctionalized Fe3O4 MNP composite.
Imaging peripheral nerve micro-anatomy with MUSE, 2D and 3D approaches
Authors: Kolluru Chaitanya , Todd Austin , Upadhye Aniruddha R. , Liu Yehe , Berezin Mikhail Y. , Fereidouni Farzad , Levenson Richard M. , Wang Yanming , Shoffstall Andrew J. , Jenkins Michael W. , Wilson David L.
Published: June 2022

Understanding peripheral nerve micro-anatomy can assist in the development of safe and effective neuromodulation devices. However, current approaches for imaging nerve morphology at the fiber level are either cumbersome, require substantial instrumentation, have a limited volume of view, or are limited in resolution/contrast. We present alternative methods based on MUSE (Microscopy with Ultraviolet Surface Excitation) imaging to investigate peripheral nerve morphology, both in 2D and 3D. For 2D imaging, fixed samples are imaged on a conventional MUSE system either label free (via auto-fluorescence) or after staining with fluorescent dyes. This method provides a simple and rapid technique to visualize myelinated nerve fibers at specific locations along the length of the nerve and perform measurements of fiber morphology (e.g., axon diameter and g-ratio). For 3D imaging, a whole-mount staining and MUSE block-face imaging method is developed that can be used to characterize peripheral nerve micro-anatomy and improve the accuracy of computational models in neuromodulation. Images of rat sciatic and human cadaver tibial nerves are presented, illustrating the applicability of the method in different preclinical models.
Evaluation of the association of serum glypican-4 with prevalent and future kidney function
Authors: Muendlein Axel , Brandtner Eva Maria , Leiherer Andreas , Geiger Kathrin , Heinzle Christine , Gaenger Stella , Fraunberger Peter , Haider Dominik , Saely Christoph H. , Drexel Heinz
Published: June 2022

Serum glypican-4 (GPC4) has been identified as an insulin-sensitizing adipokine serving as a marker for body mass index and insulin resistance in humans. The association of circulating GPC4 with kidney function is to date largely unexplored. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association between serum GPC4 and prevalent as well future kidney function in a prospective cohort study. The study included 456 Caucasian coronary angiography patients. After a median follow up period of 3.4 years, data on kidney function was reassessed in all patients. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was defined by decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or albuminuria. At baseline, serum GPC4 was significantly associated with decreased eGFR (adjusted odds ratio (OR) per standard deviation = 4.75 [2.66–8.48]; P <  0.001), albuminuria (OR = 1.49 [1.15–1.92]; P = 0.002), and, accordingly, with CKD (OR = 1.75 [1.35–2.26]; P < 0.001). GPC4 levels also significantly and independently predicted the incidence of newly diagnosed decreased eGFR (OR = 2.74 [1.82–4.14]; P < 0.001, albuminuria (OR = 1.58 [1.01–2.46]; P = 0.043, and CKD (OR = 2.16 [1.45–3.23]; P < 0.001). ROC analysis indicated an additional predictive value of GPC4 to a basic prediction model for newly diagnosed CKD and eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Our study, therefore, indicates that high serum GPC4 is associated with decreased prevalent and future kidney function.
Clinical efficacy of urea treatment in syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion
Authors: Perelló-Camacho Eva , Pomares-Gómez Francisco J. , López-Penabad Luis , Mirete-López Rosa María , Pinedo-Esteban María Rosa , Domínguez-Escribano José Ramón
Published: June 2022

The aim of this work is to examine our experience in the use of urea in patients with SIADH. Observational retrospective analysis of 48 patients with SIADH that have been treated with urea in a third-level hospital. Pre-post analysis of serum sodium levels. The 48 patients with SIADH had a median age of 78.5 (range 26–97 years). The serum sodium nadir was 119.8 ± 5.0 mmoL/L and at the beginning of treatment 125.6 ± 4.1 mmoL/L. The patients continued the treatment for a mean time of 2.95 ± 6.29 months, being the treatment still active in 4 patients. In all patients there was an improvement in serum sodium, being the final serum sodium at the end of treatment 134.4 ± 4.9 mmoL/L (p < 0.01). This improvement was observed from the first week. Adverse events were only detected in 2 patients with mild digestive symptomatology and 2 patients refused the treatment due to the low palatability of the urea. There was an economic cost reduction of 87.9% in comparison with treatment with tolvaptan. Urea has shown to be a safe and cost-effective option for the treatment of hyponatremia caused by SIADH.
Leveraging a national biorepository in Zambia to assess measles and rubella immunity gaps across age and space
Authors: Carcelen Andrea C. , Winter Amy K. , Moss William J. , Chilumba Innocent , Mutale Irene , Chongwe Gershom , Monze Mwaka , Mulundu Gina , Nkamba Hope , Mwansa Francis. D. , Mulenga Lloyd , Rhoda Dale A. , Hayford Kyla , Mutembo Simon
Published: June 2022

High-quality, representative serological surveys allow direct estimates of immunity profiles to inform vaccination strategies but can be costly and logistically challenging. Leveraging residual serum samples is one way to increase their feasibility. We subsampled 9854 residual sera from a 2016 national HIV survey in Zambia and tested these specimens for anti-measles and anti-rubella virus IgG antibodies using indirect enzyme immunoassays. We demonstrate innovative methods for sampling residual sera and analyzing seroprevalence data, as well as the value of seroprevalence estimates to understand and control measles and rubella. National measles and rubella seroprevalence for individuals younger than 50 years was 82.8% (95% CI 81.6, 83.9%) and 74.9% (95% CI 73.7, 76.0%), respectively. Despite a successful childhood vaccination program, measles immunity gaps persisted across age groups and districts, indicating the need for additional activities to complement routine immunization. Prior to vaccine introduction, we estimated a rubella burden of 96 congenital rubella syndrome cases per 100,000 live births. Residual samples from large-scale surveys can reduce the cost and challenges of conducting serosurveys, and multiple pathogens can be tested. Procedures to access quality specimens, ensure ethical approvals, and link sociodemographic data can improve the timeliness and value of results.
Effects of Wolbachia elimination and B-vitamin supplementation on bed bug development and reproduction
Authors: Hickin Mauri L. , Kakumanu Madhavi L. , Schal Coby
Published: June 2022

Obligate blood feeders, such as Cimex lectularius (common bed bug), have symbiotic associations with nutritional endosymbionts that produce B-vitamins. To quantify the symbiont’s contribution to host fitness in these obligate mutualisms, the symbiont must be eliminated and its absence rigorously confirmed. We developed and validated procedures for complete elimination of Wolbachia (Wb) in bed bugs and quantified development and reproduction in bed bugs with and without Wb and with and without B-vitamins supplementation. Aposymbiotic bed bugs had slower nymphal development, reduced adult survivorship, smaller adult size, fewer eggs per female, and lower hatch rate than bed bugs that harbored Wb. In aposymbiotic bed bugs that were fed B-vitamins-supplemented blood, nymph development time, adult survivorship and hatch rate recovered to control levels, but adult size and egg number only partially recovered. These results underscore the nutritional dependence of bed bugs on their Wb symbiont and suggest that Wb may provide additional nutritional benefits beyond the B-vitamin mix that we investigated.
Influence of ulnar bow sign on surgical treatment of missed Bado type I Monteggia fracture in children
Authors: Liao Shijie , Wang Tiantian , Huang Qian , Liu Yun , Lu Rongbin , Xu Yaofeng , Ding Xiaofei
Published: June 2022

The present study aimed to explore the influence of ulnar bow on the surgical treatment of Bado type I missed Monteggia fracture in children. A retrospective review of 28 patients was conducted between November 2010 and June 2020. All patients were treated with open reduction of the radial head and ulnar opening wedge osteotomy without annular ligament reconstruction. Four months (range 1–12 months) was the mean interval between injury onset and surgery. The average age of patients at the time of surgery was 6.1 years old (range 2–10 years old). The maximum ulnar bow (MUB) and MUB position (P-MUB) via radiography were evaluated. The patients were divided into two groups according to P-MUB, as follows: middle group (A) included 17 cases, and the MUB was located at 40–60% of the distal ulna; and distal group (B) included 11 cases, and the MUB was located at 20–40% from the distal end of the ulna. The mean follow-up period was 33 months (range 6–102 months). At the last follow-up, all the children showed stable reduction of the radial head, and the flexion function of elbow joint improved after the operation (P < 0.05). Group A presented a larger ratio of maximum ulnar bow (R-MUB) and angle of ulnar osteotomy (OA) than group B (P < 0.05). The osteotomy angle was positively correlated with the R-MUB (R2 = 0.394, P = 0.038). The osteotomy angle was positively correlated with the P-MUB (R2 = 0.683, P = 0.000). The R-MUB was proportional to the P-MUB (R2 = 0.459, P < 0.0001). The regression equation of P-MUB and osteotomy angle was as follows: OA = 32.64* P-MUB + 7.206. If the ulnar bow was positioned at the middle ulna, then a stable reduction of radial head needed to be achieved through a large angle in the ulnar osteotomy. If the position of maximum ulnar bow (P-MUB) was closer to the middle of the ulna, or the ratio of maximum ulnar bow (R-MUB) was larger, then the osteotomy angle was larger.
Diagnostic performance of artificial intelligence approved for adults for the interpretation of pediatric chest radiographs
Authors: Shin Hyun Joo , Son Nak-Hoon , Kim Min Jung , Kim Eun-Kyung
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) applied to pediatric chest radiographs are yet scarce. This study evaluated whether AI-based software developed for adult chest radiographs can be used for pediatric chest radiographs. Pediatric patients (≤ 18 years old) who underwent chest radiographs from March to May 2021 were included retrospectively. An AI-based lesion detection software assessed the presence of nodules, consolidation, fibrosis, atelectasis, cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, and pneumoperitoneum. Using the pediatric radiologist’s results as standard reference, we assessed the diagnostic performance of the software. For the total 2273 chest radiographs, the AI-based software showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy of 67.2%, 91.1%, 57.7%, 93.9%, and 87.5%, respectively. Age was a significant factor for incorrect results (odds radio 0.821, 95% confidence interval 0.791–0.851). When we excluded cardiomegaly and children 2 years old or younger, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy significantly increased (86.4%, 97.9%, 79.7%, 98.7% and 96.9%, respectively, all p < 0.001). In conclusion, AI-based software developed with adult chest radiographs showed diagnostic accuracies up to 96.9% for pediatric chest radiographs when we excluded cardiomegaly and children 2 years old or younger. AI-based lesion detection software needs to be validated in younger children.
Simultaneous determination of nereistoxin insecticides in foods of animal origins by combining pH-dependent reversible partitioning with hydrophilic interaction chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Seung-Hyun , Choi Hoon
Published: June 2022

Although nereistoxin insecticides (NIs) are banned for animal husbandry operations, they are still used because of their high insecticidal activities. Therefore, a reliable residue analysis method for the simultaneous detection of cartap, bensultap, thiocyclam, and nereistoxin in foods of animal origins, including beef, pork, chicken, milk, and eggs, was developed using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HILIC–LC–MS/MS). The NIs were extracted with an acidic cysteine and formate buffer solution and hydrolyzed to nereistoxin. The molarity and pH of the buffer were optimized at 20 mM and 3, respectively, to keep the pH of the extracts at 4–5. pH-dependent acid–base partitioning coupled with salting-out-assisted liquid–liquid extraction using acetonitrile was performed for purification and for the direct introduction of the extracts to LC. The optimal pH values were 5 and 9 for the acid–base partitioning. Nereistoxin quantitation was achieved with consistent column retention (RSD < 0.6%) and a high degree of separation (N > 106). The matrix-dependent method limit of quantitation was 2 μg nereistoxin/kg, and the calibration curve showed good linearity (R2 > 0.998). The recovery efficiencies were in the range of 89.2–109.9% with relative standard deviations less than 10%, and matrix effects did not exceed ± 10%, which satisfied the criteria outlined in the European SANTE/12682/2019 guidelines.
Scientific evidence on the political impact of the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Biermann Frank , Hickmann Thomas , Sénit Carole-Anne , Beisheim Marianne , Bernstein Steven , Chasek Pamela , Grob Leonie , Kim Rakhyun E. , Kotzé Louis J. , Nilsson Måns , Ordóñez Llanos Andrea , Okereke Chukwumerije , Pradhan Prajal , Raven Rob , Sun Yixian , Vijge Marjanneke J. , van Vuuren Detlef , Wicke Birka
Published: June 2022

In 2015, the United Nations agreed on 17 Sustainable Development Goals as the central normative framework for sustainable development worldwide. The effectiveness of governing by such broad global goals, however, remains uncertain, and we lack comprehensive meta-studies that assess the political impact of the goals across countries and globally. We present here condensed evidence from an analysis of over 3,000 scientific studies on the Sustainable Development Goals published between 2016 and April 2021. Our findings suggests that the goals have had some political impact on institutions and policies, from local to global governance. This impact has been largely discursive, affecting the way actors understand and communicate about sustainable development. More profound normative and institutional impact, from legislative action to changing resource allocation, remains rare. We conclude that the scientific evidence suggests only limited transformative political impact of the Sustainable Development Goals thus far.
Altered differentiation of endometrial mesenchymal stromal fibroblasts is associated with endometriosis susceptibility
Authors: McKinnon Brett D. , Lukowski Samuel W. , Mortlock Sally , Crawford Joanna , Atluri Sharat , Subramaniam Sugarniya , Johnston Rebecca L. , Nirgianakis Konstantinos , Tanaka Keisuke , Amoako Akwasi , Mueller Michael D. , Montgomery Grant W.
Published: June 2022

Cellular development is tightly regulated as mature cells with aberrant functions may initiate pathogenic processes. The endometrium is a highly regenerative tissue, shedding and regenerating each month. Endometrial stromal fibroblasts are regenerated each cycle from mesenchymal stem cells and play a pivotal role in endometriosis, a disease characterised by endometrial cells that grow outside the uterus. Why the cells of some women are more capable of developing into endometriosis lesions is not clear. Using isolated, purified and cultured endometrial cells of mesenchymal origin from 19 women with (n = 10) and without (n = 9) endometriosis we analysed the transcriptome of 33,758 individual cells and compared these to clinical characteristics and in vitro growth profiles. We show purified mesenchymal cell cultures include a mix of mesenchymal stem cells and two endometrial stromal fibroblast subtypes with distinct transcriptomic signatures indicative of varied progression through the differentiation processes. The fibroblast subgroup characterised by incomplete differentiation was predominantly (81%) derived from women with endometriosis and exhibited an altered in vitro growth profile. These results uncover an inherent difference in endometrial cells of women with endometriosis and highlight the relevance of cellular differentiation and its potential to contribute to disease susceptibility.
Cytokine release syndrome-like serum responses after COVID-19 vaccination are frequent and clinically inapparent under cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Walle Thomas , Bajaj Sunanjay , Kraske Joscha A. , Rösner Thomas , Cussigh Christiane S. , Kälber Katharina A. , Müller Lisa Jasmin , Strobel Sophia Boyoung , Burghaus Jana , Kallenberger Stefan M. , Stein-Thöringer Christoph K. , Jenzer Maximilian , Schubert Antonia , Kahle Steffen , Williams Anja , Hoyler Birgit , Zielske Lin , Skatula Renate , Sawall Stefanie , Leber Mathias F. , Kunes Russell Z. , Krisam Johannes , Fremd Carlo , Schneeweiss Andreas , Krauss Jürgen , Apostolidis Leonidas , Berger Anne Katrin , Haag Georg M. , Zschäbitz Stefanie , Halama Niels , Springfeld Christoph , Kirsten Romy , Hassel Jessica C. , Jäger Dirk ,   NCT ANTICIPATE Investigators, Cussigh Christiane S. , Kälber Katharina A. , Abdelrahim Omar , Busch Elena , Derigs Patrick , Dischinger Katharina , Mitri Fouad , Schmidt Kerstin , Bhatti Irfan A. , Grün Barbara , Hohmann Nicolas , Woydack Lena , Zhang Xin-Wen , Ferber Dyke , Mock Andreas , Pompecki Tillmann , Schank Timo , Fremd Carlo , Haag Georg M. , Halama Niels , Kirsten Romy , Hassel Jessica C. , Jäger Dirk , Ungerechts Guy
Published: June 2022

Patients with cancer frequently receive immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which may modulate immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines. Recently, cytokine release syndrome (CRS) was observed in a patient with cancer who received BTN162b2 vaccination under ICI treatment. Here, we analyzed adverse events and serum cytokines in patients with 23 different tumors undergoing (n = 64) or not undergoing (n = 26) COVID-19 vaccination under ICI therapy in a prospectively planned German single-center cohort study (n = 220). We did not observe clinically relevant CRS (≥grade 2) after vaccination (95% CI 0–5.6%; Common Terminology of Adverse Events v.5.0) in this small cohort. Within 4 weeks after vaccination, serious adverse events occurred in eight patients (12.5% 95% CI 5.6–23%): six patients were hospitalized due to events common under cancer therapy including immune related adverse events and two patients died due to conditions present before vaccination. Despite absence of CRS symptoms, a set of pairwise-correlated CRS-associated cytokines, including CXCL8 and interleukin-6 was >1.5-fold upregulated in 40% (95% CI 23.9–57.9%) of patients after vaccination. Hence, elevated cytokine levels are common and not sufficient to establish CRS diagnosis.
Sustainable Nanomaterials for Pollutant Treatment
Authors: Dinh Van-Phuc , Li Zibiao , Ye Enyi
Published: June 2022

Nanomaterials, especially metal oxide nanomaterials with unique properties, with large specific surface area, affinity, capacity, and selectivity for heavy metals and other contaminants, have attracted scientists in the treatment of wastewater. The use of some nanomaterials as adsorbents for imbibing heavy metals and toxic organic compounds is discussed. Furthermore, the investigation of adsorptive mechanisms based on the combination of isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich, and Sips), kinetic models (pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-diffusion models), and spectroscopies (Fourier transform infrared [FT-IR] and thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry [TG-DSC]) will be encompassed in this chapter.
Nanotechnology Research for Alternative Renewable Energy
Authors: Zheng Jie , Wong Claris Jie Ee , Ye Enyi , Li Zibiao
Published: June 2022

Greenhouse gases released from the combustion and processing of fossil-based fuels result in disastrous ramifications to modern society, and thereby, the development of alternative renewable energy sources is an inevitable tendency. However, various obstructions remain in new energy systems. The research and development of nanotechnology (such as the innovation of nanomaterials and nanoreactors) are considered one of the most encouraging approaches to improve the efficiency of clean energy systems, facilitating their implementation to satisfy the world's energy demand. In this chapter, renewable energy sources, such as solar energy, wind power, geothermal energy, and hydrogen energy, using nanotechnology will be summarized.
Lateral flow assays for hormone detection
Authors: Khelifa Leena , Hu Yubing , Jiang Nan , Yetisen Ali K.
Published: June 2022

Lateral flow assays (LFAs) have gained momentum for hormone biosensing, offering significant advantages over conventional techniques. This review demonstrates recent advances driving LFAs to the forefront of modern point-of-care hormone biosensing.
Encapsulated droplet interface bilayers as a platform for high-throughput membrane studies
Authors: Baxani D. K. , Jamieson W. D. , Barrow D. A. , Castell O. K.
Published: June 2022

Microfluidically produced, lipid membrane-bound artificial cells are produced with microfluidics and arrayed in a 96-well plate as a platform for high-throughput optical assays and in situ electrophysiology.
Rh(iii)-catalysed C–H/C–H cross-coupling of S-aryl sulfoximines with thiophenes: facile access to [1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (BTBT) and benzothiazines
Authors: Yang Chengyong , Liu Zheng , Cheng Rui , Du Jiping , Ran Chunhao , Wu Di , Lan Jingbo
Published: June 2022

Rhodium-catalysed oxidative C–H/C–H cross-coupling of S-aryl sulfoximines with thiophenes has been accomplished for the first time via a chelation-assisted strategy, which provides an efficient approach to forge BTBT and benzothiazines.
A highly stable pre-lithiated SiOx anode coated with a “salt-in-polymer” layer
Authors: Tian He , Zhao Yu-Ming , Tian Yi-Fan , Li Ge , Li Jin-Yi , Jiang Ke-Cheng , Wang Wen-Peng , Li Xiao-Dong , Zhang Xu-Sheng , Xu Quan , Li Hong-Liang , Guo Yu-Guo
Published: June 2022

An artificial “salt-in-polymer” SEI was constructed on the surface of Li-MSiOx particles to maintain the structural integrity and inhibit the parasitic reaction at the electrode/electrolyte interface during cycling.
MOF nanosheet-derived carbon-layer-coated CoP/g-C3N4photocatalysts with enhanced charge transfer for efficient photocatalytic H2generation
Authors: Ma Yan , Chi Dianjun , Tao Yuping , Liu Shengjun , Dong Lei , Chen Yu , He Lifang , Zhang Kui
Published: June 2022

CoP@C/g-C3N4photocatalysts with enhanced charge transfer for efficient photocatalytic H2generation.
Perturbation theory of scattering for grazing-incidence fast-atom diffraction
Authors: Allison William , Miret-Artés Salvador , Pollak Eli
Published: June 2022

A classical analysis of grazing-incidence, fast atom diffraction (GIFAD) allows us to develop simple analytic results that connect observed phenomena directly to basic aspects of the potential, such as the lateral variation of the well-depth.
Ba3(BO3)2: the first example of dynamic disorder in a borate crystal
Authors: Sagatov Nursultan E. , Gavryushkin Pavel N. , Bekker Tatyana B. , Litasov Konstantin D.
Published: June 2022

Based on ab initio molecular dynamic simulations, dynamic disorder of BO3 groups in the Ba3(BO3)2 compound has been established. This is the first example of dynamic disorder in borates.
A direct dynamics study of the exotic photochemistry of the simplest Criegee intermediate, CH2OO
Authors: Antwi Ernest , Bush Rachel E. , Marchetti Barbara , Karsili Tolga N. V.
Published: June 2022

A seven-state multidimensional CASPT2 trajectory surface hopping study of the simplest Criegee intermediate reveals asymptotic coupling between dissociating fragments.
Iridium(iii) bis(thiophosphinite) pincer complexes: synthesis, ligand activation and applications in catalysis
Authors: Linke Alexander , Decker David , Drexler Hans-Joachim , Beweries Torsten
Published: June 2022

Iridium(iii) bis(thiophosphinite) complexes of the type [(RPSCSPR)Ir(H)(Cl)(py)] (RPSCSPR = κ3-(2,6-SPR2)C6H3) (R = tBu, iPr, Ph) can be prepared from the ligand precursors 1,3-(SPR2)C6H4 by C–H activation at Ir [Ir(COE)2Cl]2 or [Ir(COD)Cl]2.
Construction of novel MoS2@COF-Ph heterojunction photocatalysts for boosted photocatalytic efficiency and hydrogen production performance under sunlight
Authors: Dong Bowen , Wan Yuqi , Cheng Qingrong , Zhou Hong , Pan Zhiquan
Published: June 2022

We assemble COF-Ph on MoS2 nanospheres to form a unique interface for high-efficiency photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline, producing hydrogen under sunlight. The Z-scheme heterojunction mechanism promoted the separation of photocarriers to greatly improve performance.
Synthesis of isochromanonesvialaccase-mediated oxidative [4 + 2] cyclization of pyrocatechuic acid with styrenes
Authors: Guo Huan , Liu Jin , Wu Guojiao , Yao Weijun , Zhong Fangrui
Published: June 2022

Isochromanone is the core structure of many active natural products.
Electrosynthesis of amino acids from biomass-derived α-hydroxyl acids
Authors: Yan Kaili , Huddleston Morgan L. , Gerdes Brett A. , Sun Yujie
Published: June 2022

An electrochemical approach is reported to produce amino acids from biomass-derived α-hydroxyl acids.
Theoretical study on signal enhancement of orthogonal double pulse induced plasma
Authors: Wang Junxiao , Zhao Yang , Wang Gang , Zhang Lei , Wang Shuqing , Zhang Wanfei , Ma Xiaofei , Liu Zhenrong , Luo Xuebin , Ma Weiguang , Ye Zefu , Zhu Zhujun , Yin Wangbao , Jia Suotang
Published: June 2022

The theoretical simulation of orthogonal double pulse by hydrodynamics shows that the signal enhancement of the reheating mode is better when the pulse interval is short, but, in contrast, the pre-ablation mode is better.
Strain-ultrasensitive surface wrinkles for visual optical sensors
Authors: Ma Tianjiao , Chen Shuai , Li Jin , Yin Jie , Jiang Xuesong
Published: June 2022

A new strategy for visual optical sensors is realized by surface wrinkles ultrasensitive to strain using a bilayer wrinkling system, which possess simultaneous strain direction and magnitude detection and interactively visualized measurement.
Manganese oxide OMS-2 loaded on activated carbon fiber: a novel catalyst-assisted UV/PMS process for carbamazepine treatment in water
Authors: Yang Ning , Xiao Lixi , Deng Yuwei , Wu Zhiyu , Yin Hang , Liu Yang , Li Mengru , Ye Yuxuan , Wang Dandan , Li Qiang , Pan Fei , Xia Dongsheng
Published: June 2022

A novel catalyst was prepared by loading OMS-2 onto activated carbon fiber (ACF) via a one-step hydrothermal method, which was further adopted for carbamazepine treatment.
Fluorescence lifetime microscopy unveils the supramolecular organization of liposomal Doxorubicin
Authors: Tentori Paolo , Signore Giovanni , Camposeo Andrea , Carretta Annalisa , Ferri Gianmarco , Pingue Pasqualantonio , Luin Stefano , Pozzi Daniela , Gratton Enrico , Beltram Fabio , Caracciolo Giulio , Cardarelli Francesco
Published: June 2022

The supramolecular organization of Doxorubicin (DOX) within the standard Doxoves® liposomal formulation (DOX®) is investigated using visible light and phasor approach to fluorescence lifetime imaging (phasor-FLIM).
Cross-dehydrogenative coupling of ethers and amides with tautomerizable quinazolinones and mechanistic studies
Authors: Sebastian Dellamol , Willoughby Patrick H. , Lakshman Mahesh K.
Published: June 2022

Among the multiple reactive sites in 4(3H)-quinazolinones, selective alkylation with ethers and amides was achieved at the amide nitrogen atom, using n-Bu4NI and t-BuOOH. These are the first examples of reactions of two amides under such conditions.
Smart intercalation and coordination strategy to construct stable ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobes for the detection of anthrax biomarker
Authors: Niu Xiaoxiao , Wang Meixiang , Zhang Mengyu , Cao Rui , Liu Zhaodi , Hao Fuying , Sheng Liangquan , Xu Huajie
Published: June 2022

L@Mg-Al-Ln-LDHs (Ln = Tb, Eu) constructed by the intercalation coordination strategy exhibited a strong and stable fluorescence reference signal and achieved reliable ratiometric detection of DPA in complex environments and actual spores.
Facile approach to multifunctionalized 5-alkylidene-3-pyrrolin-2-ones via regioselective oxidative cyclization of 2,4-pentanediones with primary amines and sodium sulfinates
Authors: Liu Donghan , Lu Xihang , Zhang Qiaohe , Zhao Yuxuan , Zhang Biao , Sun Yulin , Dai Weifeng , Xu Yu , Yu Fuchao
Published: June 2022

Highly functionalized 5-alkylidene-3-pyrrolin-2-ones were efficiently synthesized via a four-component cascade cyclization/sulfonylation reaction between readily available 2,4-pentanediones, primary amines and sodium sulfinates under mild conditions.
Regioselective and stereospecific synthesis of functionalized 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-thiazines by catalyst-free [3 + 3] annulation of pyridinium 1,4-zwitterionic thiolates and aziridines
Authors: Wang Chuan-Chuan , Yang Yan-Tao , Wang Qing-Long , Liu Xue-Hua , Chen Ya-Jing
Published: June 2022

An efficient route to 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-thiazines was developed though [3 + 3] annulation of pyridinium 1,4-zwitterionic thiolates and aziridines under catalyst-free conditions.
Catalytic metal-enabled story of isocyanides for use as “C1N1” synthons in cyclization: beyond radical chemistry
Authors: Chen Dianpeng , Li Jianming , Wang Xin , Shan Yingying , Huang Keke , Yan Xiaoyang , Qiu Guanyinsheng
Published: June 2022

This review summarizes recent advances in the use of isocyanide as “C1N1” synthons in cyclization.
Retraction: Synthesis of non-toxic, biocompatible, and colloidal stable silver nanoparticle using egg-white protein as capping and reducing agents for sustainable antibacterial application
Authors: Thiyagarajan Kalaiyarasan
Published: June 2022

Retraction of ‘Synthesis of non-toxic, biocompatible, and colloidal stable silver nanoparticle using egg-white protein as capping and reducing agents for sustainable antibacterial application’ by Kalaiyarasan Thiyagarajan et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 23213–23229, https://doi.org/10.1039/C8RA03649G.
Building an emission library of donor–acceptor–donor type linker-based luminescent metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Xia Hai-Lun , Zhou Kang , Wu Shenjie , Ren Daming , Xing Kai , Guo Jiandong , Wang Xiaotai , Liu Xiao-Yuan , Li Jing
Published: June 2022

An emission library was built for donor–acceptor–donor type linker-based LMOFs, which can be used to rationally design organic linkers to prepare LMOFs with emission from deep blue to near-infrared.
Reversing electron transfer in a covalent triazine framework for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhang Linwen , Zhang Yaoming , Huang Xiaojuan , Bi Yingpu
Published: June 2022

Reversing the electron transfer in a covalent triazine-based framework by Co2P anchoring achieved highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from water splitting.
Recent advances in skin-like wearable sensors: sensor design, health monitoring, and intelligent auxiliary
Authors: Huang Ziyu , Xu Yaqi , Cheng Ya , Xue Min , Deng Mengtian , Jaffrezic-Renault Nicole , Guo Zhenzhong
Published: June 2022

Recent advances in health monitoring devices and intelligent assistive devices based on skin sensors.
CoxNi1−xO-NiCo2O4/rGO synergistic bifunctional electrocatalysts for high-rate rechargeable zinc–air batteries
Authors: Huang Zixuan , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Sim Wei Jian , Takahashi Masayuki , Kheawhom Soorathep , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: June 2022

CoNi/rGO bifunctional catalysts with spinel NiCo2O4and CoxNi1−xO bimetallic oxide nanoparticles embedded on reduced graphene oxide enabled the stable performance of rechargeable Zn–air batteries at a high current density of 100 mA cm−2.
Emerging nanobiotechnology-encoded relaxation tuning establishes new MRI modes to localize, monitor and predict diseases
Authors: Wang Taixia , Zhang Xueni , Xu Yuan , Xu Yingchun , Zhang Yifeng , Zhang Kun
Published: June 2022

Tumor microenvironment-activated longitudinal or transverse relaxation tuning shows highly promising applications. Smart MRI contrast agents exhibit high potential for tracking cancer progression and evolution and monitoring treatment process.
Recent development of the fluorescence-based detection of volatile organic compounds: a mechanistic overview
Authors: Meher Niranjan , Barman Debasish , Parui Retwik , Iyer Parameswar Krishnan
Published: June 2022

This review explores the up-to-date development of fluorescence-based detection of volatile organic contaminants (VOCs) on multiple platforms mainly highlighting mechanistic prospect that could help the future structural design of smart VOC sensors.
CRISPR screening in cancer stem cells
Authors: Wang Bei , Wong Alan S.L.
Published: June 2022

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells with self-renewal ability. Increasing evidence points to the critical roles of CSCs in tumorigenesis, metastasis, therapy resistance, and cancer relapse. As such, the elimination of CSCs improves cancer treatment outcomes. However, challenges remain due to limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing self-renewal and survival of CSCs. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 screening has been increasingly used to identify genetic determinants in cancers. In this primer, we discuss the progress made and emerging opportunities of coupling advanced CRISPR screening systems with CSC models to reveal the understudied vulnerabilities of CSCs.
The development of phytosanitary monitoring methods – creating of a schematic scale for as-sessing the development of Alternariosis on grape leaves
Authors: Aleinikova Natalia , Galkina Yevgenia , Andreyev Vladimir , Bolotianskaya Elena , Belash Sergey
Published: June 2022

To ensure consistent good quality grape yields it is necessary to minimize losses associated with affection of grape plants by various dis-eases. One of the main conditions to ensure the effective control of phyto-pathogens is a timely monitoring, revealing and assessing of harmful or-ganisms development intensity. In modern research, in order to improve the accuracy and reliability of quantitative characteristics of disease devel-opment intensity, as well as comparability of the results obtained, it is pro-posed to use a “set of standard diagrams” or a “schematic scale” - a set of illustrations depicting an increasing percentage of damage to the surface of one or another plant organ. To date, similar "sets of standard diagrams" were proposed for such grape diseases as mildew, anthracnose and grape leave rust. The article presents the results of creating a new "schematic scale" for assessing the development intensity of grape Alternariosis as a disease with the recorded increasing importance at a recent time of climate change. The scale was developed using colored and black–and-white pho-tographs of grape leaves affected by Alternariosis to varying degrees to de-termine the real intensity of the disease in digital form. Scale levels were established in accordance with minimum and maximum values of damage degree. Validation was carried out by two groups of assessors with differ-ent experience in accounting. The determination coefficient (R2) of regres-sion line and the absolute error variance demonstrated an increase in accu-racy, repeatability and reproducibility of estimates using the developed “schematic scale”. Using of the developed scale made it possible to in-crease the accuracy of quantitative assessment of intensity of Alternariosis damage to grape leaves.
Biochemical and physiological properties non-traditional food raw materials
Authors: Evdokimova Oksana , Masalov Vladimir , Safronova Oksana , Pyanikova Elvira , Kolobov Stanislav
Published: June 2022

The botanical and commodity characteristics are given, the physiological functions of the calamus root are indicated. The methods used to study its quantitative and qualitative composition of nutrients, including physiologically active substances and antiradical activity, are given. The general chemical composition is investigated, the results of the study of the mineral composition of the calamus root are presented, it is established that the root is rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, as well as trace elements manganese, iron, molybdenum, which perform important physiological functions in the human body. The calculation of the percentage of satisfaction of the daily need for individual minerals was carried out, it was found that the calamus root belongs to functional food ingredients, since it satisfies the SNP by more than 15% for individual minerals. It has been shown that the calamus root contains a significant amount of vitamins C, B2, E, β-carotene. The qualitative composition of organic acids, phenolic compounds and carbohydrates is given, indicating the release time of individual substances and the values of chromatogram profiles. The antioxidant activity of the original calamus root sample ranges from 37.7 to 47.4%, depending on the extractant, heat treatment reduces the activity by 5.8-6.7%. The conducted studies allow us to consider the calamus root as a plant ingredient for a nutrient mixture.
Multiresonant metasurface for Raman spectroscopy beyond single molecule detection level
Authors: Izadshenas Saeid , Masłowski Piotr , Herr Tobias , Słowik Karolina
Published: June 2022

A metasurface in the metal-insulator-grating configuration is designed and optimised to support enhancement of coherent Raman signal of selected molecules orders of magnitude above the single-molecule detection threshold. The tunability is demonstrated by adjusting the structure to match selected Raman peaks of rhodamine, however, its spectral response is broad enough to cover a range of Raman shifts. Finally, the grating allows switching between distinct values of Raman shift with a single metasurface illuminated at different angles.
Modélisation et accélération de réseaux de neurones profonds (CNN) en Python/VHDL/C++ et leur vérification et test à l’aide de l’environnement Pynq sur les FPGA Xilinx
Authors: Jovanović S. , Weber S.
Published: June 2022

Nous présentons un ensemble de travaux pratiques qui seront dispensés au sein du Master EEA - Électronique Embarquée à l’université de Lorraine dans le cadre des modules Modélisation SystemC et Conception VLSI. Ces TP sont destinés à initier les étudiants à la compréhension, modélisation et conception des réseaux de neurones convolutifs dans des langages de description de matériel au niveau RTL (VHDL, le module Conception VLSI) et dans un langage de haut niveau (C++/SystemC, le module Modélisation SystemC). Ils sont organisés autour d’un ensemble d’outils de modélisation et de synthèse de Mentor Graphics (Modelsim, Catapult HLS) et spécifiques aux plateformes FPGA Xilinx et à l’environnement Pynq pour la simulation, test et vérification.
Gesundheitsökonomische Aspekte von Übergewicht und
Adipositas: Krankheitskosten und Kosteneffektivität am Beispiel von
Werberegulierungen
Authors: Lehnert Thomas , Konnopka Alexander , König Hans-Helmut
Published: June 2022

Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die mit
Übergewicht und Adipositas assoziierten Kosten in Deutschland und stellt
empirische Ergebnisse zur Kosteneffektivität von Maßnahmen zur
Regulierung von TV-Werbung für ungesunde Lebensmittel aus der
internationalen Literatur vor. Übergewicht und Adipositas gehen mit sehr
hohen Kosten für das Gesundheitssystem und die Gesellschaft einher,
welche zugleich das maximale Einsparpotenzial an theoretisch vermeidbarer
ökonomischer Krankheitslast darstellen. Am Beispiel der Regulierung von
TV-Werbung für ungesunde Lebensmittel wird aufgezeigt, wie mit den
Methoden der ökonomischen Evaluation die Kosteneffektivität von
Präventionsmaßnahmen beurteilt werden kann. Eine internationale
Literatursuche identifizierte sechs modellbasierte
Kosteneffektivitätsanalysen, die die Wirtschaftlichkeit von
Regulierungen für Zeithorizonte zwischen 10 und 100 Jahren untersuchen.
Die Interventionen erwiesen sich in allen Studien und für alle
untersuchten Länder/Populationen als kosteneffektiv oder
kostensparend. Zukünftig sollten vermehrt Interventionsprogramme,
bestehend aus aufeinander abgestimmten und simultan implementierten
präventiven und therapeutischen Maßnahmen entwickelt und
ökonomisch evaluiert werden.