bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventing erosion of X-chromosome inactivation in human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Cloutier Marissa , Kumar Surinder , Buttigieg Emily , Keller Laura , Lee Brandon , Williams Aaron , Mojica-Perez Sandra , Erliandri Indri , Rocha Andre Monteiro Da , Cadigan Kenneth , Smith Gary D. , Kalantry Sundeep
Published: May 2022

X-chromosome inactivation is a paradigm of epigenetic transcriptional regulation. Female human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) often undergo erosion of X-inactivation upon prolonged culture. Here, we investigate the sources of X-inactivation instability by deriving new primed pluripotent hESC lines. We find that culture media composition dramatically influenced the expression of XIST lncRNA, a key regulator of X-inactivation. hESCs cultured in a defined xenofree medium stably maintained XIST RNA expression and coating, whereas hESCs cultured in the widely used mTeSR1 medium lost XIST RNA expression. We pinpointed lithium chloride in mTeSR1 as a cause of XIST RNA loss. The addition of lithium chloride or inhibitors of GSK-3 proteins that are targeted by lithium to the defined hESC culture medium impeded XIST RNA expression. GSK-3 inhibition in differentiating female mouse embryonic stem cells and epiblast stem cells also resulted in a loss of XIST RNA expression. Together, these data may reconcile observed variations in X-inactivation in hESCs and inform the faithful culture of pluripotent stem cells.
Fibronectin binding protein B binds to loricrin and promotes corneocyte adhesion by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: da Costa Thaina M. , Viljoen Albertus , Towell Aisling M. , Dufrêne Yves F. , Geoghegan Joan A.
Published: May 2022

Colonisation of humans by Staphylococcus aureus is a major risk factor for infection, yet the bacterial and host factors involved are not fully understood. The first step during skin colonisation is adhesion of the bacteria to corneocytes in the stratum corneum where the cornified envelope protein loricrin is the main ligand for S. aureus. Here we report a novel loricrin-binding protein of S. aureus, the cell wall-anchored fibronectin binding protein B (FnBPB). Single-molecule force spectroscopy revealed both weak and ultra-strong (2 nN) binding of FnBPB to loricrin and that mechanical stress enhanced the strength of these bonds. Treatment with a peptide derived from fibrinogen decreased the frequency of strong interactions, suggesting that both ligands bind to overlapping sites within FnBPB. Finally, we show that FnBPB promotes adhesion to human corneocytes by binding strongly to loricrin, highlighting the relevance of this interaction to skin colonisation.
Rationally engineering santalene synthase to readjust the component ratio of sandalwood oil
Authors: Zha Wenlong , Zhang Fan , Shao Jiaqi , Ma Xingmei , Zhu Jianxun , Sun Pinghua , Wu Ruibo , Zi Jiachen
Published: May 2022

Plant essential oils (PEOs) are widely used in cosmetic and nutraceutical industries. The component ratios of PEOs determine their qualities. Controlling the component ratios is challenging in construction of PEO biotechnological platforms. Here, we explore the catalytic reaction pathways of both product-promiscuous and product-specific santalene synthases (i.e., SaSSy and SanSyn) by multiscale simulations. F441 of SanSyn is found as a key residue restricting the conformational dynamics of the intermediates, and thereby the direct deprotonation by the general base T298 dominantly produce α-santalene. The subsequent mutagenesis of this plastic residue leads to generation of a mutant enzyme SanSynF441V which can produce both α- and β-santalenes. Through metabolic engineering efforts, the santalene/santalol titer reaches 704.2 mg/L and the component ratio well matches the ISO 3518:2002 standard. This study represents a paradigm of constructing biotechnological platforms of PEOs with desirable component ratios by the combination of metabolic and enzymatic engineering.
Network pharmacology of iridoid glycosides from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver against osteoporosis
Authors: Wang Ting , Fan Liming , Feng Shuai , Ding Xinli , An Xinxin , Chen Jiahuan , Wang Minjuan , Zhai Xifeng , Li Yang
Published: May 2022

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver is one of the commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for the treatment of osteoporosis, and iridoid glycosides are considered to be its active ingredients against osteoporosis. This study aims to clarify the chemical components and molecular mechanism of iridoid glycosides of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver in the treatment of osteoporosis by integrating network pharmacology and molecular simulations. The active iridoid glycosides and their potential targets were retrieved from text mining as well as Swiss Target Prediction, TargetNet database, and STITCH databases. At the same time, DisGeNET, GeneCards, and Therapeutic Target Database were used to search for the targets associated with osteoporosis. A protein–protein interaction network was built to analyze the interactions between targets. Then, DAVID bioinformatics resources and R 3.6.3 project were used to carry out Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. Moreover, interactions between active compounds and potential targets were investigated through molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulation, and binding free energy analysis. The results showed that a total of 12 iridoid glycosides were identified as the active iridoid glycosides of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver in the treatment of osteoporosis. Among them, aucubin, reptoside, geniposide and ajugoside were the core compounds. The enrichment analysis suggested iridoid glycosides of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver prevented osteoporosis mainly through PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and Estrogen signaling pathway. Molecular docking results indicated that the 12 iridoid glycosides had good binding ability with 25 hub target proteins, which played a critical role in the treatment of osteoporosis. Molecular dynamic and molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area results revealed these compounds showed stable binding to the active sites of the target proteins during the simulations. In conclusion, our research demonstrated that iridoid glycosides of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver in the treatment of osteoporosis involved a multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway mechanism, which provided new suggestions and theoretical support for treating osteoporosis.
Interpretable machine learning identifies paediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus subtypes based on gene expression data
Authors: Yones Sara A. , Annett Alva , Stoll Patricia , Diamanti Klev , Holmfeldt Linda , Barrenäs Carl Fredrik , Meadows Jennifer R. S. , Komorowski Jan
Published: May 2022

Transcriptomic analyses are commonly used to identify differentially expressed genes between patients and controls, or within individuals across disease courses. These methods, whilst effective, cannot encompass the combinatorial effects of genes driving disease. We applied rule-based machine learning (RBML) models and rule networks (RN) to an existing paediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) blood expression dataset, with the goal of developing gene networks to separate low and high disease activity (DA1 and DA3). The resultant model had an 81% accuracy to distinguish between DA1 and DA3, with unsupervised hierarchical clustering revealing additional subgroups indicative of the immune axis involved or state of disease flare. These subgroups correlated with clinical variables, suggesting that the gene sets identified may further the understanding of gene networks that act in concert to drive disease progression. This included roles for genes (i) induced by interferons (IFI35 and OTOF), (ii) key to SLE cell types (KLRB1 encoding CD161), or (iii) with roles in autophagy and NF-κB pathway responses (CKAP4). As demonstrated here, RBML approaches have the potential to reveal novel gene patterns from within a heterogeneous disease, facilitating patient clinical and therapeutic stratification.
Modulation of the autophagic pathway inhibits HIV-1 infection in human lymphoid tissue cultured ex vivo
Authors: Pedreño-López Sònia , García Elisabet , Guerrero Dolores , Gómez-Mora Elisabet , Molina Mateu Laura , Orera Pérez Fernando , Senserrich Jordi , Clotet Bonaventura , Cabrera Cecilia
Published: May 2022

A complex link exists between HIV-1 and autophagy, and discordant results have been reported in different in vitro models regarding the way HIV and autophagy modulate each other. Despite this, there is very limited knowledge about the interplay between HIV and autophagy in vivo in lymphoid tissue, due in part by the lack of cell models that recapitulate the in vivo setting. Here, we evaluate the interrelationship between HIV and autophagy using human ex vivo lymphoid tissue cultures as an HIV infection model. Our results showed that human lymphoid aggregated cultures (HLACs) from tonsillar tissue displayed fully functional autophagic activity. In this system, HIV infection resulted in an increase in autophagy. Notably, we observed that both, autophagy-enhancing (rapamycin) or blocking drugs (3-methyladenine, chloroquine and bafilomycin), were able to decrease HIV-DNA levels and HIV replication. Therefore, efficient HIV-1 replication requires a fine-tuned level of autophagy, so modifications of this balance will have a negative impact on its replication. Therefore, targeting the autophagic pathway could be a new therapeutic approach to be explored to treat HIV-1 infection. Ex vivo cultures of human lymphoid tissue are a suitable model to obtain further insights into HIV and its intricate relationship with autophagy.
Unveiling the dynamics of ultra high velocity droplet impact on solid surfaces
Authors: Tretola Giovanni , Vogiatzaki Konstantina
Published: May 2022

The impact of a liquid droplet onto a solid surface is a phenomenon present in a wide range of natural processes and technological applications. In this study, we focus on impact conditions characterised by ultra high velocities (up to 500 m/s), to investigate—for the first time—how the impact dynamics change when the compressibility of the liquid in the droplet is no longer negligible. A water droplet impacting a dry substrate at four different velocities, from 50 to 500 m/s, is simulated. Such conditions are particularly relevant to aviation as well as industrial gas turbine engine risk management. Thus, numerical investigations as the one we present here provide a powerful tool to analyse the process. We find that increasing the impact velocity changes the flow field within and outside the droplet the moment that the compressibility can no longer be neglected, with the rise of pressure fronts in both regions. Increasing the impact velocity, the compressibility affects also the lamella formed and changes its ejection velocity observed over time (and thus the wetting behaviour) when the region shift from incompressible to compressible. Moreover, it is found that the maximum pressure observed at the wall during the impact is located at the corner of the impact, where the lamella is ejected, not in the centre, and it is influenced by the initial velocity. To predict the maximum pressure experienced by the surface during the high velocity impact, we propose a correlation based on the initial Weber and Reynolds number of the droplet. The complexity and the scales of the dynamics involved in the ultra-high velocity impact is limiting the experimental and analytical studies. To the best of our knowledge there are no experimental data currently available at such conditions. In this study, through numerical simulations, new insights about the impact dynamics at such conditions are provided.
Shock wave formation from head-on collision of two subsonic vortex rings
Authors: Bauer Rachel L. , Thomas Cody J. , Baker Everett V. P. , Johnson Emily M. , Williams Kelly R. , Langenderfer Martin J. , Johnson Catherine E.
Published: May 2022

Vortex ring collisions have attracted intense interest in both water and air studies (Baird in Proc R Soc Lond Ser Math Phys Sci 409:59–65, 1987, Poudel et al. in Phys Fluids 33:096105, 2021, Lim and Nickels in Nature 357:225, 1992, New et al. in Exp Fluids 57:109, 2016, Suzuki et al. in Geophys Res Lett 34, 2007, Yan et al. in J Fluids Eng 140:054502, 2018, New et al. in J Fluid Mech 899, 2020, Cheng et al. in Phys Fluids 31:067107, 2019, Hernández and Reyes in 29:103604, 2017, Mishra et al. in Phys Rev Fluids, 2021, Zednikova et al. in Chem Eng Technol 42:843–850, 2019, Kwon et al. in Nature 600:64–69, 2021). These toroidal structures spin around a central axis and travel in the original direction of impulse while spinning around the core until inertial forces become predominant causing the vortex flow to spontaneously decay to turbulence (Vortex Rings, https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/smrlab/vortex-rings). Previous studies have shown the collision of subsonic vortex rings resulting in reconnected vortex rings, but the production of a shock wave from the collision has not been demonstrated visibly (Lim and Nickels in Nature 357:225, 1992, Cheng et al. in Phys Fluids 31:067107, 2019). Here we present the formation of a shock wave due to the collision of explosively formed subsonic vortex rings. As the vortex rings travel at Mach 0.66 toward the collision point, they begin to trap high pressure air between them. Upon collision, high pressure air was imploded and released radially away from the axis of the collision, generating a visible shock wave traveling through and away from the colliding vortices at Mach 1.22. Our results demonstrate a pressure gradient with high pressure release creating a shock wave. We anticipate our study to be a starting point for more explosively formed vortex collisions. For example, explosives with different velocities of detonation could be tested to produce vortex rings of varying velocities.
Numerical and experimental analysis of Lagrangian dispersion in two-dimensional chaotic flows
Authors: Forgia Giovanni La , Cavaliere Davide , Espa Stefania , Falcini Federico , Lacorata Guglielmo
Published: May 2022

We present a review and a new assessment of the Lagrangian dispersion properties of a 2D model of chaotic advection and diffusion in a regular lattice of non stationary kinematic eddies. This model represents an ideal case for which it is possible to analyze the same system from three different perspectives: theory, modelling and experiments. At this regard, we examine absolute and relative Lagrangian dispersion for a kinematic flow, a hydrodynamic model (Delft3D), and a laboratory experiment, in terms of established dynamical system techniques, such as the measure of (Lagrangian) finite-scale Lyapunov exponents (FSLE). The new main results concern: (i) an experimental verification of the scale-dependent dispersion properties of the chaotic advection and diffusion model here considered; (ii) a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the hydro-dynamical Lagrangian simulations. The latter, even though obtained for an idealized open flow configuration, contributes to the overall validation of the computational features of the Delft3D model.
Rearrangements in the musculature correlate with jumping behaviour in legless Mediterranean fruit fly larvae Ceratitis capitata (Tephritidae)
Authors: Diesner Max , Brenner Marcel , Azarsa Amin , Heymann Caroline , Aberle Hermann
Published: May 2022

Larvae of holometabolic insects evolved different crawling strategies depending on the presence or absence of larval legs or life style. A rather unusual mode of locomotion has independently evolved in legless larvae of several dipteran species. Maggots of the Mediterranean fruit flyCeratitis capitatadeveloped an effective jumping mechanism to increase locomotion speed or to deter predators during the search for suitable pupation sites. Here, we use high-speed videography to visualize even the fastest movements during jump preparation and take-off. Quantification of kinetic and biometric parameters reveal that maggots jump up to 15-fold of their body length from a standing position and gain speed with 27 times the acceleration of gravity. Videos at high spatial resolution show the mechanism of latch formation and release in unprecedented detail. Mouth hooks insert in the caudal segment and raise a cuticular fold that serves as a handle to pressurize the body prior to launch. Since locomotion behaviour should be intrinsically linked to neuromuscular systems, we dissected third instar larvae and determined the precise pattern of abdominal muscles fibres. Compared to non-jumping dipteran larvae, such asDrosophila melanogaster, the overall arrangement is highly similar, but a few muscle fibres show characteristic re-arrangements in orientation and strength that are consistent with a role in bending and jumping. These results suggest that body wall muscles show adaptations to jumping behaviour inCeratitislarvae, and possibly also in other species with different jumping techniques.
Daily prosocial actions during the COVID-19 pandemic contribute to giving behavior in adolescence
Authors: Sweijen Sophie W. , van de Groep Suzanne , Green Kayla H. , te Brinke Lysanne W. , Buijzen Moniek , de Leeuw Rebecca N. H. , Crone Eveline A.
Published: May 2022

Prosocial actions are a building block for developing mature and caring social relations. However, the global pandemic may hamper adolescents’ prosocial actions. In this preregistered study, we examined the extent to which adolescents provided daily emotional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 10–25-year-old high school and university students participated at three timepoints (N = 888 at the first timepoint (May 2020); 494 at the second timepoint (Nov 2020) and 373 at the third timepoint (May 2021)). At the first and second timepoint, participants completed 2 weeks of daily diaries on providing emotional support. At all timepoints, participants performed Dictator Games to measure giving to peers, friends and COVID-19 targets (medical doctors, COVID-19 patients, individuals with a poor immune system). Across the three timepoints, adolescents gave more to COVID-19 targets than peers and friends, but giving to COVID-19 target was highest in the beginning of the pandemic (first timepoint relative to second and third timepoint). Results from the first timepoint showed that emotional support directed to friends peaked in mid-adolescence, whereas emotional support towards family members showed a gradual increase from childhood to young adulthood. Furthermore, daily emotional support increased between the first and second timepoint. Daily emotional support to friends predicted giving behavior to all targets, whereas emotional support to family was specifically associated with giving to COVID-19 targets. These findings elucidate the relation between daily actions and prosocial giving to societally-relevant targets in times of crisis, underlying the importance of prosocial experiences during adolescence.
Detection of balance disorders using rotations around vertical axis and an artificial neural network
Authors: Kamiński Marek , Marciniak Paweł , Tylman Wojciech , Kotas Rafał , Janc Magdalena , Józefowicz-Korczyńska Magdalena , Gawrońska Anna , Zamysłowska-Szmytke Ewa
Published: May 2022

Vestibular impairments affect patients' movements and can result in difficulties with daily life activities. The main aim of this study is to answer the question whether a simple and short test such as rotation about a vertical axis can be an objective method of assessing balance dysfunction in patients with unilateral vestibular impairments. A 360˚ rotation test was performed using six MediPost devices. The analysis was performed in three ways: (1) the analytical approach based only on data from one sensor; (2) the analytical approach based on data from six sensors; (3) the artificial neural network (ANN) approach based on data from six sensors. For approaches 1 and 2 best results were obtained using maximum angular velocities (MAV) of rotation and rotation duration (RD), while approach 3 used 11 different features. The following sensitivities and specificities were achieved: for approach 1: MAV—80% and 60%, RD—69% and 74%; for approach 2: 61% and 85% and RD—74% and 56%; for approach 3: 88% and 84%. The ANN-based six-sensor approach revealed the best sensitivity and specificity among parameters studied, however one-sensor approach might be a simple screening test used e.g. for rehabilitation purposes.
Spatial distribution and identification of potential risk regions to rice blast disease in different rice ecosystems of Karnataka
Authors: Amoghavarsha Chittaragi , Pramesh Devanna , Sridhara Shankarappa , Patil Balanagouda , Shil Sandip , Naik Ganesha R. , Naik Manjunath K. , Shokralla Shadi , El-Sabrout Ahmed M. , Mahmoud Eman A. , Elansary Hosam O. , Nayak Anusha , Prasannakumar Muthukapalli K.
Published: May 2022

Rice is a globally important crop and highly vulnerable to rice blast disease (RBD). We studied the spatial distribution of RBD by considering the 2-year exploratory data from 120 sampling sites over varied rice ecosystems of Karnataka, India. Point pattern and surface interpolation analyses were performed to identify the spatial distribution of RBD. The spatial clusters of RBD were generated by spatial autocorrelation and Ripley’s K function. Further, inverse distance weighting (IDW), ordinary kriging (OK), and indicator kriging (IK) approaches were utilized to generate spatial maps by predicting the values at unvisited locations using neighboring observations. Hierarchical cluster analysis using the average linkage method identified two main clusters of RBD severity. From the Local Moran’s I, most of the districts were clustered together (at I > 0), except the coastal and interior districts (at I < 0). Positive spatial dependency was observed in the Coastal, Hilly, Bhadra, and Upper Krishna Project ecosystems (p > 0.05), while Tungabhadra and Kaveri ecosystem districts were clustered together at p < 0.05. From the kriging, Hilly ecosystem, middle and southern parts of Karnataka were found vulnerable to RBD. This is the first intensive study in India on understanding the spatial distribution of RBD using geostatistical approaches, and the findings from this study help in setting up ecosystem-specific management strategies against RBD.
Peanut triacylglycerols activate innate immunity both in insects and mammals
Authors: Li Wenyuan , Miyashita Atsushi , Sekimizu Kazuhisa
Published: May 2022

In this study, we investigated immunoreactivity of peanut (Arachis hypogaea) oil using the silkworm (Bombyx mori) model. The peanut oil induced melanin formation when injected to the silkworm hemocoel. We then purified the active substance and identified the triacylglycerols (TAGs) as the responsible molecule for the melanin-forming effect of peanut oil. Also, the peanut TAGs induced the muscle contraction of the silkworm (i.e., cleavage of the insect cytokine BmPP) and the TNF-α production by cultured mouse macrophage cells. The muscle contraction activity of the peanut TAGs was reduced by saponification reaction, indicating that the TAG (not the degraded fatty acids) moiety is responsible for the activity. The muscle contraction effects of other TAGs of olive, lard, and beef oil were comparable with that of peanut TAGs. Nevertheless, for the melanin formation, the effect of peanut TAGs was outstanding. The fatty acid composition of peanut TAGs was distinct from that of olive TAGs. These results suggest that TAGs are immunoreactive and induces cytokines both in insect and mammalian immune systems. Also, the differential effects of peanut and olive TAGs for the melanin formation may suggest that TAGs with different fatty acid compositions are distinguished by the immune system.
End-of-life discussions reduce the utilization of life-sustaining treatments during the last three months of life in cancer patients
Authors: Chan Shang-Yih , Lai Yun-Ju , Chen Yu-Yen , Chiang Shuo-Ju , Tsai Yi-Fan , Hsu Li-Fei , Chuang Pei-Hung , Chen Chu-Chieh , Yen Yung-Feng
Published: May 2022

Studies to examine the impact of end-of-life (EOL) discussions on the utilization of life-sustaining treatments near death are limited and have inconsistent findings. This nationwide population-based cohort study determined the impact of EOL discussions on the utilization of life-sustaining treatments in the last three months of life in Taiwanese cancer patients. From 2012 to 2018, this cohort study included adult cancer patients, which were confirmed by pathohistological reports. Life-sustaining treatments during the last three months of life included cardiopulmonary resuscitation, intubation, and defibrillation. EOL discussions in cancer patients were confirmed by their medical records. Association of EOL discussions with utilization of life-sustaining treatments were assessed using multiple logistic regression. Of 381,207 patients, the mean age was 70.5 years and 19.4% of the subjects received life-sustaining treatments during the last three months of life. After adjusting for other covariates, those who underwent EOL discussions were less likely to receive life-sustaining treatments during the last three months of life compared to those who did not (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–0.89). Considering the type of treatments, EOL discussions correlated with a lower likelihood of receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.43–0.47), endotracheal intubation (AOR = 0.92, 95%CI 0.90–0.95), and defibrillation (AOR = 0.54, 95%CI 0.49–0.59). Since EOL discussions are associated with less aggressive care, our study supports the importance of providing these discussions to cancer patients during the EOL treatment.
A Bayesian network structure learning approach to identify genes associated with stress in spleens of chickens
Authors: Videla Rodriguez E. A. , Mitchell John B. O. , Smith V. Anne
Published: May 2022

Differences in the expression patterns of genes have been used to measure the effects of non-stress or stress conditions in poultry species. However, the list of genes identified can be extensive and they might be related to several biological systems. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify a small set of genes closely associated with stress in a poultry animal model, the chicken (Gallus gallus), by reusing and combining data previously published together with bioinformatic analysis and Bayesian networks in a multi-step approach. Two datasets were collected from publicly available repositories and pre-processed. Bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify genes common to both datasets that showed differential expression patterns between non-stress and stress conditions. Bayesian networks were learnt using a Simulated Annealing algorithm implemented in the software Banjo. The structure of the Bayesian network consisted of 16 out of 19 genes together with the stress condition. Network structure showed CARD19 directly connected to the stress condition plus highlighted CYGB, BRAT1, and EPN3 as relevant, suggesting these genes could play a role in stress. The biological functionality of these genes is related to damage, apoptosis, and oxygen provision, and they could potentially be further explored as biomarkers of stress.
A MIP-enabled stainless-steel hypodermic needle sensor for electrochemical detection of aflatoxin B1
Authors: Wood Marika , Mugo Samuel M.
Published: May 2022

A robust and reusable molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-enabled stainless steel hypodermic needle sensor for sensitive electrochemical detection of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in foods and other biological samples.
Deep eutectic solvents for the preservation of concentrated proteins: the case of lysozyme in 1 : 2 choline chloride : glycerol
Authors: Sanchez-Fernandez Adrian , Prevost Sylvain , Wahlgren Marie
Published: May 2022

A deep eutectic solvent is presented as a sustainable, synthetically accessible, and non-toxic environment for the stabilisation of lysozyme over a wide concentration range, keeping the enzyme stable and functional even after long-term storage.
Analysis of cell–nanoparticle interactions and imaging of in vitro labeled cells showing barcorded endosomes using fluorescent thiol-organosilica nanoparticles surface-functionalized with polyethyleneimine
Authors: Nakamura Michihiro , Nakamura Junna , Mochizuki Chihiro , Kuroda Chika , Kato Shigeki , Haruta Tomohiro , Kakefuda Mayu , Sato Shun , Tamanoi Fuyuhiko , Sugino Norihiro
Published: May 2022

“Endosomal barcoded cells” via the differential intraendosomal sorting of particles depending on the particle surface were prepared using simultaneous dual-particle administration and observed on seamless biomedical imaging.
Development and application of an LC-MS/MS method for pharmacokinetic study of ruxolitinib in children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Li Zhuo , Sun Ning , Zhang Qing , Ma Hong-hao , Wang Dong , Zhao Yun-ze , Yang Chang-qing , Zhang Rui , Zhao Li-bo
Published: May 2022

A convenient, sensitive, and reliable LC-MS/MS method for the monitoring of ruxolitinib was developed, validated and applied to the clinical pharmacokinetic study of ruxolitinib in Chinese pediatric patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
Palindromic hyperbranched rolling circle amplification enabling ultrasensitive microRNA detection
Authors: Song Jayeon , Ju Yong , Kim Soohyun , Kim Hansol , Park Hyun Gyu
Published: May 2022

We herein describe a palindromic hyperbranched rolling circle amplification (PH-RCA) reaction for ultrasensitive detection of microRNAs (miRNAs).
Large-scale continuous preparation of highly stable α-CsPbI3/m-SiO2 nanocomposites by a microfluidics reactor for solid state lighting application
Authors: Guo Runze , Liu Yufeng , Fang Yongzheng , Liu Zhifu , Dong Langping , Wang Lei , Li Wenyao , Hou Jingshan
Published: May 2022

CsPbI3-Mesoporous SiO2 nanocomposites with ultrahigh chemical stability were fabricated by the microfluidic technology for large-scale continuous production.
Deciphering the dual functions of a silicon dioxide protective layer in regulating lithium-ion deposition
Authors: Wu Tianlai , Zhang Weicai , Cai Jiawen , Zheng Mingtao , Hu Hang , Yu Xiaoyuan , Shao Dan , Xiao Yong , Liu Yingliang , Liang Yeru
Published: May 2022

A systematic insight into the role of SiO2 as a protective layer in realizing uniform Li-ion deposition is proposed.
A novel ion-responsive photonic hydrogel sensor for portable visual detection and timely removal of lead ions in water
Authors: Peng Zhuo , Yu Hai-Rong , Wen Jing-Ya , Wang Yan-Lin , Liang Ting , Cheng Chang-Jing
Published: May 2022

A novel ion-responsive photonic hydrogel sensor based on the poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-benzo-18-crown-6-acrylamide) hydrogel with fixed Fe3O4 CNC chains has been developed for the highly-selective, portable, visual detection and removal of Pb2+ in water.
Electrochemical ammonia synthesis: fundamental practices and recent developments in transition metal boride, carbide and nitride-class of catalysts
Authors: Biswas Ashmita , Bhardwaj Sakshi , Boruah Tribani , Dey Ramendra Sundar
Published: May 2022

This review focusses on the fundamentals of NRR, factors influencing NRR kinetics and the advent and development of transition metal-based catalysts such as borides, carbides and nitrides due to their specific importance in reinforcing NRR.
New family of Hofmann-like coordination polymers constructed with imidazole ligands and associated with spin crossover and anisotropic thermal expansions
Authors: Kosone Takashi , Kosuge Ryota , Tanaka Morie , Kawasaki Takeshi , Adachi Naoya
Published: May 2022

A new series of Hofmann-like compounds made with imidazole ligands display interesting properties.
Long-acting response of COX-2-mediated metastasis inhibition by oxaliplatin-based CP-L-OHP
Authors: Hu Juan-Juan , Ma Zhong-Ying , He Xin-Rui , Wu Yi-Gang , Chen Qian , Song Xue-Qing , Wang Guan-Yuan , Li Yi-Han , Xu Jing-Yuan
Published: May 2022

Among four oxaliplatin-based Pt(iv) complexes, CP-L-OHP significantly delayed BGC-823 cell metastasis via long-acting inhibition of COX-2.
Preparation of heterogeneous NiCo2S4/Ru composite electrode materials and their electrocatalytic properties for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Li XinBao , Fu Han , Zhou Qi
Published: May 2022

Nano-porous NiCo2S4was preparedin situ. Ru nanoparticles were loaded onto a NiCo2S4substrate by a solvothermal method to form the NiCo2S4/Ru composite electrode material and further vulcanized by CVD to obtain NiCo2S4/RuS2as the contrast.
Decarboxylative cyclization of o-chlorobenzoic acids with C,C-palladacycles formed by an aminopalladation/dealkylation strategy to access dibenzo[a,c]carbazoles
Authors: Chen Xiahong , Lei Sen , Chen Yan , Deng Wenbo , Deng Guobo , Liang Yun , Yang Yuan
Published: May 2022

A novel decarboxylative cyclization of o-chlorobenzoic acids with C,C-palladacycles formed by an aminopalladation/dealkylation strategy for the assembly of dibenzo[a,c]carbazoles has been reported.
A comparative study of Cd(ii) adsorption on calcined raw attapulgite and calcined aluminium hydroxide-modified attapulgites in aqueous solution
Authors: Zhang Qinhu , Chu Run , Wei Yuzhen , Cai Liqun
Published: May 2022

Schematic illustration about the synthetic route of the C-ATP, C-ATP-SO42− and C-ATP-Cl− for the adsorption of Cd(ii).
Janus transition metal dichalcogenides in combination with MoS2 for high-efficiency photovoltaic applications: a DFT study
Authors: Beshir Birhan Tesfaye , Obodo Kingsley O. , Asres Georgies A.
Published: May 2022

MoS2/Janus TMDC heterostructure stacking patterns with different stacking orientations.
Synthesis, characterization and application of oxovanadium(iv) complexes with [NNO] donor ligands: X-ray structures of their corresponding dioxovanadium(v) complexes
Authors: Borah Rakhimoni , Lahkar Surabhi , Deori Naranarayan , Brahma Sanfaori
Published: May 2022

Oxovanadium(iv) complexes catalysed CO2 cycloaddition resulting up to 100% conversion of epoxides to cyclic carbonates under relatively benign condition. Transformation of oxovanadium(iv) to dioxovanadium(v) in the process of crystallization.
Functional amyloids from bacterial biofilms – structural properties and interaction partners
Authors: Akbey Ümit , Andreasen Maria
Published: May 2022

Functional bacterial amyloids forming biofilms have unique structural characteristics while still being similar to pathological ones. Through many identified interaction partners, they emerge as complex and essential components of biofilms.
General electrochemical Minisci alkylation of N-heteroarenes with alkyl halides
Authors: Río-Rodríguez Roberto del , Fragoso-Jarillo Lorena , Garrido-Castro Alberto F. , Maestro M. Carmen , Fernández-Salas Jose A. , Alemán José
Published: May 2022

Herein, we report, a general, facile and environmentally friendly Minisci-type alkylation of N-heteroarenes under simple and straightforward electrochemical conditions using widely available alkyl halides as radical precursors.
Regioselective synthesis of spirocyclic pyrrolines via a palladium-catalyzed Narasaka–Heck/C–H activation/[4 + 2] annulation cascade reaction
Authors: Wei Wan-Xu , Kong Xiangtao , Jiao Rui-Qiang , Li Xue-Song , Wang Cui-Tian , Li Yuke , Liang Yong-Min
Published: May 2022

Readily available 2-chlorobenzoic acid or ethyl phenylpropiolate as the C2 insertion unit. High regioselectivity. Broad substrate scope. Mechanistic studies.
Template-free synthesis of a wafer-sized polyaniline nanoscale film with high electrical conductivity for trace ammonia gas sensing
Authors: Zhu Chonghui , Dong Xin , Guo Chuanyu , Huo Lihua , Gao Shan , Zheng Zhikun , Cheng Xiaoli , Xu Yingming
Published: May 2022

We synthesized a large area ordered and conductive PANI film at the air–water interface. It can be used to prepare a flexible sensor for trace NH3 detection and discoloration test paper for NH3 detection to monitor the freshness of shrimp.
A “two-in-one” integrated electrode design for high-energy rechargeable bipolar Li batteries
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Liu Yan , Xu Yifei , Wang Jianghao , Chen Zerui , Wu Hao Bin
Published: May 2022

A novel bipolar battery architecture using an integrated Al electrode as both the high-capacity anode and bipolar plate is proposed to construct bipolar Li batteries, leading to high energy density and simple architecture/manufacturing.
Repurposing pinacol esters of boronic acids for tuning viscoelastic properties of glucose-responsive polymer hydrogels: effects on insulin release kinetics
Authors: Ali Akbar , Nouseen Shaista , Saroj Saroj , Shegane Meenakshi , Majumder Priyankar , Puri Aarti , Rakshit Tatini , Manna Debasish , Pal Suchetan
Published: May 2022

Injectable hydrogels capable of releasing the desired amount of insulin under hyperglycemic conditions will significantly advance smart insulin development. We report glucose-responsive hydrogels with programmable insulin release properties.
Understanding the internal heavy-atom effect on thermally activated delayed fluorescence: application of Arrhenius and Marcus theories for spin–orbit coupling analysis
Authors: Mońka Michał , Serdiuk Illia E. , Kozakiewicz Karol , Hoffman Estera , Szumilas Jan , Kubicki Aleksander , Park Soo Young , Bojarski Piotr
Published: May 2022

The mechanism of heavy-atom effect on organic blue TADF emitters is investigated using a combined Arrhenius and Marcus theories approach. Basic molecular design principles of such hybrid organic TADF materials are formulated.
Bright and stable quaternary ammonium antimony halides for solid-state lighting
Authors: Sui Shiqi , Wang Chuying , Hu Guangcai , Li Yacong , Meng Wen , Luo Jingwei , Xu Guangyong , Deng Zhengtao
Published: May 2022

A novel quaternary ammonium antinomy halide was synthesized and used to construct bright orange LEDs with a luminous efficiency of 24.5 lm W−1, which can run continuously in air for more than 1200 minutes without performance degradation.
Enhancement of backscattering cross section from an equivalent human cylinder under oblique incidence
Authors: Awan Zeeshan A. , Seetharamdoo Divitha
Published: May 2022

An analysis about the enhancement of backscattering radar cross section from an equivalent human body cylinder using a specific type of coating is presented. The types of coatings considered for the human body are taken to inductive meta surface (MS), inductive MS followed by a dielectric layer and an epsilon negative (ENG) metamaterial. An eigenfunction expansion method has been used to derive analytical expressions for the scattered electric and magnetic fields. It is investigated that inductive MS and inductive MS followed by a dielectric layer type of coatings cannot be used to enhance the backscattering radar cross section from the human body. It is found that an ENG metamaterial coating having specific permittivity and coating thickness can be used to significantly enhance the back‐scattering radar cross section from the human body under oblique incidence. Therefore, an ENG metamaterial coating is selected for the proposed model and finally, the modelling of the proposed design is suggested.
Investigating dust properties in AGB wind-ISM interaction regions
Authors: Maercker M. , Khouri T. , Mecina M. , De Beck E.
Published: May 2022

Aims.In this paper, we aim to constrain the dust mass and grain sizes in the interaction regions between the stellar winds and the interstellar medium (ISM) around asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars. By describing the dust in these regions, we aim to shed light on the role of evolved low-mass stars in the origin of dust in galaxies.

Methods.We use images in the far-infrared (FIR) at 70 and 160 µm to derive dust temperatures and dust masses in the wind-ISM interaction regions around a sample of carbon-rich and oxygen-rich AGB stars. The dust temperature and mass are determined in two ways: first, directly from the data using the ratio of the measured fluxes and assuming opacities for dust with a constant grain size of 0.1 µm, and then using three-dimensional dust-radiative transfer models spatially constrained by the observations. Each of the radiative transfer models contains one constant grain size, which is varied between 0.01 and 5.0 µm.

Results.We find that the observed dust mass in the wind-ISM interaction regions is consistent with mass accumulated from the stellar winds. For the carbon-rich sources, adding the spatial constraints in the radiative transfer models results in preferentially larger grain sizes (≈2 µm). For the oxygen-rich sources, the spatial constraints result in overly high temperatures in the models, making it impossible to fit the observed FIR ratio irrespective of the grain size used, indicating a more complex interplay of grain properties and the stellar radiation field.

Conclusions.Our results have implications for how likely it is for the grains to survive the transition into the ISM, and the properties of dust particles that later act as seeds for grain growth in the ISM. However, our results for the oxygen-rich sources show that the derivation of dust properties is not straight forward, requiring more complex modelling.
Population genetic structure of Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma haematobium × Schistosoma bovis hybrids among school-aged children in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Angora Etienne K. , Vangraefschepe Alexane , Allienne Jean-François , Menan Hervé , Coulibaly Jean T. , Meïté Aboulaye , Raso Giovanna , Winkler Mirko S. , Yavo William , Touré André O. , N’Goran Eliézer K. , Zinsstag Jakob , Utzinger Jürg , Balmer Oliver , Boissier Jérôme
Published: May 2022

While population genetics of Schistosoma haematobium have been investigated in West Africa, only scant data are available from Côte d’Ivoire. The purpose of this study was to analyze both genetic variability and genetic structure among S. haematobium populations and to quantify the frequency of S. haematobium × S. bovis hybrids in school-aged children in different parts of Côte d’Ivoire. Urine samples were subjected to a filtration method and examined microscopically for Schistosoma eggs in four sites in the western and southern parts of Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 2692 miracidia were collected individually and stored on Whatman® FTA cards. Of these, 2561 miracidia were successfully genotyped for species and hybrid identification using rapid diagnostic multiplex mitochondrial cox1 PCR and PCR Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis of the nuclear ITS2 region. From 2164 miracidia, 1966 (90.9%) were successfully genotyped using at least 10 nuclear microsatellite loci to investigate genetic diversity and population structure. Significant differences were found between sites in all genetic diversity indices and genotypic differentiation was observed between the site in the West and the three sites in the East. Analysis at the infrapopulation level revealed clustering of parasite genotypes within individual children, particularly in Duekoué (West) and Sikensi (East). Of the six possible cox1-ITS2 genetic profiles obtained from miracidia, S. bovis cox1 × S. haematobium ITS2 (42.0%) was the most commonly observed in the populations. We identified only 15 miracidia (0.7%) with an S. bovis cox1 × S. bovis ITS2 genotype. Our study provides new insights into the population genetics of S. haematobium and S. haematobium × S. bovis hybrids in humans in Côte d’Ivoire and we advocate for researching hybrid schistosomes in animals such as rodents and cattle in Côte d’Ivoire.
Global multi-period performance evaluation – New model and productivity index
Authors: Moghaddas Zohreh , Oukil Amar , Vaez-Ghasemi Mohsen
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we introduce a novel multi-period data envelopment analysis (MDEA) model that attempts to circumvent the limitations of the existing MDEA models. The proposed global MDEA model is essentially based on major modifications of fundamental DEA axioms to enable a decision making unit (DMU), defined with inputs and outputs of period t, to be evaluated within the production possibility set (PPS) of another period l, t ≠ l. Building on the properties of the global MDEA model, we also introduce a global productivity index, identified as Global Progress and Regress index (GPRI), that render possible the evaluation of a DMU’s extent of progress or regress over multi-period time horizons under variable returns to scale (VRS) production technologies. This lifts the restrictions to two successive periods and constant returns to scale (CRS) of existing productivity indices. The most salient features of the new MDEA model as well as the GPRI are highlighted using an application that involves a real-life sample of 25 bank branches considered over 4 years.
Food first – Die Rolle der Ernährung im Sport
Authors: Mosler Stephanie
Published: May 2022

Zur optimalen Sportlernahrung gibt es viele Ratgeber und Mythen. Braucht man wirklich Superfood? Was isst man nach dem Wettkampf? Wie sieht der Speiseplan nach dem Training aus? Und kann man mit der richtigen Auswahl der Nahrungsmittel die Regeneration unterstützen? Fragen über Fragen. Der Artikel gibt darauf Antworten.
Zeit zu handeln – Gesundheitskompetenz verbessern
Authors: Kemper Claudia
Published: May 2022

Noch immer sind viele Menschen nicht ausreichend gesundheitskompetent. Studien zeigen, dass sich der Trend in den letzten Jahren sogar verschlechtert hat. Weil die Physiotherapie hier eine wichtige Schlüsselrolle einnimmt, könnte sie zukünftig einen noch größeren Einfluss haben.
Wickenvergiftung in einem bayerischen Rinderbestand
Authors: Breuer Wolfram , Hafner-Marx Angela , Pfitzner Annette , Riehm Julia , Neubauer-Juric Antonie
Published: May 2022

In einem Bestand von 40 Kühen der Rasse Holstein-Friesian waren 6 Tiere durch Pruritus, Fieber und Hautläsionen aufgefallen. Bei der pathomorphologischen Untersuchung von 3 Tieren wurde eine multisystemische granulomatöse Entzündung unter Beteiligung multinukleärer Riesenzellen festgestellt. Der Gehalt an Wicken im verwendeten Futter und die charakteristische Histologie führten zur Diagnose einer Wickenvergiftung.
Persistent contamination of a duodenoscope working channel in a non-clinical simulated ERCP setting
Authors: Bruno Marco J. , Vos Margreet C. , Kwakman Judith A. , Bexkens Michiel L.
Published: May 2022

Background To mitigate duodenoscope contamination, recent design enhancements have primarily focused on the distal tip. However, the working channels remain unchanged, which may be linked to biofilm formation. We assessed the persistence of microorganisms, indicative of biofilm formation, in reprocessed duodenoscopes in a non-clinical endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) simulation setting.

Methods Three new duodenoscopes were over-soiled in non-clinical ERCP simulations followed by reprocessing. After 40 tests, the Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain in the soil (Pa-type 1) was switched to a different P. aeruginosa strain (Pa-type 2) for 20 subsequent tests. Cultures of the tip and working channel were acquired after high level disinfection and overnight storage.

Results One duodenoscope showed persistent growth of P. aeruginosa from the fifth test until the end of the study. Pa-type 1 remained present until the end of the study in the cultures of this duodenoscope, even after discontinuation of exposure to that specific strain. The other two duodenoscopes only showed incidental contamination.

Conclusion Persistent contamination by Pa-type 1 was seen in one out of three duodenoscopes after exposure to supraphysiological levels of gut microorganisms. No clear explanation was found for this persistent contamination as exposure and handling were identical and no abnormalities of this particular duodenoscope were identified by borescope inspection.