bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen-enriched graphene framework from a large-scale magnesiothermic conversion of CO2 with synergistic kinetics for high-power lithium-ion capacitors
Authors: Li Chen , Zhang Xiong , Wang Kai , Sun Xianzhong , Xu Yanan , Su Fangyuan , Chen Cheng-Meng , Liu Fangyan , Wu Zhong-Shuai , Ma Yanwei
Published: August 2021

Lithium-ion capacitors are envisaged as promising energy-storage devices to simultaneously achieve a large energy density and high-power output at quick charge and discharge rates. However, the mismatched kinetics between capacitive cathodes and faradaic anodes still hinder their practical application for high-power purposes. To tackle this problem, the electron and ion transport of both electrodes should be substantially improved by targeted structural design and controllable chemical doping. Herein, nitrogen-enriched graphene frameworks are prepared via a large-scale and ultrafast magnesiothermic combustion synthesis using CO2 and melamine as precursors, which exhibit a crosslinked porous structure, abundant functional groups and high electrical conductivity (10524 S m−1). The material essentially delivers upgraded kinetics due to enhanced ion diffusion and electron transport. Excellent capacities of 1361 mA h g−1 and 827 mA h g−1 can be achieved at current densities of 0.1 A g−1 and 3 A g−1, respectively, demonstrating its outstanding lithium storage performance at both low and high rates. Moreover, the lithium-ion capacitor based on these nitrogen-enriched graphene frameworks displays a high energy density of 151 Wh kg−1, and still retains 86 Wh kg−1 even at an ultrahigh power output of 49 kW kg−1. This study reveals an effective pathway to achieve synergistic kinetics in carbon electrode materials for achieving high-power lithium-ion capacitors.
SPF45/RBM17-dependent, but not U2AF-dependent, splicing in a distinct subset of human short introns
Authors: Fukumura Kazuhiro , Yoshimoto Rei , Sperotto Luca , Kang Hyun-Seo , Hirose Tetsuro , Inoue Kunio , Sattler Michael , Mayeda Akila
Published: August 2021

Human pre-mRNA introns vary in size from under fifty to over a million nucleotides. We searched for essential factors involved in the splicing of human short introns by screening siRNAs against 154 human nuclear proteins. The splicing activity was assayed with a model HNRNPH1 pre-mRNA containing short 56-nucleotide intron. We identify a known alternative splicing regulator SPF45 (RBM17) as a constitutive splicing factor that is required to splice out this 56-nt intron. Whole-transcriptome sequencing of SPF45-deficient cells reveals that SPF45 is essential in the efficient splicing of many short introns. To initiate the spliceosome assembly on a short intron with the truncated poly-pyrimidine tract, the U2AF-homology motif (UHM) of SPF45 competes out that of U2AF65 (U2AF2) for binding to the UHM-ligand motif (ULM) of the U2 snRNP protein SF3b155 (SF3B1). We propose that splicing in a distinct subset of human short introns depends on SPF45 but not U2AF heterodimer.
Shadow-wall lithography of ballistic superconductor–semiconductor quantum devices
Authors: Heedt Sebastian , Quintero-Pérez Marina , Borsoi Francesco , Fursina Alexandra , van Loo Nick , Mazur Grzegorz P. , Nowak Michał P. , Ammerlaan Mark , Li Kongyi , Korneychuk Svetlana , Shen Jie , van de Poll May An Y. , Badawy Ghada , Gazibegovic Sasa , de Jong Nick , Aseev Pavel , van Hoogdalem Kevin , Bakkers Erik P. A. M. , Kouwenhoven Leo P.
Published: August 2021

The realization of hybrid superconductor–semiconductor quantum devices, in particular a topological qubit, calls for advanced techniques to readily and reproducibly engineer induced superconductivity in semiconductor nanowires. Here, we introduce an on-chip fabrication paradigm based on shadow walls that offers substantial advances in device quality and reproducibility. It allows for the implementation of hybrid quantum devices and ultimately topological qubits while eliminating fabrication steps such as lithography and etching. This is critical to preserve the integrity and homogeneity of the fragile hybrid interfaces. The approach simplifies the reproducible fabrication of devices with a hard induced superconducting gap and ballistic normal-/superconductor junctions. Large gate-tunable supercurrents and high-order multiple Andreev reflections manifest the exceptional coherence of the resulting nanowire Josephson junctions. Our approach enables the realization of 3-terminal devices, where zero-bias conductance peaks emerge in a magnetic field concurrently at both boundaries of the one-dimensional hybrids.
PD-L1+ and XCR1+ dendritic cells are region-specific regulators of gut homeostasis
Authors: Moreira Thais G. , Mangani Davide , Cox Laura M. , Leibowitz Jeffrey , Lobo Eduardo. L. C. , Oliveira Mariana A. , Gauthier Christian D. , Nakagaki Brenda N. , Willocq Valerie , Song Anya , Guo Lydia , Lima David C. A. , Murugaiyan Gopal , Butovsky Oleg , Gabriely Galina , Anderson Ana C. , Rezende Rafael M. , Faria Ana Maria C. , Weiner Howard L.
Published: August 2021

The intestinal mucosa constitutes an environment of closely regulated immune cells. Dendritic cells (DC) interact with the gut microbiome and antigens and are important in maintaining gut homeostasis. Here, we investigate DC transcriptome, phenotype and function in five anatomical locations of the gut lamina propria (LP) which constitute different antigenic environments. We show that DC from distinct gut LP compartments induce distinct T cell differentiation and cytokine secretion. We also find that PD-L1+ DC in the duodenal LP and XCR1+ DC in the colonic LP comprise distinct tolerogenic DC subsets that are crucial for gut homeostasis. Mice lacking PD-L1+ and XCR1+ DC have a proinflammatory gut milieu associated with an increase in Th1/Th17 cells and a decrease in Treg cells and have exacerbated disease in the models of 5-FU-induced mucositis and DSS-induced colitis. Our findings identify PD-L1+ and XCR1+ DC as region-specific physiologic regulators of intestinal homeostasis.
Parkinson’s disease patients’ short chain fatty acids production capacity after in vitro fecal fiber fermentation
Authors: Baert Florence , Matthys Christophe , Maselyne Jarissa , Van Poucke Christof , Van Coillie Els , Bergmans Bruno , Vlaemynck Geertrui
Published: August 2021

Animal models indicate that butyrate might reduce motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. Some dietary fibers are butyrogenic, but in Parkinson’s disease patients their butyrate stimulating capacity is unknown. Therefore, we investigated different fiber supplements’ effects on short-chain fatty acid production, along with potential underlying mechanisms, in Parkinson’s patients and age-matched healthy controls. Finally, it was investigated if this butyrate production could be confirmed by using fiber-rich vegetables. Different fibers (n = 40) were evaluated by in vitro fermentation experiments with fecal samples of Parkinson’s patients (n = 24) and age-matched healthy volunteers (n = 39). Short-chain fatty acid production was analyzed by headspace solid-phase micro-extraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Clostridium coccoides and C. leptum were quantified through 16S-rRNA gene-targeted group-specific qPCR. Factors influencing short-chain fatty acid production were investigated using linear mixed models. After fiber fermentation, butyrate concentration varied between 25.6 ± 16.5 µmol/g and 203.8 ± 91.9 µmol/g for Parkinson’s patients and between 52.7 ± 13.0 µmol/g and 229.5 ± 42.8 µmol/g for controls. Inulin had the largest effect, while xanthan gum had the lowest production. Similar to fiber supplements, inulin-rich vegetables, but also fungal β-glucans, stimulated butyrate production most of all vegetable fibers. Parkinson’s disease diagnosis limited short-chain fatty acid production and was negatively associated with butyrate producers. Butyrate kinetics during 48 h fermentation demonstrated a time lag effect in Parkinson’s patients, especially in fructo-oligosaccharide fermentation. Butyrate production can be stimulated in Parkinson’s patients, however, remains reduced compared to healthy controls. This is a first step in investigating dietary fiber’s potential to increase short-chain fatty acids in Parkinson’s disease.
The World Checklist of Vascular Plants, a continuously updated resource for exploring global plant diversity
Authors: Govaerts Rafaël , Nic Lughadha Eimear , Black Nicholas , Turner Robert , Paton Alan
Published: August 2021

The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) is a comprehensive list of scientifically described plant species, compiled over four decades, from peer-reviewed literature, authoritative scientific databases, herbaria and observations, then reviewed by experts. It is a vital tool to facilitate plant diversity research, conservation and effective management, including sustainable use and equitable sharing of benefits. To maximise utility, such lists should be accessible, explicitly evidence-based, transparent, expert-reviewed, and regularly updated, incorporating new evidence and emerging scientific consensus. WCVP largely meets these criteria, being continuously updated and freely available online. Users can browse, search, or download a user-defined subset of accepted species with corresponding synonyms and bibliographic details, or a date-stamped full dataset. To facilitate appropriate data reuse by individual researchers and global initiatives including Global Biodiversity Information Facility, Catalogue of Life and World Flora Online, we document data collation and review processes, the underlying data structure, and the international data standards and technical validation that ensure data quality and integrity. We also address the questions most frequently received from users.
Discovery of novel Li SSE and anode coatings using interpretable machine learning and high-throughput multi-property screening
Authors: Honrao Shreyas J. , Yang Xin , Radhakrishnan Balachandran , Kuwata Shigemasa , Komatsu Hideyuki , Ohma Atsushi , Sierhuis Maarten , Lawson John W.
Published: August 2021

All-solid-state batteries with Li metal anode can address the safety issues surrounding traditional Li-ion batteries as well as the demand for higher energy densities. However, the development of solid electrolytes and protective anode coatings possessing high ionic conductivity and good stability with Li metal has proven to be a challenge. Here, we present our informatics approach to explore the Li compound space for promising electrolytes and anode coatings using high-throughput multi-property screening and interpretable machine learning. To do this, we generate a database of battery-related materials properties by computing $$\hbox {Li}^+$$

Li
+

migration barriers and stability windows for over 15,000 Li-containing compounds from Materials Project. We screen through the database for candidates with good thermodynamic and electrochemical stabilities, and low $$\hbox {Li}^+$$

Li
+

migration barriers, identifying promising new candidates such as $$\hbox {Li}_9\hbox {S}_3$$

Li
9

S
3

N, $$\hbox {LiAlB}_2\hbox {O}_5$$

LiAlB
2

O
5

, $$\hbox {LiYO}_2$$

LiYO
2

, $$\hbox {LiSbF}_4$$

LiSbF
4

, and $$\hbox {Sr}_4\hbox {Li}(\hbox {BN}_2)_3$$

Sr
4

Li

(

BN
2

)

3

, among others. We train machine learning models, using ensemble methods, to predict migration barriers and oxidation and reduction potentials of these compounds by engineering input features that ensure accuracy and interpretability. Using only a small number of features, our gradient boosting regression models achieve $$\mathrm {R}^2$$

R

2

values of 0.95 and 0.92 on the oxidation and reduction potential prediction tasks, respectively, and 0.86 on the migration barrier prediction task. Finally, we use Shapley additive explanations and permutation feature importance analyses to interpret our machine learning predictions and identify materials properties with the largest impact on predictions in our models. We show that our approach has the potential to enable rapid discovery and design of novel solid electrolytes and anode coatings.
Relative absorption of silicon from different formulations of dietary supplements: a pilot randomized, double-blind, crossover post-prandial study
Authors: Boqué N. , Valls R. M. , Pedret A. , Puiggrós F. , Arola L. , Solà R.
Published: August 2021

The purpose of the present study was to compare the relative absorption of a new powder presentation of silicon (Si) as orthosilicic acid with maltodextrin (Orgono Powder) compared to usual Si liquid presentations as orthosilicic acid with Equisetum arvense and Rosmarinus officinalis (G5 Siliplant) and orthosilicic acid with aloe vera (G7 Aloe). All dietary supplements were administered at the same Si oral dose (21.6 mg) in a randomized, double-blind, crossover post-prandial study conducted in 5 healthy men. Urine was collected at baseline and over the 6-h post-dose period in 2 separate 3-h collections for the analysis of Si concentration, which was conducted by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry as the gold standard method. No significant differences in total urinary Si excretion were found after the intake of these 3 dietary supplements; 34.6%, 32.4% and 27.2% of the ingested Si from G7 Aloe, G5 Siliplant and Orgono Powder, respectively, was excreted in urine over the 6-h follow-up period. The 3 different oral Si formulations tested, in powder and liquid presentations, provide highly bioavailable Si and present an equivalent relative absorption in healthy humans.
Association of free fatty acid binding protein with central aortic stiffness, myocardial dysfunction and preserved ejection fraction heart failure
Authors: Yen Chih-Hsuan , Lin Jiun-Lu , Sung Kuo-Tzu , Su Cheng-Huang , Huang Wen-Hung , Chen Yun-Yu , Chien Shih-Chieh , Lai Yau-Huei , Lee Ping-Ying , Liu Yen-Yu , Tsai Jui-Peng , Tsai Cheng-Ting , Hou Charles Jia-Yin , Chen Ying-Ju , Hsieh Yu-Jou , Hung Chung-Lieh , Hung Ta-Chuan , Yeh Hung-I.
Published: August 2021

There is an established link between cardiometabolic abnormality, central arterial stiffness, and preserved ejection fraction heart failure (HFpEF). Adipocyte free fatty acid binding protein (a-FABP) has been shown to signal endothelial dysfunction through fatty acid toxicity, though its role in mediating ventricular-arterial dysfunction remains unclear. We prospectively examined the associations of a-FABP with central arterial pressure using non-invasive applanation tonometry (SphygmoCor) and cardiac structure/function (i.e., tissue Doppler imaging [TDI] and global longitudinal myocardial strain [GLS]) in patients with cardiometabolic (CM) risk (n = 150) and HFpEF (n = 50), with healthy volunteers (n = 49) serving as a control. We observed a graded increase of a-FABP across the healthy controls, CM individuals, and HFpEF groups (all paired p < 0.05). Higher a-FABP was independently associated with higher central systolic and diastolic blood pressures (CSP/CPP), increased arterial augmentation index (Aix), lower early myocardial relaxation velocity (TDI-e′), higher left ventricle (LV) filling (E/TDI-e′) and worsened GLS (all p < 0.05). During a median of 3.85 years (interquartile range: 3.68–4.62 years) follow-up, higher a-FABP (cutoff: 24 ng/mL, adjusted hazard ratio: 1.01, 95% confidence interval: 1.001–1.02, p = 0.04) but not brain natriuretic peptide, and higher central hemodynamic indices were related to the incidence of heart failure (HF) in fully adjusted Cox models. Furthermore, a-FABP improved the HF risk classification over central hemodynamic information. We found a mechanistic pathophysiological link between a-FABP, central arterial stiffness, and myocardial dysfunction. In a population with a high metabolic risk, higher a-FABP accompanied by worsened ventricular-arterial coupling may confer more unfavorable outcomes in HFpEF.
Retroversion of the hemipelvis rather than hypoplastic posterior wall decreases acetabular anteversion in hips affected by Perthes disease
Authors: Liao Shijie , Zhao Manjun , Wang Tiantian , Li Boxiang , Lin Chengsen , KC Anil , Liu Zhengtang , Huang Qian , Zhao Jinmin , Lu Rongbin , Ding Xiaofei
Published: August 2021

The acetabular retroversion has a moderate incidence of 31–60% in all patients of the Perthes disease. It might be caused by posterior wall dysplasia based on recent animal researches. However, some studies support that hemipelvic retroversion is the main factor for the acetabular retroversion. The primary pathological factor of increasing retroversion angle is still controversial anatomically. This study aimed to identify whether there is acetabular retroversion in children with Perthes disease,and to find a method to distinguish version types. Forty children with unilateral Perthes disease who were admitted to our hospital from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2018 were enrolled, and 40 controls were matched based on sex and age. The acetabular anteversion angle (AAA), internal wall anteversion angle (IWAA), anterior wall height of the acetabulum (A), acetabular posterior wall height (P), and acetabular width (W) were assessed on computed tomography (CT) at the level of the femoral head center. The acetabular wall difference index (AWDI; AWDI = P-A)/W*100) was calculated. The mean AAA was significantly lower in Perthes disease hips (10.59 (8.05–12.46)) than in contralateral hips (12.04 (9.02–13.33)) (p = 0.002) but did not differ from control hips (9.68 ± 3.76) (p = 0.465). The mean IWAA was significantly lower in Perthes hips (9.16 ± 3.89) than in contralateral hips (11.31 ± 4.04) (p = 0.000) but did not differ from control hips (9.43 ± 3.82) (p = 0.753). The mean AWDI did not differ between Perthes hips (0.41 ± 4.94) and contralateral hips (− 1.12 (− 4.50, 2.17)) (p = 0.06) or control hips (− 0.49 ± 5.46) (p = 0.437). The mean W was significantly higher in Perthes hips (44.61 ± 5.06) than in contralateral hips (43.36 ± 4.38) (p = 0.000) but did not differ from control hips (45.02 ± 5.01) (p = 0.719). The mean A and P did not differ between Perthes hips and contralateral hips or control hips. Correlation analysis of all hip joints revealed a significant correlation between AAAs and IWAAs (r = 0.772; r = 0.643; r = 0.608; and r = 0.540). Linear regression analysis revealed that AAAs increased with IWAAs. Multiple linear regression showed that IWAAs and AWDIs have good predictive value for AAAs in both Perthes and control hips (R2 = 0.842, R2 = 0.869). In patients with unilateral Perthes disease, the affected acetabulum is more retroverted than that on the contralateral side, which may be caused by hemipelvic retroversion. The measurements in this study could distinguish the form of acetabular retroversion. IWAAs and AWDIs can be used as new observations in future studies of acetabular version.
Influence of scalp block on oncological outcomes of high-grade glioma in adult patients with and without isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 mutation
Authors: Sung Chao-Hsien , Tsuang Fon-Yih , Lin Chih-Peng , Chan Kuang-Cheng , Chou Wei-Han , Wu Chun-Yu
Published: August 2021

High-grade gliomas are notorious for a high recurrence rate even after curative resection surgery. Studies regarding the influence of scalp block on high-grade gliomas have been inconclusive, possibly because the condition’s most important genetic mutation profile, namely the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation, had not been analyzed. Therefore, we conducted a single-center study including patients with high-grade glioma who underwent tumor resection between January 2014 and December 2019. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that scalp block was associated with longer progression-free survival (PFS; 15.17 vs. 10.77 months, p = 0.0018), as was the IDH1 mutation (37.37 vs. 10.90 months, p = 0.0149). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that scalp block (hazard ratio: 0.436, 95% confidence interval: 0.236–0.807, p = 0.0082), gross total resection (hazard ratio: 0.405, 95% confidence interval: 0.227–0.721, p = 0.0021), and IDH1 mutation (hazard ratio: 0.304, 95% confidence interval: 0.118–0.784, p = 0.0138) were associated with better PFS. Our results demonstrate that application of scalp block, regardless of IDH1 profile, is an independent factor associated with longer PFS for patients with high-grade glioma.
Deep learning-based gene selection in comprehensive gene analysis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Mori Yasukuni , Yokota Hajime , Hoshino Isamu , Iwatate Yosuke , Wakamatsu Kohei , Uno Takashi , Suyari Hiroki
Published: August 2021

The selection of genes that are important for obtaining gene expression data is challenging. Here, we developed a deep learning-based feature selection method suitable for gene selection. Our novel deep learning model includes an additional feature-selection layer. After model training, the units in this layer with high weights correspond to the genes that worked effectively in the processing of the networks. Cancer tissue samples and adjacent normal pancreatic tissue samples were collected from 13 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma during surgery and subsequently frozen. After processing, gene expression data were extracted from the specimens using RNA sequencing. Task 1 for the model training was to discriminate between cancerous and normal pancreatic tissue in six patients. Task 2 was to discriminate between patients with pancreatic cancer (n = 13) who survived for more than one year after surgery. The most frequently selected genes wereACACB,ADAMTS6,NCAM1, andCADPSin Task 1, andCD1D,PLA2G16,DACH1, andSOWAHAin Task 2. According to The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset, these genes are all prognostic factors for pancreatic cancer. Thus, the feasibility of using our deep learning-based method for the selection of genes associated with pancreatic cancer development and prognosis was confirmed.
Citral modulates virulence factors in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Oliveira Hellen Braga Martins , Selis Nathan das Neves , Sampaio Beatriz Almeida , Júnior Manoel Neres Santos , de Carvalho Suzi Pacheco , de Almeida Jéssica Bomfim , Almeida Palloma Porto , da Silva Icaro Bonyek Santos , Oliveira Caline Novais Teixeira , Brito Thamara Louisy Santos , da Silva Letícia de Oliveira , Teixeira Mariana Morais , Coelho Hanna Izadora Laís Novaes , Barbosa Camila Dutra , Andrade Yasmin Monara Ferreira de Sousa , Bittencourt Rafaela de Souza , Viana Jully Chayra Santos , Campos Guilherme Barreto , Timenetsky Jorge , Uetanabaro Ana Paula T. , Yatsuda Regiane , Marques Lucas Miranda
Published: August 2021

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates. Citral has been studied in the pharmaceutical industry and has shown antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to analyze the antimicrobial activity of citral in inhibiting biofilm formation and modulating virulence genes, with the ultimate goal of finding a strategy for treating infections caused by MRSA strains. Citral showed antimicrobial activity against MRSA isolates with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 5 mg/mL (0.5%) and 40 mg/mL (4%), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values between 10 mg/mL (1%) and 40 mg/mL (4%). The sub-inhibitory dose was 2.5 mg/mL (0.25%). Citral, in an antibiogram, modulated synergistically, antagonistically, or indifferent to the different antibiotics tested. Prior to evaluating the antibiofilm effects of citral, we classified the bacteria according to their biofilm production capacity. Citral showed greater efficacy in the initial stage, and there was a significant reduction in biofilm formation compared to the mature biofilm. qPCR was used to assess the modulation of virulence factor genes, and icaA underexpression was observed in isolates 20 and 48. For icaD, seg, and sei, an increase was observed in the expression of ATCC 33,591. No significant differences were found for eta and etb. Citral could be used as a supplement to conventional antibiotics for MRSA infections.
Effect of adding hydrochlorothiazide to usual treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Piardi Diogo Silva , Butzke Maurício , Mazzuca Ana Carolina Martins , Gomes Bruna Sessim , Alves Sofia Giusti , Kotzian Bruno Jaskulski , Ghisleni Eduarda Chiesa , Giaretta Vanessa , Bellaver Priscila , Varaschin Gabrielle Aguiar , Garbin Arthur Pereira , Beck-da-Silva Luís
Published: August 2021

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is the leading cause of hospitalization in patients aged 65 years or older, and most of them present with congestion. The use of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) may increase the response to loop diuretics. To evaluate the effect of adding HCTZ to furosemide on congestion and symptoms in patients with ADHF. This randomized clinical trial compared HCTZ 50 mg versus placebo for 3 days in patients with ADHF and signs of congestion. The primary outcome of the study was daily weight reduction. Secondary outcomes were change in creatinine, need for vasoactive drugs, change in natriuretic peptides, congestion score, dyspnea, thirst, and length of stay. Fifty-one patients were randomized—26 to the HCTZ group and 25 to the placebo group. There was an increment of 0.73 kg/day towards additional weight reduction in the HCTZ group (HCTZ: − 1.78 ± 1.08 kg/day vs placebo: − 1.05 ± 1.51 kg/day; p = 0.062). In post hoc analysis, the HCTZ group demonstrated significant weight reduction for every 40 mg of intravenous furosemide (HCTZ: − 0.74 ± 0.47 kg/40 mg vs placebo: − 0.33 ± 0.80 kg/40 mg; p = 0.032). There was a trend to increase in creatinine in the HCTZ group (HCTZ: 0.50 ± 0.37 vs placebo: 0.27 ± 0.40; p = 0.05) but no significant difference in onset of acute renal failure (HCTZ: 58% vs placebo: 41%; p = 0.38). No differences were found in the remaining outcomes. Adding hydrochlorothiazide to usual treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure did not cause significant difference in daily body weight reduction compared to placebo. In analysis adjusted to the dose of intravenous furosemide, adding HCTZ 50 mg to furosemide resulted in a significant synergistic effect on weight loss.

Trial registration: The Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBEC), a publically accessible primary register that participates in the World Health Organization International Clinical Trial Registry Platform; number RBR-5qkn8h. Registered in 23/07/2019 (retrospectively), http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-5qkn8h/.
Using a material database and data fusion method to accelerate the process model development of high shear wet granulation
Authors: Wang Zheng , Cao Junjie , Li Wanting , Wang Yawen , Luo Gan , Qiao Yanjiang , Zhang Yanling , Xu Bing
Published: August 2021

High shear wet granulation (HSWG) has been wildly used in manufacturing of oral solid dosage (OSD) forms, and process modeling is vital to understanding and controlling this complex process. In this paper, data fusion and multivariate modeling technique were applied to develop a formulation-process-quality model for HSWG process. The HSWG experimental data from both literature and the authors’ laboratory were fused into a single and formatted representation. A material database and material matching method were used to compensate the incomplete physical characterization of literature formulation materials, and dimensionless parameters were utilized to reconstruct process variables at different granulator scales. The exploratory study on input materials properties by principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the formulation data collected from different articles generated a formulation library which was full of diversity. In prediction of the median granule size, the partial least squares (PLS) regression models derived from literature data only and a combination of literature data and laboratory data were compared. The results demonstrated that incorporating a small number of laboratory data into the multivariate calibration model could help significantly reduce the prediction error, especially at low level of liquid to solid ratio. The proposed data fusion methodology was beneficial to scientific development of HSWG formulation and process, with potential advantages of saving both experimental time and cost.
Thermosuperrepellency of a hot substrate caused by vapour percolation
Authors: Schmidt J. Benedikt , Hofmann Julian , Tenzer Fabian M. , Breitenbach Jan , Tropea Cameron , Roisman Ilia V.
Published: August 2021

Drop rebound after collision with a very hot substrate is usually attributed to the Leidenfrost effect, characterized by intensive film boiling in a thin vapour gap between the liquid and substrate. Similarly, drop impact onto a cold superhydrophobic substrate leads to a complete drop rebound, despite partial wetting of the substrate. Here we study the repellent properties of hot smooth hydrophilic substrates in the nucleate boiling, non-Leidenfrost regime and discover that the thermally induced repellency is associated with vapour percolation on the substrate. The wetting structure in the presence of the percolating vapour rivulets is analogous to the Cassie-Baxter wetting mode, which is a necessary condition for the repellency in the isothermal case. The theoretical predictions for the threshold temperature for vapour percolation agree well with the experimental data for drop rebound and correspond to the minimum heat flux when spray cooling.
Cyanate is a low abundance but actively cycled nitrogen compound in soil
Authors: Mooshammer Maria , Wanek Wolfgang , Jones Stephen H. , Richter Andreas , Wagner Michael
Published: August 2021

Cyanate can serve as a nitrogen and/or carbon source for different microorganisms and as an energy source for autotrophic ammonia oxidizers. However, the extent of cyanate availability and utilisation in terrestrial ecosystems and its role in biogeochemical cycles is poorly known. Here we analyse cyanate concentrations in soils across a range of soil types, land management practices and climates. Soil cyanate concentrations were three orders of magnitude lower than ammonium or nitrate. We determined cyanate consumption in a grassland and rice paddy soil using stable isotope tracer experiments. We find that cyanate turnover was rapid and dominated by biotic processes. We estimated that in-situ cyanate production rates were similar to those associated with urea fertilizer decomposition, a major source of cyanate in the environment. We provide evidence that cyanate is actively turned over in soils and represents a small but continuous nitrogen/energy source for soil microbes.
Chlorogenic acid ameliorates Klebsiella pneumoniae-induced pneumonia in immunosuppressed mice via inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes
Authors: Zeng Junhao , Wan Xiaoyu , Liu Ting , Xiong Ying , Xiang Gan , Peng Yali , Zhu Ronghua , Zhou Yongqin , Liu Chaoqi
Published: August 2021

Utilizing the inflammatory response models both in vivo and in vitro, we demonstrated that the dietary intake of chlorogenic acid ameliorated K. pneumonia-induced pneumonia via inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Solanum anguiviLam. fruit preparations counteract the negative effects of a high-sugar diet on the glucose metabolism inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Nakitto Aisha Musaazi Sebunya , Rudloff Silvia , Borsch Christian , Wagner Anika E.
Published: August 2021

Solanum anguiviLam. fruits (SALF) are traditionally consumed as a remedy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Polariton assisted photoemission from a layered molecular material: role of vibrational states and molecular absorption
Authors: Vasista Adarsh B. , Menghrajani Kishan S. , Barnes William L.
Published: August 2021

Molecular emission from microcavities depends on factors such as the number of coupled molecules, vibrational quanta, energy of excitation etc. We systematically study the evolution of molecular PL with increasing number of molecular layers.
One-step synthesis of poly(methacrylate)-b-polyester via “one organocatalyst, two polymerizations”
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Zhou Lin , Zhang Ziqi , Wang Qi , Gao Jiani , Zhang Shiping , Lei Lin
Published: August 2021

In a “one organocatalyst, two polymerizations” system, triarylsulfonium hexafluorophosphate salt could spontaneously catalyze photo-ATRP and ROP. A well-defined PTMC-b-PMMA block copolymer was successfully synthesized in one-step.
Synthesis of polyampholytic diblock copolymers via RAFT aqueous solution polymerization
Authors: North S. M. , Armes S. P.
Published: August 2021

Two new classes of polyampholytic diblock copolymers are prepared via RAFT aqueous solution polymerization and their aqueous solution behaviour is assessed using 1H NMR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering and aqueous electrophoresis measurements.
Hexagonal petal-like cobalt oxide nanowire arrays encapsulated by MOF-derived Co/N-codoped carbon for boosting electrochemical capacitor behaviour
Authors: Cao Xiao-Man , Sun Zhi-Jia , Han Zheng-Bo
Published: August 2021

A novel core–shell hetero-structured electrode (NF@CoO@Co/N–C) is designed and synthesized via a “anchor-etch-calcine” process for boosting electrochemical capacitor behaviour. The unique structure endows NF@CoO@Co/N–C with ultrahigh areal capacitances and good rate capability.
Palladium-catalyzed intramolecular diastereoselective dearomatization reaction of indoles with N-tosylhydrazones
Authors: Duan Shao-Bo , Zhang Hong-Yu , Hao Bo-Ya , Zhao Jiquan , Han Ya-Ping , Zhang Yuecheng , Liang Yong-Min
Published: August 2021

A novel, highly diastereoselective palladium-catalyzed dearomative reaction of N-halobenzoyl o-haloaniline derivatives has been developed using functionalized N-tosylhydrazones as the coupling partners.
The treatment of real dyeing wastewater by the electro-Fenton process using drinking water treatment sludge as a catalyst
Authors: Nguyen Duc Dat Duc , Phan Quang Huy Hoang , Nguyen Xuan Hoan , Nguyen Tan Phong
Published: August 2021

This study aims to evaluate the performance of the electro-Fenton process (EFP) using drinking water treatment sludge (DWTS) for the treatment of dyeing wastewater.
Naturally based ionic liquids with indole-3-acetate anions and cations derived from cinchona alkaloids
Authors: Rzemieniecki Tomasz , Kleiber Tomasz , Pernak Juliusz
Published: August 2021

The transformation of a plant hormone into an alkaloid-based ionic liquid results in unique changes in physicochemical and biological properties.
Low temperature NH3-SCR performance and mechanism of Mn and Fe supported CeCO3F-monazite catalysts
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Shenghan , Cheng Zedong , Wu Wenfei
Published: August 2021

The group has shown that Baiyun Ebo rare earth concentrate has excellent performance in NH3-SCR denitrification when used as a carrier, where rare earth elements are mainly present in cerium fluorocarbon ore (CeCO3F) and monazite (CePO4) mineral phases.
Highly selective production of benzylamine from benzonitrile on metal-supported catalysts
Authors: Segobia Darío J. , Trasarti Andrés F. , Apesteguía Carlos R.
Published: August 2021

Ni/SiO2 yields 92% of benzylamine from benzonitrile hydrogenation in methanol without the addition of additives.
Accurate engineering of hexagonal hollow carbon nitride with carbon vacancies: enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution and its mechanism
Authors: Chen Xueru , Li Xin , Li Xue , Lu Huimin , Wang Lei , Liu Qianqian , Li Hongping , Ding Jing , Wan Hui , Guan Guofeng
Published: August 2021

Hexagonal hollow carbon nitride with carbon vacancies improves the harvesting capability of visible light, separation rate of photo-induced carriers and adsorption capacity of the reaction substrate.
Cu-incorporated PtBi intermetallic nanofiber bundles enhance alcohol oxidation electrocatalysis with high CO tolerance
Authors: Zhang Jingxian , Yuan Menglei , Zhao Tongkun , Wang Wenbo , Huang Haoyang , Cui Kairui , Liu Zhanjun , Li Shuwei , Li Zehui , Zhang Guangjin
Published: August 2021

One-pot surfactant-free synthesis of 1D intermetallic Cu–PtBi NFBs endow with superior MOR and EOR performance by weakening the bonding strength of CO* on Pt sites and strengthening anchoring of OH* on adjacent Cu sites to optimize reaction pathway.
SERS multiplexing of methylxanthine drug isomers via host–guest size matching and machine learning
Authors: Chio Weng-I Katherine , Liu Jia , Jones Tabitha , Perumal Jayakumar , Dinish U. S. , Parkin Ivan P. , Olivo Malini , Lee Tung-Chun
Published: August 2021

Simultaneous quantification of drug isomers, methylxanthines (MeX), by SERS via self-assembly of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) mediated by cucurbit[n]urils (CBs).
Quinazoline-based thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters for high-performance organic light-emitting diodes with external quantum efficiencies about 28%
Authors: Li Pan , Xiang Yepeng , Gong Shaolong , Lee Wei-Kai , Huang Yu-Hsin , Wang Chun-Yu , Yang Chuluo , Wu Chung-Chih
Published: August 2021

Extending the acceptor plane endows the quinazoline-based TADF emitter high Θ‖ (79%) and high PLQY (96%). The EQE, PE, and CE are up to 27.5%, 96.5 lm W−1, and 89.9 cd A−1, which are competitive figures among quinazoline-based TADF emitters.
A flexible hydrogel tactile sensor with low compressive modulus and dynamic piezoresistive response regulated by lignocellulose/graphene aerogels
Authors: Zhou Hang , Zheng Li , Meng Qingyu , Tang Ruixin , Wang Zhaosong , Dang Baokang , Shen Xiaoping , Sun Qingfeng
Published: August 2021

Composite elastic polyion hydrogels (EPIHs) were regulated by a lignocellulose/graphene aerogel for pressure sensing featuring the loosening of polyion chains, introduction of porous channels, and reduction of compressive modulus of the system.
Sponge-like polypyrrole–nanofibrillated cellulose aerogels: synthesis and application
Authors: Minisy Islam M. , Acharya Udit , Veigel Stefan , Morávková Zuzana , Taboubi Oumayma , Hodan Jiří , Breitenbach Stefan , Unterweger Christoph , Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang , Bober Patrycja
Published: August 2021

Polypyrrole–nanofibrillated cellulose aerogel.
Intrinsic non-stoichiometry and anomalous transport properties of layered oxysulfide LaOPbBiS3
Authors: Roux-Byl Céline , Berardan David
Published: August 2021

LaOPbBiS3 oxysulfides are intrinsically non-stoichiometric, and a marked anomaly of the electrical properties arises upon doping.
Xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat reduces atrial fibrillation susceptibility by inhibition of oxidized CaMKII in Dahl salt-sensitive rats
Authors: Xu DongZhu , Murakoshi Nobuyuki , Tajiri Kazuko , Duo Feng , Okabe Yuta , Murakata Yoshiko , Yuan Zixun , Li Siqi , Aonuma Kazuhiro , Song Zonghu , Shimoda Yuzuno , Mori Haruka , Sato Akira , Nogami Akihiko , Aonuma Kazutaka , Ieda Masaki
Published: August 2021

Oxidative stress could be a possible mechanism and a therapeutic target of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the effects of the xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibition for AF remain to be fully elucidated. We investigated the effects of a novel XO inhibitor febuxostat on AF compared with allopurinol in hypertension rat model. Five-week-old Dahl salt-sensitive rats were fed either low-salt (LS) (0.3% NaCl) or high-salt (HS) (8% NaCl) diet. After 4 weeks of diet, HS diet rats were divided into three groups: orally administered to vehicle (HS-C), febuxostat (5 mg/kg/day) (HS-F), or allopurinol (50 mg/kg/day) (HS-A). After 4 weeks of treatment, systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly higher in HS-C than LS, and it was slightly but significantly decreased by treatment with each XO inhibitor. AF duration was significantly prolonged in HS-C compared with LS, and significantly suppressed in both HS-F and HS-A (LS; 5.8 ± 3.5 s, HS-C; 33.9 ± 23.7 s, HS-F; 15.0 ± 14.1 s, HS-A; 20.1 ± 11.9 s: P<0.05). Ca2+ spark frequency was obviously increased in HS-C rats and reduced in the XO inhibitor-treated rats, especially in HS-F group. Western blotting revealed that the atrial expression levels of Met281/282-oxidized Ca2+/Calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) and Ser2814-phosphorylated ryanodine receptor 2 were significantly increased in HS-C, and those were suppressed in HS-F and HS-A. Decreased expression of gap junction protein connexin 40 in HS-C was partially restored by treatment with each XO inhibitor. In conclusion, XO inhibitor febuxostat, as well as allopurinol, could reduce hypertension-related increase in AF perpetuation by restoring Ca2+ handling and gap junction.
Wound dressings: curbing inflammation in chronic wound healing
Authors: Verdolino Davide Vincenzo , Thomason Helen A. , Fotticchia Andrea , Cartmell Sarah
Published: August 2021

Chronic wounds represent an economic burden to healthcare systems worldwide and a societal burden to patients, deeply impacting their quality of life. The incidence of recalcitrant wounds has been steadily increasing since the population more susceptible, the elderly and diabetic, are rapidly growing. Chronic wounds are characterised by a delayed wound healing process that takes longer to heal under standard of care than acute (i.e. healthy) wounds. Two of the most common problems associated with chronic wounds are inflammation and infection, with the latter usually exacerbating the former. With this in mind, researchers and wound care companies have developed and marketed a wide variety of wound dressings presenting different compositions but all aimed at promoting healing. This makes it harder for physicians to choose the correct therapy, especially given a lack of public quantitative data to support the manufacturers’ claims. This review aims at giving a brief introduction to the clinical need for chronic wound dressings, focusing on inflammation and evaluating how bio-derived and synthetic dressings may control excess inflammation and promote healing.
Population dynamics of two endemic species in Aksu-Zhabagly State Nature Reserve
Authors: Cheryomushkina Vera , Astashenkov Alexey , Dzhumanov Smatula
Published: August 2021

The structure of Allium pskemense and A. karataviense coenopopulations from the Aksu-Zhabagly State Nature Reserve was described. It was established that the ontogenetic spectrum of coenopopulations is left-sided with a maximum on immature individuals. This is due to good seed reproduction, rapid rates of development at the end of ontogenesis. It was shown that over a 10-year period, there is a gradual aging of the coenopopulation, which is reflected in the shift of the peaks in the spectrum to the young generative (A. pskemense) and virginal (A. karataviense) groups. It was concluded that the sustainable development of coenopopulations will be in the case of a decrease in the number of the phytophages and successful regeneration by seed, which leads to a regular turnover of generations.
Сonservation of relict species of Siberian flora in the floral complex “Chernevaya taiga” (Novosibirsk)
Authors: Elisafenko Tatyana , Korolyuk Elena
Published: August 2021

The paper deals with the species composition of the floral complex ‘Chernevaya taiga’ established in the territory of the Central Siberian Botanical Garden in 1967. Of 60 revealed species, 23 were introduced during the establishment of the complex. All the species represent the populations self-maintained by seed or vegetative propagation.
Restoration of plant communities on various dump substrates
Authors: Gossen Igor , Solovyev Sergey
Published: August 2021

The results of field studies in 2018 and 2019 at the pilot production site on the territory of the external dump “Zarechny” of JSC SUEK-Kuzbass are presented. The ecological and coenotic characteristics of plant communities formed in the areas with the filling of the fertile soil layer (FSL) (0.5 m thickness), with the application of potentially fertile rocks (PFR) (1 m thickness), in the area with the filling of technogenic eluvium, as well as in the area with the layer-by-layer filling of PFR (0.6 m thickness) and FSL (0.4 m thickness) were studied. Geobotanical descriptions were carried out according to standard methods, taking into account iterations. It is established that in the first years after the end of the formation of the pilot production site, the number of herbaceous plant species increases in all areas. However, the use of lithogenic resources in the frame of reclamation accelerates the development of plant communities on man-made landscapes, but does not allow reaching the stages of zonal formations.
The conditions and methods of biological diversity preservation and restoration on post-technogenic lands
Authors: Kapelkina Ludmila , Teplyakova Tamara
Published: August 2021

Oil production, as well as the transportation of oil and gas through pipeline systems, cause the destruction and man-made transformation of the natural ecosystems of Northern Eurasia, an increase in the area of disturbed lands, and a reduction in the habitats of specially protected plant species. In this regard, the most significant measures for biological diversity are the identification of conditions for the growth of populations of rare plants in man-made biotopes and the development of methods for their conservation and restoration. 12 species (Carex sylvatica, Dactylorhiza baltica, D. fuchsii, D. incarnata, D. maculata, Fragaria moschata, Glyceria lithuanica, Listera ovata, Neottia nidus-avis, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Platanthera bifolia, Veratrum lobelianum) from the Red Book of the Yaroslavl region and 1 species (Dactylorhiza baltica) from the Red Book of the Leningrad region were recorded in the protected area of oil pipelines. Moreover,Dactylorhiza balticais listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation. ForDactylorhiza fuchsii, D. incarnata, D. maculata, Fragaria moschata, at the risk of complete destruction of their biotopes, methods of their transplantation, repatriation and rehabilitation have been developed and transferred to the appropriate Department of the Yaroslavl region. For the restoration of biotopes on bulk sand dams of an oil field in Western Siberia, an experimental study of the wild speciesLeymus arenarieusas a fixative of technogenic sands showed good results.
Production of soil amendment by utilization of the weed Amaranth
Authors: Karaeva Julia , Timofeeva Svetlana , Mindubaev Anton , Gilfanov Marat
Published: August 2021

There is a possibility of using agricultural waste, in particular weeds, in innovative technologies for the restoration of disturbed land in order to increase fertility. Digestate, after anaerobic digestion of manure and weed plantAmaranthus retroflexus L.(AR), as well as solid carbonaceous residue after pyrolysis of AR. The combination of digestate, which contains high concentrations of total nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and solid carbonaceous residue, provides a new composite soil amendment. It has high potential as a source of nutrients because it contains a large amount of mineral components. The soil amendment does not contain toxic elements such as: lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic and nickel, but the zinc and copper content exceeds the recommended values.
Natural reforestation of Kuzbass dumps
Authors: Klimova Olga , Kupriyanov Andrei
Published: August 2021

We study the restoration of coal mining dumps through reforestation in the forest-steppe zone of Kuzbass. 3 main forest-forming species (Betula pendula, Pinus sylvestris and Populus tremula) and 11 accompanying tree species were involved in the formation of forest stands. The main forest-forming species was Betula pendula. The amount of renewal was found to be 10.7, 3.1 and 1.0 thousand pcs/ha in sites with favourable, moderate favourable and unfavourable environmental conditions, respectively. The level of natural reforestation on dumps in the southern forest-steppe zone can be described as weak. The renewal of the Acer negundo invasion species was determined by a continuous drift of seeds on the dumps; however, its seedlings and young undergrowth did not reach a generative age.
Mosses flora of coal dumps of Kuzbass
Authors: Nozhinkov Alexey
Published: August 2021

The floristic structure of mosses on overgrown coal dumps of the Kemerovo region in three natural zones has been studied. The features of the behavior of a number of species in the conditions of anthropogenically altered communities are noted. A species included in the Red Data Book of the region has been identified.