bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of whole-brain radiotherapy with platinum-based chemotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer patients with multiple metastases including brain metastases
Authors: Ryu Woo Kyung , Cha Hyung Keun , Kim Woochul , Lee Ha Young , Kim Hyun-Jung , Ryu Jeong-Seon , Lim Jun Hyeok
Published: August 2023

Current guidelines recommend that cytotoxic chemotherapy be considered first in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with multiple metastases, and whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) is not initially recommended even if brain metastases are present. However, cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents are less effective in brain metastases due to poor blood–brain barrier permeability. We investigated the effect of WBRT in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy on survival in NSCLC patients who were EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 negative, had an ECOG PS of 2, and had multiple metastases including brain metastases. From January 2005 to December 2018, histologically confirmed NSCLC patients who were EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 negative, had an ECOG PS of 2, and had multiple metastases including brain metastases were included in this study. Patients were classified into two groups based on receiving WBRT prior to or concurrently with administration of first-line chemotherapeutic agents or receiving chemotherapy only. We compared intracranial progression-free survival (iPFS) and overall survival (OS). Of the 240 NSCLC patients with brain metastases at diagnosis and an ECOG PS of 2, 67 patients were EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 negative with multiple metastases including brain metastases. Among those patients, 43 (64.2%) received WBRT prior to or concurrently with platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients who received WBRT prior to or concurrently with chemotherapy had better iPFS (7.7 months [4.8–10.6] vs. 3.5 months [2.1–4.9], p = 0.009) and OS (10.8 months [5.9–15.7] vs. 6.1 months [1.9–10.3], p = 0.038) than those who did not receive WBRT. In multivariate analyses, WBRT was significantly associated with iPFS (HR: 1.94 and 95% CI 1.11–3.40, p = 0.020) and OS (HR: 1.92 and 95% CI 1.08–3.42, p = 0.027). In NSCLC patients who are EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 negative, have an ECOG PS of 2, and have multiple metastases including brain metastases, WBRT prior to or concurrently with chemotherapy could improve iPFS and OS. Therefore, the combination of WBRT with cytotoxic chemotherapy should be considered in these patients.
Programmable nanophotonic planar resonator filter-absorber based on phase-change InSbTe
Authors: Oliveira Israel Alves , de Souza I. L. Gomes , Rodriguez-Esquerre V. F.
Published: August 2023

Reconfigurable plasmonic-photonic electromagnetic devices have been incessantly investigated for their great ability to optically modulate through external stimuli to meet today's emerging needs, with chalcogenide phase-change materials being promising candidates due to their remarkably unique electrical and optics, enabling new perspectives in recent photonic applications. In this work, we propose a reconfigurable resonator using planar layers of stacked ultrathin films based on Metal-dielectric-PCM, which we designed and analyzed numerically by the Finite Element Method (FEM). The structure is based on thin films of Gold (Au), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and PCM (In3SbTe2) used as substrate. The modulation between the PCM phases (amorphous and crystalline) allows the alternation from the filter to the absorber structure in the infrared (IR) spectrum (1000–2500 nm), with an efficiency greater than 70% in both cases. The influence of the thickness of the material is also analyzed to verify tolerances for manufacturing errors and dynamically control the efficiency of transmittance and absorptance peaks. The physical mechanisms of field coupling and transmitted/absorbed power density are investigated. We also analyzed the effects on polarization angles for Transversal Electric (TE) and Transversal Magnetic (TM) polarized waves for both cases.
Results of German external quality assessment schemes for SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection
Authors: Vierbaum Laura , Wojtalewicz Nathalie , Grunert Hans-Peter , Zimmermann Anika , Scholz Annemarie , Goseberg Sabine , Kaiser Patricia , Duehring Ulf , Drosten Christian , Corman Victor , Niemeyer Daniela , Rabenau Holger F. , Obermeier Martin , Nitsche Andreas , Michel Janine , Puyskens Andreas , Huggett Jim F. , O’Sullivan Denise M. , Busby Eloise , Cowen Simon , Vallone Peter M. , Cleveland Megan H. , Falak Samreen , Kummrow Andreas , Schellenberg Ingo , Zeichhardt Heinz , Kammel Martin
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic illustrated the important role of diagnostic tests, including lateral flow tests (LFTs), in identifying patients and their contacts to slow the spread of infections. INSTAND performed external quality assessments (EQA) for SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection with lyophilized and chemically inactivated cell culture supernatant of SARS-CoV-2 infected Vero cells. A pre-study demonstrated the suitability of the material. Participants reported qualitative and/or quantitative antigen results using either LFTs or automated immunoassays for five EQA samples per survey. 711 data sets were reported for LFT detection in three surveys in 2021. This evaluation focused on the analytical sensitivity of different LFTs and automated immunoassays. The inter-laboratory results showed at least 94% correct results for non-variant of concern (VOC) SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection for viral loads of ≥ 4.75 × 106 copies/mL and SARS-CoV-2 negative samples. Up to 85% had success for a non-VOC viral load of ~ 1.60 × 106 copies/mL. A viral load of ~ 1.42 × 107 copies/mL of the Delta VOC was reported positive in > 96% of results. A high specificity was found with almost 100% negative SARS-CoV-2 antigen results for HCoV 229E and HCoV NL63 positive samples. Quantitative results correlated with increasing SARS-CoV-2 viral load but showed a broad scatter. This study shows promising SARS-CoV-2 antigen test performance of the participating laboratories, but further investigations with the now predominant Omicron VOC are needed.
Automation of structural health monitoring (SHM) system of a bridge using BIMification approach and BIM-based finite element model development
Authors: Fawad Muhammad , Salamak Marek , Poprawa Grzegorz , Koris Kalman , Jasinski Marcin , Lazinski Piotr , Piotrowski Dawid , Hasnain Muhammad , Gerges Michael
Published: August 2023

This research focuses on the automation of an existing structural health monitoring system of a bridge using the BIMification approach. This process starts with the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of an existing bridge for the numerical calculations of static and dynamic parameters. The validation of the FE model and existing SHM system was carried out by the field load testing (Static and dynamic) of the bridge. Further, this study tries to fill the research gap in the area of automatic FE model generation by using a novel methodology that can generate a BIM-based FE model using Visual Programming Language (VPL) scripts. This script can be exported to any FE software to develop the geometry of the FE model. Moreover, the SHM devices are deployed to the Building Information modelling (BIM) model of the bridge to generate the BIM-based sensory model (as per the existing SHM system). In this way, the BIM model is used to manage and monitor the SHM system and control its sensory elements. These sensors are then linked with the self-generated (Internet of Things) IoT platform (coded in Arduino), developing a smart SHM system of the bridge. Resultantly, the system features visualisation and remote accessibility to bridge health monitoring data.
Revisiting nonlinearity of heart rate variability in healthy aging
Authors: Calderón-Juárez Martín , González-Gómez Gertrudis Hortensia , Echeverría Juan C. , Lerma Claudia
Published: August 2023

Aging is commonly regarded as a physiological process in which the dynamic complexity of physiological time series and organ systems is gradually lost. This notion is derived from the identification of a decline of nonlinear measures with the advance of aging. However, additional research on cardiovascular control studied through heart rate variability (HRV), i.e., the instantaneous changes in heart rate, shows that despite the constriction of its statistical distribution, the nonlinear organization remains present in advanced age. Here, we used surrogate data testing to investigate the presence of nonlinear information in HRV time series from a publicly available database of 1121 healthy human subjects from 18 to 92 years old. We also studied the influence of basic clinical features, such as sex, body mass index (BMI), and mean heart rate (HR), on such nonlinear information. We found that the percentage of nonlinear time series after 30 years of age diminishes significantly (p < 0.01). Furthermore, larger BMI and HR are associated with the presence of more linear information in HRV, while the female sex is associated with the manifestation of nonlinear information. This work provides a common background for the contextualized interpretation of nonlinear testing and shows that the nonlinear content of HRV time series diminishes through aging.
Effects of nature on restorative and cognitive benefits in indoor environment
Authors: Rhee Jee Heon , Schermer Brian , Han Gisung , Park So Yeon , Lee Kyung Hoon
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the effects of natural exposure in an indoor environment on restorative quality and cognitive ability. Thirty participants were shown nature at three different indoor sites: baseline, indoor (some vegetation), and semi-indoor (a large amount of vegetation and view to sky) for five minutes. After viewing, they completed an assessment of restoration and a cognitive task, and their electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded. Compared to the baseline, the sites with nature resulted in restorative (higher perceived restoration scores) and cognitive (higher working memory performance and lower delta-to-theta ratio (DTR), delta-to-alpha ratio (DAR), theta-to-beta ratio (TBR), and alpha-to-beta ratio (ABR) responses) benefits. These findings further our understanding of the effects of exposure to nature on restorative and cognitive benefits in an indoor environment, and help to build guidance for future research on the effects of nature indoors and designing restorative- and cognitive-enhancing indoor spaces.
Digital infrared thermal imaging of udder skin surface temperature: a novel non-invasive technology to monitor calving process in Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Teja Allu , Sakthivel Jeyakumar , Ananda Rao K. , Kumaresan Arumugam , Ramesha K. P. , Krishnaswamy Narayanan , Gowtham Varma C. , Sivaram M. , Lavanya Maharajan , Gowdar Veerappa Vedamurthy , Kataktalware Mukund A. , Das D. N. , Majumder Kaushik , Rajbangshi Niribili
Published: August 2023

Quantifiable decline in the maternal body temperature during the pre-calving offers the possibilities for predicting the calving that can improve the calving management. As infrared thermography (IRT) is a simple non-contact tool for precise measurement of surface temperature, we investigated the use of IRT to establish thermal signatures around calving in the Murrah buffalo. The IRT of eye, right lateral, left lateral and rear side of udder skin surface temperature (USST) were recorded at 6 h interval from 96 h before the expected date of calving, at the time of calving and 24 h post-calving in Murrah buffaloes (n = 28). In parallel, blood samples were collected for progesterone (P4) assay. The results revealed that the IRT of the eye, right and left lateral and rear side of USST showed a significant decrease in the temperature from 48 h pre-calving till the onset of calving with a ΔT (°C) of 0.56, 0.91, 0.70, and 0.90, respectively. Mean USST significantly declined from 48 h pre-calving with a ΔT of 0.85 °C. The residual temperature of both eye and various ROI of the udder also followed a similar and significant declining trend from 48 to 0 h of calving indicating that circadian influence on the USST was minimum. Plasma P4 concentration significantly decreased from 72 h pre-calving till calving. It is concluded that a marked reduction in the IRT of the USST at 6–12 h pre-calving would be useful in predicting the onset of calving in the Murrah buffalo.
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for reverse bleomycin-induced experimental pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Xiansheng , Wu Jinyan , Yuan Ruoyue , Li Yue , Yang Quyang , Wu Baojin , Zhai Xiaowen , Wang Jiucun , Magalon Jérémy , Sabatier Florence , Daumas Aurélie , Zhu Winston M. , Zhu Ningwen
Published: August 2023

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive respiratory disease. Arguably, the complex interplay between immune cell subsets, coupled with an incomplete understanding of disease pathophysiology, has hindered the development of successful therapies. Despite efforts to understand its pathophysiology and develop effective treatments, IPF remains a fatal disease, necessitating the exploration of new treatment options. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy has shown promise in experimental models of IPF, but further investigation is needed to understand its therapeutic effect. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis model. First, MSC cells were obtained from mice and characterized using flow cytometry and cell differentiation culture methods. Then adult C57BL/6 mice were exposed to endotracheal instillation of bleomycin and concurrently treated with MSCs for reversal models on day 14. Experimental groups were evaluated on days 14, 21, or 28. Additionally, lung fibroblasts challenged with TGF-β1 were treated with MSCs supernatant or MSCs to explore the mechanisms underlying of pulmonary fibrosis reversal. Mesenchymal stem cells were successfully isolated from mouse adipose tissue and characterized based on their differentiation ability and cell phenotype. The presence of MSCs or their supernatant stimulated the proliferation and migration of lung fibrotic cells. MSCs supernatant reduced lung collagen deposition, improved the Ashcroft score and reduced the gene and protein expression of lung fibrosis-related substances. Bleomycin-challenged mice exhibited severe septal thickening and prominent fibrosis, which was effectively reversed by MSCs treatment. MSC supernatant could suppress the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway and supernatant promotes fibroblast autophagy. In summary, this study demonstrates that MSCs supernatant treatment is as effective as MSCs in revert the core features of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The current study has demonstrated that MSCs supernatant alleviates the BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. In vitro experiments further reveal that MSC supernatant could suppress the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway to inhibit the TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation, and promotes fibroblast autophagy by Regulating p62 expression. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic application of MSCs in cell therapy medicine for IPF.
Chromatin remodeling factor, INO80, inhibits PMAIP1 in renal tubular cells via exchange of histone variant H2A.Z. for H2A
Authors: Miura Rika , Mimura Imari , Saigusa Hanako , Yamazaki Tomotaka , Tanemoto Fumiaki , Kurata Yu , Sato Dai , Tanaka Tetsuhiro , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: August 2023

Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin structures in the kidney contribute towards the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this study, the role of chromatin remodeling factor inositol requiring 80 (INO80) was investigated. Although INO80 regulates transcription by altering the chromatin structure at the nucleosome level, its role in the kidney remains unknown. We demonstrated that the expression of INO80 in impaired kidneys decreased in rats with unilateral urethral obstruction. We investigated INO80 expression in a proximal tubular cell line and observed that its expression decreased under hypoxic condition. Additionally, INO80 knockdown promoted apoptosis, suggesting that INO80 plays a role in inhibiting tubular cell apoptosis. We identified downstream target genes of INO80 via genome-wide analysis using RNA-sequences and found that the expression of apoptosis-related genes, such as TP53 and E2F1, and pro-apoptotic genes, such as PMAIP1, increased upon INO80 knockdown. ChIP-qPCR of the loci of PMAIP1 showed that the amount of H2A.Z. increased instead of decreasing the amount of H2A when INO80 was knocked down. These results indicated that INO80 plays a role in the exchange of H2A.Z. for H2A in the promoter region of PMAIP1 in tubular cells to inhibit apoptosis during CKD progression.
Nondestructive quality assessment and maturity classification of loquats based on hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Feng Shunan , Shang Jing , Tan Tao , Wen Qingchun , Meng Qinglong
Published: August 2023

The traditional method for assessing the quality and maturity of loquats has disadvantages such as destructive sampling and being time-consuming. In this study, hyperspectral imaging technology was used to nondestructively predict and visualise the colour, firmness, and soluble solids content (SSC) of loquats and discriminate maturity. On comparison of the performance of different feature variables selection methods and the calibration models, the results indicated that the multiple linear regression (MLR) models combined with the competitive adaptive reweighting algorithm (CARS) yielded the best prediction performance for loquat quality. Particularly, CARS-MLR models with optimal prediction performance were obtained for the colour (R2P = 0.96, RMSEP = 0.45, RPD = 5.38), firmness (R2P = 0.87, RMSEP = 0.23, RPD = 2.81), and SSC (R2P = 0.84, RMSEP = 0.51, RPD = 2.54). Subsequently, distribution maps of the colour, firmness, and SSC of loquats were obtained based on the optimal CARS-MLR models combined with pseudo-colour technology. Finally, on comparison of different classification models for loquat maturity, the partial least square discrimination analysis model demonstrated the best performance, with classification accuracies of 98.19% and 97.99% for calibration and prediction sets, respectively. This study demonstrated that the hyperspectral imaging technique is promising for loquat quality assessment and maturity classification.
Contacting individual graphene nanoribbons using carbon nanotube electrodes
Authors: Zhang Jian , Qian Liu , Barin Gabriela Borin , Daaoub Abdalghani H. S. , Chen Peipei , Müllen Klaus , Sangtarash Sara , Ruffieux Pascal , Fasel Roman , Sadeghi Hatef , Zhang Jin , Calame Michel , Perrin Mickael L.
Published: August 2023

Graphene nanoribbons synthesized using bottom-up approaches can be structured with atomic precision, allowing their physical properties to be precisely controlled. For applications in quantum technology, the manipulation of single charges, spins or photons is required. However, achieving this at the level of single graphene nanoribbons is experimentally challenging due to the difficulty of contacting individual nanoribbons, particularly on-surface synthesized ones. Here we report the contacting and electrical characterization of on-surface synthesized graphene nanoribbons in a multigate device architecture using single-walled carbon nanotubes as the electrodes. The approach relies on the self-aligned nature of both nanotubes, which have diameters as small as 1 nm, and the nanoribbon growth on their respective growth substrates. The resulting nanoribbon–nanotube devices exhibit quantum transport phenomena—including Coulomb blockade, excited states of vibrational origin and Franck–Condon blockade—that indicate the contacting of individual graphene nanoribbons.
Measuring human cerebral blood flow and brain function with fiber-based speckle contrast optical spectroscopy system
Authors: Kim Byungchan , Zilpelwar Sharvari , Sie Edbert J. , Marsili Francesco , Zimmermann Bernhard , Boas David A. , Cheng Xiaojun
Published: August 2023

Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is crucial for brain health. Speckle contrast optical spectroscopy (SCOS) is a technique that has been recently developed to measure CBF, but the use of SCOS to measure human brain function at large source-detector separations with comparable or greater sensitivity to cerebral rather than extracerebral blood flow has not been demonstrated. We describe a fiber-based SCOS system capable of measuring human brain activation induced CBF changes at 33 mm source detector separations using CMOS detectors. The system implements a pulsing strategy to improve the photon flux and uses a data processing pipeline to improve measurement accuracy. We show that SCOS outperforms the current leading optical modality for measuring CBF, i.e. diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS), achieving more than 10x SNR improvement at a similar financial cost. Fiber-based SCOS provides an alternative approach to functional neuroimaging for cognitive neuroscience and health science applications.
Caenorhabditis elegans foraging patterns follow a simple rule of thumb
Authors: Madirolas Gabriel , Al-Asmar Alid , Gaouar Lydia , Marie-Louise Leslie , Garza-Enríquez Andrea , Rodríguez-Rada Valentina , Khona Mikail , Dal Bello Martina , Ratzke Christoph , Gore Jeff , Pérez-Escudero Alfonso
Published: August 2023

Rules of thumb are behavioral algorithms that approximate optimal behavior while lowering cognitive and sensory costs. One way to reduce these costs is by simplifying the representation of the environment: While the theoretically optimal behavior may depend on many environmental variables, a rule of thumb may use a smaller set of variables that performs reasonably well. Experimental proof of this simplification requires an exhaustive mapping of all relevant combinations of several environmental parameters, which we performed forCaenorhabditis elegansforaging by covering systematically combinations of food density (across 4 orders of magnitude) and food type (across 12 bacterial strains). We found that worms’ response is dominated by a single environmental variable: food density measured as number of bacteria per unit surface. They disregard other factors such as biomass content or bacterial strain. We also measured experimentally the impact on fitness of each type of food, determining that the rule is near-optimal and therefore constitutes a rule of thumb that leverages the most informative environmental variable. These results set the stage for further investigations into the underlying genetic and neural mechanisms governing this simplification process, and into its role in the evolution of decision-making strategies.
Photoinduced edge-specific nanoparticle decoration of two-dimensional tungsten diselenide nanoribbons
Authors: Murastov Gennadiy , Aslam Muhammad Awais , Tran Tuan-Hoang , Lassnig Alice , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Wurster Stefan , Nachtnebel Manfred , Teichert Christian , Sheremet Evgeniya , Rodriguez Raul D. , Matkovic Aleksandar
Published: August 2023

Metallic nanoparticles are widely explored for boosting light-matter coupling, optoelectronic response, and improving photocatalytic performance of two-dimensional (2D) materials. However, the target area is restricted to either top or bottom of the 2D flakes. Here, we introduce an approach for edge-specific nanoparticle decoration via light-assisted reduction of silver ions and merging of silver seeds. We observe arrays of the self-limited in size silver nanoparticles along tungsten diselenide WSe2 nanoribbon edges. The density of nanoparticles is tunable by adjusting the laser fluence. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy are used to investigate the size, distribution, and photo-response of the deposited plasmonic nanoparticles on the quasi-one-dimensional nanoribbons. We report an on-surface synthesis path for creating mixed-dimensional heterostructures and heterojunctions with potential applications in opto-electronics, plasmonics, and catalysis, offering improved light matter coupling, optoelectronics response, and photocatalytic performance of 2D materials.
Fundamentals of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymer Science
Authors: Agatemor Christian , Ghosal Kajal , Fura Samuel , Foot Peter J S
Published: August 2023

Inorganic and organometallic polymers feature many attractive properties that are useful for the design of diverse functional materials. Emphasising concepts that inform polymer design, synthesis and applications, readers of this book will gain a complete understanding of the introduction to inorganic and organometallic polymer science that will further their studies in materials science, chemistry and engineering.

The first chapter lays down the core concepts that the book builds from, including polymerisation and naming conventions. It also reveals why some organometallic polymers are better suited than organic polymers in certain applications. Subsequent chapters discuss the chemistry of metals in particular the transition metals as they relate to polymer properties, before walking the reader through in-depth chapters on synthesis, structure, properties, characterization, and examples of inorganic and organometallic polymers. The final chapter presents applications of these polymers in diverse fields ranging from biomedicine, energy to catalysis. Worked examples and exercises are provided at the end of each chapter to assist students in assessing their understanding of these concepts, and journal references are included to direct students to published literature related to inorganic and organometallic polymers.

Ideal for lecturers teaching a one semester advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in polymer science, as well as for self-study researchers and industrial chemists that are working with polymers, this book provides the user with a complete and expert grounding to the field.
Development of digital light processing-based multi-material bioprinting for fabrication of heterogeneous tissue constructs
Authors: Su Hao , Lu Bingxian , Li Ming , Yang Xue , Qin Minghao , Wu Yang
Published: August 2023

A DLP-based multi-material bioprinting process was developed which mitigated bioink cross-contamination, damage to printed features, and waste of bioink. Constructs with multiple materials and complex structures could be readily obtained.
Solvent–antisolvent interactions in metal halide perovskites
Authors: Bautista-Quijano Jose Roberto , Telschow Oscar , Paulus Fabian , Vaynzof Yana
Published: August 2023

This feature article outlines the impact of solvent–antisolvent interactions on the film formation processes of metal halide perovskites.
Aryl–aryl cross-coupling reactions without reagents or catalysts: photocyclization of ortho-iodoaryl ethers and related compounds via triplet aryl cation intermediates
Authors: Sun Wei , Wilding-Steele Luke , Brown Richard C. D. , Harrowven David C.
Published: August 2023

Cyclisations of benzyl iodoaryl ethers and related compounds can be effected without reagents or catalysts using UVC irradiation.
A tetracobalt(ii) cluster with a two vertex truncated dicubane topology endogenously supported by carboxylate-based (2-pyridyl)methylamine ligands: magneto-structural and DFT studies
Authors: Kant Shashi , Saha Sayan , Lloret Francesc , Cano Joan , Mukherjee Rabindranath
Published: August 2023

Detailed magneto-structural studies on a defective dicubane coordination cluster with structural core {CoII4Cl2(μ-1,1-OCO)4(μ3-OCH3)2} reveal two ferromagnetic and an antiferromagnetic exchange coupling, which is rationalized by DFT calculations.
1-D arrays of porous Mn0.21Co2.79O4 nanoneedles with an enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Pham Hong Hanh , Linh Do Chi , Ngo Tuyet Thi Anh , Oanh Vu Thi Kim , Khuyen Bui Xuan , Patil Supriya A. , Tran Nhu Hoa Thi , Park Sungkyun , Im Hyunsik , Bui Hoa Thi , Shrestha Nabeen K.
Published: August 2023

After substituting some Co3+ ions with Mn3+ ions in the Co3O4 spinel crystal lattice, the resulting Mn0.21Co2.79O4 nanoneedles demonstrate enhanced electrocatalysis in alkaline water oxidation.
Uptake and release of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) from macro and microplastics
Authors: Brahana Philip J. , Al Harraq Ahmed , Saab Luis E. , Roberg Ruby , Valsaraj Kaillat T. , Bharti Bhuvnesh
Published: August 2023

Microplastics can spontaneously uptake PFCAs impacting plastic wettability and dispersity in water. The adsorbed PFCAs are subsequently released due to sunlight-indued weathering of the plastics, thus potentially influencing their mutual transport in the aquatic environment.
In situ generated gas bubble-directed self-assembly of multifunctional MgO-based hybrid foams for highly efficient thermal conduction, microwave absorption, and self-cleaning
Authors: You Feifei , Liu Xinyu , Ying Meiwan , Yang Yijun , Ke Yutong , Shen Yi , Tong Guoxiu , Wu Wenhua
Published: August 2023

A one-step gas-bubble-assisted combustion method is developed to controllably synthesize MgO-based hybrid foams with superior thermal conduction, microwave absorption, and self-cleaning.
Development of graphitic-N-based carbon dots using solid-state synthesis for fingerprinting, LEDs, and anticounterfeiting
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Kumari Rinki , Negi Kanchan , Sahu Sumanta Kumar
Published: August 2023

This study describes the solid-state synthesis of carbon quantum dots having graphitic-N for red emissive properties. The developed carbon dots are used in fingerprinting, LEDs, and anticounterfeiting.
In situ Cu doping of ultralarge CoSe nanosheets with accelerated electronic migration for superior sodium-ion storage
Authors: Geng Jitao , Dong Huilong , Liu Jing , Lv Chengkui , Wei Huaixin , Cheng Yafei , Yang Jun , Geng Hongbo
Published: August 2023

The ultralarge Cu-CoSe@NC nanosheets with enhanced electron conductance exhibit the potential application in stable sodium ion batteries.
ReACT (redox-activated chemical tagging) chemistry enables direct derivatization and fluorescence detection of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH)
Authors: Lin Bohong , Xiang Lingling , Yuan Zhijun , Hou Qi , Ruan Yaoping , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2023

Quick derivatization and fluorescence detection of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) were achieved with oxaziridine derivatives based on ReACT (redox-activated chemical tagging) chemistry.
Palladium-catalyzed Heck-carbonylation of alkene-tethered carbamoyl chlorides with aryl formates
Authors: Chen Chen , Liu Liying , Liu Jin-Ping , Ding Jie , Ni Chang , Ni Chunjie , Zhu Bolin
Published: August 2023

We report a palladium-catalyzed Heck-carbonylation of alkene-tethered carbamoyl chlorides with aryl formates, which afforded diversiform esterified oxindoles/γ-lactams bearing an all-carbon quaternary stereocenter.
Recent progress and prospects of rare earth elements for advanced aqueous zinc batteries
Authors: Li Xi , Chen Zhenjie , Yang Yongqiang , Lu Bingan , Tang Yan , Zhou Jiang
Published: August 2023

We analyze the unique roles played by rare earth elements from the three perspectives of cathode, anode and electrolyte. We summarize their potential applications and rational optimization strategies towards electrodes, separators and electrolytes.
Interface engineering of CoS/MoS2 heterostructure for the electrocatalytic reduction of N2 to NH3
Authors: Liu Yixian , Wu Ruqiang , Liu Yunliang , Deng Peiji , Li Yaxi , Cheng Yuanyuan , Du Yongchao , Li Zenan , Yan Xiong , Liu Naiyun , Kang Zhenhui , Li Haitao
Published: August 2023

A new CoS/MoS2 heterojunction catalyst is synthetized in which CoS can effectively attach to the (100) surface of MoS2, greatly prompting the absorption of N2.
Ir/IrOx/WO3 electrocatalysts for water splitting
Authors: Tan Xiaohe , Gou Wangyan , Liao Linqing , Ma Yuanyuan , Qu Yongquan
Published: August 2023

A series of Ir/IrOx/WO3 electrocatalysts, synthesized via electrospinning and subsequent pyrolysis, delivered high performance for both hydrogen and oxygen evolution in acidic and basic environments.
Non-precious metal-based catalysts for water electrolysis to produce H2 under industrial conditions
Authors: He Lixiang , Yu Guang , Cheng Yujia , Wang Ni , Hu Wencheng
Published: August 2023

The design strategies for improving mass transfer, intrinsic activity, and durability of non-precious catalysts, and the scale-up methods for industrial application are summarized to reduce the cost of hydrogen production.
Molecular dynamics simulation approach of hybrid chalcone–thiazole complex derivatives for DNA gyrase B inhibition: lead generation
Authors: Patan Afroz , Aanandhi M. Vijey , P. Gopinath
Published: August 2023

Compounds bearing thiazole and chalcone groups have been reported to be excellent leads for antibacterial, antitubercular and anticancer activities.
Preparation of Li3V2(PO4)3 as cathode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries by a hydrothermal assisted sol–gel method and its properties
Authors: Cao Shiyu , Xiang Yanhong , Zou Qiuling , Jiang Youliang , Zeng Hanzhang , Li Jian , Wu Jianhua , Wu Xiangsi , Wu Xianwen , Xiong Lizhi
Published: August 2023

Li3V2(PO4)3 cathode materials for aqueous zinc ion batteries were prepared by a hydrothermal assisted sol–gel method.
Preparation of CuO@humic acid@carbon nanotube composite material using humic acid as a coupling agent and its lithium-ion storage performance
Authors: Liang Bo , Yang Tingting , Yang Huiqian , Zhao Jinsheng , Dong Yunyun
Published: August 2023

The conventional Li-ion battery composite electrode material composed of CuO and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) suffer from poor contact between CuO and CNTs.
Easy fabrication of l-glutamic acid/ZnS composites for efficient photo-catalytic and supercapacitor performance
Authors: Shohag Mohammad Riaz Hosen , Rahman Khan Mohammad Mizanur , Saleh Md. Abu , Supta Azmeri Sultana , Chowdhury Mohammad Shahadat Hussain , Rahman Md. Mostafizur , Marwani Hadi M. , Rahman Mohammed M. , Okoli Okenwa
Published: August 2023

l-Glutamic acid/ZnS (L-GA/ZnS) composites were prepared by solvent casting approach. The morphological distinction, antimicrobial activity, superior photocatalytic enactment, and good supercapacitor performance of prepared composites is reported.
Localized surface plasmon resonance shift of biosynthesized and functionalized quasi-spherical gold nanoparticle systems
Authors: Raguindin Ricky Kristan M. , Mercado Candy C.
Published: August 2023

The synthesis and functionalization of quasi-spherical gold nanoparticles using active plant compounds for the detection of lead(ii) ions via chelation.
Research progress on MOFs and their derivatives as promising and efficient electrode materials for electrocatalytic hydrogen production from water
Authors: Cao Xuankai , Gao Yan , Li Yanteng , Weragoda Delika M. , Tian Guohong , Zhang Wenke , Zhang Zhanchao , Zhao Xudong , Chen Baoming
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen energy is considered to be the most potential “ultimate energy source” due to its high combustion calorific value, cleanliness, and pollution-free characteristics.
Colorless and transparent poly(amide imide) nanocomposites containing organically modified hectorite
Authors: Kim A Young , Lee Seon Ju , Choi Moon Young , Na Changyub , Kwac Lee Ku , Kim Hong Gun , Chang Jin-Hae
Published: August 2023

Transmission electron microscopy images of colorless and transparent poly(amide imide) hybrid films containing various organoclay contents.
Dual targeting multiwalled carbon nanotubes for improved neratinib delivery in breast cancer
Authors: Abu Lila Amr Selim , Bhattacharya Rohini , Moin Afrasim , Al Hagbani Turki , Abdallah Marwa Helmy , Danish Rizvi Syed Mohd , Khafagy El-Sayed , Hussain Talib , Gangadharappa Hosahalli Veerabhadrappa
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to develop biotinylated chitosan (Bio–Chi) decorated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for breast cancer therapy with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, neratinib (NT).
Effect of acetylene as a low reactivity fuel on performance, combustion, exergy and emissions of an acetylene/diesel RCCI engine with variable premix ratios
Authors: Deb Parthasarathi , Paul Abhishek
Published: August 2023

This investigation is oriented mainly to evaluate the prospects of the diesel–acetylene-fuelled RCCI operation under different operating conditions.
Study of the interfacial viscoelasticity of human serum albumin microcapsules using a viscoelasto-electrohydrodynamic technique
Authors: Puri Sneha , Thaokar Rochish M.
Published: August 2023

Changes in reaction conditions, such as HSA concentration and pH, affect the secondary structure of HSA capsule membrane. This, in turn, influences the morphology of the capsule membrane, leading to different membrane rheological properties.
Cartilage-inspired terpolymer hydrogel with excellent mechanical properties and superior lubricating ability
Authors: Wang Binbin , Li Ziheng , Li Shuangjian , Xv Qihang , You Deqiang , Tu Xiaohui , Li Wei , Wang Xiaojian
Published: August 2023

For the treatment of osteoarthritis, terpolymer hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties, superior tribological performance and long-term lubricity were prepared.
Large mass field fluctuation and lattice anharmonicity effects promote thermoelectric and mechanical performances in NbFeSb half-Heusler alloys via Ti/Zr/Hf stepwise doping
Authors: Tan Chang , Wang Hongxiang , Zhao Lingwen , Sun Yuqing , Yao Jie , Zhai Jinze , Wang Chunlei , Wang Hongchao
Published: August 2023

Thermoelectric materials require not only high performance to maximize the energy-conversion efficiency but also good mechanical properties to guarantee machinability and reliable operation.
Charge accumulation kinetics at a liquid–solid interface depend on liquid chemistry
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Jinyang , Wang Xuejiao , Lin Shiquan , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: August 2023

The relationship between liquid chemistry and charge accumulation kinetics at a liquid–solid interface.
Tailoring supports for enhancing the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of platinum species: a review
Authors: Li Jin , Zhang Jia , Zhang Jian , Pan Kunming , Xu Haowen , Chen Haipeng , Liu Guilong , Wu Naiteng , Yuan Changzhou , Liu Xianming
Published: August 2023

Recent advances and perspectives in utilizing various supports to maximize the HER performance of Pt species are reviewed, along with the strategies for tailoring supports and future challenges and opportunities for regulating supports.
Introduction to 1D/2D materials for energy, medicine and devices
Authors: Chen Yu , Davies Gemma-Louise , Hagfeldt Anders , Kotov Nicholas
Published: August 2023

Guest editors Yu Chen, Gemma-Louise Davies, Anders Hagfeldt and Nicholas Kotov introduce this cross-journal themed collection on 1D/2D materials for energy, medicine and devices.
“Gold-plated” PCN-222(Fe) and superconductive carbon black-based sandwich-type immunosensor for detecting CYFRA21-1
Authors: Fu Lin , Mu Zhaode , Zhou Jing , Qing Min , Bai Lijuan
Published: August 2023

A novel electrochemical immunosensor was constructed to detect CYFRA21-1 of NSCLC using PCN-222(Fe)/AuNPs as a promising signal label that could catalyze H2O2 to generate ˙OH, resulting in the degradation of MB and a decreased current response.
Efficient charge transport in a solid electrolyte with percolated Pt for solid-state fiber dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Kim Jae Ho , Utomo Drajad Satrio , Lee Daseul , Cho Sungok , Song Myungkwan , Choi Jin Woo
Published: August 2023

Percolation effect introduced solid-state electrolyte is fabricated by metal sputtering process on the surface of Li-TFSI film. The percolation effect could provide efficient electron extraction through the solid electrolyte surface.
Controllable and tuneable growth of NaYbF4:Tm(0.5%)Fe(5%)@Na(Yb/Y)F4-core@shell structures and the effect of their geometry on upconversion luminescence
Authors: Ureña-Horno Elena , Liu Keqing , Giardiello Marco
Published: August 2023

Controllable and tuneable core@shell UCNPs with enhanced UC efficiency through varied energy transfer pathways arising from geometric alteration.
Nanostructured CeO2 ultrathin film deposited by the Langmuir Blodgett technique for highly sensitive and specific detection of sub ppm level NO2 gas at room temperature
Authors: Choudhury Sipra , Kanth Supriya , Saxena Vibha , Gupta Jagannath , Betty C. A.
Published: August 2023

Room temperature NO2 sensor based on ultrathin CeO2 deposited by LB technique was fabricated. High sensing and selectivity to ppb level NO2 gas was observed due to large number of surface adsorbed oxygen species on nanostructure CeO2 surface.
Bifunctional solid state electrochromic device using WO3/WS2 nanoflakes for charge storage and dual-band color modulation
Authors: Kandpal Suchita , Bansal Love , Ghanghass Anjali , Ghosh Tanushree , Rani Chanchal , Sahu Bhumika , Rath Deb Kumar , Bhatia Ravi , Sameera I. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: August 2023

An electrochromic supercapacitor device, designed using WO3/WS2 nanoflakes, successfully demonstrated excellent capacitive performance along with the ability of electrochromic color modulation when P3HT and viologen are used as electrochromic active components.
Conversation Analysis of Texting Exchanges in Aphasia
Authors: Azios Jamie H. , Lee Jaime B. , Cherney Leora R.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Conversation analysis (CA) is an established method that has been used to understand how aphasia impacts the conversational success of individuals with aphasia (IWAs) and their conversation partners. This article demonstrates CA as a valuable analytic tool for studying text messaging in aphasia to better understand the specific co-constructed actions of IWAs and their partners as they engage in this communication modality.

Method:

CA was applied to transcribed text message data from eight IWAs. Conversational structures present in face-to-face interactions were identified, segmented, and explicated with a focus on how IWAs and their partners negotiate interaction in this medium.

Results:

Three key elements of CA, namely, sequential organization, repair, and topic negotiation, were identified within the texting exchanges of participants and their texting partners and compared with existing CA studies on electronic messaging in adults without brain injury.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest a multitude of strategies that IWAs and their partners used to meet both transactional and interactional goals of communication. Understanding gained from applying CA to texting in aphasia can inform the development of interventions that improve access to digital communication for IWAs.
Characterization of stellar companions from high-contrast long-slit spectroscopy data
Authors: Thé Samuel , Thiébaut Éric , Denis Loïc , Wanner Thibault , Thiébaut Rémi , Langlois Maud , Soulez Ferréol
Published: August 2023

Aims.High-contrast long-slit spectrographs can be used to characterize exoplanets. The resulting spectroscopic data are, however, corrupted by stellar leakages that largely dominate other signals and make the process of extracting the companion spectrum very challenging. This paper presents a complete method to calibrate the spectrograph and extract the signal of interest.

Methods.The proposed method is based on a flexible direct model of the high-contrast long-slit spectroscopic data. This model explicitly accounts for the instrumental response and for the contributions of both the star and the companion. The contributions of these two components and the calibration parameters are jointly estimated by solving a regularized inverse problem. As this problem has no closed-form solution, we propose an alternating minimization strategy to effectively find the solution.

Results.We tested our method on empirical long-slit spectroscopic data and by injecting synthetic companion signals in these data. The proposed initialization and the alternating strategy effectively avoid the self-subtraction bias, even for companions observed very close to the coronagraphic mask. Careful modeling and calibration of the angular and spectral dispersion laws of the instrument clearly reduce the contamination by the stellar leakages. In practice, the outputs of the method are mostly driven by a single hyper-parameter that tunes the level of regularization of the companion’s spectral energy distribution (SED).
An advanced multipole model of the (130) Elektra quadruple system
Authors: Fuksa M. , Brož M. , Hanuš J. , Ferrais M. , Fatka P. , Vernazza P.
Published: August 2023

Context.The Ch-type asteroid (130) Elektra is orbited by three moons, making it the first quadruple system in the main asteroid belt.

Aims.We aim to characterise the irregular shape of Elektra and construct a complete orbital model of its unique moon system.

Methods.We applied the All-Data Asteroid Modelling (ADAM) algorithm to 60 light curves of Elektra, including our new measurements, 46 adaptive-optics (AO) images obtained by the VLT/SPHERE and Keck/Nirc2 instruments, and two stellar occultation profiles. For the orbital model, we used an advancedN-body integrator, which includes a multipole expansion of the central body (with terms up to the orderℓ= 6), mutual perturbations, internal tides, and the external tide of the Sun acting on the orbits. We fitted the astrometry measured with respect to the central body and also relatively, with respect to the moons themselves.

Results.We obtained a revised shape model of Elektra with the volume-equivalent diameter (201 ± 2) km. Of two possible pole solutions, (λ,β) = (189; −88) deg is preferred, because the other one leads to an incorrect orbital evolution of the moons. We also identified the true orbital period of the third moon S/2014 (130) 2 asP2= (1.642112 ± 0.000400) days, which is in between the other periods,P1≃ 1.212days,P3= 5.300 days, of S/2014 (130) 1 and S/2003 (130) 1, respectively. The resulting mass of Elektra, (6.606-0.013+0.007) ×1018kg, is precisely constrained by all three orbits. Its bulk density is then (1.536 ± 0.038) g cm−3. The expansion with the assumption of homogeneous interior leads to the oblatenessJ2= −C20≃ 0.16. However, the best-fit precession rates indicate a slightly higher value, ≃0.18. The number of nodal precession cycles over the observation time span 2014–2019 is 14, 7, and 0.5 for the inner, middle, and outer orbits.

Conclusions.Future astrometric or interferometric observations of Elektra’s moons should constrain these precession rates even more precisely, allowing the identification of possible inhomogeneities in primitive asteroids.