bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemical characterization and assessment of fluoride sources in groundwater of Siloam area, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Onipe Tobiloba , Edokpayi Joshua N. , Odiyo John O.
Published: July 2021

Siloam’s groundwater is reportedly characterized by high fluoride. In response to the reported high incidence of dental fluorosis in the area, sources of elevated fluoride in the groundwater were investigated. Total fluoride (TF) was determined using Ion Chromatograph and Fluoride Ion Selective Electrode. The mineral composition of rocks and soils were determined using X-ray Fluorescence and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Results revealed that groundwater fluoride concentration ranged from 3.92 to 4.95 mg/L. Na-Cl water type was found to be dominant in the water samples. TF content of the rocks and soils ranged from 10 to 2000 mg/L. Leachates were obtained by making a slurry from the samples at a predetermined temperature and time. TF in leachates ranged between 0.27 and 14.88 mg/L and 0.05 to 10.40 mg/L at induced, and non-induced temperatures, respectively. The possible source of fluoride has been previously inferred to be caused by fluorite minerals occurring at greater depth. However, this study proves that fluoride decreases with depth and the elevated fluoride in the groundwater is caused by smectite-kaolinite clay, muscovite and chlorite minerals abundant in the area. Geothermal temperature exhibited by the groundwater in the area is a major factor enhancing the release of fluoride from the clay materials.
Effects of education, income, and occupation on prevalence and symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Lee Ji Yeon , Han Kyungdo , Park Yong Gyu , Park Sung-Hwan
Published: July 2021

To examine the effect of socioeconomic status (SES) as measured by three components of education level, income level, and occupation on prevalence and symptom severity of knee osteoarthritis (OA) and to determine which of these factors has the strongest association. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey that were collected between 2010 and 2012. Male and female participants 50 years or older were included. Analyses to examine the associations of the three SES components with prevalence and symptom severity of knee OA were performed. A total 9,071 participants was included in the study. As expected, lower education, lower income level, and non-managerial or no job were associated with higher prevalence of knee OA and knee symptoms. Among the three SES components, lower education was most strongly associated with knee pain and radiographic knee OA after adjusting for the other two. Lower education level is the component of SES that most strongly relates to higher prevalence of knee OA and knee symptoms. Improving societal education level might decrease the socioeconomic burden of knee OA.
Changes in sexual behavior among high-school students over a 40-year period
Authors: Borneskog Catrin , Häggström-Nordin Elisabet , Stenhammar Christina , Tydén Tanja , Iliadis Stavros I.
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate sexual behavior, contraceptive use, risk factors as well as sources of sex information among first-year high-school students in Sweden. Secondly, to assess differences between genders and study programs as well as changes over a 40-year period. A repeated cross-sectional survey was conducted in two cities. A questionnaire comprising 77 items was used. The study population consisted of 415 students (63.4% females). The median age of sexual intercourse was 15 years. In total, 37% had had sexual intercourse, compared to 56.3% in 2009 and 45% in 1999 (p < 0.001), and the proportion of students who had their first sexual intercourse was not influenced by gender. More students in vocational programs (46.3%), compared to theoretical (33.3%), had experience of at least one sexual intercourse (p = 0.019). The same extend of contraception use at first and latest intercourse was reported, compared to previous studies. Forty-nine percent were mostly informed about sex from the internet, while in previous years, magazines, family and youth clinics were the main information sources. Comparing over time, students were in general less sexually experienced and less engaged in non-penetrative sex and physical intimacy. These findings call for a new approach, when designing sex and relationship education and health-care counseling in adolescents.
Uncertainty increases curiosity, but decreases happiness
Authors: van Lieshout Lieke L. F. , de Lange Floris P. , Cools Roshan
Published: July 2021

You probably know what kind of things you are curious about, but can you also explain what it feels like to be curious? Previous studies have demonstrated that we are particularly curious when uncertainty is high and when information provides us with a substantial update of what we know. It is unclear, however, whether this drive to seek information (curiosity) is appetitive or aversive. Curiosity might correspond to an appetitive drive elicited by the state of uncertainty, because we like that state, or rather it might correspond to an aversive drive to reduce the state of uncertainty, because we don’t like it. To investigate this, we obtained both subjective valence (happiness) and curiosity ratings from subjects who performed a lottery task that elicits uncertainty-dependent curiosity. We replicated a strong main effect of outcome uncertainty on curiosity: Curiosity increased with outcome uncertainty, irrespective of whether the outcome represented a monetary gain or loss. By contrast, happiness decreased with higher outcome uncertainty. This indicates that people were more curious, but less happy about lotteries with higher outcome uncertainty. These findings raise the hypothesis, to be tested in future work, that curiosity reflects an aversive drive to reduce the unpleasant state of uncertainty.
Transcriptomic analysis links hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in HZE ion irradiated mice to a human HCC subtype with favorable outcomes
Authors: Ding Liang-Hao , Yu Yongjia , Edmondson Elijah F. , Weil Michael. M. , Pop Laurentiu M. , McCarthy Maureen , Ullrich Robert L. , Story Michael D.
Published: July 2021

High-charge, high-energy ion particle (HZE) radiations are extraterrestrial in origin and characterized by high linear energy transfer (high-LET), which causes more severe cell damage than low-LET radiations like γ-rays or photons. High-LET radiation poses potential cancer risks for astronauts on deep space missions, but the studies of its carcinogenic effects have relied heavily on animal models. It remains uncertain whether such data are applicable to human disease. Here, we used genomics approaches to directly compare high-LET radiation-induced, low-LET radiation-induced and spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice with a human HCC cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We identified common molecular pathways between mouse and human HCC and discovered a subset of orthologous genes (mR-HCC) that associated high-LET radiation-induced mouse HCC with a subgroup (mrHCC2) of the TCGA cohort. The mrHCC2 TCGA cohort was more enriched with tumor-suppressing immune cells and showed a better prognostic outcome than other patient subgroups.
Straw and residual film management enhances crop yield and weakens CO2 emissions in wheat–maize intercropping system
Authors: Gou Zhiwen , Yin Wen , Chai Qiang
Published: July 2021

Higher CO2 emissions and lower crop productivity are becoming thorny problems and restricted sustainable development of agriculture in arid inland areas. Intercropping has been shown to enhance crop productivity. However, Intercropping generally requires more input that led to an increase in CO2 emissions. It is unknown whether designing tillage and film mulching in reduction could decrease soil CO2 emissions in intercropping. Therefore, we integrated no tillage combined with residual film mulching and straw returning into wheat–maize intercropping. The maximal soil CO2 fluxes (Fs) with intercropping was decreased by 12–21% compared to sole maize. Residual film mulching combined with straw returning (NTSMI) significantly reduced average Fs during the entire period of crop growth by 14–15%, compared with the conventional tillage (CTI). Soil CO2 emissions (CE) with intercropping was 18–20% less than that with sole maize and the NTSMI reduced CE by 12–16% compared to the CTI. The NTSMI boosted total grain yields (GY) by 14–17%, compared with the CTI. Wheat–maize intercropping significantly enhanced soil CO2 emission efficiency (CEE) by 33–41% in comparison to sole maize, and CEE with NTSMI was increased by 29–40% than that of CTI. A quadratic function for aboveground biomass (BA) combined with two linear functions for soil temperature (Ts) and soil water-filled pore space (WFPS) was suitable for the monitored results. A multiple regression model composed of the above three factors can explain 73–91% of the Fs variation. Crop biomass accumulation at the time of maximal Fs was less with intercropping compared with sole maize. The structural equation indicated that the BA synergistic effect on CEE through combining negative effects on CE and positive effects on GY in intercropping. In conclusion, no tillage with straw returning and residual film mulching in wheat–maize intercropping was confirmed to be an optimum management practice to reducing soil CO2 emissions and enhancing soil CO2 emission efficiency in arid inland agroecosystem.
Algorithm based on one monocular video delivers highly valid and reliable gait parameters
Authors: Azhand Arash , Rabe Sophie , Müller Swantje , Sattler Igor , Heimann-Steinert Anika
Published: July 2021

Despite its paramount importance for manifold use cases (e.g., in the health care industry, sports, rehabilitation and fitness assessment), sufficiently valid and reliable gait parameter measurement is still limited to high-tech gait laboratories mostly. Here, we demonstrate the excellent validity and test–retest repeatability of a novel gait assessment system which is built upon modern convolutional neural networks to extract three-dimensional skeleton joints from monocular frontal-view videos of walking humans. The validity study is based on a comparison to the GAITRite pressure-sensitive walkway system. All measured gait parameters (gait speed, cadence, step length and step time) showed excellent concurrent validity for multiple walk trials at normal and fast gait speeds. The test–retest-repeatability is on the same level as the GAITRite system. In conclusion, we are convinced that our results can pave the way for cost, space and operationally effective gait analysis in broad mainstream applications. Most sensor-based systems are costly, must be operated by extensively trained personnel (e.g., motion capture systems) or—even if not quite as costly—still possess considerable complexity (e.g., wearable sensors). In contrast, a video sufficient for the assessment method presented here can be obtained by anyone, without much training, via a smartphone camera.
Copy number variation in the CES1 gene and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Chen Bing bing , Yan Jian hui , Zheng Jing , Peng He wei , Cai Xiao ling , Pan Xin ting , Li Hui quan , Hong Qi zhu , Peng Xian-E
Published: July 2021

A recent genome-wide copy number variations (CNVs) scan identified a 16q12.2 deletion that included the carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) gene, which is important in the metabolism of fatty acids and cholesterol. We aimed to investigate whether CES1 CNVs was associated with susceptibility to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a Chinese Han population. A case–control study was conducted among 303 patients diagnosed with NAFLD and 303 age (± 5) and sex-matched controls from the Affiliated Nanping First Hospital of Fujian Medical University in China. The copy numbers of CES1 were measured using TaqMan quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and serum CES1 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The Chi-squared test and a logistic regression model were used to evaluate the association between CES1 CNVs and NAFLD susceptibility. The distribution of CES1 CNVs showed a higher frequency of CNVs loss (< 2) among patients; however, the difference was not significant (P = 0.05). After controlling for other known or suspected risk factors for NAFLD, CES1 CNVs loss was significantly associated with greater risk of NAFLD (adjusted OR = 2.75, 95% CI 1.30–5.85, P = 0.01); while CES1 CNVs gain (> 2) was not. There was a suggestion of an association between increased CES1 serum protein levels and CNVs losses among cases, although this was not statistically significant (P = 0.07). Copy number losses (< 2) of CES1 contribute to susceptibility to NAFLD in the Chinese Han population.
New sight at the organization of layers of multilayer polyelectrolyte microcapsules
Authors: Musin Egor V. , Kim Aleksandr L. , Dubrovskii Alexey V. , Tikhonenko Sergey A.
Published: July 2021

In this work, the mutual arrangement of polyelectrolytes of multilayer polyelectrolyte microcapsules (with layers—[PAH/PSS]3PAH) by determination of the dissociation level of polyallylamine (PAH) from the surface of a polyelectrolyte microcapsules (PMC) of various types was studied: PMC with a dissolved CaCO3 core after preparation, PMC with an undissolved CaCO3 core and PMC with an encapsulated protein. It was concluded that the polyelectrolyte layers are mixed in the entire shell of the capsules with a dissolved CaCO3 core. In the case of the PMC with an undissolved CaCO3 core, such mixing of polyelectrolyte layers does not occur. That fact allows us to conclude that the mixing of polyelectrolytes layers mixing at the stage of dissolution of CaCO3 core. The PMC with encapsulated protein has partial mixing of polyelectrolytes layers. That phenomenon may be due to the fact that seven-layered protein-containing microcapsules already have a dense and well-formed shell. The obtained data correlate with the data on the study of the surface charge of microcapsules.
Evaluation of the subcapsular technique for primary closure castration in donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed , Mahmoud Usama T. , Ali Magda M. , Ragab Sohair M. M.
Published: July 2021

This study described the subcapsular technique for primary closure castration in donkeys with special regard to its efficiency and welfare impacts. The study was conducted on twelve adult male donkeys, allocated randomly into two groups; subcapsular castration (SC) and open castration (OC) groups, whether the donkeys were subjected to surgical castration either by subcapsular or open castration techniques, respectively. Testosterone, cortisol, lactate, glucose, total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG), and nitric oxide (NO) were measured before and after castration. Pain-associated behavioral activities were recorded post-castration. The SC was successfully performed in donkeys through a single paramedian scrotal incision. The SC was efficient as OC in reducing testosterone levels. The pain score decreased in the SC compared to the OC over time. The SC was an efficient and reliable technique for primary closure castration in donkeys with minimal postoperative complications and care and good cosmetic, physiological, and behavioral outcomes. It can be an alternative to other castration techniques in equines.
Surface related laser induced white emission of Cr:YAG ceramic
Authors: Chaika M. , Tomala R. , Strek W.
Published: July 2021

In this work we report the white light emission in transparent Cr:YAG ceramic pellet upon irradiation with focused beam of CW infrared laser diode. It was found that this phenomenon is specifically related to interaction of laser beam with a surface of the pellet. The white light was emitted outside an irradiated spot at the surface of the pellet and did not penetrate inside the pellet. Moreover, the red emission related to two-photon absorption along the laser beam penetrating the Cr3+:YAG pellet was observed. Interaction of the laser beam with the surface of the pellet leads to an efficient white light emission from an outer side of the pellet. The resulting white light emission did not entry back the pellet. Multiphoton ionization leading to intervalence charge transfer followed by light emission was proposed as the mechanism of experimentally observed white light emission.
The impact of incomplete registration on survival rate of children with very rare tumors
Authors: Rascon Jelena , Salasevicius Lukas , Rutkauskiene Giedre , Bien Ewa , Vincerzevskiene Ieva
Published: July 2021

Pediatric very rare tumors (VRTs) represent a heterogeneous subset of childhood cancers, with reliable survival estimates depending dramatically on each (un)registered case. The current study aimed to evaluate the number of VRTs among Lithuanian children, to assess the impact of the registration status on survival rates and to track changes in treatment outcomes over the 16-year study period. We performed a population-based retrospective study across children below 18 years old diagnosed with VRTs in Lithuania between the years 2000 and 2015. The identified cases were cross-checked with the Lithuanian Cancer Registry—a population-based epidemiology cancer registry—for the fact of registration and survival status. The overall survival was calculated in relation to the registration status and treatment period. Thirty-seven children with VRTs were identified within the defined time frame. Six of them (16.2%) were not reported to the Lithuanian Cancer Registry at diagnosis. The probability of overall survival at 5 years (OS5y) differed significantly between the registered (n = 31) and unregistered (n = 6) cohorts: 51.6% versus 100%, respectively (p = 0.049). A 5-year survival estimate for children diagnosed with a VRT at the age of 0–14 years differed by 10 percentage points according to the registration completeness: 52.1% calculated for the entire cohort versus 42.1% for registered patients only. The OS5y has not improved over the analyzed period: 61.1% in 2000–2007 versus 57.9% in 2008–2015 (p = 0.805). The survival continued to decline beyond 5 years post-diagnosis due to late cancer-related adverse events: 59.5% of patients were alive at 5 years as compared to 44.3% at 10 years. The OS5y of children affected by VRT was lower than in more common childhood cancers. The survival rate of the unregistered patients may lead to misinterpretation of treatment outcomes. Meticulous registration of VRTs is crucial for correct evaluation of treatment outcomes, especially across small countries with few cases.
Novel insights into the magnetic behavior of non-stoichiometric LaMnO3+δ nanoparticles
Authors: Cortés-Gil Raquel , Hernando Antonio , Alonso José M. , Sigcho-Villacís Kevin M. , Azor-Lafarga Alberto , Martínez José L. , Ruiz-González M. Luisa , González-Calbet José M.
Published: July 2021

Non-stoichimetric LaMnO3+δ nanoparticles have been prepared and characterized. LaMnO3 changes the ground state from AFM to FM when the particle size is reduced. La0.93Mn0.93O3 shows a noticeable magnetoresistance effect.
Bacteria-mediated cancer therapies: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Yang Meiyang , Yang Fuwei , Chen Weijun , Liu Shenhuan , Qiu Lipeng , Chen Jinghua
Published: July 2021

Advances of engineered bacteria will promote tumor therapy into the era of precision medicine. Introducing synthetic biology, nanotechnology and synergistic treatment into bacteria-mediated cancer therapy enhances its safety and efficacy.
Copper-alloy catalysts: structural characterization and catalytic synergies
Authors: Zeng Shanghong , Shan Shiyao , Lu Aolin , Wang Shan , Caracciolo Dominic T. , Robinson Richard J. , Shang Guojun , Xue Lei , Zhao Yuansong , Zhang Aiai , Liu Yang , Liu Shangpeng , Liu Ze , Bai Fenghua , Wu Jinfang , Wang Hong , Zhong Chuan-Jian
Published: July 2021

Recent progress in the development of copper-alloy catalysts is highlighted, focusing on the structural and mechanistic characterizations of the catalysts in different catalytic reactions, and challenges and opportunities in future research.
Layered terbium hydroxides for simultaneous drug delivery and imaging
Authors: Strimaite Margarita , Harman Clarissa L. G. , Duan Huan , Wang Yuwei , Davies Gemma-Louise , Williams Gareth R.
Published: July 2021

The fluorescence properties of drug-loaded layered terbium hydroxides are directly correlated with the extent of drug release.
Titanium complexes of pyrrolylaldiminate ligands and their exploitation for the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters
Authors: Upitak Kanokon , Wattanathana Worawat , Nanok Tanin , Chuawong Pitak , Hormnirun Pimpa
Published: July 2021

The first report on the use of six-coordinate titanium pyrrolylaldiminate complexes for the ROP of rac-lactide and substituted ε-caprolactones.
Homoleptic quasilinear metal(i/ii) silylamides of Cr–Co with phenyl and allyl functions – impact of the oxidation state on secondary ligand interactions
Authors: Weller Ruth , Ruppach Lutz , Shlyaykher Alena , Tambornino Frank , Werncke C. Gunnar
Published: July 2021

The synthesis of aryl and allyl substituted quasilinear metal(ii) silylamides of Cr–Co as well as their reduction is reported, which show oxidation state dependent secondary interactions of the metal with the electron rich substituents.
Unveiling the catalytic nature of palladium-N-heterocyclic carbene catalysts in the α-alkylation of ketones with primary alcohols
Authors: Ovezova Mamajan , Eroğlu Zafer , Metin Önder , Çetinkaya Bekir , Gülcemal Süleyman
Published: July 2021

NHC-Pd-PEPPSI-catalyzed α-alkylation of ketones with primary alcohols and tandem Suzuki–Miyaura-coupling/α-alkylation reactions under borrowing hydrogen conditions were reported.
Copper-bipyridine grid frameworks incorporating redox-active tetrathiafulvalene: structures and supercapacitance
Authors: Zhou Zi-Yao , Ge Chen-Yi , Jiang Miao , Hou Jin-Le , Zhu Qin-Yu , Dai Jie
Published: July 2021

The Cu(ii)-bipyridine MOFs incorporating tetrathiafulvalene anions were prepared and used as electrode active materials to study the relationship between the structure and properties in photoelectron conversion and pseudo-supercapacitance.
Seawater electrolysis for hydrogen production: a solution looking for a problem?
Authors: Khan M. A. , Al-Attas Tareq , Roy Soumyabrata , Rahman Muhammad M. , Ghaffour Noreddine , Thangadurai Venkataraman , Larter Stephen , Hu Jinguang , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Kibria Md Golam
Published: July 2021

This study assesses research and development needs for direct seawater electrolysis from energy, cost and environmental aspects and presents a forward-looking perspective on future R&D priorities in desalination and electrolysis technologies.
Stabilized hydroxide-mediated nickel-based electrocatalysts for high-current-density hydrogen evolution in alkaline media
Authors: Luo Yuting , Zhang Zhiyuan , Yang Fengning , Li Jiong , Liu Zhibo , Ren Wencai , Zhang Shuo , Liu Bilu
Published: July 2021

Developing highly-active and stable catalyst is key to water electrolysis technology. Here, we report a hydroxide-mediated nickel-based catalyst working well at industrial-relevant high-current-densities based on a charge-engineering strategy.
Distribution, sources and exposure risk of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soils, and indoor and outdoor dust from Port Harcourt city, Nigeria
Authors: Ossai Chinedu J. , Iwegbue Chukwujindu M. A. , Tesi Godswill O. , Olisah Chijioke , Egobueze Francis E. , Nwajei Godwin E. , Martincigh Bice S.
Published: July 2021

This study evaluated the concentrations, composition, sources, and potential risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils, and indoor and outdoor dust from Port Harcourt city in Nigeria.
Effect of one-week administration of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitory peptides from chum salmon milt on postprandial blood glucose level: a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover, pilot clinical trial
Authors: Takahashi Yoshinori , Kamata Akira , Nishimura Mie , Nishihira Jun
Published: July 2021

Salmon milt peptide is a novel food material that shows dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitory activity and can be expected to suppress postprandial hyperglycaemia in subjects without insulin resistance.
A novel polysaccharide obtained from Siraitia grosvenorii alleviates inflammatory responses in a diabetic nephropathy mouse model via the TLR4-NF-κB pathway
Authors: Gong Pin , Cui Dandan , Guo Yuxi , Wang Mengrao , Wang Zhineng , Huang Zihan , Yang Wenjuan , Chen Fuxin , Chen Xuefeng
Published: July 2021

Leukotriene 3 and arachidonic acid are potential biomarkers, indicating inflammatory is involved in the occurrence of DN. SGP-1-1 alleviates the inflammatory response in DN mice by downregulating the TLR4-NF-κB pathway.
Validation of a high-throughput method for the quantification of flavanol and procyanidin biomarkers and methylxanthines in plasma by UPLC-MS
Authors: Fong Reedmond Y. , Kuhnle Gunter G. C. , Crozier Alan , Schroeter Hagen , Ottaviani Javier I.
Published: July 2021

New high throughput method for the quantification of flavanols and procyanidin nutritional biomarkers and methylxanthines in plasma.
The role of metabolites of steviol glycosides and their glucosylated derivatives against diabetes-related metabolic disorders
Authors: Li Yuqi , Zhu Wanfang , Cai Jing , Liu Wenyuan , Akihisa Toshihiro , Li Wei , Kikuchi Takashi , Xu Jian , Feng Feng , Zhang Jie
Published: July 2021

Steviol glycosides (SGs) and their glucosylated derivatives share same active metabolites, which can regulate diabetes-related metabolic disorders.
Synergistic reinforcement of a reversible Diels–Alder type network with nanocellulose
Authors: Peterson Anna , Roy Manta , Fagerlund Julia , Lo Re Giada , Müller Christian
Published: July 2021

A covalent adaptable network reinforced with microfibrillated cellulose is found to be an attractive intermediate between a thermoset and thermoplastic material.
Bioinspired micro/nanomotors towards a self-propelled noninvasive diagnosis and treatment of cancer
Authors: Rastmanesh Afagh , Tavakkoli Yaraki Mohammad , Wu Jinyu , Wang Zihao , Ghoderao Prachi , Gao Yongxiang , Tan Yen Nee
Published: July 2021

This article reviews the bioinspired design and characterization techniques of the different types of micro/nanomotors and their biomedical applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Cucurbituril-activated photoreaction of dithienylethene for controllable targeted lysosomal imaging and anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Liu Guoxing , Xu Xiufang , Dai Xianyin , Jiang Chunhui , Zhou Yu , Lu Lei , Liu Yu
Published: July 2021

The study provided a new strategy of “killing two birds with one stone”, i.e. assembly-activated photochromism and assembly-activated emission enhancement, to prepare dual-visible-light-driven fluorescent switches through conformational modulation.
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for bioanalysis and diagnosis
Authors: Tahir Muhammad Ali , Dina Nicoleta E. , Cheng Hanyun , Valev Ventsislav K. , Zhang Liwu
Published: July 2021

In recent years, bioanalytical surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has blossomed into a fast-growing research area. We present here a review on SERS-based assays with focus on early bacterial infection detection and chronic disease diagnosis.
Full-color nanorouter for high-resolution imaging
Authors: Chen Mingjie , Wen Long , Pan Dahui , Cumming David R. S. , Yang Xianguang , Chen Qin
Published: July 2021

On-chip full-color routing realized by a single-layer quick response code-like nanorouter promotes over 60% signal enhancement with negligible color distortion and robust polarization insensitivity in image sensors with micron-scale pixels.
Surface decoration of black phosphorus nanosheets to generate oxygen and release1O2for photodynamic killing of bacteria
Authors: Ran Pan , Chen Weijia , Zheng Huan , Zhou Jingjing , Qiu Bo , Cao Wenxiong , Li Xiaohong
Published: July 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has evolved as an essential method for infection control, but is confronted with challenges in terms of low oxygen supply, possible toxicity during light irradiation, and nonpersistent action.
Light-inducedin situchemical activation of a fluorescent probe for monitoring intracellular G-quadruplex structures
Authors: Deiana Marco , Mosser Maëlle , Le Bahers Tangui , Dumont Elise , Dudek Marta , Denis-Quanquin Sandrine , Sabouri Nasim , Andraud Chantal , Matczyszyn Katarzyna , Monnereau Cyrille , Guy Laure
Published: July 2021

A photochemically generated fluorophore is used to monitor intracellular G-quadruplex structures.
Theoretical exploration of quaternary hexagonal MAB phases and two-dimensional derivatives
Authors: Yao Yufang , Miao Nanxi , Gong Yutong , Wang Junjie
Published: July 2021

22 stable quaternary h-MAB phases were predicted and a stability mechanism was proposed. Theoretical simulations proved the possibility of exfoliating h-MBenes and show that the predicted bi-metal h-MBenes have a great advantage in HER.
Visualizing and monitoring interfacial polymerization by aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Guo Bian-Bian , Liu Chang , Xin Jia-Hui , Zhu Cheng-Ye , Xu Zhi-Kang
Published: July 2021

The aggregation-induced emission effect is used to visualize and monitor interfacial polymerization at the alkane–ionic liquid interface by virtue of the quantitative fluorescence of arylamine luminogens.
Cu-Catalyzed four-component polymerization of alkynes, sulfonyl azides, nucleophiles and electrophiles
Authors: He Junnan , Zheng Nan , Li Ming , Zheng YuBin , Song Wangze
Published: July 2021

A four-component polymerization method was reported using diynes, sulfonyl azides, diols, and a variety of electrophiles. Such a strategy facilitated the facile preparation of a series of α-functionalized poly(N-sulfonylimidates)s.
Remote dibenzocycloheptyl substitution on a bis(arylimino)pyridyl-iron ethylene polymerization catalyst; enhanced thermal stability and unexpected effects on polymer properties
Authors: Guo Liwei , Zhang Wenjuan , Cao Furong , Jiang Youshu , Zhang Randi , Ma Yanping , Solan Gregory A. , Sun Yang , Sun Wen-Hua
Published: July 2021

The title iron catalyst displays exceptionally high catalytic activity at 70 °C and high activity at 100 °C; wax-like properties are a feature of the polyethylenes as are the narrow dispersities.
Recent developments towards performance-enhancing lignin-based polymers
Authors: Bass Garrett F. , Epps Thomas H.
Published: July 2021

This review examines recent strategies, challenges, and future opportunities in preparing high-performance polymeric materials from lignin and its derivable compounds.
Recent advances in rare earth co-doped luminescent tungsten oxygen complexes
Authors: Yan Bing , Wu Hechen , Ma Pengtao , Niu Jingyang , Wang Jingping
Published: July 2021

This review talks about recent advances in RE co-doped tungsten oxygen complexes, including synthesis strategies associated with the luminescent mechanism, structural features and related applications.
A Cu2+ doped mesoporous polydopamine Fenton nanoplatform for low-temperature photothermal therapy
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Wu Tong , Gao Peng , Li Na , Wan Xiuyan , Wang Jianbo , Pan Wei , Tang Bo
Published: July 2021

A Cu2+ doped polydopamine Fenton nanoplatform was developed for chemodynamic therapy (CDT)-sensitized low-temperature photothermal therapy (PTT).
Super-wetting properties of functionalized fluorinated graphene and its application in oil–water and emulsion separation
Authors: Prasanthi Iniya , Raidongia Kalyan , Datta K. K. R.
Published: July 2021

Superhydrophobic–superoleophilic dithiocarbamate-functionalized fluorinated graphene injected PDMS sponges displaying selective oil/organics sorption from oil–water mixtures and emulsion separation.
Circular dichroism for secondary structure determination of proteins with unfolded domains using a self-organising map algorithm SOMSpec
Authors: Olamoyesan Adewale , Ang Dale , Rodger Alison
Published: July 2021

Circular dichroism secondary structure fitting by analysing derandomized spectra using the SOMSpec approach then regenerating data for the original spectrum.
Crystal engineering with copper and melamine
Authors: Bernabé Vírseda Ignacio , Siddiqui Shiraz Ahmed , Prado-Roller Alexander , Eisterer Michael , Shiozawa Hidetsugu
Published: July 2021

Size and structure control of gem-like quality monocrystals – copper–melamine coordination complex, and copper–chlorine coordination polymer – is demonstrated at room temperature.
Y2O3:Yb3+, Tm3+/ZnO composite with a heterojunction structure and upconversion function for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes
Authors: Tai Yuehui , Zhang Yu , Sun Jinlong , Liu Fuyue , Tian Haoran , Liu Qifeng , Li Caihong
Published: July 2021

Upconversion heterojunction synergistic effect for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants.
Semiconductor to metallic transition under induced pressure in Cs2AgBiBr6 double halide perovskite: a theoretical DFT study for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications
Authors: Islam Md. Nurul , Podder Jiban , Saha Tusar , Rani Protima
Published: July 2021

Inorganic double halide perovskites have a wide range of applications in low-cost photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices.
Productive preparation of N-doped carbon dots from sodium lignosulfonate/melamine formaldehyde foam and its fluorescence detection of trivalent iron ions
Authors: Pan Yong-Yan , Yin Wei-Ming , Meng Ran-Jun , Guo Yuan-Ru , Zhang Ji-Guo , Pan Qing-Jiang
Published: July 2021

Taking advantage of the rich carbon source of waste foam, N-doped carbon dots were prepared by calcining sodium lignosulfonate/melamine formaldehyde foam in one step, which shows preferential fluorescence detection for iron ions.
Increased sanitization potency of hydrogen peroxide with synergistic O3 and intense pulsed light for non-woven polypropylene
Authors: Jeong Robin , Kumar Hitendra , Jones Steven , Sandwell Allen , Kim Keekyoung , Park Simon S.
Published: July 2021

By introducing synergistic elements to the VHP processes, potent sanitization of polymeric filters is achieved at low H2O2 concentrations.
Development of highly porous calcium phosphate bone cements applying nonionic surface active agents
Authors: Cichoń Ewelina , Mielan Bartosz , Pamuła Elżbieta , Ślósarczyk Anna , Zima Aneta
Published: July 2021

A novel way of obtaining highly porous cements is foaming them with the use of nonionic surface active agents (surfactants).
Probing the ionic structure of FLiNaK–ZrF4 salt mixtures by solid-state NMR
Authors: Lan Rongshan , Liu Yiyang , Han Ling , Yang Jing , Yin Huiqin , Ge Min , Fu Xiaobin , Liu Hongtao , Qian Yuan
Published: July 2021

The evolution of the [ZrxFy]4x−y ionic structures in FLiNaK–ZrF4 salt mixtures was elucidated through solid-state NMR techniques when the melt salts were being solidified.
Efficient NO reduction by carbon-deposited CaO in the carbonation step of calcium looping for the CO2 capture
Authors: Zhang Wan , Qian Yuqi , Li Yingjie , He Zirui , Zhao Jianli
Published: July 2021

Carbon-deposited CaO realizes efficient NO removal and CO2 capture in carbonator of calcium looping.
Discovering protein–protein interaction stabilisers by native mass spectrometry
Authors: Bellamy-Carter Jeddidiah , Mohata Manjari , Falcicchio Marta , Basran Jaswir , Higuchi Yusuke , Doveston Richard G. , Leney Aneika C.
Published: July 2021

Stabilising protein–protein interactions is challenging, yet therapeutically important. Native mass spectrometry can be used to monitor binding equilibria, allowing identification and measurement of novel protein–protein interaction stabilisers.
Activation of apoptosis by rationally constructing NIR amphiphilic AIEgens: surmounting the shackle of mitochondrial membrane potential for amplified tumor ablation
Authors: Li Haidong , Lu Yang , Chung Jeewon , Han Jingjing , Kim Heejeong , Yao Qichao , Kim Gyoungmi , Wu Xiaofeng , Long Saran , Peng Xiaojun , Yoon Juyoung
Published: July 2021

In this contribution, based on a “step-by-step” molecular design strategy, a novel NIR amphiphilic AIEgen TPA-S-TPP with a triplet lifetime of 11.43 μs and surmounting the shackle of MMP was successfully fabricated for amplified tumor ablation.
Organocatalytic asymmetric synthesis of α-amino esters from sulfoxonium ylides
Authors: Guo Wengang , Wang Min , Han Zhengyu , Huang Hai , Sun Jianwei
Published: July 2021

An organocatalytic asymmetric N–H insertion reaction of α-carbonyl sulfoxonium ylides has been developed to provide efficient access to α-amino esters without involving a metal carbenoid intermediate.
Reversible redox controlled acids for cationic ring-opening polymerization
Authors: Supej Michael J. , McLoughlin Elizabeth A. , Hsu Jesse H. , Fors Brett P.
Published: July 2021

A class of ferrocene-derived acid catalysts whose acidity can be altered through reversible oxidation and reduction of the ferrocenyl moiety to chemically and electrochemically control the ROP of cyclic esters is reported.
Nanorheology of active–passive polymer mixtures differentiates between linear and ring polymer topology
Authors: Papale Andrea , Smrek Jan , Rosa Angelo
Published: July 2021

We study the motion of dispersed nanoprobes in entangled active–passive polymer mixtures by comparing the two architectures of linearvs. unconcatenated and unknotted circular polymers. Novel, rich physics emerge.
Curved colloidal crystals of discoids at near-critical liquid–liquid interface
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Ashis
Published: July 2021

The spontaneous assembly of colloids at a curved surface formed domes (bottom) at a scale of million times smaller than the dome of Taj Mahal (top). The former can be constructed and then annihilated repeatedly and reversibly.
Synergistic effect of incorporating intra- and inter-molecular charge transfer in nonfullerene acceptor molecules for highly-efficient organic solar cells
Authors: Ji Yiwen , Xu Lingxia , Yin Hang , Cui Bin , Zhang Longlong , Hao Xiaotao , Gao Kun
Published: July 2021

Intra- and inter-molecular charge transfer coexist in nonfullerene acceptor molecules with an A–D–A electronic structure, which work synergistically to enhance their excited state dissociation efficiency up to ∼70% in optimized molecular aggregates.
Dynamic coordination of metal–alanine to control the multi-stimuli responsiveness of self-powered polymer hydrogels
Authors: Chen Huan , Jiang Jintao , Chen Zhe , Du Binjie , Dai Chenghao , Wang Lei , Yin Qiyan , Liu Yongqi , Weng Gengsheng
Published: July 2021

A new design of self-powered metallo-hydrogels with intriguing electrical-signal responses to multiple stimuli.
Supramolecular Nanosheet evolution into BC3N matrix improves the hydrogen evolution reaction activity in the pH universality of highly dispersed Pt nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Xue , Zheng Mai , Zhang Zhenyang , Wang Yufeng , Zhou Yingtang , Zhou Xiaohai , Zhang Haibo
Published: July 2021

Supramolecular Nanosheet evolution into BC3N matrix improves the hydrogen evolution reaction activity in the pH universality of highly dispersed Pt nanoparticles.
Hierarchical porous covalent organic framework/graphene aerogel electrode for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: An Ning , Guo Zhen , Xin Jiao , He Yuanyuan , Xie Kefeng , Sun Daming , Dong Xiuyan , Hu Zhongai
Published: July 2021

Hierarchical porous covalent organic framework/graphene aerogel electrode are prepared by electrostatic self-assembly method for high-performance supercapacitors.
Observing long-range non-fullerene backbone ordering in real-space to improve the charge transport properties of organic solar cells
Authors: Bi Zhaozhao , Chen Kai , Gou Lu , Guo Yuan , Zhou Xiaobo , Naveed Hafiz Bilal , Wang Jing , Zhu Qinglian , Yuan Jian , Zhao Chao , Zhou Ke , Chandrabose Sreelakshmi , Tang Zheng , Yi Yuanping , Hodgkiss Justin M. , Zhang Lei , Ma Wei
Published: July 2021

The long-range backbone ordering in Y6 solid film is reported, which benefits charge generation and carrier lifetime in PM6:Y6 heterojunctions and drives the photovoltaic efficiency towards 16.8%.
Grafting of CAG peptides and (polyethylene glycol) on unsaturated polyurethane films to promote selective adhesion and migration of urethral epithelial cells
Authors: Xie Jieqi , Shen Kangmi , Zheng Honghao , Yao Yuejun , Chen Yicheng , Gao Changyou
Published: July 2021

An unsaturated polyurethane film is grafted with a cell-resisting PEG layer and CAG peptides, resulting in a larger adhesion number and faster migration rate of urethral epithelial cells over fibroblasts.
Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels to study cancer cell behaviors
Authors: Goodarzi Kasra , Rao Shreyas S.
Published: July 2021

Hyaluronic acid (HA) based hydrogels can be fabricated using various chemistries to study cancer cell behaviors in vitro.
Dual synergistic effect of a carbon/metal hybrid network on the mechanical and electromagnetic interference shielding performance in self-assembly enhanced epoxy curing networks
Authors: Lian Qingsong , Xu Weijie , Chen Hongfeng , Li Yan , Duan Hongji , Wang Zhi , An Dong , Cheng Jue , Liu Yaqing
Published: July 2021

Deposited 3D Ag@T-ZnO and intertwined 1D MWCNTs carbon/metal hybrid conductive network structure in the self-assembly enhanced epoxy curing network.
Synergistic effect of carotenoid and silicone-based additives for photooxidatively stable organic solar cells with enhanced elasticity
Authors: Prete Michela , Ogliani Elisa , Bregnhøj Mikkel , Lissau Jonas Sandby , Dastidar Subham , Rubahn Horst-Günter , Engmann Sebastian , Skov Anne Ladegaard , Brook Michael A. , Ogilby Peter R. , Printz Adam , Turkovic Vida , Madsen Morten
Published: July 2021

Bifunctional additive design for OPV provides joint improvement in (1) device lifetime via carotenoid and (2) flexibility via silicone.
Suppressed ion migration in powder-based perovskite thick films using an ionic liquid
Authors: Ramming Philipp , Leupold Nico , Schötz Konstantin , Köhler Anna , Moos Ralf , Grüninger Helen , Panzer Fabian
Published: July 2021

Here we add BMIMBF4 during the mechanochemical synthesis of MAPbI3. Based on detailed photoluminescence and electrical measurements, we demonstrate a passivation of defects in the powder pellets that also leads to a suppression of ion migration.
Fabrication of conducting polymer microelectrodes and microstructures for bioelectronics
Authors: Zhang Peikai , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka
Published: July 2021

In this review, we provide an overview of the most recent advances in fabrication techniques for microelectrodes/micropatterns of CPs and highlight the most prominent applications of these in bioelectronic devices.
Enhanced photodetection performance of Schottky Pt/SnS2/Al and Au/SnS2/Al photodetectors
Authors: An Xia , Fan Chao , Meng Xiancheng , Yuan Shuo , Jing Yongkai , Liu Zhe , Sun Chun , Zhang Yonghui , Zhang Zihui , Wang Mengjun , Zheng Hongxing , Li Erping
Published: July 2021

Schottky photodetectors with Pt/SnS2/Al and Au/SnS2/Al structures exhibited better photodetection performances than Ohmic Al/SnS2/Al photodetectors, including tenfold higher responsivities, tenfold lower dark currents, and shorter response times.
Greatly enhanced dielectric charge storage capabilities of layered polymer composites incorporated with low loading fractions of ultrathin amorphous iron phosphate nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Meiyu , Shi Zhicheng , Zhang Jifu , Zhang Kun , Lei Li , Dastan Davoud , Dong Bohua
Published: July 2021

Greatly enhanced dielectric charge storage capabilities are achieved in composites via introducing ultra-thin FePO4 nanosheets and designing bilayer structures.
A ternary organic solar cell with 15.6% efficiency containing a new DPP-based acceptor
Authors: Privado María , Dahiya Hemraj , de la Cruz Pilar , Keshtov Mukhamed L. , Langa Fernando , Sharma Ganesh D.
Published: July 2021

A new non-fullerene small molecule (MPU6) containing thienylethynylselenophene bridges, has been studied as an acceptor along with PC71BM and TDTBTA as a donor in ternary solution-processed bulk heterojunction polymer solar cells, showing a PCE of 15.60%.
Nutrient regulation of inflammatory signalling in obesity and vascular disease
Authors: Palmer Timothy M. , Salt Ian P.
Published: July 2021

Despite obesity and diabetes markedly increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie this association remain poorly characterised. In the last 20 years it has become apparent that chronic, low-grade inflammation in obese adipose tissue may contribute to the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, increased vascular pro-inflammatory signalling is a key event in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Overnutrition exacerbates pro-inflammatory signalling in vascular and adipose tissues, with several mechanisms proposed to mediate this. In this article, we review the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which nutrients are proposed to regulate pro-inflammatory signalling in adipose and vascular tissues. In addition, we examine the potential therapeutic opportunities that these mechanisms provide for suppression of inappropriate inflammation in obesity and vascular disease.
Promoting Language Skills in Children With Neuromotor and Intellectual Disorders: Telepractice at the Time of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Micheletti Serena , Galli Jessica , Scaglioni Vera , Renzetti Stefano , Scarano Elisa , Foresti Valentina , Fazzi Elisa
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The aim of this pilot study is to gather preliminary results on the effectiveness of intensive, parent-oriented, telepractice-based intervention to improve language skills in preschool children with neuromotor and intellectual disorders.

Method

Nine preschool children (M= 63 months,SD= 8.7 months) underwent a telepractice program 4 times a week designed to promote speech, lexical, and syntactic skills. Families were remotely connected from home with the therapists, who controlled the rehabilitation procedures from the hospital. The number of stable phonemes, of understood and repeated words, and of understood and repeated sentences were evaluated as outcome measures 3 months (prebaseline) and 1 week (baseline) before the intervention, immediately after the intervention (T1) and at a 3-month follow-up (T2).

Results

An increase in the number of stable phonemes was detected after the treatment, even if it was not statistically significant. After the intervention program, there was a significant increase in the number of understood words (ratio T1 vs. baseline: 1.33; 95% CI [1.03, 1.71]) and repeated words (ratio T1 vs. baseline: 1.39; 95% CI [1.00, 1.92]), as well as of understood sentences (ratio T1 vs. baseline: 1.80; 95% CI [1.24, 2.35]) and repeated sentences (ratio T1 vs. baseline: 4.23; 95% CI [1.96, 9.12]). No significant differences were found when comparing all the outcome measures at prebaseline and at baseline.

Conclusion

An intensive, parent-oriented, telepractice-based intervention has the potential to increase scores of lexical and syntactic tasks in children with neuromotor and intellectual disorders.