bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patulin suppresses α1-adrenergic receptor expression in HEK293 cells
Authors: Pillay Yashodani , Nagiah Savania , Phulukdaree Alisa , Krishnan Anand , Chuturgoon Anil A.
Published: November 2020

Patulin (PAT) is a common mycotoxin contaminant of apple products linked to impaired metabolic and kidney function. Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), abundantly expressed in the kidney, intercedes metabolic changes and renal injury. The alpha-1-adrenergic receptors (α1-AR) facilitate Epinephrine (Epi)-mediated AMPK activation, linking metabolism and kidney function. Preliminary molecular docking experiments examined potential interactions and AMPK-gamma subunit 3 (PRKAG3). The effect of PAT exposure (0.2–2.5 µM; 24 h) on the AMPK pathway and α1-AR was then investigated in HEK293 human kidney cells. AMPK agonist Epi determined direct effects on the α1-AR, metformin was used as an activator for AMPK, while buthionine sulphoximine (BSO) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) assessed GSH inhibition and supplementation respectively. ADRA1A and ADRA1D expression was determined by qPCR. α1-AR, ERK1/2/MAPK and PI3K/Akt protein expression was assessed using western blotting. PAT (1 µM) decreased α1-AR protein and mRNA and altered downstream signalling. This was consistent in cells stimulated with Epi and metformin. BSO potentiated the observed effect on α1-AR while NAC ameliorated these effects. Molecular docking studies performed on Human ADRA1A and PRKAG3 indicated direct interactions with PAT. This study is the first to show PAT modulates the AMPK pathway and α1-AR, supporting a mechanism of kidney injury.
The impacts of acid suppression on duodenal microbiota during the early phase of severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Ma Xiao , Huang Libin , Huang Zhiyin , Jiang Jinsun , Zhao Chong , Tong Huan , Feng Zhe , Gao Jinhang , Liu Rui , Zhang Mingguang , Zhou Ming , Tan Qinghua , Liu Ling , Tang Chengwei
Published: November 2020

Duodenal dysbiosis may be potential infection risks in patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Acid-suppression drugs (ACDs) are widely used in SAP patients in Asian countries. However, the impact of ACDs on duodenal microbiota during the early phase of SAP is still unknown. This randomized controlled clinical trial evaluated the impacts of esomeprazole (Eso), one of ACDs on duodenal microbiota during the first week of SAP with duodenal aspirates culture and 16sRNA Illumina sequencing analysis. 66 patients were randomized as 1:1 ratio into Eso group (Eso 40 mg/day) and Eso-N group (no Eso). The occurrence of duodenal bacterial overgrowth (DBO) was significantly higher in Eso group (about 85%) than that in Eso-N group (about 42%). The duodenal microbiota of the SAP patients shifted away from that of the normal control. There were differences between the Eso-N and Eso groups including enriched abundances of the class Negativicutes, order Selenomonadales and genus Veillonella. Acid suppression significantly increased incidence of Candida oesophagitis (CE) by 8-folds but did not increase other infectious events. In conclusion, acid suppression greatly increased the occurrence of DBO, duodenal dysbiosis and CE during the first week of SAP. Restrictive use of acid-suppressing medications might be helpful to reduce CE and potential risk of pancreatic infection in SAP patients.

Trial registration: Chictr.org, ChiCTR-IPR-16008301, Registered April 18 2016, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=14089.
Apparent physical brightness of graphemes is altered by their synaesthetic colour in grapheme-colour synaesthetes
Authors: Uno Kyuto , Yokosawa Kazuhiko
Published: November 2020

Grapheme-colour synaesthesia is a condition in which the visual perception of letters or numbers induces a specific colour sensation. In this study, we demonstrated that the apparent physical brightness of graphemes is modulated by the synaesthetic colours elicited by them. Synaesthetes first selected a synaesthetic colour corresponding to each capital letter and digit. Then, we selected a grapheme stimulus with a bright synaesthetic colour and one with a dark colour for each synaesthete. Finally, synaesthetes and non-synaesthete controls participated in a brightness judgment task, in which each participant judged the real brightness of each of the two stimuli compared to a standard stimulus. Compared to non-synaesthetes, synaesthetes judged a grapheme with a bright synaesthetic colour to be brighter than one with a dark synaesthetic colour, suggesting that the synaesthetic colour experience of synaesthetes alters their brightness perception. Such alteration in real brightness perception was observed both in those who experienced synaesthetic colours in external space (projector-type synaesthetes) and in those who experienced such colours ‘in the mind’s eye’ (associator-type synaesthetes). These results support the view that early visual processing is modulated by feedback transmitted from the V4 colour area, the neural activation of which accompanies synaesthetic colour experience.
Author Correction: A Silurian ancestral scorpion with fossilised internal anatomy illustrating a pathway to arachnid terrestrialisation
Authors: Wendruff Andrew J. , Babcock Loren E. , Wirkner Christian S. , Kluessendorf Joanne , Mikulic Donald G.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Multicellular 3D Neurovascular Unit Model for Assessing Hypoxia and Neuroinflammation Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction
Authors: Nzou Goodwell , Wicks Robert T. , VanOstrand Nicole R. , Mekky Gehad A. , Seale Stephanie A. , EL-Taibany Aya , Wicks Elizabeth E. , Nechtman Carl M. , Marrotte Eric J. , Makani Vishruti S. , Murphy Sean V. , Seeds M. C. , Jackson John D. , Atala Anthony J.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Autonomous adaptive data acquisition for scanning hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Holman Elizabeth A. , Fang Yuan-Sheng , Chen Liang , DeWeese Michael , Holman Hoi-Ying N. , Sternberg Paul W.
Published: November 2020

Non-invasive and label-free spectral microscopy (spectromicroscopy) techniques can provide quantitative biochemical information complementary to genomic sequencing, transcriptomic profiling, and proteomic analyses. However, spectromicroscopy techniques generate high-dimensional data; acquisition of a single spectral image can range from tens of minutes to hours, depending on the desired spatial resolution and the image size. This substantially limits the timescales of observable transient biological processes. To address this challenge and move spectromicroscopy towards efficient real-time spatiochemical imaging, we developed a grid-less autonomous adaptive sampling method. Our method substantially decreases image acquisition time while increasing sampling density in regions of steeper physico-chemical gradients. When implemented with scanning Fourier Transform infrared spectromicroscopy experiments, this grid-less adaptive sampling approach outperformed standard uniform grid sampling in a two-component chemical model system and in a complex biological sample, Caenorhabditis elegans. We quantitatively and qualitatively assess the efficiency of data acquisition using performance metrics and multivariate infrared spectral analysis, respectively.
Polarization-selective modulation of supercavity resonances originating from bound states in the continuum
Authors: Kyaw Chan , Yahiaoui Riad , Burrow Joshua A. , Tran Viet , Keelen Kyron , Sims Wesley , Red Eddie C. , Rockward Willie S. , Thomas Mikkel A. , Sarangan Andrew , Agha Imad , Searles Thomas A.
Published: November 2020

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) are widely studied for their ability to confine light, produce sharp resonances for sensing applications and serve as avenues for lasing action with topological characteristics. Primarily, the formation of BICs in periodic photonic band gap structures are driven by symmetry incompatibility; structural manipulation or variation of incidence angle from incoming light. In this work, we report two modalities for driving the formation of BICs in terahertz metasurfaces. At normal incidence, we experimentally confirm polarization driven symmetry-protected BICs by the variation of the linear polarization state of light. In addition, we demonstrate through strong coupling of two radiative modes the formation of capacitively-driven Freidrich-Wintgen BICs, exotic modes which occur in off-Γ points not accessible by symmetry-protected BICs. The capacitance-mediated strong coupling at 0° polarization is verified to have a normalized coupling strength ratio of 4.17% obtained by the Jaynes-Cummings model. Furthermore, when the polarization angle is varied from 0° to 90° (0° ≤ ϕ < 90°), the Freidrich-Wintgen BIC is modulated until it is completely switched off at 90°.
Emerging on-chip surface acoustic wave technology for small biomaterials manipulation and characterization
Authors: Gao Yu , Fajrial Apresio K. , Yang Tao , Ding Xiaoyun
Published: November 2020

Surface acoustic wave microfluidic technology has found great potential in biomaterials science thanks to its advantages in micro/nano manipulation and characterization.
Ferromagnetic frustration in ternary nitride ZnFe3N
Authors: Wang W. , Kan X. C. , Liu X. S. , Zhang Z. T. , Rehman K. M. U. , Liu C. C. , Shezad M.
Published: November 2020

As a new antiperovskite nitride, ZnFe3N was synthesized and characterized by almost completely substituting iron atoms at corner positions of γ′-Fe4N.
Ultrafast processes: coordination chemistry and quantum theory
Authors: Daniel Chantal
Published: November 2020

The correlation between electronic densities and active molecular vibrations drives the spin–vibronic mechanism of ultrafast decays in coordination chemistry.
Generation and direct EPR spectroscopic observation of triplet arylphosphinidenes: stabilisation versus internal rearrangements
Authors: Misochko Eugenii Ya. , Akimov Alexander V. , Korchagin Denis V. , Ganushevich Yulia S. , Melnikov Egor A. , Miluykov Vasili A.
Published: November 2020

Phosphinidene – to be or not to be: only the arylphosphinidenes with relatively small ortho-substituents are kinetically stable. EPR spectra of such stabilized intermediates have been detected for the first time.
Kinetic investigation of aerobic epoxidation of limonene over cobalt substituted mesoporous SBA-16
Authors: Madadi Sara , Bergeron Jean-Yves , Kaliaguine Serge
Published: November 2020

Incorporation of low coordination Co2+ within the structure of mesoporous silica SBA-16 has been accomplished through a facile and green “pH adjusting” method.
Coordination-driven self-assembly of discrete supramolecular double-metallacycles
Authors: Zhu Jun-Long , Ling Qing-Hui , Wu Aibin , Xu Lin
Published: November 2020

This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances in the coordination-driven self-assembly of discrete supramolecular double-metallacycles.
Planar-chiral ferrocene-based triazolylidene copper complexes: synthesis, characterization, and catalysis in asymmetric borylation of α,β-unsaturated ester
Authors: Haraguchi Ryosuke , Yamazaki Tatsuro , Torita Koki , Ito Tatsuki , Fukuzawa Shin-ichi
Published: November 2020

Planar-chiral ferrocene-based triazolylidene copper complexes were synthesized and employed for the asymmetric borylation of α,β-unsaturated ester.
New talent: Americas, 2020
Authors: Da Costa Ferreira Ana Maria , Mankad Neal P. , Nikonov Georgii I.
Published: November 2020

Welcome to the New Talent: Americas themed issue of Dalton Transactions, guest edited by Ana Maria Da Costa Ferreira, Neal Mankad and Georgii Nikonov.
Dietary natural methylxanthines and colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shojaei-Zarghani Sara , Yari Khosroushahi Ahmad , Rafraf Maryam , Asghari-Jafarabadi Mohammad , Azami-Aghdash Saber
Published: November 2020

Some evidence suggests that caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine, as natural methylxanthines (MTXs), possess anti-cancer effects.
Low carbon hydrogen production from a waste-based biorefinery system and environmental sustainability assessment
Authors: Sarkar Omprakash , Katakojwala Ranaprathap , Venkata Mohan S.
Published: November 2020

Low carbon biofuels and biochemicals production from renewable feedstock (waste) in a biorefinery approach.
Temporal analysis of ion arrival for particle quantification
Authors: Duffin Andrew M. , Hoegg Edward D. , Sumner Ryan I. , Cell Trevor , Eiden Gregory C. , Wood Lynn S.
Published: November 2020

The rapid transient method records time stamps of individual ion arrival for accurate identification and quantification of nanoparticles.
Single nanosheet can sustainably generate oxygen and inhibit respiration simultaneously in cancer cells
Authors: Huang Wei-Qiang , Wang Fei , Shen Ai-Zong , Zhang Lei , Nie Xuan , Zhang Ze , Chen Guang , Xia Lei , Wang Long-Hai , Ding Sheng-Gang , Meng Qing-Yong , Zhang Wen-Jian , Hong Chun-Yan , You Ye-Zi
Published: November 2020

Ti2C(OH)2 can relieve the hypoxia in tumors via generating O2 from endogenous H2O2 and inhibiting mitochondrial respiratory in cancer cell.
Direct-writing microporous polymer architectures – print, capture and release
Authors: Zhang Qingxin , Willis-Fox Niamh , Conboy Clare , Daly Ronan
Published: November 2020

Direct-writing of droplets onto fluid surfaces by inkjet printing to dial-in a required pattern, structure and function into a polymer film.
Fabrication of sea urchin-like hierarchical porous SAPO-11 molecular sieves toward hydrogenation of lipid to jet fuel
Authors: Yang Lingmei , Xing Shiyou , Luo Wen , Yang Gai xiu , Wang Zhongming , Lv Pengmei
Published: November 2020

Novel sea urchin-like hierarchical porous SAPO-11 molecular sieves were fabricated by adding CTAB after pre-crystallization. High isomer selectivity (78.2%) was observed for the sea urchin-like SAPO-11 loaded with Ni.
Ultra-stretchable supercapacitors based on biaxially pre-strained super-aligned carbon nanotube films
Authors: Yu Yang , Fang Zhenhan , Luo Yufeng , Wu Hengcai , Li Qunqing , Fan Shoushan , Wang Jiaping
Published: November 2020

Ultra-stretchable supercapacitors are fabricated with super-aligned carbon nanotube film and active carbon powers by a biaxial pre-strain process and demonstrate high stretchability and excellent durability at 150% strains in multiple directions.
Stereoselective formal [3 + 3] annulation of 3-alkylidene-2-oxindoles with β,γ-unsaturated α-keto esters
Authors: Jaiswal Manish K. , Singh Bhuvnesh , De Shreemoyee , Singh Neetu , Singh Ravi P.
Published: November 2020

1,4-Diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO)-catalyzed [3 + 3] cycloaddition reaction of 3-alkylidene-2-oxindole and β,γ-unsaturated α-keto esters under mild reaction conditions afforded the spirocyclohexene-oxindole with excellent diastereoselectivity.
Enhanced piezoelectricity and reduced leakage current of a novel (1 − x)Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–x(Sr0.7Bi0.2□0.1)TiO3 thin film
Authors: Xu Liuxue , Wu Shuanghao , Zhu Kun , Song Baijie , Zhou Xiaofeng , Yan Hao , Shen Bo , Zhai Jiwei
Published: November 2020

We achieved an ultra-high inverse piezoelectric coefficient of 144.11 pm V−1 from a novel 0.8Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.2(Sr0.7Bi0.2□0.1)TiO3 thin film.
Makerspace microfabrication of a stainless steel 3D microneedle electrode array (3D MEA) on a glass substrate for simultaneous optical and electrical probing of electrogenic cells
Authors: Morales-Carvajal Paola M. , Kundu Avra , Didier Charles M. , Hart Cacie , Sommerhage Frank , Rajaraman Swaminathan
Published: November 2020

Microfabrication and assembly of 3D MEA based on a glass-stainless steel platform is shown utilizing non-traditional “Makerspace Microfabrication” techniques featuring cost-effective, rapid fabrication and an assorted biocompatible material palette.
Three-dimensional ordered macroporous ZIF-8 nanoparticle-derived nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbons for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Ji Xinxin , Li Qian , Yu Haoquan , Hu Xiaolin , Luo Yuanzheng , Li Buyin
Published: November 2020

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have attracted considerable attention due to their ultra-high specific capacity and energy density.
Highly reactive photothermal initiating system based on sulfonium salts for the photoinduced thermal frontal cationic polymerization of epoxides: a way to create carbon-fiber reinforced polymers
Authors: Gachet Benoit , Lecompère Maxime , Croutxé-Barghorn Céline , Burr Dominique , L'Hostis Gildas , Allonas Xavier
Published: November 2020

Photoinduced thermal frontal polymerization of epoxides made possible by use of a dual-cure initiating system based on sulfonium salts.
Sustainable access to fully biobased epoxidized vegetable oil thermoset materials prepared by thermal or UV-cationic processes
Authors: Malburet Samuel , Di Mauro Chiara , Noè Camilla , Mija Alice , Sangermano Marco , Graillot Alain
Published: November 2020

Beyond the need to find a non-toxic alternative to DiGlycidyl Ether of Bisphenol-A (DGEBA), the serious subject of non-epichlorohydrin epoxy resins production remains a crucial challenge that must be solved for the next epoxy resin generations.
Porous carbon–carbon composite electrodes for vanadium redox flow batteries synthesized by twin polymerization
Authors: Schnucklake Maike , Kaßner Lysann , Mehring Michael , Roth Christina
Published: November 2020

Synthesis, characterization and electrochemical evaluation of composite electrodes – synthesizedviatwin polymerization – for utilization in vanadium redox flow batteries.
Synthesis and structures of divalent Co, Ni, Zn and Cd complexes of mixed dichalcogen and dipnictogen ligands with corrosion inhibition properties: experimental and computational studies
Authors: Yusuf Tunde L. , Quadri Taiwo W. , Tolufashe Gideon F. , Olasunkanmi Lukman O. , Ebenso Eno E. , van Zyl Werner E.
Published: November 2020

The structural and corrosion inhibition properties of four different transition-metal complexes of heteroleptic S-donor atom dithiophosphonate and N-donor atom phenanthroline ligands are reported.
A fluorescent Cu(ii) complex as a dual functional sensor for selective and sensitive detection of acetone and Cd(ii) pollutants
Authors: Muddassir Mohd. , Alarifi Abdullah , Afzal Mohd , Alshali Khulud Abdullah , Abduh Naaser A. Y. , Beagan Abeer
Published: November 2020

The prepared complex1exhibited highly sensitive and selective fluorescence quenching (turn-off) effect in the presence of acetone as well as fluorescence enhancement (turn-on) effect toward Cd2+ions in aqueous solutions.
Co-assembly of charge complementary peptides and their applications as organic dye/heavy metal ion (Pb2+, Hg2+) absorbents and arsenic(iii/v) detectors
Authors: Roy Karabi , Chetia Monikha , Sarkar Ankan Kumar , Chatterjee Sunanda
Published: November 2020

Self- and co-assembled gels from charge complementary peptides with waste water remediation applications.
Effect of molecular weight of polyethylene glycol on crystallization behaviors, thermal properties and tensile performance of polylactic acid stereocomplexes
Authors: Li Ruilong , Wu Yifan , Bai Zhuyu , Guo Jianbing , Chen Xiaolang
Published: November 2020

In this work, the poly(d-lactic acid)–polyethylene glycol–poly(d-lactic acid) (PDLA–PEG–PDLA) triblock copolymer as a novel modification agent was incorporated into poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) to improve the thermal and mechanical properties of PLLA.
A bifunctional amino acid to study protein–protein interactions
Authors: Yang Tangpo , Li Xin , Li Xiang David
Published: November 2020

dzANA is a novel bifunctional (photo-reactive and bioorthogonal) amino acid to study protein–protein interactions.
CrystalGrower: a generic computer program for Monte Carlo modelling of crystal growth
Authors: Hill Adam R. , Cubillas Pablo , Gebbie-Rayet James T. , Trueman Mollie , de Bruyn Nathan , Harthi Zulaikha al , Pooley Rachel J. S. , Attfield Martin P. , Blatov Vladislav A. , Proserpio Davide M. , Gale Julian D. , Akporiaye Duncan , Arstad Bjørnar , Anderson Michael W.
Published: November 2020

Generic in silico methodology – CrystalGrower – for simulating crystal habit and nanoscopic surface topology to determine crystallisation free energies.
Including fluorescent nanoparticle probes within injectable gels for remote strain measurements and discrimination between compression and tension
Authors: Shanks Hannah R. , Wu Shanglin , Nguyen Nam T. , Lu Dongdong , Saunders Brian R.
Published: November 2020

Remote measurement of the deformation ratio and discrimination between tension and compression for injectable gels is demonstrated using photoluminescence and two types of fluorescent probe particles.
Z-Scheme 2D/3D hierarchical MoS2@CoMoS4 flower-shaped arrays with enhanced full spectrum light photoelectrocatalytic activity for H2O2/p-aminophenol production and contaminant degradation
Authors: Zhang Ao , Yang Lijun , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2020

A novel multifunctional photoelectrocatalyst based on a MoS2@CoMoS4 photoelectrode for H2O2/p-aminophenol production and contaminant degradation.
Research progress in Li-argyrodite-based solid-state electrolytes
Authors: Bai Xiangtao , Duan Yi , Zhuang Weidong , Yang Rong , Wang Jiantao
Published: November 2020

Recent progress in the synthesis, modification, and application of Li-argyrodite-based solid-state electrolytes has been summarized.
Engineering efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts for rechargeable zinc–air batteries by confining Fe–Co–Ni nanoalloys in nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube@nanosheet frameworks
Authors: Tang Xiannong , Cao Rui , Li Longbin , Huang Bingyu , Zhai Weijuan , Yuan Kai , Chen Yiwang
Published: November 2020

Fe–Co–Ni nanoalloys embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube@nanosheet frameworks (FeCoNi-NC) is prepared as excellent bifunctional ORR/OER electrocatalyst, which is confirmed by experimental observations and theoretical calculations.
Pre-targeting with ultra-small nanoparticles: boron carbon dots as drug candidates for boron neutron capture therapy
Authors: Feiner Irene V. J. , Pulagam Krishna R. , Uribe Kepa B. , Passannante Rossana , Simó Cristina , Zamacola Kepa , Gómez-Vallejo Vanessa , Herrero-Álvarez Natalia , Cossío Unai , Baz Zuriñe , Caffarel María M. , Lawrie Charles H. , Vugts Danielle J. , Rejc Luka , Llop Jordi
Published: November 2020

Tetrazine-functionalised boron-rich carbon dots show fast clearance and enhanced tumour accumulation under pre-targeting conditions, as demonstrated using positron emission tomography.
Reconstituted high density lipoprotein (rHDL), a versatile drug delivery nanoplatform for tumor targeted therapy
Authors: Mei Yijun , Tang Lu , Xiao Qiaqia , Zhang Ziqi , Zhang Ziyao , Zang Jing , Zhou Jianping , Wang Ying , Wang Wei , Ren Min
Published: November 2020

This review mainly focuses on the properties, preparation, receptor active-targeting ability and antitumor effects of drug-loaded rHDL nanoparticles.
Reply to the ‘Comment on “Physicochemical stimuli as tuning parameters to modulate the structure and stability of nanostructured lipid carriers and release kinetics of encapsulated antileprosy drugs”’ by J. Kang and A. M. Kang, J. Mater. Chem. B, 2020, 8, DOI: 10.1039/D0TB01160F
Authors: Kanwar Rohini , Prevost Sylvain , Mehta S. K.
Published: November 2020

The present article puts forth how the outcome remains the same despite the complicated analysis by Kang and Kang and, most importantly, how the stated facts do not add any significant new insights to the earlier reported work.
Phonon dispersion and electronic structure in quasi-one-dimensional layered Ta2NiSe7 single crystal
Authors: Chen Haiping , Sun Zhongti
Published: November 2020

The photoemission plot of layered Ta2NiSe7 along the Γ → Y direction (left) and the corresponding second-derivative image (right).
Fast solution method to prepare hexagonal tellurium nanosheets for optoelectronic and ultrafast photonic applications
Authors: Hu Haiguo , Zeng Yonghong , Gao Shan , Wang Rui , Zhao Jinlai , You Kaixi , Song Yufeng , Xiao Quanlan , Cao Rui , Li Jianqing , Lin Zhitao , Guo Jia , Shu Yiqing , Guo Zhinan , Fan Dianyuan
Published: November 2020

High-quality hexagonal Te nanosheets were prepared by a unique solution method and exhibited good optoelectronic and ultrafast photonic properties.
Suppressing dimer formation by increasing conformational freedom in multi-carbazole thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters
Authors: Salah Lubna , Etherington Marc K. , Shuaib Ali , Danos Andrew , Nazeer Ahmed A. , Ghazal Basma , Prlj Antonio , Turley Andrew T. , Mallick Abhijit , McGonigal Paul R. , Curchod Basile F. E. , Monkman Andrew P. , Makhseed Saad
Published: November 2020

Twisted carbazoles and shallow dihedral angles provide a defence against dimer formation that adversely affects OLED performance.
Multifunctional properties existing in Ln–nitronyl nitroxide single-chain magnets
Authors: Li Hongdao , Xi Lu , Jing Pei , Tang Jianke , Wang Qi , Yang Hong , Zhai Lijun , Niu Yulan , Ding Lifeng , Song Zhenjun
Published: November 2020

Two Ln–radical one-dimensional chains have been isolated via a quinoline nitronyl nitroxide radical and the magnetic properties, thermodynamics and optical behavior of compounds were observed, exhibiting polyfunctionality of the 2p–4f system.
Benzyl viologen radical cation: an effective n-dopant for poly(perylenediimide-bithiophene)
Authors: Tam Teck Lip Dexter , Xu Jianwei
Published: November 2020

Poly(perylenediimide-bithiophene) can be efficiently n-doped by benzyl viologen radical cation and its thermoelectric performance was measured for the first time.
The microwave synthesis of porous CoSe2 nanosheets for super cycling performance supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Shuxia , Sarwar Shatila , Wang Jingyi , Zhang Huaiping , Li Tianbao , Luo Jujie , Zhang Xinyu
Published: November 2020

Porous CoSe2 nanosheets prepared via a one-step microwave method can be considered as an excellent electrode material.
A dual-emitting mixed-lanthanide MOF with high water-stability for ratiometric fluorescence sensing of Fe3+ and ascorbic acid
Authors: Yu Haihuan , Liu Qun , Li Jiao , Su Zhong-Min , Li Xiao , Wang Xinlong , Sun Jing , Zhou Chen , Hu Xiaoli
Published: November 2020

A novel Eu0.07Gd0.03-MOF with high water stability, which can serve as ratiometric fluorescence sensor for “color-change-recover” detection of Fe3+ and ascorbic acid in an aqueous environment.
ACE2 activator diminazene aceturate exerts renoprotective effects in gentamicin-induced acute renal injury in rats
Authors: Silva de Almeida Tatiane Cristine , Lanza Katharina , da Silva Filha Roberta , C. Campos Leda Maria de Castro , Fonseca Esdras G. , Chagas Mariana W. , Rocha Natalia Pessoa , de Sá Marcos Augusto , Vieira Maria Aparecida Ribeiro , Caliari Marcelo Vidigal , Kangussu Lucas M. , Ferreira Anderson José , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: November 2020

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) comprises a rapidly developed renal failure and is associated with high mortality rates. The Renin–Angiotensin System (RAS) plays a pivotal role in AKI, as the over-active RAS axis exerts major deleterious effects in disease progression. In this sense, the conversion of Angiotensin II (Ang II) into Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) by the Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is of utmost importance to prevent worse clinical outcomes. Previous studies reported the beneficial effects of oral diminazene aceturate (DIZE) administration, an ACE2 activator, in renal diseases models. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of DIZE administration in experimental AKI induced by gentamicin (GM) in rats. Our findings showed that treatment with DIZE improved renal function and tissue damage by increasing Ang-(1-7) and ACE2 activity, and reducing TNF-α. These results corroborate with a raising potential of ACE2 activation as a strategy for treating AKI.
Robust control of vehicle multi‐target adaptive cruise based on model prediction
Authors: Zhou Zibao , Zhu Juping , Li Yuansheng
Published: November 2020

On the issue of low utilisation and acceptance of current adaptive cruise control (ACC), a multi‐objective adaptive cruise control (MO‐ACC) algorithm is developed in this study. Based on model predictive control theory, comprehensively considering the coordination among various conflicting objectives, the decision of desired longitudinal acceleration is transformed into online quadratic programming (QP) problem. In order to compensate for prediction error caused by modelling mismatch, the robustness of control system is improved by introducing an error feedback correction mechanism. Meanwhile, vector management method is adopted to deal with the non‐feasible solution owing to hard constraints during the process of optimisation. Further, under different work conditions, the focusing performance index along with constraint space varies, and therefore different ACC modes are established to meet the demand of skilled driving groups by means of slightly adjusting performance index, constraint space as well as slack relaxation. The simulations show that under the combined work conditions of the preceding vehicle, the following vehicle can realise seamless switching among various working modes, and also is able to achieve the good expectation during vehicle following, which will help to enhance the adaptability of the ACC system to the complex road traffic environment.
Evolution of galaxy scaling relations in clusters at 0.5 <z< 1.5
Authors: Pérez-Martínez J. M. , Ziegler B. , Dannerbauer H. , Böhm A. , Verdugo M. , Díaz A. I. , Hoyos C.
Published: November 2020

Aims.We present new gas kinematic observations with the OSIRIS instrument at the GTC for galaxies in the Cl1604 cluster system atz ∼ 0.9. These observations together with a collection of other cluster samples at different epochs analyzed by our group are used to study the evolution of the Tully-Fisher, velocity-size, and specific angular momentum-stellar mass relations in dense environments over cosmic time.

Methods.We used 2D and 3D spectroscopy to analyze the kinematics of our cluster galaxies and extract their maximum rotation velocities (Vmax), which were used as the common parameter in all scaling relations under scrutiny. We determined the structural parameters of our objects by fitting surface brightness profiles to the images of our objects, while stellar-mass values were computed by fitting the spectral energy distribution by making use of extensive archival optical to near-IR photometry. Our methods were consistently applied to all our cluster samples. This makes them ideal for an evolutionary comparison.

Results.Up to redshift one, our cluster samples show evolutionary trends compatible with previous observational results in the field and in accordance with semianalytical models and hydrodynamical simulations concerning the Tully-Fisher and velocity-size relations. However, we find a drop of a factor ∼3 in disk sizes and an averageB-band luminosity enhancement ⟨ΔMB⟩∼2 mag byz ∼ 1.5. We discuss the role that different cluster-specific interactions may play in producing this observational result. In addition, we find that our intermediate-to-high redshift cluster galaxies follow parallel sequences with respect to the local specific angular momentum to stellar mass relation, although they display lower specific angular momentum values than field samples at similar redshifts. This may be explained by the stronger interacting nature of dense environments in comparison with the field.
Auralization based on multi-perspective ambisonic room impulse responses
Authors: Müller Kaspar , Zotter Franz
Published: November 2020

Most often, virtual acoustic rendering employs real-time updated room acoustic simulations to accomplish auralization for a variable listener perspective. As an alternative, we propose and test a technique to interpolate room impulse responses, specifically Ambisonic room impulse responses (ARIRs) available at a grid of spatially distributed receiver perspectives, measured or simulated in a desired acoustic environment. In particular, we extrapolate a triplet of neighboring ARIRs to the variable listener perspective, preceding their linear interpolation. The extrapolation is achieved by decomposing each ARIR into localized sound events and re-assigning their direction, time, and level to what could be observed at the listener perspective, with as much temporal, directional, and perspective context as possible. We propose to undertake this decomposition in two levels: Peaks in the early ARIRs are decomposed into jointly localized sound events, based on time differences of arrival observed in either an ARIR triplet, or all ARIRs observing the direct sound. Sound events that could not be jointly localized are treated as residuals whose less precise localization utilizes direction-of-arrival detection and the estimated time of arrival. For the interpolated rendering, suitable parameter settings are found by evaluating the proposed method in a listening experiment, using both measured and simulated ARIR data sets, under static and time-varying conditions.
Impact of mineral composition and distribution on the mechanical properties of porous media
Authors: Brunhoeber Olivia M. , Arakkal Dinu , Ji Rourou , Miletić Marta , Beckingham Lauren E.
Published: November 2020

Geological sequestration of CO2 in deep saline formations is a promising means of reducing atmospheric CO2 emissions. Once injected, CO2 dissolves into formation brine, lowering pH and creating conditions favorable for mineral dissolution. Cations released from dissolving minerals may create conditions favorable for secondary mineral precipitation, which can result in the long-term mineralogical trapping of injected CO2. These reactions may alter the natural rock mechanical properties, which can affect the safety and efficiency of geological sequestration. This work aims to investigate the impact of mineral composition and distribution on the mechanical properties of porous media. In this study, the mineralogy, mineral distribution, and mechanical properties of samples from Escambia County, AL, are evaluated. The mechanical properties of the rock samples are evaluated using the unconfined compression and indirect tensile tests in the combination with digital image correlation. The mineral composition and distribution are determined through the analysis of scanning electron microscopy backscattered electron and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy images of thin sections. These analyses showed that the mechanical properties vary with composition, which may have significant practical consequences for geological sequestration of CO2.
Hydraulic fractures from non-uniform perforation cluster spacing: Laboratory study on gelatin and data-driven modeling
Authors: Michael Andreas
Published: November 2020

Hydraulic fracture treatments in horizontal wells involve complexities contemporary analytical and numerical models do not incorporate. Interactions between simultaneously propagating fractures affects neighboring fractures making them grow dissimilarly to each other. This leads to a non-homogeneous fracture geometry, which in many instances results to ineffective or prematurely terminated fractures and therefore sub-optimal economic performance. This project involves the creation of a probabilistic predictive model (PPM), which incorporates empirical inputs from laboratory-scale experimental tests. Random probabilistic distributions are biased statistically in order to generate profiles that match the experimental results. The PPM developed is using Monte Carlo simulation to give a likely final multi-frac geometry.
Deep learning for extracting micro-fracture: Pixel-level detection by convolutional neural network
Authors: Kim Yejin , Ha Seong Jun , Yun Tae sup
Published: November 2020

Hydraulic stimulation has been a key technique in enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and the recovery of unconventional hydrocarbon resources to artificially generate fractures in a rock formation. Previous experimental studies present that the pattern and aperture of generated fractures vary as the fracking pressure propagation. The recent development of three-dimensional X-ray computed tomography allows visualizing the fractures for further analysing the morphological features of fractures. However, the generated fracture consists of a few pixels (e.g., 1-3 pixels) so that the accurate and quantitative extract of micro-fracture is highly challenging. Also, the high-frequency noise around the fracture and the weak contrast across the fracture makes the application of conventional segmentation methods limited. In this study, we adopted an encoder-decoder network with a convolutional neural network (CNN) based on deep learning method for the fast and precise detection of micro-fractures. The conventional image processing methods fail to extract the continuous fractures and overestimate the fracture thickness and aperture values while the CNN-based approach successfully detects the barely seen fractures. The reconstruction of the 3D fracture surface and quantitative roughness analysis of fracture surfaces extracted by different methods enables comparison of sensitivity (or robustness) to noise between each method.
Conductivity prediction of proppant-packs based on particle size distribution under variable stress conditions
Authors: Liang Tiancheng , Zhang Jinwei , Meng Chuanyou , Xiu Nailing , Cai Bo , Fu Haifeng
Published: November 2020

The conductivity of the proppant-packs is critical in the productivity of hydraulically fractured wells. Proppants are also the best medium for studying particle packing. Sand and ceramic media are two most common proppants used for hydraulic fracturing. This study focuses on investigate the relation between conductivity and properties of proppant-packs, the particle-size distribution, porosity and mean particle diameter have been measured. The porosity of the proppant pack under zero pressure is determined from bulk density and apparent density. To accurately measure the porosity under variable closed stress conditions, the compressed width was taken into consideration. The particle size distribution was measured from sieve analysis. The paper presents results obtained by conducting routine conductivity test on a variety of proppants. The conductivity-porosity relationships are nonlinear. The conductivity is most sensitive to mean grain size, followed by closed stress, and then sorting. Larger median diameter always correlates to higher conductivity at low stress. Loss of conductivity with stress is more severe for large particles sands than small particles. The binomial method can be used to calculate the conductivity of different types and mesh proppants, which is shown to fit conductivity-mean diameter data successfully. The research is of guiding significance to choose the proper size distribution proppants in hydraulic fracturing. Meanwhile, the binomial method is a better predictor of proppant-packs conductivity based on particle size distribution.
Characterization of the microstructural components and corrosion-induced changes in the mechanical properties of oolitic limestone
Authors: Piñán-Llamas Aránzazu , Niazi Fawad S. , Amstutz Colton , Brown Zachary
Published: November 2020

The understanding of the variation of mechanical properties and microstructural changes of rocks due to chemical weathering is critical for prospection, extraction and storage of energy resources in the subsurface. Uniaxial and triaxial compression tests were conducted on fresh and chemically weathered oolitic limestone samples submerged in acidic solutions with pH5 and pH3 values for 30 and 50 days each. Results show that both, acid concentration and exposure period have a significant influence not only in changes of effective porosity, Young’s modulus and peak strength, but also in the development of stress-induced microstructures. While the change in effective porosity increased and the Young’s modulus decreased with exposure time, the peak strength decreased with exposure time and decreasing pH. Micro-fracturing, twinning, and rigid body rotation were the main mechanisms of the deformations observed. The highest density of microcracks and twinned grains were observed in samples subjected to longer exposure periods of time, suggesting that the exposure time constitutes an essential factor in rock softening. Microfracturing initiated at grain boundaries, where stress concentrations were higher. In agreement with previous work on limestone inelastic compaction, the mechanical contrast of allochemical components with respect to cement conditioned the spatial distribution of the microfractures.
Development of a new temperature-controlled oedometer
Authors: Kirkham Andrew , Tsiampousi Aikaterini , Potts David
Published: November 2020

A new temperature-controlled oedometer has been designed at Imperial College London and commissioned to investigate the thermo-hydro-mechanical behaviour of soils. Under oedometric conditions, temperature can be varied between 5°C and 70°C, by submerging the specimen in a temperature-controlled water bath. This temperature range is appropriate for the proposed applications of the research: design of ground-source heating/cooling systems, and design of geological disposal facilities for nuclear waste. In this paper, an overview of the new equipment is given: its design, development, and calibration. First, the literature on temperature-controlled oedometer schemes is reviewed. A description of the equipment follows, with further details on the innovations and limitations of this design. As the equipment has been modified and improved over the course of the research, so too has the calibration procedure. These developments are discussed, again with the focus on innovations and limitations. Finally, a test programme and preliminary results are presented, for saturated KSS, an artificial mixture of kaolin clay, silt, and sand. These include isobaric (constant-pressure) heating tests, for a variety of loading histories. Over-consolidation ratio is found to affect the thermally-induced volume change.
A model for ultimate bearing capacity of piles in unsaturated soils under elevated temperatures
Authors: Thota Sannith Kumar , Vahedifard Farshid
Published: November 2020

Geo-energy applications such as energy piles can expose unsaturated, deep foundation soils to elevated temperatures. This paper presents a closed-form equation for the ultimate bearing capacity of piles in unsaturated soils subject to elevated temperatures under drained conditions. For this purpose, a temperature-dependent effective stress model was incorporated into calculations of skin resistance and end bearing resistance of piles. The proposed temperature-dependent model is an extension of the modified β method for determining the ultimate pile bearing capacity of unsaturated soils under drained conditions. Employing the proposed model, a parametric study was carried out to evaluate the ultimate pile bearing capacity for hypothetical clay and silt soils at temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 55 °C. For both clay and silt, the results indicated that the ultimate pile bearing capacity varies with an increase in temperature. Different trends with temperature were observed for clay and silt. A monotonic increase in pile resistance was observed in clays. For silt, the pile resistance increased at relatively low matric suction whereas it decreased at higher matric suctions.
Mechanical response of a thermal micro-pile installed in stratified sedimentary soil
Authors: Casagrande Brunella , Saboya Fernando , Tibana Sergio , McCartney John S.
Published: November 2020

Data regarding the behavior of thermal piles in tropical countries is not as readily available as those in European or other temperate climate regions, where most applications are directed toward extracting heat from the subsurface. Similarly, a deep understanding of thermal piles constructed using the micropile technique has not been obtained. In micropiles, the installation process can disturb the surrounding soil, especially at the tip. This paper presents the results from a set of thermal response tests (TRT) performed on a 12 m-long instrumented thermal micro-pile installed in a sedimentary tropical soil. Vibrating wire strain gauges were installed in order to assess the mechanical performance of the pile when subject to thermal loads. Results indicate that the temperature distribution with depth is far from being homogeneous through the entire length of the pile. The resulting induced strains are strongly dependent on the subsoil conditions.
Cross validation of analytical solutions against the computational model predictions of the response of semi floating energy pile
Authors: Saeidi Rashk Olia Arash , Perić Dunja
Published: November 2020

In this study, responses of a single semi floating energy pile to a combined thermal and mechanical load are predicted by analytical and computational models. The axial compressive load applied at the pile head comprises the mechanical load while the thermal load is applied by prescribing the temperature difference history to the pile. The temperature difference is the difference between the temperatures of the pile and the surrounding soil. The energy pile is surrounded by a single uniform soil layer underlain by the bedrock, which is flush with the pile tip. A selected combination of thermal and mechanical loads resulted in an upward displacement, tensile strain and compressive stress in the case of heating. In the case of cooling the load combination resulted in a downward displacement, compressive strain and tensile stress. In spite of different methods of obtaining soil stiffness parameters for analytical and computational models the predictions of both methods are in a very good agreement.
Experimental results on an energy pile within a sheet pile wall in Napoli
Authors: Adinolfi Marianna , Maiorano Rosa Maria Stefania , Aversa Stefano
Published: November 2020

Energy geo-structures are renewable energy solutions with a double role of structural support and heat exchangers. Some installations are recorded worldwide, but only limited information is available regarding the impact of thermal processes on the structural and geotechnical performance of energy geo-structures. A proper experimental campaign was conducted within the underground railway construction site of Piazza Municipio in Napoli (South Italy). An energy sheet pile wall was built and equipped with fibre optic sensors system allowing the evaluation of strains and temperature distributions along the piles, during geothermal processes. Results on a single energy pile and measurements undertaken during the field experiment are presented highlighting the effects of temperature variations on the mechanical behaviour of the soil‐structure system. From temperature measurements, it can be observed that, due to the excavation, there was a strong influence of the outside air temperature. Despite measurement uncertainties and some data gaps resulting from cut cables, the data presented makes a contribution to improving the available monitored case studies in the literature on energy structures.
The concept and implementation of an energy retaining wall of large diameter piles
Authors: Bujor Octavian , Prodan Iulia , Popa Augustin , Ban Horia
Published: November 2020

Performance and success of energy geostructures systems are already facts proven by research and practice. The number of implementations is in constant grow and due to their advantages, such systems have started to be implemented in a variety of structural elements. Among the various types, energy piles are the most common type of energy geostructures. However, most of the existing research, experimental sites and case studies refer to energy piles as a foundation element. This paper presents the concept and implementation steps of a different type of energy piles system which is a retaining wall of piles built in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The paper is based on a real project case study, where large diameter piles are used as retaining wall for an urban excavation on a steep slope with high slope failure potential. The piles from the retaining system have been energy equipped in order to be used as an energy exchange element with the ground for heating and cooling demand of 3 new residential buildings from the same site. The paper will present the concept of an urban energy retaining wall and implementation stages of the project.