bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward monochromated sub-nanometer UEM and femtosecond UED
Authors: Yang Xi , Wan Weishi , Wu Lijun , Smaluk Victor , Shaftan Timur , Zhu Yimei
Published: September 2020

A preliminary design of a mega-electron-volt (MeV) monochromator with 10−5 energy spread for ultrafast electron diffraction (UED) and ultrafast electron microscopy (UEM) is presented. Such a narrow energy spread is advantageous in both the single shot mode, where the momentum resolution in diffraction is improved, and the accumulation mode, where shot-to-shot energy jitter is reduced. In the single-shot mode, we numerically optimized the monochromator efficiency up to 13% achieving 1.3 million electrons per pulse. In the accumulation mode, to mitigate the efficiency degradation caused by the shot-to-shot energy jitter, an optimized gun phase yields only a mild reduction of the single-shot efficiency, therefore the number of accumulated electrons nearly proportional to the repetition rate. Inspired by the recent work of Qi et al. (Phys Rev Lett 124:134803, 2020), a novel concept of applying reverse bending magnets to adjust the energy-dependent path length difference has been successfully realized in designing a MeV monochromator to achieve the minimum energy-dependent path length difference between cathode and sample. Thanks to the achromat design, the pulse length of the electron bunches and the energy-dependent timing jitter can be greatly reduced to the 10 fs level. The introduction of such a monochromator provides a major step forward, towards constructing a UEM with sub-nm resolution and a UED with ten-femtosecond temporal resolution. The one-to-one mapping between the electron beam parameter and the diffraction peak broadening enables a real-time nondestructive diagnosis of the beam energy spread and divergence. The tunable electric–magnetic monochromator allows the scanning of the electron beam energy with a 10−5 precision, enabling online energy matching for the UEM, on-momentum flux maximizing for the UED and real-time energy measuring for energy-loss spectroscopy. A combination of the monochromator and a downstream chicane enables “two-color” double pulses with femtosecond duration and the tunable delay in the range of 10 to 160 fs, which can potentially provide an unprecedented femtosecond time resolution for time resolved UED.
Highly sensitive multicore fiber accelerometer for low frequency vibration sensing
Authors: Amorebieta Josu , Ortega-Gomez Angel , Durana Gaizka , Fernández Rubén , Antonio-Lopez Enrique , Schülzgen Axel , Zubia Joseba , Amezcua-Correa Rodrigo , Villatoro Joel
Published: September 2020

We report on a compact, highly sensitive all-fiber accelerometer suitable for low frequency and low amplitude vibration sensing. The sensing elements in the device are two short segments of strongly coupled asymmetric multicore fiber (MCF) fusion spliced at 180° with respect to each other. Such segments of MCF are sandwiched between standard single mode fibers. The reflection spectrum of the device exhibits a narrow spectrum whose height and position in wavelength changes when it is subjected to vibrations. The interrogation of the accelerometer was carried out by a spectrometer and a photodetector to measure simultaneously wavelength shift and light power variations. The device was subjected to a wide range of vibration frequencies, from 1 mHz to 30 Hz, and accelerations from 0.76 mg to 29.64 mg, and performed linearly, with a sensitivity of 2.213 nW/mg. Therefore, we believe the accelerometer reported here may represent an alternative to existing electronic and optical accelerometers, especially for low frequency and amplitude vibrations, thanks to its compactness, simplicity, cost-effectiveness, implementation easiness and high sensitivity.
Measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR) significantly and rapidly decreases after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer
Authors: Rouanne Mathieu , Gaillard François , Meunier Matthias E. , Soorojebally Yanish , Phan Hoang , Slimani-Thevenet Hind , Jannot Anne-Sophie , Neuzillet Yann , Friedlander Gérard , Froissart Marc , Botto Henry , Houillier Pascal , Lebret Thierry , Courbebaisse Marie
Published: September 2020

Precise determination of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is essential for the management of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We aim to describe the early evolution of measured GFR (mGFR) after radical cystectomy and urinary diversion (RCUD) and to identify risk factors for GFR decline. GFR measurement using 51Cr-EDTA continuous infusion, estimated GFR (eGFR) from five published equations and renal scintigraphy with split renal function determination were performed before and 6 months after RCUD. Chronic Kidney Disease (mGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and GFR stages were defined according to the KDIGO guidelines using mGFR. Twenty-seven patients (men 85%, median age 65, IQR 59; 68 years) were included. A total of 20 (74%) patients experienced significant mGFR decline at 6 months postoperatively. Median mGFR decreased from 84.1 pre-operatively (IQR 65.3; 97.2) to 69.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR 55.0; 77.9) 6 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Thirteen (48%) patients had a progression to a worse GFR stage. Of the 22 patients without pre-operative CKD, 5 (23%) developed post-operative CKD. Diabetes mellitus was more frequent in patients in the highest tertile of relative mGFR decline (44% vs. 11%, p = 0.02) and platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy tended to be more frequently used in these patients (44% vs. 17%, p = 0.06). Importantly, pre-operative weight was independently and negatively associated with post-operative mGFR and with mGFR slope in multivariable analyses. In this prospective series, we demonstrated that early and significant mGFR decline occurred after RCUD and perioperative platinum-based chemotherapy, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus and overweight.
Expanding the genotype–phenotype correlation of childhood sensory polyneuropathy of genetic origin
Authors: Chakravorty Samya , Logan Rachel , Elson Molly J. , Luke Rebecca R. , Verma Sumit
Published: September 2020

Pure sensory polyneuropathy of genetic origin is rare in childhood and hence important to document the clinical and genetic etiologies from single or multi-center studies. This study focuses on a retrospective chart-review of neurological examinations and genetic and electrodiagnostic data of confirmed sensory polyneuropathy in subjects at a tertiary-care Children’s Hospital from 2013 to 2019. Twenty subjects were identified and included. Neurological examination and electrodiagnostic testing showed gait-difficulties, absent tendon reflexes, decreased joint-position, positive Romberg’s test and large fiber sensory polyneuropathy on sensory nerve conduction studies in all patients associated with lower-extremity spasticity (6), cardiac abnormalities or cardiomyopathy (5), developmental delay (4), scoliosis (3), epilepsy (3) and hearing-difficulties (2). Confirmation of genetic diagnosis in correlation with clinical presentation was obtained in all cases (COX20 n = 2, HADHA n = 2, POLG n = 1, FXN n = 4, ATXN2 n = 3, ATM n = 3, GAN n = 2, SPG7 n = 1, ZFYVE26 n = 1, FH n = 1). Our single-center study shows genetic sensory polyneuropathies associated with progressive neurodegenerative disorders such as mitochondrial ataxia, Friedreich ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia type 2, ataxia telangiectasia, spastic paraplegia, giant axonal neuropathy, and fumarate hydratase deficiency. We also present our cohort data in light of clinical features reported for each gene-specific disease subtype in the literature and highlight the importance of genetic testing in the relevant clinical context of electrophysiological findings of peripheral sensory polyneuropathy.
The rapid “teabag” method for high-end purification of membrane proteins
Authors: Hering Jenny , Missel Julie Winkel , Zhang Liying , Gunnarsson Anders , Castaldo Marie , Pedersen Per Amstrup , Ek Margareta , Gourdon Pontus , Snijder Harm Jan
Published: September 2020

Overproduction and purification of membrane proteins are generally challenging and time-consuming procedures due to low expression levels, misfolding, and low stability once extracted from the membrane. Reducing processing steps and shortening the timespan for purification represent attractive approaches to overcome some of these challenges. We have therefore compared a fast “teabag” purification method with conventional purification for five different membrane proteins (MraY, AQP10, ClC-1, PAR2 and KCC2). Notably, this new approach reduces the purification time significantly, and the quality of the purified membrane proteins is equal to or exceeds conventional methods as assessed by size exclusion chromatography, SDS-PAGE and downstream applications such as ITC, crystallization and cryo-EM. Furthermore, the method is scalable, applicable to a range of affinity resins and allows for parallelization. Consequently, the technique has the potential to substantially simplify purification efforts of membrane proteins in basic and applied sciences.
Alleviation of depression-like behavior in a cystic fibrosis mouse model by Hdac6 depletion
Authors: Corey Deborah A. , Rymut Sharon M. , Kelley Thomas J.
Published: October 2020

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression. Stress from dealing with chronic disease and rigorous treatment regimens certainly are primary contributors to these outcomes. We previously have demonstrated that microtubule alterations in CF are linked to a number of CF phenotypes including growth regulation and inflammatory responses to airway bacterial challenge. Deletion of histone deactelyase 6 (HDAC6), a cytosolic deacetylase that regulates tubulin acetylation, in CF mice restores growth and inflammatory phenotypes to wild type (WT) profiles. In this study, the hypothesis that Hdac6 depletion in CF mice would impact behaviors since Hda6 inhibition has been previously reported to have anti-depressive properties. Data demonstrate that CF mice exhibit reduced activity and reduced open arm time in an elevated plus maze test which can be consistent with anxiety-like behavior. CF mice also exhibit depression-like behaviors compared to WT mice in an age dependent manner. By eight weeks of age, CF mice exhibit significantly more immobile time in the tail-suspension test, however, Hdac6 depletion reverses the depressive phenotype. These data demonstrate that loss of CFTR function may predispose patients to experience depression and that this behavior is Hdac6 dependent.
Identification of sugars and phenolic compounds in honey powders with the use of GC–MS, FTIR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction
Authors: Kozłowicz Katarzyna , Różyło Renata , Gładyszewska Bożena , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz , Gładyszewski Grzegorz , Chocyk Dariusz , Samborska Katarzyna , Piekut Jolanta , Smolewska Marzena
Published: October 2020

This work aimed at the chemical and structural characterization of powders obtained from chestnut flower honey (HFCh) and honey with Inca berry (HBlu). Honey powders were obtained by spray drying technique at low temperature (80/50 °C) with dehumidified air. Maltodextrin (DE 15) was used as a covering agent. The isolation and evaluation of phenolic compounds and sugars were done by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction were performed to determine the morphology of the studied honey powders. The obtained results showed that the content of simple sugars amounted to 72.4 and 90.2 g × 100 g−1 in HFCh and HBlu, respectively. Glucose was found to be the dominant sugar with a concentration of 41.3 and 51.6 g × 100 g−1 in HFCh and HBlu, respectively. 3-Phenyllactic acid and ferulic acid were most frequently found in HFCh powder, whereas m-coumaric acid, benzoic acid, and cinnamic acid were the most common in HBlu powder. The largest changes in the FTIR spectra occurred in the following range of wavenumbers: 3335, 1640, and below 930 cm−1. The X-ray diffraction profiles revealed wide peaks, suggesting that both honey powders are amorphous and are characterized by a short-range order only.
Fast TWIST with iterative reconstruction improves diagnostic accuracy of AVM of the hand
Authors: Huf Veronika I. , Fellner Claudia , Wohlgemuth Walter A. , Stroszczynski Christian , Schmidt Michaela , Forman Christoph , Wetzl Jens , Uller Wibke
Published: October 2020

Very high temporal and spatial resolution is mandatory for the diagnosis of arteriovenous malformations (AVM) of the hand. Until now, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has not fulfilled both requirements simultaneously. This study presents how the combination of a very fast TWIST MRI (time-resolved angiography with interleaved stochastic trajectories) sequence and iterative reconstructions optimizes temporal as well as spatial resolution. 11 patients were examined at a 3-T MRI scanner with two different TWIST protocols: the standard and the study protocol, acquiring a data set every 5.57 s and 1.44 s respectively. The study data was retrospectively iteratively reconstructed with different regularization factors (0.001, 0.002, 0.004, 0.008). Results were compared using the sign-test. P-values < 0.05 were regarded statistically significant. With a low amount of contrast medium, the temporal resolution of the study protocol enabled the differentiation of arteries from veins in all patients whereas the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) deteriorated. Depending on the regularization factors, SNR, delineation of arterial feeders and non-involved hand and interdigital arteries, as well as artefact levels varied. Overall, iterative reconstruction with regularization factor 0.004 achieved the best results, consequently showing the ability of MRI as a reliable diagnostic method in AVMs of the hand.
Collective almost synchronization-based model to extract and predict features of EEG signals
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Thi Mai , Hayashi Yoshikatsu , Baptista Murilo Da Silva , Kondo Toshiyuki
Published: October 2020

Understanding the brain is important in the fields of science, medicine, and engineering. A promising approach to better understand the brain is through computing models. These models were adjusted to reproduce data collected from the brain. One of the most commonly used types of data in neuroscience comes from electroencephalography (EEG), which records the tiny voltages generated when neurons in the brain are activated. In this study, we propose a model based on complex networks of weakly connected dynamical systems (Hindmarsh–Rose neurons or Kuramoto oscillators), set to operate in a dynamic regime recognized as Collective Almost Synchronization (CAS). Our model not only successfully reproduces EEG data from both healthy and epileptic EEG signals, but it also predicts EEG features, the Hurst exponent, and the power spectrum. The proposed model is able to forecast EEG signals 5.76 s in the future. The average forecasting error was 9.22%. The random Kuramoto model produced the outstanding result for forecasting seizure EEG with an error of 11.21%.
Intrauterine exposure to low-dose DBP in the mice induces obesity in offspring via suppression of UCP1 mediated ER stress
Authors: Li Huan , Li Jianqiao , Qu Zhenting , Qian Honghao , Zhang Jing , Wang Hongyan , Xu Xiaolei , Liu Shengyuan
Published: October 2020

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is recognized as an environmental endocrine disruptor that has been detected in fetal and postnatal samples. Recent evidence found that in utero DBP exposure was associated with an increase of adipose tissue weight and serum lipids in offspring, but the precise mechanism is unknown. Here we aimed to study the effects of in utero DBP exposure on obesity in offspring and examine possible mechanisms. SPF C57BL/6J pregnant mice were gavaged with either DBP (5 mg /kg/day) or corn oil, from gestational day 12 until postnatal day 7. After the offspring were weaned, the mice were fed a standard diet for 21 weeks, and in the last 2 weeks 20 mice were selected for TUDCA treatment. Intrauterine exposure to low-dose DBP promoted obesity in offspring, with evidence of glucose and lipid metabolic disorders and a decreased metabolic rate. Compared to controls, the DBP exposed mice had lower expression of UCP1 and significantly higher expression of Bip and Chop, known markers of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. However, TUDCA treatment of DBP exposed mice returned these parameters nearly to the levels of the controls, with increased expression of UCP1, lower expression of Bip and Chop and ameliorated obesity. Intrauterine exposure of mice to low-dose DBP appears to promote obesity in offspring by inhibiting UCP1 via ER stress, a process that was largely reversed by treatment with TUDCA.
The leptin to adiponectin ratio (LAR) is reduced by sleeve gastrectomy in adults with severe obesity: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Rafey M. F. , Fang C. E. H. , Ioana I. , Griffin H. , Hynes M. , O’Brien T. , McAnena O. , O’Shea P. , Collins C. , Davenport C. , Finucane F. M.
Published: October 2020

Bariatric surgery is known to reduce leptin and increase adiponectin levels, but the influence of sleeve gastrectomy on the leptin: adiponectin ratio (LAR), a measure of insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular risk, has not previously been described. We sought to determine the influence of sleeve gastrectomy on LAR in adults with severe obesity.In a single centre prospective cohort study of adults undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy over a four-month period in our unit, we measured LAR preoperatively and 12 months after surgery. Of 22 patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, 17 (12 females, 12 with type 2 diabetes) had follow-up LAR measured at 12.1 ± 1 months. Mean body weight decreased from 130.6 ± 30.8 kg to 97.6 ± 21.6 kg, body mass index (BMI) from 46.9 ± 7.8 to 35.3 ± 7.2 kg m−2 and excess body weight from 87.5 ± 31.3 to 41.3 ± 28.8% (all p < 0.001). The reduction in leptin from 40.7 ± 24.9 to 30.9 ± 30.5 ng/ml was not significant (p = 0.11), but adiponectin increased from 4.49 ± 1.6 to 8.93 ± 6.36 µg/ml (p = 0.005) and LAR decreased from 8.89 ± 4.8 to 5.26 ± 6.52 ng/µg (p = 0.001), equivalent to a 70.9% increase in insulin sensitivity. The correlation with the amount of weight lost was stronger for LAR than it was for leptin or adiponectin alone. In this single-centre, interventional prospective cohort, patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy had a substantial reduction in their LAR after 12 months which was proportional to the amount of weight lost. This may indicate an improvement in insulin sensitivity and a reduction in cardiovascular risk.
Clinical features and survival outcomes of ocular melanoma in a multi-ethnic Asian cohort
Authors: Tan Laura Ling Ying , Hong Jiancheng , Goh Wei Lin , Chang Esther Wei Yin , Yang Valerie Shiwen , Poon Eileen , Somasundaram Nagavalli , Farid Mohamad , Chan Anita Sook Yee , Chan Jason Yongsheng
Published: October 2020

Ocular melanomas are uncommon cancers in Southeast Asia unlike in the West. We conducted a retrospective review of patients (n = 44) with histologically-proven ocular melanoma within a multi-ethnic Asian cohort from Singapore. Clinicopathological features and relapse patterns were examined, and survival outcomes of interest included recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method and multivariable Cox proportional regression. The study cohort included 18 male and 26 female patients, with a median age of 52 years (range 8–78). Median follow-up was 154 months. For uveal melanomas (n = 29), the 5-year RFS and OS was 56.8% and 76.6%, respectively; whilst for conjunctival melanomas (n = 15), the 5-year RFS and OS was 30.1% and 68.8%, respectively. Fifteen patients (38.5%) eventually developed metastasis, following which the median survival was only 17 months. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that higher T stage was a significant independent predictor for both OS (HR 8.69, 95% CI 1.03 to 73.09, p = 0.047) and RFS (HR 11.62, 95% CI 2.45 to 55.00, p = 0.002). Smoking history was independently predictive of better RFS (HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.78, p = 0.030). In conclusion, our study demonstrates the poor ocular melanoma outcomes in Southeast Asians, highlighting the necessity for urgent research in this area of unmet clinical need.
Development of a fluorescent distance-based paper device using loop-mediated isothermal amplification to detect Escherichia coli in urine
Authors: Saengsawang Natkrittaya , Ruang-areerate Toon , Kesakomol Piyanate , Thita Thanyapit , Mungthin Mathirut , Dungchai Wijitar
Published: October 2020

Schematic representation of the experimental process to develop a distance-based paper device to detect LAMP products.
Water-soluble BDPA radicals with improved persistence
Authors: Mandal Sucharita , Sigurdsson Snorri Th.
Published: October 2020

1,3-Bis(diphenylene)-2-phenylallyl (BDPA) radicals are promising polarizing agents for dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) NMR spectroscopy. BDPAs containing tetraalkyl/aryl-ammonium groups have increased persistence and solubility in polar solvents.
Revealing unfolding steps and volume changes of human telomeric i-motif DNA
Authors: Somkuti Judit , Molnár Orsolya Réka , Smeller László
Published: October 2020

The i-motif structure of the human telomeric DNA was destabilized by pressure and unfolded with a negative volume change.
Modulation of the adsorption chemistry of a precursor in atomic layer deposition to enhance the growth per cycle of a TiO2 thin film
Authors: Cho Yeonchoo , Kim Sang Hyeon , Kim Byung Seok , Kim Youngjin , Jeon Woojin
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the chemical reaction mechanism of the ALD to obtain a designated growth behaviour in theoretical and experimental way, hence, provides significant implications for understanding the ALD mechanism based on the DFT calculation.
Formation of monomeric Sn(ii) and Sn(iv) perfluoropinacolate complexes and their characterization by 119Sn Mössbauer and 119Sn NMR spectroscopies
Authors: Elinburg Jessica K. , Hyre Ariel S. , McNeely James , Alam Todd M. , Klenner Steffen , Pöttgen Rainer , Rheingold Arnold L. , Doerrer Linda H.
Published: October 2020

Sn(ii) and Sn(iv) perfluoropinacolate complexes were prepared and characterized with 119Sn NMR,119Sn Mössbauer spectroscopy, and DFT calculations.
Concanavalin A targetingN-linked glycans in spike proteins influence viral interactions
Authors: Jang Hara , Lee Dong-Heon , Kang Hyun Goo , Lee Seung Jae
Published: October 2020

TheN-linked glycans of spike proteins in viruses are a target of the carbohydrate-binding domains of lectins having higher binding affinity and low specificity.
Optimizing supramolecular interactions in metal–organic frameworks for C2separation
Authors: Hua Gui-Fang , Xie Xiao-Jing , Lu Weigang , Li Dan
Published: October 2020

C2separation is of great importance in the petrochemical industry. This perspective presents current status and future challenges in the design of MOF materials for C2separation.
Ditopic bis(N,N′,N′-substituted 1,2-ethanediamine) ligands: synthesis and coordination chemistry
Authors: Rösch Andreas , Herzog Christoph M. , Schreiner Simon H. F. , Görls Helmar , Kretschmer Robert
Published: October 2020

During the bis(amidoamine) battle, several metal tribes formed troops of mono- and dinuclear complexes. Whereas the mononuclear troops can only act passive, the dinuclear troops may act side by side and make advantage of their reactive parts.
Amidinate based indium(iii) monohalides and β-diketiminate stabilized In(ii)–In(ii) bond: synthesis, crystal structure, and computational study
Authors: Banerjee Samya , Dutta Sayan , Sarkar Samir Kumar , Graw Nico , Herbst-Irmer Regine , Koley Debasis , Stalke Dietmar , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: October 2020

Synthesis, crystal structure and DFT study of β-diketiminate stabilized In(ii)–In(ii) bond and bis(amidinato)indium(iii) monohalides.
Nile Red lifetime reveals microplastic identity
Authors: Sancataldo Giuseppe , Avellone Giuseppe , Vetri Valeria
Published: September 2020

Lifetime imaging of Nile Red provides a fingerprint for microplastics identification and screening.
Highly efficient production of lactic acid from xylose using Sn-beta catalysts
Authors: Zhang Yanfei , Luo Hu , Kong Lingzhao , Zhao Xinpeng , Miao Gai , Zhu Lijun , Li Shenggang , Sun Yuhan
Published: October 2020

The pathway, glycolaldehyde (C2) → erythrose (C4) → lactic acid (C3) was exploited over the Sn-beta catalyst from xylose.
Quantification of discharge gas to optimize discharge parameters for relative sensitivity factors (RSFs) determination by slow-flow glow discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS)
Authors: Paudel Gagan , Di Sabatino Marisa
Published: October 2020

It is likely that plotting of variation in quantification of discharge gas can be used to optimize and select discharge condition that can eventually help for RSFs determination.
Stimuli-responsive Janus mesoporous nanosheets towards robust interfacial emulsification and catalysis
Authors: Yang Jiangyan , Wang Jialin , Liu Yijiang , Li Huaming , Lin Zhiqun
Published: September 2020

Stimuli-responsive amphiphilic Janus mesoporous nanosheets with pH-triggered emulsification performance, switchable catalytic activity in aqueous solution and oil-phase-type-dependent catalytic activity at an emulsion interface were crafted.
Developing novel zinc(ii) and copper(ii) Schiff base complexes: combined experimental and theoretical investigation on their DNA/protein binding efficacy and anticancer activity
Authors: Das Manik , Mukherjee Somali , Koley Biplab , Choudhuri Indranil , Bhattacharyya Nandan , Roy Pritam , Samanta Bidhan Chandra , Barai Manas , Maity Tithi
Published: October 2020

Zn(ii) and Cu(ii) Schiff base complexes having DNA and HSA binding efficacy have been exploited as cancer therapeutic agents.
A new CQDs/f-MWCNTs/GO nanocomposite electrode for arsenic (10−12M) quantification in bore-well water and industrial effluents
Authors: RasulKhan BarsanaBarvin , Ponnaiah Sathish Kumar , Periakaruppan Prakash , Venkatachalam Ganesh , Balasubramanian Jeyaprabha
Published: October 2020

Strategic combination ofCQDs/f-MWCNTs/GO/GCE for pico-molar arsenic sensing.
Label as you fold: methyltransferase-assisted functionalization of DNA nanostructures
Authors: Heck Christian , Torchinsky Dmitry , Nifker Gil , Gularek Felix , Michaeli Yael , Weinhold Elmar , Ebenstein Yuval
Published: October 2020

The DNA methyltransferase M.TaqI is presented as a new tool to label DNA nanostructures covalently with fluorophores and azide groups.
Photoacoustic generation of intense and broadband ultrasound pulses with functionalized carbon nanotubes
Authors: Silva Alexandre D. , Henriques César A. , Malva Daniel V. , Calvete Mario J. F. , Pereira Mariette M. , Serpa Carlos , Arnaut Luis G.
Published: October 2020

Carbon nanotubes functionalized with polysiloxanes and picosecond laser enable photoacoustic generated ultrasound reaching 170 MHz at −6 dB maintaining pressures over 1 MPa, facilitating imaging, drug delivery or gene transfection.
Development of GLUT1-targeting alkyl glucoside-modified dihydroartemisinin liposomes for cancer therapy
Authors: Shen Shuo , Du Maobo , Liu Qingbo , Gao Peng , Wang Jigang , Liu Shuzhi , Gu Liwei
Published: October 2020

With the affinity of GLUT1 and an alkyl glucoside, the tumor targeting and anti-tumor effects of dihydroartemisinin liposomes are significantly improved.
Ultrathin catalyst-free InAs nanowires on silicon with distinct 1D sub-band transport properties
Authors: del Giudice F. , Becker J. , de Rose C. , Döblinger M. , Ruhstorfer D. , Suomenniemi L. , Treu J. , Riedl H. , Finley J. J. , Koblmüller G.
Published: October 2020

Ultrathin InAs nanowires with 1D sub-band structure are promising materials for advanced quantum-electronic devices, where dimensions in the sub-30 nm diameter limit together with post-CMOS integration scenarios on Si are much desired.
Ultrafast Auger process in few-layer PtSe2
Authors: Shin Hee Jun , Bae Seongkwang , Sim Sangwan
Published: October 2020

Direct observation of the Auger process (representative many-body interaction of carriers) in emerging two-dimensional semiconductor PtSe2.
Sulfoxonium ylides: simple compounds with chameleonic reactivity
Authors: Bisag Giorgiana Denisa , Ruggieri Silvia , Fochi Mariafrancesca , Bernardi Luca
Published: October 2020

Sulfoxonium ylides, manageable compounds with an appealing safety profile, adapt to reaction partners like chameleons to their environment, resulting in a variety of useful, and sometimes surprising and unique, reactions.
Synthesis and oligomerization of cysteinyl nucleosides
Authors: Bege Miklós , Bereczki Ilona , Molnár Dénes J. , Kicsák Máté , Pénzes-Daku Krisztina , Bereczky Zsuzsanna , Ferenc Györgyi , Kovács Lajos , Herczegh Pál , Borbás Anikó
Published: October 2020

Cysteinyl nucleoside and homonucleoside oligomers, the first representatives of a new class of artificial nucleic acid family were prepared.
Tuning magnetic anisotropy by the π-bonding features of the axial ligands and the electronic effects of gold(i) atoms in 2D {Co(L)2[Au(CN)2]2}nmetal–organic frameworks with field-induced single-ion magnet behaviour
Authors: Palacios María A. , Díaz-Ortega Ismael F. , Nojiri Hiroyuki , Suturina Elizaveta A. , Ozerov Mykhaylo , Krzystek J. , Colacio Enrique
Published: October 2020

AuIatoms play an important role in determining the anisotropy of CoIInodes in 2D AuI–CoIIfield-induced SIMs.
A systematic study of halide-template effects in the assembly of lanthanide hydroxide cluster complexes with histidine
Authors: Huang Weiming , Zhang Zhonghao , Wu Yinglan , Chen Wanmin , Rotsch David A. , Messerle Louis , Zheng Zhiping
Published: September 2020

Controlled hydrolysis of lanthanide ions in the presence of histidine and halide templates of different sizes produced dodeca- and pentadecanuclear lanthanide hydroxide clusters.
Transition-metal-free catalytic hydroboration reduction of amides to amines
Authors: Yao Wubing , Wang Jiali , Zhong Aiguo , Wang Shiliang , Shao Yinlin
Published: September 2020

The selective catalytic reduction of amides to value-added amine products is a desirable but challenging transformation.
Individual and synergistic protective properties of Salvia officinalis decoction extract and sulfasalazine against ethanol-induced gastric and small bowel injuries
Authors: Jedidi Saber , Aloui Foued , Rtibi Kais , Sammari Houcem , Selmi Houcine , Rejeb Ahmed , Toumi Lamjed , Sebai Hichem
Published: September 2020

The present study was carried out to determine the phytochemical composition of Salvia officinalis flowers decoction extract (SOFDE) as well as its individual and/or synergistic actions with sulfasalazine against ethanol (EtOH)-induced peptic ulcer in Wistar rats.
Layer-by-layer modification effects on a nanopore's inner surface of polycarbonate track-etched membranes
Authors: Paoli Roberto , Bulwan Maria , Castaño Oscar , Engel Elisabeth , Rodriguez-Cabello J. C. , Homs-Corbera Antoni , Samitier Josep
Published: September 2020

The control of the morphology, as well as the physical and chemical properties, of nanopores is a key issue for many applications.
Growth process control produces high-crystallinity and complete-reaction perovskite solar cells
Authors: Kuan Chun-Hsiao , Kuo Po-Tsun , Hou Cheng-Hung , Shyue Jing-Jong , Lin Ching-Fuh
Published: September 2020

The growth process control (GPC) method, a new method which is better than thermal evaporation, for producing high-crystallinity perovskites by controlling the growth time in a low vacuum, is explored in this work.
Addition of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds to terminal alkynes catalyzed by a cationic cobalt(iii) complex
Authors: Chandra Sau Mohan , Bhattacharjee Manish
Published: September 2020

The Nakamura reaction using the complex, [Cp*Co(CH3CN)3][SbF6]2 as the catalyst has been described. Alkynes on reaction with β-ketoesters afford tetrasubstituted benzenes.
High-performance hole conductor-free perovskite solar cell using a carbon nanotube counter electrode
Authors: Mohammed Mustafa K. A.
Published: September 2020

Carbon-based perovskite solar cells (C-PSCs) are the most promising photovoltaic (PV) due to their low material and manufacturing cost and superior long-term stability.
Detection of xanthine in food samples with an electrochemical biosensor based on PEDOT:PSS and functionalized gold nanoparticles
Authors: Khan M. Z. H. , Ahommed M. S. , Daizy M.
Published: September 2020

An innovative biosensor with glassy carbon electrodes modified with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate nanocomposites as a host matrix with functionalized gold nanoparticles for the selective and sensitive detection of xanthine.
Organic–inorganic hybrid liquid crystals of azopyridine-enabled halogen-bonding towards sensing in aquatic environment
Authors: Chen Yinjie , Li Luhai , Yang Yonggang , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Jia Yunling , Ju Jing , Huang Shuai , Yu Haifeng , Yang Huai , Li Quan
Published: September 2020

Organic–inorganic hybrid liquid crystals of azopyridines enabled by halogen bonding with the triple functions of degree of orientation change, MEF, and SERS towards sensing silver in aquatic environment.
Design and optimization of a subunit vaccine targeting COVID-19 molecular shreds using an immunoinformatics framework
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Sood Damini , Chandra Ramesh
Published: September 2020

COVID-19 has been declared as a global health emergency and exposed the world to a deadly virus, which has dramatically changed the lives of humans for an unknown period of time.
Heterogeneous Cu–Fe oxide catalysts for preferential CO oxidation (PROX) in H2-rich process streams
Authors: Dasireddy Venkata D. B. C. , Bharuth-Ram Krish , Hanzel Darko , Likozar Blaž
Published: September 2020

Fe loading in Cu–Fe phases and its effect on carbon monoxide oxidation in H2-rich reactant streams were investigated with the catalyst material phases characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction studies and Mössbauer Spectroscopy.
Synthesis of a d2 kagome lattice antiferromagnet, (CH3NH3)2NaV3F12
Authors: Jiang Ningxin , Ramanathan Arun , Baumbach Ryan E. , La Pierre Henry S.
Published: October 2020

A new d2-vanadium-based KLAF, (CH3NH3)2NaV3F12, was synthesized hydrothermally and is a candidate to study S = 1 KLAF physics.
Aluminum-catalyzed tunable halodefluorination of trifluoromethyl- and difluoroalkyl-substituted olefins
Authors: Liu Zhong , Tu Xian-Shuang , Guo Le-Tao , Wang Xiao-Chen
Published: October 2020

Aluminum-catalyzed halodefluorination reactions of fluoroalkyl-substituted olefins are developed. The reactions can selectively deliver mono-, di-, or trisubstituted products.
The solvent mediated interaction potential between solute particles: theory and applications
Authors: Yadav Mamta , Singh Yashwant
Published: October 2020

In this paper we develop a theory to calculate the solvent mediated interaction potential between solute particles dispersed in a solvent.
Defective nematogenesis: Gauss curvature in programmable shape-responsive sheets with topological defects
Authors: Duffy Daniel , Biggins John S.
Published: October 2020

We deploy the Gauss-Bonnet theorem to calculate the Gauss curvature, both singular and finite, developed by initially flat sheets that are programmed with directional patterns of spontaneous distortion containing topological defects.
Periodic oscillations in a string of camphor infused disks
Authors: Tiwari Ishant , Parmananda P. , Chelakkot Raghunath
Published: October 2020

We show that a clamped string of camphor infused disks displays periodic oscillations when placed on the air–water interface. A minimal numerical model is proposed to explain the underlying physical mechanism.
Light-responsive self-assembly of a cationic azobenzene surfactant at high concentration
Authors: Blayo Camille , Kelly Elaine A. , Houston Judith E. , Khunti Nikul , Cowieson Nathan P. , Evans Rachel C.
Published: October 2020

A cationic azobenzene photosurfactant (AzoTAB) forms self-assembled structures with long-range order and optical anisotropy at high concentrations. These high-concentration mesophases are lost or disrupted with UV irradiation.
Collagen fibers with tuned wetting properties for dual separation of oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsion
Authors: Chen Guangyan , Wang Yanan , Wang Yujia , Xiao Hanzhong , Huang Xin , Shi Bi
Published: September 2020

Tuning the wettability of materials is of significance in developing efficient separation materials.
Phase-controlled synthesis of Ni nanocrystals with high catalytic activity in 4-nitrophenol reduction
Authors: Zhuang Jiahao , Liu Xianglin , Ji Yongjun , Gu Fangna , Xu Jing , Han Yi-fan , Xu Guangwen , Zhong Ziyi , Su Fabing
Published: September 2020

The phase-controlled synthesis and formation mechanism of Ni nanocrystals with hcp and fcc phases are investigated and discussed, while hcp Ni shows comparable catalytic activity with the best noble metal catalysts for reduction of 4-nitrophenol.
A novel 3D indirect co-culture system based on a collagen hydrogel scaffold for enhancing the osteogenesis of stem cells
Authors: Kim Hyerim , Han Shi Huan , Kook Yun-Min , Lee Kyung-Mee , Jin Yuan-Zhe , Koh Won-Gun , Lee Jae Hyup , Lee Kangwon
Published: September 2020

In this study, the paracrine effect between adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) and osteoblasts was investigated in collagen-based three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds.
Reading Risk in Children With Speech Sound Disorder: Prevalence, Persistence, and Predictors
Authors: Tambyraja Sherine R. , Farquharson Kelly , Justice Laura
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which school-age children with speech sound disorder (SSD) exhibit concomitant reading difficulties and examine the extent to which phonological processing and speech production abilities are associated with increased likelihood of reading risks.

Method

Data were obtained from 120 kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade children who were in receipt of school-based speech therapy services. Children were categorized as being “at risk” for reading difficulties if standardized scores on a word decoding measure were 1
SD
or more from the mean. The selected predictors of reading risk included children's rapid automatized naming ability, phonological awareness (PA), and accuracy of speech sound production.

Results

Descriptive results indicated that just over 25% of children receiving school-based speech therapy for an SSD exhibited concomitant deficits in word decoding and that those exhibiting risk at the beginning of the school year were likely to continue to be at risk at the end of the school year. Results from a hierarchical logistic regression suggested that, after accounting for children's age, general language abilities, and socioeconomic status, both PA and speech sound production abilities were significantly associated with the likelihood of being classified as at risk.

Conclusions

School-age children with SSD are at increased risk for reading difficulties that are likely to persist throughout an academic year. The severity of phonological deficits, reflected by PA and speech output, may be important indicators of subsequent reading problems.
Phase‐current waveform for switched reluctance motors to eliminate input‐current ripple and torque ripple in low‐power propulsion below magnetic saturation
Authors: Kusumi Takayuki , Hara Takuto , Umetani Kazuhiro , Hiraki Eiji
Published: October 2020

In recent decades, switched reluctance motors (SRMs) have been attracting increasing attention as a promising type of traction motors for electric vehicle propulsion, owing to their robust construction, elimination of permanent magnets. However, their phase inductance profile contains significant high‐order harmonics, which generates input‐current and torque ripples under SRM drive with the conventional square phase‐current waveform. This study solves this problem by proposing a novel phase‐current waveform in replacement of this square waveform. The proposed waveform is a predetermined waveform that can be stored as a look‐up table in the inverter controller and can be magnified or attenuated to adjust the output torque, similarly as the conventional square waveform. Certainly, SRMs generally exhibit magnetic non‐linearity due to magnetic saturation, which complicates the analysis. Therefore, the proposed waveform is analytically derived under the assumption that the magnetisation of the motor remains below the saturation level because vehicle propulsion tends to require a torque output far smaller than the maximum rating of the motor in normal vehicle travel. The proposed phase‐current waveform is experimentally tested in comparison with the conventional square phase‐current waveform. Consequently, the proposed waveform revealed smaller ripples in both the input‐current and torque, supporting the effectiveness of the proposed phase‐current waveform.
Detection and estimation of grid‐connected issues in quasi‐Z‐source inverter based photovoltaic system using robust parametric methods
Authors: Deepamangai Palanivel , Manoharan P.S.
Published: October 2020

This study presents robust parametric methods for the detection and estimation of grid‐connected issues such as islanding, harmonics, and interharmonics. The power system signals are time varying owing to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. IEEE and IEC consider signals as stationary, which are negated in a future scenario. Therefore, parametric methods need to be applied for the estimation of these signals. In this study, parametric methods such as estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariant technique (ESPRIT) and multiple signal classifier are implemented in a grid‐connected quasi‐Z‐source inverter, for the mitigation of the aforementioned grid‐connected issues. Additionally, a novel ESPRIT‐aided support vector machine (ESPRIT‐SVM) is proposed for harmonics estimation. A comparative study is also conducted on the different parametric methods using MATLAB/SIMULINK. The proposed method is verified for application in various scenarios such as power mismatch, load switching, and capacitor switching. The simulation results of the proposed ESPRIT‐SVM are validated through real‐time experiments.
Multi‐channel photovoltaic current–voltage (I –V ) curve tracer employing adaptive‐sampling‐rate method
Authors: Rivai Ahmad , Rahim Nasrudin Abd , Elias Mohamad Fathi Mohamad , Jamaludin Jafferi
Published: September 2020

In this study, a multi‐channel I–V curve tracer with the capability of measuring multiple photovoltaic (PV) modules has been proposed. An adaptive‐sampling‐rate method has been developed to enhance the I–V tracer's performance in terms of acquisition speed and data resolution in which enables the tracer to measure the I–V curve for a wider range of current and voltage with higher measurement points. This is important to provide rapid comparison and identification of faults that may have occurred in one or more PV modules. A low‐cost prototype was built using an Arduino‐based microcontroller, and the experimental tests were performed with 30 PV modules. The simulation and experimental results verified the performance and functionality of the proposed I–V curve tracer.
Radio telescope total power mode: improving observation efficiency
Authors: Pagani Laurent , Frayer David , Pagani Bruno , Lefèvre Charlène
Published: October 2020

Aims. Radio observing efficiency can be improved by calibrating and reducing the observations in total power mode rather than in frequency, beam, or position-switching modes.

Methods. We selected a sample of spectra obtained from the Institut de Radio-Astronomie Millimétrique (IRAM) 30-m telescope and the Green Bank Telescope (GBT) to test the feasibility of the method. Given that modern front-end amplifiers for the GBT and direct Local Oscillator injection for the 30 m telescope provide smooth pass bands that are a few tens of megahertz in width, the spectra from standard observations can be cleaned (baseline removal) separately and then co-added directly when the lines are narrow enough (a few km s−1), instead of performing the traditional ON minus OFF data reduction. This technique works for frequency-switched observations as well as for position- and beam-switched observations when the ON and OFF data are saved separately.

Results. The method works best when the lines are narrow enough and not too numerous so that a secure baseline removal can be achieved. A signal-to-noise ratio improvement of a factor of √2 is found in most cases, consistent with theoretical expectations.

Conclusions. By keeping the traditional observing mode, the fallback solution of the standard reduction technique is still available in cases of suboptimal baseline behavior, sky instability, or wide lines, and to confirm the line intensities. These techniques of total-power-mode reduction can be applied to any radio telescope with stable baselines as long as they record and deliver the ONs and OFFs separately, as is the case for the GBT.
Migration of gap-opening planets in 3D stellar-irradiated accretion disks
Authors: Chrenko O. , Nesvorný D.
Published: October 2020

Context. The origin of giant planets at moderate separations ≃1–10 au is still not fully understood because numerical studies of Type II migration in protoplanetary disks often predict a decay of the semi-major axis that is too fast. According to recent 2D simulations, inward migration of a gap-opening planet can be slowed down or even reversed if the outer gap edge becomes heated by irradiation from the central star, and puffed up.

Aims. Here, we study how stellar irradiation reduces the disk-driven torque and affects migration in more realistic 3D disks.

Methods. Using 3D hydrodynamic simulations with radiation transfer, we investigated the static torque acting on a single gap-opening planet embedded in a passively heated accretion disk.

Results. Our simulations confirm that a temperature inversion is established at the irradiated outer gap edge and the local increase of the scale height reduces the magnitude of the negative outer Lindblad torque. However, the temperature excess is smaller than assumed in 2D simulations and the torque reduction only becomes prominent for specific parameters. For the viscosity α = 10−3, the total torque is reduced for planetary masses ranging from 0.1 to 0.7 Jupiter mass, with the strongest reduction being by a factor of − 0.17 (implying outward migration) for a Saturn-mass planet. For a Jupiter-mass planet, the torque reduction becomes stronger with increasing α (the torque is halved when α = 5 × 10−3).

Conclusions. We conclude that planets that open moderately wide and deep gaps are subject to the largest torque modifications and their Type II migration can be stalled due to gap edge illumination. We then argue that the torque reduction can help to stabilize the orbits of giant planets forming at ≳ 1 au.