bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-area waterproof and durable perovskite luminescent textiles
Authors: Tian Tian , Yang Meifang , Fang Yuxuan , Zhang Shuo , Chen Yuxin , Wang Lianzhou , Wu Wu-Qiang
Published: January 2023

Lead halide perovskites show great potential to be used in wearable optoelectronics. However, obstacles for real applications lie in their instability under light, moisture and temperature stress, noxious lead ions leakage and difficulties in fabricating uniform luminescent textiles at large scale and high production rates. Overcoming these obstacles, we report simple, high-throughput electrospinning of large-area (> 375 cm2) flexible perovskite luminescent textiles woven by ultra-stable polymer@perovskite@cyclodextrin@silane composite fibers. These textiles exhibit bright and narrow-band photoluminescence (a photoluminescence quantum yield of 49.7%, full-width at half-maximum <17 nm) and the time to reach 50% photoluminescence of 14,193 h under ambient conditions, showcasing good stability against water immersion (> 3300 h), ultraviolet irradiation, high temperatures (up to 250 °C) and pressure surge (up to 30 MPa). The waterproof PLTs withstood fierce water scouring without any detectable leaching of lead ions. These low-cost and scalable woven PLTs enable breakthrough application in marine rescue.
Universal scaling laws for charge-carrier interactions with quantum confinement in lead-halide perovskites
Authors: Tamarat Philippe , Prin Elise , Berezovska Yuliia , Moskalenko Anastasiia , Nguyen Thi Phuc Tan , Xia Chenghui , Hou Lei , Trebbia Jean-Baptiste , Zacharias Marios , Pedesseau Laurent , Katan Claudine , Bodnarchuk Maryna I. , Kovalenko Maksym V. , Even Jacky , Lounis Brahim
Published: January 2023

Lead halide perovskites open great prospects for optoelectronics and a wealth of potential applications in quantum optical and spin-based technologies. Precise knowledge of the fundamental optical and spin properties of charge-carrier complexes at the origin of their luminescence is crucial in view of the development of these applications. On nearly bulk Cesium-Lead-Bromide single perovskite nanocrystals, which are the test bench materials for next-generation devices as well as theoretical modeling, we perform low temperature magneto-optical spectroscopy to reveal their entire band-edge exciton fine structure and charge-complex binding energies. We demonstrate that the ground exciton state is dark and lays several millielectronvolts below the lowest bright exciton sublevels, which settles the debate on the bright-dark exciton level ordering in these materials. More importantly, combining these results with spectroscopic measurements on various perovskite nanocrystal compounds, we show evidence for universal scaling laws relating the exciton fine structure splitting, the trion and biexciton binding energies to the band-edge exciton energy in lead-halide perovskite nanostructures, regardless of their chemical composition. These scaling laws solely based on quantum confinement effects and dimensionless energies offer a general predictive picture for the interaction energies within charge-carrier complexes photo-generated in these emerging semiconductor nanostructures.
Niche stiffness sustains cancer stemness via TAZ and NANOG phase separation
Authors: Liu Xinwei , Ye Yingying , Zhu Liling , Xiao Xiaoyun , Zhou Boxuan , Gu Yuanting , Si Hang , Liang Huixin , Liu Mingzhu , Li Jiaqian , Jiang Qiongchao , Li Jiang , Yu Shubin , Ma Ruiying , Su Shicheng , Liao Jian-You , Zhao Qiyi
Published: January 2023

Emerging evidence shows that the biomechanical environment is required to support cancer stem cells (CSCs), which play a crucial role in drug resistance. However, how mechanotransduction signals regulate CSCs and its clinical significance has remained unclear. Using clinical-practice ultrasound elastography for patients’ lesions and atomic force microscopy for surgical samples, we reveal that increased matrix stiffness is associated with poor responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, worse prognosis, and CSC enrichment in patients with breast cancer. Mechanically, TAZ activated by biomechanics enhances CSC properties via phase separation with NANOG. TAZ-NANOG phase separation, which is dependent on acidic residues in the N-terminal activation domain of NANOG, promotes the transcription of SOX2 and OCT4. Therapeutically, targeting NANOG or TAZ reduces CSCs and enhances the chemosensitivity in vivo. Collectively, this study demonstrated that the phase separation of a pluripotency transcription factor links mechanical cues in the niche to the fate of CSCs.
Massively parallel identification of mRNA localization elements in primary cortical neurons
Authors: Mendonsa Samantha , von Kügelgen Nicolai , Dantsuji Sayaka , Ron Maya , Breimann Laura , Baranovskii Artem , Lödige Inga , Kirchner Marieluise , Fischer Meret , Zerna Nadja , Bujanic Lucija , Mertins Philipp , Ulitsky Igor , Chekulaeva Marina
Published: January 2023

Cells adopt highly polarized shapes and form distinct subcellular compartments in many cases due to the localization of many mRNAs to specific areas, where they are translated into proteins with local functions. This mRNA localization is mediated by specificcis-regulatory elements in mRNAs, commonly called ‘zipcodes’. Although there are hundreds of localized mRNAs, only a few zipcodes have been characterized. Here we describe a novel neuronal zipcode identification protocol (N-zip) that can identify zipcodes across hundreds of 3′ untranslated regions. This approach combines a method of separating the principal subcellular compartments of neurons—cell bodies and neurites—with a massively parallel reporter assay. N-zip identifies the let-7 binding site and (AU)nmotif as de novo zipcodes in mouse primary cortical neurons. Our analysis also provides, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of an miRNA affecting mRNA localization and suggests a strategy for detecting many more zipcodes.
Remodeling of maternal mRNA through poly(A) tail orchestrates human oocyte-to-embryo transition
Authors: Liu Yusheng , Zhao Han , Shao Fanghong , Zhang Yiwei , Nie Hu , Zhang Jingye , Li Cheng , Hou Zhenzhen , Chen Zi-Jiang , Wang Jiaqiang , Zhou Bing , Wu Keliang , Lu Falong
Published: January 2023

Poly(A)-tail-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of maternal mRNAs is vital in the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET). Nothing is known about poly(A) tail dynamics during the human OET. Here, we show that poly(A) tail length and internal non-A residues are highly dynamic during the human OET, using poly(A)-inclusive RNA isoform sequencing (PAIso-seq). Unexpectedly, maternal mRNAs undergo global remodeling: after deadenylation or partial degradation into 3ʹ-UTRs, they are re-polyadenylated to produce polyadenylated degradation intermediates, coinciding with massive incorporation of non-A residues, particularly internal long consecutive U residues, into the newly synthesized poly(A) tails. Moreover, TUT4 and TUT7 contribute to the incorporation of these U residues, BTG4-mediated deadenylation produces substrates for maternal mRNA re-polyadenylation, and TENT4A and TENT4B incorporate internal G residues. The maternal mRNA remodeling is further confirmed using PAIso-seq2. Importantly, maternal mRNA remodeling is essential for the first cleavage of human embryos. Together, these findings broaden our understanding of the post-transcriptional regulation of maternal mRNAs during the human OET.
Investigation of the performance of a cylindrical hopper and metering device of a carrot seeder
Authors: Valentin Marvin T. , Białowiec Andrzej , Karayel Davut , Jasinskas Algirdas , Ciolkosz Daniel , Lavarias Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2023

A carrot seeder that utilizes a cylindrical component serving as both hopper/metering device to deposit seeds precisely into planting beds/hills at a uniform interval along a straight row over a plant bed was developed in this study. The seeder was evaluated at different operating speeds (89, 70, 61, 51, 48, 38, and 34 cm s−1) relative to mean number of seeds planted in each hill, hill center, scattering distance ratio, hill spacing and missed hills. The seeder was able to deposit seeds in each hill ranging from 2.8 to 4.0 at all speeds. The mean hill center and missed hills suggested that the seeder is best operated at speed under 70 cm s−1 with the respective values ranging from 0.9 to 1.6 cm and 0–5.5%. This indicates that number of the seeds dropped per hill was very uniform, which is a good indicator of the seeding performance. The hill center and missed hills at 89 cm s−1 were 3.08 cm and 16.67% respectively were significantly higher than at lower speeds. Other operating performances such as the mean number of seeds deposited in each hill and the distance between hills did not appear to vary with the planting speed. The scattering distance ratios of operating speeds from 34 to 61 cm s−1 were less than 30% and therefore acceptable for hill dropping of carrot seeds.
Using ex vivo arterial injection and dissection to assess white matter vascularization
Authors: Smirnov Mykyta , Maldonado Igor Lima , Destrieux Christophe
Published: January 2023

Advances in the techniques for assessing human cerebral white matter have recently contributed to greater attention to structural connectivity. Yet, little is known about the vascularization of most white matter fasciculi and the fascicular composition of the vascular territories. This paper presents an original method to label the arterial supply of macroscopic white matter fasciculi based on a standardized protocol for post-mortem injection of colored material into main cerebral arteries combined with a novel fiber dissection technique. Twelve whole human cerebral hemispheres obtained post-mortem were included. A detailed description of every step, from obtaining the specimen to image acquisition of its dissection, is provided. Injection and dissection were reproducible and manageable without any sophisticated equipment. They successfully showed the arterial supply of the dissected fasciculi. In addition, we discuss the challenges we faced and overcame during the development of the presented method, highlight its originality. Henceforth, this innovative method serves as a tool to provide a precise anatomical description of the vascularization of the main white matter tracts.
A functional bimodal mesoporous silica nanoparticle with redox/cellulase dual-responsive gatekeepers for controlled release of fungicide
Authors: Huang Weilan , Pan Hua , Hu Zhongxuan , Wang Meijing , Wu Litao , Zhang Fang
Published: January 2023

Integrating toxic fungicide into a functional stimuli-responsive nanosystem can effectively improve the fungus control specificity and reduce the effect on non-target organisms. We report here a redox and cellulase dual-responsive multifunctional nanoparticle based on bimodal mesoporous silica (BMMs) to deliver prochloraz (Pro) for the smart management of wilt disease (Pro-AC-SS-BMMs, known as P-ASB). The surface of the nanocarrier was modified with an aminosilane coupling agent, and Pro was encapsulated by physical adsorption using 2,2′-dithiodiacetic acid as a smart bridge and disulfide (SS) cross-linked aminocellulose (AC) as gatekeepers. P-ASB nanoparticles (NPs) had a spherical structure, and the size was 531.2 ± 4.9 nm. The loading rate of Pro was 28.5%, and the NPs possessed excellent redox/cellulase dual-responsive release characteristics in the presence of glutathione (GSH) and cellulase. The nanocarrier could effectively protect Pro against photodegradation and had better foliar wettability than the Pro technical. Fluorescence tracer results showed that the nanocarriers were taken up and activated by the mycelium. P-ASB NPs had better control efficacy against Rhizoctonia solani and had no significant toxicity to cells and bacteria. This study provides a new strategy for enhancing the environmental protection and promoting the development of green agriculture.
Zurbarán attribution hypothesis supported by pigment analysis and multiband images observation of four paintings by his workshop
Authors: Moreno-Soto Javier , Križnar Anabelle , Ager Francisco José , Gómez-Morón María Auxiliadora , Gamero-Osuna Antonio , Martín-de-Soto Agustín , Respaldiza Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2023

Francisco de Zurbarán was one of the greatest painters of the Spanish Golden Age, with artworks scattered all over the world. Unfortunately, there are hardly any exhaustive studies on the pigments that he used. In this work, four canvas paintings attributed to the Zurbarán Workshop were studied. Each of them presents the figure of a different saint in a particular isolation scene: Saint Bruno, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Dominic of Guzman, and Saint Peter Martyr. Nevertheless, the painting of Saint Peter Martyr shows superior quality in both technique and colours, so it is not clear whether this canvas was also made by the Workshop or by Zurbarán himself, as some art historians claim. Coinciding with conservation and restoration works, the paintings were initially analysed with non-invasive techniques such as ultraviolet photography (UV), infrared reflectography (IRR) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to determine the characterization of the pigments. Those studies were complemented by stratigraphic analysis of some extracted samples with optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX). Among a number of results obtained, we found significant differences between the pigment palette used in Saint Peter Martyr and the other paintings, supporting the hypothesis that this painting was done by Zurbarán himself instead of his workshop. These results could also help to distinguish other authentic paintings by the master’s hand from very similar paintings by his workshop or by other artists.
Effect of different fillers on thermal conductivity, tribological properties of Polyamide 6
Authors: Czel Gyorgy , Sycheva Anna , Janovszky Dora
Published: January 2023

An influence of different filler types and filler content on the thermal and abrasive wear properties of polyamide-6 is investigated. Al2O3, MgO, two glass powders with different SiO2 contents, and natural zeolite powder were selected as fillers. The fillers individually were added to the polymer matrix in proportions of 50 and 70% by weight. A hybrid filler-containing composite was created by mixing PA6/70 wt% MgO and PA6/80 wt% zeolite. The results show that the thermal conductive enhancement factor is highest for PA6/70 wt% Al2O3 (145%) and PA6/hybrid fillers 75 wt% (92%). The Lewis-Nielsen and Reciprocity models agreed with the measured data with less than 26% deviation, except for the MgO-loaded composites. In the case of a hybrid composite, the additive model proves to be a good approximation. The abrasive effect of the different fillers was characterised by the volume loss of the steel pin using the pin-on-disc method. A new parameter is developed that considers the thermal conductivity enhancing effect of the fillers and their abrasive effect. In addition to ceramic fillers, aluminium-hydro-silicate, e.g. natural zeolite, and their mixtures offer new opportunities for the development of thermally conductive composites, as they are more economical to use in manufacturing processes.
Linear epitope mapping of the humoral response against SARS-CoV-2 in two independent African cohorts
Authors: Vigan-Womas Inès , Spadoni Jean-Louis , Poiret Thomas , Taïeb Fabien , Randrianarisaona Fanirisoa , Faye Rokhaya , Mbow Adji Astou , Gaye Aboubacry , Dia Ndongo , Loucoubar Cheikh , Ny Mioramalala Diary Juliannie , Ratovoson Rila , Randremanana Rindra Vatosoa , Sall Amadou Alpha , Seydi Moussa , Noirel Josselin , Moreau Gabriel , Simon Arnaud , Holenya Pavlo , Meyniel Jean-Philippe , Zagury Jean-François , Schoenhals Matthieu
Published: January 2023

Profiling of the antibody responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) proteins in African populations is scarce. Here, we performed a detailed IgM and IgG epitope mapping study against 487 peptides covering SARS-CoV-2 wild-type structural proteins. A panel of 41 pre-pandemic and 82 COVID-19 RT-PCR confirmed sera from Madagascar and Senegal were used. We found that the main 36 immunodominant linear epitopes identified were (i) similar in both countries, (ii) distributed mainly in the Spike and the Nucleocapsid proteins, (iii) located outside the RBD and NTD regions where most of the reported SARS-CoV-2 variant mutations occur, and (iv) identical to those reported in European, North American, and Asian studies. Within the severe group, antibody levels were inversely correlated with the viral load. This first antibody epitope mapping study performed in patients from two African countries may be helpful to guide rational peptide-based diagnostic assays or vaccine development.
A deep learning based dual encoder–decoder framework for anatomical structure segmentation in chest X-ray images
Authors: Ullah Ihsan , Ali Farman , Shah Babar , El-Sappagh Shaker , Abuhmed Tamer , Park Sang Hyun
Published: January 2023

Automated multi-organ segmentation plays an essential part in the computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) of chest X-ray fluoroscopy. However, developing a CAD system for the anatomical structure segmentation remains challenging due to several indistinct structures, variations in the anatomical structure shape among different individuals, the presence of medical tools, such as pacemakers and catheters, and various artifacts in the chest radiographic images. In this paper, we propose a robust deep learning segmentation framework for the anatomical structure in chest radiographs that utilizes a dual encoder–decoder convolutional neural network (CNN). The first network in the dual encoder–decoder structure effectively utilizes a pre-trained VGG19 as an encoder for the segmentation task. The pre-trained encoder output is fed into the squeeze-and-excitation (SE) to boost the network’s representation power, which enables it to perform dynamic channel-wise feature calibrations. The calibrated features are efficiently passed into the first decoder to generate the mask. We integrated the generated mask with the input image and passed it through a second encoder–decoder network with the recurrent residual blocks and an attention the gate module to capture the additional contextual features and improve the segmentation of the smaller regions. Three public chest X-ray datasets are used to evaluate the proposed method for multi-organs segmentation, such as the heart, lungs, and clavicles, and single-organ segmentation, which include only lungs. The results from the experiment show that our proposed technique outperformed the existing multi-class and single-class segmentation methods.
Uterine epithelial Gp130 orchestrates hormone response and epithelial remodeling for successful embryo attachment in mice
Authors: Namiki Takafumi , Terakawa Jumpei , Karakama Harumi , Noguchi Michiko , Murakami Hironobu , Hasegawa Yoshinori , Ohara Osamu , Daikoku Takiko , Ito Junya , Kashiwazaki Naomi
Published: January 2023

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) receptor, an interleukin 6 cytokine family signal transducer (Il6st, also known as Gp130) that is expressed in the uterine epithelium and stroma, has been recognized to play an essential role in embryo implantation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying Gp130-mediated LIF signaling in the uterine epithelium during embryo implantation has not been elucidated. In this study, we generated mice with uterine epithelium specific deletion of Gp130 (Gp130 ecKO). Gp130 ecKO females were infertile due to the failure of embryo attachment and decidualization. Histomorphological observation revealed that the endometrial shape and embryo position from Gp130 ecKO were comparable to those of the control, and uterine epithelial cell proliferation, whose attenuation is essential for embryo implantation, was controlled in Gp130 ecKO. Comprehensive gene expression analysis using RNA-seq indicates that epithelial Gp130 regulates the expression of estrogen- and progesterone-responsive genes in conjunction with immune response during embryo implantation. We also found that an epithelial remodeling factor, snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (Snai1), was markedly reduced in the pre-implantation uterus from Gp130 ecKO. These results suggest that not only the suppression of uterine epithelial cell proliferation, but also Gp130-mediated epithelial remodeling is required for successful implantation in mice.
Semi-automated water sampling module for repeated sampling and concentration of Bacillus cereus group spores
Authors: Hassen Walid M. , Vermette Jonathan , Moteshareie Houman , Tayabali Azam F. , Dubowski Jan J.
Published: January 2023

Monitoring the presence of pathogenic Bacillus spores is important for industrial applications, as well as necessary for ensuring human health. Bacillus thuringiensis is used as a biopesticide against several insect pests. Bacillus cereus spores are a significant cause of food poisoning, and Bacillus anthracis is a recognized biosecurity threat. Laboratory-based methods, such as polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization spectroscopy provide sensitive detection of bacteria and spores, but the application of those methods for quasi-continuous environmental monitoring presents a significant challenge requiring frequent human intervention. To address this challenge, we developed a workstation for quasi-autonomous monitoring of water reservoirs for the presence of bacteria and spores, and designed and validated the functionality of a microprocessor-controlled module capable of repetitive collection and pre-concentration of spores in liquid samples tested with fiberglass (FG), polyether sulfone and polyvinylidene fluoride filters. The best results were obtained with FG filters delivering a 20× concentration of B. thuringiensis and B. cereus spores from saline suspensions. The successful 20× pre-concentration of Bacillus spores demonstrated with FG filters could be repeated up to 3 times when bleach decontamination is applied between filtrations. Taken together, our results demonstrate an attractive instrument suitable for semi-automated, quasi-continuous sampling and pre-processing of water samples for biosensing of bacterial spores originating from a complex environment.
Geospatial analysis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension in South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Zainuddin Andi Alfian , Rahim Amran , Ramadany Sri , Dharmayani Himawan , Kuswanto Hedi , Kadir Rais Reskiawan A. , Abdullah Andi Afdal , Rasyid Haerani
Published: January 2023

The spatial variation of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension and their potential linkage were explored in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The Global Moran’s I and regression analysis were utilized to identify the characteristics involved. The methods were performed based on T2DM and hypertension data from 2017 and 2018 acquired from Social Health Insurance Administration in Indonesia. The spatial variation of T2DM and hypertension showed that the prevalence rate of T2DM and hypertension tends to occur randomly (p = 0.678, p = 0.711, respectively). By utilizing Generalized Poisson Regression Analysis, our study showed a significant relationship between T2DM and hypertension (p ≤ 0.001). This research could help policy makers to plan and support projects with the aim of overcoming the risk of T2DM and hypertension.
Spatiotemporal distribution, trend, forecast, and influencing factors of transboundary and local air pollutants in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Chicas Santos Daniel , Valladarez Jair Gaspar , Omine Kiyoshi , Sivasankar Venkataraman , Kim Sangyeob
Published: January 2023

The study of PM2.5and NO2has been emphasized in recent years due to their adverse effects on public health. To better understand these pollutants, many studies have researched the spatiotemporal distribution, trend, forecast, or influencing factors of these pollutants. However, rarely studies have combined these to generate a more holistic understanding that can be used to assess air pollution and implement more effective strategies. In this study, we analyze the spatiotemporal distribution, trend, forecast, and factors influencing PM2.5and NO2in Nagasaki Prefecture by using ordinary kriging, pearson's correlation, random forest, mann–kendall, auto-regressive integrated moving average and error trend and seasonal models. The results indicated that PM2.5, due to its long-range transport properties, has a more substantial spatiotemporal variation and affects larger areas in comparison to NO2, which is a local pollutant. Despite tri-national efforts, local regulations and legislation have been effective in reducing NO2concentration but less effective in reducing PM2.5. This multi-method approach provides a holistic understanding of PM2.5and NO2pollution in Nagasaki prefecture, which can aid in implementing more effective pollution management strategies. It can also be implemented in other regions where studies have only focused on one of the aspects of air pollution and where a holistic understanding of air pollution is lacking.
Machine learning and metabolic modelling assisted implementation of a novel process analytical technology in cell and gene therapy manufacturing
Authors: Williams Thomas , Kalinka Kevin , Sanches Rui , Blanchard-Emmerson Greg , Watts Samuel , Davies Lee , Knevelman Carol , McCloskey Laura , Jones Peter , Mitrophanous Kyriacos , Miskin James , Dikicioglu Duygu
Published: January 2023

Process analytical technology (PAT) has demonstrated huge potential to enable the development of improved biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes by ensuring the reliable provision of quality products. However, the complexities associated with the manufacture of advanced therapy medicinal products have resulted in a slow adoption of PAT tools into industrial bioprocessing operations, particularly in the manufacture of cell and gene therapy products. Here we describe the applicability of a novel refractometry-based PAT system (Ranger system), which was used to monitor the metabolic activity of HEK293T cell cultures during lentiviral vector (LVV) production processes in real time. The PAT system was able to rapidly identify a relationship between bioreactor pH and culture metabolic activity and this was used to devise a pH operating strategy that resulted in a 1.8-fold increase in metabolic activity compared to an unoptimised bioprocess in a minimal number of bioreactor experiments; this was achieved using both pre-programmed and autonomous pH control strategies. The increased metabolic activity of the cultures, achieved via the implementation of the PAT technology, was not associated with increased LVV production. We employed a metabolic modelling strategy to elucidate the relationship between these bioprocess level events and HEK293T cell metabolism. The modelling showed that culturing of HEK293T cells in a low pH (pH 6.40) environment directly impacted the intracellular maintenance of pH and the intracellular availability of oxygen. We provide evidence that the elevated metabolic activity was a response to cope with the stress associated with low pH to maintain the favourable intracellular conditions, rather than being indicative of a superior active state of the HEK293T cell culture resulting in enhanced LVV production. Forecasting strategies were used to construct data models which identified that the novel PAT system not only had a direct relationship with process pH but also with oxygen availability; the interaction and interdependencies between these two parameters had a direct effect on the responses observed at the bioprocess level. We present data which indicate that process control and intervention using this novel refractometry-based PAT system has the potential to facilitate the fine tuning and rapid optimisation of the production environment and enable adaptive process control for enhanced process performance and robustness.
One-step preparation of deep eutectic solvents/ reduced graphene oxide composite materials for the removal of dibenzothiophene in fuel oil
Authors: Liu Yue , Su Xiaoping , Cui Yingna , Zhou Xin
Published: January 2023

Deep eutectic solvents (DES)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite materials can remove dibenzothiophene (DBT) from fuel oil by adsorption desulfurization. However, the whole synthesis process is complicated, and the DES/rGO is high-cost and not strong enough, which limits its application in industry. Therefore, a one-step method to produce DES/rGO composite materials is proposed. The performance of desulfurization was studied and the feasibility of industrial application was analyzed. First, the proposed method can improve the single extraction efficiency to 94.8% without a complicated process. Secondly, the DES/rGO can also be reused and recycled. Third, the proposed method overcomes the inconvenient storage and transportation of liquid DES. Finally, the proposed method could effectively reduce the cost of desulphurization in the industry.
Uncovering natural allelic and structural variants of OsCENH3 gene by targeted resequencing and in silico mining in genus Oryza
Authors: Kaur Karminderbir , Neelam Kumari , Singh Jasdeep , Malik Palvi , Singh Kuldeep
Published: January 2023

Plant breeding efforts to boost rice productivity have focused on developing a haploid development pipeline. CENH3 gene has emerged as a leading player that can be manipulated to engineer haploid induction system. Currently, allele mining for the OsCENH3 gene was done by PCR-based resequencing of 33 wild species accessions of genus Oryza and in silico mining of alleles from pre-existing data. We have identified and characterized CENH3 variants in genus Oryza. Our results indicated that the majority CENH3 alleles present in the Oryza gene pool carry synonymous substitutions. A few non-synonymous substitutions occur in the N-terminal Tail domain (NTT). SNP A/G at position 69 was found in accessions of AA genome and non-AA genome species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that non-synonymous substitutions carrying alleles follow pre-determined evolutionary patterns. O. longistaminata accessions carry SNPs in four codons along with indels in introns 3 and 6. Fifteen haplotypes were mined from our panel; representative mutant alleles exhibited structural variations upon modeling. Structural analysis indicated that more than one structural variant may be exhibited by different accessions of single species (Oryza barthii). NTT allelic mutants, though not directly implicated in HI, may show variable interactions. HI and interactive behavior could be ascertained in future investigations.
Investigation of grafting silane coupling agents on superhydrophobicity of carbonyl iron/SiO2 particles for efficient oil/water mixture and emulsion separation
Authors: Rabbani Yahya , Shayesteh Hadi , Haghshenas Nima , Safarzadeh Khosrowshahi Mobin
Published: January 2023

The present study demonstrated the wettability properties of grafting silane coupling agents on carbonyl iron (CI)/SiO2 particles for efficient oil/water mixture and emulsion separation. CI particles were first reacted with Tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) to create a magnetic component. Then, CI/SiO2 particles were altered by 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (FAS) and Hexamethyldisilazane (HDMS) to create magnetic superhydrophobic/superoleophilic, recyclable, and reusable sorbent powders. The water contact angle (WCA) values of the as-prepared particles, CI, CI/SiO2, CI/SiO2@FAS, and CI/SiO2@HMDS, were 5.4° ± 1.3°, 6.4° ± 1.4°, 151.9° ± 2.1°, and 170.1° ± 1.1°, respectively. In addition, the oil contact angles (OCAs) of a variety of oils were found to be equivalent to 0°. Hence, superhydrophobic/superoleophilic particles for kind of different oils were shown sorption capacities of 1.7–3.1 g/g and 2.5–4.3 g/g for CI/SiO2@FAS, and CI/SiO2@HMDS, respectively. Besides, for 1%w/w hexane/water emulsion separation efficiency higher than 99%, the lowest mass was obtained at 50 and 200 mg for CI/SiO2@HDMS and CI/SiO2@HDMS, respectively, suggesting a new effective material for separating tiny oil droplets. Also, the reusability and chemical durability of the superhydrophobic samples made them a prime candidate for use in different harsh conditions.
Effects of a monoclonal antibody against (pro)renin receptor on gliomagenesis
Authors: Fujimori Takeshi , Shibayama Yuki , Kanda Takahiro , Suzuki Kenta , Ogawa Daisuke , Ishikawa Ryou , Kadota Kyuichi , Matsunaga Toru , Tamiya Takashi , Nishiyama Akira , Miyake Keisuke
Published: January 2023

Glioblastoma is characterized by a strong self-renewal potential and poor differentiated state. We have reported previously that the (pro)renin receptor [(P)RR] is a potential target for glioma therapy by silencing the (P)RR gene. Here, we have examined the effects of a monoclonal antibody against (P)RR on gliomagenesis. Human glioma cell lines (U251MG and U87MG) and a glioma stem cell line (MGG23) were used for the in vitro study. The expressions of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway (Wnt signaling pathway) components and stemness markers were measured by Western blotting. The effects of the (P)RR antibody on cell proliferation, sphere formation, apoptosis and migration were also examined. Subcutaneous xenografts were also examined in nude mice. Treatment with the (P)RR antibody reduced expression of Wnt signaling pathway components and stemness markers. Furthermore, the (P)RR antibody reduced cell proliferation and decreased sphere formation significantly. The treatment also suppressed migration and induced apoptosis. In a subcutaneous xenograft model, systemic administration of the (P)RR antibody reduced tumor volume significantly. These data show that treatment with the (P)RR antibody is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating glioblastoma.
The effects of torsion on horizontal motor fusion and stereopsis
Authors: Feng Tongzhu , Li Yueping , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

To investigate the effects of ocular torsion on horizontal motor fusion and stereopsis in normal adults and to probe the effects of torsion on peripheral fusion, macular fusion and foveal fusion. Twenty-five normal adults aged 30–38 were enrolled in this study. During the synoptophore assessment, the break points (BP) and recovery points (RP) of convergent fusion (CF) and divergent fusion (DF) and random-dots stereopsis were measured and analyzed at intorsion and extorsion of 3°, 5°, 7°, and 9°. According to the different sizes of the retinal areas stimulated by the synoptophore slides, fusion was classified into three categories: peripheral fusion (p-F), macular fusion (m-F) and foveal fusion (f-F). The p-F, m-F and f-F were analyzed and compared at the same torsional angle. There were significant differences in BPCF, RPCF, BPDF and RPDF among different torsion angles (ANOVA, P < 0.05). The Tukey's multiple comparison test showed that BPCF and RPCF of p-F, m-F and f-F decreased significantly at extorsion and intorsion ≥ 5°, compared with baseline (0° torsion) (P < 0.05). Compared with the baseline, BP of DF decreased significantly at torsion angles ≥ 3°, ≥ 5° and ≥ 7° for p-F, m-F, and f-F, respectively (P < 0.05), and RP of DF decreased significantly at torsion angles ≥ 5°, ≥ 9° and ≥ 7° for p-F, m-F, and f-F, respectively (P < 0.05). Comparison among p-F, m-F and f-F revealed significant differences only in BPCF at an intorsion of 3°, extorsion of 3° and the baseline (ANOVA, P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in the proportion of subjects with different sizes of RDS at different torsional angles (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.000). Fine stereopsis was damaged with increasing torsion. Torsion within the normal range of cyclofusion affects the horizontal motor fusion of convergent and divergent fusion and stereopsis. Torsion ≥ 5° should be considered during strabismus surgery for regaining fine binocular vision.
Non-reciprocal acoustoelectric microwave amplifiers with net gain and low noise in continuous operation
Authors: Hackett Lisa , Miller Michael , Weatherred Scott , Arterburn Shawn , Storey Matthew J. , Peake Greg , Dominguez Daniel , Finnegan Patrick S. , Friedmann Thomas A. , Eichenfield Matt
Published: January 2023

Piezoelectric acoustic devices that are integrated with semiconductors can leverage the acoustoelectric effect, allowing functionalities such as gain and isolation to be achieved in the acoustic domain. This could lead to performance improvements and miniaturization of radio-frequency electronic systems. However, acoustoelectric amplifiers that offer a large acoustic gain with low power consumption and noise figure at microwave frequencies in continuous operation have not yet been developed. Here we report non-reciprocal acoustoelectric amplifiers that are based on a three-layer heterostructure consisting of an indium gallium arsenide (In0.53Ga0.47As) semiconducting film, a lithium niobate (LiNbO3) piezoelectric film, and a silicon substrate. The heterostructure can continuously generate 28.0 dB of acoustic gain (4.0 dB net radio-frequency gain) for 1 GHz phonons with an acoustic noise figure of 2.8 dB, while dissipating 40.5 mW of d.c. power. We also create a device with an acoustic gain of 37.0 dB (11.3 dB net gain) at 1 GHz with 19.6 mW of d.c. power dissipation and a non-reciprocal transmission of over 55 dB.
Hippocampal dentate gyri proteomics reveals Wnt signaling involvement in the behavioral impairment in the THRSP-overexpressing ADHD mouse model
Authors: Custodio Raly James Perez , Kim Hee Jin , Kim Jiyeon , Ortiz Darlene Mae , Kim Mikyung , Buctot Danilo , Sayson Leandro Val , Lee Hyun Jun , Kim Bung-Nyun , Yi Eugene C. , Cheong Jae Hoon
Published: January 2023

Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with impaired executive function, temporal processing, and visuospatial memory, hallmarks of the predominantly inattentive presentation (ADHD-PI), subserved by the hippocampus. However, the specific genes/proteins involved and how they shape hippocampal structures to influence ADHD behavior remain poorly understood. As an exploratory tool, hippocampal dentate gyri tissues from thyroid hormone-responsive protein overexpressing (THRSP OE) mice with defining characteristics of ADHD-PI were utilized in proteomics. Integrated proteomics and network analysis revealed an altered protein network involved in Wnt signaling. Compared with THRSP knockout (KO) mice, THRSP OE mice showed impaired attention and memory, accompanied by dysregulated Wnt signaling affecting hippocampal dentate gyrus cell proliferation and expression of markers for neural stem cell (NSC) activity. Also, combined exposure to an enriched environment and treadmill exercise could improve behavioral deficits in THRSP OE mice and Wnt signaling and NSC activity. These findings show new markers specific to the ADHD-PI presentation, converging with the ancient and evolutionary Wnt signaling pathways crucial for cell fate determination, migration, polarity, and neural patterning during neurodevelopment. These findings from THRSP OE mice support the role of Wnt signaling in neurological disorders, particularly ADHD-PI presentation.
Insights into pyrrolysine function from structures of a trimethylamine methyltransferase and its corrinoid protein complex
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Kang Patrick T. , Jiang Ruisheng , Lee Jodie Y. , Soares Jitesh A. , Krzycki Joseph A. , Chan Michael K.
Published: January 2023

The 22nd genetically encoded amino acid, pyrrolysine, plays a unique role in the key step in the growth of methanogens on mono-, di-, and tri-methylamines by activating the methyl group of these substrates for transfer to a corrinoid cofactor. Previous crystal structures of the Methanosarcina barkeri monomethylamine methyltransferase elucidated the structure of pyrrolysine and provide insight into its role in monomethylamine activation. Herein, we report the second structure of a pyrrolysine-containing protein, the M. barkeri trimethylamine methyltransferase MttB, and its structure bound to sulfite, a substrate analog of trimethylamine. We also report the structure of MttB in complex with its cognate corrinoid protein MttC, which specifically receives the methyl group from the pyrrolysine-activated trimethylamine substrate during methanogenesis. Together these structures provide key insights into the role of pyrrolysine in methyl group transfer from trimethylamine to the corrinoid cofactor in MttC.
Satellite-based quantum information networks: use cases, architecture, and roadmap
Authors: de Forges de Parny Laurent , Alibart Olivier , Debaud Julien , Gressani Sacha , Lagarrigue Alek , Martin Anthony , Metrat Alexandre , Schiavon Matteo , Troisi Tess , Diamanti Eleni , Gélard Patrick , Kerstel Erik , Tanzilli Sébastien , Van Den Bossche Mathias
Published: January 2023

Quantum Information Networks (QINs) attract increasing interest, as they enable connecting quantum devices over long distances, thus greatly enhancing their intrinsic computing, sensing, and security capabilities. The core mechanism of a QIN is quantum state teleportation, consuming quantum entanglement, which can be seen in this context as a new kind of network resource. Here we identify use cases per activity sector, including key performance targets, as a reference for the network requirements. We then define a high-level architecture of a generic QIN, before focusing on the architecture of the Space segment, with the aim of identifying the main design drivers and critical elements. A survey of the state-of-the-art of these critical elements is presented, as are issues related to standardisation. Finally, we explain our roadmap to developing the first QINs and detail the already concluded first step, the design and numerical simulation of a Space-to-ground entanglement distribution demonstrator.
Visual detection of Cronobacter sakazakii on a microfluidic chip fabricated by a 3D molding method
Authors: Chen Xu , Ma Yue , Miao Shuangyu , Li Dongnan , Zhang Ye
Published: January 2023

PDMS microfluidic chips were fabricated using a 3D molding method and a multiplex CAMP assay was proposed on the chip for the visual detection of C. sakazakii in powdered infant formula.
A fluorescent aptasensor for ATP based on functional DNAzyme/walker and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-assisted formation of DNA-AgNCs
Authors: Cai Shixin , Chen Xin , Chen Haohan , Zhang Yuting , Wang Xiaoli , Zhou Nandi
Published: January 2023

Combination of split aptamer and DNAzyme/walker with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-assisted formation of DNA-AgNCs to construct a fluorescence biosensor for ATP.
Quantitative determination of voriconazole by thionine reduction and its potential application in a pharmaceutical and clinical setting
Authors: Ladetto María Florencia , Lázaro-Martínez Juan Manuel , Devoto Tomás Brito , Briceño Víctor J. , Castro Guillermo R. , Cuestas María Luján
Published: January 2023

Quantification of voriconazole (VCZ) by visible spectrophotometry based on the VCZ-induced reduction of thionine (red) to leucothionine (colorless) under alkaline conditions.
Bifunctional role of PDMS membrane in designing humidity-tolerant H2S chemiresistors with high selectivity
Authors: Zhang Ruofan , Deng Zanhong , Chang Junqing , Zhao Zhongyao , Wang Shimao , Meng Gang
Published: January 2023

An approach to address the humidity interference/poisoning and selectivity issue of oxide chemiresistors by conformally coating a PDMS layer.
Nitrene transfer reaction with hydroxylamine derivatives
Authors: Gao Yang , Li Haixia , Zhao Yupeng , Hu Xiao-Qiang
Published: January 2023

Recent progress on catalytic nitrene transfer reactions with hydroxylamine derivatives as prevalent precursors is summarized in this highlight.
N,N′-octyl biphenothiazine and dibenzothiophene dioxide-based soluble porous organic polymer for biphasic photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Sarkar Madhurima , Patra Abhijit
Published: January 2023

The fabrication of a donor–acceptor based soluble porous organic polymer via smart tuning of the rigidity and flexibility for aqueous-organic biphasic photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
A zwitterionic disilanylium from an unsymmetrical disilene
Authors: Bisai Milan Kumar , Ajithkumar V. S. , Raj K. Vipin , Vanka Kumar , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Sen Sakya S.
Published: January 2023

The reaction of PhC(NtBu)2SiSi(SiMe3)3 (1) with Me3SiCH2Cl afforded an unsymmetrical sp2–sp3 disilene, 2, which underwent divergent reactivities with chalcogens.
Quasi-intrinsic fluorescent probes for detecting the DNA adduct (ABPdG) based on an excited-state intermolecular charge transfer mechanism
Authors: Duan Lingjie , Zhang Xiao , Zhao Yu , Meng Qingtian , Zhang Changzhe
Published: January 2023

N′-(2′-Deoxyguanosin-8-yl)-4-aminobiphenyl (ABPdG) is one of the most representative carcinogenic DNA adducts formed by human exposure to 4-aminobiphenyl (4-ABP) during dye production, rubber-manufacturing processes and cigarette smoke.
The effect of perovskite interface contacts on hysteresis behavior in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Minbashi Mehran , Yazdani Elnaz
Published: January 2023

The ionic-electronic drift-diffusion model is employed to simulate the hysteresis behavior in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) under low-to-moderate conditions; the migrating ions stop at the HTL/ETL interfaces.
Biphenylene network as sodium ion battery anode material
Authors: Chen Xin-Wei , Lin Zheng-Zhe , Li Xi-Mei
Published: January 2023

Biphenylene network as sodium ion battery anode material.
Conformational preference analysis in C2H6 using orbital forces and non-covalent interactions; comparison with related systems
Authors: Novoa Trinidad , Contreras-García Julia , Chaquin Patrick
Published: January 2023

The orbital forces reveal the origins (attractive/repulsive, Sigma/pi) of the conformational preference and their relative weights.
Role of solvophilic moieties of gelators in the thermal stability of organogels
Authors: Nishiyama Katsura , Ezaki Kei , Tsukada Kyohei , Kinoshita Masaru , Watanabe Keisuke , Katsumoto Yukiteru
Published: January 2023

Solvophilic parts of gelators play a key role in the thermal stability of organogels – determined with Hansen solubility parameters.
Computational and experimental studies of the wide bandgap semiconductors NH4TiOF3 and (NH4)2TiOF4
Authors: Lei Bingyu , Warren Lisette , Morrison Carole , Kerherve Gwilherm , Skinner William S. J. , Payne David J. , Robertson Neil
Published: January 2023

Both NH4TiOF3 and (NH4)2TiOF4 were studied experimentally and computationally as potential candidates for semiconductor applications. This was exemplified using immobilised NH4TiOF3 for photodegradation of organic dyes.
An EPR study on the radiolysis of isolated ethanol molecules in solid argon and xenon: matrix control of radiation-induced generation of radicals in cryogenic media
Authors: Zasimov Pavel V. , Sanochkina Elizaveta V. , Tyurin Daniil A. , Feldman Vladimir I.
Published: January 2023

The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies of radicals produced by irradiation of isolated ethanol molecules in solid Ar and Xe matrices at 7 K reveal the remarkable matrix effect on primary processes.
Exciton–polariton light-emitting diode based on a single ZnO superlattice microwire heterojunction with performance enhanced by Rh nanostructures
Authors: Xu Haiying , Xu Juan , Jiang Mingming , Liu Maosheng , Tang Kai , Kan Caixia , Shi Daning
Published: January 2023

Electrically driven exciton–polariton LED based on a n-ZnO/ZnO:Ga MW/p-GaN heterojunction was realized, with the EL properties enhanced by cladding with Rh nanostructures.
Tunable magnetic and electronic properties of armchair BeN4 nanoribbons
Authors: Zhu Mingrui , Zhou Wanxin , Yang Jiangtao , Zhou Jian , Li Qingfang
Published: January 2023

BeN4 nanoribbons demonstrate various magnetic configurations (AFM, FM, and FIM) and rich electronic properties including semiconductor, nearly half-metallic, and metallic characters.
Surely you are joking, Mr Docking!
Authors: Gentile F. , Oprea T. I. , Tropsha A. , Cherkasov A.
Published: January 2023

In the wake of recent COVID-19 pandemics scientists around the world rushed to deliver numerous CADD (Computer-Aided Drug Discovery) methods and tools that could be reliably used to discover novel drug candidates against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.