bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered sleep spindles and slow waves during space shuttle missions
Authors: Koller Dominik P. , Kasanin Vida , Flynn-Evans Erin E. , Sullivan Jason P. , Dijk Derk-Jan , Czeisler Charles A. , Barger Laura K.
Published: November 2021

Sleep deficiencies and associated performance decrements are common among astronauts during spaceflight missions. Previously, sleep in space was analyzed with a focus on global measures while the intricate structure of sleep oscillations remains largely unexplored. This study extends previous findings by analyzing how spaceflight affects characteristics of sleep spindles and slow waves, two sleep oscillations associated with sleep quality and quantity, in four astronauts before, during and after two Space Shuttle missions. Analysis of these oscillations revealed significantly increased fast spindle density, elevated slow spindle frequency, and decreased slow wave amplitude in space compared to on Earth. These results reflect sleep characteristics during spaceflight on a finer electrophysiological scale and provide an opportunity for further research on sleep in space.
Combination of human endothelial colony-forming cells and mesenchymal stromal cells exert neuroprotective effects in the growth-restricted newborn
Authors: Chand Kirat K. , Patel Jatin , Bjorkman S. T. , Sim Seen-Ling , Miller Stephanie M. , Teo Elliot , Jones Lara , Sun Jane , Colditz Paul B. , Khosrotehrani Kiarash , Wixey Julie A.
Published: November 2021

The foetal brain is particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of foetal growth restriction (FGR) with subsequent abnormal neurodevelopment being common. There are no current treatments to protect the FGR newborn from lifelong neurological disorders. This study examines whether pure foetal mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFC) from the human term placenta are neuroprotective through modulating neuroinflammation and supporting the brain vasculature. We determined that one dose of combined MSC-ECFCs (cECFC; 106 ECFC 106 MSC) on the first day of life to the newborn FGR piglet improved damaged vasculature, restored the neurovascular unit, reduced brain inflammation and improved adverse neuronal and white matter changes present in the FGR newborn piglet brain. These findings could not be reproduced using MSCs alone. These results demonstrate cECFC treatment exerts beneficial effects on multiple cellular components in the FGR brain and may act as a neuroprotectant.
Comparative analysis of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)-based assays for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 genes
Authors: Urrutia-Cabrera Daniel , Liou Roxanne Hsiang-Chi , Wang Jiang-Hui , Chan Jianxiong , Hung Sandy Shen-Chi , Hewitt Alex W. , Martin Keith R. , Edwards Thomas L. , Kwan Patrick , Wong Raymond Ching-Bong
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has infected millions worldwide, therefore there is an urgent need to increase our diagnostic capacity to identify infected cases. Although RT-qPCR remains the gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 detection, this method requires specialised equipment in a diagnostic laboratory and has a long turn-around time to process the samples. To address this, several groups have recently reported the development of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) as a simple, low cost and rapid method for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Herein we present a comparative analysis of three LAMP-based assays that target different regions of the SARS-CoV-2: ORF1ab RdRP, ORF1ab nsp3 and Gene N. We perform a detailed assessment of their sensitivity, kinetics and false positive rates for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics in LAMP or RT-LAMP reactions, using colorimetric or fluorescent detection. Our results independently validate that all three assays can detect SARS-CoV-2 in 30 min, with robust accuracy at detecting as little as 1000 RNA copies and the results can be visualised simply by color changes. Incorporation of RT-LAMP with fluorescent detection further increases the detection sensitivity to as little as 100 RNA copies. We also note the shortcomings of some LAMP-based assays, including variable results with shorter reaction time or lower load of SARS-CoV-2, and false positive results in some experimental conditions and clinical saliva samples. Overall for RT-LAMP detection, the ORF1ab RdRP and ORF1ab nsp3 assays have faster kinetics for detection but varying degrees of false positives detection, whereas the Gene N assay exhibits no false positives in 30 min reaction time, which highlights the importance of optimal primer design to minimise false-positives in RT-LAMP. This study provides validation of the performance of LAMP-based assays as a rapid, highly sensitive detection method for SARS-CoV-2, which have important implications in development of point-of-care diagnostics for SARS-CoV-2.
Tumor volume and tumor crossing of the axial renal midline predict renal function after robotic partial nephrectomy
Authors: Ohsugi Haruyuki , Akiyama Kyojiro , Taniguchi Hisanori , Yanishi Masaaki , Sugi Motohiko , Matsuda Tadashi , Kinoshita Hidefumi
Published: November 2021

There are several nephrometry scoring systems for predicting surgical complexity and potential perioperative morbidity. The R.E.N.A.L. scoring system, one of the most well-known nephrometry scoring systems, emphasizes the features on which it is based (Radius, Exophytic/endophytic, Nearness to collecting system or sinus, Anterior/posterior, and Location relative to polar lines). The ability of these nephrometry scoring systems to predict loss of renal function after robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) remains controversial. Therefore, we verified which combination of factors from nephrometry scoring systems, including tumor volume, was the most significant predictor of postoperative renal function. Patients who underwent RPN for cT1 renal tumors in our hospital were reviewed retrospectively (n = 163). The preoperative clinical data (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR], comorbidities, and nephrometry scoring systems including R.E.N.A.L.) and perioperative outcomes were evaluated. We also calculated the tumor volume using the equation applied to an ellipsoid by three-dimensional computed tomography. The primary outcome was reduced eGFR, which was defined as an eGFR reduction of ≥ 20% from baseline to 6 months after RPN. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between preoperative variables and reduced eGFR. Of 163 patients, 24 (14.7%) had reduced eGFR. Multivariable analyses indicated that tumor volume (cutoff value ≥ 14.11 cm3, indicating a sphere with a diameter ≥ approximately 3 cm) and tumor crossing of the axial renal midline were independent factors associated with a reduced eGFR (odds ratio [OR] 4.57; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.69–12.30; P = 0.003 and OR 3.50; 95% CI 1.30–9.46; P = 0.034, respectively). Our classification system using these two factors showed a higher area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) than previous nephrometry scoring systems (AUC = 0.786 vs. 0.653–0.719), and it may provide preoperative information for counseling patients about renal function after RPN.
Mathematical models for thermionic emission current density of graphene emitter
Authors: Olawole Olukunle C. , De Dilip K. , Oyedepo Sunday O. , Ezema Fabian I.
Published: November 2021

In this study, five mathematical models were fitted in the absence of space charge with experimental data to find a more appropriate model and predict the emission current density of the graphene-based thermionic energy converter accurately. Modified Richardson Dushman model (MRDE) shows that TEC's electron emission depends on temperature, Fermi energy, work function, and coefficient of thermal expansion. Lowest Least square value of $$S=\sum {\left({J}_{th}-{J}_{exp}\right)}^{2}=0.0002 \,\text{A}^{2}/\text{m}^{4}$$

S
=
∑

J

th

-

J

exp

2

=
0.0002

A
2

/

m
4

makes MRDE most suitable in modelling the emission current density of the graphene-based TEC over the other four tested models. The developed MRDE can be adopted in predicting the current emission density of two-dimensional materials and also future graphene-based TEC response.
Development of an orally delivered GLP-1 receptor agonist through peptide engineering and drug delivery to treat chronic disease
Authors: Pechenov Sergei , Revell Jefferson , Will Sarah , Naylor Jacqueline , Tyagi Puneet , Patel Chandresh , Liang Lihuan , Tseng Leo , Huang Yue , Rosenbaum Anton I. , Balic Kemal , Konkar Anish , Grimsby Joseph , Subramony J. Anand
Published: November 2021

Peptide therapeutics are increasingly used in the treatment of disease, but their administration by injection reduces patient compliance and convenience, especially for chronic diseases. Thus, oral administration of a peptide therapeutic represents a significant advance in medicine, but is challenged by gastrointestinal instability and ineffective uptake into the circulation. Here, we have used glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) as a model peptide therapeutic for treating obesity-linked type 2 diabetes, a common chronic disease. We describe a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach leading to the development of MEDI7219, a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) specifically engineered for oral delivery. Sites of protease/peptidase vulnerabilities in GLP-1 were removed by amino acid substitution and the peptide backbone was bis-lipidated to promote MEDI7219 reversible plasma protein binding without affecting potency. A combination of sodium chenodeoxycholate and propyl gallate was used to enhance bioavailability of MEDI7219 at the site of maximal gastrointestinal absorption, targeted by enteric-coated tablets. This synergistic approach resulted in MEDI7219 bioavailability of ~ 6% in dogs receiving oral tablets. In a dog model of obesity and insulin resistance, MEDI7219 oral tablets significantly decreased food intake, body weight and glucose excursions, validating the approach. This novel approach to the development of MEDI7219 provides a template for the development of other oral peptide therapeutics.
Health impacts of air pollution exposure from 1990 to 2019 in 43 European countries
Authors: Juginović Alen , Vuković Miro , Aranza Ivan , Biloš Valentina
Published: November 2021

Air pollution is the fourth greatest overall risk factor for human health. Despite declining levels in Europe, air pollution still represents a major health and economic burden. We collected data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 regarding overall, as well as ischemic heart disease (IHD), stroke, and tracheal, bronchus and lung cancer-specific disability adjusted life years (DALYs), years of life lost (YLL) and mortality attributable to air pollution for 43 European countries between 1990 and 2019. Concentrations of ambient particulate matter (aPM2.5), ozone, and household air pollution from solid fuels were obtained from State of Global Air 2020. We analysed changes in air pollution parameters, as well as DALYs, YLL, and mortality related to air pollution, also taking into account gross national income (GNI) and socio-demographic index (SDI). Using a novel calculation, aPM2.5 ratio (PMR) change and DALY rate ratio (DARR) change were used to assess each country’s ability to decrease its aPM2.5 pollution and DALYs to at least the extent of the European median decrease within the analysed period. Finally, we created a multiple regression model for reliably predicting YLL using aPM2.5 and household air pollution. The average annual population-weighted aPM2.5 exposure in Europe in 1990 was 20.8 μg/m3 (95% confidence interval (CI) 18.3–23.2), while in 2019 it was 33.7% lower at 13.8 μg/m3 (95% CI 12.0–15.6). There were in total 368 006 estimated deaths in Europe in 2019 attributable to air pollution, a 42.4% decrease compared to 639 052 in 1990. The majority (90.4%) of all deaths were associated with aPM2.5. IHD was the primary cause of death making up 44.6% of all deaths attributable to air pollution. The age-standardised DALY rate and YLL rate attributable to air pollution were more than 60% lower in 2019 compared to 1990. There was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.911) between YLL rate and aPM2.5 pollution in 2019 in Europe. Our multiple regression model predicts that for 10% increase in aPM2.5, YLL increases by 16.7%. Furthermore, 26 of 43 European countries had a positive DARR change. 31 of 43 European countries had a negative PMR change, thus not keeping up with the European median aPM2.5 concentration decrease. When categorising countries by SDI and GNI, countries in the higher brackets had significantly lower aPM2.5 concentration and DALY rate for IHD and stroke. Overall, air pollution levels, air pollution-related morbidity and mortality have decreased considerably in Europe in the last three decades. However, with the growing European population, air pollution remains an important public health and economic issue. Policies targeting air pollution reduction should continue to be strongly enforced to further reduce one of the greatest risk factors for human health.
MTAP-related increased erythroblast proliferation as a mechanism of polycythaemia vera
Authors: Tipgomut Chartsiam , Khuhapinant Archrob , Wilson Marieangela C. , Poldee Saiphon , Heesom Kate J. , Metheetrairut Chanatip , Sripichai Orapan , Mitrpant Chalermchai , Frayne Jan , Trakarnsanga Kongtana
Published: November 2021

Polycythaemia vera (PV) is a haematological disorder caused by an overproduction of erythroid cells. To date, the molecular mechanisms involved in the disease pathogenesis are still ambiguous. This study aims to identify aberrantly expressed proteins in erythroblasts of PV patients by utilizing mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis. Haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) were isolated from newly-diagnosed PV patients, PV patients who have received cytoreductive therapy, and healthy subjects. In vitro erythroblast expansion confirmed that the isolated HSCs recapitulated the disease phenotype as the number of erythroblasts from newly-diagnosed PV patients was significantly higher than those from the other groups. Proteomic comparison revealed 17 proteins that were differentially expressed in the erythroblasts from the newly-diagnosed PV patients compared to those from healthy subjects, but which were restored to normal levels in the patients who had received cytoreductive therapy. One of these proteins was S-methyl-5′-thioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP), which had reduced expression in PV patients’ erythroblasts. Furthermore, MTAP knockdown in normal erythroblasts was shown to enhance their proliferative capacity. Together, this study identifies differentially expressed proteins in erythroblasts of healthy subjects and those of PV patients, indicating that an alteration of protein expression in erythroblasts may be crucial to the pathology of PV.
Unidirectional Kondo scattering in layered NbS2
Authors: Martino Edoardo , Putzke Carsten , König Markus , Moll Philip J. W. , Berger Helmuth , LeBoeuf David , Leroux Maxime , Proust Cyril , Akrap Ana , Kirmse Holm , Koch Christoph , Zhang ShengNan , Wu QuanSheng , Yazyev Oleg V. , Forró László , Semeniuk Konstantin
Published: November 2021

Crystalline defects can modify quantum interactions in solids, causing unintuitive, even favourable, properties such as quantum Hall effect or superconducting vortex pinning. Here we present another example of this notion—an unexpected unidirectional Kondo scattering in single crystals of 2H-NbS2. This manifests as a pronounced low-temperature enhancement in the out-of-plane resistivity and thermopower below 40 K, hidden for the in-plane charge transport. The anomaly can be suppressed by the c-axis-oriented magnetic field, but is unaffected by field applied along the planes. The magnetic moments originate from layers of 1T-NbS2, which inevitably form during the growth, undergoing a charge-density-wave reconstruction with each superlattice cell (David-star-shaped cluster of Nb atoms) hosting a localised spin. Our results demonstrate the unique and highly anisotropic response of a spontaneously formed Kondo-lattice heterostructure, intercalated in a layered conductor.
Mapping the irrecoverable carbon in Earth’s ecosystems
Authors: Noon Monica L. , Goldstein Allie , Ledezma Juan Carlos , Roehrdanz Patrick R. , Cook-Patton Susan C. , Spawn-Lee Seth A. , Wright Timothy Maxwell , Gonzalez-Roglich Mariano , Hole David G. , Rockström Johan , Turner Will R.
Published: November 2021

Avoiding catastrophic climate change requires rapid decarbonization and improved ecosystem stewardship at a planetary scale. The carbon released through the burning of fossil fuels would take millennia to regenerate on Earth. Though the timeframe of carbon recovery for ecosystems such as peatlands, mangroves and old-growth forests is shorter (centuries), this timeframe still exceeds the time we have remaining to avoid the worst impacts of global warming. There are some natural places that we cannot afford to lose due to their irreplaceable carbon reserves. Here we map ‘irrecoverable carbon’ globally to identify ecosystem carbon that remains within human purview to manage and, if lost, could not be recovered by mid-century, by when we need to reach net-zero emissions to avoid the worst climate impacts. Since 2010, agriculture, logging and wildfire have caused emissions of at least 4.0 Gt of irrecoverable carbon. The world’s remaining 139.1 ± 443.6 Gt of irrecoverable carbon faces risks from land-use conversion and climate change. These risks can be reduced through proactive protection and adaptive management. Currently, 23.0% of irrecoverable carbon is within protected areas and 33.6% is managed by Indigenous peoples and local communities. Half of Earth’s irrecoverable carbon is concentrated on just 3.3% of its land, highlighting opportunities for targeted efforts to increase global climate security.
Role of sleep deprivation in immune-related disease risk and outcomes
Authors: Garbarino Sergio , Lanteri Paola , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Magnavita Nicola , Scoditti Egeria
Published: November 2021

Modern societies are experiencing an increasing trend of reduced sleep duration, with nocturnal sleeping time below the recommended ranges for health. Epidemiological and laboratory studies have demonstrated detrimental effects of sleep deprivation on health. Sleep exerts an immune-supportive function, promoting host defense against infection and inflammatory insults. Sleep deprivation has been associated with alterations of innate and adaptive immune parameters, leading to a chronic inflammatory state and an increased risk for infectious/inflammatory pathologies, including cardiometabolic, neoplastic, autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we review recent advancements on the immune responses to sleep deprivation as evidenced by experimental and epidemiological studies, the pathophysiology, and the role for the sleep deprivation-induced immune changes in increasing the risk for chronic diseases. Gaps in knowledge and methodological pitfalls still remain. Further understanding of the causal relationship between sleep deprivation and immune deregulation would help to identify individuals at risk for disease and to prevent adverse health outcomes.
Construction of poly-N-heterocyclic scaffolds via the controlled reactivity of Cu-allenylidene intermediates
Authors: Gannarapu Malla Reddy , Imai Takanori , Iwaki Kentaro , Tsuzuki Seiji , Shibata Norio
Published: November 2021

Controlling the sequence of the three consecutive reactive carbon centres of Cu-allenylidene remains a challenge. One of the impressive achievements in this area is the Cu-catalyzed annulation of 4-ethynyl benzoxazinanones, which are transformed into zwitterionic Cu-stabilized allenylidenes that are trapped by interceptors to provide the annulation products. In principle, the reaction proceeds via a preferential γ-attack, while annulation reactions via an α- or β-attack are infrequent. Herein, we describe a method for controlling the annulation mode, by the manipulation of a CF3 or CH3 substituent, to make it proceed via either a γ-attack or an α- or β-attack. The annulation of CF3-substituted substrates with sulfamate-imines furnished densely functionalized N-heterocycles with excellent enantioselectivity via a cascade of an internal β-attack and an external α-attack. CH3-variants were transformed into different heterocycles that possess a spiral skeleton, via a cascade of an internal β-attack and a hydride α-migration followed by a Diels−Alder reaction.
Contact spacing controls the on-current for all-carbon field effect transistors
Authors: Özdemir Ali Deniz , Barua Pramit , Pyatkov Felix , Hennrich Frank , Chen Yuan , Wenzel Wolfgang , Krupke Ralph , Fediai Artem
Published: November 2021

All-carbon field-effect transistors, which combine carbon nanotubes and graphene hold great promise for many applications such as digital logic devices and single-photon emitters. However, the understanding of the physical properties of carbon nanotube (CNT)/graphene hybrid systems in such devices remained limited. In this combined experimental and theoretical study, we use a quantum transport model for field-effect transistors based on graphene electrodes and CNT channels to explain the experimentally observed low on currents. We find that large graphene/CNT spacing and short contact lengths limit the device performance. We have also elucidated in this work the experimentally observed ambipolar transport behavior caused by the flat conduction- and valence-bands and describe non-ideal gate-control of the contacts and channel region by the quantum capacitance of graphene and the carbon nanotube. We hope that our insights will accelerate the design of efficient all-carbon field-effect transistors.
Predicting synthesizability of crystalline materials via deep learning
Authors: Davariashtiyani Ali , Kadkhodaie Zahra , Kadkhodaei Sara
Published: November 2021

Predicting the synthesizability of hypothetical crystals is challenging because of the wide range of parameters that govern materials synthesis. Yet, exploring the exponentially large space of novel crystals for any future application demands an accurate predictive capability for synthesis likelihood to avoid a haphazard trial-and-error. Typically, benchmarks of synthesizability are defined based on the energy of crystal structures. Here, we take an alternative approach to select features of synthesizability from the latent information embedded in crystalline materials. We represent the atomic structure of crystalline materials by three-dimensional pixel-wise images that are color-coded by their chemical attributes. The image representation of crystals enables the use of a convolutional encoder to learn the features of synthesizability hidden in structural and chemical arrangements of crystalline materials. Based on the presented model, we can accurately classify materials into synthesizable crystals versus crystal anomalies across a broad range of crystal structure types and chemical compositions. We illustrate the usefulness of the model by predicting the synthesizability of hypothetical crystals for battery electrode and thermoelectric applications.
Drivers of the evolution and amplitude of African Humid Periods
Authors: Menviel Laurie , Govin Aline , Avenas Arthur , Meissner Katrin J. , Grant Katharine M. , Tzedakis Polychronis C.
Published: November 2021

During orbital precession minima, the Sahara was humid and more vegetated, providing potential corridors for Hominins migration. Uncertainties remain over the climatic processes controlling the initiation, demise and amplitude of these African Humid Periods. Here we study these processes using a series of transient simulations of the penultimate deglaciation and Last Interglacial period, and compare the results with a transient simulation of the last deglaciation and Holocene. We find that the strengthening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation at the end of deglacial millennial-scale events exerts a dominant control on the abrupt initiation of African Humid Periods as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation modulates the position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. In addition, residual Northern Hemispheric ice-sheets can delay the peak of the African Humid Period. Through its impact on Northern Hemispheric ice-sheets disintegration and thus Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, the larger rate of insolation increase during the penultimate compared to the last deglaciation can explain the earlier and more abrupt onset of the African Humid Period during the Last Interglacial period. Finally, we show that the mean climate state modulates precipitation variability, with higher variability under wetter background conditions.
Industrial Wastewater and Its Toxic Effects
Authors: Ahmed Jebin , Thakur Abhijeet , Goyal Arun
Published: November 2021

The increased population has led to an increase in the demand for goods which in turn has caused rapid industrialization. In turn, the increase in industrial set-ups has led to the increased production of industrial wastes. These industrial wastes cause major environmental havoc by polluting the water, air and soil. The quality and quantity of wastewater generated depends on the type of industry: it can contain non-biodegradable waste such as heavy metals, pesticides, plastic etc. and biodegradable compounds such as paper, leather, wool etc. Industrial wastewater can be toxic, reactive, carcinogenic or ignitable. Therefore, without proper treatment and management strategies, the discharging of the waste into water bodies can pose dreadful environmental and health effects. Several waterborne pathogens proliferate in wastewater and produce toxins, affecting the earth's ecosystem and human health. The toxins in industrial wastewater cause acute poisoning, immune system suppression and reproductive failure. According to the WHO, around 80% of diseases are waterborne. To address the environmental and health issues created by industrial wastewater, it is absolutely necessary to obliterate its toxicity by adequate treatment with physical, chemical and biological means so that it can be recycled for water conservation.
Different Types of Advanced Bioreactors for the Treatment of Industrial Effluents
Authors: Ghime Damodhar , Ghosh Prabir
Published: November 2021

The treatment of industrial effluent is significant for the protection of both ecology and human health. Various technologies have been developed for the treatment of industrial effluent. Among these technologies, the biological treatment process is one of them. Despite their longer operating times, biological therapies are cost-effective compared to other treatment methods. Thus, special attention should be given to the design of different advanced bioreactors, the shortcomings of those bioprocesses, and their performance characteristics. Advanced bioreactors include models such as the sequencing batch biofilm reactor, stirred tank bioreactor to packed bed, moving bed, fluidized, semi-fluidized and inverse fluidized bed, sludge bed and downflow fixed bed/film bioreactors. Sometimes, membrane-based technology can also be used with these designs. This chapter discusses the different systems of advanced bioreactors, mainly sequencing batch, aerobic and anaerobic stirred tank, fixed and fluidized bed reactors. The discussion has also been extended to the use of the membrane technology with bioreactor designs and all possible integrated approaches for improving the process efficiency.
Membrane Bioreactors: An Advanced Technology to Treat Industrial Waste Water
Authors: Ray Paramita , Polisetti Veerababu , Singh Puyam Sobhindro
Published: November 2021

Industrialization is an inevitable part of the advancement of human civilization. While industrialization can have a positive effect in controlling the economy of a country, it can have a major negative effect on society, i.e. via environmental pollution. Industrial waste water, i.e. the water that has been used as part of making a commercial product, may contain organics, inorganics (heavy metals), pathogens, nutrients etc. and should be treated very carefully before being discharged into water bodies; otherwise it may pollute receiving water sources and cause a great threat to aquatic life and hence to the total life cycle. Among several techniques for treating industrial waste water, Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) have been established as the most advanced and viable technology. An MBR is a suspended growth activated sludge system that utilizes microfiltration or ultrafiltration membranes for solid–liquid separation instead of using a secondary clarifier. It has several advantages, such as steady permeate quality, smaller footprint, reduced sludge production, independent control of solids and hydraulic retention time, operation at higher mixed liquor suspended solid concentrations and better effluent quality. The present chapter describes the working principles of a MBR, the different types, details of the membranes used in an MBR and their applications in treating industrial waste water.
Membrane Bioreactors for Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Das Ranjana , Bhattacharjee Chiranjib
Published: November 2021

A membrane bioreactor (MBR) is a robust device in the biological wastewater treatment field, which has been applied in treating municipal as well as industrial wastewater, with its distinct advantages such as high treatment efficiency, small footprint, simpler operation, as well as high-quality solid-free effluent. MBR technology is well recognized as a promising alternative to the conventional activated sludge (CAS) process of wastewater treatment. MBRs provide the prospect of producing high-quality effluent for sensitive receiving water bodies and offers water recycling and reuse benefits. The MBR has also been categorised as the perfect pre-treatment operation in industrial applications as an alternative to nanofiltration or the reverse osmosis process. The advanced MBR technology has the potency to be applied both in municipal and industrial waste water treatment with optimization of operational cost and superior effluent quality. This chapter presents a comprehensive review of MBR technology, advanced and hybrid membrane bioreactor devices, and applications of MBR in major high-strength industrial wastewater treatment sectors, highlighting treatment performances, membrane-fouling control strategies, hybrid MBR systems for enhanced treatment performance, and MBR life-cycle assessment in various applications.
Ferrocene metallopolymers of intrinsic microporosity (MPIMs)
Authors: Zhai Tianran , Ambrose Kenson , Nyayachavadi Audithya , Walter Kelly G. , Rondeau-Gagné Simon , Feldblyum Jeremy I.
Published: November 2021

Ferrocene-containing polymers can simultaneously possess porosity, solubility, and intrachain electronic communication.
Metal-dependent selective formation of calix[4]arene assemblies based on dynamic covalent chemistry
Authors: Sakata Yoko , Tsuyuki Ryo , Sugimoto Shingo , Akine Shigehisa
Published: November 2021

Two imine-based calix[4]arene assemblies were selectively formed by changing the conformation of the precursor by Na+ binding; the flattened and spread cone conformations gave a macrocyclic trimer and a capsular-shaped dimeric cage, respectively.
Concise synthesis and applications of enantiopure spirobiphenoxasilin-diol and its related chiral ligands
Authors: Yang Lei , Xu Wen-Qiang , Liu Tao , Wu Yichen , Wang Biqin , Wang Peng
Published: November 2021

The development of chiral architectures for chiral ligand and catalyst discovery is essential for asymmetric catalysis. Herein, we report the concise synthesis of a Si-centered spirocyclic skeleton, spirobiphenoxasilin-diol (SPOSiOL), and its derived chiral ligands.
Unusual chalcogen⋯chalcogen interactions in like⋯like and unlike YCY⋯YCY complexes (Y = O, S, and Se)
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud A. A. , Shehata Mohammed N. I. , Soliman Mahmoud E. S. , Moustafa Mahmoud F. , El-Mageed H. R. Abd , Moussa Nayra A. M.
Published: November 2021

Chalcogen⋯chalcogen interactions were divided into four types of like⋯like and unlike YCY⋯YCY complexes (where Y = O, S, or Se).
Theoretical probing of twenty-coordinate actinide-centered boron molecular drums
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhang Nai-Xin , Wang Cong-Zhi , Wu Qun-Yan , Lan Jian-Hui , Chai Zhi-Fang , Nie Chang-Ming , Shi Wei-Qun
Published: November 2021

DFT calculations demonstrated that An@B20 (An = U, Np, and Pu) are twenty-coordinated boron molecular drums, and the An–B bond covalency dominates the stability.
Synthesis and optical properties of N→Ga coordinated gallium boroxines
Authors: Milasheuskaya Yaraslava , Schwarz Jiří , Dostál Libor , Růžičková Zdenka , Bouška Marek , Olmrová Zmrhalová Zuzana , Syrový Tomáš , Jambor Roman
Published: November 2021

Molecular gallium boroxine was used for the deposition of transparent thin layers by spin coating and gravure printing. The optical properties of thin layers are similar to those of related Ga doped borate glasses.
Atomic-scale structures and dynamics at the growing calcite step edge investigated by high-speed frequency modulation atomic force microscopy
Authors: Miyata Kazuki , Kawagoe Yuta , Miyashita Naoyuki , Nakagawa Tomoki , Fukuma Takeshi
Published: November 2021

We have investigated the calcite growth mechanism by directly imaging atomic-scale structural changes at the growing step edges with high-speed frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (HS-FM-AFM).
Crystal field-induced lattice expansion upon reversible oxygen uptake/release in YbMnxFe2−xO4
Authors: Li Tianyu , Jayathilake Rishvi , Balisetty Lahari , Zhang Yuan , Wilfong Brandon , Diethrich Timothy J. , Rodriguez Efrain E.
Published: November 2021

The mechanism for oxygen release and uptake is influenced by crystal field effects in the solid solution YbMnxFe2−xO4.
Thermodynamic and structural insights into the repurposing of drugs that bind to SARS-CoV-2 main protease
Authors: Wan Shunzhou , Bhati Agastya P. , Wade Alexander D. , Alfè Dario , Coveney Peter V.
Published: November 2021

Drug repurposing is a tangible strategy for developing antiviral drugs in an emergency situation like the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Magneto-mechanical destruction of cancer-associated fibroblasts using ultra-small iron oxide nanoparticles and low frequency rotating magnetic fields
Authors: Lopez Sara , Hallali Nicolas , Lalatonne Yoann , Hillion Arnaud , Antunes Joana C. , Serhan Nizar , Clerc Pascal , Fourmy Daniel , Motte Laurence , Carrey Julian , Gigoux Véronique
Published: November 2021

The destruction of cells using the mechanical activation of magnetic nanoparticles with low-frequency magnetic fields opens new opportunities for cancer treatment.
Counterion-insulated near-infrared dyes in biodegradable polymer nanoparticles for in vivo imaging
Authors: Sobska Joanna , Andreiuk Bohdan , Aparin Ilya O. , Reisch Andreas , Krezel Wojciech , Klymchenko Andrey S.
Published: November 2021

Bulky hydrophobic counterions were applied for encapsulation of near-infrared cyanine dyes into biodegradable polymer matrix with minimized self-quenching, yielding fluorescent nanoparticles with stealth PEG shell for in vivo imaging.
Microstructural transition of poly(vinyl alcohol)-based aerogels in the presence of interpolymer complexes
Authors: Wang Chao , Sang Guolong , Yang Minghao , He Ge , Rong Yedong , Yang Jinlong
Published: November 2021

Interpolymer interactions play a vital role of determining the microstructure and properties of polymer aerogels.
Gold self-relay catalysis for accessing functionalized cyclopentenones bearing an all-carbon quaternary stereocenter
Authors: Meng Fan-Tao , Chen Jing-Long , Qin Xiao-Yan , Zhang Tian-Shu , Tu Shu-Jiang , Jiang Bo , Hao Wen-Juan
Published: November 2021

A new gold(i) self-relay catalysis consisting of a 3,3-rearrangement, Nazarov cyclization and Michael addition cascade of 1,3-enyne acetates with aurones and their derived azadienes is reported, producing functionalized cyclopentenones.
Unravelling the redox mechanism and kinetics of a highly active and selective Ni-based material for the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane
Authors: Alvarado-Camacho Carlos , Poissonnier Jeroen , Thybaut Joris W. , Castillo Carlos O.
Published: November 2021

Bridging the gap between catalysis and reaction engineering during the kinetic analysis of the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane over a highly active and selective Ni-based material.
The role of authentic contexts and social elements in supporting organic chemistry students’ interactions with writing-to-learn assignments
Authors: Petterson Michael N. , Finkenstaedt-Quinn Solaire A. , Gere Anne Ruggles , Shultz Ginger V.
Published: November 2021

Student affect is an important factor in the learning process and may be especially important in gateway courses such as organic chemistry. Students’ recognition of the relevance of the content they are learning and interactions with their peers can support their motivation to learn. Herein, we describe a study focused on how Writing-to-Learn assignments situate organic chemistry content within relevant contexts and incorporate social elements to support positive student interactions with organic chemistry. These assignments incorporate rhetorical elements—an authentic context, role, genre, and audience—to support student interest and demonstrate the relevance of the content. In addition, students engage in the processes of peer review and revision to support their learning. We identified how the authentic contexts and peer interactions incorporated into two Writing-to-Learn assignments supported students’ interactions with the assignments and course content by analyzing student interviews and supported by feedback survey responses. Our results indicate that assignments incorporating these elements can support student affect and result in students’ perceived learning, but that there should be careful consideration of the relevance of the chosen contexts with respect to the interests of the students enrolled in the course and the complexity of the contexts.
Exploring the influence of atomic level structure, porosity, and stability of bismuth(iii) coordination polymers on electrocatalytic CO2reduction
Authors: Frank Sara , Svensson Grape Erik , Bøjesen Espen Drath , Larsen Rasmus , Lamagni Paolo , Catalano Jacopo , Inge A. Ken , Lock Nina
Published: November 2021

The study maps out the dependence of porosity, bismuth-to-carbon ratio and chemical stability of bismuth-based MOFs on electrocatalytic CO2reduction.
High intrinsic thermal conductivity in cellulose nanocrystal films through pitch regulation
Authors: Zhang Jianyu , Chen Tianxing , Liu Siyuan , Chen Zhixin , Li Yao , Zhu Shenmin , Li Hua
Published: November 2021

A CNC composite film with a highly ordered structure on both the microscale (crystalline chain of cellulose) and macroscale (highly compacted lamella structure adjusted under an external magnetic field) presents a very high through-plane thermal conductivity of 0.798 W m−1 K−1.
Cell3: A new vision for study of the endomembrane system in mammalian cells
Authors: Mysior Margaritha M. , Simpson Jeremy C.
Published: November 2021

The endomembrane system of mammalian cells provides massive capacity for the segregation of biochemical reactions into discrete locations. The individual organelles of the endomembrane system also require the ability to precisely transport material between these compartments in order to maintain cell homeostasis; this process is termed membrane traffic. For several decades, researchers have been systematically identifying and dissecting the molecular machinery that governs membrane trafficking pathways, with the overwhelming majority of these studies being carried out in cultured cells growing as monolayers. In recent years, a number of methodological innovations have provided the opportunity for cultured cells to be grown as 3-dimensional (3D) assemblies, for example as spheroids and organoids. These structures have the potential to better replicate the cellular environment found in tissues, and present an exciting new opportunity for the study of cell function. In this mini-review we summarise the main methods used to generate 3D cell models, and highlight emerging studies that have started to use these models to study basic cellular processes. We also describe a number of pieces of work that potentially provide the basis for adaptation for deeper study of how membrane traffic is coordinated in multicellular assemblies. Finally, we comment on some of the technological challenges that still need to be overcome if 3D cell biology is to become a mainstream tool towards deepening our understanding of the endomembrane system in mammalian cells.
Oscillator Finite-Difference Time-Domain (O-FDTD) electric field propagation model: integrated photonics and networks
Authors: Adão Ricardo M. R. , Caño-Garcia Manuel , Maibohm Christian , Romeira Bruno , Nieder Jana B.
Published: November 2021

The recently developed Lorentz Oscillator Model-inspired Oscillator Finite-Difference Time-Domain (O-FDTD) is one of the simplest FDTD models ever proposed, using a single field equation for electric field propagation. We demonstrate its versatility on various scales and benchmark its simulation performance against theory, conventional FDTD simulations, and experimental observations. The model’s broad applicability is demonstrated for (but not limited to) three contrasting realms: integrated photonics components on the nano- and micrometer scale, city-wide propagating radiofrequency signals reaching into the hundreds of meters scale, and for the first time, in support of 3D optical waveguide design that may play a key role in neuromorphic photonic computational devices.
Freeform design of a two-reflector system to collimate and shape a point source distribution
Authors: van Roosmalen A.H. , Anthonissen M.J.H. , IJzerman W.L. , ten Thije Boonkkamp J.H.M.
Published: November 2021

We present a method to design a freeform two-reflector system to collimate and shape a beam from a point source. An important generalization compared to previous research is that the output beam can be in an arbitrary direction. The design problem is based on a generalized Monge-Ampère equation. This equation is solved using a least-squares algorithm for non-quadratic cost functions. We test our algorithm on two cases, first, uniform source and target distributions, and second, an elliptic Gaussian intensity of a laser diode to a ring-shaped illuminance. We are able to obtain good solutions in both cases.
An Inverse Model for Two-dimensional Reflectors With Scattering
Authors: Kronberg Vì C.E. , Anthonissen Martijn J.H. , ten Thije Boonkkamp Jan H.M. , IJzerman Wilbert L.
Published: November 2021

We present a novel approach of modelling surface light scattering in the context of freeform optical design. Using energy conservation, we derive an integral relation between the scattered and specular distributions. This integral relation reduces to a convolution integral in the case of isotropic scattering in the plane of incidence for cylindrically and rotationally symmetric problems.
Enhanced photorefractivity and rare-earth photoluminescence in SnO2 nanocrystals-based photonic glass-ceramics
Authors: Lam Tran Thi Ngoc , Szczurek Anna , Varas Stefano , Armellini Cristina , Carpentiero Alessandro , Chiappini Andrea , Iacob Erica , Ischia Gloria , Berneschi Simone , Conti Gualtiero Nunzi , Bollani Monica , Scotognella Francesco , Righini Giancarlo C. , Głuchowski Paweł , Chiasera Alessandro , Lukowiak Anna , Ferrari Maurizio
Published: November 2021

This work presents state of the art rare-earth activated SnO2 nanocrystals - based transparent glass-ceramics. With combined enhancements in both photorefractivity and rare-earth photoluminescence, the glass-ceramic has unique benefits as a lasing material. It exhibits high photorefractivity with UV induced refractive index modifications in the order of 10-3. Exploiting its high photorefractivity, optical gratings are fabricated on the glass-ceramic under an energy-efficient direct UV writing process. Furthermore, SnO2 semiconductor nanocrystals are also employed as efficient rare-earth sensitizers enhancing drastically the rare-earth photoluminescence.
BIC in waveguide arrays
Authors: Kuzmiak Vladimír , Petráček Jiří
Published: November 2021

We propose a simple theoretical model based on the coupled-mode theory which allows to calculate the spectral properties and transmittance of the one-dimensional waveguide structures. The model was verified on the common coupled-waveguide array in which the existence of the symmetry-protected bound state in the continuum (BIC) was confirmed experimentally by Plotnik et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 28-31 (2011)]. The method can be extended to topologically nontrivial lattices to explore the properties of the BICs protected by
time-reversal symmetry.
Coupling of waveguide mode and graphene plasmons
Authors: Petráček Jiří , Čtyroký Jiří , Kuzmiak Vladimír , Kwiecien Pavel , Richter Ivan
Published: November 2021

Photonic waveguides with graphene layers have been recently studied for their potential as fast and low-power electro-optic modulators with small footprints. We show that in the optical wavelength range of 1.55 μm, surface plasmons supported by the graphene layer with the chemical potential exceeding ~0.5 eV can couple with the waveguide mode and affect its propagation. This effect might be possibly utilized in technical applications as a very low-power amplitude modulation, temperature sensing, etc.
Reconstruction of few-fs XUV pulses with a perturbative approach
Authors: Moio Bruno , Medeghini Fabio , Dolso Gian Luca , Inzani Giacomo , Di Palo Nicola , Borrego-Varillas Rocío , Nisoli Mauro , Lucchini Matteo
Published: November 2021

A precise temporal characterization of the pulses involved in pump-probe experiments is crucial for a proper investigation of the ultrafast dynamics in several physical systems. Indeed, it is required for the assessment of the dynamical properties under examination with sufficient temporal resolution. In the fewfs/attosecond domain, typical reconstruction procedures require time-consuming interative methods, which are also sensitive to the experimental noise and to the distortion of the measurement. We developed an approach, called Simplified Trace Reconstruction In the Perturbative regimE (STRIPE), which allows us for a precise characterization of the infrared (IR) and extreme ultraviolet (XUV) pulses, used in a pump-probe experiment. Our method is not based on a phase retrival algorithm, and for this it is typically much faster than the other ones currently known. Moreover, it allows for easily including in the reconstruction the experimental non-idealities that may affect the measurement, like possible distortion due to the measurement procedure itself.
Microfluidic devices manufacturing combining stereolithography and pulsed laser ablation
Authors: Carnero Bastián , Bao-Varela Carmen , Gómez-Varela Ana Isabel , Flores-Arias María Teresa
Published: November 2021

3D printing has revolutionized the field of microfluidics manufacturing by simplifying the typical processes offering a considerable accuracy and user-friendly procedures. For its part, laser ablation proves to be a versatile technology to perform detailed surface micropatterning. A hybrid technique that combines both technologies is proposed, employing them in their most suitable range of dimensions. This technique allows to manufacture accurate microfluidics devices as the one proposed: a microchannel, obtained using a stereolithographic printer, coupled with an array of microlenses, obtained by pulsed laser ablation of a 3D printed master.