bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated radium levels in Nubian Aquifer groundwater of Northeastern Africa
Authors: Sherif Mahmoud I. , Sturchio Neil C.
Published: January 2021

The Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System in Northeast Africa and the Middle East is a huge water resource of inestimable value to the population. However, natural radioactivity impairs groundwater quality throughout the aquifer posing a radiological health risk to millions of people. Here we present measurements of radium isotopes in Nubian Aquifer groundwater from population centers in the Western Desert of Egypt. Groundwater has 226Ra and 228Ra activities ranging from 0.01 to 2.11 and 0.03 to 2.31 Bq/L, respectively. Most activities (combined 226Ra + 228Ra) exceed U.S. EPA drinking water standards. The estimated annual radiation doses associated with ingestion of water having the highest measured Ra activities are up to 138 and 14 times the WHO-recommended maxima for infants and adults, respectively. Dissolved Ra activities are positively correlated with barium and negatively correlated with sulfate, while barite is approximately saturated. In contrast, Ra is uncorrelated with salinity. These observations indicate the dominant geochemical mechanisms controlling dissolved Ra activity may be barite precipitation and sulfate reduction, along with input from alpha-recoil and dissolution of aquifer minerals and loss by radioactive decay. Radium mitigation measures should be adopted for water quality management where Nubian Aquifer groundwater is produced for agricultural and domestic consumption.
Decreasing auditory input induces neurogenesis impairment in the hippocampus
Authors: Kurioka Takaomi , Mogi Sachiyo , Yamashita Taku
Published: January 2021

Hearing loss is associated with cognitive decline and dementia risk. Sensorineural hearing loss suppresses hippocampal neurogenesis, resulting in cognitive decline. However, the underlying mechanism of impaired neurogenesis and the role of microglial activation and stress responses related to hearing loss in the hippocampus remains unknown. Using a conductive hearing loss (CHL) model, we investigated whether a decrease in sound level could induce impairment of hippocampal neurogenesis and examined the differences between unilateral CHL (uCHL) and bilateral CHL (bCHL). To establish the CHL mouse model, ears were unilaterally or bilaterally occluded for five weeks by auditory canal ligation. Although hearing thresholds were significantly increased following CHL, CHL mice exhibited no significant loss of spiral ganglion or hippocampal neurons. Hippocampal neurogenesis was significantly and equally decreased in both sides following uCHL. More severe decreases in hippocampal neurogenesis were observed in both sides in bCHL mice compared with that in uCHL mice. Furthermore, microglial invasion significantly increased following CHL. Serum cortisol levels, which indicate stress response, significantly increased following bCHL. Therefore, auditory deprivation could lead to increased microglial invasion and stress responses and might be a risk factor for hippocampal neurogenesis impairment.
Dual bio-active factors with adhesion function modified electrospun fibrous scaffold for skin wound and infections therapeutics
Authors: Jiao Jianhang , Peng Chuangang , Li Chen , Qi Zhiping , Zhan Jing , Pan Su
Published: January 2021

Electrospun fibrous scaffolds combined with bioactive factors can display impressive performance as an ideal wound dressing, since they can mimic the composition and physicochemical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The aim of this study was to fabricate a new composite biomaterial (IGF1-DA and Os-DA-modified PLGA electrospun fibrous scaffold) for wound healing, using a rat model for experimental evaluation. A small pentapeptide tag composed of DA–Lys–DA–Lys–DA residues was introduced into insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and the antimicrobial peptide Os to prepare IGF1 and Os modified with 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DA) (IGF1-DA and Os-DA). The designed chimeric growth factor and antimicrobial peptide could successfully anchor to PLGA electrospun fibrous scaffolds, and the growth factor and antimicrobial peptide could be controllably released from the electrospun fibrous scaffolds. The results showed that the IGF1-DA and Os-DA-modified PLGA electrospun fibrous scaffolds (PLGA/Os-DA/IGF1-DA) exhibited high hydrophilicity and antimicrobial activity; moreover, the porous network of the scaffolds was similar to that of the natural ECM, which can provide a favourable environment for BALB/C 3T3 cells growth. The in vivo application of PLGA/Os-DA/IGF1-DA electrospun fibrous scaffolds in rat skin wounds resulted in improved wound recovery and tissue regeneration rate. The experimental results indicated that the IGF1-DA and Os-DA could effectively bind to PLGA electrospun fibrous scaffolds, promote wound healing and prevent infection in rats, thereby suggesting that PLGA/Os-DA/IGF1-DA electrospun fibrous scaffolds have a wide application value in the field of skin wound repair.
No evidence for basigin/CD147 as a direct SARS-CoV-2 spike binding receptor
Authors: Shilts Jarrod , Crozier Thomas W. M. , Greenwood Edward J. D. , Lehner Paul J. , Wright Gavin J.
Published: January 2021

The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is known to enable viral invasion into human cells through direct binding to host receptors including ACE2. An alternate entry receptor for the virus was recently proposed to be basigin/CD147. These early studies have already prompted a clinical trial and multiple published hypotheses speculating on the role of this host receptor in viral infection and pathogenesis. Here, we report that we are unable to find evidence supporting the role of basigin as a putative spike binding receptor. Recombinant forms of the SARS-CoV-2 spike do not interact with basigin expressed on the surface of human cells, and by using specialized assays tailored to detect receptor interactions as weak or weaker than the proposed basigin-spike binding, we report no evidence for a direct interaction between the viral spike protein to either of the two common isoforms of basigin. Finally, removing basigin from the surface of human lung epithelial cells by CRISPR/Cas9 results in no change in their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given the pressing need for clarity on which viral targets may lead to promising therapeutics, we present these findings to allow more informed decisions about the translational relevance of this putative mechanism in the race to understand and treat COVID-19.
False negatives in GBA1 sequencing due to polymerase dependent allelic imbalance
Authors: den Heijer Jonas M. , Schmitz Arnoud , Lansbury Peter , Cullen Valerie C. , Hilt Dana C. , Bonifati Vincenzo , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: January 2021

A variant in theGBA1gene is one of the most common genetic risk factors to develop Parkinson’s disease (PD). Here the serendipitous finding is reported of a polymerase dependent allelic imbalance when using next generation sequencing, potentially resulting in false-negative results when the allele frequency falls below the variant calling threshold (by default commonly at 30%). The fullGBA1gene was sequenced using next generation sequencing on saliva derived DNA from PD patients. Four polymerase chain reaction conditions were varied in twelve samples, to investigate the effect on allelic imbalance: (1) the primers (n = 4); (2) the polymerase enzymes (n = 2); (3) the primer annealing temperature (Ta) specified for the used polymerase; and (4) the amount of DNA input. Initially, 1295 samples were sequenced using Q5 High-Fidelity DNA Polymerase. 112 samples (8.6%) had an exonic variant and an additional 104 samples (8.0%) had an exonic variant that did not pass the variant frequency calling threshold of 30%. After changing the polymerase to TaKaRa LA Taq DNA Polymerase Hot-Start Version: RR042B, all samples had an allele frequency passing the calling threshold. Allele frequency was unaffected by a change in primer, annealing temperature or amount of DNA input. Sequencing of theGBA1gene using next generation sequencing might be susceptible to a polymerase specific allelic imbalance, which can result in a large amount of flase-negative results. This was resolved in our case by changing the polymerase. Regions displaying low variant calling frequencies inGBA1sequencing output in previous and future studies might warrant additional scrutiny.
Association of exercise capacity and endothelial function in patients with severe exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Kabbach Erika Zavaglia , Heubel Alessandro Domingues , da Luz Goulart Cassia , Di Lorenzo Valéria Amorim Pires , Phillips Shane A. , Borghi-Silva Audrey , Mendes Renata Gonçalves
Published: January 2021

Severe acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with significant poor outcomes including an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) events and exercise intolerance. Endothelial dysfunction might contribute to an impaired vascular homeostasis and consequently to CV events and exercise capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the association between exercise capacity and endothelial function in patients with severe AECOPD. Forty-five COPD patients diagnosed with severe AECOPD and admitted to the University Hospital of São Carlos from 2017 to 2019 were enrolled in this observational clinical study. Endothelial Function was assessed by brachial artery ultrasonography (M-Turbo, Sonosite, Bottle, WA, USA) and Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) technique in absolute (mm) and percentage values (%). Walking distance (6MWD) obtained by six-minute walk test was considered to characterize the exercise capacity. Pearson’s correlation analysis and linear regression model were applied and a significance level of 5%. There was a significant positive correlation between exercise capacity and endothelial function. Pearson correlation coefficient were 0.36 (p = 0.02) and 0.40 (p = 0.01) between 6MWD and FMD in mm and %, respectively. Linear regression model revealed 6MWD (p = 0.007), accounting for 15% of FMD (%) variance (R2 adjusted). FMD (%) = 2.11 + (0.0081*6MWD). Exercise capacity is associated with endothelial function in patients with severe AECOPD. FMD was found to be increasing with increasing walked distance. Further research is needed to provide evidence of effectiveness of rehabilitation on exercise capacity and endothelial function in these patients and its prognostic value.
Structure-function analysis of TOPBP1’s role in ATR signaling using the DSB-mediated ATR activation in Xenopus egg extracts (DMAX) system
Authors: Montales Katrina , Kim Ahhyun , Ruis Kenna , Michael W. Matthew
Published: January 2021

The protein kinase ATR is activated at sites of DNA double-strand breaks where it plays important roles in promoting DNA end resection and regulating cell cycle progression. TOPBP1 is a multi BRCT repeat containing protein that activates ATR at DSBs. Here we have developed an experimental tool, the DMAX system, to study the biochemical mechanism for TOPBP1-mediated ATR signalling. DMAX combines simple, linear dsDNA molecules with Xenopus egg extracts and results in a physiologically relevant, DSB-induced activation of ATR. We find that DNAs of 5000 nucleotides, at femtomolar concentration, potently activate ATR in this system. By combining immunodepletion and add-back of TOPBP1 point mutants we use DMAX to determine which of TOPBP1’s nine BRCT domains are required for recruitment of TOPBP1 to DSBs and which domains are needed for ATR-mediated phosphorylation of CHK1. We find that BRCT1 and BRCT7 are important for recruitment and that BRCT5 functions downstream of recruitment to promote ATR-mediated phosphorylation of CHK1. We also show that BRCT7 plays a second role, independent of recruitment, in promoting ATR signalling. These findings supply a new research tool for, and new insights into, ATR biology.
Inhibitory effect of toothbrush monofilament containing surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler on Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Matayoshi Saaya , Nomura Ryota , Kitamura Takahiro , Okawa Rena , Nakano Kazuhiko
Published: January 2021

The oral environment affects not only oral health, but also general health, and the importance of oral self-care has recently been recognised. Although toothbrushes are the most important self-care product, there are few toothbrushes that have an inhibitory effect on oral bacteria. In the present study, monofilaments used for toothbrushes containing surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler (a component recently applied to various dental materials) were developed. Among nylon and polyester monofilaments commonly used for toothbrushes, nylon monofilaments can accommodate more S-PRG filler than polyester monofilaments, resulting in greater release of ions from the S-PRG filler. These monofilaments containing S-PRG filler formed less biofilm containing Streptococcus mutans, a major pathogen of dental caries, than monofilaments without S-PRG filler. Moreover, S. mutans adhering to monofilaments containing S-PRG filler were more easily exfoliated and eliminated than those adhering to monofilaments without S-PRG filler. Such inhibitory effects on S. mutans were more marked in nylon monofilaments than in polyester monofilaments. These findings that monofilaments containing S-PRG filler can release ions and have an inhibitory effect on S. mutans suggest that they may be an effective material for toothbrushes.
Increase maize productivity and water use efficiency through application of potassium silicate under water stress
Authors: Gomaa M. A. , Kandil Essam E. , El-Dein Atef A. M. Zen , Abou-Donia Mamdouh E. M. , Ali Hayssam M. , Abdelsalam Nader R.
Published: January 2021

In Egypt, water shortage has become a key limiting factor for agriculture. Water-deficit stress causes different morphological, physiological, and biochemical impacts on plants. Two field experiments were carried out at Etay El-Baroud Station, El-Beheira Governorate, Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Egypt, to evaluate the effect of potassium silicate (K-silicate) of maize productivity and water use efficiency (WUE). A split-plot system in the four replications was used under three irrigation intervals during the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Whereas 10, 15, and 20 days irrigation intervals were allocated in main plots, while the three foliar application treatments of K-silicate (one spray at 40 days after sowing; two sprays at 40 and 60 days; and three sprays at 40, 60, and 80 days, and a control (water spray) were distributed in the subplots. All the treatments were distributed in 4 replicates. The results indicated that irrigation every 15 days gave the highest yield in both components and quality. The highly significant of (WUE) under irrigation every 20 days. Foliar spraying of K-silicate three times resulted in the highest yield. Even under water-deficit stress, irrigation every fifteen days combined with foliar application of K-silicate three times achieved the highest values of grain yield and its components. These results show that K-silicate treatment can increase WUE and produce high grain yield requiring less irrigation.
Relationship between individual chamber and whole shell Mg/Ca ratios in Trilobatus sacculifer and implications for individual foraminifera palaeoceanographic reconstructions
Authors: Rustic Gerald T. , Polissar Pratigya J. , Ravelo Ana Christina , DeMenocal Peter
Published: January 2021

Precisely targeted measurements of trace elements using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) reveal inter-chamber heterogeneities in specimens of the planktic foraminifer Trilobatus (Globigerinoides) sacculifer. We find that Mg/Ca ratios in the final growth chamber are generally lower compared to previous growth chambers, but final chamber Mg/Ca is elevated in one of thirteen sample intervals. Differences in distributions of Mg/Ca values from separate growth chambers are observed, occurring most often at lower Mg/Ca values, suggesting that single-chamber measurements may not be reflective of the specimen’s integrated Mg/Ca. We compared LA-ICPMS Mg/Ca values to paired, same-individual Mg/Ca measured via inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to assess their correspondence. Paired LA-ICPMS and ICP-OES Mg/Ca show a maximum correlation coefficient of R = 0.92 (p < 0.05) achieved by applying a weighted average of the last and penultimate growth chambers. Population distributions of paired Mg/Ca values are identical under this weighting. These findings demonstrate that multi-chamber LA-ICPMS measurements can approximate entire specimen Mg/Ca, and is thus representative of the integrated conditions experienced during the specimen’s lifespan. This correspondence between LA-ICPMS and ICP-OES data links these methods and demonstrates that both generate Mg/Ca values suitable for individual foraminifera palaeoceanographic reconstructions.
All-cause mortality and three aspects of social relationships: an eight-year follow-up of older adults from one entire Korean village
Authors: Youm Yoosik , Baldina Ekaterina , Baek Jiwon
Published: January 2021

Various aspects of social relationships have been examined as risk factors for mortality. In particular, most research has focused on either loneliness or social disengagement. We aimed to extend the current research by adding a group-level segregation measure utilizing the whole social network of one entire village in South Korea. The analyses were based on the Korean Social Life, Health and Aging Project data collected over eight years across five waves. Of the 679 old adults who participated throughout the entire project (to wave 5), 63 were confirmed as deceased. All three aspects of social relationships examined, loneliness, social disengagement, and group-level segregation, were associated with mortality in the traditional Cox proportional hazard model without considering health-related time-varying covariates. However, a Cox marginal structural model, a counterfactual statistical measure that is designed to control for censoring bias due to sample attrition over the eight years and time-varying confounding variables, revealed that only group-level segregation was associated with mortality. Our results strongly suggest that more attention is needed on group-level segregation for mortality studies, as well as on well-known individual-level risk factors, including social disengagement and loneliness. All methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations.
Short prolactin isoforms are expressed in photoreceptors of canine retinas undergoing retinal degeneration
Authors: Sudharsan Raghavi , Murgiano Leonardo , Tang Hsin-Yao , Olsen Timothy W. , Chavali Venkata R. M. , Aguirre Gustavo D. , Beltran William A.
Published: January 2021

Prolactin (PRL) hormone functions as a pleiotropic cytokine with a protective role in the retina. We recently identified by transcriptome profiling that PRL is one of the most highly upregulated mRNAs in the retinas of mutant rcd1 (PDE6B) and xlpra2 (RPGR) dogs at advanced stages of photoreceptor disease. In the present study, we have identified the expression of a short PRL isoform that lacks exon 1 in canine retinas and analyzed the time-course of expression and localization of this isoform in the retinas of these two models. Using laser capture microdissection to isolate RNA from each of the retinal cellular layers, we found by qPCR that this short PRL isoform is expressed in photoreceptors of degenerating retinas. We confirmed by in situ hybridization that its expression is localized to the outer nuclear layer and begins shortly after the onset of disease at the time of peak photoreceptor cell death in both models. PRL protein was also detected only in mutant dog retinas. Our results call for further investigations into the role of this novel PRL isoform in retinal degeneration.
Any modality of renal replacement therapy can be a treatment option for Joubert syndrome
Authors: Takagi Yoko , Miura Kenichiro , Yabuuchi Tomoo , Kaneko Naoto , Ishizuka Kiyonobu , Takei Mariko , Yajima Chikage , Ikeuchi Yuka , Kobayashi Yasuko , Takizawa Takumi , Hisano Masataka , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Matsumoto Naomichi , Hattori Motoshi
Published: January 2021

Joubert syndrome (JS) is an inherited ciliopathy characterized by a distinctive cerebellar and brain stem malformation which is known as the “molar tooth sign” on axial brain images, hypotonia, and developmental delay. Approximately 25–30% of patients with JS have kidney disease and many of them progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). However, there are few reports on the outcomes of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in patients with JS and ESKD. In this study, we clarified the clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of patients with JS who underwent RRT. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records and clinical characteristics of 11 patients with JS who underwent RRT between June 1994 and July 2019. Data are shown as the median (range). Gene analysis was performed in 8 of the 11 cases, and CEP290 mutations were found in four patients, two had TMEM67 mutations, one had a RPGRIP1L mutation, and one patient showed no mutation with the panel exome analysis. Complications in other organs included hydrocephalus in two cases, retinal degeneration in eight cases, coloboma in one case, liver diseases in four cases, and polydactyly in one case. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) was introduced in seven cases, with a median treatment duration of 5.4 (3.4–10.7) years. Hemodialysis was performed using arteriovenous fistula in two cases, and kidney transplantation was performed 9 times in eight cases. Only one of the grafts failed during the observation period of 25.6 (8.2–134.2) months. The glomerular filtration rate at the final observation was 78.1 (41.4–107.7) mL/min/1.73 m2. The median age at the final observation was 13.4 (5.6–25.1) years, and all patients were alive except one who died of hepatic failure while on PD. Any type of RRT modality can be a treatment option for patients with JS and ESKD.
Comparison of visual outcomes between therapy choices and subtypes of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) in Taiwan: a real-world study
Authors: Yeung Ling , Lai Chi-Chun , Chen San-Ni , Cheng Cheng-Kuo , Yang Chung-May , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Tsai Arslan , Yang Chang-Hao
Published: January 2021

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is a distinctive type of neovascular age-related macular degeneration prevalent in many Asian countries. However, there is still some controversy in how the subtypes of PCV are classified. This post-hoc study redefined the branching vascular network (BVN) and PCV subtypes through retrospective review of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) and fluorescein angiography images from two observational studies (RENOWNED/REAL). Of the visual outcomes for each angiographic subtype and treatment pattern investigated, BVN was identified in 56.3% of PCV patients. The proportions and features of the re-defined PCV subtypes were 43.8%, 10.4%, and 45.8% for subtype A (without distinctive features of BVN), B (with BVN but no leakage), and C (with BVN and leakage), respectively. Subtype A had better visual outcomes when compared to subtype C. This possibly resulted from a better baseline visual acuity in subtype A. Moreover, combination therapy [photodynamic therapy plus anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] may lead to better visual improvement than mono-anti-VEGF treatment alone. This study provides the prevalence of PCV subtypes in Taiwan and may serve as a reference for PCV treatment strategies in a real-world setting, especially for the combination therapy and patients without distinctive features of BVN.
Origins of genuine Ohmic van der Waals contact between indium and MoS2
Authors: Kim Bum-Kyu , Kim Tae-Hyung , Choi Dong-Hwan , Kim Hanul , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Rho Heesuk , Kim Ju-Jin , Kim Yong-Hoon , Bae Myung-Ho
Published: January 2021

The achievement of ultraclean Ohmic van der Waals (vdW) contacts at metal/transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) interfaces would represent a critical step for the development of high-performance electronic and optoelectronic devices based on two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors. Herein, we report the fabrication of ultraclean vdW contacts between indium (In) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and the clarification of the atomistic origins of its Ohmic-like transport properties. Atomically clean In/MoS2 vdW contacts are achieved by evaporating In with a relatively low thermal energy and subsequently cooling the substrate holder down to ~100 K by liquid nitrogen. We reveal that the high-quality In/MoS2 vdW contacts are characterized by a small interfacial charge transfer and the Ohmic-like transport based on the field-emission mechanism over a wide temperature range from 2.4 to 300 K. Accordingly, the contact resistance reaches ~600 Ω μm and ~1000 Ω μm at cryogenic temperatures for the few-layer and monolayer MoS2 cases, respectively. Density functional calculations show that the formation of large in-gap states due to the hybridization between In and MoS2 conduction band edge states is the microscopic origins of the Ohmic charge injection. We suggest that seeking a mechanism to generate strong density of in-gap states while maintaining the pristine contact geometry with marginal interfacial charge transfer could be a general strategy to simultaneously avoid Fermi-level pinning and minimize contact resistance for 2D vdW materials.
Single component photoresponsive fluorescent organic nanoparticles: a smart platform for improved biomedical and agrochemical applications
Authors: Chaudhuri Amrita , Paul Amrita , Sikder Antara , Pradeep Singh N. D.
Published: January 2021

Single component photoresponsive fluorescent organic nanoparticles for the regulated release of anticancer drugs, antibacterial agents, gasotransmitters, and agrochemicals and as effective PDT agents.
The structure of metallic melts in eutectic alloys based on the Wulff cluster model: theory meets experiment
Authors: Song Lin , Tian Xuelei , Shao Anchen , Hua Minghao , Li Lijuan , Li Hui , Lin Xiaohang
Published: January 2021

A new model, the Wulff cluster model, to describe the short-range order in eutectic alloys (taking the Al–Si alloy as an example).
Effects of peracetic acid on aromatic polyamide nanofiltration membranes: a comparative study with chlorine
Authors: Ghafari Mohsen , Mohona Tashfia M. , Su Lei , Lin Haiqing , Plata Desiree L. , Xiong Boya , Dai Ning
Published: January 2021

Peracetic acid (PAA) is being considered as a disinfectant in membrane-based wastewater reuse systems. This study shows that PAA is overall compatible with polyamide membranes and proposes PAA-polyamide reaction mechanisms.
Correction: Pd(ii)-Catalyzed [4 + 1 + 1] cycloaddition of simple o-aminobenzoic acids, CO and amines: direct and versatile synthesis of diverse N-substituted quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones
Authors: Zhang Xiaopeng , Ding Qianqian , Wang Jinjun , Yang Jingyi , Fan Xuesen , Zhang Guisheng
Published: January 2021

Correction for ‘Pd(ii)-Catalyzed [4 + 1 + 1] cycloaddition of simple o-aminobenzoic acids, CO and amines: direct and versatile synthesis of diverse N-substituted quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones’ by Xiaopeng Zhang et al., Green Chem., 2021, DOI: 10.1039/d0gc03254a.
Emergence, evidence, and effect of junction clustering in supramolecular polymer materials
Authors: Jangizehi Amir , Ahmadi Mostafa , Seiffert Sebastian
Published: January 2021

In this review, the origin of clusters in supramolecular polymer materials, their characterization, their effects on the dynamic and mechanical properties, and their potentials for designing functional materials are overviewed.
Highly stable Pd/HNb3O8-based flexible humidity sensor for perdurable wireless wearable applications
Authors: Lu Yuyao , Xu Kaichen , Yang Min-Quan , Tang Shin-Yi , Yang Tzu-Yi , Fujita Yusuke , Honda Satoko , Arie Takayuki , Akita Seiji , Chueh Yu-Lun , Takei Kuniharu
Published: January 2021

A Pd/HNb3O8 flexible humidity sensor is developed with long-term stability at a high humidity level (∼90% RH). Using the sensor, wireless monitoring of human respirations and finger moisture variation under exercise is successfully demonstrated.
NaCl-template-based synthesis of TiO2-Pd/Pt hollow nanospheres for H2O2 direct synthesis and CO oxidation
Authors: Liebertseder Mareike , Wang Di , Cavusoglu Gülperi , Casapu Maria , Wang Sheng , Behrens Silke , Kübel Christian , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk , Feldmann Claus
Published: January 2021

TiO2-Pd/Pt hollow nanosphere (HNS) are prepared via NaCl templates in a one-pot approach.
Fused ambipolar aza-isoindigos with NIR absorption
Authors: Yao Liping , Zhu Danlei , Liao Hailiang , Haseena Sheik , Ravva Mahesh Kumar , Cong Shengyu , Lan Liuyuan , Wang Yazhou , Li Zhengke , Jiang Lang , Yue Wan
Published: January 2021

A series of large and extended novel electron-deficient aza-isoindigos with up to 14 rings was synthesized exhibit excellent solubility, high EA, NIR absorption,  planar backbonhole mobility of 0.076 cm2V−1s−1and electron mobility of 0.003 cm2V−1s−1.
Synthesis of size-controlled and highly monodispersed silica nanoparticles using a short alkyl-chain fluorinated surfactant
Authors: Nagappan Saravanan , Mohan Anandhu , Thomas Anju Maria , Yoo Jong-Man , Eid Nadim , Chung Ildoo , Ameduri Bruno , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: January 2021

Shape, size, and morphology controlled synthesis of monodispersed silica nanoparticles using 3-hydroxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)-propanoic acid (MAF-OH) surfactant.
Introduction to celebrating recent chemical science in Mexico
Authors: Merino Gabriel , Rosales María de Jesús , Vela Alberto
Published: January 2021

Gabriel Merino, María de Jesús Rosales and Alberto Vela introduce thePCCP,Dalton Transactions,New Journal of ChemistryandRSC Advancesthemed issue on celebrating recent chemical science in Mexico.
Dendrite-free reversible Li plating/stripping in adiponitrile-based electrolytes for high-voltage Li metal batteries
Authors: Mwemezi Manasi , Prabakar S. J. Richard , Han Su Cheol , Seo Jung Yong , Park Woon Bae , Lee Jin-Woong , Sohn Kee-Sun , Pyo Myoungho
Published: January 2021

In this study, we describe how incompatible adiponitrile is made compatible with lithium by forming a stable LiF enriched porous Li2O coating, which enables reversible Li plating/stripping with no dendrites.
Synthesis of low-bandgap small molecules by extending the π-conjugation of the termini in quinoidal compounds
Authors: Wang Cheng , Du Tian , Liang Ziqi , Zhu Jiangyu , Ren Jie , Deng Yunfeng
Published: January 2021

A feasible strategy to construct low-bandgap π-conjugated small molecules was proposed.
A possible sub-kiloparsec dual AGN buried behind the galaxy curtain
Authors: Severgnini P. , Braito V. , Cicone C. , Saracco P. , Vignali C. , Serafinelli R. , Della Ceca R. , Dotti M. , Cusano F. , Paris D. , Pruto G. , Zaino A. , Ballo L. , Landoni M.
Published: January 2021

Although thousands of galaxy mergers are known, only a handful of sub-kiloparsec-scale supermassive black hole (SMBH) pairs have been confirmed so far, leaving a huge gap between the observed and predicted numbers of such objects. In this work, we present a detailed analysis of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey optical spectrum and of near-infrared (NIR) diffraction limited imaging of SDSS J1431+4358. This object is a local radio-quiet type 2 active galactic nucleus (AGN) previously selected as a double AGN candidate on the basis of the double-peaked [OIII] emission line. The NIR adaptive optics-assisted observations were obtained at the Large Binocular Telescope with the LUCI+FLAO camera. We found that most of the prominent optical emission lines are characterized by a double-peaked profile, mainly produced by AGN photoionization. Our spectroscopical analysis disfavors the hypothesis that the double-peaked emission lines in the source are the signatures of outflow kinematics, leaving open the possibility that we are detecting either the rotation of a single narrow-line region or the presence of two SMBHs orbiting around a common central potential. The latter scenario is further supported by the high-spatial resolution NIR imaging: after subtracting the dominant contribution of the stellar bulge component in the host galaxy, we detect two faint nuclear sources at r < 0.5 kpc projected separation. Interestingly, the two sources have a position angle consistent with that defined by the two regions where the [OIII] double peaks most likely originate. Aside from the discovery of a promising sub-kiloparsec scale dual AGN, our analysis shows the importance of an appropriate host galaxy subtraction in order to achieve a reliable estimate of the incidence of dual AGNs at small projected separations.
On tangent cone to systems of inequalities and equations in Banach spaces under relaxed constant rank condition
Authors: Bednarczuk E.M. , Leśniewski K.W. , Rutkowski K.E.
Published: January 2021

Under the relaxed constant rank condition, introduced by Minchenko and Stakhovski, we prove that the linearized cone is contained in the tangent cone (Abadie condition) for sets represented as solution sets to systems of finite numbers of inequalities and equations given by continuously differentiable functions defined on Banach spaces.
Localization of energy and localized controllability
Authors: Chaves-Silva F.W. , Puel J.-P. , Santos M.C.
Published: January 2021

We will consider both the controlled Schrödinger equation and the controlled wave equation on a bounded open set Ω of ℝN during an interval of time (0, T), with T > 0. The control is distributed and acts on a nonempty open subdomain ω of Ω. On the other hand, we consider another open subdomain D of Ω and the localized energy of the solution in D. The first question we want to study is the possibility of obtaining a prescribed value of this local energy at time T by choosing the control adequately. It turns out that this question is equivalent to a problem of exact or approximate controllability in D, which we call localized controllability and which is the second question studied in this article. We obtain sharp results on these two questions and, of course, the answers will require conditions on ω and T which will be given precisely later on.
Properties of Zwitterionic Sulfobetaine Gels Containing Different Numbers of Methylene Units
Authors: Ningrum Eva Oktavia , Sakohara Shuji , Gotoh Takehiko , Suprapto  , Humaidah Nurlaili
Published: January 2021

The present research was performed aiming to develop gel with the characteristic of reversible thermosensitive in adsorbing heavy metal ions from its solution. There were three gels used in this study to adsorb heavy metal ion from salt solution provided Zn(NO3)2; copolymer gel consisting of zwitterionic betaine N,N-dimethyl(acrylamidopropyl)ammonium propane sulfonate (DMAAPS), N,N-dimethyl(acrylamidopropyl)ammonium butane sulfonate (DMAABS), and DMAAPS copolymerized with thermosensitive N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) gels. The aforementioned gels were employed to examine its ability in adsorbing and swelling after being synthesized through free radical polymerization before being affected by methylene spacer number, copolymerization, and temperature given. This research found that as the temperature increases, the ability of the gel in adsorbing the ions decreases. In the case of DMAAPS and DMAABS gel, the swelling degree value increases when the temperature also increases. Meanwhile, sulfobetaine which has larger spacer has higher adsorption ability but not with its swelling degree. In spite of having more spacer than DMAAPS, DMAABS found to have the smallest swelling degree value. In addition, NIPAM-co-DMAAPS was found to have both the highest adsorption ability and swelling degree value. Even though copolymer has less amount of sulfobetaine than DMAAPS and DMAABS gels’, the copolymer gel was found to have higher ability of adsorption as many as ten times of other gels.
Formation and Evaluation of Au/ZnO Particles by a Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Lee Youngjun , Fujimoto Toshiyuki , Yamanaka Shinya , Kuga Yoshikazu
Published: January 2021

ZnO/Au is expected to exhibit catalytic properties by absorbing ultraviolet and visible light because ZnO and Au nanoparticles can absorb ultraviolet and visible light, respectively. Doping studies on Au nanoparticles on ZnO (ZnO/Au) have been conducted to expand the absorption wavelength range. This study generates ZnO/Au particles by an ultrasonic spray pyrolysis method (USP). To prevent particle aggregation, Triton X-100, a non-ionic surfactant, is added, and its effects are examined. The generated ZnO/Au particles are characterized using different methods. SEM reveals the particle size is several micrometers, while XRD analysis indicates that ZnO and a metallic Au crystalline are present. The TEM images of the particles show that the Au crystals are well dispersed in the inner and outer portions of ZnO. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirms that the smaller the Au particle size, the higher the visible absorption peak near 400 nm. Adding Triton X-100 shifts the absorption peak toward the longer wavelength side but improves the aggregation of Au particles.
Modeling and Numerical Study of Ceramic Paste Extrusion
Authors: Golman Boris , Skrzypacz Piotr , Julklang Wittaya
Published: January 2021

The extrusion processes of ceramic pastes, including 3D printing, are used for the production of high-value products. Ceramic paste extrusion is a complex process which depends on the paste rheological properties, die and extruder geometries, and operational parameters. Modeling and quantitative analysis of paste molding are important to design proper extrusion process for the production of high-value extrudates of desired strength, shape, and morphology. In this paper, the mathematical model of ram extrusion of ceramic materials is established, and the paste continuity and momentum equations for non-Newtonian fluid based on the modified Herschel-Bulkley viscous model were solved numerically. The effects of die geometry and paste feed rate on the distributions of paste velocity and pressure in the extruder and die were investigated numerically. As a result, the steeper radial profile of longitudinal velocity and higher value of longitudinal velocity were obtained in the narrow die. The pressure significantly increases in the die at a high feed rate, and the pressure profile is almost flat in the barrel. The rate of increase of the maximum pressure decreases with an increase of paste feed rate. The pressure steeply increases in the die of small diameter. The maximum pressure linearly increases with the ratio of die length to diameter.
Defluidization Investigation into Bubbling Fluidized Bed Particles with Alkaline Addition during Pyrolysis
Authors: Prima Zuldian , Noda Reiji
Published: January 2021

Some unwanted inorganic materials, such as alkaline compounds contained in biomass, have the potential to create slagging formations with oxide compounds from either inside or outside the bubbling fluidized bed (BFB). The process involved 88-125 µm silica sand and clay (bentonite) as bed particles during pyrolysis with KCl addition at 700°C to represent biomass under superficialN2-velocity operation. Agglomeration formation was confirmed by the decrease in the average ΔP of the experiment, which theoretically should take place during the addition of KCl, while the defluidization condition was confirmed by a consistent average ΔP particle deviation, even after further KCl additions. Investigation of 0.005 and 1 g encapsulated KCl periodical addition showed that the silica sand has a tendency to form agglomeration faster than bentonite, specifically after 0.0211 g of KCl addition (0.0032% of total silica sand mass). Meanwhile, the bentonite has a tendency to achieve defluidization formation more easily than silica sand according to deviation analysis. The ability of silica sand to maintain fluidization longer than bentonite indicates that silica sand is the better particle for this process.
Effect of External Magnetic Field on Long DC Arc Characteristics with Rng-shaped Anode
Authors: Hashizawa Akio , Tanaka Manabu , Watanabe Takayuki , Koga Tomohiro
Published: January 2021

Fluctuation phenomena of plasma jet flow in an innovative long DC arc system with a ring-shaped anode were successfully clarified by a high-speed camera visualization. The long DC arc with long electrode gap distance more than 350 mm has been applied to gas decomposition due to its advantages of long plasma length, resulting in long residence time of treated gas. However, large heat loss at a conventional hemispherical-shaped anode was a critical issue in the long DC arc system. Therefore, the ring-shaped anode was utilized to convert large energy loss at the anode into the plasma jet flow. High-speed camera observation revealed the effect of external magnetic field on the fluctuation phenomena. Plasma jet fluctuates with the frequency of several tens Hz when the magnetic field was applied. These understanding of arc and plasma jet fluctuation enables to improve the capability of long DC arc system.
Thermal Performance of Heat Exchanger Using Zeolite/vapour Adsorption
Authors: Ohno Soichiro , Hironaka Shuji , Fukai Jun
Published: January 2021

About 60% of the energy input in the chemical industry is discarded from the plant. Energy saving can be achieved in the entire plant by recovering these waste heats and reusing them as power and heat sources in the power plant. An adsorption heat pump has been developed for the purpose of regeneration of such unused energy. In this study, saturated humid air was supplied to a device packed with 13X zeolite particles of 4 mm in diameter. The time variation of temperature in the apparatus was measured experimentally. Then, the maximum temperature was estimated from the relationship between heat balance and adsorption equilibrium. The trend of the maximum temperature calculated from the heat balance is consistent with experiment. Further, it was found from the result of the heat balance equation that the sensible heat of the humid air supplied and the heat of adsorption of the zeolite are mainly distributed to the sensible heat of the zeolite. In the future, it is important to make effective use of the sensible heat of this zeolite. In order to extract more thermal energy from the device, it is necessary to improve the heat transfer between the packed bed and medium. A double pipe heat exchanger having a zeolite packed bed on the annular side was proposed as an apparatus. Flow direction of the humid air supplied to device was changed in two different ways. The one of them is supplying humid air radial flowly to the device and another is supplying the air in parallel flow. The influence of flow direction on heat transfer between packed bed and medium is studied with numerical simulation.
Examination of the Heat Transfer Model in Gas–Liquid–Solid Three Phases in Presence of Gas Hydrate Particle
Authors: Ezure Ryosuke , Takahashi Yusuke , Takano Shun , Komatsu Hiroyuki , Yamagiwa Kazuaki , Tajima Hideo
Published: January 2021

Hydrate-based gas separation is often investigated using batch or semi-batch operations. To increase the throughput of the gas mixture without increasing the apparatus volume, it is preferable to perform a continuous operation of hydrate-based gas separation. Therefore, we proposed a flow-type apparatus for performing continuous formation with passing gaseous mixture and subsequently decomposition with passing gas hydrate particles. Characteristics of multiple fluid and heat and mass transfer of hydrate slurry are essential for the efficient operation of the apparatus. In this study, we focused on heat transfer characteristics in the presence of bubbles in water and surfactant solution. First, an apparent overall heat transfer coefficient under pressure during steady operation of the apparatus was calculated on a simple assumption. Next, to control the hydrate amount and position of hydrate-decomposition and hydrate-formation in the apparatus, we focused on the temperature profile of the inside fluid. A heat transfer model using heat balance of defining heat of hydrate-formation and heat transfer of agitation of fluid was made for hydrate-based gas separation apparatus. To evaluate the validity of the heat transfer model, a calculation value is compared with the experimental value.
Modification of Copper (II) Ion-exchange Properties of Freestanding Alginate Membrane by Embedding with Zeolite
Authors: Hagiri Masahide , Watanabe Ryuya , Hiruta Ami , Kashima Keita
Published: January 2021

Insolubilized alginate membranes were obtained by crosslinking alginate with calcium ions, and alginate membranes embedded with zeolite in order to improve their ion exchange capacities were also successfully prepared. The alginate membranes were ion exchangeable due to the release of crosslinking ions, and showed an ion exchange capability for copper (II) ions that was comparable to that for alginate hydrogel beads. Additionally, while both the insolubilized alginate membranes and the zeolite-embedded membrane exhibited ion-exchange abilities, additional ion-exchange capacities was imparted by embedding zeolite in the latter. However, it was also found that embedding partially inhibits the ion-exchange capacities of the zeolite contained therein.
Selective Oxidative Cleavage of Oleic Acid on Alumina Supported Metal Catalyst
Authors: Intarasuk Chayut , Pavarajarn Varong , Sirimittagoon Supakorn , Chantanuson Ratchanon
Published: January 2021

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and medium-chain fatty acid (MCFAs) are valuable raw materials in wide range of chemical and medical applications. They can be converted to other derivatives by known chemical reactions. Unfortunately, both SCFAs MCFAs are not as abundant in nature as long-chain fatty acid (LCFAs). In this work, the oxidative cleavage of oleic acid, which is one of the most abundant unsaturated LCFAs in nature, was studied. The oxidation was induced by hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by a commercial alumina-supported metal catalyst. The products were analyzed by gas chromatography equipped with mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). The results revealed that MCFAs and SCFAs were detected in a product. In addition, aldehydes were also found. In this work, effects of catalyst loading, oleic acid-to-hydrogen peroxide ratio, reaction time were investigated and reported.
Fast Synthesis of Hydroxymethylfurfural from Levoglucosenone by Mixing with Sulphuric Acid and Heating in a Microtube Reactor
Authors: Huang Xin , Mitsuyama Daiki , Kudo Shinji , Hayashi Jun-ichiro
Published: January 2021

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a promising platform chemical in future bio-based chemical industry for synthesis of a variety of furan derivatives. Studies on the HMF synthesis have focused mainly on saccharides as the feedstock. Recently, levoglucosenone (LGO), anhydrosugar available from cellulose pyrolysis, has been identified as an alternative feedstock, which can be converted to HMF under milder conditions only with acid and water as catalyst and solvent, respectively. To further explore the potential of this reaction, in this study, we demonstrated the HMF synthesis below 100°C within a few minutes at high yields. The employment of microtube reactor and high concentration sulfuric acid as catalyst was effective, leading to the highest HMF yield of 61.5%-C with the reaction selectivity over 80%. Kinetic analysis revealed that rapid heating after mixing LGO with the catalytic aqueous solution was essential to supress side reaction that generates degradation products from LGO. The reaction with glucose or fructose as feedstock under same conditions resulted in poor HMF yield.