bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toll-like receptor-4 null mutation causes fetal loss and fetal growth restriction associated with impaired maternal immune tolerance in mice
Authors: Chan Hon Y. , Moldenhauer Lachlan M. , Groome Holly M. , Schjenken John E. , Robertson Sarah A.
Published: August 2021

Maternal immune adaptation to accommodate pregnancy depends on sufficient availability of regulatory T (Treg) cells to enable embryo implantation. Toll-like receptor 4 is implicated as a key upstream driver of a controlled inflammatory response, elicited by signals in male partner seminal fluid, to initiate expansion of the maternal Treg cell pool after mating. Here, we report that mice with null mutation in Tlr4 (Tlr4−/−) exhibit impaired reproductive outcomes after allogeneic mating, with reduced pregnancy rate, elevated mid-gestation fetal loss, and fetal growth restriction, compared to Tlr4+/+ wild-type controls. To investigate the effects of TLR4 deficiency on early events of maternal immune adaptation, TLR4-regulated cytokines and immune regulatory microRNAs were measured in the uterus at 8 h post-mating by qPCR, and Treg cells in uterus-draining lymph nodes were evaluated by flow cytometry on day 3.5 post-coitum. Ptgs2 encoding prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, cytokines Csf2, Il6, Lif, and Tnf, chemokines Ccl2, Cxcl1, Cxcl2, and Cxcl10, and microRNAs miR-155, miR-146a, and miR-223 were induced by mating in wild-type mice, but not, or to a lesser extent, in Tlr4−/− mice. CD4+ T cells were expanded after mating in Tlr4+/+ but not Tlr4−/− mice, with failure to expand peripheral CD25+FOXP3+ NRP1− or thymic CD25+FOXP3+ NRP1+ Treg cell populations, and fewer Treg cells expressed Ki67 proliferation marker and suppressive function marker CTLA4. We conclude that TLR4 is an essential mediator of the inflammation-like response in the pre-implantation uterus that induces generation of Treg cells to support robust pregnancy tolerance and ensure optimal fetal growth and survival.
Phylogeography, colouration, and cryptic speciation across the Indo-Pacific in the sea urchin genus Echinothrix
Authors: Coppard Simon E. , Jessop Holly , Lessios Harilaos A.
Published: August 2021

The sea urchins Echinothrix calamaris and Echinothrix diadema have sympatric distributions throughout the Indo-Pacific. Diverse colour variation is reported in both species. To reconstruct the phylogeny of the genus and assess gene flow across the Indo-Pacific we sequenced mitochondrial 16S rDNA, ATPase-6, and ATPase-8, and nuclear 28S rDNA and the Calpain-7 intron. Our analyses revealed that E. diadema formed a single trans-Indo-Pacific clade, but E. calamaris contained three discrete clades. One clade was endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman. A second clade occurred from Malaysia in the West to Moorea in the East. A third clade of E. calamaris was distributed across the entire Indo-Pacific biogeographic region. A fossil calibrated phylogeny revealed that the ancestor of E. diadema diverged from the ancestor of E. calamaris ~ 16.8 million years ago (Ma), and that the ancestor of the trans-Indo-Pacific clade and Red Sea and Gulf of Oman clade split from the western and central Pacific clade ~ 9.8 Ma. Time since divergence and genetic distances suggested species level differentiation among clades of E. calamaris. Colour variation was extensive in E. calamaris, but not clade or locality specific. There was little colour polymorphism in E. diadema.
Efficacy of sealants and bonding materials during fixed orthodontic treatment to prevent enamel demineralization: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kamber R. , Meyer-Lueckel H. , Kloukos D. , Tennert C. , Wierichs R. J.
Published: August 2021

To analyse clinical studies investigating coating agents such as sealants and other bonding materials to prevent the initiation or inhibit the progress of white spot lesions (WSL) during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. Electronic databases (Pubmed, CENTRAL, EMBASE) were screened for studies. No language restrictions were applied. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were done in duplicate. Primary outcome included assessment of WSL with visual-tactile assessment and/or laser fluorescence measurements. Twenty-four studies with 1117 patients (age: 11–40 years) and 12,809 teeth were included. Overall, 34 different sealants or bonding materials were analysed. Fourteen studies analysed fluoride and 14 studies non-fluoride releasing materials. Meta-analysis for visual tactile assessment revealed that sealants significantly decreased the initiation of WSL compared to untreated control (RR [95%CI] = 0.70 [0.53; 0.93]; very low level of evidence). Materials releasing fluoride did not decrease initiation of WSL compared to those with no fluoride release (RR [95%CI] = 0.84 [0.70; 1.01]; very low level of evidence). For laser fluorescence measurements no meta-analysis could be performed. The use of sealants seems to be effective in preventing the initiation of post-orthodontic WSL. Furthermore, there is no evidence supporting that fluoride-releasing sealants or bonding materials are more effective than those without fluoride release. No gold standard prevention strategy to prevent WSL during treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances has been established yet. However, based on only a limited number of studies the use of sealants seems to be effective in preventing the initiation of post-orthodontic WSL.
Local anisotropy in mineralized fibrocartilage and subchondral bone beneath the tendon-bone interface
Authors: Tits Alexandra , Plougonven Erwan , Blouin Stéphane , Hartmann Markus A. , Kaux Jean-François , Drion Pierre , Fernandez Justin , van Lenthe G. Harry , Ruffoni Davide
Published: August 2021

The enthesis allows the insertion of tendon into bone thanks to several remarkable strategies. This complex and clinically relevant location often features a thin layer of fibrocartilage sandwiched between tendon and bone to cope with a highly heterogeneous mechanical environment. The main purpose of this study was to investigate whether mineralized fibrocartilage and bone close to the enthesis show distinctive three-dimensional microstructural features, possibly to enable load transfer from tendon to bone. As a model, the Achilles tendon-calcaneus bone system of adult rats was investigated with histology, backscattered electron imaging and micro-computed tomography. The microstructural porosity of bone and mineralized fibrocartilage in different locations including enthesis fibrocartilage, periosteal fibrocartilage and bone away from the enthesis was characterized. We showed that calcaneus bone presents a dedicated protrusion of low porosity where the tendon inserts. A spatially resolved analysis of the trabecular network suggests that such protrusion may promote force flow from the tendon to the plantar ligament, while partially relieving the trabecular bone from such a task. Focusing on the tuberosity, highly specific microstructural aspects were highlighted. Firstly, the interface between mineralized and unmineralized fibrocartilage showed the highest roughness at the tuberosity, possibly to increase failure resistance of a region carrying large stresses. Secondly, fibrochondrocyte lacunae inside mineralized fibrocartilage, in analogy with osteocyte lacunae in bone, had a predominant alignment at the enthesis and a rather random organization away from it. Finally, the network of subchondral channels inside the tuberosity was highly anisotropic when compared to contiguous regions. This dual anisotropy of subchondral channels and cell lacunae at the insertion may reflect the alignment of the underlying collagen network. Our findings suggest that the microstructure of fibrocartilage may be linked with the loading environment. Future studies should characterize those microstructural aspects in aged and or diseased conditions to elucidate the poorly understood role of bone and fibrocartilage in enthesis-related pathologies.
Exploring rare cellular activity in more than one million cells by a transscale scope
Authors: Ichimura T. , Kakizuka T. , Horikawa K. , Seiriki K. , Kasai A. , Hashimoto H. , Fujita K. , Watanabe T. M. , Nagai T.
Published: August 2021

In many phenomena of biological systems, not a majority, but a minority of cells act on the entire multicellular system causing drastic changes in the system properties. To understand the mechanisms underlying such phenomena, it is essential to observe the spatiotemporal dynamics of a huge population of cells at sub-cellular resolution, which is difficult with conventional tools such as microscopy and flow cytometry. Here, we describe an imaging system named AMATERAS that enables optical imaging with an over-one-centimeter field-of-view and a-few-micrometer spatial resolution. This trans-scale-scope has a simple configuration, composed of a low-power lens for machine vision and a hundred-megapixel image sensor. We demonstrated its high cell-throughput, capable of simultaneously observing more than one million cells. We applied it to dynamic imaging of calcium ions in HeLa cells and cyclic-adenosine-monophosphate in Dictyostelium discoideum, and successfully detected less than 0.01% of rare cells and observed multicellular events induced by these cells.
Age-related macular degeneration and premorbid allergic diseases: a population-based case–control study
Authors: Shen Yi-Chen , Hsia Ning-Yi , Wu Wan-Hua , Lin Cheng-Li , Shen Te-Chun , Huang Wei-Chien
Published: August 2021

Evidence indicates that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is associated with the prior presence of allergic diseases; however, large-scale studies in the literature are limited. A case–control study was conducted to describe the relationship between premorbid allergic diseases and AMD using Taiwan’s National Health Insurance database. Eligibility criteria for inclusion of new adult AMD cases from 2000 to 2013 were set up. We defined the year of diagnosis as the index year. Age-, gender-, index year- matched controls who were drawn from the same database. The case control ratio was 1:4. For all participants, all premorbid conditions staring 1996 to index year were documented. Binary logistic regression was used to describe factors related to AMD occurrence. The AMD group consisted of 10,911 patients, and the comparison group consisted of 43,644 individuals. Patients with AMD showed significant associations with premorbid allergic diseases (aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.47–1.61), specifically with allergic conjunctivitis (aOR 2.07, 95% CI 1.94–2.20), allergic rhinitis (aOR 1.32, 95% CI 1.25–1.39), asthma (aOR 0.99, 95% CI 0.93–1.06), and atopic dermatitis (aOR 1.04, 95% CI 0.94–1.17). Further analyses indicated that patients with more concurrent allergic diseases have higher associations with AMD than those with fewer concurrent diseases. Patients with more annual medical visits for their allergic diseases also showed higher associations with AMD than those with fewer visits. AMD is significantly associated with premorbid allergic diseases. The underlying mechanisms must be further investigated.
A genetic sum score of effect alleles associated with serum lipid concentrations interacts with educational attainment
Authors: Emmel Carina , Frank Mirjam , Dragano Nico , Nöthen Markus M. , Erbel Raimund , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Schmidt Börge
Published: August 2021

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and total cholesterol (TC) levels are influenced by both genes and the environment. The aim was to investigate whether education and income as indicators of socioeconomic position (SEP) interact with lipid-increasing genetic effect allele scores (GES) in a population-based cohort. Using baseline data of 4516 study participants, age- and sex-adjusted linear regression models were fitted to investigate associations between GES and lipids stratified by SEP as well as including GES×SEP interaction terms. In the highest education group compared to the lowest stronger effects per GES standard deviation were observed for HDL-C (2.96 mg/dl [95%-CI: 2.19, 3.83] vs. 2.45 mg/dl [95%-CI: 1.12, 3.72]), LDL-C (6.57 mg/dl [95%-CI: 4.73, 8.37] vs. 2.66 mg/dl [95%-CI: −0.50, 5.76]) and TC (8.06 mg/dl [95%-CI: 6.14, 9.98] vs. 4.37 mg/dl [95%-CI: 0.94, 7.80]). Using the highest education group as reference, interaction terms showed indication of GES by low education interaction for LDL-C (ßGES×Education: −3.87; 95%-CI: −7.47, −0.32), which was slightly attenuated after controlling for GESLDL-C×Diabetes interaction (ßGES×Education: −3.42; 95%-CI: −6.98, 0.18). The present study showed stronger genetic effects on LDL-C in higher SEP groups and gave indication for a GESLDL-C×Education interaction, demonstrating the relevance of SEP for the expression of genetic health risks.
Prognostic role of neoplastic markers in Takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Santoro Francesco , Zimotti Tecla , Mallardi Adriana , Leopizzi Alessandra , Vitale Enrica , Tarantino Nicola , Ferraretti Armando , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Racanelli Vito , Iacoviello Massimo , Cannone Michele , Di Biase Matteo , Brunetti Natale Daniele
Published: August 2021

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acute heart failure syndrome with significant rates of in and out-of-hospital mayor cardiac adverse events (MACE). To evaluate the possible role of neoplastic biomarkers [CA-15.3, CA-19.9 and Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)] as prognostic marker at short- and long-term follow-up in subjects with TTS. Ninety consecutive subjects with TTS were enrolled and followed for a median of 3 years. Circulating levels of CA-15.3, CA-19.9 and CEA were evaluated at admission, after 72 h and at discharge. Incidence of MACE during hospitalization and follow-up were recorded. Forty-three (46%) patients experienced MACE during hospitalization. These patients had increased admission levels of CEA (4.3 ± 6.2 vs. 2.2 ± 1.5 ng/mL, p = 0.03). CEA levels were higher in subjects with in-hospital MACE. At long term follow-up, CEA and CA-19.9 levels were associated with increased risk of death (log rank p < 0.01, HR = 5.3, 95% CI 1.9–14.8, HR = 7.8 95% CI 2.4–25.1, respectively, p < 0.01). At multivariable analysis levels higher than median of CEA, CA-19.9 or both were independent predictors of death at long term (Log-Rank p < 0.01). Having both CEA and CA-19.9 levels above median (> 2 ng/mL, > 8 UI/mL respectively) was associated with an increased risk of mortality of 11.8 (95% CI 2.6–52.5, p = 0.001) at follow up. Increased CEA and CA-19.9 serum levels are associated with higher risk of death at long-term follow up in patients with TTS. CEA serum levels are correlated with in-hospital MACE.
Targeting ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway by the seedless black Vitis vinifera polyphenols in CCl4-intoxicated kidney, lung, brain, and spleen in rats
Authors: Habashy Noha H. , Kodous Ahmad S. , Abu-Serie Marwa M.
Published: August 2021

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is an abundant environmental pollutant that can generate free radicals and induce oxidative stress in different human and animal organs like the kidney, lung, brain, and spleen, causing toxicity. The present study evaluated the alleviative mechanism of the isolated polyphenolic fraction from seedless (pulp and skin) black Vitis vinifera (VVPF) on systemic oxidative and necroinflammatory stress in CCl4-intoxicated rats. Here, we found that the administration of VVPF to CCl4-intoxicated rats for ten days was obviously ameliorated the CCl4-induced systemic elevation in ROS, NO and TBARS levels, as well as MPO activity. Also, it upregulated the cellular activities of the enzymatic (SOD, and GPx) and non-enzymatic (TAC and GSH) antioxidants. Furthermore, the gene expression of the ROS-related necroinflammatory mediators (NF-κB, iNOS, COX-2, and TNF-α) in the kidney, brain, and spleen, as well as IL-1β, and IL-8 in the lung were greatly restored. The histopathological studies confirmed these biochemical results and showed a noticeable enhancing effect in the architecture of the studied organs after VVPF intake. Thus, this study indicated that VVPF had an alleviative effect on CCl4-induced necroinflammation and oxidative stress in rat kidney, lung, brain, and spleen via controlling the ROS/NF-κB pathway.
Telemonitoring of daily activities compared to the six-minute walk test further completes the puzzle of oximetry-guided interventions
Authors: Santos Catarina Duarte , Santos Ana Filipe , das Neves Rui César , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Rodrigues Fátima , Caneiras Cátia , Spruit Martijn A. , Bárbara Cristina
Published: August 2021

Pulmonary rehabilitation is based on a thorough patient assessment, including peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) at rest and on exertion. To understand whether exercise-field tests identify patients who desaturate (SpO2 < 90%) during physical activities, this study compared the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and daily-life telemonitoring. Cross-sectional study including 100 patients referred for pulmonary rehabilitation. The 6MWT was performed in hospital with continuous assessment of SpO2, HR, walked distance and calculated metabolic equivalent of tasks (METs). Patients were also evaluated in real-life by SMARTREAB telemonitoring, a combined oximetry-accelerometery with remote continuous assessment of SpO2, HR and METs. SMARTREAB telemonitoring identified 24% more desaturators compared with the 6MWT. Moreover, there were significant mean differences between 6MWT and SMARTREAB in lowest SpO2 of 7.2 ± 8.4% (P < 0.0005), in peak HR of − 9.3 ± 15.5% (P < 0.0005) and also in activity intensity of − 0.3 ± 0.8 METs (P < 0.0005). The 6MWT underestimates the proportion of patients with exercise-induced oxygen desaturation compared to real-life telemonitoring. These results help defining oximetry-guided interventions, such as telemedicine algorithms, oxygen therapy titration and regular physical activity assessment in pulmonary rehabilitation.
Retrospective analysis of predictive factors for lymph node metastasis in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ruan Rongwei , Chen Shengsen , Tao Yali , Yu Jiangping , Zhou Danping , Cui Zhao , Shen Qiwen , Wang Shi
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to identify the risk factors of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and use these factors to establish a prediction model. We retrospectively analyzed the data from training set (n = 280) and validation set (n = 240) underwent radical esophagectomy between March 2005 and April 2018. Our results of univariate and multivariate analyses showed that tumor size, tumor invasion depth, tumor differentiation and lymphovascular invasion were significantly correlated with LNM. Incorporating these 4 variables above, model A achieved AUC of 0.765 and 0.770 in predicting LNM in the training and validation sets, respectively. Adding macroscopic type to the model A did not appreciably change the AUC but led to statistically significant improvements in both the integrated discrimination improvement and net reclassification improvement. Finally, a nomogram was constructed by using these five variables and showed good concordance indexes of 0.765 and 0.770 in the training and validation sets, and the calibration curves had good fitting degree. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the nomogram was clinically useful in both sets. It is possible to predict the status of LNM using this nomogram score system, which can aid the selection of an appropriate treatment plan.
Biomimetic Metal–Organic Frameworks: Construction and Catalytic Performance
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Ma Shengqian
Published: August 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown promising potential for biomimetic functionality due to their tailorable metal-containing nodes and organic ligands. Several important structural parallels exist between metalloenzymes and the well defined geometric structure of MOFs. This emerging class of materials exhibits notable structural analogies to the active sites in metalloenzymes constructed by coordinating ligands and metals with similar binding patterns. More importantly, biomimetic MOFs can exhibit significant enhancements in terms of stability, cost-efficiency and a controllable microenvironment over traditional metalloenzymes, which make biomimetic MOFs attractive for broader industrial applications. MOF-based biomimetic catalysis is still rudimentary, but it has been investigated corresponding to both the principles of designing biomimetic MOFs and their potential applications. Herein, we depict the progress of MOF-based biomimetic catalysts, covering the versatile synthetic strategies and subsequent catalytic performance, alongside an investigation of the structural parallels between enzymes and biomimetic MOFs via the replication of enzymatically active sites and microenvironments.
A simple derivatization RP-HPLC method for the simultaneous determination of zineb and hexaconazole in pesticide formulation using a PDA detector
Authors: Patil Vilas K. , Dhande Nilesh D. , Petha Narendra H. , Narkhede Hemant P.
Published: August 2021

A simple derivatization reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous analysis (separation and quantification) of zineb and hexaconazole has been optimized and validated.
Nanosized biligated metal–organic framework systems for enhanced cellular and mitochondrial sequential targeting of hepatic carcinoma
Authors: Arafa Kholoud K. , Fytory Mostafa , Mousa Shaker A. , El-Sherbiny Ibrahim M.
Published: August 2021

Nanosized bifunctionalized MOFs for cellular and mitochondrial sequential targeting of hepatic carcinoma.
Surface modified halloysite nanotubes with different lumen diameters as drug carriers for cancer therapy
Authors: Liao Juan , Wang Dongyue , Tang Aidong , Fu Liangjie , Ouyang Jing , Yang Huaming
Published: August 2021

Paclitaxel loaded on functionalized halloysite nanotubes exhibits an enhanced anticancer efficacy.
A novel green lignosulfonic acid/Nafion composite membrane with reduced cost and enhanced thermal stability
Authors: Zhu Liyu , Li Yucheng , Zhao Jingyang , Liu Jing , Lei Jiandu , Wang Luying , Huang Chaobo
Published: August 2021

A novel Nafion-based PEM with excellent overall performance and low cost: a possible way to further strengthen the commercialization of Nafion.
Smart covalent organic frameworks: dual channel sensors for acids and bases
Authors: Koh Jia Xin , Geng Keyu , Jiang Donglin
Published: August 2021

Fully π-conjugated sp2 carbon covalent organic frameworks upon anchoring carboxylic electrolyte sites on the pore wall become highly luminescent label-free dual-channel quantitative detectors.
Carborane photochromism: a fatigue resistant carborane switch
Authors: Li Chong , Aldred Matthew P. , Harder Rachel A. , Chen Ying , Yufit Dmitry S. , Zhu Ming-Qiang , Fox Mark A.
Published: August 2021

A dithienylethene molecule involving carborane clusters shows remarkable fatigue resistance and high contrast visual colour changes when irradiated with alternating ultraviolet and visible light.
Glassy behaviour of mechanically amorphised ZIF-62 isomorphs
Authors: Thorne Michael F. , Sapnik Adam F. , McHugh Lauren N. , Bumstead Alice M. , Castillo-Blas Celia , Keeble Dean S. , Diaz Lopez Maria , Chater Phillip A. , Keen David A. , Bennett Thomas D.
Published: August 2021

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) can be melt-quenched to form glasses. Here, we present an alternative route to glassy ZIFs via mechanically induced amorphisation.
Surface chemistry at the solid–solid interface: mechanically induced reaction pathways of C8 carboxylic acid monolayers on copper
Authors: Rana Resham , Bavisotto Robert , Hou Kaiming , Tysoe Wilfred T.
Published: August 2021

The rate of mechanochemical decomposition of C8-carboxylates on copper was found to be independent of the nature of the terminal group despite differences in the strength of binding to the moving counterface.
Mean field approach applied to surface deposition on a modified electrode
Authors: Pasinetti P. M. , Paz Zanini Verónica I. , Ramírez-Pastor A. J. , Pinto O. A.
Published: August 2021

In this work we study the deposition phenomena on a modified electrode in the framework of the mean field theory.
Azide-mediated unusualin situtransformation of Mannich base to Schiff–Mannich base and isolation of their Cu(ii) complexes: crystal structure, theoretical inspection and anticancer activities
Authors: Mukherjee Somali , Hansda Sili , Nandi Sudeshna , Chakraborty Tonmoy , Samanta Debabrata , Acharya Krishnendu , Das Debasis
Published: August 2021

Two novel dinuclear Cu(ii) complexes synthesized from a Mannich base and a transformed Schiff–Mannich base have been utilized as anticancer agents against adenocarcinoma cells.
Five-coordinate iridium(iii) complex with ΔΛ chirality
Authors: Takimoto Kazuyoshi , Watanabe Yutaka , Yoshida Jun , Sato Hisako
Published: August 2021

The present work reports the first example of a chiral five-coordinate bis-chelate Iridium(iii) complex. The practical significance of the work was demonstrated by the relatively moderate reactivity with small molecules such as carbon monoxide.
Field-induced single-ion magnets exhibiting tri-axial anisotropy in a 1D Co(ii) coordination polymer with a rigid ligand 4,4′-(buta-1,3-diyne-1,4-diyl)dibenzoate
Authors: Matos Catiúcia R. M. O. , Sarmiento Charlie V. , C. Silva Henrique , Ferreira Glaucio B. , Guedes Guilherme P. , Nunes Wallace C. , Ronconi Célia M.
Published: August 2021

A tri-axial Co(ii) coordination polymer displaying one of the largest axial anisotropy components exhibits field-induced single-ion magnet (SIM) behavior.
A bis(imino)carbazolate pincer ligand stabilized mononuclear gallium(i) compound: synthesis, characterization, and reactivity
Authors: Li Hao , He Yuhao , Liu Chunmeng , Tan Gengwen
Published: August 2021

Herein we report the synthesis and reactivity of the first bis(imino)carbazolate pincer ligand supported mononuclear Ga(i) compound.
Amyloid fibril-based membranes for PFAS removal from water
Authors: Jin Tonghui , Peydayesh Mohammad , Joerss Hanna , Zhou Jiangtao , Bolisetty Sreenath , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: August 2021

We introduce a green and efficient approach for removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) based on the β-lactoglobulin amyloid fibril membrane.
Highly selective visible-light-triggered CO2 fixation to cyclic carbonates under mild conditions using TiO2/multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) grafted with Pt or Pd nanoparticles
Authors: Elgohary Elzahraa Ahmed , Mohamed Yasser Mahmoud A. , Rabie Samira Taha , Salih Said Abdelrahman , Fekry Amany Mohamed , El Nazer Hossam A.
Published: August 2021

Visible light-induced CO2 fixation to cyclic carbonates catalyzed by Pd//TiO2/MWCNT photocatalyst.
Two-dimensional intermetallic PtBi/Pt core/shell nanoplates overcome tumor hypoxia for enhanced cancer therapy
Authors: Liu Yongchun , Li Xinhao , Shi Yu , Wang Youjuan , Zhao Xiaojing , Gong Xiangyang , Cai Ren , Song Guosheng , Chen Mei , Zhang Xiaobing
Published: August 2021

Two-dimensional intermetallic PtBi/Pt nanoplates were designed as a therapeutic nanoplatform to in situ generate oxygen, and thereby overcome tumor hypoxia for boosting photothermal/radiotherapy.
Improving the performance stability of direct seawater electrolysis: from catalyst design to electrode engineering
Authors: Zheng Weiran , Lee Lawrence Yoon Suk , Wong Kwok-Yin
Published: August 2021

Direct seawater electrolysis opens a new opportunity to lower the cost of hydrogen production from current water electrolysis technologies.
Ultra-low friction and patterning on atomically thin MoS2via electronic tight-binding
Authors: Shi Bin , Gan Xuehui , Lang Haojie , Zou Kun , Wang Linfeng , Sun Junhui , Lu Yangyang , Peng Yitian
Published: August 2021

Through rubbing the MoS2 surface with AFM tip under an electric field, an ultra-low friction state and patterning were achieved.
Ultrasmall Prussian blue nanoparticles attenuate UVA-induced cellular senescence in human dermal fibroblasts via inhibiting the ERK/AP-1 pathway
Authors: Li Yueyue , Zeng Ni , Qin Zhiguo , Chen Yihe , Lu Qian , Cheng Yuxin , Xia Qingyue , Lu Zhiyu , Gu Ning , Luo Dan
Published: August 2021

Ultrasmall Prussian blue nanoparticles show great potential to become novel anti-photoaging agents by alleviating UVA-induced cellular senescence and thus delaying the process of skin photoaging.
Self-trapped exciton emission in an Sn(ii)-doped all-inorganic zero-dimensional zinc halide perovskite variant
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Shen Qibin , Chen Yansong , Ali Nasir , Ren Ziyang , Bi Gang , Wu Huizhen
Published: August 2021

Self-trapped exciton emission of disphenoidal [SnCl4]2− units in the Sn(ii)-doped Cs2ZnCl4 has been studied experimentally and theoretically.
A sustainable C–H functionalization of indoles, pyrroles and furans under a blue LED with iodonium ylides
Authors: Sar Saibal , Das Ranajit , Barman Dhiraj , Latua Pikaso , Guha Souvik , Gremaud Ludovic , Sen Subhabrata
Published: August 2021

Pyrrole and indole derivatives are functionalized with the dimethyl malonate derived phenyl iodonium ylide in the presence of a blue LED via C–H functionalization of the respective heterocycles in methanol to generate the desired compounds.
Elucidating the role of acetylene in ortho-phthalimide functional benzoxazines: design, synthesis, and structure–property investigations
Authors: Lu Yin , Yu Xinye , Evans Corey J. , Yang Shengfu , Zhang Kan
Published: August 2021

Novel ortho-phthalimide-benzoxazines containing acetylene have been designed and their corresponding thermosets exhibit excellent thermal stability although the expected benzoxazole cyclization at a much higher temperature did not take place.
Copper-doped mesoporous bioactive glass endows magnesium-based scaffold with antibacterial activity and corrosion resistance
Authors: Yang Youwen , Lu Changfu , Yang Mingli , Wang Dongsheng , Peng Shuping , Tian Zongjun , Shuai Cijun
Published: August 2021

A biodegradable magnesium (Mg) scaffold as bone repair material is desired to demonstrate antibacterial function to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.
A SnO2QDs/GO/PPY ternary composite film as positive and graphene oxide/charcoal as negative electrodes assembled solid state asymmetric supercapacitor for high energy storage applications
Authors: Vandana M. , Nagaraju Y. S. , Ganesh H. , Veeresh S. , Vijeth H. , Basappa M. , Devendrappa H.
Published: August 2021

Representation of the synthesis steps of SnO2QDs/GO/PPY ternary composites and SnO2QDs/GO/PPY//GO/charcoal asymmetric supercapacitor device.
SWIR emissive RosIndolizine dyes with nanoencapsulation in water soluble dendrimers
Authors: Chatterjee Satadru , Meador William E. , Smith Cameron , Chandrasiri Indika , Zia Mohammad Farid , Nguyen Jay , Dorris Austin , Flynt Alex , Watkins Davita L. , Hammer Nathan I. , Delcamp Jared H.
Published: August 2021

A xanthene–indolizine dye is shown to emit in the shortwave infrared spectral region (∼1100 nm maximum) in water when nanoencapsulated.
Suppressing carboxylate nucleophilicity with inorganic salts enables selective electrocarboxylation without sacrificial anodes
Authors: Corbin Nathan , Yang Deng-Tao , Lazouski Nikifar , Steinberg Katherine , Manthiram Karthish
Published: August 2021

Selective electrocarboxylation of nucleophilically susceptible organic halides without sacrificial anodes is enabled by inorganic salt additives, which suppress the nucleophilicity of anions in the electrolyte.
Multicolor fluorescence encoding of different microRNAs in lung cancer tissues at the single-molecule level
Authors: Li Chen-chen , Chen Hui-yan , Luo Xiliang , Hu Juan , Zhang Chun-yang
Published: August 2021

We integrate single-molecule detection with multicolor fluorophores-encoded cascade signal amplification for simultaneous detection of different miRNAs in lung cancer tissues.
Tuning the porosity of triangular supramolecular adsorbents for superior haloalkane isomer separations
Authors: Hua Bin , Ding Yanjun , Alimi Lukman O. , Moosa Basem , Zhang Gengwu , Baslyman Walaa S. , Sessler Jonathan , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: August 2021

The methylene-bridged trianglamine (TA) can selectively capture 1-chlorobutane from a mixture of 1-chlorobutane and 2-chlorobutane due to the greater thermodynamic stability of the TA-based host–guest complex formed with 1-chlorobutane.
Tuning of bandgaps and emission properties of light-emitting diode materials through homogeneous alloying in molecular crystals
Authors: Thomas Reshmi , Thomas Sajesh P. , Lakhotiya Harish , Mamakhel Aref H. , Bondesgaard Martin , Birkedal Victoria , Iversen Bo B.
Published: August 2021

Multicomponent molecular alloy crystals exhibit intriguing effects of tuning and quenching in their photoluminescence, suggesting ‘alloy-crystal engineering’ as a useful design strategy for molecular functional materials.
Enhanced dielectric, ferroelectric, energy storage and mechanical energy harvesting performance of ZnO–PVDF composites induced by MWCNTs as an additive third phase
Authors: Pratihar Shewli , Patra Aniket , Sasmal Abhishek , Medda Samar Kumar , Sen Shrabanee
Published: August 2021

Improvement of dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of PVDF/ZnO composites was achieved after MWCNT addition.
A fast self-healing multifunctional polyvinyl alcohol nano-organic composite hydrogel as a building block for highly sensitive strain/pressure sensors
Authors: Zhao Wenhao , Zhang Dongzhi , Yang Yan , Du Chen , Zhang Bao
Published: August 2021

This paper reports the excellent properties and multifunctional applications of a fast self-healing polyvinyl alcohol nano-organic composite hydrogel.
New analytical algorithm for calculating the end leakage magnetic field of a 300Mvar synchronous condenser under no‐load condition
Authors: Zhu Erhang , Liang Yanping , Han Xiao , Bian Xu , Wang Chenguang
Published: August 2021

Aiming at the complexity of end structures in the end region of large synchronous machines, it is difficult to obtain an analytical method for the end leakage magnetic field. In order to solve such a problem, a new analytical algorithm (NAA) considering the influence of the rotor end shaft and air gap is proposed. The mirror image of the rotor end current with the core end plane and the rotor shaft cylinder as mirror surfaces is studied. The air‐gap effect is considered by the equivalent air‐gap current, and the equivalent air‐gap current equation of synchronous machines in the polar coordinate system is derived. Then, a 300Mvar synchronous condenser (SC) is proposed for the first time in China as an example; according to the Biot–Savart law and the superposition principle, the end leakage magnetic field of the SC under no‐load condition is calculated, and the influence of different shaft structures on the end leakage magnetic field is analysed. Finally, the calculation results are compared with the 3‐D finite element method, which verifies the accuracy of the NAA.
Impact of H2 gas on the properties of MoS2 thin films deposited by sulfurization of Mo thin films
Authors: Pradhan Diana , Gartia Anurag , Ghosh Surya Prakash , Sahoo Kiran Kumar , Bose Gouranga , Kar Jyoti Prakash
Published: August 2021

MoS2 has gained tremendous interest due to its highlighting electronic and optoelectronic properties. In this work, an attempt has been made to develop a CMOS compatible process for the fabrication of a MoS2 thin film. In the first step, molybdenum (Mo) thin film was deposited on silicon substrate by RF magnetron sputtering. In the second step, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) was used for the synthesis of MoS2 using a custom‐designed dual zone tubular furnace. The impact of hydrogen (H2) on the CVD growth of MoS2 thin film was studied with the mixture of H2 and argon (Ar) gas in 1:10 ratio. AFM and FESEM images revealed a uniform and smooth growth of MoS2 films using H2 as a reducing gas. Raman characteristics peaks, observed at 386 cm−1 and 408 cm−1, have confirmed the formation of MoS2 film, which corresponds to the hexagonal coordination (2H). The intensity of photoluminescence peak of MoS2 thin film is found to be increased with hydrogen treatment. Moreover, the impact of H2 gas was systematically studied on the electrical properties and a reduction in the carrier concentration of MoS2 was observed with a flow of 20 sccm H2. A detailed study on the impact of H2 gas and MoS2/Si heterojunction properties were also performed.
Digital filter‐based grid synchronization for autonomous microgrids
Authors: Elyasichamazkoti Farhad , Aminifar Farrokh , Davarpanah Mahdi
Published: August 2021

Having a robust and accurate grid synchronization unit for distributed generators (DGs) has been accentuated due to rapidly growing integration of inverter‐based DGs to the autonomous microgrids. Although most of the synchronization methods are based on the phased locked loops (PLL) technique, digital filters could result in more salient dynamic performance in non‐ideal sinusoidal situations. This paper presents a novel digital filter as a grid synchronization method that overcomes the flaws of conventional PLLs under harmonic distorted and unbalanced cases as well as large delay of window‐based digital filters. For the sake of computational advantages, the proposed method is executed in two distinct offline and online stages. In the offline stage, the second‐order Taylor series expansion approximation of the bandpass oscillatory signal calculates the state‐transition matrices and state vectors. Then, by applying the concept of Kalman filter, the state vectors are updated in the online calculation section much easier and faster compared to all‐online approach. Compared to the existing methods, the proposed method generates a dynamic response with less settling time, more accuracy, and immunity against harmonic distortion, imbalances, and noise.
Efficient measurement of power tower based on tilt photography with unmanned aerial vehicle and laser scanning
Authors: Xia Bin , Li Zixin , Huang Jianying , Zeng Kaijun , Pang Shiqiang
Published: August 2021

A 3D laser scanning system can achieve the precision of millimetre level in deformation examination of a power line tower; however, it suffers from the high cost of equipment and difficult onsite installation. The Tilt Photography with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TP‐UAV) is a relatively lower cost system that offers a more convenient way of 3D measurement; however, with a trade‐off of lower measurement accuracy. In order to take advantage of both technologies and improve the measurement accuracy of the TP‐UAV system, in this research, a 3D laser scanning system is applied as a calibration means for the TP‐UAV to explore the possibility of rapid measurement of the deformation in transmission facilities. A data representation model is proposed for the calibration of the parameters of the TP‐UAV system to make use of the accuracy of the 3D laser scanning, and the systematic error of the TP‐UAV system can be corrected to improve the measurement accuracy by 35%.
Local H I filaments driven by a small-scale dynamo
Authors: Kalberla P. M. W. , Kerp J. , Haud U.
Published: August 2021

Context. H I filaments are closely related to dusty magnetized structures that are observable in the far infrared (FIR). Recently it was proposed that the coherence of oriented H I structures in velocity traces the line of sight magnetic field tangling.

Aims. We study the velocity-dependent coherence between FIR emission at 857 GHz and H I on angular scales of 18′.

Methods. We use HI4PI H I data and Planck FIR data and apply the Hessian operator to extract filaments. For coherence, we require that local orientation angles θ in the FIR at 857 GHz along the filaments be correlated with the H I.

Results. We find some correlation for H I column densities at |vLSR| < 50 km s−1, but a tight agreement between FIR and H I orientation angles θ exists only in narrow velocity intervals of 1 km s−1. Accordingly, we assign velocities to FIR filaments. Along the line of sight these H I structures show a high degree of the local alignment with θ, as well as in velocity space. Interpreting these aligned structures in analogy to the polarization of dust emission defines an H I polarization. We observe polarization fractions of up to 80%, with averages of 30%. Orientation angles θ along the filaments, projected perpendicular to the line of sight, are fluctuating systematically and allow a characteristic distribution of filament curvatures to be determined.

Conclusions. Local H I and FIR filaments identified by the Hessian analysis are coherent structures with well-defined radial velocities. H I structures are also organized along the line of sight with a high degree of coherence. The observed bending of these structures in the plane of the sky is consistent with models for magnetic field curvatures induced by a Galactic small-scale turbulent dynamo.
Phase-resolved hard X-ray emission of the high-mass binary LS 5039: a spectral hardening above 50 keV detected with INTEGRAL
Authors: Falanga M. , Bykov A. M. , Li Z. , Krassilchtchikov A. M. , Petrov A. E. , Bozzo E.
Published: August 2021

Aims.LS 5039 is an enigmatic high-mass gamma-ray binary which hosts a powerful O6.5V companion, but the nature of the compact object is still to be established using multi-wavelength observations.

Methods.We analyzed phase-resolved multi-instrument spectra of nonthermal emission from LS 5039 in order to produce reliable spectral models, which can be further employed to select between various scenarios and theoretical models of the binary.

Results.The combined phase-resolved hard X-ray and MeV-range gamma-ray spectra obtained withXMM-Newton, Suzaku,NuSTAR, INTEGRAL, and COMPTEL indicate a meaningful spectral hardening above 50 keV. The spectral break observed in both major phases of the binary may indicate the presence of an upturn in the spectrum of accelerated leptons which could originate from the interaction of wind from the O6.5V companion star with the relativistic outflow from a yet unidentified compact object.
High-resolution imaging with the International LOFAR Telescope: Observations of the gravitational lenses MG 0751+2716 and CLASS B1600+434
Authors: Badole S. , Venkattu D. , Jackson N. , Wallace S. , Dhandha J. , Hartley P. , Riddell-Rovira C. , Townsend A. , Morabito L. K. , McKean J. P.
Published: August 2021

We present Low-Frequency Array (LOFAR) telescope observations of the radio-loud gravitational lens systems MG 0751+2716 and CLASS B1600+434. These observations produce images at 300 milliarcseconds (mas) resolution at 150 MHz. In the case of MG 0751+2716, lens modelling is used to derive a size estimate of around 2 kpc for the low-frequency source, which is consistent with a previous 27.4 GHz study in the radio continuum with Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array. This consistency implies that the low-frequency radio source is cospatial with the core-jet structure that forms the radio structure at higher frequencies, and no significant lobe emission or further components associated with star formation are detected within the magnified region of the lens. CLASS B1600+434 is a two-image lens where one of the images passes through the edge-on spiral lensing galaxy, and the low radio frequency allows us to derive limits on propagation effects, namely scattering, in the lensing galaxy. The observed flux density ratio of the two lensed images is 1.19 ± 0.04 at an observed frequency of 150 MHz. The widths of the two images give an upper limit of 0.035 kpc m−20∕3 on the integrated scattering column through the galaxy at a distance approximately 1 kpc above its plane, under the assumption that image A is not affected by scattering. This is relatively small compared to limits derived through very long baseline interferometry studies of differential scattering in lens systems. These observations demonstrate that LOFAR is an excellent instrument for studying gravitational lenses. We also report on the inability to calibrate three further lens observations: two from early observations that have less well determined station calibration, and a third observation impacted by phase transfer problems.
Multicomponent, multiwavelength benchmarks for source- and filament-extraction methods
Authors: Men’shchikov A.
Published: August 2021

Modern multiwavelength observations of star-forming regions that reveal complex, highly structured molecular clouds require adequate extraction methods that provide both complete detection of the structures and their accurate measurements. The omnipresence of filamentary structures and their physical connection to prestellar cores make it necessary to use methods that are able to disentangle and extract both sources and filaments. It is fundamentally important to test all extraction methods on standard benchmarks to compare their detection and measurement qualities and fully understand their capabilities before their scientific applications. A recent publication described getsf, the new method for source and filament extraction that employs the separation of the structural components, a successor to getsources, getfilaments, and getimages (collectively referred to as getold). This new paper describes a detailed benchmarking of both getsf and getold using two multicomponent, multiwavelength benchmarks resembling the Herschel observations of the nearby star-forming regions. Each benchmark consists of simulated images at six Herschel wavelengths and one additional derived surface density image with a 13″ resolution. The structural components of the benchmark images include a background cloud, a dense filament, hundreds of starless and protostellar cores, and instrumental noise. Five variants of benchmark images of different complexity are derived from the two benchmarks and are used to perform the source and filament extractions with getsf and getold. A formalism for evaluating source detection and measurement qualities is presented, allowing quantitative comparisons of different extraction methods in terms of their completeness, reliability, and goodness, as well as the detection and measurement accuracies and the overall quality. A detailed analysis of the benchmarking results shows that getsf has better source and filament extraction qualities than getold and that the best choice of the images for source detection with getsf is the high-resolution surface density, alone or with the other available Herschel images. The benchmarks explored in this paper provide the standard tests for calibrating existing and future source- and filament-extraction methods to choose the best tool for astrophysical studies.
Experimental investigations of a remote atmospheric pressure plasma by electrical diagnostics and related effects on polymer composite surfaces
Authors: Brès Lucie , Gherardi Nicolas , Naudé Nicolas , Rives Bertrand
Published: August 2021

Surface activation of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) using (Poly-EtherEtherKetone) (PEEK) matrices is required to achieve strong and long-term adherent painting on the composite. Among the different techniques, an industrial atmospheric pressure remote plasma has been used in this work to treat PEEK CFRP surfaces. The characterization of this device by means of electrical diagnostics related to the effect of such post-discharge on the surface modifications is discussed. Firstly, electrical characteristics of the discharge show fairly high currents associated to high voltages which suggest a nonestablished and cold arc. Power consumed by the electrical supply associated to post-discharge length and surface temperatures allowed a better understanding of the industrial device. Secondly, the effects of plasma on surface chemistry and topography are analyzed by water contact angle measurements, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Investigations showed that treated surfaces exhibited better hydrophilicity mainly due to an incorporation of oxygen containing groups (up to 8.4% more) under air plasma whereas an increase of the nanoroughness and specific surface is preponderant under nitrogen plasma. Different hydrophilic capabilities of the surface obtained in air and nitrogen gas plasmas highlight a potential optimization of activation performances according to industrial specification.