bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards rainbow portable Cytophone with laser diodes for global disease diagnostics
Authors: Jawad Hind J. , Yadem Aayire C. , Menyaev Yulian A. , Sarimollaoglu Mustafa , Armstrong Jillian N. , Watanabe Fumiya , Biris Alexandru S. , Stumhofer Jason S. , Nedosekin Dmitry , Suen James Y. , Parikh Sunil , Zharov Vladimir P.
Published: May 2022

In vivo, Cytophone has demonstrated the capability for the early diagnosis of cancer, infection, and cardiovascular disorders through photoacoustic detection of circulating disease markers directly in the bloodstream with an unprecedented 1,000-fold improvement in sensitivity. Nevertheless, a Cytophone with higher specificity and portability is urgently needed. Here, we introduce a novel Cytophone platform that integrates a miniature multispectral laser diode array, time-color coding, and high-speed time-resolved signal processing. Using two-color (808 nm/915 nm) laser diodes, we demonstrated spectral identification of white and red clots, melanoma cells, and hemozoin in malaria-infected erythrocytes against a blood background and artifacts. Data from a Plasmodium yoelii murine model and cultured human P. falciparum were verified in vitro with confocal photothermal and fluorescent microscopy. With these techniques, we detected infected cells within 4 h after invasion, which makes hemozoin promising as a spectrally selective marker at the earliest stages of malaria progression. Along with the findings from our previous application of Cytophone with conventional lasers for the diagnosis of melanoma, bacteremia, sickle anemia, thrombosis, stroke, and abnormal hemoglobin forms, this current finding suggests the potential for the development of a portable rainbow Cytophone with multispectral laser diodes for the identification of these and other diseases.
Guiding cell migration in 3D with high-resolution photografting
Authors: Sayer Simon , Zandrini Tommaso , Markovic Marica , Van Hoorick Jasper , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Baudis Stefan , Holnthoner Wolfgang , Ovsianikov Aleksandr
Published: May 2022

Multi-photon lithography (MPL) has proven to be a suitable tool to precisely control the microenvironment of cells in terms of the biochemical and biophysical properties of the hydrogel matrix. In this work, we present a novel method, based on multi-photon photografting of 4,4′-diazido-2,2′-stilbenedisulfonic acid (DSSA), and its capabilities to induce cell alignment, directional cell migration and endothelial sprouting in a gelatin-based hydrogel matrix. DSSA-photografting allows for the fabrication of complex patterns at a high-resolution and is a biocompatible, universally applicable and straightforward process that is comparably fast. We have demonstrated the preferential orientation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) in response to a photografted pattern. Co-culture spheroids of hASCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) have been utilized to study the directional migration of hASCs into the modified regions. Subsequently, we have highlighted the dependence of endothelial sprouting on the presence of hASCs and demonstrated the potential of photografting to control the direction of the sprouts. MPL-induced DSSA-photografting has been established as a promising method to selectively alter the microenvironment of cells.
Correlation between loneliness, personality traits, and treatment outcomes in patients with methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Yu , Wang Tzu-Yun , Tseng Huai-Hsuan , Chen Kao Chin , Chiu Ching-Ju , Chen Po See , Yang Yen Kuang
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate whether loneliness and personality traits correlate with the treatment outcome of methamphetamine use disorder. In this 1-year longitudinal study, a total 106 participants (98 males, 8 females), with a mean age 36.3 ± 9.6 years were enrolled. We measured UCLA Loneliness Scale and Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire at baseline, while craving level at baseline, week 12, 24, 36, and 48. Urinary methamphetamine tests were given 17 times. For the evaluation of the data, multiple linear regression and generalized linear mixed models were used. The baseline results showed lower levels of the harm avoidance trait and higher levels of loneliness were significantly associated with higher craving levels (p=0.04 and 0.04). Moreover, loneliness was not only positively associated with craving levels (B=0.05, p<0.01) but with urinary methamphetamine positive results (B= 0.08, p=0.03) during one-year treatment. The findings suggested that loneliness was associated with poor methamphetamine treatment outcome (greater craving levels and higher proportion of positive methamphetamine urine tests) and lower harm avoidance traits are associated with higher craving levels.
Birdsong classification based on ensemble multi-scale convolutional neural network
Authors: Liu Jiang , Zhang Yan , Lv Danjv , Lu Jing , Xie Shanshan , Zi Jiali , Yin Yue , Xu Haifeng
Published: May 2022

With the intensification of ecosystem damage, birds have become the symbolic species of the ecosystem. Ornithology with interdisciplinary technical research plays a great significance for protecting birds and evaluating ecosystem quality. Deep learning shows great progress for birdsongs recognition. However, as the number of network layers increases in traditional CNN, semantic information gradually becomes richer and detailed information disappears. Secondly, the global information carried by the entire input may be lost in convolution, pooling, or other operations, and these problems will weaken the performance of classification. In order to solve such problems, based on the feature spectrogram from the wavelet transform for the birdsongs, this paper explored the multi-scale convolution neural network (MSCNN) and proposed an ensemble multi-scale convolution neural network (EMSCNN) classification framework. The experiments compared the MSCNN and EMSCNN models with other CNN models including LeNet, VGG16, ResNet101, MobileNetV2, EfficientNetB7, Darknet53 and SPP-net. The results showed that the MSCNN model achieved an accuracy of 89.61%, and EMSCNN achieved an accuracy of 91.49%. In the experiments on the recognition of 30 species of birds, our models effectively improved the classification effect with high stability and efficiency, indicating that the models have better generalization ability and are suitable for birdsongs species recognition. It provides methodological and technical scheme reference for bird classification research.
Neural signature of the perceptual decision in the neural population responses of the inferior temporal cortex
Authors: Dehaqani Mohammad-Reza A. , Emadi Nazli , Vahabie Abdol-Hossein , Zandvakili Amin , Esteky Hossein
Published: May 2022

Rapid categorization of visual objects is critical for comprehending our complex visual world. The role of individual cortical neurons and neural populations in categorizing visual objects during passive vision has previously been studied. However, it is unclear whether and how perceptually guided behaviors affect the encoding of stimulus categories by neural population activity in the higher visual cortex. Here we studied the activity of the inferior temporal (IT) cortical neurons in macaque monkeys during both passive viewing and categorization of ambiguous body and object images. We found enhanced category information in the IT neural population activity during the correct, but not wrong, trials of the categorization task compared to the passive task. This encoding enhancement was task difficulty dependent with progressively larger values in trials with more ambiguous stimuli. Enhancement of IT neural population information for behaviorally relevant stimulus features suggests IT neural networks' involvement in perceptual decision-making behavior.
Social support, psychological flexibility and coping mediate the association between COVID-19 related stress exposure and psychological distress
Authors: Tindle Richard , Hemi Alla , Moustafa Ahmed A.
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to an increase in psychological distress. However, protective factors such as social support, psychological flexibility, and coping mechanisms can help individuals cope with the effects of psychological distress. This study aimed to test a recent hypothesis suggesting that psychological flexibility is not necessarily a coping strategy but a mechanism that can influence the coping strategies an individual employs during stressful events. We tested a mediation model that COVID-19 concerns would contribute to higher levels of perceived social support, which would directly increase psychological flexibility, and finally test if the effect of psychological flexibility on distress was mediated by approach and avoidant coping strategies. The results show that social support facilitates higher levels of psychological flexibility. Further, that psychological flexibility indirectly reduces psychological distress by reducing avoidant coping and increasing approach coping strategies. Within the context of COVID-19, we have shown the importance of social support and psychological flexibility for reducing distress. We have provided further evidence that psychological flexibility might not be a coping mechanism but a strategy that leads individuals to engage in more approach coping strategies and fewer avoidant coping strategies.
Activity of alkaloids from Aspidosperma nitidum against Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis
Authors: do Socorro Silva da Veiga Andreza , Silveira Fernando Tobias , da Silva Edilene Oliveira , Júnior José Antônio Picanço Diniz , Araújo Sanderson Corrêa , Campos Marliane Batista , do Rosário Marinho Andrey Moacir , Brandão Geraldo Célio , Vale Valdicley Vieira , Percário Sandro , Dolabela Maria Fâni
Published: May 2022

This study evaluated the morphological changes caused by fractions and subfractions, obtained from barks of Aspidosperna nitidum, against L. (L.) amazonensis promastigotes. The ethanolic extract (EE) obtained through the maceration of trunk barks was subjected to an acid–base partition, resulting the neutral (FN) and the alkaloid (FA) fractions, and fractionation under reflux, yielded hexane (FrHEX), dichloromethane (FrDCL), ethyl acetate (FrACoET), and methanol (FrMEOH) fractions. The FA was fractionated and three subfractions (SF5-6, SF8, and SF9) were obtained and analyzed by HPLC–DAD and 1H NMR. The antipromastigote activity of all samples was evaluated by MTT, after that, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for the active fractions were performed. Chromatographic analyzes suggest the presence of alkaloids in EE, FN, FA, and FrDCL. The fractionation of FA led to the isolation of the indole alkaloid dihydrocorynantheol (SF8 fractions). The SF5-6, dihydrocorynantheol and SF-9 samples were active against promastigotes, while FrDCL was moderately active. The SEM analysis revealed cell rounding and changes in the flagellum of the parasites. In the TEM analysis, the treated promastigotes showed changes in flagellar pocket and kinetoplast, and presence of lipid inclusions. These results suggest that alkaloids isolated from A. nitidum are promising as leishmanicidal.
Biofilms as agents of Ediacara-style fossilization
Authors: Slagter Silvina , Hao Weiduo , Planavsky Noah J. , Konhauser Kurt O. , Tarhan Lidya G.
Published: May 2022

Earth’s earliest fossils of complex macroscopic life are recorded in Ediacaran-aged siliciclastic deposits as exceptionally well-preserved three-dimensional casts and molds, known as “Ediacara-style” preservation. Ediacara-style fossil assemblages commonly include both macrofossils of the enigmatic Ediacara Biota and associated textural impressions attributed to microbial matgrounds that were integral to the ecology of Ediacara communities. Here, we use an experimental approach to interrogate to what extent the presence of mat-forming microorganisms was likewise critical to the Ediacara-style fossilization of these soft-bodied organisms. We find evidence that biofilms can play an instrumental role in fostering fossilization. Rapid silica precipitation associated with macroorganism tissues is enhanced in the presence of mat- and biofilm-forming microorganisms. These results indicate that the occurrence of microbial mats and biofilms may have strongly shaped the preservational window for Ediacara-style fossils associated with early diagenetic silica cements, and therefore influenced the distribution and palaeoecological interpretation of the Ediacara Biota fossil record.
Providing physical relief for nurses by collaborative robotics
Authors: Brinkmann Anna , Böhlen Conrad Fifelski-von , Kowalski Christian , Lau Sandra , Meyer Ole , Diekmann Rebecca , Hein Andreas
Published: May 2022

Manual patient handling is one of the most significant challenges leading to musculoskeletal burden among healthcare workers. Traditional working techniques could be enhanced by innovations that can be individually adapted to the physical capacity of nurses. We evaluated the use of a robotic system providing physical relief by collaboratively assisting nurses in manual patient handling tasks. By quantifying kinetic and muscle activity data, it was possible to distinguish two kinds of movement patterns. Highly asymmetric postures and movements corresponded to distinct extremes in lower limb and spine muscle activity data. The use of collaborative robotics significantly reduced maximum force exertion in the caregiving process by up to 51%. Lateral flexion and torsion of the trunk were reduced by up to 54% and 87%, respectively, leading to a significant reduction in mean spine muscle activity of up to 55%. These findings indicate the feasibility of collaborative robot-assisted patient handling and emphasize the need for future individual intervention programs to prevent physical burden in care.
The role of kidney dysfunction in COVID-19 and the influence of age
Authors: La Porta Edoardo , Baiardi Paola , Fassina Lorenzo , Faragli Alessandro , Perna Simone , Tovagliari Federico , Tallone Ilaria , Talamo Giuseppina , Secondo Giovanni , Mazzarello Giovanni , Esposito Vittoria , Pasini Matteo , Lupo Francesca , Deferrari Giacomo , Bassetti Matteo , Esposito Ciro
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 is strongly influenced by age and comorbidities. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent finding in COVID-19 patients and seems to be associated to mortality and severity. On the other hand, the role of kidney dysfunction in COVID-19 is still debated. We performed a retrospective study in a cohort of 174 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Italy from March 3rd to May 21st 2020, to investigate the role of kidney dysfunction on COVID-19 severity and mortality. Moreover, we examined in depth the relationship between kidney function, age, and progression of COVID-19, also using different equations to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We performed logistic regressions, while a predictive analysis was made through a machine learning approach. AKI and death occurred respectively in 10.2% and 19.5%, in our population. The major risk factors for mortality in our cohort were age [adjusted HR, 6.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8–21.4] and AKI [3.36 (1.44–7.87)], while, in these relationships, GFR at baseline mitigated the role of age. The occurrence of AKI was influenced by baseline kidney function, D-dimer, procalcitonin and hypertension. Our predictive analysis for AKI and mortality reached an accuracy of ≥ 94% and ≥ 91%, respectively. Our study scales down the role of kidney function impairment on hospital admission , especially in elderly patients. BIS-1 formula demonstrated a worse performance to predict the outcomes in COVID-19 patients when compared with MDRD and CKD-EPI.
Energy loss evaluation of axial flow pump systems in reverse power generation operations based on entropy production theory
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , Tang Fangping
Published: May 2022

The use of existing large pumping station equipment for upstream residual water reverse power generation is an unrealized yet valuable renewable energy project. At present, some large axial flow pump stations have begun to perform reverse power generation operations; however, related research has not yet started. In this paper, entropy generation theory is applied to a large-scale axial flow pump station system in reverse power generation operations, and the entropy generation method is used to investigate the accurate size and distribution of the mechanical energy dissipation of each component under different flow conditions. First, the energy characteristics and pressure fluctuations in the pump of the large axial flow pump station system are experimentally tested under reverse power generation conditions. The reliability of the entropy generation numerical calculation is verified both experimentally and theoretically. Then, the proportion of each component in the total entropy production is compared to illustrate how each component contributes to the total entropy production of the system and how this contribution changes as operating conditions vary. Then, the type of entropy production of each component is accurately determined under different flow conditions, revealing the changes in the proportions of the different types of entropy production of each component. Finally, components with large mechanical energy dissipations are selected, and the changes and causes of the energy dissipation distribution of the components are thoroughly analysed under different flow conditions. The research results can aid in better understanding the energy dissipation mechanism of large axial flow pump systems in reverse power generation operations.
Analysis and comparison of monofocal, extended depth of focus and trifocal intraocular lens profiles
Authors: Miret Juan J. , Camps Vicente J. , García Celia , Caballero Maria T. , Gonzalez-Leal Juan M.
Published: May 2022

To test the feasibility of using profilometers to extract information about IOL surfaces design. A standard monofocal IOL (Tecnis 1), a monofocal IOL that provided some depth of focus (Eyhance), an extended depth of focus IOL based on refractive optics (Mini Well) and a trifocal IOL based on diffractive optics were used in this study (Tecnis Synergy). The surface topography of the IOLs was measured by using a multimode optical profilometer. Posterior surface of Tecnis 1 IOL was spherical and the anterior surface aspherical. In the Eyhance IOL, posterior surface was spherical and anterior surface did not fit to any of our reference surfaces, indicating a higher order aspheric surface design. In the Mini Well Ready IOL, a best-fit sphere surface was obtained for the second surface and a high order aspherical surface design was deduced for the first surface. The anterior surface of the Synergy IOL was aspherical and the base curve of the diffractive structure fitted very well to a spherical surface. To consider an aspheric surface as possible best-fit surface provided more information than if only best-fit spherical surface was considered. The high order aspheric surface designs employed in the IOLs studied presented differences, regarding best-fit asphere surface, higher than 1 micron. These differences were correlated with the generation of spherical aberration complex profiles (with Zernike terms higher than 4th order) and with the production of distinct amounts of depth of focus. This method was also useful to deduce the base curve of diffractive surfaces.
Tuning band gap and enhancing optical functions of AGeF3 (A = K, Rb) under pressure for improved optoelectronic applications
Authors: Alam Md. Safin , Saiduzzaman Md , Biswas Arpon , Ahmed Tanjun , Sultana Aldina , Hossain Khandaker Monower
Published: May 2022

The current study diligently analyzes the physical characteristics of halide perovskites AGeF3 (A = K, Rb) under hydrostatic pressure using density functional theory. The goal of this research is to reduce the electronic band gap of AGeF3 (A = K, Rb) under pressure in order to improve the optical characteristics and assess the compounds’ suitability for optoelectronic applications. The structural parameters exhibit a high degree of precision, which correlates well with previously published work. In addition, the bond length and lattice parameters decrease significantly leading to a stronger interaction between atoms. The bonding between K(Rb)–F and Ge–F reveal ionic and covalent nature, respectively, and the bonds become stronger under pressure. The application of hydrostatic pressure demonstrates remarkable changes in the optical absorption and conductivity. The band gap becomes lower with the increment of pressure, resulting in better conductivity. The optical functions also predict that the studied materials might be used in a variety of optoelectronic devices operating in the visible and ultraviolet spectrum. Interestingly, the compounds become more suitable to be used in optoelectronic applications under pressure. Moreover, the external pressure has profound dominance on the mechanical behavior of the titled perovskites, which make them more ductile and anisotropic.
Methodology for the determination of human respiration rate by using Doppler radar and Empirical Modal Decomposition
Authors: Hernandez-Aguila Miguel , Olvera-Cervantes Jose-Luis , Perez-Ramos Aldo-Eleazar , Corona-Chavez Alonso
Published: May 2022

In this work, a methodology is presented for the determination of the respiration rate of a person under test (PUT), the detection of movements, as well as the elimination of the spurious effects produced by the movements of the PUT. The methodology is based on Empirical Modal Decomposition (EMD) applied to the phase signal obtained by means of a quadrature Doppler radar operating in S band. The EMD allows to automatically eliminate the continuos component (CC) which is present in the phase signal since one of the main characteristics of the modes generated by the EMD is that its mean is equal to zero. On the other hand, the first mode of the EMD is used for the detection of movements while the sum of the second and third modes are used for the elimination of the CC drift caused by the DC drift and the high frequency components produced by the movements of the PUT. The proposed methodology was successfully tested in a PUT at rest and performing movements of the head, arm and combination of head, arm, and torso. The average respiration rate measured was 20.78 breaths / min with a standard deviation of 2.53 breaths/min.
The effect of propolis on 5-fluorouracil-induced cardiac toxicity in rats
Authors: Barary Mohammad , Hosseinzadeh Rezvan , Kazemi Sohrab , Liang Jackson J. , Mansoori Razieh , Sio Terence T. , Hosseini Mohammad , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar
Published: May 2022

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is one of the most common chemotherapeutic agents used in treating solid tumors, and the 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity is the second cause of cardiotoxicity induced by chemotherapeutic drugs. Propolis (Pro) has vigorous anti-inflammatory activity. Its cardio-protective characteristic against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity was previously proven. The current study aimed to appraise the effect of Pro on 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control, 5-FU, 5-FU + Pro 250 mg/kg, and 5-FU + Colchicine (CLC) 5 mg/kg. Different hematological, serological, biochemical, histopathological, and molecular assays were performed to assess the study’s aim. Moreover, a rat myocardium (H9C2(2–1)) cell line was also used to assess this protective effect in-vitro. 5-FU resulted in significant cardiotoxicity represented by an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression, cardiac enzyme levels, and histopathological degenerations. 5-FU treatment also decreased bodyweight, total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT) levels, blood cell counts, and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. In addition, 5-FU disrupted ECG parameters, including increased elevation in the ST-segment and increased QRS complex and QTc duration. Treating with Pro reduced oxidative stress, cardiac enzymes, histopathological degenerations, and COX-2 expression in cardiac tissue alleviated ECG disturbances and increased the number of blood cells and TAC levels. Moreover, 5-FU-induced bodyweight loss was ameliorated after treatment with Pro. Our results demonstrated that treatment with Pro significantly improved cardiotoxicity induced by 5-FU in rats.
Engineering properties of Cassia tora L. seeds and meal as a function of moisture content
Authors: Peng Fei , Fang Fang , Xiang Rui , Liu Dan
Published: May 2022

Engineering properties are of great importance for Cassia tora L. seeds in aspects of harvesting, handling mechanical design and product processing. The effect of moisture content (7, 10, 13, 16 and 19%) (wet basis) on the properties: physical (length, width, bulk and true density, porosity, thousand seeds mass, coefficient of static friction and angle of repose), mechanical (hardness, fragmentation energy and failure deformations), and thermal (specific heat, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity), were systematically studied. As the moisture contents increase from 7 to 19%, the length (L) increased from 4.52 to 5.87 mm, the thickness (T) from 2.51 to 3.21 mm and the width (W) from 2.36 to 3.02 mm, respectively. The bulk and true density of Cassia tora L. seeds decreased from 775.83 to 654.17 kg/m3 and from 1295.21 to 1154.72 kg/m3, respectively, with the moisture content raised from 7 to 19%. The thermal conductivity of Cassia tora L. seeds meal was found to be 0.068–0.098 W m−1 K−1, 0.078–0.112 W m−1 K−1, 0.089–0.125 W m−1 K−1, 0.098–0.136 W m−1 K−1, 0.108–0.148 W m−1 K−1, 0.119–0.159 W m−1 K−1, respectively, at 25 °C, 45 °C, 65 °C, 85 °C, 105 °C and 125 °C in moisture ranges of 7–19%. The thermal diffusivity was found to decrease from 5.21 × 10–8 to 4.53 × 10–8 m2/s, from 5.75 × 10–8 to 4.91 × 10–8 m2/s, from 6.11 × 10–8 to 5.17 × 10–8 m2/s, from 6.52 × 10–8 to 5.36 × 10–8 m2/s, from 7.17 × 10–8 to 5.77 × 10–8 m2/s, from 7.36 × 10–8 to 5.84 × 10–8 m2/s, respectively, at 25 °C, 45 °C, 65 °C, 85 °C, 105 °C and 125 °C in moisture ranges of 7–19%. The results suggested that physical properties exhibited linear relationships with moisture content using the regression model, while mechanical properties showed a second-order polynomial relationship with moisture content. Furthermore, significant variation existed in thermal properties because of differentiate moisture content and temperature. These data and rules are also useful for high efficiency machines design and mechanisms development.
Noise spectrum characteristics of marine pump units induced by different excitation sources
Authors: Liu Houlin , Zhou Runze , Pan Qi , Dong Liang , Ma Qijiang , Cheng ZhiMing , Wang Xiaolin
Published: May 2022

To study the noise spectrum characteristics of marine pump units induced by different excitation sources, a computational aeroacoustic (CAA) model of the internal and external field noise of a marine pump was established. The coupled acoustic-vibration method was used to obtain the spectrum characteristics of internal and external field noise. The accuracy and feasibility of the simulation method for noise prediction were confirmed through a noise test. Due to the different mediums in the internal and external fields of the marine pump, an external field acoustic model was established based on the automatically matched layer (AML) technology. The spectral characteristics of different excitation sources and the spatial distribution of the radiated sound field were analyzed, and the contribution of different sound source excitations to the internal and external sound field was revealed. The results show that the main frequency of the internal field noise generated by different excitations is at the blade passing frequency, and the internal field noise induced by the dipole acoustic excitations dominates at 180.6 dB. For the external field noise, the main frequency is still located at the blade passing frequency. The radiation noise induced by the fluid excitation (139.2 dB) is higher than that induced by the dipole excitations (surface dipole, 136.3 dB; rotating dipole, 137.3 dB).
Multilayer films of exfoliated 2D oxide nanosheets by electrospray deposition
Authors: Nunnenkamp Moritz , van den Nieuwenhuijzen Karin J. H. , ten Elshof Johan E.
Published: May 2022

The potential of the electrospray deposition technique as new method to make nanosheet-based multilayer films is evaluated. Densely packed nanosheet-based films with thicknesses of 1–20 nm with rms roughnesses of 2.1–2.4 nm were fabricated on samples of 1 cm2 size with a growth rate of 0.5 nm/min. Electrosprayed Ti0.87O2 nanosheet films were successfully used as oriented growth templates for 40 nm perovskite SrRuO3 thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition. The electrospray method provides a fast and easy alternative to the more commonly used Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) deposition method for nanosheet films.
Distribution of Burkholderia pseudomallei within a 300-cm deep soil profile: implications for environmental sampling
Authors: Pongmala Khemngeun , Pierret Alain , Oliva Priscia , Pando Anne , Davong Viengmon , Rattanavong Sayaphet , Silvera Norbert , Luangraj Manophab , Boithias Laurie , Xayyathip Khampaseuth , Menjot Ludovic , Macouin Melina , Rochelle-Newall Emma , Robain Henri , Vongvixay Amphone , Simpson Andrew J. H. , Dance David A. B. , Ribolzi Olivier
Published: May 2022

The environmental distribution of Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, remains poorly understood. B. pseudomallei is known to have the ability to occupy a variety of environmental niches, particularly in soil. This paper provides novel information about a putative association of soil biogeochemical heterogeneity and the vertical distribution of B. pseudomallei. We investigated (1) the distribution of B. pseudomallei along a 300-cm deep soil profile together with the variation of a range of soil physico-chemical properties; (2) whether correlations between the distribution of B. pseudomallei and soil physico-chemical properties exist and (3) when they exist, what such correlations indicate with regards to the environmental conditions conducive to the occurrence of B. pseudomallei in soils. Unexpectedly, the highest concentrations of B. pseudomallei were observed between 100 and 200 cm below the soil surface. Our results indicate that unravelling the environmental conditions favorable to B. pseudomallei entails considering many aspects of the actual complexity of soil. Important recommendations regarding environmental sampling for B. pseudomallei can be drawn from this work, in particular that collecting samples down to the water table is of foremost importance, as groundwater persistence appears to be a controlling factor of the occurrence of B. pseudomallei in soil.
Virtual exam for Parkinson’s disease enables frequent and reliable remote measurements of motor function
Authors: Burq Maximilien , Rainaldi Erin , Ho King Chung , Chen Chen , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Evers Luc J. W. , Helmich Rick C. , Myers Lance , Marks William J. , Kapur Ritu
Published: May 2022

Sensor-based remote monitoring could help better track Parkinson’s disease (PD) progression, and measure patients’ response to putative disease-modifying therapeutic interventions. To be useful, the remotely-collected measurements should be valid, reliable, and sensitive to change, and people with PD must engage with the technology. We developed a smartwatch-based active assessment that enables unsupervised measurement of motor signs of PD. Participants with early-stage PD (N = 388, 64% men, average age 63) wore a smartwatch for a median of 390 days. Participants performed unsupervised motor tasks both in-clinic (once) and remotely (twice weekly for one year). Dropout rate was 5.4%. Median wear-time was 21.1 h/day, and 59% of per-protocol remote assessments were completed. Analytical validation was established for in-clinic measurements, which showed moderate-to-strong correlations with consensus MDS-UPDRS Part III ratings for rest tremor (⍴ = 0.70), bradykinesia (⍴ = −0.62), and gait (⍴ = −0.46). Test-retest reliability of remote measurements, aggregated monthly, was good-to-excellent (ICC = 0.75–0.96). Remote measurements were sensitive to the known effects of dopaminergic medication (on vs off Cohen’s d = 0.19–0.54). Of note, in-clinic assessments often did not reflect the patients’ typical status at home. This demonstrates the feasibility of smartwatch-based unsupervised active tests, and establishes the analytical validity of associated digital measurements. Weekly measurements provide a real-life distribution of disease severity, as it fluctuates longitudinally. Sensitivity to medication-induced change and improved reliability imply that these methods could help reduce sample sizes needed to demonstrate a response to therapeutic interventions or disease progression.
Opening opportunities for Kd determination and screening of MHC peptide complexes
Authors: Kopicki Janine-Denise , Saikia Ankur , Niebling Stephan , Günther Christian , Anjanappa Raghavendra , Garcia-Alai Maria , Springer Sebastian , Uetrecht Charlotte
Published: May 2022

An essential element of adaptive immunity is selective binding of peptide antigens by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I proteins and their presentation to cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Using native mass spectrometry, we analyze the binding of peptides to an empty disulfide-stabilized HLA-A*02:01 molecule and, due to its unique stability, we determine binding affinities of complexes loaded with truncated or charge-reduced peptides. We find that the two anchor positions can be stabilized independently, and we further analyze the contribution of additional amino acid positions to the binding strength. As a complement to computational prediction tools, our method estimates binding strength of even low-affinity peptides to MHC class I complexes quickly and efficiently. It has huge potential to eliminate binding affinity biases and thus accelerate drug discovery in infectious diseases, autoimmunity, vaccine design, and cancer immunotherapy.
ZIF-8 with cationic defects toward efficient125I2uptake forin vitroradiotherapy of colon cancer
Authors: Tian Xin-Xin , Liu Yi-Tong , Li Yan , Qiu Xin-Yu , Zhang Wen-Hua , Young David J. , Chen Qiu
Published: May 2022

ZIF-8 with cationic defects shows enhanced I2uptake. One example was used to encapsulatein situgenerated radioactive125I2for thein vitroradio-therapeutic treatment of colon cancer.
Dynamic-responsive virus-mimetic nanocapsules facilitate protein drug penetration and extracellular-specific unpacking for antitumor treatment
Authors: Li Yachao , Shen Cheng , Liang Xiaoyu , Deng Kefurong , Zeng Zenan , Xu Xianghui
Published: May 2022

Virus-mimetic nanocapsules are developed for mimicking tumor-targeted infection and improving protein systemic delivery through bioinspired macromolecular and supramolecular engineering.
Emergent properties in supercrystals of atomically precise nanoclusters and colloidal nanocrystals
Authors: Sugi Korath Shivan , Maier Andre , Scheele Marcus
Published: May 2022

An analogy is drawn between atoms in a nanocrystal and nanocrystals in a supercrystal with respect to their emergent optoelectronic properties. Recent results are discussed to illustrate the validity of this analogy and its application perspectives.
Ferrocene-derived Fe-metalated porous organic polymer for the core planarity-triggered detoxification of chemical warfare agents
Authors: Paul Ratul , Sarkar Chitra , Jain Manjari , Xu Shaojun , Borah Kashmiri , Dao Duy Quang , Pao Chih-Wen , Bhattacharya Saswata , Mondal John
Published: May 2022

Herein, we have designed planar and non-planar geometry-appended aminal-linked Fe-metalated porous organic polymers via a ternary co-polymerization strategy that render mustard gas simulants harmless.
Demethylation of an artificial hydrogenase agent for prolonged CO release and enhanced anti-tau aggregation activity
Authors: Wu Yun-Chin , Liu Yu-Chiao , Tsai Shu-Wei , Chu Kai-Ti , Chen Hsin-Jou , Wu Cheng-Yun , Hsu Yu-Yi , Hsieh Chang-Chih , Liu Wang-Jing , Kong Kien Voon , Chiang Ming-Hsi
Published: May 2022

A hydrogenase [FeFe] enables prolonged CO release activity in cells. Furthermore, the [FeFe] efficiently reduced the aggregation of tau proteins and showed superior biocompatibility in nerve cells.
A base-free copper-assisted synthesis of C2-symmetric spirotelluranes and biaryls based on divergent stoichiometry of Na2Te
Authors: Batabyal Monojit , Jain Saket , Upadhyay Aditya , Raju Saravanan , Kumar Sangit
Published: May 2022

Herein, we report base free copper(i)-assisted synthesis of C2-symmetric spirotelluranes and biaryls based on divergent stoichiometry of Na2Te. The synthesized spirodiazatelluranes served as a potent catalyst for the reduction of H2O2 and nitro-Michael reaction.
Plasma parameters and the reduction potential at a plasma–liquid interface
Authors: Oldham Trey , Yatom Shurik , Thimsen Elijah
Published: May 2022

Experimental measurements of the reduction potential at a plasma–liquid interface are compared to a model-predicted value determined using the plasma parameters obtained via laser Thomson scattering.
Reverse water–gas shift reaction catalyzed by diatomic rhodium anions
Authors: Liu Yun-Zhu , Chen Jiao-Jiao , Mou Li-Hui , Liu Qing-Yu , Li Zi-Yu , Li Xiao-Na , He Sheng-Gui
Published: May 2022

We experimentally identify the gas-phase species Rh2− that can drive the reverse water–gas shift (RWGS, CO2 + H2 → CO + H2O) reaction. The generation of a gas-phase H2O molecule and [Rh2(CO)ads]− at room temperature was identified and the only elementary step that requires extra energy to complete the catalysis is CO desorption.
Setting the limit for the lateral thermal expansion of layered crystals via helium atom scattering
Authors: Anemone Gloria , Taleb Amjad Al , Politano Antonio , Kuo Chia-Nung , Lue Chin Shan , Miranda Rodolfo , Farías Daniel
Published: May 2022

Helium diffraction provides a direct method for measuring the surface thermal expansion of 2D materials.
Ultrafast study of substituted-position-dependent excited-state evolution in benzophenone-carbazole dyads
Authors: Li Jiayu , Yang Sirui , Deng Ziqi , Ni Shaofei , Chen Shunli , Dang Li , Li Ming-De
Published: May 2022

Excited state evolution channels of BP-Cz dyads can be modified by tuning the substituted position of donor and acceptor, ortho-substituted BP-o-Cz undergoes slow ISC and fast CR processes, meta- and para-substituted BP-m-Cz and BP-p-Cz experience fast ISC and slow CR processes.
Hydrogen peroxide generation and hydrogen oxidation reactions of vacuum-prepared Ru/Ir(111) bimetallic surfaces
Authors: Hayashi Kenta , Kusunoki Keisuke , Tomimori Takeru , Sato Riku , Todoroki Naoto , Wadayama Toshimasa
Published: May 2022

The electrochemical hydrogen oxidation reaction activity of a well-defined Ir–Ru bimetallic surface alloy is closely related to Ir/Ru atomic ratios and Ir-dimer (Ir2) and/or trimer (Ir3) ensemble probability at the topmost surface.
Can domain-based local pair natural orbitals approaches accurately predict phosphorescence energies?
Authors: Bruno Giovanna , de Souza Bernardo , Neese Frank , Bistoni Giovanni
Published: May 2022

A DLPNO-CCSD(T)-based protocol allows the accurate calculation of phosphorescence energies for aromatic compounds. The figure shows the computed and experimental spectra for a carbazolyl dicyanobenzene photocatalyst.
A sustainable route for the synthesis of alkyl arylacetatesviahalogen and base free carbonylation of benzyl acetates
Authors: Sole Roberto , Toldo Sofia , Bortoluzzi Marco , Beghetto Valentina
Published: May 2022

The Pd-catalysed carbonylation of benzyl acetates for the synthesis of 2-alkylbenzyl acetates in the absence of base and halogen sources was investigated.
Global potential of algae-based photobiological hydrogen production
Authors: Chen Yimin
Published: May 2022

Photobiological hydrogen production through algae (including green algae and cyanobacteria) is one of the most promising ways to obtain green hydrogen energy due to its outstanding light-harvesting and energy conversion efficacy.
Highly efficient UV-visible-infrared light-driven photothermocatalytic steam biomass reforming to H2 on Ni nanoparticles loaded on mesoporous silica
Authors: Zhou Chongyang , Wu Jichun , Li Yuanzhi , Cao Huamin
Published: May 2022

An integration of good thermocatalytic activity, intense optical absorption and novel photoactivation on Ni nanoparticles loaded on mesoporous silica enable efficient H2 production from biomass using solar energy.
Significant impacts of NO2 and NH3 on the sulfate formations on the surface of nano MgO particles in a smog chamber
Authors: Han Lihui , Cui Jianshuo , Liu Xinhang , Yang Xuemei , Cheng Shuiyuan , Wei Wei , Wang Haiyan , Guo Jinghua , Zheng Aihua
Published: May 2022

NO2 played an important positive or negative role in SO2 heterogeneous reactions, however, NH3 always exerted significant positive impacts on SO2 heterogeneous reactions in the three reaction systems of SO2–MgO-dark, SO2–MgO-hν and SO2–MgO–O3.
The role of functional oligosaccharides as prebiotics in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Liu Nian , Wang Haoyu , Yang Zizhen , Zhao Kunyi , Li Shangyong , He Ningning
Published: May 2022

An overview of the definitions, functions, mechanisms and applications of functional oligosaccharides in colitis prevention and treatment.
Allylations of aryl/heteroaryl ketones: neat, clean, and sustainable. Applications to targets in the pharma- and nutraceutical industries
Authors: Li Xiaohan , Wood Alex B. , Lee Nicholas R. , Gallou Fabrice , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: May 2022

Aromatic and heteroaromatic ketones bearing an α-methine proton can be deprotonated and mono-allylated in minutes in the complete absence of an organic solvent to arrive at the corresponding products in high isolated yields.
Self-photocatalyzed regulable alkylation of 2H-benzothiazoles with diverse aliphatic C–H donors
Authors: Zhou Jiadi , Wang Chaodong , Huang Lei , Luo Can , Ye Shilu , Xu Ning , Zhu Yunsheng , Liu Li , Ren Quanlei , Chen Zhi , Song Shengjie , Li Jianjun
Published: May 2022

Visible light-driven self-catalyzed regulable alkylation of 2H-benzothiazoles with diverse aliphatic C–H donors via the combination of HAT and self-photoredox catalysis.
Paramagnetic ultrasmall Ho2O3 and Tm2O3 nanoparticles: characterization of r2 values and in vivo T2 MR images at a 3.0 T MR field
Authors: Liu Shuwen , Tegafaw Tirusew , Yue Huan , Ho Son Long , Kim Soyeon , Park Ji Ae , Baek Ahrum , Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Yang So Hyeon , Hwang Dong Wook , Kim Seungho , Ali Al Saidi Abdullah Khamis , Zhao Dejun , Liu Ying , Nam Sung-Wook , Chae Kwon Seok , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: May 2022

Paramagnetic ultrasmall Ho2O3 and Tm2O3 nanoparticles grafted with various hydrophilic and biocompatible ligands as a new class of efficient T2 MRI contrast agents were investigated in this study.
Gold nanospheres/nanorods as highly promising candidates for the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam): a thoughtful design of nanocomposites
Authors: Yadav Ritu , Kumar Sumit , Kumar Krishan , Venkatesu Pannuru
Published: May 2022

The thermally induced solubility alteration of the thermoresponsive polymer poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL) tethered to the surface of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is characterized by different biophysical techniques.
Electrospinning one-dimensional surface-phosphorized CuCo/C nanofibers for enzyme-free glucose sensing
Authors: Cao Fuhu , Zhou Yi , Wu Ju , Li Wen , Zhang Chuanling , Ni Gang , Cui Peng , Song Changjiang
Published: May 2022

High sensitivity of nonenzymatic glucose detection boosted by unique fibrous carbon supported bimetallic composites and surface phosphorization.
Unraveling the role of the electron-pair density symmetry in reaction mechanism patterns: the Newman–Kwart rearrangement
Authors: Ayarde-Henríquez Leandro , Guerra Cristian , Duque-Noreña Mario , Chamorro Eduardo
Published: May 2022

There is an underlying intimate relationship between Thom's catastrophe theory and the electron-pair density evidenced along a reaction pathway.
Preparation of a cost-effective Ni–Ag bimetallic catalyst for hydrodehalogenation of aryl halides under mild conditions
Authors: Deng Jiazhu , Xue Teng , Wu Haihong , Wu Peng
Published: May 2022

A novel bimetallic Ni–Ag catalyst was prepared, exhibiting excellent catalytic performance in hydrodehalogenation of aryl halides under mild conditions. It provided a green and cost-effective method for the degradation of aryl halide pollutants.
Methylene-bridged dimeric natural products involving one-carbon unit in biosynthesis
Authors: Fan Yaqin , Shen Jingjing , Liu Zhi , Xia Kunyu , Zhu Weiming , Fu Peng
Published: May 2022

This review summarizes the methylene-bridged dimeric natural products involving one-carbon unit in biosynthesis, including their structures, biological activities, synthetic methods, and formation mechanisms.
Particle nanosizing and coating with an ionic liquid: two routes to improve the transport properties of Na3V2(PO4)2FO2
Authors: Olchowka Jacob , Fang Runhe , Bianchini Nuernberg Rafael , Pablos Chloé , Carlier Dany , Cassaignon Sophie , Croguennec Laurence
Published: May 2022

Electrical conductivity and rate capability of Na3V2(PO4)2FO2 positive electrode material have been optimized by both playing on particle size and applying an ionic liquid coating on particles surface.
The multicomponent synergistic effect of a hierarchical Li0.485La0.505TiO3 solid-state electrolyte for dendrite-free lithium-metal batteries
Authors: Chen Huanhui , Yu Liang , Cao Xing , Yang Qixin , Liu Ya , Wei Yanru , Zeng Junrong , Zhong Liubiao , Qiu Yejun
Published: May 2022

A novel percolation composite solid electrolyte that homogenizes the interfacial electric field and generates piezoelectricity was successfully prepared for uniform lithium deposition and lithium dendrite growth prevention.
Mode-dependent energy exchange between near- and far-field through silicon-supported single silver nanorods
Authors: Zhuo Xiaolu , Li Shasha , Li Nannan , Cheng Xizhe , Lai Yunhe , Wang Jianfang
Published: May 2022

A dual-channel nanoantenna for mode-dependent energy exchange between near- and far-field is demonstrated with silicon-supported single silver nanorods.
Low methacrylated poly(glycerol sebacate) for soft tissue engineering
Authors: Becerril-Rodriguez Iris Cristina , Claeyssens Frederik
Published: May 2022

Poly(glycerol sebacate) methacrylate (PGS-M) has tunable mechanical properties, making it suitable for soft tissue engineering.
Enhanced rate performance of lithium-ion battery anodes using a cobalt-incorporated carbon conductive agent
Authors: Daubry Albert Claude Jean-Pierre , Xu Zhuijun , Yang Ming , Cheng Ya-Jun , Xia Yonggao , Hu Xile
Published: May 2022

Merging a tiny amount of metal ions into oxidized conductive agents proves to be a valid way to improve the rate performance of LIBs anodes, due to a synergism of increased electron conductivity, affinity with the electrolyte and desolvation process.
Dual-targeting of the aromatase binding domain of heme and androstenedione by Pt(iv) prodrugs: a new treatment for postmenopausal breast cancer
Authors: Liu Xiao-Meng , Li Zhe , He Xin-Rui , Liu Rui-Ping , Ma Zhong-Ying , Qiao Xin , Wang Shu-Qing , Xu Jing-Yuan
Published: May 2022

3 simultaneously occupies the heme iron-binding domain and the ASD-binding site of aromatase by a highly efficient dual-binding pattern to aromatase, exerting synergistic antitumor action of cisplatin and aminoglutethimide with low-toxicity.
Correction: Anion-driven tetrel bond-induced engineering of lead(ii) architectures with N′-(1-(2-pyridyl)ethylidene)nicotinohydrazide: experimental and theoretical findings
Authors: Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Safin Damir A. , Mitoraj Mariusz P. , Amini Mojtaba , Kubicki Maciej , Doert Thomas , Locherer Franziska , Fleck Michel
Published: May 2022

Correction for ‘Anion-driven tetrel bond-induced engineering of lead(ii) architectures with N′-(1-(2-pyridyl)ethylidene)nicotinohydrazide: experimental and theoretical findings’ by Ghodrat Mahmoudi et al., Inorg. Chem. Front., 2017, 4, 171–182, https://doi.org/10.1039/C6QI00477F