bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single shot multispectral multidimensional imaging using chaotic waves
Authors: Anand Vijayakumar , Ng Soon Hock , Maksimovic Jovan , Linklater Denver , Katkus Tomas , Ivanova Elena P. , Juodkazis Saulius
Published: August 2020

Multispectral imaging technology is a valuable scientific tool for various applications in astronomy, remote sensing, molecular fingerprinting, and fluorescence imaging. In this study, we demonstrate a single camera shot, lensless, interferenceless, motionless, non-scanning, space, spectrum, and time resolved five-dimensional incoherent imaging technique using tailored chaotic waves with quasi-random intensity and phase distributions. Chaotic waves can distinctly encode spatial and spectral information of an object in single self-interference intensity distribution. In this study, a tailored chaotic wave with a nearly pure phase function and lowest correlation noise is generated using a quasi-random array of pinholes. A unique sequence of signal processing techniques is applied to extract all possible spatial and spectral channels with the least entropy. The depth-wavelength reciprocity is exploited to see colour from depth and depth from colour and the physics of beam propagation is exploited to see at one depth by calibrating at another.
Addressing the batch effect issue for LC/MS metabolomics data in data preprocessing
Authors: Liu Qin , Walker Douglas , Uppal Karan , Liu Zihe , Ma Chunyu , Tran ViLinh , Li Shuzhao , Jones Dean P. , Yu Tianwei
Published: August 2020

With the growth of metabolomics research, more and more studies are conducted on large numbers of samples. Due to technical limitations of the Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) platform, samples often need to be processed in multiple batches. Across different batches, we often observe differences in data characteristics. In this work, we specifically focus on data generated in multiple batches on the same LC/MS machinery. Traditional preprocessing methods treat all samples as a single group. Such practice can result in errors in the alignment of peaks, which cannot be corrected by post hoc application of batch effect correction methods. In this work, we developed a new approach that address the batch effect issue in the preprocessing stage, resulting in better peak detection, alignment and quantification. It can be combined with down-stream batch effect correction methods to further correct for between-batch intensity differences. The method is implemented in the existing workflow of the apLCMS platform. Analyzing data with multiple batches, both generated from standardized quality control (QC) plasma samples and from real biological studies, the new method resulted in feature tables with better consistency, as well as better down-stream analysis results. The method can be a useful addition to the tools available for large studies involving multiple batches. The method is available as part of the apLCMS package. Download link and instructions are athttps://mypage.cuhk.edu.cn/academics/yutianwei/apLCMS/.
Integrated [18F]FDG PET/MRI demonstrates the iron-related bone-marrow physiology
Authors: Tsujikawa Tetsuya , Oikawa Hiroshi , Tasaki Toshiki , Hosono Naoko , Tsuyoshi Hideaki , Rahman Mahmudur G. M. , Yoshida Yoshio , Yamauchi Takahiro , Kimura Hirohiko , Okazawa Hidehiko
Published: August 2020

We identified predictors for bone-marrow [18F]FDG uptake and MR signals among complete blood count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and anthropometric factors, and demonstrated the bone-marrow physiology using integrated [18F]FDG-PET/MRI. 174 oncology patients without bone-marrow lesions underwent whole-body [18F]FDG-PET/MRI. The standardized uptake value (SUV), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), proton density fat-fraction (PDFF), and a reciprocal of T2* relaxation time (R2*) were measured in lumbar vertebrae (L3–5) and bilateral ilia. Vertebrae, pelvis, and ribs were evaluated by 3-point visual scoring on DWI. The association of the PET/MR features with the predictors was examined. Multi-regression analyses identified CRP as the strongest predictor for lumbar and iliac SUVs (standardized coefficient: β = 0.31 and β = 0.38, respectively), and for lumbar and iliac R2* (β = 0.31 and β = 0.46, respectively). In contrast, age was the strongest factor influencing lumbar and iliac ADCs (β = 0.23 and β = 0.21, respectively), and lumbar and iliac PDFFs (β = 0.53 and β = 0.54, respectively). Regarding DWI-visual scores, age was the strongest predictor for vertebrae (β = − 0.47), and the red cell distribution width (RDW) was the strongest predictor for pelvis and ribs (β = 0.33 and β = 0.47, respectively). The bone-marrow [18F]FDG uptake and R2* reflect anemia of inflammation (increased granulopoiesis and reduced iron metabolism), whereas bone-marrow DWI and PDFF reflect age and anemia-responsive erythropoiesis.
An integrated drug repurposing strategy for the rapid identification of potential SARS-CoV-2 viral inhibitors
Authors: Trezza Alfonso , Iovinelli Daniele , Santucci Annalisa , Prischi Filippo , Spiga Ottavia
Published: August 2020

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The virus has rapidly spread in humans, causing the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. Recent studies have shown that, similarly to SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 utilises the Spike glycoprotein on the envelope to recognise and bind the human receptor ACE2. This event initiates the fusion of viral and host cell membranes and then the viral entry into the host cell. Despite several ongoing clinical studies, there are currently no approved vaccines or drugs that specifically target SARS-CoV-2. Until an effective vaccine is available, repurposing FDA approved drugs could significantly shorten the time and reduce the cost compared to de novo drug discovery. In this study we attempted to overcome the limitation of in silico virtual screening by applying a robust in silico drug repurposing strategy. We combined and integrated docking simulations, with molecular dynamics (MD), Supervised MD (SuMD) and Steered MD (SMD) simulations to identify a Spike protein – ACE2 interaction inhibitor. Our data showed that Simeprevir and Lumacaftor bind the receptor-binding domain of the Spike protein with high affinity and prevent ACE2 interaction.
Smart textiles for multimodal wearable sensing using highly stretchable multiplexed optical fiber system
Authors: Leal-Junior Arnaldo , Avellar Leticia , Frizera Anselmo , Marques Carlos
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the development and application of a multiparameter, quasi-distributed smart textile based on embedded highly stretchable polymer optical fiber (POF) sensors. The POF is fabricated using the light polymerization spinning process, resulting a highly stretchable optical fiber, so-called LPS-POF, with Young’s modulus and elastic limits of 15 MPa and 17%, respectively. The differential scanning calorimetry shows a thermal stability of the LPS-POF in temperature range of 13–40 °C. The developed sensors are based on the optical power variation, which results in a fully portable and low-cost technique. In order to obtain a multiplexed sensor system, a technique based on flexible light emitting diodes (LEDs) on–off keying modulation is applied, where each LED represents the response of one sensor. The smart textile comprises of LPS-POF and three flexible LEDs embedded in neoprene textile fabric. The performance of the system is evaluated for temperature, transverse force and angular displacement detection at different planes. The sensors presented high linearity (mean determination coefficient of 0.99) and high repeatability (inter-measurement deviations below 5%). The sensor is also applied in activity detection, where the principal component analysis (PCA) was applied in the sensors responses and, in conjunction with clustering techniques such as k-means, indicate the possibility of detecting basic activities such as walking, sitting on a chair and squatting.
Amygdalin based G-6-P synthase inhibitors as novel preservatives for food and pharmaceutical products
Authors: Lather Amit , Sharma Sunil , Khatkar Anurag
Published: August 2020

G-6-P synthase enzyme has been involved in the synthesis of the microbial cell wall, and its inhibition may lead to the antimicrobial effect. In the present study, we designed a library of amygdalin derivatives, and two most active derivatives selected on the basis of various parameters viz. dock score, binding energy, and ADMET data using molecular docking software (Schrodinger’s Maestro). The selected derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential against several Gram (+ ve), Gram (−ve), as well as fungal strains. The results indicated that synthesized compounds exhibited good antioxidant, antimicrobial, and better preservative efficacy in food preparation as compared to the standard compounds. No significant differences were observed in different parameters as confirmed by Kruskal–Wallis test (p < 0.05). Docking results have been found in good correlation with experimental wet-lab data. Moreover, the mechanistic insight into the docking poses has also been explored by binding interactions of amygdalin derivative inside the dynamic site of G-6-P synthase.
Ionic liquid-assisted cellulose coating of chitosan hydrogel beads and their application as drug carriers
Authors: Song Myung-Hee , Pham Thi Phuong Thuy , Yun Yeoung-Sang
Published: August 2020

The present study proposes a simple yet effective method of cellulose coating onto chitosan (CS) hydrogel beads and application thereof as drug carriers. The beads were coated with cellulose dissolved in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate, an ionic liquid (IL) via a one-pot one-step process. Water molecules present in the CS beads diffused outward upon contact with the cellulose–IL mixture and acted as an anti-solvent. This allowed the surface of the beads to be coated with the regenerated cellulose. The regenerated cellulose was characterized by FE-SEM, FT-IR, and XRD analyses. To test potential application of the cellulose-coated CS hydrogel beads as a drug carrier, verapamil hydrochloride (VRP), used as a model drug, was impregnated into the beads. When the VRP-impregnated beads were immersed in the simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2), the VRP was released in an almost ideal linear pattern. This easily fabricated cellulose-coated CS beads showed the possibility for application as carriers for drug release control.
Clinical features of irreversible rejection after allogeneic uterus transplantation in cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Kisu Iori , Emoto Katsura , Masugi Yohei , Yamada Yohei , Matsubara Kentaro , Obara Hideaki , Matoba Yusuke , Banno Kouji , Kato Yojiro , Saiki Yoko , Itagaki Iori , Kawamoto Ikuo , Iwatani Chizuru , Murase Mitsuru , Nakagawa Takahiro , Tsuchiya Hideaki , Ishigaki Hirohito , Urano Hiroyuki , Ema Masatsugu , Ogasawara Kazumasa , Aoki Daisuke , Nakagawa Kenshi , Shiina Takashi
Published: August 2020

Uterus transplantation (UTx) is a potential option for women with uterine factor infertility to have a child. The clinical features indicating irreversible rejection of the uterus are unknown. In our experimental series of allogeneic UTx in cynomolgus macaques, six female macaques were retrospectively examined, which were unresponsive to treatment with immunosuppressants (i.e. irreversible rejection). Clinical features including general condition, hematology, uterine size, indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging by laparotomy, and histopathological findings of the removed uterus were evaluated. In all cases, general condition was good at the time of diagnosis of irreversible rejection and thereafter. Laboratory evaluation showed temporary increases in white blood cells, lactate dehydrogenase and C-reactive protein, then these levels tended to decrease gradually. In transabdominal ultrasonography, the uterus showed time-dependent shrinkage after transient swelling at the time of diagnosis of irreversible rejection. In laparotomy, a whitish transplanted uterus was observed and enhancement of the transplanted uterus was absent in ICG fluorescence imaging. Histopathological findings in each removed uterus showed hyalinized fibrosis, endometrial deficit, lymphocytic infiltration and vasculitis. These findings suggest that uterine transplantation rejection is not fatal, in contrast to rejection of life-supporting organs. Since the transplanted uterus with irreversible rejection atrophies naturally, hysterectomy may be unnecessary.
Promotional effect of magnesium oxide for a stable nickel-based catalyst in dry reforming of methane
Authors: Al-Fatesh Ahmed S. , Kumar Rawesh , Fakeeha Anis H. , Kasim Samsudeen O. , Khatri Jyoti , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Arasheed Rasheed , Alabdulsalam Muhamad , Lanre Mahmud S. , Osman Ahmed I. , Abasaeed Ahmed E. , Bagabas Abdulaziz
Published: August 2020

The generation of synthesis gas (hydrogen and carbon monoxide mixture) from two global warming gases of carbon dioxide and methane via dry reforming is environmentally crucial and for the chemical industry as well. Herein, magnesium-promoted NiO supported on mesoporous zirconia, 5Ni/xMg–ZrO2 (x = 0, 3, 5, 7 wt%) were prepared by wet impregnation method and then were tested for syngas production via dry reforming of methane. The reaction temperature at 800 °C was found more catalytically active than that at 700 °C due to the endothermic feature of reaction which promotes efficient CH4 catalytic decomposition over Ni and Ni–Zr interface as confirmed by CH4–TSPR experiment. NiO–MgO solid solution interacted with ZrO2 support was found crucial and the reason for high CH4 and CO2 conversions. The highest catalyst stability of the 5Ni/3Mg–ZrO2 catalyst was explained by the ability of CO2 to partially oxidize the carbon deposit over the surface of the catalyst. A mole ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide near unity (H2/CO ~ 1) was obtained over 5Ni/ZrO2 and 5Ni/5Mg–ZrO2, implying the important role of basic sites. Our approach opens doors for designing cheap and stable dry reforming catalysts from two potent greenhouse gases which could be of great interest for many industrial applications, including syngas production and other value-added chemicals.
Application of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) thermal infrared remote sensing to identify coal fires in the Huojitu coal mine in Shenmu city, China
Authors: He Xiaoyuan , Yang Xingke , Luo Zheng , Guan Tao
Published: August 2020

China is a major coal-producing country that consumes large amounts of coal every year. Due to the existence of many small coal kilns using backward mining methods, numerous worked-out areas have been formed. The coal mines were abandoned with no mitigation, so air penetrates into the roadways and contacts the coal seams; as a result, the residual coal seams spontaneously ignite to form coal fires. These coal fires have burned millions of tons of valuable coal resources and caused serious environmental problems. To implement fire suppression more effectively, coal fire detection is a key technology. In this paper, thermal infrared remote sensing from unmanned aerial vehicle combined with a surface survey is used to identify the range of coal fires in the Huojitu coal mine in Shenmu city. The scopes and locations of the fire zones are preliminarily delineated, which provides an accurate basis for the development of fire suppression projects.
Dispersion-free extraction of In(III) from HCl solutions using a supported liquid membrane containing the HA324H+Cl− ionic liquid as the carrier
Authors: Alguacil Francisco José , López Félix Antonio
Published: August 2020

By reaction of HCl and the tertiary amine HA324, an ionic liquid denoted HA324H+Cl− was generated and used in the transport of indium(III) from HCl solutions. Metal transport experiments were carried out with a supported liquid membrane, and several variables affecting the permeation of indium(III) across the membrane were tested: stirring speed, metal and acid concentrations in the feed solutions and the carrier concentration in the supported organic solution. The metal transport results were also compared with those obtained using different carriers in the solid support. A model that described indium(III) transport across the membrane was proposed, and the corresponding diffusional parameters were estimated.
High-throughput microCT scanning of small specimens: preparation, packing, parameters and post-processing
Authors: Hipsley Christy A. , Aguilar Rocio , Black Jay R. , Hocknull Scott A.
Published: August 2020

High-resolution X-ray microcomputed tomography, or microCT (μCT), enables the digital imaging of whole objects in three dimensions. The power of μCT to visualize internal features without disarticulation makes it particularly valuable for the study of museum collections, which house millions of physical specimens documenting the spatio-temporal patterns of life. Despite the potential for comparative analyses, most μCT studies include limited numbers of museum specimens, due to the challenges of digitizing numerous individuals within a project scope. Here we describe a method for high-throughput μCT scanning of hundreds of small (< 2 cm) specimens in a single container, followed by individual labelling and archival storage. We also explore the effects of various packing materials and multiple specimens per capsule to minimize sample movement that can degrade image quality, and hence μCT investment. We demonstrate this protocol on vertebrate fossils from Queensland Museum, Australia, as part of an effort to track community responses to climate change over evolutionary time. This system can be easily modified for other types of wet and dry material amenable to X-ray attenuation, including geological, botanical and zoological samples, providing greater access to large-scale phenotypic data and adding value to global collections.
FAM46C/TENT5C functions as a tumor suppressor through inhibition of Plk4 activity
Authors: Kazazian Karineh , Haffani Yosr , Ng Deanna , Lee Chae Min Michelle , Johnston Wendy , Kim Minji , Xu Roland , Pacholzyk Karina , Zih Francis Si-Wah , Tan Julie , Smrke Alannah , Pollett Aaron , Wu Hannah Sun-Tsi , Swallow Carol Jane
Published: August 2020

Polo like kinase 4 (Plk4) is a tightly regulated serine threonine kinase that governs centriole duplication. Increased Plk4 expression, which is a feature of many common human cancers, causes centriole overduplication, mitotic irregularities, and chromosomal instability. Plk4 can also promote cancer invasion and metastasis through regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Herein we demonstrate physical interaction of Plk4 with FAM46C/TENT5C, a conserved protein of unknown function until recently. FAM46C localizes to centrioles, inhibits Plk4 kinase activity, and suppresses Plk4-induced centriole duplication. Interference with Plk4 function by FAM46C was independent of the latter’s nucleotidyl transferase activity. In addition, FAM46C restrained cancer cell invasion and suppressed MDA MB-435 cancer growth in a xenograft model, opposing the effect of Plk4. We demonstrate loss of FAM46C in patient-derived colorectal cancer tumor tissue that becomes more profound with advanced clinical stage. These results implicate FAM46C as a tumor suppressor that acts by inhibiting Plk4 activity.
Pheromone components affect motivation and induce persistent modulation of associative learning and memory in honey bees
Authors: Baracchi David , Cabirol Amélie , Devaud Jean-Marc , Haase Albrecht , d’Ettorre Patrizia , Giurfa Martin
Published: August 2020

Since their discovery in insects, pheromones are considered as ubiquitous and stereotyped chemical messengers acting in intraspecific animal communication. Here we studied the effect of pheromones in a different context as we investigated their capacity to induce persistent modulations of associative learning and memory. We used honey bees, Apis mellifera, and combined olfactory conditioning and pheromone preexposure with disruption of neural activity and two-photon imaging of olfactory brain circuits, to characterize the effect of pheromones on olfactory learning and memory. Geraniol, an attractive pheromone component, and 2-heptanone, an aversive pheromone, improved and impaired, respectively, olfactory learning and memory via a durable modulation of appetitive motivation, which left odor processing unaffected. Consistently, interfering with aminergic circuits mediating appetitive motivation rescued or diminished the cognitive effects induced by pheromone components. We thus show that these chemical messengers act as important modulators of motivational processes and influence thereby animal cognition.
Sigmoidally hydrochromic molecular porous crystal with rotatable dendrons
Authors: Yamagishi Hiroshi , Nakajima Sae , Yoo Jooyoung , Okazaki Masato , Takeda Youhei , Minakata Satoshi , Albrecht Ken , Yamamoto Kimihisa , Badía-Domínguez Irene , Oliva Maria Moreno , Delgado M. Carmen Ruiz , Ikemoto Yuka , Sato Hiroyasu , Imoto Kenta , Nakagawa Kosuke , Tokoro Hiroko , Ohkoshi Shin-ichi , Yamamoto Yohei
Published: August 2020

Vapochromic behaviour of porous crystals is beneficial for facile and rapid detection of gaseous molecules without electricity. Toward this end, tailored molecular designs have been established for metal–organic, covalent-bonded and hydrogen-bonded frameworks. Here, we explore the hydrochromic chemistry of a van der Waals (VDW) porous crystal. The VDW porous crystal VPC-1 is formed from a novel aromatic dendrimer having a dibenzophenazine core and multibranched carbazole dendrons. Although the constituent molecules are connected via VDW forces, VPC-1 maintains its structural integrity even after desolvation. VPC-1 exhibits reversible colour changes upon uptake/release of water molecules due to the charge transfer character of the constituent dendrimer. Detailed structural analyses reveal that the outermost carbazole units alone are mobile in the crystal and twist simultaneously in response to water vapour. Thermodynamic analysis suggests that the sigmoidal water sorption is induced by the affinity alternation of the pore surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic.
Facile and rapid synthesis of emission color-tunable molybdenum oxide quantum dots as a versatile probe for fluorescence imaging and environmental monitoring
Authors: Cao Haiyan , Tang Mingjie , Wang Xin , Shi Wenbing
Published: August 2020

Colour-tunable N,P-MoOx QDs with dual-signal output have been used for achieving a multifunctional probe for the determination of a wide range of pH changes (2–9) and environmental sensing.
[Al(H2O)6](IO3)2(NO3): a material with enhanced birefringence induced by synergism of two superior functional motifs
Authors: Bai Zhiyong , Hu Chun-Li , Wang Dongmei , Liu Lehui , Zhang Lizhen , Huang Yisheng , Yuan Feifei , Lin Zhoubin
Published: August 2020

A new strongly birefringent material was developed, and its strong birefringence was attributed to the synergy of the effects of its two superior birefringence-favourable anionic FBUs, namely (NO3)−and (IO3)−groups.
SerraNA: a program to determine nucleic acids elasticity from simulation data
Authors: Velasco-Berrelleza Victor , Burman Matthew , Shepherd Jack W. , Leake Mark C. , Golestanian Ramin , Noy Agnes
Published: August 2020

AT-rich motifs can generate extreme mechanical properties, which are critical for creating strong global bends when phased properly.
Reorganization energies and spectral densities for electron transfer problems in charge transport materials
Authors: Hsu Chao-Ping
Published: August 2020

Various contributions to the outer reorganization energy of an electron transfer system and their theoretical and computational aspects have been discussed.
Computational studies on triphenyldiyne as a two-dimensional visible-light-driven photocatalyst for overall water splitting
Authors: Qi Siyun , Fan Yingcai , Li Weifeng , Zhao Mingwen
Published: August 2020

The high carrier mobility, porous configurations and tunable electronic structures of two-dimensional (2D) carbon materials hold great promise in energy conversion and storage.
On the importance of combining bulk- and surface-active sites to maximize the catalytic activity of metal–organic frameworks for the oxidative dehydrogenation of alcohols using alkyl hydroperoxides as hydride acceptors
Authors: Gairola P. , Millot Y. , Krafft J.-M. , Averseng F. , Launay F. , Massiani P. , Jolivalt C. , Reboul J.
Published: August 2020

The combination of spectroscopically characterized bulk- and surface-active zirconium sites makes Zr-MOF crystals efficient catalysts for alcohol dehydrogenation under mild conditions.
Oxygen vacancies enhance photocatalytic removal of NO over an N-doped TiO2 catalyst
Authors: Tan Xiaofang , Qin Guodong , Cheng Gang , Song Xinjie , Chen Xun , Dai Wenxin , Fu Xianzhi
Published: August 2020

The proposed process of photocatalytically oxidizing NO into NO3− over N–TiO2 samples under visible light irradiation.
Room temperature and atmospheric pressure aqueous partial oxidation of ethane to oxygenates over AuPd catalysts
Authors: Wang Yu Lei , Gurses Sadi , Felvey Noah , Kronawitter Coleman X.
Published: August 2020

The aqueous partial oxidation of ethane over unsupported AuPd catalysts is investigated at 21 °C and 1 bar ethane.
Selective CO production from aqueous CO2 using a Cu96In4 catalyst and its integration into a bias-free solar perovskite–BiVO4 tandem device
Authors: Rahaman Motiar , Andrei Virgil , Pornrungroj Chanon , Wright Demelza , Baumberg Jeremy J. , Reisner Erwin
Published: August 2020

Porous dendritic copper–indium metal alloy foam catalysts are interfaced with a perovskite‖BiVO4 tandem device for solar CO2-to-CO conversion under bias-free conditions using water as an electron donor.
Methanol tolerance of atomically dispersed single metal site catalysts: mechanistic understanding and high-performance direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Shi Qiurong , He Yanghua , Bai Xiaowan , Wang Maoyu , Cullen David A. , Lucero Macros , Zhao Xunhua , More Karren L. , Zhou Hua , Feng Zhenxing , Liu Yuanyue , Wu Gang
Published: August 2020

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are promising power sources for portable electronic devices. Atomically dispersed M–N–C cathode catalysts demonstrated a great potential in addressing the high-cost and methanol crossover issues in DMFCs.
The importance of aromaticity to describe the interactions of organic matter with carbonaceous materials depends on molecular weight and sorbent geometry
Authors: Castan Stephanie , Sigmund Gabriel , Hüffer Thorsten , Tepe Nathalie , von der Kammer Frank , Chefetz Benny , Hofmann Thilo
Published: August 2020

DOM sorption by CMs is generally controlled by DOM aromaticity but complex sorbent surfaces with high porosity, curvatures and functional groups strongly reduce the importance of aromaticity for sorption.
Comparative physiological and metabolomics analysis reveals that single-walled carbon nanohorns and ZnO nanoparticles affect salt tolerance in Sophora alopecuroides
Authors: Wan Jinpeng , Wang Ruling , Bai Hanrui , Wang Yibo , Xu Jin
Published: August 2020

Using physiology and metabolome analyses, we showed the promoting effects of single-walled carbon nanohorns and ZnO nanoparticles on plant growth and salt tolerance in Sophora alopecuroides seedlings.
Emerging investigator series: calculating size- and coating-dependent effect factors for silver nanoparticles to inform characterization factor development for usage in life cycle assessment
Authors: Temizel-Sekeryan Sila , Hicks Andrea L.
Published: August 2020

Concerns about the environmental impacts due to the end of life for engineered nanomaterials (ENM) are growing.
Are fermentation products promising feedstock for high-density bio-fuel? domino reactions for upgrading aqueous acetone–butanol–ethanol mixtures
Authors: Gong Yahui , Wang Pingzhou , Wu Cai , Wang Jie , Shen Chun
Published: August 2020

Upgrading aqueous acetone–butanol–ethanol mixtures to high-density bio-fuels is realized via the three-step domino reaction in a green way.
Understanding the thermal conductivity variations in nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide
Authors: Vera-Londono Liliana , Ruiz-Clavijo Alejandra , Caballero-Calero Olga , Martín-González Marisol
Published: August 2020

An important variation in the thermal conductivity of porous alumina membranes has been observed from RT up to 1300 °C. This is due to the water loss at low temperatures or phase transitions at higher temperatures.
Reusable ZIF-8@chitosan sponge for the efficient and selective removal of congo red
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Ma Yu , Yang Weiting , Chen Chen , Li Meiling , Lin Duoyu , Pan Qinhe
Published: August 2020

A light ZIF-8@chitosan sponge was prepared by an in situ method for the efficient and selective removal of congo red from aqueous solution.
An expedient synthesis of novel spiro[indenoquinoxaline-pyrrolizidine]-pyrazole conjugates with anticancer activity from 1,5-diarylpent-4-ene-1,3-diones through the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition/cyclocondensation sequence
Authors: Zimnitskiy Nikolay S. , Barkov Alexey Yu. , Ulitko Maria V. , Kutyashev Igor B. , Korotaev Vladislav Yu. , Sosnovskikh Vyacheslav Ya.
Published: August 2020

A highly regio- and stereoselective two-stage route for the synthesis of spiro[indenoquinoxaline-pyrrolizidine]-pyrazole hybrids with anticancer activity has been developed.
End-capped group manipulation of indacenodithienothiophene-based non-fullerene small molecule acceptors for efficient organic solar cells
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Quan-Song , Li Ze-Sheng
Published: August 2020

DFT calculations show that end-capped modifications of the ITIC molecule lead to higher electron mobility and stronger interface interaction.
Exciton–phonon coupling and power dependent room temperature photoluminescence of sulphur vacancy doped MoS2viacontrolled thermal annealing
Authors: Mastrippolito Dario , Palleschi Stefano , D'Olimpio Gianluca , Politano Antonio , Nardone Michele , Benassi Paola , Ottaviano Luca
Published: August 2020

A direct investigation of the exciton–phonon coupling in 2D doped MoS2by means of power dependent photoluminescence and resonant Raman spectroscopy at room temperature.
Circular dichroism in non-chiral metal halide perovskites
Authors: Sercel Peter C. , Vardeny Zeev Valy , Efros Alexander L.
Published: August 2020

Non-chiral orthorhombic perovskite nanostructures can exhibit chiro-optic effects under off-normal illumination due to the Rashba effect.
The difluoromethylthio moiety lowers the LCST of oligo(ethylene glycol)-based homopolymers
Authors: Liu Haoyu , Ding Aishun , Ma Chen , Huang Xiaoyu , Feng Chun , Wang Zhiqin , Wang Zhaolei , Lu Guolin
Published: August 2020

Introduction of difluoromethylthio moiety could significantly lower LCSTs of oligo(ethylene glycol)-based thermo-responsive homopolymers.
Hydrogen bonding assisted formation of sandwich-type titanium-containing heteropolymolybdates: water-soluble and photoelectroactive
Authors: Xu Wenjuan , Xu Ming , Zheng Yue , Wang XinXin , Li Fengyan , Xu Lin
Published: August 2020

Two water-soluble titanium-containing polyoxomolybdates have been synthesized by means of a hydrogen bonding assisted strategy. Their applications in the photoelectrochemical sensing of bisphenol A in aqueous solution were also investigated.
Investigations into the superionic glass phase of Li4PS4I for improving the stability of high-loading all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Strauss Florian , Teo Jun Hao , Janek Jürgen , Brezesinski Torsten
Published: August 2020

A glassy 1.5Li2S–0.5P2S5–LiI solid electrolyte enables stable cycling of high-loading all-solid-state battery cells with an NCM622 cathode and a LTO anode.
Optimal arrangement of π-conjugated anionic groups in hydro-isocyanurates leads to large optical anisotropy and second-harmonic generation effect
Authors: Meng Xianghe , Kang Kaijin , Liang Fei , Tang Jian , Yin Wenlong , Lin Zheshuai , Xia Mingjun
Published: August 2020

Optimal arrangements of π-conjugated anions in alkaline earth metal hydro-isocyanurates with rich structures result in large birefringence and a giant nonlinear optical effect.
Indium-mediated difunctionalization of iodoalkyl-tethered unactivated alkenes via an intramolecular cyclization and an ensuing palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction with aryl halides
Authors: Song Xuan-Di , Li Xiang-Rui , Wang Ya-Wen , Chu Xue-Qiang , Rao Weidong , Xu Haiyan , Han Guo-Zhi , Shen Zhi-Liang
Published: August 2020

A cobalt-catalyzed, indium-mediated difunctionalization of iodoalkyl-tethered unactivated alkenes for accessing five-membered cyclic compounds via a cyclization/cross-coupling sequence was developed.
Effect of the roasting levels of Coffea arabica L. extracts on their potential antioxidant capacity and antiproliferative activity in human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Souza Laurent dos Santos de , Carrero Horta Isabella Porto , de Souza Rosa Lana , Barbosa Lima Larissa Gabrielly , Santos da Rosa Jeane , Montenegro Julia , da Silva Santos Lauriza , Nana de Castro Raquel Bernardo , Freitas-Silva Otniel , Teodoro Anderson Junger
Published: August 2020

Coffee, besides being one of the most consumed stimulating beverages in the world, has important bioactive activities, which have been attracting increasing attention from researchers.
Enhanced gas sensing performance of perovskite YFe1−xMnxO3 by doping manganese ions
Authors: Xukeer Aerzigu , Wu Zhaofeng , Sun Qihua , Zhong Furu , Zhang Min , Long Mengqiu , Duan Haiming
Published: August 2020

The gas sensitive performance of perovskite YFe1−xMnxO3 can be tailored effectively by simple manganese ion doping.
Photochromic organic solar cells based on diarylethenes
Authors: Saes Bart W. H. , Wienk Martijn M. , Janssen René A. J.
Published: August 2020

A diarylethene dye that reversibly changes color upon illumination is used in a switchable photochromic organic solar cell.
Symmetric accelerating beam generationviaall-dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Ahmed Hammad , Rahim Arbab Abdur , Ali Muhammad Mahmood , Maab Husnul
Published: August 2020

In this article, all-dielectric metasurfaces are proposed to generate symmetric accelerating beams by manipulating the phase of the incident light.
Structural characterization of a novelLactarius volemusFr. polysaccharide and its immunity activity in BALB/c mice
Authors: Huang Yan-yan , Yu Jia-jia , Huang Juan , Liu Dong-mei , Liang Ming-hua
Published: August 2020

Lactarius volemusFr. has been regarded as a great edible medicinal fungal resource in China.
A nanocomposite paper comprising calcium silicate hydrate nanosheets and cellulose nanofibers for high-performance water purification
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Jingshu , Wu Xuan , Zhao Jiajun , Wu Minjie , Huan Weiwei
Published: August 2020

A nanocomposite paper with high water permeability and removal efficiency was prepared for the removal of organic and inorganic contaminants by filtration.
Dithiocarbamate-modified cellulose-based sorbents with high storage stability for selective removal of arsenite and hazardous heavy metals
Authors: Morita Futo , Nakakubo Keisuke , Yunoshita Koki , Endo Masaru , Biswas Foni B. , Nishimura Tatsuya , Mashio Asami S. , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Taniguchi Tsuyoshi , Maeda Katsuhiro
Published: August 2020

Dithiocarbamate-modified cellulose derived from l-proline works as a storable sorbent for selective removal of toxic As(iii) and heavy metals from aqueous media.
Impact of heat treatment on anti-oxidative and anti-colon cancer activities of the soluble extracts from black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) using water and ethanol–water solvents
Authors: Cui Wen-Si , Zhang Qiang , Zhao Xin-Huai
Published: August 2020

Heat treatment of water/ethanol extracts of black mulberry decreased anti-oxidation but increased total phenol content and anti-colon cancer effect in HCT-116 cells.
Ultrasonic-assisted preparation of highly active Co3O4/MCM-41 adsorbent and its desulfurization performance for low H2S concentration gas
Authors: Jiang Bolong , Zhang Jiaojing , Chen Yanguang , Song Hua , Hao Tianzhen , Kuang Junhu
Published: August 2020

Co3O4/MCM-41 adsorbent with high surface area and more active sites was successfully prepared by ultrasonic assisted impregnation (UAI) technology and it has been found that the sulfur capacity was improved by 33.2% because of ultrasonication.
Preparation and photophysical properties of quinazoline-based fluorophores
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Li Hanjie , Peng Zhixing , Wang Zaibin , Wang Yanguang , Lu Ping
Published: August 2020

A series of new fluorescent compounds were synthesized based on 2-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-quinazoline, with alterable emission, high quantum yield, mechanochromic properties and can be applied as an optoelectronic material for blue OLED.
Mannich bases derived from lawsone and their metal complexes: synthetic strategies and biological properties
Authors: Olyaei Abolfazl , Sadeghpour Mahdieh , Khalaj Mehdi
Published: August 2020

Lawsone (2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione) is a natural product which shows significant biological activity.
A simple Fe3+/bisulfite system for rapid degradation of sulfamethoxazole
Authors: Wang Shixiang , Wang Guangsheng , Fu Yongsheng , Wang Hongbin , Liu Yiqing
Published: August 2020

Sulfate radical (SO4˙−) based oxidation technologies have been widely used in the remediation of antibiotic-containing wastewater.
Iterative experimental design based on active machine learning reduces the experimental burden associated with reaction screening
Authors: Eyke Natalie S. , Green William H. , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: August 2020

Through iterative selection of maximally informative experiments, active learning renders exhaustive screening obsolete. Chosen experiments are used to train models that are accurate over the entire domain, thus reducing the experiment burden.
Bare and polyelectrolyte-coated calcium carbonate particles for seawater uranium extraction: an eco-friendly alternative
Authors: Courtois Jérémie , Wang Bin , Abonee Isaac N. , Kun Xiong , Tian Qiang , Yan Minhao , Gibaud Alain
Published: August 2020

Bare and polyelectrolyte-coated calcium carbonate particles are inexpensive and environment-friendly seawater uranium extractants. Pure CaCO3has uranium self-release ability.
Effect of partial pressure on product selectivity in Cu-catalyzed electrochemical reduction of CO2
Authors: Moradzaman Mozhgan , Martínez Carlos Sánchez , Mul Guido
Published: August 2020

Manipulation of the CO2partial pressure strongly affects the faradiac efficiency in electrochemical reduction of CO2using oxide-derived electrodeposited copper surfaces.
Tailoring tantalum doping into a perovskite ferrite to obtain a highly active and stable anode for solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Li Jingwei , Fu Zhaoming , Wei Bo , Su Chaoxiang , Yue Xing , Lü Zhe
Published: August 2020

Novel Ta-doped LSF perovskite anodes for SOFCs are prepared and evaluated. The LSFTa05 anode possesses high activity and stability simultaneously with appropriate Ta content. DFT calculations are performed to study Ta-doped LSF system theoretically.
Smart design for a flexible, functionalized and electroresponsive hybrid platform based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) derivatives to improve cell viability
Authors: Molina Brenda G. , Bendrea Anca D. , Lanzalaco Sonia , Franco Lourdes , Cianga Luminita , del Valle Luis J. , Puiggali Jordi , Turon Pau , Armelin Elaine , Cianga Ioan , Aleman Carlos
Published: August 2020

An electroresponsive hybrid platform for tissue engineering, based on isotactic polypropylene, poly 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene and poly(ε-caprolactone) has been developed.
A printable thermally activated delayed fluorescence polymer light emitting diode
Authors: Cole Cameron M. , Kunz Susanna V. , Shaw Paul E. , Thoebes Nico-Patrick , Baumann Thomas , Blasco Eva , Blinco James P. , Sonar Prashant , Barner-Kowollik Christopher , Yambem Soniya D.
Published: August 2020

We report the first ink-jet printed thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) polymer organic light emitting diode (OLED).
Optically transparent silk fibroin/silver nanowire composites for piezoresistive sensing and object recognitions
Authors: Reizabal Ander , Gonçalves Sérgio , Pereira Nelson , Costa Carlos M. , Pérez Leyre , Vilas-Vilela José L. , Lanceros-Mendez S.
Published: August 2020

This work represents a new step towards the development of new multifunctional nanocomposites based on silk fibroin for electronics applications.
Exploring the mechanism of Radix Rhei Et Rhizome intervention in intracerebral hemorrhage based on systematic pharmacology and proteomics strategy
Authors: Zhu Xiaofei , Long Zhiyong , Bao Tingting , Liu Liang , Yang Kailin
Published: August 2020

Objective: To explore the mechanism of Radix Rhei Et Rhizome (Dahuang, DH) intervention in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) based on systematic pharmacology and proteomics strategy.

Methods: The systematic pharmacological strategies were utilized to find the bioactive compounds of Radix Rhei Et Rhizome, predict its potential targets, and collect ICH’s disease genes; then, the Cytoscape 3.7.1 software was applied for network construction and network topology analysis. After that, in-depth analysis of the proteomics data of Radix Rhei Et Rhizome intervention in ICH was performed to complement and validate the results of systematic pharmacological predictions.

Results: A total of three major networks were constructed in the present study: (1) compound–compound target network of Radix Rhei Et Rhizome, (2) DH-ICH PPI network, (3) proteomics proteins’ PPI network. These three major networks have been analyzed by network topology, and several small networks derived (such as signaling pathway networks). The enrichment analysis showed that Radix Rhei Et Rhizome can intervene in several biological process (such as inflammation, smooth muscle proliferation, platelet activation, blood pressure regulation, angiogenesis, hypoxia, and inflammatory response of leukocytes), signaling pathway (such as FoxO signaling pathway, complement and coagulation cascades, cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, and Rap1 signaling pathway), and reactome pathway (such as signaling by interleukins, interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 signaling, nuclear receptor transcription pathway, and platelet activation).

Conclusion: Radix Rhei Et Rhizome may intervene in ICH-related biological process, signaling pathway, and reactome pathway found in this research so as to achieve the effect of treating ICH related injuries.
DUSP12 protects against hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury dependent on ASK1-JNK/p38 pathway in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Qiu Tao , Wang Tianyu , Zhou Jiangqiao , Chen Zhongbao , Zou Jilin , Zhang Long , Ma Xiaoxiong
Published: August 2020

Hepatic ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury is an important risk factor resulting in liver failure during liver surgery. However, there is still lack of effective therapeutic methods to treat hepatic I/R injury. DUSP12 is a member of the dual specific phosphatase (DUSP) family. Some DUSPs have been identified as being involved in the regulation of hepatic I/R injury. However, the role of DUSP12 during hepatic I/R injury is still unclear. In the present study, we observed a significant decrease in DUSP12 expression in a hepatic I/R injury mouse model in vivo and in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model in vitro. Using hepatocyte-specific DUSP12 knockout mice and DUSP12 transgenic mice, we demonstrated that DUSP12 apparently relieved I/R-induced liver injury. Moreover, DUSP12 inhibited hepatic inflammatory responses and alleviated apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we demonstrated that JNK and p38 activity, but not ERK1/2, was increased in the DUSP12-deficient mice and decreased in the DUSP12 transgenic mice under I/R condition. ASK1 was required for DUSP12 function in hepatic I/R injury and inhibition of ASK1 prevented inflammation and apoptosis in DUSP12-deficient hepatocytes and mice. In conclusion, DUSP12 protects against hepatic I/R injury and related inflammation and apoptosis. This regulatory role of DUSP12 is primarily through ASK1-JNK/p38 signaling pathway. Taken together, DUSP12 could be a potential therapeutic target for hepatic I/R injury.
Antiepileptic effects of long-term intracerebroventricular infusion of angiotensin-(1-7) in an animal model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Gomes Karina Pereira , Braga Pedro Paulo Pereira , de Lima Claudio Quintino , Ghazale Poliana Peres , Pedrino Gustavo Rodrigues , Mendes Elizabeth Pereira , Pansani Aline Priscila , Xavier Carlos Henrique , Castro Carlos Henrique , Colugnati Diego Basile
Published: August 2020

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most frequent type of epilepsy and is often refractory to pharmacological treatment. In this scenario, extensive research has identified components of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) as potential therapeutic targets. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of long-term treatment with angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] in male Wistar rats with TLE induced by pilocarpine (PILO). Rats with TLE were submitted to intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of Ang-(1-7) (200 ng/kg/h) for 28 days, starting at the first spontaneous motor seizure (SMS). Body weight, food intake, and SMS were evaluated daily. Behavioral tests and hippocampal protein levels were also evaluated at the end of the treatment. Ang-(1-7) treatment reduced the frequency of SMS and attenuated low anxiety levels, increased locomotion/exploration, and reduced body weight gain that was induced by TLE. Moreover, Ang-(1-7) positively regulated the hippocampal levels of antioxidant protein catalase and antiapoptotic protein B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), as well as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) phosphorylation, which were reduced by TLE. The hippocampal up-regulation of angiotensin type 1 receptor induced by TLE was also attenuated by Ang-(1-7), while the Mas receptor (MasR) was down-regulated compared with epilepsy. These data show that Ang-(1-7) presents an antiepileptic effect, increasing neuroprotection markers and reducing SMS frequency, body weight, and behavior impairments found in TLE. Therefore, Ang-(1-7) is a promising coadjutant therapeutic option for the treatment of TLE.
Expanding spectrum of prion diseases
Authors: Ayers Jacob I. , Paras Nick A. , Prusiner Stanley B.
Published: August 2020

Prions were initially discovered in studies of scrapie, a transmissible neurodegenerative disease (ND) of sheep and goats thought to be caused by slow viruses. Once scrapie was transmitted to rodents, it was discovered that the scrapie pathogen resisted inactivation by procedures that modify nucleic acids. Eventually, this novel pathogen proved to be a protein of 209 amino acids, which is encoded by a chromosomal gene. After the absence of a nucleic acid within the scrapie agent was established, the mechanism of infectivity posed a conundrum and eliminated a hypothetical virus. Subsequently, the infectious scrapie prion protein (PrPSc) enriched for β-sheet was found to be generated from the cellular prion protein (PrPC) that is predominantly α-helical. The post-translational process that features in nascent prion formation involves a templated conformational change in PrPC that results in an infectious copy of PrPSc. Thus, prions are proteins that adopt alternative conformations, which are self-propagating and found in organisms ranging from yeast to humans. Prions have been found in both Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Mutations in APP and α-synuclein genes have been shown to cause familial AD and PD. Recently, AD was found to be a double prion disorder: both Aβ and tau prions feature in this ND. Increasing evidence argues for α-synuclein prions as the cause of PD, multiple system atrophy, and Lewy body dementia.