bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of exercise on cerebral blood flow and executive function among young adults: a double-blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Jianxiu , Min Leizi , Liu Ruidong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Wu Meiting , Di Qian , Ma Xindong
Published: May 2023

Studies have demonstrated that exercise benefits executive function. However, it remains unclear which type of exercise is optimal for preserving executive function among young adults and the cerebral blood flow (CBF) mechanisms that underlie exercise-induced cognitive benefits. Therefore, this study aims to compare the intervention effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on executive function and the CBF mechanism. This was a double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial study conducted between October 2020 and January 2021 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04830059). Ninety-three healthy young adults (25.23 ± 2.18 years old; 49.82% male) were randomized into the HIIT (N = 33), MICT (N = 32), and control (N = 28) groups. Participants in exercise groups were guided to perform 40 min of HIIT and MICT three times a week for 12 weeks, while the control group received health education for the same period. The primary outcomes, changes in executive function assessed by the trail-making test (TMT), and CBF measured by transcranial Doppler flow analyzer (EMS-9WA), were evaluated before and after the interventions. The time taken to complete the TMT task improved significantly in the MICT group compared to the control group [β = −10.175, 95%, confidence interval (CI) =  −20.320, −0.031]. Additionally, the MICT group showed significant improvements in the pulsatility index (PI) (β = 0.120, 95% CI = 0.018, 0.222), resistance index (RI) (β = 0.043, 95% CI = 0.005, 0.082), and peak-systolic/end-diastolic velocity (S/D) (β = 0.277, 95% CI = 0.048, 0.507) of CBF compared to the control group. The time taken to complete the TMT was associated with the velocity of peak-systolic (F = 5.414, P = 0.022), PI (F = 4.973, P = 0.012), and RI (F = 5.845, P = 0.006). Furthermore, the accuracy of TMT was associated with PI (F = 4.797, P = 0.036), RI (F = 5.394, P = 0.024), and S/D (F = 4.312, P = 0.05) of CBF. A 12-week MICT intervention improved CBF and executive function more effectively than HIIT among young adults. Furthermore, the findings suggest that CBF was one of the potential mechanisms underlying the cognitive benefits of exercise in young people. These results provide practical evidence supporting the promotion of regular exercise to maintain executive function and improve brain health.
Flax fiber based semicarbazide biosorbent for removal of Cr(VI) and Alizarin Red S dye from wastewater
Authors: Akl Magda A. , El-Zeny Abdelrahman S. , Hashem Mohamed A. , El-Gharkawy El-Sayed R. H. , Mostafa Aya G.
Published: May 2023

In the present study, flax fiber based semicarbazide biosorbent was prepared in two successive steps. In the first step, flax fibers were oxidized using potassium periodate (KIO4) to yield diadehyde cellulose (DAC). Dialdehyde cellulose was, then, refluxed with semicarbazide.HCl to produce the semicarbazide functionalized dialdehyde cellulose (DAC@SC). The prepared DAC@SC biosorbent was characterized using Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) and N2 adsorption isotherm, point of zero charge (pHPZC), elemental analysis (C:H:N), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The DAC@SC biosorbent was applied for the removal of the hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) ions and the alizarin red S (ARS) anionic dye (individually and in mixture). Experimental variables such as temperature, pH, and concentrations were optimized in detail. The monolayer adsorption capacities from the Langmuir isotherm model were 97.4 mg/g and 18.84 for Cr(VI) and ARS, respectively. The adsorption kinetics of DAC@SC indicated that the adsorption process fit PSO kinetic model. The obtained negative values of ΔG and ΔH indicated that the adsorption of Cr(VI) and ARS onto DAC@SC is a spontaneous and exothermic process. The DAC@SC biocomposite was successfully applied for the removal of Cr(VI) and ARS from synthetic effluents and real wastewater samples with a recovery (R, %) more than 90%. The prepared DAC@SC was regenerated using 0.1 M K2CO3 eluent. The plausible adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) and ARS onto the surface of DAC@SC biocomposite was elucidated.
Experimental and numerical investigation of polymer pore-clogging in micromodels
Authors: Sugar Antonia , Serag Maged , Buttner Ulrich , Fahs Marwan , Habuchi Satoshi , Hoteit Hussein
Published: May 2023

Polymers have been used effectively in the Oil & Gas Industry for a variety of field applications, such as enhanced oil recovery (EOR), well conformance, mobility control, and others. Polymer intermolecular interactions with the porous rock, in particular, formation clogging and the associated alterations to permeability, is a common problem in the industry. In this work, fluorescent polymers and single-molecule imaging are presented for the first time to assess the dynamic interaction and transport behavior of polymer molecules utilizing a microfluidic device. Pore-scale simulations are performed to replicate the experimental observations. The microfluidic chip, also known as a "Reservoir-on-a-Chip" functions as a 2D surrogate to evaluate the flow processes that take place at the pore-scale. The pore-throat sizes of an oil-bearing reservoir rock, which range from 2 to 10 nm, are taken into consideration while designing the microfluidic chip. Using soft lithography, we created the micromodel from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The conventional use of tracers to monitor polymers has a restriction due to the tendency of polymer and tracer molecules to segregate. For the first time, we develop a novel microscopy method to observe the dynamic behavior of polymer pore-clogging and unclogging processes. We provide direct dynamic observations of polymer molecules during their transport within the aqueous phase and their clustering and accumulations. Pore-scale simulations were carried out to simulate the phenomena using a finite-element simulation tool. The simulations revealed a decline in flow conductivity over time within the flow channels that experienced polymer accumulation and retention, which is consistent with the experimental observation of polymer retention. The performed single-phase flow simulations allowed us to assess the flow behavior of the tagged polymer molecules within the aqueous phase. Additionally, both experimental observation and numerical simulations are used to evaluate the retention mechanisms that emerge during flow and how they affect apparent permeability. This work provides new insights to assessing the mechanisms of polymer retention in porous media.
Intestine and brain TLR-4 modulation following N-acetyl-cysteine treatment in NEC rodent model
Authors: Beloosesky Ron , Gutzeit Ola , Ginsberg Yuval , Khatib Nizar , Ross Michael G. , Weiner Zeev , Zmora Osnat
Published: May 2023

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) brain injury is mediated through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on the intestinal epithelium and brain microglia. Our aim was to determine whether postnatal and/or prenatal NAC can modify NEC associated intestinal and brain TLR4 expression and brain glutathione levels in a rat model of NEC. Newborn Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: Control (n = 33); NEC (n = 32)—hypoxia and formula feeding; and NEC-NAC (n = 34)—received NAC (300 mg/kg IP) in addition to NEC conditions. Two additional groups included pups of dams treated once daily with NAC (300 mg/kg IV) for the last 3 days of pregnancy: NAC-NEC (n = 33) or NAC-NEC-NAC (n = 36) with additional postnatal NAC. Pups were sacrificed on the fifth day, and ileum and brains harvested for TLR-4 and glutathione protein levels. Brain and ileum TLR-4 protein levels were significantly increased in NEC offspring as compared to control (brain 2.5 ± 0.6 vs. 0.88 ± 0.12 U and ileum 0.24 ± 0.04 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01, p < 0.05). When NAC was administered only to dams (NAC-NEC) a significant decrease in TLR-4 levels was demonstrated in both offspring brain (1.53 ± 0.41 vs. 2.5 ± 0.6 U, p < 0.05) and ileum (0.12 ± 0.03 vs. 0.24 ± 0.04 U, p < 0.05) as compared to NEC. The same pattern was demonstrated when NAC was administered only or postnatally. The decrease in brain and ileum glutathione levels observed in NEC offspring was reversed with all NAC treatment groups. NAC reverses the increase in ileum and brain TLR-4 levels and the decrease in brain and ileum glutathione levels associated with NEC in a rat model, and thus may protect from NEC associated brain injury.
A quantitative meta-analysis comparing cell models in perfused organ on a chip with static cell cultures
Authors: Dufva Martin
Published: May 2023

As many consider organ on a chip for better in vitro models, it is timely to extract quantitative data from the literature to compare responses of cells under flow in chips to corresponding static incubations. Of 2828 screened articles, 464 articles described flow for cell culture and 146 contained correct controls and quantified data. Analysis of 1718 ratios between biomarkers measured in cells under flow and static cultures showed that the in all cell types, many biomarkers were unregulated by flow and only some specific biomarkers responded strongly to flow. Biomarkers in cells from the blood vessels walls, the intestine, tumours, pancreatic island, and the liver reacted most strongly to flow. Only 26 biomarkers were analysed in at least two different articles for a given cell type. Of these, the CYP3A4 activity in CaCo2 cells and PXR mRNA levels in hepatocytes were induced more than two-fold by flow. Furthermore, the reproducibility between articles was low as 52 of 95 articles did not show the same response to flow for a given biomarker. Flow showed overall very little improvements in 2D cultures but a slight improvement in 3D cultures suggesting that high density cell culture may benefit from flow. In conclusion, the gains of perfusion are relatively modest, larger gains are linked to specific biomarkers in certain cell types.
Pandemic elevates sensitivity to moral disgust but not pathogen disgust
Authors: Schwambergová Dagmar , Kaňková Šárka , Třebická Fialová Jitka , Hlaváčová Jana , Havlíček Jan
Published: May 2023

The behavioral immune system, with disgust as its motivational part, serves as the first line of defense in organisms’ protection against pathogens. Laboratory studies indicate that disgust sensitivity adaptively adjusts to simulated environmental threat, but whether disgust levels similarly change in response to real-life threats, such as a pandemic, remains largely unknown. In a preregistered within-subject study, we tested whether the threat posed by the Covid-19 pandemic would lead to increased perceived disgust. The perception of threat was induced by testing during two phases of the Covid-19 pandemic (periods of high vs. low pathogen threat). We found heightened levels of moral disgust during a “wave” of the pandemic, but the effect was not observed in the domain of pathogen or sexual disgust. Moreover, the age of respondents and levels of trait anxiety were positively associated with pathogen and moral disgust, suggesting that variation in disgust sensitivity may be based chiefly on stable characteristics.
Investigating various metal contacts for p-type delafossite α-CuGaO2 to fabricate ultraviolet photodetector
Authors: Abrari Masoud , Ghanaatshoar Majid , Malvajerdi Shahab Sharifi , Gholamhosseini Saeb , Hosseini Alireza , Sun Haiding , Mohseni Seyed Majid
Published: May 2023

Delafossite semiconductors have attracted substantial attention in the field of electro-optics owing to their unique properties and availability of p-type materials that are applicable for solar cells, photocatalysts, photodetectors (PDs) and p-type transparent conductive oxides (TCOs). The CuGaO2 (CGO), as one of the most promising p-type delafossite materials, has appealing electrical and optical properties. In this work, we are able to synthesize CGO with different phases by adopting solid-state reaction route using sputtering followed by heat treatment at different temperatures. By examining the structural properties of CGO thin films, we found that the pure delafossite phase appears at the annealing temperature of 900 °C. While at lower temperatures, delafossite phase can be observed, but along with spinel phase. Furthermore, their structural and physical characterizations indicate an improvement of material-quality at temperatures higher than 600 °C. Thereafter, we fabricated a CGO-based ultraviolet-PD (UV-PD) with a metal–semiconductor-metal (MSM) configuration which exhibits a remarkable performance compared to the other CGO-based UV-PDs and have also investigated the effect of metal contacts on the device performance. We demonstrate that UV-PD with the employment of Cu as the electrical contact shows a Schottky behavior with a responsivity of 29 mA/W with a short response time of 1.8 and 5.9 s for rise and decay times, respectively. In contrast, the UV-PD with Ag electrode has shown an improved responsivity of about 85 mA/W with a slower rise/decay time of 12.2/12.8 s. Our work sheds light on the development of p-type delafossite semiconductor for possible optoelectronics application of the future.
Morel–Lavallee lesions and number of surgeries for associated injuries predict surgical site infection risk following pelvic ring injury osteosynthesis
Authors: Lai Chih-Yang , Lai Po-Ju , Tseng I-Chuan , Su Chun-Yi , Hsu Yung-Heng , Chou Ying-Chao , Yu Yi-Hsun
Published: May 2023

We examined the incidence and causative factors of surgical site infection (SSI) following osteosynthesis for pelvic ring injury by reviewing the data of 97 consecutive patients with pelvic ring injuries treated between 2014 and 2019. Osteosyntheses, including internal or external skeletal fixation with plates or screws, were performed based on fracture type and patient’s condition. Fractures were treated surgically, with a 36 months minimum follow-up period. Eight (8.2%) patients experienced SSI. The most common causative pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus. Patients with SSI had significantly worse functional outcomes at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months than those without. For patients with SSI, the average Merle d’Aubigné and Majeed scores at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after injury were 2.4, 4.1, 8.0, 11.0, and 11.3, and 25.5, 32.1, 47.9, 61.9, and 63.3, respectively. Patients with SSI had a higher likelihood of undergoing staged operations (50.0 vs. 13.5%, p = 0.02), more surgeries for associated injuries (6.3% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.04), higher likelihood of Morel–Lavallee lesions (50.0% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.002), higher incidence of diversional colostomy (37.5% vs. 9.0%, p = 0.05), and longer intensive care unit stay (11.1 vs. 3.9 days, p = 0.001) than those without. The contributing factors for SSI were Morel–Lavallee lesions (odds ratio [OR] 4.55, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.34–50.0) and other surgeries for associated injuries (OR 2.37, 95% CI 1.07–5.28). Patients with SSI after osteosynthesis for pelvic ring injuries may have worse short-term functional outcomes.
LncRNA FAS-AS1 upregulated by its genetic variation rs6586163 promotes cell apoptosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma through regulating mitochondria function and Fas splicing
Authors: Guo Zhen , Li ZiBo , Zhang MengLing , Bao MeiHua , He BinSheng , Zhou XiaoLong
Published: May 2023

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common head and neck malignant with a high incidence in Southern China. Genetic aberrations play a vital role in the pathogenesis, progression and prognosis of NPC. In the present study, we elucidated the underlying mechanism of FAS-AS1 and its genetic variation rs6586163 in NPC. We demonstrated that FAS-AS1 rs6586163 variant genotype carriers were associated with lower risk of NPC (CC vs. AA, OR = 0.645, P = 0.006) and better overall survival (AC + CC vs. AA, HR = 0.667, P = 0.030). Mechanically, rs6586163 increased the transcriptional activity of FAS-AS1 and contributed to ectopic overexpression of FAS-AS1 in NPC. rs6586163 also exhibited an eQTL trait and the genes affected by rs6586163 were enriched in apoptosis related signaling pathway. FAS-AS1 was downregulated in NPC tissues and over-expression of FAS-AS1 was associated with early clinical stage and better short-term treatment efficacy for NPC patients. Overexpression of FAS-AS1 inhibited NPC cell viability and promoted cell apoptosis. GSEA analysis of RNA-seq data suggested FAS-AS1 participate in mitochondria regulation and mRNA alternative splicing. Transmission electron microscopic examination verified that the mitochondria was swelled, the mitochondrial cristae was fragmented or disappeared, and their structures were destroyed in FAS-AS1 overexpressed cells. Furthermore, we identified HSP90AA1, CS, BCL2L1, SOD2 and PPARGC1A as the top 5 hub genes of FAS-AS1 regulated genes involved in mitochondria function. We also proved FAS-AS1 could affect Fas splicing isoform sFas/mFas expression ratio, and apoptotic protein expression, thus leading to increased apoptosis. Our study provided the first evidence that FAS-AS1 and its genetic polymorphism rs6586163 triggered apoptosis in NPC, which might have a potential as new biomarkers for NPC susceptibility and prognosis.
Olfactory misinformation reduces wheat seed loss caused by rodent pests
Authors: Parker Finn C. G. , Price Catherine J. , Bytheway Jenna P. , Banks Peter B.
Published: May 2023

Alternatives to pesticides are urgently needed to meet sustainable agriculture goals but few options are available for many systems. Here we test how a form of olfactory misinformation on a newly sown wheat crop can prevent wild house mice (Mus musculus) from finding buried seeds. Our misinformation tactic, odour camouflage, reduced seed loss by >63%, providing a simple, non-lethal and ethical way to reduce seed damage and avoid rodenticide use.
Mouse microglia express unique miRNA-mRNA networks to facilitate age-specific functions in the developing central nervous system
Authors: Walsh Alexander D. , Stone Sarrabeth , Freytag Saskia , Aprico Andrea , Kilpatrick Trevor J. , Ansell Brendan R. E. , Binder Michele D.
Published: May 2023

Microglia regulate multiple processes in the central nervous system, exhibiting a considerable level of cellular plasticity which is facilitated by an equally dynamic transcriptional environment. While many gene networks that regulate microglial functions have been characterised, the influence of epigenetic regulators such as small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) is less well defined. We have sequenced the miRNAome and mRNAome of mouse microglia during brain development and adult homeostasis, identifying unique profiles of known and novel miRNAs. Microglia express both a consistently enriched miRNA signature as well as temporally distinctive subsets of miRNAs. We generated robust miRNA-mRNA networks related to fundamental developmental processes, in addition to networks associated with immune function and dysregulated disease states. There was no apparent influence of sex on miRNA expression. This study reveals a unique developmental trajectory of miRNA expression in microglia during critical stages of CNS development, establishing miRNAs as important modulators of microglial phenotype.
Structural basis for substrate and inhibitor recognition of human multidrug transporter MRP4
Authors: Huang Ying , Xue Chenyang , Wang Liangdong , Bu Ruiqian , Mu Jianqiang , Wang Yong , Liu Zhongmin
Published: May 2023

Human multidrug resistance protein 4 (hMRP4, also known as ABCC4), with a representative topology of the MRP subfamily, translocates various substrates across the membrane and contributes to the development of multidrug resistance. However, the underlying transport mechanism of hMRP4 remains unclear due to a lack of high-resolution structures. Here, we use cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to resolve its near-atomic structures in the apo inward-open and the ATP-bound outward-open states. We also capture the PGE1 substrate-bound structure and, importantly, the inhibitor-bound structure of hMRP4 in complex with sulindac, revealing that substrate and inhibitor compete for the same hydrophobic binding pocket although with different binding modes. Moreover, our cryo-EM structures, together with molecular dynamics simulations and biochemical assay, shed light on the structural basis of the substrate transport and inhibition mechanism, with implications for the development of hMRP4-targeted drugs.
Millimeter-wave to near-terahertz sensors based on reversible insulator-to-metal transition in VO2
Authors: Qaderi Fatemeh , Rosca Teodor , Burla Maurizio , Leuthold Juerg , Flandre Denis , Ionescu Adrian M.
Published: May 2023

In the quest for low power bio-inspired spiking sensors, functional oxides like vanadium dioxide are expected to enable future energy efficient sensing. Here, we report uncooled millimeter-wave spiking detectors based on the sensitivity of insulator-to-metal transition threshold voltage to the incident wave. The detection concept is demonstrated through actuation of biased VO2 switches encapsulated in a pair of coupled antennas by interrupting coplanar waveguides for broadband measurements, on silicon substrates. Ultimately, we propose an electromagnetic-wave-sensitive voltage-controlled spike generator based on VO2 switches in an astable spiking circuit. The fabricated sensors show responsivities of around 66.3 MHz.W−1 at 1 μW, with a low noise equivalent power of 5 nW.Hz−0.5 at room temperature, for a footprint of 2.5 × 10−5 mm2. The responsivity in static characterizations is 76 kV.W−1. Based on experimental statistical data measured on robust fabricated devices, we discuss stochastic behavior and noise limits of VO2 -based spiking sensors applicable for wave power sensing in mm-wave and sub-terahertz range.
Multicomponent Hydrogels: Design Architecture, Synthesis Methods, Chemical Reactions and Mechanisms, Crosslinking Strategies, and Radiation Techniques
Authors: Ono F.
Published: May 2023

This chapter discusses the design and synthesis of multicomponent hydrogels. First, the general theory of multicomponent hydrogel design is explained. Following this, the synthesis techniques, chemical reactions/mechanisms, and radiation techniques for multicomponent hydrogels are described, along with examples of crosslinking strategies. Finally, examples of natural and synthetic polymers, as well as synthesis techniques, including linking techniques for multicomponent hydrogels utilized in bioapplications, are provided.
Click Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Arkenberg Matthew R. , Kim Min Hee , Lin Chien-Chi
Published: May 2023

Hydrogels crosslinked by homopolymerization of single component acrylate/methacrylate terminated polymers (e.g., poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, or PEGDA) were once the dominant biomaterials in biomedical applications, including the encapsulation of therapeutic agents and biological molecules. However, accumulating evidence has revealed many disadvantages of homopolymerized hydrogels, including heterogeneity of the crosslinking that adversely impacted the bioactivity of the encapsulated molecules. As such, recent years have witnessed the expansive use of modular click chemistry for the crosslinking of multicomponent hydrogels, typically consisting of two or more functionally distinct macromolecular building blocks. This chapter provides an overview of the crosslinking and applications of multicomponent hydrogels, focusing on those crosslinked by strain-promoted alkyne–azide cycloaddition (SPAAC), Michael-type addition, Diels–Alder (DA) reactions, inverse electron-demand Diels–Alder (iEDDA), thiol–ene polymerizations, and imine/hydrazone/oxime click reactions. This chapter also summarizes information regarding the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of commonly used synthetic (e.g., PEG, poly(acrylate), poly(vinyl alcohol), etc.) and naturally-derived macromers (e.g., gelatin, hyaluronic acid, etc.) for forming multicomponent hydrogels. Finally, an overview is given on the applications of multicomponent hydrogels in drug delivery, biofabrication, and 3D/4D cell culture.
Modeling and Simulations of Multicomponent Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Popa Ionel
Published: May 2023

Modeling and simulations of multicomponent hydrogels require a multiscale approach and improvements in resolution and accuracy come at the expense of computational time. In this chapter, a review is provided on the main classes of multicomponent hydrogels from the perspective of macroscopic and nanoscopic modeling approaches. First, modeling of biomaterials on different scales is discussed. Then the most common macroscopic continuum models and nanoscopic coarse-grained models are analyzed in detail, with specific examples from approaches based on polymer–polymer, polymer–protein, polymer–inclusion and polymer–void double networks. Finally, scaling approaches are briefly discussed.
Multicomponent Hybrid Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Garcia-del Rio L. , Diaz-Rodriguez P. , Landin M.
Published: May 2023

Multicomponent hybrid hydrogels are pharmaceutical systems that comprise at least two different types of polymers. Their development responds to the need for improving the existing delivery systems and/or mimicking the characteristics of specific tissues or organs expanding the biomedical applications of hydrogels. Their versatile composition and properties make multicomponent hybrid hydrogels very attractive platforms as scaffolds in bone, cartilage, neural, heart and skin regeneration and excellent alternatives for drug loading and release. Thus, this chapter mainly addresses the usefulness of multicomponent hybrid hydrogels in tissue engineering and drug delivery. The most common combinations of polymers for these two purposes are discussed, as well as the limitations of employing conventional approaches for the development of these complex hydrogels. Artificial intelligence techniques emerge as powerful tools to understand more quickly and easily how ingredients affect the final hydrogel properties, generating the knowledge needed to develop advanced pharmaceutical systems with huge potential in tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Stimuli-responsive and Self-healing Multicomponent Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Rahman Aminur , Bin Imran Abu
Published: May 2023

Hydrogels can absorb and retain large quantities of water or other molecules inside their pores without dissolving in any solvents. Multicomponent stimuli-responsive hydrogels are especially interesting because they can change their physical and chemical properties with surrounding environmental stimuli. Multicomponent hydrogels with self-healing properties are attractive because of their capacity to repair and restore function after the damage has occurred. Researchers in drug delivery, gene regulation, tissue engineering, 3D printing, soft robotics, and other biomedical fields have shown keen interest in stimulus-responsive and self-healing multicomponent hydrogels. This chapter will address various multicomponent stimuli-responsive and self-healing hydrogels and their action mechanisms. A brief description of pertinent examples and their biomedical applications will also be provided.
Toxicity, Regulatory Considerations, and Commercialization Aspects of Multi-component Hydrogels
Authors: Deen G. Roshan
Published: May 2023

Multicomponent hydrogels are an important class of materials that have unique properties which are exploited for target-specific applications in medicine. Although a few systems are currently in preclinical trials and clinical applications, the translation into commercial products is still in its infancy. This is due to the lack of partnership between academia and industry which is very important for scale-up and commercialization. This chapter briefly summarizes the toxicity issues of multicomponent hydrogels related to human health and the environment, which need to be addressed before discussing the regulatory aspects for clinical translation, commercialization and environmental mitigation. The types of approvals required and the factors affecting the scale-up and manufacturing processes are presented in this chapter.
Codesign of an integrated metal–insulator–semiconductor photocathode for photoelectrochemical reduction of CO2 to ethylene
Authors: Kim Chanyeon , King Alex J. , Aloni Shaul , Toma Francesca M. , Weber Adam Z. , Bell Alexis T.
Published: May 2023

Photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction to ethylene is achieved by codesigning a Cu/TiO2/p-Si photoelectrode. Bilayer ionomer coatings and electrolyte-side illumination enable 4× more ethylene compared to no coatings and semiconductor-side illumination.
Molten salt electrolytic synthesis of porous carbon from SiC and its application in supercapacitors
Authors: Zheng Kai , Luo Wenbo , Long Shaolei , Long Xiao , Shi Cuilian , Liu Pengcheng , Li Jierui , Li Wubin
Published: May 2023

We have successfully produced porous CDC nanospheres from SiC nanospheres by using a simple molten salt electrochemical etching method which is much safer, less expensive and more environmentally friendly than the chlorination process.
Application of nanotechnology in thrombus therapy
Authors: Liao Kaili , Wu Quanli , Li Yiran , Wu Chengfeng , Zhou Yu , Zeng Qingfu
Published: May 2023

Diseases caused by two pathological processes, thrombosis, and thromboembolism, are clinically known as thrombotic diseases, which seriously threaten human life and health, and their incidence rate is the highest among various diseases.
In situ growth of a GDY–MnOx heterointerface for selective and efficient ammonia production
Authors: Luan Xiaoyu , Qi Lu , Zheng Zhiqiang , Zhao Shuya , Gao Yaqi , Xue Yurui , Li Yuliang
Published: May 2023

A GDY–MnOx heterostructure was synthesized by controlled growth of MnOx on GDY. The incomplete charge-transfer between GDY and Mn atoms endows it with excellent electrocatalytic performance for NH3 production at room temperature and ambient pressure.
Anab initiostudy on the electronic excited states and photodissociation mechanism of bromocarbene molecule
Authors: Shan Shimin , Sun ErPing , Gao Yongquan , Li Zirun , Xu Haifeng , Yan Bing
Published: May 2023

The interactions between the electronic states of CHBr are discussed and the dissociation mechanism is investigated in the ultraviolet region.
Unveiling the atomistic and electronic structure of NiII–NO adduct in a MOF-based catalyst by EPR spectroscopy and quantum chemical modelling
Authors: Thangavel Kavipriya , Bruzzese Paolo Cleto , Mendt Matthias , Folli Andrea , Knippen Katharina , Volkmer Dirk , Murphy Damien M. , Pöppl Andreas
Published: May 2023

The nature of the chemical bonding between NO and open-shell NiIIions docked in a metal–organic framework is fully characterized by EPR spectroscopy and computational methods.
Fabrication of porous and visible light active ZnO nanorods and ZnO@TiO2core–shell photocatalysts for self-cleaning applications
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Nayak Dipali , Sahoo Pooja , Nandi Barun Kumar , Saxena V. K. , Thangavel R.
Published: May 2023

Highly transparent and self-cleaning ZnO nanorods (NRs) and ZnO@TiO2core–shell (CS) nanoarrays were fabricated using the sol–gel dip-coating technique.
Why a simple vanadate is inefficient as a catalyst in the oxidation of alkanes with H2O2– the long-standing puzzle is solved
Authors: Kuznetsov Maxim L. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: May 2023

Generation of HO˙ in a vanadate/H2O2(aq)/MeCN system occursviaa newly proposed non-innocent ligand mechanism. The low catalytic activity of the simple vanadate toward alkane oxidation with H2O2is explained by a side reaction of H2O2dismutation.
Hierarchical subcomponent self-assembly of covalent triple-stranded complexes with 3d–4f vertices: luminescence and magnetic properties
Authors: Liu Zhi , Yin Fan , Yang Jian , Guo Xiao-Qing , Zhou Li-Peng , Tian Chong-Bin , Sun Qing-Fu
Published: May 2023

A series of covalent metallo-supramolecular discrete complexes with 3d–4f vertices were synthesized by the hierarchical subcomponent self-assembly approach. Their luminescence and magnetic properties were investigated.
Rapid nondestructive assessment of the degrees of sensitization of 5456 aluminum alloys using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with multivariate analysis
Authors: Liu Lei , Huang Xi , Dong Haoyu , Mao Aofei , Li Peizi , Cui Bai , Silvain Jean-Francois , Lu Yongfeng
Published: May 2023

Machine learning assisted laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) successfully assessed the degree of sensitization (DoS) levels of the Al 5xxx alloys, showing promise for rapid assessment on modern ships predominantly made by Al–Mg alloys.
Intervertebral disc organ-on-a-chip: an innovative model to study monocyte extravasation during nucleus pulposus degeneration
Authors: Son Hyeong-Guk , Hwang Min-Ho , Lee Sumin , Kim An-Gi , Kim Tae-Won , Kim Joo-Han , Choi Hyuk , Jeong Sehoon
Published: May 2023

The intervertebral disc (IVD) organ-on-a-chip is a multi-cellular analytical platform that recapitulates the geometry of the IVD. This bioinspired microsystem mimics monocyte extravasation and enables the study of cell-to-cell paracrine signaling by utilizing chemotaxis.
Silver-catalyzed synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles: recent advancements
Authors: Devi P. S. , Neetha Mohan , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: May 2023

Silver catalysis offers environmentally friendly and simple protocols to construct N-heterocycles. Inspired by its appeal, herein we have summarized developments in the silver-catalyzed synthesis of N-heterocycles since 2019.
Alternating cationic copolymerizations of vinyl ethers and sequence-programmed cyclic trimer consisting of one vinyl ether and two aldehydes for ABCC-type periodic terpolymers
Authors: Naito Tadashi , Kanazawa Arihiro , Aoshima Sadahito
Published: May 2023

Alternating cationic copolymerization of 2-chloroethyl vinyl ether and cyclic trimers of one vinyl monomer and two aldehyde molecules were investigated to obtain polymers with ABCC-type monomer sequences.
Lonicera japonica Thunb. as a promising antibacterial agent for Bacillus cereus ATCC14579 based on network pharmacology, metabolomics, and in vitro experiments
Authors: Xu Nan , Du Li-hua , Chen Yan-chao , Zhang Jin-hao , Zhu Qian-feng , Chen Rong , Peng Guo-ping , Wang Qi-ming , Yu Hua-zhong , Rao Li-qun
Published: May 2023

Lonicera japonica Thunb. has attracted much attention for its treatment of bacterial and viral infectious diseases, while its active ingredients and potential mechanisms of action have not been fully elucidated.
Synthesis, morphological, electrical, and conduction mechanism studies of a sodium cerium diphosphate compound
Authors: Hamrit Fareh , Chtourou Rabiaa , Taloub Djedid , Gharbi Imen , Oueslati Abderrazek
Published: May 2023

A NaCeP2O7 compound was successfully synthesized by a high-temperature reaction with the solid-state method.
Effects of NO3−, Cl−, and CH3COO− anions and diethylene glycol on the morphological, structural, antidiabetic, and cell viability properties of CeO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Matussin Shaidatul Najihah , Khan Fazlurrahman , Chandika Pathum , Harunsani Mohammad Hilni , Ahmad Norhayati , Kim Young-Mog , Jung Won-Kyo , Khan Mohammad Mansoob
Published: May 2023

Polyol-synthesized CeO2 nanoparticles by varying the diethylene/H2O ratio and the investigation of α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition and cytotoxicity properties of the synthesized CeO2 nanoparticles.
A transparent iron-incorporated nickel hydroxide electrocatalyst for efficient water oxidation
Authors: Ahmed Amira Y. , Dhawale Dattatray S. , Kandiel Tarek A.
Published: May 2023

Transparent electrocatalysts were developed by a facile solution-based method. The highly transparent iron-incorporated nickel hydroxide (FeNi-10) oxygen evolution electrode exhibited low overpotential compared to the benchmark electrocatalyst.
Recent advances in MXenes: beyond Ti-only systems
Authors: Venkateshalu Sandhya , Shariq Mohammed , Kim Byeongyoon , Patel Monika , Mahabari Kajal Shakil , Choi Sang-Il , Chaudhari Nitin K. , Grace Andrews Nirmala , Lee Kwangyeol
Published: May 2023

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the research trends in the synthesized and predicted non-Ti MXenes. The synthetic methods, unique properties, applications, and advantages of non-Ti MXenes compared to Ti-based MXenes are discussed.
Targeting endosomal receptors, a new direction for polymers in nanomedicine
Authors: Ramirez-Garcia Paulina D. , Veldhuis Nicholas A. , Bunnett Nigel W. , Davis Thomas P.
Published: May 2023

In this perspective, we outline a new opportunity for exploiting nanoparticle delivery of antagonists to target G-protein coupled receptors localized in intracellular compartments.
Ulcerative colitis alleviation of colon-specific delivered rhamnolipid/fullerene nanocomposites via dual modulation in oxidative stress and intestinal microbiome
Authors: Xia Yuxuan , Hong Liu , Zheng Jiayao , Lu Ziyi , Zhang Qiong , Chen Siyu , Pang Zhi , Li Lei , Qiao Shumiao , Wang Qiang , Zhou Yonghua , Yang Cheng
Published: May 2023

Ulcerative colitis inflammation is profoundly alleviated by colon-targeting delivery of low dose (0.4 mg kg−1) rhamnolipid/fullerene nanocomposites via the synergism of oxidative stress mitigation and gut microbiome recovery.
Three types of calls admission control methods considering seek‐bar operation
Authors: Miyata Sumiko , Ode Keisuke
Published: May 2023

Many network devices, such as a smartphones and tablets, and streaming services, such as YouTube and Netflix, have become widespread. This causes network‐bandwidth congestion, so users require stable and consistent communication quality. Call admission control (CAC) has been proposed to solve these bandwidth resource problems. Some CACs have been proposed in order to maintain QoS. However, these CAC does not assume user behaviour. If CAC assumes some user behaviour, optimal control parameter derived conventional CAC may change because traffic load change by considering user behaviour. This article assumes that arriving types of flows are of three types: narrowband flows, broadband flow without seek‐bar operation, and broadband flows with seek‐bar operation. Under this assumpution, two CAC methods with single threshold or two thresholds are proposed. With these methods, it is assumed that all arriving flows result in the same user satisfaction when accommodated in a network. Under this assumption, the maximum of each user satisfaction is the same as the maximum number of accommodated flows. Using the call loss probability characteristics of Method 1, the objective function in Method 2 is modified. By using the modified objective function, CAC can be realised while properly accommodating broadband users who have been excessively rejected.
A biodegradable nano‐composite membrane for high‐safety and durable lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Wang Ting , Liu Na , Zhou Hui , Chen Ming‐Jun
Published: May 2023

As a key component of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), separator plays a crucial role in the performance and safety of LIBs. In this paper, a cellulose‐based porous membrane modified by nano CaCO3 is prepared conveniently by electrospinning. The membrane exhibits rich fibrous porous networks and uniform distribution of nanoparticles. Strengthened by CaCO3, the tensile strength of the cellulose porous membrane elevates from 4.7 ± 0.4 MPa to 7.7 ± 0.7 MPa. Besides, the modified membranes possess improved thermal stability and can maintain their original size after treatment at 150°C and 180°C. Also, the electrolyte uptake of cellulose/CaCO3 membrane is 73% higher than that of the pure cellulose membrane. Thus, the ionic conductivity of membrane achieves 1.08 mS cm−1 and the electrochemical window is about 4.8 V, which meets the practical requirements of LIBs. Significantly, with LiFePO4/Li battery this membrane can run for 230 cycles with a capacity retention of 97.4% and a discharge capacity of 149.0 mAh g−1, demonstrating the huge potential for high safety and next‐generation LIBs.
Kinematic analysis of the super-extended H I disk of the nearby spiral galaxy M 83
Authors: Eibensteiner C. , Bigiel F. , Leroy A. K. , Koch E. W. , Rosolowsky E. , Schinnerer E. , Sardone A. , Meidt S. , de Blok W. J. G. , Thilker D. , Pisano D. J. , Ott J. , Barnes A. , Querejeta M. , Emsellem E. , Puschnig J. , Utomo D. , Bešlić I. , den Brok J. , Faridani S. , Glover S. C. O. , Grasha K. , Hassani H. , Henshaw J. D. , Jiménez-Donaire M. J. , Kerp J. , Dale D. A. , Kruijssen J. M. D. , Laudage S. , Sanchez-Blazquez P. , Smith R. , Stuber S. , Pessa I. , Watkins E. J. , Williams T. G. , Winkel B.
Published: May 2023

We present new H Iobservations of the nearby massive spiral galaxy M 83 taken with the JVLA at 21″ angular resolution (≈500 pc) of an extended (∼1.5 deg2) ten-point mosaic combined with GBT single-dish data. We study the super-extended H Idisk of M 83 (∼50 kpc in radius), in particular disk kinematics, rotation, and the turbulent nature of the atomic interstellar medium. We define distinct regions in the outer disk (rgal> central optical disk), including a ring, a southern area, a southern arm and a northern arm. We examine H Igas surface density, velocity dispersion, and noncircular motions in the outskirts, which we compare to the inner optical disk. We find an increase of velocity dispersion (σv) toward the pronounced H Iring, indicative of more turbulent H Igas. Additionally, we report over a large galactocentric radius range (untilrgal ∼ 50 kpc) whereσvis slightly larger than thermal component (i.e., > 8 km s−1). We find that a higher star-formation rate (as traced by far UV emission) is not necessarily always associated with a higher H Ivelocity dispersion, suggesting that radial transport could be a dominant driver for the enhanced velocity dispersion. Furthermore, we find a possible branch that connects the extended H Idisk to the dwarf irregular galaxy UGCA 365 and that deviates from the general direction of the northern arm. Lastly, we compare mass flow rate profiles (based on 2D and 3D tilted ring models) and find evidence for outflowing gas atrgal∼ 2 kpc, inflowing gas atrgal∼ 5.5 kpc, and outflowing gas atrgal ∼ 14 kpc. We caution that mass flow rates are highly sensitive to the assumed kinematic disk parameters, in particular to inclination.
The Northern Cross Fast Radio Burst project
Authors: Pelliciari D. , Bernardi G. , Pilia M. , Naldi G. , Pupillo G. , Trudu M. , Addis A. , Bianchi G. , Bortolotti C. , Dallacasa D. , Lulli R. , Maccaferri A. , Magro A. , Mattana A. , Perini F. , Roma M. , Schiaffino M. , Setti G. , Tavani M. , Verrecchia F. , Casentini C.
Published: May 2023

Context. Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are millisecond radio transients observed at cosmological distances. The nature of their progenitors is still a matter of debate, although magnetars are invoked by most models. The proposed FRB–magnetar connection was strengthened by the discovery of an FRB-like event from the Galactic magnetar SGR J1935+2154.

Aims. In this work we aim to investigate how prevalent magnetars such as SGR J1935+2154 are within FRB progenitors.

Methods. To this end, we carried out an FRB search in a sample of seven nearby (< 12 Mpc) galaxies with the Northern Cross Radio Telescope for a total of 692 h.

Results. We detected one 1.8 ms burst in the direction of M 101 with a fluence of 58 ± 5 Jy ms. Its dispersion measure of 303 pc cm−3 places it most likely beyond M 101. Considering that no significant detection comes indisputably from the selected galaxies, we place a 38 yr−1 upper limit on the total burst rate (i.e. including the whole sample) at the 95% confidence level. This upper limit constrains the event rate per magnetar to λmag < 0.42 magnetar−1 yr−1 or, if combined with literature observations of a similar sample of nearby galaxies, it yields a joint constraint of λmag < 0.25 magnetar−1 yr−1. We also provide the first constraints on the expected rate of FRBs hypothetically originating from ultra-luminous X-ray (ULX) sources, since some of the galaxies observed during our observational campaign host confirmed ULXs. We obtain < 13 yr−1 per ULX for the total sample of galaxies observed.

Conclusions. Our results indicate that bursts with energies E > 1034 erg from magnetars such as SGR J1935+2154 appear more rarely compared to previous observations and further disfavour them as unique progenitors for the cosmological FRB population. This provides support to the idea that there is a greater contribution from a population of more exotic magnetars not born via core-collapsed supernovae.
Maximum entropy distributions of dark matter in ΛCDM cosmology
Authors: Xu Zhijie (Jay)
Published: May 2023

Context. Small-scale challenges to ΛCDM cosmology require a deeper understanding of dark matter physics.

Aims. This paper aims to develop the maximum entropy distributions for dark matter particle velocity (denoted by X), speed (denoted by Z), and energy (denoted by E) that are especially relevant on small scales where system approaches full virialization.

Methods. For systems involving long-range interactions, a spectrum of halos of different sizes is required to form to maximize system entropy. While the velocity in halos can be Gaussian, the velocity distribution throughout the entire system, involving all halos of different sizes, is non-Gaussian. With the virial theorem for mechanical equilibrium, we applied the maximum entropy principle to the statistical equilibrium of entire system, such that the maximum entropy distribution of velocity (the X distribution) could be analytically derived. The halo mass function was not required in this formulation, but it did indeed result from the maximum entropy.

Results. The predicted X distribution involves a shape parameter α and a velocity scale, v0. The shape parameter α reflects the nature of force (α → 0 for long-range force or α → ∞ for short-range force). Therefore, the distribution approaches Laplacian with α → 0 and Gaussian with α → ∞. For an intermediate value of α, the distribution naturally exhibits a Gaussian core for v ≪ v0 and exponential wings for v ≫ v0, as confirmed by N-body simulations. From this distribution, the mean particle energy of all dark matter particles with a given speed, v, follows a parabolic scaling for low speeds (∝v2 for v ≪ v0 in halo core region, i.e., “Newtonian”) and a linear scaling for high speeds (∝v for v ≫ v0 in halo outskirt, i.e., exhibiting “non-Newtonian” behavior due to long-range gravity). We compared our results against N-body simulations and found a good agreement.
Photodissociation and photoionization of molecules of astronomical interest
Authors: Hrodmarsson H. R. , van Dishoeck E. F.
Published: May 2023

Context. Vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) photons are important drivers of chemical processes in space. Thus, it is important to accurately characterize and constrain photorates in different radiation fields, via the photodissociation and photoionization cross sections of individual atoms and molecules. These have been available in the Leiden VUV photodissocation and photoionization cross section database.

Aims. Experimental and theoretical advances in the past decade or so have allowed multiple new cross sections to be obtained, particularly photoionization cross sections of radicals. The database is hereby updated by including these more recent cross sections and is also expanded with several astronomically relevant species.

Methods. The cross sections have been used to calculate photodissociation and photoionization rates in several different radiation fields as well as from cosmic-ray-induced VUV fluxes. The reduction of rates in shielded regions was calculated as a function of dust, molecular and atomic hydrogen, atomic carbon, and self-shielding column densities. The relative importance of these shielding types is molecule and atom dependent, as well as the assumed dust absorbance. All the data are publicly available from the Leiden VUV cross section database.

Results. The Leiden VUV cross section database has been updated with 14 new astrophysically relevant molecular species and 16 updates to previous entries. The database update is accompanied by a brief review of the basic physical processes, particularly photoionization processes which have not been reviewed in the context of previous database updates.