bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A compact polymer–inorganic hybrid gas barrier nanolayer for flexible organic light-emitting diode displays
Authors: Kim Seung Hun , Song Seung Yong , Kim Soo Youn , Chang Moon Won , Kwon Hyo Jeong , Yoon Kwan Hyuck , Sung Woo Yong , Sung Myung Mo , Chu Hye Yong
Published: April 2022

Atomic layer infiltration technology allows the formation of a nanometer-thick polymer-inorganic hybrid barrier layer in polymer material for flexible organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. In this study, according to transmission electron microscopy and secondary-ion mass spectrometry analysis results under various process conditions, a compact polymer-inorganic hybrid nanolayer was successfully formed in a polymer and good barrier performance was revealed with a low water vapor transmission rate under optimal process conditions. Additionally, through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry measurements after ultra-violet radiation testing, polymer out-gassing decreased compared to bare polymers. Based on barrier properties, the polymer with a polymer-inorganic hybrid barrier nanolayer was applied to a flexible OLED display as a substrate. During storage tests and folding tests, the flexible OLED display exhibits good reliability and better flexibility compared to those with an inorganic barrier layer. These results confirm that the polymer-inorganic hybrid nanolayer is suitable for barrier layer formation in flexible OLED displays.
Self-reported periodontitis and C-reactive protein in Parkinson’s disease: a cross-sectional study of two American cohorts
Authors: Lyra Patrícia , Botelho João , Machado Vanessa , Rota Silvia , Walker Ryan , Staunton Juliet , Proença Luís , Chaudhuri Kallol Ray , Mendes José João
Published: April 2022

Periodontitis triggers systemic repercussions, such as elevated levels of high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). This has never been studied within Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The aim of this study is to compare hs-CRP levels of self-reported periodontitis cases versus cases without periodontitis in PD patients. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015–2016 and 2017–2018 waves) were analyzed. PD cases were identified through medication regimens and periodontitis cases through a validated self-report questionnaire. 51 participants were included (24 females, 27 males, with mean age of 62.96 (14.71)). While the self-reported periodontitis group presented elevated levels of circulating hs-CRP (5.36 vs. 1.99 mg/L,p = 0.031), the self-reported without periodontitis group presented higher lymphocyte levels (29.35 vs. 28.03%,p = 0.007). Blood levels of hs-CRP were significantly higher in PD cases with self-reported periodontitis. Apart from the lymphocyte levels, there were no other significant differences according to the self-reported periodontal status. Future studies shall explore this association using clinical measures.
Thermophotovoltaic efficiency of 40%
Authors: LaPotin Alina , Schulte Kevin L. , Steiner Myles A. , Buznitsky Kyle , Kelsall Colin C. , Friedman Daniel J. , Tervo Eric J. , France Ryan M. , Young Michelle R. , Rohskopf Andrew , Verma Shomik , Wang Evelyn N. , Henry Asegun
Published: April 2022

Thermophotovoltaics (TPVs) convert predominantly infrared wavelength light to electricity via the photovoltaic effect, and can enable approaches to energy storage1,2and conversion3–9that use higher temperature heat sources than the turbines that are ubiquitous in electricity production today. Since the first demonstration of 29% efficient TPVs (Fig. 1a) using an integrated back surface reflector and a tungsten emitter at 2,000 °C (ref.10), TPV fabrication and performance have improved11,12. However, despite predictions that TPV efficiencies can exceed 50% (refs.11,13,14), the demonstrated efficiencies are still only as high as 32%, albeit at much lower temperatures below 1,300 °C (refs.13–15). Here we report the fabrication and measurement of TPV cells with efficiencies of more than 40% and experimentally demonstrate the efficiency of high-bandgap tandem TPV cells. The TPV cells are two-junction devices comprising III–V materials with bandgaps between 1.0 and 1.4 eV that are optimized for emitter temperatures of 1,900–2,400 °C. The cells exploit the concept of band-edge spectral filtering to obtain high efficiency, using highly reflective back surface reflectors to reject unusable sub-bandgap radiation back to the emitter. A 1.4/1.2 eV device reached a maximum efficiency of (41.1 ± 1)% operating at a power density of 2.39 W cm–2and an emitter temperature of 2,400 °C. A 1.2/1.0 eV device reached a maximum efficiency of (39.3 ± 1)% operating at a power density of 1.8 W cm–2and an emitter temperature of 2,127 °C. These cells can be integrated into a TPV system for thermal energy grid storage to enable dispatchable renewable energy. This creates a pathway for thermal energy grid storage to reach sufficiently high efficiency and sufficiently low cost to enable decarbonization of the electricity grid.
Climate effects on archaic human habitats and species successions
Authors: Timmermann Axel , Yun Kyung-Sook , Raia Pasquale , Ruan Jiaoyang , Mondanaro Alessandro , Zeller Elke , Zollikofer Christoph , Ponce de León Marcia , Lemmon Danielle , Willeit Matteo , Ganopolski Andrey
Published: April 2022

It has long been believed that climate shifts during the last 2 million years had a pivotal role in the evolution of our genus Homo1–3. However, given the limited number of representative palaeo-climate datasets from regions of anthropological interest, it has remained challenging to quantify this linkage. Here, we use an unprecedented transient Pleistocene coupled general circulation model simulation in combination with an extensive compilation of fossil and archaeological records to study the spatiotemporal habitat suitability for five hominin species over the past 2 million years. We show that astronomically forced changes in temperature, rainfall and terrestrial net primary production had a major impact on the observed distributions of these species. During the Early Pleistocene, hominins settled primarily in environments with weak orbital-scale climate variability. This behaviour changed substantially after the mid-Pleistocene transition, when archaic humans became global wanderers who adapted to a wide range of spatial climatic gradients. Analysis of the simulated hominin habitat overlap from approximately 300–400 thousand years ago further suggests that antiphased climate disruptions in southern Africa and Eurasia contributed to the evolutionary transformation of Homo heidelbergensis populations into Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, respectively. Our robust numerical simulations of climate-induced habitat changes provide a framework to test hypotheses on our human origin.
Wearing face masks and possibility for dry eye during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fan Qian , Liang Minhong , Kong Wenjun , Zhang Wei , Wang Hongxia , Chu Jie , Fang Xin , Song Yi , Gao Wenjing , Wang Yan
Published: April 2022

This population-based observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive survey was to investigate the relationship of increased face mask usage in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) era with mask-associated dry eye (MADE). Participants aged 6–79 years old with formal school education were selected. All participants finished the 19-item questionnaire online, distributed through different social media platforms. From 6925 participants who submitted eligible questionnaires, MADE was reported in 547 participants, which included 419 participants who developed new dry eye symptoms after wearing face masks and 128 participants whose pre-existing dry eye symptoms worsened with mask wearing. Longer time of face mask wearing, nonstandard wearing of face masks, reduced outdoor time, decreased daily reading time, shortened visual display terminals time, and dry environment were positively associated with MADE. There were significant associations between perceived MADE and age, female sex, education, use of glasses and contact lenses, and pre-existing dry eye. MADE was more common in adults aged > 20 years than those aged ≤ 20 years or juveniles. MADE incidence increased. Standard wearing of face masks was suggested as a protective factor for MADE. Awareness about the possible risk of MADE should also be created and the clinical dry eye signs should be verified.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT04744805.
State-of-the-art retinal vessel segmentation with minimalistic models
Authors: Galdran Adrian , Anjos André , Dolz José , Chakor Hadi , Lombaert Hervé , Ayed Ismail Ben
Published: April 2022

The segmentation of retinal vasculature from eye fundus images is a fundamental task in retinal image analysis. Over recent years, increasingly complex approaches based on sophisticated Convolutional Neural Network architectures have been pushing performance on well-established benchmark datasets. In this paper, we take a step back and analyze the real need of such complexity. We first compile and review the performance of 20 different techniques on some popular databases, and we demonstrate that a minimalistic version of a standard U-Net with several orders of magnitude less parameters, carefully trained and rigorously evaluated, closely approximates the performance of current best techniques. We then show that a cascaded extension (W-Net) reaches outstanding performance on several popular datasets, still using orders of magnitude less learnable weights than any previously published work. Furthermore, we provide the most comprehensive cross-dataset performance analysis to date, involving up to 10 different databases. Our analysis demonstrates that the retinal vessel segmentation is far from solved when considering test images that differ substantially from the training data, and that this task represents an ideal scenario for the exploration of domain adaptation techniques. In this context, we experiment with a simple self-labeling strategy that enables moderate enhancement of cross-dataset performance, indicating that there is still much room for improvement in this area. Finally, we test our approach on Artery/Vein and vessel segmentation from OCTA imaging problems, where we again achieve results well-aligned with the state-of-the-art, at a fraction of the model complexity available in recent literature. Code to reproduce the results in this paper is released.
Weighted p-norm distance t kernel SVM classification algorithm based on improved polarization
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Liang Shengnan , Qin Xiwen
Published: April 2022

The kernel function in SVM enables linear segmentation in a feature space for a large number of linear inseparable data. The kernel function that is selected directly affects the classification performance of SVM. To improve the applicability and classification prediction effect of SVM in different areas, in this paper, we propose a weightedp-norm distance t kernel SVM classification algorithm based on improved polarization. A t-class kernel function is constructed according to the t distribution probability density function, and its theoretical proof is presented. To find a suitable mapping space, the t-class kernel function is extended to thep-norm distance kernel. The training samples are obtained by stratified sampling, and the affinity matrix is redefined. The improved local kernel polarization is established to obtain the optimal kernel weights and kernel parameters so that different kernel functions are weighted combinations. The cumulative optimal performance rate is constructed to evaluate the overall classification performance of different kernel SVM algorithms, and the significant effects of differentp-norms on the classification performance of SVM are verified by 10 times fivefold cross-validation statistical comparison tests. In most cases, the results using 6 real datasets show that compared with the traditional kernel function, the proposed weightedp-norm distance t kernel can improve the classification prediction performance of SVM.
Applications of zeolite-zirconia-copper nanocomposites as a new asphaltene inhibitor for improving permeability reduction during CO2 flooding
Authors: Mansouri Mohsen , Ahmadi Yaser
Published: April 2022

Using nanoparticles for adsorbing asphaltene was known as an efficient method among researchers for crude oil upgrading. In this study, zeolite-zirconia-copper nanocomposites (NCs) have been synthesized and characterized with Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). Then, CO2-oil interfacial tension (IFT) tests, Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models, asphaltene precipitation tests at static phase, and dynamic CO2 flooding tests were performed in the presence of NCs and the results were compared with zeolite nanoparticles. Based on the characterization results, zirconia-copper particles were distributed at the surface of zeolite with total dimensions less than 30 nm, and the specific surface areas of the NCs (327.82 m2/g) was less than the pure zeolite (369.48 m2/g). It was seen that NCs had a greater asphaltene adsorption capacity and the application of decreasing asphaltene precipitation was higher in comparison to the zeolite nanoparticles. Accordingly, NCs were selected for performing dynamic CO2 tests and investigation of the permeability and porosity reduction parameters at obtained static condition. After adding NCs at the dynamic phase, asphaltene depositions that occured after CO2 injection was decreased and permeability/porosity reduction parameters were improved.
Harmonic balance analysis of magnetically coupled two-degree-of-freedom bistable energy harvesters
Authors: Noh Jinhong , Nguyen Minh Sang , Kim Pilkee , Yoon Yong-Jin
Published: April 2022

Because a magnetically coupled two-degree-of-freedom bistable energy harvester (2-DOF MCBEH) shows the rich, complicated nonlinear behaviors caused by its coupled cubic nonlinearities, understanding the dynamics remains challenging. This paper reports and investigates the important nonlinear dynamical phenomena of the 2-DOF MCBEHs by performing the harmonic balance analysis (HBA). All periodic solution branches are identified in order to study and comprehend the complicated dynamics of the 2-DOF MCBEHs. This end requires care when truncating the harmonic balance solution. For a 1-DOF MCBEH, which is the conventional type, the fundamental harmonic is able to approximately describe the steady-state periodic response. However, high-order harmonics are significant for the 2-DOF MCBEH. This paper demonstrates that the harmonic balance solution should involve the high-order terms instead of using the oversimplified single-harmonic solution. By performing the proposed HBA, important solution branches are reported, and their dynamical behaviors are studied. Moreover, the complete architecture of the frequency response of the 2-DOF MCBEH is disclosed across the entire frequency range. The HBA also reveals the underlying physics of building a bridge between the first and second primary resonant areas under a strong excitation. In the future, the findings in the present report can be utilized in the design process of the 2-DOF MCBEHs.
Low-carbon economic dispatch considering integrated demand response and multistep carbon trading for multi-energy microgrid
Authors: Long Yilin , Li Yong , Wang Yahui , Cao Yijia , Jiang Lin , Zhou Yicheng , Deng Youyue , Nakanishi Yosuke
Published: April 2022

With the rapid development of distributed energy resources and natural gas power generation, multi-energy microgrid (MEMG) is considered as a critical technology to increase the penetration of renewable energy and achieve the target of carbon emission reduction. Therefore, this paper proposes a low-carbon economic dispatch model for MEMG to minimize the daily operation cost by considering integrated demand response (IDR) and multistep carbon trading. Specifically, IDR operation includes shifting of shiftable electric load, adjusting of flexible thermal load and cooling load, and it is employed to decrease operation cost. Besides, the multistep carbon trading means that different carbon trading prices correspond to different carbon trading volumes, which is applied to stringently restrict carbon emission. The simulation results show that the proposed model can effectively reduce the carbon emission while greatly decrease the operation cost.
Temporal reproducibility of IgG and IgM autoantibodies in serum from healthy women
Authors: Clendenen T. V. , Hu S. , Afanasyeva Y. , Askenazi M. , Koenig K. L. , Hulett T. , Liu M. , Liu S. , Wu F. , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte A. , Chen Y.
Published: April 2022

Autoantibodies are present in healthy individuals and altered in chronic diseases. We used repeated samples collected from participants in the NYU Women’s Health Study to assess autoantibody reproducibility and repertoire stability over a one-year period using the HuProt array. We included two samples collected one year apart from each of 46 healthy women (92 samples). We also included eight blinded replicate samples to assess laboratory reproducibility. A total of 21,211 IgG and IgM autoantibodies were interrogated. Of those, 86% of IgG (n = 18,303) and 34% of IgM (n = 7,242) autoantibodies showed adequate lab reproducibility (coefficient of variation [CV] < 20%). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were estimated to assess temporal reproducibility. A high proportion of both IgG and IgM autoantibodies with CV < 20% (76% and 98%, respectively) showed excellent temporal reproducibility (ICC > 0.8). Temporal reproducibility was lower after using quantile normalization suggesting that batch variability was not an important source of error, and that normalization removed some informative biological information. To our knowledge this study is the largest in terms of sample size and autoantibody numbers to assess autoantibody reproducibility in healthy women. The results suggest that for many autoantibodies a single measurement may be used to rank individuals in studies of autoantibodies as etiologic markers of disease.
Negative affective burden is associated with higher resting-state functional connectivity in subjective cognitive decline
Authors: Schwarz Claudia , Benson Gloria S. , Antonenko Daria , Horn Nora , Köbe Theresa , Klimecki Olga , Sommer Werner , Wirth Miranka , Flöel Agnes
Published: April 2022

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), as expressed by older adults, is associated with negative affect, which, in turn, is a likely risk factor for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This study assessed the associations between negative affective burden, cognitive functioning, and functional connectivity in networks vulnerable to AD in the context of SCD. Older participants (60–90 years) with SCD (n = 51) and healthy controls (n = 50) were investigated in a cross-sectional study. Subclinical negative affective burden, quantified through a composite of self-reported negative affective factors, was related to cognitive functioning (self-perceived and objective) and functional connectivity. Seed-to-voxel analyses were carried out in default mode network (DMN) and salience network (SAL) nodes using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Greater negative affective burden was associated with lower self-perceived cognitive functioning and lower between-network functional connectivity of DMN and SAL nodes in the total sample. In addition, there was a significant moderation of SCD status. Greater negative affective burden related to higher functional connectivity within DMN (posterior cingulate-to-precuneus) and within SAL (anterior cingulate-to-insula) nodes in the SCD group, whereas in controls the inverse association was found. We show that negative affective burden is associated with functional brain alterations in older adults, regardless of SCD status. Specifically in the SCD phenotype, greater negative affective burden relates to higher functional connectivity within brain networks vulnerable to AD. Our findings imply that negative affective burden should be considered a potentially modifiable target for early intervention.
Heat loss augmented by extracorporeal circulation is associated with overcooling in cardiac arrest survivors who underwent targeted temperature management
Authors: Lee Dong Hun , Lee Byung Kook , Cho Yong Soo , Kim Dong Ki , Ryu Seok Jin , Min Jin Hong , Park Jung Soo , Jeung Kyung Woon , Kim Hwa Jin , Youn Chun Song
Published: April 2022

We investigated the association of extracorporeal circuit-based devices with temperature management and neurological outcome in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors who underwent targeted temperature management. Patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and/or continuous renal replacement therapy were classified as the extracorporeal group. We calculated the cooling rate during the induction period and time-weighted core temperatures (TWCT) during the maintenance period. We defined the sum of TWCT above or below 33 °C as positive and negative TWCT, respectively, and the sum of TWCT above 33.5 °C or below 32.5 °C as undercooling or overcooling, respectively. The primary outcome was the negative TWCT. The secondary outcomes were positive TWCT, cooling rate, undercooling, overcooling, and poor neurological outcomes, defined as Cerebral Performance Category 3–5. Among 235 patients, 150 (63.8%) had poor neurological outcomes and 52 (22.1%) were assigned to the extracorporeal group. The extracorporeal group (β, 0.307; p < 0.001) had increased negative TWCT, rapid cooling rate (1.77 °C/h [1.22–4.20] vs. 1.24 °C/h [0.77–1.79]; p = 0.005), lower positive TWCT (33.4 °C∙min [24.9–46.2] vs. 54.6 °C∙min [29.9–87.0]), and higher overcooling (5.01 °C min [0.00–10.08] vs. 0.33 °C min [0.00–3.78]). However, the neurological outcome was not associated with the use of extracorporeal devices (odds ratio, 1.675; 95% confidence interval, 0.685–4.094).
Sexually dimorphic peripheral sensory neurons regulate copulation duration and persistence in male Drosophila
Authors: Jois Shreyas , Chan Yick-Bun , Fernandez Maria Paz , Pujari Narsimha , Janz Lea Joline , Parker Sarah , Leung Adelaine Kwun-Wai
Published: April 2022

Peripheral sensory neurons are the gateway to the environment across species. In Drosophila, olfactory and gustatory senses are required to initiate courtship, as well as for the escalation of courtship patterns that lead to copulation. To be successful, copulation must last long enough to ensure the transfer of sperm and seminal fluid that ultimately leads to fertilization. The peripheral sensory information required to regulate copulation duration is unclear. Here, we employed genetic manipulations that allow driving gene expression in the male genitalia as a tool to uncover the role of these genitalia specific neurons in copulation. The fly genitalia contain sex-specific bristle hairs innervated by mechanosensory neurons. To date, the role of the sensory information collected by these peripheral neurons in male copulatory behavior is unknown. We confirmed that these MSNs are cholinergic and co-express both fru and dsx. We found that the sensory information received by the peripheral sensory neurons from the front legs (GRNs) and mechanosensory neurons (MSNs) at the male genitalia contribute to the regulation of copulation duration. Moreover, our results show that their function is required for copulation persistence, which ensures copulation is undisrupted in the presence of environmental stress before sperm transfer is complete.
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) sprout prevents high-fat diet-induced cognitive impairment by improving mitochondrial function
Authors: Park Seon Kyeong , Lee Hyo Lim , Kang Jin Yong , Kim Jong Min , Heo Ho Jin
Published: April 2022

This study was performed to evaluate the improvement effect of the ethyl acetate fraction from peanut (Arachis hypogaea) sprout (EFPS) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced cognitive deficits in C57BL/6 mice. Mice were randomly divided four groups (n = 13) as control (normal chow), HFD, EFPS 20 (20 mg/kg of body weight; intragastric administration) and EFPS 50 (50 mg/kg of body weight; intragastric administration) groups. HFD was provide for 15 weeks excepting control group. EFPS ameliorated cognitive dysfunction in Y-maze, passive avoidance test and Morris water maze test. EFPS significantly improved glucose tolerance and serum lipid profile, and reduced body weight. EFPS ameliorated oxidative stress by regulating MDA levels and SOD activity in liver and brain tissues. In addition, EFPS restored brain mitochondrial dysfunction related to energy metabolism. Moreover, the bioactive compounds of EFPS were identified as di-caffeic acid, caffeic acid, dihydrokaempferol-hexoside, di-p-coumaroyl tartaric acid isomer and group B soyasaponins using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight (UPLC-Q-TOF) mass spectrometry. These results show that EFPS can improve cognitive functions in HFD-induced diabetic mice.
Structural and molecular determinants for the interaction of ExbB from Serratia marcescens and HasB, a TonB paralog
Authors: Biou Valérie , Adaixo Ricardo Jorge Diogo , Chami Mohamed , Coureux Pierre-Damien , Laurent Benoist , Enguéné Véronique Yvette Ntsogo , de Amorim Gisele Cardoso , Izadi-Pruneyre Nadia , Malosse Christian , Chamot-Rooke Julia , Stahlberg Henning , Delepelaire Philippe
Published: April 2022

ExbB and ExbD are cytoplasmic membrane proteins that associate with TonB to convey the energy of the proton-motive force to outer membrane receptors in Gram-negative bacteria for iron uptake. The opportunistic pathogen Serratia marcescens (Sm) possesses both TonB and a heme-specific TonB paralog, HasB. ExbBSm has a long periplasmic extension absent in other bacteria such as E. coli (Ec). Long ExbB’s are found in several genera of Alphaproteobacteria, most often in correlation with a hasB gene. We investigated specificity determinants of ExbBSm and HasB. We determined the cryo-EM structures of ExbBSm and of the ExbB-ExbDSm complex from S. marcescens. ExbBSm alone is a stable pentamer, and its complex includes two ExbD monomers. We showed that ExbBSm extension interacts with HasB and is involved in heme acquisition and we identified key residues in the membrane domain of ExbBSm and ExbBEc, essential for function and likely involved in the interaction with TonB/HasB. Our results shed light on the class of inner membrane energy machinery formed by ExbB, ExbD and HasB.
Structural and biochemical evidence that ATP inhibits the cancer biomarker human aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3
Authors: Castellví Albert , Pequerul Raquel , Barracco Vito , Juanhuix Judith , Parés Xavier , Farrés Jaume
Published: April 2022

Human aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) participates in the oxidative stress response and retinoid metabolism, being involved in several diseases, including cancer, diabetes and obesity. The ALDH1A3 isoform has recently elicited wide interest because of its potential use as a cancer stem cell biomarker and drug target. We report high-resolution three-dimensional ALDH1A3 structures for the apo-enzyme, the NAD+ complex and a binary complex with ATP. Each subunit of the ALDH1A3-ATP complex contains one ATP molecule bound to the adenosine-binding pocket of the cofactor-binding site. The ATP complex also shows a molecule, putatively identified as a polyethylene glycol aldehyde, covalently bound to the active-site cysteine. This mimics the thioacyl-enzyme catalytic intermediate, which is trapped in a dead enzyme lacking an active cofactor. At physiological concentrations, ATP inhibits the dehydrogenase activity of ALDH1A3 and other isoforms, with a Ki value of 0.48 mM for ALDH1A3, showing a mixed inhibition type against NAD+. ATP also inhibits esterase activity in a concentration-dependent manner. The current ALDH1A3 structures at higher resolution will facilitate the rational design of potent and selective inhibitors. ATP binding to ALDH1A3 enables activity modulation by the energy status of the cell and metabolic reprogramming, which may be relevant in several disease conditions.
Peripheral blood CD4+CCR6+ compartment differentiates HIV-1 infected or seropositive elite controllers from long-term successfully treated individuals
Authors: Svensson Akusjärvi Sara , Krishnan Shuba , Jütte Bianca B. , Ambikan Anoop T. , Gupta Soham , Rodriguez Jimmy Esneider , Végvári Ákos , Sperk Maike , Nowak Piotr , Vesterbacka Jan , Svensson J. Peter , Sönnerborg Anders , Neogi Ujjwal
Published: April 2022

HIV-1 infection induces a chronic inflammatory environment not restored by suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART). As of today, the effect of viral suppression and immune reconstitution in people living with HIV-1 (PLWH) has been well described but not completely understood. Herein, we show how PLWH who naturally control the virus (PLWHEC) have a reduced proportion of CD4+CCR6+and CD8+CCR6+cells compared to PLWH on suppressive ART (PLWHART) and HIV-1 negative controls (HC). Expression of CCR2 was reduced on both CD4+, CD8+and classical monocytes in PLWHECcompared to PLWHARTand HC. Longer suppressive therapy, measured in the same patients, decreased number of cells expressing CCR2 on all monocytic cell populations while expression on CD8+T cells increased. Furthermore, the CD4+CCR6+/CCR6−cells exhibited a unique proteomic profile with a modulated energy metabolism in PLWHECcompared to PLWHARTindependent of CCR6 status. The CD4+CCR6+cells also showed an enrichment in proteins involved in apoptosis and p53 signalling in PLWHECcompared to PLWHART, indicative of increased sensitivity towards cell death mechanisms. Collectively, this data shows how PLWHEChave a unique chemokine receptor profile that may aid in facilitating natural control of HIV-1 infection.
Nano-TiO2retarded fetal development by inhibiting transplacental transfer of thyroid hormones in rats
Authors: Chen Feiran , Wang Chuanxi , Yue Le , Tang Junfeng , Du Hao , Wu Yi , Schröder Peter , Wang Zhenyu , Xing Baoshan
Published: April 2022

The potential environmental toxicity of nano-TiO2to rat fetal development is associated with retention of thyroid hormones in the placenta.
Multicomponent two-layered cathode for thick sintered lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Cai Chen , Nie Ziyang , Koenig Gary M.
Published: April 2022

Material and electrochemical properties for three multicomponent thick sintered electrode configurations were evaluated. Relative location of the lower electronic conductivity LiMn2O4 phase dramatically influenced electrochemical material outcomes.
Unidirectional self-actuation transport of a liquid metal nanodroplet in a two-plate confinement microchannel
Authors: Ni Erli , Song Lin , Li Zhichao , Lu Guixuan , Jiang Yanyan , Li Hui
Published: April 2022

We show that the height differences ΔH and wetting gradient Δε (channel parameters) of the contractive cross-section are used to determine the dynamic behaviors of liquid metal nanodroplets in microchannels.
Polymerization initiation of pure 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate under shock wave compression
Authors: Jia Zixian , Museur Luc , Traore Mamadou , Perruchot Christian , Brajer Jan , Bohm Marek , Kanaev Andrei
Published: April 2022

The ability to initiate chemical reactions without the need for potentially hazardous solvents, catalysts and radical initiators is of key importance for modern biotechnologies and medicine.
Carbon nanofiber-based catalysts derived from polyacrylonitrile for efficient oxygen reduction in alkaline and neutral Zn–air batteries
Authors: Lu Min , Chen Xiumei , Xu Yu , Liu Ruigang , Xie Xiaoji
Published: April 2022

Through an electrospinning-preoxidation-oxidation-carbonization approach, the carbon nanofiber-based catalyst was derived from polyacrylonitrile, and can act as an efficient oxygen reduction catalyst in alkaline and neutral Zn–air batteries.
Synthesis of wool roll-like silver nanoflowers in an ethanol/water mixture and their application to detect traces of the fungicide carbendazim by SERS technique
Authors: Nguyen Manh Cuong , Ngan Luong Truc Quynh , Vu Thi Thu , Anh Cao Tuan , Dao Tran Cao
Published: April 2022

Wool roll-like silver nanoflowers of different sizes were obtained by reducing AgNO3 with ascorbic acid in the presence of citric acid in a mixed ethanol/water solution with different volume ratios.
A unique 2.1 V “Water in Salt” elemental sulfur based Na-ion hybrid storage capacitor
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: April 2022

A 2.1 V Na-ion/S hybrid storage capacitor was constructed which demonstrates a battery-like energy density of 84.33 W h kg−1 and preserves remarkable performance even at various deformations when constructed as a flexible device.
Interface engineering on a Li metal anode for an electro-chemo-mechanically stable anodic interface in all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Lee Gyu Hyeon , Lee Seong Gyu , Park Se Hwan , Jun Dayoung , Lee Yun Jung
Published: April 2022

The dense interlayer between Li-metal and Li3PS4 with a void-free interface comprises LiI and Li–In dispersed in Li–P–S matrix. The intimate contact and fast Li migration through the interlayer stabilize anodic interfaces in all-solid-state batteries.
Osteoimmune reaction caused by a novel silicocarnotite bioceramic promoting osteogenesis through the MAPK pathway
Authors: Han Xianzhuo , Deng Fanyan , Zhu Rui , Li Ke , Yang Shun , Jin Liou , Ma Zhimin , Ning Congqin , Shi Xiujuan , Li Yongming
Published: April 2022

CPS can inhibit pro-inflammatory and promote anti-inflammatory responses. The immune microenvironment caused by CPS could stimulate osteogenic differentiation through MAPK pathway, implying the superiority of CPS in osteo-immunomodulation.
Bacterial microenvironment-responsive dual-channel smart imaging-guided on-demand self-regulated photodynamic/chemodynamic synergistic sterilization and wound healing
Authors: Zhao Xu , Wei Xiang , Chen Li-Jian , Yan Xiu-Ping
Published: April 2022

A bacterial microenvironment-responsive phosphorescence/fluorescence dual-channel smart imaging-guided on-demand self-regulated photodynamic/chemodynamic synergistic therapy nanoplatform was constructed for precise sterilization and wound healing.
Schiff base capped gold nanoparticles for transition metal cation sensing in organic media
Authors: Čonková Miroslava , Montes-García Verónica , Konopka Marcin , Ciesielski Artur , Samori Paolo , Stefankiewicz Artur R.
Published: April 2022

We report a fast and ultrasensitive colorimetric method for the detection of transition metal ions (Fe3+, Cu2+, Ni2+) in a mixture of toluene–acetonitrile using Schiff base functionalized gold nanoparticles.
Biotinylated magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles for cancer cell targeting and controlled drug delivery
Authors: Nerantzaki Maria , Michel Aude , Petit Laurence , Garnier Maylis , Ménager Christine , Griffete Nébéwia
Published: April 2022

We developed a hybrid nanomaterial composed of magnetic core nanoparticles and molecularly imprinted polymer shell modified with biotin ligands to target cancer cells and release a drug under alternating magnetic field.
Iridium-catalyzed chemoselective asymmetric hydrogenation of conjugated enones with ferrocene-based multidentate phosphine ligands
Authors: Ma Jinming , Li Wendian , He Lin , Lv Hui
Published: April 2022

A series of novel ferrocene-based multidentate ligands have been developed and successfully used in iridium-catalyzed enantioselective 1,2-reduction of α,β-unsaturated ketones.
Exploiting the upconversion luminescence, Lewis acid catalytic and photothermal properties of lanthanide-based nanomaterials for chemical and polymerization reactions
Authors: Wu Xiangyang , Yeow Edwin K. L.
Published: April 2022

Lanthanide-based nanomaterials display upconversion luminescence, photothermal properties and Lewis acid catalytic activity that are used to drive chemical and polymerization reactions.
In situ construction of superhydrophilic crystalline Ni3S2@amorphous VOx heterostructure nanorod arrays for the hydrogen evolution reaction with industry-compatible current density
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Huang Jianfeng , Liu Kehan , Du Huiling , Kang Le , Yang Dan , Niu Mengfan , Li Guodong , Cao Liyun , Feng Liangliang
Published: April 2022

A superhydrophilic core@shell heterostructure nanorod-integrated electrode (CS–NS/NF) was prepared by an in situ conversion method, which showed excellent hydrogen evolution performance at high current density.
Initial stages of particulate iron oxide attachment on drinking water PVC pipes characterized by turbidity data and brightfield microscopy from a full-scale laboratory
Authors: Braga Artur Sass , Filion Yves
Published: April 2022

Turbidity and brightfield microscopy were used to investigate the attachment of iron oxide particles on drinking water PVC pipes. Experimental evidence motivated new insights about the physical process of particle attachment.
Ultrathin wide band gap kesterites
Authors: Platzer Björkman Charlotte , Larsen Jes K. , Saini Nishant , Babucci Melike , Martin Natalia
Published: April 2022

Thickness reduction of kesterite CZTS solar cells down to 250 nm is performed showing relatively small performance loss. The introduction of oxide passivation layers improves performance and a NaF treatment is used to make such back contact conductive.
Amine-free CO2-switchable hydrophilicity solvents and their application in extractions and polymer recycling
Authors: Cunha Igor T. , McKeeman Meghan , Ramezani Maedeh , Hayashi-Mehedy Kayleigh , Lloyd-Smith Alana , Bravi Marco , Jessop Philip G.
Published: April 2022

Liquid carboxylic acids, paired with NaOH, are amine-free, easily-removed nonvolatile solvents.
Electrochemical synthesis of α-amino amidesviaC(sp3)–H bond activation
Authors: Guan Zhipeng , Peng Yanan , Yang Dongfeng , Zhu Shuxiang , Zhang Heng , Lei Aiwen
Published: April 2022

Herein, we have developed an electrochemical oxidative multicomponent reaction for the synthesis of α-amino amidesviaC(sp3)–H bond activation.
Cephaloliverols A and B, two sterol-hybrid meroterpenoids from Cephalotaxus oliveri
Authors: Jiang Chunyu , Fan Xiaojie , Zou Deli , Li Zhanlin , Han Tong , Lin Bin , Hua Huiming , Li Dahong
Published: April 2022

This manuscript covers the identification of two meroterpenoids based on a sterol and an abietane diterpene possessing a dioxane ring, which represent the first diterpenosteroids belonging to a new heterozygous type.
Base-mediated [3 + 2]-cycloannulation strategy for the synthesis of pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives using (E)-β-iodovinyl sulfones
Authors: Jannapu Reddy Raju , Sharadha Nunavath , Haritha Kumari Arram
Published: April 2022

A unique cycloannulation of (E)-β-iodovinyl sulfones with 1-aminopyridinium iodide/N-tosylpyridinium imide followed by detosylation is realized to access 2-substituted-pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridines and their 3-sulfonyl analogues in good to high yields.
A well-defined thermo- and pH-responsive double hydrophilic graft copolymer bearing pyridine-containing backbone
Authors: Chen Rang , Jiang Xue , Lu Guolin , Liu Wenbin , Jin Weize , Tian Guojian , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: April 2022

We report a thermo- and pH-responsive double hydrophilic graft copolymer possessing pyridine-containing backbone.
Organic–inorganic hybrid nanomaterials prepared via polymerization-induced self-assembly: recent developments and future opportunities
Authors: Niu Bing , Chen Ying , Zhang Li , Tan Jianbo
Published: April 2022

This review highlights recent developments in the preparation of organic–inorganic hybrid nanomaterials via polymerization-induced self-assembly.
Introduction to molecularly defined polymers: synthesis and function
Authors: Johnson Jeremiah A. , Du Prez Filip E. , Elacqua Elizabeth
Published: April 2022

Jeremiah Johnson, Filip Du Prez and Elizabeth Elacqua introduce the Polymer Chemistry themed collection on Molecularly Defined Polymers: Synthesis and Function.
Oxide-ion conductivity optimization in BiVO4 scheelite by an acceptor doping strategy
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Zeng Xiaoling , Ming Xing , Yang Li , Fernández-Carrión Alberto J. , Deng Sihao , He Lunhua , Kuang Xiaojun
Published: April 2022

The continuous breaking and reforming of VO4 tetrahedra in scheelite BiVO4 is mainly affected by the acceptor dopant size.
A novel SERS biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of HPV-E7 and OPN based on a cascade signal amplification strategy of catalytic hairpin assembly and hybridization chain reaction
Authors: Dan Lu  , Li Zhiyue , Gu Yingyan , Ge Shengjie , Mao Yu , Gu Yuexing , Cao Xiaowei
Published: April 2022

A novel SERS biosensor based on cascade signal amplification of CHA-HCR for ultrasensitive detection of HPV-E7 and OPN was developed in this work.
Facile and scaleable transformation of Cu nanoparticles into high aspect ratio Cu oxide nanowires in methanol
Authors: Kang Minkyu , Bae Minjun , Park Sumin , Hong Hwichan , Yoo Taehyun , Kim Yonghwan , Jang Myeongseok , Kim Young-Seok , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: April 2022

We proposed a facile synthetic route to Cu oxide nanowires with a high aspect ratio. The approach shown in this work is suitable for scale-up synthesis.
Preparation of lignin nanospheres based superhydrophobic surfaces with good robustness and long UV resistance
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Huang Wentao , Ren Changying , Wu Qiang , Wang Siqun , Huang Jingda
Published: April 2022

Lignin nanospheres could be taken main structural materials and cellulose nanocrystals as a reinforcer for preparation of superhydrophobic surfaces with good robustness and long UV resistance.
Quinolizinium-based fluorescent probes for formaldehyde detection in aqueous solution, serum, and test strip via 2-aza-Cope rearrangement
Authors: Tantipanjaporn Ajcharapan , Ka-Yan Kung Karen , Sit Hoi-Yi , Wong Man-Kin
Published: April 2022

Novel quinolizinium-based fluorescent probes were designed based on 2-aza-Cope rearrangement reaction to detect formaldehyde in aqueous solution, serum, and paper format. The use of a geminal dimethyl group allows fast response within 15 min.
Synthesis of a hydrophobic associating polymer and its application in plugging spacer fluid
Authors: Xue Zhaofeng , Hu Miaomiao , Miao Xia , Zang Long , Guo Jintang
Published: April 2022

The polymer PHAAO not only has a strong hydrophobic association feature but also forms hydrogen bonds and cationic–π bonds with lignin fibers, combining with walnut shells enables the spacer fluid to show a strong plugging performance.
Bipolar fluorinated covalent triazine framework cathode with high lithium storage and long cycling capability
Authors: Chen Xiudong , Zhang Hang , Yan Ping , Liu Bo , Cao Xiaohua , Zhan Changchao , Wang Yawei , Liu Jin-Hang
Published: April 2022

A bipolar fluorinated covalent triazine framework (FCTF) was successfully synthesized by the self-polymerization of tetrafluoroterephthalonitrile and exhibited high reversible capacities, long cyclability as a cathode for lithium ion batteries.
Realizing high-rate aqueous zinc-ion batteries using organic cathode materials containing electron-withdrawing groups
Authors: Chen Xiaojuan , Su Haoqi , Yang Baozhu , Yin Gui , Liu Qi
Published: April 2022

Hexafluorohexaazatrinaphthylene, a compound containing a strong electron-withdrawing group, presents high capacity, high-rate performance and high stability as a cathode material for aqueous zinc batteries/flexible aqueous zinc batteries.
Efficient and stable electrorheological fluids based on chestnut-like cobalt hydroxide coupled with surface-functionalized carbon dots
Authors: Liang Yudai , Liu Yihao , Zhou Yaozhong , Shi Quan , Zhang Mengying , Li Yancheng , Wen Weijia , Feng Lingyan , Wu Jinbo
Published: April 2022

The synergistic effect of the lipophilic groups on the surface of CDs and the biomimetic chestnut-like structure give Co(OH)2@CDs good wettability with silicone oil, great electrorheological efficiency and dynamic shear stress stability.
Charge transfer complexes of a benzothienobenzothiophene derivative and their implementation as active layer in solution-processed thin film organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Fijahi Lamiaa , Salzillo Tommaso , Tamayo Adrián , Bardini Marco , Ruzié Christian , Quarti Claudio , Beljonne David , d’Agostino Simone , Geerts Yves H. , Mas-Torrent Marta
Published: April 2022

Single crystals of novel (C8O-BTBT-OC8)(FxTCNQ) charge complexes (CT) are prepared and fully characterised. Solution processed films of the (C8O-BTBT-OC8)(F4TCNQ) CT are implemented in organic field-effect transistors giving an n-type behaviour.
An AIE-active acridine functionalized spiro[fluorene-9,9′-xanthene] luminophore with mechanoresponsive luminescence for anti-counterfeiting, information encryption and blue OLEDs
Authors: Liang Xiaozhong , Dong Bizheng , Wang Hua , Zhang Zheng , Wang Sijing , Li Jie , Zhao Bo , Li Zhijun , Xing Yifan , Guo Kunpeng
Published: April 2022

A tetra-acridine substituted spiro[fluorene-9,9′-xanthene] (SFX-Ad) compound is demonstrated as a multifunctional luminophore applied to anti-counterfeiting, information encryption, and blue OLEDs.
Perspective on pros and cons of microlearning in health education
Authors: Sozmen Eser Yıldırım
Published: April 2022

Recently, digital technology and digital materials have started to be widely used in education from primary school to college worldwide. Microlearning is one of the innovative teaching techniques that use digital technologies. In this review, benefits and disadvantages of microlearning is discussed. Many studies show that microlearning facilitated learning by dividing into smaller pieces encourages students to study. A wide range of activities might be used in this technique and it can be easily integrated into daily routine, it allows on-demand learning for the students. On the other hand, the success of microlearning techniques is closely related to the personal characteristics of learners, teachers’ prone to use digital technology and the external factors such as access to learning materials. Its effectiveness on behavior and outcome which were defined in the third and fourth levels of Kirkpatrick’s learning model is still obscure.

In the light of the literature, it should be decided which microlearning method will be used for which educational subjects.
Fuzzy linear extended states observer‐based iteration learning fault‐tolerant control for autonomous underwater vehicle trajectory‐tracking system
Authors: Hou Chao , Li XiaoGang , Wang Hongbo , Zhai Peng , Lu Hao
Published: April 2022

To deal with thrusters’ faults of autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), an iterative learning algorithm fault‐tolerant control (FTC) based on the linear extended states observer (LESO) is proposed. In this control scheme, the non‐linear feedback mechanism of the LESO is transplanted into iterative learning processes to estimate fault. Compared to our previous work, LESO is used to substitute classic non‐linear extended state observer to make the establishment of the whole system more structured; moreover, the number of parameters need to be tuned can be reduced by the conception of observer bandwidth of LESO. To enhance the controllability and robustness of whole scheme, a new saturated sliding mode controller is proposed based on the Lyapunov theory. Then to achieve online parameter self‐tuning for the control system, fuzzy logic controllers are introduced to find optimal relationship between LESO's parameter and tracking errors. The performance of the proposed controller is tested by some comparison experiments on Zhuhai A18D AUV; the results show that the proposed control scheme can ensure better stability than classical control and our previous control scheme when AUV suffers faults.