bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, synthesis, and characterization of novel eco-friendly chitosan-AgIO3 bionanocomposite and study its antibacterial activity
Authors: Ahghari Mohammad Ali , Ahghari Mohammad Reza , Kamalzare Maryam , Maleki Ali
Published: June 2022

This work reports a facile and green approach to preparing AgIO3 nanoparticles decorated with chitosan (chitosan-AgIO3). The bionanocomposite was fully characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The antibacterial effect of chitosan-AgIO3 bionanocomposite was investigated for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus as pathogen microorganisms via the plate count method, disk diffusion method, and optical density (OD) measurements. The antibacterial performance of the bionanocomposite was compared with two commercial drugs (penicillin and silver sulfadiazine) and in some cases, the synthesized bionanocomposite has a better effect in the eradication of bacteria. The bionanocomposite represented great antibacterial properties. Flow cytometry was performed to investigate the mechanism of bionanocomposite as an antibacterial agent. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was responsible for the bactericidal mechanisms. These results demonstrate that the chitosan-AgIO3 bionanocomposite, as a kind of antibacterial material, got potential for application in a broad range of biomedical applications and water purification. The design and synthesis of green and biodegradable antibacterial materials with simple processes and by using readily available materials cause the final product to be economically affordable and could be scaled in different industries.
The third-generation anti-CD30 CAR T-cells specifically homing to the tumor and mediating powerful antitumor activity
Authors: Zhang Shangkun , Gu Chaojiang , Huang Lifang , Wu Han , Shi Jiangzhou , Zhang Zijian , Zhou Yong , Zhou Jingjiao , Gao Yang , Liu Jiaxing , Leng Yingqi , Liu Xiyu , Zhang Qinxing , Huang Liang , Tong Xiqin , Young Ken H. , Li Jiapeng , Zhu Haichuan , Zhang Tongcun
Published: June 2022

CAR T-cell therapy is well tolerated and effective in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). However, even second- generation anti-CD30 CAR T-cells with CD28 (28z) costimulatory domains failed to achieve the desired rate of complete responses. In the present study, we developed second-generation (CD28z) and third-generation (CD28BBz) CAR T-cells targeting CD30 and investigated their efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Both of CD28z and CD28BBz anti-CD30 CAR T cells were similar regarding amplification, T cell subsets distribution, T cell activity, effector/memory and exhaustion. However, we found that the 28BBz anti-CD30 CAR T-cells persist long-term, specifically homing to the tumor and mediating powerful antitumor activity in tumor xenograft models. Subsequently, we also demonstrated that the third generation anti-CD30 CAR T-cells have miner side effects or potential risks of tumorigenesis. Thus, anti-CD30 CAR T-cells represent a safe and effective treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma.
Mapping immunogenic epitopes of an adhesin-like protein from Methanobrevibacter ruminantium M1 and comparison of empirical data with in silico prediction methods
Authors: Khanum Sofia , Carbone Vincenzo , Gupta Sandeep K. , Yeung Juliana , Shu Dairu , Wilson Tania , Parlane Natalie A. , Altermann Eric , Estein Silvia M. , Janssen Peter H. , Wedlock D. Neil , Heiser Axel
Published: June 2022

In silico prediction of epitopes is a potentially time-saving alternative to experimental epitope identification but is often subject to misidentification of epitopes and may not be useful for proteins from archaeal microorganisms. In this study, we mapped B- and T-cell epitopes of a model antigen from the methanogenMethanobrevibacter ruminantiumM1, the Big_1 domain (AdLP-D1, amino acids 19–198) of an adhesin-like protein. A series of 17 overlapping 20-mer peptides was selected to cover the Big_1 domain. Peptide-specific antibodies were produced in mice and measured by ELISA, while an in vitro splenocyte re-stimulation assay determined specific T-cell responses. Overall, five peptides of the 17 peptides were shown to be major immunogenic epitopes of AdLP-D1. These immunogenic regions were examined for their localization in a homology-based model of AdLP-D1. Validated epitopes were found in the outside region of the protein, with loop like secondary structures reflecting their flexibility. The empirical data were compared with epitope predictions made by programmes based on a range of algorithms. In general, the epitopes identified by in silico predictions were not comparable to those determined empirically.
Absence of causal association between Vitamin D and bone mineral density across the lifespan: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Tang Yanchao , Wei Feng , Yu Miao , Zhou Hua , Wang Yongqiang , Cui Zhiyong , Liu Xiaoguang
Published: June 2022

Vitamin D deficiency is a candidate risk factor for osteoporosis, characterized by decreased bone mineral density (BMD). We performed this two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal effect of vitamin D on BMD. We extracted 143 single-nucleotide polymorphisms from a recent GWAS on 417,580 participants of European ancestry as instrumental variables, and used summary statistics for BMD at forearm (n = 10,805), femoral neck (n = 49,988), lumbar spine (n = 44,731) and total-body of different age-stages (< 15, 15–30, 30–45, 45–60, > 60) (n = 67,358). We explored the direct effect of vitamin D on BMD with an adjusted body mass index (BMI) in a multivariable MR analysis. We found no support for causality of 25-hydroxyvitamin D on BMD at forearm, femoral neck, lumbar spine, and total-body BMD across the lifespan. There was no obvious difference between the total and direct effect of vitamin D on BMD after adjusting for BMI. Our MR analysis provided evidence that genetically determined vitamin D was not causally associated with BMD in the general population. Large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to investigate the role of vitamin D supplementation in preventing osteoporosis in the high-risk population.
Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina infected with zoonotic malaria parasites are widely distributed in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Nada-Raja Thamayanthi , Kadir Khamisah A. , Divis Paul C. S. , Mohamad Dayang S. A. , Matusop Asmad , Singh Balbir
Published: June 2022

Human infections with Plasmodium knowlesi, a malaria parasite of Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina (long-tailed and pig-tailed macaques respectively), occur throughout Southeast Asia, especially Malaysian Borneo. Other naturally-acquired human infections with malaria parasites from macaques in Southeast Asia are P. cynomolgi, P. inui-like, P. coatneyi and P. simiovale. In Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, M. fascicularis and M. nemestrina from only the Kapit Division have been examined previously for malaria parasites. In order to determine the distribution of P. knowlesi and other zoonotic malaria parasites, 73 macaque blood samples derived from 7 other administrative divisions in Sarawak were studied. Of 45 blood samples from M. fascicularis and 28 from M. nemestrina tested by nested PCR assays, 23 (51.1%) M. fascicularis and 15 (53.6%) M. nemestrina samples were positive for Plasmodium DNA. Thirty-two of these macaques from 7 divisions sampled, harboured either single (n = 12), double (n = 9), triple (n = 7) or quadruple (n = 4) infections of P. knowlesi, P. inui, P. cynomolgi and P. coatneyi, while the infecting species of Plasmodium could not be identified for 6 samples. P. knowlesi was detected in 15.5% (7/45) M. fascicularis and in 7.1% (2/28) M. nemestrina sampled. Despite the small number of samples analysed from each administrative division, the current study indicates that macaques infected with the zoonotic malaria parasites P. knowlesi, P. cynomolgi, P. inui and P. coatneyi are widely distributed throughout Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Travelers to forested areas in Sarawak should be made aware of the potential risk of acquiring zoonotic malaria.
Molecular mechanisms associated with microbial biostimulant-mediated growth enhancement, priming and drought stress tolerance in maize plants
Authors: Lephatsi Motseoa , Nephali Lerato , Meyer Vanessa , Piater Lizelle A. , Buthelezi Nombuso , Dubery Ian A. , Opperman Hugo , Brand Margaretha , Huyser Johan , Tugizimana Fidele
Published: June 2022

Microbial-based biostimulants are emerging as effective strategies to improve agricultural productivity; however, the modes of action of such formulations are still largely unknown. Thus, herein we report elucidated metabolic reconfigurations in maize (Zea mays) leaves associated with growth promotion and drought stress tolerance induced by a microbial-based biostimulant, a Bacillus consortium. Morphophysiological measurements revealed that the biostimulant induced a significant increase in biomass and enzymatic regulators of oxidative stress. Furthermore, the targeted metabolomics approach revealed differential quantitative profiles in amino acid-, phytohormone-, flavonoid- and phenolic acid levels in plants treated with the biostimulant under well-watered, mild, and severe drought stress conditions. These metabolic alterations were complemented with gene expression and global DNA methylation profiles. Thus, the postulated framework, describing biostimulant-induced metabolic events in maize plants, provides actionable knowledge necessary for industries and farmers to confidently and innovatively explore, design and fully implement microbial-based formulations and strategies into agronomic practices for sustainable agriculture and food production.
A piecewise sine waveguide for terahertz traveling wave tube
Authors: Zhang Luqi , Jiang Yi , Lei Wenqiang , Hu Peng , Guo Jun , Song Rui , Tang Xianfeng , Ma Guowu , Chen Hongbin , Wei Yanyu
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a piecewise sine waveguide (PWSWG) is proposed as the slow-wave structure (SWS) to develop high-power terahertz (THz) traveling wave tubes (TWTs). The PWSWG is an improvement over the rectangular waveguide wherein its two E-planes simultaneously oscillate up and down along the longitudinal direction. The oscillation curve in the H-plane is a piecewise sine curve formed by inserting line segments into the peaks and troughs of the sine curve. The simulation analysis and experimental verification show that the PWSWG offers the advantages of large interaction impedance and excellent electromagnetic transmission performance. Furthermore, the calculation results of beam–wave interaction show that the TWT based on PWSWG SWS can generate a radiated power of 253.1 W at the typical frequency of 220 GHz, corresponding to a gain of 37.04 dB and an interaction efficiency of 6.92%. Compared with the conventional SWG TWTs, the PWSWG TWT has higher interaction efficiency and shorter saturation tube length. In conclusion, the PWSWG proposed in this paper can be considered a suitable SWS for high-power THz radiation sources.
Modeling and characterization of the electrical conductivity on metal nanoparticles/carbon nanotube/polymer composites
Authors: Wang Yang , Lu Sijian , He Wenke , Gong Shen , Zhang Yunqian , Zhao Xinsi , Fu Yuanyuan , Zhu Zhenghong
Published: June 2022

Flexible conductive films have good deformability and conductivity, and are expected to be used in flexible electronic devices. In this paper, four kinds of flexible conductive films were successfully prepared by compounding nano-sized metal (Ni, Cu, Au or AuCu alloy) particles to CNT surface and then dispersing to polydimethylsiloxane matrix. Experiment results show that the conductivity of these prepared films are almost two orders of magnitude higher than that of CNT/polydimethylsiloxane films with the same CNT loadings. A simulation model based on percolation network theory and Monte Carlo technology is introduced to study the influence of nanoparticles on the composite conductivity. Results confirmed that the introduction of nanoparticles effectively reduces the effective resistance of CNT and the tunnelling resistance at CNT junctions. The intrinsic conductivity and the length diameter ratio of CNT, the intrinsic conductivity, the size and the coverage ratio of nanoparticles are the core parameters affecting the conductivity of composite. Compared with CNT/polydimethylsiloxane films, the optimized theoretical conductivity of these nano-sized particles enhanced composites can be further improved.
Optimization and prediction of tribological behaviour of filled polytetrafluoroethylene composites using Taguchi Deng and hybrid support vector regression models
Authors: Ibrahim Musa Alhaji , Çamur Hüseyin , Savaş Mahmut A. , Abba S. I.
Published: June 2022

This study presents optimization and prediction of tribological behaviour of filled polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites using hybrid Taguchi and support vector regression (SVR) models. To achieve the optimization, Taguchi Deng was employed considering multiple responses and process parameters relevant to the tribological behaviour. Coefficient of friction (µ) and specific wear rate (Ks) were measured using pin-on-disc tribometer. In this study, load, grit size, distance and speed were the process parameters. An L27orthogonal array was applied for the Taguchi experimental design. A set of optimal parameters were obtained using the Deng approach for multiple responses of µ and KS. Analysis of variance was performed to study the effect of individual parameters on the multiple responses.To predict µ and Ks, SVR was coupled with novel Harris Hawks’ optimization (HHO) and swarm particle optimization (PSO) forming SVR-HHO and SVR-PSO models respectively, were employed. Four model evaluation metrics were used to appraise the prediction accuracy of the models. Validation results revealed enhancement under optimal test conditions. Hybrid SVR models indicated superior prediction accuracy to single SVR model. Furthermore, SVR-HHO outperformed SVR-PSO model. It was found that Taguchi Deng, SVR-PSO and SVR-HHO models led to optimization and prediction with low cost and superior accuracy.
The Pseudomonas aeruginosa DksA1 protein is involved in H2O2 tolerance and within-macrophages survival and can be replaced by DksA2
Authors: Fortuna Alessandra , Collalto Diletta , Schiaffi Veronica , Pastore Valentina , Visca Paolo , Ascenzioni Fiorentina , Rampioni Giordano , Leoni Livia
Published: June 2022

In Gram-negative pathogens, the stringent response regulator DksA controls the expression of hundreds of genes, including virulence-related genes. Interestingly, Pseudomonas aeruginosa has two functional DksA paralogs: DksA1 is constitutively expressed and has a zinc-finger motif, while DksA2 is expressed only under zinc starvation conditions and does not contain zinc. DksA1 stimulates the production of virulence factors in vitro and is required for full pathogenicity in vivo. DksA2 can replace these DksA1 functions. Here, the role of dksA paralogs in P. aeruginosa tolerance to H2O2-induced oxidative stress has been investigated. The P. aeruginosa dksA1 dksA2 mutant showed impaired H2O2 tolerance in planktonic and biofilm-growing cultures and increased susceptibility to macrophages-mediated killing compared to the wild type. Complementation with either dksA1 or dksA2 genes restored the wild type phenotypes. The DksA-dependent tolerance to oxidative stress involves, at least in part, the positive transcriptional control of both katA and katE catalase-encoding genes. These data support the hypothesis that DksA1 and DksA2 are eco-paralogs with indistinguishable function but optimal activity under different environmental conditions, and highlight their mutual contribution to P. aeruginosa virulence.
Detection of non-reference porcine endogenous retrovirus loci in the Vietnamese native pig genome
Authors: Ishihara Shinya , Kumagai Masahiko , Arakawa Aisaku , Taniguchi Masaaki , Cuc Ngo Thi Kim , Pham Lan Doan , Mikawa Satoshi , Kikuchi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2022

The Vietnamese native pig (VnP)—a porcine breed with a small body—has proven suitable as a biomedical animal model. Here, we demonstrate that, compared to other breeds, VnPs have fewer copies of porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs), which pose a risk for xenotransplantation of pig organs to humans. More specifically, we sought to characterize non-reference PERVs (nrPERVs) that were previously unidentified in the reference genome. To this end, we used whole-genome sequencing data to identify nrPERV loci with long terminal repeat (LTR) sequences in VnPs. RetroSeq was used to estimate nrPERV loci based on the most current porcine reference genome (Sscrofa11.1). LTRs were detected using de novo sequencing read assembly near the loci containing the target site duplication sequences in the inferred regions. A total of 21 non-reference LTR loci were identified and separated into two subtypes based on phylogenetic analysis. Moreover, PERVs within the detected LTR loci were identified, the presence of which was confirmed using conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing. These novel loci represent previously unknown PERVs as they have not been identified in the porcine reference genome. Thus, our RetroSeq method accurately detects novel PERV loci, and can be applied for development of a useful biomedical model.
Optimization design of the large area Dynode-MCP-PMT
Authors: Chen Lin , Wang Xingchao , He Jianli , Tian Liping , Tian Jinshou , Wang Qilong , Wang Yunji , Yang Jie , Qian Junshuo , Zhang Fan
Published: June 2022

The optimization work of a newly proposed 20-in. photomultiplier tube based on dynode and microchannel plates (Dynode-MCP-PMT) are conducted in this paper. Three-dimensional models are developed in CST STUDIO SUITE to systematically investigate the effects of the size and bias voltage of the two focusing electrodes, dynode and the glass envelop handle based on the Finite Integral Technique and Monte Carlo method. Results predict that the collection efficiency and the transit time spread of the optimized design are substantially improved which are 100% and 3.7 ns.
Association of national and regional lockdowns with COVID-19 infection rates in Pune, India
Authors: Mave Vidya , Shaikh Arsh , Monteiro Joy Merwin , Bogam Prasad , Pujari Bhalchandra S. , Gupte Nikhil
Published: June 2022

Assessing the impact of lockdowns on COVID-19 incidence may provide important lessons for management of pandemic in resource-limited settings. We examined growth of incident confirmed COVID-19 patients before, during and after lockdowns during the first wave in Pune city that reported the largest COVID-19 burden at the peak of the pandemic. Using anonymized individual-level data captured by Pune’s public health surveillance program between February 1st and September 15th 2020, we assessed weekly incident COVID-19 patients, infection rates, and epidemic curves by lockdown status (overall and by sex, age, and population density) and modelled the natural epidemic using the compartmental model. Effect of lockdown on incident patients was assessed using multilevel Poisson regression. We used geospatial mapping to characterize regional spread. Of 241,629 persons tested for SARS-CoV-2, 64,526 (26%) were positive, contributing to an overall rate of COVID-19 disease of 267·0 (95% CI 265·3–268·8) per 1000 persons. The median age of COVID-19 patients was 36 (interquartile range [IQR] 25–50) years, 36,180 (56%) were male, and 9414 (15%) were children < 18 years. Epidemic curves and geospatial mapping showed delayed peak of the patients by approximately 8 weeks during the lockdowns as compared to modelled natural epidemic. Compared to a subsequent unlocking period, incident COVID-19 patients were 43% lower (IRR 0·57, 95% CI 0·53–0·62) during India’s nationwide lockdown and were 22% lower (IRR 0·78, 95% CI 0.73–0.84) during Pune’s regional lockdown and was uniform across age groups and population densities. Both national and regional lockdowns slowed the COVID-19 infection rates in population dense, urban region in India, underscoring its impact on COVID-19 control efforts.
Impact of Navier’s slip and chemical reaction on the hydromagnetic hybrid nanofluid flow and mass transfer due to porous stretching sheet
Authors: Mahabaleshwar U. S. , Anusha T. , Bég O. Anwar , Yadav Dhananjay , Botmart Thongchai
Published: June 2022

Hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) comprise combinations of different nanoparticles suspended in base fluid. Applications of such nanofluids are rising in the areas of energy and biomedical engineering including smart (functional) coatings. Motivated by these developments, the present article examines theoretically the magnetohydrodynamic coating boundary layer flow of HNFs from a stretching sheet under the transverse magnetic field in porous media with chemically reactive nanoparticles. Darcy’s law is deployed. Momentum slips of both first and second order are included as is solutal slip. The transformed boundary value problem is solved analytically. Closed form solutions for velocity are derived in terms of exponential functions and for the concentration field in terms of incomplete Gamma functions by the application of the Laplace transformation technique. The influence of selected parameters e.g. suction/injection, magnetic field and slips on velocity and concentration distributions are visualized graphically. Concentration magnitudes are elevated with stronger magnetic field whereas they are suppressed with greater wall solutal slip. Magnetic field suppresses velocity and increases the thickness of the hydrodynamic boundary layer. The flow is accelerated with reduction in inverse Darcy number and stronger suction direct to reduce in skin friction. The concentration magnitudes are boosted with magnetic field whereas they are depleted with increasing solutal slip. The analysis provides a good foundation for further investigations using numerical methods.
Spatial distribution and source apportionment of heavy metal(loid)s in urban topsoil in Mianyang, Southwest China
Authors: Du Huaming , Lu Xinwei
Published: June 2022

Spatial distributions and sources of some commonly concerned heavy metal(loid)s (HMs, As, Ba, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb, Mn, Zn, and V) in topsoil of Mianyang city, a typical medium-sized emerging industrial city in Southwest China, were determined to explore the influences of anthropogenic activities on the urban environment. The contents of the 10 HMs in 101 topsoil samples were analyzed using an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, and their sources were analyzed by positive matrix factorization and statistical analysis. The spatial distributions of the HMs and the source contributions were mapped using GIS technology. The results showed that the mean contents of Ba, Cr, Cu, and Zn in the topsoil were significantly higher than their background values. Industrial activities resulted in high contents of Ba, Zn, Cu, and Cr. As, Co, Ni, and V that primarily came from natural sources; Pb, Cr, Cu, and Zn were chiefly derived from a mixed source of industry and traffic; and Ba and Mn primarily originated from industrial sources. Natural sources, mixed sources, and industrial sources contributed 32.6%, 34.4%, and 33.0% of the total HM contents, respectively. Industrial sources and mixed sources of industry and traffic were the main anthropogenic sources of HMs in the urban topsoil and should be the focus of pollution control.
Secular trends in physical fitness of Slovenian boys and girls aged 7 to 15 years from 1989 to 2019: a population-based study
Authors: Radulović Ana , Jurak Gregor , Leskošek Bojan , Starc Gregor , Blagus Rok
Published: June 2022

Using the population-based data we aim to estimate the general population trends of multiple components of physical fitness of children, identify critical structural changes in these trends, and evaluate the potential changes in differences in the test scores between the children. During the entire study period, 1989–2019, median body mass index and triceps skinfold increased in both genders and all age groups. Muscular fitness, in general, showed negative trends, with some exceptions: during the post-2010 period, children were mostly experiencing the improvement of isometric strength of the upper body. The neuromuscular components of physical fitness showed positive trends, especially in girls. Cardiorespiratory fitness has been declining in all age groups until the last decade, with the largest decreases occurring before 2000. In the last decade, the trends reversed. The flexibility indicator revealed the largest differences between boys and girls, with boys mainly experiencing negative and girls mostly positive trends. The variability of the test scores mostly increased during the study period. This increasing variance suggests that—despite generally favourable trends in the last decade—children in Slovenia have been facing increasing inequalities in their development, which can potentially lead to future inequalities in health.
Biological approach synthesis and characterization of iron sulfide (FeS) thin films from banana peel extract for contamination of environmental remediation
Authors: Saka Abel , Jule Leta Tesfaye , Soressa Shuma , Gudata Lamessa , Nagaprasad N. , Seenivasan Venkatesh , Ramaswamy Krishnaraj
Published: June 2022

Biological approach synthesis and characterization of Iron Sulfide (FeS) thin films from banana peel extract for contamination remediation of environment studied. Iron chloride, Sodium thiosulfate and Ethylene-di-amine-tetra acetate (EDTA) were used as precursor solutions without further purification. The nanoparticle of banana peel was extracted and prepared with synthesized FeS thin films and analyzed by X ray-diffraction for structural examination, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) for surface morphological analysis, Ultra-violet-visible-spectrometer (UV–Vis) and photo-luminescence spectro-photo-meter (P-L) for optical characterizations. XRD peaks are shown with recognized to (110), (200), (310), and (301) crystalline planes. The occurrence of this deflection peak are recognised the FeS crystal segment of the tetragonal crystalline systems. SEM micrographs of the films prepared biological method show the distribution of grains, which cover the surface of the substrate completely and are uniform and films deposited purely have defects. The photo-luminescence, absorbance, and transmittance strength of banana peel extract FeS thin film is greater than pure FeS thin films in which wide-ranging and symmetries groups were perceived. In the present study, the comparison of pure FeS thin films and Nano synthesized banana peel extract with FeS thin films was studied. It is observed that Nano synthesized banana fibre absorbs higher than pure FeS thin films in solar cell application. Finally, green synthesis is an ecofriendly, easy and cheap promising method for the fabrication of thin films for solar cell applications.
Low-energy Se ion implantation in MoS2 monolayers
Authors: Bui Minh N. , Rost Stefan , Auge Manuel , Tu Jhih-Sian , Zhou Lanqing , Aguilera Irene , Blügel Stefan , Ghorbani-Asl Mahdi , Krasheninnikov Arkady V. , Hashemi Arsalan , Komsa Hannu-Pekka , Jin Lei , Kibkalo Lidia , O’Connell Eoghan N. , Ramasse Quentin M. , Bangert Ursel , Hofsäss Hans C. , Grützmacher Detlev , Kardynal Beata E.
Published: June 2022

In this work, we study ultra-low energy implantation into MoS2 monolayers to evaluate the potential of the technique in two-dimensional materials technology. We use 80Se+ ions at the energy of 20 eV and with fluences up to 5.0·1014 cm−2. Raman spectra of the implanted films show that the implanted ions are predominantly incorporated at the sulfur sites and MoS2−2xSe2x alloys are formed, indicating high ion retention rates, in agreement with the predictions of molecular dynamics simulations of Se ion irradiation on MoS2 monolayers. We found that the ion retention rate is improved when implantation is performed at an elevated temperature of the target monolayers. Photoluminescence spectra reveal the presence of defects, which are mostly removed by post-implantation annealing at 200 °C, suggesting that, in addition to the Se atoms in the substitutional positions, weakly bound Se adatoms are the most common defects introduced by implantation at this ion energy.
Otilonium bromide boosts antimicrobial activities of colistin against Gram-negative pathogens and their persisters
Authors: Xu Chen , Liu Chenyu , Chen Kaichao , Zeng Ping , Chan Edward Wai Chi , Chen Sheng
Published: June 2022

Colistin is the last-line antibiotic against Gram-negative pathogens. Here we identify an FDA-approved drug, Otilonium bromide (Ob), which restores the activity of colistin against colistin-resistant Gram-negative bacteria in vitro and in a mouse infection model. Ob also reduces the colistin dosage required for effective treatment of infections caused by colistin-susceptible bacteria, thereby reducing the toxicity of the drug regimen. Furthermore, Ob acts synergistically with colistin in eradicating multidrug-tolerant persisters of Gram-negative bacteria in vitro. Functional studies and microscopy assays confirm that the synergistic antimicrobial effect exhibited by the Ob and colistin involves permeabilizing the bacterial cell membrane, dissipating proton motive force and suppressing efflux pumps, resulting in membrane damages, cytosol leakage and eventually bacterial cell death. Our findings suggest that Ob is a colistin adjuvant which can restore the clinical value of colistin in combating life-threatening, multidrug resistant Gram-negative pathogens.
Gait switching and targeted navigation of microswimmers via deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Zou Zonghao , Liu Yuexin , Young Y.-N. , Pak On Shun , Tsang Alan C. H.
Published: June 2022

Swimming microorganisms switch between locomotory gaits to enable complex navigation strategies such as run-and-tumble to explore their environments and search for specific targets. This ability of targeted navigation via adaptive gait-switching is particularly desirable for the development of smart artificial microswimmers that can perform complex biomedical tasks such as targeted drug delivery and microsurgery in an autonomous manner. Here we use a deep reinforcement learning approach to enable a model microswimmer to self-learn effective locomotory gaits for translation, rotation and combined motions. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered swimmer can switch between various locomotory gaits adaptively to navigate towards target locations. The multimodal navigation strategy is reminiscent of gait-switching behaviors adopted by swimming microorganisms. We show that the strategy advised by AI is robust to flow perturbations and versatile in enabling the swimmer to perform complex tasks such as path tracing without being explicitly programmed. Taken together, our results demonstrate the vast potential of these AI-powered swimmers for applications in unpredictable, complex fluid environments.
Remodeling of structurally reinforced (TPU+PCL/PCL)-Hep electrospun small-diameter bilayer vascular grafts interposed in rat abdominal aortas
Authors: Fang Zhiping , Xing Yuehao , Wang Han , Geng Xue , Ye Lin , Zhang Ai-ying , Gu Yongquan , Feng Zeng-guo
Published: June 2022

Structurally reinforced and surface-heparinized (TPU+PCL/PCL)-Hep electrospun small-diameter bilayer vascular grafts improve the mechanical properties, completely inhibit aneurysm and promote vascular remodeling with more elastin depositionin vivo.
Co-delivery of proanthocyanidin and mitoxantrone induces synergistic immunogenic cell death to potentiate cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Qian Ying , Mao Jiarong , Leng Xuejiao , Zhu Ling , Rui Xue , Jin Zhetong , Jiang Houzhe , Liu Heng , Zhang Fengguang , Bi Xiaolin , Chen Zhipeng , Wang Jingjing
Published: June 2022

Tumor microenvironment-responsive nanoparticles self-assembled from polypeptide checkpoint inhibitor polymer, mitoxantrone and proanthocyanidins can reprogram the tumor microenvironment and improve the efficacy of colorectal cancer immunotherapy.
Lanthanide thioborates, an emerging class of nonlinear optical materials, efficiently synthesized using the boron–chalcogen mixture method
Authors: Breton Logan S. , Morrison Gregory , Lacroix Matthew R. , Halasyamani P. Shiv , zur Loye Hans-Conrad
Published: June 2022

Single crystals of LnBS3 (Ln = La–Nd) were synthesized by the combined boron–chalcogen mixture and molten flux growth methods. SHG measurements confirmed the expectation that LaBS3 would exhibit a strong SHG response, measured at 1.5 × KDP.
Pre-targeting of polymeric nanomaterials to balance tumour accumulation and clearance
Authors: Fletcher N. L. , Prior A. , Choy O. , Humphries J. , Huda P. , Ghosh S. , Houston Z. H. , Bell C. A. , Thurecht K. J.
Published: June 2022

A pre-targeting approach to preserve the stealth surface chemistry of PEGylated nanomedicines during circulation is demonstrated.
Integrating single Co sites into crystalline covalent triazine frameworks for photoreduction of CO2
Authors: Hu Xunliang , Zheng Lirong , Wang Shengyao , Wang Xiaoyan , Tan Bien
Published: June 2022

Crystalline covalent triazine frameworks loaded with single Co sites show high activity for photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Enolate SNAr of unactivated arenes via [(η6-arene)RuCp]+ intermediates
Authors: Williams Luke J. , Bhonoah Yunas , Walton James W.
Published: June 2022

SNAr of unactivated arenes with enolate nucleophiles is facilitated by π-coordination to Ru and subsequent product release by photolysis.
Unraveling the stochastic transition mechanism between oscillation states by the landscape and the minimum action path theory
Authors: Lang Jintong , Li Chunhe
Published: June 2022

The minimum action path (MAP) quantifies the transition dynamics between oscillation states. Landscape and flux provide new physical and quantitative ways to predict the critical points during the transition between oscillation states.
Halogen bond-directed self-assembly in bicomponent blends at the solid/liquid interface: effect of the alkyl chain substitution position
Authors: Kikkawa Yoshihiro , Nagasaki Mayumi , Koyama Emiko , Ito Shotaro , Tsuzuki Seiji
Published: June 2022

The substitution position of alkyl chains in molecular building blocks had a great influence on the formation of halogen-bonded molecular networks.
Asymmetric induction in quadruple-stranded europium(iii) helicates and circularly polarized luminescence
Authors: Wang Yunlu , Zhou Yanyan , Yao Zhiwei , Huang Wenru , Gao Ting , Yan Pengfei , Li Hongfeng
Published: June 2022

Chiral guanidine as counterions of achiral quadruple-stranded dinuclear europium(iii) helicates, [Eu2L4]2−, breaking the racemization equilibrium of assemblies and inducing the circularly polarized emission from Eu3+ions.
Crystal-field induced tuning of luminescence properties of Na3GaxAl1−xF6:Cr3+ phosphors with good thermal stability for NIR LEDs
Authors: Zhou Jianbang , Chen Pengyun , Li Junhao , Yang Mingming , Jiang Wei , Zhang Qiuhong , Ni Haiyong , Huo Jiansheng
Published: June 2022

The crystal field, PL intensity, peak position and FWHM of Cr3+-activated Na3GaxAl1−xF6:Cr3+ phosphors can be well controlled by changing the Ga/Al ratio.
Switchable aroylation and diaroylation of allyl sulfones with aldehydes enabled by decatungstate photocatalysis
Authors: Qiao Lipeng , Fu Xiaoyang , Si Yafeng , Chen Xiaolan , Qu Lingbo , Yu Bing
Published: June 2022

A tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) mediated photocatalytic controllable aroylation or diaroylation of allyl sulfones was established to synthesize β,γ-unsaturated ketones and 1,5-diketones in moderate to excellent yields, respectively.
Novel nickel trap coupled with electrothermal vaporization for the direct solid-sampling analysis of cadmium in soil
Authors: Liu Tengpeng , Liu Jixin , Mao Xuefei , Na Xing , Shao Yunbin , Qian Yongzhong
Published: June 2022

In this study, a foamed nickel trap (NT) was first utilized as a gas-phase enrichment (GPE) material to preconcentrate Cd under ambient temperature and then release it by heating.
Development of subtype-selective covalent ligands for the adenosine A2B receptor by tuning the reactive group
Authors: Beerkens Bert L. H. , Wang Xuesong , Avgeropoulou Maria , Adistia Lisa N. , van Veldhoven Jacobus P. D. , Jespers Willem , Liu Rongfang , Heitman Laura H. , IJzerman Adriaan P. , van der Es Daan
Published: June 2022

Selectivity of covalent ligands for the adenosine A2B receptor was induced by tuning the reactivity and orientation of the warhead.
NHC–alcohol adduct-mediated photocatalytic deoxygenation for the synthesis of 6-phenanthridine derivatives
Authors: Ma Xueji , Wang Qingyun , Wu Jinge , Zhang Liyuan , Sun Aili , Wang Zhanyong
Published: June 2022

In situ generated NHC–alcohol adducts undergo C–O cleavage under photocatalytic conditions for the synthesis of 6-substituted phenanthridines. Mechanism experiments confirmed the generation of alkyl radicals.
Development of a fluorescent nanoprobe based on an amphiphilic single-benzene-based fluorophore for lipid droplet detection and its practical applications
Authors: Jung Yuna , Jin Ji Hye , Kim Youngseo , Oh Ji Hyeon , Moon Heechang , Jeong Huisu , Kim Jaehoon , Park Yoon Kyung , Oh Yohan , Park Sungnam , Kim Dokyoung
Published: June 2022

A new fluorescent nanoprobe based on a single-benzene-based fluorophore is developed for the detection and bioimaging of lipid droplets and applied in the visualization of fingerprints.
Vinylic addition poly(norbornene-co-alkenylnorbornenes) synthesized with benzylic palladium catalysts: materials for manifold functionalization
Authors: Pérez-Ortega Ignacio , Albéniz Ana C.
Published: June 2022

Functional groups can be easily attached to robust vinylic addition polynorbornenes by the transformation of the pendant double bond of new efficiently synthesized copolymers.
Controlled synthesis of a porous single-atomic Fe–N–C catalyst with Fe nanoclusters as synergistic catalytic sites for efficient oxygen reduction
Authors: Fan Lili , Zhang Ling , Li Xuting , Mei Hao , Li Mengfei , Liu Zhanning , Kang Zixi , Tuo Yongxiao , Wang Rongming , Sun Daofeng
Published: June 2022

A porous single-atomic Fe–N–C catalyst is prepared with the presence of Fe nanoclusters to increase the adsorption energy of OOH* on the single Fe atom and lower the energy barrier for OOH formation, thus improving the ORR activity.
A review of recent developments for the in situ/operando characterization of nanoporous materials
Authors: Petersen Hilke , Weidenthaler Claudia
Published: June 2022

This review article summarizes some of the recent developments in the field of nanoporous materials characterization.
Iron-catalyzed one-pot cyclization and amination of 2-alkynylthioanisoles using nitrosobenzenes as the amine source
Authors: Ren Yi , An Zhenyu , Zhao Pengbo , Li Mengxing , Yan Rulong
Published: June 2022

A direct strategy for the synthesis of 3-phenylaminobenzothiophene via iron-catalyzed cyclization of 2-alkynylthioanisoles and nitrosoarenes is presented in this work.
Synthesis of copolyesters based on substituted and non-substituted lactones towards the control of their crystallinity and their potential effect on hydrolytic degradation in the design of soft medical devices
Authors: Ramos-Durán Gabriela , González-Zarate Aracely del Carmen , Enríquez-Medrano Francisco Javier , Salinas-Hernández Myrna , De Jesús-Téllez Marco A. , Díaz de León Ramon , López-González Hector Ricardo
Published: June 2022

ROP synthesis of polyesters at different molar ratios of monomers ε-caprolactone (ε-CL) in combination with alkyl substituted lactones δ-decalactone (δ-DL), ε-decalactone (ε-DL) and δ-dodecalactone (δ-DD), as well copolymers based on ε-DL and δ-DD.
Phase transition and electronic properties of Co–As binary compounds at high pressure
Authors: Zhang Ao , Dan Yaqian , Liu Han , Liu Siyuan , Yue Jincheng , Li Junda , Huang Yanping , Liu Yanhui , Cui Tian
Published: June 2022

New stable stoichiometries in the Co–As system are investigated up to 100 GPa by the CALYPSO structure prediction method.
Acidity modifications of nanozeolite-Y for enhanced selectivity to olefins from the steam catalytic cracking of dodecane
Authors: Shafei Emad N. , Masudi Ahmad , Yamani Zain H. , Muraza Oki
Published: June 2022

Nanozeolite Y for enhanced selectivity to olefins from dodecane cracking.
Optimization of the electrodeposition process of a polypyrrole/multi-walled carbon nanotube fiber electrode for a flexible supercapacitor
Authors: Ping Zhu , Junjie Lian , Yunchun Liu
Published: June 2022

The difference between the electrical and electrochemical properties of PPy/MWCNTs flexible electrodes was found to be due to the constant current method having a higher deposition current density, leading to a higher degree of polymerization.
Density-adjusted liquid-phase microextraction with smartphone digital image colorimetry to determine parathion-methyl in water, fruit juice, vinegar, and fermented liquor
Authors: Bi Xinyuan , Jiang Haijuan , Guo Xingle , Wang Min , Niu Yu , Jia Liyan , Jing Xu
Published: June 2022

Schematic representation of the density-adjusted LPME-SDIC.
Designing inorganic–magnetic–organic nanohybrids for producing effective photocatalysts for the purification of water
Authors: Saber Osama , Osama Mostafa , Alshoaibi Adil , Shaalan Nagih M. , Osama Doaa
Published: June 2022

The present study describes a new strategy for modifying the structure of zinc oxide for removing colored pollutants from water after a few minutes of light irradiation.
Key difference between transition state stabilization and ground state destabilization: increasing atomic charge densities before or during enzyme–substrate binding
Authors: Chen Deliang , Li Yibao , Li Xun , Hong Xuechuan , Fan Xiaolin , Savidge Tor
Published: June 2022

Transition state stabilization and ground state destabilization utilize the same molecular mechanism when lowering the free energy barriers (ΔG‡s) of reactions, but differ in achieving the requirement for ΔG‡ reduction.
Steam-assisted crystallization of highly dispersed nanosized hierarchical zeolites from solid raw materials and their catalytic performance in lactide production
Authors: Ma Zhe , Zhang Qiang , Li Lin , Chen Mengyang , Li Junyan , Yu Jihong
Published: June 2022

A cost-effective synthesis strategy based on steam-assisted crystallization from ball-milled solid raw materials is developed to prepare a highly dispersed nanosized hierarchical Beta zeolite for conversion of lactic acid (LA) to lactide (LT).
A high-performance flexible energy storage device from biomass-derived porous carbon supported MnCo2O4 nanorods and MnO2 nanoscales
Authors: Gogoi Debika , Karmur Rajeshvari Samatbhai , Das Manash R. , Ghosh Narendra Nath
Published: June 2022

MCO-MnO2-PC||PC as a high-performance flexible asymmetric supercapacitor device.
Direct imaging of polymer filaments pulled from rebounding drops
Authors: Yang Zi Qiang , Zhang Peng , Shi Meng , Al Julaih Ali , Mishra Himanshu , Di Fabrizio Enzo , Thoroddsen Sigurdur T.
Published: June 2022

We present a simple method to deposit stretched polymer fibers between micro-pillars, using impact and rebound of polymeric drop from an inclined superhydrophobic substrate. High-speed video show the mechanism and SEM measures the fiber thickness.
Synthesis, structure and high methane storage of pure D6R Yb(Y) nonanuclear cluster-based zeolite-like metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Li Hong-Xin , Zhang Zong-Hui , Fang Han , Xue Dong-Xu , Bai Junfeng
Published: June 2022

Pure RE nonanuclear cluster-based ZMOFs with a topology of gme have been constructed using an angular linker and RE ions. Both RE(Yb/Y)-ZMOFs demonstrate relatively high surface areas, pore volumes and gravimetric methane storage working capacities.
Salt isolation from waste brine enabled by interfacial solar evaporation with zero liquid discharge
Authors: Wang Yida , Wu Xuan , Wu Pan , Yu Huimin , Zhao Jingyuan , Yang Xiaofei , Li Qin , Zhang Zhezi , Zhang Dongke , Owens Gary , Xu Haolan
Published: June 2022

An affordable and easy-to-fabricate solar evaporation-based crystallizer (SEC) was developed to implement interfacial brine evaporation towards zero liquid discharge (ZLD).
Hedging Li dendrite formation by virtue of controllable tip effect
Authors: Li Wei , Luo Piao , Chen Maohua , Lin Xiaoping , Du Li , Song Huiyu , Lu Yuhao , Cui Zhiming
Published: June 2022

We identify two intrinsic factors of the tip effect (size/curvature and distribution) for Li plating, and elucidate their role in regulating Li metal nucleation/growth on carbonaceous composite substrates.
Simultaneous optimization of CoIr alloy nanoparticles and 2D graphitic-N doped carbon support in CoIr@CN by Ir doping for enhanced oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions
Authors: Chen Weibin , Xie Yuxin , Gao Xuehui , Li Lei , Lin Zhan
Published: June 2022

CoIr@CN is successfully synthesized from Ir-doped 2D Co-MOF. CoIr@CN exhibits a low overpotential of 269 mV/70 mV in 1.0 M KOH for OER/HER and 25 mV in 0.5 M H2SO4for HER at 10 mA cm−2due to the optimized carbonation process induced by Ir doping.
Vascularized nanocomposite hydrogel mechanically reinforced by polyelectrolyte-modified nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Pei Qingguo , Yang Jin , Guo Shuting , Yang Ai , Qian Yuhan , Li Chenglin , Feng Qian , Lv Huijuan , Zhou Xiaojun , He Chuanglong
Published: June 2022

The doping of S1P@MSNs–ALG/CHI nanoparticles improved the crosslinking density of AHA/NOCC hydrogel, and S1P-loaded nanocomposite hydrogel can effectively promote vascular formation.
Molybdenum disulfide nanosheet/polyimide composites with improved tribological performances, surface properties, antibacterial effects and osteogenesis for facilitating osseointegration
Authors: Kaewmanee Rames , Wang Fan , Mei Shiqi , Pan Yongkang , Yu Baoqing , Wu Zhaoying , Meesane Jirut , Wei Jie
Published: June 2022

Polymeric biocomposites display some advantages over metal or ceramic biomaterials, and are regarded as a promising candidate for artificial joint application.
Self-assembled graphene/BUBD-1 hybrids for ultrasensitive organic phototransistors
Authors: Qin Shuchao , Qin Xue , Du Qianqian , Gan Yuquan , Zhang Yuting , Wang Anran , Yan Xunling , Dong Ruixin , Liu Yunlong , Li Shuhong , Liu Cailong , Wang Wenjun , Wang Fengqiu
Published: June 2022

An ultrasensitive phototransistor based on a self-assembled graphene/BUBD-1 organic hybrid. Interestingly, the separation and recombination processes of photogenerated electron–hole pairs are highly gate-tunable.
Mimicking biological synaptic plasticity with a leaky charge-trap FinFET
Authors: Yu Ji-Man , Han Joon-Kyu , Choi Yang-Kyu
Published: June 2022

Biological synaptic behaviors, such as SADP, SDDP, SFDP, SNDP, and STDP, are mimicked by using nanoscale leaky charge-trap FinFETs.
Highly efficient and thermally stable broadband near-infrared emitting fluoride Cs2KGaF6:Cr3+ for multiple LED applications
Authors: Wu Zixuan , Han Xinxin , Wang Juan , Zhou Yayun , Xing Ke , Cao Sheng , Zhao Jialong , Zou Bingsuo , Zeng Ruosheng
Published: June 2022

A highly efficient (IQE = 90.2%) and thermally stable (I150 °C = 88.7%) broadband NIR emitting fluoride Cs2KGaF6:Cr3+ is explored. Meanwhile, a multipurpose high-performance NIR pc-LED with a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 22.05% is achieved.