bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mosses in the Kopački Rit Nature Park, Croatia, as bioindicators of a potential radioactive contamination of the middle Danube River basin
Authors: Petrinec Branko , Babić Dinko , Meštrović Tomislav , Bogdanović Tomislav , Popijač Marina , Rašeta Davor
Published: July 2022

We studied activity concentrations of radionuclides in the Kopački Rit Nature Park using mosses as bioindicators. This area of intact nature is at the tripoint of Croatia, Hungary, and Serbia, being located basically at the centre of the middle Danube River basin. Therefore, it can be easily affected by airborne pollution from various locations in the Middle Europe and beyond. The goal of our research was to assess whether the Park could serve as a location where any new radioactive contamination could be sensitively detected, which implied a necessity for low activity concentrations at the present time. Our gamma-ray spectrometry revealed the presence of only one anthropogenic gamma emitter, that is,137Cs. Its activity concentration in the mosses ranged from 0.7 to 13.1 Bq kg−1, being low indeed. Another radionuclide in our focus was210Pb. Generally, its elevated concentrations may signify ecologically undesirable human activities that involve naturally occurring radioactive matter. The activity concentration of210Pb in the mosses was in the range from 183 to 690 Bq kg−1. This did not depart from the results of other similar studies and was again low enough for a detection of possible excess amounts of this radionuclide in the future.
Association between organochlorine pesticides and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004
Authors: Sang Hyunji , Lee Kyu-Na , Jung Chang Hee , Han Kyungdo , Koh Eun Hee
Published: July 2022

While endocrine disruptors are emerging as a cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), little is known about the link between NAFLD and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), one of the endocrine disruptors. We retrospectively analyzed the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004 and compared the baseline demographics in individuals according to the presence of NAFLD (fatty liver index [FLI] ≥ 60). Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine whether OCP concentration affected NAFLD prevalence and subgroup analyses regarding NAFLD-related variables and advanced hepatic fibrosis (FIB-4 ≥ 2.67) were performed. Of the 1515 individuals, 579 (38.2%) had NAFLD. Oxychlordane showed concentration-dependent risk for NAFLD (OR 3.471 in fourth quartile [Q4]; 95% CI 1.865–6.458; P = 0.007). p,p′-DDE and trans-nonachlor showed similar trends without statistical significance. Conversely, mirex showed the lowest risk for NAFLD in the highest concentration quartile (OR 0.29 in Q4; 95% CI 0.175–0.483; P < 0.001). Oxychlordane showed the most pronounced association with the levels of each component of FLI and liver enzymes. None of the OCPs were significantly associated with advanced fibrosis. In conclusion, among OCPs, exposure to oxychlordane showed the most prominent impact associated with NAFLD.
Biofabrication of ZnO/Malachite nanocomposite and its coating with chitosan to heal infectious wounds
Authors: Rajabloo Zahra , Farahpour Mohammad Reza , Saffarian Parvaneh , Jafarirad Saeed
Published: July 2022

Recently, nanocomposites produced from clays and metals coated with chitosan have shown wound healing activity. This study aimed to synthesize the zinc oxide/malachite nanocomposite (ZnO/Mlt-NC) and its coating form with chitosan (ZnO/Mlt/Chsn-NC). Physicochemical characterization of the produced nanocomposites was investigated. Biomedical effects of nanocomposites, such as in vivo and in vitro antibacterial activity, antioxidant properties, cytotoxicity, and modulation in the gene expressions of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and histopathological parameters, were also investigated. Expression intensities of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were also investigated by immunofluorescence staining. To investigate biomedical effects under in vivo conditions, infected wounds were induced and inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853). The results indicated spherical ZnO nanoparticles on the surface of malachite and strong antibacterial activity and antioxidant properties. The ointments produced from the nanocomposites also exhibited wound healing activity. The administration of the ointments prepared from ZnO/Mlt, and ZnO/Mlt/Chsn NCs decreased the expressions of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, while it increased the expressions of IL-10, TGF-β and bFGF. In sum, the nanocomposites produced from ZnO, malachite, and chitosan had better biological activity than ZnO/Malachite nanocomposites. We suggest applying ZnO/Mlt/Chsn nanocomposites in the structure of ointments to treat infected wounds after future clinical studies.
Effect of physiotherapy on the promotion of bone mineralization in preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Torró-Ferrero Galaad , Fernández-Rego Francisco Javier , Agüera-Arenas Juan José , Gomez-Conesa Antonia
Published: July 2022

Preterm infants have a low level of bone mineralization compared to those born at term. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of reflex locomotion therapy (RLT) on bone mineralization and growth in preterm infants and compare its effect to other physiotherapy procedures. Forty-six preterm infants born at 29–34 weeks were randomized into three groups: one group received RLT (n = 17); the other group received passive movements with gentle joint compression (n = 14); and the control group received massages (n = 15). All the treatments were performed at the neonatal unit for one month. The main outcome measure was bone mineralization, which was measured using the tibial speed of sound (Tibial-SOS). All the groups were similar in terms of gestational age (31.8 ± 1.18), birth weight (1,583.41 ± 311.9), and Tibia-SOS (1,604.7 ± 27.9) at the beginning of the intervention. At the end of the study, significant differences were found among the groups in the Tibial-SOS [F(4,86) = 2.77, p = 0.049, ηp2 = 0.114] in terms of the benefit to the RLT group. In conclusion, RLT has been effective at improving Tibial-SOS levels and has been more effective than other physical therapy modalities; therefore, it could be considered an effective physiotherapeutic modality for the prevention and treatment of osteopenia from prematurity.
IκBζ regulates the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through the attenuation of hepatic steatosis in mice
Authors: Ishikawa Hideki , Hayakawa Morisada , Baatartsogt Nemekhbayar , Kakizawa Nao , Ohto-Ozaki Hiromi , Maruyama Takashi , Miura Kouichi , Suzuki Koichi , Rikiyama Toshiki , Ohmori Tsukasa
Published: July 2022

IκBζ is a transcriptional regulator that augments inflammatory responses from the Toll-like receptor or interleukin signaling. These innate immune responses contribute to the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, the role of IκBζ in the pathogenesis of NAFLD remains elusive. We investigated whether IκBζ was involved in the progression of NAFLD in mice. We generated hepatocyte-specific IκBζ-deficient mice (Alb-Cre; Nfkbizfl/fl) by crossing Nfkbizfl/fl mice with Alb-Cre transgenic mice. NAFLD was induced by feeding the mice a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD). CDAHFD-induced IκBζ expression in the liver was observed in Nfkbizfl/fl mice, but not in Alb-Cre; Nfkbizfl/fl mice. Contrary to our initial expectation, IκBζ deletion in hepatocytes accelerated the progression of NAFLD after CDAHFD treatment. Although the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis-related proteins by CDAHFD remained unchanged between Nfkbizfl/fl and Alb-Cre; Nfkbizfl/fl mice, early-stage steatosis of the liver was significantly augmented in Alb-Cre; Nfkbizfl/fl mice. Overexpression of IκBζ in hepatocytes via the adeno-associated virus vector attenuated liver steatosis caused by the CDAHFD in wild-type C57BL/6 mice. This preventive effect of IκBζ overexpression on steatosis was not observed without transcriptional activity. Microarray analysis revealed a correlation between IκBζ expression and the changes of factors related to triglyceride biosynthesis and lipoprotein uptake. Our data suggest that hepatic IκBζ attenuates the progression of NAFLD possibly through the regulation of the factors related to triglyceride metabolism.
Differential expression profile of plasma exosomal microRNAs in acute type A aortic dissection with acute lung injury
Authors: Zhang Chiyuan , Bai Hui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Yanfeng , Chen Xuliang , Shi Ruizheng , Zhang Guogang , Xu Qian , Lin Guoqiang
Published: July 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) packaged into exosomes mediate cell communication and contribute to the pathogenesis of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) with acute lung injury (ALI). The expression profile of plasma exosomal miRNAs in ATAAD patients with ALI hasn’t been identified. We performed a miRNA-sequencing to analyze the differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) of circulating exosomes in ATAAD patients with ALI compared to patients without ALI, founding 283 specific miRNAs in two groups. We respectively selected the top 10 downregulated and upregulated DE-miRNAs for further studies. The predicted transcription factors (TFs) of these DE-miRNAs were SMAD2, SRSF1, USF1, etc. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis predicted their target genes mainly involved acute inflammatory response, cell junction, cytoskeleton, NF-κB signaling pathway, etc. Construction and analysis of the PPI network revealed that RHOA and INSR were considered hub genes with the highest connectivity degrees. Moreover, we confirmed two exosomal miRNAs (hsa-miR-485-5p and hsa-miR-206) by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in a validation cohort. Our study identified a plasma exosomal miRNAs signature related to ATAAD with ALI. Certain DE-miRNAs may contribute to the progression of this disease, which help us better understand the pathogenesis of ATAAD with ALI.
Sleep habits are associated with cognition decline in physically robust, but not in frail participants: a longitudinal observational study
Authors: Chuang Shu-Chun , Wu I.-Chien , Chang Jen-Jen , Tsai Yi-Fen , Cheng Chiu-Wen , Chiu Yen-Feng , Chang Hsing-Yi , Lee Marion M. , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Hsiung Chao Agnes
Published: July 2022

Frail older adults are vulnerable to stressors; thus, sleep related cognition impairment might more greatly affect frail than healthy older adults. In the present study, we investigated whether the association between sleep problems and cognition varies with physical frailty status (modified from Fried et al.). Participants 55 years and older who completed a baseline and follow-up questionnaire (median follow-up: 5.5 years), were included in the analysis. Sleep parameters were evaluated in an interview at the baseline. Cognitive decline was defined as a loss of 3 or more points on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at follow-up. Associations between sleep problems and cognitive decline were examined using logistic regression and were stratified by baseline physical frailty status, adjusted for potential confounders. A short total sleep duration (< 5 vs. 7–9 h, odds ratio (OR) = 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18–3.00), excessive daytime sleepiness (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.04–2.13), low sleep efficiency (< 65% vs. ≥ 85%, OR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.07–2.46), and insomnia complaints (OR = 2.34, 95% CI 1.23–4.43) were associated with MMSE decline in physically robust. The association was stronger for the sleep summary score, which summarized abnormal sleep duration, excessive daytime sleepiness, and insomnia complaints ($$\ge $$
≥
2 vs. 0, OR = 3.79, 95% CI 2.10–6.85, p < 0.0001). Due to the low prevalence of frailty in this community-dwelling population, the statistical power to detect an association was low. More evidence is needed to clarify the role of sleep in the progression of cognitive decline in frail individuals.
Assessment of plant growth promoting bacteria strains on growth, yield and quality of sweet corn
Authors: Katsenios Nikolaos , Andreou Varvara , Sparangis Panagiotis , Djordjevic Nikola , Giannoglou Marianna , Chanioti Sofia , Kasimatis Christoforos-Nikitas , Kakabouki Ioanna , Leonidakis Dimitriοs , Danalatos Nicholaos , Katsaros George , Efthimiadou Aspasia
Published: July 2022

The use of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) is increasingly gaining acceptance from all the stakeholders of the agricultural production. Different strains of PGPB species had been found to have a vast variety of mechanisms of action, while at the same time, affect differently a variety of crops. This study investigated the effectiveness of ten PGPB strains, on sweet corn cultivation under Mediterranean soil and climatic conditions. A field experiment that followed a completely randomized design was conducted at the region of Attica at Oropos. The results indicated that B. mojavensis increased yield by 16%, B. subtilis by 13.8%, B. pumilus by 11.8% and B. pseudomycoides by 9.8% compared to control. In addition, the harvested grains of the plants treated with B. mojavensis, B. subtilis and B. pumilus presented the highest values of protein and fiber content. Moreover, in most of the cases, high values of photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance during the cultivation period, resulted in high productivity. Regarding the texture, the size, the sphericity and the ash content of corn grains, it was found that they were not influenced by the application of different treatments of PGPB. The use of certain strains of PGPB, under specific soil and climatic conditions could contribute to better understand which strains are better suited to certain crops.
Longitudinal and latitudinal split-gate field-effect transistors for NAND and NOR logic circuit applications
Authors: Lee Minjong , Park Chang Yong , Hwang Do Kyung , Kim Min-gu , Lee Young Tack
Published: July 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been extensively adopted in various device architectures for advanced applications owing to their structural diversity, high functionality, and ease of integration. Among the various architectures, split-gate field-effect transistors (SG-FETs) have been widely studied based on their sequentially located SG electrode along the source/drain electrodes. In this paper, we propose two different homogeneous molybdenum disulfide (MoS2)-based SG-FET structures, namely AND-FET and OR-FET, whose gap directions are perpendicular to each other. It can exhibit AND or OR switching characteristics if it has a longitudinal or latitudinal gapped SG structure, respectively. Moreover, the AND-FET and OR-FET are regarded as folded structures of series and parallel connections of two n-type transistors. By using these switching devices, we successfully demonstrate NAND and NOR logic gates through a single active channel. These approaches are expected to pave the way for the realization of multi-functionality and high integration of 2D material-based future electronic devices.
Chemoresponsive Materials: Introduction, Overview, Promises
Authors: Schneider Hans-Jörg
Published: July 2022

Chapter 1 contains an introduction to the field and a general overview, including the fundamental contributions for the development of molecular machines in recent decades. Different ways for the implementation of recognition and types of switching elements are briefly discussed, including cyclodextrins, calixarenes and cucurbit[n]urils, partially in relation to descriptions in different chapters. The ability of chemoresponsive materials to act simultaneously as sensors and actuators is illustrated with several examples; drug delivery is a major application, as visible in many chapters of the book. How biomaterials based on proteins or nucleic acids, as well as engineered living materials and several new materials such as graphenes, are broadening possible applications is also discussed. Leading references are given for aspects that are not dealt with in other chapters.
Chemomechanical Materials: Sensors and Actuators
Authors: Schneider Hans-Jörg
Published: July 2022

This chapter on chemomechanical materials provides an overview of smart materials, which by action of external chemical signals change their size. Their unique property is that they offer sensing and actuating features within the same macro- or nanosized system, and that they can also serve independently as a sensor and/or as e.g. artificial muscles. Most chemomechanical materials are hydrogels, which are equipped with suitable sensing sites or molecular recognition units. The oldest applications are size changes triggered by pH, solvent and salt variation; for these the presence of ionic sites is usually sufficient. Organic and biological solutes trigger size changes if units are incorporated into the hydrogel which act by e.g. dispersive or hydrophobic forces. Cooperativity between several effectors is, with gels, more easily achieved than in solution; of particular interest is the simultaneous action of metal ions and e.g. peptides, which in the sense of logical gates allows the use of otherwise undetectable compounds as effectors. Macroscopic differentiation between enantiomers can by realized if gels contain chiral units. Particularly attractive is the use of special hydrogels which by covalent interactions allow insulin release as a function of glucose level in blood. Biological applications use for example antigen–antibody complexes, or intercalating units for interaction with nucleic acids.
Multi-stimuli Responsive Materials
Authors: Ge Yan , Lv Ping , Schalley Christoph A. , Qi Zhenhui
Published: July 2022

Multi-stimuli responsive soft materials have shown great potential for selective drug delivery, logic gating and directional transport. Starting with a discussion of different stimuli-responsive elements, an overview of multi-stimuli responsive gels, thin films on surfaces and nanocarriers as three examples of typical materials is provided. The last part of the chapter discusses more sophisticated functions of these materials and provides a perspective for potential future developments.
Responsive Materials from the Self-assembly of Low Molecular Weight Gelators
Authors: Thomson Lisa , Adams Dave J.
Published: July 2022

Gels can be formed from low molecular weight gelators (LMWGs). The LMWGs self-assemble into one-dimensional structures that entangle to form a network. Typically, this self-assembly is reversible, meaning that gels formed in this way are typically responsive to environmental stimuli. Such gels can be used in numerous applications including waste management and 3D printing. This chapter covers the self-assembly process and trigger methods capable of initiating this process, LMWG design and some of the potential applications for these versatile systems.
Polysaccharide-based Smart Materials
Authors: Zhao Zhiling , Chen Tianhao , Xiong Yuan , Li Jinyang , Shi Xiao-Wen , Bentley William E. , Qu Xue , Payne Gregory F.
Published: July 2022

The smart properties of polysaccharides have been used by mankind long before the term “smart” was ever applied to materials. Polysaccharides also promise to become increasingly important due to the recent trend toward sustainability and the emergence of applications in the medical and life sciences. One theme of this chapter is that polysaccharides can confer smartness through somewhat unique mechanisms. For instance: (i) many polysaccharides undergo reversible, stimuli-responsive self-assembly (i.e., gelation); (ii) polysaccharides undergo biospecific interactions with enzymes and lectins (carbohydrate-binding proteins); and (iii) polysaccharides can undergo interactions that enable hierarchical supramolecular assembly. A second theme of this chapter is that there is a poor fundamental understanding of the molecular level interactions that confer smartness to polysaccharides. We anticipate that new experimental and theoretical tools will emerge to provide the necessary understanding of the structure–property–function relations that will enable polysaccharide-smartness to be understood and controlled. This enhanced understanding will complement the intrinsic characteristics of polysaccharides as sustainable, environmentally friendly and biologically compatible materials. Thus, we envision polysaccharides will continue to be well-positioned for applications in foods, cosmetics and medicine.
Cyclodextrin-based Chemo- and pH-responsive Polymer Systems for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Hashidzume Akihito , Kamon Yuri , Harada Akira
Published: July 2022

This chapter reviews chemo- and pH-responsive polymer systems based on cyclodextrins, which show promise for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. The categories and mechanism of cyclodextrin-based stimuli-responsive polymer systems are briefly overviewed in Sections 9.2 and 9.3. Chemical and pH stimuli for cyclodextrin-based stimuli-responsive polymer systems are briefly dealt with in the Section 9.4. Section 9.5 describes a few examples of cyclodextrin-based chemo- and pH-responsive polymer systems for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Section 9.5 has been fully updated, including highly interesting systems, for example, redox- and pH-responsive controlled release for anticancer drugs, hydrogels, and self-healing materials.
Responsive Peptide-based Materials: Stimulation by Chemical and Biological Signals
Authors: Khalily M. P. , Ramakers B. E. I. , Guo H. , Löwik D. W. P. M.
Published: July 2022

Understanding and mimicking of biomolecules that can undergo changes in morphology and/or chemical structure in response to chemical and biological signals make it possible to develop complex synthetic materials for various applications. In this regard, stimuli responsive peptide-based systems have recently gained attraction for their vast potential in e.g. the biomedical field. The minimalistic peptide-based systems do not only shed light on understanding of sophisticated biological processes, they also form the basis for biomimetic materials and drug delivery design. In this chapter, we summarize the most recent and most striking advances in stimuli-responsive peptide-based materials. Since a wide variety of signals could be exploited for these materials, we restrict the scope of the stimuli to pH, ions, reduction–oxidation and biological signals like enzymes.
Responsive Membranes
Authors: Jebur Mahmood , Qian Xianghong , Wickramasinghe S. Ranil
Published: July 2022

Interest in stimuli-responsive membranes has continued to grow over recent decades. A great deal of work has been devoted to developing environmentally sensitive materials and membranes that can be crafted into new smart products. In this chapter we aim to highlight recent results and possible trends that exploit stimuli responsive membranes. Significant opportunities exist for developing new responsive membranes for biomedical applications due to their specificity and the ability to respond to stimuli that are inherently present in living systems. Recent results in the area of synthetic polymeric membranes that respond to pH, solution ionic strength and biological cues are highlighted. Regarding biological cues, special attention is given to antigen-responsive, thiol-responsive, redox-responsive, enzyme-responsive and glucose-responsive membranes. Theoretical and simulation approaches to understand and optimize these stimuli-responsive membranes have just begun due to the inherent complexity involved in these systems. Here the pKa calculations for pH responsive materials are summarized. In addition, one example of the effects of salt ions on responsive hydrogels is provided. The opportunity for modeling and simulations in responsive membranes is tremendous.
Chemo-responsive Self-motion by an Interplay of Micro- and Macroscopic Dynamics
Authors: Shioi Akihisa , Yamamoto Daigo , Okamoto Yasunao
Published: July 2022

Chemo-responsive processes originate from molecular-scale events such as chemical reactions and/or the adsorption/desorption of molecules. Molecular-scale events often cause macroscopically visible consequences; autonomous motion is a typical example of this. In living bodies, systems exist in which the macroscopic motion affects the molecular-scale event, and this feedback effect gives rise to all bodily functions, such as heartbeat, body movement, and brain activity. Living systems are highly complicated and require a deep physiological understanding. However, the interaction between molecular-scale phenomena and their resultant macroscopic motility can be discussed through much simpler, non-equilibrium chemical systems. Here, we provide examples to illustrate this interaction.
Mechanoresponsive Functional Polymer Materials
Authors: Niggemann L. P. , Göstl R.
Published: July 2022

This chapter describes molecules that selectively react to force when embedded in polymer systems, so-called mechanophores. Such mechanophores are important tools for harnessing and understanding force-induced events within the field of polymer mechanochemistry. Due to the large portfolio of mechanophores and methods for their activation, which have been researched in recent years, many applications have been realized ranging from drug delivery, catalysis, and self-healing, to force-sensing. In this chapter, mechanisms of the force-induced activation of mechanophores are classified, methods for the exertion of force are summarized, and mechanophore applications and their detection using optical properties are described.
Ab initionon-covalent crystal field theory for lanthanide complexes: a multiconfigurational non-orthogonal group function approach
Authors: Soncini Alessandro , Piccardo Matteo
Published: July 2022

We present a multiconfigurationalab initiomethodology based on non-orthogonal fragments, quantitatively exposing metal–ligand non-covalent interaction contributions to crystal field energy levels and magnetic properties in lanthanide complexes.
Extra arginine supplementation during the suckling period alleviates weaning stress through the regulation of dendritic cells and Notch2 signaling in piglets
Authors: Dong Li , Peng Zhong , Liu Jun , Li Hongmin , Wang Tianlong , Wang Shunan , Wang Hongrong , Huo Yongjiu , Yu Lihuai
Published: July 2022

This study aims to study the effects of extra arginine (Arg) supplementation during the suckling period on the weaning stress and intestinal barrier function of breastfed piglets.
An aza-BODIPY-based NIR-II luminogen enables efficient phototheranostics
Authors: Yang Na , Song Shuang , Liu Chang , Ren Jia , Wang Xin , Zhu Shoujun , Yu Cong
Published: July 2022

A new aza-BODIPY-based NIR-II luminogen enables efficient phototheranostics.
Dual functional catalysis of [Nb6O19]8−-modified Au/Al2O3
Authors: Kikkawa Soichi , Fukuda Shoji , Hirayama Jun , Shirai Naoki , Takahata Ryo , Suzuki Kosuke , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Teranishi Toshiharu , Yamazoe Seiji
Published: July 2022

Supported Au nanoparticles modified with basic Lindqvist-type [Nb6O19]8− clusters were fabricated by a simple adsorption method and exhibited efficient reduction activity for p-nitrophenol due to the base and reduction dual functional catalysis.
An amphoteric betaine electrolyte additive enabling a stable Zn metal anode for aqueous batteries
Authors: Jia Zhongqiu , Zhao Wenzhi , Hu Shouyan , Yang Xianpeng , He Tianshun , Sun Xiaoqi
Published: July 2022

An amphoteric compound of betaine is demonstrated as an electrolyte additive for aqueous zinc batteries. It forms hydrogen bonds with water and preferentially adsorbs on the Zn surface, which inhibits side reactions and ensures uniform Zn deposition.
Transformation of metal–organic frameworks with retained networks
Authors: Ling Jia-Long , Wu Chuan-De
Published: July 2022

The designed strategies for producing MOF-derived porous materials with preserved characters (framework skeletons, surface areas, porosity and properties) and improved stability are outlined.
Photocatalyzed decarboxylation of oxamic acids under near-infrared conditions
Authors: Ogbu Ikechukwu Martin , Bassani Dario M. , Robert Frédéric , Landais Yannick
Published: July 2022

Os(bptpy)2(PF6)2-mediated decarboxylation of oxamic acids under near-infrared irradiation in the presence of alcohols and heterocycles provide urethanes and heterocyclic amides respectively.
Discovery and characterization of new crystal forms of bio-based nylon 4F salt
Authors: Wang Yingying , Yang Pengpeng , Li Zihan , Fu Jinqiu , Shi Yuzhong , Zhang Yajie , Zhang Keke , Zhuang Wei , Ying Hanjie
Published: July 2022

The transformation relationships between three new crystal forms of all-biobased nylon 4F salts.
A high level theory investigation on the lowest-lying ionization potentials of glycine (NH2CH2COOH)
Authors: de Souza Gabriel L. C. , Peterson Kirk A.
Published: July 2022

Ionization potentials for 6 low-lying conformers of glycine are calculated using the equation of motion ionization potential coupled cluster method, EOMIP-CCSD, with extrapolation to the complete basis set limit and inclusion of core correlation.
Codonopsis pilosula oligosaccharides modulate the gut microbiota and change serum metabolomic profiles in high-fat diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Bai Ruibin , Cui Fang , Li Wen , Wang Yanping , Wang Zixia , Gao Yingrui , Wang Nan , Xu Qiaohong , Hu Fangdi , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2022

Codonopsis pilosula oligosaccharides (CPOs) showed promising anti-obesity effects in HFD-induced obese mice.
Theoretical insights into the electroreduction of nitrate to ammonia on graphene-based single-atom catalysts
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Wu Donghai , Lv Peng , He Bingling , Li Xue , Ma Dongwei , Jia Yu
Published: July 2022

The catalytic mechanism, activity trend, and activity origin of electroreduction of nitrate to ammonia on graphene-based single-atom catalysts was systematically studied and unrevealed.
Solvent controlled synthesis of 2,3-diarylepoxy indenones and α-hydroxy diarylindanones and their evaluation as inhibitors of DNA alkylation repair
Authors: Negi Rollania , Jena Tapan Kumar , Jyoti  , Tuti Nikhil Kumar , Anindya Roy , Khan Faiz Ahmed
Published: July 2022

A serendipitous synthesis of indanones is reported; one of the compounds, 2h, showed the lowest IC50 reported so far against the DNA repair enzyme AlkB.
Cu-Catalyzed tandem cyclization and coupling of enynones with enaminones for multisubstituted furans & furano-pyrroles
Authors: Dattatri  , Singam Maneesh Kumar Reddy , Nanubolu Jagadeesh Babu , Reddy Maddi Sridhar
Published: July 2022

A cascade reaction of enynones with enaminones via cyclative coupling to engineer diverse multisubstituted furans and furano-pyrrole bisheterocycles is described and is proposed to involve carbene insertion and C–C migrations to deliver a totally rearranged product.
A sustainable photochemical aerobic sulfide oxidation: access to sulforaphane and modafinil
Authors: Skolia Elpida , Gkizis Petros L. , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: July 2022

Photochemical aerobic synthesis of sulfoxides from sulfides, utilizing air as the oxidant, 2-Me-THF as the green solvent and LED 370 nm. 427 nm, CFL or sunlight as the irradiation source. Application in the synthesis of sulforaphane and modafinil.
Salt effects on mixed composition membranes containing an antioxidant lipophilic edaravone derivative: a computational-experimental study
Authors: Laudadio Emiliano , Minnelli Cristina , Mobbili Giovanna , Sabbatini Giulia , Stipa Pierluigi , Rusciano Dario , Galeazzi Roberta
Published: July 2022

The protection of lipid membranes against oxidation avoids diseases associated with oxidative stress.
Synthesis of block copolymers containing 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate by NMP – a versatile platform for functionalization
Authors: Eichhorn Jonas , Klein Michael , Romanenko Iuliia , Schacher Felix H.
Published: July 2022

This study highlights the potential of 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (ClHPMA) as a functional building block in nanostructured block copolymer architectures.
Naphthaldehyde-based Schiff base dyes: aggregation-induced emission and high-contrast reversible mechanochromic luminescence
Authors: Shen Lingyi , Yu Chang-Jin , Xie Hai-Fang , Xu Na , Xu Hong , Huang Ya-Li , Redshaw Carl , Feng Xing , Zhang Qi-Long
Published: July 2022

This work provides a naphthaldehyde-based Schiff base with reversible multiple stimuli-responsive behaviour of AIEE mechanochromic luminescence, which functions as a sensitive chemosensor for Cu2+ ions.
Using starch graft copolymer gel to assist the CO2huff-n-puff process for enhanced oil recovery in a water channeling reservoir
Authors: Hao Hongda , Yuan Dengyu , Hou Jirui , Guo Wenmin , Liu Huaizhu
Published: July 2022

A starch graft copolymer (SGC) gel is proposed to assist CO2huff-n-puff for further enhanced oil recovery in a water channeling reservoir. The SGC gelant can form a 3D solid-like gel, and then effectively enlarge CO2sweep efficiency.
Model structures of molten salt-promoted MgO to probe the mechanism of MgCO3 formation during CO2 capture at a solid–liquid interface
Authors: Bork Alexander. H. , Ackerl Norbert , Reuteler Joakim , Jog Sachin , Gut David , Zboray Robert , Müller Christoph. R.
Published: July 2022

Model groove structures of molten salt-promoted MgO-based CO2 sorbents. The number of nucleation sites are not affected by the depth of the groove, while there is a large dependence of crystal growth on groove depth.
A cyclometallated iridium(iii) complex with multi-photon absorption properties as an imaging-guided photosensitizer
Authors: Chen Dandan , Zhao Hongqing , Shao Tao , Lu Xin , Fang Zhiyun , Cao Hongzhi , Tian Yupeng , Tian Xiaohe
Published: July 2022

The cyclometallated iridium(iii) complex (Ir-Biotin) with multi-photon absorption and cancer-cell-specific targeting properties exhibits good photodynamic effects as a photosensitizer.
High-pressure structural phase transitions and metallization in layered HfS2under different hydrostatic environments up to 42.1 GPa
Authors: Hong Meiling , Dai Lidong , Hu Haiying , Zhang Xinyu , Li Chuang , He Yu
Published: July 2022

A series of structural, vibrational and electrical transport behaviors for HfS2 were systematically investigated upon compression and decompression under different hydrostatic environments. High-pressure structure and stability were deeply explored.
Three‐stage improved algorithm based on clustering decomposition and its application in drone demand and task allocation
Authors: Liu Zhengyuan , Wang Qinghua
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes a three‐stage algorithm based on clustering decomposition and task allocation—improved clustering planning algorithm (iK‐iD‐N), aiming at the optimization task allocation problem of drones in actual application to meet the task demand constraints. The algorithm solves the problem of the number of drones demanded and the initial delivery range of each drone by introducing dual‐objective planning into the clustering decomposition. Combining improved Dijkstra algorithm (iK‐D) with neighbourhood insertion algorithm into task allocation, to get high‐quality solutions and solve efficiently. Compared with the existing ant colony algorithm, the iK‐iD‐N algorithm proposed in this paper is more efficient and can obtain the best and stable solutions while evenly distributing tasks. Then it is compared with the improved clustering algorithm combined with the basic iK‐D to get better solutions of the iK‐iD‐N algorithm at any time, and compared with the basic clustering algorithm with the improved task allocation algorithm (K‐iD‐N) that iK‐ iD‐N can get a better solution with high probability. The thesis also simulates and analyzes the impact of uncertainty requirements on the solutions based on drone demand and task allocation models, and discusses the impact of drone load capability and endurance capability constraints on the final solutions.
Contour information regularized tensor ring completion for realistic image restoration
Authors: Yu Zhi , Luo Yihao , Liu Zhifa , Zhou Guoxu
Published: July 2022

Tensor completion has gained considerable research interest in recent years and has been frequently applied to image restoration. This type of method basically employs the low‐rank nature of images, implicitly requiring that the whole picture is of globally consistent features. As a result, existing tensor completion algorithms often give reasonably good performance if the target image has only random pixel‐level missing. Unfortunately, pixel‐level missing is very rare in practice and it is often wanted to restore an image with irregular hole‐shaped missing, such as removing electricity poles from landscape photos or irrelevant people from tourist photos. This task is extremely difficult for traditional low‐rank based tensor completion methods. To overcome this drawback, a Contour Information regularized Tensor RIng Completion (CITRIC) method is proposed for practical image restoration. Meanwhile, the contour information regularization is used to capture significant local features, whereas the low‐rank tensor ring structure is utilized to capture as much global information as possible. The alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) is adopted to optimize the cost function. Extensive experimental results using real‐world images show that CITRIC is more practical than existing methods and can restore real‐world images with irregular hole‐shaped missing.
Synthesis‐free backscatter directional modulation communication using Van‐Atta arrays
Authors: Huang Gaojian , Purushothama Jayakrishnan M. , Ding Yuan , Li Xingwang , Gong Wei
Published: July 2022

Backscatter communication, an emerging ultra‐low‐power wireless communication paradigm, has been studied as a promising solution for wireless communications in some Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) applications. The required ubiquitous data transmission in the IoT world is demanding information security. Different from mathematical encryption at higher protocol layers, the directional modulation (DM) technology can provide physical‐layer wireless security, which does not require digital and computation resources that are otherwise scarce in low‐power IoT devices. In this paper, a synthesis‐free Van‐Atta backscatter array is constructed and studied. The authors show that a Van‐Atta array can be made to project orthogonal interference upon the backscattered signals in the radio frequency domain. The design details of the Van‐Atta DM array are elaborated, and its efficacy is validated via bit error rate simulations.
A drawer‐conformal radio‐frequency identification antenna with vertically polarised quasi‐endfire radiation
Authors: Chen Wei‐Jun , Pan Jia‐Fu , Cheng You‐Feng
Published: July 2022

A radio‐frequency identification antenna with a quasi‐endfire radiation beam and a vertical polarisation is presented. A size‐reduced magnetic dipole is used as the radiation source whose radiating waves are restricted by a dual‐layer metasurface to propagate along the horizontal direction and result in an endfire pattern. Two vertical metal plates are placed at both ends to induce magnetic currents to realise the vertical polarisation. Based on the near‐field power analysis, the proposed metasurface‐covered endfire antenna, which is conformal to fit compactly into a drawer with little influence on the storage space, can be used for smart home and smart library systems, such as intelligent storage and reading.
A 1 × 48 large‐scale multi‐mode fibre optical switch
Authors: Shan Zhentian , Wan Zhujun , Luo Zhixiang
Published: July 2022

A 1 × 48 large‐scale multi‐mode fibre (MMF) optical switch driven by a stepper motor is reported. The insertion loss is <1.42 dB, which can be further reduced to 1.02 dB after optimisation. With the employment of a corner cube prism in the optics, the device is characterised by good repeatability of <±0.01 dB. Meanwhile, the device has a fast response of <8 ms.
Study on influence of switching frequency on sliding mode control performance of permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Tan Shudan , Ma Jiaqing
Published: July 2022

Aiming at the deficiencies of the speed loop PI control algorithm of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in variable working conditions, a new fast reaching law sliding mode control algorithm based on double‐power is proposed. Firstly, a new sliding mode reaching law is proposed, and the reaching law includes system state variables and the power function of the terminal attractors. It can reach the sliding mode surface at a faster speed, reduce chattering and improve system performance. Secondly, the reachability and existence of the new reaching law are proved by the Lyapunov function, and a new reaching law sliding mode controller (NRLSMC) is designed. Then, the theoretical analysis of the switching frequency of the system is carried out, and the effects of different switching frequencies on the performance of sliding mode control (SMC) of PMSM are explored. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed NRLSMC can effectively attenuate the disadvantages of large overshoot and long transition time under variable working conditions compared with ordinary sliding mode controller (OSMC) and PI controller. Moreover, the relative optimal switching frequency that improves the above performance is obtained, and the existence of the optimal sampling period for stable convergence of the system is proved.
Robust direction‐of‐arrival estimation approach using beamspace‐based deep neural networks with array imperfections and element failure
Authors: Ji Yuanjie , Wen Cai , Huang Yan , Peng Jinye , Fan Jianping
Published: July 2022

Direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation is a fundamental functionality of sensor array systems. Previous methods only consider element failure or array imperfections. In fact, the co‐existence of element failure and array imperfections is more in line with the realistic operation conditions of an array system. However, the performance of previous methods degrades significantly in the presence of both array imperfections and element failure. To deal with this problem, a robust DOA estimation method is proposed based on a deep neural network (DNN). The proposed DNN consists of a denoising autoencoder (DAE) and a parallel network. The DAE can restore damaged array signals to “non‐corrupted” signals, and the parallel network is able to process signals with different levels of loss to improve DOA estimation accuracy. At the training stage, array imperfections are modelled as a spherical distribution, and the training samples are extracted under this distribution to improve the generalisation capability of the proposed network to various array imperfections. In addition, the authors propose to estimate the spatial spectrum in a virtual array beamspace, which can reduce the computational complexity as well as signal‐to‐noise ratio resolution threshold, and further enhance the robustness to array imperfections. Numerical results show that the proposed DOA estimation approach works well in the presence of both array imperfections and element failure.
Magnetic cloud prediction model for forecasting space weather relevant properties of Earth-directed coronal mass ejections
Authors: Pal Sanchita , Nandy Dibyendu , Kilpua Emilia K. J.
Published: July 2022

Context.Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are major eruptive events on the Sun that result in the ejection of large-scale magnetic clouds (MCs) in interplanetary space, consisting of plasma with enhanced magnetic fields whose direction changes coherently when measured in situ. The severity of CME-induced geomagnetic perturbations and space weather impacts depends on the direction and strength of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), as well as on the speed and duration of the passage of the magnetic cloud associated with the storm. The coupling between the heliospheric environment and Earth’s magnetosphere is strongest when the IMF direction is persistently southward (i.e. negativeBz) for a prolonged period. Predicting the magnetic profile of such Earth-directed CMEs is therefore critical for estimating their space weather consequences; this remains an outstanding challenge, however.

Aims.Our aim is to build upon and integrate diverse techniques towards the development of a comprehensive magnetic cloud prediction (MCP) model that can forecast the magnetic field vectors, Earth-impact time, speed, and duration of passage of solar storms.

Methods.The configuration of a CME is approximated as a radially expanding force-free cylindrical structure. Combining near-Sun geometrical, magnetic, and kinematic properties of CMEs with the probabilistic drag-based model and cylindrical force-free model, we propose a method for predicting the Earth-arrival time, propagation speed, and magnetic vectors of MCs during their passage through 1 AU. Our model is able to predict the passage duration of the storm without recourse to computationally intensive time-dependent dynamical equations.

Results.Our method is validated by comparing the MCP model output with observations of ten MCs at 1 AU. In our sample, we find that eight MCs show a root mean square (rms) deviation smaller than 0.1 between the predicted and observed magnetic profiles, and the passage durations of seven MCs fall within the predicted range.

Conclusions.Based on the success of this approach, we conclude that predicting the near-Earth properties of MCs based on an analysis and modelling of near-Sun CME observations is a viable endeavour with potential applications for the development of early-warning systems for space weather and enabling mitigation strategies.