bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aptamer-assisted tumor localization of bacteria for enhanced biotherapy
Authors: Geng Zhongmin , Cao Zhenping , Liu Rui , Liu Ke , Liu Jinyao , Tan Weihong
Published: November 2021

Despite bacterial-mediated biotherapies have been widely explored for treating different types of cancer, their implementation has been restricted by low treatment efficacy, due largely to the absence of tumor-specific accumulation following administration. Here, the conjugation of aptamers to bacterial surface is described by a simple and cytocompatible amidation procedure, which can significantly promote the localization of bacteria in tumor site after systemic administration. The surface density of aptamers can be easily adjusted by varying feed ratio and the conjugation is able to increase the stability of anchored aptamers. Optimal bacteria conjugated with an average of 2.8 × 105aptamers per cell present the highest specificity to tumor cells in vitro, separately generating near 2- and 4-times higher accumulation in tumor tissue at 12 and 60 hours compared to unmodified bacteria. In both 4T1 and H22 tumor-bearing mouse models, aptamer-conjugated attenuated Salmonella show enhanced antitumor efficacy, along with highly activated immune responses inside the tumor. This work demonstrates how bacterial behaviors can be tuned by surface conjugation and supports the potential of aptamer-conjugated bacteria for both targeted intratumoral localization and enhanced tumor biotherapy.
Towards prediction of ordered phases in rechargeable battery chemistry via group–subgroup transformation
Authors: Ran Yunbing , Zou Zheyi , Liu Bo , Wang Da , Pu Bowei , Mi Penghui , Shi Wei , Li Yajie , He Bing , Lu Ziheng , Lu Xia , Li Baihai , Shi Siqi
Published: November 2021

The electrochemical thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics of rechargeable batteries are critically influenced by the ordering of mobile ions in electrodes or solid electrolytes. However, because of the experimental difficulty of capturing the lighter migration ion coupled with the theoretical limitation of searching for ordered phases in a constrained cell, predicting stable ordered phases involving cell transformations or at extremely dilute concentrations remains challenging. Here, a group-subgroup transformation method based on lattice transformation and Wyckoff-position splitting is employed to predict the ordered ground states. We reproduce the previously reported Li0.75CoO2, Li0.8333CoO2, and Li0.8571CoO2 phases and report a new Li0.875CoO2 ground state. Taking the advantage of Wyckoff-position splitting in reducing the number of configurations, we identify the stablest Li0.0625C6 dilute phase in Li-ion intercalated graphite. We also resolve the Li/La/vacancy ordering in Li3xLa2/3−xTiO3 (0 < x < 0.167), which explains the observed Li-ion diffusion anisotropy. These findings provide important insight towards understanding the rechargeable battery chemistry.
Unveiling the orbital texture of 1T-TiTe2 using intrinsic linear dichroism in multidimensional photoemission spectroscopy
Authors: Beaulieu Samuel , Schüler Michael , Schusser Jakub , Dong Shuo , Pincelli Tommaso , Maklar Julian , Neef Alexander , Reinert Friedrich , Wolf Martin , Rettig Laurenz , Minár Ján , Ernstorfer Ralph
Published: November 2021

The momentum-dependent orbital character in crystalline solids, referred to as orbital texture, is of capital importance in the emergence of symmetry-broken collective phases, such as charge density waves as well as superconducting and topological states of matter. By performing extreme ultraviolet multidimensional angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy for two different crystal orientations linked to each other by mirror symmetry, we isolate and identify the role of orbital texture in photoemission from the transition metal dichalcogenide 1T-TiTe2. By comparing our experimental results with theoretical calculations based on both a quantitative one-step model of photoemission and an intuitive tight-binding model, we unambiguously demonstrate the link between the momentum-dependent orbital orientation and the emergence of strong intrinsic linear dichroism in the photoelectron angular distributions. Our results represent an important step towards going beyond band structure (eigenvalues) mapping and learning about electronic wavefunction and orbital texture of solids by exploiting matrix element effects in photoemission spectroscopy.
Simultaneous NAD(P)H and FAD fluorescence lifetime microscopy of long UVA–induced metabolic stress in reconstructed human skin
Authors: Ung Thi Phuong Lien , Lim Seongbin , Solinas Xavier , Mahou Pierre , Chessel Anatole , Marionnet Claire , Bornschlögl Thomas , Beaurepaire Emmanuel , Bernerd Françoise , Pena Ana-Maria , Stringari Chiara
Published: November 2021

Solar ultraviolet longwave UVA1 exposure of human skin has short-term consequences at cellular and molecular level, leading at long-term to photoaging. Following exposure, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated, inducing oxidative stress that might impair cellular metabolic activity. However, the dynamic of UVA1 impact on cellular metabolism remains unknown because of lacking adequate live imaging techniques. Here we assess the UVA1-induced metabolic stress response in reconstructed human skin with multicolor two-photon fluorescence lifetime microscopy (FLIM). Simultaneous imaging of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(P)H) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) by wavelength mixing allows quantifying cellular metabolism in function of NAD(P)+/NAD(P)H and FAD/FADH2redox ratios. After UVA1 exposure, we observe an increase of fraction of bound NAD(P)H and decrease of fraction of bound FAD indicating a metabolic switch from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation or oxidative stress possibly correlated to ROS generation. NAD(P)H and FAD biomarkers have unique temporal dynamic and sensitivity to skin cell types and UVA1 dose. While the FAD biomarker is UVA1 dose-dependent in keratinocytes, the NAD(P)H biomarker shows no dose dependence in keratinocytes, but is directly affected after exposure in fibroblasts, thus reflecting different skin cells sensitivities to oxidative stress. Finally, we show that a sunscreen including a UVA1 filter prevents UVA1 metabolic stress response from occurring.
A phase II study of talimogene laherparepvec for patients with inoperable locoregional recurrence of breast cancer
Authors: Kai Megumi , Marx Angela N. , Liu Diane D. , Shen Yu , Gao Hui , Reuben James M. , Whitman Gary , Krishnamurthy Savitri , Ross Merrick I. , Litton Jennifer K. , Lim Bora , Ibrahim Nuhad , Kogawa Takahiro , Ueno Naoto T.
Published: November 2021

Talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC) is an immunotherapy that generates local tumor lysis and systemic antitumor immune response. We studied the efficacy of intratumoral administration of T-VEC as monotherapy for inoperable locoregional recurrence of breast cancer. T-VEC was injected intratumorally at 106 PFU/mL on day 1 (cycle 1), 108 PFU/mL on day 22 (cycle 2), and 108 PFU/mL every 2 weeks thereafter (cycles ≥ 3). Nine patients were enrolled, 6 with only locoregional disease and 3 with both locoregional and distant disease. No patient completed the planned 10 cycles or achieved complete or partial response. The median number of cycles administered was 4 (range, 3–8). Seven patients withdrew prematurely because of uncontrolled disease progression, 1 withdrew after cycle 3 because of fatigue, and 1 withdrew after cycle 4 for reasons unrelated to study treatment. Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 77 days (95% CI, 63–NA) and 361 days (95% CI, 240–NA). Two patients received 8 cycles with clinically stable disease as the best response. The most common grade 2 or higher adverse event was injection site reaction (n = 7, 78%). Future studies could examine whether combining intratumoral T-VEC with concurrent systemic therapy produces better outcomes.
Exploring arterial tissue microstructural organization using non-Gaussian diffusion magnetic resonance schemes
Authors: Shahid Syed Salman , Johnston Robert D. , Smekens Celine , Kerskens Christian , Gaul Robert , Tornifoglio Brooke , Stone Alan J. , Lally Caitríona
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to characterize the alterations in microstructural organization of arterial tissue using higher-order diffusion magnetic resonance schemes. Three porcine carotid artery models namely; native, collagenase treated and decellularized, were used to estimate the contribution of collagen and smooth muscle cells (SMC) on diffusion signal attenuation using gaussian and non-gaussian schemes. The samples were imaged in a 7 T preclinical scanner. High spatial and angular resolution diffusion weighted images (DWIs) were acquired using two multi-shell (max b-value = 3000 s/mm2) acquisition protocols. The processed DWIs were fitted using monoexponential, stretched-exponential, kurtosis and bi-exponential schemes. Directionally variant and invariant microstructural parametric maps of the three artery models were obtained from the diffusion schemes. The parametric maps were used to assess the sensitivity of each diffusion scheme to collagen and SMC composition in arterial microstructural environment. The inter-model comparison showed significant differences across the considered models. The bi-exponential scheme based slow diffusion compartment (Ds) was highest in the absence of collagen, compared to native and decellularized microenvironments. In intra-model comparison, kurtosis along the radial direction was the highest. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of higher order dMRI schemes in mapping constituent specific alterations in arterial microstructure.
Discovery proteomics defines androgen-regulated glycoprotein networks in prostate cancer cells, as well as putative biomarkers of prostatic diseases
Authors: Hsiao Jordy J. , Smits Melinda M. , Ng Brandon H. , Lee Jinhee , Wright Michael E.
Published: November 2021

Supraphysiologic androgen (SPA) inhibits cell proliferation in prostate cancer (PCa) cells by transcriptional repression of DNA replication and cell-cycle genes. In this study, quantitative glycoprotein profiling identified androgen-regulated glycoprotein networks associated with SPA-mediated inhibition of PCa cell proliferation, and androgen-regulated glycoproteins in clinical prostate tissues. SPA-regulated glycoprotein networks were enriched for translation factors and ribosomal proteins, proteins that are known to beO-GlcNAcylated in response to various cellular stresses. Thus, androgen-regulated glycoproteins are likely to be targeted forO-GlcNAcylation. Comparative analysis of glycosylated proteins in PCa cells and clinical prostate tissue identified androgen-regulated glycoproteins that are differentially expressed prostate tissues at various stages of cancer. Notably, the enzyme ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 5 was found to be an androgen-regulated glycoprotein in PCa cells, with higher expression in cancerous versus non-cancerous prostate tissue. Our glycoproteomics study provides an experimental framework for characterizing androgen-regulated proteins and glycoprotein networks, toward better understanding how this subproteome leads to physiologic and supraphysiologic proliferation responses in PCa cells, and their potential use as druggable biomarkers of dysregulated AR-dependent signaling in PCa cells.
Sensorimotor strategy selection under time constraints in the presence of two motor targets with different values
Authors: Onagawa Ryoji , Kudo Kazutoshi
Published: November 2021

Goal-directed movements often require choosing an option from multiple potential goals under time constraints. However, there are limited studies on how humans change their time spent on decision-making and movement patterns according to time constraints. Here, we examined how sensorimotor strategies are selected under time constraints when the target values are uncertain. In the double-target condition, the values were uncertain until the movement onset and presented immediately afterwards. The behavior in this condition was compared to the single-target condition, in relation to time constraints and target-separation-angles. The results showed that the participants frequently used the choice-reaction even under tight time constraints, and their performance was consistently lower than that in the single-target condition. Additionally, in the double-target condition, differences in the movement trajectory depending on the time constraint and target-separation angle were confirmed. Specifically, the longer the time constraint, the higher the frequency of the intermediate behavior (to initiate movement toward the intermediate direction of two targets) or the change-of-mind behavior (to change the aiming target during movement). Furthermore, the smaller the target-separation angle, the higher the frequency of intermediate behavior, but the frequency of change-of-mind was not affected by the target-separation angle. These results suggest that the participants initiated the movement at an incomplete value judgment stage in some trials. Furthermore, they seemed to select a strategy to utilize the information obtained during the movement, taking into account the time constraints and target-separation angle. Our results show a consistent cognitive bias in choosing a higher value when multiple alternatives have different values. Additionally, we also suggest flexibility and adaptability in the movement patterns in response to time constraints.
Long-term straw returning improve soil K balance and potassium supplying ability under rice and wheat cultivation
Authors: Zhang Zhiyi , Liu Dongbi , Wu Maoqian , Xia Ying , Zhang Fulin , Fan Xianpeng
Published: November 2021

The aims of the present study were to provide scientific bases for rational use of crop straw to substitute chemical potassium (K) input. The effects of potassium fertilization and straw incorporation on soil K balance and K supplying in a long-term (14 years) field experiment. Five treatments were examined: (1) no fertilization (CK); (2) mineral fertilizing (NPK); (3) straw 6000 kg h m−2 (S); (4) NPK with straw 3000 kg h m−2 (NPK1/2S); and (5) NPK with straw 6000 kg h m−2 (NPKS). K composition, K balance and quantity-intensity (Q/I) relationship were studied. Under no fertilization or low straw returned conditions, soil K was unbalanced and deficienct seriously. Straw return at 6000 kg h m−2 per season with fertilization improved the soil potassium supply and K balance. Long-term K surplus (4 or 5 years), compared with NPK, the NPKS significantly increased non-special K adsorption (Knsa) and non-exchangeable K (Kne) by 5.7–11.2 mg kg−1 and 65.7–128.1 mg kg−1, respectively. Q/I relationship showed cropping without straw K or without fertilizer K resulted in lower quantity (nonspecifically and specifically held K i.e. – ∆K0 and Kx) and intensity (equilibrium activity ratio i.e. CR0K) of K in tested soils. K-fertilization with straw maintain higher exchangeable K (EK0) and a higher difference between EK0 and minimum exchangeable K(EKmin), and would help to prevent depletion in non-exchangeable pool of soil K under intensive cropping. Additionally, The straw return mainly decreased potential buffering capacity for exchangeable pool (PBCKn), 43.92–48.22% of added K in soil might be converted to exchangeable pool while it was 25.67–29.19% be converted to non-exchangeable pool. The contribution of exchangeable K towards plant K uptake would be higher in the soil with straw than the soil without straw and the non-exchangeable K would be the long-term fixed K as a supplement to the potassium pool. K fertilizer with 6000 kg h m−2 straw return in each crop season increased soil available K and slowly available K. The findings underlined importance of the straw return and contribution for sustain K supplying ability of soils.
Non-classical nucleation in vapor–liquid–solid growth of monolayer WS2 revealed by in-situ monitoring chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Qiang Xiaoming , Iwamoto Yuta , Watanabe Aoi , Kameyama Tomoya , He Xing , Kaneko Toshiro , Shibuta Yasushi , Kato Toshiaki
Published: November 2021

The very early nucleation stage of a transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) was directly observed with in-situ monitoring of chemical vapor deposition and automated image analysis. Unique nucleation dynamics, such as very large critical nuclei and slow to rapid growth transitions, were observed during the vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) growth of monolayer tungsten disulfide (WS2). This can be explained by two-step nucleation, also known as non-classical nucleation, in which metastable clusters are formed through the aggregation of droplets. Subsequently, nucleation of solid WS2 takes place inside the metastable cluster. Furthermore, the detailed nucleation dynamics was systematically investigated from a thermodynamic point of view, revealing that the incubation time of metastable cluster formation follows the traditional time–temperature transformation diagram. Quantitative phase field simulation, combined with Bayesian inference, was conducted to extract quantitative information on the growth dynamics and crystal anisotropy from in-situ images. A clear transition in growth dynamics and crystal anisotropy between the slow and rapid growth phases was quantitatively verified. This observation supports the existence of two-step nucleation in the VLS growth of WS2. Such detailed understanding of TMD nucleation dynamics can be useful for achieving perfect structure control of TMDs.
Alterations of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) and sequestosome-1 (p62) in women with breast cancer
Authors: Orfanelli Theofano , Giannopoulos Spyridon , Zografos Eleni , Athanasiou Aikaterini , Bongiovanni Ann Marie , Doulaveris Georgios , Moo Tracy-Ann , LaPolla Dayle , Bakoyiannis Chris N. , Theodoropoulos Georgios E. , Zografos Georgios C. , Andreopoulou Eleni , Witkin Steven S.
Published: November 2021

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) respond to altered physiological conditions to alleviate the threat. Production of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) is up-regulated to protect proteins from degradation. Sequestosome-1 (p62) binds to altered proteins and the p62-protein complex is degraded by autophagy. P62 is also a regulator of intracellular kinase activity and cell differentiation. We hypothesized that the PBMC response to a malignant breast mass involves elevated production of HSP70 and a decrease in intracellular p62. In this study 46 women had their breast mass excised. PBMCs were isolated and intracellular levels of HSP70 and p62 were quantitated by ELISA. Differences between women with a benign or malignant breast mass were determined. A breast malignancy was diagnosed in 38 women (82.6%) while 8 had a benign lesion. Mean intracellular HSP70 levels were 79.3 ng/ml in PBMCs from women with a malignant lesion as opposed to 44.2 ng/ml in controls (p = 0.04). The mean PBMC p62 level was 2.3 ng/ml in women with a benign breast lesion as opposed to 0.6 ng/ml in those with breast cancer (p < 0.001). Mean p62 levels were lowest in women with invasive carcinoma and a positive lymph node biopsy when compared to those with in-situ carcinoma or absence of lymphadenopathy, respectively. Intracellular HSP70 and p62 levels in PBMCs differ between women with a malignant or benign breast lesion. These measurements may be of value in the preoperative triage of women with a breast mass.
Whole blood transcriptomic analysis reveals PLSCR4 as a potential marker for vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell disease
Authors: Abdulwahab Hawra , Aljishi Muna , Sultan Ameera , Al-Kafaji Ghada , Sridharan Kannan , Bakhiet Moiz , Taha Safa
Published: November 2021

Sickle cell disease, a common genetic blood disorder, results from a point mutation in the β-globin gene affecting the configuration of hemoglobin, predisposing to painful vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) and multi-organ dysfunctions. There is a huge variation in the phenotypic expressions of SCD and VOC owing to genetic and environmental factors. This study aimed to characterize the whole blood gene expression profile using Microarray technology in Bahraini patients with SCD determining the differentially expressed genes in steady-state (n = 10) and during VOC (n = 10) in comparison to healthy controls (n = 8). Additionally, the study intended to identify potential genetic marker associated with hemolysis. The analysis identified 2073 and 3363 genes that were dysregulated during steady-state and VOC, respectively, compared to healthy controls. Moreover, 1078 genes were differentially expressed during VOC compared to steady state. The PLSCR4 gene was almost 6-fold up-regulated in microarray, 4-fold in polymerase chain reaction, and a mean protein concentration of 0.856 ng/ml was observed in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay during VOC compared to steady-state (0.238 ng/ml) (p < 0.01). Amongst these genes, PLSCR4 is involved in erythrocyte membrane deformity thus, predisposing to hemolysis, adhesion, and thrombosis. In conclusion, PLSCR4 may serve as a potential biomarker for VOC and future large-scale validation are recommended.
Electric field-induced crystallization of ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide
Authors: Lederer Maximilian , Abdulazhanov Sukhrob , Olivo Ricardo , Lehninger David , Kämpfe Thomas , Seidel Konrad , Eng Lukas M.
Published: November 2021

Ferroelectricity in crystalline hafnium oxide thin films is strongly investigated for the application in non-volatile memories, sensors and other applications. Especially for back-end-of-line (BEoL) integration the decrease of crystallization temperature is of major importance. However, an alternative method for inducing ferroelectricity in amorphous or semi-crystalline hafnium zirconium oxide films is presented here, using the newly discovered effect of electric field-induced crystallization in hafnium oxide films. When applying this method, an outstanding remanent polarization value of 2P$$_{\mathrm{R}}$$

R

 = 47 $$\upmu$$
μ
C/cm$$^{2}$$

2

is achieved for a 5 nm thin film. Besides the influence of Zr content on the film crystallinity, the reliability of films crystallized with this effect is explored, highlighting the controlled crystallization, excellent endurance and long-term retention.
Evaluation of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro LiDAR for an Application in Geosciences
Authors: Luetzenburg Gregor , Kroon Aart , Bjørk Anders A.
Published: November 2021

Traditionally, topographic surveying in earth sciences requires high financial investments, elaborate logistics, complicated training of staff and extensive data processing. Recently, off-the-shelf drones with optical sensors already reduced the costs for obtaining a high-resolution dataset of an Earth surface considerably. Nevertheless, costs and complexity associated with topographic surveying are still high. In 2020, Apple Inc. released the iPad Pro 2020 and the iPhone 12 Pro with novel build-in LiDAR sensors. Here we investigate the basic technical capabilities of the LiDAR sensors and we test the application at a coastal cliff in Denmark. The results are compared to state-of-the-art Structure from Motion Multi-View Stereo (SfM MVS) point clouds. The LiDAR sensors create accurate high-resolution models of small objects with a side length > 10 cm with an absolute accuracy of ± 1 cm. 3D models with the dimensions of up to 130 × 15 × 10 m of a coastal cliff with an absolute accuracy of ± 10 cm are compiled. Overall, the versatility in handling outweighs the range limitations, making the Apple LiDAR devices cost-effective alternatives to established techniques in remote sensing with possible fields of application for a wide range of geo-scientific areas and teaching.
Ionotropic receptors mediate nitrogenous waste avoidance in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Dhakal Subash , Sang Jiun , Aryal Binod , Lee Youngseok
Published: November 2021

Ammonia and its amine-containing derivatives are widely found in natural decomposition byproducts. Here, we conducted biased chemoreceptor screening to investigate the mechanisms by which different concentrations of ammonium salt, urea, and putrescine in rotten fruits affect feeding and oviposition behavior. We identified three ionotropic receptors, including the two broadly required IR25a and IR76b receptors, as well as the narrowly tuned IR51b receptor. These three IRs were fundamental in eliciting avoidance against nitrogenous waste products, which is mediated by bitter-sensing gustatory receptor neurons (GRNs). The aversion of nitrogenous wastes was evaluated by the cellular requirement by expressing Kir2.1 and behavioral recoveries of the mutants in bitter-sensing GRNs. Furthermore, by conducting electrophysiology assays, we confirmed that ammonia compounds are aversive in taste as they directly activated bitter-sensing GRNs. Therefore, our findings provide insights into the ecological roles of IRs as a means to detect and avoid toxic nitrogenous waste products in nature.
A polythiophene-SWCNTs self-assembled nanorobot to clean up gas molecules
Authors: Li Chun , Bi Kedong
Published: November 2021

A PT-SWCNTs self-assembled nanorobot is proposed to release residual H2 based on adhesion competition in a SWCNT system.
Effect of conductivity, viscosity, and density of water-in-salt electrolytes on the electrochemical behavior of supercapacitors: molecular dynamics simulations and in situ characterization studies
Authors: C. da Silva Débora A. , Pinzón C. Manuel J. , Messias Andresa , Fileti Eudes E. , Pascon Aline , Franco Débora V. , Da Silva Leonardo Morais , Zanin Hudson G.
Published: November 2021

Molecular configurations of the 1.0 mol dm−3 and 8.0 mol dm−3 NaClO4 aqueous electrolytes, and shear viscosity and ionic conductivity as a function of the molar and molal concentrations of NaClO4 aqueous solutions.
Synthesis of SERS-active core–satellite nanoparticles using heterobifunctional PEG linkers
Authors: San Juan Angela Michelle T. , Chavva Suhash Reddy , Tu Dandan , Tircuit Melanie , Coté Gerard , Mabbott Samuel
Published: November 2021

Here we report the synthesis of core–satellite nanoparticles to explore tunable SERS hot-spot generation, signal reproducibility and long-term activity.
PEGylation of silver nanoparticles by physisorption of cyclic poly(ethylene glycol) for enhanced dispersion stability, antimicrobial activity, and cytotoxicity
Authors: Oziri Onyinyechukwu Justina , Wang Yubo , Watanabe Tomohisa , Uno Shuya , Maeki Masatoshi , Tokeshi Manabu , Isono Takuya , Tajima Kenji , Satoh Toshifumi , Sato Shin-ichiro , Miura Yutaka , Yamamoto Takuya
Published: November 2021

Cyclic PEG without any chemical inhomogeneity was physiosorbed onto AgNPs to PEGylate and drastically enhance the dispersion stability against a physiological condition, white light, and high temperature, while its linear counterparts could not.
Isocyanate-functionalised graphene oxide and poly(vinyl alcohol) nacre-mimetic inspired freestanding films
Authors: Smith Andrew J. , Figiel Łukasz , Wan Chaoying , McNally Tony
Published: November 2021

Nacre mimetic films based on 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone (UPy) functionalised graphene oxide (GO) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were readily prepared by self-assembly using a vacuum filtration method.
Valley-exchange coupling probed by angle-resolved photoluminescence
Authors: Thompson Joshua J. P. , Brem Samuel , Fang Hanlin , Antón-Solanas Carlos , Han Bo , Shan Hangyong , Dash Saroj P. , Wieczorek Witlef , Schneider Christian , Malic Ermin
Published: November 2021

We propose that angle-resolved photoluminescence can be employed as an unambiguous detection scheme to determine the role of the valley exchange-interaction in the excitonic properties of TMD monolayers.
pH-Dependent interaction mechanism of lignin nanofilms
Authors: Lee Seo Yoon , Lee Jinhoon , Song Yoojung , Valtiner Markus , Lee Dong Woog
Published: November 2021

The molecular interaction mechanism of lignin was demonstrated by measuring the adhesion forces using an SFA and monitoring adsorbed mass of lignin with QCM-D. Herein, five different types of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) were utilized.
Silicon nitride waveguides with directly grown WS2for efficient second-harmonic generation
Authors: Liu Ning , Yang Xi , Zhu Zhihong , Chen Feng , Zhou Yangbo , Xu Jipeng , Liu Ken
Published: November 2021

Direct growth of large-area homogeneous monolayer WS2onto Si3N4waveguides is demonstrated and the waveguides show obvious second-harmonic generation. The work is an important step toward on-chip integration of 2D materials with Si3N4photonics.
Robust coherent spin centers from stable azafullerene radicals entrapped in cycloparaphenylene rings
Authors: Tanuma Yuri , Stergiou Anastasios , Bužan Bobnar Andreja , Gaboardi Mattia , Rio Jeremy , Volkmann Jannis , Wegner Hermann A. , Tagmatarchis Nikos , Ewels Christopher P. , Arčon Denis
Published: November 2021

Stable and abundant spin-1/2 species from azafullerene (C59N˙) supramolecularly hosted in [10]cycloparaphenylene nanohoops are operated as stable qubits, with possibility of qubit wiring via intermediate polymerized spin-redistributed states.
Minimized thermal expansion mismatch of cobalt-based perovskite air electrodes for solid oxide cells
Authors: Li Zhishan , Peng Meilan , Zhao Yingru , Li Jianhui , Sun Yifei
Published: November 2021

The as-obtained R-BZCY-Cox air electrode shows a 7-fold enhancement in electrochemical performance with a negligible TEC mismatch of only ∼11.4%.
Application of hyperspectral imaging technology for rapid identification of Ruditapes philippinarum contaminated by heavy metals
Authors: Liu Yao , Qiao Fu , Wang Shuwen , Wang Runtao , Xu Lele
Published: November 2021

Combined with pattern recognition analysis hyperspectral imaging technology can be used to identify heavy metal contamination in Ruditapes philippinarum rapidly and non-destructively, even with only a small number of training samples.
A flavin-inspired covalent organic framework for photocatalytic alcohol oxidation
Authors: Trenker Stefan , Grunenberg Lars , Banerjee Tanmay , Savasci Gökcen , Poller Laura M. , Muggli Katharina I. M. , Haase Frederik , Ochsenfeld Christian , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: November 2021

In this manuscript, we report the development of a novel alloxazine COF inspired by naturally occurring flavin cofactors for photoredox catalysis.
Protamine/heparin optical nanosensors based on solvatochromism
Authors: Soda Yoshiki , Robinson Kye J. , Nussbaum Robin , Bakker Eric
Published: November 2021

Novel optical nanosensors for the selective detection of the polycationic protamine based on solvatochromic signal change allow one to detect heparin in plasma.
The Bernoulli effect in horizontal granular flows
Authors: Cai Hui , Sun Changcheng , Miao Guoqing
Published: November 2021

The Bernoulli effect is revealed in horizontal granular flows, viz., the granular pressure decreases as the flow velocity increases. The mechanism of the Bernoulli effect in granular flows is different from that in common continuous fluids.
It takes guts to learn: machine learning techniques for disease detection from the gut microbiome
Authors: Curry Kristen D. , Nute Michael G. , Treangen Todd J.
Published: November 2021

Associations between the human gut microbiome and expression of host illness have been noted in a variety of conditions ranging from gastrointestinal dysfunctions to neurological deficits. Machine learning (ML) methods have generated promising results for disease prediction from gut metagenomic information for diseases including liver cirrhosis and irritable bowel disease, but have lacked efficacy when predicting other illnesses. Here, we review current ML methods designed for disease classification from microbiome data. We highlight the computational challenges these methods have effectively overcome and discuss the biological components that have been overlooked to offer perspectives on future work in this area.
Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older Adults: The Effects of a Pandemic
Authors: Heape Amber
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

This clinical focus article examines the effect of social isolation and loneliness forced by the pandemic on the geriatric population. Since March 11, 2020, when a global pandemic was declared, a new concept of social distancing has swept the United States and the world. While these efforts have been challenging for the entire population, there has been a disproportionate effect on minority groups, low-income communities, and one especially vulnerable group that has emerged: older adults.

Method:

A review of existing scientific research on social isolation and loneliness in the aging population was conducted. Current demographic data on the aging population were gathered to determine clinical applicability of research evidence. Principles of bioethics were considered within a risk/benefit assessment related to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Social determinants of health were examined within the context of the pandemic.

Results:

Research supports the link between social isolation, loneliness, and negative outcomes in older adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the prevalence of these negative effects, including anxiety/depression, neuroinflammation, substance abuse, physical or nutritional deficits, and a decline in overall health.

Conclusion:

Strategies to mitigate the negative effects of social isolation may include technological intervention, attendance at virtual events, socially distanced outdoor activities, family connection, and cognitive stimulation or leisure tasks.
Analytic modeling of recurrent Forbush decreases caused by corotating interaction regions
Authors: Vršnak B. , Dumbović M. , Heber B. , Kirin A.
Published: November 2021

Context.On scales of days, the galactic cosmic ray (GCR) flux is affected by coronal mass ejections and corotating interaction regions (CIRs), causing so-called Forbush decreases and recurrent Forbush decreases (RFDs), respectively.

Aims.We explain the properties and behavior of RFDs recorded at about 1 au that are caused by CIRs generated by solar wind high-speed streams (HSSs) that emanate from coronal holes.

Methods.We employed a convection-diffusion GCR propagation model based on the Fokker-Planck equation and applied it to solar wind and interplanetary magnetic field properties at 1 au.

Results.Our analysis shows that the only two effects that are relevant for a plausible overall explanation of the observations are the enhanced convection effect caused by the increased velocity of the HSS and the reduced diffusion effect caused by the enhanced magnetic field and its fluctuations within the CIR and HSS structure. These two effects that we considered in the model are sufficient to explain not only the main signatures of RFDs, but also the sometimes observed “over-recovery” and secondary dips in RFD profiles. The explanation in terms of the convection-diffusion GCR propagation hypothesis is tested by applying our model to the observations of a long-lived CIR that recurred over 27 rotations in 2007–2008.

Conclusions.Our analysis demonstrates a very good match of the model results and observations.
Impact of disruption between options of plutonium multi-recycling in PWRs and in SFRs
Authors: Liang Jiali , Ernoult Marc , Doligez Xavier , David Sylvain , Thiollière Nicolas
Published: November 2021

During the recent ten years, the estimation of future uranium demands has changed greatly, and SFR competitiveness is called again into question. In this context, a planning of plutonium multi-recycling in PWRs for the near-term decades has been announced in France, which replaces the objective of future SFR deployment. However, the mid-term policy concerning the future reactor system is always uncertain, and the demand of SFR deployment may re-increase significantly. This study looks into this possibility and analyzes the consequences of such back and forth between different plutonium multi-recycling strategies. The newly developed methodology of robustness assessment is applied to the problem, considering the objective disruptions to take into account the deep uncertainties about nuclear future. Two prior trajectories of plutonium multi-recycling, one involving the use of MIX fuel in PWRs and the other considering the SFR deployment, are analyzed first. The disruption of the strategy using MIX is then supposed under the re-consideration of future SFR deployment. To quantify the impacts of using MIX on deployment timing, we investigate the earliest time for which the fleet substitution with SFRs can be completed. To supplement, the prior strategy of SFR deployment is also disrupted under the context of halting the start of new SFR. The plutonium multi-recycling in PWRs, regarded as adaptive strategy, aims to minimize the idle plutonium. In these robustness assessments, numerous outputs of interests are analyzed, in order to provide a comprehensive evaluation of consequences of prior strategies, regarding the uncertain disruptions and optimal readjustments.
Α numerical evaluation of various damage models for thermoplastic composite materials subjected to quasi-static tensile loading
Authors: Sioutis Ioannis , Tserpes Konstantinos
Published: November 2021

In the present work, damage propagation in thermoplastic composite laminates subjected to quasi-static tensile loading was numerically simulated using different damage models. The simulation was performed using the commercial finite element suite LS-Dyna, where various material models were evaluated based on their ability to simulate the thermoplastic composite behavior. More specifically, material models based on Tsai-Wu failure criteria (MAT_055), progressive damage modeling (MAT_162), micromechanical material modeling (MAT_215) and continuum damage modeling (MAT_261) were implemented, comparing the output failure strength and load – displacement curve with experimental data available in the literature. The approach of damage evolution and failure type for each model was taken under consideration as well. Overall, the progressive damage model (MAT_162) presented the most accurate prediction of the material’s failure behavior.
Buckling of simply supported GLARE cylindrical panels subjected to uniform compression
Authors: Kalfountzos Costas , Bikakis George , Theotokoglou Efstathios
Published: November 2021

In this article, the elastic buckling behaviour of cylindrical GLARE (GLAss REinforced) panels with classically simply supported boundary conditions under uniaxial compression is investigated using the finite element method (FEM) and eigenvalue buckling analysis. The buckling coefficient-curvature parameter diagrams of five GLARE grades are obtained and studied along with the diagrams of two glass-fiber composites and monolithic 2024-T3 aluminum, using validated FEM models. It is found that aluminium has a stronger impact on the buckling behaviour of the GLARE panels than the composite layers. From the constructed buckling coefficient - curvature parameter diagrams in double logarithmic scale it is found that there is an approximately linear relation between the buckling coefficient and the curvature parameter of the panels. Based on this finding, appropriate regressions are implemented in order to derive approximate analytical formulas of the buckling coefficient as a function of the curvature parameter for the considered materials.
Effect of Impact Modifiers on Strength and Fracture Toughness of CFRPs
Authors: Semitekolos Dionisis , Asimakopoulos Ioannis G. , Dragatogiannis Dimitrios A. , Charitidis Costas A.
Published: November 2021

The aim of this work is to study the effect of core-shell rubbers on the mechanical properties of CFRPs.For the preparation of composites, two types of resins were used, a three-component Araldite resin (resin-hardener-accelerator system in proportions of 100-90-0,5 by weight respectively), and MX 156, which contains 25 % core-shell elastomers and 75 % Araldite resin. Depending on the mechanical test, two types of carbon fibre fabrics (UD C415, G0926) are used with corresponding number of layers. The composites were prepared by vacuum infusion and cut to the appropriate dimensions by water-cutting. They were tested for mechanical performance, by bending, shearing, tensile, impact and fracture toughness tests, to compare the properties of CSR-containing composites and reference CFRPs. Fracture analysis of specimens was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results exhibited a 50% increase in impact strength while the energy absorbed during the fracture toughness test was 4 times greater on specimens with CSR than reference.
Temper embrittlement of 9%Ni low carbon steel and nondestructive inspection by magnetic Barkhausen noise
Authors: Tavares Sérgio S.M. , Neves Fernanda F. , da Igreja Hugo R. , Noris Leosdan F. , Alves Odivaldo C. , Pardal Juan Manuel
Published: November 2021

9% Ni and low carbon steel is used in cryogenic services in oil and gas industries. The final mechanical properties are adjusted by quenching and tempering heat treatments. However, the un-correct tempering may cause temper embrittlement, with drastic decrease of toughness at cryogenic temperatures. In this study, specimens tempered at 350°C, 400°C and 450°C showed very low toughness at low temperature (-196°C) due to temper embrittlement. Specimens slowly cooled from the tempering temperature (565°C, 585°C and 605°C) also showed toughness reduction in comparison with specimens tempered at the same temperature and cooled in water. The brittle fracture was characterized by intergranular cracks and cleavage. Magnetic Barkhausen Noise (MBN) inspection was conducted to verify if this technique can be used to detect the temper embrittlement in 9Ni steels. The root mean square (RMS) of the MBN signal was higher in specimens as quenched and in specimens tempered in the temper embrittlement range (350°C-500°C) than in specimens which were correctly tempered (565°C-605°C and water cooled). Comparing specimens tempered at 565 and 585°C range and slowly cooled with those which were water cooled, the RMS(MBN) was higher in the former group, which presented the lower toughness. However, the MBN inspection could not separate specimens tempered at 605°C slowly and rapidly, which can be related to the higher austenite volume fraction measured in the specimen slowly cooled.
A Review of Computer Vision Techniques in the Detection of Metal Failures
Authors: Fitzgerald Deborah , Fragoudakis Roselita
Published: November 2021

This paper considers and contrasts several computer vision techniques used to detect defects in metallic components during manufacturing or in service. Methodologies include statistical analysis, weighted entropy modification, Fourier transformations, neural networks, and deep learning. Such systems are used by manufacturers to perform non-destructive testing and inspection of components at high speeds [1]; providing better error detection than traditional human visual inspection, and lower costs [2]. This is a review of the computer vision system comparing different mathematical analysis in order to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses relative to the nature of the defect. It includes exemplar that histograms and statistical analysis operate best with significant contrast between the defect and background, that co-occurrence matrix and Gabor filtering are computationally expensive, that structural analysis is useful when there are repeated patterns, that Fourier transforms, applied to spatial data, need windowing to capture localized issues, and that neural networks can be utilized after training.
Optimal Designs of Tilting-Pad Thrust Bearing operation with the combination of numerical and machine learning techniques
Authors: Katsaros Konstantinos P. , Nikolakopoulos Pantelis G.
Published: November 2021

Hydrodynamic thrust bearings are machine elements used in many rotating machinery in order to support axial loads. The investigation of the lubrication in such mechanisms using numerical analysis methods has been the major subject of many studies over the years. Furthermore, the evolution of technology in the last decade brought the concept of industry 4.0 and machine learning techniques have started to play important role in the operational optimization of such assemblies. The aim of this study is to examine optimal designs of tilting pad thrust bearings by combining numerical analysis and machine learning techniques.
Design approach for the development of a digital twin of a generic hybrid lightweight structure
Authors: Ryll Tobias , Kuhtz Moritz , Quirin Lukas , Nguyen Minh , Gude Maik , Filippatos Angelos
Published: November 2021

The innovation potential of lightweight design in its scientific and technical foundations lies in the systematic, i.e. integrated and cross-material consideration of the process chains. This consideration is one of the main goals of dahlia project - Digital Technologies for Hybrid Lightweight Structures. The end-to-end digitalisation of the development, manufacturing and validation processes provides a first understanding of its process parameter-structure-property relationships, which is essential for developing a representative digital twin. To investigate these aspects in the design phase profiles made of aluminium alloy are exemplarily studied. Important aspects for the development of a digital twin are considered, such as a knowledge-based selection of design and simulation tools, their respective parametrisation and interface communication. First results are presented as well as the development aspects of a digital twin from its nominal offline form up to its specific application at a generic lightweight structure.
Analysis of a bulk arrival N-policy queue with two-service genre, breakdown, delayed repair under Bernoulli vacation and repeated service policy
Authors: Begum Anjana , Choudhury Gautam
Published: November 2021

This article deals with an unreliable bulk arrival single server queue rendering two-heterogeneous optional repeated service (THORS) with delayed repair, under Bernoulli Vacation Schedule (BVS) and N-policy. For this model, the joint distribution of the server’s state and queue length are derived under both elapsed and remaining times. Further, probability generating function (PGF) of the queue size distribution along with the mean system size of the model are determined for any arbitrary time point and service completion epoch, besides various pivotal system characteristics. A suitable linear cost structure of the underlying model is developed, and with the help of a difference operator, a locally optimal N-policy at a lower cost is obtained. Finally, numerical experiments have been carried out in support of the theory.
Trust, Efficient Contracting and Export Upgrading
Authors: Ndubuisi Gideon , Owusu Solomon
Published: November 2021

Informal contracting institutions constitute an essential part of a country’s overall contracting institution, however, the nascent literature examining the effect of contracting institutions on the quality of products a country produces and exports, have paid a limited attention on the role of informal contracting institutions. We fill this gap in the literature by examining whether higher trust levels, as an informal contracting institution, leads to product-quality upgrading by reducing contractual frictions and opportunistic behaviors. Using industry-level data spanning 1995–2014, we examined this relationship using the generalized difference-in-difference method. We find that contract-intensive industries in trust-intensive societies experience a disproportionally higher increase in the production and export of higher-quality products compared to those industries in low-trusting societies. This result holds after controlling for conventional sources of comparative advantage and formal contracting institution. Hence, the result underscores the importance of informal contracting institutions for improved economic performance and stress the crucial fact that countries with strong and efficient informal institutions can still benefit in market-related activities even in the presence of weak formal institutions.