BINA

For many years, significant research efforts have been spent on investigating methodologies, tools, models and technologies for engineering autonomous agents software. Research into agent architectures and their structure, programming languages specialized for building agents, formal models and their implementation, development methodologies, middleware software, have been discussed in the literature, encompassing multiple communities of researchers, with at least partial overlaps in interests and approaches. The fundamental assumption underlying these research efforts is that such specialization is needed, because autonomous agent software poses engineering requirements that may not be easily met by more general (and more familiar) software engineering and programming paradigms. Specialized tools, models, programming languages, code architectures and abstractions make sense, if the software engineering problem is specialized. A broad overview of the literature reveals that for the most part, the truth of this assumption has been supported by qualitative arguments and anecdotal evidence. Agent-oriented programming [1] is by now a familiar and accepted programming paradigm, and countless discussions of its merits and its distinctiveness with respect to other programming paradigms (eg, object-oriented programming, aspect-oriented programming) are commonly found on the internet. Agent architectures are commercially available as development platforms and are incorporated into products. Indeed, agent-oriented software development methodologies are taught and utilized in and out of academic circles [2–5].

Recently, we are seeing the emergence of plan-and goal-recognition algorithms which are based on the principle of rationality. These avoid the use of a plan library that compactly encodes all possible observable plans, and instead generate plans dynamically to match the observations. However, recent experiments by Berkovitz (Berkovitz, The effect of spatial cognition and context on robot movement legibility in human-robot collaboration, 2018) show that in many cases, humans seem to have reached quick (correct) decisions when observing motions which were far from rational (optimal), while optimal motions were slower to be recognized. Intrigued by these findings, we experimented with a variety of rationality-based recognition algorithms on the same data. The results clearly show that none of the algorithms reported in the literature accounts for human subject decisions, even in this simple task. This is our first …

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from pathogens mediate communication between parasites and their hosts under a variety of physiological and pathological conditions. EVs deliver cell-free messages via a transfer of RNA, proteins, and even DNA to modulate and induce inflammation and to control the host infection process. EVs can provide valuable information on how a pathogen sends messages to other pathogens and hosts (Torrecilhas et al., 2012; Campos et al., 2015; Ofir-Birin and Regev-Rudzki, 2019; Torrecilhas et al. 2020). This Research Topic provides an overview of the mechanism of EV-mediated communication between hosts and viruses, parasites, and fungi. This Research Topic consists of 17 papers, including 8 reviews and 9 original papers. Several studies on this topic assessed the effects of EVs on the interactions between pathogens and hosts, and the mechanisms of EV-mediated communication between hosts and pathogens were also addressed. The first original article published in this Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology Parasite and Host issue is from Duguet’s group (Duguet et al.). They showed that EVs isolated from Caenorhabditis elegans contain microRNAs and small regulators that affect biological processes and comment on their role in host-nematode communication. Parasite-derived miRNAs regulate host immune system mRNAs.The paper by Zhang et al. discusses how Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces (PSCs) and hydatid cysts release EVs that are exosome-like based on size and morphology. The authors analyzed the miRNA, circRNA, and lncRNA profiles of the 20 most abundant …

The papers in this volume were part of the technical conference cited on the cover and title page. Papers were selected and subject to review by the editors and conference program committee. Some conference presentations may not be available for publication. Additional papers and presentation recordings may be available online in the SPIE Digital Library at SPIEDigitalLibrary. org.

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is a cancer-related herpesvirus. Like other herpesviruses, the KSHV icosahedral capsid includes a portal vertex, composed of 12 protein subunits encoded by open reading frame (ORF) 43, which enables packaging and release of the viral genome into the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Capsid vertex-specific component (CVSC) tegument proteins, which directly mediate docking at the NPCs, are organized on the capsid vertices and are enriched on the portal vertex. Whether and how the portal vertex is selected for docking at the NPC is unknown. Here, we investigated the docking of incoming ORF43-null KSHV capsids at the NPCs, and describe a significantly lower fraction of capsids attached to the nuclear envelope compared to wild-type (WT) capsids. Like WT capsids, nuclear envelope-associated ORF43-null capsids co-localized with different nucleoporins (Nups) and did not detach upon salt treatment. Inhibition of nuclear export did not alter WT capsid docking. As ORF43-null capsids exhibit lower extent of association with the NPCs, we conclude that although not essential, the portal has a role in mediating the interaction of the CVSC proteins with Nups, and suggest a model whereby WT capsids can dock at the nuclear envelope through a non-portal penton vertex, resulting in an infection ‘dead end’.

The detection, manipulation, and tracking of magnetic nanoparticles is of major importance in the fields of biology, biotechnology, and biomedical applications as labels as well as in drug delivery,(bio-) detection, and tissue engineering. In this regard, the trend goes towards improvements of existing state-of-the-art methodologies in the spirit of timesaving, high-throughput analysis at ultra-low volumes. Here, microfluidics offers vast advantages to address these requirements, as it deals with the control and manipulation of liquids in confined microchannels. This conjunction of microfluidics and magnetism, namely micro-magnetofluidics, is a dynamic research field, which requires novel sensor solutions to boost the detection limit of tiny quantities of magnetized objects. We present a sensing strategy relying on planar Hall effect (PHE) sensors in droplet-based micro-magnetofluidics for the detection of a multiphase …

Sensitive serological assays are needed to provide valuable information about acute and past viral infections. For example, detection of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) IgG antibodies could serve as the basis for an “immunity passport” that would enable individuals to travel internationally. Here, utilizing a novel Magnetic Modulation Biosensing (MMB) system and the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, we demonstrate a highly sensitive and specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG serological assay. Using anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies, RT-qPCR SARS-CoV-2-positive and healthy patients’ samples, and vaccinees’ samples, we compare the MMB-based SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay’s analytical and clinical sensitivities to those of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Compared with ELISA, the MMB-based assay has an ~6-fold lower limit of detection (129 ng/L vs. 817 ng/L), and it detects an increase in the IgG concentration much earlier after vaccination. Using 85 RT-qPCR SARS-CoV-2-positive samples and 79 -negative samples, the MMB-based assay demonstrated similar clinical specificity (98% vs. 99%) and sensitivity (93% vs. 92%) to the ELISA test, but with a much faster turnaround time (45 min vs. 245 min). The high analytical and clinical sensitivity, short turnaround time, and simplicity of the MMB-based assay makes it a preferred method for antibody detection.

Carbon dots (CDs)-based logic gates are smart nanoprobes that can respond to various analytes such as metal cations, anions, amino acids, pesticides, antioxidants, etc. Most of these logic gates are based on fluorescence techniques because they are inexpensive, give an instant response, and highly sensitive. Computations based on molecular logic can lead to advancement in modern science. This review focuses on different logic functions based on the sensing abilities of CDs and their synthesis. We also discuss the sensing mechanism of these logic gates and bring different types of possible logic operations. This review envisions that CDs-based logic gates have a promising future in computing nanodevices. In addition, we cover the advancement in CDs-based logic gates with the focus of understanding the fundamentals of how CDs have the potential for performing various logic functions depending upon their different categories.

The papers in this volume were part of the technical conference cited on the cover and title page. Papers were selected and subject to review by the editors and conference program committee. Some conference presentations may not be available for publication. Additional papers and presentation recordings may be available online in the SPIE Digital Library at SPIEDigitalLibrary. org.

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is a cancer-related herpesvirus. Like other herpesviruses, the KSHV icosahedral capsid includes a portal vertex, composed of 12 protein subunits encoded by open reading frame (ORF) 43, which enables packaging and release of the viral genome into the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Capsid vertex-specific component (CVSC) tegument proteins, which directly mediate docking at the NPCs, are organized on the capsid vertices and are enriched on the portal vertex. Whether and how the portal vertex is selected for docking at the NPC is unknown. Here, we investigated the docking of incoming ORF43-null KSHV capsids at the NPCs, and describe a significantly lower fraction of capsids attached to the nuclear envelope compared to wild-type (WT) capsids. Like WT capsids, nuclear envelope-associated ORF43-null capsids co-localized with different nucleoporins (Nups) and did not detach upon salt treatment. Inhibition of nuclear export did not alter WT capsid docking. As ORF43-null capsids exhibit lower extent of association with the NPCs, we conclude that although not essential, the portal has a role in mediating the interaction of the CVSC proteins with Nups, and suggest a model whereby WT capsids can dock at the nuclear envelope through a non-portal penton vertex, resulting in an infection ‘dead end’.

Laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) has been shown to be a useful technique for the manufacturing of micron-scale metal structures. LIFT is a high-resolution, non-contact digital printing method that can support the fabrication of complex shapes and multi-material structures in a single step under ambient conditions. However, LIFT printed metal structures often suffer from inferior mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties when compared to their bulk metal counterparts, and often are prone to enhanced chemical corrosion. This is due mostly to their non-compact structures, which have voids and inter-droplet delamination. In this paper, a theoretical framework together with experimental results of achievable compactness limits is presented for a variety of metals. It is demonstrated that compactness limits depend on material properties and jetting conditions. It is also shown how a specific choice of materials can yield compact structures, for example, when special alloys are chosen along with a suitable donor construct. The example of printed amorphous ZrPd is detailed. This study contributes to a better understanding of the limits of implementing LIFT for the fabrication of metal structures, and how to possibly overcome some of these limitations.

Exosomes are promising vectors for anti-tumor therapy, due to their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and innate ability to interact with target cells. However, promoting clinical application of exosome-based therapeutics requires elucidation of key issues, including exosome biodistribution, tumor targeting and accumulation, and the ability to overcome tumor barriers that limit the penetration of various nano-carriers and drugs. Here, we examined these parameters in exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-exo) and from the A431 squamous cell carcinoma line (A431-exo), which both have potential use in cancer therapy. Using our novel technique combining gold nanoparticle (GNP) labeling of exosomes and non-invasive computed tomography imaging (CT), we longitudinally and quantitatively tracked the two intravenously-injected exosome types in A431 tumor-bearing mice. CT imaging up to 48 …

Is it possible that a measurement of a spin component of a spin-1/2 particle yields the value 100? In 1988 Aharonov, Albert and Vaidman argued that upon pre-and postselection of particular spin states, weakening the coupling of a standard measurement procedure ensures this paradoxical result 1. This theoretical prediction, called weak value, was realised in numerous experiments 2–9, but its meaning remains very controversial 10–19, since its “anomalous” nature, ie, the possibility to exceed the eigenvalue spectrum, as well as its “quantumness” are debated 20–22. We address these questions by presenting the first experiment measuring anomalous weak values with just a single click, without the need for statistical averaging. The measurement uncertainty is significantly smaller than the gap between the measured weak value and the nearest eigenvalue. Beyond clarifying the meaning of weak values …

Inorganic nanotubes (INTs) and fullerene-like nanoparticles (NPs) of WS2/MoS2 penetrate and exfoliate at the contact interface and facilitate tribofilm formation. While the tribological properties are greatly improved by exfoliated NPs that shed easily, they may be diminished by agglomeration in oil. Therefore, surface functionalization is employed to improve dispersion in oil-based suspensions. Here, WS2 INTs were functionalized by polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in a simple and cost-effective bath sonication method. WS2-INTs with two concentrations of added PTFE were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Superior distribution of WS2 was observed before and during friction experiments. Chemical analysis showed a significantly greater amount of PTFE-coated INTs on rubbed surfaces, in accordance with the improved friction and wear properties.

We report a facile and robust room-temperature NO₂ sensor fabricated using bi- and multi-layered 2H variant of tungsten di-selenide (2H-WSe₂) nanosheets, exhibiting high sensing characteristics. A simple liquid-assisted exfoliation of 2H-WSe₂, prepared using ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition, allows smooth integration of these nanosheets on transducers. Three sensor batches are fabricated by modulating the total number of layers (L) obtained from the total number of droplets from a homogeneous 2H-WSe₂ dispersion, such as ∼2L, ∼5–6L, and ∼13–17L, respectively. The gas-sensing attributes of 2H-WSe₂ nanosheets are investigated thoroughly. Room temperature (RT) experiments show that these devices are specifically tailored for NO₂ detection. 2L WSe₂ nanosheets deliver the best rapid response compared to ∼5–6L or ∼13–17L. The response of 2L WSe₂ at RT is 250, 328, and 361% to 2, 4, and 6 ppm NO₂, respectively. The sensor showed nearly the same response toward low NO₂ concentration even after 9 months of testing, confirming its remarkable long-term stability. A selectivity study, performed at three working temperatures (RT, 100, and 150 °C), shows high selectivity at 150 and 100 °C. Full selectivity toward NO₂ at RT confirms that 2H-WSe₂ nanosheet-based sensors are ideal candidates for NO₂ gas detection.

Owing to its high energy density, LiNi₀.₈Co₀.₁Mn₀.₁O₂ (NMC811) is a cathode material of prime interest for electric vehicle battery manufacturers. However, NMC811 suffers from several irreversible parasitic reactions that lead to severe capacity fading and impedance buildup during prolonged cycling. Thin surface protection films coated on the cathode material mitigate degradative chemomechanical reactions at the electrode–electrolyte interphase, which helps to increase cycling stability. However, these coatings may impede the diffusion of lithium ions, and therefore, limit the performance of the cathode material at a high C-rate. Herein, we report on the synthesis of zirconium phosphate (ZrₓPOy) and lithium-containing zirconium phosphate (LiₓZryPOz) coatings as artificial cathode–electrolyte interphases (ACEIs) on NMC811 using the atomic layer deposition technique. Upon prolonged cycling, the ZrₓPOy- and LiₓZryPOz-coated NMC811 samples show 36.4 and 49.4% enhanced capacity retention, respectively, compared with the uncoated NMC811. Moreover, the addition of Li ions to the LiₓZryPOz coating enhances the rate performance and initial discharge capacity in comparison to the ZrₓPOy-coated and uncoated samples. Using online electrochemical mass spectroscopy, we show that the coated ACEIs largely suppress the degradative parasitic side reactions observed with the uncoated NMC811 sample. Our study demonstrates that providing extra lithium to the ACEI layer improves the cycling stability of the NMC811 cathode material without sacrificing its rate capability performance.

The ability of mapping local electric fields is crucial for understanding material's underlying physics. Most current techniques are based on measuring potentials, where cryogenic conditions are usually required to achieve high sensitivity. These include single-electron transistors (SET), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), Kelvin probe, and scanning capacitance microscopy. Here we demonstrate imaging local electric fields with a scanning nitrogen-vacancy (NV) tip, in the presence of a bias magnetic field perpendicular to the NV axis. The long NV coherence time and atomic size enable high sensitivities and nanoscale resolution (tens of nm) under ambient conditions. This scanning NV electrometry, together with its established magnetic sensing capabilities, provides a new and superior tool for measuring condensed matter phenomena.