bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atomic Layer Deposition of Indium‐Tin‐Oxide as Multifunctional Coatings on V2O5 Thin‐Film Model Electrode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Bo , Nisula Mikko , Dhara Arpan , Henderick Lowie , Mattelaer Felix , Dendooven Jolien , Detavernier Christophe
Published: October 2020

This work demonstrates the possible usages of indium tin oxide (ITO) thin‐films as multifunctional coatings on V2O5 model electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The thin films are produced with the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method via adjusting the ratio of In2O3 and SnO2 sub‐layers to a well‐controlled In: Sn contents. The highest conductivity value (7.37 × 10−4 Ω cm) of as‐grown ITO film is obtained from the sample containing 5% SnO2 of overall ALD cycles. The ITO thin‐films are further investigated as multifunctional coatings on ALD V2O5 electrodes for LIBs: At first, dual electronic and ionic conductive protecting properties of ITO layer are explored to attenuate the fading of the battery capacity by improving the cycling stability. Second, the feasibility of ITO layer as a dual functioning current collector‐cum‐protective coating layer is demonstrated. Third, ITO layer is investigated as a current collector and display performance comparable to that of Pt as current collector of traditional thin‐film LIBs. The electronic and electrochemical properties of ITO provide the opportunity to use ITO as a multifunctional coating for (3D) thin‐film LIBs and can find potential usages in miniaturized electronic devices.
The Intricate Love Affairs between MoS2 and Metallic Substrates
Authors: Velický Matěj , Donnelly Gavin E. , Hendren William R. , DeBenedetti William J. I. , Hines Melissa A. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Abruña Héctor D. , Huang Fumin , Frank Otakar
Published: October 2020

Mechanical exfoliation yields high‐quality 2D materials but is challenging to scale up due to the small lateral size and low yield of the exfoliated crystals. Gold‐mediated exfoliation of macroscale monolayer MoS2 and related crystals addresses this problem. However, it remains unclear whether this method can be extended to other metals. Herein, mechanical exfoliation of MoS2 on a range of metallic substrates is studied. It is found that Au outperforms all the other metals in their ability to exfoliate macroscale monolayer MoS2. This is rationalized by gold's ability to resist oxidation, which is compromised on other metals and leads to a weakened binding with MoS2. An anomalously high monolayer yield found for Ag suggests that the large interfacial strain in the metal–MoS2 heterostructures measured by Raman spectroscopy also is a critical factor facilitating the exfoliation, while the relative differences in the metal–MoS2 binding play only a minor role. These results provide a new incentive for investigations of 2D material‐substrate combinations applicable where high‐quality 2D crystals of macroscopic dimensions are of importance.
Constructing Layered MXene/CNTs Composite Film with 2D–3D Sandwich Structure for High Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Ding Wenjun , Liu Peng , Bai Zuzhi , Wang Yeye , Liu Guoqiang , Jiang Qinglin , Jiang Fengxing , Liu Peipei , Liu Congcong , Xu Jingkun
Published: October 2020

Reasonable heterostructure design can effectively improve the thermoelectric performance of composite materials. High‐conductivity and high‐stability MXenes are expected for the application of thermoelectric conversion benefiting from their diverse electronic properties. In this work, the 2D MXene and 1D SWCNTs are employed to construct layered composite films with 2D–3D sandwich structures in the vertical direction by the wet‐chemical assembly strategy. As a result, sandwich Ti3C2Tx–SWCNTs–Ti3C2Tx film shows a higher power factor than that of Ti3C2Tx/SWCNTs film with interlaced structure, further 25 times higher than that of Ti3C2Tx film, which mainly due to the considerable electrical conductivity (750.9 S cm−1) and enhanced Seebeck (−32.2 µV K−1) coefficient. This study provides a feasible and valuable reference for expanding the application field of MXenes‐based materials and reasonably improving their thermoelectric conversion performance.
Concealed Structural Colors Uncovered by Light Scattering
Authors: Akinoglu Eser Metin , Song Jingchao , Kinnear Calum , Xue Yafei , Zhang Heyou , Roberts Ann , Köhler Jürgen , Mulvaney Paul
Published: October 2020

Unusual structural colors are demonstrated in thin‐film coatings due to a combination of optical interference and light scattering effects. These vivid colors are concealed under ambient illumination but can be observed when light is reflected from the film surface. The origin of the effect is explored computationally and it is shown that, in thin‐films of lossless dielectrics coated on near‐perfect conductors, incident electromagnetic waves form standing waves. Electric field intensities at the thin film interfaces are maximized for wavelengths that fulfil destructive interference conditions, while nanoscale roughness can enhance scattering at these boundaries. The interplay of these two factors yields vivid, thickness‐dependent colors. This approach increases the repertoire of optical effects and perceived colors in thin coatings. When combined with traditional thin‐film interference colours, dichromatic images with distinctly changing colors can be generated, which can function as a covert, optical security feature.
A Single‐Stranded DNA‐Encoded Chemical Library Based on a Stereoisomeric Scaffold Enables Ligand Discovery by Modular Assembly of Building Blocks
Authors: Bassi Gabriele , Favalli Nicholas , Vuk Miriam , Catalano Marco , Martinelli Adriano , Trenner Anika , Porro Antonio , Yang Su , Tham Chuin Lean , Moroglu Mustafa , Yue Wyatt W. , Conway Stuart J. , Vogt Peter K. , Sartori Alessandro A. , Scheuermann Jörg , Neri Dario
Published: October 2020

A versatile and Lipinski‐compliant DNA‐encoded library (DEL), comprising 366 600 glutamic acid derivatives coupled to oligonucleotides serving as amplifiable identification barcodes is designed, constructed, and characterized. The GB‐DEL library, constructed in single‐stranded DNA format, allows de novo identification of specific binders against several pharmaceutically relevant proteins. Moreover, hybridization of the single‐stranded DEL with a set of known protein ligands of low to medium affinity coupled to a complementary DNA strand results in self‐assembled selectable chemical structures, leading to the identification of affinity‐matured compounds.
Role of Li‐Ion Depletion on Electrode Surface: Underlying Mechanism for Electrodeposition Behavior of Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Xu Xieyu , Liu Yangyang , Hwang Jang‐Yeon , Kapitanova Olesya O. , Song Zhongxiao , Sun Yang‐Kook , Matic Aleksandar , Xiong Shizhao
Published: October 2020

The application of lithium metal as an anode material for next generation high energy‐density batteries has to overcome the major bottleneck that is the seemingly unavoidable growth of Li dendrites caused by non‐uniform electrodeposition on the electrode surface. This problem must be addressed by clarifying the detailed mechanism. In this work the mass‐transfer of Li‐ions is investigated, a key process controlling the electrochemical reaction. By a phase field modeling approach, the Li‐ion concentration and the electric fields are visualized to reveal the role of three key experimental parameters, operating temperature, Li‐salt concentration in electrolyte, and applied current density, on the microstructure of deposited Li. It is shown that a rapid depletion of Li‐ions on electrode surface, induced by, e.g., low operating temperature, diluted electrolyte and a high applied current density, is the underlying driving force for non‐uniform electrodeposition of Li. Thus, a viable route to realize a dendrite‐free Li plating process would be to mitigate the depletion of Li‐ions on the electrode surface. The methodology and results in this work may boost the practical applicability of Li anodes in Li metal batteries and other battery systems using metal anodes.
Do SNAP Households Pay Different Prices throughout the Benefit Month?
Authors: Valizadeh Pourya , Smith Travis A. , Ver Ploeg Michele
Published: October 2020

For households participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), food expenditures spike upon benefit arrival. We show the price component of expenditure is sensitive to benefit arrival: by the beginning of the fourth week of the benefit month, households pay 20% less on food items. This decline is not induced by changes in shopping behaviors (usage of SNAP, bulk purchases, on‐sale, branded, and discount stores) but rather concentrated among a subset of households with financial constraints and/or a preference for higher‐quality foods. Increased benefit adequacy and/or financial stability for participants could help households smooth their purchasing power.
Chronic subdural hematoma: A previously unreported life‐threatening complication in adult with Sotos syndrome
Authors: Carli Diana , Gazzin Andrea , Bongioanni Maria Roberta , Bergui Mauro , Mussa Alessandro , Ferrero Giovanni Battista
Published: October 2020

Macrocephaly, defined as head circumference ≥ 2 SDs, is a cardinal feature of Sotos syndrome (SS) and generally persists in adulthood. Subdural fluid collection, typically associated with macrocephaly, is described in children due to anatomical conformation, and in adulthood due to brain atrophy and ex‐vacuo hydrocephalus. On the other hand, a true, symptomatic, chronic subdural hematoma (CSH) is a previously unreported complication of SS in adulthood. Here we describe the first SS patient presenting symptomatic CSH, leading to frequent hospitalizations for surgical evacuations that consistently recurred. Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization and epidural blood patch (EBP) allowed to resolve the CSH with complete resolution of clinical signs and symptoms. We hypothesize that appearance and recurrences of CSH may be related to pathological biomechanics of brain, cerebro‐spinal fluid and skull, secondary to anatomical features of SS. In this context, surgical evacuation may be less efficient than usual to cure CSH. Alternative treatment to avoid blood extravasation, as MMA embolization, or to cure concurrent causes of the pathology, as EBP, may be considered.
Die größenbeschleunigte kinetische Racematspaltung sekundärer Alkohole
Authors: Pölloth Benjamin , Sibi Mukund P. , Zipse Hendrik
Published: October 2020

Die Ursachen für die kinetische Racematspaltung von Alkoholen durch chirale Pyridinderivate wurden untersucht. Dafür wurden relative Reaktionsgeschwindigkeiten für eine Reihe von Substraten mit systematisch wachsenden aromatischen Resten durch eine lineare Regressionsanalyse von Konkurrenzexperimenten bestimmt. Durch das Vergrößern der Seitenketten von Phenyl zu Pyrenyl wurde die Umsetzung des bevorzugt reagierenden Enantiomers mehr als 40‐fach beschleunigt. Basierend auf diesen Beobachtungen wurde ein neuer Katalysator mit vergrößertem sterischem Anspruch synthetisiert, mit dem Selektivitätswerte von bis zu s=250 erreicht wurden. Eine ausgiebige Konformationsanalyse für die entsprechenden Übergangszustände legt nahe, dass ein Angriff des Alkohols an der sterisch stärker gehinderten Seite des Acyl‐Katalysator‐Intermediats durch stabilisierende CH‐π‐Wechselwirkungen begünstigt wird. Experimentelle und theoretische Ergebnisse weisen darauf hin, dass die Zunahme der Enantioselektivität auf eine Reaktionsbeschleunigung des bevorzugten Enantiomers durch nicht‐kovalente Wechselwirkungen (NKW) zurückzuführen ist und nicht auf eine Verlangsamung des langsamer reagierenden Enantiomers durch repulsive sterische Kräfte.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Hydroalkylation of Cyclopropenes with Cobalt Homoenolates
Authors: Huang Wei , Meng Fanke
Published: October 2020

Catalylic diastereo‐ and enantioselective hydroalkylation of 3,3‐disubstituted cyclopropenes with Co‐homoenolate generated in situ from ring‐opening of easily accessible cyclopropanols promoted by a chiral phosphine–cobalt complex is presented. Such a process represents the unprecedented and direct introduction of a wide range of functionalized alkyl groups without the need of pre‐formation of stoichiometric amounts of organometallic reagents onto the cyclopropane motif, affording multi‐substituted cyclopropanes in up to 99 % yield with >95:5 dr and 98:2 er. Functionalization of the products delivered enantioenriched cyclopropanes that are otherwise difficult to access.
The “Hidden” Reductive [2+2+1]‐Cycloaddition Chemistry of 2‐Phosphaethynolate Revealed by Reduction of a Th‐OCP Linkage
Authors: Du Jingzhen , Balázs Gábor , Wooles Ashley J. , Scheer Manfred , Liddle Stephen T.
Published: October 2020

The reduction chemistry of the newly emerging 2‐phosphaethynolate (OCP)− is not well explored, and many unanswered questions remain about this ligand in this context. We report that reduction of [Th(TrenTIPS)(OCP)] (2, TrenTIPS=[N(CH2CH2NSiPri3)]3−), with RbC8 via [2+2+1] cycloaddition, produces an unprecedented hexathorium complex [{Th(TrenTIPS)}6(μ‐OC2P3)2(μ‐OC2P3H)2Rb4] (5) featuring four five‐membered [C2P3] phosphorus heterocycles, which can be converted to a rare oxo complex [{Th(TrenTIPS)(μ‐ORb)}2] (6) and the known cyclometallated complex [Th{N(CH2CH2NSiPri3)2(CH2CH2SiPri2CHMeCH2)}] (4) by thermolysis; thereby, providing an unprecedented example of reductive cycloaddition reactivity in the chemistry of 2‐phosphaethynolate. This has permitted us to isolate intermediates that might normally remain unseen. We have debunked an erroneous assumption of a concerted fragmentation process for (OCP)−, rather than cycloaddition products that then decompose with [Th(TrenTIPS)O]− essentially acting as a protecting then leaving group. In contrast, when KC8 or CsC8 were used the phosphinidiide C−H bond activation product [{Th(TrenTIPS)}Th{N(CH2CH2NSiPri3)2[CH2CH2SiPri2CH(Me)CH2C(O)μ‐P]}] (3) and the oxo complex [{Th(TrenTIPS)(μ‐OCs)}2] (7) were isolated.
Visible‐Light‐Promoted Metal‐Free Synthesis of (Hetero)Aromatic Nitriles from C(sp3)−H Bonds**
Authors: Murugesan Kathiravan , Donabauer Karsten , König Burkhard
Published: October 2020

The metal‐free activation of C(sp3)−H bonds to value‐added products is of paramount importance in organic synthesis. We report the use of the commercially available organic dye 2,4,6‐triphenylpyrylium tetrafluoroborate (TPP) for the conversion of methylarenes to the corresponding aryl nitriles via a photocatalytic process. Applying this methodology, a variety of cyanobenzenes have been synthesized in good to excellent yield under metal‐ and cyanide‐free conditions. We demonstrate the scope of the method with over 50 examples including late‐stage functionalization of drug molecules (celecoxib) and complex structures such as l‐menthol, amino acids, and cholesterol derivatives. Furthermore, the presented synthetic protocol is applicable for gram‐scale reactions. In addition to methylarenes, selected examples for the cyanation of aldehydes, alcohols and oximes are demonstrated as well. Detailed mechanistic investigations have been carried out using time‐resolved luminescence quenching studies, control experiments, and NMR spectroscopy as well as kinetic studies, all supporting the proposed catalytic cycle.
Cocoa Butter Alternatives from Enzymatic Interesterification of Palm Kernel Stearin, Coconut Oil, and Fully Hydrogenated Palm Stearin Blends
Authors: Ornla‐ied Pimwalan , Tan Chin Ping , Wang Yong , Sonwai Sopark
Published: October 2020

Structured lipids (SL) were produced from enzymatic interesterification (EIE) of palm kernel stearin (PKS), coconut oil (CNO), and fully hydrogenated palm stearin (FHPS) blends in various mass ratios. The EIE reactions were performed at 60 °C for 6 hours using immobilized Lipozyme RM IM with a mixing speed of 300 rpm. The physicochemical properties, crystallization and melting behavior, solid fat content (SFC), crystal morphology and polymorphism of the physical blends (PB), and the SL were characterized and compared with commercial cocoa butter and cocoa butter alternatives (CBA). EIE significantly modified the triacylglycerol compositions of the fat blends, resulting in changes in the physical properties and the crystallization and melting behavior. SFC and slip melting point of all SL decreased from those of their counterpart PB. In particular, SL obtained from EIE of blends 60:10:30 and 70:10:20 (PKS:CNO:FHPS) exhibited a high potential to be used astrans‐free CBA as they showed similar melting ranges, melting peak temperatures, and SFC curves to the commercial CBA with fine needle‐like crystals and desirable β' polymorph.
Flavors' Decreasing Contribution to p‐Anisidine Value over Shelf Life May Invalidate the Current Recommended Protocol for Flavored Fish Oils
Authors: Ye Liyun , Harris Emily , Budge Suzanne M. , Sullivan Ritter Jenna
Published: October 2020

The American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) Official Method Cd 18–90 for p‐Anisidine Value (pAV) is commonly used to evaluate secondary oxidation in fish oils. Flavoring agents in fish oil products may interfere with pAV and lead to inaccurate results. The Global Organization for EPA and DHA (GOED) recommends a protocol for calculating pAV of flavored fish oils based on the assumption that flavors' contribution to the pAV does not change over the course of oxidation. The objective of this study was to test this assumption. All 14 flavors evaluated increased the pAV when added to fresh fish oil; chocolate‐vanilla and lemon flavors generated the largest increase. Under accelerated oxidation conditions, both chocolate‐vanilla and lemon flavors had a similar effect; oxidized flavored fish oils had lower pAV than oxidized fish oils with newly added flavors. This was due to either an antioxidant effect of the flavor or loss of the flavor during oxidation. Following the GOED recommendation, we would have underestimated the oxidation in the flavored oils. For this reason, the pAV of flavored fish oils should be considered with caution and used in combination with other secondary oxidation markers when possible.
How accurate are the Doing Business indicators? A Pacific Island case study
Authors: Holden Paul , Pekmezovic Alma
Published: October 2020

While there have been several attempts to measure the investment climate, by far the most widely recognised measure is the World Bank's Doing Business indicators (DBIs), ranking some 200 countries on their ease of doing business. Methodological criticisms have failed to dent their stature. This article is based on case studies of Pacific Island countries that demonstrate that identical reforms in different countries are assigned rankings so widely divergent that they call into question the validity of the DBIs. The findings cast doubt on targeting improved DBI rankings as a policy goal. Our case studies are the first to provide detailed country evidence supporting the criticisms levelled against the DBIs on conceptual grounds.
Using microcontrollers and sensors to build an inexpensive CO2 control system for growth chambers
Authors: Chen Haoran , Markham John
Published: October 2020

PREMISE

A CO2 control system is important for investigating how elevated CO2 affects plant growth. Our automatic CO2 monitoring and control system offers an inexpensive and flexible way to make CO2‐enriched environments.

METHOD AND RESULTS

Using microcontrollers paired with non‐dispersive infrared CO2 sensors, relays, and valves, we developed a low‐cost system for monitoring and controlling CO2 levels in growth chambers.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with existing commercially available CO2 control systems, Arduino‐based microcontrollers offer affordable access to the data logging of CO2 levels in growth chambers, thereby reducing budget limitations for creating growth conditions with highly controlled CO2 concentrations.
Photo‐induced sp3 C−H bond arylation, cyanation and nitroalkylation of tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) under visible light irradiation using a combination of NHPI and Rose Bengal
Authors: Patil Mahendra R. , Shah Jagrut , Kumar A. Vijay , Kapdi Anant R.
Published: October 2020

This work reports a sustainable protocol for α‐arylation of tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) with aryl diazonium salts using a combination of a cheap and stable oxidant, N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI), and an inexpensive dye photosensitizer, Rose Bengal (RB), for the first time. The reaction was performed at ambient temperature using green LED light irradiation under an oxygen atmosphere. The developed α‐arylation protocol shows a diverse substrate scope for various THIQs and aryl diazonium salts. The work also explores nitroalkylation and cyanation under the developed reaction conditions. A possible SET mechanism is involved which was confirmed by ESI‐MS analysis of the reaction mixture.
Electrochemical Oxidative Cross‐Coupling of Enaminones and Thiophenols to Construct C−S Bonds
Authors: Lu Fangling , Zhang Kan , Wang Xiaoyu , Yao Yanxiu , Li Liangsen , Hu Jianguo , Lu Lijun , Gao Ziwei , Lei Aiwen
Published: October 2020

An electrochemical oxidative C(sp2)‐H sulfuration has been developed. Various enaminones and thiophenols were compatible, generating the desired alkenyl sulfur compounds in up to 87 % yield. This transformation proceeded smoothly under mild reaction conditions without external oxidant and transition‐metal catalyst. Remarkably, thiophenols selectively coupled with enamines when substrates had other alkenyl groups. In addition, the desired products could be further transformed into a series of α‐sulfur isoxazoles, which are a kind of useful heterocycles in materials and bioactive molecules.
Complex Interplay Between Cognitive Ability and Social Motivation in Predicting Social Skill: A Unique Role for Social Motivation in Children With Autism
Authors: Itskovich Elena , Zyga Olena , Libove Robin A. , Phillips Jennifer M. , Garner Joseph P. , Parker Karen J.
Published: October 2020

Impairment in social interaction is a core feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the factors which contribute to this social skill deficiency are poorly understood. Previous research has shown that cognitive ability can impact social skill development in ASD. Yet, children with ASD whose cognitive abilities are in the normal range nevertheless demonstrate deficits in social skill. More recently, the social motivation theory of ASD has emerged as a framework by which to understand how failure to seek social experiences may lead to social skill deficits. This study was designed to better understand the relationships between cognitive ability, social motivation, and social skill in a well‐characterized cohort of children with ASD (n = 79), their unaffected siblings (n = 50), and unrelated neurotypical controls (n = 60). The following instruments were used: The Stanford‐Binet intelligence quotient (IQ), the Social Responsiveness Scale's Social Motivation Subscale, and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales' Socialization Standard Score. We found that lower cognitive ability contributed to diminished social skill, but did so universally in all children. In contrast, social motivation strongly predicted social skill only in children with ASD, such that those with the lowest social motivation exhibited the greatest social skill impairment. Notably, this relationship was observed across a large range of intellectual ability but was most pronounced in those with IQs ≥ 80. These findings establish a unique link between social motivation and social skill in ASD and support the hypothesis that low social motivation may impair social skill acquisition in this disorder, particularly in children without intellectual disability.

Lay Summary

The relationships between cognitive ability, social motivation, and social skill are poorly understood. Here we report that cognitive ability predicts social skill in all children, whereas social motivation predicts social skill only in children with autism. These results establish a unique link between social motivation and social skill in autism, and suggest that low social motivation may impair social skill acquisition in this disorder, particularly in those without intellectual disability.
Full factorial study of pipe characteristics, stagnation times, and water quality
Authors: Tolofari Dienye L. , Masters Sheldon V. , Bartrand Tim , Hamilton Kerry A. , Haas Charles N. , Olson Mira , Summers R. Scott , Rasheduzzaman Md , Young Audrey , Singh Rajveer , Gurian Patrick L.
Published: October 2020

This study examines the effect of pipe characteristics and stagnation time on nitrification, disinfectant loss, and organic carbon concentrations. Pipe racks consisting of different pipe materials (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride [CPVC], cross‐linked polyethylene [PEX‐B], and copper), diameters (0.75 and 0.5 in.), and water stagnation times (1 week and 12 hr) were set up in two cities with different disinfectants (chloramine and free chlorine) and different corrosion control (orthophosphate vs. pH/alkalinity adjustment). Copper pipe material had lower residual concentrations relative to plastic pipe in both water systems. In the chloramine system, residual concentrations were lower for smaller‐diameter pipes, whereas diameter did not strongly influence residual concentration in the chlorine system. Total organic carbon (TOC) increased during stagnation in the chloramine system. Nitrification was observed in the chloramine system for stagnation times of 1 week and 12 hr, indicating that flushing as frequently as every 12 hr may not be an effective mechanism for nitrification control in building plumbing.
BIM‐basierte Kollaboration
Authors: Baumgärtel Lukas , Schönbach Robin , Hartung Robert , Ruwoldt Alexander , Klemt‐Albert Katharina
Published: October 2020

Objektbasierte, digitale 3‐D‐Bauwerksmodelle dienen bei Anwendung der Methode Building Information Modeling als zentrale Informationsquelle für alle Projektbeteiligten und stehen damit auch im Besprechungswesen von Bauprojekten immer mehr im Mittelpunkt. Für die Durchführung modellbasierter Planungsbesprechungen gibt es jedoch kaum Orientierungsmöglichkeiten und Standards, welche eindeutige Ablaufstrukturen, Rollenverteilungen sowie grundlegende IT‐Anforderungen der Räume für digitale Besprechungskonzepte betreffen. Die Potenziale der modellbasierten Kollaboration durch die Einführung der Methode BIM bleiben somit oft ungenutzt. Der vorliegende Aufsatz greift die Prozess‐ und Randbedingungen der BIM‐Methodik und Einflussgrößen des Besprechungswesens auf, stellt die Erprobung digitaler Planungsbesprechungen in Projektszenarien anhand von drei Praxisbeispielen dar und zeigt als Ergebnis der Analyse dieser Szenarien ein phasenorientiertes innovatives Ablaufkonzept zur integralen Vorbereitung, Durchführung und Nachbereitung einer modellbasierten Planungsbesprechung inkl. eindeutiger Rollenverteilung sowie Empfehlungen zu Anforderungen an Datenmanagement, Raumausstattung und IT.
Medicinal plants and bioactive natural compounds as inhibitors ofHMG‐CoAreductase: A literature review
Authors: Mahdavi Atena , Bagherniya Mohammad , Fakheran Omid , Reiner Željko , Xu Suowen , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: October 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the most important causes for mortality worldwide. Elevated levels of total cholesterol, and particularly LDL‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) are the main risk factor for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and ischemic heart disease. The risk of CVDs could be reduced by decreasing the elevated cholesterol levels. β‐hydroxy β‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMGCoAR) is the primary and rate‐limiting enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Recently, the crucial role of nutraceuticals in maintaining normal physiological function was established. Nutraceuticals play an important role in preventing several non‐communicable diseases such as obesity, CVDs, cancer, diabetes, and reducing hyperlipidemia. Although the effect of nutraceuticals and herbal medicine on CVDs and dyslipidemia was previously investigated thoroughly, the effect of these natural products on HMGCoAR as one of the important enzymes involved in CVDs etiopathogenesis has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the major aim of this paper was to review the effects of nutraceuticals and medicinal plants on HMGCoAR. Results indicate that different types of natural foods, isolated nutrients, herbal products, and dietary supplements as nutraceuticals decrease the expression and activity of HMGCoAR. This review shows that medicinal plants and nutraceuticals could be used to decrease HMGCoAR activity as accessible and convenient and economical natural compounds to prevent dyslipidemia and CVDs.
Dissolvable Gelatin‐Based Microcarriers Generated through Droplet Microfluidics for Expansion and Culture of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Ng Ee Xien , Wang Ming , Neo Shu Hui , Tee Ching Ann , Chen Chia‐Hung , Van Vliet Krystyn J.
Published: October 2020

Microcarriers are synthetic particles used in bioreactor‐based cell manufacturing of anchorage‐dependent cells to promote proliferation at efficient physical volumes, mainly by increasing the surface area‐to‐volume ratio. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are adherent cells that are used for numerous clinical trials of autologous and allogeneic cell therapy, thus requiring avenues for large‐scale cell production at efficiently low volumes and cost. Here, a dissolvable gelatin‐based microcarrier is developed for MSC expansion. This novel microcarrier shows comparable cell attachment efficiency and proliferation rate when compared to several commercial microcarriers, but with higher harvesting yield due to the direct dissolution of microcarrier particles and thus reduced cell loss at the cell harvesting step. Furthermore, gene expression and in vitro differentiation suggest that MSCs cultured on gelatin microcarriers maintain trilineage differentiation with similar adipogenic differentiation efficiency and higher chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation efficiency when compared to MSCs cultured on 2D planar polystyrene tissue culture flask; on the contrary, MSCs cultured on conventional microcarriers appear to be bipotent along osteochondral lineages whereby adipogenic differentiation potential is impeded. These results suggest that these gelatin microcarriers are suitable for MSC culture and expansion, and can also potentially be extended for other types of anchorage‐dependent cells.
Stay focused and reduce stress by utilizing apps
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2020

One of the major challenges almost all sectors have faced during the COVID‐19 pandemic has been the adjustment to working from home and conducting business virtually.
Study finds Americans would pay more to feel secure at large gatherings
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2020

A study conducted by the University of Southern California Center for Risk and Economic Analysis of Terrorism Events has found that, even 19 years after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, Americans would be willing to pay more for counterterrorism and anti‐crime security at large venues.
Enhancing the Nucleolytic Resistance and Bioactivity of Functional Nucleic Acids by Diverse Nanostructures through in Situ Polymerization‐Induced Self‐assembly
Authors: Yang Lu , Liang Mingwei , Cui Cheng , Li Xiaowei , Li Long , Pan Xiaoshu , Yazd Hoda Safari , Hong Min , Lu Jianrong , Cao Y. Charles , Tan Weihong
Published: October 2020

Functional nucleic acids (FNAs) are garnering tremendous interest owing to their high modularity and unique bioactivity. Three‐dimensional FNAs have been developed to overcome the issues of nuclease degradation and limited cell uptake. We have developed a new facile approach to the synthesis of multiple three‐dimensional FNA nanostructures by harnessing photo‐polymerization‐induced self‐assembly. Sgc8 aptamer and CpG oligonucleotide were modified as macro chain‐transfer reagents to mediate in situ polymerization and self‐assembly. Diverse structures, including micelles, rods, and short worms, afford these two FNAs afford these two FNAs with higher nuclease resistance in serum serum, greater cellular uptake efficiency, and increased bioactivity.
Confined Ru Nanocatalysts on Surface to Enhance Ammonia Synthesis: An In situ ETEM Study
Authors: Ding Jia , Wang Lizhuo , Wu Ping , Li Ang , Li Wei , Stampfl Catherine , Liao Xiaozhou , Haynes Brian S. , Han Xiaodong , Huang Jun
Published: October 2020

Ammonia is an important feedstock for producing fertilizer and chemicals as well as is also a potential energy carrier. Generally, MgO is considered as an electronic promoter for Ru catalysts in ammonia synthesis. In this research, it was found for the first time that surface atoms of Ru particles are stabilized by MgO modification at high temperature and reaction atmosphere, which contained more highly active B5‐sites for ammonia synthesis.Ex situHRTEM images show similar Ru nanoparticles containing steps with or without promoters. Under reaction temperatures and gas environment,in situenvironmental transmission electron microscopy (ETEM) observe that Ru particles without MgO promoter suffer from dynamic change and lost the B5‐sites on Ru steps, which results in the poor ammonia yield obtained by both the continuing‐flow reaction system. While MgO modification can stabilize the Ru surface structure and keep B5‐sites there, which contributes to the much higher ammonia yield. Density functional theory calculations show that B5‐site is a catalytic active center for ammonia synthesis and the N2dissociation barrier on B5‐site containing step is lower than B5‐site‐free step on Ru nanoparticles. The finding provides a new explanation for the high activity of MgO modified Ru catalysts. Moreover, adding CsOxwith MgO will contribute electron donation to stabilized Ru surface and accelerate the ammonia synthesis with five‐fold higher than MgO−Ru/MS at 500 °C. A better fundamental understanding of the dynamics of Ru catalysts and its reaction mechanism in this research is vital for optimizing the design of catalysts for ammonia synthesis.
Sulfur Precursor Reactivity Affecting the Crystal Phase and Morphology of Cu2−xS Nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Lihui , Hu Haifeng , Chen Yuzhou , Li Yuan , Gao Jing , Li Guohua
Published: October 2020

For plasmonic copper‐deficient Cu2−xS nanoparticles (NPs), accurate control of the crystal phase and morphology is highly desirable as both of which are known to determine the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) wavelength and amplitude. Here, how the sulfur precursor reactivity in the synthesis of Cu2−xS NPs affects the resulting crystal phase and morphology is examined. Djurleite Cu1.94S, roxbyite Cu1.8S, digenite Cu1.8S as well as covellite CuS nanodisks were synthesized by using 1‐dodecanethiol, N,N‐dibutylthiourea, and crystal sulfur 1‐octadecene/oleylamine solutions and their crystal phase dependent LSPR properties were exhaustively discussed. In addition, crystal phase interconversion between covellite CuS and djurleite/roxbyite Cu2−xS was realized in the presence of the above sulfur precursors. On the other hand, djurleite Cu1.94S nanorods rather than nanodisks were prepared by replacing 1‐dodecanethiol with more reactive tert‐dodecanethiol. The structural and morphological Cu2−xS NPs here holds great promise in the application of photothermal therapy, photocatalysis, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), and many others.
2′,4′‐BNA/LNA with 9‐(2‐Aminoethoxy)‐1,3‐diaza‐2‐oxophenoxazine Efficiently Forms Duplexes and Has Enhanced Enzymatic Resistance**
Authors: Kishimoto Yuki , Nakagawa Osamu , Fujii Akane , Yoshioka Kotaro , Nagata Tetsuya , Yokota Takanori , Hari Yoshiyuki , Obika Satoshi
Published: October 2020

Artificial nucleic acids are widely used in various technologies, such as nucleic acid therapeutics and DNA nanotechnologies requiring excellent duplex‐forming abilities and enhanced nuclease resistance. 2′‐O,4′‐C‐Methylene‐bridged nucleic acid/locked nucleic acid (2′,4′‐BNA/LNA) with 1,3‐diaza‐2‐oxophenoxazine (BNAP (BH)) was previously reported. Herein, a novel BH analogue, 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA with 9‐(2‐aminoethoxy)‐1,3‐diaza‐2‐oxophenoxazine (G‐clamp), named BNAP‐AEO (BAEO), was designed. The BAEO nucleoside was successfully synthesized and incorporated into oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs). ODNs containing BAEO possessed up to 104‐, 152‐, and 11‐fold higher binding affinities for complementary (c) RNA than those of ODNs containing 2′‐deoxycytidine (C), 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA with 5‐methylcytosine (L), or 2′‐deoxyribonucleoside with G‐clamp (PAEO), respectively. Moreover, duplexes formed by ODN bearing BAEO with cDNA and cRNA were thermally stable, even under molecular crowding conditions induced by the addition of polyethylene glycol. Furthermore, ODN bearing BAEO was more resistant to 3′‐exonuclease than ODNs with phosphorothioate linkages.
Discover the Post‐Translational Modification Proteome Using Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Ying , Fang Caiyun , Bao Huimin , Yuan Wenjuan , Lu Haojie
Published: October 2020

Protein post‐translational modifications (PTMs) are chemical modifications on proteins. PTMs play a key role in many cellular processes by influencing the structure of proteins and dynamically regulating their functions. Therefore, characterizing PTMs at proteome level is critical to provide invaluable insight into the functions of proteins underlying different biological processes. Advances in modern proteomics technologies including sample preparation, chromatography separation as well as mass spectrometry have propelled the PTMs proteome to further depths. During the past decade, to better examine the PTMs with high sensitivity and selectivity, our group have developed a series of MS‐based novel analytical approaches to study the protein PTMs. Herein, we mainly introduce these approaches developed by our group and discuss how to overcome the technical obstacles of studying various protein PTMs with mass spectrometry.

What is the most favorite and original method developed in your research group?

The qualitative and quantitative approaches developed for analysis of PTM proteome.

How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers?

I entered Fudan University in 2003, when the sequencing of human genome was just completed. At that time, the life science entered the

post‐genomic era, the era of proteomics. My post‐doctoral work is mainly based on mass spectrometry analysis, which is the core tool for proteome research. Therefore, I began to develop mass spectrometry‐based method for proteome research since then.

What is the most important personality for scientific research?

Creative, persistence, and collaboration.

What's your hobbies?

Playing badminton.
Therapeutic Strategies To Counteract Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA Biofilm‐Associated Infections
Authors: Cascioferro Stella , Carbone Daniela , Parrino Barbara , Pecoraro Camilla , Giovannetti Elisa , Cirrincione Girolamo , Diana Patrizia
Published: October 2020

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has emerged as one of the leading causes of persistent human infections. This pathogen is widespread and is able to colonize asymptomatically about a third of the population, causing moderate to severe infections. It is currently considered the most common cause of nosocomial infections and one of the main causes of death in hospitalized patients. Due to its high morbidity and mortality rate and its ability to resist most antibiotics on the market, it has been termed a “superbug”. Its ability to form biofilms on biotic and abiotic surfaces seems to be the primarily means of MRSA antibiotic resistance and pervasiveness. Importantly, more than 80 % of bacterial infections are biofilm‐mediated. Biofilm formation on indwelling catheters, prosthetic devices and implants is recognized as the cause of serious chronic infections in hospital environments. In this review we discuss the most relevant literature of the last five years concerning the development of synthetic small molecules able to inhibit biofilm formation or to eradicate or disperse pre‐formed biofilms in the fight against MRSA diseases. The aim is to provide guidelines for the development of new anti‐virulence strategies based on the knowledge so far acquired, and, to identify the main flaws of this research field, which have hindered the generation of new market‐approved anti‐MRSA drugs that are able to act against biofilm‐associated infections
Unusual Solvatofluorochromism of the Asymmetrically Substituted Aromatic Acetylene Derivative CNAacDMA**
Authors: Bylińska Irena , Szabelski Mariusz , Wiczk Wiesław
Published: October 2020

The photophysical properties of the newly synthesized unsymmetrically substituted aromatic acetylene derivative 9‐(2‐(4‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)phenyl)ethynyl)anthracene‐10‐carbonitrile (CNAacDMA) were investigated with the steady‐state and time‐resolved fluorometry. In saturated hydrocarbon solvents, only fluorescence from a locally‐excited state (LE) is recorded. In more polar solvents however, excitation of this dye leads to a charge transfer state (CT). In moderate polar solvents (ϵ=4–8) dual emission is observed as a result of competition between structural change and intramolecular charge transfer in the excited state. In polar solvents only one emission band, at shorter wavelength than CT emission, is observed, indicating a bidirectional solvatofluorochromism.
Oxygen‐Deficient Cobalt‐Based Oxides for Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Badreldin Ahmed , Abusrafa Aya E. , Abdel‐Wahab Ahmed
Published: October 2020

An apparent increased interest has been recently devoted towards the previously untrodden path for anionic point defect engineering of electrocatalytic surfaces. The role of vacancy engineering in improving photo‐ and electrocatalytic activities of transition metal oxides (TMOs) has been widely reported. In particular, oxygen vacancy modulation on electrocatalysts of cobalt‐based TMOs has seen a fresh spike of research work due to the substantial improvements they have shown towards oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Oxygen vacancy engineering is an effective scheme to quintessentially tune the electronic structure and charge transport, generate secondary active surface phases, and modify the surface adsorption/desorption behavior of reaction intermediates during water splitting. Based on contemporary efforts for inducing oxygen vacancies in a variety of cobalt oxide types, this work addresses facile and environmentally benign synthesis strategies, characterization techniques, and detailed insight into the intrinsic mechanistic modulation of electrocatalysts. It is our foresight that appropriate utilization of the principles discussed herein will aid researchers in rationally designing novel materials that can outperform noble metal‐based electrocatalysts. Ultimately, future electrocatalysis implementation for selective seawater splitting is believed to depend on regulating the surface chemistry of active and stable TMOs.
Can CO2 and Steam React in the Absence of Electrolysis at High Temperatures?
Authors: Zhou Song , Yan Xue , Liu Cheng , Qian Binbin , Zhe Liu Jefferson , Zhang Lian
Published: October 2020

The fundamental question of whether CO2 can react with steam at high temperatures in the absence of electrolysis or high pressures is answered. These two gases are commonly co‐present as industrial wastes. Herein, a simple experiment by flowing CO2 and steam through a CaCl2 matrix at 500–1000 °C and atmospheric pressure was designed. Comprehensive characterizations and density functional theory calculations were conducted. Meanwhile, this study aims to recover HCl from CaCl2 via a low‐emission oxy‐pyrohydrolysis process. As confirmed, CO2 and steam interact strongly on the CaCl2 surface, leading to an explicit formation of CaCO3/CaO and a nearly complete release of HCl. This is mainly contributed to a halved energy required for the splitting of H2O, resulting from the formation of a bicarbonate‐like structure to replace Cl− out of CaCl2, an otherwise industrial waste, whilst an important dopant for carbon capture, utilization and storage, and medium for electrochemical synthesis.
Mechanistic Understanding of CaO‐Based Sorbents for High‐Temperature CO2 Capture: Advanced Characterization and Prospects
Authors: Krödel Maximilian , Landuyt Annelies , Abdala Paula M. , Müller Christoph R.
Published: October 2020

Carbon dioxide capture and storage technologies are short to mid‐term solutions to reduce anthropogenic CO2 emissions. CaO‐based sorbents have emerged as a viable class of cost‐efficient CO2 sorbents for high temperature applications. Yet, CaO‐based sorbents are prone to deactivation over repeated CO2 capture and regeneration cycles. Various strategies have been proposed to improve their cyclic stability and rate of CO2 uptake including the addition of promoters and stabilizers (e. g., alkali metal salts and metal oxides), as well as nano‐structuring approaches. However, our fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanisms through which promoters or stabilizers affect the performance of the sorbents is limited. With the recent application of advanced characterization techniques, new insight into the structural and morphological changes that occur during CO2 uptake and regeneration has been obtained. This review summarizes recent advances that have improved our mechanistic understanding of CaO‐based CO2 sorbents with and without the addition of stabilizers and/or promoters, with a specific emphasis on the application of advanced characterization techniques.
Metformin‐Templated Nanoporous ZnO and Covalent Organic Framework Heterojunction Photoanode for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Chatterjee Sauvik , Bhanja Piyali , Ghosh Dibyendu , Kumar Praveen , Kanti Das Sabuj , Dalapati Sasanka , Bhaumik Asim
Published: October 2020

Photoelectrochemical water‐splitting offers unique opportunity in the utilization of abundant solar light energy and water resources to produce hydrogen (renewable energy) and oxygen (clean environment) in the presence of a semiconductor photoanode. Zinc oxide (ZnO), a wide bandgap semiconductor is found to crystallize predominantly in the hexagonal wurtzite phase. Herein, we first report a new crystalline triclinic phase of ZnO by using N‐rich antidiabetic drug metformin as a template via hydrothermal synthesis with self‐assembled nanorod‐like particle morphology. We have fabricated a heterojunction nanocomposite charge carrier photoanode by coupling this porous ZnO with a covalent organic framework, which displayed highly enhanced photocurrent density of 0.62 mA/cm2 at 0.2 V vs. RHE in photoelectrochemical water oxidation and excellent photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency at near‐neutral pH vis‐à‐vis bulk ZnO. This enhancement of the photocurrent for the porous ZnO/COF nanocomposite material over the corresponding bulk ZnO could be attributed to the visible light energy absorption by COF and subsequent efficient charge‐carrier mobility via porous ZnO surface.