bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SUCCESS RATE OF RESULTS IN SWIMMING 400m FREESTYLE DEPENDANT OF TIME TRIALS BY SECTIONS
Authors: Trivun Milomir , Panić Željko , Németh Zsolt
Published: October 2019

For the purpose of this research, sample of 36 participants was divided into three sub-samples of 12swimmers, participants in Open Championship of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2017 and 2018, as wellas rally at 25th International memorial race “Ante Lambaša“ in Belgrade in 2017. Data was obtainedfrom entries for time trials as well as final results of competition in 400m freestyle swimming. Researchwas conducted with the aim of establishing the influence of sections (50m, 100m, 150m,200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) as predictor set of variables and influence on criterion variable ofsuccess rate of results in 400m freestyle swimming. Results obtained using the regression analysislead to conclusion that there is statistically significant connection between the set of variables (50m,100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) and criterion variable of 400m freestyle swimming.Values of coefficient of multiple correlation which determine the influence of the set of of predictorvariables (50m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) to criterion variable of 400m freestyleswimming are respectively: for 50 m 42%, 100 m 52%, 150 m 65%, 200 m 67%, 250 m 67%, 300 m68%, 350 m 43% of the common variance of swimmers who took part in rally “Olimp Banja Luka” in2018.Values of coefficient of multiple correlation which determine the influence of the set of of predictorvariables (50m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) to criterion variable of 400m freestyleswimming are respectively:for 50 m 58%, 100 m 59%, 150 m 71%, 200 m 70%, 250 m 71%, 300 m70%, 350 m 41% of the common variance of swimmers who took part in rally “Olimp Banja Luka” in2017.Values of coefficient of multiple correlation which determine the influence of the set of of predictorvariables (50m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) to criterion variable of 400m freestyleswimming are respectively:for 50 m 58%, 100 m 65%, 150 m 62%, 200 m 84%, 250 m 67%, 300 m89%, 350 m 76% of the common variance of swimmers who took part in rally 25th Internationalmemorial race “Ante Lambaša“in 2017 in Belgrade.Conclusion: set of predictor variables (50m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, 300m and 350m) of freestyleswimming has significant percentage of influence to criterion variable 400m freestyle swimming forswimmers who took part in rally 25th International memorial race “Ante Lambaša“ in Belgrade in2017 in Seerbia when compared to the same one for swimmers who took part in Open Championshipof Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2017 and 2018.
EFEKTI MODELA VJEŽBI KONDICIONE PRIPREME NA FLEKSIBILNOST MLADIH SPORTISTA
Authors: Marković Miloslav , Arnautovic Jelena , Gligoric Sanja
Published: October 2019

Cilj istraživanja je proučavanje efekata modela vježbi u procesu kondicione pripreme sportista na motoričke sposobnosti (fleksibilnost) kod mladih sportista. Uzorak ispitanika odnosio se na učenika srednjih škola u Kruševcu, uzrasta 15 i 16 godina, obuhvaćenih redovnom nastavom fizičkog vaspitanja i trenažnim procesom u dodatnoj nastavi fizičkog vaspitanja. Ukupan uzorak od 112 ispitanika bio je podeljen je na dva subuzorka: Prvi subuzorak od 56 ispitanika obuhvaćen redovnom nastavom fizičkog vaspitanja i trenažnim radom tri puta nedeljno za realizaciju modela motoričkih vežbi (fleksibilnosti) u procesu kondicione pripreme u dodatnoj nastavi fizičkog vaspitanja čini eksperimentalnu grupu. Drugi subuzorak od 56 ispitanika obuhvaćen samo redovnom nastavom fizičkog vaspitanja čini kontrolnu grupu ispitanika. Uzorak varijabli činili su; duboki pretklon na klupici, špagat i iskret palicom. Analizom rezultate T-testa motoričkih sposobnosti između inicijalnog i finalnog merenja ispitanika kontrolne grupe. Nakon analize dobijenih rezultata zaključuje se da ne postoji statistički značajna razlika u testovima motoričkih sposobnosti.Univarijantnom analizom varijanse testova motoričkih sposobnosti upoređivanjem rezultata aritmetičkih sredina eksperimentalne i kontrolne grupe na finalnom merenju. Na osnovu koeficijenata F-odnosa i njihove značajnosti (P-Level) može se konstatovati da nije utvrđena statistički značajna razlika nivoa motoričkih sposobnosti između eksperimentalne i kontrolne grupe.
IMPACT OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT ON THE ECONOMIC GROWTH: THE CASE OF COMMONWEALTH OF INDEPENDENT STATES
Authors: Gligorić Dragan , Borović Zoran , Vujanić Vlado
Published: October 2019

Economic theory suggests that free capitalflows increase the efficiency of the resource allocation, andstimulate economic growth. Foreign direct investment (FDI)is seen as a kind of cure for all economic problems incountries that do not have a sufficient level of accumulationfor starting economic growth. In this paper we willinvestigate the impact of FDI on economic growth inCommonwealth of Independent States (Armenia, Azerbaijan,Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, RussianFederation, Tajikistan and Ukraine) for the 2000-2015period. Our assumption is that increase in FDI inflow willhave positive impact on economic growth. The analyisis wascarried out using the ARDL (Pooled Mean Group/ARDistributed Lag Models). This model is particularlyconvenient in a situation where all variables are stationaryat different levels. The results shows strong and positiveimpact of FDI on economic growth.
SME ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ITS CONTRIBUTION TO ECONOMIC ACTIVITY IN THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA
Authors: Spremo Tihomir , Marjanović Jelena
Published: October 2019

Research on the role and importance ofentrepreneurship in economic development is influenced bythe orientation of development policies in advancedeconomies. Considering that the orientation towardsentrepreneurial activity and development of small businessis present in developed economies, the aim of this researchis to determine the impact of entrepreneurial activity ofSMEs on the economy in the Republic of Srpska. Themethods used in the paper are: analysis, synthesis,induction, deduction, comparison, benchmarking. Theresults of the research have shown that SMEs in theRepublic of Srpska generate more new jobs, achieve higherturnover and create more added value than big companies.However, big firms are more profitable and have higherproductivity, leading to the conclusion that developmentpolicies should not be rigorously limited to the developmentof only one sector, but rather to encourage their coexistence.
SMALL BUSINESS GROWTH IN THE CONTEXT OF TOURISM
Authors: Drakulevski Ljubomir , Janeska-Iliev Aleksandra
Published: October 2019

The discussion evolves around the conceptof small business considering specific characteristics andespecially external factors influencing their performance,more specifically their growth. Analysis related to smallbusiness have noticeably grown in the last twenty years,being for a long time outshined by the global dominance oflarge businesses operations. The huge presence of smallbusinesses in any economy provides a basis for reviewingvarious aspects related to their operations. In terms of theincreasing importance of small business for the recoveryand growth of world economy, the characteristics of smallbusinesses are relevant and important research areas. Smallbusinesses have been considered to be dominant in areaswhere conducting business is strongly influenced by tourism.This paper is oriented strongly towards the issues andsettings of small business with a focus on those situated inthe touristic region of Ohrid, Macedonia. Hence the purposeof this research effort is to determine whether the growth ofsmall businesses is influenced by different aspects,especially the regional aspect of being active in a touristicregion. The empirical research includes 89 companies fromthe most prominent touristic destination in Macedonia, thecity of Ohrid. A multiple regression analysis is used or anempirical point including multiple independent variable andone dependent variable reflecting various aspects of theproposed discussion focusing around growth and tourism.
ESTIMATING THE DETERMINANTS OF TAX EVASION USING EMPIRICAL DATA
Authors: Đurović-Todorović Jadranka , Đorđević Marina , Ristić Milica
Published: October 2019

Over the past several decades, tax evasion has shown a tendency for growth in all countries. Analogically to its presence in all tax systems, the tax evasion phenomenon is increasingly present in numerous theoretical, empirical and experimental works. The subject of this paper is the assessment of the basic determinants of tax evasion in the Republic of Serbia. We analyzed the economic and psychological factors, first through the literature review, and then empirically.By the method of multiple regression analysis, we investigated several potential variables related to tax evasion: the number of tax inspectors, the number of controls, the rate of value added tax, and the number of controls with irregularities. The empirical analysis of the annual data of the Ministry of Finance was conducted for the period 2005-2016. The results show that the number of tax inspectors and the number of controls with irregularities have a positive, statistically significant impact on the volume of tax evasion in Serbia. The number of controls, as a variable of economic character, showed a negative, statistically significant influence on the evasion. The influence of the selected independent variable, the value added tax rate, is not statistically significant. If we complement the effects of all factors, this study contributes to the literature that explores the factors of tax evasion. The aim of our research is to draw the tax policy makers’ attention to the importance of the analyzed factors and to contribute to the fight against this inevitable and general problem.
CHARACTERISTICS, STRUCTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY OF DEBT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA
Authors: Grujić Miloš , Rajčević Perica
Published: October 2019

The aim of the research is to address the challenges that may be a constraint on economic growth and development. In the research, we used the relevant literature and acts that were in front of the delegates at the National Assembly of Republic of Srpska. The research question is: "What are the main characteristics of the Republic of Srpska's debt?" In line with this, the methods employed in this paper are the analysis and synthesis of previous researchs, theoretical findings and publicly accessible documents pertaining to the debt of Republic of Srpska, and an overview of the case studies.  The contribution of the paper is reflected in the explained wideness and the possibilities of using different sources of money, and the limits on which the debts can be used in order to achieve sustainability tasks. We have concluded that this year, the Republic of Srpska bill has reached the largest amount of debt – KM 858 million (755 million principal and 103 million interest). In line with the presented evidence, priority should be given to projects that would be financed by advantageous credit arrangements and to rationalize public spending. Despite the usual opinion, we have proven that the debt of the Republic of Srpska is sustainable - the average interest rate is lower than the GDP growth rate and that, although unpopular, the currency board system corresponds to the position of Republic of Srpska. However, we have pointed out the danger of stereotype that the public debt of less than 60% necessarily indicates that the country is in a good position.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CASH FLOW MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF COMPANIES LISTED ON THE TEHRAN STOCK EXCHANGE
Authors: Ramazani Majid , Salehi Mahdi , Laridashtbayaz Mahmoud
Published: October 2019

Purpose–Cash is one of the most important assets to business firms. To evaluate a business firm, the competencies of a firm in creating and increasing the cash are of great importance for investors, creditors, and other beneficiaries. So, the main objective of the current study is to evaluate the relationship between cash flow management and firm financial performance in Iran. Design/methodology/approach – In the present study, using the data of 155 companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange during 2009-2016, panel data, and multivariable regression, we tried to analyze the relationship cash flow management and financial performance.  Findings –The results obtained indicated that there is a relationship between the decrease (increase) of cash conversion cycle and operational cash conversion cycle and the improvement (debilitation) of financial performance. Moreover, the pending period for collection of sales revenue, cash conversion cycle, and operational cash conversion cycle is the Granger Cause of return on assets. Originality/value – Since a few studies have been conducted on cash flow management in Iran, the current study has covered the topic in Iran..
ECONOMIC GROWTH MODEL FOR BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA IN THE PERIOD 2007-2017 - OPPORTUNITIES FOR FUTURE RISKS REDUCTION -
Authors: Stevanović Saša
Published: October 2019

The theory of the system indicates that the metastable state (state of the system described as a state which is close to the equilibrium state) will go into equilibrium if we wait long enough. The behavior of a particular system in the future depends on historical events, current and future shocks. In the equilibrium, all participants in economic life - economic agents are satisfied with their position, and economists call this a state of Nash equilibrium. The problem that we will deal with is the question of whether the economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina is in equilibrium, how to measure equilibrium, how to achieve stability and the balance of the system. The research will focus on productivity function for BiH, the concept of a potential gross domestic product, deviations in the nominal gross domestic product from the potential. We will analyze aggregate demand with the aim to define the model of economic growth of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We believe this knowledge will provide a basis that we believe can serve to create instruments, measures and policies that are needed to reduce future risks - deviations in economic growth.
RESEARCH OF CONDITIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP CONCEPT
Authors: Amović Goran
Published: October 2019

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a contractual relationship that integrates resources of the public and private sectors in the function of more efficient building public services. Over time, national governments have accepted, developed and organized Public-Private Partnerships in various ways, by respecting its historical and cultural context, the legal framework and the economic environment. The goal in this paper is to identify key factors that may have an impact on the development of public-private partnerships. In this paper, along with the presentation of previous research, we will demonstrate the development of the concept of Public-Private Partnership in countries with different political, social and economic regulations.
Genome-wide analysis of basic helix–loop–helix superfamily members related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant (Solanum melongenaL.)
Authors: Tian Shiyu , Li Lujun , Wei Min , Yang Fengjuan
Published: October 2019

The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) superfamily is considered the second largest transcription factor (TF) family. It plays regulatory roles in the developmental processes of plants and in their defense responses. In recent years, many bHLH superfamily genes have been identified and characterized in herbaceous and woody plants. However, the comprehensive genomic and functional analyses of these genes in eggplant (Solanum melongenaL.) have not been reported. In this study, 121 bHLH TFs were identified in the recently released eggplant genome. The phylogeny, gene structure and conserved motifs of theSmbHLHgene were comprehensively studied. Subsequently, the phylogenetic relationship between the bHLH of eggplant and the bHLH of other species was analyzed, and the proteins were classified into 17 subfamilies. Among these protein sequences, 16 subgroups were clustered into the functional clades ofArabidopsis. Two candidate genes (SmbHLH1,SmbHLH117) that may be involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis were screened. The tissue specificity or differential expression of thebHLHgenes in different tissues and under various light and temperature conditions suggested the differential regulation of tissue development and metabolism. This study not only provides a solid foundation for the functional dissection of the eggplantbHLHgene family but may also be useful for the future synthesis of anthocyanins in eggplant.
Air Effect on the Ideality of p‐Type Organic Field‐Effect Transistors: A Double‐Edged Sword
Authors: Wu Xiaofeng , Jia Ruofei , Jie Jiansheng , Zhang Mi , Pan Jing , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: October 2019

Organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) often deviate from ideal behaviors in air, which masks their intrinsic properties and thus significantly impedes their practical applications. A key issue of how the presence of air affects the ideality of OFETs has not yet been fully understood. It is revealed that air atmosphere may exert a double‐edged sword effect on the active semiconductor layer when determining the ideality of OFETs fabricated from p‐type crystalline organic semiconductors. Upon exposing the as‐fabricated device to air, water and oxygen mainly function as efficient p‐type dopants for the active layer in the contact regions, enhancing charge carrier injection and consequently improving device ideality. Nevertheless, as the exposure time increases, the trapping centers for the injected minority charge carriers appear in the channel region, leading to degradation of device ideality. Inspired by the double‐edged sword behavior of air, a near‐ideal OFET is achieved by ingeniously utilizing the doping/positive effect and eliminating the trapping/negative effect. The effect of air on the ideality of p‐type OFETs is clarified, which not only illuminates some common observations of OFETs in air but also offers useful guidance for the construction of high‐performance ideal OFETs.
Highly Sensitive and Wearable Liquid Metal‐Based Pressure Sensor for Health Monitoring Applications: Integration of a 3D‐Printed Microbump Array with the Microchannel
Authors: Kim Kyuyoung , Choi Jungrak , Jeong Yongrok , Cho Incheol , Kim Minseong , Kim Seunghwan , Oh Yongsuk , Park Inkyu
Published: October 2019

Wearable pressure sensors capable of sensitive, precise, and continuous measurement of physiological and physical signals have great potential for the monitoring of health status and the early diagnosis of diseases. This work introduces a 3D‐printed rigid microbump‐integrated liquid metal‐based soft pressure sensor (3D‐BLiPS) for wearable and health‐monitoring applications. Using a 3D‐printed master mold based on multimaterial fused deposition modeling, the fabrication of a liquid metal microchannel and the integration of a rigid microbump array above the microchannel are achieved in a one‐step, direct process. The microbump array enhances the sensitivity of the pressure sensor (0.158 kPa−1) by locally concentrating the deformation of the microchannel with negligible hysteresis and a stable signal response under cyclic loading. The 3D‐BLiPS also demonstrates excellent robustness to 10 000 cycles of multidirectional stretching/bending, changes in temperature, and immersion in water. Finally, these characteristics are suitable for a wide range of applications in health monitoring systems, including a wristband for the continuous monitoring of the epidermal pulse rate for cuffless blood pressure estimation and a wireless wearable device for the monitoring of body pressure using a multiple pressure sensor array for the prevention of pressure ulcers.
Understanding the High Performance of over 15% Efficiency in Single‐Junction Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Karki Akchheta , Vollbrecht Joachim , Dixon Alana L. , Schopp Nora , Schrock Max , Reddy G. N. Manjunatha , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: October 2019

The highly efficient single‐junction bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) PM6:Y6 system can achieve high open‐circuit voltages (VOC) while maintaining exceptional fill‐factor (FF) and short‐circuit current (JSC) values. With a low energetic offset, the blend system is found to exhibit radiative and non‐radiative recombination losses that are among the lower reported values in the literature. Recombination and extraction dynamic studies reveal that the device shows moderate non‐geminate recombination coupled with exceptional extraction throughout the relevant operating conditions. Several surface and bulk characterization techniques are employed to understand the phase separation, long‐range ordering, as well as donor:acceptor (D:A) inter‐ and intramolecular interactions at an atomic‐level resolution. This is achieved using photo‐conductive atomic force microscopy, grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, and solid‐state 19F magic‐angle‐spinning NMR spectroscopy. The synergy of multifaceted characterization and device physics is used to uncover key insights, for the first time, on the structure–property relationships of this high‐performing BHJ blend. Detailed information about atomically resolved D:A interactions and packing reveals that the high performance of over 15% efficiency in this blend can be correlated to a beneficial morphology that allows high JSC and FF to be retained despite the low energetic offset.
A comprehensive thermodynamic model for high salinity produced waters
Authors: Tanveer Sheik , Chen Chau‐Chyun
Published: October 2019

Reuse of produced waters in oil and gas production is a major concern due to high treatment cost and regulations on disposal in the environment. To support development of separation techniques and process innovations, we report a comprehensive thermodynamic model for the aqueous hexary system of Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cl−, and SO42−, the major ionic species present in high salinity produced waters. Based on the electrolyte NRTL theory, the model accurately calculates thermodynamic and phase equilibrium properties with two binary interaction parameters per water‐electrolyte pair and electrolyte‐electrolyte pair sharing a common ion. This article presents the methodology to identify the binary interaction parameters from literature data and the model results for wide varieties of thermodynamic and phase equilibrium properties including salt solubility for selected binary, ternary, quaternary, and quinary subsystems. The model is validated with the electrolyte concentrations up to salt saturation and temperatures from 273 to 473 K.
Haploidentical transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia patients with minimal/measurable residual disease at transplantation
Authors: Srour Samer A. , Saliba Rima M. , Bittencourt Maria C. B. , Perez Jorge M. R. , Kongtim Piyanuch , Alousi Amin , Al‐Atrash Gheath , Olson Amanda , Betul Oran , Mehta Rohtesh , Popat Uday , Hosing Chitra , Bashir Qaiser , Khouri Issa , Kebriaei Partow , Masarova Lucia , Short Nicholas , Jabbour Elias , Daver Naval , Konopleva Marina , Ravandi Farhad , Kantarjian Hagop , Champlin Richard E. , Ciurea Stefan O.
Published: October 2019

There have been conflicting results regarding the impact of minimal/measurable disease at transplant on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) outcomes after haploidentical transplantation (haplo‐SCT). We assessed the impact of pre‐transplant disease status on post‐transplant outcomes of 143 patients treated with haplo‐SCT using fludarabine‐melphalan (FM) conditioning and post‐transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy). With a median follow‐up of 29 months, the two‐year PFS for all patients was 41%. Compared to patients in complete remission (CR) at transplant, those with active disease (n = 29) and CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) (n = 39) had worse PFS. They had hazard ratios (HR) of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.05‐6.1; P < .001) and 2.3 (95% CI: 1.3‐3.9; P = .002), respectively. Among patients who were in CR at transplant, there were no differences in PFS between those who had minimal residual disease (MRD) positive (n = 24), and MRD negative (n = 41) (HR 1.85, 95%CI: 0.9‐4.0; P = .1). In multivariable analysis for patients in CR, only age was predictive for outcomes, while MRD status at transplant did not influence the treatment outcomes. Our findings suggest that haplo‐SCT with FM conditioning regimen and PTCy‐based GVHD prophylaxis has a protective effect, and may potentially abrogate the inferior outcomes of MRD positivity for patients with AML. Patients with positive MRD may benefit from proceeding urgently to a haplo‐SCT, as this does not appear to negatively impact transplant outcomes.
Logic‐Gate‐Actuated DNA‐Controlled Receptor Assembly for the Programmable Modulation of Cellular Signal Transduction
Authors: Chen Shan , Xu Zhifei , Yang Wen , Lin Xiahui , Li Jingying , Li Juan , Yang Huanghao
Published: October 2019

Programming cells to sense multiple inputs and activate cellular signal transduction cascades is of great interest. Although this goal has been achieved through the engineering of genetic circuits using synthetic biology tools, a nongenetic and generic approach remains highly demanded. Herein, we present an aptamer‐controlled logic receptor assembly for modulating cellular signal transduction. Aptamers were engineered as “robotic arms” to capture target receptors (c‐Met and CD71) and a DNA logic assembly functioned as a computer processor to handle multiple inputs. As a result, the DNA assembly brings c‐Met and CD71 into close proximity, thus interfering with the ligand–receptor interactions of c‐Met and inhibiting its functions. Using this principle, a set of logic gates was created that respond to DNA strands or light irradiation, modulating the c‐Met/HGF signal pathways. This simple modular design provides a robust chemical tool for modulating cellular signal transduction.
Flexible Amalgam Film Enables Stable Lithium Metal Anodes with High Capacities
Authors: He Guang , Li Qingwen , Shen Yongli , Ding Yi
Published: October 2019

Dendrite formation is a critical challenge for the applications of lithium (Li) metal anodes. In this work a new strategy is demonstrated to address this issue by fabricating an Li amalgam film on its surface. This protective film serves as a flexible buffer that affords repeated Li plating/stripping. In symmetric cells, the protected Li electrodes exhibit stable cycling over 750 hours at a high plating current and capacity of 8 mA cm−2 and 8 mAh cm−2, respectively. Coupled with high‐loading cathodes (ca. 12 mg cm−2) such as LiFePO4 and LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2, the protected hybrid anodes demonstrate significantly improved cell stability, indicating its reliability for practical development of Li metal batteries. Interfacial analyses reveal a unique plating‐alloying synergistic function of the protective film, where Li beneath the film is actively involved in the electrode reactions upon cycling. Lithium amalgams enrich the alloy anode family and provide new perspectives for the rational design of dendrite‐free anodes.
A Dual‐Ligand Porous Coordination Polymer Chemiresistor with Modulated Conductivity and Porosity
Authors: Yao Ming‐Shui , Zheng Jia‐Jia , Wu Ai‐Qian , Xu Gang , Nagarkar Sanjog S. , Zhang Gen , Tsujimoto Masahiko , Sakaki Shigeyoshi , Horike Satoshi , Otake Kenichi , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: October 2019

Single‐ligand‐based electronically conductive porous coordination polymers/metal–organic frameworks (EC‐PCPs/MOFs) fail to meet the requirements of numerous electronic applications owing to their limited tunability in terms of both conductivity and topology. In this study, a new 2D π‐conjugated EC‐MOF containing copper units with mixed trigonal ligands was developed: Cu3(HHTP)(THQ) (HHTP=2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexahydrotriphenylene, THQ=tetrahydroxy‐1,4‐quinone). The modulated conductivity (σ≈2.53×10−5 S cm−1 with an activation energy of 0.30 eV) and high porosity (ca. 441.2 m2 g−1) of the Cu3(HHTP)(THQ) semiconductive nanowires provided an appropriate resistance baseline and highly accessible areas for the development of an excellent chemiresistive gas sensor.
Thiophenylazobenzene: An Alternative Photoisomerization Controlled by Lone‐Pair⋅⋅⋅π Interaction
Authors: Slavov Chavdar , Yang Chong , Heindl Andreas H. , Wegner Hermann A. , Dreuw Andreas , Wachtveitl Josef
Published: October 2019

Azoheteroarene photoswitches have attracted attention due to their unique properties. We present the stationary photochromism and ultrafast photoisomerization mechanism of thiophenylazobenzene (TphAB). It demonstrates impressive fatigue resistance and photoisomerization efficiency, and shows favorably separated (E)‐ and (Z)‐isomer absorption bands, allowing for highly selective photoconversion. The (Z)‐isomer of TphAB adopts an unusual orthogonal geometry where the thiophenyl group is perfectly perpendicular to the phenyl group. This geometry is stabilized by a rare lone‐pair⋅⋅⋅π interaction between the S atom and the phenyl group. The photoisomerization of TphAB occurs on the sub‐ps to ps timescale and is governed by this interaction. Therefore, the adoption and disruption of the orthogonal geometry requires significant movement along the inversion reaction coordinates (CNN and NNC angles). Our results establish TphAB as an excellent photoswitch with versatile properties that expand the application possibilities of AB derivatives.
Shining New Light on Multifunctional Lanthanide Single‐Molecule Magnets
Authors: Marin Riccardo , Brunet Gabriel , Murugesu Muralee
Published: October 2019

Single‐molecule magnets (SMMs) are at the forefront of new technological advances in quantum information processing and spintronics. Despite the recent impressive breakthroughs in extending the magnetic blocking temperatures beyond liquid‐nitrogen temperatures, significant challenges await in terms of integrating and addressing such compounds in devices. With this ultimate goal in mind, the design of multifunctional SMMs not only allows to imbue molecules of interest with specific properties that would allow for in situ monitoring of the SMM operation in real time, but can also provide critical insights into our understanding of the magnetic behaviour. In this Review, we highlight how magnetism and luminescence can be harmoniously combined within single molecules to achieve these objectives. The key design principles to attain the simultaneous combination of photoluminescence and slow relaxation of the magnetization are discussed, along with an outlook on how such molecules could be beneficial for emerging next‐generation spintronics devices.
Reversible Transformation between Amorphous and Crystalline States of Unsaturated Polyesters by Cis–Trans Isomerization
Authors: Wan Zhao‐Qian , Ren Wei‐Min , Yang Shuai , Li Ming‐Ran , Gu Ge‐Ge , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: October 2019

An aliphatic polyester has been prepared from ethylene oxide and maleic anhydride that undergoes reversible transformation between amorphous (Tg=18 °C) and crystalline (Tm=124 °C) states through cis–trans isomerization of the C=C bonds in the polymer backbone without any change in either the molecular weight or dispersity of the polymer. A similar transformation was also observed in chiral unsaturated polyesters formed from enantiopure terminal epoxides, such as epichlorohydrin, phenyl glycidyl ether, and (2,3‐epoxypropyl)benzene. These unsaturated polyesters with 100 % E‐configuration in the crystalline state were prepared by quantitative isomerization of their Z‐configuration analogues in the presence of a catalytic amount of diethylamine, while in the presence of benzophenone, irradiation with 365 nm UV light resulted in the transformation of about 30 % trans‐alkene to cis‐maleate form, thereby affording amorphous polyesters.
A Cyclic (Alkyl)(boryl)germylene Derived from a Cyclic (Alkyl)(amino)germylene
Authors: Rao Bin , Kinjo Rei
Published: October 2019

A cyclic (alkyl)(amino)germylene undergoes a ring expansion reaction with dibromomesitylborane (MesBBr2) to afford a six‐membered dibromogermane derivative. In the presence of Lewis bases (PMe3 or MeNHC), reduction of the latter with two equivalents of potassium graphite (KC8) gives rise to cyclic (alkyl)(boryl)germylene–Lewis base adducts. Upon heating, the germylene—PMe3 adduct reacts with H2 to yield a germane, probably via a base‐free germylene featuring a small HOMO–LUMO gap.
Nitride Spinel: An Ultraincompressible High‐Pressure Form of BeP2N4
Authors: Vogel Sebastian , Bykov Maxim , Bykova Elena , Wendl Sebastian , Kloß Simon D. , Pakhomova Anna , Dubrovinskaia Natalia , Dubrovinsky Leonid , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: October 2019

Owing to its outstanding elastic properties, the nitride spinel γ‐Si3N4 is of considered interest for materials scientists and chemists. DFT calculations suggest that Si3N4‐analog beryllium phosphorus nitride BeP2N4 adopts the spinel structure at elevated pressures as well and shows outstanding elastic properties. Herein, we investigate phenakite‐type BeP2N4 by single‐crystal synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and report the phase transition into the spinel‐type phase at 47 GPa and 1800 K in a laser‐heated diamond anvil cell. The structure of spinel‐type BeP2N4 was refined from pressure‐dependent in situ synchrotron powder X‐ray diffraction measurements down to ambient pressure, which proves spinel‐type BeP2N4 a quenchable and metastable phase at ambient conditions. Its isothermal bulk modulus was determined to 325(8) GPa from equation of state, which indicates that spinel‐type BeP2N4 is an ultraincompressible material.
Surface Capping Agents and Their Roles in Shape‐Controlled Synthesis of Colloidal Metal Nanocrystals
Authors: Yang Tung‐Han , Shi Yifeng , Janssen Annemieke , Xia Younan
Published: October 2019

Surface capping agents have been extensively used to control the evolution of seeds into nanocrystals with diverse but well‐controlled shapes. Here we offer a comprehensive review of these agents, with a focus on the mechanistic understanding of their roles in guiding the shape evolution of metal nanocrystals. We begin with a brief introduction to the early history of capping agents in electroplating and bulk crystal growth, followed by discussion of how they affect the thermodynamics and kinetics involved in a synthesis of metal nanocrystals. We then present representative examples to highlight the various capping agents, including their binding selectivity, molecular‐level interaction with a metal surface, and impacts on the growth of metal nanocrystals. We also showcase progress in leveraging capping agents to generate nanocrystals with complex structures and/or enhance their catalytic properties. Finally, we discuss various strategies for the exchange or removal of capping agents, together with perspectives on future directions.
Rb4Li2TiOGe4O12: A Titanyl Nonlinear Optical Material with the Widest Transparency Range
Authors: Xia Mingjun , Tang Chuan , Li Rukang
Published: October 2019

Practical mid‐infrared (MIR) coherent light beams generated by frequency conversion in nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals are indispensable in time‐resolved infrared vibrational spectroscopy, remote light detection and ranging, and free‐space communications. Herein, a new titanyl germanate Rb4Li2TiOGe4O12 (RLTG) MIR NLO crystal was obtained by heavier element substitution. It features a complicated structure network composed of compressed TiO5 square pyramids and distorted GeO4 tetrahedra, separated by Rb+ and Li+ cations. More importantly, RLTG exhibits concurrently short ultraviolet (0.28 μm) and long IR (5.58 μm) transmittance cutoffs, fully covering the atmospheric transparent window of 3–5 μm. Related to the short UV cutoff, it shows a higher laser‐induced damage threshold in comparison to commercial MIR NLO crystals, about twice that of KTiOPO4 (KTP) and 50 times that of AgGaS2 (AGS).
Li‐N2 Batteries: A Reversible Energy Storage System?
Authors: Zhang Zhang , Wu Shuangshuang , Yang Chao , Zheng Lingyun , Xu Dongli , Zha Ruhua , Tang Lin , Cao Kangzhe , Wang Xin‐gai , Zhou Zhen
Published: October 2019

Tremendous energy consumption is required for traditional artificial N2 fixation, leading to additional environmental pollution. Recently, new Li‐N2 batteries have inextricably integrated energy storage with N2 fixation. In this work, graphene is introduced into Li‐N2 batteries and enhances the cycling stability. However, the instability and hygroscopicity of the discharge product Li3N lead to a rechargeable but irreversible system. Moreover, strong nonpolar N≡N covalent triple bonds with high ionization energies also cause low efficiency and irreversibility of Li‐N2 batteries. In contrast, the modification with in situ generated Li3N and LiOH restrained the loss and volume change of Li metal anodes during stripping and plating, thereby promoting the rechargeability of the Li‐N2 batteries. The mechanistic study here will assist in the design of more stable Li‐N2 batteries and create more versatile methods for N2 fixation.
Enhancing Biocompatible Stability of DNA Nanostructures Using Dendritic Oligonucleotides and Brick Motifs
Authors: Kim Youngeun , Yin Peng
Published: October 2019

The use of DNA‐based nanomaterials in biomedical applications is continuing to grow, yet more emphasis is being put on the need for guaranteed structural stability of DNA nanostructures in physiological conditions. Various methods have been developed to stabilize DNA origami against low concentrations of divalent cations and the presence of nucleases. However, existing strategies typically require the complete encapsulation of nanostructures, which makes accessing the encased DNA strands difficult, or chemical modification, such as covalent crosslinking of DNA strands. We present a stabilization method involving the synthesis of DNA brick nanostructures with dendritic oligonucleotides attached to the outer surface. We find that nanostructures assembled from DNA brick motifs remain stable against denaturation without any chemical modifications. Furthermore, densely coating the outer surface of DNA brick nanostructures with dendritic oligonucleotides prevents nuclease digestion.
Arene Trifunctionalization with Highly Fused Ring Systems through a Domino Aryne Nucleophilic and Diels–Alder Cascade
Authors: He Jia , Jia Zizi , Tan Hongcheng , Luo Xiaohua , Qiu Dachuan , Shi Jiarong , Xu Hai , Li Yang
Published: October 2019

A convenient and efficient domino aryne process was developed under transition‐metal‐free conditions to generate a range of tetra‐ and pentacyclic ring systems. This transformation was realized via a 1,2‐benzdiyne through a nucleophilic and Diels–Alder reaction cascade using styrene as the diene moiety. Three new chemical bonds, namely one C−N and two C−C bonds, and two benzofused rings could be constructed concomitantly, which was made possible by distinct chemoselective control at both the 1,2‐aryne and 2,3‐aryne stages. Moreover, in‐depth studies were carried out on the domino aryne precursors and controlling the diastereoselectivity.
The Key to Understanding the European Miocene Chalcides (Squamata, Scincidae) Comes from Asia: The Lizards of the East Siberian Tagay Locality (Baikal Lake) in Russia
Authors: ČerŇanský Andrej , Syromyatnikova Elena V. , Kovalenko Ekaterina S. , Podurets Konstantin M. , Kaloyan Alexander A.
Published: October 2019

The early middle Miocene (MN 5) lizards from the East Siberian Tagay locality (Baikal Lake, Russia) in Asia are described here. The lizard fauna consists of two clades, Lacertidae and Scincidae. The skink material is allocated to Chalcides. While this taxon was previously reported from Europe, it has rarely been observed in the Neogene record with only jaw fragments and frontal bones described. Its taxonomy was therefore enigmatic. The Tagay material is almost identical to the European fossils of Chalcides from Austria and Hungary, but it also contains the parietal bone. While the material is also similar to the extant Ch. ocellatus, it exhibits several morphological differences. A new species is therefore erected—Chalcides augei sp. nov. These findings further support the connection of the Baikal Lake area with central Europe during the first half of the Miocene. The comparative anatomy of the frontals, parietals and lower jaws was evaluated by micro‐CT in selected skink taxa. This comparison highlights several important differences, for example, paired frontals are present in Broadleysaurus (an outgroup taxon), in Acontias and all studied members of Scincidae herein. The character optimization in Mesquite supports fused frontals as being the condition at the basal node of the Ateuchosauridae + Sphenomorphidae + Eugongylidae + Lygosomidae + Egerniidae + Mabuyidae clade. While the parapineal foramen is restricted to the parietal in most taxa studied herein, it is absent (or vestigial) in Acontias and Feylinia. In contrast to all other skinks, this foramen is located on the frontal in Ateuchosaurus chinensis. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy Anat Rec, 303:1901–1934, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Event based distributed kalman filter for limited resource multirobot cooperative localization
Authors: Marín Leonardo , Soriano Ángel , Vallés Marina , Valera Ángel , Albertos Pedro
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a multirobot cooperative event based localization scheme with improved bandwidth usage in a heterogeneous group of mobile robots. The proposed method relies on an agent based framework that defines the communications between robots and on an event based Extended Kalman Filter that performs the cooperative sensor fusion from local, global and relative sources. The event is generated when the pose error covariance exceeds a predefined limit. By this, the robots update the pose using the relative information available only when necessary, using less bandwidth and computational resources when compared to the time based methods, allowing bandwidth allocation for other tasks while extending battery life. The method is tested using a simulation platform developed in the programming language JAVA with a group of differential mobile robots represented by an agent in a JADE framework. The pose estimation performance, error covariance and number of messages exchanged in the communication are measured and used to compare the traditional time based approach with the proposed event based algorithm. Also, the compromise between the accuracy of the localization method and the bandwidth usage is analyzed for different event limits. A final experimental test with two SUMMIT XL robots is shown to validate the simulation results.
Short-term medical treatment of hypercalcaemia in primary hyperparathyroidism predicts symptomatic response after parathyroidectomy
Authors: Koman A , Ohlsson S , Bränström R , Pernow Y , Bränström R , Nilsson I-L
Published: October 2019

Background

Primary hyperparathyroidism is often associated with non-disease-specific symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether normalization of hypercalcaemia with short-term medical treatment can be used to predict the effects of parathyroidectomy and guide in surgical decision-making.

Methods

This observational study included patients who received calcimimetic treatment for 4 weeks before parathyroidectomy (30–60 mg daily). A panel of tests was used to assess various aspects of quality of life (European Organisation and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 core questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Positive State of Mind questionnaire), cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) and muscle strength (timed-stands test). The tests were carried out at baseline, after 4 weeks of calcimimetic treatment, and at 6 weeks and 6 months after parathyroidectomy. The predictive values of changes during calcimimetic treatment were determined for each test.

Results

The study included 110 patients of median age 62 years (91 women). Calcimimetic treatment resulted in normalization of calcium levels and improvements in quality-of-life parameters. The time spent on the timed-stands test was significantly shortened. Eleven of 38 participants with a baseline Montreal Cognitive Assessment score below 26, indicating mild cognitive impairment, reached scores of at least 26 during treatment with calcimimetic. Improvements during treatment with calcimimetic correlated well with postoperative outcomes (positive predictive values 74–96 per cent).

Conclusion

The method described in this study may be used to aid surgical decision-making for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and non-disease-specific symptoms by predicting the effects of normalization of hypercalcaemia.
The horseradish smile: Demonstrating characteristic reactions of peroxidase in a visually appealing way
Authors: Panzarasa Guido
Published: October 2019

Easy and visually appealing demonstrations are precious tools for introducing students to the study of enzymes. However, they most often involve purified enzymes and dedicated techniques. Here, we propose a set of demonstrations, which require only fresh horseradish root and consumer chemicals, to help support biochemistry and enzymology courses from high school to the undergraduate level. Horseradish root is a naturally rich source of horseradish peroxidase, an enzyme with many relevant practical applications. Slices of horseradish root are used to demonstrate the characteristic reaction of horseradish peroxidase with hydrogen peroxide, the selective inhibition of this enzyme by dilute hydrochloric acid, its chromogenic reaction with N,N′‐diethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine, and its ability to trigger the chemiluminescent reaction of luminol. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 48(1):38–43, 2020.
Using cartoons agents and 3D visualizations based on HTML5 for improving learning in crystal structures in engineers
Authors: Dalacosta Konstadina , Pavlatou Evangelia A.
Published: October 2019

This paper presents an educational digital material on “solid crystal structures,” in which cartoons agents direct undergraduate students on a learning cycle of understanding concepts from the submicroscopic level and correlate with the corresponding macroscopic‐related properties. Specifically, undergraduate students are given the opportunity to study basic crystal structures starting from structural units, composing the unit cells in a three‐dimensional (3D) pattern that are characterized and related with intermolecular forces within them, and finally leading to basic crystalline solids associated with the macroscopic behavior of solid materials expressed by physical and mechanical properties such as hardness, electrical conductivity, etc. The design of the digital material was focused on the cognitive benefits that students gained after viewing 3D visualizations for which students were able to manipulate the rotation or size of them, to enhance their conceptual understanding addressed to chemistry and engineering, accompanied by cartoons agents. Digital material was constructed to be accessible from and compatible with any web browser without any third‐party plugin. A research using a properly designed questionnaire was conducted in the School of Chemical Engineering in Greece where the evaluation indicated that students preferred using this web material due to its simplicity and their active involvement by self‐controlling the pace and the way of learning.
A New Pimarane Diterpenoid from the Botryotinia fuckeliana Fungus Isolated from Deep‐Sea Water
Authors: Niu Siwen , Peng Guizhen , Xia Jin‐Mei , Xie Chun‐Lan , Li Zengpeng , Yang Xian‐Wen
Published: October 2019

A new pimarane diterpenoid, named botryopimarene A (1), was discovered from the fungus Botryotinia fuckeliana MCCC 3 A00494 isolated from the deep‐sea water, together with ten known compounds. The planar structure of 1 was established based on the extensive spectroscopic analyses. The absolute configurations of tricyclic system in 1 were resolved by the theoretical ECD calculation, while the 15,16‐diol moiety in the side chain was resolved by the Mo2(OAc)4‐induced ECD spectrum. Compound 1, featuring a Δ9(11) double bond, was rarely discovered in pimarane family. Compounds 1–11 were tested for their cytotoxic activities using six human cancer cell lines by the MTT method. However, none of the compounds exhibited detectable cytotoxicities (IC50 >20 μm).