bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Best Practices in the Internationalization of Higher Education at Petra Christian University
Authors: Hardjito Djwantoro , Intan Rolly , . Meilinda
Published: November 2018

Petra Christian University (PCU) is located in Surabaya, the second largest city in Indonesia. In its 57 years of age, PCU has been chosen as the Best Private University in Indonesia for the last three consecutive years from 2015-2017, by the Indonesian Ministry of Research, Technology and Higher Education. Currently, PCU has approximately 8700 students with about 320 full-time lecturers and professors.

With the vision to be a Caring and Global University with commitment to Christian values, and by providing holistic education, PCU graduates are expected to possess cultural excellence, alongside with academic, emotional, moral and spiritual excellences. In this regard, students should have opportunities to learn and to be engaged with other foreign cultures in order to prepare their roles in global era. With this in mind, PCU strives to place internationalization as one of its priorities. A number of initiatives and systems have been laid-down to foster the pace of internationalization at PCU.
Disruption, Globalization and the Changing Context of Education
Authors: Viswanathan Govindasamy
Published: November 2018

Education is the process of facilitating learning, acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. It is expected to prepare students for facing challenges of life. And higher education in particular is the process of molding oneself to be suitable for a career in specialized area of interest. It is clear that education offered should depend on the individuals undergoing education and the need posed by the world. Both the “individuals’ and the “need” are changing with time and hence the process of education also should be changing with time, else it will become outdated and useless.

All educators need to be up-to-date and to keep pace with the changing world and the increasing demand. This is a challenging task.
Strengthening Character Education Patterns and Local Wisdom Through Ulos Balige Weaving Learning, North Sumatra
Authors: Indrawan Muhammad Isa
Published: November 2018

The high level of technological and information progress has resulted in the decline of people's love for local wisdom so that people do not understand the meaning of the existence of Ulos as a cultural heritage that is rich in the values of life's wisdom. This study aims to analyze the strengthening of character education based on local wisdom through learning Ulos weaving in Balige North Sumatra. The qualitative research analysis unit with this case study approach is that the people in Balige were selected by purposive sampling. Data collection techniques with observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Interactive models then analyze data validity by source triangulation. The results showed that through Ulos Balige weaving learning in tutoring can be achieved a balance of the conscience, spiritual, and intellectuality of the community related to the creator through the content of philosophical values in the symbol of Ulos. Ulos weaving learning which is done classically through theory and practice has a positive impact on the formation of the character of the community by the values of local wisdom.
Liquefaction Behaviors of Oil Palm Frond and Bamboo in 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride
Authors: Tai Zhong Sheng , Asmadi Mohd , Ali Noorhalieza
Published: November 2018

Oil palm and bamboo are two of the most widely used biomass in the world nowadays as they can be converted into many valuable products. However, they are very difficult to be hydrolyzed and converted into other products because of their tight and strong hydrogen bonding between the lignin and polysaccharides. Ionic liquid (IL) is said to be the most ideal solvent to dissolve those biomass. Thus, in this research, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([BMIM][Cl]) was chosen to liquefy oil palm frond (OPF) and bamboo. The objective of this research was to compare the reaction behaviors of OPF and bamboo in [BMIM][Cl] at different treatment time. OPF and bamboo were heated at 120 °C for 2-24 hours under atmospheric pressure. Two fractions were obtained, namely [BMIM][Cl]-soluble and -nonsoluble. The non-soluble fractions were characterized using TGA, FTIR, XRD and FESEM while the soluble fractions were analyzed using HPLC. Based on the results obtained from the analyses, the effectiveness of [BMIM][Cl] in dissolving OPF was higher than bamboo as it was made up of less complex and compact cell wall structure. This structure allowed the diffusion of [BMIM][Cl] into the interior of OPF more easily to break down the hydrogen bonding network. Holocelluloses and lignin of OPF solubilized into [BMIM][Cl] more rapidly due to the greater distortion in hydrogen bonding network of the cell wall with the increase in treatment time compared to bamboo. Moreover, the mono-sugars of OPF were formed much easily than bamboo after short period (2 hours) of treatment.
Catalytic Study of the Partial Oxidation Reaction of Methanol to Formaldehyde in the Vapor Phase
Authors: Peyrovi Mohammad Hasan , Parsafard Nastaran , Hasanpour Hosein
Published: November 2018

In the present work, several parameters affecting on the catalytic behavior were studied in the process of partial oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde, such as: Mo/Fe ratio in unsupported catalysts, weight percent of the metallic phase in the supported catalysts, the effect of different supports, the method of Mo-Fe deposition on the supports, and the stability of the prepared catalysts against coke. These catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FT-IR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), N2 adsorption-desorption, and Atomic Adsorption Spectroscopy (AAS) methods. The best results (the methanol conversion = 97 % and formaldehyde selectivity = 96 %) were obtained for Mo-Fe/g-Al2O3 prepared by co-precipitation method with Mo/Fe = 1.7, 50 wt.% of Fe-Mo phase, 2 mL/h methanol flow rate, and 120 mL/min air flow rate at 350 oC.
Reception and willingness to share pseudo‐profound bullshit and their relation to other epistemically suspect beliefs and cognitive ability in Slovakia and Romania
Authors: Čavojová Vladimíra , Secară Eugen‐Călin , Jurkovič Marek , Šrol Jakub
Published: November 2018

Propensity to judge randomly generated, syntactically correct (i.e., bullshit) statements as profound is associated with a variety of conceptually relevant variables (e.g., intuitive cognitive style and supernatural beliefs). Besides generalizing these findings to a different cultural setting, we examined the relationships to sharing the bullshit on social media. Rating nonsense as profound was associated with a lower cognitive ability; a stronger belief in the paranormal, alternative medicine, and conspiracies; and ontological confusion. The more profound a statement was rated to be, the more likely it was to be shared, and propensity for sharing bullshit was predicted by ontological confusion and religious beliefs. Bullshit receptivity and sharing may be closely related to several dimensions of epistemically suspect beliefs; people with these propensities are relatively open to vague statements resembling New Age spirituality.
Near‐Infrared‐Triggered Release of Ca2+ Ions for Potential Application in Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Chen Qiaoshan , Huo Da , Cheng Haoyan , Lyu Zhiheng , Zhu Chunlei , Guan Baohong , Xia Younan
Published: November 2018

Calcium ion (Ca2+), an abundant species in the body, is a potential therapeutic ion with manageable side effects. However, the delivery of such a highly charged species represents a great challenge. Here, a nanosystem based on Au nanocages (AuNCs) and a phase‐change material (PCM) for delivering calcium chloride (CaCl2) into cancer cells and thereby triggering cell death upon near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation is demonstrated. In the absence of NIR irradiation, the nanosystem, denoted CaCl2‐PCM‐AuNC, shows negligible cytotoxicity because the Ca2+ ions are fully encapsulated in a solid matrix. Upon NIR irradiation, the Ca2+ ions are swiftly released due to the melting of PCM matrix in response to photothermal heating. The sudden increase in intracellular Ca2+ causes disruption to the mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis and thus the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, subsequently resulting in cell apoptosis. This nanosystem provides a new method for cancer treatment by tightly managing the intracellular concentration of a physiologically essential element.
Crumpled Ir Nanosheets Fully Covered on Porous Carbon Nanofibers for Long‐Life Rechargeable Lithium–CO2 Batteries
Authors: Xing Yi , Yang Yong , Li Daohao , Luo Mingchuan , Chen Nan , Ye Yusheng , Qian Ji , Li Li , Yang Dongjiang , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie , Guo Shaojun
Published: November 2018

Aprotic Li–CO2 batteries are a new class of green energy storage and conversion system, which can utilize the CO2 from the atmosphere in an environmentally friendly way. However, the biggest problem of the existing Li–CO2 batteries is that they suffer from high polarization and poor cycling performance, mainly caused by the insulating and insoluble discharge product, Li2CO3. Herein, this study reports the synthesis of wrinkled, ultrathin Ir nanosheets fully anchored on the surface of N‐doped carbon nanofibers (Ir NSs‐CNFs) as an efficient cathode for improving the performance of lithium–CO2 batteries. The battery can be steadily discharged and charged at least for 400 cycles with a cut‐off capacity of 1000 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1. Meanwhile, the cathode can effectively reduce the charge overpotential by showing a charge termination voltage below 3.8 V at 100 mA g−1, which is the smallest charge overpotential reported to date. The ex situ analysis of the intermediate products reveals that during the discharge process, Ir NSs‐CNFs can greatly stabilize amorphous granular intermediate (probably Li2C2O4) and delay its further transformation into thin plate‐like Li2CO3, whereas during the charge process, it can make Li2CO3 be easily and completely decomposed, which is the key in greatly improving its performance for lithium–CO2 batteries.
Nonvolatile and Programmable Photodoping in MoTe2 for Photoresist‐Free Complementary Electronic Devices
Authors: Liu Tao , Xiang Du , Zheng Yue , Wang Yanan , Wang Xinyun , Wang Li , He Jun , Liu Lei , Chen Wei
Published: November 2018

2D transition‐metal dichalcogenide (TMD)‐based electronic devices have been extensively explored toward the post‐Moore era. Huge efforts have been devoted to modulating the doping profile of TMDs to achieve 2D p–n junctions and inverters, the fundamental units in logic circuits. Here, photoinduced nonvolatile and programmable electron doping in MoTe2 based on a heterostructure of MoTe2 and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) is reported. The electron transport property in the MoTe2 device can be precisely controlled by modulating the magnitude of the photodoping gate exerted on BN. Through tuning the polarity of the photodoping gate exerted on BN under illumination, such a doping effect in MoTe2 can be programmed with excellent repeatability and is retained for over 14 d in the absence of an external perturbation. By spatially controlling the photodoping region in MoTe2, a photoresist‐free p–n junction and inverter in the MoTe2 homostructure are achieved. The MoTe2 diode exhibits a near‐unity ideality factor of ≈1.13 with a rectification ratio of ≈1.7 × 104. Moreover, the gain of the MoTe2 inverter reaches ≈98, which is among the highest values for 2D‐material‐based homoinverters. These findings promise photodoping as an effective method to achieve 2D‐TMDs‐based nonvolatile and programmable complementary electronic devices.
Potential 2D Materials with Phase Transitions: Structure, Synthesis, and Device Applications
Authors: Wang Xinsheng , Song Zhigang , Wen Wen , Liu Haining , Wu Juanxia , Dang Chunhe , Hossain Mongur , Iqbal Muhammad Ahsan , Xie Liming
Published: November 2018

Layered materials with phase transitions, such as charge density wave (CDW) and magnetic and dipole ordering, have potential to be exfoliated into monolayers and few‐layers and then become a large and important subfamily of two‐dimensional (2D) materials. Benefitting from enriched physical properties from the collective interactions, long‐range ordering, and related phase transitions, as well as the atomic thickness yet having nondangling bonds on the surface, 2D phase‐transition materials have vast potential for use in new‐concept and functional devices. Here, potential 2D phase‐transition materials with CDWs and magnetic and dipole ordering, including transition metal dichalcogenides, transition metal halides, metal thio/selenophosphates, chromium silicon/germanium tellurides, and more, are introduced. The structures and experimental phase‐transition properties are summarized for the bulk materials and some of the obtained monolayers. In addition, recent experimental progress on the synthesis and measurement of monolayers, such as 1T‐TaS2, CrI3, and Cr2Ge2Te6, is reviewed.
Supramolecularly Engineered NIR‐II and Upconversion Nanoparticles In Vivo Assembly and Disassembly to Improve Bioimaging
Authors: Zhao Mengyao , Li Benhao , Wang Peiyuan , Lu Lingfei , Zhang Zhengcheng , Liu Lu , Wang Shangfeng , Li Dandan , Wang Rui , Zhang Fan
Published: November 2018

Contrast agents for bioimaging suffer from low accumulation at lesion area and high uptake in the reticuloendothelial system (RES). Assembly of nanoparticles in vivo improves their enrichment at tumors and inflamed areas. However, uncontrollable assembly also occurs at the liver and spleen owing to the uptake of nanoparticles by the RES. This is known to probably cause a higher bioimaging background and more severe health hazards, which may hamper the clinical application. Herein, a new near‐infrared (NIR)‐controlled supramolecular engineering strategy is developed for in vivo assembly and disassembly between lanthanide upconversion nanoparticles and second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) nanoprobes to realize precision bioimaging of tumors. A supramolecular structure is designed to realize assembly via host–guest interactions of azobenzene and β‐cyclodextrin to enhance the retention of NIR‐II nanoprobes in the tumor area. Meanwhile NIR‐laser‐controllable nanoprobes disassembly brings about a reduction in the bioimaging background as well as acceleration of their RES clearance rate. This strategy may also be used in other nano‐to‐micro‐scale contrast agents to improve bioimaging signal‐to‐noise ratio and reduce long‐term cytotoxicity.
A Comparative Study of Thiol‐Terminated Surface Modification by Click Reactions: Thiol‐yne Coupling versus Thiol‐ene Michael Addition
Authors: Dadfar Seyed Mohammad Mahdi , Sekula‐Neuner Sylwia , Trouillet Vanessa , Hirtz Michael
Published: November 2018

Two quick and efficient, metal catalyst free conjugation routes for the covalent attachment of functional compounds to functionalized surfaces by scanning probe lithography methods are compared in the presented work. The studied methods are thiol‐yne coupling (TYC) and thiol‐ene Michael addition (TEMA). First, the surface of hydroxyl‐terminated glass is thiolated using (3‐mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS). Then, in the distinct experiments, the thiol‐terminated surface is spotted by microchannel cantilever spotting with different fluorescent and nonfluorescent inks containing cycloalkyne (dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)) or alkene (maleimide) groups. Experiments with different fluorophores show that both routes are successful in coupling functional moieties to the surface in a short time and low temperature. Comparing the protein binding experiments for biotin‐DBCO and biotin‐maleimide reveals a higher surface density of immobilized biotin via the TEMA route. The results from this study are applicable in design and fabricating of biosensors, appropriate for protein detection and other biomedical/biological applications.
Designing Highly Efficient Phosphorescent Neutral Tetrahedral Manganese(II) Complexes for Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Qin Yanyan , Tao Peng , Gao Long , She Pengfei , Liu Shujuan , Li Xiangling , Li Feiyang , Wang Hua , Zhao Qiang , Miao Yanqin , Huang Wei
Published: November 2018

Phosphorescent transition‐metal complexes have played the vital role in the rapid development of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) as the most promising candidates for next‐generation flat‐panel display and solid‐state lighting techniques. In this work, novel and low‐cost phosphorescent neutral tetrahedral manganese(II) complexes (DBFDPO‐MnX2, X = Br, or Cl) based on dibenzofuran‐based phosphine oxide derivative as ligand are designed and synthesized. The manganese(II) complexes exhibit intense green phosphorescence with high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) of as high as 81.4% (DBFDPO‐MnBr2). Using complex DBFDPO‐MnBr2 as dopant, a green OLED with current efficiency (CEmax) of 35.47 cd A−1, power efficiency (PEmax) of 34.35 lm W−1, and external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 10.49% is fabricated. Interestingly, red exciplex emission is also observed in electroluminescence, arising from the interaction between the host materials (bis(2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐pyridine)beryllium (Bepp2) or 1,3,5‐tris(2‐N‐phenylbenzimidazolyl)benzene (TPBi)) and the dopant (DBFDPO‐MnBr2). The exciplex‐based red OLED in this study exhibits the maximum CE and PE reaching 18.64 cd A−1 and 17.92 lm W−1, respectively, which are among the up‐to‐date highest values for exciplex‐based red OLEDs. Beneficial from the exciplex, it has the great potential to broaden the electroluminescent spectra with manganese(II) complex.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Temperature‐Dependent Annulation of 3‐Aryl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazolones with 1,3‐Diynes: An Approach to π‐Conjugated Molecules
Authors: Zhang Wenge , Li Hongji , Wang Lei
Published: November 2018

A Cobalt‐catalyzed annulation of 3‐aryl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazolones with 1,3‐diynes has been developed, in which reaction temperature variation considerably affects the cyclization orientation and afforded structurely distinctive products in good yields and high regioselectivity. Additionally, the late‐stage transformation of the cyclization products into N‐containing heterocycles is also demonstrated.

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Synthesis and characterization of new honey incorporated double‐network hydrogels based on poly(vinyl alcohol) and acylated chitosan
Authors: Khaleghi Mahroo , Mani Fatemeh , Salimi Hamid , Hajibeygi Mohsen , Pashazadeh Rahim , Zayerzadeh Ehsan , Babanejad Niloofar , Shabanian Meisam
Published: November 2018

A new honey‐hydrogel arrangement was developed by incorporating honey into a hydrogel containing polyvinyl alcohol and acylated chitosan. A water‐soluble acylated chitosan as the second network was synthesized via reaction of maleic anhydride with chitosan in water. A freeze–thaw process was employed to cross‐link the polyvinyl alcohol chains and a calcium chloride solution was used to cross‐link the acylated chitosan mixture in the presence of honey to precipitate out a flexible and tough hydrogel. The CaCl2content was optimized for the best results which was 0.1 mass%. The characterization such as mechanical, thermal, water content, and cell culture studies of all the synthesized double‐network hydrogel systems were investigated. In the presence of the acylated chitosan and honey almost all the investigated properties of the samples were improved. The formulation was optimized using deferent amount of CaCl2. Mechanical testing of the optimized formulation displayed a maximum value of 0.55 MPa and 310% for tensile strength and elongation at break. Swelling studies indicated that optimized formulation hydrogel absorbed much water as compare with honey‐free hydrogels due to increased amounts of network connectivity and higher hydrophilicity. Thermal analysis of the samples indicated that synthesized double‐network hydrogel network also decreased thermal stability and showed synergistic effects on the improvement of char residues. In addition, cell culture studies showed an appropriate biocompatibility behavior without showing any sign of cytotoxicity.
Transferable and Flexible Artificial Memristive Synapse Based on WOx Schottky Junction on Arbitrary Substrates
Authors: Lin Ya , Zeng Tao , Xu Haiyang , Wang Zhongqiang , Zhao Xiaoning , Liu Weizhen , Ma Jiangang , Liu Yichun
Published: November 2018

The absence of an effective approach to achieve free‐standing inorganic memristors seriously hinders the development of transferable artificial synapses. Here, a transferable WOx‐based memristive synapse is demonstrated using a nondestructive water‐dissolution method in which the NaCl substrate is selected as the sacrificial layer due to its thermotolerance and water‐solubility. The essential synaptic learning functions are achieved to comprehensively mimic the biological synapse, such as short‐term/long‐term plasticity, paired‐pulse facilitation, and spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity. This artificial synapse can be transferred and conformed onto various unconventional substrates to manifest the flexibility, 3D conformality, and biocompatibility. There is no mechanical damage during the transfer process, and all these transferred devices present excellent synaptic emulations. The memristive behavior shows no degeneration after large‐angle bending or 100 times bending tests. This result may pave a feasible way for the realization of wearable neuromorphic computing systems in the future.
Ginzburg–Landau Theory for Magneto‐Elastic Interaction and Magnetization in Type‐II Superconductors
Authors: Li Yingxu , Kang Guozheng , Gao Yuanwen
Published: November 2018

The interaction between vortex and crystal lattice (periodic arrays of flux quantum and atoms) in type‐II superconductors is evaluated through Ginzburg–Landau theory. It is found that, in an isotropic crystal, the magneto‐elastic coupling energy counteracts the elasticity‐driven intervortex interaction energy. Thus, the elastic response is induced entirely by individual vortices taken separately. Furthermore, the strain in a vortex‐lattice cell decays quadratically with the distance from the vortex core, which allows a cutoff at the cell boundary. Finally, it could be concluded that if the jump in the elastic constant at is comparable to unity, the elasticity energy dominates the competition between the vortex lattice and crystal elasticity. This effect likely results in the second magnetization peak in the reversible magnetization.
Trapped Carrier Scattering and Charge Transport in High‐Mobility Amorphous Metal Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors
Authors: Wang Xiao , Dodabalapur Ananth
Published: November 2018

The multiple trap and release (MTR) model is extended to more completely and accurately describe charge transport in high‐mobility amorphous metal oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs). In addition to trapping and release of charges, other scattering mechanisms that influence mobility are considered along with screening by free carriers. The mobility for each of the dominant scattering mechanisms is calculated using the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) in the relaxation time approximation. It is found that trapped carriers very effectively scatter the charges that move in extended states. This type of scattering is unique to TFTs. Experimental data from high‐mobility amorphous metal oxide TFTs are compared with calculations with very good agreement. At high temperatures, scattering by longitudinal optical phonons and surface phonons becomes significant. This work represents the first successful combination of charge carrier scattering and the BTE with thermally activated MTR transport in a disordered semiconductor. Charge transport in amorphous metal oxide transistors is quantitatively described for the first time and the factors that influence the mobility at various temperatures and charge carrier densities are clearly described. This approach can be used for describing transport in several amorphous and polycrystalline semiconductors with significant disorder and trapping.
Künstliche, gelbasierte Organellen für die räumliche Organisation von zellfreien Genexpressionsreaktionen
Authors: Aufinger Lukas , Simmel Friedrich C.
Published: November 2018

Gelbasierte, künstliche Organellen wurden entwickelt, die die sequenzspezifische und programmierbare Lokalisation zellfreier Transkriptions‐ und Translationsreaktionen innerhalb eines künstlichen zellulären Systems ermöglichen. Dazu wurden Agarose‐Mikrogele genutzt, die kovalent mit DNA‐Templaten modifiziert wurden, die für verschiedene Funktionen codieren, und diese wiederum in Emulsionströpfchen eingeschlossen. Von Transkriptionsorganellen transkribierte RNA‐Signale können spezifisch, durch Hybridisierung mit entsprechenden DNA‐Adressmolekülen, von Zielorganellen eingefangen werden. mRNA‐Moleküle mit Toehold‐Switch‐Riboregulatoren, die von Transkriptionsorganellen produziert werden, werden nur in Translationsorganellen exprimiert, die den entsprechenden DNA‐Trigger für den Riboregulator enthalten. Die räumliche Beschränkung von Transkription und Translation auf getrennte Organellen ähnelt damit der Genexpression in eukaryotischen Zellen. Die Kombination kommunizierender Gelkügelchen mit spezialisierten Funktionen eröffnet die Möglichkeit der Programmierung künstlicher zellulärer Systeme auf Organell‐Ebene.
Divergent Late‐Stage (Hetero)aryl C−H Amination by the Pyridinium Radical Cation
Authors: Ham Won Seok , Hillenbrand Julius , Jacq Jérôme , Genicot Christophe , Ritter Tobias
Published: November 2018

(Hetero)arylamines constitute some of the most prevalent functional molecules, especially as pharmaceuticals. However, structurally complex aromatics currently cannot be converted into arylamines, so instead, each product isomer must be assembled through a multistep synthesis from simpler building blocks. Herein, we describe a late‐stage aryl C−H amination reaction for the synthesis of complex primary arylamines that other reactions cannot access directly. We show and rationalize through a mechanistic analysis the reasons for the wide substrate scope and the constitutional diversity of the reaction, which gives access to molecules that would not have been readily available otherwise.
Refinement of Highly Flexible Protein Structures using Simulation‐Guided Spectroscopy
Authors: Hays Jennifer M. , Kieber Marissa K. , Li Jason Z. , Han Ji In , Columbus Linda , Kasson Peter M.
Published: November 2018

Highly flexible proteins present a special challenge for structure determination because they are multi‐structured yet not disordered, so their conformational ensembles are essential for understanding function. Because spectroscopic measurements of multiple conformational populations often provide sparse data, experiment selection is a limiting factor in conformational refinement. A molecular simulations‐ and information‐theory based approach to select which experiments best refine conformational ensembles has been developed. This approach was tested on three flexible proteins. For proteins where a clear mechanistic hypothesis exists, experiments that test this hypothesis were systematically identified. When available data did not yield such mechanistic hypotheses, experiments that significantly outperform structure‐guided approaches in conformational refinement were identified. This approach offers a particular advantage when refining challenging, underdetermined protein conformational ensembles.
Self‐Orienting Hydrogel Micro‐Buckets as Novel Cell Carriers
Authors: Liu Qian , Zhao Meng , Mytnyk Serhii , Klemm Benjamin , Zhang Kai , Wang Yiming , Yan Dadong , Mendes Eduardo , van Esch Jan H.
Published: November 2018

Hydrogel microparticles are important in materials engineering, but their applications remain limited owing to the difficulties associated with their manipulation. Herein, we report the self‐orientation of crescent‐shaped hydrogel microparticles and elucidate its mechanism. Additionally, the microparticles were used, for the first time, as micro‐buckets to carry living cells. In aqueous solution, the microparticles spontaneously rotated to a preferred orientation with the cavity facing up. We developed a geometric model that explains the self‐orienting behavior of crescent‐shaped particles by minimizing the potential energy of this specific morphology. Finally, we selectively modified the particles’ cavities with RGD peptide and exploited their preferred orientation to load them with living cells. Cells could adhere, proliferate, and be transported and released in vitro. These micro‐buckets hold a great potential for applications in smart materials, cell therapy, and biological engineering.
1,2,3‐Diazaborinin: ein BN‐Analogon des Pyridins durch Borol‐Ringerweiterung mit einem organischen Azid
Authors: Lindl Felix , Lin Shujuan , Krummenacher Ivo , Lenczyk Carsten , Stoy Andreas , Müller Marcel , Lin Zhenyang , Braunschweig Holger
Published: November 2018

Ein neuer Reaktionsweg für die Ringerweiterung von antiaromatischen Borolen mit organischen Aziden wird vorgestellt. Die gewöhnlich zu 1,2‐Azaborininen führende Reaktion eines Borols mit einem organischen Azid wurde durch die Veränderung der elektronischen Eigenschaften der Ausgangsverbindungen zur Bildung eines 1,2,3‐Diazaborinins umgeleitet. Das aus 1‐(2,3,4,5‐Tetraphenylborolyl)ferrocen mit 4‐Azido‐N,N‐dimethylanilin zunächst gebildete isolierbare Azo‐Azaborinin zersetzt sich thermisch zum 1,2,3‐Diazaborinin und Benzonitril. Die spektroskopischen Eigenschaften und die Reaktivität dieser heterocyclischen Verbindung zeigen Ähnlichkeiten zu Pyridinen, zu denen sie isoelektronisch ist. Dichtefunktionalrechnungen geben einen Einblick in den Mechanismus dieser ungewöhnlichen Umwandlung.
Chemically Fueled Dissipative Self‐Assembly that Exploits Cooperative Catalysis
Authors: Bal Subhajit , Das Krishnendu , Ahmed Sahnawaz , Das Dibyendu
Published: November 2018

In living systems, dissipative processes are driven by the endergonic hydrolysis of chemical fuels such as nucleoside triphosphates. Now, through a simple model system, a transient self‐assembled state is realized by utilizing the catalytic effect of histidine on the formation and breaking of ester bonds. First, histidine facilitates the ester bond formation, which then rapidly co‐assembles to form a self‐supporting gel. An out‐of‐equilibrium state is realized owing to the cooperative catalysis by the proximal histidines in the assembled state, driving the second pathway and resulting in disassembly to sol. Cooperative effects that use the dual role of imidazoles as nucleophile and as proton donor is utilized to achieve transient assemblies. This simple system mimics the structural journey seen in microtubule formation where the substrate GTP facilitates the non‐covalent assembly and triggers a cooperative catalytic process, leading to substrate hydrolysis and subsequent disassembly.
Hydrogenation of Borylated Arenes
Authors: Wollenburg Marco , Moock Daniel , Glorius Frank
Published: November 2018

A cis‐selective hydrogenation of abundant aryl boronic acids and their derivatives catalyzed by rhodium cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (Rh–CAAC) is reported. The reaction tolerates a variety of boron‐protecting groups and provides direct access to a broad scope of saturated, borylated carbo‐ and heterocycles with various functional groups. The transformation is strategically important because the versatile saturated boronate products are difficult to prepare by other methods. The utility of the saturated cyclic building blocks was demonstrated by post‐functionalization of the boron group.
Musculoskeletal Radiology Teaching at a UK Medical School: Do We Need to Improve?
Authors: Marino Katherine , Merrick Deborah , Edwards Kimberly , Pratten Margaret
Published: November 2018

The United Kingdom is currently facing crisis due to a shortage of radiology consultants despite ever‐increasing demand for medical imaging. The specifics of how best to teach radiology has generated increasing interest. This study aims to determine whether musculoskeletal (MSK) radiology teaching at the University of Nottingham (UoN) Medical School is perceived to be satisfactory by medical students, Foundation‐Year doctors, and senior medical professionals in preparing students for the demands working as Foundation‐Year doctors. Questionnaires were distributed to all medical students and Foundation‐Year doctors that graduated from UoN (n = 307). Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with consultants and teaching staff (n = 13). Forty‐nine percent of preclinical medical students, 43% of clinical students and 27% of Foundation‐Year doctors thought MSK radiology teaching was not sufficient in preparing them for the radiology challenges Foundation‐Year doctors' face. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The consensus from senior medical professionals was that MSK Radiology teaching is currently adequate and producing competent students. Interestingly, only 5% of students were considering a career in radiology compared to 34% of Foundation‐Year doctors. Overall, there seems to be concern among students regarding MSK radiology teaching and students have a lack of confidence with MSK radiology. Foundation‐Year doctors and senior medical professionals do not share this view. This may be due to medical students' lack of clarity on what is required of them. Formal documentation of set learning objectives for MSK radiology throughout the curriculum may address this.
Service Content effizienter erzeugen
Authors: Lämmer Lutz , Blümel Harald
Published: November 2018

Angesichts des Kostendrucks im Produktgeschäft stehen viele Unternehmen vor der Frage, wie sie ihr margenträchtigeres Servicegeschäft ausbauen können. Die Vernetzung von Produkten über das Internet of Things (IoT) ermöglicht neue Serviceangebote wie Fernwartung, Predictive Maintenance, funktionale (Software‐)Updates usw. oder sogar innovative „Product as a Service“‐Angebote. Statt z. B. Klimaanlagen zu verkaufen, verkauft der Hersteller nur noch die Klimatisierung eines bestimmten Raumvolumens pro Jahr und übernimmt auch die Verantwortung für die Wartung und Verfügbarkeit der Anlage. Voraussetzung für die Ausschöpfung dieser neuen Servicepotenziale ist zum einen eine engere Verzahnung der Prozesse in Entwicklung, Produktion und Service und zum anderen eine durchgängige Digitalisierung der Informationsflüsse von der Erstellung und Bereitstellung der Servicedokumentation über die Ersatzteilversorgung bis zur Rückkopplung von Änderung aus dem Feld in die Serviceorganisation. Eine konsequente Digitalisierung der servicerelevanten Informationen erlaubt zugleich ihre Visualisierung im Produktkontext mithilfe von Verfahren der Augmented Reality (AR) oder auch die Nutzung der digitalen Produktmodelle für die additive Fertigung von Ersatzteilen vor Ort.

Im Folgenden werden, aufbauend auf dem gleichzeitig veröffentlichten Whitepaper, die Möglichkeiten einer durchgängigen Nutzung digitaler Daten im Service mit der PROSTEP Service‐Content‐Lösung erläutert und Potenziale für die Effizienzsteigerungen aufgezeigt, die sich daraus für die Prozesse im Ersatzteilwesen und After Sales ergeben.
The genetic basis of size in pet dogs: The study of quantitative genetic variation in an undergraduate laboratory practical
Authors: Wilding Craig
Published: November 2018

The teaching of quantitative genetic variation in the undergraduate laboratory practical environment can be difficult as, for quantitative phenotypes that are under the control of multiple loci, detection of phenotypic differences caused by individual variants is problematical without large samples, impractical in such classes. Pet dogs provide a clear example of quantitative genetic variation with individual breeds ranging in size from 1 to 70 kg weight yet with little intrabreed variability. In contrast to humans where there are few identified genetic variants known to be involved in the genetically controlled size phenotype, in dogs, seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in six genes have been demonstrated to explain half of the phenotypic variance. In the practical described here, a single G‐A SNP (within intron 2 of the insulin‐like growth factor 1 gene) is studied through PCR, sequencing, and bioinformatics. Average breed weight of dogs of different genotypes at this SNP show significant differences in size (median [IQR] of AA = 10 kg [6–15 kg], AG = 23.75 kg [14–30 kg], GG = 30 kg [24.5–37 kg] from our class data) with an estimate of just ≈N = 16 dogs needing to be genotyped to demonstrate a significant difference in size between dogs harboring the two homozygous genotypes. In the practical described herein, from a single laboratory and a single computer session, students are able to see the clear effect of genotype on a quantitative trait. Examination of the variant in the Ensembl browser (www.ensembl.org) allows students to understand the genomic basis of this variant and appreciate the wealth of data and information publicly available in genome browsers. © 2018 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 46(6):623–629, 2018.
Determination of Aqueous Two‐Phase System Binodals and Tie‐Lines by Electrowetting‐on‐Dielectric Droplet Manipulation
Authors: Kojima Taisuke , Lin Chu‐Chi , Takayama Shuichi , Fan Shih‐Kang
Published: November 2018

Handling the aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPSs) formed by liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) relies on the accurate construction of binodal curves and tie‐lines, which delineate the polymer concentrations required for phase separation and depict the properties of the resulting phases, respectively. Various techniques to determine the binodal curves and tie‐lines of ATPSs exist, but most rely on manually pipetting relatively large volumes of fluids in a slow and tedious manner. We describe a method to determine ATPS binodals and tie‐lines that overcomes these disadvantages: microscale droplet manipulation by electrowetting‐on‐dielectric (EWOD). EWOD enables automated handling of droplets in an optically transparent platform that allows for in situ droplet observation. Separated phases are clearly visible, and the volumes of each phase are readily determined. Additionally, in considering the molecular crowding present in living cells, this work examines the role of a macromolecule in prompting LLPS. These results show that EWOD‐driven droplet manipulation effectively interrogates the phase dynamics of ATPSs and macromolecular crowding in LLPS.
The Emerging Role of Tetrazines in Drug‐Activation Chemistries
Authors: Neumann Kevin , Gambardella Alessia , Bradley Mark
Published: November 2018

Traditionally, prodrug activation has been limited to enzymatic triggers or gross physiological aberrations, such as pH, that offer low selectivity and control over dosage. In recent years, the field of prodrug activation chemistry has been transformed by the use of bioorthogonal reactions that can be carried out under biological conditions at sub‐millimolar concentrations, with the tetrazine‐mediated inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reaction amongst the most recognised. Their high reaction rates, chemoselectivity and excellent biocompatibility make tetrazines ideal small molecules for activating prodrugs. Recently the tetrazine moiety has been used as a prodrug for a pyridazine thus broadening the scope of prodrug systems. This article discusses the concept of using tetrazines as small‐molecule activators for prodrugs, and provides an overview of tetrazine‐based prodrug systems, with a particular focus on the recently reported prodrug–prodrug activation strategy.
Identification of Small‐Molecule Modulators of Diguanylate Cyclase by FRET‐Based High‐Throughput Screening
Authors: Christen Matthias , Kamischke Cassandra , Kulasekara Hemantha D. , Olivas Kathleen C. , Kulasekara Bridget R. , Christen Beat , Kline Toni , Miller Samuel I.
Published: November 2018

The bacterial second messenger cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c‐di‐GMP) is a key regulator of cellular motility, the cell cycle, and biofilm formation with its resultant antibiotic tolerance, which can make chronic infections difficult to treat. Therefore, diguanylate cyclases, which regulate the spatiotemporal production of c‐di‐GMP, might be attractive drug targets for control of biofilm formation that is part of chronic infections. We present a FRET‐based biochemical high‐throughput screening approach coupled with detailed structure–activity studies to identify synthetic small‐molecule modulators of the diguanylate cyclase DgcA from Caulobacter crescentus. We identified a set of seven small molecules that regulate DgcA enzymatic activity in the low‐micromolar range. Subsequent structure–activity studies on selected scaffolds revealed a remarkable diversity of modulatory behavior, including slight chemical substitutions that reverse the effects from allosteric enzyme inhibition to activation. The compounds identified represent new chemotypes and are potentially developable into chemical genetic tools for the dissection of c‐di‐GMP signaling networks and alteration of c‐di‐GMP‐associated phenotypes. In sum, our studies underline the importance of detailed mechanism‐of‐action studies for inhibitors of c‐di‐GMP signaling and demonstrate the complex interplay between synthetic small molecules and the regulatory mechanisms that control the activity of diguanylate cyclases.
Prognostic significance, angiographic characteristics and impact of antithrombotic and anticoagulant therapy on outcomes in high versus low grade coronary artery ectasia: A long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Gunasekaran Prasad , Stanojevic Dusan , Drees Taylor , Fritzlen John , Haghnegahdar Megan , McCullough Matthew , Barua Rajat , Mehta Ashwani , Hockstad Eric , Wiley Mark , Earnest Matthew , Tadros Peter , Genton Randall , Gupta Kamal
Published: November 2018

Objectives

To assess the prognostic significance of high vs. low grade coronary artery ectasia (CAE) and the impact of antithrombotic or anticoagulant therapy on adverse cardiac outcomes.

Background

There is paucity of knowledge on the impact of angiographic characteristics in CAE or that of antithrombotic or anticoagulant therapy on outcomes.

Methods and results

In this retrospective study, we reviewed angiograms and medical records of all cases of confirmed CAE (2001–2011). Extent of CAE was categorized using the Markis classification. Types 1 and 2 were categorized as high‐grade and types 3 and 4 as low‐grade CAE. Angiographic flow was recorded as normal or sluggish (<TIMI 3). Outcomes assessed were acute coronary syndromes and all‐cause mortality on follow‐up. The study included 317 patients with CAE (mean follow‐up of 9.7 ± 2.3 years). High‐grade CAE (n = 151) had a significantly higher incidence of ACS on follow‐up (41% vs. 30%, P = 0.01; OR 2.0, CI 1.3–3.3, P = 0.01) despite similar underlying CAD. Sluggish coronary flow (irrespective of CAE grade) was also associated with a higher incidence of ACS (45% vs. 28%, P < 0.01; OR 2.25, CI 1.4–3.6, P = 0.01). Presence of both sluggish flow and high‐grade CAE had an additive effect on occurrence of ACS (OR 4, CI 2.0–7.8, P < 0.01). Neither sluggish flow nor high‐grade CAE were associated with mortality. Dual‐antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) or use of oral anticoagulation was associated with a reduced incidence of ACS (17% vs. 34%, P = 0.03 and 29% vs. 42%, P = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

The angiographic extent of CAE and sluggish coronary flow are independent predictors of future ACS despite good medical management. DAPT or oral anticoagulation reduces the risk of future ACS.
Initial experience of a large, self‐expanding, and fully recapturable transcatheter aortic valve: The UK & Ireland Implanters’ registry
Authors: Dowling Cameron , Firoozi Sami , Doyle Niamh , Blackman Daniel J. , Malkin Christopher J. , Cunnington Michael S. , Saraf Smriti , Buch Mamta H. , Levy Richard , Chowdhary Saqib , Spence Mark S. , Manoharan Ganesh , Owens Colum G. , Brennan Paul F. , Roberts David , More Ranjit , Wiper Andrew , Abdelaziz Hesham K. , Mylotte Darren , Neylon Antoinette , Martin Niamh , Mercanti Federico , Dorman Stephen , Panoulas Vasileios , Dalby Miles , Kashyap Mavin N. , Kabir Tito , Kovac Jan , Kontoprias Kosmas , Malik Iqbal S. , Ghada Mikhail W. , Sen Sayan , Ruparelia Neil , Demir Ozan M. , Frame Angela , Uren Neal G. , Anderson Richard , Rajathurai Thirumaran , Tapp Luke , Deegan Lauren , Grech Ever , Hall Ian , Neville Melanie , Rampat Rajiv , Hildick‐Smith David , Mullen Michael , Kennon Simon , Chandrala Pavan , Doshi Sagar , Brecker Stephen J.
Published: November 2018

Objectives: The UK & Ireland Implanters’ registry is a multicenter registry which reports on real‐world experience with novel transcatheter heart valves.

Background: The 34 mm Evolut R transcatheter aortic valve is a self‐expanding and fully recapturable transcatheter aortic valve, designed to treat patients with a large aortic annulus.

Methods: Between January 2017 and April 2018, clinical, procedural and 30‐day outcome data were prospectively collected from all patients receiving the 34 mm Evolut R valve across 17 participating centers in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The primary efficacy outcome was the Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2(VARC‐2)‐defined endpoint of device success. The primary safety outcome was the VARC‐2‐defined composite endpoint of early safety at 30 days.

Results: A total of 217 patients underwent attempted implant. Mean age was 79.5 ± 8.8 years and Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality Score 5.2% ± 3.4%. Iliofemoral access was used in 91.2% of patients. Device success was 79.7%. Mean gradient was 7.0 ± 4.6 mmHg and effective orifice area 2.0 ± 0.6 cm2. Paravalvular regurgitation was more than mild in 7.2%. A new permanent pacemaker was implanted in 15.7%. Early safety was demonstrated in 91.2%. At 30 days, all‐cause mortality was 3.2%, stroke 3.7%, and major vascular complication 2.3%.

Conclusions: Real‐world experience of the 34 mm Evolut R transcatheter aortic valve demonstrated acceptable procedural success, safety, valve function, and incidence of new permanent pacemaker implantation.
Highly Selective Silica‐supported Copper Catalysts Derived from Copper Phyllosilicates in the Hydrogenation of Adipic Acid to 1,6‐hexanediol
Authors: Jiang Jia‐Wei , Tu Cheng‐Chieh , Chen Chao‐Huang , Lin Yu‐Chuan
Published: November 2018

Hydrogenation of adipic acid (AA) is a potential way to prepare 1,6‐hexanediol (HDOL). Herein, silica‐supported copper catalysts derived from copper phyllosilicates were synthesized, characterized, and tested in the hydrogenation of AA to HDOL. In a full conversion of AA, a high yield of HDOL (approximately 90 %) was obtained through the use of each Cu‐based catalyst. The turnover frequency calculated according to the consumption rate of AA was discovered to be dependent on the Cu+/(Cu0+Cu+) ratio and the reduction condition. Moreover, recycling tests showed that a catalyst derived from a copper phyllosilicate had better stability compared with Cu/SiO2 made through impregnation due to a stronger interaction between Cu and silica. The kinetic analyses based on the global rate expression and Langmuir−Hinshelwood−Hougen−Watson (LHHW) formalism of AA conversion were conducted. The possible competitive adsorption between AA and its derivatives, including hydroxycaproic acid and ϵ‐caprolactone, was thereby revealed.