bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 are potential novel biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Zhenluo , Shen Lili , Wang Shuwei , Wu Shengdong , Hu Yaoren , Guo Junming , Fu Liyun
Published: October 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been increasingly revealed to be desirable biomarkers for some tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Combined with our previous microarray screening results, we aimed to determine the hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 expression features in HCC, analyze the relationship between their expression level and clinical and pathological characteristics, and investigate their diagnostic and prognostic values. Our data demonstrated that the hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 levels were considerably lower in HCC tissues than in adjacent paracancerous tissues (P < .001). Further study revealed that hsa_circ_0028502 expression levels were related to tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage (P = .015) and that hsa_circ_0076251 expression levels were related to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage (P = .038), comorbidity with type 2 diabetes mellitus (P = .023) and the presence of serum HbsAg (P = .044). Furthermore, the degree of expression of both hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 increased from HCC to liver cirrhosis (LC) to chronic hepatitis (CH). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated that hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 could serve as fairly accurate markers to distinguish HCC tissues from CH tissues and LC tissues, as well as distinguishing LC tissues from CH tissues. Cox regression analysis showed that low expression of has_circ_0076251 was associated with unfavorable survival rates in HCC (HR = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.22‐0.98; P < .05). These findings implied that hsa_circ_0028502 and hsa_circ_0076251 were potentially valuable biomarkers for HCC diagnosis, whereas hsa_circ_0076251 could be used as a prognostic indicator for HCC.
Two‐Step Bioorthogonal Activity‐Based Protein Profiling of Individual Human Proteasome Catalytic Sites
Authors: Xin Bo‐Tao , Espinal Christofer , de Bruin Gerjan , Filippov Dmitri V. , van der Marel Gijsbert A. , Florea Bogdan I. , Overkleeft Herman S.
Published: October 2019

Bioorthogonal chemistry allows the selective modification of biomolecules in complex biological samples. One application of this methodology is in two‐step activity‐based protein profiling (ABPP), a methodology that is particularly attractive where direct ABPP using fluorescent or biotinylated probes is ineffective. Herein we describe a set of norbornene‐modified, mechanism‐based proteasome inhibitors aimed to be selective for each of the six catalytic sites of human constitutive proteasomes and immunoproteasomes. The probes developed for β1i, β2i, β5c, and β5i proved to be useful two‐step ABPs that effectively label their developed proteasome subunits in both Raji cell extracts and living Raji cells through inverse‐electron‐demand Diels–Alder (iEDDA) ligation. The compound developed for β1c proved incapable of penetrating the cell membrane, but effectively labels β1c in vitro. The compound developed for β2c proved not selective, but its azide‐containing analogue LU‐002c proved effective in labeling of β2c via azide–alkyne click ligation chemistry both in vitro and in situ. In total, our results contribute to the growing list of proteasome activity tools to include five subunit‐selective activity‐based proteasome probes, four of which report on proteasome activities in living cells.
Effects of particle size on the quality attributes of wheat flour made by the milling process
Authors: Ma Sen , Wang Chongchong , Li Li , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives

The particle size of wheat flours contributes to the quality of wheat flour products. Wheat flour of particle size ranging from 358 to 17 µm was produced by the milling and examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Additionally, their rheological properties, sulfhydryl content, creep measurements, and the cooking quality were also evaluated.

Findings

Wheat flour with smaller particle size had a higher amount of damaged starch and increased creep recovery of gluten protein, as well as the water absorption rate, cooking loss rate, and hardness of the noodle. The sulfhydryl content of gluten protein decreased with the decrease in the particle size of the wheat flour, as it changed the rheology and the pasting properties of starch. In addition, the dynamic viscoelastic properties of starch were enhanced by using wheat flour with bigger particle size.

Conclusions

The results suggested that particle size was a major factor affecting the quality attributes of the wheat flour. The cooking properties and texture of noodles could be modified by the variation of flour particle size.

Significance and novelty

The result can provide useful information about the important effect of particle size on the quality of the wheat flour and its products. Particle size could be used to potentially predict the product quality characteristics or identify proper quality wheat flour.
Muehrcke's lines in a psoriatic patient: A possible association with acitretin therapy
Authors: Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Danesh Farzaneh
Published: October 2019

Muehrcke's lines are a type of apparent leukonychia that are common in patients receiving chemotherapeutic agents. They are self‐limited, and there is no need to more workup.
Deep peroneal nerve injury during plate fixation for medial open‐wedge high tibial osteotomy: A case report and cadaveric study
Authors: Itoh Masafumi , Itou Junya , Kuwashima Umito , Fujieda Hiroki , Okazaki Ken
Published: October 2019

This report presents a case of deep peroneal nerve palsy caused by an injury during drilling for distal locking screws of a T‐shaped locking plate used for osteosynthesis of medial open‐wedge high tibial osteotomy. A cadaveric simulation study reproduced the risk of injury during the surgery.
Enhanced Visible‐Light Photoactivities of Perovskite‐Type LaFeO3 Nanocrystals by Simultaneously Doping Er3+ and Coupling MgO for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Li Sijia , Li Yanzhen , Chen Yajie , Xu Linna , Chen Qiuyu , Qu Yang , Wang Guofeng , Zhu Peifen , Wang Dingsheng , Qin Weiping
Published: October 2019

The use of solar energy to convert CO2 into chemical fuels not only can create renewable energy but also can alleviate the greenhouse effect. In this work, MgO/LaFeO3 : Er3+ composites were prepared, and their photocatalytic CO2 reduction capability was tested under visible‐light irradiation. The MgO/LaFeO3 : Er3+ composites displayed improved charge carrier separation efficiency, higher CO2 adsorption capacity, and increased photoactivities for photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO and CH4 (71.52 μmol g−1 h−1 and 5.54 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively). As a comparison, the production rates of CO and CH4 are 29.36 μmol g−1 h−1 (CO) and 4.13 μmol g−1 h−1, respectively for pure LaFeO3. The enhanced photoactivities are attributed to the increased electron‐hole separation rate resulting from the Er3+ doping and improved CO2 adsorption capacity by MgO coupling. This work thus identifies a novel approach towards highly efficient photocatalysts for CO2 reduction.
Selective Self‐Condensation of Butanal over Zr‐BEA Zeolites
Authors: Kots Pavel A. , Zabilska Anna V. , Ivanova Irina I.
Published: October 2019

Butanal conversion has been studied over Zr‐BEA zeolites with different amount of partially hydrolyzed open Zr‐sites and fully condensed closed sites. The kinetic study pointed that the main reaction pathway of butanal conversion involves its self‐condensation into 2‐ethyl‐2‐hexenal (2‐EN), the selectivity to 2‐EN being within 80–85 %. Besides, small amounts of 1‐butanol and butanoic acid are formed via Cannizzaro disproportionation of butanal. Secondary reactions include butanoic acid ketonization to 4‐heptanone and esterification to butyl butanoate and tandem hydrogenation/dehydration of 2‐EN into octadienes. A number of techniques, including FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed CO, pyridine, 2,6‐di‐tert‐butylpyridine (DTBPy), TPD of isopropylamine and selective poisoning with DTBPy were applied for characterization of Zr‐sites and elucidation of their activity. Open Zr‐sites were found to be more active with respect to closed Zr‐sites in butanal condensation: the TOF values estimated at 433 K being 1.4 s−1 for open Zr‐sites and 0.6 s−1 for closed sites. On the contrary, selectivity into 2‐EN was similar for open and closed sites. The results point that Zr‐BEA catalysts with enhanced content of open sites are perspective catalysts for the selective synthesis of 2‐EN.
Co Nanoparticles Encapsulated in Nitrogen Doped Carbon Tubes for Efficient Hydrogenation of Quinoline under Mild Conditions
Authors: Yun Ruirui , Hong Lirui , Ma Wanjiao , Zhang Ruiyu , Zhan Feiyang , Duan Jingui , Zheng Baishu , Wang Suna
Published: October 2019

The hydrogenation of nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic precursors in aqueous medium is quite challenging, especially at low temperature and without imposing molecular hydrogen pressure. In the light of the edges of metal nanoparticles (NPs) possess high selective activity, but most of the exposed metal surface does not. Hence, to influence the activity of the entire NPs surface, the use of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) to obtain the metal NPs encapsulated in the carbon tubes which has been applied frequently. Herein, we design and synthesize a series of metal catalysts encapsulated in N‐doped carbon nanotubes (NCT), which disperse on the hollow N‐doped carbon framework (HNC), via pyrolysis ZIF‐67, ZIF‐67@ZIF‐8, and ZIF‐8@ZIF‐67 step by step. The catalyst of Co@NCT/HNC shows outstanding activity of hydrogenation of quinoline under mild conditions, due to the synergistic effects between Co NPs, NCT and HNC, such as the NCT make the hydrogen reach the surface of the reactant rapidly, and the encapsulated structure can enormously prevent the metal aggregating.
Energetic Optimization of the Three‐Stage Gas Permeation Process for the Upgrading of Biogas
Authors: Kube Jürgen
Published: October 2019

The mass balances of countercurrent gas permeation modules for the separation of multicomponent gas mixtures are formulated as a boundary value problem, using the ideal gas law and isobaric isothermal stages. The balances are extended for the common three‐stage gas permeation process for the upgrading of biogas. The solution is calculated with MATLAB's BVP4C boundary value solver. The process is optimized by means of the FMINCON SQP‐algorithm towards lowest power consumption. Parameter variations are conducted, highlighting the impact of product and lean‐gas quality setpoints, biogas composition, membrane surface and selectivity, permeate compression, and choice of compressor model on the energetic optimum.
A Systematic Survey of the Reactivity of Chlorinated N2P2, NP3 and P4 Ring Systems
Authors: Bresien Jonas , Eickhoff Liesa , Schulz Axel , Suhrbier Tim , Villinger Alexander
Published: October 2019

The reactivity of the four‐membered NP3 ring system [RN(μ‐PCl)2PR] (R=Mes*=2,4,6‐tri‐tert‐butylphenyl) towards Lewis acids, Lewis bases, and reducing agents was investigated. Comparisons with the literature‐known, analogous cyclic compounds [ClP(μ‐NR)]2 (R=Ter=2,6‐dimesitylphenyl) and [ClP(μ‐PR)]2 (R=Mes*) are drawn, to obtain a better systematic understanding of the reactivity of cyclic NP species. Apart from experimental results, DFT computations are discussed to further the insight into bonding and electronic structure of these compounds.
Intersystem Crossing in Naphthalenediimide–Oxoverdazyl Dyads: Synthesis and Study of the Photophysical Properties
Authors: Hussain Mushraf , Taddei Maria , Bussotti Laura , Foggi Paolo , Zhao Jianzhang , Liu Qingyun , Di Donato Mariangela
Published: October 2019

Oxoverdazyl (Vz) radical units were covalently linked to the naphthalenediimide (NDI) chromophore to study the effect of the radical on the photophysical properties, especially the radical enhanced intersystem crossing (REISC), which is a promising approach to develop heavy‐atom‐free triplet photosensitizers. Rigid phenyl or ethynylphenyl linkers between the two moieties were used, thus REISC and formation of doublet (D1, total spin quantum number S=1/2) and quartet states (Q1, S=3/2) are anticipated. The photophysical properties of the dyads were studied with steady‐state and femtosecond/nanosecond transient absorption (TA) spectroscopies and DFT computations. Femtosecond transient absorption spectra show a fast electron transfer (<150 fs), and ISC (ca. 1.4–1.85 ps) is induced by charge recombination (CR, in toluene). Nanosecond transient absorption spectra demonstrated a biexponential decay of the triplet state of the NDI moiety. The fast component (lifetime: 50 ns; population ratio: 80 %) is assigned to the D1→D0 decay, and the slow decay component (2.0 μs; 20 %) to the Q1→D0 ISC. DFT computations indicated ferromagnetic interactions between the radical and chromophore (J=0.07–0.13 eV). Reversible formation of the radical anion of the NDI moiety by photoreduction of the radical‐NDI dyads in the presence of sacrificial electron donor triethanolamine (TEOA) is achieved. This work is useful for design of new triplet photosensitizers based on the REISC effect.
Recent Advances in Metal‐Mediated Stereoselective Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Functional Cyclic Esters towards Well‐Defined Poly(hydroxy acid)s: From Stereoselectivity to Sequence‐Control
Authors: Li Hui , Shakaroun Rama M. , Guillaume Sophie M. , Carpentier Jean‐François
Published: October 2019

Poly(hydroxy acid)s are a family of biocompatible and (bio)degradable polyesters with various outcomes in different domains of application. To date, poly(hydroxy acid)s are best prepared by ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of the corresponding cyclic esters. Using racemic chiral monomers featuring side‐chain groups enables to access, providing a stereoselective catalyst/initiator system is implemented, stereoregular functional polymers, thereby improving their physico–chemical properties, and ultimately, widening their range of uses. Here, we highlight a few important advances in metal‐mediated stereoselective ROP of cyclic esters towards the synthesis of (functional) stereoregular poly(hydroxy acid)s that have recently been disclosed, emphasizing on (functional) β‐ and γ‐lactones, diolide and O‐carboxyanhydride (OCA) monomers and yttrium‐based catalysis. Fine‐tuning of the substituents flanked on the catalyst ligand enables reaching poly(hydroxy acid)s with syndiotactic and also isotactic microstructures. The stereocontrol mechanisms at work and their probable origin, relying on steric but also electronic factors imparted in particular by the ligand substituents, are discussed. Taking advantage of such stereoselective ROPs, original copoly(hydroxy acid)s with gradient or alternated patterns then become accessible from the use of mixtures of chemically different, oppositely configured enantiopure monomers.
Dual Benzophenone/Copper‐Photocatalyzed Giese‐Type Alkylation of C(sp3)−H Bonds
Authors: Abadie Baptiste , Jardel Damien , Pozzi Gianluca , Toullec Patrick , Vincent Jean‐Marc
Published: October 2019

Photocatalyzed Giese‐type alkylations of C(sp3)−H bonds are very attractive reactions in the context of atom‐economy in C−C bond formation. The main limitation of such reactions is that when using highly polymerizable olefin acceptors, such as unsubstituted acrylates, acrylonitrile, or methyl vinyl ketone, radical polymerization often becomes the dominant or exclusive reaction pathway. Herein, we report that the polymerization of such olefins is strongly limited or suppressed when combining the photocatalytic activity of benzophenone (BP) with a catalytic amount of Cu(OAc)2. Under mild and operationally simple conditions, the Giese adducts resulting from the C(sp3)−H functionalization of amines, alcohols, ethers, and cycloalkanes could be synthesized. Preliminary mechanistic studies have revealed that the reaction does not proceed through a radical chain, but through a dual BP/Cu photocatalytic process, in which both CuII and low‐valent CuI/0 species, generated in situ by reduction by the BP ketyl radical, may react with α‐keto or α‐cyano intermediate radicals, thus preventing polymerization.
Elucidating the Anomalous Binding Enhancement of Isoquinoline Boronic Acid for Sialic Acid Under Acidic Conditions: Expanding Biorecognition Beyond Vicinal Diols
Authors: Wellington Nadine , Macklai Sabrina , Britz‐McKibbin Philip
Published: October 2019

A zwitterionic heterocyclic boronic acid based on 4‐isoquinolineboronic acid (IQBA) exhibits the highest reported binding affinity for sialic acid or N‐acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac, K=5390±190 m−1) through the formation of a cyclic boronate ester complex under acidic conditions (pH 3). This anomalous pH‐dependent binding enhancement does not occur with common neutral saccharides (e.g., glucose, fructose, sorbitiol), because it is mediated via selective complexation to a α‐hydroxycarboxylate moiety forming a stable ion pair and ternary complex with Neu5Ac in phosphate buffer. IQBA expands biorecognition beyond classical vicinal diols under neutral or alkaline buffer conditions, which enables the direct analysis of Neu5Ac by native fluorescence with sub‐micromolar detection limits.
Facile Synthesis of Flower‐Like MnCo2O4@PANi‐rGO: A High‐Performance Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Peng , Xu Fengchao , Zhu Guoren , Dong Chunwei , Jin Bo , Li Huan , Jiang Qing
Published: October 2019

Flower‐like MnCo2O4 was prepared in a self‐assembly process and used in the formation of MnCo2O4@polyaniline (MnCo2O4@PANi) that proceeds by a simple in situ polymerization. The MnCo2O4@PANi‐reduced graphite oxide (MnCo2O4@PANi‐rGO) composite was then synthesized by introducing rGO into MnCo2O4@PANi. This modification improves the overall electronic conductivity of the MnCo2O4@PANi‐rGO because of the dual conductive functions of rGO and PANi; it also provides a buffer for the changes in electrode volume during cycling, thus improving the lithium‐storage performance of MnCo2O4@PANi‐rGO. The electrochemical performance of the samples was evaluated by charge/discharge cycling testing, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. MnCo2O4@PANi‐rGO delivers a discharge capacity of 745 mAh g−1 and a Coulombic efficiency of 100 % after 1050 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g−1, and is a promising anode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
RNA Fragmentation and Sequencing (RF‐Seq): Cost‐Effective, Time‐Efficient, and High‐Throughput 3′ mRNA Sequencing Library Construction in a Single Tube
Authors: Veeranagouda Yaligara , Remaury Anne , Guillemot Jean‐Claude , Didier Michel
Published: October 2019

Over the past decade, transcriptomic studies using next‐generation sequencing (NGS)–based RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) have greatly contributed to characterizing biochemical and physiological changes in cells and tissues across organisms and experimental conditions. Critical steps in RNA‐Seq include the preparation of the sequencing library from extracted RNA. Currently, a large panoply of RNA‐Seq kits are commercially available. In these kits, conversion of RNA into a sequencing library involves multiple steps, which are labor‐intensive, and cost per sample for library preparation may limit routine use of RNA‐Seq. Here we describe a simple method for RNA‐Seq library construction, referred to as RNA Fragmentation and Sequencing (RF‐Seq). RF‐Seq requires as little as 10 ng of total RNA and facilitates the sequencing of the 3′ end of mRNAs. RF‐Seq involves the fragmentation of total RNA followed by reverse transcription in presence of the oligo(dT) primer/template switch oligonucleotide and a sample barcoding/enrichment within a single PCR tube/well. The sample barcoding/enrichment step provides more flexibility for individual sample handling. The use of just twenty orthogonal Illumina TruSeq HT barcoding primers facilitates the preparation of 96 uniquely labeled RF‐Seq libraries in a single 96‐well PCR plate. Twelve RF‐Seq libraries can be prepared within 4 hr, with an approximate cost of $10/sample. We provide an example of using RF‐Seq to measure gene expression upon activation of an innate immune pathway using STING activator in human blood cells, highlighting the potential usefulness of the proposed method in routine transcriptomic applications such as high‐throughput drug screening and/or preclinical toxicity assays. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol: RNA fragmentation and sequencing (RF‐Seq): Cost‐effective, time‐efficient, and high‐throughput 3′ mRNA sequencing library construction in a single tube
Semiconductor Crystal Growth under the Influence of Magnetic Fields
Authors: Frank‐Rotsch Christiane , Dropka Natasha , Kießling Frank‐Michael , Rudolph Peter
Published: October 2019

The recent development of semiconductor crystal growth focusses on increase of process efficiency and simultaneous improvement of crystal quality. For improved crystal quality, an exact and permanent control of the melt flow is a crucial parameter. To achieve larger crystals, the melt volume must be increased markedly resulting in disadvantageously changed melt convection. In the case of Czochralski growth, the flow can even become turbulent. This changed flow can disturb the single crystal growth and may give rise to dopant inhomogeneities within the crystal. To effectively influence melt flow and hence to improve growth conditions, magnetic fields can be applied. Mostly, steady magnetic fields (SMF) are applied in industrial scale to damp melt flow oscillations. However, compared to SMF the application of non‐SMF proves to be also very promising since significantly lower induction causes similar effects in the melt. An overview on magnetic field features with the focus on achievable results under the influence of traveling magnetic fields is given.
Microwave‐Assisted Decarbonylation of Biomass‐Derived Aldehydes using Pd‐Doped Hydrotalcites
Authors: An Nan , Ainembabazi Diana , Reid Christopher , Samudrala Kavya , Wilson Karen , Lee Adam F. , Voutchkova‐Kostal Adelina
Published: October 2019

Catalytic decarbonylation is an underexplored strategy for deoxygenation of biomass‐derived aldehydes owing to a lack of low‐cost and robust heterogeneous catalysts that can operate in benign solvents. A family of Pd‐functionalized hydrotalcites (Pd‐HTs) were synthesized, characterized, and applied to the decarbonylation of furfural, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes under microwave conditions. This catalytic system delivered enhanced decarbonylation yields and turnover frequencies, even at a low Pd loading (0.5 mol %). Furfural decarbonylation was optimized in a benign solvent (ethanol) compatible with biomass processing; HMF selectively afforded an excellent yield (93 %) of furfuryl alcohol without humin formation; however, a longer reaction favored the formation of furan through tandem alcohol dehydrogenation and decarbonylation. Yields of the substituted benzaldehydes (37–99 %) were proportional to the calculated Mulliken charge of the carbonyl carbon. Activity and selectivity reflected loading‐dependent Pd speciation. Continuous‐flow testing of the best Pd‐HT catalyst delivered good stability over 16 h on stream, with near‐quantitative conversion of HMF.
Bilayered Potassium Vanadate K0.5V2O5 as Superior Cathode Material for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Baddour‐Hadjean Rita , Thanh Nguyen Huynh Le , Batyrbekuly Daureen , Bach Stéphane , Pereira‐Ramos Jean‐Pierre
Published: October 2019

A bilayered potassium vanadate K0.5V2O5 (KVO) is synthesized by a fast and facile synthesis route and evaluated as a positive electrode material for Na‐ion batteries. Half the potassium ions can be topotactically extracted from KVO through the first charge, allowing 1.14 Na+ ions to be reversibly inserted. A good rate capability is also highlighted, with 160 mAh g−1 at C/10, 94 mAh g−1 at C/2, 73 mAh g−1 at 2C and excellent cycling stability with 152 mAh g−1 still available after 50 cycles at C/10. Ex situ X‐ray diffraction reveals weak and reversible structural changes resulting in soft breathing of the KVO host lattice upon Na extraction–insertion cycles (ΔV/V≈3 %). A high structure stability upon cycling is also achieved, at both the long‐range order and atomic scale probed by Raman spectroscopy. This remarkable behavior is ascribed to the large interlayer spacing of KVO (≈9.5 Å) stabilized by pillar K ions, which is able to accommodate Na ions without any critical change to the structure. Kinetics measurements reveal a good Na diffusivity that is hardly affected upon discharge. This study opens an avenue for further exploration of potassium vanadates and other bronzes in the field of Na‐ion batteries.
In Situ Surface Modification for Improving the Electrochemical Performance of Ni‐Rich Cathode Materials by Using ZrP2O7
Authors: Hu Guorong , Zhang Zhiyong , Li Tianfan , Gan Zhanggen , Du Ke , Peng Zhongdong , Xia Jin , Tao Yong , Cao Yanbing
Published: October 2019

Ni‐rich layered LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode material has promising prospects for high capacity batteries at acceptable cost. However, LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 cathode material suffers from surface structure instability and capacity degradation upon cycling. In this study, in situ ZrP2O7 coating is introduced to provide a protective structure. The optimum modification amount is 1.0 wt %. A series of characterization methods (X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) verify the generation and structure of the coating layer. Electrochemical performance tests demonstrate that the cycle retention rate increases from 66.35 to 86.92 % after 100 cycles at 1 C rate. The dense inorganic pyrophosphate layer not only has chemical stability against the electrolyte but also eliminates surface residual lithium. The protective layer and the matrix are strongly joined by high‐temperature heating, thereby giving a certain mechanical strength and protecting the overall structure of the topography. Therefore, the cycle and rate performance are enhanced by the modification with ZrP2O7.
Simultaneous analysis of 29 synthetic cannabinoids and metabolites, amphetamines, and cannabinoids in human whole blood by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry – A New Zealand perspective of use in 2018
Authors: Ong Rui Shen , Kappatos Diana C. , Russell Sarah G.G. , Poulsen Helen A. , Banister Samuel D. , Gerona Roy R. , Glass Michelle , Johnson Cameron S. , McCarthy Mary‐Jane
Published: October 2019

We describe the validation of a method for the simultaneous analysis of 29 synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) and metabolites, 4 amphetamines, and 2 cannabinoids in human whole blood. This method enables one analysis to cover what previously required multiple analyses for these classic and novel drugs‐of‐abuse with diverse physicochemical properties. The scope of targeted analytes was based on the most prevalent drugs‐of‐abuse and SCs encountered at the New Zealand border in 2017 and included parent compounds and metabolites belonging to the indole and indazole carboxamide, quinolinyl indole carboxylate, and naphthoylindole classifications. Samples were prepared by supported‐liquid‐extraction (SLE) followed by liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry (LC−MS/MS) analysis with positive electrospray ionization (ESI). The method was validated with respect to selectivity, matrix effects, process efficiency, sensitivity, repeatability, extract stability, and carryover for qualitative confirmation. Linearity as well as accuracy and precision data at target decision concentrations were also evaluated. The limits of detection and confirmation ranged from 0.1 to 6.0 ng/mL and 1.0 to 6.0 ng/mL, respectively. The described method was successfully applied to the analysis of 564 ante‐ and post‐mortem blood samples in 2018. There were 132 cases (23%) with positive findings of at least one SC, with the five most commonly detected SCs being AMB‐FUBINACA and/or acid (61%), 5F‐ADB and/or acid (40%), ADB‐FUBINACA (11%), 5F‐MDMB‐PICA acid (6%), and MDMB‐FUBINACA acid (6%). The results also demonstrate the predominant presence of metabolites at higher levels than the unchanged parent SCs in blood, highlighting the need to maintain forensic screening methods capable of the simultaneous detection of both parent compounds and metabolites.
Automatic counting of birds in a bird deterrence field trial
Authors: Simons Elizabeth S. , Hinders Mark K.
Published: October 2019

Decreasing costs in high‐quality digital cameras, image processing, and digital storage allow researchers to generate and store massive amounts of digital imagery. The time needed to manually analyze these images will always be a limiting factor for experimental design and analysis. Implementation of computer vision algorithms for automating the detection and counting of animals reduces the manpower needed to analyze field images.

For this paper, we assess the ability of computer vision to detect and count birds in images from a field test that was not designed for computer vision. Using video stills from the field test and Matlab's Computer Vision Toolbox, we designed and evaluated a cascade object detection method employing Haar and Local Binary Pattern feature types.

Without editing the images, we found that the Haar feature can have a recall over 0.5 with an Intersection over Union threshold of 0.5. However, using this feature, 86% of the frames without birds had false‐positive bird detections. Reducing the false positives could lead to these detection methods being implemented into a fully automated system for detecting and counting birds.

Accurately detecting and counting birds using computer vision will reduce manpower for field experiments, both in experimental design and data analysis. Improvements in automated detection and counting will allow researchers to design extended trials without the added step of optimizing the experimental setup and/or captured images for computer vision.
The impact of yeast presence in nectar on bumble bee behavior and fitness
Authors: Pozo María I. , van Kemenade Gaby , van Oystaeyen Annette , Aledón‐Catalá Tomás , Benavente Alfredo , Van den Ende Wim , Wäckers Felix , Jacquemyn Hans
Published: October 2019

The presence of yeasts in pollen and floral nectar is rather the norm than the exception. Due to the metabolic activities of yeasts, sugar and amino acid composition of nectar often drastically change and may negatively impact the nutritional value of nectar for pollinators and hence insect fitness. On the other hand, the presence of yeasts in floral nectar may also increase its nutritional value due to yeast's probiotic effect and the release of yeast's metabolites. In this study, we investigated whether the presence of defined flower‐ and insect‐associated yeasts affected individual and colony fitness of the bumble bee pollinatorBombus terrestris. Specifically, we tested whether the presence of yeasts in nectar affected bumble bee foraging behavior and nectar consumption, individual growth and colony development, larval and queen mortality, and mating success. Quantitative analyses of sugar and amino acid profiles showed that nectar yeasts significantly affected the chemical composition of nectar. However, dual‐choice experiments indicated that yeast inoculation did not significantly affect foraging behavior or consumption rates. Nest development, on the other hand, was significantly affected by the presence of yeasts, but effects largely depended on species identity, withCandida bombiphila,Metschnikowia gruessii, andRhodotorula mucilaginosahaving the largest positive impact on colony growth. Interestingly, the effects at the colony level were more pronounced than at the individual level. In vitro growth tests further showed that yeasts have the potential to suppress the growth of the bumble bee gut pathogenCrithidia bombi. Overall, these results demonstrate that nectar‐inhabiting yeasts can have diverse effects on bumble bee fitness and therefore may mediate plant–pollinator mutualisms.
Evaluating population impacts of predation by owls on storm petrels in relation to proposed island mouse eradication
Authors: Nur Nadav , Bradley Russell W. , Salas Leo , Warzybok Pete , Jahncke Jaime
Published: October 2019

We quantify the expected demographic benefit to a seabird of conservation concern, the ashy storm‐petrel Oceanodroma homochroa, from the proposed eradication of introduced house mice Mus musculus on the South Farallon Islands, California. A key objective of the eradication is to reduce storm petrel predation by burrowing owls Athene cunicularia, which stopover on the island during their fall migration. Mouse trapping and field surveys of both owls and depredated storm petrel carcasses conducted during 2000–2012 reveal a strongly seasonal, inter‐related pattern among the three species: When owls arrive during the fall, mice are super‐abundant and the overwhelming choice of prey for those owls that remain. In the winter, the mouse population crashes just as storm petrels begin to arrive in large numbers; owls that remain on the island switch to preying upon storm petrels until May, when they depart to breed. Capture–recapture analyses of storm petrels showed (1) annual adult survival was inversely related to owl abundance, especially during January–April, and (2) storm petrels demonstrated a declining trend in abundance 2006–2012. The latter was associated with low rates of adult survival, high abundance of overwintering burrowing owls, and high incidence of depredated storm petrels. To evaluate projected impacts to storm petrels of a change in owl predation, we developed a Leslie matrix model, incorporating environmental stochasticity. We modeled future storm petrel population trajectories, allowing for different levels of owl‐mediated predation. Our results suggest that a reduction in owl abundance, a projected consequence of the elimination of mice, has the potential to substantially reduce overall storm petrel mortality, thereby reducing storm petrel declines and increasing the likelihood of stable trends in the future. While long‐term benefits to storm petrels of mouse eradication are apparent, the risk of increased predation due to prey‐switching by owls also needs to be addressed. This study highlights uncertainty of outcomes, which must be considered in evaluating management impacts. This study demonstrates the value of concurrent, continuous, long‐term datasets in providing a quantitative basis for management to aid the conservation of species of concern.
Pyridazine‐Supported Polymeric Cyanometallates with Spin Transitions
Authors: Gural'skiy Il'ya A. , Shylin Sergii I. , Ksenofontov Vadim , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: October 2019

Heterometallic cyano‐bridged spin‐crossover complexes form a large family of switchable compounds with different structural motives and diverse transition characteristics. Here we report on the hysteretic water‐dependent spin transitions found in the family of [Fe(pyridazine)2M(CN)4] frameworks (M = Ni, Pd, Pt). The structure of three new spin‐crossover compounds is built of cyanometallic layers supported by pyridazine ligands. The frameworks contain water guest molecules that can be removed upon heating. Spin transition was found in both hydrated and dehydrated compounds, while the removal of water stimulated a complete spin state switch. Mössbauer spectroscopy revealed two different high‐spin centers in hydrated frameworks, and only one of them is switchable. The compounds display a pronounceable thermochromism, changing their color from red in low‐spin to yellow in high‐spin. The work shows a perspective of 1,2‐diazine application for the design of switchable complexes.
Impact of Catalyzed Radical Termination (CRT) and Reductive Radical Termination (RRT) in Metal‐Mediated Radical Polymerization Processes
Authors: Thevenin Lucas , Fliedel Christophe , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof , Poli Rinaldo
Published: October 2019

Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP), a metal‐catalyzed process, is a most powerful method for macromolecular engineering, producing polymers with targeted and low‐dispersity molar masses and with high chain‐end fidelity. This is due to the persistent radical effect, which dramatically reduces the spontaneous radical terminations, prolonging the lifetime of radical chains and the concurrent growth of all polymer chains. Two additional reaction modes that involve metals and organic radicals, however, may negatively affect the controlled polymerization. These are the Catalyzed Radical Termination (CRT) and the Reductive Radical Termination (RRT) and were shown to be particularly important for the polymerization of acrylate monomers. The scope and the mechanistic investigations carried out to elucidate how these processes interplay with ATRP and with each other are outlined in this Minireview.
Naphtho[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene Building Blocks and their Complexation with Cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene)
Authors: Jensen Morten , Olsen Gunnar , Kristensen Rikke , Takimiya Kazuo , Jeppesen Jan O.
Published: October 2019

The synthesis and characterization of 2,7‐bis(hydroxymethyl)naphtho[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene1is described. Electrochemical investigations revealed that1and its precursor naphtho[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene (NDT) are moderate π‐electron donors. It was found that both compounds can form 1:1 complexes with the π‐electron accepting cyclophane cyclobis(paraquat‐p‐phenylene) (CBPQT4+). UV/Vis spectroscopy was used to determine the binding constants (Ka) associated with the complexation process leading to the formation of the [2]pseudorotaxanes and the superstructures were characterized using1H NMR spectroscopy and molecular modelling. The results show that theKavalue for1⊂CBPQT4+is approximately seven times larger as compared to NDT⊂CBPQT4+, which can be ascribed to the fact that1is a better π‐electron donor compared to the parent NDT and therefore is capable of forming stronger charge transfer (CT) interactions with CBPQT4+. The strong π‐electron donor tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) was used to carry out switching studies between the [2]pseudorotaxanes NDT⊂CBPQT4+and TTF⊂CBPQT4+and the results suggest that NDT derivatives in combination with TTF appear as promising building blocks for the development of new electroactive molecular machines based on CBPQT4+.
A Catalyst‐Free Minisci‐Type Reaction: the C–H Alkylation of Quinoxalinones with Sodium Alkylsulfinates and Phenyliodine(III) Dicarboxylates
Authors: Wang Liping , Zhao Jiquan , Sun Yuting , Zhang Hong‐Yu , Zhang Yuecheng
Published: October 2019

A direct C–H alkylation of quinoxalinones at the C‐3 position with sodium alkylsulfinates and phenyliodine(III) dicarboxylates has been developed under catalyst‐free conditions. A series of 3‐alkylquinoxalinones were afforded in moderate to excellent yields in this protocol, which offers a practical and efficient access to biologically interesting 3‐alkylquinoxalin‐2(1H)‐one derivatives.
Surfactant Micelles Enable Metal‐Free Spirocyclization of Keto‐Ynamides and Access to Aza‐Spiro Scaffolds in Aqueous Media
Authors: Beltran Frédéric , Vela‐Gonzalez Andrea V. , Knaub Tatiana , Schmutz Marc , Krafft Marie Pierre , Miesch Laurence
Published: October 2019

Micellar solutions of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant allow the spirocyclization of keto‐ynamides in an aqueous medium without recourse to transition‐metal catalysis, enabling access in water to naturally occurring aza‐spiro compounds with potential in drug discovery. The reaction was monitored by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM), which determined the morphology and change in size of the micelles before and after incorporation of the substrate and achievement of 5‐endo‐dig cyclization inside the micelles.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Dehydrogenative Coupling of Amines into Imines
Authors: Bottaro Fabrizio , Takallou Ahmad , Chehaiber Ahmad , Madsen Robert
Published: October 2019

Primary amines have been subjected to an acceptorless dehydrogenative homo‐ and heterocoupling into imines with a cobalt catalyst. The catalytically active species are composed of cobalt nanoparticles, which are generated in situ by heating Co2(CO)8 in the presence of trioctylphosphine oxide as a surfactant. The nanoparticles have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy where the image showed spherical and small particles with a narrow size distribution. The catalyst can be recovered and used again with essentially no effect on the yield. The catalyst can also be used for the dehydrogenative coupling of alcohols and amines into imines.
Rutin as an Electrochemical Mediator in the Determination of Captopril using a Graphite Paste Electrode
Authors: da Silva Diana Maria , da Cunha Areias Madalena Carneiro
Published: October 2019

A simple, rapid and sensitive cyclic voltammetry method is described for the determination of the antihypertensive drug captopril in aqueous solution using a graphite paste electrode with rutin as mediator. The catalytic role of rutin in the oxidation of captopril was confirmed by the increase observed in anodic peak current at+0.44 V vs. SCE in the presence of the mediator. Anodic peak current varied linearly with the concentration of captopril in the dynamic range 0.2 to 1.0 mmol L−1. The method exhibited a limit of detection of 89.4 μmol L−1 and a reproducibility of 1 %, values that are comparable with those exhibited by other methodologies employing electrodes without any modification. The recovery rate for the determination of captopril in a pharmaceutical sample was good (91.21 %) suggesting that the described analytical technique would be effective in industrial applications whilst offering a number of advantages over published cyclic voltammetric methods.
Ceramic high temperature plate‐fin heat exchanger: A novel methodology for thermomechanical design investigation
Authors: Haunstetter Jürgen , Dreißigacker Volker
Published: October 2019

The basic methodology of a novel, time‐saving approach for critical thermomechanical design studies of ceramic high temperature plate‐fin heat exchanger is presented. This approach allows the determination of local displacements, by applying the outer heat exchanger boundary conditions on a substitute model. These displacements are then used for detailed calculation of local stresses. The methodology is based on the effective Young's modulus, effective shear modulus, and effective Poisson ratio. Simulation models have been developed to determine these effective substitute properties. A model verification has been performed with a compression test rig. The simulation predicts the experimental results with deviations below 3%, which proves the feasibility and reliability of the effective material models. In order to reduce the parametric effort of the substitute simulation model, information about the material behavior is important. Here, the results indicate an orthotropic material behavior of the fin structure. This reduces the independent substitute material properties required for the characterization of the substitute model, which also reduces the overall simulation time.
Effect of Ruellia tuberosa L. on aorta endothelial damage‐associated factors in high‐fat diet and streptozotocin‐induced type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Ko Chih‐Yuan , Lin Ru‐Hai , Lo Yangming Martin , Chang Wen‐Chang , Huang Da‐Wei , Wu James Swi‐Bea , Chang Yu‐Fang , Huang Wen‐Chung , Shen Szu‐Chuan
Published: October 2019

Hyperglycemia plays crucial roles in vascular disease development, including macrovascular and microvascular diseases from diabetes mellitus (DM). Our previous study demonstrated that Ruellia tuberosa L. (RTL) aqueous and ethanol extracts alleviate hyperglycemia and inhibit insulin resistance in diabetic rats. This study investigated the protective effect of RTL ethanol extract against aorta dysfunction in high‐fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced type 2 DM (T2DM) rats. Results showed that RTL ethanol extract (100 and 400 mg/kg BW/day) ameliorated serum lipid profiles, including triglyceride, free fatty acid, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. It also significantly reduced the level of serum cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 in T2DM rats. Additionally, RTL extract decreased endothelin‐1 and endothelial nitric oxide contents, reduced the level of cell adhesion factors, including monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and cell adhesion factor vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, while decreasing content of damage factors, namely tissue factor and von Willebrand factor in aortic tissues of diabetic rats. Equally noteworthy is that RTL extract enhanced the activity of aorta antioxidative enzymes, including superoxidase dismutase and catalase in diabetic rats, suggesting that RTL ethanol extract may ameliorate aorta dysfunction via enhancing aortic antioxidative enzyme activity, which subsequently suppresses aorta endothelial damage‐associated factors in HFD with STZ‐induced T2DM rats.
Additive Manufactured Graphene Coating with Synergistic Photothermal and Superhydrophobic Effects for Bactericidal Applications
Authors: Jiang Nan , Wang Yilin , Chan Kang Cheung , Chan Ching‐Yuen , Sun Hongzhe , Li Guijun
Published: October 2019

Drug‐resistant bacterial infection is a global threat to public health due to the high mobility of the population. Novel therapy methods have been intensively studied for the eradication of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, including photothermal treatment, which has established outstanding bacterial killing efficiencies under laser radiation, and superhydrophobic surfaces have exhibited excellent antifouling properties. However, an effective, scalable, and affordable bactericidal coating for eliminating drug‐resistant bacteria is lacking. Herein, a novel graphene coating using one‐step laser‐induced graphene and simultaneous laser‐induced forward transfer is introduced. The graphene coating shows high photothermal conversion and superhydrophobic performance, and these synergistic effects can make the bacteria number decrease with over 99.99% proportions under one sun illumination. The superhydrophobic properties can also reduce 99.87% of bacteria compared to the control sample when the solar energy is not available. This additive and scalable method can quickly coat functional graphene onto various substrates, with bacterial applications in many areas, such as water pipeline robots.
Prognose der Festigkeitsentwicklung zementbehandelter Böden mit dem Porosity/Binder‐Index
Authors: Henzinger Christoph , Schömig Philipp
Published: October 2019

Böden mit schlechten bautechnischen Eigenschaften können durch Maßnahmen zur Bodenbehandlung für den Erdbau nutzbar gemacht werden. Einer solchen Maßnahme vorauszugehen hat der Nachweis über die Eignung des gewählten Verfahrens. Bei der Durchführung der Eignungsprüfung im Sinne des straßenbautechnischen Regelwerks wird i. d. R. nur die zugegebene Bindemittelmenge variiert. Die Auswertung der Daten erlaubt dann unglücklicherweise keine Verallgemeinerungen über die tatsächlich untersuchten Mischungen hinaus. Dabei ist bekannt, dass neben der Bindemittelmenge auch die Trockendichte die Festigkeit von verbesserten Böden maßgeblich beeinflusst. In der vorliegenden Studie wird über die Anwendbarkeit eines Verfahrens zur realitätsnahen Abbildung des Zusammenhangs zwischen Druckfestigkeit, Trockendichte (Porenanteil) und Bindemittelanteil berichtet und die Anwendbarkeit auf die im Erdbau üblichen, nicht ideal homogenen Mischungen geprüft. Die Analyse stützt sich auf die einaxiale Druckfestigkeit von Probekörpern, die aus Mischungen aus jeweils drei feinkörnigen Böden mit Zement hergestellt wurden. Es wird gezeigt, dass das Verfahren grundsätzlich angewendet werden kann und welche Randbedingungen beachtet werden sollten. Abschließend werden Empfehlungen für die Anwendung des Verfahrens bei der Eignungsprüfung vorgestellt.