bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Composition and Biochemical Studies of the Aqueous Leaf Extracts of Brillantaisia guianensis P. beauv on Alloxan Treated Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: E. Chinedu Kalu , N. Onyeike Eugene , C. Ikewuchi Catherine
Published: October 2019

The present study was carried out on the phytochemical composition and biochemical studies of the leaf extract of Brillantaisia guinensis peuv on alloxan treated Wistar albino rats. The experimental rats were administered with 80 mg/kg body weight of alloxan, via the tail vein. After five days treatment with alloxan, the treatment with the extracts commenced. Extracts were administered orally at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg bw (both to normal and treated rats) for twenty-one days. Metformin, which served as a standard drug was administered at 50 mg/kg. Chromatographic analysis of the phytochemical content of the leaf extract, revealed the presence of flavonoids (30.7 mg/100 g), saponins (50.6 mg/100 g), phytosterol (6.22 mg/100 g), tannins (7.50 mg/100 g) and glycosides (29.3 mg/100 g). Compared to test and normal control, the extracts dose-dependently and significantly lowered (P<0.05) plasma glucose and triglycerides, during the experimental period. This study revealed the presence of pharmacologically bioactive compounds in the leaf extract and showed that the leaf extract had a dose-dependent hypoglycemic and  hypotriglyceridemic effect on the Wistar albino rats. The findings suggest a likely protective role of the extracts against hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia thereby useful in the treatment and management of diabetes mellitus, obesity and other related cardiovascular diseases.
High‐Performance Thermally Conductive Phase Change Composites by Large‐Size Oriented Graphite Sheets for Scalable Thermal Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wu Si , Li Tingxian , Tong Zhen , Chao Jingwei , Zhai Tianyao , Xu Jiaxing , Yan Taisen , Wu Minqiang , Xu Zhenyuan , Bao Hua , Deng Tao , Wang Ruzhu
Published: October 2019

Efficient thermal energy harvesting using phase‐change materials (PCMs) has great potential for cost‐effective thermal management and energy storage applications. However, the low thermal conductivity of PCMs (KPCM) is a long‐standing bottleneck for high‐power‐density energy harvesting. Although PCM‐based nanocomposites with an enhanced thermal conductivity can address this issue, achieving a higher K (>10 W m−1 K−1) at filler loadings below 50 wt% remains challenging. A strategy for synthesizing highly thermally conductive phase‐change composites (PCCs) by compression‐induced construction of large aligned graphite sheets inside PCCs is demonstrated. The millimeter‐sized graphite sheet consists of lateral van‐der‐Waals‐bonded and oriented graphite nanoplatelets at the micro/nanoscale, which together with a thin PCM layer between the sheets synergistically enhance KPCM in the range of 4.4–35.0 W m−1 K−1 at graphite loadings below 40.0 wt%. The resulting PCCs also demonstrate homogeneity, no leakage, and superior phase change behavior, which can be easily engineered into devices for efficient thermal energy harvesting by coordinating the sheet orientation with the thermal transport direction. This method offers a promising route to high‐power‐density and low‐cost applications of PCMs in large‐scale thermal energy storage, thermal management of electronics, etc.
Skin‐Friendly Electronics for Acquiring Human Physiological Signatures
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Tao Tiger H.
Published: October 2019

Epidermal sensing devices offer great potential for real‐time health and fitness monitoring via continuous characterization of the skin for vital morphological, physiological, and metabolic parameters. However, peeling them off can be difficult and sometimes painful especially when these skin‐mounted devices are applied on sensitive or wounded regions of skin due to their strong adhesion. A set of biocompatible and water‐decomposable “skin‐friendly” epidermal electronic devices fabricated on flexible, stretchable, and degradable protein‐based substrates are reported. Strong adhesion and easy detachment are achieved concurrently through an environmentally benign, plasticized protein platform offering engineered mechanical properties and water‐triggered, on‐demand decomposition lifetime (transiency). Human experiments show that multidimensional physiological signals can be measured using these innovative epidermal devices consisting of electro‐ and biochemical sensing modules and analyzed for important physiological signatures using an artificial neural network. The advances provide unique, versatile capabilities and broader applications for user‐ and environmentally friendly epidermal devices.
Old Concepts, New Application – Additive‐Free Hydrogenation of Nitriles Catalyzed by an Air Stable Alkyl Mn(I) Complex
Authors: Weber Stefan , Veiros Luis F. , Kirchner Karl
Published: October 2019

An efficient additive‐free manganese‐catalyzed hydrogenation of nitriles to primary amines with molecular hydrogen is described. The pre‐catalyst, a well‐defined bench‐stable alkyl bisphosphine Mn(I) complexfac‐[Mn(dpre)(CO)3(CH3)] (dpre=1,2‐bis(di‐n‐propylphosphino)ethane), undergoes CO migratory insertion into the manganese‐alkyl bond to form acyl complexes which upon hydrogenolysis yields the active coordinatively unsaturated Mn(I) hydride catalyst [Mn(dpre)(CO)2(H)]. A range of aromatic and aliphatic nitriles were efficiently and selectively converted into primary amines in good to excellent yields. The hydrogenation of nitriles proceeds at 100 °C with a catalyst loading of 2 mol % and a hydrogen pressure of 50 bar. Mechanistic insights are provided by means of DFT calculations.

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Progress of Surface Science Studies on ABX3‐Based Metal Halide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qiu Longbin , He Sisi , Ono Luis K. , Qi Yabing
Published: October 2019

ABX3 type metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown efficiencies over 25%, rocketing toward their theoretical limit. To gain the full potential of PSCs relies on the understanding of the device working mechanisms and recombination, the material quality, and the match of energy levels in the device stacks. In this review, the importance of designing PSCs from the viewpoint of surface/interface science studies is presented. For this purpose, recent case studies are discussed to demonstrate how probing of local heterogeneities (e.g., grains, grain boundaries, atomic structure, etc.) in perovskites by surface science techniques can help correlate material properties and PSC device performance. At the solar cell device level with active areas larger than millimeter scale, the ensemble average measurement techniques can characterize the overall average properties of perovskite films as well as their adjacent layers and provide clues to understand better the solar cell parameters. How generation and healing of electronic defects in perovskite films limit the device efficiency, reproducibility, and stability, and induce the time‐dependent transient behavior in the current‐voltage curves are also the central focus of this review. On the basis of these studies, strategies to further improve efficiency and stability, as well as reducing hysteresis are presented.
Preparation and characterization of new inorganic–organic hybrid catalyst H3PMo12O40/Hyd‐SBA‐15 and its application in the domino multi‐component reaction
Authors: Safaei‐Ghomi Javad , Bakhtiari Atefeh
Published: October 2019

We present novel inorganic–organic hybrid catalyst to accomplish domino multi‐component reaction (MCR) for synthesis of 3‐amino‐2′‐oxospiro[benzo[c]pyrano[3,2‐a]phenazine‐1,3′‐indoline]‐2‐carbonitrile/carboxylate derivatives. This methodology offers remarkable development by easy production of H3PMo12O40/Hyd‐SBA‐15 in regard to solving the problem of using harsh catalysts, also it demonstrates to be impressive and environmentally friendly in term of low reaction times and high yields.
Antioxidant and Emulsifying Activities of Corn Gluten Meal Hydrolysates in Oil‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Shen Yanting , Hu Ruijia , Li Yonghui
Published: October 2019

Corn gluten meal (CGM) is a protein‐rich coproduct generated during corn wet milling. In this study, CGM was hydrolyzed using Neutrase protease for 1 and 3 hours, respectively, to obtain antioxidative corn gluten meal protein hydrolysates (CGMPH), which could be a potential antioxidant in various products to retard lipid oxidation. Our objective was to evaluate the emulsion properties and oxidation stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions containing different types (1‐hour and 3‐hour hydrolysates) and amounts of CGMPH. The results showed that the emulsions with CGMPH had significantly improved oxidative stability than the control based on both peroxide value and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) analysis. The emulsion with higher concentration of CGMPH (e.g., 5 mg mL−1) showed more effective inhibition on lipid oxidation. The emulsion turbidity of 1‐hour CGMPH at 2.5 mg mL−1 had a lower value than that of other emulsions, and overall, the turbidity for 3‐hour CGMPH had a slightly higher value than that with 1‐hour CGMPH. Addition of CGMPM did not affect emulsion morphology and droplet sizes. Zeta potential analysis showed that emulsions with 1‐hour hydrolysate had more negative charges with better emulsion stability than that with 3‐hour hydrolysate at the same pH. In conclusion, the CGMPH were able to inhibit lipid oxidation in reducing the formation of hydroperoxides and TBARS, and could be a potential functional antioxidant for food emulsion applications.
Biogenic amine biosynthetic and transduction genes in the endoparasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)
Authors: Qi Yi‐Xiang , Wang Jia‐Le , Xu Gang , Song Qi‐Sheng , Stanley David , Fang Qi , Ye Gong‐Yin
Published: October 2019

Biogenic amines (BAs), such as octopamine, tyramine, dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine regulate various behaviors and physiological functions in insects. Here, we identified seven genes encoding BA biosynthetic enzymes and 16 genes encoding BA G protein‐coupled receptors in the genome of the endoparasitoid wasp, Pteromalus puparum. We compared the genes with their orthologs in its host Pieris rapae and the related ectoparasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis. All the genes show high (>90%) identity to orthologs in N. vitripennis. P. puparum and N. vitripennis have the smallest number of BA receptor genes among the insect species we investigated. We then analyzed the expression profiles of the genes, finding those acting in BA biosynthesis were highly expressed in adults and larvae and those encoding BA receptors are highly expressed in adults than immatures. Octα1R and 5‐HT7 genes were highly expressed in salivary glands, and a high messenger RNA level of 5‐HT1A was found in venom apparatuses. We infer that BA signaling is a fundamental component of the organismal organization, homeostasis and operation in parasitoids, some of the smallest insects.
Retracted: microRNA‐29b inhibits cell growth and promotes sensitivity to oxaliplatin in colon cancer by targeting FOLR1
Authors: Fu Qiang , Zhang Jindai , Huang Gaofeng , Zhang Yonglei , Zhao Minghai , Zhang Yongchao , Xie Jianguo
Published: October 2019

The present study was aimed to explore the functional role of microRNA (miR)‐29b in colon cancer, as well as underlying mechanisms. Expressions of miR‐29b and folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) were measured in both human colon tumor samples and cell lines. Colon cancer cell lines SW480 and SW620 were transfected with miR‐29b mimic, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO)‐miR‐29b, small interfering (siRNA) against FOLR1 (si‐FOLR1), or corresponding negative controls (NCs), and then were incubated with or without oxaliplatin (L‐OHP). Thereafter, cell viability, cytotoxicity, cell apoptosis, and expression of FOLR1, ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily G Member 2 (ABCG2) and p‐glycoprotein (p‐gp) were analyzed. We found that miR‐29b was significantly decreased, while FOLR1 was statistically elevated in colon cancer samples and cell lines compared to the nontumor samples and nontumourigenic immortalized human colon epithelial cell line FHC. Overexpression of miR‐29b markedly inhibited cell viability, promoted sensitivity to L‐OHP, stimulated cell apoptosis (all p < .05), and decreased the levels of ABCG2 and p‐gp in cancer cells, whereas suppression of miR‐29b showed contrary results. Moreover, we observed that FOLR1 was a direct target of miR‐29b and was negatively regulated by miR‐29b. In addition, the findings revealed that the effects of FOLR1 inhibition on cell viability, sensitivity to L‐OHP, cell apoptosis, and the levels of ABCG2 and p‐gp were similar to overexpression of miR‐29b. Taken together, our study suggests that miR‐29b inhibits cell growth and promotes sensitivity to L‐OHP in colon cancer by targeting FOLR1.
Application of cyclodextrinase in non‐complexant production of γ‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Ji Hangyan , Wang Yu , Bai Yuxiang , Li Xiaoxiao , Qiu Lizhong , Jin Zhengyu
Published: October 2019

The production of γ‐cyclodextrin usually includes the utilization of organic complexants. However, the non‐complexant production of γ‐cyclodextrin is always being explored due to the defects of organic complexants. However, in non‐complexant production, the separation of γ‐cyclodextrin from α‐ and β‐cyclodextrin is still a challenge. Here, the selective hydrolysis ability of a cyclodextrinase designated PpCD (cyclodextrinase from Palaeococcus pacificus) on α‐cyclodextrin, β‐cyclodextrin, and γ‐cyclodextrin was proved. The kcat/Km values of PpCD for α‐cyclodextrin and β‐cyclodextrin were roughly 12‐fold and 5‐fold higher than that of γ‐cyclodextrin. It was proved that PpCD had selective hydrolysis ability and its γ‐cyclodextrin purification performance was apparent on various simulated cyclodextrin mixtures with reported proportions derived from different CGTases. Besides, the hydrolysis temperature was optimized and it could be seen that 85°C was appropriate for the production of γ‐cyclodextrin. In addition, the production of γ‐cyclodextrin was achieved by using PpCD in the γ‐CGTase reaction products.
A Diffusion‐Reaction Model for One‐Pot Synthesis of Chemicals with Enzyme Cascades
Authors: Yong You , Ouyang Pingkai , Wu Jianzhong , Liu Zheng
Published: October 2019

We propose a kinetic model for one‐pot synthesis of chemicals using enzyme cascades with an explicit consideration of mass transport and local concentration changes. The kinetic model was discussed in the context of a two‐enzyme cascade system composed of glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The simulation results indicate that proximity between enzymes has no visible effects on the reaction rate for cascades freely diffusing in a solution, while the initial reaction rate of a colocalized enzyme cascade can be profoundly affected by resistance of mass transport within a supporting matrix. The kinetic model was applied to a one‐pot synthesis using GOx‐catalase (Cat) cascade in overcoming the unfavourable pH changes caused by product accumulation. The simulation results indicate that, by optimizing the enzyme composition and by enhancing intermediate transport, the GOx‐Cat cascade is able to increase the efficiency of substrate conversion to near 100 % while the reaction time can be greatly shortened.
Enzymatic Oxidation of Lignin: Challenges and Barriers Toward Practical Applications
Authors: Chan Jou C. , Paice Michael , Zhang Xiao
Published: October 2019

Lignocellulosic biomass represents perhaps the most abundant renewable resource with a potential to replace fossil‐based feedstock for sustainable energy, chemical and materials production. Among the three major lignocellulosic biomass components (i. e. cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin), lignin is a macromolecule with an aromatic skeleton with a variety of functional groups (e. g. hydroxyl, methoxy, carbonyl, double bond) and carries a higher energy density. The unique structure makes lignin an intriguing substrate for energy, chemicals and materials productions. However, the high molecular weight and complex macromolecular structure have made lignin a challenging substrate to be transformed by many conversion methods. Microbial enzyme degradation and modification of lignin have been subjected to a significant amount research in the last a few decades. Yet so far little success has been demonstrated to merit the use of enzymatic technology for lignin transformation at a commercial scale. This paper provides an updated review of the development of lignin degrading/modifying enzymes with an emphasis on identifying the key barriers and challenges toward practical applications of microbial enzymes for lignin valorization with a hope to generate new insights and direction that can overcome these challenges.
Encapsulated Gold Nanoparticles as a Reactive Quasi‐Homogeneous Catalyst in Base‐Free Aerobic Homocoupling Reactions
Authors: Jang Wongi , Byun Hongsik , Kim Jun‐Hyun
Published: October 2019

Multiple gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are physically encapsulated within a poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) particle at room temperature by an in situ reduction method using trisodium citrate (Cit) and sodium oxalate (Oxa) to serve as quasi‐homogeneous catalysts for carbon−carbon bond‐forming reactions under base‐free aerobic conditions. The use of Oxa results in a more rapid formation and higher loading of AuNPs within the polymer particles compared to those prepared with conventional Cit. Upon dispersing both composite particles in EtOH‐rich aqueous solvents, the polymer matrices maintain a fully swollen structure while still providing great stability to the AuNPs whose surfaces are analyzed to be nearly free from the reducing/stabilizing agents. As a catalyst in homocoupling reactions, the composite particles prepared with Oxa exhibit higher activity, selectivity, and recyclability with a much lower activation energy than those prepared with Cit. The preparation of the composite particles and their catalytic properties are optimized under environmentally‐friendly reaction conditions, and the relationship between structural features and catalytic functions are examined to potentially develop robust, versatile, and green catalytic systems.
NMR Spectroscopic Characterization of Flame‐Made Amorphous Silica‐Alumina for Cyclohexanol and Glyceraldehyde Conversion
Authors: Wang Zichun , Jiang Yijiao , Stampfl Catherine , Baiker Alfons , Hunger Michael , Huang Jun
Published: October 2019

Amorphous silica‐aluminas (ASAs), possessing both Brønsted acid sites (BAS) and Lewis acid sites (LAS), are important bifunctional catalysts in various industrial applications. Solid‐state NMR spectroscopy has been widely used for characterizing the local structure and the surface sites of ASAs with probe molecules. In this work, four‐, five‐ and six‐coordinated Al species have been observed on the flame‐made ASAs by 27Al MQ MAS NMR experiment. 1H/27Al TRAPDOR MAS NMR experiments confirmed that surface Al species contribute to the formation of BAS and protonate ammonia probe molecules. The adsorption of ammonia on Lewis acidic Al sites (δ1H=3.0 ppm) was evidenced by various 1H MAS NMR experiments on samples dehydrated at different temperatures, allowing the distinction from ammonium ions (δ1H=6.7 ppm) formed at BAS. The signal of ammonia adsorbed on LAS increased with increasing Al content in the ASAs. These properties together with the absence of pore diffusional constraints render the flame‐made ASAs excellent catalysts for cyclohexanol dehydration and the conversion of glyceraldehyde in ethanol to ethyl lactate, outperforming the performance of other ASAs or zeolites.
Electrosynthesis of Pyrenediones on Carbon Nanotube Electrodes for Efficient Electron Transfer with FAD‐dependent Glucose Dehydrogenase in Biofuel Cell Anodes
Authors: Blanchard Pierre‐Yves , Buzzetti Paulo Henrique M. , Davies Bridget , Nedellec Yannig , Girotto Emerson Marcelo , Gross Andrew J. , Le Goff Alan , Nishina Yuta , Cosnier Serge , Holzinger Michael
Published: October 2019

A particularly efficient redox mediator for electron transfer between FAD‐dependent glucose dehydrogenase (FAD‐GDH) and carbon nanotube (CNT) based electrodes can be obtained via electrosynthetic oxidation of pyrene in aqueous buffer solution. 1H‐NMR spectroscopic studies reveal the formation of a 2 : 1 mixture of 1,6‐pyrenedione and 1,8‐pyrenedione at the electrode. The formed pyrenedione exhibits a well‐defined surface‐bound redox system at −0.1 V vs. SCE and provides excellent electron transfer kinetics with this enzyme. Furthermore, the π‐system of pyrenedione allows improved stacking behavior with the CNT walls, leading to enhanced stabilities compared to commonly used mediators like naphthoquinone. The electrosynthesis of pyrenedione for catalytic glucose oxidation is optimal at pH 2 using cyclic voltammetry or chronoamerometry. It is envisioned that the electrosynthetic methodology can be expanded to form different redox mediators for a series of enzymes.
ZnS coating of cathode facilitates lean‐electrolyte Li‐S batteries
Authors: Shin Woochul , Lu Jun , Ji Xiulei
Published: October 2019

Tremendous effort has been devoted to lithium‐sulfur batteries, where flooded electrolytes have been employed ubiquitously. The use of lean electrolytes albeit indispensable for practical applications often causes low capacity and fast capacity fading of the sulfur cathode; thus, the electrolyte/sulfur active mass ratios below 5 µL/mg have been rarely reported. Herein, we demonstrate that ZnS coating transforms sulfur cathode materials electrolyte‐philic, which tremendously promotes the performance in lean electrolytes. The ZnS‐coated Li2S@graphene cathode delivers an initial discharge capacity of 944 mAh/g at an E/S ratio of 2 µL/mg at the active mass loading of 5.0 mg Li2S/cm2, corresponding to an impressive specific energy of 500 Wh/kg based on the mass of cathode, electrolyte, and the assumed minimal mass of lithium metal anode. Density functional theory calculations reveal strong binding between ZnS crystals and electrolyte solvent molecules, explaining the better wetting properties. We also demonstrate the reversible cycling of a hybrid cathode of ZnS‐coated Li2S@graphene mixed with VS2 as an additive at an E/AM (active mass) ratio of 1.1 µL/mg, equivalent to the specific energy of 432 Wh/kg on the basis of the mass of electrodes and electrolyte.
Synthesis of graphene materials by electrochemical exfoliation: Recent progress and future potential
Authors: Liu Fei , Wang Chaojun , Sui Xiao , Riaz Muhammad Adil , Xu Meiying , Wei Li , Chen Yuan
Published: October 2019

Synthesis of structurally controlled graphene materials is critical for realizing their practical applications. The electrochemical exfoliation of graphite has emerged as a simple method to produce graphene materials. This review examines research progress in the last 5 years, from 2015 to 2019. Graphene material synthesis methods generally have a trade‐off between increasing production yield and achieving better material property control. The synthesis conditions for synthesizing pristine graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and graphene composites are significantly different. Thus, in this review, we first discuss synthesis methods for graphene materials with high C/O ratios from four aspects: graphite electrodes, equipment engineering, electrolytes, and additional reduction methods. Next, we survey synthesis methods for GO and examine how the pretreatment of the graphite electrodes, electrolytes, and operation parameters, such as applied voltages, electrolyte temperatures, and mechanical forces, affect the quality of GO. Further, we summarize electrochemical exfoliation methods used to dope graphene materials, introduce covalent functional groups, incorporate various nanoparticles, and assembly of graphene architectures. For all synthesis methods, we compare the properties of resulting graphene materials such as C/O ratios, lateral size, layer numbers, and quality characterized by Raman spectroscopy. Lastly, we propose our perspectives on further research. We hope this review stimulates more studies to realize the on‐demand production of graphene materials with desired properties using electrochemical exfoliation methods.
Concurrent maturation of visuomotor skills and motion perception in typically‐developing children and adolescents
Authors: Niechwiej‐Szwedo Ewa , Meier Kimberly , Christian Lisa , Nouredanesh Mina , Tung James , Bryden Pamela , Giaschi Deborah
Published: October 2019

Perceptual and visuomotor skills undergo considerable development from early childhood into adolescence; however, the concurrent maturation of these skills has not yet been examined. This study assessed visuomotor function and motion perception in a cross‐section of 226 typically‐developing children between 4 and 16 years of age. Participants were tested on three tasks hypothesized to engage the dorsal visual stream: threading a bead on a needle, marking dots using a pen, and discriminating form defined by motion contrast. Mature performance was reached between 8 and 12 years, with youngest maturation for kinematic measures for a reach‐to‐grasp task, and oldest maturation for a precision tapping task. Performance on the motion perception task shared no association with motor skills after controlling for age.
Improved Reproducibility of PbS Colloidal Quantum Dots Solar Cells Using Atomic Layer–Deposited TiO2
Authors: Sukharevska Nataliia , Bederak Dmytro , Dirin Dmitry , Kovalenko Maksym , Loi Maria Antonietta
Published: October 2019

Thanks to their broadly tunable bandgap and strong absorption, colloidal lead chalcogenide quantum dots (QDs) are highly appealing as solution‐processable active layers for third‐generation solar cells. However, the modest reproducibility of this kind of solar cell is a pertinent issue, which inhibits the exploitation of this material class in optoelectronics. This issue is not necessarily imputable to the active layer but may originate from different constituents of the device structure. Herein, the deposition of TiO2 electron transport layer is focused on. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) greatly improves the reproducibility of PbS QD solar cells compared with the previously optimized sol–gel (SG) approach. Power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the solar cells using atomic layer–deposited TiO2 lies in the range between 5.5% and 7.2%, whereas solar cells with SG TiO2 have PCE ranging from 0.5% to 6.9% with a large portion of short‐circuited devices. Investigations of TiO2 layers by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy reveal that these films have very different surface morphologies. Whereas the TiO2 films prepared by SG synthesis and deposited by spin coating are very smooth, TiO2 films made by ALD repeat the surface texture of the fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate underneath.
Sequential Fractionation of Lignocellulosic Biomass Using CO2‐Assisted Hydrolysis Combined with γ‐Valerolactone Treatment
Authors: Zhai Qiaolong , Hse Chung-yun , Long Feng , Wang Fei , Shupe Todd F. , Xu Junming
Published: October 2019

A biomass biorefinery strategy for the selective fractionation of poplar into its three main compositions (hemicellulose sugars, lignin, and high‐purity cellulose) with a two‐step process is developed. The first step consists of the selective hydrolysis of hemicellulose at mild conditions in a CO2/H2O system. This leads to various hemicellulose sugars and other intermediates in the water‐soluble fraction, with more than 87.90% of the hemicellulose being extracted from the original poplar (180 °C, 2.0 MPa CO2, 10 min). The pretreated sample is subsequently used for extracting lignin in a γ‐valerolactone (GVL)/H2O with acid catalysts for the next step. Meanwhile, four acid catalysts, including sulfuric acid and solid heteropoly acids (phosphomolybdic acid, silicotungstic acid, and phosphotungstic acid), are studied for the selective delignification in the GVL/H2O system, resulting in more than 91.35% of the original lignin being removed in the cellulose‐rich substrates (140 °C, 30 mM silicotungstic acid, 3 h). Overall, the biorefinery approach fractions the poplar wood into three primary components: 1) various oligosaccharides, monosaccharides, and other intermediates derived from hemicellulose; 2) cellulose‐rich substrate with a purity of cellulose as high as 90.76%, which has great potential as biochemicals or biomaterials; and 3) high‐purity and proportion lignin recovered from biomass.
Seasonal Toxicity Observed with Amphipods (Eohaustorius estuarius) at Paleta Creek, San Diego Bay, USA
Authors: Hayman Nicholas T. , Rosen Gunther , Colvin Marienne A. , Chadwick Bart D. , Rao Balaji , Athanasiou Dimitrios , Rakowska Magdalena , Drygiannaki Ilektra , Burton G. Allen , Reible Danny D.
Published: October 2019

To assess potential impacts on receiving systems, associated with storm water contaminants, laboratory 10-d amphipod (Eohaustorius estuarius) survival toxicity tests were performed using intact sediment cores collected from Paleta Creek (San Diego Bay, CA, USA) on 5 occasions between 2015 and 2017. The approach included deposition-associated sediment particles collected from sediment traps placed at each of 4 locations during the 2015 to 2016 wet seasons. The bioassays demonstrated wet season toxicity, especially closest to the creek mouth, and greater mortality associated with particles deposited in the wet season compared with dry season samples. Grain size analysis of sediment trap material indicated coarser sediment at the mouth of the creek and finer sediment in the outer depositional areas. Contaminant concentrations of metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) and organic compounds (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], and pesticides) were quantified to assess possible causes of toxicity. Contaminant concentrations were determined in the top 5 cm of sediment and porewater (using passive samplers). Whereas metals, PAHs, and PCBs were rarely detected at sufficient concentrations to elicit a response, pyrethroid pesticides were highly correlated with amphipod toxicity. Summing individual pyrethroid constituents using a toxic unit approach suggested that toxicity to E. estuarius could be associated with pyrethroids. This unique test design allowed delineation of spatial and temporal differences in toxicity, suggesting that storm water discharge from Paleta Creek may be the source of seasonal toxicity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;39:229–239. © 2019 SETAC
Melt dripping behavior in the process of flame spread over energized electrical wire at different pressures
Authors: Wang Zhi , Wei Ruichao , He Junjiang , Wang Jian
Published: October 2019

Melt dripping of polymer insulation in electrical wires is impacted by some factors, such as ambient pressure and electric current. The motivation of this paper is to investigate and discuss the effect of these factors on melt dripping characteristics in the process of flame spread over electrical wire. The results show that the number of dripping times and dripping frequency generally increase with ambient pressure reduced. No dripping phenomenon occurs when the ambient pressure is below 40 kPa at any electric current or is above 70 kPa without electric current applied. There is a good parabolic correlation between the ambient pressure and dripping frequency. The equilibrium temperature of conductor resulted by electric current increases with electric current. A critical electric current found to divide the temperature rate into two regimes is about 8 A. The dripping period and dripping frequency depend on the electric current. The dripping frequency fits well with electric current using a power‐law function. The numerical data are consistent with the experimental data. Besides, the decrease in dripping frequency is greater with ambient pressure at reduced electric current, whereas at larger electric current, the electric current, rather than the ambient pressure, dominates the increased dripping frequency.
An impact analysis of population growth on energy‐water‐food‐land nexus for ecological sustainable development in Rwanda
Authors: Imasiku Katundu , Ntagwirumugara Etienne
Published: October 2019

While agricultural activities are a major drain on water resources in Rwanda, its high population growth continually escalates energy–water–food–land nexus pressures. With 13.03 million inhabitants on a 26,336 km2 area which translates to be 495 inhabitants per km2, Rwanda has the second‐highest population density in Africa because of its high annual population growth rate of 2.95%. Access to clean drinking water, energy, and food to meet the demographic needs in Rwanda are fundamental, but this is unlikely to be the case by 2050 due to the anticipated land scarcity. Land stress is endangering energy, water, and food security, and this works against ecological sustainable development. This research analyzed the ecological balance of human activities in Rwanda and how policymakers have increasingly emphasized on energy–water–food nexus sectors separately without integrating land usage and population growth which poses an even more critical situation if left unattended to. The research study recommends the Multi‐Scale Integrated Analysis of Societal and Ecosystem Metabolism (MuSIASEM) method as being appropriate to support the transition toward a sustainable economy because it is used to optimize resources, generate focused decisions, actions, investments, and policies that would combat nexus pressures and promote ecological sustainable development.
Ein Sinnbild für die Gemeinschaft
Authors: Siegmund Britta
Published: October 2019

Rund 150 000 Wahlberechtigte, fast 1700 Kandidierende, mehr als 600 zu vergebende Mandate: Die Wahl der Fachkollegiatinnen und Fachkollegiaten der DFG ist im hiesigen Wissenschaftssystem ein ganz besonderes Unternehmen. Und die Fachkollegien symbolisieren in besonderer Weise die Selbstorganisation der Wissenschaft in Deutschland.
Neue Modelle für System Erde
Authors: Pongratz Julia , Nabel Julia , Naudts Kim
Published: October 2019

Drei Viertel der eisfreien Landoberfläche werden land‐ und forstwirtschaftlich genutzt. Die Geowissenschaften wollen nun besser verstehen, wie sich die Landnutzung im Wandel direkt und indirekt auf das Klima und den Klimawandel auswirkt.
Histological comparison of three apatitic bone substitutes with different carbonate contents in alveolar bone defects in a beagle mandible with simultaneous implant installation
Authors: Mano Takamitsu , Akita Kazuya , Fukuda Naoyuki , Kamada Kumiko , Kurio Naito , Ishikawa Kunio , Miyamoto Youji
Published: October 2019

Since bone apatite is a carbonate apatite containing carbonate in an apatitic structure, carbonate content may be one of the factors governing the osteoconductivity of apatitic bone substitutes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of carbonate content on the osteoconductivity of apatitic bone substitutes using three commercially available bone substitutes for the reconstruction of alveolar bone defects of a beagle mandible with simultaneous dental implant installation. NEOBONE, Bio‐Oss, and Cytrans that contain 0.1, 5.5, and 12.0 mass% of carbonate, respectively, were used in this study. The amount of newly formed bone in the upper portion of the alveolar bone defect of the beagle's mandible was 0.7, 6.6, and 39.4% at 4 weeks after surgery and 4.7, 39.5, and 75.2% at 12 weeks after surgery for NEOBONE, Bio‐Oss, and Cytrans, respectively. The results indicate that bone‐to‐implant contact ratio was the largest for Cytrans. Additionally, the continuity of the alveolar ridge was restored in the case of Cytrans, whereas the continuity of the alveolar ridge was not sufficient when using NEOBONE and Bio‐Oss. Both Cytrans and Bio‐Oss that have a relatively larger carbonate content in their apatitic structure was resorbed with time. We concluded that carbonate content is one of important factors governing the osteoconductivity of apatitic bone substitutes.
miR‐4709 overexpression facilitates cancer proliferation and invasion via downregulating NR3C2 and is an unfavorable prognosis factor in colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Miao , Yu Hua‐Long , Li Quan‐Hui , Zhang Li , Chen Yu‐Xin
Published: October 2019

To date, microRNA‐4709 (miR‐4709) has not been studied in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) on the basis of experiments. In our study, we aimed to investigate the biological roles and clinical significance of miR‐4709 in COAD. The expression difference between miR‐4709 and NR3C2 was measured based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database and cells. Kaplan‐Meier and logrank tests were applied to determine the overall survival (OS) differences according to the miR‐4709 and NR3C2 expression levels. To measure whether the miR‐4709 level was associated with COAD cell growth, migration, and invasion, we respectively conducted 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide, wound healing, and transwell assays. A luciferase reporter assay was applied to confirm the relationship between miR‐4709 and its predicted target. High expression of miR‐4709 was found in COAD tissues and cells. The OS rate in the miR‐4709 low expression group was significantly higher than that in the miR‐4709 high expression group. Univariate and multivariate analyses exhibited that miR‐4709 expression was an independent adverse prognostic factor. Exogenous miR‐4709 overexpression promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of LOVO and SW480 cells. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assay demonstrated that miR‐4709 directly binds to the 3′‐untranslated region of NR3C2. NR3C2 was lowly expressed in COAD and high expression of NR3C2 had a better prognosis compared with that in the low expression of NR3C2. Correlation analysis showed that there is a close association between the level of expression of NR3C2 and miR‐4709. Accordingly, miR‐4709 may function as an oncogene in COAD and provide a preclinical proof for candidate management to target new miR‐4709‐NR3C2 signaling for COAD therapy.
Fast screening of amine/physical solvent systems and mass transfer studies on efficient aqueous hybrid MEA/Sulfolane solution for postcombustion CO2 capture
Authors: Zou Liangyu , Gao Hongxia , Wu Zeyang , Liang Zhiwu
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

The addition of a physical solvent to a traditional chemical absorbent has been shown to improve the absorption and desorption performance of the absorbent system. This type of novel absorbent system combining a single physical solvent with an amine solvent is a promising development in the industrial application of CO2 capture.

RESULTS

Hybrid solutions composed of Monoethanolamine (MEA), a physical solvent, and H2O were comprehensively investigated using the rapid solvent screening apparatus and a VLE apparatus. The results show that 30 wt% MEA with 20 wt% Sulfolane and 50 wt% H2O achieved higher rich loading, strong cyclic CO2 capacity and the highest desorption rate over a wide range of CO2 loadings. Also, the mass transfer performance of CO2 absorption into the 30 wt% MEA and 20 wt% Sulfolane solution was investigated in a lab‐scale random packing column. The effects of liquid flow rate, liquid feed temperature, lean CO2 loading, inert gas flow rate and CO2 partial pressure on the mass transfer performance were evaluated in terms of volumetric overall mass transfer coefficient (KGav). Furthermore, a correlation was developed for CO2 absorption into MEA/Sulfolane solution in a random packing column using semi‐empirical models as functions.

CONCLUSION

Unlike for amine solution alone, inert gas flow rate is an indispensable operating parameter in the MEA/Sulfolane system. A mass transfer correlation model was established and holds significance in studying the kinetics of CO2 absorption by a mixture of physical and chemical solvents and for the optimal design of Dixon‐ring random packing columns. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Extraction of diclofenac by SiO2‐NH2@Fe3O4 and its determination: Central composite design
Authors: Khesri Hammadi Hanadi , Khodadoust Saeid
Published: October 2019

In this work, magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) were prepared by simple co‐precipitation method in aqueous medium and then subsequently modified with tetraethyl orthosilicate and 3‐aminopropyl triethylenesilane. The properties of the particles were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The SiO2‐NH2@Fe3O4 particles were successfully applied to simultaneously enrich and separate diclofenac from water, urine, and plasma samples. The method, which takes the advantages of both nanoparticle adsorption and magnetic phase separation from the sample solution, could avoid some of the time‐consuming experimental procedures related to the traditional solid phase extraction. The main parameters affecting extraction and desorption efficiency such as pH, amount of SiO2‐NH2@Fe3O4, volume of desorption solvent, and extraction time were screened. The significant variables were optimized by using central composite design. At optimum conditions values of variables set as pH = 4, 10 mg SiO2‐NH2@Fe3O4, 0.5 mL methanol, and 15 min extraction time and then the extracted diclofenac were injected to HPLC for analysis. The linear response (r2 > 0.9992) was obtained in the range of 0.004–15 µg/mL with detection limit 0.0012 µg/mL and extraction recovery was in the range of 92–96% with RSD < 5% (n = 6).
Spatial Use and Survivorship of Translocated Wild‐Caught Texas Horned Lizards
Authors: Miller Kelly J. , Erxleben Devin R. , Rains Nathan D. , Martin James C. , Mathewson Heather A. , Meik Jesse M.
Published: October 2019

The Texas horned lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum), a state threatened species in Texas, USA, appears to be declining throughout much of its distribution. Because of popular interest in restoring lizard populations, we conducted a 3‐year radio‐telemetric study to evaluate the feasibility of reintroducing Texas horned lizards into previously occupied areas with suitable habitat characteristics. We translocated lizards from natural populations in western Texas to the McGillivray and Leona McKie Muse Wildlife Management Area (MWMA) in the Cross Timbers and Prairies of north‐central Texas, an ecoregion that has experienced apparent local extirpations of horned lizards. We translocated lizards after partly restoring a 32.5‐ha portion of the MWMA from ashe juniper (Juniperus ashei)‐honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) woodland to mid‐grass prairie. After a 10‐day acclimation period and soft release, we tracked 57 horned lizards from March 2014 to October 2016 to evaluate daily movements, spatial use, sources of mortality, reproduction, and changes in body condition. Daily movement averages (1.16–174.18 m) and area used by individuals (<0.01–6.81 ha) were similar to those recorded for natural populations, with peaks in movement occurring in May and June. Annual survivorship for individuals (1.1–47.2%) was also similar to that reported from natural populations; however, survivorship declined across the 3 active seasons. Although mortality of translocated lizards was high, body condition remained relatively stable across active seasons, and reproduction occurred each year, indicating that translocation could be a viable option for restoring horned lizard populations to previously occupied parts of their range. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Blue Luminescent Phosphor Sr3Y1−X(BO3)3:XBi3+ for WLED Applications
Authors: Hargunani Sanjay P. , Sonekar Rajkumar P. , Palaspagar Ritesh S. , Patil Pranita , Omanwar Shriniwas K.
Published: October 2019

The polycrystalline powder sample of Bi3+‐activated strontium yttrium borate phosphor Sr3Y1−x(BO3)3:xBi3+ (x = 3, 4, 5 mole%) is prepared by solution combustion technique. Formation of phosphor in the desired crystalline phase is confirmed by powder X‐ray diffraction characterization and FTIR, SEM images of the synthesized phosphor show the irregular grains with average particle size 2.5 µm. Luminescence properties of the synthesized phosphor are investigated at room temperature. The excitation spectrum consists of a single broad absorption band from 200 to 370 nm with the prominent excitation peak at 336 nm [1S0 to 3P1 of Bi3+ ions] and weak excitation peak at 254 nm [1S0 to 1P1 of Bi3+ ions]. Strongest emission peak of 492 nm wavelength that is of blue light is observed at 336 nm UV light excitation. Sr3Y1−x(BO3)3:xBi3+ phosphor emits blue light. As Bi3+ is sensitive to the surrounding crystal field environment it shows weak excitation peak at 254 nm, which gives emission at 413 nm. Hence, Sr3Y1−x(BO3)3:xBi3+ is new UV excited blue emitting phosphor useful for UV/blue chip WLEDs.
Thermal Study of PMMA‐LiNO3 Electrolyte
Authors: Sunita More Amit Arvind , Vithya K. , Premalatha M. , Sundaresan Balakrishnan
Published: October 2019

Solid polymer electrolytes comprising PMMA doped with LiNO3 have been prepared by solution casting technique using THF as solvent. To increase the properties of SPE, dispersion of nanoparticles into the polymer network is a challenging and reliable one. In this work, we first report that the nanoparticle TiO2 provided substantial changes, when it is added to the complex of PMMA‐LiNO3 as supported by TG‐DTA technique. In addition, the structural disruption of PMMA‐LiNO3 dispersed with TiO2 has been analyzed by XRD technique. The significance in the present work paves the way for the design of solid electrolytes in electrochemical devices.
Application of Differential Pulse Polarography for Detection of Riboflavin from Pharmaceutical Samples and Vegetables
Authors: Patil Sudhir V. , Kashid Lalasaheb M. , Kolekar Govind B. , Tamhankar Bapu V.
Published: October 2019

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) plays an important role in living processes as a precursor of coenzymes. The core structure of riboflavin with isoalloxazine ring participates in enzyme‐catalyzed electron transfer processes of many important metabolites. Several methodologies have been developed for the determination of riboflavin, but those methods have disadvantages like long analysis time, consumption of a lot of reagents, and expensiveness. Hence, to overcome these problems, the DPP technique is proposed in this study. The DPP method is used for the quantitative analysis of riboflavin. The experimental conditions are optimized to obtain the best characterized peak in terms of peak height with analytical validation of the method. The proposed methods are applied for the analysis of riboflavin in pharmaceutical samples and vegetables. The riboflavin is found to adsorb and undergo irreversible reduction reaction at the working mercury electrode.
Fluorescence Spectroscopic Studies on the Interaction Between 2,5‐Diphenyl Oxazole and Triton X‐100 Micelle
Authors: Patil Shilpa R. , Salunkhe Sonali M. , Mahanwar Sunanda T. , Naik Vaibhav M. , Anbhule Prashant V. , Kolekar Govind. B.
Published: October 2019

The interaction between Triton X‐100 (TX‐100) and 2,5‐diphenyl oxazole (2,5‐DPO) has been investigated successfully by fluorescence and UV–vis study. The fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between donor TX‐100 and acceptor 2,5‐DPO was examined. UV–vis study shows that there is no formation of ground state complex between donor and acceptor pair in solution. The fluorescence emission and energy transfer efficiency has been determined in both premicellar and postmicellar condition. The distances r = 3.23 and 2.79 nm were calculated in premicellar and postmicellar solutions, respectively. The study indicates that energy transfer in postmicellar environment is remarkably higher than that in case of premicellar situation.
Effect of Contact and Collisional Quenching Model on 2‐Bromophenyl Boronic Acid Using Positive Deviation S–V Plots
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Patil Sanmati S. , Melavanki Raveendra , Muttannavar Venktesh. T. , Patil N. R.
Published: October 2019

The steady state studies of fluorescence quenching of excitation energy of heterocyclic compound namely 2‐bromophenyl boronic acid (2BPBA) by aniline was carried out in 1, 4 dioxane (DX), toluene (TL), methanol (ML), heptane (HP), nonane (NN), butanol (BL), and propanol (PL) solvents with a view to understand the role of quenching mechanism. The quenching process is studied in the selected solvents using steady state method by Stern–Volmer (S–V) plots having upward curvature.