bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metasurfaces Atop Metamaterials: Surface Morphology Induces Linear Dichroism in Gyroid Optical Metamaterials
Authors: Dolan James A. , Dehmel Raphael , Demetriadou Angela , Gu Yibei , Wiesner Ulrich , Wilkinson Timothy D. , Gunkel Ilja , Hess Ortwin , Baumberg Jeremy J. , Steiner Ullrich , Saba Matthias , Wilts Bodo D.
Published: November 2018

Optical metamaterials offer the tantalizing possibility of creating extraordinary optical properties through the careful design and arrangement of subwavelength structural units. Gyroid‐structured optical metamaterials possess a chiral, cubic, and triply periodic bulk morphology that exhibits a redshifted effective plasma frequency. They also exhibit a strong linear dichroism, the origin of which is not yet understood. Here, the interaction of light with gold gyroid optical metamaterials is studied and a strong correlation between the surface morphology and its linear dichroism is found. The termination of the gyroid surface breaks the cubic symmetry of the bulk lattice and gives rise to the observed wavelength‐ and polarization‐dependent reflection. The results show that light couples into both localized and propagating plasmon modes associated with anisotropic surface protrusions and the gaps between such protrusions. The localized surface modes give rise to the anisotropic optical response, creating the linear dichroism. Simulated reflection spectra are highly sensitive to minute details of these surface terminations, down to the nanometer level, and can be understood with analogy to the optical properties of a 2D anisotropic metasurface atop a 3D isotropic metamaterial. This pronounced sensitivity to the subwavelength surface morphology has significant consequences for both the design and application of optical metamaterials.
2D Transition Metal Carbides (MXenes) for Carbon Capture
Authors: Persson Ingemar , Halim Joseph , Lind Hans , Hansen Thomas W. , Wagner Jakob B. , Näslund Lars‐Åke , Darakchieva Vanya , Palisaitis Justinas , Rosen Johanna , Persson Per O. Å.
Published: November 2018

Global warming caused by burning of fossil fuels is indisputably one of mankind's greatest challenges in the 21st century. To reduce the ever‐increasing CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere, dry solid adsorbents with large surface‐to‐volume ratio such as carbonaceous materials, zeolites, and metal–organic frameworks have emerged as promising material candidates for capturing CO2. However, challenges remain because of limited CO2/N2 selectivity and long‐term stability. The effective adsorption of CO2 gas (≈12 mol kg−1) on individual sheets of 2D transition metal carbides (referred to as MXenes) is reported here. It is shown that exposure to N2 gas results in no adsorption, consistent with first‐principles calculations. The adsorption efficiency combined with the CO2/N2 selectivity, together with a chemical and thermal stability, identifies the archetype Ti3C2 MXene as a new material for carbon capture (CC) applications.
Conjugated Cobalt Polyphthalocyanine as the Elastic and Reprocessable Catalyst for Flexible Li–CO2 Batteries
Authors: Chen Junmei , Zou Kaiyi , Ding Pan , Deng Jun , Zha Chenyang , Hu Yongpan , Zhao Xuan , Wu Jialing , Fan Jian , Li Yanguang
Published: November 2018

Li–CO2 batteries represent an attractive solution for electrochemical energy storage by utilizing atmospheric CO2 as the energy carrier. However, their practical viability critically depends on the development of efficient and low‐cost cathode catalysts for the reversible formation and decomposition of Li2CO3. Here, the great potential of a structurally engineered polymer is demonstrated as the cathode catalyst for rechargeable Li–CO2 batteries. Conjugated cobalt polyphthalocyanine is prepared via a facile microwave heating method. Due to the crosslinked network, it is intrinsically elastic and has improved chemical, physical, and mechanical stability. Electrochemical measurements show that cobalt polyphthalocyanine facilitates the reversible formation and decomposition of Li2CO3, and therefore enables high‐performance Li–CO2 batteries with large areal capacity and impressive cycling performance. In addition, the elastic and reprocessable property of the polymeric catalyst renders it possible to fabricate flexible batteries.
Can members’ WeChat engagement affect relational outcomes in community‐supported agriculture? Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Tan Si , Chen Weiping
Published: November 2018

Members’ offline engagement is commonly believed to affect the producer–member relationship in community‐supported agriculture, however, little research focuses on engagement in the online context. Using qualitative data of 24 members and quantitative data of 279 members from China, this study uses a sequential exploratory mixed‐method design to explore the impact of members’ WeChat engagement on relational outcomes. The findings indicate that WeChat engagement positively affects four relational outcomes: Service satisfaction, word of mouth, social bonds, and commitment. In addition, those four relational outcomes are not equally influenced by WeChat engagement. The greatest impact is on commitment, while the lowest is on service satisfaction. Furthermore, multigroup analysis results suggest that gender moderates the relationship between WeChat engagement and commitment.
Iron homeostasis in pregnancy and spontaneous abortion
Authors: Guo Yifan , Zhang Na , Zhang Daoqiang , Ren Quanzhong , Ganz Tomas , Liu Sijin , Nemeth Elizabeta
Published: November 2018

During pregnancy, iron requirements are increased to support maternal erythropoietic expansion and fetal growth and development. To meet these requirements, dietary iron absorption increases, and available iron stores are mobilized. These adjustments are thought to be in large part mediated by the iron‐regulatory hormone hepcidin, which controls the concentrations of ferroportin, the sole exporter of iron into the extracellular fluid and blood plasma. Hepcidin regulation of iron availability during healthy and abnormal pregnancies is not well understood. In our cross‐sectional study, we compared hepcidin, iron and hematological parameters between nonpregnant control women, healthy pregnant women in the first and second trimester, and women with spontaneous abortion in the first trimester. We found that in healthy pregnancy, hepcidin increased in the first trimester compared with nonpregnant women, but then decreased during the second trimester. The second trimester hepcidin levels decreased despite stable serum iron concentrations, suggesting active suppression of hepcidin, presumably to enhance iron availability as iron demand increases. In women with spontaneous abortion during the first trimester, hepcidin, serum iron, and ferritin concentrations were all increased compared with the first trimester healthy pregnancy. Although the specific mechanisms remain to be determined, our findings demonstrate that maternal hepcidin is regulated by signals related to the progression of pregnancy, and that pregnancy loss is associated with profound changes in maternal iron metabolism. These observations highlight the existence of fetoplacental signals that modulate maternal iron homeostasis.
Highly Efficient Rhodium‐Catalyzed Oxindole‐Directed Oxidative Heck‐Type Reaction of N‐Aryloxindoles with Alkenes
Authors: Li Wei‐Huan , Li Chao , Dong Lin
Published: November 2018

Rhodium(III)‐catalyzed oxindole‐directed oxidative Heck‐type olefination reactions of N‐aryloxindoles and olefins represent an efficient approach for the construction of C−C bond. It offers a straightforward and atom‐economical method for the synthesis of functionalized oxindole alkenylation derivatives in moderate to excellent yields.
Contribution of large‐scale circulation anomalies to variability of summer precipitation extremes in northeast China
Authors: Cao Fuqiang , Gao Tao , Dan Li , Ma Zhuguo , Yang Xiujing , Yang Fuqiang
Published: November 2018

We propose a short‐lived extreme precipitation event, which is identified by the definition of 75th and 95th percentile using gauge observations across northeast China (NEC). Atmospheric variables from reanalysis dataset are then composited to examine the contribution of synoptic‐scale circulations to variations in extreme events. Results show that the divergence aloft combined with lower pressures at surface lead to upward vertical motion of circulations, along with flow around low‐pressure area and high pressure to east NEC derived from associated wavetrain conveying efficient moisture, providing favorable environment for occurrence of precipitation extremes. The northwestward shift of western Pacific subtropical high, together with northward shifted position of upper‐level westerlies over NEC, results in the strengthened southwesterly, which transports more moisture into NEC and produces extreme rainfall. Moreover, the stronger anomalies of dynamical quantities present for 95th percentile cases. The roughly same percentage of summertime short‐lived extreme events related to cut‐off lows (COLs) is found for both percentile composites, 21.2% (79 out of 373) and 21.1% (77 out of 365) for 75th and 95th percentile events, respectively. Overall, the contribution of COLs to short‐lived extreme precipitation is insignificant during 1960–2015 in NEC, although COLs have been documented to be more active in summer over NEC. The time series of COL‐induced events exhibits inter‐annual variability with not statistically significant linear trend, suggesting that COLs play a tiny role to the slightly decreasing trend of short‐lived precipitation events over NEC.
Additive‐Free Nb2O5−TiO2 Hybrid Anode towards Low‐Cost and Safe Lithium‐Ion Batteries: A Green Electrode Material Produced in an Environmentally Friendly Process
Authors: Mokhlesur Rahman Md , Zhou Mengqi , Sultana Irin , Mateti Srikanth , Falin Alexey , Li Lu Hua. , Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Chen Ying
Published: November 2018

The development of additive‐free electrodes based on low‐cost and environmentally friendly materials is one of the major challenges for expanding sustainable and ecologically friendly energy storage. Most conventional electrode preparation processes are currently facing a problem: the addition of various additives/chemicals, particularly binder, carbon black and toxic N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone. These additives increase the production cost, decrease the energy and power density of the battery and are environmental hazards. Herein, a Nb2O5−TiO2 hybrid electrode for lithium‐ion batteries is fabricated by adopting the advanced radio frequency sputtering technique, which requires no supplementary support from additives/chemicals. The Nb2O5−TiO2 electrode reveals high capacity (gravimetric: 214 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1; areal: 0.0214 mAh cm−2 at 5 μA cm−2; volumetric: 1,813 mAh cm−3 at 5 μA cm−2), long‐term cyclic stability (gravimetric: 174 mAh g−1 at 0.4 A g−1; areal: 0.0174 mAh cm−2 at 40 μA cm−2; volumetric:1,474 mAh cm−3 at 40 μA cm−2 after 1000 cycles) and superior rate capability (gravimetric: 115 mAh g−1 at 6.0 A g−1; areal: 0.0115 mAh cm−2 at 6 mA cm−2; volumetric: 974 mAh cm−3 at 6 mA cm−2), which are better than other reported systems. Such a green chemistry strategy of fabricating additive‐free electrodes opens up new ways for the development of sustainable and robust energy storage technologies.
Imidazolium‐Based Protic Ionic Liquids as Electrolytes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Stettner Timo , Walter Florian C. , Balducci Andrea
Published: November 2018

Protic ionic liquids (PILs) have been indicated as a promising class of ionic liquids (ILs) for the realization of high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). In this work we synthesize four different PILs containing the imidazolium‐based cations 1,2‐Dimethylimidazolium (1,2‐DMim+) and 1‐Methylimidazolium (1‐Mim+), and the anions bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI−) and bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (FSI−). We show that these PILs display good conductivities and low viscosities and that they can be successfully used in combination with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) electrodes. Among the investigated electrolytes, 0.5 M LiTFSI in 1,2‐DMImTFSI appears as the most promising candidate for the realization of systems with high capacity retentions at high C‐rates and high cycling stabilities.
Effect of renal ischemia on urinary excretion of lithium in rats
Authors: Uwai Yuichi , Suzuki Takato , Kondo Ryota , Kawasaki Tatsuya , Nabekura Tomohiro
Published: November 2018

Lithium, administered to patients with bipolar disorders, is mainly excreted in the urine, and tubular reabsorption is involved. This study characterized the renal excretion of lithium in rats subjected to renal ischemia for 60 min or 90 min. After intravenous injection of lithium chloride at 25 mg/kg, the pharmacokinetic parameters of lithium were determined. In sham‐operated rats, the renal clearance of lithium was calculated to be 1.49 ml/min/kg, and its ratio to creatinine clearance (fractional excretion) was 43.4%. Renal ischemia inhibited the renal excretion of lithium, and did not affect its fractional excretion. The urinary pH of rats with renal ischemia for 90 min was significantly higher than those of the other groups, and the linear regression with the fractional excretion of lithium in rats with renal ischemia showed a moderate correlation (r = 0.650, p = 0.00193). This study demonstrated the effect of renal ischemia on the renal excretion of lithium in rats. It was suggested that not only glomerular filtration but also the reabsorption of lithium was impaired by renal ischemia.
Fabrication of Nonwetting Flexible Free‐Standing MXene‐Carbon Fabric for Electromagnetic Shielding in S‐Band Region
Authors: Raagulan Kanthasamy , Braveenth Ramanaskanda , Jang Hee Jung , Lee Yun Seon , Yang Cheol‐Min , Kim Bo Mi , Moon Jai Jung , Chai Kyu Yun
Published: November 2018

MXene and nonwoven carbon fabric are good candidate for flexible, light‐weight electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding fabric. The prepared composite was characterized using X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photo electron spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, mapping, and Raman spectroscopy. The 15 times coated composite displayed a contact angle of 123°, a wetting energy of −39.86 mN/m, a spreading coefficient of −112.66 mN/m, and 32.94 mN/m work of adhesion. The fabricated composites inhibited thermal degradation until 235 °C. The composite revealed an excellent electric conductivity of 8.5 S/cm with a sheet resistance of 6.5 Ω/sq. The composite showed a maximum EMI shielding of 43.2 dB at 2.3 GHz with 8534.7 dB cm2/g. The composite displays better outlook application areas such as aviation, portable electronics, radars, aerospace, and military.
Delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 by Novel Strategies for Gene Therapy
Authors: Wang Le , Zheng Wenfu , Liu Shaoqin , Li Bing , Jiang Xingyu
Published: November 2018

Precise editing of the genome of a living body is a goal pursued by scientists in many fields. In recent years, CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)/Cas (CRISPR‐associated) genome‐editing systems have become a revolutionary toolbox for gene editing across various species. However, the low transfection efficiency of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo is a big obstacle hindering wide and deep application. In this review, recently developed delivery strategies for various CRISPR/Cas9 formulations and their applications in treating gene‐related diseases are briefly summarized. This review should inspire others to explore more efficient strategies for CRISPR system delivery and gene therapy.
Mechanism of the Dinuclear Iron Enzyme p‐Aminobenzoate N‐oxygenase from Density Functional Calculations
Authors: Wei Wen‐Jie , Siegbahn Per E. M. , Liao Rong‐Zhen
Published: November 2018

AurF is a diiron enzyme that utilizes two dioxygen molecules as the oxidant to catalyze the oxidation of p‐aminobenzoate to p‐nitrobenzoate. Density functional calculations were performed to elucidate the reaction mechanism of this enzyme. Two different models were considered, with the oxygenated intermediate being a diferric peroxo species or a diferric hydroperoxo species. The calculations strongly favor the model with a diferric peroxo species and support the mechanism proposed by Bollinger and co‐workers. The reaction starts with the binding of a dioxygen molecule to the diferrous center to generate a diferric peroxide complex. This is followed by the cleavage of the O−O bond, concertedly with the formation of the first N−O bond, which has a barrier of only 9.2 kcal/mol. Subsequently, the first‐shell ligand Glu227 abstracts a proton from the substrate. After the delivery of two electrons from the external reductant and two protons from solution, a water molecule and the experimentally suggested intermediate p‐hydroxylaminobenzoate are produced and the diferrous center is regenerated. The oxidation of the p‐hydroxylaminobenzoate intermediate requires the binding of a second dioxygen molecule to the diferrous center to generate the diferric peroxide complex. Similarly to the oxidation of p‐aminobenzoate, the O−O bond cleavage and the formation of the second N−O bond take place in a concerted step. The p‐nitrobenzoate product is formed after the release of two protons and two electrons from the substrate. The model with a hydroperoxo species gave a much high barrier of 28.7 kcal/mol for the substrate oxidation due to the large energy penalty for the generation of the active hydroperoxo species.
In Situ O2 Generation for Biocatalytic Oxyfunctionalization Reactions
Authors: Hoschek Anna , Schmid Andreas , Bühler Bruno
Published: November 2018

O2‐dependent whole‐cell bioprocesses, such as C−H oxyfunctionalizations, are constrained by technically limited O2 mass transfer and biocatalyst‐inherent O2 respiration. In large‐scale bioprocesses, this restricts the maximum achievable productivity to 5.6 gproduct L−1 h−1 assuming a resting cell concentration of 9.4 gCDW L−1. This concept paper discusses strategies to enhance the O2 availability for biocatalytic oxyfunctionalizations with a focus on the in situ generation of O2 from water. This promising approach was addressed recently by the exploitation of microbial photosynthesis for light‐driven C−H oxyfunctionalization. Via intracellular O2 evolution, phototrophic biocatalysts increase the maximum achievable productivity well beyond technical boundaries. This fundamental advantage over O2‐respiring biocatalysts now awaits scale‐up evaluations, combining established cultivation technologies for phototrophic organisms with bioprocessing techniques for heterotrophic organisms.
g‐C3N4/CeO2/Fe3O4 Ternary Composite as an Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Rashid Jamshaid , Parveen Nadia , Haq Tanveer ul , Iqbal Aneela , Talib Shamraiz Hussain , Awan Saif Ullah , Hussain Naveed , Zaheer Muhammad
Published: November 2018

We report the very first example of a catalyst based on a ternary composite of graphitic carbonitride (g‐C3N4), ceria (CeO2) and magnetite (Fe3O4) for overall water splitting in 1.0 M KOH. Synergy between the components due to electronic effects results in a highly efficient catalyst which catalyzes Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) and Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) at substantially low overpotentials (400 mV and 310 mV respectively) to produce benchmark current density (10 mA cm−2). OER activity of the catalysts surpasses that of the benchmark RuO2 catalyst at higher current densities (≥50 mA cm−2). The composite catalyst is stable and shows a Faraday efficiency of 98 % for OER. Overall water splitting was achieved at an overpotential of 1.94 V which is substantially high at 1 wt % loading of active metal.
NiCo2S4 Nanorod Arrays Supported on Carbon Textile as a Free‐Standing Electrode for Stable and Long‐Life Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Hu Anjun , Long Jianping , Shu Chaozhu , Xu Chenxi , Yang Tingshuai , Liang Ranxi , Li Jiabao
Published: November 2018

Designing and constructing an effective and efficient oxygen electrode plays a pivotal role in the successful development of lithium‐oxygen (Li−O2) batteries. Herein, NiCo2S4 nanorod arrays directly grown on carbon textile (R‐NCS/CT) is successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal route and systematically studied for the first time as a free‐standing electrode in Li−O2 electrochemical systems. The R‐NCS/CT based Li−O2 battery achieves a low charge overpotential (1.17 V), a high discharge capacity (4506 mA h g−1), and improved cycle life (500 cycles). These improvements can be attributed to both, the unique architecture design of the electrodes for facilitating the rapid oxygen diffusion and electrolyte penetration and superior activity of oxygen electrode kinetics of NiCo2S4 nanorods. To some extent, the optimization of the catalyst composition and design of the electrode structures provide a guidance for further development of more stable and efficient cathodes for Li−O2 batteries.
Assignment of the Absolute‐Handedness Chirality of Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes by Using Organic Molecule Supramolecular Structures
Authors: Abd El‐Mageed Ahmed I. A. , Handayani Murni , Chen Zhijin , Inose Tomoko , Ogawa Takuji
Published: November 2018

Supramolecular structures of organic molecules on planar nanocarbon surfaces, such as highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), have been extensively studied and the factors that control them are generally well‐established. In contrast, the properties of supramolecular structures on curved nanocarbon surfaces like carbon nanotubes remain challenging to predict and/or to understand. This paper reports an investigation into the first study of the supramolecular structures of 5,15‐bisdodecylporphyrin (C12P) on chiral, concentrated single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs; with right‐handed helix P‐ and left‐handed helix M‐) surfaces using STM. Furthermore, the study is the first of its kind to experimentally assign the absolute‐handedness chirality of SWNTs, as well as to understand their effect on the supramolecular structures of organic molecules on their surfaces. Interestingly, these SWNT enantiomers resulted in supramolecular structures of opposite chirality based on the handedness chirality. With molecular modelling, we predicted the absolute‐handedness chirality of SWNTs, before demonstrating this experimentally.
Catalyst‐Controlled Dual Reactivity of Sulfonimidamides: Synthesis of Propargylamines and N‐Propargyl Sulfonimidamides
Authors: C. P. Irfana Jesin , Nandi Ganesh Chandra
Published: November 2018

Sulfonimidamides (SIAs) are acting both as surrogate amines and nucleophiles depending on the reaction conditions to access propargylamines and N‐propargyl SIAs, respectively. The amine part of SIAs has been cleaved in an InCl3‐catalyzed three‐component A3 coupling reaction with aldehyde and acetylene to yield propargylamine. Moreover, N‐propargyl SIAs were obtained via the direct‐imination of propargyl alcohols in the presence of BF3⋅OEt2.
Anionic Siliconoids from Zintl Phases: R3Si9− with Six and R2Si92− with Seven Unsubstituted Exposed Silicon Cluster Atoms (R=Si(tBu)2H)
Authors: Schiegerl Lorenz J. , Karttunen Antti J. , Klein Wilhelm , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: November 2018

Neutral and anionic silicon clusters (siliconoids) are regarded as important model systems for bulk silicon surfaces. For 25 years their formation from binary alkali metal silicide phases has been proposed, but experimentally never realized. Herein the silylation of a silicide, leading to the anionic siliconoids (Si(tBu)2H)3Si9− (1 a) and (Si(tBu)2H)2Si92− (2 a) with the highest known number of ligand‐free silicon atoms is reported for the first time. The new anions are obtained in a one‐step reaction of K12Si17/NH3(liq.) and Si(tBu)2HCl/THF. Electrospray ionization spectrometry and 1H, 13C, 29Si, as well as 29Si‐HMBC (heteronuclear multiple bond correlation) NMR spectroscopy, confirm the attachment of three silyl groups at a [Si9]4− cluster under formation of 1 a, in accordance with calculated NMR shifts. During crystal growth the siliconoid di‐anion 2 a is formed. The single‐crystal X‐ray structure determination reveals that two silyl groups are connected to the deltahedral Si9 cluster core, revealing seven unsubstituted exposed silicon cluster atoms with a hemispheroidal coordination. The negative charges −1 and −2 are delocalized over the six and seven siliconoid Si atoms in 1 a and 2 a, respectively.
Recent advances in mass spectrometry imaging for multiomics application in neurology
Authors: Xu Guang , Li Jianjun
Published: November 2018

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as a powerful tool for multiomics study in neurology. MSI combines the multichannel (m/z) measurement capability of mass spectrometers with a surface sampling process that allows for rapid probing and mapping of the characterized intact proteins, proteolytic digested peptides, released glycans, phospholipids, glycolipids, and small metabolites in brain tissues. The present review is focused on the application of MSI to the study of proteomics, glycomics, peptidomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics in mouse brain tissues.
Relative contributions and mapping of ventral tegmental area dopamine and GABA neurons by projection target in the rat
Authors: Breton Jocelyn M. , Charbit Annabelle R. , Snyder Benjamin J. , Fong Peter T. K. , Dias Elayne V. , Himmels Patricia , Lock Hagar , Margolis Elyssa B.
Published: November 2018

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) is a heterogeneous midbrain structure that contains dopamine (DA), GABA, and glutamate neurons that project to many different brain regions. Here, we combined retrograde tracing with immunocytochemistry against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) or glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) to systematically compare the proportion of dopaminergic and GABAergic VTA projections to 10 target nuclei: anterior cingulate, prelimbic, and infralimbic cortex; nucleus accumbens core, medial shell, and lateral shell; anterior and posterior basolateral amygdala; ventral pallidum; and periaqueductal gray. Overall, the non‐dopaminergic component predominated VTA efferents, accounting for more than 50% of all projecting neurons to each region except the nucleus accumbens core. In addition, GABA neurons contributed no more than 20% to each projection, with the exception of the projection to the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray, where the GABAergic contribution approached 50%. Therefore, there is likely a significant glutamatergic component to many of the VTA's projections. We also found that VTA cell bodies retrogradely labeled from the various target brain regions had distinct distribution patterns within the VTA, including in the locations of DA and GABA neurons. Despite this patterned organization, VTA neurons comprising these different projections were intermingled and never limited to any one subregion. These anatomical results are consistent with the idea that VTA neurons participate in multiple distinct, parallel circuits that differentially contribute to motivation and reward. While attention has largely focused on VTA DA neurons, a better understanding of VTA subpopulations, especially the contribution of non‐DA neurons to projections, will be critical for future work.
Elongation of the CA1 field of the septal hippocampus in ungulates
Authors: Watson Charles , Binks Daniel
Published: November 2018

It is widely assumed that the hippocampal formation seen in laboratory rodents and in primates is typical of that seen in other mammals. We have tested this assumption by examining sections of brains of 56 mammals from 20 mammalian orders from images on the brainmuseum.org website. We found wide variation in the form of the hippocampal formation, the most extreme examples of which are seen in ungulates, which possess an unusual elongation of the distal CA1 of the septal hippocampus. This phenomenon has not previously been reported. In individual coronal sections of the brains of seven artiodactyl ungulates, the pyramidal layer of CA1 is four times as long as CA2 + CA3. In a perissodactyl ungulate (Burchell's zebra) the distal end of CA1 is so large that it forms a number of folds. A similar but less pronounced CA1 elongation was seen in the brains of 14 carnivores. A modest elongation of CA1 is also present in some other placental mammals, notably the elephant shrew, hyrax, capybara, beaver, and rabbit. The elongation was not present in brains of primates, marsupials, or monotremes. The distal part of CA1 has been shown to play a role in object integration into the spatial map. We hypothesize that the distal CA1 enlargement could serve to enhance the ability to integrate objects into spatial navigation, which would be an advantage for migrating herds of ungulates. We suggest that the remarkable elongation of Q5 CA1 represents a major evolutionary specialization in the ungulates.
Catalyst‐Substrate Effects on Biocompatible SABRE Hyperpolarization
Authors: Manoharan Anand , Rayner Peter J. , Fekete Marianna , Iali Wissam , Norcott Philip , Hugh Perry V. , Duckett Simon B.
Published: November 2018

The hyperpolarization technique, Signal Amplification by Reversible Exchange (SABRE), has the potential to improve clinical diagnosis by making molecular magnetic resonance imaging in vivo a reality. Essential to this goal is the ability to produce a biocompatible bolus for administration. We seek here to determine how the identity of the catalyst and substrate affects the cytotoxicity by in vitro study, in addition to reporting how the use of biocompatible solvent mixtures influence the polarization transfer efficiency. By illustrating this across five catalysts and 8 substrates, we are able to identify routes to produce a bolus with minimal cytotoxic effects.
Techniques for Intracranial Stereotaxic Injections of Adeno‐Associated Viral Vectors in Adult Mice
Authors: Keiser Megan S. , Chen Yong Hong , Davidson Beverly L.
Published: November 2018

Stereotaxic intracranial injection of viral vectors is a valuable technique to directly deliver genetic material to a specific population of cells in the central nervous system of a mouse model. This enables scientists to test candidate gene therapies or disease modulators that can then provide insight into the pathological mechanisms of disease. In this article, we present a standardized method of conducting intracranial stereotaxic injection of adeno‐associated virus into a specific brain region in a mouse model. Support protocols are provided for virus dialysis and testing new stereotaxic coordinates with dye. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Functional mechanism of tracheal relaxation, antiasthmatic, and toxicological studies of 6‐hydroxyflavone
Authors: Flores‐Flores Angélica , Estrada‐Soto Samuel , Millán‐Pacheco César , Bazán‐Perkins Blanca , Villalobos‐Molina Rafael , Moreno‐Fierros Leticia , Hernández‐Pando Rogelio , García‐Jiménez Sara , Rivera‐Leyva Julio César
Published: November 2018

Previously, we described tracheal rat rings relaxation by several flavonoids, being 6‐hydroxyflavone (6‐HOF) the most active derivative of the series. Thus, its mechanism of action was determined in an ex vivo tracheal rat ring bioassay. The anti‐asthmatic effect was assayed in in vivo OVAlbumin (OVA)‐sensitized guinea pigs. Finally, the toxicological profile of 6‐HOF was studied based on Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development guidelines with modifications. 6‐HOF–induced relaxation appears to be related with receptor‐operated calcium channel and voltage‐operated calcium channel blockade as the main mechanism of action, and also through the production of relaxant second messengers NO and cGMP. Molecular docking supports that 6‐HOF acts as calcium channel blocker and by activation of nitric oxide synthase. In addition, the in vivo anti‐asthmatic experiments demonstrate the dose‐dependent significant anti‐allergic effect of 6‐HOF induced by OVA, with best activity at 50 /kg. Finally, toxicological studies determined a LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg and, after 28 day of treatment with 6‐HOF (50 mg/kg) by intragastric route, mice did not exhibit evidence of any significant toxicity. In conclusion, experiments showed that 6‐HOF exerts significant relaxant activity through calcium channel blockade, and possibly, by NO/cGMP‐system stimulation on rat trachea, which interferes with the contraction mechanism of smooth muscle cells in the airways. In addition, the flavonoid shows potential anti‐asthmatic properties in an anti‐allergic pathway. Furthermore, because the pharmacological and safety evidence, we propose this flavonoid as lead for the development of a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of asthma and related respiratory diseases.
Development of a sensitive untargeted liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry screening devoted to hair analysis through a shared MS2 spectra database: A step toward early detection of new psychoactive substances
Authors: Fabresse Nicolas , Larabi Islam Amine , Stratton Tim , Mistrik Robert , Pfau Gregory , Lorin de la Grandmaison Geoffroy , Etting Isabelle , Grassin Delyle Stanislas , Alvarez Jean‐Claude
Published: November 2018

Untargeted liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS) techniques have become indispensable tools for systematic toxicological analysis. They allow the research of an almost unlimited number of drugs within a single analytical cycle, but shared mass spectra libraries are still missing to identify newly marketed compounds, along with defined analytical procedures. This article describes the optimization, validation, and application of an untargeted screening method devoted to hair analysis using data‐dependent analysis (DDA) and a shared HRMS database. This method used an ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled to a benchtop Orbitrap. Raw MS data were processed with Compound Discoverer software coupled to the mzCloud™ library. Optimizations were performed on blank hair spiked with 19 analytes having different physical and chemical properties. To validate the effectiveness of a shared spectra database, 20 compounds spectra were added and then retrospectively screened. Sensitivity and reliability were evaluated on 317 compounds of interest in toxicology. The method was then applied to 11 hair samples. The matrix effect range by ion suppression/enhancement was 40%–110%. The method allows the detection of 284 among the 317 screened compounds, including 72 new psychoactive substances (NPS). Lower limit of identification (LLOI) and lower limit of detection (LLOD) were 1 to 1000 pg/mg and 1 to 500 pg/mg, respectively. The method was successfully applied to 11 clinical cases and 144 compounds were identified including 24 NPS including AKB48‐5F for the first time in hair. We developed and validated an LC–HRMS untargeted screening of 284 compounds and successfully applied it to 11 real hair samples.
A further insight into the metabolic profile of the nuclear receptor Rev‐erb agonist, SR9009
Authors: Mazzarino Monica , Rizzato Nikla , Stacchini Carlotta , de la Torre Xavier , Botrè Francesco
Published: November 2018

The reactions involved in the metabolic pathways of SR9009 were characterized by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) to identify the most appropriate marker(s) of use. The effects of gender, genetic polymorphism, and drug–drug interaction on the metabolic profile of SR9009 were also evaluated. In vitro approaches were based on the use of human liver microsomes and cytochrome P450 isoforms. Sample preparation included an enzymatic hydrolysis (performed only for the phase II investigation) followed by liquid–liquid extraction. The chromatographic separation was carried out using a reverse‐phase column; detection was performed by either a triple‐quadrupole or a time‐of‐flight system in positive electrospray ionization and different acquisition modes. In the presence of human liver microsomes, SR9009 was biotransformed to 13 metabolites by CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6 isoenzymes. The reactions included hydroxylation, de‐alkylation, oxidation, and combinations thereof, the de‐alkylated metabolites being the most abundant. Once formed the mentioned metabolites underwent glucuronidation. Concerning the effects of gender, genetic polymorphism, and drug–drug interaction on the metabolic profile of SR9009, our observation have shown the following: (a) No significant alterations were measured between female and male, (b) significant differences were registered using either the CYP2D6 or CYP2C19 allelic variants, and finally (c) significant alterations were registered in the presence of ketoconazole, miconazole, fluoxetine, nefazodone and paroxetine; moderate variation were instead registered with fluconazole, itraconazole, gestodene, and levonorgestrel. This observation put in evidence the importance to take into account both genetic polymorphism and drug–drug interaction to select the most appropriate marker(s) of use in doping analysis.
Anteroposterior molecular registries in ectoderm of the echinus rudiment
Authors: Adachi Shinya , Niimi Iyo , Sakai Yui , Sato Fuminori , Minokawa Takuya , Urata Makoto , Sehara‐Fujisawa Atsuko , Kobayashi Isao , Yamaguchi Masaaki
Published: November 2018

Background: Echinoderms and hemichordates are sister taxa that both have larvae with tripartite coeloms. Hemichordates inherit the coelom plan and ectoderm from larvae, whereas echinoderms form the adult rudiment comprising rearranged coeloms and a vestibule that then develops into adult oral ectoderm. Molecular networks that control patterns of the ectoderm and the central nervous system along the anteroposterior (AP) axis are highly conserved between hemichordates and chordates, respectively. In echinoderms, however, little is known about the AP registry in the ectoderm. Results: We isolated ectodermal AP map genes from the sand dollar Peronella japonica and examined their expression. Comparative expression analyses showed that (1) P. japonica orthologs of hemichordate anterior markers are expressed in the larval apical plate, which degenerates during metamorphosis; (2) P. japonica orthologs of the medial markers are expressed in the ambulacral ectoderm of the rudiment; and (3) few P. japonica orthologs of the posterior markers are expressed in ectoderm. Conclusions: We suggest that echinoids only inherit the ambulacral ectoderm from a common ambulacrarian ancestor, which largely corresponds to the collar ectoderm in hemichordates. The ectodermal AP registry provides insights into the AP axis and evolutionary processes of echinoderms from a common ambulacrarian ancestor. Developmental Dynamics 247:1297–1307, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Economic inequality enhances inferences that the normative climate is individualistic and competitive
Authors: Sánchez‐Rodríguez Ángel , Willis Guillermo B. , Jetten Jolanda , Rodríguez‐Bailón Rosa
Published: November 2018

In addition to the negative effects of economic inequality on a range of health and social outcomes, we propose that inequality should also affect how people perceive the broader normative climate in society. We predicted that people living in a more unequal (vs. equal) society are more likely to appraise the social context as one where individualism determines people's behavior. We tested this idea in three experiments by manipulating the degree of economic inequality in a fictional society. We showed that, compared to the low‐inequality condition, participants in the high‐inequality condition were more likely to project individualistic norms onto society. Furthermore, Experiments 2 and 3 showed that in the high‐ (vs. low‐) economic‐inequality condition, participants inferred more competition and less cooperation between people. Our results are discussed in light of the importance of the perception of a broader normative climate to explain the consequences of economic inequality.
SINR‐based adaptive MIMO FBMC/OQAM transmission with automatic modulation classification
Authors: Häring Lars
Published: November 2018

The performance of filter bank multicarrier offset quadrature‐amplitude modulation systems is known to be limited by intrinsic interference in highly frequency‐selective radio propagation conditions. In this article, a novel adaptive multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) filter bank multicarrier transmission system in time‐division duplex mode is analyzed in which filter bank‐based interference power is considered in the bit loading (BL) and automatic modulation classification (AMC) algorithm. In order to reduce the amount of intrinsic interference, a filter design for a general multitap MIMO channel equalization is elaborated. For this linear MIMO receiver technique, an analytical expression of the signal‐to‐interference‐and‐noise power ratio after equalization is described. Since BL and AMC rely on the information about the subcarrier link quality, the influence of residual interference on its performance in a MIMO setup is quantified. For a wireless local area network similar propagation scenario, incorporating the information about the interference power in the BL and AMC method results in a significant system performance improvement at high signal‐to‐noise power ratios.
A collaborative work on quantitative HPLC methods for the routine determination of atranol and chloroatranol in moss extracts
Authors: Goursot Jean‐François ,   writing on behalf of PRODAROM
Published: November 2018

Moss extracts have been found to initiate skin sensitization. For this reason, oakmoss extracts are part of the diagnostic screening test for fragrance contact allergy. Atranol and chloroatranol are suspected to be responsible for the sensitizing properties of these extracts, and their content has consequently been limited to 100 ppm in moss extracts by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA). In this context, using round‐robin tests, PRODAROM (the French national association of fragrance manufacturers) has developed different analytical methods for the routine quantification of these two suspected skin allergens in moss extracts that are easily applicable in quality control laboratories. Reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode‐array detection (DAD) and external calibration allowed the quantification of both analytes in solution in the 10–100 mg L−1 range. In order to enhance the specificity of the method, mass spectrometry (MS) in single ion monitoring (SIM) mode was also used. To solve matrix‐effect problems, the use of in‐matrix calibration solutions, or the extrapolative dilution approach (EDA) using solvent calibration were mandatory. The liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) method was validated in the 1–10 mg L−1 range for both allergens in solution.
Synthesis and olfactory evaluation of allylic α‐quaternary thioether ketones
Authors: Lempenauer Luisa , Appleson Theresa , Lemière Gilles , Duñach Elisabet
Published: November 2018

Novel α‐quaternary allylic thioether ketones were efficiently prepared from readily available α,β‐unsaturated ketones in an easily scalable two‐step procedure, with an acid‐catalysed skeletal rearrangement of 2‐(vinylthio) allylic alcohols as the key step. The sensory properties of this novel class of sulfur odorants were evaluated and all displayed green herbal and vegetal notes. An unexpected and interesting fresh patchouli note was observed for an alcohol derivative.
Development of a three‐dimensional solver based on the local domain‐free discretization and immersed boundary method and its application for incompressible flow problems
Authors: Wu Y.L.
Published: November 2018

Recently, the author and two other coauthors have proposed a two‐dimensional hybrid local domain‐free discretization and immersed boundary method (LDFD‐IBM), which can be used to solve the flow problem with complex geometries. In this paper, the LDFD‐IBM is extended to solve a three‐dimensional unsteady incompressible flow with the complex computational domain. The technical issues related to the implementation of the LDFD‐IBM in three‐dimensional problems are discussed in detail, particularly for the discretization of Navier‐Stokes equations, mesh strategies for a three‐dimensional flow, and the fast algorithm on the identification of the status of mesh nodes (ie, to identify if the mesh node is located in the solid domain, in the fluid domain, or near the immersed boundary). Numerical tests show that the LDFD‐IBM can accurately solve three‐dimensional incompressible problems with ease.
Blocking TNFα‐driven astrocyte purinergic signaling restores normal synaptic activity during epileptogenesis
Authors: Nikolic Ljiljana , Shen Weida , Nobili Paola , Virenque Anaïs , Ulmann Lauriane , Audinat Etienne
Published: November 2018

Epilepsy is characterized by unpredictable recurrent seizures resulting from abnormal neuronal excitability. Increasing evidence indicates that aberrant astrocyte signaling to neurons plays an important role in driving the network hyperexcitability, but the underlying mechanism that alters glial signaling in epilepsy remains unknown. Increase in glutamate release by astrocytes participates in the onset and progression of seizures. Epileptic seizures are also accompanied by increase of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), a cytokine involved in the regulation of astrocyte glutamate release. Here we tested whether TNFα controls abnormal astrocyte glutamate signaling in epilepsy and through which mechanism. Combining Ca2+ imaging, optogenetics, and electrophysiology, we report that TNFα triggers a Ca2+‐dependent glutamate release from astrocytes that boosts excitatory synaptic activity in the hippocampus through a mechanism involving autocrine activation of P2Y1 receptors by astrocyte‐derived ATP/ADP. In a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy, such TNFα‐driven astrocytic purinergic signaling is permanently active, promotes glial glutamate release, and drives abnormal synaptic activity in the hippocampus. Blocking this pathway by inhibiting P2Y1 receptors restores normal excitatory synaptic activity in the inflamed hippocampus. Our findings indicate that targeting the coupling of TNFα with astrocyte purinergic signaling may be a therapeutic strategy for reducing glial glutamate release and normalizing synaptic activity in epilepsy.
A Regulatory Role of Apoptosis Antagonizing Transcription Factor in the Pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kumar Divya P. , Santhekadur Prasanna K. , Seneshaw Mulugeta , Mirshahi Faridoddin , Uram‐Tuculescu Cora , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: November 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing as a cause of liver‐related mortality largely because of the growing burden of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The mechanisms of HCC development in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are incompletely understood. We initially identified apoptosis antagonizing transcription factor (AATF) to be associated with HCC in a mouse model of NASH that develops HCC without the addition of specific carcinogens. AATF, also called che‐1, is a transcriptional factor that is highly conserved among eukaryotes. AATF is known to be a central mediator of the cellular responses as it promotes cell proliferation and survival by inducing cell cycle arrest, autophagy, DNA repair, and inhibition of apoptosis. However, the role of AATF in NASH and HCC remains unknown. Here, we provide evidence for AATF as a contributory factor for HCC in NAFLD. AATF overexpression was further verified in human NASH and HCC and multiple human HCC cell lines. Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNFα), known to be increased in NASH, induced AATF expression. Promoter analysis of AATF revealed a sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 1‐c (SREBP‐1c) binding site; inhibition of SREBP‐1 by using specific inhibitors as well as small interfering RNA decreased TNFα‐induced AATF expression. AATF interacted with signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 to increase monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 expression. AATF knockdown decreased cell proliferation, migration, invasion, colony formation, and anchorage‐dependent growth in HCC cell lines. Xenograft of QGY‐7703 HCC cells with AATF stably knocked down into nonobese diabetic scid gamma mice demonstrated reduced tumorigenesis and metastases. Conclusion: AATF drives NAFLD and hepatocarcinogenesis, offering a potential target for therapeutic intervention.