bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Doped Nitrogen in Graphene for Flow‐Induced Power Generation
Authors: Okada Takeru , Kalita Golap , Tanemura Masaki , Yamashita Ichiro , Meyyappan M. , Samukawa Seiji
Published: August 2018

Flow‐induced power generation using nanomaterials, for example, graphene–water interface, has become an attractive energy harvesting mechanism. The effect of heteroatom doping of graphene on flow‐induced electricity is investigated by the authors. Nitrogen‐doped graphene is shown to generate 1.5 times higher power compared with pristine graphene due to surface charges and increase in effective interfacial area. Thus, doping‐induced surface tuning of graphene enhances output performance. The flow‐induced power generation using doped‐graphene allows relaxing the material selection constraints in the triboelectric series.
3D Printing of Highly Stretchable Strain Sensors Based on Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Abshirini Mohammad , Charara Mohammad , Liu Yingtao , Saha Mrinal , Altan M. Cengiz
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the additive manufacturing of a stretchable and electrically conductive polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) nanocomposite for strain sensing. A long, thin PDMS strip in a zig‐zag pattern of five parallel lines is 3D printed on elastomer substrate using an in‐house modified 3D printer. Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are uniformly deposited on the uncured PDMS lines and cured in an oven. An additional layer of PDMS is then applied on top of MWCNTs to form a thin protective coating. The 3D printed PDMS/MWCNT nanocomposites are characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to validate the thickness, uniformity, and microstructural features of the sensor cross‐section. The strain sensing capability of the nanocomposites is investigated under tensile cyclic loading at different strain rates and maximum strains. Long‐term performance is tested under cyclic tensile loads for 300 cycles. Sensing experiments indicate that under cyclic loading, the changes in piezo resistivity mimic the changes in the applied load and the measured material strain with high fidelity. In situ micro‐mechanical testing in SEM is carried to investigate the piezoresistive sensing mechanism. Due to the high flexibility of PDMS, the 3D printed sensors are tested to monitor the bending of a human wrist joint as a wearable sensor.
Influence of Bioreceptor Layer Structure on Myelin Basic Protein Detection using Organic Field Effect Transistor‐Based Biosensors
Authors: Song Jian , Dailey Jennifer , Li Hui , Jang Hyun‐June , Russell Luisa , Zhang Pengfei , Searson Peter C. , Wang Jeff Tza‐Huei , Everett Allen D. , Katz Howard E.
Published: August 2018

Organic field‐effect transistor (OFET)‐based biosensors with antibody receptors are widely considered for protein antigen detection. To the authors' knowledge, there are no comparative evaluations to date of different choices for the matrix polymer to which the antibodies are attached. Herein, multiple acrylic copolymers are studied as receptor layers with myelin basic protein and its corresponding antibody as an archetypal antibody–antigen pair. Stability against multiple washing steps and the capacity for immobilizing antibodies on polymers on device surfaces with the help of fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labeled antibodies are compared. Electronic detection and selectivity are also observed. The conclusions provide guidance on the selection of bioreceptor material for increasing sensitivity and process stability of OFET biosensors.
Recent Advances in Growth of Novel 2D Materials: Beyond Graphene and Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Geng Dechao , Yang Hui Ying
Published: August 2018

Since the discovery of graphene just over a decade ago, 2D materials have been a central focus of materials research and engineering because of their unique properties and potential of revealing intriguing new phenomena. In the past few years, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have also attracted considerable attention because of the intrinsically opened bandgap. The exceptional properties and potential applications of graphene and TMDs have inspired explosive efforts to discover novel 2D materials. Here, emerging novel 2D materials are summarized and recent progress in the preparation, characterization, and application of 2D materials is highlighted. The experimental realization methods for these materials are emphasized, while the large‐area growth and controlled patterning for industrial productions are discussed. Finally, the remaining challenges and potential applications of 2D materials are outlined.
Recent Progress and Future Prospects of 2D‐Based Photodetectors
Authors: Huo Nengjie , Konstantatos Gerasimos
Published: August 2018

Conventional semiconductors such as silicon‐ and indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs)‐based photodetectors have encountered a bottleneck in modern electronics and photonics in terms of spectral coverage, low resolution, nontransparency, nonflexibility, and complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) incompatibility. New emerging two‐dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and their hybrid systems thereof, however, can circumvent all these issues benefitting from mechanically flexibility, extraordinary electronic and optical properties, as well as wafer‐scale production and integration. Heterojunction‐based photodiodes based on 2D materials offer ultrafast and broadband response from the visible to far‐infrared range. Phototransistors based on 2D hybrid systems combined with other material platforms such as quantum dots, perovskites, organic materials, or plasmonic nanostructures yield ultrasensitive and broadband light‐detection capabilities. Notably the facile integration of 2D photodetectors on silicon photonics or CMOS platforms paves the way toward high‐performance, low‐cost, broadband sensing and imaging modalities.
Gas‐Generating Nanoplatforms: Material Chemistry, Multifunctionality, and Gas Therapy
Authors: Yu Luodan , Hu Ping , Chen Yu
Published: August 2018

The fast advances of theranostic nanomedicine enable the rational design and construction of diverse functional nanoplatforms for versatile biomedical applications, among which gas‐generating nanoplatforms (GGNs) have emerged very recently as unique theranostic nanoplatforms for broad gas therapies. Here, the recent developments of the rational design and chemical construction of versatile GGNs for efficient gas therapies by either exogenous physical triggers or endogenous disease‐environment responsiveness are reviewed. These gases involve some therapeutic gases that can directly change disease status, such as oxygen (O2), nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), and other gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2),dl‐menthol (DLM), and gaseous perfluorocarbon (PFC) for supplementary assistance of the theranostic process. Abundant nanocarriers have been adopted for gas delivery into lesions, including poly(d,l‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), micelles, silica/mesoporous silica, organosilica, MnO2, graphene, Bi2Se3, upconversion nanoparticles, CaCO3, etc. Especially, these GGNs have been successfully developed for versatile biomedical applications, including diagnostic imaging and therapeutic use. The biosafety issue, challenges faced, and future developments on the rational construction of GGNs are also discussed for further promotion of their clinical translation to benefit patients.
Self‐Healing Micellar Ion Gels Based on Multiple Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Tamate Ryota , Hashimoto Kei , Horii Tatsuhiro , Hirasawa Manabu , Li Xiang , Shibayama Mitsuhiro , Watanabe Masayoshi
Published: August 2018

Ion gels, composed of macromolecular networks filled by ionic liquids (ILs), are promising candidate soft solid electrolytes for use in wearable/flexible electronic devices. In this context, the introduction of a self‐healing function would significantly improve the long‐term durability of ion gels subject to mechanical loading. Nevertheless, compared to hydrogels and organogels, the self‐healing of ion gels has barely investigated been because of there being insufficient understanding of the interactions between polymers and ILs. Herein, a new class of supramolecular micellar ion gel composed of a diblock copolymer and a hydrophobic IL, which exhibits self‐healing at room temperature, is presented. The diblock copolymer has an IL‐phobic block and a hydrogen‐bonding block with hydrogen‐bond‐accepting and donating units. By combining the IL and the diblock copolymer, micellar ion gels are prepared in which the IL phobic blocks form a jammed micelle core, whereas coronal chains interact with each other via multiple hydrogen bonds. These hydrogen bonds between the coronal chains in the IL endow the ion gel with a high level of mechanical strength as well as rapid self‐healing at room temperature without the need for any external stimuli such as light or elevated temperatures.
Photonic Synapses Based on Inorganic Perovskite Quantum Dots for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Wang Yan , Lv Ziyu , Chen Jinrui , Wang Zhanpeng , Zhou Ye , Zhou Li , Chen Xiaoli , Han Su‐Ting
Published: August 2018

Inspired by the biological neuromorphic system, which exhibits a high degree of connectivity to process huge amounts of information, photonic memory is expected to pave a way to overcome the von Neumann bottleneck for nonconventional computing. Here, a photonic flash memory based on all‐inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots (QDs) is demonstrated. The heterostructure formed between the CsPbBr3 QDs and semiconductor layer serves as a basis for optically programmable and electrically erasable characteristics of the memory device. Furthermore, synapse functions including short‐term plasticity, long‐term plasticity, and spike‐rate‐dependent plasticity are emulated at the device level. The photonic potentiation and electrical habituation are implemented and the synaptic weight exhibits multiple wavelength response from 365, 450, 520 to 660 nm. These results may locate the stage for further thrilling novel advances in perovskite‐based memories.
Self‐Healing Zwitterionic Microgels as a Versatile Platform for Malleable Cell Constructs and Injectable Therapies
Authors: Sinclair Andrew , O'Kelly Mary Beth , Bai Tao , Hung Hsiang‐Chieh , Jain Priyesh , Jiang Shaoyi
Published: August 2018

Injectable and malleable hydrogels that combine excellent biocompatibility, physiological stability, and ease of use are highly desirable for biomedical applications. Here, a simple and scalable strategy is reported to make injectable and malleable zwitterionic polycarboxybetaine hydrogels, which are superhydrophilic, nonimmunogenic, and completely devoid of nonspecific interactions. When zwitterionic microgels are reconstructed, the combination of covalent crosslinking inside each microgel and supramolecular interactions between them gives the resulting zwitterionic injectable pellet (ZIP) constructs supportive moduli and tunable viscoelasticity. ZIP constructs can be lyophilized to a sterile powder that fully recovers its strength and elasticity upon rehydration, simplifying storage and formulation. The lyophilized powder can be reconstituted with any aqueous suspension of cells or therapeutics, and rapidly and spontaneously self‐heals into a homogeneous composite construct. This versatile and highly biocompatible platform material shows great promise for many applications, including as an injectable cell culture scaffold that promotes multipotent stem cell expansion and provides oxidative stress protection.
Halogenated Tetraazapentacenes with Electron Mobility as High as 27.8 cm2 V−1 s−1 in Solution‐Processed n‐Channel Organic Thin‐Film Transistors
Authors: Chu Ming , Fan Jian‐Xun , Yang Shuaijun , Liu Dan , Ng Chun Fai , Dong Huanli , Ren Ai‐Min , Miao Qian
Published: August 2018

Molecular engineering of tetraazapentacene with different numbers of fluorine and chlorine substituents fine‐tunes the frontier molecular orbitals, molecular vibrations, and π–π stacking for n‐type organic semiconductors. Among the six halogenated tetraazapentacenes studied herein, the tetrachloro derivative (4Cl‐TAP) in solution‐processed thin‐film transistors exhibits electron mobility of 14.9 ± 4.9 cm2 V−1 s−1 with a maximum value of 27.8 cm2 V−1 s−1, which sets a new record for n‐channel organic field‐effect transistors. Computational studies on the basis of crystal structures shed light on the structure–property relationships for organic semiconductors. First, chlorine substituents slightly decrease the reorganization energy of the tetraazapentacene whereas fluorine substituents increase the reorganization energy as a result of fine‐tuning molecular vibrations. Second, the electron transfer integral is very sensitive to subtle changes in the 2D π‐stacking with brickwork arrangement. The unprecedentedly high electron mobility of 4Cl‐TAP is attributed to the reduced reorganization energy and enhanced electron transfer integral as a result of modification of tetraazapentacene with four chlorine substituents.
A Versatile Strategy to Fabricate 3D Conductive Frameworks for Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Qi Li‐Ya , Shang Luoran , Chen Xi , Ye Luhan , Zhang Weixia , Feng Peijian , Zou Wei , Cao Naizhen , Zhou Heng‐Hui , Weitz David A. , Li Xin
Published: August 2018

The suppression of lithium dendrite is critical to the realization of lithium metal batteries. 3D conductive framework, among different approaches, has shown very promising results in dendrite suppression. A novel cost‐effective and versatile dip‐coating method is presented here to make 3D conductive framework. Various substrates with different geometries are coated successfully with copper, including electrically insulating glass fiber (GF) or rice paper and conducting Ni foam. In particular, the as‐prepared copper coated GF shows promising results to serve as the lithium metal substrate by the electrochemical battery tests. The method significantly broadens the candidate materials database for 3D conductive framework to include all kinds of intrinsically insulating 3D substrates.
Effect of Ring‐Fusion on Miscibility and Domain Purity: Key Factors Determining the Performance of PDI‐Based Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Huawei , Li Yunke , Zhang Jianquan , Peng Zhengxing , Ma Lik‐kuen , Xin Jingming , Huang Jiachen , Ma Tingxuan , Jiang Kui , Zhang Guangye , Ma Wei , Ade Harald , Yan He
Published: August 2018

Compared to the rapid development of nonfullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) based on the state‐of‐the‐art indacenodithiophene (IDT)‐based small molecule acceptors (SMAs), the progress for perylene diimide (PDI)‐based electron acceptors has lagged behind owing to the lack of understanding on the structure–morphology–performance relationship of PDI SMAs. Given the ease of synthesis for PDIs and their high intrinsic electron mobility, it is crucial to identify key material parameters that influence the polymer:PDI blend morphology and to develop rational approaches for molecular design toward high‐performance PDI‐based SMAs. In this study, three pairs of PDI‐based SMAs with and without ring‐fusion are investigated and it is found that ring‐fusion and domain purity are the key structural and morphological factors determining the fill factors (FFs) and efficiencies of PDI‐based nonfullerene OSCs. This data shows that nonfullerene OSCs based on the ring‐fused PDI‐based SMAs exhibit much higher average domain purity and thus increased charge mobilities, which lead to enhanced FFs compared to those solar cells based on nonfused PDIs. This is explained by higher Florry Huggins interaction parameters as observed by melting point depression measurements. This study suggests that increasing repulsive molecular interactions to lower the miscibility between the polymer donor and PDI acceptor is the key to improve the FF and performance of PDI‐based devices.
Statement on the Effects of Deportation and Forced Separation on Immigrants, their Families, and Communities
Authors:   A Policy Statement by the Society for Community Research and Action: Division 27 of the American Psychological Association
Published: August 2018

Highlights

Negative psychosocial effects of deportation on individuals, wives, children, and communities.

Contextual effects surrounding deportation.

National and judicial policy recommendations.

Local jurisdiction policy recommendations.

Policy recommendations for neighborhoods and institutions.
Pulmonary hypertension in patients with 9q34.3 microdeletion‐associated Kleefstra syndrome
Authors: Okur Volkan , Nees Shannon , Chung Wendy K. , Krishnan Usha
Published: August 2018

Kleefstra Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in EHMT1, Euchromatin Histone Methyl Transferase 1, or deletions encompassing EHMT1 on 9q34.3. Congenital heart defects are among the major findings in patients with 9q34.3 microdeletion/Kleefstra Syndrome along with recognizable facial appearance, developmental delay/intellectual disability including severely delayed or absent speech, hypotonia, seizures, behavioral and sleep abnormalities. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a rare condition associated with increased pulmonary artery and right heart pressures that can lead to right heart failure and death if untreated. PH can be idiopathic, heritable, or associated with co‐morbid conditions including congenital heart disease (CHD), lung diseases and other metabolic disorders. Genetic factors play important roles in heritable and idiopathic PH development and are particularly relevant but more diverse in etiology in children. PH is also reported in some chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome in which congenital heart defects are common; however, PH has rarely been reported in patients with 9q34.3 microdeletion/Kleefstra Syndrome. Here, we present three patients with 9q34.3 microdeletions with CHD and PH along with review of five similar cases reported in the literature and discuss the potential association of PH with Kleefstra syndrome.
Cole‐Carpenter syndrome in a patient from Thailand
Authors: Porntaveetus Thantrira , Theerapanon Thanakorn , Srichomthong Chalurmpon , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: August 2018

Cole‐Carpenter syndrome (CCS), commonly classified as a rare type of osteogenesis imperfecta, is a disorder with severe bone fragility, craniosynostosis, and distinct facial features. Recently, the heterozygous missense mutation, c.1178A>G, p.Tyr393Cys, in exon 9 of P4HB which encodes protein disulfide isomerase, has been found in three Caucasian patients with CCS. Ethnic background is known to affect clinical manifestations, especially facial features of dysmorphic syndromes. Here, we describe the first Asian CCS patient possessing the recurrent mutation in P4HB. Although she had several common features of CCS including bulging forehead, ocular proptosis, midface hypoplasia, long bone deformity, popcorn epiphyses, vertebral fractures, and scoliosis, she did not have hydrocephalus, wormian bones, and dentinogenesis imperfecta, commonly seen in Caucasian patients. Interestingly, she is the only one without macrocephaly. Radiologically, metadiaphyseal fractures of the long bones with metaphyseal sclerosis were found, substantiating that they provide a definitive radiological feature of CCS. In addition, we showed for the first time a three‐dimensional facial scan of a patient with CCS. She had been given intravenous bisphosphonate since the age of 9 months and had responded well. Our study presents the clinical features of the first Asian patient, supports metaphyseal scleroses and fractures as radiological clues, strengthens early bisphosphonate administration, and confirms the etiologic role of the c.1178A>G variant in P4HB across populations.
Mitral valve prolapse and aortic root dilation in adults with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and related disorders
Authors: Asher Stephanie B. , Chen Rensa , Kallish Staci
Published: August 2018

Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDSs) are a group of inherited connective tissue disorders, and among them, classical EDS (cEDS) and hypermobile EDS (hEDS) are the most common. Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and aortic root dilation (ARD) have previously been reported to occur at an increased frequency within cEDS and hEDS. More recently, a study performed in the pediatric population did not show increased prevalence (Ritter et al., American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 173(6), 1467–1472, 2017). The purpose of this study was to review a large population of individuals with cEDS, hEDS, and hypermobility spectrum disorders to determine the frequency of MVP and ARD. A retrospective chart review of 209 individuals with echocardiograms was performed. Overall, 6.4% (13/209) had MVP and 1.6% (3/189) were found to have ARD. Although the presence of MVP is higher than what has been reported in the general population, no patients had severe MVP or required surgical intervention. No patients in this cohort had an aortic root diameter requiring surgical repair. Based on the results of this study and previous studies, routine echocardiograms to assess for valvular diseases and ARD may not be necessary unless warranted by presence of symptoms or family history.
Further delineation of spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia Faden‐Alkuraya type: A RSPRY1‐associated spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal dysplasia with cono‐brachydactyly and craniosynostosis
Authors: Simsek‐Kiper Pelin O. , Taskiran Ekim Z. , Kosukcu Can , Urel‐Demir Gizem , Akgun‐Dogan Ozlem , Yilmaz Guney , Utine Gulen E. , Nishimura Gen , Boduroglu Koray , Alikasifoglu Mehmet
Published: August 2018

Our understanding of the molecular basis of the genetic disorders of the skeleton has steadily increased, as the application of high‐throughput sequencing technology has expanded. One of the newcomers is Spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia Faden‐Alkuraya type. In this study, we aimed to further delineate the clinical, radiographic, and molecular findings of this entity in five affected individuals from two unrelated families. All patients have short stature, extremity deformities, facial dysmorphism and intellectual disability. The skeletal hallmarks include (a) mild spondylar dysplasia, (b) epimetaphyseal dysplasia of the long bones associated with coxa vara and genu valgum, (c) brachymesophalangy with cone‐shaped epiphyses, and (d) craniosynostosis. Unlike the previously reported clinical findings, all patients except one are normocephalic, and all share the clinical findings including craniosynostosis, varying degrees of intellectual disability, facial dysmorphism, and skeletal findings including pes planus, prominent heels, and pectus deformity. Interestingly one of the patients presented with a cemento‐ossifying fibrous lesion of the maxilla. Whole exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous [c.377delT] [p.Ile126fs*] frameshift mutation at exon 2 in one family, while Sanger sequencing revealed a novel homozygous splice site mutation [c.516+2T>A] at exon 4/intron 4 border of RSPRY1 in the other family. In conclusion; we provide further evidence that Spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia Faden‐Alkuraya type is a RSPRY1‐associated skeletal dysplasia with a distinctive phenotype composed of spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia, cono‐brachydactyly, and craniosynostosis along with recognizable facial features and intellectual disability.
Microtubing‐Reactor‐Assisted Aliphatic C−H Functionalization with HCl as a Hydrogen‐Atom‐Transfer Catalyst Precursor in Conjunction with an Organic Photoredox Catalyst
Authors: Deng Hong‐Ping , Zhou Quan , Wu Jie
Published: August 2018

Chlorine radical, which is classically generated by the homolysis of Cl2 under UV irradiation, can abstract a hydrogen atom from an unactivated C(sp3)−H bond. We herein demonstrate the use of HCl as an effective hydrogen‐atom‐transfer catalyst precursor activated by an organic acridinium photoredox catalyst under visible‐light irradiation for C−H alkylation and allylation. The key to success relied on the utilization of microtubing reactors to maintain the volatile HCl catalyst. This photomediated chlorine‐based C−H activation protocol is effective for a variety of unactivated C(sp3)−H bond patterns, even with primary C(sp3)−H bonds, as in ethane. The merit of this strategy is illustrated by rapid access to several pharmaceutical drugs from abundant unfunctionalized alkane feedstocks.
Seeing the Light: Advancing Materials Chemistry through Photopolymerization
Authors: Corrigan Nathaniel , Yeow Jonathan , Judzewitsch Peter , Xu Jiangtao , Boyer Cyrille
Published: August 2018

The application of photochemistry to polymer and material science has led to the development of complex yet efficient systems for polymerization, polymer post‐functionalization, and advanced materials production. Using light to activate chemical reaction pathways in these systems not only leads to exquisite control over reaction dynamics, but also allows complex synthetic protocols to be easily achieved. Compared to polymerization systems mediated by thermal, chemical, or electrochemical means, photoinduced polymerization systems can potentially offer more versatile methods for macromolecular synthesis. We highlight the utility of light as an energy source for mediating photopolymerization, and present some promising examples of systems which are advancing materials production through their exploitation of photochemistry.
Design of Hollow Protein Nanoparticles with Modifiable Interior and Exterior Surfaces
Authors: Kawakami Norifumi , Kondo Hiroki , Matsuzawa Yuki , Hayasaka Kaoru , Nasu Erika , Sasahara Kenji , Arai Ryoichi , Miyamoto Kenji
Published: August 2018

Protein‐based nanoparticles hold promise for a broad range of applications. Here, we report the production of a uniform anionic hollow protein nanoparticle, designated TIP60, which spontaneously assembles from a designed fusion protein subunit based on the geometric features of polyhedra. We show that TIP60 tolerates mutation and both its interior and exterior surfaces can be chemically modified. Moreover, TIP60 forms larger structures upon the addition of a cationic protein. Therefore, TIP60 can be used as a modifiable nano‐building block for further molecular assembly.
Confined Nanopipette Sensing: From Single Molecules, Single Nanoparticles, to Single Cells
Authors: Yu Ru‐Jia , Ying Yi‐Lun , Gao Rui , Long Yi‐Tao
Published: August 2018

Nanopipettes provide a promising confined space that enables advances in electrochemical, optical, and mass spectrometric measurements at the nanoscale. They have been employed to reveal the hidden population properties and dynamics of single molecules and single particles. Moreover, new detection mechanisms based on nanopipettes have led to detailed information on single cells at high spatial and temporal resolution. In this Minireview, we focus on the fabrication and characterization of nanopipettes, summarize their wide applications for the analysis of single entities, and conclude with an outlook for advanced practical sensing.
Upconversion of Reductants
Authors: Syroeshkin Mikhail A. , Kuriakose Febin , Saverina Evgeniya A. , Timofeeva Vladislava A. , Egorov Mikhail P. , Alabugin Igor V.
Published: August 2018

The many applications of photon upconversion—conversion of low‐energy photons into high‐energy photons—raises the question of the possibility of “electron upconversion”. In this Review, we illustrate how the reduction potential can be increased by using the free energy of exergonic chemical reactions. Electron (reductant) upconversion can produce up to 20–25 kcal mol−1 of additional redox potential, thus creating powerful reductants under mild conditions. We will present the two common types of electron‐upconverting systems—dissociative (based on unimolecular fragmentations) and associative (based on the bimolecular formation of three‐electron bonds). The possible utility of reductant upconversion encompasses redox chain reactions in electrocatalytic processes, photoredox cascades, design of peroxide‐based medicines, firefly luminescence, and reductive repair of DNA photodamage.
Care of the Patient Undergoing a Neurosurgical Procedure in an Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Suite
Authors: Hiatt Cathy
Published: August 2018

The intraoperative nursing care of a patient undergoing a neurosurgical procedure in an intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite requires an elevated level of planning and implementation of interventions for patient safety and the safety of the surgical team. Developing team guidelines, protocols, and competencies that take into account the specific safety and positioning requirements for an MRI scan (ie, identifying MRI zones, safe use of ferrous and nonferrous instruments, following MRI safety guidelines) is key to the success of these procedures. Personnel at two sites at the University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City have implemented a standardized intraoperative MRI program for a variety of neurosurgical procedures.
Azole‐based non‐peptidomimetic plasmepsin inhibitors
Authors: Kinena Linda , Leitis Gundars , Kanepe‐Lapsa Iveta , Bobrovs Raitis , Jaudzems Kristaps , Ozola Vita , Suna Edgars , Jirgensons Aigars
Published: August 2018

The spread of drug‐resistant malaria parasites urges the search for new antimalarial drugs. Malarial aspartic proteases – plasmepsins (Plms) – are differentially expressed in multiple stages of the Plasmodium parasite's lifecycle and are considered as attractive drug targets. We report the development of novel azole‐based non‐peptidomimetic plasmepsin inhibitors that have been designed by bioisosteric substitution of the amide moiety in the Actelion amino‐piperazine inhibitors. The best triazole‐based inhibitors show submicromolar potency toward Plm II, which is comparable to that of the parent Actelion compounds. The new inhibitors can be used as a starting point for the development of a resistance‐free antimalarial drug targeting the non‐digestive Plm IX or X, which are essential for the malaria parasite life cycle.
Peer Tutoring for Anatomy Workshops in Cambodia
Authors: Pickles Kylie , Ivanusic Jason J. , Xiao Junhua , Durward Callum , Ryan Andrea B. , Hayes Jennifer A.
Published: August 2018

Historical loss of staff and teaching resources in Cambodia has resulted in significant challenges to anatomy education. Small group anatomy teaching opportunities are limited. A visit to Cambodia by a teaching team from the University of Melbourne in 2010 demonstrated it was possible to implement well‐resourced anatomy workshops for this purpose. However, continuation of the workshop program was inhibited by the limited number of local teaching staff. In 2015, another team from the University of Melbourne returned to Cambodia to implement anatomy workshops that incorporated peer tutoring. The objective was to improve teacher‐to‐student ratios and to demonstrate that interactive anatomy workshops could be delivered successfully despite low staff numbers. The anatomy workshops were attended by 404 students of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and Midwifery at the University of Puthisastra. Medical students were invited to act as peer tutors for nursing students. A five‐point Likert scale questionnaire was used to determine student satisfaction with both the workshops and peer tutoring. The overwhelming majority were positive about the workshops and keen for them to continue. Almost all medical students who acted as peer tutors agreed or strongly agreed that this role increased their anatomical knowledge (98%) and confidence (94%). Most nursing students agreed or strongly agreed with statements that they would like peer tutoring to continue (94%) and that they would like to be peer tutors themselves (88%). This report demonstrates that peer tutoring could be an effective tool in educational settings where poor staff‐to‐student ratios limit delivery of interactive workshops.
Homogeneous Catalysis: A Powerful Technology for the Modification of Important Biomolecules
Authors: Shelke Yogesh G. , Yashmeen Afsana , Gholap Aniket V. A. , Gharpure Santosh J. , Kapdi Anant R.
Published: August 2018

Homogeneous catalysis plays an important and ubiquitous role in the synthesis of simple and complex molecules, including drug compounds, natural products, and agrochemicals. In recent years, the wide‐reaching importance of homogeneous catalysis has made it an indispensable tool for the modification of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates (sugars), amino acids, peptides, nucleosides, nucleotides, and steroids. Such a synthetic strategy offers several advantages, which have led to the development of new molecules of biological relevance at a rapid rate relative to the number of available synthetic methods. Given the powerful nature of homogeneous catalysis in effecting these synthetic transformations, this Focus Review has been compiled to highlight these important developments.
Self‐Standing Highly Conductive Solid Electrolytes Based on Block Copolymers for Rechargeable All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Aldalur Itziar , Martinez‐Ibañez Maria , Piszcz Michal , Zhang Heng , Armand Michel
Published: August 2018

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have been emerging as attractive candidates for meeting the demand in safe and high energy density batteries, attributed to their low flammability and ease in process. The architectural design of polymer matrices can improve the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of SPEs, thus leading to an enhanced performance of rechargeable all‐solid‐state lithium metal (Li0) batteries (ASSLMBs). However, for the majority of the reported SPEs, high ionic conductivities are achieved at the expense of their mechanical stiffness that is crucial for the processing of ASSLMBs. Herein, we report a new type of self‐standing and highly conductive SPE based on tailor‐made block copolymers, containing highly flexible Jeffamine‐based blocks and mechanically stable polystyrene moieties. The synthesis is facile and “one‐pot”. The electrolytes exhibit good mechanical properties and high ionic conductivities (5.6×10−4 S cm−1 at 70 °C and 7.9×10−5 S cm−1 at 40 °C). The superior compatibility with Li0 electrode allows the electrolyte to be cycled in a Li0||LiFePO4 cell with good coulombic efficiency and low capacity fading. The tailor‐made block copolymers offer a potential entry to safe and high‐performance ASSLMBs.
Determination of trehalose by ion chromatography and its application to a pharmacokinetic study in rats after intramuscular injection
Authors: Chen Hui , Chen Weizhu , Hong Bihong , Zhang Yiping , Hong Zhuan , Yi Ruizao
Published: August 2018

An ion chromatography method was established for detecting trehalose in rat plasma. The samples were analyzed using a CPMA1 column (250 × 4.0 mm, Thermo) with 120 mm NaOH as eluent at a flow rate of 0.7 mL/min. The standard curve was y = 1.4316x − 0.0654 (R = 0.9992), and the linear range was 0.2–10 mg/L. The relative standard deviations of within‐run and between‐run precisions at low, medium and high concentrations were within 0.96–8.33%, and the accuracy was within 80.09–114.99%. The method was verified by rigorous methods, and applied to a pharmacokinetic study in rats after intramuscular injection (20 mg/kg, n = 6). The pharmacokinetic parameters, specifically AUC0–t, AUC0–∞, t1/2, CL and Vd, were 15.542 ± 3.122 mg h/L, 15.599 ± 3.141 mg h/L, 0.73 ± 0.347 h, 1.331 ± 0.293 L/h kg and 1.403 ± 0.735 L/kg, respectively. The developed ion chromatography method met the requirements of biological sample measurement, and will be helpful for future pharmacological studies of trehalose.
Expanding the Applicability of the Metal Labeling of Biomolecules by the RIKEN Click Reaction: A Case Study with Gallium‐68 Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Nakamoto Yuka , Pradipta Ambara R. , Mukai Hidefumi , Zouda Maki , Watanabe Yasuyoshi , Kurbangalieva Almira , Ahmadi Peni , Manabe Yoshiyuki , Fukase Koichi , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: August 2018

Radiolabeled biomolecules with short half‐life times are of increasing importance for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies. Herein, we demonstrate an improved and generalized method for synthesizing a [radiometal]‐unsaturated aldehyde as a lysine‐labeling probe that can be easily conjugated into various biomolecules through the RIKEN click reaction. As a case study, 68Ga‐PET imaging of U87MG xenografted mice is demonstrated by using the 68Ga‐DOTA‐RGDyK peptide, which is selective to αVβ3 integrins.
Visualization of descriptive multiblock analysis
Authors: Skotare Tomas , Sjögren Rickard , Surowiec Izabella , Nilsson David , Trygg Johan
Published: August 2018

Understanding and making the most of complex data collected from multiple sources is a challenging task. Data integration is the procedure of describing the main features in multiple data blocks, and several methods for multiblock analysis have been previously developed, including OnPLS and JIVE. One of the main challenges is how to visualize and interpret the results of multiblock analyses because of the increased model complexity and sheer size of data. In this paper, we present novel visualization tools that simplify interpretation and overview of multiblock analysis. We introduce a correlation matrix plot that provides an overview of the relationships between blocks found by multiblock models. We also present a multiblock scatter plot, a metadata correlation plot, and a variation distribution plot, that simplify the interpretation of multiblock models. We demonstrate our visualizations on an industrial case study in vibration spectroscopy (NIR, UV, and Raman datasets) as well as a multiomics integration study (transcript, metabolite, and protein datasets). We conclude that our visualizations provide useful tools to harness the complexity of multiblock analysis and enable better understanding of the investigated system.
Solvent‐Induced and Temperature‐Promoted Aggregation of Bipyridine Platinum(II) Triangular Metallacycles and Their Near‐Infrared Emissive Behaviors
Authors: Ai Yeye , Ng Maggie , Hong Eugene Yau‐Hin , Chan Alan Kwun‐Wa , Wei Zhang‐Wen , Li Yongguang , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: August 2018

A series of bipyridine platinum(II) complexes with different sizes of triangular metallacycles and alkyl/oligoether chains has been synthesized and characterized. They are packed in a zig‐zag fashion with the formation of dimeric structures according to their X‐ray crystal structures. Different emission origins are observed due to the different sizes of the triangular ligands. Their morphologies could be tuned by the modification of the molecular structures with different metallacyclic alkynyl ligands and alkyl/oligoether chains and solvents. More interestingly, unusual electronic absorption changes and upfield shifts of the aromatic proton resonances are observed upon increasing the temperature, suggesting further aggregation of the architectures. Near‐infrared (NIR) emission is also realized through the tuning of the π–π stacking, Pt⋅⋅⋅Pt interactions, and the packing of planar metallacycles.
The Important Role of the Nuclearity, Rigidity, and Solubility of Phosphane Ligands in the Biological Activity of Gold(I) Complexes
Authors: Svahn Noora , Moro Artur J. , Roma‐Rodrigues Catarina , Puttreddy Rakesh , Rissanen Kari , Baptista Pedro V. , Fernandes Alexandra R. , Lima João Carlos , Rodríguez Laura
Published: August 2018

A series of 4‐ethynylaniline gold(I) complexes containing monophosphane (1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane (pta; 2), 3,7‐diacetyl‐1,3,7‐triaza‐5‐phosphabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (3), and PR3, with R=naphthyl (4), phenyl (5), and ethyl (6)) and diphosphane (bis(diphenylphosphino)acetylene (dppa; 7), trans‐1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethene (dppet; 8), 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe; 9), and 1,3‐bis(diphenylphosphino)propane (dppp; 10)) ligands have been synthesized and their efficiency against tumor cells evaluated. The cytotoxicity of complexes 2–10 was evaluated in human colorectal (HCT116) and ovarian (A2780) carcinoma as well as in normal human fibroblasts. All the complexes showed a higher antiproliferative effect in A2780 cells, with the cytotoxicity decreasing in the following order 5>6=9=10>8>2>4>7>3. Complex 4 stands out for its very high selectivity towards ovarian carcinoma cells (IC50=2.3 μm) compared with colorectal carcinoma and normal human fibroblasts (IC50>100 μm), which makes this complex very attractive for ovarian cancer therapy. Its cytotoxicity in these cells correlates with the induction of the apoptotic process and an increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The effects of the nuclearity, rigidity, and solubility of these complexes on their biological activity were also analyzed. X‐ray crystal structure determination allowed the identification of short N−H⋅⋅⋅π contacts as the main driving forces for the three‐dimensional packing in these molecules.
X‐ray Crystal Structures Show DNA Stacking Advantage of Terminal Nitrile Substitution in Ru‐dppz Complexes
Authors: McQuaid Kane , Hall James P. , Brazier John A. , Cardin David J. , Cardin Christine J.
Published: August 2018

The new complexes [Ru(TAP)2(11‐CN‐dppz)]2+, [Ru(TAP)2(11‐Br‐dppz)]2+and [Ru(TAP)2(11,12‐diCN‐dppz)]2+ are reported. The addition of nitrile substituents to the dppz ligand of the DNA photo‐oxidising complex [Ru(TAP)2(dppz)]2+ promote π‐stacking interactions and ordered binding to DNA, as shown by X‐ray crystallography. The structure of Λ‐[Ru(TAP)2(11‐CN‐dppz)]2+ with the DNA duplex d(TCGGCGCCGA)2 shows, for the first time with this class of complex, a closed intercalation cavity with an AT base pair at the terminus. The structure obtained is compared to that formed with the 11‐Br and 11,12‐dinitrile derivatives, highlighting the stabilization of syn guanine by this enantiomer when the terminal base pair is GC. In contrast the AT base pair has the normal Watson–Crick orientation, highlighting the difference in charge distribution between the two purine bases and the complementarity of the dppz–purine interaction. The asymmetry of the cavity highlights the importance of the purine–dppz–purine stacking interaction.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Co3O4/Ag Nanoparticles Supported on N‐Doped Graphene as Efficient Bifunctional Oxygen Catalysts for Flexible Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Qin , Miao He , Sun Shanshan , Xue Yejian , Liu Zhaoping
Published: August 2018

Flexible rechargeable zinc–air batteries are considered as one of the most promising power supplies for the emerging flexible and wearable electronic devices. However, the development of flexible zinc–air batteries is stagnant due to the lack of efficient bifunctional catalysts with high oxygen catalytic activity and flexible solid‐state electrolytes with high mechanical stability and ionic conductivity. In this work, Co3O4/Ag@NrGO composite was synthesized by a facile one‐pot method, and the catalyst shows remarkable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)/oxygen evolution reaction (OER) bifunctional catalytic activity and good long‐term stability. In particular, the OER overpotential of Co3O4/Ag@NrGO reaches 437 mV, outperforming that of the commercial IrO2 catalyst. This can be attributed to the combined effects of Co3O4, Ag, and N‐rGO. Furthermore, PAA (polyacrylic acid) and PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) based gel‐electrolytes have been developed as flexible solid‐state electrolytes for zinc–air batteries. The results show that PAA‐based electrolyte is more favorable to the flexible zinc–air battery with a high power density due to its relatively high ionic conductivity. The maximum power density of flexible zinc–air batteries with Co3O4/Ag@NrGO catalyst and PAA‐based electrolyte can reach 108 mW cm−2, which is almost the highest value reached in recent reports. This work will provide valuable guidance for the development of flexible rechargeable zinc–air batteries with high power density and stability.
Facet Effects of Ag3PO4 on Charge‐Carrier Dynamics: Trade‐Off Between Photocatalytic Activity and Charge‐Carrier Lifetime
Authors: Kim Sooyeon , Wang Yue , Zhu Mingshan , Fujitsuka Mamoru , Majima Tetsuro
Published: August 2018

Silver phosphate (Ag3PO4) is a promising visible‐light‐driven photocatalyst with a strong oxidation power and exceptionally high apparent quantum yield of O2 evolution. Although engineering Ag3PO4 facets is widely known to enhance its photocatalytic activity, most studies have explained its facet effect by calculating surface energies. Herein, the charge carrier dynamics in three kinds of Ag3PO4 crystals (mixed facets, cubic, and tetrahedral structures) were first investigated using single‐particle photoluminescence microscopy and femtosecond time‐resolved diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. As a result, we clarified that the disagreement between the photocatalytic activities (dye degradation and O2 evolution) of different Ag3PO4 facets are the consequence of trade‐off between catalytic activity and lifetime of photogenerated charge carriers in addition to surface energy.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Single‐Dose, Crossover Study to Demonstrate the Bioequivalence of 2 Formulations of Albiglutide in Healthy Adult Participants
Authors: Shaddinger Bonnie C. , Vlasakakis Georgios , Soffer Joseph , Thorpe Karl M. , Hatch Daniel , Nino Antonio J.
Published: August 2018

Albiglutide, developed for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, is provided in a dual‐chamber cartridge (DCC) single‐dose pen‐injector containing lyophilized drug that must be reconstituted with diluent prior to use. A liquid formulation of albiglutide has been developed that does not require mixing. In this 2‐period, randomized, crossover, double‐blind, phase I study (NCT02660736) in 59 healthy volunteers, pharmacokinetic parameters were determined and the bioequivalence of the 2 formulations was assessed. Participants received injections from each type of pen‐injector, one containing albiglutide 50 mg and one containing placebo, followed by an 8‐week washout period between regimens: albiglutide 50‐mg liquid formulation from an auto‐injector and lyophilized placebo from a DCC pen‐injector (Regimen A), or placebo liquid from an auto‐injector and lyophilized albiglutide 50 mg from a DCC pen‐injector (Regimen B). Geometric mean total exposures (area under the drug concentration–time curve [AUC](0‐t) [1345.4 vs 1426.9 (μg · h/mL)], AUC(0‐∞) [1376.2 vs 1454.6 (μg · h/mL)], and maximum concentration of drug in blood plasma [4968.5 vs 5314.7 ng/mL]) were comparable between Regimens A and B. Ratios of geometric least square means (90% confidence interval) were 95.3% (89.49‐101.52) for AUC(0‐∞), 95.1% (89.12‐101.49) for AUC(0‐t), and 93.2% (86.76‐100.17) for maximum concentration of drug in blood plasma, falling within the 90% confidence interval of 0.80 to 1.25 for bioequivalence. No new safety concerns were observed.
A speculation‐friendly binary search tree
Authors: Crain Tyler , Gramoli Vincent , Raynal Michel
Published: August 2018

We introduce the first concurrent data structure algorithm designed for speculative executions. Prior to this work, concurrent structures were mainly designed for their pessimistic (non‐speculative) accesses to have a predictable asymptotic complexity. Researchers tried to evaluate transactional memory using such structures whose prominent example is the red‐black tree library developed by Oracle Labs that is part of multiple benchmark distributions. Although well‐engineered, such structures remain badly suited for speculative accesses, whose step complexity might raise dramatically with contention. We propose a binary search tree data structure whose key novelty stems from the decoupling of update operations, ie, instead of performing an update operation in a single large transaction, it is split into one transaction that modifies the abstraction state and several other transactions that restructure the tree implementation in the background. This results in a speculation‐friendly tree (s‐tree) that outperforms previous HTM‐based and STM‐based trees by being transiently unbalanced during contention peaks and by rebalancing in quadratic time when contention disappears. In particular, the s‐tree is shown correct, reusable, and speeds up a transaction‐based travel reservation application by up to 3.5×.