bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Efficient Nonfullerene Polymer Solar Cells Enabled by a Copper(I) Coordination Strategy Employing a 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole‐Containing Wide‐Bandgap Copolymer Donor
Authors: Xu Xiaopeng , Li Zuojia , Bi Zhaozhao , Yu Ting , Ma Wei , Feng Kui , Li Ying , Peng Qiang
Published: May 2018

A novel wide‐bandgap copolymer of PBDT‐ODZ based on benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′ ]dithiophene (BDT) and 1,3,4‐oxadiazole (ODZ) blocks is developed for efficient nonfullerene polymer solar cells (NF‐PSCs). PBDT‐ODZ exhibits a wide bandgap of 2.12 eV and a low‐lying highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) level of −5.68 eV, which could match well with the low‐bandgap acceptor of 3,9‐bis(2‐methylene‐(3‐(1,1‐dicyanomethylene)‐indanone)‐5,5,11,11‐tetrakis(4‐hexylthienyl)‐dithieno[2,3‐d:2′,3′‐d′]‐s‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]‐dithiophene (ITIC‐Th), inducing a good complementary absorption from 300 to 800 nm and a minimal HOMO level offset (0.1 eV). The PBDT‐ODZ:ITIC‐Th devices exhibit a large open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.08 eV and a low energy loss (Eloss) of 0.50 eV, delivering a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.12%. By adding a small amount of copper(I) iodide (CuI) as an additive to form coordination complexes in the active blends, much higher device performances are achieved due to the improved absorption and crystallinity. After incorporating 4% of CuI, the PCE is elevated to 12.34%, with a Voc of 1.06 V, a Jsc of 17.1 mA cm−2 and a fill factor of 68.1%. This work not only provides a novel oxadiazole‐containing wide‐bandgap polymeric donor candidate for high‐performance NF‐PSCs but also presents an efficient morphology‐optimization approach to elevate the PCE of NF‐PSCs for future practical applications.
MoS2 Negative‐Capacitance Field‐Effect Transistors with Subthreshold Swing below the Physics Limit
Authors: Liu Xingqiang , Liang Renrong , Gao Guoyun , Pan Caofeng , Jiang Chunsheng , Xu Qian , Luo Jun , Zou Xuming , Yang Zhenyu , Liao Lei , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: May 2018

The Boltzmann distribution of electrons induced fundamental barrier prevents subthreshold swing (SS) from less than 60 mV dec‐1 at room temperature, leading to high energy consumption of MOSFETs. Herein, it is demonstrated that an aggressive introduction of the negative capacitance (NC) effect of ferroelectrics can decisively break the fundamental limit governed by the “Boltzmann tyranny”. Such MoS2 negative‐capacitance field‐effect transistors (NC‐FETs) with self‐aligned top‐gated geometry demonstrated here pull down the SS value to 42.5 mV dec‐1, and simultaneously achieve superior performance of a transconductance of 45.5 μS μm and an on/off ratio of 4 × 106 with channel length less than 100 nm. Furthermore, the inserted HfO2 layer not only realizes a stable NC gate stack structure, but also prevents the ferroelectric P(VDF‐TrFE) from fatigue with robust stability. Notably, the fabricated MoS2 NC‐FETs are distinctly different from traditional MOSFETs. The on‐state current increases as the temperature decreases even down to 20 K, and the SS values exhibit nonlinear dependence with temperature due to the implementation of the ferroelectric gate stack. The NC‐FETs enable fundamental applications through overcoming the Boltzmann limit in nanoelectronics and open up an avenue to low‐power transistors needed for many exciting long‐endurance portable consumer products.
Rechargeable Al–CO2 Batteries for Reversible Utilization of CO2
Authors: Ma Wenqing , Liu Xizheng , Li Chao , Yin Huiming , Xi Wei , Liu Ruirui , He Guang , Zhao Xian , Luo Jun , Ding Yi
Published: May 2018

The excessive emission of CO2 and the energy crisis are two major issues facing humanity. Thus, the electrochemical reduction of CO2 and its utilization in metal–CO2 batteries have attracted wide attention because the batteries can simultaneously accelerate CO2 fixation/utilization and energy storage/release. Here, rechargeable Al–CO2 batteries are proposed and realized, which use chemically stable Al as the anode. The batteries display small discharge/charge voltage gaps down to 0.091 V and high energy efficiencies up to 87.7%, indicating an efficient battery performance. Their chemical reaction mechanism to produce the performance is revealed to be 4Al + 9CO2 ↔ 2Al2(CO3)3 + 3C, by which CO2 is reversibly utilized. These batteries are envisaged to effectively and safely serve as a potential CO2 fixation/utilization strategy with stable Al.
Ultrathin Transition Metal Dichalcogenide/3d Metal Hydroxide Hybridized Nanosheets to Enhance Hydrogen Evolution Activity
Authors: Zhu Zhengju , Yin Huajie , He Chun‐Ting , Al‐Mamun Mohammad , Liu Porun , Jiang Lixue , Zhao Yong , Wang Yun , Yang Hua‐Gui , Tang Zhiyong , Wang Dan , Chen Xiao‐Ming , Zhao Huijun
Published: May 2018

The vast majority of the reported hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts perform poorly under alkaline conditions due to the sluggish water dissociation kinetics. Herein, a hybridization catalyst construction concept is presented to dramatically enhance the alkaline HER activities of catalysts based on 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) (MoS2 and WS2). A series of ultrathin 2D‐hybrids are synthesized via facile controllable growth of 3d metal (Ni, Co, Fe, Mn) hydroxides on the monolayer 2D‐TMD nanosheets. The resultant Ni(OH)2 and Co(OH)2 hybridized ultrathin MoS2 and WS2 nanosheet catalysts exhibit significantly enhanced alkaline HER activity and stability compared to their bare counterparts. The 2D‐MoS2/Co(OH)2 hybrid achieves an extremely low overpotential of ≈128 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH. The combined theoretical and experimental studies confirm that the formation of the heterostructured boundaries by suitable hybridization of the TMD and 3d metal hydroxides is responsible for the improved alkaline HER activities because of the enhanced water dissociation step and lowers the corresponding kinetic energy barrier by the hybridized 3d metal hydroxides.
Metal–Organic Framework Hybrid‐Assisted Formation of Co3O4/Co‐Fe Oxide Double‐Shelled Nanoboxes for Enhanced Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Wang Xiao , Yu Le , Guan Bu Yuan , Song Shuyan , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: May 2018

Rational design of complex metal–organic framework (MOF) hybrid precursors offers a great opportunity to construct various functional nanostructures. Here, a novel MOF‐hybrid‐assisted strategy to synthesize Co3O4/Co‐Fe oxide double‐shelled nanoboxes is reported. In the first step, zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67 (ZIF‐67, a Co‐based MOF)/Co‐Fe Prussian blue analogue (PBA) yolk–shell nanocubes are formed via a facile anion‐exchange reaction between ZIF‐67 nanocube precursors and [Fe(CN)6]3− ions at room temperature. Subsequently, an annealing treatment is applied to prepare Co3O4/Co‐Fe oxide double‐shelled nanoboxes. Owing to the structural and compositional benefits, the as‐derived Co3O4/Co‐Fe oxide double‐shelled nanoboxes exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline solution.
MOF‐Derived Vertically Aligned Mesoporous Co3O4 Nanowires for Ultrahigh Capacity Lithium‐Ion Batteries Anodes
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , He Jiating , Kou Zongkui , Elshahawy Abdelnaby M. , Hu Yating , Guan Cao , Li Xu , Wang John
Published: May 2018

Self‐supported mesoporous nanowire (NW) arrays grown directly on a current‐collector substrate represent an attractive nanoarchitecture for highly active electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, few reports have addressed the concern for a rational design of such an advanced material construction, where it is still rather difficult to establish the key parameters, especially by the conventional synthesis procedure. In this work, the vertically aligned Co3O4 mesoporous nanowires grown on Ni foam (denoted as CONWs/NF) are prepared after facile pyrolysis (350 °C) of 1D nanowire‐like metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). The MOF‐derived 1D mesoporous structure can provide the efficiently accessible lithium storage active sites for high capacity and the enhanced pathway for ion diffusion in the charge–discharge process. Additionally, due to the strong contact between active material and conducting substrate, such an advanced nanoarchitecture enables fast electron transport across the interfaces. Thus, when used as an anode of LIBs, the resulting CONWs/NF possess an average rechargeable capacity of ≈1609 mAh g−1 at the current density of 0.5 A g−1, together with a good rate performance without any ancillary materials. The strategy demonstrated in the present study paves a new pathway for directly and facilely growing NWs on conducting substrates for energy storage applications.
Highly Oriented Electrospun P(VDF‐TrFE) Fibers via Mechanical Stretching for Wearable Motion Sensing
Authors: Ma Shaoyang , Ye Tao , Zhang Ting , Wang Zhe , Li Kaiwei , Chen Ming , Zhang Jing , Wang Zhixun , Ramakrishna Seeram , Wei Lei
Published: May 2018

Advances in functional fabrics enable the realization of wearable devices in the form factor of fibers that can be seamlessly adapted in our daily lives. For mechanical‐related sensing and power generation, piezoelectric materials are particularly favorable because they can convert mechanical shape changes into electric outputs. Electrospinning is a widely applied technique to produce extended length of fiber‐shaped piezoelectric devices. However, this versatile process normally results in randomly distributed fibers with poor electrical properties and limited response to mechanical stimuli. Here, a stretching‐induced alignment method is demonstrated to achieve highly oriented electrospun poly[(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene] P(VDF‐TrFE) fibers on a large scale. These globally aligned electrospun P(VDF‐TrFE) fibers exhibit an enhanced piezoelectric property and high mechanical endurance. Using this simple stretching method, a high average output voltage of 80% aligned electrospun P(VDF‐TrFE) fibers is 84.96 mV, about 266% of their original randomly distributed counterpart. Furthermore, when woven into an outfit, the aligned electrospun P(VDF‐TrFE) fiber bundle can work both individually and combined to monitor body gestures including angles of elbow bending and directions of a swinging arm, which may lead to the further development of motion‐tracking technology.
Near‐Infrared Responsive PEGylated Gold Nanorod and Doxorubicin Loaded Dissolvable Hyaluronic Acid Microneedles for Human Epidermoid Cancer Therapy
Authors: Hao Ying , Chen YuWen , Lei MinYi , Zhang TaoYe , Cao YiPing , Peng JinRong , Chen LiJuan , Qian ZhiYong
Published: May 2018

Currently, epidermoid cancer is one of the most common malignancies among Caucasians. Traditional treatment may yield uncomfortable side effects for the patient. In order to solve these problems, the authors develop a near‐infrared (NIR) responsive PEGylated gold nanorod (GNR‐PEG) and doxorubicin (DOX) loaded dissolvable hyaluronic acid (HA) microneedle (GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MN) for human epidermoid cancer therapy. The as‐made GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MNs has good skin penetration capability and heating ability. The heating can be transferred to the center of the tumor sites and the temperature is shown to rise up to 60 °C within 5 min. Meanwhile, the release behavior of the DOX from GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MNs can be controlled by NIR light. The GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MNs shows good cell inhibition, and the photothermal effect is shown to completely destroy A431 cells in vitro. For in vivo antitumor study, the group treated with GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MNs transcutaneously reveals a remarkable antitumor efficacy, such that all mice are cured without recurrence under only one treatment. Hence, this novel transdermal drug delivery strategy offers hope to human epidermoid cancer therapy, and GNR‐PEG&DOX@HA MN may serve as a promising candidate in clinical translation for human epidermoid cancer therapy.
Magnetoresistance Anomaly in Topological Kondo Insulator SmB6 Nanowires with Strong Surface Magnetism
Authors: He Xingshuai , Gan Haibo , Du Zongzheng , Ye Bicong , Zhou Liang , Tian Yuan , Deng Shaozhi , Guo Guoping , Lu Haizhou , Liu Fei , He Hongtao
Published: May 2018

Topological Kondo insulators (TKIs) are a new class of topological materials in which topological surface states dominate the transport properties at low temperatures. They are also an ideal platform for studying the interplay between strong electron correlations and topological order. Here, hysteretic magnetoresistance (MR) is observed in TKI SmB6 thin nanowires at temperatures up to 8 K, revealing the strong magnetism at the surface of SmB6. It is also found that such MR anomaly exhibits an intriguing finite size effect and only appears in nanowires with diameter smaller than 58 nm. These nontrivial phenomena are discussed in terms of the latest Kondo breakdown model, which incorporates the RKKY magnetic interaction mediated by surface states with the strong electron correlation in SmB6. It would provide new insight into the nature of TKI surface states. Additionally, a non‐monotonically temperature dependent positive magnetoresistance is observed at intermediate temperatures, suggesting the possible impurity‐band conduction in SmB6, other than the surface state transport at low temperatures and the bulk‐band transport at high temperatures.
Mitochondria‐Targeted Artificial “Nano‐RBCs” for Amplified Synergistic Cancer Phototherapy by a Single NIR Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Liang , Wang Dong , Yang Ke , Sheng Danli , Tan Bin , Wang Zhigang , Ran Haitao , Yi Hengjing , Zhong Yixin , Lin Han , Chen Yu
Published: May 2018

Phototherapy has emerged as a novel therapeutic modality for cancer treatment, but its low therapeutic efficacy severely hinders further extensive clinical translation and application. This study reports amplifying the phototherapeutic efficacy by constructing a near‐infrared (NIR)‐responsive multifunctional nanoplatform for synergistic cancer phototherapy by a single NIR irradiation, which can concurrently achieve mitochondria‐targeting phototherapy, synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT), self‐sufficient oxygen‐augmented PDT, and multiple‐imaging guidance/monitoring. Perfluorooctyl bromide based nanoliposomes are constructed for oxygen delivery into tumors, performing the functions of red blood cells (RBCs) for oxygen delivery (“Nano‐RBC” nanosystem), which can alleviate the tumor hypoxia and enhance the PDT efficacy. The mitochondria‐targeting performance for enhanced and synergistic PDT/PTT is demonstrated as assisted by nanoliposomes. In particular, these “Nano‐RBCs” can also act as the contrast agents for concurrent computed tomography, photoacoustic, and fluorescence multiple imaging, providing the potential imaging capability for phototherapeutic guidance and monitoring. This provides a novel strategy to achieve high therapeutic efficacy of phototherapy by the rational design of multifunctional nanoplatforms with the unique performances of mitochondria targeting, synergistic PDT/PTT by a single NIR irradiation (808 nm), self‐sufficient oxygen‐augmented PDT, and multiple‐imaging guidance/monitoring.
Direct Semiconductor Laser Writing of Few‐Layer Graphene Polyhedra Networks for Flexible Solid‐State Supercapacitor
Authors: Liu Chunlin , Liang Hongwei , Wu Dun , Lu Xiangyu , Wang Qiang
Published: May 2018

Here, a simple one‐step fabrication methodology is presented for continuous heteroatoms‐doped carbon polyhedra networks via direct semiconductor laser writing on polyimide sheets. It is found that these nanosized polyhedra are nonporous solids and comprised of few‐layer graphene. By the adoption of lithium containing polymer gel electrolyte, flexible solid‐state supercapacitors are designed and assembled in planar and interdigitated configuration with the irradiated plastic sheets as electrodes. When compared to their counterparts with the acid gel electrolyte, they exhibit high areal specific capacitance up to 34.7 mF cm−2 (vs ≈8 mF cm−2) at the current density of 0.1 mA cm−2. This substantial enhancement is considered to be due to the combination of Faradaic intercalation and non‐Faradaic absorption of the Li‐ions at the carbon polyhedra membrane electrodes. With the improvement of energy density, the complex of supercapacitor device is capable of lighting the liquid crystal display of a commercial hygrometer for ≈1 min.
Synthesis of Submillimeter‐Scale Single Crystal Stannous Sulfide Nanoplates for Visible and Near‐Infrared Photodetectors with Ultrahigh Responsivity
Authors: Li Qiu , Wei Aixiang , Lu Jianting , Tao Lili , Yang Yibin , Luo Dongxiang , Liu Jun , Xiao Ye , Zhao Yu , Li Jingbo
Published: May 2018

Layered 2D semiconductors, such as graphene and transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), are receiving intensive attention owing to their great performance in electronic and optoelectronic application during the past few years. Among them, SnS has similar anisotropy to black phosphorus and high photoresponse in the near infrared range, rendering it as an ideal candidate for infrared photodetectors. In this work, large‐size (up to 330 µm) and high‐quality single‐crystalline SnS nanoplates are synthesized successfully via controlled chemical vapor deposition technique and characterized by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, confocal Raman system, atomic force microscope, transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Photodetectors based on as‐grown SnS nanoplates are fabricated with back‐gated field effect transistors (FETs) configuration, exhibiting a high mobility of 17.1 cm2 V−1 s−1. Photodetectors based on the SnS FETs demonstrate excellent optoelectronic performance both in visible and near‐infrared spectral range. Typically, photoresponsivity of 197.7 A W−1, photoresponse time of 39 ms, and external quantum efficiency of 6.06 × 104% are exhibited under the irradiation of 405 nm laser. The wide response range and ultrahigh sensitivity make the large‐area single crystal SnS nanoplate a promising candidate for future application in optoelectronics.
Novel Route to Fe‐Based Cathode as an Efficient Bifunctional Catalysts for Rechargeable Zn–Air Battery
Authors: Han Sancan , Hu Xiaoyi , Wang Jiacheng , Fang Xiaosheng , Zhu Yufang
Published: May 2018

Efficient bifunctional oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are of great importance for rechargeable metal–air batteries. Herein, FeNx/C catalysts are synthesized by pyrolysis of thiourea and agarose containing α‐Fe2O3 nanoplate as Fe precursor, where α‐Fe2O3 nanoplate can prevent the aggregation of carbon sheets to effectively improve the specific surface area during the carbonization process. The FeNx/C‐700‐20 catalyst displays excellent catalytic performance for both ORR and OER activity in alkaline conditions with more positive onset potential (1.1 V vs the reversible hydrogen electrode) and half‐wave potential, higher stability, and stronger methanol tolerance in alkaline solution, which are all superior to that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst. In this study, the detailed analyses demonstrate that the coexistence of Fe‐based species and high content of Fe‐Nx both play an important role for the catalytic activity. Furthermore, FeNx/C‐700‐20 as cathode catalyst in Zn–air battery possesses higher charge–discharge stability and power density compared with that of commercial Pt/C catalyst, displaying great potential in practical implementation of for the rechargeable energy devices.
Lattices and Their Consistent Quantification
Authors: Knuth Kevin H.
Published: May 2018

The order‐theoretic concept of lattices is introduced along with the concept of consistent quantification where lattice elements are mapped to real numbers in such a way that preserves some aspect of the order‐theoretic structure. Symmetries, such as associativity, constrain consistent quantification, and lead to a constraint equation known as the sum rule. Distributivity in distributive lattices also constrains consistent quantification and leads to a product rule. The sum and product rules, which are familiar from, but not unique to, probability theory, arise from the fact that logical statements form a distributive (Boolean) lattice, which exhibits the requisite symmetries.
In Situ Study of the Function of Bacterioruberin in the Dual‐Chromophore Photoreceptor Archaerhodopsin‐4
Authors: Sun Chao , Ding Xiaoyan , Cui Haolin , Yang Yanan , Chen Sijin , Watts Anthony , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2018

While certain archaeal ion pumps have been shown to contain two chromophores, retinal and the carotenoid bacterioruberin, the functions of bacterioruberin have not been well explored. To address this research gap, recombinant archaerhodopsin‐4 (aR4), either with retinal only or with both retinal and bacterioruberin chromophores, was successfully expressed together with endogenous lipids in H. salinarum L33 and MPK409 respectively. In situ solid‐state NMR, supported by molecular spectroscopy and functional assays, revealed for the first time that the retinal thermal equilibrium in the dark‐adapted state is modulated by bacterioruberin binding through a cluster of aromatic residues on helix E. Bacterioruberin not only stabilizes the protein trimeric structure but also affects the photocycle kinetics and the ATP formation rate. These new insights may be generalized to other receptors and proteins in which metastable thermal equilibria and functions are perturbed by ligand binding.
Nickel(II)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Propargyl [2,3] Wittig Rearrangement of Oxindole Derivatives: A Chiral Amplification Effect
Authors: Xu Xi , Zhang Jianlin , Dong Shunxi , Lin Lili , Lin Xiaobin , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: May 2018

A highly enantioselective [2,3] Wittig rearrangement of oxindole derivatives was realized by using a chiral N,N′‐dioxide/NiII complex as the catalyst under mild reaction conditions. A strong chiral amplification effect was observed, and allowed access to chiral 3‐hydroxy 3‐substituted oxindoles bearing allenyl groups in high yields and enantioselectivities (up to 92 % ee) by using a ligand with only 15 % ee. A reasonable explanation was given based on the experimental investigations and X‐ray crystal structures of enantiomerically pure and racemic catalysts. Moreover, the first catalytic kinetic resolution of racemic oxindole derivatives by a [2,3] Wittig rearrangement was realized with high efficiency and stereoselectivity.
Photo‐Controlled Reversible Microtubule Assembly Mediated by Paclitaxel‐Modified Cyclodextrin
Authors: Zhang Ying‐Ming , Zhang Ni‐Yuan , Xiao Kui , Yu Qilin , Liu Yu
Published: May 2018

The design and construction of multi‐stimuli‐responsive supramolecular nanoassemblies that can mimic and regulate the fundamental biological processes have become a focus of interest in supramolecular chemistry. In this work, a perfect combination has been achieved between naturally occurring microtubules and artificially macrocyclic receptors. The self‐assembling morphology of microtubules can be photo‐tuned by the host–guest interaction of paclitaxel‐modified β‐cyclodextrin (PTX‐CD) and photochromic arylazopyrazole (PTX‐AAP). Moreover, the supramolecularly aggregated microtubules in a cellular environment can induce a pronounced cell morphological change and cell death. This supramolecular approach based on the secondary PTX‐AAP⊂PTX‐CD complexation provides us a facile method to reversibly control the intertubular aggregation behaviors of microtubules, which may bring new perspectives in the treatment of diseases related to improper protein aggregation.
Physicochemical Properties of Mixtures of Morama Seed Oil With Alkanols and Alkyl Acetates at 298.15 K Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Yeboah Samuel O. , Oathotse Isaac , Ddamba Wilfred A. A.
Published: May 2018

Densities, ρ, ultrasonic speed, u, and dynamic viscosities, η, of mixtures of morama, Tylosema esculentum, seed oil with 1‐propanol, 1‐butanol, methyl acetate, and ethyl acetate were determined over the entire composition range at 298.15 K and atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes, , excess molar‐free volumes , deviations in isentropic compressibility, Δκs, deviations in ultrasonic speed, Δu, deviations in dynamic viscosity, Δη, and the excess free energy of activation of viscous flow, ΔG*E, were calculated and correlated using the Redlich–Kister equation for each of the (morama seed oil + 1‐propanol or 1‐butanol or methyl acetate or ethyl acetate) mixtures. The results obtained were discussed in terms of possible dipole–dipole intermolecular interactions and structural effects.
Brief Report: Smoking in Systemic Sclerosis: A Longitudinal European Scleroderma Trials and Research Group Study
Authors: Jaeger Veronika K. , Valentini Gabriele , Hachulla Eric , Cozzi Franco , Distler Oliver , Airó Paolo , Czirják Laszlo , Allanore Yannick , Siegert Elise , Rosato Edoardo , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Caimmi Cristian , Henes Jörg , Carreira Patricia E. , Smith Vanessa , del Galdo Francesco , Denton Christopher P. , Ullman Susanne , De Langhe Ellen , Riccieri Valeria , Alegre‐Sancho Juan J. , Rednic Simona , Müller‐Ladner Ulf , Walker Ulrich A. ,   EUSTAR coauthors
Published: May 2018

Objective

Data on the role of tobacco exposure in systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) severity and progression are scarce. We aimed to assess the effects of smoking on the evolution of pulmonary and skin manifestations, based on the European Scleroderma Trials and Research group database.

Methods

Adult SSc patients with data on smoking history and a 12–24‐month follow‐up visit were included. Associations of severity and progression of organ involvement with smoking history and the Comprehensive Smoking Index were assessed using multivariable regression analyses.

Results

A total of 3,319 patients were included (mean age 57 years, 85% female); 66% were never smokers, 23% were ex‐smokers, and 11% were current smokers. Current smokers had a lower percentage of antitopoisomerase autoantibodies than previous or never smokers (31% versus 40% and 45%, respectively). Never smokers had a higher baseline forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio than previous and current smokers (P < 0.001). The FEV1/FVC ratio declined faster in current smokers than in never smokers (P = 0.05) or ex‐smokers (P = 0.01). The baseline modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS) and the MRSS decline were comparable across smoking groups. Although heavy smoking (>25 pack‐years) increased the odds of digital ulcers by almost 50%, there was no robust adverse association of smoking with digital ulcer development.

Conclusion

The known adverse effect of smoking on bronchial airways and alveoli is also observed in SSc patients; however, robust adverse effects of smoking on the progression of SSc‐specific pulmonary or cutaneous manifestations were not observed.
Inhibition of Cyclic GMP‐AMP Synthase Using a Novel Antimalarial Drug Derivative in Trex1‐Deficient Mice
Authors: An Jie , Woodward Joshua J. , Lai Weinan , Minie Mark , Sun Xizhang , Tanaka Lena , Snyder Jessica M. , Sasaki Tomikazu , Elkon Keith B.
Published: May 2018

Objective

Type I interferon (IFN) is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as well as rare monogenic interferonopathies such as Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome (AGS), a disease attributed to mutations in the DNA exonuclease TREX1. The DNA‐activated type I IFN pathway cyclic GMP‐AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is linked to subsets of AGS and lupus. This study was undertaken to identify inhibitors of the DNA–cGAS interaction, and to test the lead candidate drug, X6, in a mouse model of AGS.

Methods

Trex1−/− mice were treated orally from birth with either X6 or hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for 8 weeks. Expression of IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs) was quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Multiple reaction monitoring by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was used to quantify the production of cGAMP and X6 drug concentrations in the serum and heart tissue of Trex1−/− mice.

Results

On the basis of the efficacy‐to‐toxicity ratio established in vitro, drug X6 was selected as the lead candidate for treatment of Trex1−/− mice. X6 was significantly more effective than HCQ in attenuating ISG expression in mouse spleens (P < 0.01 for Isg15 and Isg20) and hearts (P < 0.05 for Isg15, Mx1, and Ifnb, and P < 0.01 for Cxcl10), and in reducing the production of cGAMP in mouse heart tissue (P < 0.05), thus demonstrating target engagement by the X6 compound. Of note, X6 was also more effective than HCQ in reducing ISG expression in vitro (P < 0.05 for IFI27 and MX1, and P < 0.01 for IFI44L and PKR) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with SLE.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that X6 is superior to HCQ for the treatment of an experimental autoimmune myocarditis mediated in vivo by the cGAS/stimulator of IFN genes (cGAS/STING) pathway. The findings suggest that drug X6 could be developed as a novel treatment for AGS and/or lupus to inhibit activation of the cGAS/STING pathway.
3D Multi‐Agent Formation Control with Rigid Body Maneuvers
Authors: Zhang Pengpeng , de Queiroz Marcio
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we propose a control scheme for the formation maneuvering problem of multi‐agent systems where the team of agents can translate and rotate as a virtual rigid body in 3D. Using the single‐integrator model, we formulate the basic control law which is comprised of a formation acquisition term, function of the graph rigidity matrix, and a rigid body maneuvering term. The control is dependent on the relative position of agents that are connected in an infinitesimally and minimally rigid framework in addition to the desired rigid body motion of the formation. To facilitate the design of the rigid body maneuver, one agent in the convex hull of the formation serves as the reference point for the rotation component. A simulation study demonstrates the formation controller.
Exponential Synchronization of Dynamical Network with Distributed Delays Via Intermittent Control
Authors: He Sulan , Yi Guisheng , Wu Zhaoyan
Published: May 2018

In this paper, the exponential synchronization of dynamical network with distributed time delays is investigated. The intermittent controllers are designed to achieve the exponential synchronization. Based on the Lyapunov function method and the mathematical analysis technique, some synchronization criteria with respect to the system parameters, control gain and control rate are presented. From the criteria, for any given dynamical network, the needed values of control gains and rate can be easily estimated. Finally, two numerical simulations are performed to verify the derived theoretical results.
Concentration Determination of Volatile Molecular Iodine and Methyl Iodide
Authors: Kim TaeJun , Kim Minsik , Kim Donghyun , Jung Sang‐Hyuk , Yeon Jei‐Won
Published: May 2018

Appropriate and reliable methods are necessary for routine determination of the concentrations of molecular iodine (I2) and methyl iodide (CH3I), and methods including ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry on aqueous solution samples for I2 detection and gas chromatography on toluene solution samples for CH3I detection may be used. In this study, we examined the adequacy of the existing spectrophotometric method in terms of absorption coefficients at specific light wavelengths for several pH values of the aqueous solutions and selected iodide ion concentrations, and confirmed it finding no dependence of the absorption coefficients on the solution pH and the iodide ion concentration. Additionally, we established methods for CH3I analysis using toluene as a sampling solvent for either capture of CH3I from a gaseous solution or extraction of CH3I from an aqueous solution, and found that using gas‐tight syringes, CH3I could be extracted without a significant CH3I loss even at ambient temperature.
Altered white matter connectivity associated with visual hallucinations following occipital stroke
Authors: Rafique Sara A. , Richards John R. , Steeves Jennifer K. E.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Visual hallucinations that arise following vision loss stem from aberrant functional activity in visual cortices and an imbalance of activity across associated cortical and subcortical networks subsequent to visual pathway damage. We sought to determine if structural changes in white matter connectivity play a role in cases of chronic visual hallucinations associated with visual cortical damage.

Methods

We performed diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and probabilistic fiber tractography to assess white matter connectivity in a patient suffering from continuous and disruptive phosphene (simple) visual hallucinations for more than 2 years following right occipital stroke. We compared these data to that of healthy age‐matched controls.

Results

Probabilistic tractography to reconstruct white matter tracts suggests regeneration of terminal fibers of the ipsilesional optic radiations in the patient. However, arrangement of the converse reconstruction of these tracts, which were seeded from the ipsilesional visual cortex to the intrahemispheric lateral geniculate body, remained disrupted. We further observed compromised structural characteristics, and changes in diffusion (measured using diffusion tensor indices) of white matter tracts in the patient connecting the visual cortex with frontal and temporal regions, and also in interhemispheric connectivity between visual cortices.

Conclusions

Cortical remapping and the disruption of communication between visual cortices and remote regions are consistent with our previous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data showing imbalanced functional activity of the same regions in this patient (Rafique et al, 2016, Neurology, 87, 1493–1500). Long‐term adaptive and disruptive changes in white matter connectivity may account for the rare nature of cases presenting with chronic and continuous visual hallucinations.
Targeting ubiquitin specific protease 7 in cancer: A deubiquitinase with great prospects
Authors: Yeasmin Khusbu Farjana , Chen Fang‐Zhi , Chen Han‐Chun
Published: May 2018

Deubiquitinase (DUB)‐mediated cleavage of ubiquitin chain balances ubiquitination and deubiquitination for determining protein fate. USP7 is one of the best characterized DUBs and functionally important. Numerous proteins have been identified as potential substrates and binding partners of USP7; those play crucial roles in diverse array of cellular and biological processes including tumour suppression, cell cycle, DNA repair, chromatin remodelling, and epigenetic regulation. This review aims at summarizing the current knowledge of this wide association of USP7 with many cellular processes that enlightens the possibility of abnormal USP7 activity in promoting oncogenesis and the importance of identification of specific inhibitors.
Stable Carboxylate‐Terminated Gold Surfaces Produced by Spontaneous Grafting of an Alkyltin Compound
Authors: Ortiz Mayreli , Debela Ahmed M. , Méthivier Christophe , Thorimbert Serge , Hasenknopf Bernold , O'Sullivan Ciara K.
Published: May 2018

Self‐assembled monolayers formed by chemisorption of thiolated molecules on gold surfaces are widely applied for biosensing. Moreover, and due to the low stability of thiol–gold chemistry, contributions to the functionalisation of gold substrates with linkers that provide a more stable platform for the immobilisation of electroactive or biological molecules are highly appreciated. Herein, it is demonstrated that a carboxylated organotin compound can be successfully grafted onto gold substrates to form a highly stable organic layer with reactivity for subsequent binding to an aminated molecule. A battery of techniques were used to characterise the surface chemistry. The grafted layer was used to anchor aminoferrocene and subjected to both thermostability tests and long‐term stability studies over a period of one year, demonstrating thermostability up to 90 °C and storage stability for at least 12 months at 4 °C protected from light. The stable surface tethering of molecules on gold substrates can be exploited in a plethora of applications, including molecular techniques, such as solid‐phase amplification and solid‐phase melting curve analysis, that require elevated temperature stability, as well as biosensors, which require long‐term storage stability.
When Power Hurts: Task‐dependent Resource Control Creates Temporary Discomfort that Motivates Helping Behaviour
Authors: Poile Christopher
Published: May 2018

This study investigated why workers in a position of power are motivated to help their dependent co‐workers. Previous research has assumed that powerful workers would experience increased behavioural approach and disinhibition, leading to selfishness and lower levels of help. However, this assumption fails to explain the helping behaviour often observed at work. In this study, 563 participants were placed in situations of power across three experiments, which measured helpfulness, discomfort, and behavioural approach and inhibition. The results suggest that power creates psychological discomfort, which mediates helping behaviour. Providing help reduced feelings of discomfort. This study helps reconcile previous mixed findings when applying power theories to work situations, and tested a new discomfort‐reduction explanation for helping behaviour. Copyright © 2018 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rate pressure product and the components of heart rate and systolic blood pressure in hospitalized heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction: Insights from ASCEND‐HF
Authors: Verma Amanda K. , Sun Jie‐Lena , Hernandez Adrian , Teerlink John R. , Schulte Phillip J. , Ezekowitz Justin , Voors Adriaan , Starling Randall , Armstrong Paul , O'Conner Christopher M. , Mentz Robert J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Heart rate and systolic blood pressure (SBP) are prognostic markers in heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Their combination in rate pressure product (RPP) as well as their role in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains unclear.

Hypothesis

RPP and its components are associated with HFpEF outcomes.

Methods

We performed an analysis of Acute Study of Clinical Effectiveness of Nesiritide in Subjects With Decompensated Heart Failure (ASCEND‐HF; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT00475852), which studied 7141 patients with acute HF. HFpEF was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40%. Outcomes were assessed by baseline heart rate, SBP, and RPP, as well as the change of these variables using adjusted Cox models.

Results

After multivariable adjustment, in‐hospital change but not baseline heart rate, SBP, and RPP were associated with 30‐day mortality/HF hospitalization (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.17 per 5‐bpm heart rate, HR: 1.20 per 10‐mm Hg SBP, and HR: 1.02 per 100 bpm × mm Hg RPP; all P < 0.05). Baseline SBP was associated with 180‐day mortality (HR: 0.88 per 10‐mm Hg, P = 0.028). Though change in RPP was associated with 30‐day mortality/HF hospitalization, the RPP baseline variable did not provide additional associative information with regard to outcomes when compared with assessment of baseline heart rate and SBP variables alone.

Conclusions

An increase in heart rate and SBP from baseline to discharge was associated with increased 30‐day mortality/HF hospitalization in HFpEF patients with acute exacerbation. These findings suggest value in monitoring the trend of vital signs during HFpEF hospitalization.
Nutrient Recovery from Domestic Effluent using an Indigenous Strain of Scenedesmus sp.
Authors: Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira Radin , Al‐Gheethi Adel , Buyong Ramlah , Hashim Nor Haslina , Matias‐Peralta Hazel Monica , Mohd‐Kassim Amir‐Hashim
Published: May 2018

The performance of Scenedesmus sp. in the phycoremediation of domestic secondary effluents and the high‐quality production of the effluents for safe disposal are investigated in the current work. An indigenous strain of Scenedesmus sp. is obtained from a sludge thickness basin at a wastewater treatment plant. The characteristics of this microalgae are identified using a molecular analysis based on 18S ribosomal RNA sequences. The phycoremediation process is conducted in a photoreactor tank (5 L) with five different concentrations of Scenedesmus sp. (between 105 and 106 cells mL−1). The reactors are then placed outdoors (exposed to natural environmental conditions) for 8 days. The Scenedesmus sp. had the ability to remove 91.86%, 98.15%, and 93.11% of total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total organic carbon (TOC), respectively, and reduce biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total suspended solid (TSS) by 86.5%, 69.9%, and 76%, respectively, at a concentration of 106 cells mL−1. Moreover, the increase in the pH value during microalgae activity contributed to the increases in nutrients and characteristics percentage removal. The treated secondary effluents generated from the phycoremediation process after 8 days met the EQA 1974 (Regulation 2009) sewage sludge (standard A) in terms of TN and TP but is still not under the permissible limits for BOD, COD, and TSS. In conclusion, an indigenous Scenedesmus sp. is efficient in enhancing the quality of secondary wastewater to meet the standards required for reuse or safe disposal.
PSA screening, prostate biopsy, and treatment of prostate cancer in the years surrounding the USPSTF recommendation against prostate cancer screening
Authors: Kearns James T. , Holt Sarah K. , Wright Jonathan L. , Lin Daniel W. , Lange Paul H. , Gore John L.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

The 2012 United States Preventive Services Task Force recommendation against screening for prostate cancer has impacted rates of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening and appears to be associated with declining prostate cancer incidence. Our objective was to characterize health care utilization that may explain these observed trends.

METHODS

MarketScan claims, which capture >30 million privately insured patients in the United States, were queried for all men aged 40‐64 years for the years 2008‐2014. PSA testing, prostate biopsy, prostate cancer diagnosis, and definitive local treatment were determined using associated International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and Current Procedural Terminology, Fourth Edition codes.

RESULTS

There were approximately 6 million qualifying men with a full year of data. PSA testing, prostate biopsy, and prostate cancer detection declined significantly between 2009 and 2014, most notably after 2011. The prostate biopsy rate per 100 patients with a PSA test decreased over the study period from 1.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.92‐1.97) to 1.52 (95% CI, 1.50‐1.54). Prostate cancer incidence per prostate biopsy increased over the study period from 0.36 (95% CI, 0.35‐0.36) to 0.39 (95% CI, 0.39‐0.40). Of new prostate cancer diagnoses, the proportion managed with definitive local treatment decreased from 69% (95% CI, 69%‐70%) to 54% (95% CI, 53%‐55%). Both PSA testing and prostate cancer incidence decreased significantly after 2011 (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In a large cohort of privately insured men, PSA testing, prostate biopsy, prostate cancer incidence, and local definitive treatment for prostate cancer decreased between 2008 and 2014, most notably after 2011. This decrease may be driven by differential referral patterns from primary care providers to urologists. Cancer 2018;124:2733‐2739. © 2018 American Cancer Society
Functionalization of Carbon Spheres with a Porphyrin−Ferrocene Dyad
Authors: Possanza Fabio , Limosani Francesca , Tagliatesta Pietro , Zanoni Robertino , Scarselli Manuela , Ciotta Erica , Pizzoferrato Roberto
Published: May 2018

Meso‐tetraphenylporphyrin connected with a ferrocene molecule in the beta‐position of the macrocycle through a triple carbon−carbon bond has been bound to carbon spheres using the Prato−Maggini reaction. The ethynyl or/and phenylene ethynylene subunits were chosen as a linking bridge to give a high conjugation degree between the donor (i. e., ferrocene), the photoactive compound (i. e., porphyrin), and the acceptor (i. e., carbon spheres). The molecular bridges have been directly linked to the beta‐pyrrole positions of the porphyrin ring, generating a new example of a long‐range donor−acceptor system. Steady‐state fluorescence studies together with Raman and XPS measurements helped understanding the chemical and physical properties of the porphyrin ring in the new adduct. The spectroscopic characteristics were also compared with those obtained from a similar compound bearing fullerene instead of carbon spheres.
Characterization and Singlet Oxygen Oxidation of 1‐Alkyl Cyclohexenes Encapsulated Within a Water‐Soluble Organic Capsule
Authors: Gupta Shipra , Ramamurthy Vaidhyanathan
Published: May 2018

Prompted by the selectivity observed during the oxidation of 1‐methylcyclohexene included within a water‐soluble capsule by singlet oxygen, we conducted oxidation of a number of 1‐alkylcyclohexene derivatives. Of the three possible allylic hydrogens that could be abstracted by the attacking singlet oxygen, there was a preference for one of them but not to the extent that is observed with 1‐methylcyclohexene. The observed high selectivity with 1‐methylcyclohexene and moderate to low selectivity observed with longer n‐alkyl substituted cyclohexenes is rationalized on the basis of the available free space around the three allylic hydrogens. A comparison of the behavior of eight 1‐alkylcyclohexenes reveals that the behavior of confined reactant molecules cannot be extended based on a single model compound. The results presented demonstrate that the chemistry within supramolecular assemblies could be unique for each molecule just like in an enzyme.
Design of a reconfigurable front‐end for a multistandard receiver for the frequency range of 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz
Authors: Zare Fatin G. , Koozehkanani Z.D. , Fotowat‐Ahmady Ali , Sobhi Jafar , Farrell Ronan
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a reconfigurable receiver front‐end for the frequency range of 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz is presented. The radio frequency front‐end is realized in wideband form with reconfigurable baseband filter. The proposed front‐end targets the GSM, WLAN, WCDMA, and GPS standards residing in the aimed frequency range. The necessary specifications for each individual standard have been revisited and recalculated. The interaction of the different standards and their interoperability has been thoroughly investigated and extra specifications derived for the multistandard receiver. The multistandard receiver has been designed, layouted, and simulated in RFCMOS 0.18‐μm process.
A new integrated high step‐up quasi‐resonant flyback‐forward converter
Authors: Salehi Dobakhshari S. , Taheri M. , Banaiemoghadam Amin , Milimonfared J. , Fathi S.H.
Published: May 2018

This study presents a new high step‐up, high efficiency, flyback‐forward converter. The proposed converter employs 2 transformers, operating in flyback and forward modes at different intervals, to achieve the high voltage gain. In favor of high power density, transformers have been installed on 1 core. Furthermore, all switches are turned on under zero voltage switching condition, and all diodes are turned off under zero current switching condition. Also, the proposed converter utilizes resonant operation that leads to a reduction in switching loss, turning the converter to a highly efficient one. A 150‐W prototype has been implemented to verify the theoretical analysis, and a complete analysis has been done to investigate the effect of transformers integration.