bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La portée réparatrice et réconciliatrice de la Commission de vérité et réconciliation du Canada
Authors: Jaccoud Mylène
Published: July 2017

Cet article examine les potentialités réparatrices et réconciliatrices de la Commission de vérité et réconciliation (CVR) qui a été mise en place au Canada de 2008 à 2015 en réponse aux traumatismes vécus par les autochtones dans les pensionnats. L’auteure conclut que ces potentialités sont relativement limitées. Les principales limites tiennent à l’absence d’un espace de dialogue entre les victimes et les responsables, à une centration sur les narratifs traumatiques des victimes mais aussi à une conception dépolitisée du principe de la réconciliation. La CVR du Canada n’a pas inscrit la décolonisation comme vecteur de réconciliation mais a préféré s’engager dans la voie d’une pacification des relations entre les peuples. Or, l’auteure soutient que la réconciliation entre les peuples autochtones et l’État nécessite de dépasser les gestes de guérison et de réparation matérielle ou symbolique. La décolonisation des institutions, la redistribution des territoires et une réforme constitutionnelle en profondeur restent les seules avenues possibles pour parvenir à réconcilier avec ses oppresseurs un peuple victime d’un génocide culturel.
The packing density of a supramolecular membrane protein cluster is controlled by cytoplasmic interactions
Authors: Merklinger Elisa , Schloetel Jan-Gero , Weber Pascal , Batoulis Helena , Holz Sarah , Karnowski Nora , Finke Jérôme , Lang Thorsten
Published: July 2017

Molecule clustering is an important mechanism underlying cellular self-organization. In the cell membrane, a variety of fundamentally different mechanisms drive membrane protein clustering into nanometre-sized assemblies. To date, it is unknown whether this clustering process can be dissected into steps differentially regulated by independent mechanisms. Using clustered syntaxin molecules as an example, we study the influence of a cytoplasmic protein domain on the clustering behaviour. Analysing protein mobility, cluster size and accessibility to myc-epitopes we show that forces acting on the transmembrane segment produce loose clusters, while cytoplasmic protein interactions mediate a tightly packed state. We conclude that the data identify a hierarchy in membrane protein clustering likely being a paradigm for many cellular self-organization processes.
Sonographic evaluation of the immediate effects of eccentric heel drop exercise on Achilles tendon and gastrocnemius muscle stiffness using shear wave elastography
Authors: Leung Wilson K.C. , Chu KL , Lai Christopher
Published: July 2017

Background

Mechanical loading is crucial for muscle and tendon tissue remodeling. Eccentric heel drop exercise has been proven to be effective in the management of Achilles tendinopathy, yet its induced change in the mechanical property (i.e., stiffness) of the Achilles tendon (AT), medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles (MG and LG) was unknown. Given that shear wave elastography has emerged as a powerful tool in assessing soft tissue stiffness with promising intra- and inter-operator reliability, the objective of this study was hence to characterize the stiffness of the AT, MG and LG in response to an acute bout of eccentric heel drop exercise.

Methods

Forty-five healthy young adults (36 males and nine females) performed 10 sets of 15-repetition heel drop exercise on their dominant leg with fully-extended knee, during which the AT and gastrocnemius muscles, but not soleus, were highly stretched. Before and immediately after the heel drop exercise, elastic moduli of the AT, MG and LG were measured by shear wave elastography.

Results

After the heel drop exercise, the stiffness of AT increased significantly by 41.8 + 33.5% (P < 0.001), whereas the increases in the MG and LG stiffness were found to be more drastic by 75 + 47.7% (P < 0.001) and 71.7 + 51.8% (P < 0.001), respectively. Regarding the AT, MG and LG stiffness measurements, the inter-operator reliability was 0.940, 0.987 and 0.986, and the intra-operator reliability was 0.916 to 0.978, 0.801 to 0.961 and 0.889 to 0.985, respectively.

Discussion

The gastrocnemius muscles were shown to bear larger mechanical loads than the AT during an acute bout of eccentric heel drop exercise. The findings from this pilot study shed some light on how and to what extent the AT and gastrocnemius muscles mechanically responds to an isolated set of heel drop exercise. Taken together, appropriate eccentric load might potentially benefit mechanical adaptations of the AT and gastrocnemius muscles in the rehabilitation of patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
Identification and characterization ofStreptomyces flavogriseusNJ-4 as a novel producer of actinomycin D and holomycin
Authors: Wei Zhaohui , Xu Chao , Wang Juan , Lu Fengxia , Bie Xiaomei , Lu Zhaoxin
Published: July 2017

This paper is the first public report thatStreptomyces flavogriseuscan produce both actinomycin D and holomycin. The actinomycete strain NJ-4 isolated from the soil of Nanjing Agricultural University was identified asS. flavogriseus. ThisS. flavogriseusstrain was found for the first time to produce two antimicrobial compounds that were identified as actinomycin D and holomycin. GS medium, CS medium and GSS medium were used for the production experiments. All three media supported the production of actinomycin D, while holomycin was detected only in GS medium and was undetectable by HPLC in the CS and GSS media. The antimicrobial activity againstB. pumilus,S. aureus,Escherichia coli,F. moniliforme,F. graminearumandA. nigerwas tested using the agar well diffusion method. Actinomycin D exhibited strong antagonistic activities against all the indicator strains. Holomycin exhibited strong antagonistic activities againstB. pumilus,S. aureusandE. coliand had antifungal activity againstF. moniliformeandF. graminearumbut had no antifungal activity againstA. niger. The cell viability was determined using an MTT assay. Holomycin exhibited cytotoxic activity against A549 lung cancer cells, BGC823 gastric cancer cells and HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The yield of actinomycin D fromS. flavogriseusNJ-4 was 960 mg/l.S. flavogriseusNJ-4 exhibits a distinct capability and has the industrial potential to produce considerable yields of actinomycin D under unoptimized conditions.
Designing Indonesian Liner Shipping Network
Authors: Moeis Armand Omar , Zagloel Teuku Yuri , Hidayatno Akhmad , Komarudin Komarudin , Guo Sonny
Published: July 2017

As the largest archipelago nation in the world, Indonesia’s logistics system has not shown excellence according to the parameters of logistics performance index and based on logistics costs percentages from overall GDP. This is due to the imbalances of trading on the western and eastern regions in Indonesia, which impacts the transportation systems costs to and from the eastern regions. Therefore, it is imperative to improve the competitiveness of Indonesian maritime logistics through maritime logistics network design. This research will focus on three levels of decision making in logistics network design, which include type of ships in the strategic level, shipping routes in the tactical level, and container allocation in the operational level with implementing butterfly routes in Indonesia’s logistics networking problems. Furthermore, this research will analyze the impact of Pendulum Nusantara and Sea Toll routes against the company profits and percentages of containers shipped. This research will also foresee how demand uncertainties and multi-period planning should affect decision making in designing the Indonesian Liner Shipping Network.
Carbon storage in the mid‐depth Atlantic during millennial‐scale climate events
Authors: Lacerra Matthew , Lund David , Yu Jimin , Schmittner Andreas
Published: July 2017

Carbon isotope minima were a ubiquitous feature of the mid‐depth Atlantic during Heinrich Stadial 1 (HS1, 14.5–17.5 kyr BP) and the Younger Dryas (YD, 11.5–12.9 kyr BP), yet their cause remains unclear. Recent evidence indicates that North Atlantic processes triggered the δ13C anomalies, with weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) being the most likely driver. Model simulations suggest that slowing of the AMOC increases the residence time of mid‐depth waters in the Atlantic, resulting in the accumulation of respired carbon. Here we assess ΣCO2 variability in the South Atlantic using benthic foraminiferal B/Ca, a proxy for [CO32−]. Using replicated high‐resolution B/Ca records from ~2 km water depth on the Brazil Margin, we show that [CO32−] decreased during HS1 and the YD, synchronous with apparent weakening of the AMOC. The [CO32−] response is smaller than in the tropical North Atlantic during HS1, indicating there was a north–south gradient in the [CO32−] signal similar to that for δ13C. The implied variability in ΣCO2 is consistent with model results, suggesting that carbon is temporarily sequestered in the mid‐depth Atlantic during millennial‐scale stadial events. Using a carbon isotope mass balance, we estimate that approximately 75% of the HS1 δ13C signal at the Brazil Margin was driven by accumulation of remineralized carbon, highlighting the nonconservative behavior of δ13C during the last deglaciation.
In situ measurements of atmospheric O2 and CO2 reveal an unexpected O2 signal over the tropical Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Pickers Penelope A. , Manning Andrew C. , Sturges William T. , Le Quéré Corinne , Mikaloff Fletcher Sara E. , Wilson Philip A. , Etchells Alex J.
Published: July 2017

We present the first meridional transects of atmospheric O2 and CO2 over the Atlantic Ocean. We combine these measurements into the tracer atmospheric potential oxygen (APO), which is a measure of the oceanic contribution to atmospheric O2 variations. Our new in situ measurement system, deployed on board a commercial container ship during 2015, performs as well as or better than existing similar measurement systems. The data show small short‐term variability (hours to days), a step‐change corresponding to the position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and seasonal cycles that vary with latitude. In contrast to data from the Pacific Ocean and to previous modeling studies, our Atlantic Ocean APO data show no significant bulge in the tropics. This difference cannot be accounted for by interannual variability in the position of the ITCZ or the Atlantic Meridional Mode Index and appears to be a persistent feature of the Atlantic Ocean system. Modeled APO using the TM3 atmospheric transport model does exhibit a significant bulge over the Atlantic and overestimates the interhemispheric gradient in APO over the Atlantic Ocean. These results indicate that either there are inaccuracies in the oceanic flux data products in the equatorial Atlantic Ocean region, or that there are atmospheric transport inaccuracies in the model, or a combination of both. Our shipboard O2 and CO2 measurements are ongoing and will reveal the long‐term nature of equatorial APO outgassing over the Atlantic as more data become available.
High‐nitrogen fixation rates in the particulate and dissolved pools in the Western Tropical Pacific (Solomon and Bismarck Seas)
Authors: Berthelot H. , Benavides M. , Moisander P. H. , Grosso O. , Bonnet S.
Published: July 2017

Dinitrogen (N2) fixation rates were investigated in the euphotic layer of the Bismarck and Solomon Seas using 15N2 incubation assays taking into account both the particulate and the dissolved pools. Average depth‐integrated particulate N2 fixation rates were 203 (range 43–399) and 1396 (range 176–3132) μmol N m−2 d−1 in the Bismarck and Solomon Seas, respectively. In both seas, N2 fixation measured in the dissolved pool was similar to particulate N2 fixation, highlighting the potentially substantial underestimation of N2 fixation in oceanic budgets when only particulate N2 fixation is considered. Among the diazotroph phylotypes targeted using quantitative polymerase chain reaction amplification of nifH genes, Trichodesmium was the most abundant. Regression analyses suggest that it accounted for the major proportion of N2 fixation. However, unicellular cyanobacterial and non‐cyanobacterial diazotrophs were also occasionally abundant. This study reports high pelagic N2 fixation rates and confirms that the Western Tropical South Pacific is a hot spot for marine N2 fixation.
Comparison of observed and modeled seasonal crustal vertical displacements derived from multi‐institution GPS and GRACE solutions
Authors: Gu Yanchao , Fan Dongming , You Wei
Published: July 2017

Eleven GPS crustal vertical displacement (CVD) solutions for 110 IGS08/IGS14 core stations provided by the International Global Navigation Satellite Systems Service Analysis Centers are compared with seven Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE)‐modeled CVD solutions. The results of the internal comparison of the GPS solutions from multiple institutions imply large uncertainty in the GPS postprocessing. There is also evidence that GRACE solutions from both different institutions and different processing approaches (mascon and traditional spherical harmonic coefficients) show similar results, suggesting that GRACE can provide CVD results of good internal consistency. When the uncertainty of the GPS data is accounted for, the GRACE data can explain as much as 50% of the actual signals and more than 80% of the GPS annual signals. Our study strongly indicates that GRACE data have great potential to correct the nontidal loading in GPS time series.
Off‐fault deformations and shallow slip deficit from dynamic rupture simulations with fault zone plasticity
Authors: Roten D. , Olsen K. B. , Day S. M.
Published: July 2017

Kinematic source inversions of major (M≥7) strike‐slip earthquakes show that the slip at depth exceeds surface displacements measured in the field, and it has been suggested that this shallow slip deficit (SSD) is caused by distributed plastic deformation near the surface. We perform dynamic rupture simulations of M 7.2–7.4 earthquakes in elastoplastic media and analyze the sensitivity of SSD and off‐fault deformation (OFD) to rock quality parameters. While linear simulations clearly underpredict observed SSD and OFDs, nonlinear simulations for a moderately fractured fault damage zone predict a SSD of 44–53% and OFDs of 39–48%, consistent with the 30–60% SSD and 46 ± 10% (1σ) OFD reported for the 1992 M 7.3 Landers earthquake. Both SSD and OFDs are sensitive to the quality of the fractured rock mass inside the fault damage zone, and surface rupture is almost entirely suppressed in poor quality material.
On the persistence and coherence of subpolar sea surface temperature and salinity anomalies associated with the Atlantic multidecadal variability
Authors: Zhang Rong
Published: July 2017

This study identifies key features associated with the Atlantic multidecadal variability (AMV) in both observations and a fully coupled climate model, e.g., decadal persistence of monthly mean subpolar North Atlantic (NA) sea surface temperature (SST) and salinity (SSS) anomalies, and high coherence at low frequency among subpolar NA SST/SSS, upper ocean heat/salt content, and the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) fingerprint. These key AMV features, which can be used to distinguish the AMV mechanism, cannot be explained by the slab ocean model results or the red noise process but are consistent with the ocean dynamics mechanism. This study also shows that at low frequency, the correlation and regression between net surface heat flux and SST anomalies are key indicators of the relative roles of oceanic versus atmospheric forcing in SST anomalies. The oceanic forcing plays a dominant role in the subpolar NA SST anomalies associated with the AMV.
The magnetic local time distribution of energetic electrons in the radiation belt region
Authors: Allison Hayley J. , Horne Richard B. , Glauert Sarah A. , Zanna Giulio Del
Published: July 2017

Using 14 years of electron flux data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Polar Operational Environmental Satellites, a statistical study of the magnetic local time (MLT) distribution of the electron population is performed across a range of activity levels, defined by AE, AE*, Kp, solar wind velocity (Vsw), and VswBz. Three electron energies (>30, >100, and >300 keV) are considered. Dawn‐dusk flux asymmetries larger than order of magnitude were observed for >30 and >100 keV electrons. For >300 keV electrons, dawn‐dusk asymmetries were primarily due to a decrease in the average duskside flux beyond L* ∼ 4.5 that arose with increasing activity. For the >30 keV population, substorm injections enhance the dawnside flux, which may not reach the duskside as the electrons can be on open drift paths and lost to the magnetopause. The asymmetries in the >300 keV population are attributed to the combination of magnetopause shadowing and >300 keV electron injections by large electric fields. We suggest that 3‐D radiation belt models could set the minimum energy boundary (Emin) to 30 keV or above at L* ∼ 6 during periods of low activity. However, for more moderate conditions, Emin should be larger than 100 keV and, for very extreme activities, ∼300 keV. Our observations show the extent that in situ electron flux readings may vary during active periods due to the MLT of the satellite and highlight the importance of 4‐D radiation belt models to fully understand radiation belt processes.
Power allocation for target detection in radar networks based on low probability of intercept: A cooperative game theoretical strategy
Authors: Shi Chenguang , Salous Sana , Wang Fei , Zhou Jianjiang
Published: July 2017

Distributed radar network systems have been shown to have many unique features. Due to their advantage of signal and spatial diversities, radar networks are attractive for target detection. In practice, the netted radars in radar networks are supposed to maximize their transmit power to achieve better detection performance, which may be in contradiction with low probability of intercept (LPI). Therefore, this paper investigates the problem of adaptive power allocation for radar networks in a cooperative game‐theoretic framework such that the LPI performance can be improved. Taking into consideration both the transmit power constraints and the minimum signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) requirement of each radar, a cooperative Nash bargaining power allocation game based on LPI is formulated, whose objective is to minimize the total transmit power by optimizing the power allocation in radar networks. First, a novel SINR‐based network utility function is defined and utilized as a metric to evaluate power allocation. Then, with the well‐designed network utility function, the existence and uniqueness of the Nash bargaining solution are proved analytically. Finally, an iterative Nash bargaining algorithm is developed that converges quickly to a Pareto optimal equilibrium for the cooperative game. Numerical simulations and theoretic analysis are provided to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Direct Synthesis of Large‐Area 2D Mo2C on In Situ Grown Graphene
Authors: Geng Dechao , Zhao Xiaoxu , Chen Zhongxin , Sun Weiwei , Fu Wei , Chen Jianyi , Liu Wei , Zhou Wu , Loh Kian Ping
Published: July 2017

As a new member of the MXene group, 2D Mo2C has attracted considerable interest due to its potential application as electrodes for energy storage and catalysis. The large‐area synthesis of Mo2C film is needed for such applications. Here, the one‐step direct synthesis of 2D Mo2C‐on‐graphene film by molten copper‐catalyzed chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is reported. High‐quality and uniform Mo2C film in the centimeter range can be grown on graphene using a Mo–Cu alloy catalyst. Within the vertical heterostructure, graphene acts as a diffusion barrier to the phase‐segregated Mo and allows nanometer‐thin Mo2C to be grown. Graphene‐templated growth of Mo2C produces well‐faceted, large‐sized single crystals with low defect density, as confirmed by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) measurements. Due to its more efficient graphene‐mediated charge‐transfer kinetics, the as‐grown Mo2C‐on‐graphene heterostructure shows a much lower onset voltage for hydrogen evolution reactions as compared to Mo2C‐only electrodes.
Erythrocyte‐Membrane‐Enveloped Perfluorocarbon as Nanoscale Artificial Red Blood Cells to Relieve Tumor Hypoxia and Enhance Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Gao Min , Liang Chao , Song Xuejiao , Chen Qian , Jin Qiutong , Wang Chao , Liu Zhuang
Published: July 2017

Hypoxia, a common feature within many types of solid tumors, is known to be closely associated with limited efficacy for cancer therapies, including radiotherapy (RT) in which oxygen is essential to promote radiation‐induced cell damage. Here, an artificial nanoscale red‐blood‐cell system is designed by encapsulating perfluorocarbon (PFC), a commonly used artificial blood substitute, within biocompatible poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA), obtaining PFC@PLGA nanoparticles, which are further coated with a red‐blood‐cell membrane (RBCM). The developed PFC@PLGA‐RBCM nanoparticles with the PFC core show rather efficient loading of oxygen, as well as greatly prolonged blood circulation time owing to the coating of RBCM. With significantly improved extravascular diffusion within the tumor mass, owing to their much smaller nanoscale sizes compared to native RBCs with micrometer sizes, PFC@PLGA‐RBCM nanoparticles are able to effectively deliver oxygen into tumors after intravenous injection, leading to greatly relieved tumor hypoxia and thus remarkably enhanced treatment efficacy during RT. This work thus presents a unique type of nanoscale RBC mimic for efficient oxygen delivery into solid tumors, favorable for cancer treatment by RT, and potentially other types of therapy as well.
Ultrafine Cobalt Phosphide Nanoparticles Embedded in Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Matrix as a Superior Anode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Kunjie , Liu Jun , Li Site , Liu Liangliang , Yang Linyu , Liu Sailin , Wang Hao , Xie Tian
Published: July 2017

Ultrafine CoP nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen‐doped carbon matrix derived from zeolitic imidazolate framework 67 (ZIF‐67) template are first obtained. The synthesis strategy only involves a facile method in which ZIF‐67 precursor is phosphided under argon atmosphere. Such novel nanostructure consists of ultrafine CoP nanoparticles and N‐doped carbon matrix which greatly shorten the transport length of lithium ions, effectively buffer the volume expansion during the lithiation/delithiation process, and improve the electrical conductivity. Owing to their unique architecture characteristics, the active material exhibits a superior specific capacity of 522.6 mAh g−1 after 750 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g−1 and outstanding cycling stability up to 2000 cycles at a high current density of 500 mA g−1. In addition, the active material exhibits superior rate capability.
Ultrathin Li4Ti5O12 Nanosheet Based Hierarchical Microspheres for High‐Rate and Long‐Cycle Life Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: He Yishi , Muhetaer Aidaer , Li Jianming , Wang Feifan , Liu Cheng , Li Qi , Xu Dongsheng
Published: July 2017

Ultrathin Li4Ti5O12 nanosheet based hierarchical microspheres are synthesized through a three‐step hydrothermal procedure. The average thickness of the Li4Ti5O12 sheets is only ≈(6.6 ± 0.25) nm and the specific surface area of the sample is 178 m2 g−1. When applied into lithium ion batteries as anode materials, the hierarchical Li4Ti5O12 microspheres exhibit high specific capacities at high rates (156 mA h g−1 at 20 C, 150 mA h g−1 at 50 C) and maintain a capacity of 126 mA h g−1 after 3000 cycles at 20 C. The results clearly suggest that the utility of hierarchical structures based on ultrathin nanosheets can promote the lithium insertion/extraction reactions in Li4Ti5O12. The obtained hierarchical Li4Ti5O12 with ultrathin nanosheets and large specific surface area can be perfect anode materials for the lithium ion batteries applied in high power facilities, such as electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles.
The archaeological documentation and geochemistry of the Rua Tokitoki adze quarry and the Poike fine‐grain basalt source on Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
Authors: SIMPSON DALE F. , WEISLER MARSHALL I. , ST PIERRE EMMA J. , FENG YUEXING , BOLHAR ROBERT
Published: July 2017

Rapa Nui is famous for its moai (statues) and ahu (platforms), yet research into the island's many basalt quarries, sources and workshops is limited. These geological and archaeological sites provided the raw materials for tools such as toki (adzes and picks), which facilitated the manufacture of Easter Island's iconic stonework. Other basaltic tools such as hoe (knives), ohio (axes) and mangai mā‘ea (stone fishhooks) served for subsistence practices. However, little is known about the sources of these artefacts, the sequence of their manufacture and their geochemical compositions. In this paper, we provide archaeological site descriptions and geochemistry of source material from the Rua Tokitoki quarry and a fine‐grain basalt locality on Poike to contribute towards an understanding of prehistoric mining, social interaction and elite oversight on this isolated East Polynesian outpost.
Function‐based replacement behavior interventions for students with challenging behavior
Authors: McKenna John William , Flower Andrea , Falcomata Terry , Adamson Reesha M.
Published: July 2017

Using a concurrent multiple probe design, this study investigated the effects of function‐based replacement behavior interventions on the challenging behaviors of three students with or at risk of emotional and behavioral disorders who attended a rural elementary school. For all three students, interventions were effective at decreasing the occurrence of challenging and off‐task behavior. Effects were maintained for two participants. Maintenance and generalization effects in a replication setting in which replacement behaviors were loosely trained were also documented for two participants. Furthermore, teachers rated the interventions favorably. Implications for practice, study limitations, and areas for future research are discussed.
Enriched Air or Pure Oxygen as Oxidant for Gas‐to‐Liquid Process with Microchannel Reactors
Authors: Ostadi Mohammad , Hillestad Magne
Published: July 2017

The syngas production step is one of the most costly steps in a gas‐to‐liquid plant. Commonly, oxygen is used as an oxidant in the reforming step. However, through the introduction of microchannel reactors, the use of enriched air may be justified. The merits of using enriched air versus pure oxygen are analyzed by utilizing an autothermal reformer, with microchannel reactors in the once‐through Fischer‐Tropsch (FT) step. Pure oxygen is provided by a cryogenic air separation unit (ASU) and enriched air by use of air separation membranes. Pure oxygen requires a smaller FT reactor volume, which means lower reactor costs at the expense of having a costly cryogenic ASU to produce pure oxygen. The operating cost of the ASU is lower than that of the air membrane, but the installed cost is higher.
Ionic Transport in Microhole Fluidic Diodes Based on Asymmetric Ionomer Film Deposits
Authors: Mathwig Klaus , Aaronson Barak D. B. , Marken Frank
Published: July 2017

Microhole fluidic ionic diodes based on asymmetric deposits of charged ionomer membranes (e. g. Nafion or polymers of intrinsic microporosity) on microhole supports yield high rectification ratios for ionic transport. They are fabricated without the need for complex micro‐ or nanostructuring, and show potential for future applications in desalination and biosensing. Here, we propose an explanation for the functional principle for this type of materials‐based ionic diode. A predictive computational model for ionic diode switching is based on finite element analysis. It is employed to determine the influence of diode geometry as well as type and concentration of aqueous electrolyte on the rectification behavior.
Manipulation of Inorganic Atomic‐Layer Networks by Solution‐Phase Co‐assembly
Authors: Hao Yajiao , Yu Lin , Dai Chuying , Li Song , Yu Yang , Ju Bo , Li Minjie , Zhang Sean Xiao‐An
Published: July 2017

Homogeneous 2D lamellar assemblies of AuI thiolate coordination polymer (ATCP) were obtained by two‐ligand co‐assembly. The orbital levels and the bandgap of the 2D AuI–S network in the centre of the lamellae can be continuously tuned by means of the capping ligands on both sides, to give a new type of inorganic–organic composite semiconductor, the band structure of which can be easily tuned by low‐temperature solution‐phase co‐assembly. Furthermore, the chemical reactivity of these ATCP co‐assemblies also proved to be strongly dependent on the organic substituents, with well‐tuneable transformation rates to gold nanoparticles. Apparently, this is the first work to demonstrate how organic substituents can continuously tune the electron band structure and chemical reactivity of inorganic atomic layers of semiconductor through co‐assembly.
Cover Picture: Construction of Crown Ether‐Stoppering [3]Rotaxanes Based on N‐Hetero Crown Ether Host (Chin. J. Chem. 7/2017)
Authors: Han Xie , Li Ziyong , Xu Zhiqiang , Zhao Zhiyong , Liu Sheng Hua , Yin Jun
Published: July 2017

The cover picture shows shows the construction of crown etherstoppering [3]rotaxanes based on N‐hetero crown ether host. Usually, crown ethers play the role of host macrocycles to combine with the guest molecules in the construction of rotaxanes. Based on the fact that crown ethers have large dimension, two [3]rotaxanes containing four crown ether units were designed and synthesized, of which, two N‐hetero crown ether components were employed as the macrocyclic hosts to assemble the mechanically interlocked framework by using a template‐directed clipping reaction while bis (metaphenylene‐26‐crown‐8) located on two sides of template diammonium acting as the stoppering groups of [3]rotaxanes. More details are discussed in the article by Yin et al. on page 1050–1056.

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Population Pharmacokinetics of Lenalidomide in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Connarn Jamie N. , Hwang Renfang , Gao Yue , Palmisano Maria , Chen Nianhang
Published: July 2017

A population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model of lenalidomide was developed using data pooled from 13 clinical studies (dose range, 5–400 mg) in participants who were considered to have adequate capability for renal excretion of lenalidomide (creatinine clearance [CrCl] > 50 mL/min). The analysis population included 305 healthy volunteers and 83 patients with multiple myeloma or myelodysplastic syndromes. A 1‐compartment model with linear absorption and elimination described well the observed data for both healthy volunteers and patients. Covariate analysis suggested lenalidomide apparent clearance was positively correlated with CrCl, and lenalidomide volume of distribution was positively correlated with body weight. Both pharmacokinetic parameters were reduced by 29% in patients, independent of the effect of CrCl or body weight. Despite their statistical significance, effects of study population and body weight are considered clinically unimportant in adult patients with CrCl > 50 mL. After accounting for the above effects, body weight had no significant effect on CL/F, whereas age, sex, race, and mild hepatic impairment had no significant effect on either lenalidomide parameter. The PopPK model should be useful for future modeling of lenalidomide pharmacokinetics in the pediatric population and for further comparison of pharmacokinetic properties among structurally similar immunomodulatory drugs.
Spectroscopic Discrimination of Diastereomeric Complexes Involving an Axially Chiral Receptor
Authors: Filippi Antonello , Fraschetti Caterina , Guarcini Laura , Zazza Costantino , Ema Tadashi , Speranza Maurizio
Published: July 2017

The infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) spectra of electrospray ionization (ESI)‐formed proton‐bound complexes between the axially chiral multifunctional macrocycle MaR and d‐ and l‐phenylalanine (PD and PL) or d‐ and l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (DD and DL) are recorded in the
=2800–3700 cm−1 region. Whereas the diastereomeric [MaR⋅H⋅PD]+ and [MaR⋅H⋅PL]+ complexes do not show any significant spectral differences, the spectrum of [MaR⋅H⋅DD]+ clearly diverges from that of its [MaR⋅H⋅DL]+ diastereomer. A comparison of the experimental spectra with the B3LYP/6‐31G**‐calculated harmonic vibrational frequencies of a number of stable structures indicates the formation, in the ESI source, of very similar spectroscopically active structures, with the protonated amino acid placed outside the flat cavity of the macrocycle and hydrogen‐bonded at its O2 center. Different spectral signatures of the [MaR⋅H⋅DD]+ and [MaR⋅H⋅DL]+ complexes are attributed to the coexistence of several stable rotamers in the ESI source.
In Situ Growth and Wrapping of Aminoanthraquinone Nanowires in 3 D Graphene Framework as Foldable Organic Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Guanhui , Bu Fanxing , Huang Yanshan , Zhang Yu , Shakir Imran , Xu Yuxi
Published: July 2017

Small conjugated carbonyl compounds are intriguing candidates for organic electrode materials because of their abundance, high theoretical capacity, and adjustable molecular structure. However, their dissolution in aprotic electrolytes and poor conductivity eclipse them in terms of practical capacity, cycle life, and rate capability. Herein, we report a foldable and binder‐free nanocomposite electrode consisting of 2‐aminoanthraquinone (AAQ) nanowires wrapped within the 3 D graphene framework, which is prepared through antisolvent crystallization followed by a facile chemical reduction and selfassembly process. The nanocomposite exhibited a very high capacity of 265 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C for AAQ, realizing 100 % utilization of active material. Furthermore, the nanocomposite shows superior cycling stability (82 % capacity retention after 200 cycles at 0.2 C and 76 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 0.4 C) and excellent rate performance (153 mA h g−1 at 5 C). Particularly, the nanocomposite can deliver the highest capacity of 165 mA h g−1 among all reported anthraquinone‐ and anthraquinone‐analogues‐based electrodes per mass of the whole electrode, which is essential for practical application. Such outstanding electrochemical performance could be largely attributed to the wrapping structure of the flexible composite, which provides both conductivity and structural integrity.
Performance Verification of High‐Efficiency PV Power Conditioner Integrated with SiC MOSFETs and Cooperative Control Method
Authors: AMIMOTO TAKESHI , OKUDA TATSUYA
Published: July 2017

A high conversion efficiency is always required for photovoltaic power conditioners to utilize PV‐generated DC power with minimal loss. The cooperative control method has been developed as one of the control methods that improves the conversion efficiency, which is applicable to nonisolated power conditioners consisting of a boost converter and an inverter. In the cooperative control method, the boost converter creates part of the AC voltage waveform, and either the boost converter or inverter performs switching only during a required period. Therefore, it has the advantage of reducing switching losses. In this paper, we present a study of a cooperative‐control‐type power conditioner assuming its use in grid‐connected operation and the results of a performance verification of prototype power conditioner. A microcontroller is used for cooperative control. The experimental results show that the prototype power conditioner integrated with SiC MOSFETs and the cooperative control method achieves an efficiency of 97.4% at an output of 5.5 kW.
The role of procalcitonin in acute heart failure patients
Authors: Möckel Martin , Searle Julia , Maisel Alan
Published: July 2017

Acute dyspnoea is a common chief complaint in the emergency department and is mainly caused by cardiac and pulmonary underlying diagnoses. In patients with acute heart failure (AHF), an early initiation of adequate therapy is important to improve patient outcome. Clinical differentiation of pulmonary and cardiac underlying causes and of concomitant pathologies determines which therapeutic strategy is chosen.

Procalcitonin is a marker of bacterial infection, which is markedly increased in AHF patients with concomitant bacterial infection and thus has the potential to guide the early initiation of adequate antibiotic therapy. The IMPACT‐EU trial is a multicenter randomized controlled trial designed to test this hypothesis.

This mini‐review summarizes the current literature on procalcitonin in AHF and explains the design of the IMPACT‐EU trial.
Slow Magnetic Relaxation and Spin‐Crossover Behavior in a Bicomponent Ion‐Pair Cobalt(II) Complex
Authors: Shao Dong , Deng Lin‐Dan , Shi Le , Wu Dong‐Qing , Wei Xiao‐Qin , Yang Si‐Run , Wang Xin‐Yi
Published: July 2017

A bicomponent ion‐pair molecule compound [Co(Brphterpy)2][Co(NCS)4]·2MeCN was designed and prepared for the construction of multistable functional materials. Due to the different coordination geometries of the cationic and anionic CoII ions, this compound exhibits both thermally induced spin crossover (SCO) and field‐induced single‐ion magnetism (SIM). This represents a rare example of a two‐component system with the coexistence of SIM and SCO behaviors and suggests a simple, yet very efficient strategy for the construction of multistable molecular materials.
Synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrazine 1,3‐Dioxides Annulated with 1(2)‐Aryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles
Authors: Voronin Alexey A. , Churakov Aleksandr M. , Klenov Michael S. , Strelenko Yurii A. , Fedyanin Ivan V. , Tartakovsky Vladimir A.
Published: July 2017

A two‐step synthetic approach to previously unknown 1,2,3,4‐tetrazine 1,3‐dioxides annulated with 1(2)‐aryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles was developed. The first step involved the formation of 5‐amine‐4‐(tert‐butyl‐NNO‐azoxy)‐1(2)‐aryl‐1(2)H‐1,2,3‐triazoles starting from (tert‐butyl‐NNO‐azoxy)acetonitrile. The second step included their cyclization to give the titled triazolotetrazines. Their structures were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and 14N NMR spectroscopy; HRMS; and X‐ray diffraction studies. Common features and distinctions in the molecular structures of these compounds, including aromaticity, were explored.
Structured pain management reduces patient discomfort after catheter ablation and rhythm device surgery
Authors: Dörschner M. , Bollmann A. , Dinov B. , Richter S. , Döring M. , Arya A. , Müssigbrodt A. , Kircher S. , Dagres N. , Sommer P. , Hindricks G. , Bode K.
Published: July 2017

Background

The goal was to test the effectiveness of a structured pain management programme after invasive electrophysiological interventions in cardiology including ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT) and implantation, or explantation, of pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators.

Methods

This was a prospective study with a pre‐/post‐design where a post‐intervention group (116 consecutive patients) was compared to a pre‐intervention group (102 consecutive patients) after implementation of a structured pain‐management programme using the numeric rating scale (NRS 0–10) and classified as moderate‐to‐severe if NRS > 3. Measurements were recorded every two hours during the first 24 h post‐operatively. The location of the pain and the amount of analgesic used were also recorded.

Results

The proportion of patients who experienced moderate‐to‐severe pain after the procedure decreased after initiation of the pain‐management program: 47% versus 61%; p = 0.048. This difference was driven primarily by reduced pain late (8–24 h) after the procedure; 16% versus 39%; p < 0.001. The risk to develop late (8–24 h) post‐procedural pain was reduced approximately three‐fold after implementation of the pain‐management programme (OR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.16–0.64, p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated chronic pain, early pain (0–6 h), and type of intervention were associated with late post‐interventional pain. In contrast, age, diabetes mellitus, BMI, gender and procedure time were not related.

Conclusion

The findings illustrate the potential value of a structured pain‐management programme. The proportion of patients who experienced moderate‐to‐severe pain after these electrophysiological procedures decreased significantly.

Significance

This is the first exploratory study that evaluates the impact of a multidisciplinary pain‐management programme after cardiac electrophysiological interventions. It demonstrates that significant quality improvement is achievable following simple rules together with patient and staff education. The programme reduces the proportion of patients with moderate‐to‐severe pain after electrophysiological procedures significantly.
Preparation and evaluation of tert‐leucine derivative functionalized polymeric monoliths for micro‐liquid chromatography
Authors: Ruan Meng , Wang Qiqin , Wu Huihui , Wang Yuqiang , Han Hai , Jiang Zhengjin
Published: July 2017

In this study, a novel functional monomer N‐[1‐(α‐naphthyl)ethylaminocarbonyl]‐D‐tert‐leucine‐[2‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] amide (NA‐D‐tert‐Leu‐MA) was synthesized, and then employed to prepare polymeric monoliths (240 mm × 100 μm id) functionalized with tert‐leucine derivative through a single step thermo‐initiated co‐polymerization approach or a multi‐step post‐modification approach. The multi‐step approach involves the post‐modification of a thiol‐containing monolith with NA‐D‐tert‐Leu‐MA via “thiol‐ene”click reaction. The physicochemical properties of the resulting monoliths were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry and micro‐liquid chromatography. Good column stability, permeability, efficiency and reproducibility were obtained for the optimized monoliths. The poly (NA‐D‐tert‐Leu‐MA‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate) monolith prepared through the single step co‐polymerization approach exhibited satisfactory achiral separation performance for various analytes, including phenols, aniline derivatives and intact proteins, while its enantioseparation ability is rather poor. In contrast to that, the monolith prepared through the multi‐step post‐modification approach showed much higher enantioselectivity for 7‐nitro‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole (NBD)‐derivatized amino acids. Three NBD‐derivatized amino acids (theanine, proline and norleucine) could be baseline enantioseparated.
Progress in enzyme inhibition based detection of pesticides
Authors: Rajangam Bhuvanagayathri , Daniel David K. , Krastanov Albert Ivanov
Published: July 2017

The previous few decades have seen the development of biosensors and their use in monitoring of pesticides in food and environmental samples. Although inhibition‐based biosensors have been subject of several recent research works, their performance characteristics greatly depend on the type of immobilization and the presence of interfering compounds in the samples. Moreover, sensitivity, detection limits, and rapidity of the response are few of the other major features that need to be investigated further if they are to become operationally user‐friendly. This review will highlight research carried out in the past on biosensors that are based on enzyme inhibition for determination of organophosphorus compounds and carbamate pesticides.
Mechanically Reinforced PVdF/PMMA/SiO2 Composite Membrane and Its Electrochemical Properties as a Separator in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fu Qingshan , Lin Guo , Chen Xuedan , Yu Zuxiao , Yang Ruisong , Li Mingtian , Zeng Xianguang , Chen Jian
Published: July 2017

Compared with commercial polyolefin separators, the poor mechanical performance of electrospun polymeric membranes limits their usage as battery separators. Herein, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and SiO2 nanoparticles were introduced into electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVdF) membranes to form a PVdF/PMMA/SiO2 nonwoven membrane. A hot‐pressing method controlled the thickness of the electrospun membranes and improved their mechanical performance further. SEM tests show that PMMA partly melts in the composite membrane, which bonds neighboring electrospun fibers to reinforce the mechanical strength of the membrane. Uniformly distributed SiO2 nanoparticles on the electrospun fibers could supply higher resistance to mechanical impact. As a result, the composite membrane shows a high tensile strength (32.69 MPa) and high elongation at breakage (137.50 %). Differential scanning calorimetry and hot oven tests indicate that the composite membrane has excellent thermal stability. Furthermore, the addition of PMMA and SiO2 can decrease the crystallinity of PVdF and further improve the absorption of liquid electrolyte. According to the results of electrochemical tests, the composite membrane exhibits higher ionic conductivity (4.0×10−3 S cm−1) and lower interfacial resistance than those of the Celgard separator. The lithium‐ion cell assembled from the composite membrane exhibits more stable cycle performance, higher discharge capacity (158 mA h g−1), and excellent capacity retention.
To what extent have laterites contributed to the geochemical, surface reflectance and magnetic properties of adjacent tropical soils? Evidence from Niger and Burkina Faso
Authors: Hunt A. , Oldfield F. , Bloemendal J. , Boyle J. F. , Chiverrell R. C. , Lyons R. , Shen Z. , Williams E. R. , Balsam W.
Published: July 2017

The present study is based on a suite of surface samples from exposures of eroded laterite, considered to be Tertiary in age, and nearby soils in the Sahelian region of SW Niger and Burkina Faso. X‐ray fluorescence, X‐ray diffraction, computer‐controlled scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, diffuse UV–visible reflectance spectroscopy and a suite of magnetic measurements have been used to shed light on the origin of the soils and their possible derivation from the adjacent, eroded laterite outcrops. On the basis of the wide range of data obtained, we conclude that the mineralogy and magnetic properties of the soils preclude direct derivation from the laterites without further weathering and modification. Nor does the evidence support the view that the soils have evolved entirely independently, uninfluenced by input from the laterites. The only conclusion that is consistent with all the lines of evidence is that the erosion of the laterites provided at least a significant part of the material upon which soil formation took place. This must have occurred at a time early enough to permit a long period of subsequent soil development during which the iron oxides, specifically haematite and ferrimagnetic minerals, were significantly modified. From this, we infer that eroded material from discontinuous laterite exposures has contributed significantly to the remotely sensed, distinctive reflectance characteristics of the Sahel surfaces. The magnetic properties of the soils provide evidence for the in situ neo‐formation of fine, secondary, pedogenic magnetite/maghemite grains typical of those found in many soils across the Sahel region and elsewhere in both temperate and tropical environments. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.