bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Meteorological Controls on Open and Closed Mesoscale Cellular Convection Associated with Marine Cold Air Outbreaks
Authors: McCoy Isabel L. , Wood Robert , Fletcher Jennifer K.
Published: October 2017

Mesoscale cellular convective (MCC) clouds occur in large‐scale patterns over the ocean and have important radiative effects on the climate system. An examination of time‐varying meteorological conditions associated with satellite‐observed open and closed MCC clouds is conducted to illustrate the influence of large‐scale meteorological conditions. Marine cold air outbreaks (MCAO) influence the development of open MCC clouds and the transition from closed to open MCC clouds. MCC neural network classifications on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data for 2008 are collocated with Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) data and ERA‐Interim reanalysis to determine the radiative effects of MCC clouds and their thermodynamic environments. Closed MCC clouds are found to have much higher albedo on average than open MCC clouds for the same cloud fraction. Three meteorological control metrics are tested: sea‐air temperature difference (ΔT), estimated inversion strength (EIS), and a MCAO index (M). These predictive metrics illustrate the importance of atmospheric surface forcing and static stability for open and closed MCC cloud formation. Predictive sigmoidal relations are found between M and MCC cloud frequency globally and regionally: negative for closed MCC cloud and positive for open MCC cloud. The open MCC cloud seasonal cycle is well correlated with M, while the seasonality of closed MCC clouds is well correlated with M in the midlatitudes and EIS in the tropics and subtropics. M is found to best distinguish open and closed MCC clouds on average over shorter time scales. The possibility of a MCC cloud feedback is discussed.
Sediment Transport Time Scales and Trapping Efficiency in a Tidal River
Authors: Ralston David K. , Geyer W. Rockwell
Published: October 2017

Observations and a numerical model are used to characterize sediment transport in the tidal Hudson River. A sediment budget over 11 years including major discharge events indicates the tidal fresh region traps about 40% of the sediment input from the watershed. Sediment input scales with the river discharge cubed, while seaward transport in the tidal river scales linearly, so the tidal river accumulates sediment during the highest discharge events. Sediment pulses associated with discharge events dissipate moving seaward and lag the advection speed of the river by a factor of 1.5 to 3. Idealized model simulations with a range of discharge and settling velocity were used to evaluate the trapping efficiency, transport rate, and mean age of sediment input from the watershed. The seaward transport of suspended sediment scales linearly with discharge but lags the river velocity by a factor that is linear with settling velocity. The lag factor is 30–40 times the settling velocity (mm s−1), so transport speeds vary by orders of magnitude from clay (0.01 mm s−1) to coarse silt (1 mm s−1). Deposition along the tidal river depends strongly on settling velocity, and a simple advection‐reaction equation represents the loss due to settling on depositional shoals. The long‐term discharge record is used to represent statistically the distribution of transport times, and time scales for settling velocities of 0.1 mm s−1 and 1 mm s−1 range from several months to several years for transport through the tidal river and several years to several decades through the estuary.
FAD influx enhances neuronal differentiation of human neural stem cells by facilitating nuclear localization of LSD1
Authors: Hirano Kazumi , Namihira Masakazu
Published: October 2017

Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), synthesized from riboflavin, is redox cofactor in energy production and plays an important role in cell survival. More recently, riboflavin deficiency has been linked to developmental disorders, but its role in stem cell differentiation remains unclear. Here, we show that FAD treatment, using DMSO as a solvent, enabled an increase in the amount of intracellular FAD and promoted neuronal differentiation of human neural stem cells (NSCs) derived not only from fetal brain, but also from induced pluripotent stem cells. Depression of FAD‐dependent histone demethylase, lysine‐specific demethylase‐1 (LSD1), prevented FAD‐induced neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, FAD influx facilitated nuclear localization of LSD1 and its enzymatic activity. Together, these findings led us to propose that FAD contributes to proper neuronal production from NSCs in the human fetal brain during development.
Relationship between the radiation doses at nonenhanced CT studies using different tube voltages and automatic tube current modulation during anthropomorphic phantoms of young children
Authors: Masuda Takanori , Funama Yoshinori , Kiguchi Masao , Osawa Kazuaki , Suzuki Syouichi , Oku Takayuki , Sugisawa Koichi , Shouji Tomokazu , Awai Kazuo
Published: October 2017

To compare the radiation dose and image noise of nonenhanced CT scans performed at 80, 100, and 120 kVp with tube current modulation (TCM) we used anthropomorphic phantoms of newborn, 1‐year‐old, and 5‐year‐old children. The noise index was set at 12. The image noise in the center of the phantoms at the level of the chest and abdomen was measured within a circumscribed region of interest. We measured the doses in individual tissues or organs with radio‐photoluminescence glass dosimeters for each phantom. Various tissues or organs were assigned and the radiation dose was calculated based on the international commission on radiological protection definition. With TCM the respective radiation dose at tube voltages of 80, 100, and 120 was 29.71, 31.60, and 33.79 mGy for the newborn, 32.00, 36.79, and 39.48 mGy for the 1‐year‐old, and 32.78, 38.11, and 40.85 mGy for the 5‐year‐old phantom. There were no significant differences in the radiation dose among the tube voltages and phantoms (P > 0.05). Our comparison of the radiation dose using anthropomorphic phantoms of young children showed that the radiation dose of nonenhanced CT performed at different tube voltages with TCM was not significantly different.
Low‐Power Nonvolatile Charge Storage Memory Based on MoS2 and an Ultrathin Polymer Tunneling Dielectric
Authors: Woo Myung Hun , Jang Byung Chul , Choi Junhwan , Lee Khang June , Shin Gwang Hyuk , Seong Hyejeong , Im Sung Gap , Choi Sung‐Yool
Published: October 2017

Low‐power, nonvolatile memory is an essential electronic component to store and process the unprecedented data flood arising from the oncoming Internet of Things era. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a 2D material that is increasingly regarded as a promising semiconductor material in electronic device applications because of its unique physical characteristics. However, dielectric formation of an ultrathin low‐k tunneling on the dangling bond‐free surface of MoS2 is a challenging task. Here, MoS2‐based low‐power nonvolatile charge storage memory devices are reported with a poly(1,3,5‐trimethyl‐1,3,5‐trivinyl cyclotrisiloxane) (pV3D3) tunneling dielectric layer formed via a solvent‐free initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) process. The surface‐growing polymerization and low‐temperature nature of the iCVD process enable the conformal growing of low‐k (≈2.2) pV3D3 insulating films on MoS2. The fabricated memory devices exhibit a tunable memory window with high on/off ratio (≈106), excellent retention times of 105 s with an extrapolated time of possibly years, and an excellent cycling endurance of more than 103 cycles, which are much higher than those reported previously for MoS2‐based memory devices. By leveraging the inherent flexibility of both MoS2 and polymer dielectric films, this research presents an important milestone in the development of low‐power flexible nonvolatile memory devices.
Electrically and Sunlight‐Driven Actuator with Versatile Biomimetic Motions Based on Rolled Carbon Nanotube Bilayer Composite
Authors: Hu Ying , Liu Jiaqin , Chang Longfei , Yang Lulu , Xu Aifeng , Qi Ke , Lu Pin , Wu Guan , Chen Wei , Wu Yucheng
Published: October 2017

Designing multistimuli responsive soft actuators which can mimic advanced and sophisticated biological movements through simple configuration is highly demanded for the biomimetic robotics application. Here, inspired by the human's flick finger behavior which can release large force output, a soft jumping robot mimicking the gymnast's somersault is designed based on the rolled carbon nanotube/polymer bilayer composite actuator. This new type of rolled bilayer actuator with tubular shape is fabricated and shows electrically and sunlight‐induced actuation with remarkable performances including ultralarge deformation from tubular to flat (angel change >200° or curvature >2 cm−1), fast response (<5 s), and low actuation voltage (≤10 V). Besides jumping, the uniquely reversible rolling–unrolling actuation can lead to other smart soft robots with versatile complex biomimetic motions, including light‐induced tumbler with cyclic wobbling, electrically/light‐induced crawling‐type walking robots and grippers, electrically induced mouth movement, and ambient‐sunlight‐induced blooming of a biomimetic flower. These results open the way for using one simple type of actuator structure for the construction of various soft robots and devices toward practical biomimetic applications.
On‐Demand Reconfiguration of Nanomaterials: When Electronics Meets Ionics
Authors: Lee Jihang , Lu Wei D.
Published: October 2017

Rapid advances in the semiconductor industry, driven largely by device scaling, are now approaching fundamental physical limits and face severe power, performance, and cost constraints. Multifunctional materials and devices may lead to a paradigm shift toward new, intelligent, and efficient computing systems, and are being extensively studied. Herein examines how, by controlling the internal ion distribution in a solid‐state film, a material's chemical composition and physical properties can be reversibly reconfigured using an applied electric field, at room temperature and after device fabrication. Reconfigurability is observed in a wide range of materials, including commonly used dielectric films, and has led to the development of new device concepts such as resistive random‐access memory. Physical reconfigurability further allows memory and logic operations to be merged in the same device for efficient in‐memory computing and neuromorphic computing systems. By directly changing the chemical composition of the material, coupled electrical, optical, and magnetic effects can also be obtained. A survey of recent fundamental material and device studies that reveal the dynamic ionic processes is included, along with discussions on systematic modeling efforts, device and material challenges, and future research directions.
Autonomous Ex Novo Chemical Assembly with Blebbing and Division of Functional Polymer Vesicles from a “Homogeneous Mixture”
Authors: Bastakoti Bishnu Prasad , Perez‐Mercader Juan
Published: October 2017

The chemical energy and radicals from an oscillating chemical reaction are used to synthesize a polymer vesicle from a homogeneous solution of monomeric units. Periodically formed radicals from the Belousov–Zhabotinsky (B–Z) reaction initiate radical polymerization between a polyethylene glycol based chain transfer agent (PEG‐CTA) and hydrophilic acrylonitrile monomers in water. The growth of a hydrophobic chain on the hydrophilic PEG chain induces self‐assembly of polymeric amphiphiles to form micrometer‐sized vesicles entrapping an active oscillating B–Z reaction. In our experimental conditions, the different chemical environments inside and outside the vesicles contribute to enlarge the area and diameter of the resulting self‐assembled vesicles and, in some cases, promote blebbing and division.
A Twisted Thieno[3,4‐b]thiophene‐Based Electron Acceptor Featuring a 14‐π‐Electron Indenoindene Core for High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Xu Sheng jie , Zhou Zichun , Liu Wuyue , Zhang Zhongbo , Liu Feng , Yan Hongping , Zhu Xiaozhang
Published: October 2017

With an indenoindene core, a new thieno[3,4‐b]thiophene‐based small‐molecule electron acceptor, 2,2′‐((2Z,2′Z)‐((6,6′‐(5,5,10,10‐tetrakis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐5,10‐dihydroindeno[2,1‐a]indene‐2,7‐diyl)bis(2‐octylthieno[3,4‐b]thiophene‐6,4‐diyl))bis(methanylylidene))bis(5,6‐difluoro‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐indene‐2,1‐diylidene))dimalononitrile (NITI), is successfully designed and synthesized. Compared with 12‐π‐electron fluorene, a carbon‐bridged biphenylene with an axial symmetry, indenoindene, a carbon‐bridged E‐stilbene with a centrosymmetry, shows elongated π‐conjugation with 14 π‐electrons and one more sp3 carbon bridge, which may increase the tunability of electronic structure and film morphology. Despite its twisted molecular framework, NITI shows a low optical bandgap of 1.49 eV in thin film and a high molar extinction coefficient of 1.90 × 105m−1 cm−1 in solution. By matching NITI with a large‐bandgap polymer donor, an extraordinary power conversion efficiency of 12.74% is achieved, which is among the best performance so far reported for fullerene‐free organic photovoltaics and is inspiring for the design of new electron acceptors.
Deposition Dependent Ion Transport in Doped Conjugated Polymer Films: Insights for Creating High‐Performance Electrochemical Devices
Authors: Zhang Lushuai , Andrew Trisha L.
Published: October 2017

Charge conduction and redox events in films of doped conjugated polymers are necessarily accompanied by counterion transport. However, insights into how deposition conditions affect ion transport in a structurally diverse set of doped conjugated polymer films and across a polymer/electrolyte interface have not been gathered. Here, cyclic voltammetry and electrogravimetry measurements are used to probe solvent and ion transport across a doped conjugated polymer/electrolyte interface. A representative polymer, p‐doped poly(3,4‐ethlyenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), obtained using two different deposition methods, vapor phase polymerization (VPP) and oxidative chemical vapor deposition (oCVD), is studied. PEDOT films obtained via VPP and oCVD display dissimilar morphologies at the micro‐ and nanometer length scales, resulting in significantly differing swelling behavior, mass trapping, and ion transport upon exposure to a periodic applied potential. PEDOT films obtained using oCVD display notable permselectivity and near‐ideal mass transport during repeated doping/dedoping cycles in various electrolytes, indicating that these films are robust electroactive materials. This study underlines the extent to which film deposition conditions affect ion transport across polymer/electrolyte interfaces and provides insights into optimal film forming conditions for high‐performance supercapacitors and electrochemical transistors.
The effect of relaxation on the deformation of iPP fiber due to creep process
Authors: Sokkar Taha Zaki Nabawy , El‐Farahaty Kermal Ahmed , Raslan Mohammed Ibrahim , El‐Khateep Samar Maher , Hamza Ahmed Amin
Published: October 2017

In this article, we aim to investigate the effect of relaxation processes on isotactic polypropylene filaments, that is stress relaxation and creep relaxation. In addition, variations of the fiber diameter during creep and relaxation are investigated using laser diffraction technique. Double‐image multiple‐beam technique and Pluta polarizing interference microscope are used to study the influence of relaxation on necking propagation. Micrographs and interference patterns are given for illustration.
Electronic and Optoelectronic Applications Based on 2D Novel Anisotropic Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Gong Chuanhui , Zhang Yuxi , Chen Wei , Chu Junwei , Lei Tianyu , Pu Junru , Dai Liping , Wu Chunyang , Cheng Yuhua , Zhai Tianyou , Li Liang , Xiong Jie
Published: October 2017

With the continuous exploration of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), novel high‐performance devices based on the remarkable electronic and optoelectronic natures of 2D TMDs are increasingly emerging. As fresh blood of 2D TMD family, anisotropic MTe2 and ReX2 (M = Mo, W, and X = S, Se) have drawn increasing attention owing to their low‐symmetry structures and charming properties of mechanics, electronics, and optoelectronics, which are suitable for the applications of field‐effect transistors (FETs), photodetectors, thermoelectric and piezoelectric applications, especially catering to anisotropic devices. Herein, a comprehensive review is introduced, concentrating on their recent progresses and various applications in recent years. First, the crystalline structure and the origin of the strong anisotropy characterized by various techniques are discussed. Specifically, the preparation of these 2D materials is presented and various growth methods are summarized. Then, high‐performance applications of these anisotropic TMDs, including FETs, photodetectors, and thermoelectric and piezoelectric applications are discussed. Finally, the conclusion and outlook of these applications are proposed.
Tuning of Catalytic Activity by Thermoelectric Materials for Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation
Authors: Achour Abdenour , Chen Kan , Reece Michael J. , Huang Zhaorong
Published: October 2017

An innovative use of a thermoelectric material (BiCuSeO) as a support and promoter of catalysis for CO2 hydrogenation is reported here. It is proposed that the capability of thermoelectric materials to shift the Fermi level and work function of a catalyst lead to an exponential increase of catalytic activity for catalyst particles deposited on its surface. Experimental results show that the CO2 conversion and CO selectivity are increased significantly by a thermoelectric Seebeck voltage. This suggests that the thermoelectric effect can not only increase the reaction rate but also change chemical equilibrium, which leads to the change of thermodynamic equilibrium for the conversion of CO2 in its hydrogenation reactions. It is also shown that this thermoelectric promotion of catalysis enables BiCuSeO oxide itself to have a high catalytic activity for CO2 hydrogenation. The generic nature of the mechanism suggests the possibility that many catalytic chemical reactions can be tuned in situ to achieve much higher reaction rates, or at lower temperatures, or have better desired selectivity through changing the backside temperature of the thermoelectric support.
A 4 V Na+ Intercalation Material in a New Na‐Ion Cathode Family
Authors: Kim Se Young , Kundu Dipan , Nazar Linda F.
Published: October 2017

Large‐scale electrochemical energy storage is a critical factor in the development of renewable energy sources to enable their intermittent power to become dispatchable. In this context, Na‐ion batteries are seen as promising alternatives to Li‐ion batteries, but their advancement requires the discovery of new materials, their electrochemical properties, and a better understanding of structure–property relationships that underpin the electrochemistry. This study presents a new class of Na+ insertion materials for Na‐ion batteries. By virtue of its moderately inductive polyanionic framework, the air and moisture stable selenite Na2Co2(SeO3)3 displays a highly suitable redox potential of ≈ 4 V versus Na/Na+ based on the Co2+/Co3+ couple, rendering it compatible with conventional liquid organic electrolytes. A microwave hydrothermal synthesis route is developed for the rapid synthesis of nanostructured Na2Co2(SeO3)3 and its conductive graphene oxide composite. The electrochemistry and structural evolution of Na2Co2(SeO3)3 determined on cycling the cathode in a Na battery was investigated by operando X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility measurements. These studies reveal good structural and electrochemical reversibility.
An Interfacial Curvature Distribution Model and Phase Inversion
Authors: Vikhansky A.
Published: October 2017

The state of the two‐phase system is described by the interfacial curvature distribution. A phenomenological closure model is proposed for the exact (unclosed) equations. Parameters of the model are related to the existing correlations for drop size in stirred flows. If water is dispersed in oil, the curvature has a uni‐modal distribution with a positive mode. When a control parameter, e.g., water volume fraction is increasing, the distribution becomes bi‐modal with both negative and positive values. After a while, the phase inversion occurs, and the distribution becomes uni‐modal with a negative mode. Going in the other direction the phase inversion happens at lower volume fraction of water, i.e., there is an ambivalent region, where both phases might be in the dispersed state. The model implies, that even if the conditions for phase inversion are met, there might be a significant delay before the new morphology is established.
Improved prognosis with additional medium‐dose VP16 to CY/TBI in allogeneic transplantation for high risk ALL in adults
Authors: Arai Yasuyuki , Kondo Tadakazu , Shigematsu Akio , Tanaka Junji , Ohashi Kazuteru , Fukuda Takahiro , Hidaka Michihiro , Kobayashi Naoki , Iwato Koji , Sakura Toru , Onizuka Makoto , Ozawa Yukiyasu , Eto Tetsuya , Kurokawa Mineo , Kahata Kaoru , Uchida Naoyuki , Atsuta Yoshiko , Mizuta Shuichi , Kako Shinichi
Published: October 2017

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with the conventional cyclophosphamide and total body irradiation (CY/TBI) regimen is an essential therapeutic strategy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults. Medium‐dose etoposide (VP16, 30‐40 mg/kg) can be added to intensify this CY/TBI regimen and reduce relapse; however, differences in prognosis between the VP16/CY/TBI and CY/TBI regimens have not yet been fully analyzed. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a Japanese transplant registry database to compare the prognosis between the VP16/CY/TBI (VP16, total 30‐40 mg/kg) (N = 376) and CY/TBI (N = 1178) regimens in adult patients with ALL transplanted at complete remission (CR) between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014. Our analyses indicated that VP16/CY/TBI significantly reduced relapse compared with CY/TBI (risk ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56‐1.00; P = .05) with a corresponding improvement in leukemia‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.76; 95%CI, 0.62‐0.93; P = .01), particularly in patients transplanted at CR1 with advanced‐risk (positive minimal residual disease, presence of poor‐risk cytogenetics, or an initial elevated leukocyte count) (HR, 0.75; 95%CI, 0.56‐1.00; P = .05) or those transplanted beyond CR2 (HR, 0.58; 95%CI, 0.39‐0.88; P = .01). The addition of VP16 did not increase post‐transplant complications or nonrelapse mortality (HR, 0.88; 95%CI, 0.65‐1.18; P = .38). This study is the first to reveal the efficacy of the addition of medium‐dose VP16 to CY/TBI in high‐risk ALL. To establish new myeloablative conditioning regimens including VP16, a large‐scale prospective study is necessary.
The cost of reproduction in women: Reproductive effort and oxidative stress in premenopausal and postmenopausal American women
Authors: Ziomkiewicz Anna , Frumkin Amara , Zhang Yawei , Sancilio Amelia , Bribiescas Richard G.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Life history theory predicts a trade‐off between female investment in reproduction and somatic maintenance, which can result in accelerated senescence. Oxidative stress has been shown to be a causal physiological mechanism for accelerated aging and a possible contributor to this trade‐off. We aimed to test the hypothesis for the existence of significant associations between measures of reproductive effort and the level of oxidative stress biomarkers in premenopausal and postmenopausal American women.

Methods

Serum samples and questionnaire data were collected from 63 premenopausal and postmenopausal women (mean age 53.4 years), controls in the Connecticut Thyroid Health Study, between May 2010 and December 2013. Samples were analyzed for levels of 8‐OHdG and Cu/Zn‐SOD using immunoassay method.

Results

Levels of oxidative damage (8‐OHdG) but not oxidative defense (Cu/Zn‐SOD) were negatively associated with parity and number of sons in premenopausal women (r = −0.52 for parity, r = −0.52 for number of sons, P < .01). Together, measures of reproductive effort, women's BMI, age, and menopausal status explained around 15% of variance in level of 8‐OHdG. No association between reproductive effort characteristics and oxidative damage was found for postmenopausal women.

Conclusions

We found no evidence of a trade‐off between somatic maintenance as measured by 8‐OHdG and reproductive effort in women from this American population. On the contrary, higher gravidity and parity in premenopausal women was associated with lower damage to cellular DNA caused by oxidative stress. These results highlight the importance of population variation and environmental conditions when testing the occurrence of life‐history trade‐offs.
Unexpected One‐Pot Synthesis of Diindolotriazatruxene: A Planar Electron‐Rich Scaffold Toward Highly π‐Extended PAHs
Authors: Li Xiangchun , Wang Chunyu , Xue Yibo , Meng Cheng , Lai Wen‐Yong , Huang Wei
Published: October 2017

A unique planar and highly π‐extended scaffold, 3,8,14,19‐tetrabromo‐diindolotriazatruxene (4Br‐DIT), was synthesized via a facile one‐pot strategy. The structure of 4Br‐DIT was adequately verified by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, 1H and 13C NMR, and single‐crystal XRD analysis. A combination of thermal, optical, and electrochemical investigation confirmed the electron‐rich characteristics of the resulting diindolotriazatruxene unit, showing promise as a building block to construct highly π‐extended polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
A newborn infant chimpanzee snatched and cannibalized immediately after birth: Implications for “maternity leave” in wild chimpanzee
Authors: Nishie Hitonaru , Nakamura Michio
Published: October 2017

Objectives

This study reports on the first observed case of a wild chimpanzee infant being snatched immediately after delivery and consequently cannibalized by an adult male in the Mahale Mountains, Tanzania. We demonstrate “maternity leave” from long‐term data from the Mahale M group and suggest that it functions as a possible counterstrategy of mother chimpanzees against the risk of infanticide soon after delivery.

Materials and methods

The subjects of this study were the M group chimpanzees at Mahale Mountains, Tanzania. The case of cannibalism was observed on December 2, 2014. We used the long‐term daily attendance record of the M group chimpanzees between 1990 and 2010 to calculate the lengths of “maternity leave,” a perinatal period during which a mother chimpanzee tends to hide herself and gives birth alone.

Results

We observed a very rare case of delivery in a wild chimpanzee group. A female chimpanzee gave birth in front of other members, and an adult male snatched and cannibalized the newborn infant immediately after birth. Using the long‐term data, we demonstrate that the length of “maternity leave” is longer than that of nonmaternity leave among adult and adolescent female chimpanzees.

Discussion

We argue that this cannibalism event immediately after birth occurred due to the complete lack of “maternity leave” of the mother chimpanzee of the victim, who might lack enough experience of delivery. We suggest that “maternity leave” taken by expecting mothers may function as a possible counterstrategy against infanticide soon after delivery.
Trends in sinusitis research: a systematic review of extramural funding
Authors: Levy Joshua M. , Smith Stephanie Shintani , Varshney Rickul , Chang Eugene H. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Ting Jonathan Y. , Bleier Benjamin S.
Published: October 2017

Background

Innovation represents a core value of the American Rhinologic Society (ARS), with multiple efforts to promote research in the advancement rhinologic care. We therefore sought to identify trends in extramural sinusitis funding and underutilized sources of support to facilitate future efforts.

Methods

A systematic review of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Research Portfolio Online Tools (RePORTER) database (fiscal year 1993 to 2017) was completed with the search strategy: (“chronic sinusitis” OR rhinosinusitis). All identified studies were accepted for review, with comparison to ARS membership rolls to identify studies supported by ARS investigators. Foundation awards were surveyed to identify and characterize additional sources of support.

Results

The systematic review identified 958 projects receiving NIH funding, of which 120 remain active. The percentage of sinusitis‐related awards and total funding relative to all NIH awards increased over the past 10 years (2006 to 2016) from 0.06% (8 / 9128) and 0.09% ($2,151,152 / $3,358,338,602) to 0.87% (86 / 9540) and 0.90% ($37,201,095 / $4,300,145,614). Among active studies, 9 investigators maintain membership in the ARS and serve as principal investigator or project leader in 12 (10%) studies. ARS investigators received the greatest number of awards from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disrders (n = 8,66.7%), while only receiving 2.2% of awarded funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ($607,500/$26,873,022), the largest source of awards for sinusitis research.

Conclusion

Support for sinusitis research is significantly growing, with the largest source of active funding not being fully utilized by members of the ARS. Further efforts to promote funding priorities among extramural sources is necessary to facilitate increased funding for ARS member initiatives.
Polycyclische, polyprenylierte Acylphloroglucinole – eine Klasse nicht‐peptidbasierter MRSA‐ und VRE‐aktiver Antibiotika
Authors: Guttroff Claudia , Baykal Aslihan , Wang Huanhuan , Popella Peter , Kraus Frank , Biber Nicole , Krauss Sophia , Götz Friedrich , Plietker Bernd
Published: October 2017

In den vergangenen 20 Jahren wurden peptidbasierte Antibiotika wie Vancomycin, Teicoplanin oder Daptomycin als Reserveantibiotika betrachtet. In den letzten Jahren erschienen jedoch vermehrt Berichte über Vancomycin‐resistente Krankheitserreger, was die Entwicklung neuartiger Leitstrukturen für neue wirksame Antibiotika motivierte. Hier wird über die Totalsynthese einer definierten endo‐Typ‐B‐PPAP‐Bibliothek und deren antibiotische Aktivität gegen multiresistente Staphylococcus‐aureus‐ und diverse Vancomycin‐resistente Enterococcus‐Stämme berichtet. Es wurden vier neue Strukturen identifiziert, die zeigen, dass das PPAP‐Grundgerüst eine neue nicht‐peptidbasierte Leitstruktur in der Antibiotika‐Forschung werden könnte, die sich durch die Kombination von hoher Aktivität und geringer Zytotoxizität auszeichnet.
Conotoxin Φ‐MiXXVIIA from the Superfamily G2 Employs a Novel Cysteine Framework that Mimics Granulin and Displays Anti‐Apoptotic Activity
Authors: Jin Ai‐Hua , Dekan Zoltan , Smout Michael J. , Wilson David , Dutertre Sébastien , Vetter Irina , Lewis Richard J. , Loukas Alex , Daly Norelle L. , Alewood Paul F.
Published: October 2017

Conotoxins are a large family of disulfide‐rich peptides that contain unique cysteine frameworks that target a broad range of ion channels and receptors. We recently discovered the 33‐residue conotoxin Φ‐MiXXVIIA from Conus miles with a novel cysteine framework comprising three consecutive cysteine residues and four disulfide bonds. Regioselective chemical synthesis helped decipher the disulfide bond connectivity and the structure of Φ‐MiXXVIIA was determined by NMR spectroscopy. The 3D structure displays a unique topology containing two β‐hairpins that resemble the N‐terminal domain of granulin. Similar to granulin, Φ‐MiXXVIIA promotes cell proliferation (EC50 17.85 μm) while inhibiting apoptosis (EC50 2.2 μm). Additional framework XXVII sequences were discovered with homologous signal peptides that define the new conotoxin superfamily G2. The novel structure and biological activity of Φ‐MiXXVIIA expands the repertoire of disulfide‐rich conotoxins that recognize mammalian receptors.
Cyclic Depsipeptide BE‐43547A2: Synthesis and Activity against Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Sun Yuanjun , Ding Yahui , Li Dongmei , Zhou Ruifei , Su Xiuwen , Yang Juan , Guo Xiaoqian , Chong Chuanke , Wang Jinghan , Zhang Weicheng , Bai Cuigai , Wang Liang , Chen Yue
Published: October 2017

Asymmetric total synthesis of the cyclic depsipeptide BE‐43547A2 was achieved in 15 linear steps on a 350 mg scale in one batch. The synthesis features the highly diastereoselective construction of an α‐hydroxy‐β‐ketoamide through α‐hydroxylation with a d.r. of up to 86:1. BE‐43547A2 significantly reduces the percentage of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) in Panc‐1 cell cultures, and dramatically reduces the tumorsphere‐forming capability of Panc‐1 cells. An in vivo tumor‐initiation assay, a gold standard for cancer stem cell assays, confirmed that BE‐43547A2 can abolish the tumorigenesis of Panc‐1 cells. The anti‐PCSC activity of BE‐43547A2 could make this depsipeptide scaffold a promising starting point for discovering new PCSC‐targeting drugs.
Polycyclic Polyprenylated Acylphloroglucinols: An Emerging Class of Non‐Peptide‐Based MRSA‐ and VRE‐Active Antibiotics
Authors: Guttroff Claudia , Baykal Aslihan , Wang Huanhuan , Popella Peter , Kraus Frank , Biber Nicole , Krauss Sophia , Götz Friedrich , Plietker Bernd
Published: October 2017

In the past 20 years, peptide‐based antibiotics, such as vancomycin, teicoplanin, and daptomycin, have often been considered as second‐line antibiotics. However, in recent years, an increasing number of reports on vancomycin resistance in pathogens appeared, which forces researchers to find novel lead structures for potent new antibiotics. Herein, we report the total synthesis of a defined endo‐type B PPAP library and their antibiotic activity against multiresistant S. aureus and various vancomycin‐resistant Enterococci. Four new compounds that combine high activities and low cytotoxicity were identified, indicating that the PPAP core might become a new non‐peptide‐based lead structure in antibiotic research.
Synergistic Manganese(I) C−H Activation Catalysis in Continuous Flow: Chemoselective Hydroarylation
Authors: Wang Hui , Pesciaioli Fabio , Oliveira João C. A. , Warratz Svenja , Ackermann Lutz
Published: October 2017

Chemoselective hydroarylations were accomplished by a novel synergistic Brønsted acid/manganese(I)‐catalyzed C−H activation manifold. Thus, alkynes bearing O‐leaving groups could, for the first time, be employed for C−H alkenylations without concurrent β‐O elimination, thereby setting the stage for versatile late‐stage diversifications. Also described is the first manganese‐catalyzed C−H activation in continuous flow, thus enabling efficient hydroarylations within only 20 minutes.
Single‐Step Reagentless Laser Scribing Fabrication of Electrochemical Paper‐Based Analytical Devices
Authors: de Araujo William R. , Frasson Carolina M. R. , Ameku Wilson A. , Silva José R. , Angnes Lúcio , Paixão Thiago R. L. C.
Published: October 2017

A single‐step laser scribing process is used to pattern nanostructured electrodes on paper‐based devices. The facile and low‐cost technique eliminates the need for chemical reagents or controlled conditions. This process involves the use of a CO2 laser to pyrolyze the surface of the paperboard, producing a conductive porous non‐graphitizing carbon material composed of graphene sheets and composites with aluminosilicate nanoparticles. The new electrode material was extensively characterized, and it exhibits high conductivity and an enhanced active/geometric area ratio; it is thus well‐suited for electrochemical purposes. As a proof‐of‐concept, the devices were successfully employed for different analytical applications in the clinical, pharmaceutical, food, and forensic fields. The scalable and green fabrication method associated with the features of the new material is highly promising for the development of portable electrochemical devices.
High Sulfur Content Material with Stable Cycling in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Preefer Molleigh B. , Oschmann Bernd , Hawker Craig J. , Seshadri Ram , Wudl Fred
Published: October 2017

We demonstrate a novel crosslinked disulfide system as a cathode material for Li‐S cells that is designed with the two criteria of having only a single point of S−S scission and maximizing the ratio of S−S to the electrochemically inactive framework. The material therefore maximizes theoretical capacity while inhibiting the formation of polysulfide intermediates that lead to parasitic shuttle. The material we report contains a 1:1 ratio of S:C with a theoretical capacity of 609 mAh g−1. The cell gains capacity through 100 cycles and has 98 % capacity retention thereafter through 200 cycles, demonstrating stable, long‐term cycling. Raman spectroscopy confirms the proposed mechanism of disulfide bonds breaking to form a S−Li thiolate species upon discharge and reforming upon charge. Coulombic efficiencies near 100 % for every cycle, suggesting the suppression of polysulfide shuttle through the molecular design.
Synthesis of the Unknown Indeno[1,2‐a]fluorene Regioisomer: Crystallographic Characterization of Its Dianion
Authors: Dressler Justin J. , Zhou Zheng , Marshall Jonathan L. , Kishi Ryohei , Takamuku Shota , Wei Zheng , Spisak Sarah N. , Nakano Masayoshi , Petrukhina Marina A. , Haley Michael M.
Published: October 2017

Of the five possible indenofluorene regioisomers, examples of a fully conjugated indeno[1,2‐a]fluorene scaffold have so far remained elusive. This work reports the preparation and characterization of 7,12‐dimesitylindeno[1,2‐a]fluorene as a highly reactive species. Experimental and computational data support the notion of a molecule with pronounced diradical character that exists in a triplet ground state. As such, both NICS and ACID calculations suggest that the indeno[1,2‐a]fluorene scaffold is weakly Baird aromatic. Reduction of the unstable red solid with Cs metal produces the dianion of the title compound, from which single crystals could be obtained and X‐ray data acquired, thus fully corroborating the proposed indeno[1,2‐a]fluorene hydrocarbon core.
Radical‐Based C−C Bond‐Forming Processes Enabled by the Photoexcitation of 4‐Alkyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines
Authors: Buzzetti Luca , Prieto Alexis , Roy Sudipta Raha , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: October 2017

We report herein that 4‐alkyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines (alkyl‐DHPs) can directly reach an electronically excited state upon light absorption and trigger the generation of C(sp3)‐centered radicals without the need for an external photocatalyst. Selective excitation with a violet‐light‐emitting diode turns alkyl‐DHPs into strong reducing agents that can activate reagents through single‐electron transfer manifolds while undergoing homolytic cleavage to generate radicals. We used this photochemical dual‐reactivity profile to trigger radical‐based carbon–carbon bond‐forming processes, including nickel‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions.
Plywood adhesives derived from distillers' dried grains with solubles (DDGS) incorporating 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate
Authors: Biancaniello Michael , Wang Tao , Misra Manjusri , Mohanty Amar K.
Published: October 2017

Distillers' dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a byproduct of corn ethanol production, are currently used primarily as an alternative animal feed thanks to its high protein content and low cost. Previous research has developed a protein‐based bioadhesive from DDGS. However, the adhesive does not possess the appropriate properties to compete with synthetic adhesives and other bio‐based adhesives. In this study, a bioadhesive is prepared from DDGS and hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) is incorporated to improve the bonding strength and moisture resistance. The greatest increase in lap‐shear strength was observed in the adhesive containing 50% of the acrylic resin. Water resistance was absent from the original DDGS adhesive, but established upon the inclusion of HEA. HEA was found to self‐polymerize under the hot‐pressing conditions and form a co‐continuous phase with the protein adhesive derived from DDGS. The strength of the adhesives was adequate for bonding plywood panels. More work must be done to further enhance the performance of the adhesives for wider applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45689.
Development of composite membrane PBAT: Zeolite Y for application as rhynchophorol release system
Authors: Correia Paulo Romano Cruz , Ramos Ingrid Graça , Viana Arão Cardoso , Mascarenhas Artur José Santos , Sant'ana Antônio Euzébio Goulart , Goulart Henrique Fonseca , Druzian Janice Izabel
Published: October 2017

Composite membranes consisting of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT) and zeolite Y (0–10 wt %) were produced by extrusion. Zeolite Y is well dispersed in the membrane up to 5 wt %, but tends to agglomerate at higher contents. The presence of zeolite Y in the composite resulted in an improvement of the thermal stability, mechanical properties, and increased the barrier properties. The interaction of the composite membranes with rhynchophorol was investigated by different techniques, showing that the semiochemical progressively lixiviates PBAT monomers, causing thermal and mechanical properties to decrease. However, no interaction seemed to occur between the rhynchophorol and the zeolite. Studies of diffusion of pheromone through membranes have shown that the addition of the zeolite Y has not contributed significantly to a decrease in the release rate of rhynchophorol, but the presence of the zeolite Y helps to increase chemical, mechanical, and thermal stabilities of the membranes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45757.
Antimicrobial activity of PLA/PEG nanofibers containing terpinen‐4‐ol against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Nepomuceno Neymara C. , Barbosa Mariângela A. , Bonan Roberta F. , Oliveira Juliano E. , Sampaio Fábio C. , Medeiros Eliton S.
Published: October 2017

In this article, nanofibrous mats of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) with different PLA/PEG ratios were prepared by solution blow spinning. Terpinen‐4‐ol, a major phytoconstituent from tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) was added to the fibers and their antimicrobial activity against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (ATCC 00078) was tested. Spun mats were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analyses, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and cell viability tests by biofilm grown on the surface of inhibitory fibers. Fibers had average diameters dependent on polymer ratio. PEG acted as a plasticizer resulting in a reduction in PLA crystallinity. Addition of PEG lead to a faster drug release. Fibrous mats with terpinen‐4‐ol, whose incorporation was verified by FTIR, showed an effective antimicrobial activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans, similar to those containing 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (P < 0.05), used as both the positive control and the dose level recommended for patient treatment. These results confirm the potential of solution blow spun fibrous mats containing terpinen‐4‐ol in the treatment of aggressive periodontitis. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45782.
Comparison of prolonged antibacterial activity and release profile of propolis‐incorporated PVA nanofibrous mat, microfibrous mat, and film
Authors: Zeighampour Farideh , Alihosseini Farzaneh , Morshed Mohammad , Rahimi Abd Allah
Published: October 2017

Propolis as a natural antibacterial agent was incorporated into the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) in different forms of nanofiber, microfiber, and film. The successful fabrication of uniform nanofibers with 85–314 nm diameters and microfibers with 2.02 μm diameter was proved by scanning electron microscopy. Structural analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction and swelling properties confirmed the formation PVA hydrogel and its H‐bonding to the propolis. Evaluation and comparison of antimicrobial properties of produced samples against Staphylococcus aureus strains revealed that nanofiber mat with 19 mm inhibition zone has 11.76 and 26.67% higher efficiency against bacteria than microfiber mat and film with 17 and 15 mm inhibition zone, respectively. Nanofibrous mat showed sustained release during 96 h by maintaining full antibacterial activity up to 51 h which is of great importance in burn wounds. These results confirm the advanced performance of natural propolis in the form of nanofiber substrate as wound dressing. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45794.
Fabrication and characterization of soluble, high thermal, and hydrophobic polyimides based on 4‐(3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2,6‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)pyridine
Authors: Huang Xiaohua , Chen Beicai , Liu Chanjuan , Zhou Huanfu , Wei Chun
Published: October 2017

A novel aromatic diamine monomer, 4‐(3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2,6‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)pyridine (DPAP) was successfully synthesized by 4′‐nitroacetophenone and 3,5‐dimethoxybenzaldehyde as raw material. The structure of DPAP was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass analysis. A series of polyimides (PIs) were obtained by polycondensation with various dianhydrides via the conventional two‐step method. These PIs showed good solubility in organic solvents. They also presented high thermal stability, the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of polymers were in the range of 325–388 °C, and the temperature at 10% weight loss was in the range of 531–572 °C. Furthermore, these polymers also exhibited outstanding hydrophobicity with the contact angles in the range of 89.1°–93.5°. Moreover, the results of wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) confirmed these polymers showed amorphous structure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45827.
Dextran microgels loaded with ZnO QDs: pH‐triggered degradation under acidic conditions
Authors: Zhang Jing , Chen Liqun , Chen Jiada , Wu Dan , Feng Jie
Published: October 2017

We demonstrated an extremely facile way to fabricate inorganic–organic microgels with pH sensitivity and fluorescence. Aqueous dextran microgels are crosslinked by ZnO quantum dots (QDs). The ZnO@Dextran microgels were synthesized by simply mixing amino‐modified ZnO (ZnO QDs) with carboxymethyl dextran (CMD) while stirring. The hybrid microgels showed an average diameter of ∼5 μm and strong fluorescence under ultraviolet (365 nm) irradiation. Up to 79.3 wt % of ZnO QDs were loaded into microgels. The ZnO QDs crosslinkage in the hybrid microgels structure enabled the microgels to degrade under mild acidic environment due to pH sensitivity of ZnO QDs. After loading of doxorubicin (Dox), the microgels were used as drug carriers for pH‐controlled release of Dox. The degradation of the microgels and the release of loaded cargos could be monitored by detecting fluorescence intensity of the microgels. Moreover, owing to the cytotoxicity of ZnO QDs at their destination, drug‐loaded ZnO@Dextran microgels can be used for synergistic therapy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45831.