bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between semiquantitative 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography metrics and necrosis in classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Kahle X. U. , Montes de Jesus F. M. , Kwee T. C. , van Meerten T. , Diepstra A. , Rosati S. , Glaudemans A. W. J. M. , Noordzij W. , Plattel W. J. , Nijland M.
Published: July 2019

Semiquantitative 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) parameters have been proposed as prognostic markers in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). In non-Hodgkin lymphoma necrosis as assessed by 18F-FDG PET or computed tomography (CT) (necrosisvisual) correlates with an adverse prognosis. We investigated whether semiquantitative 18F-FDG PET metrics correlate with necrosisvisual, determined the incidence of necrosisvisual and explored the prognostic impact of these factors in cHL. From 87 cHL cases treated with ABVD, (escalated) BEACOPP or CHOP chemotherapy between 2010 and 2017, 71 had both a NEDPAS/EARL accredited 18F-FDG PET and a contrast enhanced CT scan. Semiquantitative 18F-FDG PET parameters were determined using Hermes Hybrid 3D software. Necrosisvisual, defined by photopenic tumor areas on 18F-FDG PET and attenuation values between 10 and 30 Hounsfield units (HUs) on CT, was assessed blinded to outcome. Univariate Cox regression survival analyses of progression free survival (PFS) were performed. Necrosisvisual was observed in 18.3% of cHL patients. Bulky disease (tumor mass >10 cm in any direction) (P = 0.002) and TLG (P = 0.041) but no other semiquantitative parameters were significantly associated with necrosisvisual. In exploratory univariate survival analysis for PFS the covariates IPS, bulky disease, MTV and TLG were prognostic, while necrosisvisual was not.
Musical interaction is influenced by underlying predictive models and musical expertise
Authors: Heggli Ole A. , Konvalinka Ivana , Kringelbach Morten L. , Vuust Peter
Published: July 2019

Musical interaction is a unique model for understanding humans’ ability to align goals, intentions, and actions, which also allows for the manipulation of participants’ internal predictive models of upcoming events. Here we used polyrhythms to construct two joint finger tapping tasks that even when rhythmically dissimilar resulted in equal inter-tap intervals (ITIs). Thus, behaviourally a dyad of two musicians tap isochronously at the same rate, yet with their own distinct rhythmical context model (RCM). We recruited 22 highly skilled musicians (in 11 dyads) and contrasted the effect of having a shared versus non-shared RCM on dyads’ synchronization behaviour. As expected, tapping synchronization was significantly worse at the start of trials with non-shared models compared to trials with a shared model. However, the musicians were able to quickly recover when holding dissimilar predictive models. We characterised the directionality in the tapping behaviour of the dyads and found patterns mostly of mutual adaptation. Yet, in a subset of dyads primarily consisting of drummers, we found significantly different synchronization patterns, suggesting that instrument expertise can significantly affect synchronization strategies. Overall, this demonstrates that holding different predictive models impacts synchronization in musicians performing joint finger tapping.
The lytic transglycosylase, LtgG, controls cell morphology and virulence in Burkholderia pseudomallei
Authors: Jenkins Christopher H. , Wallis Russell , Allcock Natalie , Barnes Kay B. , Richards Mark I. , Auty Joss M. , Galyov Edouard E. , Harding Sarah V. , Mukamolova Galina V.
Published: July 2019

Burkholderia pseudomallei is the causative agent of the tropical disease melioidosis. Its genome encodes an arsenal of virulence factors that allow it, when required, to switch from a soil dwelling bacterium to a deadly intracellular pathogen. With a high intrinsic resistance to antibiotics and the ability to overcome challenges from the host immune system, there is an increasing requirement for new antibiotics and a greater understanding into the molecular mechanisms of B. pseudomallei virulence and dormancy. The peptidoglycan remodeling enzymes, lytic transglycosylases (Ltgs) are potential targets for such new antibiotics. Ltgs cleave the glycosidic bonds within bacterial peptidoglycan allowing for the insertion of peptidoglycan precursors during cell growth and division, and cell membrane spanning structures such as flagella and secretion systems. Using bioinformatic analysis we have identified 8 putative Ltgs in B. pseudomallei K96243. We aimed to investigate one of these Ltgs, LtgG (BPSL3046) through the generation of deletion mutants and biochemical analysis. We have shown that LtgG is a key contributor to cellular morphology, division, motility and virulence in BALB/c mice. We have determined the crystal structure of LtgG and have identified various amino acids likely to be important in peptidoglycan binding and catalytic activity. Recombinant protein assays and complementation studies using LtgG containing a site directed mutation in aspartate 343, confirmed the essentiality of this amino acid in the function of LtgG.
Assembling real networks from synthetic and unstructured subsets: the corporate reporting case
Authors: Viegas Eduardo , Goto Hayato , Takayasu Misako , Takayasu Hideki , Jensen Henrik Jeldtoft
Published: July 2019

The analysis of interfirm business transaction networks provides invaluable insight into the trading dynamics and economic structure of countries. However, there is a general scarcity of data available recording real, accurate and extensive information for these types of networks. As a result, and in common with other types of network studies - such as protein interactions for instance - research tends to rely on partial and incomplete datasets, i.e. subsets, with less certain conclusions. Here, we make use of unstructured financial and corporate reporting data in Japan as the base source to construct a financial reporting network, which is then compared and contrasted to the wider real business transaction network. The comparative analysis between these two rich datasets - the proxy, partially derived network and the real, complete network at macro as well as local structural levels - provides an enhanced understanding of the non trivial relationships between partial sampled subsets and fully formed networks. Furthermore, we present an elemental agent based pruning algorithm that reconciles and preserves key structural differences between these two networks, which may serve as an embryonic generic framework of potentially wider use to network research, enabling enhanced extrapolation of conclusions from partial data or subsets.
A Prototype Antibody-based Biosensor for Measurement of Salivary MMP-8 in Periodontitis using Surface Acoustic Wave Technology
Authors: Taylor John J. , Jaedicke Katrin M. , van de Merwe Rachel C. , Bissett Susan M. , Landsdowne Nichola , Whall Kerry M. , Pickering Kimberley , Thornton Vivienne , Lawson Victoria , Yatsuda Hiromi , Kogai Takashi , Shah Deepan , Athey Dale , Preshaw Philip M.
Published: July 2019

Periodontitis is an economically important disease which is highly prevalent worldwide. Current diagnostic approaches are time-consuming and require interpretation of multiple aspects of clinical and radiographic assessment. Chair-side monitoring of inflammatory mediators of periodontitis could provide immediate information about disease activity, which can inform patient management. We aimed to develop a novel prototype biosensor to measure salivary matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) using specific antibodies and surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology. The analytical performance of the prototype biosensor was compared to standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using unstimulated saliva samples obtained from patients with periodontitis before and after non-surgical treatment (N = 58), patients with gingivitis (N = 54) and periodontally healthy volunteers (N = 65). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis for distinguishing periodontitis from health revealed an almost identical performance between the sensor and ELISA assays (area under curve values (AUC): ELISA 0.93; SAW 0.89). Furthermore, both analytical approaches yielded readouts which distinguished between heath, gingivitis and periodontitis, correlated identically with clinical measures of periodontal disease and recorded similar post-treatment decreases in salivary MMP-8 in periodontitis. The assay time for our prototype device is 20 minutes. The prototype SAW biosensor is a novel and rapid method of monitoring periodontitis which delivers similar analytical performance to conventional laboratory assays.
A principled strategy for mapping enhancers to genes
Authors: Kim Dongkyeong , An Hongjoo , Shearer Randall S. , Sharif Mohamed , Fan Chuandong , Choi Jin-ok , Ryu Sun , Park Yungki
Published: July 2019

Mapping enhancers to genes is a fundamental goal of modern biology. We have developed an innovative strategy that maps enhancers to genes in a principled manner. We illustrate its power by applying it toMyrf. Despite being a master regulator of oligodendrocytes, oligodendrocyte enhancers governingMyrfexpression remain elusive. Since chromatin conformation capture studies have shown that a gene and its enhancer tend to be found in the same topologically associating domain (TAD), we started with the delineation of theMyrfTAD. A genome-wide map of putative oligodendrocyte enhancers uncovered 6 putative oligodendrocyte enhancers in theMyrfTAD, narrowing down the search space forMyrfenhancers from the entire genome to 6 loci in a principled manner. Epigenome editing experiments revealed that two of them governMyrfexpression for oligodendrocyte development. Our new method is simple, principled, and powerful, providing a systematic way to find enhancers that regulate the expression of a gene of interest. Since it can be applied to most cell types, it would greatly facilitate our effort to unravel transcriptional regulatory networks of diverse cell types.
Neutralized chimeric DNA probe for the improvement of GC-rich RNA detection specificity on the nanowire field-effect transistor
Authors: Chou Wei-Cheng , Hu Wen-Pin , Yang Yuh-Shyong , Chan Hardy Wai-Hong , Chen Wen-Yih
Published: July 2019

Silicon nanowire (SiNW) field-effect transistors (FETs) is a powerful tool in genetic molecule analysis because of their high sensitivity, short detection time, and label-free detection. In nucleic acid detection, GC-rich nucleic acid sequences form self- and cross-dimers and stem-loop structures, which can easily obtain data containing signals from nonspecific DNA binding. The features of GC-rich nucleic acid sequences cause inaccuracies in nucleic acid detection and hinder the development of precision medicine. To improve the inaccurate detection results, we used phosphate-methylated (neutral) nucleotides to synthesize the neutralized chimeric DNA oligomer probe. The probe fragment originated from a primer for the detection of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 3b, and single-mismatched and perfect-matched targets were designed for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) detection on the SiNW FET device. Experimental results revealed that the HCV-3b chimeric neutralized DNA (nDNA) probe exhibited better performance for SNP discrimination in 10 mM bis-tris propane buffer at 25 °C than a regular DNA probe. The SNP discrimination of the nDNA probe could be further improved at 40 °C on the FET device. Consequently, the neutralized chimeric DNA probe could successfully distinguish SNP in the detection of GC-rich target sequences under optimal operating conditions on the SiNW FET device.
An upper bound for the background rate of human extinction
Authors: Snyder-Beattie Andrew E. , Ord Toby , Bonsall Michael B.
Published: July 2019

We evaluate the total probability of human extinction from naturally occurring processes. Such processes include risks that are well characterized such as asteroid impacts and supervolcanic eruptions, as well as risks that remain unknown. Using only the information that Homo sapiens has existed at least 200,000 years, we conclude that the probability that humanity goes extinct from natural causes in any given year is almost guaranteed to be less than one in 14,000, and likely to be less than one in 87,000. Using the longer track record of survival for our entire genus Homo produces even tighter bounds, with an annual probability of natural extinction likely below one in 870,000. These bounds are unlikely to be affected by possible survivorship bias in the data, and are consistent with mammalian extinction rates, typical hominin species lifespans, the frequency of well-characterized risks, and the frequency of mass extinctions. No similar guarantee can be made for risks that our ancestors did not face, such as anthropogenic climate change or nuclear/biological warfare.
Inhibition of the Akt1-mTORC1 Axis Alters Venous Remodeling to Improve Arteriovenous Fistula Patency
Authors: Guo Xiangjiang , Fereydooni Arash , Isaji Toshihiko , Gorecka Jolanta , Liu Shirley , Hu Haidi , Ono Shun , Alozie Michelle , Lee Shin Rong , Taniguchi Ryosuke , Yatsula Bogdan , Nassiri Naiem , Zhang Lan , Dardik Alan
Published: July 2019

Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) are the most common access created for hemodialysis, but up to 60% do not sustain dialysis within a year, suggesting a need to improve AVF maturation and patency. In a mouse AVF model, Akt1 regulates fistula wall thickness and diameter. We hypothesized that inhibition of the Akt1-mTORC1 axis alters venous remodeling to improve AVF patency. Daily intraperitoneal injections of rapamycin reduced AVF wall thickness with no change in diameter. Rapamycin decreased smooth muscle cell (SMC) and macrophage proliferation; rapamycin also reduced both M1 and M2 type macrophages. AVF in mice treated with rapamycin had reduced Akt1 and mTORC1 but not mTORC2 phosphorylation. Depletion of macrophages with clodronate-containing liposomes was also associated with reduced AVF wall thickness and both M1- and M2-type macrophages; however, AVF patency was reduced. Rapamycin was associated with improved long-term patency, enhanced early AVF remodeling and sustained reduction of SMC proliferation. These results suggest that rapamycin improves AVF patency by reducing early inflammation and wall thickening while attenuating the Akt1-mTORC1 signaling pathway in SMC and macrophages. Macrophages are associated with AVF wall thickening and M2-type macrophages may play a mechanistic role in AVF maturation. Rapamycin is a potential translational strategy to improve AVF patency.
A protein-RNA interaction atlas of the ribosome biogenesis factor AATF
Authors: Kaiser Rainer W. J. , Ignarski Michael , Van Nostrand Eric L. , Frese Christian K. , Jain Manaswita , Cukoski Sadrija , Heinen Heide , Schaechter Melanie , Seufert Lisa , Bunte Konstantin , Frommolt Peter , Keller Patrick , Helm Mark , Bohl Katrin , Höhne Martin , Schermer Bernhard , Benzing Thomas , Höpker Katja , Dieterich Christoph , Yeo Gene W. , Müller Roman-Ulrich , Fabretti Francesca
Published: July 2019

AATF is a central regulator of the cellular outcome upon p53 activation, a finding that has primarily been attributed to its function as a transcription factor. Recent data showed that AATF is essential for ribosome biogenesis and plays a role in rRNA maturation. AATF has been implicated to fulfil this role through direct interaction with rRNA and was identified in several RNA-interactome capture experiments. Here, we provide a first comprehensive analysis of the RNA bound by AATF using CLIP-sequencing. Interestingly, this approach shows predominant binding of the 45S pre-ribosomal RNA precursor molecules. Furthermore, AATF binds to mRNAs encoding for ribosome biogenesis factors as well as snoRNAs. These findings are complemented by an in-depth analysis of the protein interactome of AATF containing a large set of proteins known to play a role in rRNA maturation with an emphasis on the protein-RNA-complexes known to be required for the generation of the small ribosomal subunit (SSU). In line with this finding, the binding sites of AATF within the 45S rRNA precursor localize in close proximity to the SSU cleavage sites. Consequently, our multilayer analysis of the protein-RNA interactome of AATF reveals this protein to be an important hub for protein and RNA interactions involved in ribosome biogenesis.
Comparison of five glomerular filtration rate estimating equations as predictors of acute kidney injury after cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Jo Jun-Young , Ryu Seung Ah , Kim Jong-Il , Lee Eun-Ho , Choi In-Cheol
Published: July 2019

We aimed to compare the ability of preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), calculated using five different equations, to predict adverse renal outcomes after cardiovascular surgery. Cohorts of 4,125 adult patients undergoing elective cardiovascular surgery were evaluated. Preoperative eGFR was calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) II, re-expressed MDRD II, Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration, and Mayo quadratic (Mayo) equations. The primary outcome was postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI), defined by Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes Definition and Staging criteria based on changes in serum creatinine concentrations within 7 days. The MDRD II and Cockcroft-Gault equations yielded the highest (88.1 ± 26.7 ml/min/1.73 m2) and lowest (79.6 ± 25.5 ml/min/1.73 m2) mean eGFR values, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that a preoperative decrease in renal function according to all five equations was independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative AKI. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for predicting postoperative AKI was highest for the Mayo equation (0.713). Net improvements in reclassification and integrated discrimination were higher for the Mayo equation than for the other equations. The Mayo equation was the most accurate in predicting postoperative AKI in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery.
Proton-free electron-trapping feature of titanium dioxide nanoparticles without the characteristic blue color
Authors: Yan Yan , Shi Weidong , Peng Wei , Lin Yuhan , Zhang Chunxi , Li Lailai , Sun Young , Ju Huanxin , Zhu Junfa , Ma Wanhong , Zhao Jincai
Published: July 2019

Most solar-energy conversion applications are based on trapping and transferring photoinduced electrons on oxide semiconductor nanoparticles, such as titanium dioxide, and broad UV-vis absorption (400~800 nm) and monotonic IR absorption (1100~3000 cm−1) signals have long been considered signatures of the electron-trapping state on titanium dioxide nanoparticles. Here we show that, under proton-free conditions and using iodide ions in acetonitrile as the hole scavenger, the intrinsic electron-trapping feature of titanium dioxide nanoparticles does not exhibit the characteristic UV-vis absorption and infrared absorption signatures. Further electron spin resonance studies identify the proton-free electron-trapping state as the lattice octahedral Ti6c3+ species, differing from the traditional proton-participating surface tetrahedral Ti4c3+ species. Synchronized radiation ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy results also show that the internal electron-trapping state without protons has a larger Ti3d binding energy (1.8 eV) than the blue electron-trapping state (1.3 eV) that forms when protons participate and thus shows different electron transfer abilities.
Biodegradation of injectable silk fibroin hydrogel prevents negative left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction
Authors: Kambe Yusuke , Yamaoka Tetsuji
Published: July 2019

Random collagen fiber networks formed by a slowly degrading silk fibroin hydrogel injection prevented left ventricular enlargement after myocardial infarction.
SilkBridge™: a novel biomimetic and biocompatible silk-based nerve conduit
Authors: Alessandrino A. , Fregnan F. , Biagiotti M. , Muratori L. , Bassani G. A. , Ronchi G. , Vincoli V. , Pierimarchi P. , Geuna S. , Freddi G.
Published: July 2019

SilkBridge™: off-the-shelf nerve conduit with a novel hybrid textile-electrospun tubular architecture, highly biocompatible, and effective at sustaining the in vivo regeneration of nerve fibers.
Vincristine-loaded platelets coated with anti-CD41 mAbs: a new macrophage targeting proposal for the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Xu Peipei , Jiang Ying , Zuo Huaqin , Liu Xu , Xia Tian , Zhou Rongfu , Chen Bing , Ouyang Jian
Published: July 2019

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder in which platelet-reactive autoantibodies accelerate the destruction of platelets.
Templated coordination as a tool to increase the catalytic activity of metal aluminophosphates: the case of CoAPO-11
Authors: Chen Wenhan , Qiao Guilong , Liu Huijing , Ye Songshou , Zheng Jinbao , Zhang Nuowei , Che Liming , Chen Bing H.
Published: July 2019

Site shifting by templated coordination aimed at enhancing the performance during n-butene skeletal isomerization under severe conditions.
In situ generated electron-deficient metallic copper as the catalytically active site for enhanced hydrogen production from alkaline formaldehyde solution
Authors: Liang Shipan , Chen Shuang , Guo Ziwei , Lan Zhuohuang , Kobayashi Hisayoshi , Yan Xiaoqing , Li Renhong
Published: July 2019

Low-cost copper-based catalysts have attracted great interest as they are able to accelerate hydrogen evolution from formaldehyde solution at room temperature.
A dipyrromethane-based diphosphane–germylene as precursor to tetrahedral copper(i) and T-shaped silver(i) and gold(i) PGeP pincer complexes
Authors: Cabeza Javier A. , Fernández Israel , García-Álvarez Pablo , Laglera-Gándara Carlos J.
Published: July 2019

A dipyrromethane-based PGeP germylene has allowed the synthesis of unusual tetrahedral copper(i) and T-shaped silver(i) and gold(i) germyl complexes.
Troxerutin suppresses the inflammatory response in advanced glycation end-product-administered chondrocytes and attenuates mouse osteoarthritis development
Authors: Xue Xinghe , Chen Yunlin , Wang Ye , Zhan Jingdi , Chen Bin , Wang Xiangyang , Pan Xiaoyun
Published: July 2019

As a chronic degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis (OA) is clinically characterized by a high incidence, long-term pain, and limited joint activity but without effective preventative therapy.
A dietary polysaccharide fromEucheuma cottoniidownregulates proinflammatory cytokines and ameliorates osteoarthritis-associated cartilage degradation in obese rats
Authors: Sudirman Sabri , Chang Heng-Wei , Chen Chun-Kai , Kong Zwe-Ling
Published: July 2019

A dietary polysaccharide extracted fromEucheuma cottoniidownregulated proinflammatory cytokines and cartilage degradation enzymes as well as suppressed cartilage degradation.
Small antibacterial molecules highly active against drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Dey Rajib , De Kathakali , Mukherjee Riya , Ghosh Sreyan , Haldar Jayanta
Published: July 2019

The rapid growth of antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus aureus coupled with their biofilm forming ability has made the infections difficult to treat with conventional antibiotics.
Monte Carlo simulation of nanoscale material focused ion beam gas-assisted etching: Ga+ and Ne+ etching of SiO2 in the presence of a XeF2 precursor gas
Authors: Mahady Kyle T. , Tan Shida , Greenzweig Yuval , Raveh Amir , Rack Philip D.
Published: July 2019

Successful development of a Monte Carlo simulation that accurately emulates gas assisted nanoscale focused ion beam etching.
An aptamer-based new method for competitive fluorescence detection of exosomes
Authors: Yu Xiaocheng , He Lei , Pentok Myima , Yang Haowen , Yang Yale , Li Zhiyang , He Nongyue , Deng Yan , Li Song , Liu Tonghua , Chen Xiangyu , Luo Huiwen
Published: July 2019

An aptamer-based low-cost sensitive competitive fluorescence detection method was developed to detect exosomes at concentrations as low as 1.0 × 105 particles per μL.
Controlling the electronic properties of 2D/3D pillared graphene and glass-like carbon via metal atom doping
Authors: Slepchenkov Michael M. , Shmygin Dmitry S. , Zhang Gang , Glukhova Olga E.
Published: July 2019

We propose a new method for controlling the electronic properties of alkaline earth metal doped nanoporous composites by varying the volume of doped nanopores.
Formation of S-alkyl thiophenium ionic liquids: mechanistic rationale and structural relationships
Authors: Schiel María A. , García de la Concepción Juan , Domini Claudia E. , Cintas Pedro , Silbestri Gustavo F.
Published: July 2019

This computational study provides a mechanistic and structural rationale for the synthesis of a new family of S-alkylthiophenium ILs.
Effect of block copolymer architecture and composition on gold nanoparticle fabrication
Authors: Constantinou Anna P. , Marie-Sainte Uriel , Peng Lihui , Carroll Dean R. , McGilvery Catriona M. , Dunlop Iain E. , Georgiou Theoni K.
Published: July 2019

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) fabricatedviathe self-assembly of block copolymers of various architectures.
Bright electrochemiluminescent films of efficient aggregation-induced emission luminogens for sensitive detection of dopamine
Authors: Li Zihua , Qin Wei , Wu Jialong , Yang Zhiyong , Chi Zhenguo , Liang Guodong
Published: July 2019

Bright and tunable ECL solid films are fabricated based on AIE luminogens for rapid and sensitive detection of dopamine.
Synergistic effect of Pd content and polyelectrolyte multilayer structure on nitrobenzene hydrogenation in a microreactor
Authors: Liu Jian , Chen Rong , Zhu Xun , Liao Qiang , Ye Dingding , Zhang Biao , Liu Ming , Chen Gang , Wang Kun
Published: July 2019

In this study, we developed a Pd–PEMs hybrid film grafted on the polydopamine coated interior wall of a microreactor for nitrobenzene hydrogenation.
Two-step catalytic conversion of lignocellulose to alkanes
Authors: Sun Zhuohua , Buwalda Daniel , Barta Katalin
Published: July 2019

This work described a simple two-step process for the complete lignocellulose conversion to alkanes with high carbon yield.
Two-phase interface hydrothermal synthesis of binder-free SnS2/graphene flexible paper electrodes for high-performance Li-ion batteries
Authors: Wen Hao , Kang Wenbin , Liu Xingang , Li Wenjuan , Zhang Liping , Zhang Chuhong
Published: July 2019

Binder-free SnS2/graphene flexible paper produced from a two-phase interface hydrothermal reaction with excellent electrochemical performance for lithium-ion batteries.
A spherical poly(acrylic acid) brush–enzyme block with high catalytic capacity for signal amplification in digital biological assays
Authors: Wang Yibei , Gao Zehang , Yi Jingwei , Zhou Hongbo , Fang Xiaoxia , Xu Hong , Zhao Jianlong , Gu Hongchen
Published: July 2019

A spherical poly(acrylic acid)–alkaline phosphatase (SP–AKP) fluorescent amplification block with a high catalytic capacity of about 100 times that of SiO2–COOH–AKP, was proposed for ultrasensitivity digital biological detection.
The relationship between activation–passivation transition and grain boundary dissolution on four steel samples in acidic solutions containing NO2−
Authors: Zhou Yong , Zhang Pei , Xiong Jinping , Yan Fuan
Published: July 2019

The relationship between activation–passivation transition and grain boundary dissolution for L80, N80, X65 and Q235 steels in HNO3, HCl, HAc and CO2 solutions containing NO2− was studied by electrochemical tests and microstructural observations.
Ozone and ozone/vacuum-UV degradation of diethyl dithiocarbamate collector: kinetics, mineralization, byproducts and pathways
Authors: Fu Pingfeng , Ma Yanhong , Yang Huifen , Li Gen , Lin Xiaofeng
Published: July 2019

The diethyl dithiocarbamate collector, a precursor of toxicN-nitrosamines, can be effectively degraded by the O3/VUV with satisfactory mineralization extents.
Gravure printing for mesoporous film preparation
Authors: Herzog Nicole , Brilmayer Robert , Stanzel Mathias , Kalyta Anastasia , Spiehl Dieter , Dörsam Edgar , Hess Christian , Andrieu-Brunsen Annette
Published: July 2019

This study presents gravure printing as a new strategy for rapid printing of ceramic mesoporous thin films and highlights its advantages over conventional mesoporous film preparation using evaporation induced self-assembly together with dip-coating.
Visible-light photocatalytic performance, recovery and degradation mechanism of ternary magnetic Fe3O4/BiOBr/BiOI composite
Authors: Li Jianhui , Yang Fan , Zhou Quan , Wu Lijie , Li Wenying , Ren Ruipeng , Lv Yongkang
Published: July 2019

The ternary magnetic Fe3O4/BiOBr/BiOI (x : 3 : 1) photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by a facile solvothermal method.
The enzyme-like catalytic hydrogen abstraction reaction mechanisms of cyclic hydrocarbons with magnesium-diluted Fe-MOF-74
Authors: Luo Wen-zhi , Chen Guang-hui , Xiao Song-tao , Wang Qiang , Huang Ze-kun , Wang Ling-yu
Published: July 2019

The enzyme-like catalytic hydrogen abstraction reaction of cyclic hydrocarbons.
Observation of enhanced magnetic entropy change near room temperature in Sr-site deficient La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 manganite
Authors: Arun B. , Akshay V. R. , Vasundhara M.
Published: July 2019

The effect of Sr-site deficiency on the structural, magnetic and magnetic entropy change of La0.67Sr0.33−yMnO3−δ (y = 0.18 and 0.27) compounds was investigated.
Single-ion anisotropy and exchange coupling in cobalt(ii)-radical complexes: insights from magnetic and ab initio studies
Authors: Gransbury Gemma K. , Boulon Marie-Emmanuelle , Mole Richard A. , Gable Robert W. , Moubaraki Boujemaa , Murray Keith S. , Sorace Lorenzo , Soncini Alessandro , Boskovic Colette
Published: July 2019

The exchange coupling has been elucidated for a pseudo-octahedral cobalt(ii) ion and radical semiquinonate ligand in a highly spin–orbit coupled system.
Rational design of a multifunctional molecular dye for dual-modal NIR-II/photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy
Authors: Zhang Ruiping , Xu Yuling , Zhang Yi , Kim Hyeong Seok , Sharma Amit , Gao Jing , Yang Guangfu , Kim Jong Seung , Sun Yao
Published: July 2019

Theranostic nanoprobes (SYL NPs) prepared from a newly designed NIR-II fluorophore and FDA approved DSPE-mPEG5000 were well tolerated and exhibited multifunctional potential in diagnosis (photoacoustic & fluorescence imaging) and phototherapy in animal models.
Wetting of polymer surfaces by aqueous solutions of branched cationic Gemini surfactants
Authors: Lv Wei-Feng , Zhou Zhao-Hui , Zhang Qun , Luo Wen-Li , Wang Hong-Zhuang , Ma De-Sheng , Zhang Lei , Wang Rong , Zhang Lu
Published: July 2019

In this paper, the adsorption of xylyl-substituted biquaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactants with different spacers (C3 and C6) at polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) surfaces has been investigated.
A novel AIE-based supramolecular polymer gel serves as an ultrasensitive detection and efficient separation material for multiple heavy metal ions
Authors: Chen Yan-Yan , Gong Guan-Fei , Fan Yan-Qing , Zhou Qi , Zhang Qin-Peng , Yao Hong , Zhang You-Ming , Wei Tai-Bao , Lin Qi
Published: July 2019

A novel, easy to fabricate AIE-based supramolecular polymer gel material enables the ultrasensitive detection and efficient separation of multiple heavy metal ions.
Aggregation-induced emission supramolecular organic framework (AIE SOF) gels constructed from tri-pillar[5]arene-based foldamer for ultrasensitive detection and separation of multi-analytes
Authors: Wei Tai-Bao , Ma Xiao-Qiang , Fan Yan-Qing , Jiang Xiao-Mei , Dong Hong-Qiang , Yang Qing-Yu , Zhang Yun-Fei , Yao Hong , Lin Qi , Zhang You-Ming
Published: July 2019

A novel aggregation-induced emission supramolecular organic framework (AIE SOF) constructed using tri-pillar[5]arene-based foldamer which could be used for the ultrasensitive detection of multi-analytes.
Solvation effect in precursor solution enables over 16% efficiency in thick 2D perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lian Xiaomei , Chen Jiehuan , Zhang Yingzhu , Qin Minchao , Andersen Thomas Rieks , Ling Jun , Wu Gang , Lu Xinhui , Yang Deren , Chen Hongzheng
Published: July 2019

GA+ with solvation effect assisted high-quality 2D perovskite film with thickness over 500 nm reached a PCE of 16.26%.
Morphology, crystal structure and electronic state one-step co-tuning strategy towards developing superior perovskite electrocatalysts for water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Haijuan , Guan Daqin , Gao Xuechao , Yu Jie , Chen Gao , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: July 2019

Here, we use an electrospinning method to control the crystal structure, electronic structure and microstructure of catalysts simultaneously.
Nanofibrous hydrogel composite membranes with ultrafast transport performance for molecular separation in organic solvents
Authors: Li Yi , Wong Eric , Volodine Alexander , Van Haesendonck Chris , Zhang Kaisong , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: July 2019

A polyamide (PA) nanofilm was successfully fabricated on the nanofibrous hydrogel support via controlled interfacial polymerization (IP) and exhibited an unprecedented solvent permeation for various organic solvents.
Mechanochemical synthesis of multi-site electrocatalysts as bifunctional zinc–air battery electrodes
Authors: Guo Beibei , Ju Qiangjian , Ma Ruguang , Li Zichuang , Liu Qian , Ai Fei , Yang Minghui , Kaskel Stefan , Luo Jun , Zhang Tao , Wang Jiacheng
Published: July 2019

Highly active porous FeCo/carbon oxygen electrocatalysts with well-defined multiple active sites have been prepared via a scalable mechanochemical route, which perform better than precious metal Pt/C and RuO2 in rechargeable Zn–air batteries.
Rational design of a hierarchical N-doped graphene-supported catalyst for highly energy-efficient lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Liu Tie , Huang Tao , Yu Aishui
Published: July 2019

A pyridinic-N-dominated graphene dispersed Co3O4 nanocomposite as a promising bi-functional catalyst was prepared and applied to quasi-solid Li–oxygen batteries.
A solid-state dendrite-free lithium-metal battery with improved electrode interphase and ion conductivity enhanced by a bifunctional solid plasticizer
Authors: Peng Jun , Wu Li-Na , Lin Jin-Xia , Shi Chen-Guang , Fan Jing-Jing , Chen Li-Bin , Dai Peng , Huang Ling , Li Jun-Tao , Sun Shi-Gang
Published: July 2019

By adding a bifunctional plasticizer (SN) and an inorganic conductor (LAGP) to a PEO matrix, an inorganic–organic composite solid-state polymer electrolyte (SPE) was constructed to enhance Li-ion diffusion and interface stability.
Visible light-activatable multicargo microemulsions with bimodal photobactericidal action and dual colour fluorescence
Authors: Fraix Aurore , Catanzano Ovidio , Di Bari Ivana , Conte Claudia , Seggio Mimimorena , Parisi Cristina , Nostro Antonia , Ginestra Giovanna , Quaglia Fabiana , Sortino Salvatore
Published: July 2019

A microemulsion co-solubilizing a photosensitizer and a NO photodonor in the oily phase can be excited with visible light stimuli resulting in the photogeneration of cytotoxic 1O2 and NO together with red and green fluorescence emission.
Induced frustrated twist grain boundary liquid crystalline phases in binary mixtures of achiral hockey stick-shaped and chiral rod-like materials
Authors: Chakraborty Susanta , Das Malay Kumar , Bubnov Alexej , Weissflog Wolfgang , Węgłowska Dorota , Dabrowski Roman
Published: July 2019

Induction of TGB phases in binary mixtures of hockey stick-shaped and chiral ferroelectric liquid crystal compounds.
Towards organic neuromorphic devices for adaptive sensing and novel computing paradigms in bioelectronics
Authors: van Doremaele Eveline R. W. , Gkoupidenis Paschalis , van de Burgt Yoeri
Published: July 2019

We present an overview of the latest studies on organic neuromorphic and smart sensing devices and highlight the potential of these concepts to enhance the interaction efficiency between electronics and biological substances.
The protective role of CsNPs and CurNPs against DNA damage, oxidative stress, and histopathological and immunohistochemical alterations induced by hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in male rat kidney
Authors: Mosa Israa F. , Yousef Mokhtar I. , Kamel Maher , Mosa Osama F. , Helmy Yasser
Published: July 2019

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAP-NPs) are an inorganic component of natural bone and are mainly used in the tissue engineering field due to their bioactivity, osteoconductivity, biocompatibility, non-inflammatory, and non-toxicity properties. However, the current toxicity data for HAP-NPs regarding human health are limited, and only a few results from basic studies have been published. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the beneficial role of chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) and curcumin nanoparticles (CurNPs) in alleviating nephrotoxicity induced by HAP-NPs in male rats. The results showed that HAP-NPs caused a reduction in antioxidant enzymes and induced lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide production and DNA oxidation. Moreover, HAP-NP administration was associated with intense histologic changes in kidney architecture and immunoreactivity to proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). However, the presence of CsNPs and/or CurNPs along with HAP-NPs reduced the levels of oxidative stress through improving the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Also, the rats administered the nanoparticles showed a moderate improvement in glomerular damage which matched that of the control group and showed mild positive reactions to PCNA–ir in glomeruli and renal tubules in the cortical and medullary portions. These novel insights confirm that the presence of chitosan and curcumin in nanoforms has powerful biological effects with enhanced bioactivity and bioavailability phenomena compared to their microphase counterparts. Also, they were able to ameliorate the nephrotoxicity induced by HAP-NPs.
Probabilistic and deterministic path selection in cognitive radio network
Authors: Saifan Ramzi , Msaeed Anood M. , Darabkh Khalid A.
Published: July 2019

Cognitive radio (CR) plays an important and promising role in solving wireless spectrum scarcity problems by exploiting wireless spectrum bands that have been underutilised thus far. CR is a type of wireless communication in which wireless devices use environmental sensing to detect and change transmission parameters. The authors propose the probabilistic and deterministic path detection (PDPS) Protocol for CR networks in this study. PDPS aims to increase the probability of finding the path of best quality between any source and any destination. The performance of the proposed protocol is evaluated by conducting comprehensive simulation scenarios and experiments using a special simulator, which was built using Java. The simulation results highlight the benefits of the proposed path selection technique in comparison to state‐of‐the‐art protocols. Comparisons are carried out using several performance metrics; namely throughput, stability and end‐to‐end delay.
Low‐powered wearable motion detecting system using static electric fields
Authors: Lambert Shane , Lu Haitao , Shreve Zane , Zhan Yi , Jahangir Alam Majumder A.K.M. , Sahin Gokhan
Published: July 2019

Recently, the commercial market has seen an increase in the availability of smart wearable Internet of things (IoT) devices (wearables) including such items as: smart shoes, smart watches, wrist bands, and pendants. Many of these devices are part of the human‐in‐the‐loop cyber‐physical systems. In this research, the authors have designed and developed an embedded sensory IoT system with a low‐power Bluetooth communication module to collect body single node voltage using a smartphone. Their approach for sensing the user's movement builds on work in the electric field sensing. Experimentation and verification have been conducted on a group of test subjects with different test scenarios including remaining at rest, walking, jumping, running, hand waving, eating, and bending over. They designed and developed their sensor to detect body motion data, and then used their algorithm to analyse the collected data. This study introduces the use of signal processing techniques for sensor data analytics to detect human body motion. The system can detect activity with a high degree of accuracy (∼ 87%).
Forward‐wave directional coupler based on slow‐wave coupled microstrip lines
Authors: Luong Duc‐Long , Acri Giuseppe , Podevin Florence , Vincent Didier , Pistono Emmanuel , Serrano Ariana , Ferrari Philippe
Published: July 2019

This study presents the design of a forward‐wave directional coupler based on slow‐wave coupled microstrip lines realised in a multilayered printed circuit board technology. Thanks to the concept of slow‐wave, a high difference between the even‐ and odd‐mode phase velocities can be inherently achieved. Hence, by choosing adequate even‐ and odd‐mode characteristic impedances close to 50 Ω, reduced‐length forward couplers can be designed. As a proof of concept, a 0 dB forward coupler operating at 4.5 GHz is proposed. It exhibits a very high coupling of 0.56 dB at the centre frequency and a very large bandwidth of 43%, corresponding to 10 dB of isolation. A length miniaturisation of 84% is obtained as compared to the standard microstrip, leading to a total surface area of 0.132, the smallest one reported so far.
Recent advances and trend of HEV/EV‐oriented power semiconductors – an overview
Authors: Liu Guoyou , Li Kongjing , Wang Yangang , Luo Haihui , Luo Haoze
Published: July 2019

This study introduces the development advances and trend of power semiconductors used in hybrid and electric vehicles (HEV/EV). The status and forecast of power electronics’ requirement in HEV/EV are discussed along with a review of the automotive standard of power semiconductor devices. The advances in automotive semiconductor technologies such as Si‐based insulated‐gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) and freewheeling diode (FRD) and SiC‐based metal oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MOSFET) and Schottky barrier diode are presented. The advances in automotive semiconductor packaging technologies are illustrated from three considerations, which are the low inductance in high‐power density packaging, lower thermal resistance designing, and advanced packaging technologies. The challenges and development trend of more reliable power semiconductors for HEV/EV are discussed. The challenges in Si devices are focused on power density, efficiency, reliability, and packages, while the high temperature and low inductances are the main challenges for SiC devices. Lastly, the development trend is discussed in terms of four aspects, the new generation Si IGBT for HEV/EV, such as recessed‐emitter‐trench, reverse‐conduction‐IGBT, and smart IGBT; next generation SiC MOSFET; new packaging technology and material, such as planar packaging.
Islanding detection method of multi‐port photovoltaic DC micro grid based on harmonic impedance measurement
Authors: Ke Jia , Zhengxuan Zhu , Qijuan Zhao , Zhe Yang , Tianshu Bi
Published: July 2019

DC Grid does not transmit reactive power, nor does it offer frequency and phase issues. This results in malfunction of conventional islanding detection methods (IDMs) that rely on the above quantities. At present, the DC IDMs proposed in literatures are mostly active power injection methods based on DC/DC converters. However, in a multi‐photovoltaic (PV) DC system, the synchronization of the injection of converters is difficult to guarantee, which may lead to detection failure. This paper proposes an impedance measurement IDM for multi‐PV DC micro grid based on the analysis of high‐frequency impedance model of power electronic devices. The impedance of DC converters is constant at high frequency and the harmonic impedance of the system changes significantly after islanding, so that islanding operation can be accurately detected. The harmonic impedance change directly reflects the structural changes of the system, and its calculation requires less disturbance intensity, which avoids the requirement of synchronous injection. Therefore, the method uses a DC/DC converter for injection, without the need for additional injection equipment. The method has little influence on power quality and theoretically has no none detection zone. Simulation results show that the method can perform accurately islanding detection in multi‐PV DC micro grid.
Experimental results of DTTB‐based passive radar with polarisation diversity reception
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Ai Xiaofeng , Wang Haijun
Published: July 2019

The surveillance channel of passive bistatic radar (PBR) is always interfered by strong direct‐path and multi‐path clutter signals. Based on the radar polarisation theory and the operation mode of PBR, the cross‐polarisation reception can suppress the strong direct‐path interference (DPI) in surveillance channel, however, which is far from perfect. By using Digital Television Terrestrial Broadcasting (DTTB) signal, several polarisation diversity reception experiments of PBR are carried out. The performance of DPI suppression is tested in different receive polarisation. The bistatic polarisation scattering properties of the civil aeroplane and clutter are obtained. From experimental results, cross‐ polarisation reception can suppress DPI instead of helping receive stronger echoes for better detection performance. In order to solve this problem, a non‐coherent integration approach in terms of polarisation diversity reception is given and verified by a tracking experiment for civil aeroplanes. It demonstrates that polarisation diversity reception not only suppresses DPI but also improves detection performance of DTTB‐based PBR under comparison with the fixed polarisation reception.
High‐speed target detection algorithm based on the RFT for SABBEWR
Authors: Wang Wantian , Tang Ziyue , Yuan Junquan , Chen Yichang , Zhu Zhenbo , Zhang Yuanpeng
Published: July 2019

In space‐air‐based bistatic early warning radar (SABBEWR) application, the standard Radon–Fourier transform (RFT) can effectively reduce the deterioration of target‐detection performance caused by the serious range migration. However, the rounding operation used in RFT will cause the target trajectory error and lead to the loss of the integration energy. To solve this problem, a modified RFT‐based target detection algorithm which implements in the range‐frequency domain is proposed for SABBEWR. Firstly, the target echo signal model is established, and then the chirp‐Z transform is used to complete the range‐migration correction and long‐term coherent integration in the range‐frequency domain. The experimental results demonstrate that the coherent integration performance of the proposed algorithm is superior to that of the standard RFT algorithm, and the proposed algorithm can effectively detect a high‐velocity target in a strong clutter background.
DDMA MIMO radar system for low, slow, and small target detection
Authors: Yang Fawei , Xu Feng , Yang Xiaopeng , Liu Quanhua
Published: July 2019

The low, slow, and small (LSS) target detection has always been a problem for both ground‐based and air‐borne radar systems. The factors such as weak target reflection energy, ground clutter, and random Doppler component will have a severe impact on radar detection performance. In recent years, researches on multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) radar system have achieved great progress. By utilising multi‐channel and multi‐waveform technology, MIMO radar can form equivalent phase centres and virtual apertures to provide more system freedom and enhance detection performance. To address the LSS target‐detection problem, the authors propose a novel Doppler division multiple access (DDMA) MIMO radar system, which employ DDMA waveform to ensure the orthogonality of the transmit signal and avoid some of the problems in the application of frequency division multiple access (FDMA) and code division multiple access (CDMA) for the actual radar system. The sparse array is employed to supress the grating lobe of the beam pattern and improve the angle estimation performance by optimising the position of the antenna array elements. Finally, the architecture of the designed radar system is introduced and the results of the detection performance to LSS targets based on real measured data is given.