bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2D Layered Material‐Based van der Waals Heterostructures for Optoelectronics
Authors: Zhou Xing , Hu Xiaozong , Yu Jing , Liu Shiyuan , Shu Zhaowei , Zhang Qi , Li Huiqiao , Ma Ying , Xu Hua , Zhai Tianyou
Published: January 2018

Van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) based on 2D layered materials with selectable materials properties pave the way to integration at the atomic scale, which may give rise to fresh heterostructures exhibiting absolutely novel physics and versatility. This feature article reviews the state‐of‐the‐art research activities that focus on the 2D vdWHs and their optoelectronic applications. First, the preparation methods such as mechanical transfer and chemical vapor deposition growth are comprehensively outlined. Then, unique energy band alignments generated in 2D vdWHs are introduced. Furthermore, this feature article focuses on the applications in light‐emitting diodes, photodetectors, and optical modulators based on 2D vdWHs with novel constructions and mechanisms. The recently reported novel constructions of the devices are introduced in three primary aspects: light‐emitting diodes (such as single defect light‐emitting diodes, circularly polarized light emission arising from valley polarization), photodetectors (such as photo‐thermionic, tunneling, electrolyte‐gated, and broadband photodetectors), and optical modulators (such as graphene integrated with silicon technology and graphene/hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) heterostructure), which show promising applications in the next‐generation optoelectronics. Finally, the article provides some conclusions and an outlook on the future development in the field.
Strategies for Improving the Performance of Sensors Based on Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Wu Xiaohan , Mao Shun , Chen Junhong , Huang Jia
Published: January 2018

Organic semiconductors (OSCs) have been extensively studied as sensing channel materials in field‐effect transistors due to their unique charge transport properties. Stimulation caused by its environmental conditions can readily change the charge‐carrier density and mobility of OSCs. Organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) can act as both signal transducers and signal amplifiers, which greatly simplifies the device structure. Over the past decades, various sensors based on OFETs have been developed, including physical sensors, chemical sensors, biosensors, and integrated sensor arrays with advanced functionalities. However, the performance of OFET‐based sensors still needs to be improved to meet the requirements from various practical applications, such as high sensitivity, high selectivity, and rapid response speed. Tailoring molecular structures and micro/nanofilm structures of OSCs is a vital strategy for achieving better sensing performance. Modification of the dielectric layer and the semiconductor/dielectric interface is another approach for improving the sensor performance. Moreover, advanced sensory functionalities have been achieved by developing integrated device arrays. Here, a brief review of strategies used for improving the performance of OFET sensors is presented, which is expected to inspire and provide guidance for the design of future OFET sensors for various specific and practical applications.
Improved Performance of Printable Perovskite Solar Cells with Bifunctional Conjugated Organic Molecule
Authors: Hu Yue , Zhang Zhihui , Mei Anyi , Jiang Youyu , Hou Xiaomeng , Wang Qifei , Du Kai , Rong Yaoguang , Zhou Yinhua , Xu Gengzhao , Han Hongwei
Published: January 2018

A bifunctional conjugated organic molecule 4‐(aminomethyl) benzoic acid hydroiodide (AB) is designed and employed as an organic cation in organic–inorganic halide perovskite materials. Compared with the monofunctional cation benzylamine hydroiodide (BA) and the nonconjugated bifunctional organic molecule 5‐ammonium valeric acid, devices based on AB‐MAPbI3 show a good stability and a superior power conversion efficiency of 15.6% with a short‐circuit current of 23.4 mA cm−2, an open‐circuit voltage of 0.94 V, and a fill factor of 0.71. The bifunctional conjugated cation not only benefits the growth of perovskite crystals in the mesoporous network, but also facilitates the charge transport. This investigation helps explore new approaches to rational design of novel organic cations for perovskite materials.
Photoluminescence Characteristics of Multilayer HfSe2 Synthesized on Sapphire Using Ion Implantation
Authors: Tsai Hsu‐Sheng , Liou Jhe‐Wei , Setiyawati Icuk , Chiang Kuan‐Rong , Chen Chia‐Wei , Chi Chi‐Chong , Chueh Yu‐Lun , Ouyang Hao , Tang Yu‐Hui , Woon Wei‐Yen , Liang Jenq‐Horng
Published: January 2018

The multilayer HfSe2 on sapphire is first fabricated by the ion beam‐assisted process combining ion implantation with the post annealing. The A1g mode of HfSe2 is shown in the Raman spectrum, the X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results indicate the existence of Hf–Se bonding, and the transmission electron microscopy analysis exactly identifies the crystal structure of HfSe2. The six‐layered (6L) octahedral HfSe2 (1T‐HfSe2), whose band structure is well realized by utilizing photoluminescence spectroscopy compared with the results of the density functional theory calculation, is formed via the Hf selenization during annealing.
Magnetic Nanorobots, Generating Vortexes Inside Nanoliter Droplets for Effective Mixing
Authors: Chong Wen Han , Huang Yi , Wong Teck Neng , Ooi Kim Tiow , Zhu Gui‐Ping
Published: January 2018

Magnetic nanorobots are used as nanometer‐size stir bars for rapid stirring inside ultrasmall volumes of fluids. Because of their small size and rapid stirring, they can generate many vortexes inside confined small droplets. It is shown that these vortexes can vigorously churn up large microparticles without destabilizing or moving the droplets. The vortex formation can be easily controlled by tuning the stirring rate of nano stir bars using a simple magnetic stirrer.
Self‐Contained Monolithic Carbon Sponges for Solar‐Driven Interfacial Water Evaporation Distillation and Electricity Generation
Authors: Zhu Liangliang , Gao Minmin , Peh Connor Kang Nuo , Wang Xiaoqiao , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: January 2018

Solar vaporization has received tremendous attention for its potential in desalination, sterilization, distillation, etc. However, a few major roadblocks toward practical application are the high cost, process intensive, fragility of solar absorber materials, and low efficiency. Herein an inexpensive cellular carbon sponge that has a broadband light absorption and inbuilt structural features to perform solitary heat localization for in situ photothermic vaporization is reported. The defining advantages of elastic cellular porous sponge are that it self‐confines water to the perpetually hot spots and accommodates cyclical dynamic fluid flow‐volume variable stress for practical usage. By isolating from bulk water, the solar‐to‐vapor conversion efficiency is increased by 2.5‐fold, surpassing that of conventional bulk heating. Notably, complementary solar steam generation‐induced electricity can be harvested during the solar vaporization so as to capitalize on waste heat. Such solar distillation and waste heat‐to‐electricity generation functions may provide potential opportunities for on‐site electricity and fresh water production for remote areas/emergency needs.
Conversion‐Based Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Sodium Batteries
Authors: Kim Jongsoon , Kim Hyungsub , Kang Kisuk
Published: January 2018

Conversion‐based electrode materials for rechargeable sodium batteries (RSBs) have received considerable attention because of their potentially higher energy densities than those of conventional intercalation‐based electrode materials. This would overcome generally lower energy densities of RSBs than those of lithium‐ion batteries. However, they often suffer from large volume changes, sluggish Na‐ion kinetics, and large overpotential in their reaction. Intensive research has thus focused on improving the electrochemical performance through a number of approaches, including analyses of the reaction mechanisms during charge/discharge, engineering the electrode materials in terms of their nanostructuring or compositing, and searching for new candidate materials. This review presents an overview of the approaches used to explore conversion electrode materials for RSBs, in particular focusing on those with relative high redox potential that could be possibly used as cathodes, followed by a discussion of the challenges and perspectives involving future research directions for these materials.
Glass Forming Acceptor Alloys for Highly Efficient and Thermally Stable Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: de Zerio Amaia Diaz , Müller Christian
Published: January 2018

The stability of donor:acceptor (D:A) semiconductor blends plays a key role in the development of solution‐processed organic solar cells. One essential condition for both high‐yield production and a long lifetime is excellent thermal stability. Recently, A1:A2 acceptor mixtures have received considerable attention and alloys of two miscible acceptors are singled out as a powerful tool for the design of efficient and durable organic solar cells. This progress report introduces a thermodynamic rationale for the superior thermal stability and reproducibility that is observed for some ternary blends. The increase in entropy upon mixing of several acceptors reduces the tendency for phase separation as well as crystallization, which facilitates the controlled formation of a fine blend nanostructure. Further, when combined with a high glass transition temperature many ternary blends can be readily quenched into a glassy state. Recent progress with regard to the thermal stability and efficiency of D:A1:A2 ternary blends is summarized in the light of the thermodynamic and kinetic arguments discussed in this article. Both, fullerene and fullerene‐free acceptor alloys now yield solar cell efficiencies in excess of 10%, which indicates that ternary blends are a promising avenue that is poised to considerably enhance the prospect of organic photovoltaics.
Clinical and imaging features of abdominal wall endometriomas
Authors: Edwards Kylie , Tsai Shih‐Han , Kothari Alka
Published: January 2018

Abdominal wall endometrioma (AWE) is a rare condition (incidence 1% following caesarean section) with a significant variation in clinical symptoms, imaging findings and interval between initial procedure and diagnosis. We present two cases with differing clinical presentations. AWE may be difficult to diagnose pre‐operatively, with as many as 75% of lesions diagnosed incorrectly prior to surgical excision. Ultrasonography is a useful tool in determining the extent of the endometrioma and can help exclude differential diagnosis such as hernia. Ultrasound appearance of AWE is often variable; however, the most common presentation is of a solid hypoechoic mass lesion with peripheral vascularity. Margins may be irregular and infiltrate the surrounding soft tissues. Lesions may be cystic or multicystic or may have both solid and cystic components. Power Doppler may demonstrate internal vascularity. If ultrasound findings are inconclusive, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be considered to assist in making the diagnosis. Ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of the lesion may assist in the diagnosis, but seeding of the needle tract has been reported and must be included in the resection margins. Sonoelastography has shown some promise in early studies for improving diagnostic accuracy for AWE.
Single vs multiallergen sublingual immunotherapy in the polysensitized patient: a pilot study
Authors: Ortiz Alexandra Shams , McMains K. Christopher , Laury Adrienne M.
Published: January 2018

Background

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) has emerged as an effective and exceptionally safe method of treatment of the atopic patient. However, the optimal number of allergens that should be included in the SLIT treatment regimen for the polysensitized patient is not known and practices vary widely. This study aims to compare the efficacy of single‐allergen SLIT with pauci‐allergen vs multiallergen aqueous SLIT in polysensitized patients.

Methods

Sixteen subjects sensitized to 6+ allergens were enrolled in the study. Subjects were blinded and randomized to SLIT treatment groups that included 1 (single), 3 (pauci), or all sensitized allergens (multi). Allergens selected were those to which the patient was most sensitized and correlated with history. Primary outcomes included daily allergy medication use, weekly Rhinoconjunctivitis Symptom Score (RCSS), and the mini–Rhinoconjuncitivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (m‐RQLQ). All metrics were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.

Results

There were significant decreases from baseline in RCSS and m‐RQLQ scores in all study groups at each interval after beginning SLIT (p < 0.05). There was no significant decrease in number of daily allergy medications used regardless of number of allergens in patient's treatment vial (p = 0.50). No significant differences emerged based on number of allergens used.

Conclusion

Single‐antigen, pauci‐antigen, and multiantigen aqueous SLIT significantly improved allergy symptoms. There was no significant difference observed in efficacy of single‐allergen SLIT vs pauci‐allergen or multi‐allergen SLIT in polysensitized patients.
Encapsulation of Crabtree's Catalyst in Sulfonated MIL‐101(Cr): Enhancement of Stability and Selectivity between Competing Reaction Pathways by the MOF Chemical Microenvironment
Authors: Grigoropoulos Alexios , McKay Alasdair I. , Katsoulidis Alexandros P. , Davies Robert P. , Haynes Anthony , Brammer Lee , Xiao Jianliang , Weller Andrew S. , Rosseinsky Matthew J.
Published: January 2018

Crabtree's catalyst was encapsulated inside the pores of the sulfonated MIL‐101(Cr) metal–organic framework (MOF) by cation exchange. This hybrid catalyst is active for the heterogeneous hydrogenation of non‐functionalized alkenes either in solution or in the gas phase. Moreover, encapsulation inside a well‐defined hydrophilic microenvironment enhances catalyst stability and selectivity to hydrogenation over isomerization for substrates bearing ligating functionalities. Accordingly, the encapsulated catalyst significantly outperforms its homogeneous counterpart in the hydrogenation of olefinic alcohols in terms of overall conversion and selectivity, with the chemical microenvironment of the MOF host favouring one out of two competing reaction pathways.
Metal‐Free and Alkali‐Metal‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Isoureas from Alcohols and Carbodiimides
Authors: Imberdis Arnaud , Lefèvre Guillaume , Thuéry Pierre , Cantat Thibault
Published: January 2018

The first addition of alcohols to carbodiimides catalyzed by transition‐metal‐free compounds employs 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) and its alkali metal salts. Isoureas are obtained in short reaction times and high yields when TBDK is used as the catalyst. Control of the coordination sphere of potassium with exogenous chelating ligands, in combination with mechanistic DFT calculations, demonstrated the role and positive influence of the alkali‐metal cation on the kinetics.
Catalytic CO Oxidation by O2 Mediated by Noble‐Metal‐Free Cluster Anions Cu2VO3–5−
Authors: Wang Li‐Na , Li Xiao‐Na , Jiang Li‐Xue , Yang Bin , Liu Qing‐Yu , Xu Hong‐Guang , Zheng Wei‐Jun , He Sheng‐Gui
Published: January 2018

Catalytic CO oxidation by molecular O2 is an important model reaction in both the condensed phase and gas‐phase studies. Available gas‐phase studies indicate that noble metal is indispensable in catalytic CO oxidation by O2 under thermal collision conditions. Herein, we identified the first example of noble‐metal‐free heteronuclear oxide cluster catalysts, the copper–vanadium bimetallic oxide clusters Cu2VO3–5− for CO oxidation by O2. The reactions were characterized by mass spectrometry, photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional calculations. The dynamic nature of the Cu−Cu unit in terms of the electron storage and release is the driving force to promote CO oxidation and O2 activation during the catalysis.
DNA Origami Directed Assembly of Gold Bowtie Nanoantennas for Single‐Molecule Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Zhan Pengfei , Wen Te , Wang Zhen‐gang , He Yingbo , Shi Jia , Wang Ting , Liu Xinfeng , Lu Guowei , Ding Baoquan
Published: January 2018

Metallic bowtie nanoarchitectures can produce dramatic electric field enhancement, which is advantageous in single‐molecule analysis and optical information processing. Plasmonic bowtie nanostructures were successfully constructed using a DNA origami‐based bottom‐up assembly strategy, which enables precise control over the geometrical configuration of the bowtie with an approximate 5 nm gap. A single Raman probe was accurately positioned at the gap of the bowtie. Single‐molecule surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SM‐SERS) of individual nanostructures, including ones containing an alkyne group, was observed. The design achieved repeatable local field enhancement of several orders of magnitude. This method opens the door on a novel strategy for the fabrication of metal bowtie structures and SM‐SERS, which can be utilized in the design of highly‐sensitive photonic devices.
Glycosyl‐Substituted Dicarboxylates as Detergents for the Extraction, Overstabilization, and Crystallization of Membrane Proteins
Authors: Nguyen Kim‐Anh , Peuchmaur Marine , Magnard Sandrine , Haudecoeur Romain , Boyère Cédric , Mounien Saravanan , Benammar Ikram , Zampieri Veronica , Igonet Sébastien , Chaptal Vincent , Jawhari Anass , Boumendjel Ahcène , Falson Pierre
Published: January 2018

To tackle the problems associated with membrane protein (MP) instability in detergent solutions, we designed a series of glycosyl‐substituted dicarboxylate detergents (DCODs) in which we optimized the polar head to clamp the membrane domain by including, on one side, two carboxyl groups that form salt bridges with basic residues abundant at the membrane–cytoplasm interface of MPs and, on the other side, a sugar to form hydrogen bonds. Upon extraction, the DCODs 8 b, 8 c, and 9 b preserved the ATPase function of BmrA, an ATP‐binding cassette pump, much more efficiently than reference or recently designed detergents. The DCODs 8 a, 8 b, 8 f, 9 a, and 9 b induced thermal shifts of 20 to 29 °C for BmrA and of 13 to 21 °C for the native version of the G‐protein‐coupled adenosine receptor A2AR. Compounds 8 f and 8 g improved the diffraction resolution of BmrA crystals from 6 to 4 Å. DCODs are therefore considered to be promising and powerful tools for the structural biology of MPs.
Zwei Diterpensynthasen für Spiroalbaten und Cembren A aus Allokutzneria albata
Authors: Rinkel Jan , Lauterbach Lukas , Rabe Patrick , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: January 2018

Zwei bakterielle Diterpensynthasen aus dem Actinomyceten Allokutzneria albata wurden untersucht. Dies führte zur Identifizierung des strukturell neuartigen Produkts Spiroalbaten des ersten und Cembren A des zweiten Enzyms. Beide Enzyme wurden durch Isotopenmarkierungsexperimente, ortsgerichtete Mutagenese, Variation des Metallcofaktors und des pH‐Wertes auf ihre Mechanismen untersucht. Für die Spiroalbaten‐Synthase wurde eine pH‐ und Mn2+‐abhängige Bildung des Nebenproduktes Thunbergol beobachtet, das biosynthetisch mit Spiroalbaten verwandt ist.
Broadening the Scope for Fluoride‐Free Synthesis of Siliceous Zeolites
Authors: Vattipalli Vivek , Paracha Abdul Mughis , Hu Weiguo , Chen Huiyong , Fan Wei
Published: January 2018

Siliceous zeolites are ideally suited for emerging applications in gas separations, sensors, and the next generation of low‐k dielectric materials, but the use of fluoride in the synthesis significantly hinders their commercialization. Herein, we show that the dry gel conversion (DGC) technique can overcome this problem. Fluoride‐free synthesis of two siliceous zeolites—AMH‐4 (CHA‐type) and AMH‐5 (STT‐type), has been achieved for the first time using the method. Siliceous *BEA‐, MFI‐, and *MRE‐type zeolites have also been synthesized to obtain insights into the crystallization process. Charge‐balancing interactions between the inorganic cation, organic structure‐directing agent (OSDA), and Si−O− defects are found to be an essential aspect. We quantify this factor in terms of the “OSDA charge/silica ratio” of the as‐made zeolites and demonstrate that the DGC technique is broadly applicable and opens up new avenues for fluoride‐free siliceous zeolite synthesis.
Removal of cadmium(II) cations from an aqueous solution with aminothiourea chitosan strengthened magnetic biochar
Authors: Li Ronghua , Liang Wen , Huang Hui , Jiang Shuncheng , Guo Di , Li Manlin , Zhang Zengqiang , Ali Amajd , Wang Jim J.
Published: January 2018

An aminothiourea chitosan modified magnetic biochar composite (TMBC) was prepared for the efficient removal of Cd(II) from wastewater. The synthesized materials were characterized, and the detailed adsorption mechanisms and thermodynamics were studied. The adsorption experiments revealed that TMBC had a higher affinity for Cd(II) than the magnetic biochar composite, raw biochar, and other carbon‐based adsorbents did. The Cd(II) adsorption process fit the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model, and the maximum adsorption capacities on the basis of the Langmuir model were 93.72, 121.9, and 137.3 mg/g at 298, 308, and 318 K, respectively. The practical efficacy of the adsorbent was also tested with a real mine water. The metal‐ion‐loaded TMBC could be conveniently collected by a magnet and could be easily regenerated with adsorption efficiencies up to 84% after five adsorption–desorption cycles. The as‐prepared TMBC might be a promising adsorbent for the treatment of heavy‐metal‐ion‐contaminated water or highly mineralized mine water. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46239.
Density Functional Theory Mechanistic Study of Boron‐Catalyzed N‐Alkylation of Amines with Formic Acid: Formic Acid Activation by Silylation Reaction
Authors: Du Pan , Zhao Jiyang
Published: January 2018

New methodology for the alkylation of amines is an intriguing issue in both academia and industry. Recently, several groups reported the metal‐free B(C6F5)3‐catalyzed N‐alkylation of amines, but the mechanistic details of these important reactions are unclear. Herein, a computational study was performed to elucidate the mechanism of the N‐alkylation of amines with formic acid catalyzed by the Lewis acid B(C6F5)3 in the presence of hydrosilane. We found that the reaction started with the activation of formic acid through a novel model. Then, the high electrophilicity of the C center of the formic acid unit and the nucleophilic character of the amine resulted in a C−N coupling reaction. Finally, two sequential silyl‐group and H− transfer steps occurred to generate the final product. Upon comparing the reaction barrier and the hydrogenation of indole, our mechanism is more favorable than that proposed by the group of Yu and Fu.
CF3‐Inspired Synthesis of Air‐Tolerant 9‐Phosphaanthracenes that Feature Fluorescence and Crystalline Polymorphs
Authors: Ito Shigekazu , Koshino Kota , Mikami Koichi
Published: January 2018

9‐Phosphaanthracene (dibenzo[b,e]phosphorin, acridophosphine) has attracted interest as one of the heavier acenes. Herein, we demonstrate an efficient synthetic process that provides air‐tolerant 1,8‐bis(trifluoromethyl)‐9‐phosphaanthracenes. The sterically encumbered and electron‐withdrawing trifluoromethyl (CF3) groups are quite advantageous not only to stabilize the intrinsically unstable heavier unsaturated phosphorus atom but also to facilitate construction of the phosphinine skeleton based on a putative increase in aromaticity. The isolated 9‐phosphaanthracenes allowed characterization of their fluorescence functionality and planar heteroanthracene frameworks. The crystal structures of 9‐phosphaanthracenes are remarkably dependent on the aryl substituents at the 10 position; anthryl‐substituted 9‐phosphaanthracene showed unique polymorphs that induced different‐colored crystals.
Synthesis of a Near‐Infrared BODIPY Dye for Bioimaging and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Liu Yang , Song Nan , Chen Li , Liu Shi , Xie Zhigang
Published: January 2018

The development of robust photothermal agents for near‐infrared (NIR) imaging is a great challenge. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a new photothermal agent, based on the aza‐boron‐dipyrromethene framework (azaBDP). This compound possessed excellent photostability and high photothermal‐conversion efficiency (50 %) under NIR laser irradiation. When the photothermal properties of this compound were utilized for tumor inhibition, stable long‐term fluorescence was observed in living animals. Photothermal treatment efficiently suppressed tumor growth, as evidenced by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Furthermore, NIR emission could be detected by using an imaging system and therapeutic self‐monitoring was achieved by using NIR imaging.
Nonlinearity recovery by standard and aggregative orthogonal series algorithms
Authors: Śliwiński Przemysław ,  Wachel Paweł , Łagosz Szymon
Published: January 2018

In this paper, the problem of nonlinearity recovery in Hammerstein systems is considered. Two algorithms are presented: the first is a standard orthogonal series algorithm, whereas the other, ie, the aggregative one, exploits the convex programming approach. The finite sample size properties of both approaches are examined, compared, and illustrated in a numerical experiment. The aggregative algorithm performs better when the number of measurements is comparable to the number of parameters; however, it also imposes additional smoothness restrictions on the recovered nonlinearities.
Effect of linkers on immobilization of scFvs with biotin–streptavidin interaction
Authors: Ikonomova Svetlana P. , Le Megan T. , Kalla Neha , Karlsson Amy J.
Published: January 2018

Single‐chain variable fragment antibodies (scFvs) are attractive for use in applications that require high specificity and binding to a target, such as biosensors. Previously, we demonstrated that a variety of scFvs can be immobilized onto a streptavidin surface through in vivo biotinylation of the biotin carboxyl carrier protein (BCCP) or smaller AviTag fused to the scFvs. However, the BCCP constructs showed better immobilization than the AviTag constructs. In this work, we investigated whether the discrepancy between the biotinylation tags could be alleviated by incorporating a flexible (G4S)n linker of varying lengths or a rigid (EA3K)3 linker between the biotinylation tags and the scFvs scFv13R4 and scFv5. Fusion of the (G4S)5 linker or the (G4S)3 linker to the AviTag construct of scFv13R4 or scFv5, respectively, and fusion of the (EA3K)3 linkers to the AviTag constructs of both scFvs enhanced immobilization. Meanwhile, the robust immobilization of the BCCP construct of the scFv constructs remained unaffected. The positive to neutral effects of the linkers, with no adverse effects, make them beneficial tools to incorporate into fusion proteins that show poor immobilization without a linker.
The Active Malformations Surveillance Program, Boston in 1972–2012: Methodology and demographic characteristics
Authors: Holmes Lewis B. , Nasri Hanah , Westgate Marie‐Noel , Toufaily M. Hassan , Lin Angela E.
Published: January 2018

Background

Malformations surveillance programs have been carried out in consecutive populations of newborn infants at single hospitals, as well as in several hospitals in defined populations. A surveillance program begins with the review of the findings recorded by the examining pediatrician in each infant's medical record. The results of diagnostic tests, consultations, and imaging studies are obtained, also, from that infant's medical record. Some malformations surveillance programs identify additional malformations over several months, as the infants have hospitalizations and additional diagnostic testing.

Methods

289,365 infants (liveborn, stillborn, and fetuses in pregnancies terminated because of anomalies) were surveyed from 1972 to 2012 at an urban maternity center in Boston to identify each infant with one or more malformations. Each mother was interviewed to obtain demographic characteristics, results of prenatal testing, family history, and information about exposures in pregnancies. Specific diagnoses were established by the study geneticists.

Results

7,020 (2.4%) of the 289,365 infants surveyed had one or more malformations. The etiologies identified included chromosome abnormalities, phenotypes attributed to dominant or recessive autosomal or X‐linked mutations, vascular disruption, environmental factors, and complications of twinning.

Conclusion

The surveillance of a large consecutive population of newborn infants, stillbirths, and aborted fetuses can identify with high reliability all infants with one or more malformations. This process of ascertainment of affected newborns can be used to improve genetic counseling, identify “new” phenotypes, and serve as a system for testing new technologies to establish more causes of congenital malformations.
Polydactyly, postaxial, type B
Authors: Holmes Lewis B. , Nasri Hanah , Hunt Anne‐Therese , Toufaily M. Hassan , Westgate Marie‐Noel
Published: January 2018

Background

Postaxial polydactyly, type B is the most common type of polydactyly. The vestigial sixth finger is attached by a narrow neurovascular pedicle to the lateral aspect of the hand or foot at the level of the metacarpal‐phalangeal joint or the metatarsal‐phalangeal joint. The occurrence of this type of polydactyly varies among racial groups, by sex and sidedness. Postaxial polydactyly, type A is a fully developed extra digit on the lateral aspect of the hand or foot with a bifid fifth or sixth metacarpal/metatarsal and is much less common.

Methods

In a malformations surveillance program, the frequency in racial groups, sex ratio and the frequency of other anomalies can be established.

Results

Five hundred forty‐five affected infants were identified from 1972 to 2012 in the surveillance of 289,365 liveborn and stillborn infants and elective terminations because of fetal anomalies detected prenatally. Postaxial polydactyly, type B was an isolated anomaly in 95% of the affected newborns. There were more affected males than females. Black infants were affected more often than White infants: 0.91/100 vs. 0.035/100 infants. The dangling extra digit was much more common in the hands than in the feet.

Conclusions

Postaxial polydactyly, type B is almost always an isolated, mild malformation with no medical significance. Postaxial polydactyly, types B and A occurred in several infants, suggesting that either the underlying mutation(s) can cause both types of postaxial polydactyly or that some affected infants have more than one mutation. Autosomal dominant inheritance with variable expressivity is postulated.
Synthesis and properties of blue luminescent bipolar materials constructed with carbazole and anthracene units with 4‐cyanophenyl substitute at the 9‐position of the carbazole unit
Authors: Xie Pengbo , Yuan Ningning , Li Shanji , Ouyang Ying , Zhu Yongju , Liang Hui
Published: January 2018

With carbazole and p‐cyanobromobenzene as raw materials, 4‐(3,6‐di (anthracen‐9‐yl)‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)benzonitrile (DACB) and 4‐(3,6‐bis(anthracene ‐9‐ylethynyl)‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)benzonitrile (BACB) were synthesized through the Suzuki coupling reaction and the Sonogashira coupling reaction, respectively. These structures were characterized using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), elemental analysis and mass spectrometry. Their thermal properties, ultraviolet–visible (UV‐vis) absorption, fluorescence emission, fluorescence quantum yields and electrochemical properties were also investigated systematically. In addition, a electroluminescence (EL) device was made with BACB as the emitting layer and performance of the EL device was studied. Results showed that: (1) the temperature points with 5% and 10% of DACB weight loss were 443°C and 461°C, respectively, and were 475°C and 506°C with BACB weight loss of 5% and 10%, respectively. When the temperature was 50−300°C, no significantly thermal transition was observed which suggested that they had excellent thermal stability. (2) DACB and BACB had single emission peaks at 415 nm, and 479 nm with fluorescence quantum yields of 0.61 and 0.87, respectively, indicating that both compounds could emit strong blue light. (3) According to electrochemical measurement on BACB and DACB, their gaps were 3.07 eV and 2.76 eV, respectively, which further showed that these two compounds were very stable and acted as efficient blue light materials. (4) The turn‐on voltage of the device was 5 V, and the device emitted dark blue light with Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.157, 0.079).
EasyCloneYALI: CRISPR/Cas9‐Based Synthetic Toolbox for Engineering of the Yeast Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Holkenbrink Carina , Dam Marie I. , Kildegaard Kanchana R. , Beder Johannes , Dahlin Jonathan , Doménech Belda David , Borodina Irina
Published: January 2018

The oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica is an emerging host for production of fatty acid‐derived chemicals. To enable rapid iterative metabolic engineering of this yeast, there is a need for well‐characterized genetic parts and convenient and reliable methods for their incorporation into yeast. Here, the EasyCloneYALI genetic toolbox, which allows streamlined strain construction with high genome editing efficiencies in Y. lipolytica via the CRISPR/Cas9 technology is presented. The toolbox allows marker‐free integration of gene expression vectors into characterized genome sites as well as marker‐free deletion of genes with the help of CRISPR/Cas9. Genome editing efficiencies above 80% were achieved with transformation protocols using non‐replicating DNA repair fragments (such as DNA oligos). Furthermore, the toolbox includes a set of integrative gene expression vectors with prototrophic markers conferring resistance to hygromycin and nourseothricin.
Psychological distress and resilience as risk and protective factors of psychoactive substance use among Chinese nonengaged youth
Authors: Wu Anise M. S. , Lau Joseph T. F. , Mo Phoenix K. H. , Lau Mason M. C.
Published: January 2018

Nonengaged youth (NEY) are those who have neither been working nor studying for a prolonged period of time. They are at risk of psychoactive substance use, but relevant studies are scarce. Based on a population‐based telephone survey and referrals, we anonymously interviewed 479 Hong Kong Chinese NEY aged 15–24 years. Of them, 14.8–23.7% reported moderate to severe depression, anxiety, and stress. Moreover, one fourth of the participants (24.8%; n = 119) had used psychoactive substances. Adjusted analyses showed that these three psychological distress variables were positively associated with, while resilience was negatively associated with, both ever‐use of psychoactive substances and intention to use such substances in the next 12 months. Loneliness was associated only with intention to use psychoactive substances. The mediating role of psychological distress was shown: Anxiety significantly mediated the association between resilience and ever‐use of psychoactive substances, whereas depression mediated that between resilience and behavioural intention. Resilience was not a significant moderator on the relationship between psychological distress and ever‐use of psychoactive substance use or behavioural intention to use those substances. The findings suggest that anti‐drug interventions should outreach NEY and should include mental health support as well as building up resilience, as NEY are prone to psychological distress that increases risk of substance use.
Site‐Selective Functionalization of Flagellin by Steric Self‐Protection: A Strategy To Facilitate Flagellin as a Self‐Adjuvanting Carrier in Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Peng Chi‐Jiun , Chen Hsiu‐Ling , Chiu Cheng‐Hsun , Fang Jim‐Min
Published: January 2018

Flagellin (FliC) can act as a carrier protein in the preparation of conjugate vaccines to elicit a T‐cell‐dependent immune response and as an intrinsic adjuvant to activate the toll‐like receptor 5 (TLR5) to enhance vaccine potency. To enable the use of FliC as a self‐adjuvanting carrier, an effective method for site‐selective modification (SSM) of pertinent amino‐acid residues in the D2 and D3 domains of FliC is explored without excessive modification of the D0 and D1 domains, which are responsible for activating and binding with TLR5. In highly concentrated Na2SO4 solution, FliC monomers form flagellar filaments, in which the D0 and D1 domains are situated inside the tubular structure. Thus, the lysine residues (K219, K224, K324, and K331) in the D2 and D3 domains of flagellin are selectively modified by a diazo‐transfer reaction with imidazole‐1‐sulfonyl azide. The sites with azido modification are confirmed by MALDI‐TOF‐MS, ESI‐TOF‐MS, and LC–MS/MS analyses along with label‐free quantitation. The azido‐modified filament dissolves to give FliC monomers, which can conjugate with alkyne‐hinged saccharides by the click reaction. Transmission electron microscopy imaging, dynamic light scattering measurements, and the secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase reporter assay indicate that the modified FliC monomers retain the ability either to bind with TLR5 or to reassemble into filaments. Overall, this study establishes a feasible method for the SSM of FliC by steric self‐protection of the D0 and D1 domains.
Improvement in the Photobiological Hydrogen Production of Aggregated Chlorella by Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Authors: Shu Lei , Xiong Wei , Shao Changyu , Huang Tingting , Duan Pengqiang , Liu Kun , Xu Xurong , Ma Weimin , Tang Ruikang
Published: January 2018

Photobiological hydrogen production plays a vital role in generating clean renewable energy owing to its low energy consumption and environmental friendliness. Although materials‐induced Chlorella aggregates have been developed to achieve sustained photobiological hydrogen production under normal aerobic conditions, the yield is relatively low and equals only 0.42 % of the light‐to‐H2 energy‐conversion efficiency. Herein, we report that only 0.5 vol % dimethyl sulfoxide in an aqueous environment significantly enhances the H2 yield produced by aggregated Chlorella, reaching 0.69 % of the light‐to‐H2 energy‐conversion efficiency. This improvement can be attributed to an increase in the cellular respiration rate by dimethyl sulfoxide, which results in a decrease in the oxygen content inside the aggregates and, ultimately, to the activation of more hydrogenases. More generally, this strategy consists of a functional enhancement in organism–material hybrids by using small molecules.
Novel myophosphorylase mutation (p.Arg94Pro) with progressive exercise intolerance
Authors: Nabavi Nouri Maryam , Lamhonwah Anne‐Marie , Tein Ingrid
Published: January 2018

Key Clinical Message

We present a 16‐year‐old girl with a unique clinical phenotype characterized by rapidly progressive exercise intolerance, transient exertional weakness, and progressive muscle cramps involving all limbs and bulbar muscles, following a first myoglobinuric episode at age 15 years, arising from homozygosity for a novel missense mutation (c.281G>C) in PYGM.
Mesoporous Perovskite Nanotube‐Array Enhanced Metallic‐State Platinum Dispersion for Low Temperature Propane Oxidation
Authors: Wang Sibo , Du Shoucheng , Tang Wenxiang , Hoang Son , Lu Xingxu , Xiao Wen , Zhang Bo , Weng Junfei , Schneer Evan , Guo Yanbing , Ding Jun , Zhang Zhaoliang , Gao Pu‐Xian
Published: January 2018

Plagued by low surface area and limited oxidation activity at low temperature, perovskite‐type LaMnO3 based catalysts also suffer from poor hydrothermal stability. In this communication, mesoporous nanotube arrays of LaMnO3‐Pt were successfully derived from core/shell nanorod arrays with significantly increased surface area through diluted acid etching. Surface Mn4+ population is boosted to compensate La cation deficiency and enhance low temperature reducibility of nanotube arrays, enabling surface dispersion of abundant metallic‐state Pt nanoparticles. As a result, significantly enhanced catalytic propane oxidation was achieved in such a new class of perovskite/Pt nanotube array integrated structured catalysts.
Activation of Molecular Oxygen Using Durable Cobalt Encapsulated with Nitrogen‐Doped Graphitic Carbon Shells for Aerobic Oxidation of Lignin‐Derived Alcohols
Authors: Sun Yuxia , Ma Hong , Luo Yang , Zhang Shujing , Gao Jin , Xu Jie
Published: January 2018

It has long been a challenge for activating O2 by transition‐metal nanocatalysts, which might lose activity due to strong tendency for oxidation. Herein, O2 could be activated by durable encapsulated cobalt nanoparticles (NPs) with N‐doped graphitic carbon shells (Co@N‐C), but not by encapsulated cobalt NPs with graphitic carbon, exposed cobalt NPs supported on activated carbon, or N‐doped carbon. Electron paramagnetic resonance, real‐time in situ FTIR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry measurements demonstrated the generation of the highly active superoxide radical, O2.−. This unique ability enables Co@N‐C to afford an excellent catalytic performance in model aerobic oxidation of monomeric lignin‐derived alcohols. Further analysis elucidated that encapsulated cobalt and nitrogen‐doped graphitic carbon might contribute to the capacity through influencing the electronic properties of outer layers. Moreover, through isolation by N‐doped graphitic carbon shells, the inner metallic cobalt NPs are inaccessible in term of either alcohols or oxygenated products, and a distinctive resistance to leaching and agglomeration has been achieved.
Biomineralization State of Viruses and Their Biological Potential
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Liu Xueyao , Xiao Yun , Hao Haibin , Zhang Ying , Tang Ruikang
Published: January 2018

In nature, viruses can realize self‐mineralization under metal‐ion‐abundant conditions. Interestingly, the mineralized state is a transition state of the virus when the host is not available. Mammalian viruses that share the similar chemical properties also stand a chance of transformation into a mineralized state. In this review, we focus on the possibility of mammalian viruses to undergo mineralization under a physiological environment and the development of biomineralized‐based virus engineering. We will introduce the effect of biomineralization on the physiochemical or biological properties of viruses and we will discuss the relationship between mineral composition and biological potentials. The new biological prospects of mineralized‐state viruses, including bypassing biological barriers, protection, and virus–host recognition, will provide new insight for the biosecurity and prevention of viral infection. With respect to vaccines, the mineralized state can modulate the immune recognition, change the immunization route, and elevate the vaccine efficacy. Together, these findings of the mineralized state of the virus may lead to a new understanding of virus biology, application, and prevention.
Influence of alkali metal (Li and Cs) addition to Mo2N catalyst for CO hydrogenation to hydrocarbons and oxygenates
Authors: Zaman Sharif F. , Pasupulety Nagaraju , Al‐Zahrani Abdulrahim A. , Daous Muhammad A. , Driss Hafedh , Al‐Shahrani Saad S. , Petrov Lachezar
Published: January 2018

The aim of this work is to understand the catalytic behaviour of Li and Cs promoted Mo2N for CO hydrogenation to hydrocarbons and oxygenates at the reaction conditions 275–325 °C, 7 MPa, and 30 000 h−1 GHSV. Molybdenum nitrides were synthesized via temperature programmed treatment of ammonium heptamolybdate (AHM) and alkali metal (AM) precursors under continuous gaseous ammonia flow. Unpromoted Mo2N and AM‐Mo2N catalysts were characterized using BET‐pore size, X‐ray diffraction, TPD‐mass of CO, HR‐TEM, and XPS techniques. Nominal loadings of 1, 5, and 10 wt% of Li and Cs were selected for these studies. At a 10 % CO conversion level, the total oxygenate selectivity of 28, 11, and 6.5 % was observed on 5Cs‐Mo2N, 5Li‐Mo2N, and unpromoted Mo2N, respectively. The decreased oxygenate selectivity for unpromoted Mo2N was mainly associated with CO dissociative hydrogenation on Moδ+ sites. On the other hand, improved molecular CO insertion into −CxHy intermediate accelerates the total oxygenate formation on the Cs‐Mo‐N catalyst. However, during nitridation, crystal structure changes were observed in Li‐Mo‐N and the obtained oxygenates selectivity was attributed to the Li2MoO4 phases. At lower AM loadings, the active sites corresponding to oxygenates formation were inadequate, and at higher AM loadings, surface metallic molybdenum decreased the total oxygenate selectivity.
Changes in physicochemical properties of activated carbon during treatment with supercritical water
Authors: Zhang Yuechao , Tian Senlin , Gu Junjie , Ning Ping , Li Yingjie
Published: January 2018

We investigated the changes in activated carbon (AC) physicochemical properties during treatment with supercritical water (SCW). Experimental results show that SCW treatment can increase the specific surface area and pore volume of AC. Scanning electron microscopy proves that the AC surface undergoes severe corrosion, resulting in the exposure of highly porous structures. In addition, the point‐of‐zero charge of AC increases after SCW treatment without the addition of HCl, H2SO4, and H2O2. This result is confirmed by the presence of C≡C and −OH functional moieties, as established through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Temperature programmed desorption profiles suggest that the decomposition of AC in the SCW treatment produces pyrone and anhydride functional groups. According to the above results, SCW treatment increases the adsorption capacities of AC. In SCW catalytic processes, therefore, active components removed from the surface of AC‐supported catalysts are directly involved in reactions that enhance the catalytic activity.
Effect of Benzene Rings’ Incorporation on Photovoltaic Performance of Indacenodithiophene‐cored Molecular Acceptors
Authors: Fan Haijun , Wu Hao , Wang Pengfei , Zhu Xiaozhang
Published: January 2018

Two simple molecular acceptors, NIDBT and NIDT, bearing the same end groups of 2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile (INCN) yet with different core units, indenofluorenodithiophene (IDBT) and indaceno[2,1‐b:6,5‐b’]dithiophene (IDT), respectively, were adopted to fabricate polymer solar cells by blending with a narrow bandgap polymer donor, PBDBTBTT‐Hex (P3). The incorporation of benzene rings into the molecular skeletons generates a negative effect on the photovoltaic performance of resultant molecular acceptor, rendering an inferior power conversion efficiency of 2.45%, compared to 4.05% for the NIDT‐based bulk‐heterojunction solar cells. Detailed comparison on photovoltaic parameters indicates that the fusion by incorporating two separated benzene rings into the IDT core renders molecular acceptor of weakened intermolecular interaction with the polymer donor, which results in over‐aggregated phase separation, unbalanced charge transport, and serious recombination within the photovoltaic devices. The work contributes to a deep understanding of the effect of skeleton‐fusion strategy for designing high‐performance molecular acceptors.