bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lead‐Free Perovskite Derivative Cs2SnCl6−xBrx Single Crystals for Narrowband Photodetectors
Authors: Zhou Jun , Luo Jiajun , Rong Ximing , Wei Peijia , Molokeev Maxim S. , Huang Yang , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin , Zhang Xiuwen , Tang Jiang , Xia Zhiguo
Published: March 2019

Lead‐free and stable Sn halide perovskites demonstrate tremendous potential in the field of optoelectronic devices. Here, the structure and optical properties of the “defect” perovskites Cs2SnCl6−xBrx are reported, as well as their use as photodetector materials. Millimeter‐sized Cs2SnCl6−xBrx single crystals are grown by the hydrothermal method, with the body color continuously changing from transparent to yellow and finally to dark red. Narrowband single‐crystal photodetectors using Cs2SnCl6−xBrx crystals are presented, which show a high detectivity of ≈2.71 × 1010 Jones, with narrowband photodetection (full‐width at half‐maximum ≈45 nm) and high ion diffusion barriers. Moreover, the response spectra are continuously tuned from near violet to orange depending on the variation of the bandgap of the single crystals by changing the halide compositions. The strong surface charge recombination of the excess carriers near the crystal surfaces produced by short wavelength light elucidates the narrowband photodetection behavior. This work provides a new paradigm in the design of lead‐free, stable, and high‐performance perovskite derivatives for optoelectronics applications.
Gold Nanoparticles with Selective Antileukemic Activity In Vitro and In Vivo Target Mitochondrial Respiration
Authors: Gaiser Ann‐Kathrin , Hafner Susanne , Schmiech Michael , Büchele Berthold , Schäfer Patrick , von Arnim Christine A. , Calzia Enrico , Feuring‐Buske Michaela , Buske Christian , Vick Binje , Jeremias Irmela , Syrovets Tatiana , Simmet Thomas
Published: March 2019

This study explores biocompatible amino‐functionalized gold nanoparticles (Au‐NH2) as nanotherapeutics for the selective eradication of leukemia cells, elucidates the mechanism of cytotoxicity, and it confirms in vivo efficacy of the engineered nanomaterial. Au‐NH2 trigger apoptotic cell death of myeloid leukemia cell lines and primary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells by i) inhibition of mitochondrial respiration, ii) ATP depletion, iii) loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and iv) mitochondrial release of cytochrome c. Au‐NH2 act selectively on leukemia cells inasmuch as the viability of normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells and macrophages as well as the colony formation of hematopoietic stem cells remain basically unaffected. The selectivity of Au‐NH2 for AML cells can be attributed to both the preferential accumulation of AuNH2 in AML cells and the strong dependence of those cells on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation for ATP production. Importantly, Au‐NH2 applied either as monotherapy or as a cytarabine combination regimen possess antileukemic efficacy in the absence of adverse events in mice xenografted with primary human AML in vivo. The engineered material may pave the way for a novel nanotherapeutic treatment of AML.
Proton‐Irradiation Effects on the Thermoelectric Properties of Flexible Bi2Te3/PEDOT:PSS Composite Films
Authors: Goo Giwon , Anoop Gopinathan , Unithrattil Sanjith , Kim Wan Sik , Lee Hye Jeong , Kim Hyun Bin , Jung Myung‐Hwan , Park Jongjun , Ko Heung Cho , Jo Ji Young
Published: March 2019

Bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) are two major inorganic and organic thermoelectric (TE) materials that are widely investigated for TE device applications. An inorganic–organic composite, based on Bi2Te3 and PEDOT:PSS possessing a high TE figure of merit, has immense potential in fabricating highly efficient and flexible TE generators. In order to achieve an enhanced TE performance, the interdependent TE parameters such as electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of the composite should be decoupled. In this study, the TE properties of the composites are enhanced through the creation of additional defects in Bi2Te3 via proton irradiation. The structural variations occurred in Bi2Te3 via proton irradiation are analyzed using X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, which quantitatively reveal structural damages as well as deviations from the Bi2Te3 stoichiometry. The proton irradiation‐induced antisite defects in the Bi2Te3 crystal are found to be beneficial in decoupling the interdependent TE parameters of Bi2Te3/PEDOT:PSS composite thin films, through which enhanced TE performance is achieved. The findings demonstrate that proton irradiation of Bi2Te3 is an effective method to engineer the TE properties through inducing defects in Bi2Te3 and enhancing the interaction between Bi2Te3 and PEDOT:PSS.
All‐Solid‐State On‐Chip Supercapacitors Based on Free‐Standing 4H‐SiC Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Li Weijun , Liu Qiao , Fang Zhi , Wang Lin , Chen Shanliang , Gao Fengmei , Ji Yuan , Yang Weiyou , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: March 2019

All‐solid‐state on‐chip SiC supercapacitors (SCs) based on free‐standing SiC nanowire arrays (NWAs) are reported. In comparison to the widely used technique based on the interdigitated fingers, the present strategy can be much more facile for constructing on‐chip SCs devices, which is directly sandwiched with a solid electrolyte layer between two pieces of SiC NWAs film without any substrate. The mass loading of active materials of on‐chip SiC SCs can be up to ≈5.6 mg cm−2, and the total device thickness is limited in ≈40 µm. The specific area energy and power densities of the SCs device reach 5.24 µWh cm−2 and 11.2 mW cm−2, and their specific volume energy and power densities run up to 1.31 mWh cm–3 and 2.8 W cm−3, respectively, which are two orders of magnitude higher than those of state‐of‐the‐art SiC‐based SCs, and also much higher than those of other solid‐state carbon‐based SCs ever reported. Furthermore, such on‐chip SCs exhibit superior rate capability and robust stability with over 94% capacitance retention after 10 000 cycles at a scan rate of 100 mV s−1, representing their high performance in all merits.
Hemodynamics and stroke risk in intracranial atherosclerotic disease
Authors: Leng Xinyi , Lan Linfang , Ip Hing Lung , Abrigo Jill , Scalzo Fabien , Liu Haipeng , Feng Xueyan , Chan Ka Lung , Fan Florence S. Y. , Ma Sze Ho , Fang Hui , Xu Yuming , Li Jingwei , Zhang Bing , Xu Yun , Soo Yannie O. Y. , Mok Vincent C. T. , Yu Simon C. H. , Liebeskind David S. , Wong Ka Sing , Leung Thomas W.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To investigate whether hemodynamic features of symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS) might correlate with the risk of stroke relapse, using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model.

Methods

In a cohort study, we recruited patients with acute ischemic stroke attributed to 50 to 99% ICAS confirmed by computed tomographic angiography (CTA). With CTA‐based CFD models, translesional pressure ratio (PR = pressurepoststenotic/pressureprestenotic) and translesional wall shear stress ratio (WSSR = WSSstenotic − throat/WSSprestenotic) were obtained in each sICAS lesion. Translesional PR ≤ median was defined as low PR and WSSR ≥4th quartile as high WSSR. All patients received standard medical treatment. The primary outcome was recurrent ischemic stroke in the same territory (SIT) within 1 year.

Results

Overall, 245 patients (median age = 61 years, 63.7% males) were analyzed. Median translesional PR was 0.94 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.87–0.97); median translesional WSSR was 13.3 (IQR = 7.0–26.7). SIT occurred in 20 (8.2%) patients, mostly with multiple infarcts in the border zone and/or cortical regions. In multivariate Cox regression, low PR (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 3.16, p = 0.026) and high WSSR (adjusted HR = 3.05, p = 0.014) were independently associated with SIT. Patients with both low PR and high WSSR had significantly higher risk of SIT than those with normal PR and WSSR (risk = 17.5% vs 3.0%, adjusted HR = 7.52, p = 0.004).

Interpretation

This work represents a step forward in utilizing computational flow simulation techniques in studying intracranial atherosclerotic disease. It reveals a hemodynamic pattern of sICAS that is more prone to stroke relapse, and supports hypoperfusion and artery‐to‐artery embolism as common mechanisms of ischemic stroke in such patients. Ann Neurol 2019;85:752–764
Detecting Single‐Molecule Dynamics on Lipid Membranes with Quenchers‐in‐a‐Liposome FRET
Authors: Ma Dong‐Fei , Xu Chun‐Hua , Hou Wen‐Qing , Zhao Chun‐Yu , Ma Jian‐Bing , Huang Xing‐Yuan , Jia Qi , Ma Lu , Diao Jiajie , Liu Cong , Li Ming , Lu Ying
Published: March 2019

Tracking membrane‐interacting molecules and visualizing their conformational dynamics are key to understanding their functions. It is, however, challenging to accurately probe the positions of a molecule relative to a membrane. Herein, a single‐molecule method, termed LipoFRET, is reported to assess interplay between molecules and liposomes. It takes advantage of FRET between a single fluorophore attached to a biomolecule and many quenchers in a liposome. This method was used to characterize interactions between α‐synuclein (α‐syn) and membranes. These results revealed that the N‐terminus of α‐syn inserts into the membrane and spontaneously transitions between different depths. In contrast, the C‐terminal tail of α‐syn is regulated by calcium ions and floats in solution in two conformations. LipoFRET is a powerful tool to investigate membrane‐interacting biomolecules with sub‐nanometer precision at the single‐molecule level.
Electrochemiluminescence Platforms Based on Small Water‐Insoluble Organic Molecules for Ultrasensitive Aqueous‐Phase Detection
Authors: Han Zhengang , Yang Zhaofan , Sun Heshui , Xu Yali , Ma Xiaofang , Shan Duoliang , Chen Jing , Huo Shuhui , Zhang Zhen , Du Peiyao , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: March 2019

Highly efficient detection in the aqueous phase for water‐insoluble organic molecule probes is challenging. The bright aggregated‐state electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of 1,1‐disubstituted 2,3,4,5‐tetraphenylsiloles by a co‐reactant approach was discovered, and a heterogeneous aggregation‐induced emission ECL (HAIE‐ECL) was constructed at the electrode surface, showing very high ECL efficiency (37.8 %) and selective recognition for industrially important DNBP plasticizer with a low detection limit of 0.15 nm in the water phase. A mechanistic study indicates that ECL is mainly generated due to the high electron affinity of siloles and restriction of the intramolecular motions caused by their propeller‐like noncoplanar structures. This system realizes the sensing of organic‐based ECL in the water phase by solving the crucial problems of water insolubility and aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ), and demonstrates potential for further application because of its design and high efficiency.
IDPi‐Katalyse
Authors: Schreyer Lucas , Properzi Roberta , List Benjamin
Published: March 2019

Hohe Acidität und sterische Einschränkung sind Schlüsselelemente bei der asymmetrischen Säure‐Katalyse. Die kürzlich eingeführten Imidodiphosphorimidat (IDPi)‐Brønsted‐Säuren haben diese Eigenschaften mit bemerkenswertem Erfolg kombiniert. Sie wirken als hochaktive Brønsted‐Säure‐Katalysatoren und als “Silylium”‐Lewis‐Säure‐Präkatalysatoren bei zahlreichen vorher nicht zugänglichen Transformationen. Schwierig zu aktivierende Substrate wie einfache Olefine ließen sich leicht umsetzen. Ketone wurden als Akzeptoren bei Aldolreaktionen eingesetzt, die eine Katalyse im Sub‐ppm‐Bereich ermöglichten, während Enolate des kleinsten Donoraldehyds, Acetaldehyd, nicht polymerisiert, sondern gezielt ein einziges Mal an eine Vielzahl von Akzeptoraldehyden gekuppelt wurden.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Stitching Polymerization of 1,5‐Hexadiynes and Related Oligoalkynes
Authors: Ikeda Sho , Shintani Ryo
Published: March 2019

A new mode of polymerization, rhodium‐catalyzed stitching polymerization, has been developed for the synthesis of π‐conjugated polymers with bridged repeating units from nonconjugated 1,5‐hexadiynes containing both terminal and internal alkyne moieties as monomers. The polymerization proceeded smoothly with a high degree of stitching efficiency under mild conditions, and 1,5,9‐decatriyne and 1,5,9,13‐tetradecatetrayne monomers could also be employed. The present polymerization strategy would be particularly beneficial for the synthesis of polymers consisting of a repeating unit that is difficult to prepare as a stable monomer because it does not require the use of a preformed bridged π‐conjugated monomer.
NiFe Alloy Nanoparticles with hcp Crystal Structure Stimulate Superior Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalytic Activity
Authors: Wang Changhong , Yang Hongchao , Zhang Yejun , Wang Qiangbin
Published: March 2019

Tuning the crystal phase of metal alloy nanomaterials has been proved a significant way to alter their catalytic properties based on crystal structure and electronic property. Herein, we successfully developed a simple strategy to controllably synthesize a rare crystal structure of hexagonal close‐packed (hcp) NiFe nanoparticle (NP) encapsulated in a N‐doped carbon (NC) shell (hcp‐NiFe@NC). Then, we systemically investigated the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance of the samples under alkaline conditions, in which the hcp‐NiFe@NC exhibits superior OER activity compared to the conventional face‐centered cubic (fcc) NiFe encapsulated in a N‐doped carbon shell (fcc‐NiFe@NC). At the current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, the hcp‐NiFe@NC with Fe/Ni ratio of ≈5.4 % only needs ultralow overpotentials of 226 mV and 263 mV versus reversible hydrogen electrode in 1.0 m KOH electrolyte, respectively, which were extremely lower than those of fcc‐NiFe@NC and most of other reported NiFe‐based electrocatalysts. We proposed that hcp‐NiFe possesses favorable electronic property to expedite the reaction on the NC surface, resulting higher catalytic activity for OER. This research provides a new insight to design more efficient electrocatalysts by considering the crystal phase correlated electronic property.
Electrorheological behavior of low filled suspensions of highly anisometric montmorillonite particles
Authors: Stolyarova Dina Yu. , Kuznetsov Nikita M. , Belousov Sergey I. , Chvalun Sergei N.
Published: March 2019

The electrorheological (ER) behavior of modified montmorillonite (MMT) suspensions in polydimethylsiloxane is studied. As established by rotational viscometry, the samples with a dispersed phase concentration from 1 to 8 wt % reveal viscous Newtonian behavior and dramatically change their properties to elastic when electric field is applied. The rheological characteristics of the suspensions over 0–7 kV mm−1 range of electric field strengths are also studied. Novel X‐ray diffraction method is developed to evaluate the suspension of the filler in a siloxane medium and to calculate the degree of its exfoliation. The dependence of exfoliation degree, dielectric, and ER characteristics on the type of modifier in the MMT structure is considered. Based on the obtained data, a new model of system behavior with the various types of fillers is proposed and the prospects of utilizing MMT as a filler for ER fluids are demonstrated. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47678.
Tail Weaponry in Ankylosaurs and Glyptodonts: An Example of a Rare but Strongly Convergent Phenotype
Authors: Arbour Victoria M. , Zanno Lindsay E.
Published: March 2019

The unusual clubbed tails of glyptodonts among mammals and ankylosaurines among dinosaurs most likely functioned as weapons of intraspecific combat or interspecific defense and are characterized by stiffening of the distal tail and, in some taxa, expansion of the distal tail tip. Although similarities in tail weaponry have been noted as a potential example of convergent evolution, this hypothesis has not been tested quantitatively, particularly with metrics that can distinguish convergence from long‐term stasis, assess the relative strength of convergence, and identify potential constraints in the appearance of traits during the stepwise, independent evolution of these structures. Using recently developed metrics of convergence within a phylomorphospace framework, we document that convergence accounts for over 80% of the morphological evolution in traits associated with tail weaponry in ankylosaurs and glyptodonts. In addition, we find that ankylosaurs and glyptodonts shared an independently derived, yet constrained progression of traits correlated with the presence of a tail club, including stiffening of the distal tail as a precedent to expansion of the tail tip in both clades. Despite differences in the anatomical construction of the tail club linked to lineage‐specific historical contingency, these lineages experienced pronounced, quantifiable convergent evolution, supporting hypotheses of functional constraints and shared selective pressures on the evolution of these distinctive weapons. Anat Rec, 303:988–998, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Histologic and Transcriptional Evidence of Subclinical Synovial Inflammation in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Clinical Remission
Authors: Orange Dana E. , Agius Phaedra , DiCarlo Edward F. , Mirza Serene Z. , Pannellini Tania , Szymonifka Jackie , Jiang Caroline S. , Figgie Mark P. , Frank Mayu O. , Robinson William H. , Donlin Laura T. , Rozo Cristina , Gravallese Ellen M. , Bykerk Vivian P. , Goodman Susan M.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical remission may have subclinical synovial inflammation. This study was undertaken to determine the proportion of patients with RA in remission or with low disease activity at the time of arthroplasty who had histologic or transcriptional evidence of synovitis, and to identify clinical features that distinguished patients as having subclinical synovitis.

Methods

We compared Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) to synovial histologic features in 135 patients with RA undergoing arthroplasty. We also compared DAS28 scores to RNA‐Seq data in a subset of 35 patients.

Results

Fourteen percent of patients met DAS28 criteria for clinical remission (DAS28 <2.6), and another 15% met criteria for low disease activity (DAS28 <3.2). Histologic analysis of synovium revealed synovitis in 27% and 31% of samples from patients in remission and patients with low disease activity, respectively. Patients with low disease activity and synovitis also exhibited increased C‐reactive protein (CRP) (P = 0.0006) and increased anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) antibody levels (P = 0.03) compared to patients without synovitis. Compared to patients with a “low inflammatory synovium” subtype, 183 genes were differentially expressed in the synovium of patients with subclinical synovitis. The majority of these genes (86%) were also differentially expressed in the synovium of patients with clinically active disease (DAS28 ≥3.2).

Conclusion

Thirty‐one percent of patients with low clinical disease activity exhibited histologic evidence of subclinical synovitis, which was associated with increased CRP and anti‐CCP levels. Our findings suggest that synovial gene expression signatures of clinical synovitis are present in patients with subclinical synovitis.
Advances in the Total Synthesis of Xanthanolide‐Type Sesquiterpenoids
Authors: Lei Xiaoqiang , Feng Juan , Liu Jingchun , Tang Yefeng
Published: March 2019

Xanthanolide‐type sesquiterpenoids are a diverse family of natural products isolated primarily from the genus Xanthium (Compositae). The intriguing molecular architectures and biological profiles of these natural products have rendered them attractive targets for total synthesis. This focus review aims to provide an up‐to‐date summary of progress in the chemical synthesis of xanthanolide‐type sesquiterpenoids. Different synthetic strategies to form 5/7‐cis‐ and 5/7‐trans‐bicyclic xanthanolides are presented in chronological order, with an emphasis on the key elements used to forge the characteristic 5/7‐bicyclic cores of the targets. Recent advances in the total syntheses of structurally more complicated polycyclic and dimeric xanthanolides are also discussed.
Photocatalyst‐free Synthesis of Indazolones under CO2 Atmosphere
Authors: Yang Tianbao , Lu Huiai , Qiu Renhua , Hong Ling , Yin Shuang‐Feng , Kambe Nobuaki
Published: March 2019

A convenient photocatalyst‐free method for the synthesis of redox‐active 1,2‐dihydro‐3H‐indazol‐3‐one derivatives from (2‐nitroaryl)methanol and amines was developed. The reaction proceeded efficiently at room temperature by irradiation of UV light under CO2 atmosphere (1.0 atm, flow) without any photocatalysts or additives. This mild, operationally simple method shows wide functional tolerance. The carbamate formed in situ from CO2 and amine is proposed to be the key of this reaction. Some of these compounds synthesized by the present method were found to exhibit high anticancer activities, which can lower the viability of cancerous cell lines such as HeLa, MCF‐7 and U87.
Quantifying the Bonding Strength of Gold‐Chalcogen Bonds in Block Copolymer Systems
Authors: Xiang Wentian , Li Zhandong , Xu Cong‐Qiao , Li Jun , Zhang Wenke , Xu Huaping
Published: March 2019

Gold‐chalcogen interactions are ubiquitous in gold biological and medicinal systems. Understanding the nature of these interactions can provide the basis for regulating their structures and functionalities, and a reasonable way to interpret the differences in various properties. However, the relative strength of gold‐chalcogen bonds remains controversial, and the conclusions of many related works are inconsistent. Thus, in this work, we successfully quantified the relative strength of Au‐X (X=S, Se, and Te from chalcogenide‐containing A‐B‐A type block copolymers) interactions at the single‐molecule level through single‐molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) from a kinetic point of view and quantum chemical studies from a thermodynamic point of view. Both sets of results suggested that the strength of the Au‐X bonds decreases as Au‐Te>Au‐Se>Au‐S. Our findings unveiled the relative strength and nature of gold‐chalcogen interactions, which may help expand their application in electronics, catalysis, medicine and many other fields.
Stereochemistry of polypeptoid chain configurations
Authors: Spencer Ryan K. , Butterfoss Glenn L. , Edison John R. , Eastwood James R. , Whitelam Stephen , Kirshenbaum Kent , Zuckermann Ronald N.
Published: March 2019

Like polypeptides, peptoids, or N‐substituted glycine oligomers, have intrinsic conformational preferences due to their amide backbones and close spacing of side chain substituents. However, the conformations that peptoids adopt are distinct from polypeptides due to several structural differences: the peptoid backbone is composed of tertiary amide bonds that have trans and cis conformers similar in energy, they lack a backbone hydrogen bond donor, and have an N‐substituent. To better understand how these differences manifest in actual peptoid structures, we analyzed 46 high quality, experimentally determined peptoid structures reported in the literature to extract their backbone conformational preferences. One hundred thirty‐two monomer dihedral angle pairs were compared to the calculated energy landscape for the peptoid Ramachandran plot, and were found to fall within the expected minima. Interestingly, only two regions of the backbone dihedral angles ϕ and ψ were found to be populated that are mirror images of each other. Furthermore, these two conformers are present in both cis and trans forms. Thus, there are four primary conformers that are sufficient to describe almost all known backbone conformations for peptoid oligomers, despite conformational constraints imposed by a variety of side chains, macrocyclization, or crystal packing forces. Because these conformers are predominant in peptoid structure, and are distinct from those found in protein secondary structures, we propose a simple naming system to aid in the description and classification of peptoid structure.
Acid–Base Chemistry of Porphyrin/Graphene Oxide Complex: Role of Electrostatic Interaction
Authors: Shim Sangdeok
Published: March 2019

The acid–base chemistry of cationic 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(1‐methyl‐4‐pyridinio)porphyrin (TMPyP) and graphene oxide (GO) complex was studied in aqueous solution using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. By varying the pH from 0 to 13, we controlled the electrostatic properties of TMPyP and/or GO. The neutrality on GO or negative charge on TMPyP induced the dissociation of the TMPyP/GO complex, indicating that the electrostatic attractive force is indispensable for both forming and preserving the complex. Furthermore, our results suggest that the molecular flattening of the TMPyP in the TMPyP/GO complex is mainly caused by the π–π interaction.
Sustainable development carbon pricing initiative and voluntary environmental disclosures quality
Authors: Rahman Sohanur , Khan Tehmina , Siriwardhane Pavithra
Published: March 2019

Although corporate environmental disclosures have been researched extensively, empirical evidence regarding the indirect impact of carbon pricing on firms' voluntary disclosures is scarce. The objective of this study is to identify the indirect impact of carbon pricing initiatives on the voluntary environmental disclosures (VEDs) of electricity generating companies, analyzed through the lens of institutional theory. This study adds to the growing literature on the determinants of VED, investigating the impact of adoption of the Global Reporting Initiative and ISO 14001 on VED. Secondary data were collected from 2015 annual reports and/or standalone sustainability reports of electricity generating companies from 53 countries around the world. Content analysis approach was adopted for measuring the extent of the quality of VED. Findings of multiple regression analysis suggest that there is an indirect institutional impact of carbon pricing on the quality of VED. This study also finds that, as the form of nongovernment guidance, the Global Reporting Initiative adoption and ISO 14001 certification also have an institutional influence on the VED. VED is also affected by company size although this study reveals no significant relationship of leverage with VED.
Optimization of pH induced flocculation of marine and freshwater microalgae via central composite design
Authors: Akış Sevgi , Özçimen Didem
Published: March 2019

Microalgae harvesting via pH induced flocculation along with utilization of recovered medium after flocculation is one of the most economical methods for separating the microalgal biomass in order to reduce the dewatering cost. In this study, optimization of marine and freshwater microalgae flocculation by pH adjustment was investigated via central composite design methodology. One molar of KOH and NaOH solutions were used to increase the pH level of the microalgal culture. Increasing pH value of the medium provided the highest flocculation efficiency up to 92.63 and 86.18% with pH adjusted to 10.5 with KOH and NaOH solutions for marine microalgae Nannochloropsis oculata and freshwater microalgae Chlorella minutissima, respectively. Also, it was revealed that microalgae cells were still alive after flocculation process and their biochemical composition was not changed, and flocculated medium can be used again for the next microalgal production. According to the results, it can be said that this method is cheap and effective, simple to operate and provides the utilization of flocculated medium again.
Dihydroxyacetone production from glycerol using Gluconobacter oxydans: Study of medium composition and operational conditions in shaken flasks
Authors: de la Morena Susana , Acedos Miguel G. , Santos Victoria. E. , García‐Ochoa Félix
Published: March 2019

The production of dihydroxyacetone from glycerol employing aerobic cultures of Gluconobacter oxydans is studied. Dihydroxyacetone is one of the most important value‐added products obtained from glycerol, a by‐product of biodiesel production. The effect of organic nitrogen source and initial substrate concentrations has been studied together with the possibility of product inhibition. Afterward, the influence of the main operating conditions (temperature, shaking speed, and initial biomass concentration) on in vivo glycerol dehydrogenase activity has also been considered. The results show no evidence of glycerol inhibition, but an important product inhibition was detected, which has been taken into account in a kinetic model for enzymatic activity description. In terms of operating conditions, pH was found to exert a great impact on glycerol conversion, being necessary to keep it above 4 to ensure complete glycerol conversion. The minimum temperature that maximized enzymatic activity was found to be 30°C. In addition, a surprising decoupling between biomass concentration and dihydroxyacetone production rate was observed when adding increasing nitrogen source concentrations at a fixed shaking speed. Glycerol dehydrogenase activity remains constant despite the increase in biomass concentration, contrary to what would be expected. This fact revealed the existence of a rate limiting factor, identified subsequently as oxygen transfer rate depending on the biomass concentration.
Prevalence of mental distress among adult survivors of childhood cancer in Germany—Compared to the general population
Authors: Burghardt Juliane , Klein Eva , Brähler Elmar , Ernst Mareike , Schneider Astrid , Eckerle Susan , Neu Marie Astrid , Wingerter Arthur , Henninger Nicole , Panova‐Noeva Marina , Prochaska Jürgen , Wild Philipp , Beutel Manfred , Faber Jörg
Published: March 2019

Background

Increasing survival rates after childhood cancer have raised the issue of long‐term mental health consequences in adulthood. This study determines mental health distress among long‐term survivors of pediatric cancer and compares it to control groups.

Methods

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS; N = 951, aged 24‐49 years) were compared to three age‐matched control groups from the general population collected at three time points. The study compared the prevalence of clinically relevant symptoms of a wide range of common mental disorders (depression, somatic distress, suicidal ideation, generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, and sleep disturbances) using identical, validated questionnaires. CCS were identified by the German Childhood Cancer Registry. Controls were approached by a demographic consultation company (USUMA) which assured that the three samples were nationally representative.

Results

Childhood cancer survivors reported higher education than controls and were less often married. All forms of common mental distress were increased among survivors. Twenty‐four percent of male (N = 526) and 41% of female survivors (N = 425) reported some form of clinically relevant mental health symptoms. Somatic distress as the leading complaint was highly frequent among CCS (OR: 10.98, CI 95%: 7.24‐16.64). Complaints by generalized anxiety (OR: 5.04, CI 95%: 2.61‐9.70), panic (OR: 3.28, CI 95%: 1.60‐6.70), depression (OR: 3.36, CI 95%: 2.22‐5.09), and suicidality (OR = 2.22; CI 95%: 1.38‐3.57) were also strongly increased. Female sex, low education, low income, and unemployment were associated with increased distress.

Conclusions

Findings indicate a need to integrate psycho‐oncological screening and care into long‐term aftercare. Somatic distress, as cause and indicator of psychological distress, should receive stronger attention, especially tiredness, low energy, and pain.
Anti‐Adhesion Activity of Tannins Isolated from the Mangrove Laguncularia racemosa
Authors: Glasenapp Yvana , Lucas Christina , Wöltje Timo , Fohrer Jörg , Papenbrock Jutta
Published: March 2019

In the search of new compounds with biofilm‐inhibiting properties, mangroves with their richness of secondary metabolites can be a valuable resource. Crude methanolic leaf extracts from the mangrove Laguncularia racemosa enriched in phenolic substances cause a reduction in initial cell adhesion of Candida glabrata and Candida albicans, but not on Escherichia coli. LC/MS‐guided fractionation of the phenolic compounds resulted in 19 fractions, of which ten were analyzed for their bioactivity against cell adhesion. Effects on cell adhesion and planktonic growth of Escherichia coli, Candida glabrata and Candida albicans were measured in 96‐well microtiter plates in the presence of 0.2 mg ml−1 of the isolated fractions. Two fractions caused a reduction of cell adhesion of Candida albicans. These fractions containing bioactive compounds were analyzed by LC/MS and NMR spectroscopy. Casuarinin and digalloyl‐hexahydroxydiphenoyl‐glucose were identified in the active fractions, in addition to three signals of ellagitannins. These results indicate a specific mode of action of hydrolysable tannins against cell adhesion of Candida albicans, which needs to be further analyzed.
Radical‐Initiated Dismutation of Hydrosiloxanes by Catalytic Potassium‐Graphite
Authors: Frogneux Xavier , Pesesse Antoine , Delacroix Simon , Ribot François , Carenco Sophie
Published: March 2019

Formation of higher‐value products from cheaper silicone precursors such as polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) is a challenge for silicon chemistry. Here, we show that catalytic amount (<0.5 mol %) of potassium graphite (KC8) can be used as an efficient radical initiator for the cleavage of Si−O bonds of hydrosiloxanes. Methylsilane and dimethylsilane are quantitatively obtained from PMHS and TMDS (1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisiloxane), respectively. Taking advantage of the high reactivity of the newly formed silane, the reduction of carbonyl functionalities with KC8 in catalytic amount was further performed. Mechanistic investigations suggest that both the dismutation of the initial hydrosiloxane and the reduction of carbonyl derivatives by hydrosilylation are initiated with a radical pathway.
An Ionic Liquid/Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) Gel‐Polymer Electrolyte with a Compatible Interface for Sodium‐Based Batteries
Authors: Xie Man , Li Shuaijie , Huang Yongxin , Wang Ziheng , Jiang Ying , Wang Min , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: March 2019

Ionic liquid gel‐polymer electrolytes (GPEs) have attracted increasing attention, owing to their merits of safety and reliability. However, the high viscosity of ionic liquid requires better transmission channels for the polymer. Exploration of ionic liquid GPEs with high ionic conductivity and excellent transmission channels is a possible strategy to optimize the practicability of sodium‐based technology. A flexible GPE with high ionic conductivity and excellent transmission channels is synthesized with poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF−HFP) as the base material blended with the water‐insoluble ionic liquid N‐methyl‐N‐butyl piperidine difluoromethylimide ([PP14][TFSI]) by using a phase‐inversion technique. A polydopamine coating is then introduced into the GPE to improve wettability and compatibility. The thermal decomposition temperature of the prepared gel‐polymer films is greater than 450 °C. Our activated GPE achieves good safety, a wide electrochemical window, and high ionic conductivity. When testing a sodium‐ion battery with Prussian blue as the cathode, the batteries show good cycling performance. Our results suggest that the as‐prepared GPE can be efficiently and safely used in sodium‐ion batteries.
Enzymatic Cell‐Surface Decoration with Proteins using Amphiphilic Lipid‐Fused Peptide Substrates
Authors: Takahara Mari , Wakabayashi Rie , Fujimoto Naoki , Minamihata Kosuke , Goto Masahiro , Kamiya Noriho
Published: March 2019

Lipid modification of proteins plays a significant role in the activation of cellular signals such as proliferation. Thus, the demand for lipidated proteins is rising. However, getting a high yield and purity of lipidated proteins has been challenging. We developed a strategy for modifying proteins with a wide variety of synthetic lipids using microbial transglutaminase (MTG), which catalyzes the cross‐linking reaction between a specific glutamine (Q) in a protein and lysine (K) in the lipid‐fused peptide. The synthesized lipid‐G3S‐MRHKGS lipid (lipid: fatty acids, tocopherol, lithocholic acid, cholesterol) was successfully conjugated to a protein fused with LLQG (Q‐tagged protein) by an MTG reaction, yielding >90 % conversion of the Q‐tagged protein in a lipidated form. The purified lipid–protein conjugates were used for labeling the cell membrane in vitro, resulting in best‐anchoring ability of cholesterol modification. Furthermore, in situ cell‐surface decoration with the protein was established in a simple manner: subjection of cells to a mixture of cholesterol‐fused peptides, Q‐tagged proteins and MTG.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Vinylboronates by Rh‐Catalyzed Borylation of Stereoisomeric Mixtures
Authors: Li Shenhuan , Li Jie , Xia Tianlai , Zhao Wanxiang
Published: March 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

The stereoselective preparation of vinylboronates via rhodium‐catalyzed borylation of E/Z mixtures of vinyl actetates is described, and this method was also extended to synthesis of vinyldiboronates. These transformations feature high functional group compatibility and mild reaction conditions. Control experiments support a mechanism that involved a Rh‐catalyzed borylation‐isomerization sequence. The isomerization of (Z)‐vinylboronates to (E)‐isomers was also demonstrated.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of RGD and isoDGR–Monomethyl Auristatin Conjugates Targeting Integrin αVβ3
Authors: Raposo Moreira Dias André , Bodero Lizeth , Martins Ana , Arosio Daniela , Gazzola Silvia , Belvisi Laura , Pignataro Luca , Steinkühler Christian , Dal Corso Alberto , Gennari Cesare , Piarulli Umberto
Published: March 2019

This work reports the synthesis of a series of small‐molecule–drug conjugates containing the αVβ3‐integrin ligand cyclo[DKP‐RGD] or cyclo[DKP‐isoDGR], a lysosomally cleavable Val‐Ala (VA) linker or an “uncleavable” version devoid of this sequence, and monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) or F (MMAF) as the cytotoxic agent. The conjugates were obtained via a straightforward synthetic scheme taking advantage of a copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition as the key step. The conjugates were tested for their binding affinity for the isolated αvβ3 receptor and were shown to retain nanomolar IC50 values, in the same range as those of the free ligands. The cytotoxic activity of the conjugates was evaluated in cell viability assays with αvβ3 integrin overexpressing human glioblastoma (U87) and human melanoma (M21) cells. The conjugates possess markedly lower cytotoxic activity than the free drugs, which is consistent with inefficient integrin‐mediated internalization. In almost all cases the conjugates featuring isoDGR as integrin ligand exhibited higher potency than their RGD counterparts. In particular, the cyclo[DKP‐isoDGR]‐VA‐MMAE conjugate has low nanomolar IC50 values in cell viability assays with both cancer cell lines tested (U87: 11.50±0.13 nm; M21: 6.94±0.09 nm) and is therefore a promising candidate for in vivo experiments.
Endocrine‐related quality of life in a randomized trial of exercise on aromatase inhibitor–induced arthralgias in breast cancer survivors
Authors: Baglia Michelle L. , Lin I‐Hsin , Cartmel Brenda , Sanft Tara , Ligibel Jennifer , Hershman Dawn L. , Harrigan Maura , Ferrucci Leah M. , Li Fang‐Yong , Irwin Melinda L.
Published: March 2019

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of a 12‐month exercise intervention on endocrine‐related quality of life (QOL) and overall QOL among breast cancer survivors with aromatase inhibitor (AI)‐induced arthralgia in the Hormones and Physical Exercise (HOPE) Study.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial of 121 breast cancer survivors who were currently receiving AIs and experiencing at least mild arthralgia. QOL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT) questionnaires and the 36‐Item Short Form Survey (SF‐36) at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Participants were randomized to either a 1‐year gym‐based, supervised exercise intervention group (150 minutes of aerobic exercise and 2 strength‐training sessions each week) or a usual care group. Effects of the intervention on QOL were assessed using mixed‐model, repeated‐measures analysis.

Results

At 12 months, the exercise group had greater improvement in the overall QOL measures as well as the breast cancer‐specific (scores, 2.2 vs 0.7; P = .02), endocrine‐specific (scores, 5.6 vs 1.6; P < .001), and fatigue‐specific (score, 5.8 vs 0.5; P < .001) subscales compared with the usual care group. The results indicated a stronger effect at 12 months versus 6 months after the intervention.

Conclusions

Combined aerobic and resistance exercise, such as treadmill walking and strength training, improved endocrine‐related and overall QOL among breast cancer survivors who were experiencing adverse side effects from AIs. Because adverse side effects associated with AI use are quite common and this is the main reason for treatment discontinuation, this nonpharmacologic intervention could benefit many breast cancer survivors and increase successful adherence to AIs in breast cancer treatment.
Effect of bilateral carotid occlusion on cerebral hemodynamics and perivascular innervation: An experimental rat model
Authors: Rots M. L. , de Borst G. J. , van der Toorn A. , Moll F. L. , Pennekamp C. W. A. , Dijkhuizen R. M. , Bleys R. L. A. W.
Published: March 2019

We aimed to investigate the effect of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion on cerebral hemodynamics and perivascular nerve density in a rat model. Bilateral common carotid artery (CCA) ligation (n = 24) or sham‐operation (n = 24) was performed with a 1‐week interval. A subgroup (ligated n = 6; sham‐operated n = 3) underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before the procedures and 2 and 4 weeks after the second procedure. After termination, carotids were harvested for assessment of complete ligation and nerve density in cerebral arteries that were stained for the general neural marker PGP 9.5 and sympathetic marker TH by computerized image analysis. Five rats were excluded because of incomplete ligation. MRI‐based tortuosity of the posterior communicating artery (Pcom), first part of the posterior cerebral artery (P1) and basilar artery was observed in the ligated group, as well as an increased volume (p = 0.05) and relative signal intensity in the basilar artery (p = 0.04; sham‐group unchanged). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that compared to sham‐operated rats, ligated rats had increased diameters of all intracircular segments and the extracircular part of the internal carotid artery (p < 0.05). Ligated rats showed a higher general nerve density compared to controls in P1 (10%, IQR:8.7–10.5 vs. 6.6%, IQR:5.5–7.4, p = 0.003) and Pcom segments (6.4%, IQR:5.8–6.5 vs. 3.2%, IQR:2.4–4.3, p = 0.003) and higher sympathetic nerve density in Pcom segments (3.7%, IQR:2.8–4.8 vs. 1.7%, IQR:1.3–2.2, p = 0.02). Bilateral CCA occlusion resulted in redistribution of blood flow to posteriorly located cerebral arteries with remarkable changes in morphology and perivascular nerve density, suggesting a functional role for perivascular nerves in cerebral autoregulation.
Deterministic and non‐deterministic query optimization techniques in the cloud computing
Authors: Azhir Elham , Jafari Navimipour Nima , Hosseinzadeh Mehdi , Sharifi Arash , Darwesh Aso
Published: March 2019

Query optimization is considered as one of the main challenges of query processing phases in the cloud environments. The query optimizer attempts to provide the most optimal execution plan by considering the possible query plans. Therefore, the execution cost of a query can be affected by some factors, including communication costs, unavailability of resources, and access to large distributed data sets. In addition, it is known as NP‐hard problem and many researchers are focused on this problem in recent years. Some techniques are proposed for solving this problem. Deterministic and non‐deterministic methods are two main categories to study these techniques. The deterministic and non‐deterministic query optimization methods can be further divided into three subcategories, cost‐based query plan enumeration, multiple query optimization, and adaptive query optimization methods. Moreover, this paper presents the advantages and disadvantages of the algorithms for solving the query optimization problems in the cloud environments. Moreover, these techniques are compared in terms of optimization, time, cost, efficiency, and scalability. Finally, some key areas are offered to improve the cloud query optimization mechanisms in the future.
Early maladaptive schemas in patients with somatoform disorders and somatization
Authors: Henker Jana , Keller Andrea , Reiss Neele , Siepmann Martin , Croy Ilona , Weidner Kerstin
Published: March 2019

Maladaptive schemas are stable relational patterns that develop through harmful childhood experiences with primary caregivers. Schemas within somatoform disorders are rarely explored even though these disorders are clinically important due to high prevalence, co‐morbidity, and cost for the health care system. This study investigates schemas according to Young's schema theory in patients with somatoform disorders in comparison with healthy controls and patients with depressive or anxiety disorders. Further associations between schemas and somatization were explored. We included 134 patients with a somatoform disorder and 39 age‐matched healthy controls, 83 patients with a unipolar depression, and 34 patients with an anxiety disorder. The clinical sample consists of day care patients, diagnosed with the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, but without a personality disorder. Primary measures were the Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ‐S2), the Screening for Somatoform Disorders (SOMS‐7T), the Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition, and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Analyses of variance indicated that somatoform patients scored higher on almost all schemas than do healthy controls (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.148). The highest mean scores were reached for the schemas “self‐sacrifice” and “unrelenting standards,” with significant higher values in the patient sample. However, when compared with patients with depressive or anxiety disorders, somatoform patients scored equally or even lower. High somatization was associated with generally higher schema activation. This effect was to a great extent mediated by depressive symptoms. Only the schema “vulnerability to harm or illness” was exclusively related to somatization. These findings suggest that schemas should be systematically assessed within psychotherapy of somatoform patients.
Improved Reactor Productivity for the Safe Photo‐Oxidation of Citronellol Under Visible Light LED Irradiation
Authors: Hamami Zine Eddine , Vanoye Laurent , Fongarland Pascal , de Bellefon Claude , Favre‐Réguillon Alain
Published: March 2019

The front cover artwork is provided by Jaqueline Leib, the Laboratoire de Génie des Procédés Catalytiques (UMR CNRS 5285, Université de Lyon/CPE Lyon) and the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers. The image shows the transformation of citronellol (main constituent of the essential oil from geranium, Pelargonium graveolens) by photo‐oxygenation to give rose oxide, a floral green note, with a strong, diffusive rose scent. The productivity as well as the safety of the process was improved using a photo‐microreactor. Read the full text of the Communication at 10.1002/cptc.201800201.