bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Enhanced Normalized‐Volume Multiphoton Absorption in CsPbBr3 2D Nanoplates
Authors: He Tingchao , Li Junzi , Qiu Xin , Xiao Shuyu , Yin Cheng , Lin Xiaodong
Published: August 2018

All‐inorganic perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have attracted considerable attention due to their extensive photonic and optoelectronic properties. These NCs are shown to exhibit strong multiphoton absorption (MPA). However, studies on the MPA properties of perovskite NCs are only conducted on weakly confined perovskite cubic NCs, while the relevant influences of the geometry are never discussed. To the best of knowledge, this report describes the first comparison of the MPA properties of CsPbBr3 2D nanoplates (2D NPs) and cubic NCs. Based on the experimental results, it can be concluded that stronger quantum confinement effect of 2D NPs will strongly enhance their MPA with outstanding normalized‐volume two‐ and three‐photon absorption cross sections up to 1561 GM nm−3 and 7.2 × 10−78 cm6 s2 photon−2 nm−3, respectively. This work demonstrates that CsPbBr3 2D NPs are good candidates for exploring the influences of quantum confinement on MPA properties of perovskite NCs, which are also highly suitable for the applications of multiphoton imaging and nonlinear optoelectronics.
Chiral N,N′‐Dioxide/Scandium(III)‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Alkylation of N‐Unprotected 3‐Substituted Oxindoles
Authors: He Changqiang , Cao Weidi , Zhang Jianlin , Ge Shulin , Feng Xiaoming
Published: August 2018

An efficient enantioselective alkylation of N‐unprotected 3‐substituted oxindoles was realized by using a chiral N,N′‐dioxide/scandium(III) complex as the catalyst. A wide range of 3,3‐dialkyl substituted oxindoles with quaternary stereocenters were obtained in high yields and ee values (up to 98% yield and 99% ee).

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Resolving Hysteresis in Perovskite Solar Cells with Rapid Flame‐Processed Cobalt‐Doped TiO2
Authors: Kim Jung Kyu , Chai Sung Uk , Ji Yongfei , Levy‐Wendt Ben , Kim Suk Hyun , Yi Yeonjin , Heinz Tony F. , Nørskov Jens K. , Park Jong Hyeok , Zheng Xiaolin
Published: August 2018

To further increase the open‐circuit voltage (V
oc) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), many efforts have been devoted to doping the TiO2 electron transport/selective layers by using metal dopants with higher electronegativity than Ti. However, those dopants can introduce undesired charge traps that hinder charge transport through TiO2, so the improvement in the V
oc is often accompanied by an undesired photocurrent density–voltage (J–V) hysteresis problem. Herein, it is demonstrated that the use of a rapid flame doping process (40 s) to introduce cobalt dopant into TiO2 not only solves the J–V hysteresis problem but also increases the V
oc and power conversion efficiency of both mesoscopic and planar PSCs. The reasons for the simultaneous improvements are two fold. First, the flame‐doped Co‐TiO2 film forms Co‐Ov (cobalt dopant‐oxygen vacancy) pairs and hence reduces the number density of Ti3+ trap states. Second, Co doping upshifts the band structure of TiO2, facilitating efficient charge extraction. As a result, for planar PSCs, the flame doping of Co increases the efficiency from 17.1% to 18.0% while reducing the hysteresis from 16.0% to 1.7%. Similarly, for mesoscopic PSCs, the flame doping of Co increases the efficiency from 18.5% to 20.0% while reducing the hysteresis from 7.0% to 0.1%.
Optical Analysis of Oxygen Self‐Diffusion in Ultrathin CeO2 Layers at Low Temperatures
Authors: Neuderth Paula , Hille Pascal , Martí‐Sánchez Sara , de la Mata María , Coll Mariona , Arbiol Jordi , Eickhoff Martin
Published: August 2018

An optical in situ strategy for the analysis of oxygen diffusion in ultrathin ceria layers with a thickness of 2–10 nm at temperatures between 50 and 200 °C is presented, which allows for the determination of diffusion coefficients. This method is based on the sensitivity of the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of InGaN nanowires to adsorbed oxygen. The oxygen diffusion through an ultrathin CeO2 coating deposited on the InGaN nanowires is monitored by analyzing the transient PL behavior of the InGaN nanowires, which responds to changes of the oxygen concentration in the environment when the corresponding oxygen concentration is established at the CeO2/InGaN interface due to diffusion through the coating. Quantitative evaluation of the oxygen diffusion in CeO2 based on a model considering Langmuir Adsorption and recombination yields a diffusion coefficient D of (2.55 ± 0.05) × 10−16 cm2 s−1 at a temperature of 100 °C. Temperature‐dependent measurements reveal an Arrhenius type behavior of D with an activation energy of (0.28 ± 0.04) eV. In contrast, no oxygen diffusion is detected for an ultrathin layer (≥5 nm) of Al2O3, which is known as a poor oxygen ion conductor within the analyzed temperature regime.
Management Control Points Related to the Lag Phase of Fungal Growth in a Stored Rapeseed Ecosystem
Authors: Wawrzyniak Jolanta , Gawrysiak‐Witulska Marzena , Ryniecki Antoni
Published: August 2018

The quality of rapeseed oil largely depends on the quality of postharvest preservation of raw seeds. Fungal infestation at early stages of the storage of rapeseeds is a major cause of their spoilage. The knowledge of relations between the storage conditions, fungal contamination, and technological quality of rapeseeds is essential to specify key control points that can be used to improve postharvest management systems and maintain rapeseed quality. The aim of this study was to define decisive control points on the basis of the kinetics of early mold growth in ecosystems of rapeseeds in a hazardous initial microbiological state, stored under various water activity and temperature conditions (a
w =0.78–0.96 and t =12–30 °C). A correlation between the acid value (AV), germination, and fungal infestation of seeds was found in ecosystems with significant mold activity. The analysis of the mold growth kinetics with regard to AV, seed germination, and visible mold time showed that the detection of early (invisible) fungal growth could be a good basis for determining the time during which rapeseeds should be protected from deterioration. The research results showed how to use the length of the lag phase to identify decisive control points, which are necessary to improve the existing control systems of rapeseed preservation and storage.
The Role of the RN Circulator in a Navigated Posterior Spinal Fusion
Authors: Jordan Roumelia S.
Published: August 2018

The RN circulator plays a vital role in preparing for a minimally invasive spinal fusion with navigation by confirming that the necessary equipment and stakeholders are available and ensuring that the amount of equipment and the number of people in the room do not compromise patient safety or the sterility of the surgical field. Patients who undergo minimally invasive spinal fusion experience less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and reduced costs than those who undergo open spinal fusion procedures. The overall successful fusion rates and improvement in patient quality of life are equivalent between the two approaches. Using navigation during minimally invasive and open spinal fusion procedures decreases radiation exposure to the patient and surgical team and helps ensure a more accurate placement of pedicle screws compared with nonnavigated minimally invasive or open spinal fusions.
Measurement of thermal conductivity of epoxy resins during cure
Authors: Struzziero G. , Remy B. , Skordos A. A.
Published: August 2018

This work reports the development of a methodology for the measurement of thermal conductivity of thermosetting polymers during their cure. The study addresses the reliability and robustness of the method through FEA modeling and testing using a noncuring material with known thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity and its evolution during the cure has been measured for three widely used aerospace epoxy resins, namely, RTM6, 890RTM, and the XU3508/XB3473 system as function of cure temperature. A constitutive model expressing the dependence of thermal conductivity on the degree of cure and temperature has been established. The device developed here can measure thermal conductivity of epoxy resin with accuracy up to 3%. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Applied Polymer Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47015.
Photooxidative degradation of graphene‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Shehzad F. , Ahmad M. I. , Al‐Harthi M. A.
Published: August 2018

Natural weathering of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) and its graphene nanocomposites was studied. The nanocomposites, prepared by in situ polymerization of ethylene, were exposed to the natural environment for 30, 60, and 90 days. The effects of weathering on the crystallinity, melting temperature, and lamellar thickness distribution were studied using differential scanning calorimetry. The changes in chain microstructure and molecular weight were determined by crystallization analysis fractionation and gel permeation chromatography, respectively. The effects of weathering on the dynamic mechanical properties and the morphology of the nanocomposite were also determined. The parent HDPE suffered severe degradation as expected. However, graphene‐reinforced HDPE nanocomposites show resistance to degradation. The changes in the crystallinity, lamellar thickness, molecular weight, and dynamic mechanical properties of graphene nanocomposites were less pronounced as compared to the parent HDPE. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47030.
Morphology and electric conductivity controlling of in situ polymerized poly(decamethylene dodecanoamide)/polyaniline composites
Authors: Cao Yiyu , Wang Lili , Gao Yunyun , Sun Tong‐Jie , Zhou Yong , Hu Hai‐Qing , Wang Dujin , Dong Xia
Published: August 2018

In situ polymerization was proved to be an effective method to prepare composites with combined properties of two intrinsic different components. In this study, poly(decamethylene dodecanoamide) (polyamide 1012, PA1012) powders with controlled morphologies and crystal forms were obtained by antisolvent precipitation, whose morphology and crystal forms were strongly dependent on the types and temperatures of antisolvents. PA1012/polyaniline (PA1012/PANI) composites with different morphologies were manufactured through in situ polymerization. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results revealed a strong interaction between PA1012 and PANI components. PANI components were in situ polymerized from aniline monomers on the surface of PA1012 powders, forming a composite aggregates in solution. The conductivity of different PA1012/PANI composite powders was about 10−5–10−3 S/cm, which could successfully meet the requirement of antistatic coating. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47041.
Preparation of antibacterial poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) grafted on poly(vinyl alcohol)‐formaldehyde sponges and their properties
Authors: Yang X. , Sha D. , Jiang H. , Shi K. , Xu J. D. , Yu C. , Wei H. , Wang B. L. , Ji X. L.
Published: August 2018

Conventional wound dressings cover wound surfaces and separate them from the outer environment. However, wound sites are readily infected by some bacteria during healing. To overcome these problems, a macroporous sample is designed through the grafting polymerization of hydrophilic sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA) on poly(vinyl alcohol)‐formaldehyde (PVF) sponges. The as‐prepared PVF sponges have a grafting percentage of 15–50%, an average pore size of 60–90 μm, and a high porosity of 90%. This series of PVF‐g‐PSBMA sponges can absorb deionized water and saline solution at approximately 16 g·g−1within 2 min because of their hydrophilic surface and macroporous structure. The antibacterial potential of PVF‐g‐PSBMA sponges againstEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureusis evaluated via a shake flask test. As the grafting percentage increase from 15 to 50%, the antibacterial activities against Gram‐positiveS. aureusand Gram‐negativeE. coligradually increase from 87 to 95% and from 94 to 99%, respectively. The biocompatibility of these sponges is confirmed through anin vitrocell viability assay. All of the survival rates of the bacterial cells relative to the control (100% of metabolic activity) exceed 90% as the extract ratio of PVF‐g‐PSBMA sponges increase. Thus, the as‐prepared PVF‐g‐PSBMA sponges can be an ideal wound dressing candidate. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47047.
Wall‐Mesoporous Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanotubes for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Bai Jiaxin , Han Qing , Cheng Zhihua , Qu Liangti
Published: August 2018

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) has attracted tremendous attention as visible‐light photocatalyst. However, for further improving the catalytic activity, multilevel and hierarchical nanostructuring of g‐CN is highly desirable to effectively expose active sites and facilitate separation and migration of photoexciteded charge carriers for largely enhanced photocatalytic behavior. Here, we prepare wall‐mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride nanotubes (g‐CNNTs) by in situ annealing of urea microrod arrays preformed in virtue of a vertical gradient freeze growth (VGFG) method. Benefiting from the distinctive structural features, the hierarchical g‐CNNTs exhibit a high photocatalytic H2 production rate of 8789 μmol h−1 g−1 with an excellent apparent quantum yield of 6.3 % under visible‐light irradiation and long‐term cycling stability. This work provides a facile and eco‐friendly strategy to prepare a new type of carbon nitride‐based nanostructural material for photocatalysis and environmental remediation.
Liquid Marbles as an Easy‐to‐Handle Compartment for Cell‐Free Synthesis and In Situ Immobilization of Recombinant Proteins
Authors: Kamiya Noriho , Ohama Yuki , Minamihata Kosuke , Wakabayashi Rie , Goto Masahiro
Published: August 2018

Liquid marble (LM), a self‐standing micro‐scale aqueous droplet, emerges as a micro‐bioreactor in biological applications. Herein, the potential of LM as media for cell‐free synthesis and simultaneous immobilization of recombinant proteins is explored. Initially, formation of hydrogel marble (HM) by using an enzymatic disulfide‐based hydrogelation technique is confirmed by incorporating three components, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), a tetra‐thiolated poly(ethylene glycol) derivative, and glycyl‐L‐tyrosine, in LM. The compatibility of the enzymatic hydrogelation with cell‐free protein synthesis in LM is then validated. Although the hydrogelation reduces the level of protein synthesis in LM when compared with that in a test tube, the biosynthesis of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) is achieved. Interestingly, EGFP synthesized in LM is entrapped in the HM, and the introduction of a cysteine residue to EGFP by genetic engineering further increases the amount of protein immobilization in the hydrogel matrices. These results suggest that the cell‐free synthesis and HRP‐catalyzed hydrogelation can be conducted in parallel in LM, and the eventual entrapment of the key components in HM is possible. Facile recovery of macromolecular products immobilized in HM by degrading the hydrogel network under reducing conditions should lead to the design of an easy‐to‐handle system to screen protein functions.
Randomized clinical trial of short or long interval between neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and surgery for rectal cancer
Authors: Akgun E , Caliskan C , Bozbiyik O , Yoldas T , Sezak M , Ozkok S , Kose T , Karabulut B , Harman M , Ozutemiz O
Published: August 2018

Background

The optimal timing of surgery following preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is controversial. This trial aimed to compare pathological complete response (pCR) rates obtained after an interval of 8 weeks or less versus more than 8 weeks.

Methods

Patients with locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma situated within 12 cm of the anal verge (T3–4 or N+ disease) were randomized to undergo total mesorectal excision (TME) within 8 weeks (classical interval, CI group) or after 8 weeks (long interval, LI group) following CRT.

Results

Among the 327 included patients (CI 160, LI 167), the pCR rate was significantly higher in the LI group than in the CI group (10·0 versus 18·6 per cent; P = 0·027). The highest pCR rate (29 per cent) was observed between 10 and 11 weeks. There was statistically significant disease regression in the LI group, with better stage (P = 0·004) and T category (P = 0·001) than in the CI group. There was no significant difference in surgical quality (rates of tumour-positive margins, TME quality, anastomotic leakage and intraoperative perforation) between the groups. The overall morbidity rate was 22·5 per cent in the CI group and 19·8 per cent in the LI group (P = 0·307). Regression analysis including sex, age, clinical stage, tumour location, tumour differentiation, TME quality, concomitant chemotherapy and interval to surgery revealed no statistically significant predictors of pCR.

Conclusion

Disease regression and pCR rate are increased with an interval between CRT and surgery exceeding 8 weeks. Registration number: NCT03287843 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Focus on Epithelialized Palatal Grafts. Part 1: Multiple Adjacent Recession Defects in the Mandibular Anterior
Authors: Berridge Joshua P. , Johnson Thomas M. , Lane Jonathan D. , Miller Preston D.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The mandibular anterior can be a challenging anatomic location for achieving root coverage irrespective of the selected graft and surgical technique. The epithelialized palatal graft (EPG), often dismissed in deference to esthetic and patient‐centered considerations, is well‐suited for treating gingival recession in this region. Although a considerable volume of data exists assessing root coverage procedure outcomes, little evidence supports superiority of any one technique specifically applied to the mandibular anterior.

Case Presentation

Two periodontally and systemically healthy patients with multiple adjacent Class I and III recession defects in the mandibular anterior were treated with EPG. Recipient site dimensions in one case obligated bilateral palatal donor sites. In this case, the two autogenous grafts were carefully sutured extraorally before placement. Favorable increases in attached gingival dimensions and partial or complete root coverage were noted after 12‐ or 18‐month follow‐up periods. In the case requiring bilateral donor sites, no transition between the two grafts could be appreciated after healing.

Conclusions

Overall, subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG)‐based techniques reportedly produce higher mean root coverage percentages and more frequent complete root coverage compared with EPG. However, when observations are limited to the mandibular anterior, there are insufficient data to conclude SCTG is superior to EPG. In the presented cases, EPG at multiple adjacent mandibular anterior recession defects produced favorable clinical outcomes. Extraoral suturing of bilaterally harvested grafts facilitated graft stabilization and minimized irregularities in gingival architecture after healing.
Simultaneous Extractions, Implant Placement, and Immediate Loading With Hybrid Prosthesis in Patient With Chronic Graft‐Versus‐Host Disease
Authors: Mahn Douglas H.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Full‐arch rehabilitation with simultaneous extractions, implant placement, and loading is an important treatment modality. Many patients that may benefit from this treatment suffer with medical conditions that can compromise the ability to receive this treatment. Chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGVHD) is a condition that occurs with 50% to 70% of patient following bone marrow replacement treatment. Oral manifestations of cGVHD include mucosal changes, xerostomia, and rampant caries. Immediate implant placement and loading would be of great benefit to patients with cGVHD. To the author's knowledge, no articles have been published describing simultaneous extractions, implant placement, and immediate loading with a fixed prosthesis in a patient with cGVHD.

Case Presentation

A 46‐year‐old non‐smoking male presented with rampant severe caries and a history of cGVHD. The patient complained of xerostomia, difficulty with mastication, and embarrassment regarding his condition. After thorough evaluation, medical consultation, and discussion of treatment options, the patient was seen for full‐mouth extractions and immediate placement of dental implants in the mandibular arch. An immediate mandibular hybrid prosthesis and an immediate maxillary complete denture were delivered. Following 6 months of healing, the final mandibular hybrid prosthesis and maxillary complete denture were delivered. Oral manifestations of cGVHD did not negatively affect the treatment.

Conclusion

Simultaneous extractions, implant placement, and implant loading can be performed in a patient with chronic graft‐versus‐host disease.
Regulation of septin phosphorylation: SEPT12 phosphorylation in sperm septin assembly
Authors: Lin Chun‐Hsiang , Shen Yi‐Ru , Wang Han‐Yu , Chiang Chi‐Wu , Wang Chia‐Yih , Kuo Pao‐Lin
Published: August 2018

The sperm annulus, a septin‐based ring structure, is important for reproductive physiology. It is composed of SEPT12‐based septin core complex followed by assembling as octameric filament. In clinical examinations, mutations of Septin12 result in male infertility, immotile sperm, as well as sperm with defective annuli. The dynamic assembly of septin filaments is regulated by several post‐translational modifications, including sumoylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation. Here, we briefly review the biological significance and the regulation of SEPT12 phosphorylation in the mammalian sperm physiology. During mammalian spermiogenesis, the phosphorylation of SEPT12 on Ser198 residue is important in regulating mammalian annulus architectures. SEPT12 phosphomimetic knock‐in mice displayed poor male fertility due to weak sperm motility and loss of the sperm annulus. SEPT12 is phosphorylated via Protein kinase A (PKA), and its phosphorylation interfered with SEPT12 polymerization into complexes and filaments. Taken together, the phosphorylation status of SEPT12 is crucial for its function in regulating the mammalian sperm physiology.
Recent Advances in Functional‐Polymer‐Decorated Transition‐Metal Nanomaterials for Bioimaging and Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhao Wei , Li Aihua , Zhang Aitang , Zheng Yiwei , Liu Jingquan
Published: August 2018

In this review, we focus on recent advances in the synthesis of polymer‐functionalized transition‐metal‐based nanomaterials and follow this up by discussing their applications in bioimaging diagnosis and cancer therapy. Transition‐metal‐based nanomaterials show great potential in cancer therapy owing to their intensive near‐IR absorption, excellent photothermal conversion efficiency, strong X‐ray attenuation, and magnetic properties. Functional polymers are usually introduced by a one‐step or multistep method to further endow these nanomaterials with great biocompatibility and physiological stability. Polymer‐decorated transition‐metal nanomaterials show great potential in multimodal imaging diagnosis (photoacoustic imaging, computed tomography, photoluminescence imaging, positron emission tomography, etc.) and cancer therapy (chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, microwave therapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy). At the end of this review, the prospects of these polymer‐decorated transition‐metal‐based nanomaterials are also discussed.
Ancillary studies in fine needle aspiration of the kidney
Authors: Renshaw Andrew A. , Gould Edwin W.
Published: August 2018

An increasing number of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) require ancillary studies for diagnosis. The majority of renal fine needle aspirates do not require ancillary studies. Among the most common useful stains are cytokeratin 7 (separating clear cell RCC [negative] from papillary RCC, clear cell papillary RCC, and multilocular cystic RCC [positive] as well as separating chromophobe RCC [diffusely positive] from oncocytoma [focally positive/negative]) and CD117 (separating chromophobe RCC and oncocytoma [positive] from granular variants of clear cell RCC [negative]). CD68 and keratin are helpful in distinguishing RCC from xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. HMB45 is useful in recognizing scant aspirates of angiomyolipoma. Less common subtypes of RCC may benefit from the use of more specialized ancillary studies (succinate dehydrogenase B, fumarate hydratase, tumor suppressor gene INI, OCT3/4). While the majority of renal fine needle aspirates can be accurately diagnosed based on morphology alone, improved subtyping and accuracy can be achieved with the use of immunohistochemical and molecular studies. Cancer Cytopathol 2018;000:000‐000. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of the Dual Inhibitor of Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α and Interleukin 17A, ABBV‐257, in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Othman Ahmed A. , Khatri Amit , Loebbert Ralf , Peloso Paul M.
Published: August 2018

The dual‐variable domain immunoglobulin ABBV‐257 binds tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin 17A. Following single ascending doses ( 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/kg intravenously; 0.3 and 3.0 mg/kg subcutaneously) in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in healthy subjects (n = 40; n = 29 evaluated for pharmacokinetics), maximum observed serum concentration (Cmax) increased dose‐proportionally, whereas area under the serum concentration‐versus‐time curve trended to more than dose‐proportional increase. Absolute subcutaneous bioavailability was ∼80%, and the time to Cmax (tmax) occurred 6 to 8 days after subcutaneous administration. The terminal‐phase harmonic mean elimination half‐life (t½) ranged from 5.5 to 11 days following intravenous and subcutaneous administration. In another randomized, placebo‐controlled study, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients (n = 8) received ABBV‐257 30 mg/kg subcutaneously every other week for 8 weeks. Following the fourth dose, Cmax was 7.69 μg/mL, and tmax occurred ∼4 days after dosing; t½ was ∼16 days. Most individuals (single‐dose study, 97%; multiple‐dose study, 83%) developed antidrug antibodies (ADAs). Generally, subjects with higher ADA titers had shorter ABBV‐257 t½ and lower exposure. One serious adverse event (cerebral ischemia, considered unrelated to treatment, resolved with interventions) occurred in an RA patient who received ABBV‐257. Because of the high incidence of ADA‐mediated drug clearance, ABBV‐257 is no longer being developed.
Excellent Performances of Dealuminated H‐Beta Zeolites from Organotemplate‐Free Synthesis in Conversion of Biomass‐derived 2,5‐Dimethylfuran to Renewable p‐Xylene
Authors: Zhao Rongrong , Zhao Zhenchao , Li Shikun , Parvulescu Andrei‐Nicolae , Müller Ulrich , Zhang Weiping
Published: August 2018

Direct synthesis of renewable p‐xylene (PX) by cycloaddition of biomass‐derived 2,5‐dimethylfuran (2,5‐DMF) and ethylene was achieved over Al‐rich H‐beta zeolites synthesized by an organotemplate‐free approach and their dealuminated counterparts with different Si/Al ratios. Among them, H‐beta zeolite with an Si/Al ratio of 22, obtained from an Al‐rich parent by dealumination, was found to be an excellent catalyst for the synthesis of PX. A PX yield of 97 % and 2,5‐DMF conversion of 99 % were obtained under optimized conditions. These results are even better than those of a commercial H‐beta zeolite prepared using a organotemplate synthesis with a similar Si/Al ratio of 19. The excellent performance of the H‐beta zeolite with Si/Al ratio of 22 is closely related to its acidity and porous structure. A moderate Brønsted/Lewis acid ratio can improve the conversion of 2,5‐DMF to as high as 99 %. Furthermore, dealuminated H‐beta zeolite has a secondary pore system that facilitates product diffusion, which increases the selectivity to PX. In addition, this catalyst shows better regeneration. After five successive regeneration cycles, the yield of PX was still as high as 85 % without obvious dealumination. This work provides a deeper understanding of the more general Diels–Alder cycloaddition of furan‐based feedstocks and olefins and significantly improves the potential for the synthesis of chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass.
Advanced Functional Carbons and Their Hybrid Nanoarchitectures towards Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Young Christine , Park Teahoon , Yi Jin Woo , Kim Jeonghun , Hossain Md. Shahriar A. , Kaneti Yusuf Valentino , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: August 2018

Porous carbons have attracted much attention as electrode materials for supercapacitors due to their enormous surface area, high electrical conductivity, excellent corrosion resistance, high temperature stability, and relatively low cost. The design of porous architectures is considered key for determining electrochemical performance. Pore size distribution, pore size, and pore connectivity strongly affect electrochemical performance. Various carbon materials with pore size ranging from micro‐ to macropores were extensively studied. Herein, various types of porous carbon‐based and hybrid materials from different approaches and their electrochemical applications are summarized. Appropriate tuning of the pore size of carbon materials is essential for ensuring good transport of ions with different sizes throughout the electrolyte, so that the electrode materials can be fully utilized. Many carbon materials were produced from a series of carbonization and activation processes that possess controllable pore structures, including activated carbons, graphite, carbon nanotubes, carbon aerogels, and templated porous carbons. Templated carbon materials were prepared by various approaches, such as direct carbonization from carbon precursors and soft‐ and hard‐template methods. To enhance the electrochemical performance of the electrode materials, heteroatoms, such as nitrogen, sulfur, and boron, were doped into porous carbons. In addition, to optimize the overall capacitance without destroying the stability and morphology of electrode materials, pseudocapacitive materials, such as transition‐metal oxides, were introduced into the carbon frameworks. In this review, recent advances in the fabrication of nanoarchitectured porous carbons and metal oxides through various approaches for supercapacitor applications are summarized.
Dielectrophoresis‐based 3D‐focusing of microscale entities in microfluidic devices
Authors: Alnaimat Fadi , Ramesh Salini , Alazzam Anas , Hilal‐Alnaqbi Ali , Waheed Waqas , Mathew Bobby
Published: August 2018

This article presents a validated mathematical model of a dielectrophoresis (DEP)‐based microfluidic device capable of 3D‐focusing microscale entities at any lateral location inside the microchannel. The microfluidic device employs planar, independently controllable, interdigitated transducer (IDT) electrodes on either side of the microchannel. The developed model is used for understanding the influence of different geometric and operating parameters on 3D focusing, and it comprises of motion equation, Navier–Stokes equation, continuity equation, and electric potential equation (Laplace equation). The model accounts for forces associated with inertia, gravity, buoyancy, virtual mass, drag, and DEP. The model is solved using finite difference method. The findings of the study indicate that the 3D focusing possible with the proposed microfluidic device is independent of microscale entity's size and initial position, microchannel height, and volumetric flow rate. In contrast, 3D focusing achievable with the microfluidic device is dependent on the applied electric potential, protrusion width of electrodes, and width of electrode/gap. Additionally, the lateral position of 3D focused can be controlled by varying the applied electric potential. The advantage of the proposed microfluidic device is that it is simple to construct while capable of achieving 3D focusing at any lateral location inside the microchannel.
Development of automatic classification system for leukocyte images using Random Forest
Authors: Tomiyama Shinnosuke , Sakata‐Yanagimoto Mamiko , Chiba Shigeru , Aikawa Naoyuki
Published: August 2018

Classifying leukocyte and examining their proportions is very important for disease examination and diagnosis. This examination needs the knowledge of experts and a lot of time. Therefore, many automatic leukocyte image classification algorithms have been proposed. There is a method to classify 13 types of blood cells using 1‐v‐1 support vector machine (SVM) in one of them. In the conventional method, leukocyte images are classified with the 26‐dimensional feature vectors. However, the classification accuracy is poor with these feature vectors in granulocytes in this method. In this article, we propose new feature vectors to improve the classification accuracy of blast cells with low classification accuracy among the leukocyte fractions. That is, we add two feature vectors in the proposed method. And we improve the accuracy of the whole by using a Random Forest for the classifier.
Differential responses of canopy nutrients to experimental drought along a natural aridity gradient
Authors: Luo Wentao , Zuo Xiaoan , Ma Wang , Xu Chong , Li Ang , Yu Qiang , Knapp Alan K. , Tognetti Roberto , Dijkstra Feike A. , Li Mai‐He , Han Guodong , Wang Zhengwen , Han Xingguo
Published: August 2018

The allocation and stoichiometry of plant nutrients in leaves reflect fundamental ecosystem processes, biotic interactions, and environmental drivers such as water availability. Climate change will lead to increases in drought severity and frequency, but how canopy nutrients will respond to drought, and how these responses may vary with community composition along aridity gradients is poorly understood. We experimentally addressed this issue by reducing precipitation amounts by 66% during two consecutive growing seasons at three sites located along a natural aridity gradient. This allowed us to assess drought effects on canopy nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations in arid and semiarid grasslands of northern China. Along the aridity gradient, canopy nutrient concentrations were positively related to aridity, with this pattern was driven primarily by species turnover (i.e., an increase in the relative biomass of N‐ and P‐rich species with increasing aridity). In contrast, drought imposed experimentally increased N but decreased P concentrations in plant canopies. These changes were driven by the combined effects of species turnover and intraspecific variation in leaf nutrient concentrations. In addition, the sensitivity of canopy N and P concentrations to drought varied across the three sites. Canopy nutrient concentrations were less affected by drought at drier than wetter sites, because of the opposing effects of species turnover and intraspecific variation, as well as greater drought tolerance for nutrient‐rich species. These contrasting effects of long‐term aridity vs. short‐term drought on canopy nutrient concentrations, as well as differing sensitivities among sites in the same grassland biome, highlight the challenge of predicting ecosystem responses to future climate change.
Collective action in a polycentric water governance system
Authors: Baldwin Elizabeth , McCord Paul , Dell'Angelo Jampel , Evans Tom
Published: August 2018

Small‐scale irrigation systems are important for agricultural productivity in dryland agroecosystems, particularly in areas where there is significant intra‐ and interannual changes in rainfall patterns. Institutional analysis of common‐pool resources has demonstrated the principles that tend to result in sustained water governance systems. However, previous work did not fully articulate the nested nature of institutions and how polycentric arrangements can play a role in both the formation and the ongoing maintenance of these governance systems. To better understand collective action across water user groups and decision‐makers at multiple governance levels, we undertake a multilevel analysis of Kenya's polycentric approach to water governance, in place since reforms were initiated in 2002. Survey and interview data indicate that in the postreform period, water users in Kenya's Upper Ewaso Ng'iro basin engaged in behaviors associated with collective action, including reduced water use by upstream users to address downstream users' needs. We examine the factors that promote collective action in the region, asking whether features associated with polycentric governance have helped to promote collective action. We find that the presence of multiple decision centers with overlapping authority over water governance functions creates necessary—but not sufficient—conditions for collective action to occur. Regulations and formal conflict resolution mechanisms provide incentives for water users to cooperate, while shared membership in regional Water Resource Users Associations facilitates informal opportunities for users to share information and build trust over time.
The lens of polycentricity: Identifying polycentric governance systems illustrated through examples from the field of water governance
Authors: Schröder Nadine Jenny Shirin
Published: August 2018

This paper discusses definitions that have been developed and used in the study of polycentric governance. It offers conceptual refinements with the aim of reducing fuzziness, showing challenges of operationalization and application to an empirical setting—in other words, analyzing governance arrangements through the polycentricity lens. One defining element of polycentricity is the presence of “multiple decision‐making centers.” This paper shows that this multiplicity is specific to the good/problem in focus, the center's tasks/responsibilities, the level in focus and analytical system boundaries. Functional overlapping among those centers is required to consider centers forming one system in relation to a good. These specificities should be examined for comparisons on polycentricity influencing the functioning of systems. The paper applies those conceptual refinements to the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive in Berlin and Hamburg. It characterizes the two cases in terms of their polycentricity. It compares their functioning so far and how the latter relates to interactions and social interrelations. The polycentricity lens illuminates important features and differences: given an overall multiplicity of centers and a similar rule setting in both cities, the differences in the distribution of responsibilities and social interrelations led to a faster but less integrated implementation in Hamburg than in Berlin. The application of the proposed refinements yields insights into further work to be done in favor of theory‐building on the functioning of polycentric governance systems.
Toward comparative institutional analysis of polycentric social‐ecological systems governance
Authors: Thiel Andreas , Moser Christine
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we develop a conceptual approach that allows better understanding of what determines the performance of polycentric governance. The paper first identifies discrete structural alternatives of polycentric governance types (Public Service Industries). We suggest that efficient performance of Public Service Industries is shaped by variations in social‐problem characteristics (determining potential types of governance) and constitutional and overarching rules (of people's choosing), which jointly determine the credibility with which citizen‐consumers are able to discipline the activities of agents involved in governance. We illustrate this approach through the case of transnational biofuel governance in the European Union. We find that constitutionally granted (lack of) transparency and accountability are, in this case, pivotal for relatively inefficient governance of public goods. However, we also acknowledge the difficulties of assessing performance of polycentric governance based on single case studies. To overcome this problem, we suggest Comparative Institutional Analysis, which selects case studies according to social problem characteristics that are responsible for particular kinds of performance (e.g., efficiency) of polycentric governance types. This would allow scholars associated with the Bloomington School of Political Economy but also scholars analyzing governance from perspectives adopting similar assumptions to learn more about how constitutional rules shape the performance of polycentric governance types to build sound policy recommendations derived from this.
A semiautomated approach to analyzing polycentricity
Authors: Heikkila Tanya , Weible Christopher M.
Published: August 2018

For decades, institutional scholars have embraced the concept of polycentricity as a way to describe systems of governance with multiple, overlapping centers of authority. However, intellectual progress on polycentricity has been constrained by inconsistent conceptual measurement, an overemphasis on small‐n versus large‐n research designs, a lack of attention to the variation in actors and authorities across policy‐specific issues, and unrefined methods of data analyses. This article offers a new path forward by applying a semiautomated approach to conduct a comparative analysis of polycentricity within and between 11 oil and gas regulations in Colorado, USA. Drawing lessons from the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework and network analyses, dyadic network relations between actors and rules were used to describe the polycentric structure of Colorado's oil and gas regulations. The polycentric structure that emerges features core and peripheral actors who vary in their associations to rules and imperatives (i.e., deontics). The conclusion presents an agenda for advancing knowledge of polycentricity and institutional design using these conceptual and methodological foundations.
Pathogen interactions with endothelial cells and the induction of innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Konradt Christoph , Hunter Christopher A.
Published: August 2018

There are over 10 trillion endothelial cells (EC) that line the vasculature of the human body. These cells not only have specialized functions in the maintenance of homeostasis within the circulation and various tissues but they also have a major role in immune function. EC also represent an important replicative niche for a subset of viral, bacterial, and parasitic organisms that are present in the blood or lymph; however, there are major gaps in our knowledge regarding how pathogens interact with EC and how this influences disease outcome. In this article, we review the literature on EC‐pathogen interactions and their role in innate and adaptive mechanisms of resistance to infection and highlight opportunities to address prominent knowledge gaps.
A Novel Eosinophilia Diagnostics Using Label‐free Impedimetric Aptasensor for Soluble Interleukin‐5 Receptor Alpha
Authors: Youn Hyungjun , Her Jin , Mok Jihyun , Kil Bareum , Kim Eunseon , Park Haesim , Ban Changill
Published: August 2018

Recently, interleukin‐5 receptor alpha (IL‐5RA) was reported to be a key surface molecule in the regulation of eosinophil proliferation. In this study, a highly sensitive aptamer for IL‐5RA was applied to an electrochemical biosensor. The rod‐shaped gold electrodes with circular gold surface were used. The aptasensor specifically detected membrane‐bound IL‐5RA on human eosinophils according to the number of the eosinophils. We further examined the usability of soluble IL‐5RA (sIL‐5RA) in the serum as a novel biomarker for the diagnosis of eosinophil‐related diseases. When eosinophilic inflammation occurs, the concentration of sIL‐5RA in the blood is highly elevated. To diagnose eosinophilic inflammation, the aptasensor was calibrated in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) to detect sIL‐5RA. The detection limit of the aptasensor in PBS was 1.69 pg/mL, which is lower than that of commercially available ELISA kits. The dynamic range of the aptasensor was 10–10,000 pg/mL, with high specificity over other serum proteins and interleukin family members. The aptasensor was capable of distinguishing between patients with eosinophilic asthma (EA) and normal controls (NCs) based on serum sIL‐5RA levels. Consequently, the fabricated aptasensor will contribute to the development of novel diagnostic systems for IL‐5RA‐related diseases.
Synthesis of MoS2 and Graphene Composites as the Anode Materials for Li–Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Juan , Tian Jianhua , Naren  , Wang Xiaxia , Qin Zhenwu , Shan Zhongqiang
Published: August 2018

The MoS2 and N‐doped graphene (MoS2/NG) composites are fabricated by an ethylenediamine‐assisted hydrothermal method for the anode materials of lithium‐ion batteries. The effects of hydrothermal systems with different amount ethylenediamine on the morphology of the MoS2 in the prepared composites are investigated. The microstructure and morphology of the as‐obtained composites are characterized by SEM, TEM and XRD methods. The analytical result reveals that the ultrathin few‐layered MoS2 nanosheets are tightly anchored on the graphene in the MoS2/NG composites. Given the different nanostructures of the as‐obtained composites, the possible formation mechanism is discussed and the electrochemical properties are studied. The MoS2/NG composites prepared with optimized amount of ethylenediamine modifier exhibit improved electrochemical performances, i. e. the enhanced cycling stability with reversible capacity of 816.6 mA h g−1 at 200 mA g−1 after 120 cycles and remarkable high‐rate capacity of 683.8 mA h g−1 at 2000 mA g−1. Therefore, the MoS2/graphene composites have great potential being an electrode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs).
Effect of Ni Content of Ni/γ‐Al2O3 Catalysts Prepared by the Atomic Layer Deposition Method on CO2 Reforming of Methane
Authors: Wang Guihui , Luo Fei , Cao Kun , Zhang Yuhua , Li Jinlin , Zhao Fuzhen , Chen Rong , Hong Jingping
Published: August 2018

Carbon dioxide reforming of methane is studied on Ni/γ‐Al2O3 catalysts prepared using atomic layer deposition (ALD) as well as impregnation methods. Different Ni contents are studied to select the most suitable catalyst for this reaction. The results show that Ni loading has a vital impact on the catalytic performance. For the ALD samples, when Ni loading increases from 0.8% to 1.6%, the amount of NiO increases dramatically, leading to a better catalytic activity. However, further increasing Ni loading to 2.0% does not obviously enhance the catalytic performance. Due to the moderate NiO‐γ‐Al2O3 interaction and the small size of Ni particles, ALD samples show superior activities and stabilities when compared with those of the impregnation samples.
N,P Dual‐Doped Hierarchically Porous Carbon Derived from a Polyelectrolyte Complex as High‐Performance Electrodes for Supercapacitors
Authors: Shang Ningzhao , Gao Shutao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Shuaihua , Feng Cheng , Wang Zhi , Wang Chun
Published: August 2018

Both the surface composition and the pore texture of electrode materials have a significant effect on their electrochemical performances. Herein, a new type of nitrogen and phosphorus dual‐doped hierarchically porous carbon (NP‐HPC), fabricated by simultaneous pyrolysis and activation of the polyelectrolyte complex with chitosan and polyphosphoric acid as the precursor, is demonstrated. The NP‐HPC has a hierarchically interconnected porous structure, high surface area (2933 m2 g−1), and doping of heteroatoms. Due to its unique features, the optimal NP‐HPC‐800 demonstrates a high specific capacitance (289 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1), excellent rate performance (238 F g−1 at 10 A g−1), and superior cycling stability (96% retention after 5000 cycles at 5 A g−1) in 6 mol L−1 of KOH. Furthermore, NP‐HPC‐800 shows an excellent energy density of 22.5 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 183.3 W kg−1. The low‐cost and facile fabrication process provides a feasible approach to prepare heteroatom‐doped carbon materials from a biomass precursor for energy‐related applications.