bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐Photon Absorption in Monolayer MXenes
Authors: Wang Gaozhong , Bennett Daniel , (John) Zhang Chuanfang , Ó Coileáin Cormac , Liang Meiying , McEvoy Niall , Wang Jing Jing , Wang Jun , Wang Kangpeng , Nicolosi Valeria , Blau Werner J.
Published: March 2020

Two‐photon absorption (2PA) is a nonlinear optical (NLO) effect that typically occurs in a conventional semiconductor whose bandgap is larger than the energy of one excited photon but smaller than the energy of two photons. In this work, the experimental observation of strong 2PA in gapless MXene monolayers is reported. This phenomenon is verified by a nonlinear transmission method and ultrafast dynamic studies based on a wavelength‐degenerate, non‐collinear pump‐probe technique. The unconventional 2PA is attributed to the structures of the MXene energy bands near the Fermi level, which favors two‐photon transitions and suppresses one‐photon transitions due to parallel band absorption effects. These results, as well as the measured NLO parameters including the 2PA coefficient, absorption cross‐section, excited carrier lifetimes, and third‐order NLO susceptibility, provide a systematic understanding of the unusual NLO effect in MXenes and may be applied in advanced photonic and optoelectronic devices.
Molecular‐Structure and Device‐Configuration Optimizations toward Highly Efficient Green Electroluminescence with Narrowband Emission and High Color Purity
Authors: Xu Yincai , Cheng Zong , Li Zhiqiang , Liang Baoyan , Wang Jiaxuan , Wei Jinbei , Zhang Zuolun , Wang Yue
Published: March 2020

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials that are able to realize electroluminescence showing simultaneously narrow emission band, high color purity, and high efficiency are highly demanded for display applications. Up to now, a few blue emissive TADF materials with such characteristics have been reported, while green TADF materials with such features are extremely scarce. Herein, two TADF compounds with highly efficient narrowband bluish green/green emission (full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM): 22 and 21 nm in toluene) induced by multiple resonance effect are reported. An optimized organic light‐emitting diode based on the green emissive compound shows a fairly narrow electroluminescent spectrum (FWHM: 33 nm), as well as an excellent color purity with the Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.20, 0.65), which is a close resemblance to the standard green‐light CIE coordinates of (0.21, 0.71) defined by the National Television System Committee. Meanwhile, the maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) up to 25.5% is achieved and a high EQE of 20.1% is maintained at a practical high luminance of 1000 cd m−2. The outstanding device performance of the compound makes it attractive for potential practical applications.
Electrically Switchable Amplified Spontaneous Emission from Liquid Crystalline Phase of an AIEE‐Active ESIPT Molecule
Authors: Tsutsui Yusuke , Zhang Wanying , Ghosh Samrat , Sakurai Tsuneaki , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Ozaki Masanori , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Seki Shu
Published: March 2020

Use of organic molecules as lasing media has much potential to develop next‐generation optical devices as soft‐matter photonics with wideband tunability and large coherence area. Although mirrorless lasing was theoretically predicted and practically demonstrated in helical cholesteric liquid crystalline (LC) phases of organic compounds, recent studies on optical confinement have been much focused into hard‐crystalline phases of the molecules. Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and enhancement (AIEE) provides one of the optimal molecular systems for light amplification in condensed phases, and herein AIEE activity and excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) are successfully coupled in a room temperature (RT) nematic LC. Suppressing the effect of concentration quenching/self‐absorption and attaining four‐level system for population inversion by the combination of AIEE and ESIPT in LC phases, lead to the amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) from a newly designed molecule: C5Ph‐HBT dispersed in RT LC matrix with the pumping energy threshold of 20 mJ cm–2. Moreover, the nematic LC allows the orientation of the molecular dipoles in response to external electric fields. Hence, the fluorescence as well as the ASE switching is attained at RT, demonstrating the potential of these composite materials as “switchable” ASE media for technological progress.
Polyoxometalates on Functional Substrates: Concepts, Synergies, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Cherevan Alexey S. , Nandan Sreejith P. , Roger Isolda , Liu Rongji , Streb Carsten , Eder Dominik
Published: March 2020

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are molecular metal oxide clusters that feature a broad range of structures and functionalities, making them one of the most versatile classes of inorganic molecular materials. They have attracted widespread attention in homogeneous catalysis. Due to the challenges associated with their aggregation, precipitation, and degradation under operational conditions and to extend their scope of applications, various strategies of depositing POMs on heterogeneous substrates have been developed. Recent ground‐breaking developments in the materials chemistry of supported POM composites are summarized and links between molecular‐level understanding of POM‐support interactions and macroscopic effects including new or optimized reactivities, improved stability, and novel function are established. Current limitations and future challenges in studying these complex composite materials are highlighted, and cutting‐edge experimental and theoretical methods that will lead to an improved understanding of synergisms between POM and support material from the molecular through to the nano‐ and micrometer level are discussed. Future development in this fast‐moving field is explored and emerging fields of research in POM heterogenization are identified.
Fully R2R‐Printed Carbon‐Nanotube‐Based Limitless Length of Flexible Active‐Matrix for Electrophoretic Display Application
Authors: Sun Junfeng , Sapkota Ashish , Park Hyejin , Wesley Prince , Jung Younsu , Maskey Bijendra Bishow , Kim Yushin , Majima Yutaka , Ding Jianfu , Ouyang Jianying , Guo Chang , Lefebvre Jacques , Li Zhao , Malenfant Patrick R. L. , Javey Ali , Cho Gyoujin
Published: March 2020

A limitless‐length flexible active‐matrix implies that virtually any surface can be rendered into an interactive medium when laminated with electrophoretic or organic light‐emitting diode sheets. However, performance, cost, and size limitations of current fabrication technologies and semiconducting materials, typically utilized in thin film transistor (TFT) active matrices (TFT‐AMs), have hindered progress, thus preventing the realization of fully printed TFT‐AMs on a plastic roll. A new high‐purity semiconducting single‐walled carbon nanotube (s‐SWCNT) ink is prepared by first isolating 99.9% pure s‐SWCNTs via conjugated polymer extraction, and then utilizing a ligand‐exchange method to formulate a novel hydrophilic gravure‐compatible semiconducting ink. Based on the s‐SWCNT ink, a fully additive manufacturing process using roll‐to‐roll (R2R) gravure printing enables the fabrication of a flexible TFT‐AM, overcoming performance, cost, and size limitations. TFT‐AMs with 10 to 40 PPI resolution where average mobility of 0.23 ± 0.12 cm2 V−1 s−1, average on–off ratio of 104.1, and threshold voltage variation of ±13% are attained. As a proof of concept, an inexpensive and flexible electrophoretic display is demonstrated by simply laminating an electrophoretic sheet onto the R2R gravure‐printed s‐SWCNT‐based TFT‐AM.
Cognitive Ability and Bidding Behavior in Second Price Auctions: An Experimental Study
Authors: Lee Ji Yong , Nayga Rodolfo M. , Deck Cary , Drichoutis Andreas C.
Published: March 2020

This paper examines what connection, if any, there is between cognitive ability and bidding strategy in second price auctions. Despite truthful revelations being a weakly dominant strategy, previous experiments have consistently observed overbidding, which makes the use of such auctions for inferring homegrown values problematic. Examining the effect of cognitive ability is important, as it may help identify when one can reliably recover values from observed bids. The results indicate that more cognitively able subjects behave in closer accordance with theory, and that cognitive ability partially explains heterogeneity in bidding behavior. Our results suggest that considering subjects' cognitive ability in homegrown valuation studies can help identify the true underlying demand conditions.
Statin use is associated with improved survival in multiple myeloma: A Swedish population‐based study of 4315 patients
Authors: Brånvall Elsa , Ekberg Sara , Eloranta Sandra , Wästerlid Tove , Birmann Brenda M. , Smedby Karin E.
Published: March 2020

Statin use has been associated with reduced cancer‐specific mortality among patients with several cancer types, including multiple myeloma (MM). We aimed to further elucidate the association of statin use and dose intensity with MM survival. Using Swedish population‐based national health registers, we identified all incident MM diagnoses occurring January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2013 and their drug dispensations and comorbidities. We assessed statin exposure in 6‐month periods pre‐ and post‐diagnosis, treated diagnosis as baseline for calculating survival time, and calculated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of exposure‐related MM‐specific and all‐cause mortality using Cox regression. We assessed statin exposure during the entire follow‐up and risk of MM‐specific mortality in a nested case‐control analysis. We classified dose intensity according to American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association recommendations. We ascertained 4315 MM cases during follow‐up. Statin use was associated with reduced MM‐specific mortality (pre‐diagnosis use multivariate‐adjusted HR, 95% CI: 0.83, 0.71‐0.96; 6 months post‐diagnosis: 0.73, 0.60‐0.89; entire follow‐up: 0.65, 0.52‐0.80) and (more weakly) with all‐cause mortality. Intensity analyses suggested a dose‐response; MM‐specific mortality decreased with increasing statin intensity in all time windows (eg, 6 months post‐diagnosis: low [0.76 (0.56‐1.03)], medium [0.73 (0.58‐0.92)], high [0.33 (0.08‐1.32)] intensity). However, relatively few patients received high intensity treatment, and the trend was statistically significant only for unadjusted pre‐diagnosis use.

In this large population‐based MM cohort, statin use was associated with improved MM‐specific survival in both sexes. Randomized prospective studies are warranted to evaluate statins as adjuvant treatment in MM.
Disseminated Varicella zoster infection with abdominal pain and periarterial fat stranding in a patient taking pomalidomide
Authors: Takada Hiroaki , Kohara Saeko , Ito Takashi , Yoshioka Hayato , Okada Ichiro , Kiriu Nobuaki , Koido Yuichi , Hasegawa Eijyu
Published: March 2020

Background

Disseminated Varicella zoster virus infection (DVI) is a severe infection associated with severe abdominal pain of unknown cause. We report a case in which periarterial (the celiac artery and superior mesenteric artery) fat stranding (PFS) on computed tomography (CT) was the presumed cause of abdominal pain in a patient taking pomalidomide.

Case Presentation

A 62‐year‐old woman was admitted to our hospital with abdominal pain. Her medical history was multiple myeloma treated with pomalidomide. Computed tomography showed no remarkable findings on admission, but 1 day later, a contrast‐enhanced CT showed PFS. A skin eruption appeared on day 4 and we started acyclovir. On day 10, Varicella zoster virus antigen and antibody tests were positive, confirming the diagnosis of DVI. The abdominal pain subsequently improved, together with the PFS, and she was discharged.

Conclusion

When patients present with severe abdominal pain and PFS, DVI and acyclovir must be considered.
Aktivitätssteigerung der Wasserstoffentwicklung von Platinelektroden in alkalischen Medien unter Verwendung von Ni‐Fe‐Clustern
Authors: Xue Song , Haid Richard W. , Kluge Regina M. , Ding Xing , Garlyyev Batyr , Fichtner Johannes , Watzele Sebastian , Hou Shujin , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S.
Published: March 2020

In dieser Arbeit zeigen wir eine einfache Möglichkeit, die Aktivität der Wasserstoffentwicklungsreaktion (HER) von Pt‐Elektroden in alkalischen Medien durch Auftragen von Ni‐Fe‐Clustern zu verbessern. Dabei wird die benötigte Überspannung, um eine Stromdichte von 10 mA cm−2 in H2‐gesättigtem 0.1 m KOH zu erreichen, für Modell‐Einkristallelektroden auf ≈70 mV reduziert. Nach unserem Wissen übertreffen diese modifizierten Elektroden die Leistung aller bisher gezeigten Elektrokatalysatoren, die unter ähnlichen Bedingungen getestet wurden. Darüber hinaus wurde der Einfluss i) des Ni:Fe‐Verhältnisses, ii) der Clusterbedeckung und iii) der Art der im Elektrolyten vorhandenen Alkalimetallkationen auf die HER‐Aktivität untersucht. Die gesteigerte Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit der katalysierten Reaktion stammt wahrscheinlich sowohl von der verbesserten Wasserdissoziation an den Ni‐Fe‐Clustern, als auch von der anschließenden optimierten Wasserstoffadsorption und ‐rekombination an den Pt‐Atomen der Ni‐Fe/Pt‐Grenzfläche.
Thiol‐assisted bioinspired deposition of polyurethane onto cellulose as robust elastomer for reinforcing soy protein‐based composites
Authors: Yan Qian , Zhao Shujun , Kang Haijiao , Zhang Shifeng
Published: March 2020

The development of natural fiber‐reinforced composites is environmentally friendly and therefore presents great potential; however, these composites are characterized by poor water resistance and interfacial bonding, which therefore limits its practical applications. This study reported a facile and novel approach for the construction of a high‐performance microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) elastomer using thiol‐functionalized polyurethane (PU‐SH) with the assistance of a bioinspired dopamine platform. This elastomer was then employed as a reactive reinforcer to improve soy protein isolated (SPI) adhesive. The surface modification of MFC included the formation of a polydopamine (PDA) layer and Michael addition reactions between PU‐SH and PDA, which were characterized by the Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. It was found that the high‐functional MFC elastomer served as a reactive cross‐linker that gave rise to multiple physical and chemical interactions with the SPI matrix. This resulted in the optimization of the crosslinking system, which ultimately contributed to the solution of the bottleneck issues for natural fiber‐reinforced composites. Consequently, the modified SPI‐based adhesives notably enhanced the shear strength to 1.38 MPa, displaying a 236.6% increment compared to the unmodified adhesive. This strategy may provide a new insight into the design and preparation of superior natural plant‐reinforced composites.
Track choice, school engagement and feelings of perceived control at the transition from primary to secondary school
Authors: Boone Simon , Demanet Jannick
Published: March 2020

The transition from primary to secondary education is regarded as a crucial phase in pupils’ school careers. Changes in the school environment have a negative influence on pupils’ perceived control and engagement. However, until now little attention has been devoted to the role of the onset of ability grouping therein, which often coincides with the start of secondary education. Research has shown that students in non‐academic tracks display lower levels of perceived control and engagement. In this study we examine the relation between pupils’ prospective track choice and feelings of perceived control and behavioural and cognitive engagement before the transition to secondary education. Stepwise multilevel regression models were run on data collected from pupils in their last year of primary education in 36 schools in the cities of Antwerp and Ghent (Flanders, Belgium) in May–June 2016. The results show that pupils who indicated that they would start secondary education in non‐academic tracks displayed lower levels of perceived control and behavioural and cognitive engagement than pupils who indicated that they would start in an academic track. Further analyses suggest that teacher assessments of pupils’ competence play an important role in explaining these differences according to prospective track choice—with regard to perceived control and behavioural disengagement, this effect is established net of students’ actual competence. This study demonstrates that differences in perceived control and engagement according to track originate in primary education, and that primary school teachers play a vital part in labelling students according to their future careers.
Community Psychology in higher education in Europe: Results of a survey and discussion of the basic competency approach
Authors: Roehrle Bernd , Akhurst Jacqui , Carr Nicholas , Herrera Sánchez Isabel M. , Arcidiacono Caterina , Lawthom Rebecca , Stark Wolfgang ,   EFPA Standing Committee on Community Psychology
Published: March 2020

This report from the Standing Committee on Community Psychology of the European Federation of Psychological Association provides an overview of higher education in Community Psychology (CP) in 14 European countries. Our findings show that 10 countries have some kind of CP teaching in their educational system. Twenty European universities offer a CP‐oriented Master degree, two universities at the Bachelor level and 16 universities also have CP‐oriented Ph.D. programmes. The profiles of the universities focus on two areas: Community psychology in a pure form and a combination of social psychology and community psychology. The other universities vary between clinical, organisational psychology, and a pedagogical focus. Within a certain European emphasis, these universities are analysing and changing the social conditions of community life and mental health. The responding universities failed to report adequately on comprehensive core competences and key elements in CP. To compensate for this deficit, the Standing Committee on Community Psychology proposes to develop a primer of basic CP competences for inclusion in programmes like EuroPsy.
Antiproliferative Evaluation of Some 2‐[2‐(2‐Phenylethenyl)‐cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl]‐1,3‐benzothiazoles: DFT and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Ceylan Mustafa , Erkan Sultan , Yaglioglu Ayse Sahin , Akdogan Uremis Nuray , Koç Esra
Published: March 2020

The 2‐[2‐(2‐phenylethenyl)cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl]‐1,3‐benzothiazoles were synthesized from the reactions of 7‐benzylidenebicyclo[3.2.0]hept‐2‐en‐6‐ones with 2‐aminobenzenethiol. The antiproliferative activities of 2‐[2‐(2‐phenylethenyl)cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl]‐1,3‐benzothiazoles were determined against C6 (rat brain tumor) and HeLa (human cervical carcinoma cells) cell lines using BrdU cell proliferation ELISA assay. Cisplatin and 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) were used as standards. The most active compound was 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(4‐methylphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole against C6 cell lines with IC50=5.89 μm value (cisplatin, IC50=14.46 μm and 5‐FU, IC50=76.74 μm). Furthermore, the most active compound was 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole against HeLa cell lines with IC50=3.98 μm (cisplatin, IC50=37.95 μm and 5‐FU, IC50=46.32 μm).

Additionally, computational studies of related molecules were performed by using B3LYP/6‐31G+(d,p) level in the gas phase. Experimental IR and NMR data were compared with the calculated results and were found to be compatible with each other. Molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps of the most active 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole against HeLa and the most active 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(4‐methylphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole against C6 were investigated, aiming to determine the region that the molecule is biologically active. Biological activities of mentioned molecules were investigated with molecular docking analyses. The appropriate target protein (PDB codes: 1 M17 for the HeLa cells and 1JQH for the C6 cells) was used for 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole and 2‐{(1S,2S)‐2‐[(E)‐2‐(4‐methylphenyl)ethenyl]cyclopent‐3‐en‐1‐yl}‐1,3‐benzothiazole molecules exhibiting the highest biological activity against HeLa and C6 cells in the docking studies. As a result, it was determined that these molecules are the best candidates for the anticancer drug.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activities of Novel Substituted 5‐Anilino‐α‐Glucofuranose Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Yaling , Wang Lili , Sun Baoli , Li Xiabing , Hou Qiaoli , Wang Wei , Li Baolin
Published: March 2020

In order to find novel antitumor candidate agents with high efficiency and low toxicity, 14 novel substituted 5‐anilino‐α‐glucofuranose derivatives have been designed, synthesized and evaluated for antiproliferative activities in vitro. Their structures were characterized by NMR (1H and 13C) and HR‐MS, and configuration (R/S) at C(5) was identified by two‐dimensional 1H,1H‐NOESY‐NMR spectrum. Their antiproliferative activities against human tumor cells were investigated by MTT assay. The results demonstrated that most of the synthesized compounds had antiproliferative effects comparable to the reference drugs gefitinib and lapatinib. In particular, (5R)‐5‐O‐(3‐chloro‐4‐{[5‐(4‐fluorophenyl)thiophen‐2‐yl]methyl}anilino)‐5‐deoxy‐1,2‐O‐(1‐methylethylidene)‐α‐glucofuranose (9da) showed the most potent antiproliferative effects against SW480, A431 and A549 cells, with IC50 values of 8.57, 5.15 and 15.24 μm, respectively. This work suggested 5‐anilino‐α‐glucofuranose as an antitumor core structure that may open a new way to develop more potent anti‐cancer agents.
Lignans and Terpenoids from the Leaves of Schisandra chinensis
Authors: Liu Guo‐Zhen , Liu Yan , Sun Yan‐Ping , Li Xiao‐Mao , Xu Zhen‐Peng , Jiang Peng , Rong Xiao‐Hui , Yang Bing‐You , Kuang Hai‐Xue
Published: March 2020

Fifteen constituents, including one new lignan (schisandroside E) and one new terpenoid (schisandenoid A) as well as nine known lignans and four known terpenoids, were isolated from Schisandra chinensis leaves. The structures of schisandroside E and schisandenoid A were established by entirely meticulous spectroscopic analysis (NMR, MS, CD, IR and UV). All compounds were tested for cytotoxicity against MGC‐803, Caco‐2 and Ishikawa cell lines. Some compounds showed strong cytotoxicity against these three cancer cell lines with IC50<1 μm.
Self‐Assembled, Highly Positively Charged, Allyl–Pd Crowns: Cavity‐Pocket‐Driven Interactions of Fluoroanions
Authors: Ferrer Montserrat , Gallen Albert , Gutiérrez Albert , Martínez Manuel , Ruiz Eliseo , Lorenz Yvonne , Engeser Marianne
Published: March 2020

A series of dodecanuclear highly positively charged homo‐ and heterometallamacrocycles [{Pd(η3‐2‐Me‐C3H4)}6(4‐PPh2py)12{M2(tpbz)}3]18+ (M=Pd, Pt; tpbz=1,2,4,5‐tetrakis(diphenylphosphanyl)benzene were synthesized by the quantitative self‐assembly of {Pd(η3‐2‐Me‐C3H4)}+, {M2(tpbz)}4+ and 4‐PPh2py moieties in 2:1:4 molar ratio. The cationic assemblies were obtained as salts of different fluorinated anions with diverse sizes and electronic properties, namely BF4−, PF6−, SbF6− and CF3SO3−. The new crown‐like metallamacrocycles showed remarkable differences in their NMR spectra due to the presence of the different counteranions. On the basis of the observed variations, the metallacycles have been tested as catalytic precursors in allylic alkylation reactions. The anion‐dependent activity and selectivity has been analysed and compared with that of the corresponding monometallic allylic corners [Pd(η3‐2‐Me‐C3H4)(4‐PPh2py)2]X (X=BF4−, PF6−, SbF6−, CF3SO3−). DFT calculations have been employed in order to help to the interpretation of the experimental data and to model the anion–crown interactions.
Supramolecular Construction of a [16]‐Imidazolium Cage via a Quadruple [2+2] Photocycloaddition and Its Selective Fluorescent Recognition of Pyranine (HPTS)
Authors: Hua Kai , An Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Yao‐Yu , Han Ying‐Feng
Published: March 2020

Polyimidazolium‐based cages are considered promising materials based on their fascinating properties and potential applications. These three‐dimensional functional structures are highly desirable for the recognition of particular guest molecules, however, their synthesis remains challenging. In this work, we have designed and synthesizes a pure [n]‐imidazolium (n=16) cage, the hexadecakisimidazolium salt H16‐2(PF6)16, from tetragonal octakisimidazolium salt H8‐1(PF6)8. The synthetic method involves formation of metal‐carbene templates, a quadruple photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition reaction and subsequent removal of metal ions. Specifically, the synthesized cage, featuring sixteen imidazolium moieties, demonstrated high efficiency for the selective fluorescent recognition of 8‐hydroxy‐1,3,6‐pyrene trisulfonate (HPTS). The present work not only further develops the metal‐carbene template strategy by exploiting a new type of polyimidazolium cage, but also provides encouraging prospects for the design of versatile imidazolium‐based functional acceptors.
Comprehensive elimination of oil spills on water surfaces by a graphene‐oil vacuum cleaner
Authors: Schedy Andreas , Oetken Marco
Published: March 2020

Das Thema Umwelt und Umweltverschmutzungen ist ein großer Bestandteil des Naturwissenschaftlichen Unterrichts. Mit dem Nanomaterial „Graphen“ lassen sich unkompliziert und kostengünstig hocheffiziente Öl‐Adsorptionsschwämme herstellen, wodurch die Thematik der Ölverschmutzung auf dem Meer im Schulunterricht nun auch experimentell behandelt werden kann. Durch die Kombination eines Graphen‐Schwamms mit einem Saugsystem kann in einem Modellexperiment die großflächige Beseitigung von Ölverschmutzungen simuliert werden.
Ionic Liquid‐Intercalated Metallic MoS2 as a Superior Electrode for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Reddy Inta Harish , Biswas Tanmoy , Ghosh Sourav , Kumar Rahul , Kanti Jana Sourav , Mahalingam Venkataramanan
Published: March 2020

The development of MoS2 in the metallic phase (1T‐MoS2) is of paramount interest as it exhibits superior electrochemical activities compared to its semiconducting polymorph (2H‐MoS2). In this work, an ionic liquid (IL)‐assisted solvothermal method was employed to produce the thermodynamically metastable 1T‐MoS2. Structural characterization of the material suggests the intercalation of the IL into MoS2. De‐intercalation of ILs from 1T‐MoS2 leads to the formation of 2H‐MoS2. Carbon cloth‐supported 1T‐MoS2(1T‐MoS2@CC) shows higher electrocatalytic activity towards acidic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) by delivering a current density of 50 mA/cm2 at an overpotential of 210 mV whereas 2H‐MoS2@CC requires an overpotential of 260 mV to reach the same current density. In addition, the 1T‐MoS2@CC electrode delivers a high electrochemical double‐layer storage ability compared to 2H‐MoS2@CC in 1 M Na2SO4. The enhanced electrochemical activity of 1T‐MoS2 over 2H‐MoS2 may be due to the existence of conducting basal planes and the high interlayer spacing (about 1 nm) caused by the intercalation of ILs into the MoS2 layers.
Agronomic and physiological performance of an indica–japonica rice variety with a high yield and high nitrogen use efficiency
Authors: Zhu Kuanyu , Zhou Qun , Shen Yong , Yan Jiaqian , Xu Yunji , Wang Zhiqin , Yang Jianchang
Published: March 2020

Hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties usually need more N application to produce a higher grain yield and exhibit lower N use efficiency (NUE) than inbreds. However, little information is available about the mechanism underlying an indica–japonica rice variety with high yield and high NUE under low N rates. This study investigated this issue. The indica–japonica hybrid rice variety Yongyou 2640 (Y‐2640) and the japonica inbred rice variety Lianjing 7 (L‐7) were grown in a paddy field at N rates of 0 and 200 kg N ha−1. The results showed that the grain yield and internal NUE (grain yield/total N uptake of plants) of Y‐2640 were 16–23% and 9–10%, respectively, higher than those of L‐7. A higher grain yield for Y‐2640 was mainly attributed to the greater spikelet number per unit area that resulted from greater root oxidation activity at panicle initiation and its higher crop growth rate and net assimilation rate before heading. A higher leaf area index and greater root length, root, and shoot biomass were the important agronomic traits of Y‐2640. Higher cytokinin content and the expression of genes involved in the amino acid transporters OsAAP1 and OsLHT1 in the roots and leaves, a higher photosynthetic NUE, and a greater N harvest index were the main physiological traits of Y‐2640. The results suggest that improved agronomic and physiological performance accounts for the high yield and high NUE for the indica–japonica hybrid rice variety.
Phase noise analysis of source injection coupled quadrature oscillator
Authors: Azizi Hengameh , Abbasalizadeh Soolmaz , Miar‐Naimi Hossein
Published: March 2020

This paper analyzes the thermally induced phase noise and the up‐conversion of flicker noise into phase noise of source injection coupled quadrature oscillator (SIC‐QOSC), for the first time. Furthermore, this paper provides a complete analysis for the injection current of the SIC‐QOSC and extracts the closed‐form expressions for it for the first time, too. These expressions lead to obtaining the harmonics of the injection current as well as the oscillation amplitude, which is necessary for the phase noise analysis. To evaluate the extracted equations, this paper compares the calculated results with appropriate simulations. Comparisons confirm the accuracy of the proposed injection current expressions and the phase noise formulas. Using the closed‐form equations of phase noise, designers can understand the SIC‐QOSC's design tradeoffs and design the oscillator for given phase noise.
CF3‐Containing para‐Quinone Methides for Organic Synthesis
Authors: Winter Michael , Schütz Roman , Eitzinger Andreas , Ofial Armin R. , Waser Mario
Published: March 2020

A new family of CF3‐containing para‐quinone methides (CF3‐QMs) was systematically investigated for its suitability in organic synthesis. Addition of different nucleophiles gives access to target molecules with a benzylic CF3‐containing stereogenic center straightforwardly. The electrophilicity parameter E of the prototypical CF3‐QM 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐(2,2,2‐trifluoroethylidene)cyclohexa‐2,5‐dien‐1‐one was determined to be –11.68 according to the Mayr scale, making it one of the most reactive quinone methides known so far.
Fabrication of Immunosensor Based on Polyaniline, Fullerene‐C60 and Palladium Nanoparticles Nanocomposite: An Electrochemical Detection Tool for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Suresh Lakkavarapu , Bondili Jayakumar Singh , Brahman Pradeep Kumar
Published: March 2020

Present work demonstrates the fabrication of new and facile sandwich‐type electrochemical immunosensor based on palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs), polyaniline (PANI) and fullerene‐C60 nanocomposite film modified glassy carbon electrode (PdNP@PANI‐C60/GCE) for ultrasensitive detection of Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) biomarker. PdNP@PANI‐C60 was electrochemically synthesized on GCE and used as an electroactive substrate. PdNP@PANI‐C60 was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Primary antibody anti‐PSA (Ab1) was covalently immobilized on PdNP@PANI‐C60/GCE using NHS/EDC linkers. In the presence of PSA antigen, horseradish peroxidase secondary antibody (HRP‐Ab2) was brought into the surface of the electrode, developing stable amplified signals of H2O2 reduction. Under the optimal conditions, a linear curve for determination of PSA at the proposed immunosensor was 1.6×10−4 ng.mL−1 to 38 ng.mL−1 with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.95×10−5 ng.mL−1. The proposed immunosensor was successfully validated in serum and urine samples towards PSA detection with satisfactory and acceptable results.
Enhanced hysteresis of suspended sediment transport in response to upstream damming: An example of the middle Yangtze River downstream of the Three Gorges Dam
Authors: Lyu Yiwei , Fagherazzi Sergio , Zheng Shan , Tan Guangming , Shu Caiwen
Published: March 2020

The peak in sediment transport in alluvial rivers generally lags behind the peak in discharge. It is thus not clear how the hysteresis in the sediment/discharge relationship may be impacted by damming, which can fundamentally alter the water and sediment regimes in the downstream reaches of the river. In this study, a total of 500 flood events in the Yichang–Chenglingji Reach (YCR) of the Middle Yangtze River immediately downstream of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) are analysed to study the impacts of dam operations on the hysteresis of suspended sediment transport. Sediment rating curves, hysteresis patterns, as well as lag times, are investigated to determine the relationship between suspended sediment concentration (SSC) and flow discharge (Q) at different temporal scales, from inter‐annual to individual flood events, for the pre‐ and post‐TGD period from 1992 to 2002 and from 2003 to 2017, respectively. The results showed that the TGD operation decreased the frequency and magnitude of floods. The decrease in peak flow and increase in base flow weakened the flood contribution to the annual discharge by nearly 20%. However, the relative suspended sediment load contribution during flood events was much higher than the discharge contribution, and was little impacted by the dam. At seasonal and monthly scales, more than 80% of the suspended sediment was transported by ~65% of the water discharge in the summer and early autumn. The monthly SSC–Q relationship changed from a figure‐eight to an anti‐clockwise pattern after the construction of the TGD. For single flood events, the TGD operations significantly modified the downstream SSC–Q hysteresis patterns, increasing the frequency of anti‐clockwise loops and the lag time between peak Q and peak SSC. These adjustments were mainly caused by differences in the propagation velocities of flood and sediment waves and the sediment ‘storage–mobilization–depletion’ process, whereas the influence of lateral diversions was small. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inside Cover: A novel in vivo Cerenkov luminescence image‐guided surgery on primary and metastatic colorectal cancer (J. Biophotonics 3/2020)
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Qu Yawei , Cao Yu , Shi Xiaojing , Guo Hongbo , Zhang Xiaojun , Zheng Sheng , Liu Haifeng , Hu Zhenhua , Tian Jie
Published: March 2020

This study presents a novel intraoperative in vivo imaging approach which harnessed Cerenkov luminescence (CL) to detect primary and metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) using clinically approved radiopharmaceuticals. In the mice and swine experiments, the proposed approach effectively improved the effect of CRC surgery. The approach is believed to be promising for utilizing CL in open surgery.

Further details can be found in the article by Zeyu Zhang, Yawei Qu, Yu Cao et al. (e201960152)

image
Performance of TDDFT Vertical Excitation Energies of Core‐Substituted Naphthalene Diimides
Authors: Narsaria Ayush K. , Ruijter Julian D. , Hamlin Trevor A. , Ehlers Andreas W. , Guerra Célia Fonseca , Lammertsma Koop , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: March 2020

We have evaluated the performance of various density functionals, covering generalized gradient approximation (GGA), global hybrid (GH) and range‐separated hybrid (RSH), using time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) for computing vertical excitation energies against experimental absorption maximum (λmax) for a set of 10 different core‐substituted naphthalene diimides (cNDI) recorded in dichloromethane. The computed excitation in case of GH PBE0 is most accurate while the trend is most systematic with RSH LCY‐BLYP compared to λmax. We highlight the importance of including solvent effects for optimal agreement with the λmax. Increasing the basis set size from TZ2P to QZ4P has a negligible influence on the computed excitation energies. Notably, RSH CAMY‐B3LYP gave the least error for charge‐transfer excitation. The poorest agreement with λmax is obtained with semi‐local GGA functionals. Use of the optimally‐tuned RSH LCY‐BLYP* is not recommended because of the high computational cost and marginal improvement in results.
Impact of salt levels on the sensory profile and consumer acceptance of Italian dry‐cured ham
Authors: Schivazappa Cristina , Virgili Roberta
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Reduction of the salt (NaCl) content in typical Italian dry‐cured ham is intended to reduce sodium dietary intake to meet World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for the prevention of serious diseases. This reduction is a complex issue because of the multiple roles that salt plays in the product. Hams that were processed to obtain a final product with target salt levels (hams with reduced salt concentration and controls) were analyzed using chemical parameters (salt, moisture, fat, and proteolysis indexes). Their sensory properties were described by a trained panel and 87 consumers evaluated the impact of salt reduction on their liking for the products.

RESULTS

The dry‐cured hams under investigation are representative of Italian dry‐cured hams, which are considered to be low and medium to high in terms of salt content. Consistent with the role of salt in proteolytic enzymes inhibition, there was an increase in the proteolysis index in fully matured dry‐cured hams with reduced salt content. Salt level affected saltiness perception but also texture, color, and, to a lesser extent, flavor intensity in matured dry‐cured hams. On average, reduced‐salt dry‐cured hams resulted in increased consumer liking. However, the resulting three consumer segments (37%, 27%, and 36% of the consumer cohort, respectively), differed in the acceptability ranking given to reduced‐salt hams and controls.

CONCLUSION

The tested reduction in salt content, besides improving the nutritional profile of dry‐cured ham, was effective in increasing consumers’ acceptance. These results were useful for exploring the effect of reducing salt concentration on consumer liking for dry‐cured hams. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacterial communities from an area under the influence of iron mining and from the adjacent phytophysiognomies which have high genetic diversity
Authors: Oliveira Silva Aline , Azarias Guimarães Amanda , da Costa Amanda M. , Louzada Rodrigues Tainara , de Soares Carvalho Teotonio , Reis Sales Flávia , de Souza Moreira Fatima M.
Published: March 2020

We evaluated symbiotic (rhizobia) and non‐symbiotic efficiency and the diversity of native communities of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in soil samples from an area in recovery after iron mining (RA) and from adjacent phytophysiognomies (Ironstone Outcrops, Neotropical Savanna, Atlantic Forest) in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region, MG, Brazil, in two climate seasons. Greenhouse experiments were conducted with siratro (Macroptilium atropurpureum) as a trap plant. The SPAD index in siratro was more effective in detecting the difference between the symbiotic efficiencies of the communities of PGPR than shoot dry matter, with readings of the SPAD index greater in RA. Genetic diversity, of 327 strains evaluated by partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, showed 29 genera in the dry season and 19 in the rainy season, among these genera some recognized as nodulating and endophytes, and others potentially endophytes. Genera belonging to the phyla Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria were found. The nodule‐forming genera Bradyrhizobium and Rhizobium and the endophytic Paenibacillus were those of highest occurrence in both seasons and in all phytophysiognomies. The greater symbiotic efficiency and the high genetic diversity of the rhizobacterial community found in RA indicate that soil rehabilitation is effectively in process. As most of native legume species form symbiosis with Rhizobium and mainly Bradyrhizobium, these bacterial communities are an important source of potential inoculant strains, as well as, a relevant feature for the successful establishment of diverse legumes for revegetation purposes.
Visualizing the “Invisible” Soliton Pulsation in an Ultrafast Laser
Authors: Liu Meng , Wei Zhi‐Wei , Li Heng , Li Ti‐Jian , Luo Ai‐Ping , Xu Wen‐Cheng , Luo Zhi‐Chao
Published: March 2020

Pulsation is a universal phenomenon that exists in diverse fields. For nonlinear optics, the soliton pulsating behavior can be meaningful for fundamental physics and industrial purpose owing to its fruitful nonlinear dynamics and the possible detrimental effect of instability (or even route to chaos) during pulsating process. Herein, a novel type of soliton pulsation in an ultrafast laser is unveiled. The pulsating behavior features that the soliton experiences periodic peak power variation but with almost invariable pulse energy. This phenomenon is denoted as “invisible soliton pulsation” when referring to the routine diagnostic methods. However, the invisible soliton pulsation can be distinguished by recording the shot‐to‐shot spectra with real‐time spectroscopy technique. It is found that the appearance of the invisible soliton pulsation is sensitive to the pump power level. Moreover, the phenomenon of invisible soliton pulsation is further revealed by numerical simulations. These findings can shed new insights into the complex nonlinear behavior of solitons in dissipative optical systems, and also enrich the performance diagnostic of ultrafast lasers for practical applications.
The influence of performance feedback frequency and affective commitment on the sunk cost effect
Authors: Chen Der‐Fa , Chen Peng‐Kwang , Chung Shao‐Hsi , Cheng Kuo‐Chih , Wu Chen‐Ho
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study is to explore how combined effect of feedback frequency of investment performance and manager's affective commitment on reduction of the sunk cost effect. To this end, we designed an experimental questionnaire to collect data from production managers of electronics manufacturing companies listed on Taiwanese stock markets and used a hierarchical regression model to examine the relationships among variables. The results from 336 samples showed that just considering performance feedback frequency or affective commitment does not necessarily reduce the sunk cost effect. Only high feedback frequency jointed with high affective commitment can suppress the willingness of manager to continue a disadvantageous investment project.
State's insurer agreements designed to improve patient access to care
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2020

Under agreements that the Massachusetts attorney general's office has termed “groundbreaking,” five insurers and two managed behavioral health care entities doing business in the state will enact consumer‐friendly changes that range from lifting prior authorization requirements for certain services to correcting inaccuracies in provider directories.
MH providers need exposure to suicide prevention best practices, training
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2020

Outside of psychiatrists, the majority of mental health professionals have minimal to no formal training in how to effectively treat suicidal people, according to suicide prevention experts, a recent article in USA Today reported.
Simulated accuracy assessment of small footprint body‐mounted probe alignment device for MRI‐guided cryotherapy of abdominal lesions
Authors: Shono Naoyuki , Ninni Brian , King Franklin , Kato Takahisa , Tokuda Junichi , Fujimoto Takahiro , Tuncali Kemal , Hata Nobuhiko
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided percutaneous cryotherapy of abdominal lesions, an established procedure, uses MRI to guide and monitor the cryoablation of lesions. Methods to precisely guide cryotherapy probes with a minimum amount of trial‐and‐error are yet to be established. To aid physicians in attaining precise probe alignment without trial‐and‐error, a body‐mounted motorized cryotherapy‐probe alignment device (BMCPAD) with motion compensation was clinically tested in this study. The study also compared the contribution of body motion and organ motion compensation to the guidance accuracy of a body‐mounted probe alignment device.

Methods

The accuracy of guidance using the BMCPAD was prospectively measured during MRI‐guided percutaneous cryotherapies before insertion of the probes. Clinical parameters including patient age, types of anesthesia, depths of the target, and organ sites of target were collected. By using MR images of the target organs and fiducial markers embedded in the BMCPAD, we retrospectively simulated the guidance accuracy with body motion compensation, organ motion compensation, and no compensation. The collected data were analyzed to test the impact of motion compensation on the guidance accuracy.

Results

Thirty‐seven physical guidance of probes were prospectively recorded for sixteen completed cases. The accuracy of physical guidance using the BMCPAD was 13.4 ± 11.1 mm. The simulated accuracy of guidance with body motion compensation, organ motion compensation, and no compensation was 2.4 ± 2.9 mm, 2.2 ± 1.6 mm, and 3.5 ± 2.9 mm, respectively. Data analysis revealed that the body motion compensation and organ motion compensation individually impacted the improvement in the accuracy of simulated guidance. Moreover, the difference in the accuracy of guidance either by body motion compensation or organ motion compensation was not statistically significant. The major clinical parameters impacting the accuracy of guidance were the body and organ motions. Patient age, types of anesthesia, depths of the target, and organ sites of target did not influence the accuracy of guidance using BMCPAD. The magnitude of body surface movement and organ movement exhibited mutual statistical correlation.

Conclusions

The BMCPAD demonstrated guidance accuracy comparable to that of previously reported devices for CT‐guided procedures. The analysis using simulated motion compensation revealed that body motion compensation and organ motion compensation individually impact the improvement in the accuracy of device‐guided cryotherapy probe alignment. Considering the correlation between body and organ movements, we also determined that body motion compensation using the ring fiducial markers in the BMCPAD can be solely used to address both body and organ motions in MRI‐guided cryotherapy.