bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges Faced by Petty Traders in Accessing Loans from Financial Institutions: Evidence from the Upper West Region of Ghana
Authors: Adusei Charles , Attafuah Festus Adu , Tweneboah-Koduah Isaac
Published: May 2019

Access to finance is a key determinant for business start-up, development and growth for small businesses. This paper focused on the challenges faced by petty traders in accessing loans within Wa Central in the Upper West Region of Ghana with a sample of eighty-one respondents for both the questionnaire and the interview.  The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation matrix and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance. The study showed evidence that high interest rate charged; demand for collateral and poor records keeping by petty traders were the challenges of accessing loans. The paper suggests that petty traders must keep proper records and the need for financial institutions to reconsider its stringent eligibility criteria for petty traders, Finally policy makers must create an enabling operating environment for micro enterprises to flourish.
Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculation on Growth and Yield of Two Sweet Potato Varieties
Authors: Sakha Michael Ajanja , Jefwa Joyce , Gweyi-Onyango Joseph P.
Published: May 2019

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) represent a functionally important component of soil microbial community, being of particular significance for plant mineral nutrition in tropical agro ecosystems. The effects of AMF inoculation on growth and yield of two sweet potato varieties was studied during the short rains season of 2017/2018 in the Teaching and Research Farm of Agricultural Science and Technology Department, Kenyatta University. The experiment was laid down as 2x2 factorial design in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The experimental factors were two sweet potato varieties (Kemb-10 and Bungoma) and AMF inoculum (With and without inoculation). Data on growth parameters was collected on vine length and number of branches, while data on yield was collected on marketable storage roots and shoot biomass. Data was analyzed using Genstat 15th edition and the results showed that there was significantly difference at P≤0.05 among the treatments. AMF inoculation increased growth and yield of sweet potatoes by vine length 29.74%, Number of branches 22.36%, marketable storage roots 18.32%, and shoot biomass 28.68% in week 20. Also, variety interacting with AMF inoculation enhanced growth and yield parameters. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that the application of commercial AMF inoculum solely or when interacting with varieties enhanced growth and yield of sweet potatoes, though there was no significant difference between the two varieties.
Evaluation of Physiological Quality of Seeds of Improved Snap Bean Lines under Different Storage
Authors: Silva Sanfim de Santan Camila Queiroz da , Freitas Luana Barros , Albuquerque de Oliveira Tâmara Rebecca , Crevelari Jocarla Ambrosim , Pureza da Cruz Derivaldo , Gravina Lilia Marques , Rocha Richardson Sales , Da Costa Jaeggi Mário Euclides Pechara , Pereira Israel Martins , Ramos Oliveira Márcia Teresinha , Berbet Pedro Amorim , Amaral Gravina Geraldo de
Published: May 2019

Seed quality is a key factor to succeed in a yield generation and storage is an important activity to control the physiological seed quality, as it preserves seed viability while maintaining its robustness at a reasonable level between planting and harvest. On this basis, the goal of this study was to evaluate the physiological quality of snap bean seeds stored in different types of packages and storage conditions. Eight genotypes comprising six lines and two controls were analyzed. It was applied a completely randomized block design with four replicates in a factorial scheme (8×2×2×7).Seed storage was performed in permeable and impermeable packages under controlled and uncontrolled conditions. The physiological seed quality was evaluated by means of germination and vigor tests. The different types of package and storage conditions influenced the physiological seed quality. Under controlled storage conditions, the permeable and impermeable packages were more efficient in controlling the physiological quality of snap bean seeds.
Growth and Pattern of Urbanisation: An Analysis of Barasat Subdivision, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal
Authors: Mitra (Sinha) Barnali , Pahari Deb Prakash
Published: May 2019

Urbanisation is one of the most significant development process affecting the modern world particularly the developing countries. However, often the pattern and level of urban development are highly variable both spatially and temporally. Barasat subdivision comprises the sadar subdivision of the district of North 24 Parganas in West Bengal. This district traditionally has a glorious history of urbanisation being much higher than both the state and national averages. Within the district, this subdivision has shown a slow and steady growth of urbanisation since independence. Although the percentage of urban population has remained below the district average it has been significantly higher than the state and national average. The study aims to find out the trends, levels of urbanisation and spatio-temporal pattern of urbanisation in the study area using quantitative and qualitative techniques. Mostly secondary data sources have been used. The study reveals that there are significant spatio-temporal variation in levels of urbanisation within the subdivision. The subdivision was overshadowed in the urban scenario mainly due to the overwhelming presence of neighbouring Barrackpore subdivision till 1981. The situation has significantly altered after Barasat being declared the district headquarter in 1986.
The transcription factor YY2 has less momentous properties of an intrinsically disordered protein than its paralog YY1
Authors: Figiel Małgorzata , Łakomska Julia , Miłek Piotr , Dziedzicka‐Wasylewska Marta , Górecki Andrzej
Published: May 2019

The transcription factor YY2 is a recently discovered paralog of YY1. The two proteins exhibit substantial sequence similarity and partially similar transcriptional activity. They recognize the same DNA sequence in vitro yet bind different promoters in vivo. YY1 comprises two structurally distinct parts: an intrinsically disordered regulatory part and a compact DNA‐binding domain. The structure of YY2 is yet unknown. We show that YY2 is structurally similar to YY1, although the conformational state of YY2 is more ordered, as shown by its composition, hydrodynamic properties, spectroscopic signal, and proteolytic susceptibility. As such, YY2's range of molecular partners might be distinct from that of YY1. This could explain different effects of YY1 and YY2 on gene expression patterns and the mechanism of YY proteins in transcriptional regulation.
Circular RNA Cdr1as sensitizes bladder cancer to cisplatin by upregulating APAF1 expression through miR‐1270 inhibition
Authors: Yuan Wenbo , Zhou Rui , Wang Jingzi , Han Jie , Yang Xiao , Yu Hao , Lu Hongcheng , Zhang Xiaolei , Li Pengchao , Tao Jun , Wei Jifu , Lu Qiang , Yang Haiwei , Gu Min
Published: May 2019

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as essential regulators in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Previous studies have shown that Cdr1as functions as a microRNA (miRNA) sponge in various cancer types. However, the role of Cdr1as in cisplatin chemosensitivity in bladder cancer remains unclear. Here, we used real‐time PCR to examine miRNA and gene expression in bladder cancer tissues and cell lines. The abilities of Cdr1as and its downstream regulatory molecules to induce apoptosis and promote cisplatin‐induced chemosensitivity of bladder cancer cells were determined by flow cytometry and cell counting kit. Bioinformatic analysis was utilized to predict potential miRNA target sites, and biotin‐coupled miRNA capture, biotin‐coupled probe pull‐down assay, and RNA fluorescent in situ hybridization were used to study the interaction between Cdr1as and target miRNAs. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was also used to validate the target genes of miRNAs. The expression level of apoptotic protease‐activating factor 1 (APAF1) in bladder cancer cells was identified via western blot. Finally, the sensitivity of Cdr1as to cisplatin chemotherapy in nude mice xenografts was evaluated in terms of the size, volume of tumors, and the survival of mice. We report that Cdr1as induced the apoptosis and enhanced the cisplatin chemosensitivity of bladder cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Silencing of APAF1 reduced the sensitivity of bladder cancer cells to cisplatin chemotherapy. Furthermore, Cdr1as could directly sponge miR‐1270 and abolish its effect on APAF1. Our study verified that Cdr1as exerts a cisplatin‐chemosensitization effect on bladder cancer cells through the Cdr1as/miR‐1270/APAF1 axis. This newly identified axis may be a potential therapeutic target for bladder cancer patients.
Maximum likelihood gradient identification for multivariate equation‐error moving average systems using the multi‐innovation theory
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Ding Feng , Hayat Tasawar
Published: May 2019

For the multivariate equation‐error moving average system, a multivariate maximum likelihood multi‐innovation extended stochastic gradient (M‐ML‐MIESG) algorithm is delivered. The key is to decompose the system into several regressive identification subsystems according to the number of the system outputs. Then, a multivariate maximum likelihood extended stochastic gradient algorithm is presented to estimate the parameters of these subsystems. The M‐ML‐MIESG algorithm has higher parameter estimation accuracy than the multivariate extended stochastic gradient algorithm. The simulation examples indicate that the proposed methods work well.
Size‐Transformable Metal–Organic Framework–Derived Nanocarbons for Localized Chemo‐Photothermal Bacterial Ablation and Wound Disinfection
Authors: Yang Ye , Deng Yiyi , Huang Jianbo , Fan Xin , Cheng Chong , Nie Chuanxiong , Ma Lang , Zhao Weifeng , Zhao Changsheng
Published: May 2019

Severe infectious diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria have become urgent threats to global public health. Antibacterial materials with combined chemo‐photothermal therapeutic capabilities possess distinct advantages when compared with many other antibacterial approaches. However, developing simplified and chemically tunable precursors to synthesize such antibacterial nanoagents for rapidly, safely, and synergistically combating pathogenic bacteria remains a huge challenge. Herein, metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived nanocarbons with near‐infrared (NIR)‐responsive and size‐transformable capabilities are designed to overcome this challenge. The MOF‐derived nanocarbons with chemo‐photothermal bactericidal capabilities are first synthesized, and then coated with a thermoresponsive gel layer to obtain ON–OFF switching capability for bacterial trapping. The fabricated nanocarbons exhibit high photo‐to‐thermal conversion efficiency and fast size transformation from nanodispersions to micrometer aggregations upon NIR irradiation, thus enabling nanocarbons to generate localized massive heat and abundant Zn2+ ions for directly disrupting bacterial membrane and intracellular proteins. Furthermore, these nanocarbons not only exhibit a nearly 100% bactericidal ratio at very low dosage, but also possess highly efficient and safe wound disinfection activities, which are comparable to vancomycin. Overall, these proposed novel nanocarbons display robust and localized chemo‐photothermal bactericidal capability and possess great potential to be used as alternative to antibiotics for broad‐spectrum eradication of pathogenic bacteria.
Light‐Controlled, High‐Resolution Patterning of Living Engineered Bacteria Onto Textiles, Ceramics, and Plastic
Authors: Moser Felix , Tham Eléonore , González Lina M. , Lu Timothy K. , Voigt Christopher A.
Published: May 2019

Living cells can impart materials with advanced functions, such as sense‐and‐respond, chemical production, toxin remediation, energy generation and storage, self‐destruction, and self‐healing. Here, an approach is presented to use light to pattern Escherichia coli onto diverse materials by controlling the expression of curli fibers that anchor the formation of a biofilm. Different colors of light are used to express variants of the structural protein CsgA fused to different peptide tags. By projecting color images onto the material containing bacteria, this system can be used to pattern the growth of composite materials, including layers of protein and gold nanoparticles. This is used to pattern cells onto materials used for 3D printing, plastics (polystyrene), and textiles (cotton). Further, the adhered cells are demonstrated to respond to sensory information, including small molecules (IPTG and DAPG) and light from light‐emitting diodes. This work advances the capacity to engineer responsive living materials in which cells provide diverse functionality.
A Robust, Freestanding MXene‐Sulfur Conductive Paper for Long‐Lifetime Li–S Batteries
Authors: Tang Huan , Li Wenlong , Pan Limei , Tu Kejun , Du Fei , Qiu Tai , Yang Jian , Cullen Conor P. , McEvoy Niall , Zhang Chuanfang (John)
Published: May 2019

Freestanding, robust electrodes with high capacity and long lifetime are of critical importance to the development of advanced lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries for next‐generation electronics, whose potential applications are greatly limited by the lithium polysulfide (LiPS) shuttle effect. Solutions to this issue have mostly focused on the design of cathode hosts with a polar, sulfurphilic, conductive network, or the introduction of an extra layer to suppress LiPS shuttling, which either results in complex fabrication procedures or compromises the mechanical flexibility of the device. A robust Ti3C2Tx/S conductive paper combining the excellent conductivity, mechanical strength, and unique chemisorption of LiPSs from MXene nanosheets is reported. Importantly, repeated cycling initiates the in situ formation of a thick sulfate complex layer on the MXene surface, which acts as a protective membrane, effectively suppressing the shuttling of LiPSs and improving the utilization of sulfur. Consequently, the Ti3C2Tx/S paper exhibits a high capacity and an ultralow capacity decay rate of 0.014% after 1500 cycles, the lowest value reported for Li–S batteries to date. A robust prototype pouch cell and full cell of Ti3C2Tx/S paper // lithium foil and prelithiated germanium are also demonstrated. The preliminary results show that Ti3C2Tx/S paper holds great promise for future flexible and wearable electronics.
Tuning Channel Architecture of Interdigitated Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Recording the Action Potentials of Electrogenic Cells
Authors: Liang Yuanying , Brings Fabian , Maybeck Vanessa , Ingebrandt Sven , Wolfrum Bernhard , Pich Andrij , Offenhäusser Andreas , Mayer Dirk
Published: May 2019

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) have emerged as versatile electrophysiological sensors due to their high transconductance, biocompatibility, and transparent channel material. High maximum transconductances are demonstrated facilitating the extracellular recording of signals from electrogenic cells. However, this requires large channel dimensions and thick polymer films. These large channel dimensions lead to low transistor densities. Here, interdigitated OECTs (iOECTs) are introduced, which feature high transconductances at small device areas. A superior device performance is achieved by systematically optimizing the electrode layout regarding channel length, number of electrode fingers and electrode width. Interestingly, the maximum transconductance (gmax) does not straightforwardly scale with the channel width‐to‐length ratio, which is different from planar OECTs. This deviation is caused by the dominating influence of the source–drain series resistance Rsd for short channel devices. Of note, there is a critical channel length (15 µm) above which the channel resistance Rch becomes dominant and the device characteristics converge toward those of planar OECTs. Design rules for engineering the performance of iOECTs are proposed and tested by recording action potentials of cardiomyocyte‐like HL‐1 cells with high signal‐to‐noise ratios. These results demonstrate that interdigitated OECTs meet two requirements of bioelectronic applications, namely, high device performance and small channel dimensions.
Nitrogen‐Dopant‐Induced Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Crystal Growth on Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Lee Gil Yong , Yang Moon Young , Kim Dong‐Ha , Lim Joonwon , Byun Jinwoo , Choi Dong Sung , Lee Ho Jin , Nam Yoon Sung , Kim Il‐Doo , Kim Sang Ouk
Published: May 2019

Interfacial engineering of organic–inorganic halide perovskites in conjunction with different functional materials is anticipated to offer novel heterojunction structures with unique functionalities. Unfortunately, complex material compositions and structures of the organic–inorganic hybrid materials make it difficult to tailor a desirable intermolecular interaction at the interface. Spontaneous and highly specific nucleation of perovskite crystals, that is, methylammonium lead iodide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3, MAPbI3) at nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotube (NCNT) surfaces for the self‐assembly of MAPbI3/NCNT hybrids is reported. It is demonstrated that the lone‐pair electrons of pyridinic nitrogen‐dopant sites at NCNTs mediate specific interactions with the cationic component in the perovskite structure and serve as the nucleation sites via coordinate bonding formation, as supported by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory calculation. The potential suitability of MAPbI3/NCNT hybrids is presented for highly sensitive and selective NO2 sensing layer. This work suggests a reliable self‐assembly route to the molecular level hybridization of organic–inorganic halide perovskites by employing the substitutional dopant sites at graphene‐based nanomaterials.
Revealing the Pseudo‐Intercalation Charge Storage Mechanism of MXenes in Acidic Electrolyte
Authors: Mu Xinpeng , Wang Dashuai , Du Fei , Chen Gang , Wang Chunzhong , Wei Yingjin , Gogotsi Yury , Gao Yu , Dall'Agnese Yohan
Published: May 2019

Since the discovery of Ti3C2Tx in 2011, the family of two‐dimensional transition metal carbides, carbonitrides, and nitrides (collectively known as MXenes) has quickly attracted the attention of those developing energy storage applications such as electrodes for supercapacitors with acidic aqueous electrolytes. The excellent performance of these MXenes is attributed to a pseudocapacitive energy storage mechanism, based on the non‐rectangular shape of cyclic voltammetry curves and changes in the titanium oxidation state detected by in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. However, the pseudocapacitive mechanism is not well understood and no dimensional changes due to proton insertion have been reported. In this work, in situ X‐ray diffraction and density functional theory are used to investigate the charge storage mechanism of Ti3C2Tx in 1 m H2SO4. Results reveal that a 0.5 Å expansion and shrinkage of the c‐lattice parameter of Ti3C2Tx occur during cycling in a 0.9 V voltage window, showing that the charge storage mechanism is intercalation pseudocapacitance with implication for MXene use in energy storage and electrochemical actuators.
Advanced Optical Programming of Individual Meta‐Atoms Beyond the Effective Medium Approach
Authors: Michel Ann‐Katrin U. , Heßler Andreas , Meyer Sebastian , Pries Julian , Yu Yuan , Kalix Thomas , Lewin Martin , Hanss Julian , De Rose Angela , Maß Tobias W. W. , Wuttig Matthias , Chigrin Dmitry N. , Taubner Thomas
Published: May 2019

Nanometer‐thick active metasurfaces (MSs) based on phase‐change materials (PCMs) enable compact photonic components, offering adjustable functionalities for the manipulation of light, such as polarization filtering, lensing, and beam steering. Commonly, they feature multiple operation states by switching the whole PCM fully between two states of drastically different optical properties. Intermediate states of the PCM are also exploited to obtain gradual resonance shifts, which are usually uniform over the whole MS and described by effective medium response. For programmable MSs, however, the ability to selectively address and switch the PCM in individual meta‐atoms is required. Here, simultaneous control of size, position, and crystallization depth of the switched phase‐change material (PCM) volume within each meta‐atom in a proof‐of‐principle MS consisting of a PCM‐covered Al–nanorod antenna array is demonstrated. By modifying optical properties locally, amplitude and light phase can be programmed at the meta‐atom scale. As this goes beyond previous effective medium concepts, it will enable small adaptive corrections to external aberrations and fabrication errors or multiple complex functionalities programmable on the same MS.
Enhanced Interfacial Charge Transfer and Separation Rate based on Sub 10 nm MoS2 Nanoflakes In Situ Grown on Graphitic‐C3N4
Authors: Wu Haoran , Qian Yongteng , Cui Jing , Chai Qingqing , Du Jimin , Zhang Linyu , Zhang Huijun , Wang Weimin , Kang Dae Joon
Published: May 2019

Herein, sub 10 nm MoS2 nanoflakes are successfully in situ grown on graphitic‐carbon‐nitride (MoS2/g‐C3N4) through a hydrothermal strategy. The scanning electron microscopy result indicates that the thickness of the MoS2 nanoflakes is less than 10 nm, which can boost the transport rate of the photoproduced charge during the photodegradation process. Transmission electron microscopy result clearly shows that an excellent interfacial heterojunction is formed between g‐C3N4 and MoS2, which will significantly improve the stability of catalysts. Particularly, the optimal 8% MoS2/g‐C3N4 product displays significantly enhance catalytic performance and excellent long‐term photodurability. These superior photocatalytic properties are attributed to the excellent interfacial heterostructure between MoS2 and g‐C3N4, which extends the visible light absorption range, suppresses the recombination, and improves the transfer rate of photoproduced charge.
Industrial Requirements of Materials for Electrical Double Layer Capacitors: Impact on Current and Future Applications
Authors: Schütter Christoph , Pohlmann Sebastian , Balducci Andrea
Published: May 2019

Electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are nowadays considered one of the most important energy storage technologies. In recent years, great efforts have been made toward the development of novel materials, active and inactive, suitable for the realization of advanced EDLCs displaying higher performance, especially in terms of energy, compared to the state‐of‐the‐art devices. Nevertheless, the applicability of these materials in real devices and the industrial requirements related to the development of innovative EDLCs are not always properly addressed by the scientific community. This short review addresses these two fundamental aspects, with the aim to supply an updated set of information about the industrial requirements for the materials usable in commercial EDLCs. Additionally, the review also provides an updated overview about the present and estimated future market size of EDLCs as well as present and future applications of this technology addressing the market‐specific needs. This “application‐oriented” information is pivotal for a successful development and large‐scale production of advanced EDLCs.
Living with observational data in biological anthropology
Authors: Smith Richard J.
Published: May 2019

The establishment of cause and effect relationships is a fundamental objective of scientific research. Many lines of evidence can be used to make cause–effect inferences. When statistical data are involved, alternative explanations for the statistical relationship need to be ruled out. These include chance (apparent patterns due to random factors), confounding effects (a relationship between two variables because they are each associated with an unmeasured third variable), and sampling bias (effects due to preexisting properties of compared groups). The gold standard for managing these issues is a controlled randomized experiment. In disciplines such as biological anthropology, where controlled experiments are not possible for many research questions, causal inferences are made from observational data. Methods that statisticians recommend for this difficult objective have not been widely adopted in the biological anthropology literature. Issues involved in using statistics to make valid causal inferences from observational data are discussed.
A highly selective multifunctional Zn‐coordination polymer sensor for detection of Cr (III), Cr (VI) ion, and TNP molecule
Authors: Liang Xiaoyu , Jia Yuejiao , Zhan Zhiying , Hu Ming
Published: May 2019

A new coordination polymer based on the 4‐(2,2′;6′,2″‐tripyridyl)‐4′‐1,2‐phenyl dicarboxylic acid (H2tbda), namely, [Zn (tbda)]n (1), features a one‐dimensional binuclear chain structure and exhibits the excellent luminescence in pH range of 3‐12 in aqueous solution. Particularly, compound 1 shows the remarkable selectivity, anti‐interference, and recyclability for sensing Cr (III) ion through the fluorescence enhancement. Meanwhile, compound 1 can also serve as a sensor for detecting the trace amounts of Cr (VI) ion and 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol (TNP) with high selectivity and recyclability through the fluorescence quenching effect. Furthermore, the detection mechanisms of compound 1 as a fluorescence sensor for different analytes have been explored in detail.
Bimetallic Ni–Co‐based metal–organic framework: An open metal site adsorbent for enhancing CO2 capture
Authors: Abdoli Yekta , Razavian Marjan , Fatemi Shohreh
Published: May 2019

An open metal site framework named UTSA‐16 was synthesized and modified as a high‐capacity adsorbent for reversible CO2 capture. Partial substitution of intrinsic Co2+ sites of UTSA‐16 with Ni2+ centres was realized in the molar composition range 0–75% Ni with the aim of increasing CO2 uptake. Synthesized bimetallic Nix‐UTSA‐16 (x = 0, 20, 50, 75) materials were characterized using various techniques to assess the influence of chemical composition on CO2 binding affinity and any subsequent physical change in morphology, crystal size and porosity on the total uptake. Experimental isotherm adsorption studies showed the following trend for CO2 adsorption capacity employing the Nix‐UTSA‐16 series: Ni20‐UTSA‐16 > UTSA‐16 > Ni50‐UTSA‐16 > Ni75‐UTSA‐16. According to the dynamic breakthrough CO2 profiles measured for a mixture of CO2 and CH4 (15/85 molar ratio), Ni20‐UTSA‐16 exhibited 2 times the breakthrough time with 1.5 times the loading capacity at 75 Nml min−1 feed flow rate, compared to the parent UTSA‐16. In addition, the Ni20‐UTSA‐16 bimetallic metal–organic framework exhibited lower isosteric heat of adsorption compared to UTSA‐16 (ΔHave = 28.54 versus 46.85 kJ mol−1). As a result, more than 95% of its capacity was restored by applying a partial vacuum for only 1 h at room temperature without involving any other time‐ and energy‐consuming regenerative step.
Solvent‐Free Enzymatic Synthesis of 1‐o‐Galloylglycerol Optimized by the Taguchi Method
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Akoh Casimir C.
Published: May 2019

Gallic acid (GA) and its lipophilic forms, alkyl gallates, have been widely used in several industrial fields as antioxidants. However, the potential harmful effects of alkyl gallates, such as estrogenic effects, limit their application and raise safety concerns. The glycerol ester of GA, 1‐o‐galloylglycerol (GG), has not been reported to cause adverse health effects. Owing to the steric and electron‐donating effects of GA, lipase‐catalyzed synthesis of GG has not been successfully achieved. In this work, glycerol ester of GA, GG, was successfully synthesized for the first time by the enzymatic transesterification of glycerol and n‐propyl gallate (PG). GG was synthesized with an immobilized and commercially available food‐grade lipase (Lipozyme® 435) under solvent‐free (no extra solvent) conditions at atmospheric pressure and nitrogen flow. The effects of the reaction conditions, including the reaction temperature, substrate molar ratio, reaction time, and enzyme load, were optimized using the Taguchi method and regression analysis. The structure of the product was elucidated using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), electrospray ionization high‐resolution accurate‐mass tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐HRAM‐MS/MS), and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Under the optimal conditions, GG was synthesized in 67.1 ± 1.9% yield at 50°C, 25:1 (glycerol:PG) substrate molar ratio, 120 hours, and 23.8% enzyme load relative to the total weight of the substrates.
Digital content promotion in Japan and South Korea: Government strategies for an emerging economic sector
Authors: Holroyd Carin
Published: May 2019

Already leading the world in the development of consumer electronics, South Korea and Japan have been leading innovators in the creation of digital content economies. Both governments recognized both the commercial potential and the employment possibilities associated with the digital content industry. The sector, however, did not fit easily with existing industrial and technological models of economic development, particularly due to the small size of digital firms, the youth culture orientation of most products and services, and the antiestablishment ethos of the creative industries generally. In Japan, digital content firms created a robust domestic market but struggled to get international market share. Government policy, therefore, has focused on building international interest in digital products. Although South Korea has enjoyed considerable success through their K‐pop cultural exports, it has really capitalized on the country's highly successful online gaming industry. South Korean policy initiatives emphasize public promotion of Korean digital content with sizeable investments in creator and incubator spaces for start‐up firms. Together with initiatives in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, the Japanese and South Korean efforts demonstrate how Asian countries have sought to integrate the digital content sector into their national innovation strategies and to jump‐start a promising and potentially valuable economic sector.
Safe Lithium‐Metal Anodes for Li−O2 Batteries: From Fundamental Chemistry to Advanced Characterization and Effective Protection
Authors: Hong Yan‐Shuai , Zhao Chen‐Zi , Xiao Ye , Xu Rui , Xu Jing‐Jing , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang , Yu Xiqian , Li Hong
Published: May 2019

Rechargeable Li−O2 batteries play an increasing important role as energy storage devices, which have both, a high capacity anode and a cathode using an inexhaustible resource. As a key component in Li−O2 batteries, the Li‐metal anode suffers from major drawbacks related to Li dendrite formation and SEI layer growth, which are also major issues for Li‐metal rechargeable batteries. This review presents an overview on the scientific challenges, fundamental mechanisms and modification strategies of Li‐metal anodes for Li−O2 batteries. Firstly, basic principles and challenges on Li‐metal anodes are briefly retrospected. We further summarize and categorize the prevailing characterization techniques based on Li dendrite morphology characterization and SEI composition analysis. The up‐to‐date development of in‐situ and operando characterization is also included. Following the obtained insights, effective protection/modification strategies towards practical application for Li−O2 batteries are presented. Furthermore, we highlight the significance of advanced characterization techniques in interrogating the buried keys for solving practical hindrances for Li−O2 batteries. The comprehensive characterization and analysis of Li anodes, cathodes, and electrolytes by various methods together with the development of novel techniques are expected to be indispensable to gain a thorough understanding of the battery operation and for offering guidelines for their practical development.
Infection History Determines Susceptibility to Unrelated Diseases
Authors: Rakebrandt Nikolas , Joller Nicole
Published: May 2019

Epidemiological data suggest that previous infections can alter an individual's susceptibility to unrelated diseases. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. Substantial research efforts have expanded the classical concept of immune memory to also include long‐lasting changes in innate immunity and antigen‐independent reactivation of adaptive immunity. Collectively, these processes provide possible explanations on how acute infections might induce long‐term changes that also affect immunity to unrelated diseases. Here, we review lasting changes the immune compartment undergoes upon infection and how infection experience alters the responsiveness of immune cells towards universal signals. This heightened state of alert enhances the ability of the immune system to combat even unrelated infections but may also increase susceptibility to autoimmunity. At the same time, infection‐induced changes in the regulatory compartment may dampen subsequent immune responses and promote pathogen persistence. The concepts presented here outline how infection‐induced changes in the immune system may affect human health.
Paradoxical Survival: Examining the Parrondo Effect across Biology
Authors: Cheong Kang Hao , Koh Jin Ming , Jones Michael C.
Published: May 2019

Parrondo's paradox, in which losing strategies can be combined to produce winning outcomes, has received much attention in mathematics and the physical sciences; a plethora of exciting applications has also been found in biology at an astounding pace. In this review paper, the authors examine a large range of recent developments of Parrondo's paradox in biology, across ecology and evolution, genetics, social and behavioral systems, cellular processes, and disease. Intriguing connections between numerous works are identified and analyzed, culminating in an emergent pattern of nested recurrent mechanics that appear to span the entire biological gamut, from the smallest of spatial and temporal scales to the largest—from the subcellular to the complete biosphere. In analyzing the macro perspective, the pivotal role that the paradox plays in the shaping of biological life becomes apparent, and its identity as a potential universal principle underlying biological diversity and persistence is uncovered. Directions for future research are also discussed in light of this new perspective.
Intracellular iron uptake is favored in Hfe‐KO mouse primary chondrocytes mimicking an osteoarthritis‐related phenotype
Authors: Simão Márcio , Gavaia Paulo J. , Camacho António , Porto Graça , Pinto I. Jorge , Ea Hang‐Korng , Cancela M. Leonor
Published: May 2019

HFE‐hemochromatosis is a disease characterized by a systemic iron overload phenotype mainly associated with mutations in the HFE protein (HFE) gene. Osteoarthritis (OA) has been reported as one of the most prevalent complications in HFE‐hemochromatosis patients, but the mechanisms associated with its onset and progression remain incompletely understood. In this study, we have characterized the response to high iron concentrations of a primary culture of articular chondrocytes isolated from newborn Hfe‐KO mice and compared the results with that of a similar experiment developed in cells from C57BL/6 wild‐type (wt) mice. Our data provide evidence that both wt‐ and Hfe‐KO‐derived chondrocytes, when exposed to 50 μM iron, develop characteristics of an OA‐related phenotype, such as an increased expression of metalloproteases, a decreased extracellular matrix production, and a lower expression level of aggrecan. In addition, Hfe‐KO cells also showed an increased expression of iron metabolism markers and MMP3, indicating an increased susceptibility to intracellular iron accumulation and higher levels of chondrocyte catabolism. Accordingly, upon treatment with 50 μM iron, these chondrocytes were found to preferentially differentiate toward hypertrophy with increased expression of collagen I and transferrin and downregulation of SRY (sex‐determining region Y)‐box containing gene 9 (Sox9). In conclusion, high iron exposure can compromise chondrocyte metabolism, which, when simultaneously affected by an Hfe loss of function, appears to be more susceptible to the establishment of an OA‐related phenotype.
A zeolite as a tool for successful refolding of PEGylated proteins and their reassembly with tertiary structures
Authors: Sonotaki Seiichi , Noguchi Keiichi , Yohda Masafumi , Murakami Yoshihiko
Published: May 2019

In the present study, we demonstrated zeolites' potential contribution to establish a method for preparing successfully refolded and reassembled PEGylated protein nanoparticles without the use of protein denaturants through the proteins' reassembly process. At first, the PEGylated nanoparticles are disassembled into identical PEGylated protein subunits by means of protein denaturants, and then the denatured subunits are adsorbed to zeolites. After the complete removal of denaturants, high‐molecular‐weight poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) molecules are added to a solution where the zeolites suspend. Consequently, the PEGylated proteins are gradually reassembled into nanoparticles because the subunits are desorbed from the zeolites by the steric hindrance of the added PEG molecules. The present study reveals that PEGylated encapsulin was reassembled and hollow encapsulin nanoparticles were obtained. The results clearly demonstrate the usefulness of zeolites as a tool for the successful refolding of PEGylated proteins and their reassembly with tertiary structures.
Clinical significance of circulating tumor cells and tumor markers in the diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Li Yang , Tian Xudong , Gao Lei , Jiang Xiaohong , Fu Rao , Zhang Tingting , Ren Tianying , Hu Ping , Wu Yaping , Zhao Peige , Yang Dawei
Published: May 2019

Background

Lung cancer has the highest fatality rate of all cancer types. To improve patients’ survival and life quality, it is therefore very important to screen for and detect it at an early stage.

Methods

A negative enrichment–fluorescence in situ hybridization (NE‐FISH) approach was used to detect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in lung cancer patients, and levels of lung cancer‐associated serum markers were also measured in the peripheral blood of these same patients. The correlation between CTCs, serum cancer markers (carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA], CA 125, CYFRA 21‐1, and SCC), and clinicopathological characteristics was then investigated. Moreover, the potential clinical use of the combination of CTCs and tumor markers for the diagnosis of lung cancer, especially at early stages, was also explored.

Results

CTC frequencies in lung cancer patients were significantly higher than in healthy control volunteers or patients with benign lung disease, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the control group was 0.846 (95% CI 0.796‐0.887, P < 0.001). The rate of CTC positivity in lung cancer patients was 68.29% when the CTC cutoff value was 2, and the sensitivity of this means of lung cancer detection rose to 82.93% by combining CTC‐based detection with measurements of serum tumor markers. Similarly, the diagnostic sensitivity of this approach in early‐stage lung cancer patients (I‐II) was improved from 63.93% to 78.69%. Detection of CTCs can thus assist with the identification of benign and malignant pulmonary nodules.

Conclusions

It is potentially helpful and effective to employ a combination of CTCs and serum tumor markers for the clinical diagnosis of lung cancer.
A comprehensive study of the affective and physiological responses induced by dynamic virtual reality environments
Authors: Cebeci Berk , Celikcan Ufuk , Capin Tolga K.
Published: May 2019

Previous studies showed that virtual reality (VR) environments can affect emotional state and cause significant changes in physiological responses. Aside from these effects, inadvertently induced cybersickness is a notorious problem faced in VR. In this study, to further investigate the effects of virtual environments (VEs) with different context, three dynamic VEs were created. Each VE had a particular purpose: evoking no emotion in Campfire (CF), unpleasant emotions in Hospital (HH), and cybersickness symptoms in Roller Coaster (RC). We made use of objective measurements of physiological responses such as pupil dilation, blinks, fixations, saccades, and heart rate, as well as subjective self‐assessments via pre‐ and post‐VE session questionnaires. While previous studies investigate different subsets of these measures, our study makes a comprehensive analysis of them jointly in dynamic VEs. The results of the study indicate that cybersickness produced higher saccade mean speed, whereas unpleasant context caused higher fixation count, saccade rate, and pupil dilation. Moreover, CF decreased anxiety, whereas HH and RC increased it and they also decreased comfort. Participants felt cybersickness in all VEs even in CF which is designed to minimize the effects.
Multiview‐coherent disocclusion synthesis using connected regions optimization
Authors: Li Ping , Jin Yuxi , Sheng Bin , Lin Di , Nie Yongwei , Wu Enhua
Published: May 2019

Handling of missing areas is a key step for depth‐based rendering to synthesize virtual views. Existing methods usually consider finding candidate pixels from only one reference view to fill missing areas. However, the information provided by one reference view is restricted by the position of the view. By utilizing two reference views located on both the left and right sides of the virtual view, we propose to synthesize the missing areas at hole level with connected regions optimization. To avoid the appearance of ghost boundary, we apply morphological operations to generate a boundary band map for the depth map, which restricts the warping of the virtual view. We use a binary map to mark unknown pixels in a hole, label the connected unknown regions, and count the area of each connected region, which decide the order in our enhanced inpainting synthesis. Besides, we separate the foreground and background regions of the depth map to constrain the searching of candidate pixels. Multiple experiments on virtual view synthesis have shown the effectiveness and high quality of our multiview‐coherent disocclusion synthesis.
Phytochemical and Biological Activities in Limonium Species Collected in Different Biotopes of Tunisia
Authors: Souid Aymen , Bellani Lorenza , Gabriele Morena , Pucci Laura , Smaoui Abderrazak , Abdelly Chedly , Hamed Karim Ben , Longo Vincenzo
Published: May 2019

A particular interest is nowadays given to natural antioxidants occurring in foods which can reduce the risk of several diseases through their protective effect. The genus Limonium is widely distributed in different salt regions of Tunisia and known in traditional medicine for the presence of highly effective viral and bacterial replication inhibitors. Limonium leaves have possible beneficial effects on human health for their antioxidant activities and free radical scavenging abilities. To exploit the potential of plants from extreme environments as new sources of natural antioxidants, we studied the extracts from leaves of eight Limonium species growing in extreme environments in Tunisia. Antioxidant molecules (polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, ascorbate, tocopherols), in vitro (DPPH, ORAC) and ex vivo antioxidant potential on human erythrocytes, antioxidant enzymes activities (superoxide dismutase, peroxidases, glutathione reductase) were evaluated to identify the species with the best antioxidant capacity. The results showed variability among the species considered in function of the environmental conditions of their natural biotopes, as for the antioxidants measured. In particular, L. vulgare from Oued Rane biotope, characterized by dryness and high temperatures, was the species with the highest enzymatic activity and antioxidant capacity, making it interesting as possible edible halophyte plant or as food complement.
Micropores Induced Stereoselective Synthesis of E‐imines: Synergistic Effect between Cerium Species and Micropores in CeAlPO‐5 Molecular Sieves
Authors: Jin Yangxin , Cao Yali , Fang Guoyong , Ruan Fei , Ke Qingping
Published: May 2019

Metal‐doped zeolitic microporous materials are often viewed as something extremely negative as catalysis for the reactions involving aromatic molecules because of severe diffusion limitation. For these reasons, many chemists aim to development of the large microporous or hierarchical micro‐mesoporous zeolites as supports that allow for the access of the “bulky” reactants. But the “small” micropore with respect to an aromatic molecules‐involving reaction is not always a negative point. Here we employed a hierarchical micro‐mesoporous CeAlPO‐5 molecular sieve (HP‐CeAlPO‐5) as the catalyst that can catalyze stereoselective synthesis of E‐imines through the reaction of alcohols with amines. Control reactions, DFT calculations and GC‐MS analyses demonstrated that the feature of the uniform “small” micropore in the HP‐CeAlPO‐5 catalyst play a key role in the stereoselective synthesis of E‐imines. In addition, the reaction tolerates a broad range of alcohols and amines, and can be performed with as little as 0.89 mole percent catalyst in more than 90.6 percent yield and about 99.7 : 0.3 stereoselective ratio. This zeolitic catalyst provides a conceptually new and practical protocol to stereoselective synthesis of E‐imine compounds.
Discovery of 6‐Arylurea‐2‐arylbenzoxazole and 6‐Arylurea‐2‐arylbenzimidazole Derivatives as Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis and in vitro Biological Evaluation
Authors: Zi Mengli , Liu Feifei , Wu Di , Li Ke , Zhang Da , Zhu Changcheng , Zhang Zhiyun , Li Linghua , Zhang Conghai , Xie Mingjin , Lin Jun , Zhang Jihong , Jin Yi
Published: May 2019

We embarked on a structural optimization campaign aimed at the discovery of novel anti‐angiogenesis agents with previously reported imidazole kinase inhibitors as a lead compound. A library of 29 compounds was synthesized. Several title compounds exhibited selective inhibitory activities against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR‐2) over epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase; these compounds also displayed selective and potent antiproliferative activity against three cancer cell lines. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for anti‐angiogenesis activity by chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Among them, 1‐(2‐(2‐chlorophenyl)benzo[d]oxazol‐5‐yl)‐3‐(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)urea (compound 5 n) showed the most potent anti‐angiogenesis capacity, efficient cytotoxic activities (in vitro against human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), H1975, A549, and HeLa cell lines, with respective IC50 values of 8.46, 1.40, 7.61, and 0.28 μm), and an acceptable level of VEGFR‐2 kinase inhibition (IC50=0.25 μm). Molecular docking analysis revealed 5 n to be a type II inhibitor of VEGFR‐2 kinase. In general, these results indicate that these 6‐arylurea‐2‐arylbenzoxazole/benzimidazole derivatives are promising inhibitors of VEGFR‐2 kinase for potential development into anti‐angiogenesis drugs.