bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organocatalyst‐Mediated Dynamic Kinetic Enantioselective Acylation of 2‐Chromanols
Authors: Glazier Daniel A. , Schroeder John M. , Liu Jitian , Tang Weiping
Published: September 2018

We recently developed a novel chiral catalyst‐directed dynamic kinetic diastereoselective acylation of hemiacetals for the synthesis of carbohydrates. In this update, we describe a catalytic method for the dynamic kinetic enantioselective acylation of 2‐chromanols using benzotetramisole derived catalysts. High yields and enantiomeric excesses were obtained for a broad range of acylated 2‐chromanols, which are important intermediates for the synthesis of various bioactive pharmaceuticals. We hypothesize that the high stereoselectivity of the reaction originates from a novel cation‐n interaction between the chromanol substrate and the acylated catalyst.

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P‐Type SnO Thin Film Phototransistor with Perovskite‐Mediated Photogating
Authors: Guan Xinwei , Wang Zhenwei , Hota Mrinal K. , Alshareef Husam N. , Wu Tom
Published: September 2018

A p‐type phototransistor based on tin monoxide (SnO) thin film and a perovskite‐mediated photogating effect to enhance the device performance are reported. Without the perovskite layer, the SnO thin film phototransistor exhibits a good figure of merit including on/off ratio (Ion/Ioff) over 103, hole mobility of 3.55 cm2 V−1 s−1, photoresponsivity of 1.83 × 103 A W−1, and detectivity of 2.11 × 1013 Jones at 655 nm; these values are among the highest reported for oxide‐based devices. Furthermore, it is shown that when a hybrid perovskite MAPbI3 overlayer is deposited on the p‐type SnO channel, the phototransistor behavior is significantly modified. Specifically, the field‐effect mobility increases to 5.53 cm2 V−1 s−1 and the on/off ratio increases to 2.7 × 103 compared with an on/off ratio of 519 under dark. These effects can be ascribed to a perovskite‐mediated photogating effect with favorable band alignment and interfacial charge transfer. This work not only introduces SnO as a new p‐type phototransistor material but also presents a general approach to enhance the channel transport via coating a photoactive perovskite overlayer.
Boosting Potassium Storage Capacity Based on Stress‐Induced Size‐Dependent Solid‐Solution Behavior
Authors: Xu Shu‐Mao , Ding Ying‐Chun , Liu Xin , Zhang Qiang , Wang Kai‐Xue , Chen Jie‐Sheng
Published: September 2018

A prerequisite for successful development of a K‐ion battery anode based on solid‐solution behavior is to improve its potassium storage capacity. Increasing the solid‐solution domain by decreasing the particle size offers a promising strategy for enhancing the potassium storage capabilities of insertion anode materials. Extended solid‐solution composition range in nanostructured particles is mainly due to the existence of a coherency strain that suppresses phase separation upon intercalation. Here, the intercalation stress effect in size‐dependent solid‐solution behavior is explored by insertion of K+ into K2Ti6O13 nanowires with different diameters. K2Ti6O13 nanowires with small average diameter of ≈5.5 nm deliver a large initial reversible depotassiated capacity of ≈120 mAh g−1 (deinsertion of ≈2.5 K+) at 0.2 C. The remarkably high reversible depotassiated capacity is mainly ascribed to the decrease of the incoherent interface upon potassiation. The direct observation of enrichment of intragranular particles in potassiated K2Ti6O13 nanowires with average diameter of ≈38 nm provides evidence of strain‐accommodating misfits or dislocations in solid‐solution intercalation compounds. This work offers a promising route to utilize coherency strain energy for K‐ion batteries with improved specific capacity and alleviated irreversible capacity loss.
A Nonflammable and Thermotolerant Separator Suppresses Polysulfide Dissolution for Safe and Long‐Cycle Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lei Tianyu , Chen Wei , Hu Yin , Lv Weiqiang , Lv Xiaoxue , Yan Yichao , Huang Jianwen , Jiao Yu , Chu Junwei , Yan Chaoyi , Wu Chunyang , Li Qiang , He Weidong , Xiong Jie
Published: September 2018

Lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries are of considerable research interest for their application potentials in high‐density energy storage. However, the practical application of Li‐S batteries is severely plagued by polysulfide (PS) dissolution and serious safety concerns caused by flammable sulfur and polymer separators. Herein, a nonflammable multifunctional separator for efficient suppression of PS dissolution and high‐temperature performance of Li‐S batteries is reported. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) are electrospun into a multifunctional separator (PAN@APP) for stable and safe Li‐S batteries. Owing to the abundant amine groups and phosphate radical in APP, the PAN@APP separator has strong binding interactions with PS, which exerts strong charge repulsion to suppress the transport of negatively charged PS ions and free radicals. Furthermore, refractory APP ensures the stability of the battery at high temperatures. Using the PAN@APP separator, the Li‐S battery demonstrates a capacity retention of 83% over 800 cycles. This work provides a robust materials platform for stable and safe Li‐S batteries and points to a direction to close the current gap facing the commercialization of high‐energy next‐generation electrochemical conversion/storage devices.
“Moving from transactional government to enablement” in Indigenous service delivery: The era of New Public Management, service innovation and urban Aboriginal community development
Authors: Howard‐Wagner Deirdre
Published: September 2018

Over the last 40 years, Aboriginal Community Based Organisations have played a distinctive role in society in relation to urban Aboriginal peoples and their rights to self‐determination and community development in the Australian city of Newcastle. They have proven essential to advocacy, the maintenance of community development, and the creation of new Aboriginal social infrastructure (community organisations, facilities, services, and supporting infrastructure). Autonomy has been empowering for local Aboriginal people. Major reforms to the delivery of government social services, particularly government enablement of a new social service market based on New Public Management principles, threaten this success. This interpretive, qualitative case study illustrates the effects of social service market enablement. It draws on a case study of the effects of social service market enablement on urban Aboriginal Community Based Organisations in Newcastle, showing the antagonistic relationship between social service market enablement and Aboriginal community enablement and development. It ends with a discussion of how Aboriginal community development in this city could be re‐enabled in light of the Prime Minister's arguments in his 2017 Annual Parliamentary Closing the Gap speech providing particular value in the context of policy discussions about moving from transactional government to enablement in Indigenous affairs.
Isolation of Tetracyano‐Naphthalenediimide and Its Stable Planar Radical Anion
Authors: Kumar Yogendra , Kumar Sharvan , Mandal Kalyanashis , Mukhopadhyay Pritam
Published: September 2018

Reported herein is the first isolation of tetracyano‐naphthalenediimide [NDI(CN)4] and its radical anion, and structural elucidation through spectroscopic and X‐ray diffraction studies. The radical anion shows remarkable stability and was purified by chromatography, which is unique for planar radical anions. The stability results from multiple hydrogen bonds to the counter ion and through an array of intramolecular noncovalent interactions. The radical anion revealed one of the strongest NDI π–π interactions (3.268 Å). Electrochemical studies of [NDI(CN)4] confirm its extraordinarily low‐lying LUMO (−5.0 eV), rendering it one of the strongest electron‐deficient planar π systems to be isolated. The manifold potential, which remained unknown to date, can now be explored for these open‐ and closed‐shell planar π systems.
Development of an Alkyne Analogue of the de Mayo Reaction: Synthesis of Medium‐Sized Carbacycles and Cyclohepta[b]indoles
Authors: Tymann David , Tymann Dina Christina , Bednarzick Ulf , Iovkova‐Berends Ljuba , Rehbein Julia , Hiersemann Martin
Published: September 2018

Embedded medium‐sized carbacycles and cyclohepta[b]indoles occur frequently as scaffold elements in natural products and bioactive compounds. Described herein is a conceptionally novel photochemically triggered cascade process to these scaffolds. Key to the cascading ring‐expansion process is an unprecedented intramolecular alkyne analogue of the de Mayo reaction.
NaOH low‐salt method for chloroplast isolation and highly pure cpDNA preparation from Aeluropus littoralis
Authors: Nasiri Najmeh , Nematzadeh Ghorbanali , Shariati‐Joni Vahid , Najafi‐Zarrini Hamid
Published: September 2018

Premise of the Study

High‐yield pure chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) is necessary for whole genome sequencing. Chloroplast extraction with traditional high‐salt methods causes damage to nuclei and destroys the integrity of organelles, which leads to high genomic contamination from the nucleus and mitochondria. To overcome this issue, we modified a traditional high‐salt method to obtain a new approach called the NaOH low‐salt method (NLS).

Methods and Results

The NLS method is based on the mild alkaline lysis of plant cells, followed by homogenization with ultrasonic waves and fractionation under reduced osmotic pressure. Results showed that this modified protocol worked efficiently to extract the intact chloroplast from Aeluropus littoralis and other grasses to obtain high‐quality pure cpDNA, which was confirmed by fluorescent microscopy, qPCR, and Illumina paired‐end sequencing analysis.

Conclusions

Compared with high‐salt methods, the NLS method has proven robust for extraction of intact chloroplasts and preparation of high‐yield pure cpDNA from grasses.
Effect of magnetic field on in vitro seedling growth and shoot regeneration from cotyledon node explants of Lathyrus chrysanthus boiss
Authors: Bahadir Anzel , Beyaz Ramazan , Yildiz Mustafa
Published: September 2018

The stimulatory effects on germination of seeds and growth of plants of static magnetic field (MF) pre‐treatments depending on MF intensity, exposure time periods, signal form, flux density, and source frequencies on plants are reported. Seed germination frequency is low due to dormancy in Lathyrus chrysanthus Boiss. from Fabaceae family, consisting of 187 taxa. Tissue culture protocol for this plant has already been optimized. This plant is also used as a model for developing alternative methods to overcome dormancy. This study was conducted to determine the effects of MF on in vitro seed germination, seedling growth, and shoot regeneration capacity of cotyledon node explants in Lathyrus chrysanthus Boiss. to obtain healthy seedlings in large quantities. The seeds of an ecotype (Diyarbakir) were subjected to 125 mT MF strength for different exposure time periods (0‐untreated, 24, 48, and 72 h). Sterilized seeds were germinated on growth basal medium in Magenta vessels. Seed germination and seedling growth percentages were recorded after 7 and 14 days of culture initiation, whereas seedling and root lengths were noted 28 days after culture initiation. At the end of the culture, shoot regeneration percentage, shoot number per explant, highest shoot height per explant, and total shoot number per petri dish were recorded. According to the results, it could be concluded that MF treatment could clearly be used to improve germination by breaking dormancy not only in Lathyrus chrysanthus Boiss. but also other plant species. Bioelectromagnetics. 39:547–555, 2018.© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative binding of kaempferol and kaempferide on inhibiting the aggregate formation of mutant (G85R) SOD1 protein in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A quantum chemical and molecular mechanics study
Authors: Srinivasan E. , Rajasekaran R.
Published: September 2018

Mutation in Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) at position 85 from glycine to arginine was found to be a prominent cause of aggregation characterized by an increased content of β‐sheets in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS). Various literatures reported that natural polyphenols could act as a β‐sheet breaker and therefore, treated as a potential therapeutics against various aggregated proteins involved in neurodegenerative disorders. Through computational perspective, molecular docking, quantum chemical studies, and discrete molecular dynamics were implemented to study the binding and structural effect of natural polyphenols, kaempferol, and kaempferide on mutant SOD1. Kaempferol exhibited significant binding and greater residual energy contribution with mutant SOD1 than kaempferide. More interestingly, kaempferol was found to reduce the β‐sheet content augmenting the mutant conformational stability and flexibility relative to that of kaempferide. Hence, the inhibition of mutant SOD1 aggregation by kaempferol was explored, thereby suggesting kaempferol could act as a drug candidate for the design of the natural therapeutics against fALS. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(5):431–442, 2018
Eponymous “valves” of the nasolacrimal drainage apparatus. II. Frequency of visualization on dacryocystography
Authors: Yedavalli Vivek , Das Devsmita , Massoud Tarik F.
Published: September 2018

Developmental remnants may follow segmental canalization of ectodermal epithelial cords forming the nasolacrimal drainage apparatus (NDA). This can result in false luminal “valves” along the path of the NDA, many of which have been named, but most have not been anatomically identified with consistency. By 1908, eight such “valves” were documented, those of: Foltz, Bochdalek, Rosenmüller, Huschke, Aubaret, Béraud or Krause, Taillefer, and Hasner or Cruveilhier or Bianchi. Digital subtraction dacryocystography (DS‐DCG) is the highest spatial resolution imaging technique available to outline in vivo NDA anatomy, luminal profile, and pathology. We believe this is the first report of the conspicuousness and frequency of these “valves” on DS‐DCG. We retrospectively analyzed routine DS‐DCGs with normal findings for the presence and frequency of the eight NDA “valves.” We examined 92 normal DS‐DCGs on patients aged 14–82 years (71% female, 29% male). We observed “valves” most reliably in the inferior nasolacrimal duct: the inferior valve of Hasner (plica lacrimalis) was present in 98.9% of cases, and more superiorly, the valve of Taillefer (93.5%) and the valve of Krause (79.3%). Contrastingly, we infrequently identified the very superior “valves”: Foltz or Bochdalek in 17.1%, Rosenmüller or Huschke in 46.4%, and Auberat in 40% of cases. Therefore, unlike the inferior NDA valves, these more superior “valves” were less consistently identified and are presumed to be simple mural mucosal irregularities rather than true structural valves. These findings will be useful in diagnostic interpretation of DS‐DCGs and therapeutic planning for patients undergoing luminal procedures on the NDA. Clin. Anat., 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SwitCCh: Metal‐Site Design for Controlling the Assembly of a Coiled‐Coil Homodimer
Authors: Aupič Jana , Lapenta Fabio , Jerala Roman
Published: September 2018

Conformational change of proteins in response to chemical or physical signals is the underlying principle of many regulatory and transport mechanisms in biological systems. The ability to design proteins the conformational state of which can be precisely and reversibly controlled would facilitate the development of molecular machines tailored for specific applications. Here we explore metal‐binding site design to engineer a peptide‐based conformational switch called SwitCCh that assembles into a homodimeric coiled‐coil in response to the addition of ZnII ions or low pH. Addition of ZnII promoted formation of a parallel homodimer with an increase in thermal stability by more than 30 °C. The peptide could be reversibly cycled between the coiled‐coil and random conformation. Furthermore, the SwitCCh peptide was orthogonal to the previously developed coiled‐coil dimer set, indicating it could be used for regulated self‐assembly of coiled‐coil based nanostructures and materials.
Expression of the hormonal FGF co‐receptor Klotho beta in the Xenopus laevis model
Authors: Chen Geng , Tao Qinghua
Published: September 2018

Klotho beta (Klb), a single‐pass transmembrane protein, has been described as a co‐receptor for endocrine FGFs, such as FGF15/19 and FGF21, to regulate critical metabolic processes in multiple organs and tissues in adult mice. However, its function during early embryonic development remains largely unknown. In this paper, we evaluated for the first time the expression of klb mRNA during early development of Xenopus laevis by RT‐PCR and whole mount in situ hybridization. RT‐PCR experiments showed that the expression of klb was initially detected at late gastrula stage followed by a quick increasing and continued expression throughout embryonic development. Whole mount in situ hybridization detected specific expression of klb in many primordial organs at tailbud stage such as liver primordium and pancreatic buds, implying that the hormonal FGF signaling may play a role in the foregut development. The dynamic and specific expression patterns of klb also suggest that Xenopus laevis can serve a convenient model for the function of the hormonal FGF signaling in organogenesis and metabolism regulation during embryonic development.
Hierarchical MnCo2O4/NiMn Layered Double Hydroxide Composite Nanosheet Arrays on Nickel Foam for Enhanced Electrochemical Storage in Supercapacitors
Authors: Lv Yamei , Liu Aifeng , Shi Zhixiang , Mu Jingbo , Guo Zengcai , Zhang Xiaoliang , Che Hongwei
Published: September 2018

Herein, we report on layer‐by‐layer MnCo2O4/NiMn double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheet arrays (NAs) that are designed and synthesized by in‐situ growing the NiMn LDH NAs onto the surface of the MnCo2O4 NAs. The layer‐by‐layer architecture together with the synergistic effects between the NiMn LDH and MnCo2O4 components, substantially improves the energy storage performance of the composite NAs electrodes. The optimized composite NAs electrode exhibits a high specific capacitance of 3063 F g−1 at 3 A g−1 (four times with respect to the individual MnCo2O4 electrode), a capacitance retention of 2315 F g−1 at 30 A g−1, and a cycle stability with 94.7 % capacitance retention at 20 A g−1 over 5000 cycles. Moreover, an assembled MnCo2O4/NiMn LDH//active carbon (AC) asymmetric solid‐state supercapacitor (ASSC) is found to achieve a high energy density of 51.9 W h kg−1 at 806 W kg−1. These findings might offer a feasible strategy to synthesize the high‐performance MnCo2O4‐based composite electrodes for supercapacitors (SCs).
Mechanism of Water Oxidation by Ferrate(VI) at pH 7–9
Authors: Chen Gui , Lam William W. Y. , Lo Po‐Kam , Man Wai‐Lun , Chen Lingjing , Lau Kai‐Chung , Lau Tai‐Chu
Published: September 2018

The kinetics of water oxidation by K2FeO4 has been reinvestigated by UV/Vis spectrophotometry from pH 7–9 in 0.2 m phosphate buffer. The rate of reaction was found to be second‐order in both [FeO42−] and [H+]. These results are consistent with a proposed mechanism in which the first step involves the initial equilibrium protonation of FeO42− to give FeO3(OH)−, which then undergoes rate‐limiting O−O bond formation. Analysis of the O2 isotopic composition for the reaction in H218O suggests that the predominant pathway for water oxidation by ferrate is intramolecular O−O coupling. DFT calculations have also been performed, which support the proposed mechanism.
Concerted Interplay of Excimer and Dipole Coupling Governs the Exciton Relaxation Dynamics in Crystalline Anthracenes
Authors: Philip Abbey M. , Manikandan Sreenath K. , Shaji Anil , Hariharan Mahesh
Published: September 2018

A combined theoretical and experimental investigation into the role of concerted long‐ (dipole coupling) and short‐range (orbital overlap mediated excimer) electronic interactions in modulating the emission of six crystalline acetylanthracenes (1–3) is reported. Friedel–Crafts acylation of anthracene rendered crystalline acetylanthracenes with discrete close packing, varied orbital overlap, and resultant distinct emission (blue–green–yellow) from cooperative excimer and dipole coupling. Time‐resolved emission spectroscopy (TRES) studies and the Kasha's exciton theory based quantitative estimation of dipole coupling (mean‐field approximation) substantiates the exciton dynamics in crystalline 1–3. Extension of the Kasha's exciton model beyond the traditional nearest‐neighbor approach, and consistent agreement among the computed spectral shifts and TRES temporal components, corroborate a holistic approach to decipher the exciton relaxation dynamics in the molecular assembly of novel photonic materials.
Solid‐to‐Hollow Conversion of Silver Nanocrystals by Surface‐Protected Etching
Authors: Liu Kai , Liu Hongpo , Fan Qikui , Zhang Shumeng , Liu Zhaojun , Han Lu , Li Houshen , Gao Chuanbo
Published: September 2018

Although hollow silver nanocrystals possess unique plasmonic properties, there is a lack of robust strategies to synthesize such nanocrystals with high efficiency and controllability. To solve this problem, a new surface‐protected etching strategy to convert solid Ag nanocrystals, which are widely available from conventional syntheses, into their hollow counterparts, producing a family of hollow Ag nanocrystals is reported. Hollow Ag nanospheres and nanotubes were prepared conveniently in this way. The key was the surface modification of Ag nanocrystals by a minor amount of Pt prior to a controllable etching process, which accounts for enhanced stability of the Ag surface and subsequent etching of Ag from the inner part of the nanocrystals while retaining the overall crystal morphology. These hollow Ag nanocrystals showed distinctive optical properties, as demonstrated by the enhanced optical transmittance of flexible electrodes fabricated with Ag nanotubes, compared to nanowires. These hollow Ag nanocrystals hold promise in different plasmonic and electronic applications.
Description of Disperse Multiphase Processes: Quo Vadis?
Authors: Hohl Lena , Panckow Robert P. , Schulz Joschka M. , Jurtz Nico , Böhm Lutz , Kraume Matthias
Published: September 2018

The experimental accessibility of disperse systems often is a critical factor when it comes to the development of modeling approaches that intend to converge towards an exact solution. Often, integral or pseudo‐homogeneous values are used to reduce the complexity of the system, but a detailed single particle or interface analysis is crucial to understand relevant effects that also affect the swarm behavior. A high number of experimental techniques with respective limitations and advantages is available to quantify these effects. In this work, an overview on measurement techniques for momentum, heat and mass transfer in particle swarms as well as for the particle size distribution and interface characterization is provided. The industrial applicability is addressed by pointing out the vicinity to the process and the costs of different measurement techniques.
Fashion image digital color analysis method
Authors: Yun Sun Ae , Kim Young‐In
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to develop a more accurate method for analyzing fashion image digital colors in uncertain observation conditions. The standard color values used in this experiment were obtained from 10 pieces of actual clothing provided by their designers. The comparison color values were created from fashion images using human visual perception, software color analysis, and a combination of human visual perception and software color analysis. The other 10 color values were determined using the method developed in this study. The data were processed using Microsoft Excel 2013 and the statistical program R 3.4.2. Descriptive analyses, 1‐way anova tests, and a multiple comparisons post‐test were conducted using false discovery rates. The results showed that a combination of human and software analysis produced more accurate results than either alone. ΔE
*ab 3–6 was found to be the minimum color difference tolerance between actual clothing and fashion image.
Multiple components of environmental change drive populations of breeding waders in seminatural grasslands
Authors: Laursen Karsten , Balbontín Javier , Thorup Ole , Haaning Nielsen Henrik , Asferg Tommy , Møller Anders Pape
Published: September 2018

Environments are rapidly changing due to climate change, land use, intensive agriculture, and the impact of hunting on predator populations. Here, we analyzed long‐term data recorded during 1928–2014 on the size of breeding populations of waders at two large nature reserves in Denmark, Vejlerne and Tipperne, to determine the effects of components of environmental change on breeding populations of waders. Environmental variables and counts of waders were temporally autocorrelated, and we used generalized least square (GLS) by incorporating the first‐order autoregressive correlation structure in the analyses. We attempted to predict the abundance of waders for short‐term trends for two nature reserves (35 years) and for long‐term trends for one nature reserve (86 years), using precipitation, temperature, nutrients, abundance of foxes Vulpes vulpes, area grazed, and number of cattle. There was evidence of impacts of nutrients, climate (long‐term changes in temperature and precipitation), grazing, mowing, and predation on bird populations. We used standard random effects meta‐analyses weighted by (N–3) to quantify these mean effects. There was no significant difference in effect size among species, while mean effect size differed consistently among environmental factors, and the interaction between effect size for species and environmental factors was also significant. Thus, environmental factors affected the different species differently. Mean effect size was the largest at +0.20 for rain, +0.11 for temperature, −0.09 for fox abundance, and −0.03 for number of cattle, while there was no significant mean effect for fertilizer, area grazed, and year. Effect sizes for two short‐term time series from Tipperne and Vejlerne were positively correlated as were effect sizes for short‐term and long‐term time series at Tipperne. This implies that environmental factors had consistent effects across large temporal and spatial scales.
Spray‐Assisted Synthesis of MnO@C/Graphene Composites as Electrode Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Xiaopan , Liu Xiaowei , Wang Yang , Liu Xuehua , Kong Zhen , Fu Aiping , Li Yanhui , Guo Peizhi , Li Hongliang , Song Guojun
Published: September 2018

The preparation of a composite consisting of amorphous carbon‐coated MnO nanoparticles deposited on graphene sheets (i.e., MnO@C/rGO) by a spray‐assisted method is reported. The MnO@C/rGO composite used as an active material for supercapacitors exhibits an excellent cyclability and a high specific capacitance in a two‐electrode system using 2 mol L−1 KOH aqueous solution as the electrolyte. High specific capacitances of 264 and 176 F g−1 at current densities of 1 and 20 A g−1, respectively, are achieved. A rate‐capability retention of about 67% is obtained when the current density increases from 1 to 20 A g−1, and the specific capacitance is retained at 78% after 10 000 cycles at a current density of 20 A g−1. The excellent electrochemical performance of the MnO@C/rGO is ascribed to the integration of graphene and the coating of amorphous carbon derived from glucose, which significantly improves the conductivity and alleviates the agglomeration of MnO. The unique architecture and good electrical conductivity increase the specific surface area and provide continuous electrical contact during the charge/discharge process. It is shown that carbon coating is an effective way to improve the electrochemical performance of metal oxides/graphene composites.
Outdoor Performance of Fluidic Glass–Glass Laminate Windows for Building Integration
Authors: Heiz Benjamin P. V. , Pan Zhiwen , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: September 2018

Fluidic windows enable the implementation of liquids in building envelopes. Such liquids may act as a heat reservoir and exchange medium or provide additional functionality to the building skin. Here, outdoor operations of double‐glazed windows which include a transparent capillary panel as one of the glazings are reported. The capillary devices were used as heat exchangers by which water circulates across the window surface. A mobile demonstration facility is built, which uses 1.6 m2 of active window surface for thermal input to a test room of 9 m3. Outdoor operations are conducted over multiple weeks in winter and summer seasons to demonstrate hydronic heating and cooling, respectively, by varying the inlet temperature and the flow rate of the circulating liquid. For heating operations at an outdoor air temperature of −5 °C, an overall heat transfer coefficient of 22 W m−2 K−1 is demonstrated. Using the same system for cooling with southeast façade orientation at an average solar irradiance of 800 W m−2 enables significant reduction of peak and average room temperature. In comparison to conventional heating, ventilation and air‐conditioning technology, a significant reduction of the applied temperature gradient and air circulation rates is achieved.
Experimental seismic performance evaluation of modular lightweight steel buildings within the ELISSA project
Authors: Landolfo Raffaele , Iuorio Ornella , Fiorino Luigi
Published: September 2018

Lightweight steel buildings made up by cold‐formed steel (CFS) members as main structural components are growing in popularity in the most industrialized countries. Cold‐formed steel buildings start to be adopted also in seismic regions thanks to their efficient fabrication, reduced site work, short time of construction, and good structural performance. However, the dynamic properties and full seismic performance of CFS buildings completed with finishing is an open question. This paper attempts to provide a contribution to this research question, by a full experimental campaign aiming at investigating the dynamic properties of a modular building developed within the “Energy efficient LIghtweight Sustainable SAfe steel construction” (ELISSA) research project. The work shows the results of an international collaboration between universities and industrial partners aimed at developing a CFS prefabricated dry construction system with improved antiseismic properties and energy performance. This work will discuss the design of the modular building named ELISSA house, the experimental investigation going from small‐scale tests of components, to static tests of shear walls, up to shake table tests of a 2‐storey mock‐up building. It will analyze the dynamic properties of the structural system compared to the building completed with all the finishing, focusing on fundamental period of vibration, damping ratio, building drift, and observed damage.
Experimental study of tenability during a full‐scale motorcoach tire fire
Authors: Johnsson Erik L. , Yang Jiann C.
Published: September 2018

Full‐scale fire experiments were conducted at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to investigate tire fire interactions with the passenger compartment of a motorcoach. A single full‐scale experiment with a partially furnished interior was conducted to investigate tire fire growth within the passenger compartment and the onset of untenable conditions. A tire fire was initiated using a burner designed to imitate the frictional heating of hub and wheel metal caused by failed axle bearings, locked brakes, or dragged blown tires. Measurements of interior and exterior temperatures, interior heat flux, heat release rate, toxic gases, and visibility were performed. Standard and infrared videos and still photographs were also recorded. The results of this single experiment showed that after fire penetration into the passenger compartment, the tenability limits were reached within 8 minutes near the fire and within 11 minutes throughout the passenger compartment.
Towards a Systematic Understanding of How to Institutionally Design Scientific Advisory Committees: A Conceptual Framework and Introduction to a Special Journal Issue
Authors: Hoffman Steven J. , Ottersen Trygve , Tejpar Ali , Baral Prativa , Fafard Patrick
Published: September 2018

Scientifically‐derived insights are often held as requirements for defensible policy choices. Scientific advisory committees (SACs) figure prominently in this landscape, often with the promise of bringing scientific evidence to decision‐makers. Yet, there is sparse and scattered knowledge about what institutional features influence the operations and effectiveness of SACs, how these design choices influence subsequent decision‐making, and the lessons learned from their application. The consequences of these knowledge gaps are that SACs may not be functioning as effectively as possible. The articles in this special journal issue of Global Challenges bring together insights from experts across several disciplines, all of whom are committed to improving SACs' effectiveness worldwide. The aim of the special issue is to inform future SAC design in order to help maximize the application of high‐quality scientific research for the decisions of policymakers, practitioners, and the public alike. In addition to providing an overview of the special issue and a summary of each article within it, this introductory essay presents a definition of SACs and a conceptual framework for how different institutional features and contextual factors affect three proximal determinants of SACs' effectiveness, namely the quality of advice offered, the relevance of that advice, and its legitimacy.
The effect of personalised weight feedback on weight loss and health behaviours: Evidence from a regression discontinuity design
Authors: Cook Will
Published: September 2018

Using a regression‐discontinuity approach on a U.K. longitudinal dataset, this research analyses whether personalised weight feedback resulted in individuals losing weight over a period of between 2 and 7 years. The analysis presented here finds that being told one was “overweight” had, on average, no effect on subsequent weight loss; however, being told one was “very overweight” resulted in individuals losing, on average, approximately 1% of their bodyweight. The effect of feedback was found to be strongly moderated by household income, with those in higher income households accounting for seemingly all of the estimated effect due, in part, to increased physical activity. These findings suggest that the provision of weight feedback may be a cost‐effective way to reduce obesity in adults. They do however also highlight that the differential response to the provision of health information may be a driver of health inequalities and that the provision of feedback may bias longitudinal health studies.
Multitarget Direct‐Acting Antiviral Therapy Is Associated With Superior Immunologic Recovery in Patients Coinfected With Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Shrivastava Shikha , Bhatta Manasa , Ward Haley , Romani Sara , Lee Rebecca , Rosenthal Elana , Osinusi Anu , Kohli Anita , Masur Henry , Kottilil Shyam , Wilson Eleanor
Published: September 2018

Patients coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) have higher levels of immune activation, impaired antigen‐specific responses, and accelerated fibrogenesis compared to patients monoinfected with HCV. Whether different direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) combinations have differential effects on immunophenotypes and functions following successful HCV therapy remain unknown. Therefore, we aimed to assess the peripheral T‐cell immunophenotypes and functions in patients coinfected with HIV/HCV who were successfully treated with combination DAA treatment regimens. We analyzed peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at baseline and at the time of sustained viral response (SVR) from subjects treated with three different combination DAA regimens: daclatasvir (DCV) and asunaprevir (ASV) for 24 weeks (CONQUER 2‐DAA), DCV/ASV/beclabuvir (BCV) for 12 weeks (CONQUER 3‐DAA), and sofosbuvir (SOF) and ledipasvir (LDV) for 12 weeks (ERADICATE study). We used flow cytometry to assess T‐cell phenotypes (activation and exhaustion) and HCV‐specific T‐cell functions (cytokine secretion and cytotoxicity). Statistical analyses were conducted using the Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐rank test with P < 0.05 considered significant. Overall, there was an improvement in T‐cell exhaustion markers, a decrease in T‐cell activation, an increase in the effector memory population, and improved T‐cell function after achieving SVR, with the largest effects noted with CONQUER 3‐DAA treatment. Conclusion: Treatment with DCV/ASV/BCV in patients coinfected with HIV/HCV resulted in greater restoration of the T‐cell impairments and perturbations associated with HIV/HCV coinfection to an extent that was greater than that observed in either two‐drug regimens. We showed that different DAA‐based therapies have different immunologic outcomes after successful HCV treatment in patients coinfected with HIV/HCV. This information will be beneficial for providers when selecting the regimens for patients coinfected with HIV/HCV.
Development of a visually guided Raman spectroscopy probe for cervical assessment during pregnancy
Authors: O'Brien Christine M. , Cochran Katherine J. , Masson Laura E. , Goldberg Mack , Marple Eric , Bennett Kelly A. , Reese Jeff , Slaughter James C. , Newton J M. , Mahadevan‐Jansen Anita
Published: September 2018

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of neonatal death, however, accurate prediction methods do not exist. Detection of early changes in the cervix, an organ that biochemically remodels to deliver the fetus, has potential to predict PTB risk. Researchers have employed light‐based methods to monitor biochemical changes in the cervix during pregnancy, however, these approaches required patients to undergo a speculum examination which many patients find uncomfortable and is not standard practice during prenatal care. Herein, a visually guided optical probe is presented that measures the cervix via introduction by bimanual examination, a procedure that is commonly performed during prenatal visits and labor for tactile monitoring of the cervix. The device incorporates a Raman spectroscopy probe for biochemical monitoring and a camera for visualizing measurement location to ensure it is void of cervical mucus and blood. This probe was tested in 15 patients receiving obstetric and gynecological care, and results acquired with and without a speculum revealed similar spectra, demonstrating that the visually guided probe conserved data quality. Additionally, the majority of patients reported reduced discomfort from the device. In summary, the visual guidance probe successfully measured the cervix while integrating with standard prenatal care, reducing a barrier in clinical translation.
Electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) nanofiber shish kebabs mimic mineralized bony surface features
Authors: Yu Tony , Gleeson Sarah E. , Li Christopher Y. , Marcolongo Michele
Published: September 2018

Electrospinning of nanofiber is of growing interest especially in bone tissue engineering because of its similar fibrous properties to the extracellular matrix. To this end, we have fabricated polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber shish kebab (NFSK) templates. The novelty of this work is the ability to control the mineral orientation and spatial location on the nanofiber, mimicking natural collagen fibers. However, NFSK templates have properties that need to be investigated in terms of cellular response including fiber alignment and crystallization. In this study, MC3T3 E1 preosteoblast cells were seeded onto the templates to determine the effect of both fiber orientation and kebab size on the cell metabolic activity. PCL was electrospun to form aligned and randomly oriented nanofibers, which were then crystallized in a PCL solution in pentyl acetate for 15 and 60 min, resulting in the formation of homopolymer PCL NFSK templates. We evaluated the cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity of MC3T3 E1 cells after 3, 7, and 14 days in coculture. Aligned nanofiber and polymer crystallization both significantly increased the cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity at each time point. The aligned nanofibers and polymer crystallization resulted in the highest metabolic activities of the cells compared to the randomly oriented fibers and noncrystallized controls. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1141–1149, 2019.
Melatonin inhibits breast cancer cell invasion through modulating DJ‐1/KLF17/ID‐1 signaling pathway
Authors: El‐Sokkary Gamal H. , Ismail Ismail Ahmed , Saber Saber H.
Published: September 2018

Breast cancer is the most common neoplastic disorder diagnosed in women. The main goal of this study was to explore the effect of melatonin against breast cancer metastasis and compared this with the actions of taxol (a well‐known chemotherapeutic drug), and the impact of their combination against breast cancer metastasis. Melatonin showed no cytotoxic effect while taxol showed antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects on MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Furthermore, melatonin inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species. Melatonin and taxol clearly decreased cell migration and invasion at low doses, especially those matching the normal physiological concentration at night. Melatonin and taxol markedly reduced DJ‐1 and ID‐1 and increased KLF17 messenger RNA and protein expression levels. The present results also showed that melatonin and taxol induced GSK3‐β nuclear and Snail cytosolic localization. These changes were accompanied by a concurrent rise in E‐cadherin expression. The above data show that normal levels of melatonin may help in preventing breast cancer metastasis through inhibiting DJ‐1/KLF17/ID‐1 signaling pathway. The combination of melatonin and taxol is a potent candidate against breast cancer metastasis, better than using melatonin or taxol as a single drug.
Adipose tissue‐derived stem cells inhibit hypertrophic scar (HS) fibrosis via p38/MAPK pathway
Authors: Chai Chi‐Yung , Song Junlong , Tan Zhenwei , Tai I‐Chun , Zhang Chaoying , Sun Shengrong
Published: September 2018

Objective

The current study was designed to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) on hypertrophic scar (HS) fibrosis.

Method

Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot analysis were performed to detect the expression of collagen I (Col1), collagen III (Col3), and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) after fibroblasts and cultured HS tissues were treated with ADSC medium. All data were analyzed by using SPSS17.0 software. Statistical analysis was performed by Student t tests.

Results

The in vitro study showed that ADSC medium decreased the expression of Col1, Col3, and α‐SMA. In addition, the protein level of p‐p38 was downregulated by ADSC medium treatment in a concentration dependent manner.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrated that ADSC could decrease collagen deposition and scar formation in in vitro experiments. The regulation of the p38/MAPK signaling pathway might play an important role in the process.
Daphnetin protects hippocampal neurons from oxygen‐glucose deprivation–induced injury
Authors: Zhi Jin , Duan Bin , Pei Jiwen , Wu Songdi , Wei Junli
Published: September 2018

Daphnetin, a coumarin derivative extracted from Daphne odora var., was reported to possess a neuroprotective effect. Recently, it has been demonstrated that daphnetin attenuates ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the role of daphnetin in cerebral I/R injury and the potential mechanism have not been fully understood. The present study aimed to explore the regulatory roles of daphnetin on oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)–induced cell injury in a model of hippocampal neurons. Our results demonstrated that daphnetin improved cell viability and reduced the lactate dehydrogenase leakage in OGD/R–stimulated hippocampal neurons. In addition, daphnetin inhibited oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in hippocampal neurons after OGD/R stimulation. Furthermore, daphnetin significantly enhanced the nuclear translocation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) expression in hippocampal neurons exposed to OGD/R. Knockdown of Nrf2 blocked the protective effect of daphnetin on OGD/R–induced hippocampal neurons. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that daphnetin attenuated oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis after OGD/R injury through the activation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway in hippocampal neurons. Thus, daphnetin may be a novel therapeutic agent for cerebral I/R injury.
CREB‐upregulated lncRNA MEG3 promotes hepatic gluconeogenesis by regulating miR‐302a‐3p‐CRTC2 axis
Authors: Zhu Xiang , Li Hongqi , Wu Yuanbo , Zhou Jian , Yang Guangwei , Wang Weidong , Kang Dongmei , Ye Shandong
Published: September 2018

Hepatic gluconeogenesis is the major contributor to hyperglycemia in diabetes. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) has been shown to promote hepatic insulin resistance; however, the underlying mechanism involving hepatic gluconeogenesis remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential role of MEG3 in hepatic gluconeogenesis. Mouse primary hepatocytes were used in this study. Cell transfection was performed for the overexpression or knockdown of specific genes. Expressions of MEG3, miR‐302a‐3p, CREB‐regulated transcriptional coactivator 2 (CRTC2), protein kinase A (PKA), cAMP‐response element binding protein (CREB), PPARγ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G6Pc) were determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐qPCR) and Western blot analysis, respectively. The association among MEG3, miR‐302a‐3p, and CRTC2 was disclosed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. MEG3 was highly expressed in high glucagon‐treated mouse primary hepatocytes. CREB‐induced MEG3 upregulation increased gluconeogenic gene expression in high glucagon‐treated primary hepatocytes, while MEG3 interference led to an opposite effect. MEG3 served as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to upregulate CRTC2 by targeting miR‐302a‐3p in primary hepatocytes, thereby increasing PGC‐1α‐PEPCK/G6Pc. CREB‐upregulated MEG3‐enhanced hepatic gluconeogenesis via mediating miR‐302a‐3p‐CRTC2 axis, revealing that MEG3 might be a potential target and therapeutic strategy for diabetes.