bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significance of Nanopatterned and Clustered DLL1 for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Proliferation
Authors: Winkler Anna‐Lena , von Wulffen Joachim , Rödling Lisa , Raic Annamarija , Reinartz Ines , Schug Alexander , Gralla‐Koser Robert , Geckle Udo , Welle Alexander , Lee‐Thedieck Cornelia
Published: April 2017

Hematopoietic stem cells are the stem cells of the blood that are applied to treat hematological disorders by transplanting donor cells to a patient. Rarity of donors and low cell counts in alternative hematopoietic stem cell sources such as cord blood limit the clinical use of hematopoietic stem cells. Here, it is shown that bifunctional surfaces containing the adhesive RGD peptide together with the Notch‐activating Delta‐like 1 (DLL1)—provided in a nanopatterned or unpatterned manner in different densities—are able to enhance hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell proliferation. Nanopatterning allows determining the maximal distance between DLL1 molecules that results in efficient cell stimulation (40 nm). Applying unpatterned substrates with statistically distributed DLL1 shows that the elicited effects depend on ligand density and clustering (minimum 2 molecules/cluster). Thereby, the present study contributes to the development of cost‐efficient bioreactors for hematopoietic stem cell expansion and to deciphering how cells gain control over Notch signaling by DLL1 clustering.
Collective Wetting of a Natural Fibrous System and Its Application in Pump‐Free Droplet Transfer
Authors: Han Yu Long , Li Moxiao , Yang Qingzhen , Huang Guoyou , Liu Hao , Qin Yidan , Genin Guy M. , Li Feng , Lu Tian Jian , Xu Feng
Published: April 2017

Novel wetting strategies in plants have inspired numerous notable biomimetic surfaces over the past decade, such as self‐cleaning surfaces mimicking the water repellency of lotus leaves and directional water transport surfaces imitating the slippery surface on carnivorous plants. Here, a new wetting behavior in dandelion seed (genus Taraxacum) is found, characterized by capturing a droplet inside it. The critical conditions required for wetting of the fiber assay in terms of the fibrous geometry and liquid surface tension are identified, and how these factors quantitatively affect the volume of the captured droplet is shown further. More importantly, the reverse process can be triggered by introducing a competitive liquid phase with smaller surface tension to the wetted fiber assay, as it is demonstrated by the release of the captured water droplet in oil. These results enhance the understanding on wetting of fibrous structures and would benefit the design of novel intelligent and responsive devices. This newly identified wetting behavior holds great potential for fine control and micromanipulation of liquid. As a demonstration, it is illustrated that the natural fibrous structure is capable of manipulating a small volume of liquid for droplet‐based multiplexed chemical reaction.
Solution‐Processable Dithienothiophenoquinoid (DTTQ) Structures for Ambient‐Stable n‐Channel Organic Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Vegiraju Sureshraju , He Guan‐Yu , Kim Choongik , Priyanka Pragya , Chiu Yen‐Ju , Liu Chiao‐Wei , Huang Chu‐Yun , Ni Jen‐Shyang , Wu Ya‐Wen , Chen Zhihua , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Tung Shih‐Huang , Liu Cheng‐Liang , Chen Ming‐Chou , Facchetti Antonio
Published: April 2017

A series of dialkylated dithienothiophenoquinoids (DTTQs), end‐functionalized with dicyanomethylene units and substituted with different alkyl chains, are synthesized and characterized. Facile one‐pot synthesis of the dialkylated DTT core is achieved, which enables the efficient realization of DTTQs as n‐type active semiconductors for solution‐processable organic field effect transistors (OFETs). The molecular structure of hexyl substituted DTTQ‐6 is determined via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, revealing DTTQ is a very planar core. The DTTQ cores form a “zig‐zag” linking layer and the layers stack in a “face‐to‐face” arrangement. The very planar core structure, short core stacking distance (3.30 Å), short intermolecular SN distance (2.84 Å), and very low lying lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level of −4.2 eV suggest that DTTQs should be excellent electron transport candidates. The physical and electrochemical properties as well as OFETs performance and thin film morphologies of these new DTTQs are systematically studied. Using a solution‐shearing method, DTTQ‐11 exhibits n‐channel transport with the highest mobility of up to 0.45 cm2 V−1 s−1 and a current ON/OFF ratio (ION/IOFF) greater than 105. As such, DTTQ‐11 has the highest electron mobility of any DTT‐based small molecule semiconductors yet discovered combined with excellent ambient stability. Within this family, carrier mobility magnitudes are correlated with the alkyl chain length of the side chain substituents of DTTQs.
Selective Pd Deposition on Au Nanobipyramids and Pd Site‐Dependent Plasmonic Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Zhu Xingzhong , Jia Henglei , Zhu Xiao‐Ming , Cheng Si , Zhuo Xiaolu , Qin Feng , Yang Zhi , Wang Jianfang
Published: April 2017

The synthesis of anisotropic metal nanostructures is strongly desired for exploring plasmon‐enabled applications. Herein, the preparation of anisotropic Au/SiO2 and Au/SiO2/Pd nanostructures is realized through selective silica coating on Au nanobipyramids. For silica coating at the ends of Au nanobipyramids, the amount of coated silica and the overall shape of the coated nanostructures exhibit a bell‐shaped dependence on the cationic surfactant concentration. For both end and side silica coating on Au nanobipyramids, the size of the silica component can be varied by changing the silica precursor amount. Silica can also be selectively deposited on the corners or facets of Au nanocubes, suggesting the generality of this method. The blockage of the predeposited silica component on Au nanobipyramids enables further selective Pd deposition. Suzuki coupling reactions carried out with the different bimetallic nanostructures functioning as plasmonic photocatalysts indicate that the plasmonic photocatalytic activity is dependent on the site of Pd nanoparticles on Au nanobipyramids. Taken together, these results suggest that plasmonic hot spots play an important role in hot‐electron‐driven plasmonic photocatalysis. This study opens up a promising route to the construction of anisotropic bimetallic nanostructures as well as to the design of bimetallic plasmonic‐catalytic nanostructures as efficient plasmonic photocatalysts.
Self‐Assembly of Flexible Free‐Standing 3D Porous MoS2‐Reduced Graphene Oxide Structure for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chao Yunfeng , Jalili Rouhollah , Ge Yu , Wang Caiyun , Zheng Tian , Shu Kewei , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: April 2017

Flexible freestanding electrodes are highly desired to realize wearable/flexible batteries as required for the design and production of flexible electronic devices. Here, the excellent electrochemical performance and inherent flexibility of atomically thin 2D MoS2 along with the self‐assembly properties of liquid crystalline graphene oxide (LCGO) dispersion are exploited to fabricate a porous anode for high‐performance lithium ion batteries. Flexible, free‐standing MoS2–reduced graphene oxide (MG) film with a 3D porous structure is fabricated via a facile spontaneous self‐assembly process and subsequent freeze‐drying. This is the first report of a one‐pot self‐assembly, gelation, and subsequent reduction of MoS2/LCGO composite to form a flexible, high performance electrode for charge storage. The gelation process occurs directly in the mixed dispersion of MoS2 and LCGO nanosheets at a low temperature (70 °C) and normal atmosphere (1 atm). The MG film with 75 wt% of MoS2 exhibits a high reversible capacity of 800 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1. It also demonstrates excellent rate capability, and excellent cycling stability with no capacity drop over 500 charge/discharge cycles at a current density of 400 mA g−1.
Ultrafast Switching in Avalanche‐Driven Ferroelectrics by Supersonic Kink Movements
Authors: Salje Ekhard K. H. , Wang Xiaofei , Ding Xiangdong , Scott James F.
Published: April 2017

Devices operating at GHz frequencies can be based on ferroelectric kink‐domains moving at supersonic speed. The kinks are located inside ferroelastic twin boundaries and are extremely mobile. Computer simulation shows that strong forcing generates velocities well above the speed of sound. Kinks are accelerated from v = 0 continuously with Döring masses in the order of skyrmion masses under constant strain rates. Moving kinks emit phonons at all velocities, and the emission cones coincide with the Mach cones at supersonic speed. Kinks form avalanches with the emission of secondary kinks via a mother–daughter nucleation mechanism and may be observable in acoustic emission experiments. Supersonic kinks define a new type of material; while mobile domains are the key for ferroelastic and ferroelectric device applications at low frequencies, it is expected that fast kink movements replace such domain movements for materials applications at high frequencies.
Spherical Polyelectrolyte Brushes as a Novel Platform for Paramagnetic Relaxation Enhancement and Passive Tumor Targeting
Authors: Zhu Qin , Yuan Zhenyu , Qian Weiqiao , Li Yuanyuan , Qiu Zhiqiang , Tang Weijun , Wang Jie , Ding Yun , Hu Aiguo
Published: April 2017

A novel platform for the development of highly efficient magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents has been demonstrated. New contrast agents are designed and produced through electrostatic self‐assembly of cationic gadolinium(III) complexes onto anionic spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (SPB). The structurally well‐defined SPB are composed of polystyrene core and polyacrylic acid brush layer, where numerous binding sites and confined microenvironments are available for the embedment of the gadolinium(III) contrast agents. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments show excellent biocompatibility and relaxometric performance of these SPB‐based gadolinium hybrid materials. The enhanced relaxivity value is up to 86.2 mM−1 s−1 per Gd, a remarkably high record value at 1.5 T magnetic field. In vivo imaging displays a prolonged blood circulation time and massive accumulation of the contrast agents at the tumor region due to the enhanced permeability and retention effect. The SPB‐based gadolinium hybrid materials not only broaden the horizons of new MRI contrast agents, but also have a great potential for tumor diagnosis.
High Mobility 2D Palladium Diselenide Field‐Effect Transistors with Tunable Ambipolar Characteristics
Authors: Chow Wai Leong , Yu Peng , Liu Fucai , Hong Jinhua , Wang Xingli , Zeng Qingsheng , Hsu Chuang‐Han , Zhu Chao , Zhou Jiadong , Wang Xiaowei , Xia Juan , Yan Jiaxu , Chen Yu , Wu Di , Yu Ting , Shen Zexiang , Lin Hsin , Jin Chuanhong , Tay Beng Kang , Liu Zheng
Published: April 2017

Due to the intriguing optical and electronic properties, 2D materials have attracted a lot of interest for the electronic and optoelectronic applications. Identifying new promising 2D materials will be rewarding toward the development of next generation 2D electronics. Here, palladium diselenide (PdSe2), a noble‐transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC), is introduced as a promising high mobility 2D material into the fast growing 2D community. Field‐effect transistors (FETs) based on ultrathin PdSe2 show intrinsic ambipolar characteristic. The polarity of the FET can be tuned. After vacuum annealing, the authors find PdSe2 to exhibit electron‐dominated transport with high mobility (µe (max) = 216 cm2 V−1 s−1) and on/off ratio up to 103. Hole‐dominated‐transport PdSe2 can be obtained by molecular doping using F4‐TCNQ. This pioneer work on PdSe2 will spark interests in the less explored regime of noble‐TMDCs.
Surfactant‐Free Shape Control of Gold Nanoparticles Enabled by Unified Theoretical Framework of Nanocrystal Synthesis
Authors: Wall Matthew A. , Harmsen Stefan , Pal Soumik , Zhang Lihua , Arianna Gianluca , Lombardi John R. , Drain Charles Michael , Kircher Moritz F.
Published: April 2017

Gold nanoparticles have unique properties that are highly dependent on their shape and size. Synthetic methods that enable precise control over nanoparticle morphology currently require shape‐directing agents such as surfactants or polymers that force growth in a particular direction by adsorbing to specific crystal facets. These auxiliary reagents passivate the nanoparticles' surface, and thus decrease their performance in applications like catalysis and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering. Here, a surfactant‐ and polymer‐free approach to achieving high‐performance gold nanoparticles is reported. A theoretical framework to elucidate the growth mechanism of nanoparticles in surfactant‐free media is developed and it is applied to identify strategies for shape‐controlled syntheses. Using the results of the analyses, a simple, green‐chemistry synthesis of the four most commonly used morphologies: nanostars, nanospheres, nanorods, and nanoplates is designed. The nanoparticles synthesized by this method outperform analogous particles with surfactant and polymer coatings in both catalysis and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering.
Emerging Biofabrication Strategies for Engineering Complex Tissue Constructs
Authors: Pedde R. Daniel , Mirani Bahram , Navaei Ali , Styan Tara , Wong Sarah , Mehrali Mehdi , Thakur Ashish , Mohtaram Nima Khadem , Bayati Armin , Dolatshahi‐Pirouz Alireza , Nikkhah Mehdi , Willerth Stephanie M. , Akbari Mohsen
Published: April 2017

The demand for organ transplantation and repair, coupled with a shortage of available donors, poses an urgent clinical need for the development of innovative treatment strategies for long‐term repair and regeneration of injured or diseased tissues and organs. Bioengineering organs, by growing patient‐derived cells in biomaterial scaffolds in the presence of pertinent physicochemical signals, provides a promising solution to meet this demand. However, recapitulating the structural and cytoarchitectural complexities of native tissues in vitro remains a significant challenge to be addressed. Through tremendous efforts over the past decade, several innovative biofabrication strategies have been developed to overcome these challenges. This review highlights recent work on emerging three‐dimensional bioprinting and textile techniques, compares the advantages and shortcomings of these approaches, outlines the use of common biomaterials and advanced hybrid scaffolds, and describes several design considerations including the structural, physical, biological, and economical parameters that are crucial for the fabrication of functional, complex, engineered tissues. Finally, the applications of these biofabrication strategies in neural, skin, connective, and muscle tissue engineering are explored.
More Reliable Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries: Status, Solutions and Prospects
Authors: Fang Ruopian , Zhao Shiyong , Sun Zhenhua , Wang Da‐Wei , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Li Feng
Published: April 2017

Lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries have attracted tremendous interest because of their high theoretical energy density and cost effectiveness. The target of Li‐S battery research is to produce batteries with a high useful energy density that at least outperforms state‐of‐the‐art lithium‐ion batteries. However, due to an intrinsic gap between fundamental research and practical applications, the outstanding electrochemical results obtained in most Li‐S battery studies indeed correspond to low useful energy densities and are not really suitable for practical requirements. The Li‐S battery is a complex device and its useful energy density is determined by a number of design parameters, most of which are often ignored, leading to the failure to meet commercial requirements. The purpose of this review is to discuss how to pave the way for reliable Li‐S batteries. First, the current research status of Li‐S batteries is briefly reviewed based on statistical information obtained from literature. This includes an analysis of how the various parameters influence the useful energy density and a summary of existing problems in the current Li‐S battery research. Possible solutions and some concerns regarding the construction of reliable Li‐S batteries are comprehensively discussed. Finally, insights are offered on the future directions and prospects in Li‐S battery field.
Enantioselective Sulfa‐Michael Addition of Aromatic Thiols to β‐Substituted Nitroalkenes Promoted by a Chiral Multifunctional Catalyst
Authors: Wei Qi , Hou Wenduan , Liao Na , Peng Yungui
Published: April 2017

An efficient enantioselective Michael addition of a series of aromatic thiols acting as nucleophiles for β‐monosubstituted, α,β‐ and β,β‐disubstituted nitroalkenes promoted by a multi‐functional chiral catalyst has been developed. The methodology accommodates a wide variety of aryl thiols and nitroalkene substrates, and affords the 2‐nitro‐1‐arylethyl sulfides in excellent yields (up to 99%) and enantioselectivities (up to 99%ee). This reaction could be scaled up to gram even with a dramatically reduced catalyst loading of 0.05 mol%.

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Exploring the Catalytic Promiscuity of Phenolic Acid Decarboxylases: Asymmetric, 1,6‐Conjugate Addition of Nucleophiles Across 4‐Hydroxystyrene
Authors: Payer Stefan E. , Sheng Xiang , Pollak Hannah , Wuensch Christiane , Steinkellner Georg , Himo Fahmi , Glueck Silvia M. , Faber Kurt
Published: April 2017

The catalytic promiscuity of a ferulic acid decarboxylase from Enterobacter sp. (FDC_Es) and phenolic acid decarboxylases (PADs) for the asymmetric conjugate addition of water across the C=C bond of hydroxystyrenes was extended to the N‐, C‐ and S‐nucleophiles methoxyamine, cyanide and propanethiol to furnish the corresponding addition products in up to 91% ee. The products obtained from the biotransformation employing the most suitable enzyme/nucleophile pairs were isolated and characterized after optimizing the reaction conditions. Finally, a mechanistic rationale supported by quantum mechanical calculations for the highly (S)‐selective addition of cyanide is proposed.

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Synthesis of Aryldihalomethanes by Denitrogenative Dihalogenation of Benzaldehyde Hydrazones
Authors: Zhao Zhensheng , Kulkarni Kaivalya G. , Murphy Graham K.
Published: April 2017

We report a denitrogenative dihalogenation reaction of phenyldiazomethanes in which the hypervalent iodine reagents PhICl2 and TolIF2 act as surrogates for elemental chlorine and fluorine. Halogen transfer from iodane to aryldiazomethane is described, as is a tandem oxidative dihalogenation reaction between iodane and hydrazone. This is the first use of non‐α‐stabilized diazo compounds in this reaction, which provided an efficient synthesis of aryldifluoromethane (ArCHF2) and aryldichloromethane (ArCHCl2) derivatives.

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Synthesis of transparent oil dispersion of monodispersed calcium carbonate nanoparticles with high concentration
Authors: Pu Yuan , Kang Fang , Zeng Xiao‐Fei , Chen Jian‐Feng , Wang Jie‐Xin
Published: April 2017

The preparation of monodispersed inorganic nanoparticles is of great interest for many applications. In this article, transparent oil dispersion of monodispersed amorphous CaCO3 nanoparticles with high concentration and long‐term stability were controllably prepared by a reverse microemulsion method. The effects of the addition amount of extra minute water and (NH4)2CO3 as novel assistant promoter, reaction temperature, Ca(OH)2/CaO mole ratio were explored. The optimum synthesis conditions were achieved. The as‐prepared transparent oil nanodispersion had a good monodispersity, a uniform particle size of 8–10 nm, a high stability of over 12 months, a high solid content of 38 wt% (Ca content of about 15.5 wt%) and a high total base number of 416 mgKOH/g. The preparation process was further investigated by polarized optical microscope and Fourier transform infrared. This nanodispersion will find a promising applicability as an excellent nanodetergent in the fields of automobile and marine lubricants. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3663–3669, 2017
Yield stress dependency on the evolution of bubble populations generated in consolidated soft sediments
Authors: Johnson Michael , Fairweather Michael , Harbottle David , Hunter Timothy N. , Peakall Jeffrey , Biggs Simon
Published: April 2017

Retention of hydrogen bubbles within consolidated soft sediments represents an important safety consideration for the management of legacy nuclear wastes due to the potential for acute gas release. Gas retention sufficiently reduced the bulk density of intermediate yield stress (<800 Pa) sediments for the bed to become buoyant with respect to an aqueous supernatant, potentially inducing Rayleigh‐Taylor instabilities. X‐ray computed tomography revealed that beds of 7–234 Pa yield stress retained very similar, steady state size distributions of mature bubbles, limited to 9 mm equivalent spherical diameter, for long residence times. This implied a dominant gas release mechanism dictated by the pore to millimeter scale bubble population, not previously identified in such weak sediments and unrelated to the bubbles' buoyant force. At 1112 Pa yield stress, large bubbles of up to 20 mm diameter were observed to grow through induction of lateral cracks, facilitating gas transport to the bed periphery, thereby limiting the maximum void fraction, while non‐homogeneous gas generation promoted the formation of low density regions rich with microbubbles which similarly provide pathways for gas release. © 2017 The Authors AIChE Journal published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of
American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3728–3742, 2017
Hydrodynamics of inclined packed beds under flow modulation ‐ CFD simulation and experimental validation
Authors: Motamed Dashliborun Amir , Hamidipour Mohsen , Larachi Faïçal
Published: April 2017

A three‐dimensional unsteady‐state Eulerian multi‐fluid CFD model was developed to simulate the hydrodynamic behavior of inclined gas‐liquid cocurrent downflow packed beds under ON‐OFF liquid, ON‐OFF gas, and gas/liquid alternating cyclic operations. Validation of the CFD simulation results was performed with experimental data provided by electrical capacitance tomography imaging. Incorporation in the Eulerian multifluid CFD model of capillary pressure and mechanical dispersion force was essential to accurately capture the transient spatial heterogeneities arising in tilted packed beds under different cyclic modulation strategies. The applied CFD model was able to satisfactorily predict the values of liquid holdup and pressure drop as well as the morphological characteristics of the traveling waves inside the bed for the examined flow modulations. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4161–4176, 2017
Phase distribution in dispersed liquid–liquid flow in vertical pipe: Mean and turbulent contributions of interfacial force
Authors: Rezig Mariem , Bellakhal Ghazi , Chahed Jamel
Published: April 2017

We applied an Eulerian–Eulerian two‐fluid model on an upward dispersed oil–water flow in vertical pipe with 80 mm diameter and 2.5 m length. The numerical profiles of the radial distribution of the oil drops at 1.5 m from the inflow are compared to the experimental data of Lucas and Panagiotopoulos (Flow Meas Instrum. 2009;20:127–135) This article analyzes the roles of turbulence and interfacial forces on the phase distribution phenomenon. In liquid–liquid flow the relative velocity is low and the distribution of the dispersed phase is mainly governed by the turbulence. This work highlights the important role of the turbulent contribution obtained by averaging the added mass force on the radial distribution profiles of the oil drops. The numerical results present improved profiles of the dispersed phase comparing to the experimental data when this turbulent contribution is taken into account in the momentum balance. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4214–4223, 2017
Absorption methods for the determination of mass transfer parameters of packing internals: A literature review
Authors: Hegely Laszlo , Roesler John , Alix Pascal , Rouzineau David , Meyer Michel
Published: April 2017

Methods for the determination of mass‐transfer coefficients and effective interfacial areas in packed absorption columns are reviewed. For each parameter, the methods are grouped into categories on the basis of their physical principle; the chemical systems used, experimental protocol, and the advantages and inconveniences are discussed. The treatment of end effects, the influence of packed bed height, and the recent efforts in standardization of measurement methods are also treated. The aim of the review is to give a broad overview of the methods used in literature in the last eight decades, some of which might be reconsidered in the light of modern measurement techniques and to evaluate them in relation to precision, practicality and hazardousness thereby to facilitate the search for reliable, precise, and convenient experimental practices. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3246–3275, 2017
Modeling the dynamics of tamponade multicomponent gases during retina reattachment surgery
Authors: Hall Sheldon K. , Williamson Thomas H. , Guillemaut Jean‐Yves , Goddard Tony , Baumann Andrew P. , Hutter Joseph C.
Published: April 2017

Vitrectomy and pneumatic retinopexy are common surgical procedures used to treat retinal detachment. To reattach the retina, gases are used to inflate the vitreous space allowing the retina to attach by surface tension and buoyancy forces that are superior to the location of the bubble. These procedures require the injection of either a pure tamponade gas, such as C3F8 or SF6, or mixtures of these gases with air. The location of the retinal detachment, the anatomical spread of the retinal defect, and the length of time the defect has persisted, will determine the suggested volume and duration of the gas bubble to allow reattachment. After inflation, the gases are slowly absorbed by the blood allowing the vitreous to be refilled by aqueous. We have developed a model of the mass transfer dynamics of tamponade gases during pneumatic retinopexy or pars plana vitrectomy procedures. The model predicts the expansion and persistence of intraocular gases (C3F8, SF6), oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, as well as the intraocular pressure. The model was validated using published literature in rabbits and humans. In addition to correlating the mass transfer dynamics by surface area, permeability, and partial pressure driving forces, the mass transfer dynamics are affected by the percentage of the tamponade gases. Rates were also correlated with the physical properties of the tamponade and blood gases. The model gave accurate predictions in humans. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3651–3662, 2017
Kinetics of the liquid phase dehydration of 1‐octanol to di‐n‐octyl ether on Amberlyst 70
Authors: Casas Carlos , Bringué Roger , Fité Carles , Iborra Montserrat , Tejero Javier
Published: April 2017

The kinetics of the liquid phase dehydration of 1‐octanol to di‐n‐octyl ether (DNOE) over Amberlyst 70 was studied at 413–453 K. Mechanistic rate models assuming water and 1‐octanol adsorbed on the resin, and the free sites fraction negligible, were selected from 1‐octanol dehydration experiments. Next, the influence of DNOE, water, and 1,4‐dioxane (solvent) concentration was evaluated. DNOE and 1,4‐dioxane do not affect significantly the reaction rate, while water inhibits it strongly. Water effect was quantified by splitting the rate constant into a “true one” and a correction factor related to the fraction of active sites blocked by water. The best kinetic model stemmed from an Eley‐Rideal mechanism with water adsorbed onto the resin and DNOE released directly to the liquid phase, with a correction factor for water inhibitory effect based on a Freundlich isotherm‐like function; activation energy being 110 ± 5 kJ·mol−1, in line with literature data on homologous reactions. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3966–3978, 2017
Passive rate‐based separation in collisional flows
Authors: Bartlow Diana Lievano , Bhattacharya Tathagata , McCarthy J. J.
Published: April 2017

The passive separation of a binary mixture of spherical particles is accomplished using a laboratory scale quasi‐two‐dimensional inclined board such that gravity alone drives the flow of the mixture through a static array of obstacles. Experimental results compare well with simulations both qualitatively and quantitatively. An increase in separation is observed for increasing board length, whereas a decrease in separation is observed as the solid fraction (area coverage) of particles increases. The possibility of designing green technology for solid‐solid separations by taking advantage of particle properties that aid naturally occurring segregation is demonstrated. A probability‐based model is suggested as a way to predict the viability of separation between particle types as a function of particle size and coefficient of restitution. It should be noted that size separation is achieved despite peg spacings that are larger than both particles in a mixture. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3717–3727, 2017
Morphological properties of flocs under turbulent break‐up and restructuring processes
Authors: Vlieghe M. , Frances C. , Coufort‐Saudejaud C. , Liné A.
Published: April 2017

Bentonite flocculation was performed in a Taylor–Couette reactor coupled with an in situ method of image acquisition and analysis. A hydrodynamic sequencing is imposed to perform successive cycles of flocculation and breakage. Depending on the shear rate applied during the breakage step, one or two cycles are needed after the first flocculation step to recover a full reversibility on both size and shape factors. The breakup step produces flocculi that are the building blocks for the next. The re‐flocculation steps produce smaller sizes and more regular shapes than the initial growth step. The floc size is calibrated by the turbulence as the radius of gyration is close to the Kolmogorov microscale whereas the floc structure is determined by flocculi aggregates. An analysis of the change of the flocs morphology, despite of their diversity, can also be achieved thanks to some relevant moments of the distributions. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 3706–3716, 2017
The Diversity–Segregation Conundrum
Authors: Florida Richard
Published: April 2017

There is a long literature extolling the virtues of diversity for both the civility and economic performance of nations and cities. On the most basic level, diversity helps nations and cities attract the wide range of creative talent that drives innovation and economic growth. Yet similarly, there is a large amount of literature on the sorting and segregation of different types of people into distinct communities. This in turn undermines the very mixing of people and groups required for economic prosperity to flourish. This essay looks at the conundrum between diversity and segregation. It argues that both are increasingly salient, interdependent, and interconnected features of large, advanced cities or metropolitan areas. This diversity–segregation conundrum is increasingly a core feature of our social and economic landscape. It reviews several recent studies that highlight this problem, as well as some of my own very recent empirical findings on the issue.
Phenotypic spectrum of Costello syndrome individuals harboring the rare HRAS mutation p.Gly13Asp
Authors: Bertola Débora , Buscarilli Michelle , Stabley Deborah L. , Baker Laura , Doyle Daniel , Bartholomew Dennis W. , Sol‐Church Katia , Gripp Karen W.
Published: April 2017

Costello syndrome is part of the RASopathies, a group of neurocardiofaciocutaneous syndromes caused by deregulation of the RAS mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway. Heterozygous mutations in HRAS are responsible for Costello syndrome, with more than 80% of the patients harboring the specific p.Gly12Ser variant. These individuals show a homogeneous phenotype. The clinical characteristics of the Costello syndrome individuals harboring rarer HRAS mutations are less understood, due to the small number of reported cases. Here, we describe the phenotypic spectrum of five additional individuals with HRAS c.38G>A; p.Gly13Asp, including one with somatic mosaicism, and review five previously described cases. The facial and hair abnormalities of the HRAS p.Gly13Asp individuals differ from the typical pattern observed in those showing the common HRAS (p.Gly12Ser) mutation, with less coarse facial features and slow growing, sparse hair with abnormal texture, the latter resembling the pattern observed in Noonan syndrome‐like disorder with loose anagen hair and individuals harboring another amino acid substitution in HRAS (p.Gly13Cys). Although some individuals with HRAS p.Gly13Asp developed papillomata and vascular proliferation lesions, no malignant tumors occurred, similar to what was reported for individuals harboring the HRAS p.Gly13Cys. The fact that no malignant tumors were described in these individuals does not allow definitive conclusions about the risk for cancer development. It remains to be determined if substitutions of amino acid 13 in HRAS (p.Gly13Asp and p.Gly13Cys) increase the risk of tumor development.
Oral‐facial‐digital syndrome type 1 in males: Congenital heart defects are included in its phenotypic spectrum
Authors: Bouman Arjan , Alders Mariëlle , Oostra Roelof Jan , van Leeuwen Elisabeth , Thuijs Nikki , van der Kevie‐Kersemaekers Anne‐Marie , van Maarle Merel
Published: April 2017

Oral‐facial‐digital syndrome type 1 (OFD1; OMIM# 311200) is an X‐linked dominant ciliopathy caused by mutations in the OFD1 gene. This condition is characterized by facial anomalies and abnormalities of oral tissues, digits, brain, and kidneys. Almost all affected patients are female, as OFD1 is presumed to be lethal in males, mostly in the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Live born males with OFD1 are a rare occurrence, with only five reported patients to date. In four patients the presence of a congenital heart defect (CHD) was observed. Here, we report an affected male fetus with a hemizygous de novo mutation in OFD1 (c.2101C>T; p.(Gln701*)). Ultrasound examination demonstrated severe hydrocephalus, a hypoplastic cerebellum and a hypoplastic left ventricle of the heart. The pregnancy was terminated at 16 weeks of gestation because of poor prognosis. Post‐mortem examination of the fetus confirmed severe hypoplasia of the left ventricle of the heart. We emphasize that CHDs should be included in the phenotypic spectrum of OFD1 in males. This justifies molecular analysis of OFD1 when CHD is encountered prenatally in combination with one or more phenotypic features previously described in the OFD1 gene alteration spectrum. The underlying pathogenesis of CHD in OFD1 (and other ciliopathies) probably involves dysfunction of the primary cilia regarding coordination of left‐right signalling during early heart development. Whether these CHDs wholly or partly result from defective left right signalling, in which different types of cilia are known to play a critical role, remains a topic of research.
Ethynylene‐Bridged Conjugate Carbazole Trimers: Synthesis and their Structural, Photophysical, and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Shimasaki Toshiaki , Iwasawa Ryosuke , Watanabe Motonori , Teramoto Naozumi , Shibata Mitsuhiro
Published: April 2017

A series of six new ethynylene‐bridged conjugate carbazole trimers (1–6) were synthesized through sequential Pd‐catalyzed Sonogashira cross‐coupling reactions. The structural properties of these trimers were examined by using DFT calculations. Compound 6, in which the two terminal carbazole moieties were substituted at the 1‐position, exhibited the longest‐wavelength UV/Vis absorption maximum in CH2Cl2, whereas compound 1, in which the two terminal carbazole moieties were substituted at the 3‐position, exhibited the shortest‐wavelength absorption maximum. These trends were rationalized by using TDDFT calculations. Electrochemical measurements and DFT calculations revealed that trimers 1–6 had smaller HOMO–LUMO gaps compared with that for the corresponding monomer (14), which was caused by a lowering of the LUMO levels, rather than by a raising of the HOMO levels. Trimers 2–6 exhibited excellent emission properties with high fluorescence quantum yields, which were derived from their rigid structures.
Applying wet sieving fecal particle size measurement to frugivores: A case study of the eastern chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii)
Authors: Weary Taylor E. , Wrangham Richard W. , Clauss Marcus
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Fecal particle size (FPS) as quantified by wet sieving analysis is a measure of chewing efficiency relevant for the understanding of physiological adaptations and constraints in herbivores. FPS has not been investigated systematically in frugivores, and important methodological problems remain. In particular, food items that are not chewed may skew estimates of FPS. We address such methodological issues and also assess the influence of diet type and age on FPS in wild chimpanzees.

Materials and Methods

About 130 fecal samples of 38 individual chimpanzees (aged from 1.3 to ∼55 years) from the Kanyawara community of Kibale National Park (Uganda) were collected during three fruit seasons and analyzed using standardized wet sieves (pores from 16 to 0.025 mm). The effects of using different sieve series and excluding large seeds were investigated. We also assessed the relationship between FPS and sex, age, and fruit season.

Results

The treatment of seeds during the sieving process had a large influence on the results. FPS was not influenced by chimpanzee sex or age, but was smaller during a fig season (0.88 ± 0.31 mm) than during two drupe‐fruit seasons (1.68 ± 0.37 mm) (0.025–4 mm sieves, excluding seeds).

Discussion

The absence of an age effect on FPS suggests that dental senescence might be less critical in chimpanzees, or in frugivores in general, than in folivorous herbivores. To increase the value of FPS studies for understanding frugivore and hominoid dietary evolution we propose modifications to prior herbivore protocols.
Anatomy of a Settlement Fund: How ADR Helped Establish and Deploy a Mass Claims Distribution
Authors: Cohn Lynn P.
Published: April 2017

U.S. courts struggle to deal with litigation involving large numbers of claimants. A challenge in these cases is balancing the need for efficiency with opportunities for individualized claim assessment.
Tailoring epilepsy surgery with fast ripples in the intraoperative electrocorticogram
Authors: van 't Klooster Maryse A. , van Klink Nicole E.C. , Zweiphenning Willemiek J.E.M. , Leijten Frans S.S. , Zelmann Rina , Ferrier Cyrille H. , van Rijen Peter C. , Otte Willem M. , Braun Kees P.J. , Huiskamp Geertjan J.M. , Zijlmans Maeike
Published: April 2017

Objective

Intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG) can be used to delineate the resection area in epilepsy surgery. High‐frequency oscillations (HFOs; 80–500 Hz) seem better biomarkers for epileptogenic tissue than spikes. We studied how HFOs and spikes in combined pre‐ and postresection ECoG predict surgical outcome in different tailoring approaches.

Methods

We, retrospectively, marked HFOs, divided into fast ripples (FRs; 250–500 Hz) and ripples (80–250 Hz), and spikes in pre‐ and postresection ECoG sampled at 2,048 Hz in people with refractory focal epilepsy. We defined four groups of electroencephalography (EEG) event occurrence: pre+post− (+/−), pre+post+ (+/+), pre−post+ (−/+) and pre−post− (−/−). We subcategorized three tailoring approaches: hippocampectomy with tailoring for neocortical involvement; lesionectomy of temporal lesions with tailoring for mesiotemporal involvement; and lesionectomy with tailoring for surrounding neocortical involvement. We compared the percentage of resected pre‐EEG events, time to recurrence, and the different tailoring approaches to outcome (seizure‐free vs recurrence).

Results

We included 54 patients (median age, 15.5 years; 25 months of follow‐up; 30 seizure free). The percentage of resected FRs, ripples, or spikes in pre‐ECoG did not predict outcome. The occurrence of FRs in post‐ECoG, given FRs in pre‐ECoG (+/−, +/+), predicted outcome (hazard ratio, 3.13; confidence interval = 1.22–6.25; p = 0.01). Seven of 8 patients without spikes in pre‐ECoG were seizure free. The highest predictive value for seizure recurrence was presence of FRs in post‐ECoG for all tailoring approaches.

Interpretation

FRs that persist before and after resection predict poor postsurgical outcome. These findings hold for different tailoring approaches. FRs can thus be used for tailoring epilepsy surgery with repeated intraoperative ECoG measurements. Ann Neurol 2017;81:664–676
Myoclonus epilepsy and ataxia due to KCNC1 mutation: Analysis of 20 cases and K+ channel properties
Authors: Oliver Karen L. , Franceschetti Silvana , Milligan Carol J. , Muona Mikko , Mandelstam Simone A. , Canafoglia Laura , Boguszewska‐Chachulska Anna M. , Korczyn Amos D. , Bisulli Francesca , Di Bonaventura Carlo , Ragona Francesca , Michelucci Roberto , Ben‐Zeev Bruria , Straussberg Rachel , Panzica Ferruccio , Massano João , Friedman Daniel , Crespel Arielle , Engelsen Bernt A. , Andermann Frederick , Andermann Eva , Spodar Krystyna , Lasek‐Bal Anetta , Riguzzi Patrizia , Pasini Elena , Tinuper Paolo , Licchetta Laura , Gardella Elena , Lindenau Matthias , Wulf Annette , Møller Rikke S. , Benninger Felix , Afawi Zaid , Rubboli Guido , Reid Christopher A. , Maljevic Snezana , Lerche Holger , Lehesjoki Anna‐Elina , Petrou Steven , Berkovic Samuel F.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To comprehensively describe the new syndrome of myoclonus epilepsy and ataxia due to potassium channel mutation (MEAK), including cellular electrophysiological characterization of observed clinical improvement with fever.

Methods

We analyzed clinical, electroclinical, and neuroimaging data for 20 patients with MEAK due to recurrent KCNC1 p.R320H mutation. In vitro electrophysiological studies were conducted using whole cell patch‐clamp to explore biophysical properties of wild‐type and mutant KV3.1 channels.

Results

Symptoms began at between 3 and 15 years of age (median = 9.5), with progressively severe myoclonus and rare tonic–clonic seizures. Ataxia was present early, but quickly became overshadowed by myoclonus; 10 patients were wheelchair‐bound by their late teenage years. Mild cognitive decline occurred in half. Early death was not observed. Electroencephalogram (EEG) showed generalized spike and polyspike wave discharges, with documented photosensitivity in most. Polygraphic EEG–electromyographic studies demonstrated a cortical origin for myoclonus and striking coactivation of agonist and antagonist muscles. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed symmetrical cerebellar atrophy, which appeared progressive, and a prominent corpus callosum. Unexpectedly, transient clinical improvement with fever was noted in 6 patients. To explore this, we performed high‐temperature in vitro recordings. At elevated temperatures, there was a robust leftward shift in activation of wild‐type KV3.1, increasing channel availability.

Interpretation

MEAK has a relatively homogeneous presentation, resembling Unverricht–Lundborg disease, despite the genetic and biological basis being quite different. A remarkable improvement with fever may be explained by the temperature‐dependent leftward shift in activation of wild‐type KV3.1 subunit–containing channels, which would counter the loss of function observed for mutant channels, highlighting KCNC1 as a potential target for precision therapeutics. Ann Neurol 2017;81:677–689
Protein Crosslinking by Genetically Encoded Noncanonical Amino Acids with Reactive Aryl Carbamate Side Chains
Authors: Xuan Weimin , Shao Sida , Schultz Peter G.
Published: April 2017

The use of genetically encoded noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) to construct crosslinks within or between proteins has emerged as a useful method to enhance protein stability, investigate protein–protein interactions, and improve the pharmacological properties of proteins. We report ncAAs with aryl carbamate side chains (PheK and FPheK) that can react with proximal nucleophilic residues to form intra‐ or intermolecular protein crosslinks. We evolved a pyrrolysyl‐tRNA synthetase that incorporates site‐specifically PheK and FPheK into proteins in both E. coli and mammalian cells. PheK and FPheK when incorporated into proteins showed good stability during protein expression and purification. FPheK reacted with adjacent Lys, Cys, and Tyr residues in thioredoxin in high yields. In addition, crosslinks could be formed between FPheK and Lys residue of two interacting proteins, including the heavy chain and light chain of an antibody Fab.
Piezochromic Carbon Dots with Two‐photon Fluorescence
Authors: Lu Siyu , Xiao Guanjun , Sui Laizhi , Feng Tanglue , Yong Xue , Zhu Shoujun , Li Baojun , Liu Zhongyi , Zou Bo , Jin Mingxing , Tse John S. , Yan Hu , Yang Bai
Published: April 2017

Piezochromic materials, which show color changes resulting from mechanical grinding or external pressure, can be used as mechanosensors, indicators of mechano‐history, security papers, optoelectronic devices, and data storage systems. A class of piezochromic materials with unprecedented two‐photon absorptive and yellow emissive carbon dots (CDs) was developed for the first time. Applied pressure from 0–22.84 GPa caused a noticeable color change in the luminescence of yellow emissive CDs, shifting from yellow (557 nm) to blue‐green (491 nm). Moreover, first‐principles calculations support transformation of the sp2 domains into sp3‐hybridized domains under high pressure. The structured CDs generated were captured by quenching the high‐pressure phase to ambient conditions, thus greatly increasing the choice of materials available for a variety of applications.
Ultrafast Independent N−H and N−C Bond Deformation Investigated with Resonant Inelastic X‐Ray Scattering
Authors: Eckert Sebastian , Norell Jesper , Miedema Piter S. , Beye Martin , Fondell Mattis , Quevedo Wilson , Kennedy Brian , Hantschmann Markus , Pietzsch Annette , Van Kuiken Benjamin E. , Ross Matthew , Minitti Michael P. , Moeller Stefan P. , Schlotter William F. , Khalil Munira , Odelius Michael , Föhlisch Alexander
Published: April 2017

The femtosecond excited‐state dynamics following resonant photoexcitation enable the selective deformation of N−H and N−C chemical bonds in 2‐thiopyridone in aqueous solution with optical or X‐ray pulses. In combination with multiconfigurational quantum‐chemical calculations, the orbital‐specific electronic structure and its ultrafast dynamics accessed with resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering at the N 1s level using synchrotron radiation and the soft X‐ray free‐electron laser LCLS provide direct evidence for this controlled photoinduced molecular deformation and its ultrashort timescale.
Platinum(II)‐Crosslinked Single‐Chain Nanoparticles: An Approach towards Recyclable Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Knöfel Nicolai D. , Rothfuss Hannah , Willenbacher Johannes , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Roesky Peter W.
Published: April 2017

We introduce the synthesis and in‐depth characterization of platinum(II)‐crosslinked single‐chain nanoparticles (PtII‐SCNPs) to demonstrate their application as a recyclable homogeneous catalyst. Specifically, a linear precursor copolymer of styrene and 4‐(diphenylphosphino)styrene was synthesized via nitroxide‐mediated polymerization. The triarylphosphine ligand moieties along the backbone allowed for the intramolecular crosslinking of single chains via the addition of [Pt(1,5‐cyclooctadiene)Cl2] in dilute solution. The successful formation of well‐defined PtII‐SCNPs was evidenced by size exclusion chromatography, dynamic light scattering, nuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 31P{1H}, 195Pt), and diffusion‐ordered spectroscopy. Finally, the activity of the PtII‐SCNPs as homogeneous, yet recyclable catalyst was successfully demonstrated using the example of the amination of allyl alcohol.