bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 3D Hybrid of Chemically Coupled Nickel Sulfide and Hollow Carbon Spheres for High Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Ye Chao , Zhang Lei , Guo Chunxian , Li Dongdong , Vasileff Anthony , Wang Haihui , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: July 2017

Lithium–sulfur batteries are a promising next‐generation energy storage device owing to their high theoretical capacity and the low cost and abundance of sulfur. However, the low conductivity and loss of active sulfur material during operation greatly limit the rating capabilities and cycling stability of lithium–sulfur batteries. In this work, a unique sulfur host hybrid material comprising nanosized nickel sulfide (NiS) uniformly distributed on 3D carbon hollow spheres (C‐HS) is fabricated using an in situ thermal reduction and sulfidation method. In the hybrid material, the nanosized NiS provides a high adsorption capability for polysulfides and the C‐HS serves as a physical confinement for polysulfides and also a 3D electron transfer pathway. Moreover, NiS has strong chemical coupling with the C‐HS, favoring fast charge transfer and redox kinetics of the sulfur electrode. With a sulfur loading of up to 2.3 mg cm−2, the hybrid material‐based lithium–sulfur batteries offer a capacity decay as low as 0.013% per cycle and a capacity of 695 mA h g−1 at 0.5 C after 300 cycles. This unique 3D hybrid material with strong chemical coupling provides a promising sulfur host for high performance lithium–sulfur batteries.
Direct Laser Interference Patterning of CoCr Alloy Surfaces to Control Endothelial Cell and Platelet Response for Cardiovascular Applications
Authors: Schieber Romain , Lasserre Federico , Hans Michael , Fernández‐Yagüe Marc , Díaz‐Ricart Maribel , Escolar Ginés , Ginebra Maria‐Pau , Mücklich Frank , Pegueroles Marta
Published: July 2017

The main drawbacks of cardiovascular bare‐metal stents (BMS) are in‐stent restenosis and stent thrombosis as a result of an incomplete endothelialization after stent implantation. Nano‐ and microscale modification of implant surfaces is a strategy to recover the functionality of the artery by stimulating and guiding molecular and biological processes at the implant/tissue interface. In this study, cobalt‐chromium (CoCr) alloy surfaces are modified via direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) in order to create linear patterning onto CoCr surfaces with different periodicities (≈3, 10, 20, and 32 µm) and depths (≈20 and 800 nm). Changes in surface topography, chemistry, and wettability are thoroughly characterized before and after modification. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells' adhesion and spreading are similar for all patterned and plain CoCr surfaces. Moreover, high‐depth series induce cell elongation, alignment, and migration along the patterned lines. Platelet adhesion and aggregation decrease in all patterned surfaces compared to CoCr control, which is associated with changes in wettability and oxide layer characteristics. Cellular studies provide evidence of the potential of DLIP topographies to foster endothelialization without enhancement of platelet adhesion, which will be of high importance when designing new BMS in the future.
Impermeable Robust Hydrogels via Hybrid Lamination
Authors: Parada German A. , Yuk Hyunwoo , Liu Xinyue , Hsieh Alex J. , Zhao Xuanhe
Published: July 2017

Hydrogels have been proposed for sensing, drug delivery, and soft robotics applications, yet most of these materials suffer from low mechanical robustness and high permeability to small molecules, limiting their widespread use. This study reports a general strategy and versatile method to fabricate robust, highly stretchable, and impermeable hydrogel laminates via hybrid lamination of an elastomer layer bonded between hydrogel layers. By controlling the layers' composition and thickness, it is possible to tune the stiffness of the impermeable hydrogels without sacrificing the stretchability. These hydrogel laminates exhibit ultralow surface coefficients of friction and, unlike common single‐material hydrogels, do not allow diffusion of various molecules across the structure due to the presence of the elastomer layer. This feature is then used to release different model drugs and, in a subsequent experiment, to sense different pH conditions on the two sides of the hydrogel laminate. A potential healthcare application is shown using the presented method to coat medical devices (catheter, tubing, and condom) with hydrogel, to allow for drug release and sensing of environmental conditions for gastrointestinal or urinary tract.
Photothermal Ring Integrated Intraocular Lens for High‐Efficient Eye Disease Treatment
Authors: Lin Yao‐Xin , Hu Xue‐Feng , Zhao Yang , Gao Yu‐Juan , Yang Chao , Qiao Sheng‐Lin , Wang Yi , Yang Pei‐Pei , Yan Jiao , Sui Xin‐Ce , Qiao Zeng‐Ying , Li Li‐Li , Xie Jiang‐Bing , Zhu Si‐Quan , Wu Xiao‐Chun , Li Yongsheng , Wang Lei , Wang Hao
Published: July 2017

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common complication after cataract surgery. So far, the only method for PCO treatment is the precisely focused laser surgery. However, it causes severe complications such as physical damages and neuron impairments. Here, a nanostructured photothermal ring integrated intraocular lens (Nano‐IOLs) is reported, in which the rim of commercially available IOLs (C‐IOLs) is decorated with silica coated Au nanorods (Au@SiO2), for high‐efficient prevention of PCO after cataract surgery. The Nano‐IOLs is capable of eliminating the residual lens epithelial cells (LECs) around Nano‐IOLs under mild laser treatment and block the formation of disordered LECs fibrosis, which eventually leads to the loss of vision. The Nano‐IOLs shows good biocompatibility as well as extraordinary region‐confined photothermal effect. In vivo studies reveal that PCO occurrence in rabbit models is about 30%–40% by using Nano‐IOLs, which is significantly lower than the control group that treated with C‐IOLs (100% PCO occurrence) 30 d postsurgery. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first example to integrate nanotechnology with intraocular implants aiming to clinically relevant PCO. Our findings indicate that spatial controllability of photothermal effect from nanomaterials may provide a unique way to intervene the PCO‐induced loss of vision.
High‐Performance Polymers Sandwiched with Chemical Vapor Deposited Hexagonal Boron Nitrides as Scalable High‐Temperature Dielectric Materials
Authors: Azizi Amin , Gadinski Matthew R. , Li Qi , AlSaud Mohammed Abu , Wang Jianjun , Wang Yi , Wang Bo , Liu Feihua , Chen Long‐Qing , Alem Nasim , Wang Qing
Published: July 2017

Polymer dielectrics are the preferred materials of choice for power electronics and pulsed power applications. However, their relatively low operating temperatures significantly limit their uses in harsh‐environment energy storage devices, e.g., automobile and aerospace power systems. Herein, hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) films are prepared from chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and readily transferred onto polyetherimide (PEI) films. Greatly improved performance in terms of discharged energy density and charge–discharge efficiency is achieved in the PEI sandwiched with CVD‐grown h‐BN films at elevated temperatures when compared to neat PEI films and other high‐temperature polymer and nanocomposite dielectrics. Notably, the h‐BN‐coated PEI films are capable of operating with >90% charge–discharge efficiencies and delivering high energy densities, i.e., 1.2 J cm−3, even at a temperature close to the glass transition temperature of polymer (i.e., 217 °C) where pristine PEI almost fails. Outstanding cyclability and dielectric stability over a straight 55 000 charge–discharge cycles are demonstrated in the h‐BN‐coated PEI at high temperatures. The work demonstrates a general and scalable pathway to enable the high‐temperature capacitive energy applications of a wide range of engineering polymers and also offers an efficient method for the synthesis and transfer of 2D nanomaterials at the scale demanded for applications.
Enhancing Performance of Nonfullerene Acceptors via Side‐Chain Conjugation Strategy
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaohui , Wu Yang , Zhang Qianqian , Yan Cenqi , Ma Wei , You Wei , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: July 2017

A side‐chain conjugation strategy in the design of nonfullerene electron acceptors is proposed, with the design and synthesis of a side‐chain‐conjugated acceptor (ITIC2) based on a 4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]di(cyclopenta‐dithiophene) electron‐donating core and 1,1‐dicyanomethylene‐3‐indanone electron‐withdrawing end groups. ITIC2 with the conjugated side chains exhibits an absorption peak at 714 nm, which redshifts 12 nm relative to ITIC1. The absorption extinction coefficient of ITIC2 is 2.7 × 105m−1 cm−1, higher than that of ITIC1 (1.5 × 105m−1 cm−1). ITIC2 exhibits slightly higher highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) (−5.43 eV) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) (−3.80 eV) energy levels relative to ITIC1 (HOMO: −5.48 eV; LUMO: −3.84 eV), and higher electron mobility (1.3 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1) than that of ITIC1 (9.6 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1). The power conversion efficiency of ITIC2‐based organic solar cells is 11.0%, much higher than that of ITIC1‐based control devices (8.54%). Our results demonstrate that side‐chain conjugation can tune energy levels, enhance absorption, and electron mobility, and finally enhance photovoltaic performance of nonfullerene acceptors.
Self‐Powered Real‐Time Arterial Pulse Monitoring Using Ultrathin Epidermal Piezoelectric Sensors
Authors: Park Dae Yong , Joe Daniel J. , Kim Dong Hyun , Park Hyewon , Han Jae Hyun , Jeong Chang Kyu , Park Hyelim , Park Jung Gyu , Joung Boyoung , Lee Keon Jae
Published: July 2017

Continuous monitoring of an arterial pulse using a pressure sensor attached on the epidermis is an important technology for detecting the early onset of cardiovascular disease and assessing personal health status. Conventional pulse sensors have the capability of detecting human biosignals, but have significant drawbacks of power consumption issues that limit sustainable operation of wearable medical devices. Here, a self‐powered piezoelectric pulse sensor is demonstrated to enable in vivo measurement of radial/carotid pulse signals in near‐surface arteries. The inorganic piezoelectric sensor on an ultrathin plastic achieves conformal contact with the complex texture of the rugged skin, which allows to respond to the tiny pulse changes arising on the surface of epidermis. Experimental studies provide characteristics of the sensor with a sensitivity (≈0.018 kPa−1), response time (≈60 ms), and good mechanical stability. Wireless transmission of detected arterial pressure signals to a smart phone demonstrates the possibility of self‐powered and real‐time pulse monitoring system.
A Highly Versatile and Adaptable Artificial Leaf with Floatability and Planar Compact Design Applicable in Various Natural Environments
Authors: Kim Sangkuk , Kim Taewan , Lee Seunghyup , Baek Seunghyeon , Park Taiho , Yong Kijung
Published: July 2017

As a promising means of solar energy conversion, photovoltaic (PV) cell‐based electrolysis has recently drawn considerable attention for its effective solar fuel generation; especially the generation of hydrogen by solar water splitting. Inspired by remarkable accomplishments in enhancing the solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency, various efforts have aimed at fostering convenient and practical uses of PV electrolysis to make this technology ubiquitous, manageable, and efficient. Here, the design and function of a monolithic photoelectrolysis system—a so‐called artificial leaf—for use in various environments are highlighted. The uniquely designed artificial‐leaf system facilitates an unbiased water‐splitting reaction by combining superstrate PV cells in series with single‐face electrodes in a compact 2D catalytic configuration. Floatability is a new feature of the water‐splitting artificial leaf; this feature maximizes solar light utilization and allows for easy retrieval for recycling. Additionally, its planar design enables operation of the device in water‐scarce conditions. These characteristics endow the artificial leaf with versatility and a high adaptability to natural environments, widening the applicability of the device.
Optimizing Weak Measurements to Detect Angular Deviations
Authors: Araújo Manoel P. , De Leo Stefano , Maia Gabriel G.
Published: July 2017

We analyze and compare the angular deviations for an optical beam reflected by and transmitted through a dielectric triangular prism. The analytic expressions derived for the angular deviations hold for arbitrary incidence angles. For incidence approaching the internal and external Brewster angles, the angular deviations transverse magnetic waves present the same behavior leading to the well‐known giant Goos‐Hänchen angular shift. For incidence near the critical angle a new region of large shift is seen both for transverse magnetic and transverse electric waves. While a direct measuring procedure is better in the vicinity of the Brewster region, a weak measurement breaks off the giant Goos‐Hänchen effect, preserving the amplification in the critical region. We discuss under which conditions it is possible to optimize the amplification and we also determine when a weak measurement is preferred to a direct measuring procedure.
Graphene Quantum Dots Probed by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
Authors: Morgenstern Markus , Freitag Nils , Nent Alexander , Nemes‐Incze Peter , Liebmann Marcus
Published: July 2017

Scanning tunneling spectroscopy results probing the electronic properties of graphene quantum dots are reviewed. After a short summary of the study of squared wave functions of graphene quantum dots on metal substrates, we firstly present data where the Landau level gaps caused by a perpendicular magnetic field are used to electrostatically confine electrons in monolayer graphene, which are probed by the Coulomb staircase revealing the consecutive charging of a quantum dot. It turns out that these quantum dots exhibit much more regular charging sequences than lithographically confined ones. Namely, the consistent grouping of charging peaks into quadruplets, both, in the electron and hole branch, portrays a regular orbital splitting of about 10meV. At low hole occupation numbers, the charging peaks are, partly, additionally grouped into doublets. The spatially varying energy separation of the doublets indicates a modulation of the valley splitting by the underlying BN substrate. We outline that this property might be used to eventually tune the valley splitting coherently. Afterwards, we describe graphene quantum dots with multiple contacts produced without lithographic resist, namely by local anodic oxidation. Such quantum dots target the goal to probe magnetotransport properties during the imaging of the corresponding wave functions by scanning tunneling spectroscopy.
Properties of Water Confined in Periodic Mesoporous Organosilicas: Nanoimprinting the Local Structure
Authors: Mietner J. Benedikt , Brieler Felix J. , Lee Young Joo , Fröba Michael
Published: July 2017

The properties of materials confined in porous media are important in scientific and technological aspects. Topology, size, and surface polarity of the pores play a critical role in the confinement effects, however, knowledge regarding the guest–pore interface structure is still lacking. Herein, we show that the molecular mobility of water confined in periodic mesoporous organosilicas (PMOs) is influenced by the polarity of the organic moiety. Multidimensional solid‐state NMR spectroscopy directly probes the spatial arrangement of water inside the pores, showing that water interacts either with only the silicate layer or with both silicate and organic layers depending on the alternating surface polarity. A modulated and a uniform pore filling mode are proposed for different types of PMOs.
The centre cannot hold. Trade networks and sacred geography in the Papua New Guinea Highlands
Authors: BALLARD CHRIS
Published: July 2017

The critical potential of a ‘social landscape’ approach to the past lies in its attention to questions of human agency and scale in the archaeological explanation of change. However, an ethnographic study of trade relationships between Huli‐speakers of the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea and their neighbours suggests that landscapes are a matter of perspective. A ‘hidden’, subterranean landscape described in Huli cosmology is shown to be implicated in the structure of regional trade. Distinguishing between the landscapes of belief within which historic agents acted and the social landscapes identified by external observers is an important step towards framing questions for archaeological research that can exploit the insights of both perspectives.
Fragment‐Based Drug Discovery in the Bromodomain and Extra‐Terminal Domain Family
Authors: Radwan Mostafa , Serya Rabah
Published: July 2017

Bromodomain and extra‐terminal domain (BET) inhibition has emerged recently as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of many human disorders such as atherosclerosis, inflammatory disorders, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), some viral infections, and cancer. Since the discovery of the two potent inhibitors, I‐BET762 and JQ1, different research groups have used different techniques to develop novel potent and selective inhibitors. In this review, we will be concerned with the trials that used fragment‐based drug discovery (FBDD) approaches to discover or optimize BET inhibitors, also showing fragments that can be further optimized in future projects to reach novel potent BET inhibitors.
Variation in the dielectric properties of freshly excised colorectal cancerous tissues at different tumor stages
Authors: Li Zhou , Wang Weiwei , Cai Zhai , Han Shuai , Lin Shiming , He Linyun , Chen Miaoliang , Pan Dongyue , Deng Guanhua , Duan Song , Xin Sherman Xuegang
Published: July 2017

The study was designed to identify differences in the dielectric properties of ex vivo colorectal cancerous tissues at different tumor stages. To date, 130 freshly excised colorectal cancerous specimens underwent measurement of both relative permittivity and conductivity on the serosal and mucosal surfaces of the carcinoma nidus, and the mucosa of the surgical resection margin ranging from 50 to 500 MHz at the Larmor frequencies. Tumor node metastasis staging was determined according to pathological reports for each patient. There were statistically significant differences in the relative permittivity of both colorectal cancerous serosa and mucosa among stages ≤I, II, III, and IV and between stages ≤II and ≥III (P < 0.05) at most frequencies under 300 MHz; statistically significant differences in conductivity were also observed for most of the measured frequencies (P < 0.05). The significant differences in dielectric characteristics among tumor stages, especially between early and advanced stages, have value for selecting appropriate surgical strategies. The presented ex vivo data provide important information for magnetic resonance electrical properties tomography in vivo system because the frequencies of 64 MHz (1.5T) and 128 MHz (3T) are usually used in clinical settings. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:522–532, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigation on the pH‐independent photoluminescence emission from carbon dots impregnated on polymer matrix
Authors: Saheeda Pichan , Sabira Kaviladath , Dhaneesha Mohandas , Jayaleksmi Sankaran
Published: July 2017

Highly luminescent, polymer nanocomposite films based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and monodispersed carbon dots (C‐dots) derived from multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), as coatings on substrates as well as free standing ones are obtained via solution‐based techniques. The synthesized films exhibit pH‐independent photoluminescence (PL) emission, which is an advantageous property compared with the pH‐dependent photoluminescence intensity variations, generally observed for the C‐dots dispersed in aqueous solution. The synthesized C‐dots and the nanocomposite films are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet (UV) − visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) techniques. The TEM image provides clear evidence for the formation of C‐dots of almost uniform shape and average size of about 8 nm, homogeneously dispersed in aqueous medium. The strong anchoring of C‐dots within the polymer matrix can be confirmed from the XRD results. The FTIR spectral studies conclusively establish the presence of oxygen functional groups on the surfaces of the C‐dots. The photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra of the nanocomposite films are broad, covering most part of the visible region. The PL spectra do not show any luminescence intensity variations, when the pH of the medium is changed from 1 to 11. The pH‐independent luminescence, shown by these films offers ample scope for using them as coatings for designing diagnostic and imaging tools in bio medical applications. The non‐toxic nature of these nanocomposite films has been established on the basis of cytotoxicity studies.
A pilot study on the effects of probiotic supplementation on neuropsychological performance and microRNA‐29a‐c levels in antiretroviral‐treated HIV‐1‐infected patients
Authors: Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Fratino Mariangela , Selvaggi Carla , Giustini Noemi , Serafino Sara , Schietroma Ivan , Corano Scheri Giuseppe , Pavone Paolo , Passavanti Giulia , Alunni Fegatelli Danilo , Mezzaroma Ivano , Antonelli Guido , Vullo Vincenzo , Scagnolari Carolina , d'Ettorre Gabriella
Published: July 2017

Introduction

The gut microbiota is involved in the regulation of cognition, mood, anxiety, and pain, and can impact cognitive functions by producing neuroactive substances or releasing bacterial by‐products and metabolites. No information is available on the effects of a probiotic supplementation on brain function of HIV+ subjects. In light of the above considerations, we performed a pilot study in cART‐treated HIV‐1‐positive patients with long‐term virologic suppression. The aims were to analyze the effect of high‐concentration multistrain probiotic supplementation (Vivomixx®; Visbiome®) on several neurocognitive abilities and to evaluate the safety of this supplementation.

Methods

To address those issues, neurocognitive performances were explored by administering neuropsychological tests; moreover, miRNA‐29a‐c levels were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to confirm the persistent undetectable levels of HIV‐RNA in the central nervous system after probiotic supplementation.

Results

Our results show that the Rey auditory verbal learning test (RAVLT) (immediate and delayed recall), Rey‐Osterrieth complex figure test (ROCF) (copy immediate and delayed recall), phonological verbal fluency (PVF) test, Toronto alexithymia scale‐20 (Tas‐20), State‐trait anxiety inventory Y‐2 (STAY Y‐2), and time and weight estimation test (STEP) scores improved significantly during the study. Moreover, we found unchanged levels, associated to high degree of individual variability, in miRNA‐29 levels in CSF collected before and after probiotic supplementation.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we observed that HIV patients treated with 6 months of this probiotic supplementation appear to have an improvement in some neurocognitive functions; moreover, this approach is safe and did not modify significantly the levels of miRNA in CSF. Further studies are needed to better understand the contribution of the probiotics in modulating gut–brain‐axis in HIV patients.
Prevalence and distribution of sesamoid bones and accessory ossicles of the foot as determined by digital tomosynthesis
Authors: Koo Bon San , Song Yoonah , Lee Seunghun , Sung Yoon‐Kyoung , Sung Il‐Hoon , Jun Jae‐Bum
Published: July 2017

We previously reported that digital tomosynthesis (DTS) is a reliable tool for evaluating bony structures of the hand. The current study aimed to identify the prevalence and distribution of sesamoid bones and accessory ossicles of the foot using DTS and to compare the results to those of conventional radiography (CR). Foot images (DTS, 213; CR, 44) of 213 patients taken at a tertiary hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Sesamoid bones were identified in the metatarsaophalangeal (MTP), distal interphalangeal (DIP) and interphalangeal (IP) joints of the great (I), second (II), third (III), fourth (IV), and fifth (V) toes. Accessory ossicles were observed in the midfoot and hindfoot. The mean number of sesamoid bones and accessory ossicles was 3.9 ± 1.3 for the left foot and 3.7 ± 1.0 for the right foot on CR; and 3.9 ± 1.4 for the left foot and 3.9 ± 1.3 for the right foot on DTS. Sesamoid bones were observed in MTP I (100%), MTP II (5%), MTP III (2%), MTP IV (2%), MTP V (14%), and IP (68%) on CR. Sesamoid bones were observed in MTP I (100%), MTP II (8%), MTP III (1%), MTP IV (2%), MTP V (25%), and IP I(65%) on DTS. Among accessory ossicles, the most common bone identified was os tibiale externum (23% on CR and 33% on DTS) andos peroneum (14% on CR and 21% on DTS), and os trigonum (32% on CR and 0.5% on DTS). DTS was useful for finding sesamoid bones and accessory ossicles, although there were some limitations in observing the hindfoot. Clin. Anat. 30:1072–1076, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gain insight into managing liability issues arising from student‐athletes' injuries
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: July 2017

There appears to be an emerging trend of lawsuits arising out of injuries to college student‐athletes in practice sessions and competitions. The targets of the lawsuits range from other student‐athletes to coaches, trainers, teams, and universities. Although these types of cases have emerged from time to time in the past, the current wave of concussion‐related litigation and significant monetary settlements provides an interesting backdrop to their recent growth.
Should students be allowed to hold a demonstration in a university administration campus building?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: July 2017

The Community College of San Francisco made program cuts, tuition changes, layoffs, and pay cuts in 2012. In opposition to those actions, the Save CCSF Coalition formed. It consisted of a group of students, staff, faculty, and community members.
Fear of crime and community concerns: Mediating effect of risk and pragmatic fear
Authors: Chadee Derek , Ali Stacia , Burke Ariel , Young Jason
Published: July 2017

This study investigates the relationship between community concerns (i.e., perceived crime, incivilities, and infrastructure) and fear of crime (FOC) while examining the mediating role of risk of victimisation and pragmatic fear. Gender and ethnic differences were also explored. Data were collected using a proportionate multistage random sample of 3,003 participants from a southern Caribbean island in 2015. The following self‐reported measures were used: risk of victimisation and FOC scales, a general (noncrime) fear scale measuring pragmatic fear, and a community concern scale. Data were analysed using path analysis, Sobel tests, and multiple group analysis. Findings revealed that perceived crime and incivilities significantly predicted FOC, whereas infrastructure was insignificant as a direct predictor. Females had higher FOC, and among ethnic groups, Indo‐Trinidadians had the highest FOC than Afro‐Trinidadians and Mixed participants. Risk of victimisation and pragmatic fear had significant mediating effects on community concerns and FOC. Findings are discussed in the context of the social psychology of social disorganisation and previous research.
Irreversible Protein Labeling by Paal–Knorr Conjugation
Authors: Dasari Ramesh , La Clair James J. , Kornienko Alexander
Published: July 2017

The application of new chemical reactions in a biological context has advanced bioconjugation methods for both fundamental research and commercial arenas. Recent adaptations of reactions such as Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar or Diels–Alder cycloadditions have enabled the labeling of specific residues in biomolecules by the attachment of molecules carrying azides, alkynes, or strained alkenes. Although these are fundamental tools, there is a need for the discovery of reactions that can label native proteins. We report herein the adaptation of the Paal–Knorr reaction to label lysine residues in proteins via pyrrole linkages.
How We Make DNA Origami
Authors: Wagenbauer Klaus F. , Engelhardt Floris A. S. , Stahl Evi , Hechtl Vera K. , Stömmer Pierre , Seebacher Fabian , Meregalli Letizia , Ketterer Philip , Gerling Thomas , Dietz Hendrik
Published: July 2017

DNA origami has attracted substantial attention since its invention ten years ago, due to the seemingly infinite possibilities that it affords for creating customized nanoscale objects. Although the basic concept of DNA origami is easy to understand, using custom DNA origami in practical applications requires detailed know‐how for designing and producing the particles with sufficient quality and for preparing them at appropriate concentrations with the necessary degree of purity in custom environments. Such know‐how is not readily available for newcomers to the field, thus slowing down the rate at which new applications outside the field of DNA nanotechnology may emerge. To foster faster progress, we share in this article the experience in making and preparing DNA origami that we have accumulated over recent years. We discuss design solutions for creating advanced structural motifs including corners and various types of hinges that expand the design space for the more rigid multilayer DNA origami and provide guidelines for preventing undesired aggregation and on how to induce specific oligomerization of multiple DNA origami building blocks. In addition, we provide detailed protocols and discuss the expected results for five key methods that allow efficient and damage‐free preparation of DNA origami. These methods are agarose‐gel purification, filtration through molecular cut‐off membranes, PEG precipitation, size‐exclusion chromatography, and ultracentrifugation‐based sedimentation. The guide for creating advanced design motifs and the detailed protocols with their experimental characterization that we describe here should lower the barrier for researchers to accomplish the full DNA origami production workflow.
Intertwined Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanotubes for High‐Rate and Long‐Life Sodium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Ding Kang , Gao Biao , Fu Jijiang , An Weili , Song Hao , Li Xingxing , Yuan Qiuyun , Zhang Xuming , Huo Kaifu , Chu Paul K.
Published: July 2017

Intertwined nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes (N‐CNTs) are prepared by using a hard‐template method with V2O5 nanowires as the hard template and dopamine as the carbon and nitrogen source, and the N‐CNTs are characterized in details. As anodes in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), the N‐CNTs deliver a capacity of 179.1 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, and a capacity of 91.7 mAh g−1 is maintained even at 10 A g−1. After cycling for 1000 cycles at 1 and 5 A g−1, the capacity of the N‐CNTs is retained at 125.5 and 104.2 mAh g−1, respectively. The excellent electrochemical performance in terms of rate capability and lifespan of the N‐CNTs can be attributed to the synergistic effects of the intertwined one‐dimensional hollow structure with hierarchical pores, extrinsic nitrogen content, and large interlayer distance of the graphene sheets.
Accelerating Apache Spark with FPGAs
Authors: Ghasemi Ehsan , Chow Paul
Published: July 2017

Apache Spark has become one of the most popular engines for big data processing. Spark provides a platform‐independent, high‐abstraction programming paradigm for large‐scale data processing by leveraging the Java framework. Though it provides software portability across various machines, Java also limits the performance of distributed environments, such as Spark. While it may be unrealistic to rewrite platforms like Spark in a faster language, a more viable approach to mitigate its poor performance is to accelerate the computations while still working within the Java‐based framework. This paper demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating Field‐Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) acceleration into Spark and presents the performance benefits and bottlenecks of our FPGA‐accelerated Spark environment using a MapReduce implementation of the k‐means clustering algorithm, to show that acceleration is possible even when using a hardware platform that is not well optimized for performance. An important feature of our approach is that the use of FPGAs is completely transparent to the user through the use of library functions, which is a common way by which users access functions provided by Spark. Power users can further develop other computations using high‐level synthesis.
Proposal for heart failure progression based on the ‘chloride theory’: worsening heart failure with increased vs. non‐increased serum chloride concentration
Authors: Kataoka Hajime
Published: July 2017

Aims

Chloride (Cl) is an established key electrolyte for the activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. Recent studies have shown the serum Cl as a key electrolyte for the regulation of body fluid distribution in heart failure (HF) patients. The clinical differences of worsening HF status according to the changes in serum Cl concentration are unclear.

Methods and results

Data from 47 chronic HF patients were analysed. Upon worsening HF, each patient exhibited at least two HF‐related signs. Blood tests included haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Ht), mean red blood cell volume (MCV), albumin, serum solutes, and b‐type natriuretic peptide. The relative change in the plasma volume (%PV) from stable to worsening HF was estimated as follows: 100 × {Hb (stable) × [1 − Ht (worse)]}/{Hb (worse) × [1 − Ht (stable)]} − 100. When patients were divided into two groups based on changes in serum Cl concentration from stable to worsening HF, the pathophysiologic features of the patients with increased Cl (range 1–23 mEq/L; n = 31) included a greater increase in serum sodium (2.94 ± 4.15 vs. −0.69 ± 3.75 mEq/L, P = 0.005), higher vascular expansion (12 ± 11.1 vs. 4.81 ± 7.94%, P = 0.026), a tendency towards a greater MCV (1.23 ± 2.36 vs. −0.06 ± 1.88 fL, P = 0.065), and preserved renal function defined by the absence of an increase of serum creatinine (−0.24 ± 0.39 vs. −0.05 ± 0.12 mg/dL, P = 0.057) compared to patients with non‐increased Cl (range −9 to 0 mEq/L; n = 16). Clinically, the increased Cl group had fewer HF signs (2.65 ± 0.71 vs. 3.31 ± 0.79, P = 0.005) although the change in symptoms did not differ between groups (48% vs. 63%, P = 0.54).

Conclusions

The present study suggests a new clinical entity of worsening HF status, that is, HF with increased vs. non‐increased serum Cl concentration from clinical stability to worsening HF.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in heart failure: facts and numbers
Authors: Pietrock Charlotte , von Haehling Stephan
Published: July 2017

Sleep‐disordered breathing has a high prevalence in the general population, but is especially prominent in patients with heart failure (HF). HF and sleep‐disordered breathing share a bidirectional relationship, with sleep‐disordered breathing being both cause and effect of poor cardiac functioning. The high inter‐individual variability of symptom presentation can impede the clinical diagnostic process. Polysomnography is the gold‐standard method of diagnosing sleep‐disordered breathing. Therapy of sleep‐disordered breathing should always consist of optimizing the treatment of the underlying disorder of HF. Additional therapeutic measures include continuous positive airway pressure ventilation therapy. New therapeutic options using neurostimulation are yielding promising results; however, long‐term benefits still need to be confirmed.
Diiron Dithiolate Hydrides Complemented with Proton‐Responsive Phosphine–Amine Ligands
Authors: Carlson Michaela R. , Gilbert‐Wilson Ryan , Gray Danielle R. , Mitra Joyee , Rauchfuss Thomas B. , Richers Casseday P.
Published: July 2017

The reaction of Fe2(pdt)(CO)6 with two equivalents of Ph2PC6H4NH2 (PNH2) affords the amido hydride HFe2(pdt)(CO)2(PNH2)(PNH) {[H1H]0, pdt2– = CH2(CH2S–)2}. Isolated intermediates in this conversion include Fe2(pdt)(CO)5(κ1‐PNH2) and Fe2(pdt)(CO)4(κ2‐PNH2). X‐ray crystallographic analysis of [H1H]0 shows that the chelating amino/amido–phosphine ligands occupy trans‐dibasal positions. The 31P NMR spectrum indicates that [H1H]0 undergoes rapid proton exchange between the amido and amine centers. No exchange was observed for the hydride. Protonation of [H1H]0 gives [HFe2(pdt)(CO)2(PNH2)2]+ ([H21H]+), which contains two equivalent amino–phosphine ligands. Single‐crystal X‐ray crystallographic analysis of [H21H]+ also reveals hydrogen bonds between the exo amine protons with a THF molecule and BF4. Deprotonation of [H1H]0 with potassium tert‐butoxide gave [HFe2(pdt)(CO)2(PNH)2]– ([1H]–), which was characterized spectroscopically. The complex has time‐averaged C2 symmetry with two amido–phosphine ligands. FTIR spectroscopic measurements show that υCO shifts by approximately 20 cm–1 in the series [1H]–, [H1H]0, and [H21H]+. These shifts are comparable to those seen for the S‐protonation of the (NC)2(CO)Fe(µ‐Scys)2Ni(Scys)2 site in the [NiFe]‐hydrogenases.
New polyether diols as flame retardants for polyurethane: Derivatives of epoxy‐functionalized phosphonates and phosphates
Authors: Byard Benjamin , Wang Kui , Morgan Alexander , Benin Vladimir
Published: July 2017

Phosphorus‐containing epoxides were used to generate several oligomeric polyether diols, which were in turn utilized in the preparation of model polyurethane (PU) samples, either as comonomers in the polymerization (Prepsamples) or solvent blended into a priori prepared PU (Blendsamples). The resultant samples were evaluated for heat release reduction potential using microcombustion calorimetry. Several variables were investigated in the oligomerization of the original epoxides, such as presence of initiator, epoxide comonomer, and solvent. The oligomer mixtures were thoroughly characterized, using NMR, mass spectrometry (MS), elemental analysis, and viscosity measurements. The final PUPrepsamples were carefully analyzed to demonstrate and evaluate the degree of chemical incorporation of the polyether diols into the PU main chain. Results from the heat release studies demonstrated that incorporation of the phosphorus‐containing diol did lower flammability, but the structure of the original epoxide, as well as the oligoimerization conditions, had an effect on heat release reduction. The results are complex and require further study, but the phosphonate‐based materials showed greater heat release reduction potential, both in the form ofPrepandBlendsamples, especially in one case of aBlendsample, where a notable amount of intumescent char was formed.
Viscoelastic properties of sweet potato complementary porridges as influenced by endogenous amylases
Authors: Nabubuya Agnes , Namutebi Agnes , Byaruhanga Yusuf , Schuller Reidar B. , Narvhus Judith , Wicklund Trude
Published: July 2017

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) roots contain amylolytic enzymes, which hydrolyze starch thus having the potential to affect the viscosity of sweet potato porridges provided the appropriate working conditions for the enzymes are attained. In this study, the effect of sweet potato variety, postharvest handling conditions, freshly harvested and room/ambient stored roots (3 weeks), and slurry solids content on the viscoelastic properties of complementary porridges prepared using amylase enzyme activation technique were investigated. Five temperatures (55°C, 65°C, 70°C, 75°C, and 80°C) were used to activate sweet potato amylases and the optimum temperature was found to be 75°C. Stored sweet potato roots had higher soluble solids (⁰Brix) content in the pastes compared to fresh roots. In all samples, activation of amylases at 75°C caused changes in the viscoelastic parameters: phase angle (tan δ) and complex viscosity (η*). Postharvest handling conditions and slurry solids content significantly affected the viscoelastic properties of the porridges with flours from stored roots yielding viscous (liquid‐like) porridges and fresh roots producing elastic (solid‐like) porridges. Increase in slurry solids content caused reduction in the phase angle values and increase in the viscosity of the sweet potato porridges. The viscosity of the porridges decreased with storage of sweet potato roots. These results provide a possibility for exploiting sweet potato endogenous amylases in the preparation of complementary porridges with both drinkable viscosities and appropriate energy and nutrient densities for children with varying energy needs.
Neural correlates of heart rate variability in PTSD during sub‐ and supraliminal processing of trauma‐related cues
Authors: Rabellino Daniela , D'Andrea Wendy , Siegle Greg , Frewen Paul A. , Minshew Reese , Densmore Maria , Neufeld Richard W. , Théberge Jean , McKinnon Margaret C. , Lanius Ruth A.
Published: July 2017

Background

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by dysregulated arousal and altered cardiac autonomic response as evidenced by decreased high‐frequency heart rate variability (HF‐HRV), an indirect measure of parasympathetic modulation of the heart. Indeed, subtle threatening cues can cause autonomic dysregulation, even without explicit awareness of the triggering stimulus. Accordingly, examining the neural underpinnings associated with HF‐HRV during both sub‐ and supraliminal exposure to trauma‐related cues is critical to an enhanced understanding of autonomic nervous system dysfunction in PTSD.

Methods

We compared neural activity in brain regions associated with HF‐HRV in PTSD (n = 18) and healthy controls (n = 18) during exposure to sub‐ and supraliminal processing of personalized trauma‐related words.

Results

As compared to controls, PTSD exhibited decreased HF‐HRV reactivity in response to sub‐ and supraliminal cues. Notably, during subliminal processing of trauma‐related versus neutral words, as compared to controls, PTSD showed decreased neural response associated with HF‐HRV within the left dorsal anterior insula. By contrast, during supraliminal processing of trauma‐related versus neutral words, decreased neural activity associated with HF‐HRV within the posterior insula/superior temporal cortex, and increased neural activity associated with HF‐HRV within the left centromedial amygdala was observed in PTSD as compared to controls.

Conclusions

Impaired parasympathetic modulation of autonomic arousal in PTSD appears related to altered activation of cortical and subcortical regions involved in the central autonomic network. Interestingly, both sub‐ and supraliminal trauma‐related cues appear to elicit dysregulated arousal and may contribute to the maintenance of hyperarousal in PTSD. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4898–4907, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association between cytokines and liver histology in children with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Perito Emily R. , Ajmera Veeral , Bass Nathan M. , Rosenthal Philip , Lavine Joel E. , Schwimmer Jeffrey B. , Yates Katherine P. , Diehl Anna Mae , Molleston Jean P. , Murray Karen F. , Scheimann Ann , Gill Ryan , Glidden David , Aouizerat Bradley ,   Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Clinical Research Network
Published: July 2017

Reliable noninvasive markers to characterize inflammation, hepatocellular ballooning, and fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are lacking. We investigated the relationship between plasma cytokine levels and features of NAFLD histology to gain insight into cellular pathways driving nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and to identify potential noninvasive discriminators of NAFLD severity and pattern. Cytokines were measured from plasma obtained at enrollment in pediatric participants in NASH Clinical Research Network studies with liver biopsy‐proven NAFLD. Cytokines were chosena priorias possible discriminators of NASH and its components. Minimization of Akaike information criterion was used to determine cytokines retained in multivariable models. Of 235 subjects, 31% had “Definite NASH” on liver histology, 43% had “Borderline NASH,” and 25% had NAFLD but not NASH. Total plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI1) and activated PAI1 levels were higher in pediatric participants with Definite NASH and with lobular inflammation. Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) was higher in those with stage 3‐4 fibrosis and lobular inflammation. Soluble IL‐2 receptor alpha was higher in children with stage 3‐4 fibrosis and portal inflammation. In multivariable analysis, PAI1 variables were discriminators of Borderline/Definite NASH, Definite NASH, lobular inflammation, and ballooning. IL‐8 increased with steatosis and fibrosis severity; soluble IL‐2 receptor alpha increased with fibrosis severity and portal inflammation. IL‐7 decreased with portal inflammation and fibrosis severity.Conclusion: Plasma cytokines associated with histology varied considerably among NASH features, suggesting promising avenues for investigation. More targeted analysis is needed to identify the role of these markers in NAFLD and to evaluate their potential as noninvasive discriminators of disease severity. (Hepatology Communications2017;1:609–622)
Clinical limitations of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification of uterine fibroids
Authors: Laughlin‐Tommaso Shannon K. , Hesley Gina K. , Hopkins Matthew R. , Brandt Kathleen R. , Zhu Yunxiao , Stewart Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2017

Objective

To determine the reproducibility of classifying uterine fibroids using the 2011 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system.

Methods

The present retrospective cohort study included patients presenting for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids at the Gynecology Fibroid Clinic at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA, between April 1, 2013 and April 1, 2014. Magnetic resonance imaging of fibroid uteri was performed and the images were independently reviewed by two academic gynecologists and two radiologists specializing in fibroid care. Fibroid classifications assigned by each physician were compared and the significance of the variations was graded by whether they would affect surgical planning.

Results

There were 42 fibroids from 23 patients; only 6 (14%) fibroids had unanimous classification agreement. The majority (36 [86%]) had at least two unique answers and 4 (10%) fibroids had four unique classifications. Variations in classification were not associated with physician specialty. More than one‐third of the classification discrepancies would have impacted surgical planning.

Conclusion

FIGO fibroid classification was not consistent among four fibroid specialists. The variation was clinically significant for 36% of the fibroids. Additional validation of the FIGO fibroid classification system is needed.
Influence of imidazolium‐based ionic liquids on steroid biotransformation by Arthrobacter simplex
Authors: Wang Lifang , Shen Yanbing , Liu Mengjiao , Tang Rui , Wang Min
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Ionic liquids (ILs) have become increasingly attractive as alternatives for organic solvents. In this study, the influences of ILs on the cellular growth rate, cellular activity, cortisone acetate (CA) conversion, CA solubility, and cell membrane permeability of Arthrobacter simplex CPCC 140451 (ASP) were examined.

RESULTS

Results showed that ILs with ≥3 carbon atoms in their side chains increased CA conversion, CA solubility, and cell membrane permeability of ASP and universally inhibited the cellular growth rate and activity, with ILs with [PF6]‐anion exhibiting the most severe inhibition activity. Inhibition was also more serious using ILs with longer alkyl side chains and at higher concentrations. CA conversion, CA solubility, and leakage of cell inclusions showed higher increase under ILs with [PF6]‐anion than those of ILs with [BF4]‐anion and lower increase for ILs with longer side chains.

CONCLUSION

This study improved the understanding of the influence and primary selection of imidazolium‐based ILs when applied in steroid biotransformation with Arthrobacter simplex whole cells. The data provided a foundation for the selection of suitable ILs for various applications. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry