bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação da susceptibilidade e resistência antimicrobiana de cepas de Shigella spp. isoladas de pacientes com diarréia nosocomial
Authors: Mesquita Ana Maria Ribeiro Cardoso , Lima Noélia Leal , Lima Aldo Ângelo Moreira
Published: January 2019

Nos casos da diarréia aguda que requerem antibioticoterapia, a escolha correta dos antimicrobianos depende do conhecimento prévio das cepas locais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a susceptibilidade e resistência de cepas de Shigella spp., isoladas por coprocultura de pacientes com diarréia nosocomial. Realizou-se cultura para Shigella spp. de fezes de pacientes com diarréia e de seus controles, coletadas por emissão espontânea, de julho de 1988 a fevereiro de 1993 e de novembro de 1991 a julho de 1993. Depois de purificadas e identificadas, por métodos bioquímicos, foi realizada a sorotipagem nas cepas de Shigella spp. isoladas, utilizando-se como referência o antígeno O. Para determinar o padrão de susceptibilidade e resistência antimicrobiana, utilizou-se o método da difusão com discos de papel, em meio ágar. Os resultados demonstraram que as cepas de Shigella spp. isoladas foram identificadas como Shigella flexneri. A atividade antimicrobiana in vitro, contra as cepas de Shigella flexneri, demonstrou resistência a: ampicilina e estreptomicina (100%); trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol, tetraciclina e cloranfenicol (85,71%); ampicilina + ácido clavulânico (66,66%); canamicina e gentamicina (42,86%); e ácido nalidíxico (14,29%). Todas as cepas testadas foram sensíveis a ciprofloxacina e ceftriaxona. Conclui-se que Shigella flexneri é a principal espécie isolada de pacientes com diarréia nosocomial, o que mostra um padrão de resistência múltipla a ampicilina, trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol, estreptomicina, cloranfenicol e tetraciclina. Portanto, esses antimicrobianos são ineficazes para o tratamento de shigelose no HUWC. Monitoração contínua dos padrões de resistência de Shigella spp. é essencial para o estabelecimento e atualização de um guia para orientar a antibioticoterapia em shigelose.
Correlação entre a histopatologia e teste da urease para pesquisa de H. pylori em pacientes portadores de gastrite
Authors: Tenório Pedro Pereira , Melo Junior Mario Ribeiro de
Published: January 2019

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o nível de sensibilidade e exatidão entre os testes da urease e histopatológico em diferentes lesões gástricas quanto à colonização pelo Hp. Foram coletadas 240 amostras pareadas de fragmentos da mucosa gástrica, utilizadas para análise histopatológica (n=138) e teste rápido da urease (n=102). Para a análise histopatológica, foram selecionados blocos de parafina com amostras de tecido gástrico submetidos à rotina histológica, montados em lâminas e corados pela técnica de Giemsa. Para o teste da urease, foram coletadas amostras de tecido gástrico através da biópsia endoscópica de rotina. Os resultados obtidos indicam que, no teste da urease, foram identificadas 66.6% de amostras positivas para presença de infecção pelo Hp, contra apenas 39% obtidos pela histopatologia. Quanto ao gênero dos pacientes Hp-positivos, cerca de 63,7% e 60% são mulheres, de acordo com os dados do teste de urease e histopatológico, respectivamente. Em relação às faixas etárias avaliadas através do teste da urease, pode ser notada uma maior ocorrência de pacientes Hp-positivos na faixa mais avançada (maiores de 51 anos), perfazendo um total de 42,6% dos casos estudados, enquanto que, na análise histopatológica, a maior prevalência foi encontrada nos pacientes entre 31e 45 anos. Embora 34 pacientes tenham apresentado resultado negativo para urease, eles apresentavam as mesmas lesões gástricas dos pacientes Hp-positivos identificados pela histopatologia (gastrite crônica ativa erosiva), o que confirma a existência de outros fatores além da infecção pelo Hp como desencadeadores das lesões inflamatórias gástricas. A partir desses resultados, podemos concluir que ambos os testes utilizados têm efetividade e certa eficiência, a depender do momento clínico dos pacientes portadores de gastrite a serem investigados.
Estimativa de parâmetros genéticos utilizando diferentes níveis de saturação no mapeamento genômico
Authors: Jangarelli Marcelo , Euclydes Ricardo Frederico
Published: January 2019

Foram simulados mapeamentos genéticos utilizando diferentes níveis de saturação por marcadores para estimar os

parâmetros: valor fenotípico, endogamia, alelos favoráveis fixados e frequência de alelos da característica, na seleção assistida

por marcadores (MAS). Procedeu-se àanálise de agrupamento com os valores fenotípicos, com a finalidade de se obterem

densidades que otimizassem os incrementos fenotípicos. O sistema de simulação genética Genesys foi utilizado para simular

o genoma, constituído de uma característica quantitativa de herdabilidade 0,10, e as populações base e inicial. A população

inicial foi submetida à MAS por vinte gerações consecutivas. Ela foi conduzida em diferentes níveis de saturação, representados

pela distância, em centiMorgan (cM), entre marcadores adjacentes. Foram praticadas 15 MAS, cada qual correspondendo às

densidades: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 e 30 cM. O mapeamento, empregando de média a alta densidade

de marcadores, assinalou eficiência nos progressos fenotípicos ao longo das gerações sob seleção. Essa alta saturação também

beneficiou a fixação de alelos favoráveis, elevando a frequência de alelos relacionados à característica, apesar do acréscimo

mais eminente na endogamia. A análise de agrupamento indicou otimização e correspondência nos valores fenotípicos ao

admitir as densidades de 4 e 6 cM, além de ganhos expressivos para a saturação de 2, 8, 10, 12 e 14 cM.
Teasing apart cryptic species groups: Nutritional ecology and its implications for species‐specific conservation of the Myotis mystacinus group
Authors: Roswag Anna , Becker Nina I. , Drangusch Robert , Kuhring Kathleen , Ohlendorf Bernd , Encarnação Jorge A.
Published: January 2019

The increasing loss of biodiversity and the need to delay the sixth mass extinction on earth resulted in several international conventions aiming at protecting threatened species. Protection improves with increasing knowledge of the biology and ecology of these species. However, species numbers rapidly increase with the ongoing description of cryptic species, resulting in a lack of ecological knowledge for each of these species. We studied the nutritional ecology of three cryptic bat species of the Myotis mystacinus group using stable isotope analysis and molecular fecal analysis. Inter‐ and intraspecific variations were compared by calculating the isotopic and dietary niches for each species. We hypothesized (a) that all three species are generalists, but (b) that M. mystacinus and Myotis brandtii are more similar to each other than to Myotis alcathoe. Third we assumed that the occupied niches are intraspecifically more similar than interspecifically. We could show that the members of the M. mystacinus group differ in their nutritional ecology. Our data suggest that M. alcathoe is the most specialized species of the group, occupying a more distinct ecological niche compared to the other two species. Interestingly, the dietary and isotopic niche overlap was higher interspecifically than intraspecifically. Furthermore, considering our findings and those from other studies we illustrate implications for the conservation of these cryptic species.
The relative importance of math‐ and music‐related cognitive and affective factors in predicting undergraduate music theory achievement
Authors: Barroso Connie , Ganley Colleen M. , Hart Sara A. , Rogers Nancy , Clendinning Jane P.
Published: January 2019

Based on research identifying relations between math and music, we aimed to identify the group of cognitive and affective factors related to math and music theory that best explained undergraduate music theory achievement. Using dominance analysis, we predicted the music theory course grades of 230 undergraduate music majors. Potential predictors were narrowed from measures of knowledge, aptitude, experience, confidence, and anxiety in both music theory and math as well as spatial skills and reading test scores. Results suggested that ACT math scores and music theory confidence were important predictors for Music Theories I and II grades. Music Theory I was also predicted by aptitude‐based music theory skills, and Music Theory II was also predicted by math course experience. These findings provide evidence for a relation between math and music theory and support the use of several readily available measures for college‐level music instructors to identify students who may struggle in music theory.
Further Trace Effects of the Post‐Anthropocene
Authors: Bratton Benjamin H
Published: January 2019

No geological age lasts forever. After the Anthropocene, in which human activity became the dominant influence on the planet, the Post‐Anthropocene is dawning. What does this entail? California‐based architectural and design theorist Benjamin H Bratton, who holds professorships and leads teaching programmes in the US, Switzerland and Russia, offers a list of this new era's trace effects that are each both revelatory and catastrophic, from self‐composing landscapes to conversing machines and from human exclusion zones to the apparatus of geocinema.
A Place for Everything
Authors: Young Liam
Published: January 2019

Amazon's warehouse shelves look chaotic – far from the orderliness of a traditional store or library. So how are our online orders fulfilled at such speed? Guest‐Editor Liam Young reports on Madrid‐based British photographer Ben Roberts's exploration of this environment governed by computer algorithms.
Where the Internet Lives John Gerrard: Farm
Authors: Young Liam
Published: January 2019

The Cloud is not just floating in the ether – it has several physical homes. Humans rarely set foot in these ultra‐high‐security, alien settings, yet they are central to our culture today. Guest‐Editor Liam Young describes how Irish artist John Gerrard used photographs taken from a helicopter to conjure a virtual tour of them.
Regarding the Pain of SpotMini: Or What a Robot's Struggle to Learn Reveals about the Built Environment
Authors: Niquille Simone C
Published: January 2019

It can feel surprisingly voyeuristic to watch a robot being put through its paces. SpotMini is a quadruped robot developed by Massachusetts firm Boston Dynamics for the commercial market and promoted through online videos. The constant fluctuation of domestic and office environments in terms of both content and configuration presents a real challenge for the computer vision that SpotMini relies on for navigation. Simone C Niquille – principal of Amsterdam avatar creation and identity strategy practice Technoflesh – reports on the project, exploring how such machines’ parameters are defined and what the consequences are for architecture.
Emissaries: A Trilogy of Simulations
Authors: Cheng Ian
Published: January 2019

In the belly of a supercomputer, scientists' predictive modelling software simulates the life of a landscape. Weather systems ebb and flow, economies boom and bust, and ecologies thrive and die as a billion algorithmic operations prototype a digital proxy of the world. The data generated by these programs inform the policies of governments, the actions of scientists and the gambles of brokers. These computational environments are oracles for an uncertain tomorrow.

Against this context, New York‐based artist Ian Cheng develops his own alternative system of digital simulations as models of imaginary worlds, populated by non‐playable characters and fields of narrative agents that rerun past histories and rehearse strange futures. Landscapes are no longer interconnected fields of growing biomatter, the exchange of energies and the cycles of seasons. They are ecologies formed from a multitude of machines, a community of intelligent programs, living out their complex lives in a world without us. These simulated territories are the new nature of the Post‐ Anthropocene, a landscape of artificial life playing out endlessly in stacks of silica and rows of rare‐earth hard drives.
Innovative Pre‐Treatment for Fabrication of Conductive PMIA Fibers via Electroless Nickel Plating
Authors: Wang Zengxiao , Li Ting , Yu Junrong , Hu Zuming , Zhu Jing , Wang Yan
Published: January 2019

To achieve the admirable electrically conductivity without sacrificing the outstanding integrated performance of meta‐aramid fibers is still a challenge. A novel method is developed for fabricating of electrically conductive poly (m‐phenylene isophthalamide) (PMIA) fibers in this paper. Firstly, the metal silver nanoparticles are deposited on the surface of PMIA fibers by simply dipping the fibers into a mixed aqueous suspension of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and nano silver sol. Then, the silver nanoparticles, depositing on the surface of the PMIA fibers, are functioned as the catalyst for the subsequent procedure of electroless nickel deposition together with the anchor for the coating layer. Followed by electroless nickel plating, homogeneous and dense nickel‐coated PMIA fibers are obtained. And the properties and structures of nickel‐coated PMIA fibers are investigated systematically, the electrical resistance of the nickel‐coated PMIA fibers is measured using the multimeter. Without any post‐treatment, the electrical resistance of the modified PMIA fibers can be as low as 5.5 Ω cm−1. Meanwhile, outstanding mechanical performances of pure PMIA fibers are well maintained. This study also demonstrates the necessity of adding a small amount of DMAB as an auxiliary reducing agent. This approach may be equally applicable to fabricate conductive coatings on other polymer materials.
Defect Engineering of Grain Boundaries in Lead‐Free Halide Double Perovskites for Better Optoelectronic Performance
Authors: Xu Jian , Liu Jian‐Bo , Liu Bai‐Xin , Wang Jianfeng , Huang Bing
Published: January 2019

Halide double perovskites (HDPs) are promising lead‐free perovskites for various optoelectronic applications. However, the device performances of HDPs are far below the optimized values, which open a critical question regarding the origin of low performance in these HDPs. In this article, using first‐principles calculations, it is found that some types of grain boundaries (GBs) are easy to form in polycrystalline HDPs. Importantly, the existence of low‐energy Σ5(310) GBs can induce harmful deep‐level defect states within the bandgaps of type‐I (e.g., Cs2AgInCl6) and type‐II (e.g., Cs2AgBiCl6) HDPs, which may dramatically reduce the device performances. Interestingly, it is found that the formation of some intrinsic defects and defect complexes could effectively eliminate these deep‐levels in type‐II and type‐I HDPs, respectively. Under some exactly predesigned growth conditions identified by utilizing thousands of chemicals through a potential screening process, these defects or defect complexes can spontaneously incorporate into the GB cores, meanwhile the harmful deep‐level defects in the bulk can also be effectively eliminated. In addition, the self‐passivated GBs could generate band bending, which may be beneficial for charge separation. The understanding of GB formation as well as the self‐passivation mechanism in HDPs can provide a new viewpoint and guidance for designing polycrystalline perovskites with improved optoelectronic performance.
Ambient Processable and Stable All‐Polymer Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Yalong , Yuan Jianyu , Zhou Sijie , Seifrid Martin , Ying Lei , Li Bin , Huang Fei , Bazan Guillermo C. , Ma Wanli
Published: January 2019

In this work, the way in which ambient moisture impacts the photovoltaic performance of conventional PCBM and emerging polymer acceptor–based organic solar cells is examined. The device performance of two representative p‐type polymers, PBDB‐T and PTzBI, blended with either PCBM or polymeric acceptor N2200, is systemically investigated. In both cases, all‐polymer photovoltaic devices processed from high‐humidity ambient conditions exhibit significantly enhanced moisture‐tolerance compared to their polymer–PCBM counterparts. The impact of moisture on the blend film morphology and electronic properties of the electron acceptor (N2200 vs PCBM), which results in different recombination kinetics and electron transporting properties, are further compared. The impact of more comprehensive ambient conditions (moisture, oxygen, and thermal stress) on the long‐term stability of the unencapsulated devices is also investigated. All‐polymer solar cells show stable performance for long periods of storage time under ambient conditions. The authors believe that these findings demonstrate that all‐polymer solar cells can achieve high device performance with ambient processing and show excellent long‐term stability against oxygen and moisture, which situate them in an advantageous position for practical large‐scale production of organic solar cells.
Construction of Self‐Healing Internal Electric Field for Sustainably Enhanced Photocatalysis
Authors: Dai Baoying , Yu Yunru , Chen Yukai , Huang Hengming , Lu Chunhua , Kou Jiahui , Zhao Yuanjin , Xu Zhongzi
Published: January 2019

The construction of internal electric field is generally considered an effective strategy to enhance photocatalytic performance due to its significant role in charge separation. However, static internal electric field is prone to be saturated either by inner or outer shield effect, and thus its effect on the improvement of photocatalysis can easily vanish. Here, the self‐healing internal electric field is proposed and successfully endowed to a designed helical structural composite microfiber polyvinylidene fluoride/g‐C3N4 (PVDF/g‐C3N4) based on the bioinspired simple harmonic vibration. Importantly, the saturation and recovery of internal electric field are characterized by transient photovoltage and photoluminescence. The results indicate that the internal electric field could be saturated within about 10 min and refreshed with the assistance of rebuilt piezoelectric potential. The lifetime of photogenerated carriers is about 10−4 s and the number of effective carriers is greatly increased in the presence of self‐healing internal electric field. The results provide direct experimental evidence on the role of self‐healing internal electric field in charge transfer behavior. This work represents a new design strategy of photocatalysts, and it may open up new horizons for solving energy shortage and environmental issues.
Textile‐Based Flexible Tactile Force Sensor Sheet
Authors: Honda Satoko , Zhu Qiang , Satoh Shojiro , Arie Takayuki , Akita Seiji , Takei Kuniharu
Published: January 2019

The next generation of electronics will include human‐interactive flexible sensor sheets to monitor health. One approach is to realize practical macroscale low‐cost sensor arrays to monitor pressure distribution and health conditions without directly attaching a device onto the body. However, practical requirements such as reliability, scalability, and washability are not often discussed as most studies focus on the sensing sensitivity and validations. This study demonstrates an all textile‐based tactile force sensor sheet that covers the above requirements. By considering the device design and materials, high reliability/repeatability (≈250 000 cycles at ≈5 kPa) and washability are realized. These are important factors for practical applications for human‐interactive macroscale sensor sheets. In addition to the fundamental characteristics, pressure distribution mapping and respiration rate monitoring are confirmed by placing the sensor sheets on a bed, chair, and floor.
Fully Solar‐Powered Uninterrupted Overall Water‐Splitting Systems
Authors: Zhang Qichong , He Bing , Tang Lei , Zhou Zhenyu , Kang Lixing , Sun Juan , Zhang Ting , Li Qiulong , Li Chaowei , Zhao Jingxin , Zhang Zengxing , Wei Lei , Yao Yagang
Published: January 2019

Extensive research efforts have been recently devoted to the development of self‐driven electrocatalytic water‐splitting systems to generate clean hydrogen chemical fuels. Currently, self‐driven electrocatalytic water‐splitting devices are powered by solar cells, which operate intermittently, or by aqueous batteries, which deliver stored electric power, leading to high operating costs and environmental pollution. Thus, a fully solar‐powered uninterrupted overall water‐splitting system is greatly desirable. Here, the solar cells, stable output voltage of 1.75 V Ni–Zn batteries, and high efficiency zinc–nickel–cobalt phosphide electrocatalysts are successfully assembled together to create a 24 h overall water‐splitting system. Specifically, the silicon‐based solar cells enable the charging of aqueous Ni–Zn batteries for energy storage as well as providing sufficient energy for electrocatalysis throughout the day; in addition, the high‐capacity Ni–Zn batteries offer a steady output voltage for overall water‐splitting at night. Such an uninterrupted solar‐to‐hydrogen system opens up exciting opportunities for the development and applications of renewable energy.
Replacement of Rat Tracheas by Layered, Trachea‐Like, Scaffold‐Free Structures of Human Cells Using a Bio‐3D Printing System
Authors: Machino Ryusuke , Matsumoto Keitaro , Taniguchi Daisuke , Tsuchiya Tomoshi , Takeoka Yosuke , Taura Yasuaki , Moriyama Masaaki , Tetsuo Tomoyuki , Oyama Shosaburo , Takagi Katsunori , Miyazaki Takuro , Hatachi Go , Doi Ryoichiro , Shimoyama Koichiro , Matsuo Naoto , Yamasaki Naoya , Nakayama Koichi , Nagayasu Takeshi
Published: January 2019

Current scaffold‐based tissue engineering approaches are subject to several limitations, such as design inflexibility, poor cytocompatibility, toxicity, and post‐transplant degradation. Thus, scaffold‐free tissue‐engineered structures can be a promising solution to overcome the issues associated with classical scaffold‐based materials in clinical transplantation. The present study seeks to optimize the culture conditions and cell combinations used to generate scaffold‐free structures using a Bio‐3D printing system. Human cartilage cells, human fibroblasts, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and human mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow are aggregated into spheroids and placed into a Bio‐3D printing system with dedicated needles positioned according to 3D configuration data, to develop scaffold‐free trachea‐like tubes. Culturing the Bio‐3D‐printed structures with proper flow of specific medium in a bioreactor facilitates the rearrangement and self‐organization of cells, improving physical strength and tissue function. The Bio‐3D‐printed tissue forms small‐diameter trachea‐like tubes that are implanted into rats with the support of catheters. It is confirmed that the tubes are viable in vivo and that the tracheal epithelium and capillaries proliferate. This tissue‐engineered, scaffold‐free, tubular structure can represent a significant step toward clinical application of bioengineered organs.
Dynamic Curvature Nanochannel‐Based Membrane with Anomalous Ionic Transport Behaviors and Reversible Rectification Switch
Authors: Wang Miao , Meng Haiqiang , Wang Dan , Yin Yajun , Stroeve Pieter , Zhang Yunmao , Sheng Zhizhi , Chen Baiyi , Zhan Kan , Hou Xu
Published: January 2019

Biological nanochannels control the movements of different ions through cell membranes depending on not only those channels' static inherent configurations, structures, inner surface's physicochemical properties but also their dynamic shape changes, which are required in various essential functions of life processes. Inspired by ion channels, many artificial nanochannel‐based membranes for nanofluidics and biosensing applications have been developed to regulate ionic transport behaviors by using the functional molecular modifications at the inner surface of nanochannel to achieve a stimuli‐responsive layer. Here, the concept of a dynamic nanochannel system is further developed, which is a new way to regulate ion transport in nanochannels by using the dynamic change in the curvature of channels to adjust ionic rectification in real time. The dynamic curvature nanochannel‐based membrane displays the advanced features of the anomalous effect of voltage, concentration, and ionic size for applying simultaneous control over the curvature‐tunable asymmetric and reversible ionic rectification switching properties. This dynamic approach can be used to build smart nanochannel‐based systems, which have strong implications for flexible nanofluidics, ionic rectifiers, and power generators.
Hollow Multishelled Heterostructured Anatase/TiO2(B) with Superior Rate Capability and Cycling Performance
Authors: Ren Hao , Yu Ranbo , Qi Jian , Zhang Lijuan , Jin Quan , Wang Dan
Published: January 2019

TiO2 is a potential anode material for lithium‐ion batteries due to its high rate capability and high safety. Here, a controllable synthesis for hollow nanostructured TiO2, with heterostructured shells of TiO2(B) and anatase phases, is presented for the first time, by using a sequential templating approach. The hollow nanostructures can be easily controlled to produce core–shell and double‐shelled materials with different compositional ratios of anatase to TiO2(B) by tuning the synthetic conditions. When used as the anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, a specific discharge capacity of 215.4 mAh g−1 for the double‐shelled anatase/TiO2(B) hollow microspheres is achieved at a current rate of 1 C (335 mA g−1) for the 100th cycle and shows high specific discharge capacities of 141.6 and 125.7 mAh g−1 at the high rates of 10 and 20 C over 1000 cycles. These results are due to the unique stable hollow multishelled structure, which has a high specific surface area, as well as the interface between the heterostructured anatase/TiO2(B) phases contributing a substantial number of lithium‐ion storage sites.
Low‐Temperature In Situ Amino Functionalization of TiO2 Nanoparticles Sharpens Electron Management Achieving over 21% Efficient Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Wanpei , Zhou Weiran , Lei Xunyong , Zhou Pengcheng , Zhang Mengmeng , Chen Tao , Zeng Hualing , Zhu Jun , Dai Songyuan , Yang Shihe , Yang Shangfeng
Published: January 2019

Titanium oxide (TiO2) has been commonly used as an electron transport layer (ETL) of regular‐structure perovskite solar cells (PSCs), and so far the reported PSC devices with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) over 21% are mostly based on mesoporous structures containing an indispensable mesoporous TiO2 layer. However, a high temperature annealing (over 450 °C) treatment is mandatory, which is incompatible with low‐cost fabrication and flexible devices. Herein, a facile one‐step, low‐temperature, nonhydrolytic approach to in situ synthesizing amino‐functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles (abbreviated as NH2‐TiO2 NPs) is developed by chemical bonding of amino (‐NH2) groups, via TiN bonds, onto the surface of TiO2 NPs. NH2‐TiO2 NPs are then incorporated as an efficient ETL in n‐i‐p planar heterojunction (PHJ) PSCs, affording PCE over 21%. Cs0.05FA0.83MA0.12PbI2.55Br0.45 (abbreviated as CsFAMA) PHJ PSC devices based on NH2‐TiO2 ETL exhibit the best PCE of 21.33%, which is significantly higher than that of the devices based on the pristine TiO2 ETL (19.82%) and is close to the record PCE for devices with similar structures and fabrication procedures. Besides, due to the passivation of the surface trap states of perovskite film, the hysteresis of current–voltage response is significantly suppressed, and the ambient stability of devices is improved upon amino functionalization.
Wetting‐Induced Climbing for Transferring Interfacially Assembled Large‐Area Ultrathin Pristine Graphene Film
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Teng Chao , Jiang Ying , Zhu Ying , Jiang Lei
Published: January 2019

Owing to inherent 2D structure, marvelous mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, graphene has great potential as a macroscopic thin film for surface coating, composite, flexible electrode, and sensor. Nevertheless, the production of large‐area graphene‐based thin film from pristine graphene dispersion is severely impeded by its poor solution processability. In this study, a robust wetting‐induced climbing strategy is reported for transferring the interfacially assembled large‐area ultrathin pristine graphene film. This strategy can quickly convert solvent‐exfoliated pristine graphene dispersion into ultrathin graphene film on various substrates with different materials (glass, metal, plastics, and cloth), shapes (film, fiber, and bulk), and hydrophobic/hydrophilic patterns. It is also applicable to nanoparticles, nanofibers, and other exfoliated 2D nanomaterials for fabricating large‐area ultrathin films. Alternate climbing of different ultrathin nanomaterial films allows a layer‐by‐layer transfer, forming a well‐ordered layered composite film with the integration of multiple pristine nanomaterials at nanometer scale. This powerful strategy would greatly promote the development of solvent‐exfoliated pristine nanomaterials from dispersions to macroscopic thin film materials.
EMSCs Build an All‐in‐One Niche via Cell–Cell Lipid Raft Assembly for Promoted Neuronal but Suppressed Astroglial Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Deng Wenwen , Shao Fengxia , He Qinghua , Wang Qiang , Shi Wentao , Yu Qingtong , Cao Xia , Feng Chunlai , Bi Shiqi , Chen Jiaxin , Ma Ping , Li Yang , Gong Aihua , Tong Shanshan , Yu Jiangnan , Spector Myron , Xu Ximing , Zhang Zhijian
Published: January 2019

The therapeutic efficiency of allogenic/intrinsic neural stem cells (NSCs) after spinal cord injury is severely compromised because the hostile niche at the lesion site incurs massive astroglial but not neuronal differentiation of NSCs. Although many attempts are made to reconstruct a permissive niche for nerve regeneration, solely using a living cell material to build an all‐in‐one, multifunctional, permissive niche for promoting neuronal while inhibiting astroglial differentiation of NSCs is not reported. Here, ectomesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs) are reported to serve as a living, smart material that creates a permissive, all‐in‐one niche which provides neurotrophic factors, extracellular matrix molecules, cell–cell contact, and favorable substrate stiffness for directing NSC differentiation. Interestingly, in this all‐in‐one niche, a corresponding all‐in‐one signal‐sensing platform is assembled through recruiting various niche signaling molecules into lipid rafts for promoting neuronal differentiation of NSCs, and meanwhile, inhibiting astrocyte overproliferation through the connexin43/YAP/14‐3‐3θ pathway. In vivo studies confirm that EMSCs can promote intrinsic NSC neuronal differentiation and domesticating astrocyte behaviors for nerve regeneration. Collectively, this study represents an all‐in‐one niche created by a single‐cell material—EMSCs for directing NSC differentiation.
A Novel Multielement, Multiphase, and B‐Containing SiOx Composite as a Stable Anode Material for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Wen , Liu Huan , Ren Zhuanghe , Jian Ni , Gao Mingxia , Wu Yongjun , Liu Yongfeng , Pan Hongge
Published: January 2019

In this study, a novel B‐containing SiOx composite is demonstrated with a remarkably improved cycling performance as a stable anode material for lithium‐ion batteries. A multielement, multiphase, B‐containing SiOx composite is successfully prepared by heating a mixture of SiO and LiBH4 to 500 °C. The resultant product consists mainly of amorphous/nanocrystalline Si, SiOx, B, B2O3, and Li2SiO3. The in situ formed amorphous B, B2O3, and nanocrystalline Li2SiO3 mostly remain at the surface of the product particles, providing a remarkable enhancement in the mechanical properties of the Si/SiOx active materials. This feature provides good accommodation for the volume change during lithiation/delithiation, consequently depressing the pulverization and fracture of the Si/SiOx active materials. As a result, the cycling stability of the prepared B‐containing SiOx composite is significantly improved. The sample prepared from SiO–0.3LiBH4 delivers reversible capacity of 1186 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after 100 deep cycles, corresponding to the capacity retention of 81%. This outcome is more than two times higher than that of pristine SiO (33.9%).
Does hybridPhragmites australisdiffer from native and introduced lineages in reproductive, genetic, and morphological traits?
Authors: Williams Jared , Lambert Adam M. , Long Randy , Saltonstall Kristin
Published: January 2019

Premise of the Study

Hybridization between previously isolated species or lineages can stimulate invasiveness because of increased genetic diversity and inherited traits facilitating competitive and reproductive potential. We evaluated differences in stand characteristics and sexual and vegetative reproduction among native, introduced, and hybridPhragmites australislineages in the southwestern United States. We also assessed the degree of hybridization among lineages and backcrossing of hybrids with parental lineages.

Methods

Growth and morphological characteristics were measured in native, introduced, and hybridPhragmitesstands to evaluate relative cover and dominance in associated plant communities. Panicles were collected from stands to evaluate germination, dormancy, and differences in seed traits. Seedlings from germination trials were genotyped to determine frequency of crossing and backcrossing among lineages.

Key Results

Introduced and hybridPhragmitesstands had significantly greater stem and panicle densities than native stands and were more likely to be dominant members of their respective plant communities. Hybrid seed outputs were significantly greater, but hybrid seeds had lower germination rates than those from native and introduced lineages. We detected a novel hybridization event between native and introduced lineages, but found no strong evidence of hybrids backcrossing with parental lineages.

Conclusions

HybridPhragmitesin the Southwest exhibits reproductive, genetic, and morphological characteristics from both parental lineages that facilitate dispersal, establishment, and aggressive growth, including high reproductive output, rhizome viability, and aboveground biomass, with smaller seeds and greater genetic diversity than its progenitors. Our results show hybrids can inherit traits that confer invasiveness and provide insight for managing this species complex and other cryptic species with native and introduced variants with potential for intraspecific hybridization.
“Donating our bodies to science”: A discussion about autopsy and organ donation in Turner syndrome
Authors: Prakash Siddharth K. , San Roman Adrianna K. , Crenshaw Melissa , Flink Barbara , Earle Kimberly , Los Evan , Bonnard Åsa , Lin Angela E.
Published: January 2019

At the Third Turner Resource Network Symposium, a working group presented the results of collaborative discussions about the importance of autopsy in Turner syndrome (TS). Considerable gaps in understanding the causes of death in TS can only be closed by more frequent death investigations and autopsies. The presentation included an overview of autopsy methods, strategies for utilizing autopsy, and biobanking to address research questions about TS, and the role of palliative care in the context of autopsy. This review highlights strategies to promote autopsy and tissue donation, culminating with an action plan to increase autopsy rates in the TS community.
Noncovalent Catalysis for Enantioselective Direct Aldol Reaction of 3‐Acetylcoumarins to Pyrazole‐4,5‐diones
Authors: Ray Bidisha , Singha Roy Soumya Jyoti , Mukherjee Santanu
Published: January 2019

The first catalytic enantioselective direct aldol reaction of 3‐acetylcoumarins to pyrazole‐4,5‐diones is reported and shown to proceed through noncovalent substrate activation by a quinine‐derived bifunctional tertiary amino‐amide as the catalyst. The densely functionalized products, consisting of an oxygen‐containing quaternary stereocenter and bearing two biologically relevant heterocycles, are generally obtained in high yields with moderate to excellent enantioselectivities.
The first genetically gene‐edited babies: It's “irresponsible and too early”
Authors: Ma Yuanwu , Zhang Lianfeng , Qin Chuan
Published: January 2019

A scientist, Jiankui He of Southern University of Science and Technology of China, recently claimed at the Second International Summit on Human Genome Editing in Hong Kong on 29 November that he has created the world's first genetically altered babies using CRISPR. This announcement sparked controversy and criticism. The newly developed CRISPR/Cas9 technique has been applied to genetic modification of many kinds of animals. However, the technique is still in its infancy and many questions remain to be answered before it can be used for clinical purposes, especially for reproductive purposes.
Theoretical Design of a Pump‐Free Ultrahigh Efficiency All‐Optical Switching Based on a Defect Ring Optical Waveguide Network
Authors: Wu Jiaye , Yang Xiangbo
Published: January 2019

A theoretical design of a defect ring optical waveguide network is proposed to construct a pump‐free ultrahigh efficiency all‐optical switch. This switch creates ultrastrong photonic localization and causes the nonlinear dielectric in the defect waveguide to intensely respond. At its ON state, this material defect without Kerr response helps to produce a pair of sharp pass bands in the transmission spectrum to form the dual channel of the all‐optical switch. When it is switched to its OFF state, the strong Kerr response induced refractive index change in the high nonlinear defect waveguide strongly alters the spectrum, leading to a collapse of the dual channels. Network equation and generalized eigenfunction method are used to numerically calculate the optical properties of the switch and obtain a threshold control energy of about 2.90 zJ, which is eight orders of magnitude lower than previously reported. The switching efficiency/transmission ratio exceeds 3× 1011, which is six orders of magnitude larger than previously reported. The state transition time is nearly 108 fs, which is approximately two orders of magnitude faster than the previously reported shortest time. Furthermore, the switch size can be much smaller than 2.6 µm and will be suitable for integration.
Complete and Nondestructive Atomic Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger‐State Analysis Assisted by Invariant‐Based Inverse Engineering
Authors: Zheng Ri‐Hua , Kang Yi‐Hao , Shi Zhi‐Cheng , Xia Yan
Published: January 2019

A protocol to realize complete and nondestructive atomic Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ)‐state analysis in cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) systems is presented. In this protocol, the three information‐carrier atoms and the three auxiliary atoms are trapped in six separated cavities, respectively. After ten‐step operations, the information for distinguishing the eight different GHZ states of the three information‐carrier atoms is encoded on the auxiliary atoms. Thus, by means of detecting the auxiliary atoms, complete and nondestructive GHZ‐state analysis with high success probability is realized. Moreover, the driving pluses of operations are designed as a simple superposition of Gaussian or trigonometric functions by using the invariant‐based inverse engineering. Therefore, the protocol can be realized experimentally and applied in some quantum information tasks based on complete GHZ‐state analysis with less physical entanglement resource.
Chemical Epigenetics: The Impact of Chemical and Chemical Biology Techniques on Bromodomain Target Validation
Authors: Schiedel Matthias , Moroglu Mustafa , Ascough David M. H. , Chamberlain Anna E. R. , Kamps Jos J. A. G. , Sekirnik Angelina R. , Conway Stuart J.
Published: January 2019

Epigenetics is currently the focus of intense research interest across a broad range of disciplines due to its importance in a multitude of biological processes and disease states. Epigenetic functions result partly from modification of the nucleobases in DNA and RNA, and/or post‐translational modifications of histone proteins. These modifications are dynamic, with cellular machinery identified to modulate and interpret the marks. Our focus is on bromodomains, which bind to acetylated lysine residues. Progress in the study of bromodomains, and the development of bromodomain ligands, has been rapid. These advances have been underpinned by many disciplines, but chemistry and chemical biology have undoubtedly played a significant role. Herein, we review the key chemistry and chemical biology approaches that have furthered our study of bromodomains, enabled the development of bromodomain ligands, and played a critical role in the validation of bromodomains as therapeutic targets.
Synthesis and Reactivity of an Early‐Transition‐Metal Alkynyl Cubane Mn4C4 Cluster
Authors: Chakraborty Uttam , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: January 2019

While the coordination chemistry of monometallic complexes and the surface properties of extended metal particles are well understood, the control of metal nanocluster formation has remained challenging. The isolation of discrete metal clusters provides an especially rare snapshot at the nanoscale of cluster growth. The synthesis and full characterization of the first early‐transition‐metal alkynyl cubane and the first μ3‐alkynyl Mn3 motif are reported.
The 3D failure process in polymeric syntactic foams with different cenosphere volume fractions
Authors: Huang Ruoxuan , Li Peifeng , Liu Tong , Xu Jiujun
Published: January 2019

The previous work (Huang and Li, Compos. Part B, 2015) proposed the failure mechanism in syntactic foams with low and high hollow microsphere volume fractions, based on the finite element simulation of localized stresses in the foam. In this work,in situX‐ray microtomography of uniaxial compression tests was performed to provide the direct experimental evidence to the proposed mechanism by tracking the internal three‐dimensional failure process in epoxy syntactic foams with different cenosphere volume fractions (V). It was found that for both the low and highV, microcracks initiate in the matrix in the top and bottom of crushed cenospheres where the tensile stress concentrates, and then propagate longitudinally to become macrocracks. Increasing the cenosphere volume fraction also leads to the formation of matrix microcracks in the connection zone where the stress concentrates significantly; the matrix microcracks thus propagate diagonally and longitudinally in the highVfoam. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47491.
Application of expanded polystyrene (EPS) in buildings and constructions: A review
Authors: Ramli Sulong Nor Hafizah , Mustapa Siti Aisyah Syaerah , Abdul Rashid Muhammad Khairi
Published: January 2019

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is one of the building material capable of enhancing the design and structural integrity of the building. Since its recognition as conventional insulating material in 1950s, EPS has been experiencing swift progress in other new implementations. Currently, EPS is utilized in many building structures owing to its sustainability benefit and improvement in terms of energy efficiency, durability, and indoor environmental quality. This article provides an overview on the application of EPS as aggregates in lightweight concrete, decorative tiles and molding, panel application (structural insulated panels (SIPs) and composite SIPs), and embankment backfilling. Also, this article attempts to describe the properties of EPS in terms of fire behavior, mechanical properties, chemical resistant, water and moisture absorption, and their toxicity to the human and environment. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47529.
The potential exceptional role of a small Baltic boulder reef as a solitary habitat in a sea of mud
Authors: Beisiegel Kolja , Tauber Franz , Gogina Mayya , Zettler Michael L. , Darr Alexander
Published: January 2019

In this study, non‐destructive seafloor imaging techniques were employed to assess the benthic community structure of a recently discovered boulder reef within the central Arkona Basin of the Baltic Sea.

Data indicate that geographical isolation, water column stratification and temporary oxygen deficiency create an exceptional reef habitat in a sea of mud.

The reef forms a saline refuge for the deepest and easternmost known population of the plumose sea anemones (Metridium dianthus Ellis, 1768) in the Baltic Sea.

Limited connectivity to other reefs and dominance of the aggressively colonizing and planktivorous M. dianthus hamper the recruitment of other species and lead to an overall low invertebrate richness.

Large boulders attract ecologically and economically important fish like Baltic cod (Gadus morhua Linnaeus, 1758) that find shelter in the otherwise heavily fished Arkona Basin.

Despite this very first exploration being only a snapshot of the observed community, findings imply a potential conservation importance of this Germany's deepest known natural habitat type 1170 (‘reefs’).
Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Accelerate Hearing Recovery via Regeneration or Maintenance of Cochlear Fibrocytes in Mouse Spiral Ligaments
Authors: Kada Shinpei , Hamaguchi Kiyomi , Ito Juichi , Omori Koichi , Nakagawa Takayuki
Published: January 2019

Mammalian cochleae have limited capacity for regeneration, which is one of the major difficulties in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. In the current study, we examined the potential of bone marrow‐derived stromal cells (BMSCs) for functional restoration of mouse cochleae through regeneration or maintenance of cochlear fibrocytes in the spiral ligament (SL). We used a mouse model of degeneration of cochlear fibrocytes in the SL using local application of 3‐nitropropionic acid (3‐NP), in which disruption of the gap junction network in the SL resulted in the reduction of the endocochlear potential (EP). Mouse BMSCs were infused into the posterior semicircular canal 7 days after 3‐NP application. Transplanted BMSCs were frequently observed in the cochlear fluid space 4 weeks after transplantation, although a few transplants had migrated into the cochlear tissues including the SL. BMSC‐treated cochleae exhibited higher cell densities in the SL and greater EP levels than the control ones. Immunohistochemistry further demonstrated the restoration of functional proteins in the SL. Significant recovery in thresholds of auditory brainstem responses following BMSC transplantation was found only at 40 kHz in a mild degeneration model. Our cumulative findings indicated that BMSCs accelerated regeneration or maintenance of fibrocytes in damaged SLs, leading to partial functional restoration of the mouse cochleae. Anat Rec, 303:478–486, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Enhanced Thermocatalytic Activity of Porous Yellow ZnO Nanoflakes: Defect‐ and Morphology‐Induced Perspectives
Authors: Galani Sunil M. , Panda Asit Baran
Published: January 2019

Herein, we report a simple and effective strategy for the synthesis of yellow ZnO (Y‐ZnO) nanostructures with abundant oxygen vacancies on a large scale, through the sulfidation of ZnO followed by calcination. The developed strategy allows retention of the overall morphology of Y‐ZnO compared with pristine ZnO and the extent of oxygen vacancies can be tuned. The influence of oxygen deficiencies, the extent of defect sites, and the morphology of ZnO on its solution‐phase thermocatalytic activity has been evaluated in the synthesis of 5‐substituted‐1H‐tetrazoles with different nitriles and sodium azide. A reasonable enhancement in the reaction rate was achieved by using Y‐ZnO nanoflakes (Y‐ZnO NFs) as a catalyst in place of pristine ZnO NFs. The reaction was complete within 6 h at 110 °C with Y‐ZnO NFs, whereas it took 14 h at 120 °C with pristine ZnO NFs. The catalyst is easy to recycle without a significant loss in catalytic activity.