bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFLUENCING FACTORS OF SELF-PRIMING TIME OF MULTISTAGE SELF-PRIMING CENTRIFUGAL PUMP
Authors: LU ZHANXIONG , HE XIAOKE , WANG CHUAN
Published: October 2018

Self-priming centrifugal pump are a type of drainage and irrigation equipment applied in crop irrigation, urban landscaping, dust prevention and cooling, and building water supply. At present, single-stage self-priming centrifugal pumps dominate the pump market. Hence, the market share for multistage self-priming pumps, which can provide high-pressure liquid, is barely adequate. Self-priming time is an important parameter that measures the self-priming performance of multistage self-priming centrifugal pumps. Although many studies have focused on the influences of a single factor on the self-priming time of single-stage self-priming centrifugal pumps, only a few have discussed the self-priming time of multistage self-priming pumps. In the current work, we conducted an experimental study that combined the orthogonal, grey correlation, and self-priming time tests to investigate the influencing factors of the self-priming time of a multistage self-priming centrifugal pump and shorten the corresponding self-priming time. The outlet width of the impeller blade, the radial gap between the impeller and the diffuser, the area of backflow hole, and the number of stages of the multistage self-priming centrifugal pump were selected as the influencing factors in the orthogonal test. The orthogonal analysis of the self-priming time of the multistage self-priming centrifugal pump was conducted, and the results were used as the basis in obtaining the order of importance of all influencing factors through the grey correlation test. Results demonstrate that self-priming time increases gradually with an increase in impeller blade outlet width but that it decreases continuously with an increase in stage number and area of backflow hole. As radial gap increases, self-priming time increases and then decreases. In summary, the area of backflow hole is the most important influencing factor of self-priming time of the multistage self-priming centrifugal pump, followed by impeller blade outlet width, radial gap, and stage number. These findings provide important references for shortening the self-priming time of multistage self-priming centrifugal pumps.

Keywords: Multistage self-priming centrifugal pump, Grey correlation test, Orthogonal test; Self-priming time rrelation test, Bomba centrífuga autocebante multietapa, Ensayo de correlación Grey, Ensayo orthogonal, Ensayo de rrelación de tiempo autocebante
DESIGN OF A HYBRID NEURO-FUZZY SYSTEM FOR PRE-DIAGNOSIS OF CARDIAC PATHOLOGIES
Authors: PATIÑO ORTIZ MIGUEL , BALANKIN ALEXANDER , VERGARA ZAMORA DANIEL ADALBERTO , PATIÑO ORTIZ JULIAN , VILLAGRAN VILLEGAS LUZ YAZMIN , MARTINEZ CRUZ MIGUEL ANGEL
Published: October 2018

Performing a clinical pre-diagnosis of a cardiac pathology in a public institution in Mexico, takes waiting time, so the proposed system aims to reduce the time of diagnosis, and aims to resolve this deficiency, since having a mathematical algorithm can be programmed and implemented on any platform with an operating system, reducing the cost of the equipment, since only electrodes are required. In addition, it can be implemented in mobile equipment, which would increase its portability.
MANUFACTURING THE FUTURE: FABLABS
Authors: KADOS SZILARD , ANGULO MARTINEZ IGNACIO , GOTI ELORDI AITOR , SINGH PARVINDER , GARCIA BRINGAS PABLO
Published: October 2018

The Connected Industry is already a reality. The accelerated evolution of the different technological currents converges in this last decade in a synergic effect that is destined in our days to constitute by itself what some gurus already call the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Towards a new understanding of fear generalization and its neural origin
Authors: Onat Selim
Published: October 2018

Forming generalizations from previous experiences is a complex skill, which requires a delicate coordination between several basic cognitive abilities. In menacing situations, this ability is called “fear generalization”. It allows humans to predict harmful events and is necessary for survival. Impairments of this ability may lead to overgeneralizations – a phenomenon we know from anxiety disorders. By and large, fear generalization has been studied with one type of experimental paradigm. Stimuli forming a carefully controlled perceptual similarity gradient have been the basis to quantify behavioral and neuronal “fear generalization profiles”. This paradigm has provided fruitful insights into how learnt fear generalizes to perceptually similar events. Yet, a number of findings suggest that fear generalization is more adaptive than predicted by a mechanism which is solely based on perceptual similarity. This is a proposal that aims to bring new perspectives onto fear generalization as a complex, adaptive process. I will investigate the following major hypotheses: (1) Fear generalization can be understood as the optimal result of a Bayesian inference problem. (2) In real-world conditions, fear generalization builds on conceptual knowledge rather than perceptual similarity alone. (3) Brain structures involved in fear generalization can be causally linked to modulate fear responses adaptively. To test these hypotheses, I propose use of tools including fMRI, EEG as well as intracranial electrical stimulation and LFP recordings in presurgical epilepsy patients. With the combination of these tools, the expected findings have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of fear generalization and anxiety disorders.
Testing the heat dissipation limitation hypothesis: basal metabolic rates of endotherms decrease with increasing upper and lower critical temperatures
Authors: Khaliq Imran , Hof Christian
Published: October 2018

Metabolic critical temperatures define the range of ambient temperatures where endotherms are able to minimize energy allocation to thermogenesis. Examining the relationship between metabolic critical temperatures and basal metabolic rates (BMR) provides a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of how animals respond to varying ambient climatic conditions, especially in times of ongoing and projected future climate change. We make use of this opportunity by testing the heat dissipation limit (HDL) theory, which hypothesizes that the maximum amount of heat a species can dissipate constrains its energetics. Specifically, we test the theory’s implicit prediction that BMR should be lower under higher metabolic critical temperatures. We analysed the relationship of BMR with upper and lower critical temperatures for a large dataset of 146 endotherm species using regression analyses, carefully accounting for phylogenetic relationships and body mass. We show that metabolic critical temperatures are negatively related with BMR in both birds and mammals. Our results confirm the predictions of the HDL theory, suggesting that metabolic critical temperatures and basal metabolic rates respond in concert to ambient climatic conditions. This implies that heat dissipation capacities of endotherms may be an important factor to take into account in assessments of species’ vulnerability to climate change.
Cancellous bone and theropod dinosaur locomotion. Part II—a new approach to inferring posture and locomotor biomechanics in extinct tetrapod vertebrates
Authors: Bishop Peter J. , Hocknull Scott A. , Clemente Christofer J. , Hutchinson John R. , Barrett Rod S. , Lloyd David G.
Published: October 2018

This paper is the second of a three-part series that investigates the architecture of cancellous bone in the main hindlimb bones of theropod dinosaurs, and uses cancellous bone architectural patterns to infer locomotor biomechanics in extinct non-avian species. Cancellous bone is widely known to be highly sensitive to its mechanical environment, and therefore has the potential to provide insight into locomotor biomechanics in extinct tetrapod vertebrates such as dinosaurs. Here in Part II, a new biomechanical modelling approach is outlined, one which mechanistically links cancellous bone architectural patterns with three-dimensional musculoskeletal and finite element modelling of the hindlimb. In particular, the architecture of cancellous bone is used to derive a single ‘characteristic posture’ for a given species—one in which bone continuum-level principal stresses best align with cancellous bone fabric—and thereby clarify hindlimb locomotor biomechanics. The quasi-static approach was validated for an extant theropod, the chicken, and is shown to provide a good estimate of limb posture at around mid-stance. It also provides reasonable predictions of bone loading mechanics, especially for the proximal hindlimb, and also provides a broadly accurate assessment of muscle recruitment insofar as limb stabilization is concerned. In addition to being useful for better understanding locomotor biomechanics in extant species, the approach hence provides a new avenue by which to analyse, test and refine palaeobiomechanical hypotheses, not just for extinct theropods, but potentially many other extinct tetrapod groups as well.
BioInstaller: a comprehensive R package to construct interactive and reproducible biological data analysis applications based on the R platform
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Cui Bowen , Dai Yuting , Bai Ling , Huang Jinyan
Published: October 2018

The increase in bioinformatics resources such as tools/scripts and databases poses a great challenge for users seeking to construct interactive and reproducible biological data analysis applications. Here, we propose an open-source, comprehensive, flexible R package named BioInstaller that consists of the R functions, Shiny application, the HTTP representational state transfer application programming interfaces, and a docker image. BioInstaller can be used to collect, manage and share various types of bioinformatics resources and perform interactive and reproducible data analyses based on the extendible Shiny application with Tom’s Obvious, Minimal Language and SQLite format databases. The source code of BioInstaller is freely available at our lab website, http://bioinfo.rjh.com.cn/labs/jhuang/tools/bioinstaller, the popular package host GitHub, https://github.com/JhuangLab/BioInstaller, and the Comprehensive R Archive Network, https://CRAN.R-project.org/package=BioInstaller. In addition, a docker image can be downloaded from DockerHub (https://hub.docker.com/r/bioinstaller/bioinstaller).
High-level expression and molecular characterization of a recombinant prolidase fromEscherichia coliNovaBlue
Authors: Wang Tzu-Fan , Chi Meng-Chun , Lai Kuan-Ling , Lin Min-Guan , Chen Yi-Yu , Lo Huei-Fen , Lin Long-Liu
Published: October 2018

Long-term use of organophosphorus (OP) compounds has become an increasing global problem and a major threat to sustainability and human health. Prolidase is a proline-specific metallopeptidase that can offer an efficient option for the degradation of OP compounds. In this study, a full-length gene fromEscherichia coliNovaBlue encoding a prolidase (EcPepQ) was amplified and cloned into the commercially-available vector pQE-30 to yield pQE-EcPepQ. The overexpressed enzyme was purified from the cell-free extract of isopropyl thio-β-D-galactoside IPTG-inducedE. coliM15 (pQE-EcPepQ) cells by nickel-chelate chromatography. The molecular mass ofEcPepQ was determined to be about 57 kDa by 12% sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and the result of size-exclusion chromatography demonstrated that the enzyme was mainly present in 25 mM Tris–HCl buffer (pH 8.0) as a dimeric form. The optimal conditions forEcPepQ activity were 60 °C, pH 8.0, and 0.1 mM Mn2+ion. Kinetic analysis with Ala-Pro as the substrate showed that theKmandkcatvalues ofEcPepQ were 8.8 mM and 926.5 ± 2.0 s−1, respectively. The thermal unfolding ofEcPepQ followed a two-state process with one well-defined unfolding transition of 64.2 °C. Analysis of guanidine hydrochloride (GdnHCl)-induced denaturation by tryptophan emission fluorescence spectroscopy revealed that the enzyme had a [GdnHCl]0.5,N-Uvalue of 1.98 M. The purified enzyme also exhibited some degree of tolerance to various water/organic co-solvents. Isopropanol and tetrahydrofuran were very detrimental to the enzymatic activity ofEcPepQ; however, other more hydrophilic co-solvents, such as formamide, methanol, and ethylene glycol, were better tolerated. Eventually, the non-negative influence of some co-solvents on both catalytic activity and structural stability ofEcPepQ allows to adjust the reaction conditions more suitable forEcPepQ-catalyzed bioprocess.
Heterologous expression of a Glyoxalase I gene from sugarcane confers tolerance to several environmental stresses in bacteria
Authors: Wu Qibin , Gao Shiwu , Pan Yong-Bao , Su Yachun , Grisham Michael P. , Guo Jinlong , Xu Liping , Que Youxiong
Published: October 2018

Glyoxalase I belongs to the glyoxalase system that detoxifies methylglyoxal (MG), a cytotoxic by-product produced mainly from triose phosphates. The concentration of MG increases rapidly under stress conditions. In this study, a novel glyoxalase I gene, designated asSoGloIwas identified from sugarcane.SoGloIhad a size of 1,091 bp with one open reading frame (ORF) of 885 bp encoding a protein of 294 amino acids. SoGloI was predicted as a Ni2+-dependent GLOI protein with two typical glyoxalase domains at positions 28–149 and 159–283, respectively.SoGloIwas cloned into an expression plasmid vector, and the Trx-His-S-tag SoGloI protein produced inEscherichia coliwas about 51 kDa. The recombinantE. colicells expressingSoGloIcompared to the control grew faster and tolerated higher concentrations of NaCl, CuCl2, CdCl2, or ZnSO4.SoGloIubiquitously expressed in various sugarcane tissues. The expression was up-regulated under the treatments of NaCl, CuCl2, CdCl2, ZnSO4and abscisic acid (ABA), or under simulated biotic stress conditions upon exposure to salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA). SoGloI activity steadily increased when sugarcane was subjected to NaCl, CuCl2, CdCl2, or ZnSO4treatments. Sub-cellular observations indicated that the SoGloI protein was located in both cytosol and nucleus. These results suggest that theSoGloIgene may play an important role in sugarcane’s response to various biotic and abiotic stresses.
A large-scale survey on finger counting routines, their temporal stability and flexibility in educated adults
Authors: Hohol Mateusz , Wołoszyn Kinga , Nuerk Hans-Christoph , Cipora Krzysztof
Published: October 2018

A strong link between bodily activity and number processing has been established in recent years. Although numerous observations indicate that adults use finger counting (FC) in various contexts of everyday life for different purposes, existing knowledge of FC routines and their use is still limited. In particular, it remains unknown how stable the (default) FC habits are over time and how flexible they can be. To investigate these questions, 380 Polish participants completed a questionnaire on their FC routines, the stability of these routines, and the context of FC usage, preceded by the request to count on their fingers from 1 to 10. Next, the test–retest stability of FC habits was examined in 84 participants 2 months following the first session. To the best of our knowledge, such a study design has been adopted for the first time. The results indicate that default FC routines of the majority of participants (75%) are relatively stable over time. At the same time, FC routines can flexibly adapt according to the situation (e.g., when holding an object). As regards prevalence, almost all participants, in line with previous findings on Western individuals, declared starting from the closed palm and extending consecutive fingers. Furthermore, we observed relations between FC preferences and handedness (more left-handers start from the left hand) and that actual finger use is still widespread in healthy adults for a variety of activities (the most prevalent uses of FC are listing elements, presenting arguments and plans, and calendar calculations). In sum, the results show the practical relevance of FC in adulthood, the relative stability of preferences over time along with flexible adaptation to a current situation, as well as an association of FC routines with handedness. Taken together our results suggest that FC is the phenomenon, which is moderated or mediated by multiple embodied factors.
Quantitative variations in texture analysis features dependent on MRI scanning parameters: A phantom model
Authors: Buch Karen , Kuno Hirofumi , Qureshi Muhammad M. , Li Baojun , Sakai Osamu
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the influence of MRI scanning parameters on texture analysis features.

Methods

Publicly available data from the Reference Image Database to Evaluate Therapy Response (RIDER) project sponsored by The Cancer Imaging Archive included MRIs on a phantom comprised of 18 25‐mm doped, gel‐filled tubes, and 1 20‐mm tube containing 0.25 mM Gd‐DTPA (EuroSpinII Test Object5, Diagnostic Sonar, Ltd, West Lothian, Scotland). MRIs performed on a 1.5 T GE HD, 1.5 T Siemens Espree (VB13), or 3.0 T GE HD with TwinSpeed gradients with an eight‐channel head coil included T1WIs with multiple flip angles (flip‐angle = 2,5,10,15,20,25,30), TR/TE = 4.09–5.47/0.90–1.35 ms, NEX = 1 and DCE with 30° flip‐angle, TR/TE=4.09–5.47/0.90–1.35, and NEX = 1,4. DICOM data were imported into an in‐house developed texture analysis program which extracted 41‐texture features including histogram, gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM), and gray‐level run‐length (GLRL). Two‐tailed t tests, corrected for multiple comparisons (Q values) were calculated to compare changes in texture features with variations in MRI scanning parameters (magnet strength, flip‐angle, number of excitations (NEX), scanner platform).

Results

Significant differences were seen in histogram features (mean, median, standard deviation, range) with variations in NEX (Q = 0.003–0.045) and scanner platform (Q < 0.0001), GLCM features (entropy, contrast, energy, and homogeneity) with NEX (Q = 0.001–0.018) and scanner platform (Q < 0.0001), GLRL features (long‐run emphasis, high gray‐level run emphasis, high gray‐level emphasis) with magnet strength (Q = 0.0003), NEX (Q = 0.003–0.022) and scanner platform (Q < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Significant differences were seen in many texture features with variations in MRI acquisition emphasizing the need for standardized MRI technique.
Mock Recruitment for the Study of Antimalarials in an Incomplete Lupus Erythematosus Trial
Authors: Karp David R. , Chong Benjamin F. , James Judith A. , Arriens Cristina , Ishimori Mariko , Wallace Daniel J. , Liao Duanping , Olsen Nancy J.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Recruitment to randomized clinical trials is expensive and often falls short of goals, limiting achievement of measurable outcomes. To prepare for a trial in patients with incomplete forms of lupus, a mock recruitment protocol was carried out at 4 proposed study sites. The objective was to determine levels of interest in patients and to uncover potential barriers to enrollment.

Methods

After obtaining institutional review board approval, study coordinators approached individuals who generally fit proposed criteria for the trial. A standardized script was followed in a structured interview. Levels of interest were determined and any reasons for concerns were collected with an open‐ended format.

Results

A total of 45 subjects were interviewed, of which 73% expressed an interest in the trial, and 64% said they were likely to enroll. Concerns of those who were not interested included risk of hydroxychloroquine, desire not to receive placebo, and lack of time for participation.

Conclusion

The mock recruitment suggests that the trial will be attractive to suitable patients. The concerns raised support other data indicating that provision of information is crucial to achieving enrollment goals. Mock recruitment of potential investigators should be considered also to address referral concerns.
Cost‐Effectiveness of Alternative Anticoagulation Strategies for Postoperative Management of Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients
Authors: Smith Savannah R. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Losina Elena
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of prolonged (35‐day) and standard‐duration (14‐day) anticoagulation therapy following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

Using Markov modeling, we assessed clinical and economic outcomes of 14‐day and 35‐day anticoagulation therapy following TKA with rivaroxaban, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), fondaparinux, warfarin, and aspirin. Incidence of complications of TKA and anticoagulation therapy (deep vein thrombosis [DVT], pulmonary embolism [PE], prosthetic joint infection [PJI], and bleeding) were derived from published literature. Daily costs ranged from $1 (aspirin) to $43 (fondaparinux). Primary outcomes included quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs), direct medical costs, and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) at 1 year post‐TKA. The preferred regimen was the regimen with highest QALYs maintaining an ICER below the willingness‐to‐pay threshold ($100,000/QALY). We conducted probabilistic sensitivity analyses, varying complication incidence and anticoagulation efficacy, to evaluate the impact of parameter uncertainty on model results.

Results

Aspirin resulted in the highest cumulative incidence of DVT and PE, while prolonged fondaparinux led to the largest reduction in DVT incidence (15% reduction compared to no prophylaxis). Despite differential bleeding rates (ranging from 3% to 6%), all strategies had similar incidence of PJI (1% to 2%). Prolonged rivaroxaban was the least costly strategy ($3,300 at 1 year post‐TKA) and the preferred regimen in the base case. In sensitivity analyses, prolonged rivaroxaban and warfarin had similar likelihoods of being cost‐effective.

Conclusion

Extending postoperative anticoagulation therapy to 35 days increases QALYs compared to standard 14‐day prophylaxis. Prolonged rivaroxaban and prolonged warfarin are most likely to be cost‐effective post‐TKA; the costs of fondaparinux and LMWH precluded their being preferred strategies.
Highly Porous Sr/Mg‐Doped Hardystonite Bioceramics from Preceramic Polymers and Reactive Fillers: Direct Foaming and Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Elsayed Hamada , Gardin Chiara , Ferroni Letizia , Zavan Barbara , Colombo Paolo , Bernardo Enrico
Published: October 2018

Novel hardystonite‐based bioceramics are obtained by thermal treatment, in air, of silicone resins and reactive fillers. Using commercial silicones embedding SrO and MgO precursors, in addition to CaO and ZnO precursors, a quite complex solid solution (Ca1.4Sr0.6Zn0.85Mg0.15Si2O7) can be achieved, at 1100 °C, instead of pure hardystonite (Ca2ZnSi2O7), with improvements in biocompatibility and bioactivity. Highly porous foams are obtained by gas evolution at the early stage of heat treatment (at 300–350 °C), from the dehydration of active filler present in hydrated form (Mg(OH)2). Additionally, direct ink writing of silicone‐based pastes is used for the manufacturing of scaffolds with non‐stochastic pore architecture. In the latter case, strong scaffolds (with compressive strength exceeding ≈12 MPa) are obtained by adding fine glass powders as an additional filler. This addition enhances the viscous flow upon firing, but do not compromise the phase evolution, owing to the exact match in the composition between glass and silicone/filler mixture.
Carbon Nitride Nanofibres with Exceptional Lithium Storage Capacity: From Theoretical Prediction to Experimental Implementation
Authors: Adekoya David , Gu Xingxing , Rudge Michael , Wen William , Lai Chao , Hankel Marlies , Zhang Shanqing
Published: October 2018

Graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet (i.e., g‐C3N4) is identified as a suitable graphene analogue due to its high theoretical capacity, wider and vacant structure, and easy synthesis method. Currently, g‐C3N4 nanosheet has limited application in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) which is mainly due to the lack of effective intercalation/deintercalation reaction sites, the high binding energy of the Li to the nanosheet, and insufficient conductivity and stability. Density functional theory calculation predicts that the edges of g‐C3N4 fibre have a suitable adsorption energy and bestow a balanced adsorption force and desorption freedom to Li. In order to verify this prediction, g‐C3N4 nanofibre is synthesized with the edges and pores, as well as higher pyridinic nitrogen content, using a simple polymerization/polycondensation method. The as‐prepared g‐C3N4 fibre delivers a remarkable specific capacity of 181.7 mAh g−1, as well as extraordinary stability and power density. At a high rate of 10C, the g‐C3N4 fibre still has a specific capacity of 138.6 mAh g−1 even after 5000 cycles, being the best‐performing g‐C3N4 electrode so far in literature. This work is exemplary in combining theoretical computing and experimental techniques in designing the next generation of electroactive materials for LIBs.
A Multifunctional Silly‐Putty Nanocomposite Spontaneously Repairs Cathode Composite for Advanced Li−S Batteries
Authors: Chang Zhi , He Yibo , Deng Han , Li Xiang , Wu Shichao , Qiao Yu , Wang Pengfei , Zhou Haoshen
Published: October 2018

Although lithium–sulfur batteries have been regarded as one of the most promising candidates for high efficient energy storage devices, however, their practical application are still hindered by the notorious “shuttle effect” and instability of cathode structure during cycling. In this work, conductive reduced graphene oxides nanosheets added–putty (rGO–putty ) adaptive functional interlayer is designed to effectively suppress the diffusion of polysulfides while simultaneously promoted the dynamic protection of the whole cathode structure during cycling. Consequently, largely suppressed polysulfides diffusion combined with the greatly enhanced cathode stability is achieved while the all‐around conductive protecting layer is formed benefited from the viscoelasticity property of rGO–putty. As a result, a capacity of 586 mAh g−1 is demonstrated after long‐cycling term of 1000 cycles and high cycling stability of only 0.03% capacity decay per cycle is exhibited. The largely enhanced electrochemical performance suggests the important role of the rGO–putty in suppressing the “shuttle effect” and maintaining the integrity of the cathode material.
RNA Fibers as Optimized Nanoscaffolds for siRNA Coordination and Reduced Immunological Recognition
Authors: Rackley Lauren , Stewart Jaimie Marie , Salotti Jacqueline , Krokhotin Andrey , Shah Ankit , Halman Justin R. , Juneja Ridhima , Smollett Jaclyn , Lee Lauren , Roark Kyle , Viard Mathias , Tarannum Mubin , Vivero‐Escoto Juan , Johnson Peter F. , Dobrovolskaia Marina A. , Dokholyan Nikolay V. , Franco Elisa , Afonin Kirill A.
Published: October 2018

RNA is a versatile biomaterial that can be used to engineer nanoassemblies for personalized treatment of various diseases. Despite promising advancements, the design of RNA nanoassemblies with minimal recognition by the immune system remains a major challenge. Here, an approach is reported to engineer RNA fibrous structures to operate as a customizable platform for efficient coordination of siRNAs and for maintaining low immunostimulation. Functional RNA fibers are studied in silico and their formation is confirmed by various experimental techniques and visualized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). It is demonstrated that the RNA fibers offer multiple advantages among which are: i) programmability and modular design that allow for simultaneous controlled delivery of multiple siRNAs and fluorophores, ii) reduced immunostimulation when compared to other programmable RNA nanoassemblies, and iii) simple production protocol for endotoxin‐free fibers with the option of their cotranscriptional assembly. Furthermore, it is shown that functional RNA fibers can be efficiently delivered with various organic and inorganic carriers while retaining their structural integrity in cells. Specific gene silencing triggered by RNA fibers is assessed in human breast cancer and melanoma cell lines, with the confirmed ability of functional fibers to selectively target single nucleotide mutations.
Facile Engineering of Long‐Term Culturable Ex Vivo Vascularized Tissues Using Biologically Derived Matrices
Authors: Hu Michael , Dailamy Amir , Lei Xin Yi , Parekh Udit , McDonald Daniella , Kumar Aditya , Mali Prashant
Published: October 2018

Recent advances in tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting have enabled construction of cell‐laden scaffolds containing perfusable vascular networks. Although these methods partially address the nutrient‐diffusion limitations present in engineered tissues, they are still restricted in both their viable vascular geometries and matrix material compatibility. To address this, tissue constructs are engineered via encapsulation of 3D printed, evacuable, free standing scaffolds of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) in biologically derived matrices. The ease of printability and water‐soluble nature of PVA grant compatibility with biologically relevant matrix materials and allow for easily repeatable generation of complex vascular patterns. This study confirms the ability of this approach to produce perfusable vascularized matrices capable of sustaining both cocultures of multiple cell types and excised tumor fragments ex vivo over multiple weeks. The study further demonstrates the ability of the approach to produce hybrid patterns allowing for coculture of vasculature and epithelial cell‐lined lumens in close proximity, thereby enabling ex vivo recapitulation of gut‐like systems. Taken together, the methodology is versatile, broadly applicable, and importantly, simple to use, enabling ready applicability in many research settings. It is believed that this technique has the potential to significantly accelerate progress in engineering and study of ex vivo organotypic tissue constructs.
Dual Polymerizations: Untapped Potential for Biomaterials
Authors: Lee Daniel C. , Lamm Robert J. , Prossnitz Alex N. , Boydston Andrew J. , Pun Suzie H.
Published: October 2018

Block copolymers with unique architectures and those that can self‐assemble into supramolecular structures are used in medicine as biomaterial scaffolds and delivery vehicles for cells, therapeutics, and imaging agents. To date, much of the work relies on controlling polymer behavior by varying the monomer side chains to add functionality and tune hydrophobicity. Although varying the side chains is an efficient strategy to control polymer behavior, changing the polymer backbone can also be a powerful approach to modulate polymer self‐assembly, rigidity, reactivity, and biodegradability for biomedical applications. There are many developments in the syntheses of polymers with segmented backbones, but these developments are not widely adopted as strategies to address the unique constraints and requirements of polymers for biomedical applications. This review highlights dual polymerization strategies for the synthesis of backbone‐segmented block copolymers to facilitate their adoption for biomedical applications.
Monolithic and Scalable Au Nanorod Substrates Improve PEDOT–Metal Adhesion and Stability in Neural Electrodes
Authors: Ganji Mehran , Hossain Lorraine , Tanaka Atsunori , Thunemann Martin , Halgren Eric , Gilja Vikash , Devor Anna , Dayeh Shadi A.
Published: October 2018

Poly(3,4‐ethylenenedioxythiophene) or PEDOT is a promising candidate for next‐generation neuronal electrode materials but its weak adhesion to underlying metallic conductors impedes its potential. An effective method of mechanically anchoring the PEDOT within an Au nanorod (Au‐nr) structure is reported and it is demonstrated that it provides enhanced adhesion and overall PEDOT layer stability. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) stress is used to investigate adhesion and stability of spin‐cast and electrodeposited PEDOT. The Au‐nr adhesion layer permits 10 000 CV cycles of coated PEDOT film in phosphate buffered saline solution without delamination nor significant change of the electrochemical impedance, whereas PEDOT coating film on planar Au electrodes delaminates at or below 1000 cycles. Under CV stress, spin‐cast PEDOT on planar Au delaminates, whereas electroplated PEDOT on planar Au encounters surface leaching/decomposition. After 5 weeks of accelerated aging tests at 60 °C, the electrodeposited PEDOT/Au‐nr microelectrodes demonstrate a 92% channel survival compared to only 25% survival for spin‐cast PEDOT on planar films. Furthermore, after a 10 week chronic implantation onto mouse barrel cortex, PEDOT/Au‐nr microelectrodes do not exhibit delamination nor morphological changes, whereas the conventional PEDOT microelectrodes either partially or fully delaminate. Immunohistochemical evaluation demonstrates no or minimal response to the PEDOT implant.
Reconstructing the Human Renal Vascular–Tubular Unit In Vitro
Authors: Rayner Samuel G. , Phong Kiet T. , Xue Jun , Lih Daniel , Shankland Stuart J. , Kelly Edward J. , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Zheng Ying
Published: October 2018

Engineered human kidney‐on‐a‐chip platforms show tremendous promise for disease modeling and drug screening. Outstanding challenges exist, however, in reconstructing the complex architecture, cellular make‐up, and matrix composition necessary for the proper modeling of kidney function. Herein, the first fully tunable human kidney‐on‐a‐chip platform is reported that allows the reconstruction of the native architecture of the renal endothelial–epithelial exchange interface using entirely cell‐remodelable matrix and patient‐derived kidney cells. This platform consists of a double‐layer human renal vascular–tubular unit (hRVTU) enabled by a thin collagen membrane that replicates the kidney exchange interface. It is shown that endothelial and epithelial cells lining their respective lumens remodel the membrane in culture into a ≈1 µm thick exchange interface composed of native basement membrane proteins. This interface displays sufficient mechanical integrity for media flow and blood perfusion. As a proof of principle, it is demonstrated that the hRVTU performs kidney‐specific functions including reabsorption of albumin and glucose from the epithelial channel. By incorporating multiple cell populations from single donors, it is demonstrated that the hRVTU may have utility for future precision medicine applications. The success of the system provides new opportunities for the next generation of organ‐on‐a‐chip models.
Laser‐Induced Graphene: From Discovery to Translation
Authors: Ye Ruquan , James Dustin K. , Tour James M.
Published: October 2018

Laser‐induced graphene (LIG) is a 3D porous material prepared by direct laser writing with a CO2laser on carbon materials in ambient atmosphere. This technique combines 3D graphene preparation and patterning into a single step without the need for wet chemical steps. Since its discovery in 2014, LIG has attracted broad research interest, with several papers being published per month using this approach. These serve to delineate the mechanism of the LIG‐forming process and to showcase the translation into many application areas. Herein, the strategies that have been developed to synthesize LIG are summarized, including the control of LIG properties such as porosity, composition, and surface characteristics, and the advancement in methodology to convert diverse carbon precursors into LIG. Taking advantage of the LIG properties, the applications of LIG in broad fields, such as microfluidics, sensors, and electrocatalysts, are highlighted. Finally, future development in biodegradable and biocompatible materials is briefly discussed.
Suppressing Li Metal Dendrites Through a Solid Li‐Ion Backup Layer
Authors: Salvatierra Rodrigo V. , López‐Silva Gladys A. , Jalilov Almaz S. , Yoon Jongwon , Wu Gang , Tsai Ah‐Lim , Tour James M.
Published: October 2018

The growing demand for sustainable and off‐grid energy storage is reviving the attempts to use Li metal as the anode in the next generation of batteries. However, the use of Li anodes is hampered due to the growth of Li dendrites upon charging and discharging, which compromises the life and safety of the battery. Here, it is shown that lithiated multiwall carbon nanotubes (Li‐MWCNTs) act as a controlled Li diffusion interface that suppresses the growth of Li dendrites by regulating the Li+ ion flux during charge/discharge cycling at current densities between 2 and 4 mA cm−2. A full Li‐S cell is fabricated to showcase the versatility of the protected Li anode with the Li‐MWCNT interface, where the full cells could support pulse discharges at high currents and over 450 cycles at different rates with coulombic efficiencies close to 99.9%. This work indicates that carbon materials in lithiated forms can be an effective and simple approach to the stabilization of Li metal anodes.
Bacterial Biofilm Material Properties Enable Removal and Transfer by Capillary Peeling
Authors: Yan Jing , Moreau Alexis , Khodaparast Sepideh , Perazzo Antonio , Feng Jie , Fei Chenyi , Mao Sheng , Mukherjee Sampriti , Košmrlj Andrej , Wingreen Ned S. , Bassler Bonnie L. , Stone Howard A.
Published: October 2018

Biofilms, surface‐attached communities of bacterial cells, are a concern in health and in industrial operations because of persistent infections, clogging of flows, and surface fouling. Extracellular matrices provide mechanical protection to biofilm‐dwelling cells as well as protection from chemical insults, including antibiotics. Understanding how biofilm material properties arise from constituent matrix components and how these properties change in different environments is crucial for designing biofilm removal strategies. Here, using rheological characterization and surface analyses ofVibrio choleraebiofilms, it is discovered how extracellular polysaccharides, proteins, and cells function together to define biofilm mechanical and interfacial properties. Using insight gained from our measurements, a facile capillary peeling technology is developed to remove biofilms from surfaces or to transfer intact biofilms from one surface to another. It is shown that the findings are applicable to other biofilm‐forming bacterial species and to multiple surfaces. Thus, the technology and the understanding that have been developed could potentially be employed to characterize and/or treat biofilm‐related infections and industrial biofouling problems.
Boosting Sodium Storage of Double‐Shell Sodium Titanate Microspheres Constructed from 2D Ultrathin Nanosheets via Sulfur Doping
Authors: Wang Nana , Xu Xun , Liao Ting , Du Yi , Bai Zhongchao , Dou Shixue
Published: October 2018

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have drawn remarkable attention due to their low cost and the practically inexhaustible sodium sources. The major obstacle for the practical application of SIBs is the absence of suitable negative electrode materials with long cycling stability and high rate performance. Here, sulfur‐doped double‐shell sodium titanate (Na2Ti3O7) microspheres constructed from 2D ultrathin nanosheets are synthesized via a templating route combined with a low‐temperature sulfurization process. The resulting double‐shell microspheres deliver a high specific capacity (≈222 mAh g−1 at 1 C), excellent cycling stability (162 mAh g−1 after 15 000 cycles at 20 C), and superior rate capability (122 mAh g−1 at 50 C) as anode for SIBs. The improved electrochemical properties originate from synergistic effects between the unique double‐shell nanostructures built from 2D nanosheets architecture and sulfur doping. This synergistic effect not only stabilize Na2Ti3O7‐based electrode during the cycling, but also improve the sluggish Na insertion/extraction kinetics by narrowing the bandgap of Na2Ti3O7. The synthesis strategy proposed here can be developed into a technical rationale for generating high‐performance sodium‐storage devices.
A Highly Stretchy, Transparent Elastomer with the Capability to Automatically Self‐Heal Underwater
Authors: Cao Yue , Wu Haiping , Allec Sarah I. , Wong Bryan M. , Nguyen Dai‐Scott , Wang Chao
Published: October 2018

Polymer materials that are able to self‐heal in humid conditions or even in water are highly desirable for their industrial applications. However, the development of underwater self‐healing polymer materials is very challenging since water molecules can readily disturb traditional noncovalent bonds, such as saturate the hydrogen bonds, coordinate with the metal cation, as well as solvate the ions. Here, a new type of dipole–dipole interactions is employed as the driving force, combining with highly polar and hydrophobic fluorinated polymers, to successfully demonstrate an underwater self‐healing elastomer. The polymer materials are transparent and stretchable. They can remain stable underwater for months without significant decay of mechanical properties. Upon mechanical damage, the material is able to self‐heal automatically in air, underwater, and under very harsh aqueous conditions (including seawater, highly acidic media, and highly basic media, etc.).
Stable Silicene in Graphene/Silicene Van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Li Geng , Zhang Lizhi , Xu Wenyan , Pan Jinbo , Song Shiru , Zhang Yi , Zhou Haitao , Wang Yeliang , Bao Lihong , Zhang Yu‐Yang , Du Shixuan , Ouyang Min , Pantelides Sokrates T. , Gao Hong‐Jun
Published: October 2018

Silicene‐based van der Waals heterostructures are theoretically predicted to have interesting physical properties, but their experimental fabrication has remained a challenge because of the easy oxidation of silicene in air. Here, the fabrication of graphene/silicene van der Waals heterostructures by silicon intercalation is reported. Density functional theory calculations show weak interactions between graphene and silicene layers, confirming the formation of van der Waals heterostructures. The heterostructures show no observable damage after air exposure for extended periods, indicating good air stability. The I–V characteristics of the vertical graphene/silicene/Ru heterostructures show rectification behavior.
Understanding Detrimental and Beneficial Grain Boundary Effects in Halide Perovskites
Authors: Adhyaksa Gede W. P. , Brittman Sarah , Āboliņš Haralds , Lof Andries , Li Xueying , Keelor Joel D. , Luo Yanqi , Duevski Teodor , Heeren Ron M. A. , Ellis Shane R. , Fenning David P. , Garnett Erik C.
Published: October 2018

Grain boundaries play a key role in the performance of thin‐film optoelectronic devices and yet their effect in halide perovskite materials is still not understood. The biggest factor limiting progress is the inability to identify grain boundaries. Noncrystallographic techniques can misidentify grain boundaries, leading to conflicting literature reports about their influence; however, the gold standard – electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) – destroys halide perovskite thin films. Here, this problem is solved by using a solid‐state EBSD detector with 6000 times higher sensitivity than the traditional phosphor screen and camera. Correlating true grain size with photoluminescence lifetime, carrier diffusion length, and mobility shows that grain boundaries are not benign but have a recombination velocity of 1670 cm s−1, comparable to that of crystalline silicon. Amorphous grain boundaries are also observed that give rise to locally brighter photoluminescence intensity and longer lifetimes. This anomalous grain boundary character offers a possible explanation for the mysteriously long lifetime and record efficiency achieved in small grain halide perovskite thin films. It also suggests a new approach for passivating grain boundaries, independent of surface passivation, to lead to even better performance in optoelectronic devices.
Solution‐Processed Ion‐Free Organic Ratchets with Asymmetric Contacts
Authors: Huang Jianfei , Karki Akchheta , Brus Viktor V. , Hu Yuanyuan , Phan Hung , Lill Alexander T. , Wang Ming , Bazan Guillermo C. , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: October 2018

Ion‐free organic ratchets with asymmetric injecting contacts (AICs) are fabricated using solution‐processable organic semiconductors. Scanning Kelvin probe microscopy analysis reveals that the rectifying function is achieved via the “charge pump” mechanism. Electrical characterizations show that the device can readily operate under industrial standard radio frequency and its high‐frequency performance may be enhanced through further material/device engineering. The built‐in asymmetric feature exempts the devices from the complicated material design, device processing, and performance decay associated with the use of ion/semiconductor blends in ionic‐organic ratchets. Thus, the AIC ratchets can deliver a persisting ratchet effect and have excellent material compatibility toward organic semiconductors.
Heterostructures Based on 2D Materials: A Versatile Platform for Efficient Catalysis
Authors: Shifa Tofik Ahmed , Wang Fengmei , Liu Yang , He Jun
Published: October 2018

The unique structural and electronic properties of 2D materials, including the metal and metal‐free ones, have prompted intense exploration in the search for new catalysts. The construction of different heterostructures based on 2D materials offers great opportunities for boosting the catalytic activity in electo(photo)chemical reactions. Particularly, the merits resulting from the synergism of the constituent components and the fascinating properties at the interface are tremendously interesting. This scenario has now become the state‐of‐the‐art point in the development of active catalysts for assisting energy conversion reactions including water splitting and CO2 reduction. Here, starting from the theoretical background of the fundamental concepts, the progressive developments in the design and applications of heterostructures based on 2D materials are traced. Furthermore, a personal perspective on the exploration of 2D heterostructures for further potential application in catalysis is offered.
Antibacterial Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Xin Qi , Shah Hameed , Nawaz Asmat , Xie Wenjing , Akram Muhammad Zain , Batool Aisha , Tian Liangqiu , Jan Saad Ullah , Boddula Rajender , Guo Beidou , Liu Qian , Gong Jian Ru
Published: October 2018

The emergence and global spread of bacterial resistance to currently available antibiotics underscore the urgent need for new alternative antibacterial agents. Recent studies on the application of nanomaterials as antibacterial agents have demonstrated their great potential for management of infectious diseases. Among these antibacterial nanomaterials, carbon‐based nanomaterials (CNMs) have attracted much attention due to their unique physicochemical properties and relatively higher biosafety. Here, a comprehensive review of the recent research progress on antibacterial CNMs is provided, starting with a brief description of the different kinds of CNMs with respect to their physicochemical characteristics. Then, a detailed introduction to the various mechanisms underlying antibacterial activity in these materials is given, including physical/mechanical damage, oxidative stress, photothermal/photocatalytic effect, lipid extraction, inhibition of bacterial metabolism, isolation by wrapping, and the synergistic effect when CNMs are used in combination with other antibacterial materials, followed by a summary of the influence of the physicochemical properties of CNMs on their antibacterial activity. Finally, the current challenges and an outlook for the development of more effective and safer antibacterial CNMs are discussed.