bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic characterization and Phylogenetic analysis of Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) from Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan M. M. , Meah M. B. , Sano Y.
Published: March 2019

Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) has frequently emerged as a severe problem for tomato in the recent past, in the tropical and subtropical region of the world. We have cloned and sequenced two isolates of ToLCV responsible for the leaf curl disease of tomato in Bangladesh. Two betasatellite DNAs were associated with ToLCV, and complete nucleotide sequences were determined.  The complete genome sequences of ToLCV-[BD:Mym:11] and ToLCV-[BD:Mym2:11] shared the highest nucleotide sequence identities at 95.04 and 92.38%, respectively, with Indian isolate of Tomato leaf curl virus - [India:Ranchi:2007] (ToLCV-[IN:Ran:07]) and Tomato leaf curl Patna virus - [India:Lucknow:2009] (ToLCPatV-[IN:PLuc:09]). Complete nucleotide sequence analysis of the two betasatellite clones, tomato leaf curl betasatellite – [BD:Mym:11] and tomato leaf curl betasatellite – [BD:Mym2:11] associated with (ToLCV-[BD:Mym:11] and (ToLCV-[BD:Mym2:11], when used in BLAST searches respectively revealed 95.51 and 86.43% identity with Tomato leaf curl Bangladesh betasatellite (ToLCBDB-[BD-Gaz-01]) and Tomato leaf curl Patna betasatellite (ToLCPaB-[IN-Pat-07]).
Buruli Ulcer (Acha-ere): Pathogenesis and Manifestation
Authors: Onwuchekwa Elendu C. , G. Ekeleme Uzochukwu , Onu-Osi Oliver , Osezele Okonudo P.
Published: March 2019

Infection of subcutaneous tissue with Mycobacterium ulcerans can lead to chronic skin ulceration known as Buruli ulcer. It has been reported in over 33 countries around the world, the greatest burden of disease is in the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, Australia, and Japan. It primarily affects children aged 5-15 years. Buruli ulcers generally begin as a painless dermal papule or subcutaneous edematous nodule, which over a period of weeks to months, breaks down to form an extensive necrotic ulcer with undermined edges. The pathogenesis of this neglected tropical disease is dependent on a lipidlike toxin, mycolactone, which diffuses through tissue away from the infecting organisms and elucidate its cytotoxic and immunosuppressive properties. The underlying molecular targets for mycolactone are: First, it can target scaffolding proteins (such as Wiskott Aldrich Syndrome Protein), which control actin dynamics in adherent cells and therefore lead to detachment and cell death. Second, it prevents the co-translational translocation (and therefore production) of many proteins that pass through the endoplasmic reticulum for secretion or placement in cell membranes.  Treatment includes a prolonged course of antibiotics and surgical debridement. Early identification and treatment are key, as lesions heal with scarring that can be a significant source of morbidity.
Generalized (α,β )-higher Derivations on Lie Ideals of Rings with Involution
Authors: Khan Abdul Nadim
Published: March 2019

In this manuscript, we investigate the behaviour of additive mappings which satisfy a functional identity associated with generalized (α, β)-higher derivations on Lie ideals of a prime ring with involution. As the consequences of our main theorem, many well known results can be deduced.
The Potential Pharmacological and Medicinal Properties of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) in the Drug Development of Phytomedicine
Authors: Tembe-Fokunang E. A. , Charles Fokunang , Kaba Nubia , Donatien Gatsing , Michael Agbor , Bonaventure Ngadjui
Published: March 2019

An understanding of the chemistry of the secondary metabolites of neem plant (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) is essential and important due to its medicinal properties. Several studies have been done on the biological and pharmacological activities with a considerable progress made with respect to its biological activity and medicinal uses. The neem safety is known from its long communal ethno-pharmacological uses as a category one herbal product. It is readily available with great access to the local population at low cost and environmentally friendly. This paper attempts to give an insight into the biological activities of some of the compounds isolated, pharmacological actions of the extract, clinical studies and medicinal applications along with their safety evaluations. Issues on the active chemical constituents of various formulations, commercially available neem products, are also mentioned along with their respective application.
Radiation Absorbed Dose Rates from Selected Mobile Phone Base Stations in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ilori A. O. , Adeleye B.
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study is to measure the radiation dose from Mobile Phone Base Stations relative to human exposure at various locations within Ibadan metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria by measuring the radiation dose at 10 - 100 metres distance away from the randomly selected base stations and compare the results with other studies/recommended exposure limit. A Victoreen radiation survey meter (fluke 451 model) was used to measure the radiation dose. The meter was calibrated with a calibration factor of 1.1 to standardized the values measured with international recommended standards. The average radiation dose reported for the studied area was 9.36, 11.28, 8.73, 10.17, 8.58, 9.80, 7.13, 10.05, 8.14 and 8.81 µSv/hr respectively. The mean value of radiation dose from the study area was 9.21 µSv/hr which is higher than the maximum permissible level of 5.7 µSv/hr recommended by the American Nuclear Society for persons within 0 – 100 m from a mobile phone base station. The values vary according to the distance which shows that the strength of the radiation field is greatest at the source and diminished quickly with distances. Results obtained for the present study showed that radiation emitted at mobile phone base station are at intensities that are thousands of times less than intensities that can produce a heating effect. Hence, the assumption from the results obtained for the present study area is that the radiation exposures from mobile phone base stations impose no health hazard as the limits recommended in the guidelines by International Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection do not appear to have any known adverse consequence on human health.
Zeolites and Other Micro‐ and Mesoporous Molecular Sieves
Authors: Mazur Michal , Přech Jan , Čejka Jiří
Published: March 2019

Microporous molecular sieves are materials having outstanding impact on science, technology, and industry. The main classes of porous materials discussed here are zeolites, including 2‐D‐layered zeolites and zeolitic architectures with enhanced mass‐transfer properties. Furthermore, zeotypes, ordered mesoporous sieves, and metal‐organic frameworks are described. Traditionally, porous materials are used in many catalytic processes, for sorption, separation, ion exchange, as well as finding new applications in gas storage or drug delivery. This includes both amorphous or nonordered solids with wide pore size distribution as well as those with ordered or crystalline structures having narrow range of pore sizes. The latter have been extensively studied and developed starting with zeolites, which showed extraordinary catalytic performance in hydrocarbon conversions. This encouraged efforts to extend their application and understanding, and also to overcome particular disadvantages, such as limited pore sizes causing diffusion limitations. Moreover, the synthesis of new zeolites and related molecular sieves is of great interest owing to their potential impact on the field. This article reviews the fundamental knowledge on synthesis, characterization, and application of described solids. Finally, some perspectives and directions of the research are discussed, showing constant interests in microporous solids chemistry, especially zeolites.
5′‐End sequencing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae offers new insights into 5′‐ends of tRNAHis and snoRNAs
Authors: Dodbele Samantha , Moreland Blythe , Gardner Spencer M. , Bundschuh Ralf , Jackman Jane E.
Published: March 2019

tRNAHis guanylyltransferase (Thg1) specifies eukaryotic tRNAHis identity by catalysing a 3′–5′ non‐Watson–Crick (WC) addition of guanosine to the 5′‐end of tRNAHis. Thg1 family enzymes in Archaea and Bacteria, called Thg1‐like proteins (TLPs), catalyse a similar but distinct 3′–5′ addition in an exclusively WC‐dependent manner. Here, a genetic system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae was employed to further assess the biochemical differences between Thg1 and TLPs. Utilizing a novel 5′‐end sequencing pipeline, we find that a Bacillus thuringiensis TLP sustains the growth of a thg1Δ strain by maintaining a WC‐dependent addition of U−1 across from A73. Additionally, we observe 5′‐end heterogeneity in S. cerevisiae small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), an observation that may inform methods of annotation and mechanisms of snoRNA processing.
Stereoselective C3‐substituent modification and substrate channeling by oxidoreductase BchC in bacteriochlorophyll a biosynthesis
Authors: Teramura Misato , Tsukatani Yusuke , Harada Jiro , Hirose Mitsuaki , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: March 2019

We report the in vitro activity of recombinant BchC oxidoreductase involved in bacteriochlorophyll a biosynthesis. BchC of Rhodobacter capsulatus preferentially oxidizes 31R‐3‐(1‐hydroxyethyl)‐chlorophyllide a and 31R‐3‐(1‐hydroxyethyl)‐bacteriochlorophyllide a in the presence of NAD+ to 3‐acetyl‐chlorophyllide a and bacteriochlorophyllide a, respectively, leaving the unreacted 31S‐epimers. In the reverse reaction, BchC with NADH predominately produces 31R‐epimeric alcohols from the 3‐acetyl‐(bacterio)chlorins. BchC of Chlorobaculum tepidum demonstrates the same 31R‐selectivity, suggesting that utilization of 31R‐epimers in BchC‐catalyzed reductions may be conserved across different phyla of photosynthetic bacteria. Additionally, the presence of BchC accelerates the 3‐vinyl hydration by BchF hydratase of Chlorobaculum tepidum during conversion of chlorophyllide a to 3‐acetyl‐chlorophyllide a through 3‐(1‐hydroxyethyl)‐chlorophyllide a, indicating that these enzymes work cooperatively to promote efficient bacteriochlorophyll a biosynthesis.
Application of Traditional and Emerging Methods for the Joint Analysis of Repeated Measurements With Time‐to‐Event Outcomes in Rheumatology
Authors: Arbeeva Liubov , Nelson Amanda E. , Alvarez Carolina , Cleveland Rebecca J. , Allen Kelli D. , Golightly Yvonne M. , Jordan Joanne M. , Callahan Leigh F. , Schwartz Todd A.
Published: March 2019

Objective

The goal of this paper is to describe approaches for the joint analysis of repeatedly measured data with time‐to‐event end points, first separately and then in the framework of a single comprehensive model, emphasizing the efficiency of the latter approach. Data from the Johnston County Osteoarthritis (JoCo OA) Project will be used as an example to investigate the relationship between the change in repeatedly measured body mass index (BMI) and the time‐to‐event end point of incident worsening of radiographic knee OA that was defined as an increased Kellgren/Lawrence grade in at least 1 knee over time.

Methods

First, we provide an overview of the methods for analyzing repeated measurements and time‐to‐event end points separately. Then, we describe traditional (Cox proportional hazards model [CoxPH]) and emerging (joint model [JM]) approaches, both of which allow combined analysis of repeated measures with a time‐to‐event end point in the framework of a single statistical model. Finally, we apply the models to JoCo OA data and interpret and compare the results from the different approaches.

Results

Applications of the JM (but not the CoxPH) showed that the risk of worsening radiographic OA is higher when BMI is higher or increasing, thus illustrating the advantages of the JM for analyzing such dynamic measures in a longitudinal study.

Conclusion

Joint models are preferable for simultaneous analyses of repeated measurement and time‐to‐event outcomes, particularly in the context of chronic disease, where dependency between the time‐to‐event end point and the longitudinal trajectory of repeated measurements is inherent.
Feasibility and Preliminary Outcomes of a Physical Therapist–Administered Physical Activity Intervention After Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Christiansen Meredith B. , Thoma Louise M. , Master Hiral , Voinier Dana , Schmitt Laura A. , Ziegler Melissa L. , LaValley Michael P. , White Daniel K.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To explore the feasibility, fidelity, safety, and preliminary outcomes of a physical therapist–administered physical activity (PA) intervention after total knee replacement (TKR).

Methods

People who had undergone a unilateral TKR and were receiving outpatient physical therapy (PT) were randomized to a control or intervention group. Both groups received standard PT for TKR. The intervention included being provided with a Fitbit Zip, step goals, and 1 phone call a month for 6 months after discharge from PT. Feasibility was measured by rates of recruitment and retention, safety was measured by the frequency of adverse events, and fidelity was measured by adherence to the weekly steps/day goal created by the physical therapist and participant monitoring of steps/day. An Actigraph GT3X measured PA, which was quantified as steps/day and minutes/week of engaging in moderate‐to‐vigorous PA. Our preliminary outcome was the difference in PA 6 months after discharge from PT between the control and intervention groups.

Results

Of the 43 individuals who were enrolled, 53.4% were women, the mean ± SD age was 67.0 ± 7.0 years, and the mean ± SD body mass index was 31.5 ± 5.9 kg/m2. For both the control and intervention groups, the recruitment and retention rates were 64% and 83.7%, respectively, and adherence to the intervention ranged from 45% to 60%. No study‐related adverse events occurred. The patients in the intervention group accumulated a mean 1,798 more steps/day (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 240, 3,355) and spent 73.4 more minutes/week (95% CI –14.1, 160.9) engaging in moderate‐to‐vigorous PA at 6 months than those in the control group.

Conclusion

A physical therapist–administered PA intervention is feasible and safe, demonstrates treatment fidelity, and may increase PA after TKR. Future research is needed to establish the effectiveness of the intervention.
Duration of Symptom Relief and Early Trajectory of Adverse Events for Oral Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Osani Mikala C. , Vaysbrot Elizaveta E. , Zhou Mengyu , McAlindon Timothy E. , Bannuru Raveendhara R.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Despite an extensive body of research on nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in osteoarthritis, the duration of their efficacy and timeline of adverse event (AE) onset have been understudied. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analyses from 2 to 26 weeks to characterize the efficacy and AE trajectories of oral NSAIDs in knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Database from inception to May 2018. Randomized controlled trials assessing the efficacy and/or safety of Federal Drug Administration–approved NSAIDs in knee osteoarthritis patients were included. Two independent reviewers assessed quality and extracted data. We calculated standardized mean differences (SMDs) and risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

We included 72 randomized controlled trials (26,424 participants). NSAIDs demonstrated moderate, statistically significant effects on pain that peaked at 2 weeks (SMD –0.43 [95% CI –0.48, –0.38]), but the magnitude of the effects decreased over time. The results for function were similar. The incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) AEs was significantly higher in NSAID users than placebo users as early as 4 weeks (RR 1.38 [95% CI 1.21, 1.57]). The incidence of cardiovascular (CV) AEs in NSAID users was not significantly different from placebo. Most GI and CV AEs were transient and of minor severity.

Conclusion

NSAIDs produced significant pain and function improvements that peaked at 2 weeks but decreased over time. The incidence of minor GI and CV AEs consistently rose, reaching significance as early as 4 weeks. Clinicians should weigh the durability of efficacy with the early onset of minor AEs along with patient tolerability and preferences when formulating an NSAID regimen.
Architectural Modification of Conformal PEG‐Bottlebrush Coatings Minimizes Anti‐PEG Antigenicity While Preserving Stealth Properties
Authors: Joh Daniel Y. , Zimmers Zackary , Avlani Manav , Heggestad Jacob T. , Aydin Hakan B. , Ganson Nancy , Kumar Shourya , Fontes Cassio M. , Achar Rohan K. , Hershfield Michael S. , Hucknall Angus M. , Chilkoti Ashutosh
Published: March 2019

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), a linear polymer known for its “stealth” properties, is commonly used to passivate the surface of biomedical implants and devices, and it is conjugated to biologic drugs to improve their pharmacokinetics. However, its antigenicity is a growing concern. Here, the antigenicity of PEG is investigated when assembled in a poly(oligoethylene glycol) methacrylate (POEGMA) “bottlebrush” configuration on a planar surface. Using ethylene glycol (EG) repeat lengths of the POEGMA sidechains as a tunable parameter for optimization, POEGMA brushes with sidechain lengths of two and three EG repeats are identified as the optimal polymer architecture to minimize binding of anti‐PEG antibodies (APAs), while retaining resistance to nonspecific binding by bovine serum albumin and cultured cells. Binding of backbone‐ versus endgroup‐selective APAs to POEGMA brushes is further investigated, and finally the antigenicity of POEGMA coatings is assessed against APA‐positive clinical plasma samples. These results are applied toward fabricating immunoassays on POEGMA surfaces with minimal reactivity toward APAs while retaining a low limit‐of‐detection for the analyte. Taken together, these results offer useful design concepts to reduce the antigenicity of polymer brush‐based surface coatings used in applications involving human or animal matrices.
Surface Immobilized E‐Cadherin Mimetic Peptide Regulates the Adhesion and Clustering of Epithelial Cells
Authors: Li Jie , Di Russo Jacopo , Hua Ximeng , Chu Zhiqin , Spatz Joachim P. , Wei Qiang
Published: March 2019

Cadherin mimetic peptides are widely used in synthetic biomaterials to mimic cell–cell adhesion in cell microniches. This mimicry regulates various cell behaviors. Although the interaction between immobilized cadherin and cells is investigated in numerous studies, the exact manner of functioning of cadherin mimetic peptides is yet to be fully understood. Cadherin mimetic peptides mimic only the critical amino acid sequence of cadherin and are not equal to these proteins in function. Compared to the cadherin proteins, mimetic peptides are more stable, easier to fabricate, and exhibit a precise chemical composition. In this study the E‐cadherin mimetic peptide His‐Ala‐Val (HAV) on material surfaces is immobilized and epithelial cell adhesion and clustering are studied. The results suggest that immobilized HAV peptides specifically interact with E‐cadherin on the cell membrane, resulting in an increased expression of E‐cadherin and its downstream signaling protein β‐catenin. This interaction relocates E‐cadherin‐based adhesion from the cell–cell interface to the cell–materials interface, which promotes cell adhesion via mechanosensing and initiates a transition in the cell cluster from a solid‐like to a fluid‐like state. The study presents an overview of the interactions between E‐cadherin mimetic peptide and epithelial cells to aid in the design of novel biomaterials.
A Versatile Theranostic Nanoemulsion for Architecture‐Dependent Multimodal Imaging and Dually Augmented Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Bo Shaowei , Feng Tao , Qin Xialing , Wan Yilin , Jiang Shanshan , Li Chunxiao , Lin Jing , Wang Tianfu , Zhou Xin , Jiang Zhong‐Xing , Huang Peng
Published: March 2019

To design a clinically translatable nanomedicine for photodynamic theranostics, the ingredients should be carefully considered. A high content of nanocarriers may cause extra toxicity in metabolism, and multiple theranostic agents would complicate the preparation process. These issues would be of less concern if the nanocarrier itself has most of the theranostic functions. In this work, a poly(ethylene glycol)‐boron dipyrromethene amphiphile (PEG‐F54‐BODIPY) with 54 fluorine‐19 (19F) is synthesized and employed to emulsify perfluorohexane (PFH) into a theranostic nanoemulsion (PFH@PEG‐F54‐BODIPY). The as‐prepared PFH@PEG‐F54‐BODIPY can perform architecture‐dependent fluorescence/photoacoustic/19F magnetic resonance multimodal imaging, providing more information about the in vivo structure evolution of nanomedicine. Importantly, this nanoemulsion significantly enhances the therapeutic effect of BODIPY through both the high oxygen dissolving capability and less self‐quenching of BODIPY molecules. More interestingly, PFH@PEG‐F54‐BODIPY shows high level of tumor accumulation and long tumor retention time, allowing a repeated light irradiation after a single‐dose intravenous injection. The “all‐in‐one” photodynamic theranostic nanoemulsion has simple composition, remarkable theranostic efficacy, and novel treatment pattern, and thus presents an intriguing avenue to developing clinically translatable theranostic agents.
Achieving Persistent, Efficient, and Robust Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence from Pure Organics for Versatile Applications
Authors: He Zihan , Gao Heqi , Zhang Shitong , Zheng Shuyuan , Wang Yunzhong , Zhao Zihao , Ding Dan , Yang Bing , Zhang Yongming , Yuan Wang Zhang
Published: March 2019

Pure organic persistent room‐temperature phosphorescence (p‐RTP) under ambient conditions is attractive but challenging due to the slow intersystem crossing process and susceptibility of triplet excitons. Fabrication of pure organic RTP luminogens with simultaneously high efficiency and ultralong lifetime still remains a daunting job, owing to their conflicting requirements for the T1 nature of (n,π*) and (π,π*) characteristics, respectively. Herein, a group of amide‐based derivatives with efficient p‐RTP is developed through the incorporation of spin–orbital‐coupling‐promoting groups of carbonyl and aromatic π units, giving impressive p‐RTP with lifetime and efficiency of up to 710.6 ms and 10.2%, respectively. Furthermore, two of the luminogens demonstrate intense p‐RTP after vigorous mechanical stimulation, indicating their robust nature, which is rarely encountered. Efficient and robust p‐RTP even in the amorphous state endows them promising potential for encryption and bioimaging with facile fabrication processes. A bioimaging study with live mice indicates that such highly robust p‐RTP is tremendously beneficial for in vivo afterglow imaging with an ultrahigh signal‐to‐background ratio of 428. These results strongly imply the possibility of realizing efficient and robust p‐RTP from pure organics even without meticulous protection, thus paving the way to their promising and versatile applications.
High‐Performance Field‐Effect Transistors Based on αP and βP
Authors: Montes Enrique , Schwingenschlögl Udo
Published: March 2019

The electronic properties of black and blue phosphorus nanoribbons are investigated, which enables the proposal of junction‐free field‐effect transistors that comprise metallic armchair nanoribbons as electrodes and, in between, a semiconducting zigzag nanoribbon as channel material (cut out of a single sheet of monolayer black or blue phosphorus). Using first‐principles calculations and the nonequilibrium Green's function method, the proposed field‐effect transistors are characterized. It is found that it is possible to achieve outstanding performance, with high on/off ratios, low subthreshold swings, and high transconductances.
Low f‐Number Diffraction‐Limited Pancharatnam–Berry Microlenses Enabled by Plasmonic Photopatterning of Liquid Crystal Polymers
Authors: Jiang Miao , Guo Yubing , Yu Hao , Zhou Ziyuan , Turiv Taras , Lavrentovich Oleg D. , Wei Qi‐Huo
Published: March 2019

Microlenses are desired by a wide range of industrial applications while it is always challenging to make them with diffraction‐limited quality. Here, it is shown that high‐quality microlenses based on Pancharatnam–Berry (PB) phases can be made with liquid crystal polymers by using a plasmonic photopatterning technique. Based on the generalized Snell's law for the PB phases, PB microlenses with a range of focal lengths and f‐numbers are designed and fabricated and their point‐spread functions and ability to image micrometer‐sized particles are carefully characterized. The results show that these PB microlenses with f‐number down to 2 are all diffraction‐limited. The capability of arraying these PB microlenses with 100% filling factor with a step‐and‐flash approach is further demonstrated.
Intrinsic Negative Magnetoresistance in Van Der Waals FeNbTe2 Single Crystals
Authors: Bai Wei , Hu Zhongqiang , Wang Sheng , Hua Yang , Sun Zhe , Xiao Chong , Xie Yi
Published: March 2019

Magnetoresistance, the dependence of resistivity on the applied magnetic field, provides the opportunity to manipulate and utilize the electronic spin degree of freedom, which is not only a long‐term frontier field of solid‐state physics but also the cornerstone of information storage technology. However, the negative magnetoresistance (nMR) is a relatively rare case of magnetoresistance in which the microscopic origin is still elusive and for which it is difficult to define a general interpretation. Herein, an experimental case of an intrinsic unsaturated nMR is demonstrated in van der Waals FeNbTe2 single crystal. The clear‐cut evidence in angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), the electronic transport measurement, and DC/AC magnetic susceptibility confirms that the intrinsic unsaturated nMR is derived from the comprehensive effect of Anderson localization and a spin glass state. Taking into consideration that intrinsic unsaturated nMR has so far been rarely reported, especially in van der Waals structures, it is anticipated that this work will not only lead to a deep understanding of the inherent microcosmic mechanism but will also serve as a guide to broaden the research of spintronics and information storage based on magnetoresistance.
Metal‐Guided Selective Growth of 2D Materials: Demonstration of a Bottom‐Up CMOS Inverter
Authors: Chiu Ming‐Hui , Tang Hao‐Ling , Tseng Chien‐Chih , Han Yimo , Aljarb Areej , Huang Jing‐Kai , Wan Yi , Fu Jui‐Han , Zhang Xixiang , Chang Wen‐Hao , Muller David A. , Takenobu Taishi , Tung Vincent , Li Lain‐Jong
Published: March 2019

2D transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) layered materials are promising for future electronic and optoelectronic applications. The realization of large‐area electronics and circuits strongly relies on wafer‐scale, selective growth of quality 2D TMDs. Here, a scalable method, namely, metal‐guided selective growth (MGSG), is reported. The success of control over the transition‐metal‐precursor vapor pressure, the first concurrent growth of two dissimilar monolayer TMDs, is demonstrated in conjunction with lateral or vertical TMD heterojunctions at precisely desired locations over the entire wafer in a single chemical vapor deposition (VCD) process. Owing to the location selectivity, MGSG allows the growth of p‐ and n‐type TMDs with spatial homogeneity and uniform electrical performance for circuit applications. As a demonstration, the first bottom‐up complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor inverter based on p‐type WSe2 and n‐type MoSe2 is achieved, which exhibits a high and reproducible voltage gain of 23 with little dependence on position.
Spectral Tuning of High Order Plasmonic Resonances in Multimodal Film‐Coupled Crystalline Cavities
Authors: Kumar Upkar , Cuche Aurélien , Sharma Jadab , Moreau Antoine , Colas des Francs Gérard , Girard Christian , Dujardin Erik
Published: March 2019

Sub‐micrometric and ultrathin gold cavities sustain several high order planar plasmon resonances in the visible to near‐infrared spectral window that open new perspectives for the realization of self‐assembled metasurfaces or integrated components for nano‐optics. This article investigates in detail the far‐field spectral features of these multimodal crystalline gold nanoprisms, deposited on either dielectric (glass) or metallic substrates (Au, Al) by dark‐field scattering spectroscopy. Relying on the computation of the plasmonic density of states, the signature of each planar resonance is de‐convoluted from the experimental global response of single cavities as a function of the cavity size and the substrate nature. The redshifting dispersion of each resonance is extracted from this decomposition analysis and agrees with predictions from a Green dyadic method based numerical tool. In addition, in the presence of a metallic film, a characteristic redshift or blueshift of the global response is observed for each cavity that results from a metal‐specific redistribution of the resonances. The fine spectral tuning of high order plasmonic resonances achieved here reveals the potential of the metal–insulator–metal gap geometry for a static modal engineering within ultrathin gold cavities.
Tunable Halide Perovskites for Miniaturized Solid‐State Laser Applications
Authors: Liao Qing , Jin Xue , Fu Hongbing
Published: March 2019

Halide perovskites have shown great potential in optoelectronic applications, such as a record photovoltaic efficiency of 23.3%, and an achievement of external quantum efficiency beyond 20% in perovskite light‐emitting diodes, as well as other promising demonstrations of light‐emitting transistors and photodetectors. Moreover, the extraordinary optoelectronic properties of optical absorption, high photoluminescence quantum yield, low non‐radiative recombination rates, large and balanced charge‐carrier mobilities, and high gain coefficients extend their applications into the coherent light sources (laser) field. However, although halide perovskites have made great progress, the realization of solid‐state electrically pumped lasers has not been achieved yet. This review starts with a discussion of the structure, optical properties, and gain behaviors of various perovskite materials. Then, the rapid advances of perovskite‐based laser applications are reviewed, in which they are mainly classified into three sections: optically pumping lasers, strong‐coupling lasers, and continuous‐wave pumped lasers. Finally, the conclusions and some remaining challenges for perovskite electrically driven lasers are highlighted.
Bright Blue Light‐Emitting Doped Cesium Bromide Nanocrystals: Alternatives of Lead‐Free Perovskite Nanocrystals for White LEDs
Authors: Yang Zhiwen , Jiang Zhao , Liu Xinyi , Zhou Xiaochuan , Zhang Jianhua , Li Wanwan
Published: March 2019

Lead‐based perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) are promising candidates for use in lighting and display applications; however, the toxicity of lead is one critical issue that needs to be solved for its commercialization. Consequently, less toxic tin and bismuth‐based perovskite NCs have been developed, but these materials exhibit low photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) and large full width at half maximum (FWHM) values. Due to their similarity in size for Eu2+ and Pb2+, the more environmental‐friendly europium shows the potential to replace lead. Herein, the synthesis of Eu2+ doped CsBr NCs with an average size of 51.5 nm via a facile hot‐injection method is reported. The prepared CsBr:Eu2+ NCs exhibit an emission peak at 440 nm with an FWHM of 31 nm and PLQY up to 32.8%, which is persistent for at least 60 d. Moreover, the size and FWHM of CsBr:Eu2+ NCs can be tuned to 18.9 and 29 nm, respectively, by co‐doping of Ca2+ ions into the NCs. It is also demonstrated that the prepared CsBr:Eu2+ NCs can be employed as efficient color conversion materials for fabricating white light‐emitting diodes.
Solvent‐Free Luminous Molecular Liquids
Authors: Lu Fengniu , Nakanishi Takashi
Published: March 2019

Solvent‐free luminous molecular liquids (LMLs) are a new generation of soft matter which exhibit uncharged, nonvolatile, and fluidic nature and emit intense and homogeneous luminescence in the condensed state. They can be produced readily on the gram scale by modifying luminophores with bulky, flexible, and low‐melting side chains. Their performance can be facilely enriched by blending them with commercially available functional substances. Therefore, since their active optoelectronic properties were perceived a decade ago, LMLs have been regarded as promising contributing components in the burgeoning field of flexible and wearable light‐emitting devices. Recently, richer insights into LMLs have triggered various new applications. Additionally, unexpected phase behavior and photophysical properties have been discovered coincidentally. Therefore, the sensible and sophisticated molecular design principles of LMLs are still being augmented to guarantee predictable, steady, and consistent end‐use performance. This review summarizes the latest developments in LMLs, including molecular design principles, regulation and enrichment of their photophysical properties, and their versatile applications. Additionally, a prediction of the perspectives of LMLs in the near future is presented at the end.
Electrochemical ipso‐Thiocyanation of Arylboron Compounds
Authors: Dyga Marco , Hayrapetyan Davit , Rit Raja K. , Gooßen Lukas J.
Published: March 2019

An operationally simple electrochemical method for the transition‐metal‐free ipso‐thiocyanation of arylboronic acids and aryl trifluoroborates has been developed. The SCN electrophile is generated in situ by anodic oxidation of thiocyanate anions, which avoids formation of salt waste and prevents unwanted side reactions arising from chemical oxidants. The reaction proceeds regiospecifically, and the scope extends to non‐activated aromatic systems.

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The stillbirth sex ratio as a marker of population health among live‐born males in Denmark, 1835‐1923
Authors: Bruckner Tim A. , Singh Parvati , Mortensen Laust H. , Løkke Anne
Published: March 2019

Objectives

We know little about whether an elevated stillbirth sex ratio (ratio of male to female stillbirths) gauges stronger selection in utero against frail male gestations and therefore predicts greater male infant survival. An alternative scenario could involve a “low endowment” case in which pregnancy cohorts show both excess male stillbirths and elevated mortality risk among male live births. We exploit the longest sex‐specific stillbirth series (Denmark, 1835‐1923) to explore whether annual deviations in age‐specific male mortality vary with the annual cohort's stillbirth sex ratio.

Methods

We applied autoregressive, integrated, moving average time series methods to annual counts of age‐specific male mortality in Denmark. We derived the independent variable, the stillbirth sex ratio, from only late stillbirths (ie, 28th week and thereafter) owing to data availability. Methods control for secular patterns as well as shared antecedents of male and female mortality.

Results

Cohort male infant mortality varies positively with the stillbirth sex ratio (coef = 0.0081, standard error [SE] = 0.0019, P < 0.001). This positive relation persists into childhood (ie, ages 1‐4.99 years) but attenuates with age.

Discussion

We infer support for the “low endowment” argument in that high stillbirth sex ratios predict a relatively greater risk of mortality among males which ultimately survive to birth. These findings provide evidence that the stillbirth sex ratio may serve as a marker of population health among male cohorts.
A Japanese patient with RAD51‐associated Fanconi anemia
Authors: Takenaka Satoshi , Kuroda Yukiko , Ohta Sayaka , Mizuno Yoko , Hiwatari Mitsuteru , Miyatake Satoko , Matsumoto Naomichi , Oka Akira
Published: March 2019

RAD51 is the only identified autosomal dominant gene to date causative of Fanconi anemia (FA) due to dominant negative effects. Only two patients with RAD51‐associated FA have been reported with atypical FA phenotypes without bone marrow failure. We describe a new Asian patient with a novel RAD51 mutation, presenting with multiple congenital anomalies and atypical FA with chromosomal instability. The patient was a 9‐year‐old Japanese girl. She had strabismus, myopia, submucous cleft palate, bilateral hearing impairment, and scoliosis. She also had growth retardation, developmental delay, and severe intellectual disability. We performed trio whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing and identified a de novo RAD51 mutation (c.725A>G, p.Gln242Arg). Isolated lymphocytes from the patient were hypersensitive to chromosomal breakage induced by the DNA cross‐linking agent, mitomycin C. Our detailed phenotypic analysis of the RAD51‐associated atypical FA revealed clinical manifestations from the diverse population and a consistent FA phenotype characterized by chromosome instability, intellectual disability, radial ray abnormality, and microcephaly, but not bone marrow failure.
Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor Assay: Further Improvement of the Standard Method Approved and Reapproved by American Oil Chemists’ Society and American Association of Cereal Chemists International
Authors: Liu Keshun
Published: March 2019

For measuring trypsin inhibitor (TI) activities in soybean products, the current standard method, approved and reapproved by American Oil Chemists Society (Method Ba 12‐75) and American Association of Cereal Chemists International (Method 22‐40.01), features mixing trypsin with a series of inhibitor levels and then adding a substrate to start the colorimetric reaction. Yet, previous studies have shown flaws with the method, particularly with using several inhibitor levels and the sequence of adding the substrate last. The present study showed that with varying levels of dilution and volumes of a dilute sample extract, the pH of the premix (the mixture of a dilute sample extract and trypsin solution) ranged 3.30–3.60 for raw soy flour, and 3.20–6.70 for toasted soy. Within these premix pH ranges, the standard method of adding substrate last would give TI values equal to or less than those measured by the same method except for adding the enzyme last. The standard method was subsequently improved by using a single sample extract level and the enzyme‐last sequence. Other modifications included making stock solutions for reagents, adding Ca2+ to the trypsin solution, diluting sample extracts to a level that causes 30–70% of inhibition, and running both reference and sample blanks for better controls. Alternatively, the full volume assay (10 mL total, as in the standard method) was further modified by using half the volume of each reagent with the same concentration. Compared to the standard method, the improved methods gave more consistent results when assaying 11 selected soy products. The half volume (5 mL) and full volume methods gave the same results, but the former could increase assay sensitivity and reduce amounts of reagents used.
Mechanical responses in the length direction and thickness direction of quaternary 1,4‐diazabicyclo‐[2.2.2]‐octane polysulfone alkaline anion‐exchange fuel‐cell membranes
Authors: Zhang Zhennan , Su Huiyu , Tian Chenyao , Qi Rongrong , Wang Xu , Xia Re
Published: March 2019

A quaternary 1,4‐diazabicyclo‐[2.2.2]‐octane polysulfone (QDPSU) alkaline anion‐exchange fuel‐cell membrane was synthesized. Nanoindentation and uniaxial tension methods were used to test the mechanical properties of this membrane in both the thickness direction and length direction at 26°C and 40% relative humidity. We found that the QDPSU membrane exhibited remarkable viscoelastic properties with significant loading rate‐dependent behavior and time‐dependent behavior (creep–relaxation). The value of compression creep rates and compression relaxation rates of the QDPSU membrane were measured to be about 0.2 by a spherical indenter and changed very little with different holding loads. Compared with Nafion, a most widely used fuel‐cell membrane, the QDPSU alkaline anion‐exchange membrane showed a better creep resistance. During the nanoindentation fatigue test, the variation of depths with the indentation cycles were divided into a rising primary region, a steady‐state secondary region, and a continuous declining region. This was different from the uniaxial tension fatigue test. The cross‐scale and cross‐direction mechanical study from this work will help provide new evidence for bridging the gap between nanoindentation and uniaxial tensile testing. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47696.
Enhanced therapeutic efficacy of clotrimazole by delivery through poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) copolymer‐based micelles
Authors: Kareem Faheem , Bhayo Adnan Murad , Imran Muhammad , Shah Muhammad Raza , Khan Khalid Mohammed , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: March 2019

Amphiphilic block copolymers have been the subject of great scientific interests due to their applications in various fields including nano drug delivery. Three amphiphilic block copolymers based on poly(ε‐caprolactone) as a hydrophobic segment and methoxy poly(ethylene oxide) ( as a hydrophilic part were synthesized by the ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone using MeO‐PEO5K as macroinitiator by varying initial feed ratios. The synthesized polymers were further explored for their drug delivery potential using clotrimazole as model hydrophobic drug. Drug‐loaded micelles were characterized for shape, size, drug encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release, and thermal stability using atomic force microscope, zetasizer, UV–visible spectrophotometry, FTIR, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. Clotrimazole loaded in micelles were also investigated for its antifungal activity through an in vitro assay and scanning electron microscopy. The antifungal activity of drug increased significantly by delivering through polymeric micelles. Current study provides insight into different factors that can be maneuvered to achieve a variety of desired properties of micelles for improved therapeutic efficacy of drugs like clotrimazole. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47769.
The UK National Student Survey: An amalgam of discipline and neo‐liberal governmentality
Authors: Thiel Jonas
Published: March 2019

The UK National Student Survey (NSS) has high status on the agenda of UK universities. Its rise in status is linked to its influence on national rankings and associated funding streams referenced to the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). Consequently, many universities have implemented further assessments of student satisfaction, thereby putting additional internal performative pressures on courses and individual lecturers. The research contribution of this article comprises an analysis of the NSS through Foucault's notion of ‘governmentality’, with a particular focus on his work on ‘discipline’ and ‘neo‐liberal governmentality’. More specifically, by utilising qualitative data from interviews, research diaries and observations, it will be demonstrated how the NSS functions as a ‘disciplinary’ technology of government which subjects lecturers, departments and universities to intersecting panoptic gazes and perpetual ratings. In addition, the NSS can also be considered ‘neo‐liberal’ in that it governs the academic population through narrow conceptions of ‘freedom’ and omnipresent competition. The article proposes that it is through the amalgamated forces of intersecting panoptic gazes, on the one hand, and neo‐liberal free‐market principles, on the other, that student feedback develops its power to govern.
Randomized clinical trial of mechanochemical and endovenous thermal ablation of great saphenous varicose veins
Authors: Vähäaho S , Mahmoud O , Halmesmäki K , Albäck A , Noronen K , Vikatmaa P , Aho P , Venermo M
Published: March 2019

Background

A variety of minimally invasive techniques are available for the treatment of varicose great saphenous vein (GSVs). Non-tumescent, non-thermal ablation methods have been developed. This study compared mechanochemical ablation (MOCA), a non-tumescent, non-thermal ablation technique, with two endovenous thermal ablation methods requiring tumescence in an RCT.

Methods

Patients with GSV reflux were randomized to undergo MOCA, or thermal ablation with endovenous laser (EVLA) or radiofrequency (RFA). The primary outcome measure was the occlusion rate of the GSV at 1 year.

Results

The study finally included 125 patients, of whom 117 (93·6 per cent) attended 1-year follow-up. At 1 year, the treated part of the GSV was fully occluded in all patients in the EVLA and RFA groups, and in 45 of 55 in the MOCA group (occlusion rates 100, 100 and 82 per cent respectively; P = 0·002). The preoperative GSV diameter was associated with the recanalization rate of the proximal GSV in the MOCA group. At 1 year after treatment, disease-specific life quality was similar in the three groups.

Conclusion

The GSV occlusion rate 1 year after treatment was significantly higher after EVLA and RFA than after MOCA. Quality of life was similar between interventions. Registration number: NCT03722134 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Bacterial endocarditis presenting in an adult patient with undiagnosed double‐chambered right ventricle
Authors: Bhambi Neil Salil , Shah Abhishek , Sarte Patrick , Laughrun David Robert
Published: March 2019

Key Clinical Message

Double‐chambered right ventricle (DCRV) is a rare congenital heart defect often associated with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis. Cardiac catheterization or magnetic resonance imaging can differentiate between DCRV and Tetralogy of Fallot when echocardiogram is inconclusive. Patients are at an increased risk for bacterial endocarditis.
Demonstrating the Potential of Chemiluminescence as a Tool to Characterize Heterogeneous Catalysis Using CO Oxidation on Copper‐Based Catalysts as an Example
Authors: Kato Satoru , Ito Yoshihiko , Ikuta Yasuhiro , Morikawa Akira , Suda Akihiko , Tanabe Toshitaka
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the potential of chemiluminescence (CL) as a tool to determine reaction mechanisms of heterogeneous catalyst is demonstrated. Since CL is emitted from excited species produced in chemical reactions, the analysis of CL is expected to be informative for investigating reaction mechanisms. As a representative example, CL under CO oxidation over copper‐based catalysts was measured. The reaction mechanism of copper‐based catalysts reportedly depends on the support material. CL was observed with CuO/Al2O3 and CuO/SiO2−Al2O3 but was not detected with CuO, CuO/TiO2 and CuO/SiO2. Transient CL emitting analysis for CuO/Al2O3 revealed that CL was emitted via an Eley‐Rideal (ER) mechanism. Although the CO oxidation mechanism over CuO/SiO2−Al2O3 has not been reported, CO oxidation via an ER mechanism was suggested based on the similarities of the CL spectra of CuO/SiO2−Al2O3 and CuO/Al2O3. This suggests the potential of CL as a tool to investigate reaction mechanisms of heterogeneous catalysts.
Influence of the Solvent Content on the Phase Transformation of Sulfadiazine N‐Methyl Pyrrolidone Solvate
Authors: Macaringue Estevao G. J. , Wu Songgu , Liu Shiyuan , Xu Shijie , Gong Junbo
Published: March 2019

The influence of the solvent content on the solution‐mediated phase transformation of sulfadiazine (SD) N‐methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) solvate into SD was investigated for process development. The solubility results of the NMP solvate and SD in NMP solvent/water mixtures supported by the analysis of solvent‐solvent interactions between NMP solvent molecules were used to understand and optimize the transformation of the NMP solvate into SD. Needle‐on‐rhombic‐like aggregated crystals and rod‐like single crystals of SD were obtained and reported for the first time. By combining Raman spectroscopy, focused‐beam reflectance measurements, and scanning electron microscopy, the phase transformation of NMP solvate into SD was tracked. Higher temperatures and stirring rates accelerate the transformation process and have a negative influence on the final SD product quality.