bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterned Arrays of Supramolecular Microcapsules
Authors: Zhang Jing , Liu Ji , Yu Ziyi , Chen Su , Scherman Oren A. , Abell Chris
Published: March 2018

Micropatterning of hydrogel has brought innovative outcomes in fundamental and applied material sciences. Previous approaches have mainly been dedicated to fabricate arrays of bulk hydrogel beads, which have inherent challenges including loading ability, scalability, specificity, and versatility. Here, a methodology is presented to create hollow microcapsule arrays from sessile microdroplets. The difference in wettability between hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces enables self‐partitioning of liquid into microdroplet arrays, serving as microreservoirs to load complementarily functionalized host–guest polymers, cucurbit[8]uril‐threaded highly branched polyrotaxanes (HBP‐CB[8]) and naphthyl‐functionalized hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC‐Np). The interfacial dynamic complexation between positively charged HBP‐CB[8] and HEC‐Np occurs in the presence of negatively charged surfactants, resulting in condensed supramolecular hydrogel skins. The hydrogel microcapsules are uniform in size and are developed to encapsulate target cargos in a robust and well‐defined manner. Moreover, the microcapsule substrates are further used for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy sensing upon loading of gold nanoparticles. This facile assembly of microcapsule arrays has potential applications in controlled cargo delivery, bio‐sensing, high‐throughput analysis, and sorting.
Ultrafast Acoustofluidic Exfoliation of Stratified Crystals
Authors: Ahmed Heba , Rezk Amgad R. , Carey Benjamin J. , Wang Yichao , Mohiuddin Md , Berean Kyle J. , Russo Salvy P. , Kalantar‐zadeh Kourosh , Yeo Leslie Y.
Published: March 2018

While the remarkable properties of 2D crystalline materials offer tremendous opportunities for their use in optics, electronics, energy systems, biotechnology, and catalysis, their practical implementation largely depends critically on the ability to exfoliate them from a 3D stratified bulk state. This goal nevertheless remains elusive, particularly in terms of a rapid processing method that facilitates high yield and dimension control. An ultrafast multiscale exfoliation method is reported which exploits the piezoelectricity of stratified materials that are noncentrosymmetric in nature to trigger electrically‐induced mechanical failure across weak grain boundaries associated with their crystal domain planes. In particular, it is demonstrated that microfluidic nebulization using high frequency acoustic waves exposes bulk 3D piezoelectric crystals such as molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) and tungsten disulphide (WS2) to a combination of extraordinarily large mechanical acceleration (≈108 m s−2) and electric field (≈107 V m−1). This results in the layered bulk material being rapidly cleaved into pristine quasi‐2D‐nanosheets that predominantly comprise single layers, thus constituting a rapid and high throughput chip‐scale method that opens new possibilities for scalable production and spray coating deposition.
Injectable Granular Hydrogels with Multifunctional Properties for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mealy Joshua E. , Chung Jennifer J. , Jeong Heon‐Ho , Issadore David , Lee Daeyeon , Atluri Pavan , Burdick Jason A.
Published: March 2018

Injectable hydrogels are useful for numerous biomedical applications, such as to introduce therapeutics into tissues or for 3D printing. To expand the complexity of available injectable hydrogels, shear‐thinning and self‐healing granular hydrogels are developed from microgels that interact via guest–host chemistry. The microgel properties (e.g., degradation, molecule release) are tailored through their crosslinking chemistry, including degradation in response to proteases. When microgels of varied formulations are mixed, complex release and degradation behaviors are observed, including after injection to permit cellular invasion.
Laser Rewritable Dichroics through Reconfigurable Organic Charge‐Transfer Liquid Crystals
Authors: Van Winkle Madeline , Scrymgeour David A. , Kaehr Bryan , Reczek Joseph J.
Published: March 2018

Charge‐transfer materials based on the self‐assembly of aromatic donor–acceptor complexes enable a modular organic‐synthetic approach to develop and fine‐tune electronic and optical properties, and thus these material systems stand to impact a wide range of technologies. Through laser‐induction of temperature gradients, in this study, user‐defined patterning of strongly dichroic and piezoelectric organic thin films composed of donor–acceptor columnar liquid crystals is shown. Fine, reversible control over isotropic versus anisotropic regions in thin films is demonstrated, enabling noncontact writing/rewriting of micropolarizers, bar codes, and charge‐transfer based devices.
Self‐Activating, Capacitive Anion Intercalation Enables High‐Power Graphite Cathodes
Authors: Wang Gang , Yu Minghao , Wang Jungang , Li Debao , Tan Deming , Löffler Markus , Zhuang Xiaodong , Müllen Klaus , Feng Xinliang
Published: March 2018

Developing high‐power cathodes is crucial to construct next‐generation quick‐charge batteries for electric transportation and grid applications. However, this mainly relies on nanoengineering strategies at the expense of low scalability and high battery cost. Another option is provided herein to build high‐power cathodes by exploiting inexpensive bulk graphite as the active electrode material, where anion intercalation is involved. With the assistance of a strong alginate binder, the disintegration problem of graphite cathodes due to the large volume variation of >130% is well suppressed, making it possible to investigate the intrinsic electrochemical behavior and to elucidate the charge storage kinetics of graphite cathodes. Ultrahigh power capability up to 42.9 kW kg−1 at the energy density of >300 Wh kg−1 (based on graphite mass) and long cycling life over 10 000 cycles are achieved, much higher than those of conventional cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries. A self‐activating and capacitive anion intercalation into graphite is discovered for the first time, making graphite a new intrinsic intercalation‐pseudocapacitance cathode material. The finding highlights the kinetical difference of anion intercalation (as cathode) from cation intercalation (as anode) into graphitic carbon materials, and new high‐power energy storage devices will be inspired.
Over 14% Efficiency in Polymer Solar Cells Enabled by a Chlorinated Polymer Donor
Authors: Zhang Shaoqing , Qin Yunpeng , Zhu Jie , Hou Jianhui
Published: March 2018

Fluorine‐contained polymers, which have been widely used in highly efficient polymer solar cells (PSCs), are rather costly due to their complicated synthesis and low yields in the preparation of components. Here, the feasibility of replacing the critical fluorine substituents in high‐performance photovoltaic polymer donors with chlorine is demonstrated, and two polymeric donors, PBDB‐T‐2F and PBDB‐T‐2Cl, are synthesized and compared in parallel. The synthesis of PBDB‐T‐2Cl is much simpler than that of PBDB‐T‐2F. The two polymers have very similar optoelectronic and morphological properties, except the chlorinated polymer possess lower molecular energy levels than the fluorinated one. As a result, the PBDB‐T‐2Cl‐based PSCs exhibit higher open circuit voltage (Voc) than the PBDB‐T‐2F‐based devices, leading to an outstanding power conversion efficiency of over 14%. This work establishes a more economical design paradigm of replacing fluorine with chlorine for preparing highly efficient polymer donors.
Tunable Colloidal Crystalline Patterns on Flat and Periodically Micropatterned Surfaces as Antireflective Layers and Printable–Erasable Substrates
Authors: Song Ji Eun , Park Jong Seong , Lee Beu , Pyun Seung Beom , Lee Jieun , Kim Min Gyu , Han Yilong , Cho Eun Chul
Published: March 2018

2D nonclose‐packed colloidal crystal patterns have received considerable attention in various fields, but it remains a challenge to fabricate patterns and manipulate their geometries regardless of substrate types and structures. Herein, a simple approach is developed for producing nonclose‐packed hydrogel colloidal crystalline patterns on flat and periodically micropatterned substrates by exposing close‐packed colloidal crystal monolayers to salt aqueous solutions. The patterns are achievable on flat surfaces like silicon, glass, graphene, poly(ethylene terephthalate), and poly(dimethyl siloxane) surfaces. Hydrogel colloidal spheres can deform into disk‐like or hemispherical particles on different material substrates. The colloid geometries and dimensions in the patterns are tunable by varying the salt type or concentration. The tunable colloidal crystalline patterns can form on periodically micropatterned substrates, resulting in novel hierarchical crystalline structures. The modification of the method is effective to easily fabricate nonclose‐packed hybrid colloidal crystal patterns where plasmonic nanoparticles are selectively assembled on the hydrogel particle surfaces. These patterned substrates modulate colors, reduce reflectivity of visible to near‐infrared light, and enhance transmittance. The nonclose‐packed colloidal patterns are useful as antireflection coating layers to enhance the solar thermoelectricity efficiencies of flat and micropatterned substrates. The optical tunability of colloidal crystal patterns enables developing colloid crystal‐based printable and erasable substrates.
Compact 3D Copper with Uniform Porous Structure Derived by Electrochemical Dealloying as Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anode Current Collector
Authors: Zhao Heng , Lei Danni , He Yan‐Bing , Yuan Yifei , Yun Qinbai , Ni Bin , Lv Wei , Li Baohua , Yang Quan‐Hong , Kang Feiyu , Lu Jun
Published: March 2018

The development of lithium (Li) metal anodes Li metal batteries faces huge challenges such as uncontrolled Li dendrite growth and large volume change during Li plating/stripping, resulting in severe capacity decay and high safety hazards. A 3D porous copper (Cu) current collector as a host for Li deposition can effectively settle these problems. However, constructing a uniform and compact 3D porous Cu structure is still an enormous challenge. Herein, an electrochemical etching method for Cu–Zinc (Zn) alloy is reported to precisely engrave a 3D Cu structure with uniform, smooth, and compact porous network. Such a continuous structure endows 3D Cu excellent mechanical properties and high electrical conductivity. The uniform and smooth pores with a large internal surface area ensures well dispersed current density for homogeneous Li metal deposition and accommodation. A smooth and stable solid electrolyte interphase is formed and meanwhile Li dendrites and dead Li are effectively suppressed. The Li metal anode conceived 3D Cu current collector can stably cycle for 400 h under an Li plating/stripping capacity of 1 mA h cm−2 and a current density of 1 mA cm−2. The Li@3D Cu||LiFePO4 full cells present excellent cycling and rate performances. The electrochemical dealloying is a robust method to construct 3D Cu current collectors for dendrite‐free Li metal anodes.
Comparing the efficacy of Silastic and gloved‐Merocel middle meatal spacers for functional endoscopic sinus surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Manji Jamil , Habib Al‐Rahim R. , Macias‐Valle Luis , Finkelstein Andres , Alsaleh Saad , Dadgostar Anali , Al‐Asousi Fahad , Okpaleke Christopher , Javer Amin R.
Published: March 2018

Background

Spacers are inserted into the middle meatal space (MMS) following functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to prevent lateralization of the middle turbinate, scarring, and synechiae. Our objective was to determine if the incidence of postoperative synechiae, facial pain/discomfort, pain during spacer removal, scarring, and discharge differed between nasal cavities receiving Silastic or gloved‐Merocel (GM) spacers following FESS.

Methods

A double‐blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in adults requiring bilateral FESS for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) ± nasal polyposis. Participants served as their own controls, with each subject receiving both a Silastic and GM spacer. Spacers were inserted into the MMS during FESS and left in situ for 6 days. Participants were reviewed at 6 days, 5 weeks, and 12 weeks postoperatively. The presence of synechiae and scarring were evaluated endoscopically. Inflammation, discharge, and pain during spacer removal were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

Forty‐eight participants (96 nasal cavities) were recruited. Preoperatively, Lund‐Mackay computed tomography (CT) scores were similar between Silastic‐treated and GM‐treated cavities (6.38 ± 2.35 vs 6.18 ± 2.17). The incidence of synechiae and scarring did not differ significantly between spacers up to 12 weeks postoperatively. Pain during spacer removal was significantly greater for Silastic than GM spacers (2.13 ± 1.34 vs 1.51 ± 1.23, p = 0.020). Facial pain prior to removal and extent of discharge did not differ significantly between spacers.

Conclusion

Following FESS, patients report less pain during removal of GM than Silastic spacers. However, the likelihood of synechiae and scarring did not differ between either of the spacers.
Combat zone exposure and respiratory tract disease
Authors: Parsel Sean M. , Riley Charles A. , McCoul Edward D.
Published: March 2018

Background

The impact of deployment to combat zones on the respiratory and sinonasal health of U.S. soldiers is an emerging public health concern. Retrospective studies have shown a correlation between deployment and development of post‐deployment pathology, particularly of the aerodigestive system. Respiratory disease, including sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma, are commonly reported in soldiers deployed to the Middle East and Southwest Asia.

Methods

Current literature pertaining to combat zone exposure and development of respiratory disease was retrieved using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

Results

Several types of combat zone exposures exist that may play an influential role in the development of upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. Exposures including foreign dusts, harsh environments, particulate size, and close living quarters may play a causative role. The effect of combat zone exposures has been better examined for lower respiratory tract diseases; however, with the theory of the unified airway, the upper respiratory tract may also be involved. There is evidence that the upper respiratory tract is susceptible, with an increased risk for development of sinusitis and sinonasal disease; however, the quality of evidence of the present literature is generally low.

Conclusion

More research is necessary to determine a pathophysiologic mechanism between combat zone exposure and the development of sinonasal disease. Practicing otolaryngologists should be aware of the possibility of combat zone exposures that could contribute to rhinologic symptomatology.
Bright‐Dark Rogue Waves
Authors: Kbashi Hani , Sergeyev Sergey V. , Mou Chengbo , Garcia Amos Martinez , Araimi Mohammed Al , Rozhin Aleksei , Kolpakov Stanislav , Kalashnikov Vladimir
Published: March 2018

During the last two decades, revealing mechanisms of origin waves with anomalous amplitude (rogue waves) have been in the focus of researchers from different fields ranging from oceanography to laser physics. Mode‐locked lasers, as a test bed system, provide a unique opportunity to collect more data on rogue waves in the form of random pulses (soliton rain) and to clarify the mechanisms of rogue‐wave emergence caused by soliton–soliton and soliton–dispersive wave interactions. Here, for the first time, for an Er‐doped mode‐locked laser, a new type of vector rogue waves is demonstrated experimentally and theoretically, which is driven by desynchronization of the orthogonal linear states of polarization, so leading to output power oscillations in the form of anomalous spikes‐dips (bright‐dark rogue waves). The results can pave the way to unlocking the universal nature of the origin of rogue waves and thus can be of interest to the broad scientific community.
Unilaterale NMR zur Untersuchung von Kunst und Kulturgut
Authors: Rehorn Christian , Blümich Bernhard
Published: March 2018

Die Kernspinresonanz ermöglicht In‐situ‐Bestimmungen der Isotopendichte in Proben und Objekten. Dabei erzeugen Relaxationsprozesse weiteren Kontrast, der nicht nur mit der NMR‐Spektroskopie oder der Magnetresonanztomographie, sondern auch über die der zerstörungsfreie Streufeldanalyse mit tragbaren 1H‐NMR‐Sensoren erfasst werden kann. Bei unilateralen NMR‐Sensoren liegt das Detektionsvolumen außerhalb des Gerätes, sodass mobile Sensoren mittlerweile auch für Untersuchungen von Kunst und Kulturgut genutzt werden. Die wichtigsten Anwendungen umfassen die Analyse von Schichtstrukturen in Gemälden und Fresken sowie die Verfolgung von alterungsinduzierten Veränderungen der Materialeigenschaften durch Alterung, Konservierungs‐ oder Restaurierungsmaßnahmen.
Heteroannulation of Arynes with α‐Amino Imides: Synthesis of 2,2‐Disubstituted Indolin‐3‐ones and Application to the Enantioselective Total Synthesis of (+)‐Hinckdentine A
Authors: Torres‐Ochoa Rubén O. , Buyck Thomas , Wang Qian , Zhu Jieping
Published: March 2018

A novel heteroannulation reaction between α‐amino imides and in situ generated arynes has been developed for the synthesis of 2,2‐disubstituted indolin‐3‐ones. An enantioselective total synthesis of the marine alkaloid (+)‐hinckdentine A was subsequently accomplished using this reaction as a key step. A catalytic enantioselective Michael addition of an α‐aryl‐α‐isocyanoacetate to phenyl vinyl selenone was employed for the construction of the enantioenriched α‐quaternary α‐amino ester.
From S,N‐Heteroacene to Large Discotic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Liquid Crystal versus Plastic Crystalline Materials with Tunable Mechanochromic Fluorescence
Authors: Yuan Wei , Ren Xiang‐Kui , Li Mengwei , Guo Hongshuang , Han Yi , Wu Mengjiao , Wang Qi , Li Miaomiao , Chen Yulan
Published: March 2018

A novel type of discotic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) based on an enlarged dibenzo[a,c]phenazine core has been developed. The large conjugated mesogenic core with increased dipole moment derived from S,N heteroatoms facilitates the formation of highly ordered columnar superstructures both in solution and bulk. Columnar mesophases, including liquid crystal (LC) and plastic crystal (PC) assemblies could form unprecedentedly based on the same PAH core. The cores are delicately modulated by the peripherical alkoxy chains. Both mesogens have mechanochromic fluorescent (MCF) character, which is also structure dependent and correlated with the different mesophase formation. For the first time, MCF properties can be realized in such a large conjugated mesogenic system.
Realization of Walnut‐Shaped Particles with Macro‐/Mesoporous Open Channels through Pore Architecture Manipulation and Their Use in Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Guan Bu Yuan , Zhang Song Lin , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: March 2018

Herein we report a simple dual‐soft‐template approach to prepare walnut‐shaped macro‐/mesoporous polydopamine particles with diameter of ca. 270 nm, highly accessible bicontinuous channels and wide pore size distribution from ca. 20 nm to ca. 95 nm. This approach provides great opportunities to tailor the soft template‐directed assembly processes and generate various polydopamine particles with controllable mesophase curvature. Walnut‐shaped mesoporous carbon particles with large open mesochannels in the range of ca. 13 nm to ca. 50 nm can be fabricated by subsequent thermal treatment under nitrogen atmosphere. Lastly, we demonstrate that the as‐derived walnut‐shaped carbon particles manifest enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline electrolyte.
Catalytic Reduction of Molecular Dinitrogen to Ammonia and Hydrazine Using Vanadium Complexes
Authors: Sekiguchi Yoshiya , Arashiba Kazuya , Tanaka Hiromasa , Eizawa Aya , Nakajima Kazunari , Yoshizawa Kazunari , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: March 2018

Newly designed and prepared vanadium complexes bearing anionic pyrrole‐based PNP‐type pincer and aryloxy ligands were found to work as effective catalysts for the direct conversion of molecular dinitrogen into ammonia and hydrazine under mild reaction conditions. This is the first successful example of vanadium‐catalyzed dinitrogen reduction under mild reaction conditions.
Cultural Heritage Studies with Mobile NMR
Authors: Rehorn Christian , Blümich Bernhard
Published: March 2018

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) provides in situ information about selected isotope densities in samples and objects, while also providing contrast through rotational and translational molecular dynamics. These parameters are probed not only in NMR spectroscopy and imaging but also in nondestructive materials testing by mobile stray‐field NMR, the unique properties of which are valuable in cultural heritage studies. We present recent progress in the analysis of cultural heritage with mobile 1H NMR stray‐field sensors, for which the detection zone is outside of the NMR magnet. Prominent applications include the analysis of stratigraphies in paintings and frescoes, and the assessment of material states changing under the impact of aging, conservation, and restoration.
Human Enzymes for Organic Synthesis
Authors: Winkler Margit , Geier Martina , Hanlon Steven P. , Nidetzky Bernd , Glieder Anton
Published: March 2018

Human enzymes have been widely studied in various disciplines. The number of reactions taking place in the human body is vast, and so is the number of potential catalysts for synthesis. Herein, we focus on the application of human enzymes that catalyze chemical reactions in course of the metabolism of drugs and xenobiotics. Some of these reactions have been explored on the preparative scale. The major field of application of human enzymes is currently drug development, where they are applied for the synthesis of drug metabolites.
Halogen–Aromatic π Interactions Modulate Inhibitor Residence Times
Authors: Heroven Christina , Georgi Victoria , Ganotra Gaurav K. , Brennan Paul , Wolfreys Finn , Wade Rebecca C. , Fernández‐Montalván Amaury E. , Chaikuad Apirat , Knapp Stefan
Published: March 2018

Prolonged drug residence times may result in longer‐lasting drug efficacy, improved pharmacodynamic properties, and “kinetic selectivity” over off‐targets with high drug dissociation rates. However, few strategies have been elaborated to rationally modulate drug residence time and thereby to integrate this key property into the drug development process. Herein, we show that the interaction between a halogen moiety on an inhibitor and an aromatic residue in the target protein can significantly increase inhibitor residence time. By using the interaction of the serine/threonine kinase haspin with 5‐iodotubercidin (5‐iTU) derivatives as a model for an archetypal active‐state (type I) kinase–inhibitor binding mode, we demonstrate that inhibitor residence times markedly increase with the size and polarizability of the halogen atom. The halogen–aromatic π interactions in the haspin–inhibitor complexes were characterized by means of kinetic, thermodynamic, and structural measurements along with binding‐energy calculations.
Synthesis of Densely Packaged, Ultrasmall Pt02 Clusters within a Thioether‐Functionalized MOF: Catalytic Activity in Industrial Reactions at Low Temperature
Authors: Mon Marta , Rivero‐Crespo Miguel A. , Ferrando‐Soria Jesús , Vidal‐Moya Alejandro , Boronat Mercedes , Leyva‐Pérez Antonio , Corma Avelino , Hernández‐Garrido Juan C. , López‐Haro Miguel , Calvino José J. , Ragazzon Giulio , Credi Alberto , Armentano Donatella , Pardo Emilio
Published: March 2018

The gram‐scale synthesis, stabilization, and characterization of well‐defined ultrasmall subnanometric catalytic clusters on solids is a challenge. The chemical synthesis and X‐ray snapshots of Pt02 clusters, homogenously distributed and densely packaged within the channels of a metal–organic framework, is presented. This hybrid material catalyzes efficiently, and even more importantly from an economic and environmental viewpoint, at low temperature (25 to 140 °C), energetically costly industrial reactions in the gas phase such as HCN production, CO2 methanation, and alkene hydrogenations. These results open the way for the design of precisely defined catalytically active ultrasmall metal clusters in solids for technically easier, cheaper, and dramatically less‐dangerous industrial reactions.
The structural (FTIR, XRD, and XPS) and biological studies of thermosensitive chitosan chloride gels with β‐glycerophosphate disodium
Authors: Skwarczynska Agata , Kaminska Marta , Owczarz Piotr , Bartoszek Nina , Walkowiak Bogdan , Modrzejewska Zofia
Published: March 2018

In this article, the properties of thermosensitive chitosan hydrogels (structural and biological) prepared using chitosan chloride and β‐glycerophosphate are presented. The porous structure of the gels was observed with a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Rheological and other structural and morphological investigations were carried out by infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Crystallinity of the gel was determined by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Biocompatibility of the chitosan gels was investigated by contact with bone cells (line Saos‐2) for 7 and 21 days. The cells were encapsulated and seeded onto the gel. A live/dead test showed no cytotoxic reaction. The structure of the gels, before and after the cell culture, was tested using SEM (including ESEM), to select the most suitable method of preparation and reliable visualization of the gel with cells. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46459.
UV‐laser formation of 3D structures based on thermally stable heterochain polymers
Authors: Dudova Daria S. , Bardakova Kseniia N. , Kholkhoev Bato Ch. , Ochirov Boris D. , Gorenskaia Elena N. , Farion Ivan A. , Burdukovskii Vitalii F. , Timashev Petr S. , Minaev Nikita V. , Kupriyanova Olga S.
Published: March 2018

A new approach to making a photopolymeric composition was first elaborated in this work based on the use of poly‐N,N′‐(m‐phenylene)isophtalamide as the heterochain polymer matrix together with 4,4′‐diphenyl oxide diacrylamide as the crosslinking agent. Reproducible three‐dimensional (3D) objects have been formed using a laser stereolithograph completed with a laser with wavelength of 405 nm. According to the thermogravimetric analysis, the thermal stability of the formed objects could be changed through a control from 260 to 405 °C. Moreover, it was proven that the tensile strength of samples of the crosslinked films reached 90.1 ± 3.2 MPa at the elongation at break of 12.4 ± 2.3%, depending on the forming parameters of such samples. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46463.
Thermal conductivity and dielectric properties of polypropylene‐based hybrid compounds containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Russo P. , Patti A. , Petrarca C. , Acierno S.
Published: March 2018

In this article, we explore the possibility to develop composites with improved thermal conductivity and electrically insulating properties. The strategy adopted is to combine a thermal and electrical conductive filler (multiwalled carbon nanotubes) with secondary dielectric (but thermally conductive) fillers. To this end, particles with different compositions, sizes, and shape were used as secondary fillers and the composites, prepared by melt compounding, are characterized in terms of thermal and dielectric properties. Results show that, in ternary formulations, an increase of thermal conductivity is always verified for all kind of secondary particles. Analogously, increments in electrical conductivity are observed for ternary compounds containing larger size secondary fillers, while a significant reduction is achieved with the addition of smaller ones. This behavior is explained in terms of mutual distribution of the fillers and is consistent with direct (scanning electron microscopy) and indirect (rheological) observations. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46470.
Flame‐retardant expandable polystyrene foams coated with ethanediol‐modified melamine–formaldehyde resin and microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Ji Wenfei , Han Yi , Gu Xiaoyu , Li Hongfei , Sun Jun
Published: March 2018

Melamine–formaldehyde resin was modified by ethylene glycol to decrease the amount of free formaldehyde and extend the storage time. The modified resin (EMF) was further used to prepare microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (MCAPP). The structures of both EMF and MCAPP were well characterized. Afterward, EMF and MCAPP were mixed and coated on the surface of pre‐expanded polystyrene particles to prepare flame‐retardant expandable polystyrene foams (EPS). Both water resistance and impact strength were enhanced by the presence of MCAPP, and the flammability of the samples was also significantly improved. For the sample containing 75 phr MCAPP, the limiting oxygen index value was increased to 31.4% with a V‐0 rating in the UL‐94 vertical burning test. Cone calorimeter tests showed that the peak heat release rate of the sample declined sharply to 172.7 kW/m2, which is 81.6% lower than that of neat EPS. The smoke production of EPS foams during combustion was suppressed by the presence of MCAPP, and the thermal stability was also improved. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the char layer of the flame‐retardant sample after combustion became compact with negligible voids or cracks, which could further form an isolation barrier to prevent both heat and flame transfer. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46471.
Carbon nanotubes and graphene into thermosetting composites: Synergy and combined effect
Authors: Prolongo S. G. , Moriche R. , Ureña A. , Flórez S. , Gaztelumendi I. , Arribas C. , Prolongo M. G.
Published: March 2018

This work analyzes the morphology and behavior of hybrid composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). In order to avoid the weak interface of laminar nanofillers, GNPs were functionalized with amine groups. Different tendencies were observed as a function of the measured property. Storage modulus showed a synergic trend, being the stiffness of hybrid CNT/GNP/epoxy composites higher than the corresponding ones measured in neat epoxy composites reinforced with CNTs or GNPs. In contrast, the thermal and electrical conductivity increased with the nanofiller addition, the final value of the mentioned properties in the hybrid composites was strongly influenced by specific graphitic nanofiller. Neat GNP/epoxy composites showed the highest thermal conductivity, while neat CNT/epoxy composites presented the highest electrical conductivity. This behavior is explained by the observed morphology. All composites exhibited a suitable nanofiller dispersion. However, on hybrid GNP/CNT/epoxy composites, CNTs tend to be placed between nanoplatelets, forming bridges between nanoplatelets. This morphology implies a less effective electrical network, limiting the synergic effect in the properties, which requires percolation. In spite of this, the hybrid GNP/CNT/epoxy composites showed a better combination of properties than the neat composites. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46475.
Enhanced wettability and thermal stability of polypropylene separators by organic–inorganic coating layer for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Chao Chun‐Ying , Feng Ye‐Fei , Hua Kai , Li Hao , Wu Li‐Jun , Zhou Yi‐Sha , Dong Zhen‐Wei
Published: March 2018

Organic–inorganic coating polypropylene separators were developed by introducing SiO2 nanoparticles through sol–gel process, where polydopamine was used as an intermediate layer. Scanning electron microscopy results showed the coating layers have highly porous structure, which was beneficial for liquid electrolyte uptake. Compared with pristine polypropylene separator, the ceramic separators showed improved thermal stability, higher ionic conductivity, and lower interfacial impedance. The cells employing the ceramic separators delivers excellent discharge capacity (retention = 75%) and coulombic efficiency up to 98% at 2 °C rate after 100 cycles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46478.
Morphological and physicomechanical analysis of high‐density polyethylene filled with Salago fiber
Authors: Pouriman Mohammadhosein , Dahresobh Ali , Caparanga Alvin R. , Moradipour Mahsa , Mehrpooya Mehdi
Published: March 2018

The environmental issues associated with the mass discarding of waste plastics in the Philippines have significantly raised for the past decade. However, this country is a home to many natural fibers which necessitates the development of ecofriendly materials to diminish the environmental footprint of polymers. High‐density polyethylene (HDPE) was filled with floured untreated and 5 wt % alkaline‐treated Salago fiber via melt compounding. The physical and mechanical characteristics of both types of composites were measured and compared. The composite filled with 30 wt % untreated fiber became very brittle, showing tensile strength and impact resistance of 15.8 MPa and 4.9 kJ/m2, respectively. Alkaline treatment improved the mechanical properties of untreated composites, but not above the value of virgin HDPE. Nevertheless, the flexural strength of treated composites exceeded that of the virgin HDPE. Untreated composites absorbed water twice as the treated ones. Finally, morphological and fractography inspection on tensile and flexural test specimens showed improvement made by treatment on the interfacial adhesion between fiber and thermoplastic, corroborating the results from mechanical properties test. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46479.
Catchment zoning to enhance co‐benefits and minimize trade‐offs between ecosystem services and freshwater biodiversity conservation
Authors: Hermoso Virgilio , Cattarino Lorenzo , Linke Simon , Kennard Mark J.
Published: March 2018

Integrating ecosystem services (ESs) in landscape planning can help to identify conservation opportunities by finding co‐benefits between biodiversity conservation and the maintenance of regulating and cultural ecosystem services. The adequate integration of ESs needs careful consideration of potential trade‐offs, however, especially between provisioning services and biodiversity conservation (e.g. the potentially negative consequences of agricultural water extraction within areas important for the maintenance of biodiversity). These trade‐offs have been overlooked in systematic spatial planning to date, especially in freshwater systems.

marxan with zoneswas used to identify priority areas for the conservation of freshwater biodiversity (139 species of freshwater fish, turtles, and waterbirds) and the provision of freshwater ESs in the Daly River, northern Australia. Four different surrogates for ESs were mapped, including those potentially incompatible with conservation goals (i.e. groundwater provision for agriculture and recreational fisheries) and those that are more compatible with conservation (i.e. flood regulation by riparian forests; provision of perennial water). The spatial allocation of multiple management zones was prioritized: (i) three conservation zones, aiming to represent freshwater biodiversity and compatible ESs to enhance co‐benefits; and (ii) two production zones, where access to provisioning ESs could be granted. The representation of ESs obtained when using the multi‐zoning approach was compared with that achieved with a single management zone approach. The comparison was performed across different representation targets.

Different results were found with low and high targets for ESs. With low targets (<25% of all ESs), the multi‐zoning approach achieved up to 53% more co‐benefits than the single‐zone approach. With high targets (>25% of all ESs), the trade‐offs avoided were more evident, with up to 56% less representation of incompatible ESs within conservation zones.

Multi‐zone planning could help decision makers respond better to the increasingly complex catchment management context, caused by an increasing demand for provisioning services and a diminishing availability of resources, as well as manage and plan for challenges in other realms facing similar problems.
Distributed Strain Sensing in der Geotechnik
Authors: Kindler Arne , Großwig Stephan
Published: March 2018

Mit dem vorliegenden Beitrag soll eine Empfehlung für den Einsatz der ortsverteilten faseroptischen Dehnungsmessung (Distributed Strain Sensing) in der Geotechnik gegeben werden. Hintergrund hierfür ist der vermehrte Einsatz dieses Messverfahrens im Spezialtiefbau. Das Feld der ortsverteilten faseroptischen Sensortechnik ist ein weitgefächertes Gebiet. So gibt es Messverfahren für dynamische (Zeitauflösung im kHz‐Bereich) und nicht dynamische Messungen (Zeitauflösung im MHz‐Bereich bis stationär). Das in diesem Beitrag behandelte Messgebiet bezieht sich ausschließlich auf nicht dynamische Dehnungsmessungen mittels Distributed Sensing. Der Beitrag umfasst eine Kurzdarstellung/Gegenüberstellung zwischen Einzelpunktmessung und ortsverteilter Messung, dem „Distributed Sensing“. Darüber hinaus wird kurz das bisherige Einsatzgebiet für das Distributed Strain Sensing dargestellt und mit ausgeführten Beispielen unterlegt. Die Autoren versuchen trotz einer Vielzahl eigener Arbeiten die Referenznachweise weit zu fassen. Im Weiteren werden die wesentlichen erforderlichen faseroptischen Kabelkonstruktionen aufgezeigt und konstruktive Hinweise zur Montage gegeben. Abschließend werden Hinweise zum Mindestumfang eines Messberichts sowie zur Auswertung von „Distributed Strain Sensing“‐Messungen gegeben.

Es ist angedacht, in einem weiteren Beitrag Hinweise zur Ausschreibung der „Distributed Strain Sensing“‐Messungen in der Geotechnik zu geben, um dem ausschreibenden Ingenieur ein Arbeitsmittel an die Hand zu geben, damit der Planer im Ergebnis seiner Vergabe das gewünschte Messverfahren erhält.
Real‐Time Monitoring of the Binding/Dissociation and Redox States of a Single Transition Metal Ions
Authors: Jung Seung‐Ryoung , Lee Sang‐Wook , Hohng Sungchul
Published: March 2018

Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between organic fluorophores is conventionally used to monitor binding/dissociation and conformational change of macromolecules. Here we use FRET between a cyanine dye and single transition metal ions (tmFRET) to monitor the binding/dissociation of transition metal ions to a synthetic polypeptide, and show that different transition metal ion species can be clearly distinguished based on their binding lifetimes and FRET efficiencies. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the redox state of cytochrome c can be successfully monitored at the single‐ion level using the tmFRET.
Enantioseparation of (RS)‐fexofenadine and enhanced detection as the diastereomeric amide and anhydride derivatives using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Malik Poonam , Bhushan Ravi
Published: March 2018

Enantioselective analysis of (RS)‐fexofenadine was carried out by achiral HPLC via a derivatization approach using N‐hydroxy‐benzotriazolyl‐(S)‐naproxen ester (synthesized for this purpose) and three chirally pure amines as chiral derivatizing reagents. There occurred formation of amide and anhydride types of diastereomeric derivatives. These were separated and isolated by HPLC (analytical and preparative). The structures and configurations were verified via recording full‐scan product ion mass spectra using LC‐MS, 1HNMR spectra, Chem3D Pro 12.0 software and the software Gaussian 09 Rev.A.02 program and hybrid density functional B3LYP with 6‐31G basis set supplemented with polarimetry. Experimental conditions for synthesis and separations were optimized and the elution order was established. Analytical separation was performed on a C18 analytical column with different ratios of MeCN–TEAP buffer and MeOH–TEAP buffer (v/v) adjusted to pH 7.5 as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.7 mL min‐1. Detection was performed via UV absorbance at 225 nm. The method was validated in accordance with International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The detection limits were 6.25 and 7.87 ng mL‐1 for first and second eluting diastereomeric derivatives, respectively.
Trps1 is associated with the multidrug resistance of lung cancer cell by regulating MGMT gene expression
Authors: Liu Hongxiang , Liao Yi , Tang Meng , Wu Tao , Tan Deli , Zhang Shixin , Wang Haidong
Published: March 2018

Multidrug resistance (MDR) often leads to chemotherapy failure of lung cancer and has been linking to the cellular expression of several DNA transcription‐ and repair‐related genes such as Trps1 and MGMT. However, their roles in the formation of MDR are largely unknown. In this study, overexpression/knockdown, luciferase assay and ChIP assay were performed to study the relationship between Trps1 and MGMT, as well as their roles in MDR formation. Our results demonstrated that Trps1 and MGMT expression both increased in drug‐resistant lung cancer cell line (H446/CDDP). Silencing of Trps1 resulted in downregulation of MGMT expression and decrease in the multidrug sensitivity of H446/CDDP cells, while Trps1 overexpression exhibited the opposite effects in H446 cells. Ectopic expression of MGMT had no effect on Trps1 expression, but enhanced the IC50 values of H446 cells or rescued the IC50 values of Trps1‐silenced H446/CDDP cells in treatment of multidrug. Our data further showed that, mechanistically, Trps1 acted as a transcription activator that directly induced MGMT transcription by binding to the MGMT promoter. Taken together, we consider that upregulation of Trps1 induces MGMT transcription contributing to the formation of MDR in lung cancer cells. Our findings proved potential targets for reversing MDR in clinical chemotherapy of lung cancer.
The importance of greater speed in drug development for advanced malignancies
Authors: Stewart David J. , Stewart Andrew A. , Wheatley‐Price Paul , Batist Gerald , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Schiller Joan , Clemons Mark , Bradford John‐Peter , Gillespie Laurel , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: March 2018

It takes on average 6–12 years to develop new anticancer drugs from discovery to approval. Effective new agents prolong survival. To demonstrate the importance of rapid drug approval, we calculated life‐years potentially saved if selected agents were approved more rapidly. As illustrative examples, we used 27 trials documenting improvements in survival. We multiplied improvement in median survival by numbers of patients dying annually and multiplied this by number of years from drug discovery until approval. For every year by which time to drug approval could have been shortened, there would have been a median number of life‐years potentially saved of 79,920 worldwide per drug. Median number of life‐years lost between time of drug discovery and approval was 1,020,900 per example. If we were able to use available opportunities to decrease the time required to take a drug from discovery to approval to 5 years, the median number of life‐years saved per example would have been 523,890 worldwide. Various publications have identified opportunities to speed drug development without sacrificing patient safety. While many investigational drugs prove to be ineffective, some significantly prolong survival and/or reduce suffering. These illustrative examples suggest that a substantial number of life‐years could potentially be saved by increasing the efficiency of development of new drugs for advanced malignancies.
MRI‐guided interventional natural killer cell delivery for liver tumor treatment
Authors: Su Zhanliang , Wang Xifu , Zheng Linfeng , Lyu Tianchu , Figini Matteo , Wang Bin , Procissi Daniel , Shangguan Junjie , Sun Chong , Pan Liang , Qin Lei , Zhang Bin , Velichko Yury , Salem Riad , Yaghmai Vahid , Larson Andrew C. , Zhang Zhuoli
Published: March 2018

While natural killer (NK) cell‐based adoptive transfer immunotherapy (ATI) provides only modest clinical success in cancer patients. This study was hypothesized that MRI‐guided transcatheter intra‐hepatic arterial (IHA) infusion permits local delivery to liver tumors to improve outcomes during NK‐based ATI in a rat model of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mouse NK cells were labeled with clinically applicable iron nanocomplexes. Twenty rat HCC models were assigned to three groups: transcatheter IHA saline infusion as the control group, transcatheter IHA NK infusion group, and intravenous (IV) NK infusion group. MRI studies were performed at baseline and at 24 h, 48 h, and 8 days postinfusion. There was a significant difference in tumor R2* values between baseline and 24 h following the selective transcatheter IHA NK delivery to the tumors (P = 0.039) when compared to IV NK infusion (P = 0.803). At 8 days postinfusion, there were significant differences in tumor volumes between the control, IV, and IHA NK infusion groups (control vs. IV, P = 0.196; control vs. IHA, P < 0.001; and IV vs. IHA, P = 0.001). Moreover, there was a strong correlation between tumor R2* value change (∆R2*) at 24 h postinfusion and tumor volume change (∆volume) at 8 days in IHA group (R2 = 0.704, P < 0.001). Clinically applicable labeled NK cells with 12‐h labeling time can be tracked by MRI. Transcatheter IHA infusion improves NK cell homing efficacy and immunotherapeutic efficiency. The change in tumor R2* value 24 h postinfusion is an important early biomarker for prediction of longitudinal response.
Tumor‐derived extracellular vesicles activate primary monocytes
Authors: Gärtner Kathrin , Battke Christina , Dünzkofer Judith , Hüls Corinna , von Neubeck Bettina , Kellner Mar‐ kus , Fiestas Elena , Fackler Susanne , Lang Stephan , Zeidler Reinhard
Published: March 2018

Tumor cells educate immune effector cells in their vicinity by releasing factors that manipulate their phenotype and function. In fact, the thus generated immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment constitutes an integral part and a hallmark of solid tumors and contributes significantly to tumor development and immune escape. It has long been thought that soluble factors like prostaglandin E2 and TGF‐β are the main mediators of these effects. But tumor cells also constantly release large number of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are important conveyors of immune responses. We show here that tumor‐derived EVs interact with primary monocytes and induce an activated phenotype, which is also observed in tumor‐associated macrophages. Thus, both tumor‐derived EVs and soluble factors together collaborate to form the immunosuppressive milieu of the tumor environment.
RFX1 participates in doxorubicin‐induced hepatitis B virus reactivation
Authors: Wang Jie , Jia Junqiao , Chen Ran , Ding Shanlong , Xu Qiang , Zhang Ting , Chen Xiangmei , Liu Shuang , Lu Fengmin
Published: March 2018

Cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs, including doxorubicin, can directly promote hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication, but the mechanism has not been fully clarified. This study investigated the potential mechanism underlying the cytotoxic chemotherapy‐mediated direct promotion of HBV replication. We found that HBV replication and regulatory factor X box 1 gene (RFX1) expression were simultaneously promoted by doxorubicin treatment. The amount of RFX1 bound to the HBV enhancer I was significantly increased under doxorubicin treatment. Furthermore, the activity of doxorubicin in promoting HBV replication was significantly attenuated when the expression of endogenous RFX1 was knocked down, and the EP element of HBV enhancer I, an element that mediated the binding of RFX1 and HBV enhancer I, was mutated. In addition, two different sequences of the conserved EP element were found among HBV genotypes A‐D, and doxorubicin could promote the replication of HBV harboring either of the conserved EP elements. Here, a novel pathway in which doxorubicin promoted HBV replication via RFX1 was identified, and it might participate in doxorubicin‐induced HBV reactivation. These findings would be helpful in preventing HBV reactivation during anticancer chemotherapy.