bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hot Tensile Deformation Mechanism and Dynamic Softening Behavior of Ti–6Al–4V Alloy with Thick Lamellar Microstructures
Authors: Lin Y. C. , Wu Qiao , Pang Guo-Dong , Jiang Xing-You , He Dao-Guang
Published: December 2019

The deformation mechanisms and dynamic softening behavior of a Ti–6Al–4V alloy with thick lamellar microstructures are studied by uniaxial hot tensile tests. The true stress first rapidly reaches a peak value because of the rapid dislocations proliferation and tangle, and then gradually decreases due to the dynamic softening with raising the deformation amount. The dynamic softening behavior is mainly induced by the severe dynamic globularization of lamellar α phases. The globularization of α phase is always accompanied by the formation of high‐angle grain boundaries (HAGBs). The fraction of globularized α phases increases with the increasing deformation temperature. The fracture mechanism is microvoid coalescence, i.e., in the initial stage of tensile deformation, the microvoids begin to emerge. With the increasing deformation amount, the number of microvoids increases, and the microvoids accumulate and accelerate to propagate until the final fracture. According to the experimental flow stress curves, a modified Arrhenius‐type equation and a Hensel–Spittel (HS) model are developed to forecast the flow stresses. The average absolute relative error of the established strain‐compensated Arrhenius‐type (SCAT) and HS models are 6.108% and 3.385%, respectively. Both models can be well used to describe the hot tensile flow characteristics of the Ti–6Al–4V alloy with thick lamellar microstructures.
Intrinsic Lithiophilicity of Li–Garnet Electrolytes Enabling High‐Rate Lithium Cycling
Authors: Zheng Hongpeng , Wu Shaoping , Tian Ran , Xu Zhenming , Zhu Hong , Duan Huanan , Liu Hezhou
Published: December 2019

Solid‐state lithium batteries are widely considered as next‐generation lithium‐ion battery technology due to the potential advantages in safety and performance. Among the various solid electrolyte materials, Li–garnet electrolytes are promising due to their high ionic conductivity and good chemical and electrochemical stabilities. However, the high electrode/electrolyte interfacial impedance is one of the major challenges. Moreover, short circuiting caused by lithium dendrite formation is reported when using Li–garnet electrolytes. Here, it is demonstrated that Li–garnet electrolytes wet well with lithium metal by removing the intrinsic impurity layer on the surface of the lithium metal. The Li/garnet interfacial impedance is determined to be 6.95 Ω cm2 at room temperature. Lithium symmetric cells based on the Li–garnet electrolytes are cycled at room temperature for 950 h and current density as high as 13.3 mA cm−2 without showing signs of short circuiting. Experimental and computational results reveal that it is the surface oxide layer on the lithium metal together with the garnet surface that majorly determines the Li/garnet interfacial property. These findings suggest that removing the superficial impurity layer on the lithium metal can enhance the wettability, which may impact the manufacturing process of future high energy density garnet‐based solid‐state lithium batteries.
Nitrenium Salts in Lewis Acid Catalysis
Authors: Mehta Meera , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: December 2019

Molecular compounds featuring nitrogen atoms are typically regarded as Lewis bases and are extensively employed as donor ligands in coordination chemistry or as nucleophiles in organic chemistry. By contrast, electrophilic nitrogen‐containing compounds are much rarer. Nitrenium cations are a new family of nitrogen‐based Lewis acids, the reactivity of which remains largely unexplored. In this work, nitrenium ions are explored as catalysts in five organic transformations. These reactions are the first examples of Lewis acid catalysis employing nitrogen as the site of substrate activation. Moreover, these compounds are readily accessed from commercially available reagents and exhibit remarkable stability toward moisture, allowing for benchtop transformations without the need to pretreat solvents.
Metabolic and transcriptional changes in seminal plasma of asthenozoospermia patients
Authors: Chen Lianguo , Wen Chao‐Wei , Deng Ming‐Jie , Ping‐Li  , Zhang Zhi‐Da , Zhou Zhuo‐Hua , Wang Xianqin
Published: December 2019

This study was designed to investigate the metabolic and transcriptional alterations in seminal fluid caused by asthenozoospermia (AS). To address these issues, a method of metabonomics based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) and real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) was performed to identify some crucial biomarkers and transcription levels of the enzymes in seminal fluid. Seminal fluid samples were collected from 87 AS patients and 73 healthy males with normozoospermia. The quantitative analysis by UPLC–MS/MS showed that 19 metabolites in seminal plasma were associated with AS, and they were involved in several metabolic pathways, such as energy metabolism, purine metabolism, methionine cycle, and branched chain amino acid metabolism. Among these metabolites, the levels of citric acid, malic acid, succinic acid, and pyruvic acid, which are related to energy metabolism, were collectively reduced in the AS group, whereas the lactic acid level was enhanced. These results indicated that lesser energy source (adenosine triphosphate) was produced through the anaerobic glycolysis pathway rather than via aerobic catabolism of suger and tricarboxylic acid cycle, resulting in reduced power of sperms. Meanwhile, partial least squares discriminant analysis showed significant differences in metabolic profiles between the AS and control groups. In addition, RT‐qPCR results revealed that the expression levels of four genes encoding fructokinase citrate synthase, succinate dehydrogenase, and spermine synthase, which were related to energy metabolism, were decreased in the AS group. The 23 descriptors with differential expression in AS may be valuable for the diagnosis and sequential study on AS. These results will help highlight the role of sperm inactivity in AS pathogenesis.
Targeting functionalized nanoparticles to activated endothelial cells under high wall shear stress
Authors: Zukerman Hila , Khoury Maria , Shammay Yosi , Sznitman Josué , Lotan Noah , Korin Netanel
Published: December 2019

Local inflammation of the endothelium is associated with a plethora of cardiovascular diseases. Vascular‐targeted carriers (VTCs) have been advocated to provide focal effective therapeutics to these disease sites. Here, we examine the design of functionalized nanoparticles (NPs) as VTCs that can specifically localize at an inflamed vessel wall under pathological levels of high shear stress, associated for example with clinical (or in vivo) conditions of vascular narrowing and arteriogenesis. To test this, carboxylated fluorescent 200 nm polystyrene particles were functionalized with ligands to activated endothelium, that is, an E‐selectin binding peptide (Esbp), an anti ICAM‐1 antibody, or using a combination of both. The functionalized NPs were investigated in vitro using microfluidic models lined with inflamed (TNF‐α stimulated) and control endothelial cells (EC). Specifically, their adhesion was monitored under different relevant wall shear stresses (i.e., 40–300 dyne/cm2) via real‐time confocal microscopy. Experiments reveal a significantly higher specific adhesion of the examined functionalized NPs to activated EC for the window of examined wall shear stresses. Moreover, particle adhesion correlated with the surface coating density whereby under high surface coating (i.e., ~10,000 molecule/particle), shear‐dependent particle adhesion increased significantly. Altogether, our results show that functionalized NPs can be designed to target inflamed endothelial cells under high shear stress. Such VTCs underscore the potential for attractive avenues in targeting drugs to vasoconstriction and arteriogenesis sites.
An international multicenter retrospective analysis of patients with extranodal marginal zone lymphoma and histologically confirmed central nervous system and dural involvement
Authors: Sunderland Andrew J. , Steiner Raphael E. , Al Zahrani Musa , Pinnix Chelsea C. , Dabaja Bouthaina Shbib , Gunther Jillian R. , Nastoupil Loretta J. , Jerkeman Mats , Joske David , Cull Gavin , El‐Galaly Tarec , Villa Diego , Cheah Chan Yoon
Published: December 2019

Marginal zone lymphoma of the central nervous system (CNS MZL) is rare. The clinical features, treatment, and prognosis are not well characterized. We performed a multicenter retrospective study of CNS MZL. Twenty‐six patients were identified: half with primary and half with secondary CNS involvement. The median age was 59 years (range 26‐78), 62% female and 79% with ECOG performance status ≤ 1. The most common disease site was the dura (50%). Treatment was determined by the treating physician and varied substantially. After a median follow up of 1.9 years, the estimated 2‐year progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 59% and 80%, respectively. Secondary CNS MZL was associated with 2‐year OS of 58%. CNS MZL is rare, but relative to other forms of CNS lymphoma, outcomes appear favorable, particularly among the subset of patients with dural presentation and primary CNS presentation.
Sex differences in coronary artery lesions and in‐hospital outcomes for patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction under the age of 45
Authors: Vautrin Estelle , Jean Aure‐Elise Biguet Petit , Fourny Magali , Marlière Stéphanie , Vanzetto Gérald , Bouvaist Hélène , Debaty Guillaume , Belle Loïc , Danchin Nicolas , Labarère José
Published: December 2019

Objective

We aimed to compare baseline characteristics, coronary angiogram findings, and in‐hospital outcomes between female and male patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) under the age of 45 years.

Background

Although sex differences in risk factor profile have been documented for young patients with STEMI, limited data exist on the prevalence of spontaneous coronary artery dissection in these patients.

Methods

As part of an ongoing hospital‐based registry of suspected STEMI, we analyzed the original data for 51 women under the age of 45 years matched with 93 men of similar age who underwent coronary angiography at two percutaneous coronary intervention centers, between January 2003 and December 2012. Two interventional cardiologists independently reviewed coronary angiograms for all patients.

Results

The mean age for all patients was 39 years (range, 24–44) and the overall prevalence of cigarette smoking, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus were 70, 32, 13, and 4%, respectively. Young women were more likely to present with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (22 vs. 3%, p = .003) and more of them experienced reinfarction during the hospital course (15 vs. 1%, p = .01). The in‐hospital mortality rate was 2% for both sexes.

Conclusions

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is an important cause of myocardial infarction in young female adults, accounting for 22% (95% confidence interval, 11–35%) of women with STEMI under the age of 45 years. The true prevalence of spontaneous coronary artery dissection might even be underestimated, because of the limited availability of advanced imaging techniques at the time of our study.
Fragments as Novel Starting Points for tRNA‐Guanine Transglycosylase Inhibitors Found by Alternative Screening Strategies
Authors: Hassaan Engi , Eriksson Per‐Olof , Geschwindner Stefan , Heine Andreas , Klebe Gerhard
Published: December 2019

Crystallography provides structural information crucial for fragment optimization, however several criteria must be met to screen directly on protein crystals as soakable, well‐diffracting specimen must be available. We screened a 96‐fragment library against the tRNA‐modifying enzyme TGT using crystallography. Eight hits, some with surprising binding poses, were detected. However, the amount of data collection, reduction and refinement is assumed substantial. Therefore, having a reliable cascade of fast and cost‐efficient methods available for pre‐screening before embarking to elaborate crystallographic screening appears beneficial. This allows filtering of compounds to the most promising hits, available to rapidly progress from hit‐to‐lead. But how to ensure that this workflow is reliable? To answer this question, we also applied SPR and NMR to the same screening sample to study whether identical hits are retrieved. Upon hit‐list comparisons, crystallography shows with NMR and SPR, only one overlapping hit and all three methods shared no common hits. This questions a cascade‐type screening protocol at least in the current example. Compared to crystallography, SPR and NMR detected higher percentages of non‐active‐site binders suggesting the importance of running reporter ligand‐based competitive screens in SPR and NMR, a requirement not needed in crystallography. Although not specific, NMR proved a more sensitive method relative to SPR and crystallography, as it picked up the highest numbers of binders.
Conformation Controls Mobility: 2H‐Tetranaphthylporphyrins on Cu(111)
Authors: Kuliga Jan , Massicot Stephen , Adhikari Rajan , Ruppel Michael , Jux Norbert , Steinrück Hans‐Peter , Marbach Hubertus
Published: December 2019

The adsorption behavior and the mobility of 2H‐Tetranaphthylporphyrin (2HTNP) on Cu(111) was investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) at room temperature (RT). The molecules adsorb, like the structurally related 2HTPP, in the “inverted” structure with the naphthyl plane restricted to an orientation parallel to the Cu surface. The orientation of the four naphthyl groups yields altogether 16 possible conformations. Due to the existence of rotamer pairs, 10 different appearances are expected on the surface, and all of them are identified by STM at RT. Most interestingly, the orientation of the naphthyl groups significantly influences the diffusion behavior of the molecules on Cu(111). We identify three different groups of conformers, which are either immobile, medium or fast diffusing at RT. The mobility seems to decrease with increasing size of the footprint of the conformers on the surface.
Small Current but Highly Productive Synthesis of 1,3‐Propanediol from Glycerol by an Electrode‐Driven Metabolic Shift in Klebsiella pneumoniae L17
Authors: Kim Changman , Lee Jae Hyeon , Baek Jiyun , Kong Da Seul , Na Jeong‐Geol , Lee Jinwon , Sundstrom Eric , Park Sunghoon , Kim Jung Rae
Published: December 2019

Electrofermentation actively regulates the bacterial redox state, which is essential for bioconversion and has been highlighted as an effective method for further improvements of the productivity of either reduced or oxidized platform chemicals. 1,3‐Propanediol (1,3‐PDO) is an industrial value‐added chemical that can be produced from glycerol fermentation. The bioconversion of 1,3‐PDO from glycerol requires additional reducing energy under anoxic conditions. The cathode‐based conversion of glycerol to 1,3‐PDO with various electron shuttles (2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone, neutral red, and hydroquinone) using Klebsiella pneumoniae L17 was investigated. The externally poised potential of −0.9 V vs. Ag/AgCl to the cathode increased 1,3‐PDO (35.5±3.1 mm) production if 100 μm neutral red was used compared with non‐bioelectrochemical system fermentation (23.7±2.4 mm). Stoichiometric metabolic flux and transcriptional analysis indicated a shift in the carbon flux toward the glycerol reductive pathway. The homologous overexpression of glycerol dehydratase (DhaB) and 1,3‐PDO oxidoreductase (DhaT) enzymes synergistically enhanced 1,3‐PDO conversion (39.3±0.8 mm) under cathode‐driven fermentation. Interestingly, a small current uptake (0.23 mmol of electrons) caused significant metabolic flux changes with a concomitant increase in 1,3‐PDO production. This suggests that both an increase in 1,3‐PDO production and regulation of the cellular metabolic pathway are feasible by electrode‐driven control in cathodic electrofermentation.
In Operando Calorimetric Measurements for Activated Carbon Electrodes in Ionic Liquid Electrolytes under Large Potential Windows
Authors: Munteshari Obaidallah , Borenstein Arie , DeBlock Ryan H. , Lau Jonathan , Whang Grace , Zhou Yucheng , Likitchatchawankun Ampol , Kaner Richard B. , Dunn Bruce , Pilon Laurent
Published: December 2019

This study aims to investigate the effect of the potential window on heat generation in carbon‐based electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) with ionic‐liquid (IL)‐based electrolytes using in operando calorimetry. The EDLCs consisted of two identical activated‐carbon electrodes with either neat 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethane‐sulfonyl)imide ([Pyr14][TFSI]) electrolyte or 1.0 m [Pyr14][TFSI] in propylene carbonate (PC) as electrolyte. The instantaneous heat generation rate at each electrode was measured under galvanostatic cycling for different potential windows ranging from 1 to 4 V. First, the heat generation rates at the positive and negative electrodes differed significantly in neat IL owing to the differences in the ion sizes and diffusion coefficients. However, these differences were minimized when the IL was diluted in PC. Second, for EDLC in neat [Pyr14][TFSI] at high potential window (4 V), a pronounced endothermic peak was observed at the beginning of the charging step at the positive electrode owing to TFSI− intercalation in the activated carbon. On the other hand, for EDLC in 1.0 m [Pyr14][TFSI] in PC at potential window above 3 V, an endothermic peak was observed only at the negative electrode owing to the decomposition of PC. Third, for both neat and diluted [Pyr14][TFSI] electrolytes, the irreversible heat generation rate increased with increasing potential window and exceeded Joule heating. This was attributed to the effect of potential‐dependent charge redistribution resistance. A further increase in the irreversible heat generation rate was observed for the largest potential windows owing to the degradation of the PC solvent. Finally, for both types of electrolyte, the reversible heat generation rate increased with increasing potential window because of the increase in the amount of ion adsorbed/desorbed at the electrode/electrolyte interface.
A Facile Preparation of Super Long‐Term Stable Lignin Nanoparticles from Black Liquor
Authors: Ma Mingshuai , Dai Lin , Si Chuanling , Hui Lanfeng , Liu Zhong , Ni Yonghao
Published: December 2019

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Lin Dai and Zhong Liu at TUST and Yonghao Ni at UNB. The image shows how the hemicellulose can play a role in prolonging the stability of lignin nanoparticles The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201902287.
QoS‐aware broadcasting in VANETs based on fuzzy logic and enhanced kinetic multipoint relay
Authors: Mchergui Abir , Moulahi Tarek , Ben Othman Mohamed Tahar , Nasri Salem
Published: December 2019

Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) are emergent concepts in terms of infrastructure‐less communication. The data dissemination is usually done using broadcast schemes. Data broadcast in VANETs is a challenging issue due to the high mobility vehicles and the varying density. On one hand, these vehicles have to share and disseminate the safety‐critical information, in real time, to other intended vehicles. On the other hand, the existing broadcast solutions do not succeed, till now, to fulfill VANETs requirements especially in terms of performance and QoS. In this paper, we propose a new QoS‐aware broadcast method in order to face VANETs communications challenges. We choose to adapt a concept originally devoted to mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) and join it to other specific VANET techniques to introduce a new broadcasting protocol in the aim of optimizing QoS fulfilment. The proposed solution is fundamentally based on enhanced kinetic strategy assisted with fuzzy logic for QoS‐aware multipoint relay (MPR). The protocol efficiency is eventually tested through an experimental study and compared with existing methods. The results prove the over‐performance of the proposed solution.
Decadal heat and drought drive body size of North American bison (Bison bison) along the Great Plains
Authors: Martin Jeff M. , Barboza Perry S.
Published: December 2019

Large grazers are visible and valuable indicators of the effects of projected changes in temperature and drought on grasslands. The grasslands of the Great Plains have supported the greatest number of bison (Bison bison; Linnaeus, 1758) since prehistoric times. We tested the hypothesis that body mass (BM, kg) and asymptotic body mass (ABM, kg) of Bison decline with rising temperature and increasing drought over both temporal and spatial scales along the Great Plains. Temporally, we modeled the relationship of annual measures of BM and height (H, m) of 5,781 Bison at Wind Cave National Park (WICA) from 1966 to 2015. We used Gompertz equations of BM against age to estimate ABM in decadal cohorts; both females and males decreased from the 1960s to the 2010s. Male ABM was variable but consistently larger (699 vs. 441 kg) than female ABM. We used local mean decadal temperature (MDT) and local mean decadal Palmer Drought Severity Index (dPDSI) to model the effects of climate on ABM. Drought decreased ABM temporally (−16 kg/local dPDSI) at WICA. Spatially, we used photogrammetry to measure body height (HE) of 773 Bison to estimate BME in 19 herds from Saskatchewan to Texas, including WICA. Drought also decreased ABM spatially (−16 kg/local dPDSI) along the Great Plains. Temperature decreased ABM both temporally at WICA (−115 kg/°C local MDT) and spatially (−1 kg/°C local MDT) along the Great Plains. Our data indicate that temperature and drought drive Bison ABM presumably by affecting seasonal mass gain. Bison body size is likely to decline over the next five decades throughout the Great Plains due to projected increases in temperatures and both the frequency and intensity of drought.
Agriculture influences ammonium and soluble reactive phosphorus retention in South American headwater streams
Authors: Cunha Davi Gasparini Fernandes , Finkler Nícolas Reinaldo , Gómez Nora , Cochero Joaquín , Donadelli Jorge Luis , Saltarelli Wesley Aparecido , Calijuri Maria do Carmo , Miwa Adriana Cristina Poli , Tromboni Flavia , Dodds Walter K. , Boëchat Iola Gonçalves , Gücker Björn , Thomas Steven A.
Published: December 2019

Agricultural activities can affect the delivery of nutrients to streams, riparian canopy cover, and the capacity of aquatic systems to process nutrients and sediments. There are few measures of nutrient uptake and metabolism from tropical or subtropical streams in general, and even fewer from tropical regions of South America. We examined ammonium (NH4+) and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) retention in streams in Brazil and Argentina. We selected 12 streams with relatively little or extensive agricultural activity and conducted whole‐stream nutrient additions and measurements of gross primary production and ecosystem respiration. We used multiple linear regression to determine potential drivers of nutrient uptake metrics across the streams. Nutrient concentrations and retention differed significantly between land use categories. Both NH4+ and SRP concentrations were higher in the agricultural sites (means of 161 and 495 μg l–1, respectively), whereas metabolic rates were slower and transient storage was smaller. Our analysis indicated that agriculture increased ambient uptake lengths and decreased uptake velocities. The regression models revealed that ambient SRP had a positive effect on NH4+ uptake and vice versa, suggesting strong stoichiometric controls. Drivers for nutrient uptake in streams with low‐intensity agriculture also included canopy cover, temperature, and ecosystem respiration rates. Nutrient assimilation in agricultural sites was influenced by a higher number of variables (gross primary production for SRP, discharge, and transient storage for both nutrients). Our results indicate agricultural activity changes both the magnitude of in‐stream nutrient uptake and the mechanisms that control its variation, with important implications for South American streams under agricultural intensification.
Recent advances in dielectrophoresis‐based cell viability assessment
Authors: Zhang Junyan , Song Zhenyu , Liu Qinxin , Song Yongxin
Published: December 2019

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a non‐destructive, accurate, and label‐free cell manipulating technique and DEP applications have been found in various fields. Assessment of cell viability is one of the important applications and many investigations have been reported. In this paper, cell polarization and its modeling, some key parameters employed for living/dead cell separation, as well as electrode configurations are reviewed. Focus is given to the latest development of DEP devices employed for the assessment of cell viability. Experimentally determined factors for separating living/dead cells, such as the conductivity of suspending medium and the frequency of applied electric field, are summarized. The future directions and potential challenges in this field are also outlined.
An Aqueous Battery–Pseudocapacitor Hybrid Capacitor Based on Conductive Core–Shell NiCoSe2@Co9Se8 Hollow Nanospheres Hybridized with Nanoscale Ru0.41In0.59Oy
Authors: Hou Linrui , Sun Xuan , Guo Linzhi , Meng Xiaotang , Wei Jinxuan , Yuan Changzhou
Published: December 2019

It is always a huge challenge to explore advanced aqueous supercapacitors with both high energy and high power densities. Herein, conductive NiCoSe2@Co9Se8 hollow nanospheres (HNSs) are solvothermally synthesized, where the Co9Se8 nanosheets uniformly surround hollow NiCoSe2 core. The resultant NiCoSe2@Co9Se8 HNSs are further exploited as a positive electrode for designing a aqueous battery–pseudocapacitor hybrid device by combining it with the high ionic/electronic conductive Ru0.41In0.59Oy nanoparticles as the negative electrode. Due to synergetic contributions from the two involved electrodes, the assembled Ru0.41In0.59Oy//NiCoSe2@Co9Se8 hybrid capacitor is endowed with a wide‐voltage window from 0.0 to 1.5 V, and exhibits a large specific capacitance of ≈206 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and excellent cyclic durability with ≈10% capacitance decay after 5000 consecutive cycles, together with a high energy density of ≈50 Wh kg−1 at a specific power of 3750 W kg−1.
Improving clean energy greenhouse heating with solar thermal energy storage and phase change materials
Authors: Naghibi Zahra , Carriveau Rupp , Ting David S.‐K.
Published: December 2019

Greenhouses consume a great deal of energy to heat their building envelopes. The strategic integration of solar energy and thermal energy storage (TES) can help to boost energy performance and reduce the carbon emission in the sector. In this paper, the benefits of adding phase change materials (PCM) to the water tank of a solar heating system have been evaluated using the Transient System Simulation (TRNSYS) program. Initially, the hourly heating load of a reference greenhouse was evaluated using TRNSYS software. The results were validated with natural gas consumption data. The validated simulation was then used to investigate the impact of PCM on the performance of a large‐scale solar energy system. Four system configurations were evaluated; no PCM materials in the tank, then 20%, 40%, and 60% of the water tank volume occupied by PCM. Energy performance improvements of 10% to 14% were observed by increasing the proportion of PCM amounts over the baseline conventional system. Finally, an economic study was conducted to investigate the cost feasibility of different PCM concentrations. It was shown that PCM price, cost of natural gas, and carbon tax are the principal influence factors on the payback period.
Analysis of battery‐EV state of charge for a dynamic wireless charging system
Authors: Mohamed Naoui , Aymen Flah , Ben Hamed Mouna , Lassaad Sbita
Published: December 2019

Wireless power transfer provides a new technology to charge electric vehicles (EVs) without physical contact. This system has to partially resolve the autonomy problem for EVs and buses. The majority of researchers were exposed to two categories of this technique: stationary wireless charging (SWC) and dynamic wireless charging (DWC) systems. Actually, the wireless recharge method is a recent solution that eliminates the problem of waiting time in recharge stations. However, the problem is always related to the vehicle status: if it is in motion and if it is in high‐speed running mode. In this context, this paper defines and examines the mathematical model of the DWC system and explains its function in relation to several parameters related to the vehicle situation. This study explores the mathematical model and identifies the best conditions for using the recharge method when the vehicle is in motion. The analysis study was elaborated using MATLAB/Simulink software, and the obtained results showed the variation of the state of charge, depending on the vehicle speed.
Deproteinization of four macroporous resins for rapeseed meal polysaccharides
Authors: Duan Shengzhou , Huang Qian , Shen Xiaoqian , Hu Jie , Yi Xiangzhou , Li Zhenshun , Ding Baomiao
Published: December 2019

In this study, the adsorption/desorption characteristics of rapeseed meal polysaccharides extract on four resins (HP‐20, D3520, XAD‐16, and AB‐8) were evaluated. The results indicated that HP‐20 resin had the best purification effect. Based on static adsorption test, the kinetics and isotherms of the four resins for protein and polysaccharide were investigated. The adsorption test showed that the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model and the Freundlich isotherm model were more suitable for explanation of the adsorption process for protein and polysaccharide. Static desorption test showed that the highest protein desorption ratios of HP‐20, D3520, and AB‐8 resins could be obtained with 60% ethanol solution as eluate, and the highest protein desorption ratios of XAD‐16 resin could be obtained with 40% ethanol solution as eluate. Dynamic adsorption/desorption tests of HP‐20 resin showed that the deproteinization ratio was 91% and the polysaccharide recovery ratio was 62% when the treatment amount was 1.5 BV. Compared with three traditional methods, HP‐20 resin adsorption method that the deproteinization ratio was 82% was more potent than the three traditional methods for purifying polysaccharides from rapeseed meal. In addition, UV/vis spectroscopy showed that most of the protein was absorbed by resins, and FT‐IR spectroscopy indicated that the purity of the polysaccharide after purification was improved. Rapeseed meal polysaccharides could be effectively deproteinized using HP‐20 resin, and it was suitable for purifying polysaccharides from rapeseed meal.
Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography Severity Predicts Disease Outcomes in Pediatric Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Reliability and Validity Study
Authors: Patil Kedar , Ricciuto Amanda , Alsharief Alaa , Al‐Rayahi Jehan , Amirabadi Afsaneh , Church Peter C. , Kamath Binita M. , Greer Mary‐Louise C.
Published: December 2019

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) has not been assessed as a surrogate biomarker in pediatrics. We aimed to determine the inter‐rater reliability, prognostic utility, and construct validity of the modified Majoie endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography classification applied to MRCP in a pediatric primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) cohort. This single‐center, retrospective, cohort study included children with PSC undergoing diagnostic MRCP between 2008 and 2016. Six variations of the Majoie classification were examined: 1) intrahepatic duct (IHD) score, 2) extrahepatic duct (EHD) score (representing the worst intrahepatic and extrahepatic regions, respectively), 3) sum IHD‐EHD score, 4) average IHD score, 5) average EHD score, and 6) sum average IHD‐EHD score. Inter‐rater reliability was assessed using weighted kappas and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Ability to predict time to PSC‐related complications (ascites, esophageal varices, variceal bleed, liver transplant [LT], or cholangiocarcinoma) (primary outcome) and LT (secondary outcome) was assessed with Harrell’s concordance statistic (c‐statistic) and univariate/multivariable survival analysis. Construct validity was further assessed with Spearman correlations. Forty‐five children were included (67% boys; median, 13.6 years). The inter‐rater reliability of MRCP scores was substantial to excellent (kappas/ICCs, 0.78‐0.82). The sum IHD‐EHD score had the best predictive ability for time to PSC complication and LT (c‐statistic, 0.80 and SE, 0.06; and c‐statistic, 0.97 and SE, 0.01, respectively). Higher MRCP scores were independently associated with a higher rate of PSC‐related complications, even after adjusting for the PSC Mayo risk score (hazard ratio, 1.74; 95% confidence interval, 1.14‐2.). MRCP sum scores correlated significantly with METAVIR fibrosis stage, total bilirubin, and platelets (r = 0.42, r = 0.33, r = −0.31, respectively; P < 0.05). Conclusion: An MRCP score incorporating the worst affected intrahepatic and extrahepatic regions is reliable and predicts meaningful outcomes in pediatric PSC. Next steps include prospective validation and responsiveness assessment.
Premetastatic niches, exosomes and circulating tumor cells: Early mechanisms of tumor dissemination and the relation to surgery
Authors: Raskov Hans , Orhan Adile , Salanti Ali , Gögenur Ismail
Published: December 2019

The physiological stress response to surgery promotes wound healing and functional recovery and includes the activation of neural, inflammatory and proangiogenic signaling pathways. Paradoxically, the same pathways also promote metastatic spread and growth of residual cancer. Human and animal studies show that cancer surgery can increase survival, migration and proliferation of residual tumor cells. To secure the survival and growth of disseminated tumor cells, the formation of premetastatic niches in target organs involves a complex interplay between microenvironment, immune system, circulating tumor cells, as well as chemical mediators and exosomes secreted by the primary tumor. This review describes the current understanding of the early mechanisms of dissemination, as well as how surgery may facilitate disease progression.
3D electronic and photonic structures as active biological interfaces
Authors: Wang Huachun , Sun Pengcheng , Yin Lan , Sheng Xing
Published: December 2019

Biocompatible materials and structures with three‐dimensional (3D) architectures establish an ideal platform for the integration of living cells and tissues, serving as desirable interfaces between biotic and abiotic systems. While conventional 3D bioscaffolds provide a mechanical support for biomatters, emerging developments of micro‐, nano‐, and mesoscale electronic and photonic devices offer new paradigms in analyzing and interrogating biosystems. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the development of 3D functional biointerfaces, with a particular focus on electrically and optically active materials, devices, and structures. We first give an overview of representative methods for manufacturing 3D biointegrated structures, such as chemical synthesis, microfabrication, mechanical assembly, and 3D printing. Subsequently, exemplary 3D nano‐, micro‐, and mesostructures based on various materials, including semiconductors, metals, and polymers are presented. Finally, we highlight the latest progress on versatile applications of such active 3D structures in the biomedical field, like cell culturing, biosignal sensing/modulation, and tissue regeneration. We believe future 3D micro‐, nano‐, and mesostructures that incorporate electrical and/or optical functionalities will not only profoundly advance the fundamental studies in biological sciences, but also create enormous opportunities for medical diagnostics and therapies.

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Electrical and spin switches in single‐molecule junctions
Authors: Ke Guojun , Duan Chunhui , Huang Fei , Guo Xuefeng
Published: December 2019

Single‐molecule electrical and spin switches have been one of the main research focuses in molecular electronics and spintronics because they may form the most important elements for the future information technology, thus attracting great attention in the scientific community and witnessing significant progresses benefiting from the combination of physics, chemistry, materials, and engineering. The key issue of constructing single‐molecule switches is the development of stimulus‐responsive systems that provide bistable or multiple states. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of this field in terms of the external stimulus that induces the switching. A variety of external stimuli, such as light, electric field, magnetic field, mechanical force, and chemical stimulus, have been successfully employed to activate the reversible switching in single‐molecule junctions by manipulating molecular structures, conformations, electronic states, and spin states. As a burgeoning field, we finally put forward the challenges in molecular electronics and spintronics that need to be solved, which will initiate intense research.

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The mechanism of PDA/PEI/5‐Fu coated esophageal stent material on inhibiting cancer associated pathological cells
Authors: Zhang Kun , Bai Yuxin , Xu Ru , Li Jingan , Guan Fangxia
Published: December 2019

Metal stent implantation is usually applied to alleviate nonoperative palliative esophageal obstruction for esophageal cancer in the later period. However, in‐stent restenosis after stent implantation limits the esophageal stents' performance due to lack of effective suppression of pathological cells from cancer microenvironment. In previous work, we modified the esophageal stent material 317L stainless steel (317LSS) surface with a poly‐dopamine/poly‐ethylenimine/5‐fluorouracil layer (PDA/PEI/5‐Fu), which had strong anti‐tumor and anti‐restenosis functions. Nevertheless, the mechanism of PDA/PEI/5‐Fu layer against tumor and inflammation remains unclear. In this work, we revealed the mechanism of PDA/PEI/5‐Fu suppressing the esophageal cancer related pathological cells (esophageal tumor cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblast) and inflammatory cells (macrophages) via series of experiments. Our data suggested that the PEI inhibited viability and E‐cadherin expression of the pathological cells, and blocked the NF‐κB signal pathway (reducing levels of p‐NF‐κB proteins). The loaded 5‐Fu inhibited the inflammatory factors (TNF‐α and IL‐1β) release and promoted the anti‐inflammation/anti‐tumor factors (IL‐10 and IL‐4) release from macrophages, and also suppressed pathological cells migration; both the PEI and 5‐Fu contributed to the upregulation of Bax and Caspase‐3 (pro‐tumor‐apoptosis factor), as well as the downregulation of Bcl‐2 (anti‐tumor‐apoptosis factor) in esophageal tumor cells. All the results showed that PDA/PEI/5‐Fu coating had potential multipath anti‐cancer and anti‐inflammatory effects in the surface modification of esophageal stents.
Amido PNP complexes of iridium: Synthesis and catalytic olefin and alkyne hydrogenation
Authors: Huang Mei‐Hui , Zou Xue‐Ru , Liang Lan‐Chang
Published: December 2019

In situ lithiation of HN(o‐C6H4PPh2)2 (H[1a]) or HN(o‐C6H4PiPr2)2 (H[1b]) with nBuLi in THF at −35°C followed by addition of [Ir(μ‐Cl)(COD)]2 (COD = 1,5‐cyclooctadiene) in toluene at −35°C generates 5‐coordinate [1a]Ir(η4‐COD) (2a) or 4‐coordinate [1b]Ir(η2‐COD) (2b), respectively. Oxidative addition of N‐H in H[1b] to [Ir(μ‐Cl)(COD)]2 affords square pyramidal [1b]Ir(H)(Cl) (3b). Metathetical reaction of 3b with LiBHEt3 in the presence of 1 atm of H2 in toluene produces [1b]Ir(H)2 (4b). Both 2a and 4b are active for catalytic hydrogenation of olefins and alkynes under extremely mild conditions.
Leachate recirculation effects on solid‐state anaerobic digestion of Pennisetum hybrid and microbial community analysis
Authors: Xing Tao , Kong Xiaoying , Dong Pengyu , Zhen Feng , Sun Yongming
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

A leach‐bed reactor (LBR) with leachate recirculation is a suitable technology for lignocellulosic biomass anaerobic digestion. In this study, the effect of percolate reflux strategies (continuous recirculation and intermittent recirculation) on methane production from Pennisetum hybrid, a type of energy crop, was investigated using a two‐layered LBR.

RESULTS

Compared to a solid‐state anaerobic digestion batch test, LBRs with percolate recirculation provide a stable process with a short lag phase by avoiding inhibition of volatile fatty acid accumulation and inoculation effect. The results also indicated that continuous reflux led to a lower accumulative methane yield (56.20 L kg−1 VS) compared to intermittent reflux (78.50 L kg−1 VS), resulting from washing effect and poorer distribution on the lower layer. According to microbial analysis, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Synergistetes were the most predominant bacterial phyla in each LBR test sample and aceticlastic methanogen (at least >55%) plays a predominant role for methane production in all samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that leachate recirculation could provide stable conditions for methane yield; however, two‐layer reactor designs which cannot guarantee the desired distribution in the lower layer result in a low methane yield. Suitable design of LBRs to maintain a well‐distributed reflux leachate should be further investigated. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Selective Agonists of Nuclear Retinoic Acid Receptor Gamma Inhibit Growth of HCS‐2/8 Chondrosarcoma Cells
Authors: Shield William P. , Cellini Ashley , Tian Hongying , Wilson Kim , Dan Yang , Abzug Joshua M. , Garcia Sonia , Moritani Norifumi , Alferiev Ivan , Chorny Michael , Takigawa Masaharu , Ng Vincent Y. , Iwamoto Masahiro , Enomoto‐Iwamoto Motomi
Published: December 2019

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary bone sarcoma. Treatment of chondrosarcoma is limited to surgery due to radiation and chemotherapy resistance of this cancer. An ideal treatment for chondrosarcoma would be a well‐tolerated, minimally invasive local or systemic treatment modality to halt or slow tumor growth prior to resection of local, unresectable local, or metastatic disease. Palovarotene, an agonist of nuclear retinoic acid receptor γ (RARγ) has shown therapeutic action for treatment of heterotopic ossification and osteochondroma without serious adverse effects in animal models. We hypothesized that selective agonists of RARγ would have an inhibitory effect on chondrosarcoma. All human chondrosarcoma specimens expressed RARγ as determined by immunohistochemical staining. The ΗCS‐2/8 chondrosarcoma cell line, established from low‐grade human chondrosarcoma, was used to examine the actions of RARγ agonists. In ΗCS2/8 pellet cultures, RARγ agonist treatment reduced the mass size and significantly decreased total glycosaminoglycan, protein amounts, and gene expression levels of cartilage matrix molecules when compared with control groups. Systemic treatment with RARγ agonists significantly inhibited the growth of ΗCS‐2/8 cell transplants in vivo. Furthermore, local injection of RARγ agonist‐loaded poly‐lactic acid nanoparticles induced regression of the mass size of the transplants. Histologic analysis demonstrated that RARγ agonist treatment inhibited cell proliferation activity and stimulated encapsulation of the tumor. These findings indicate that RARγ agonists, including palovarotene, may have an anti‐tumor effect on low‐grade chondrosarcomas. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:1045‐1051, 2020
E‐Learning Training to Improve Pediatric Parenteral Nutrition Practice: A Pilot Study in Two University Hospitals
Authors: Petit Laetitia‐Marie , Le Pape Pauline , Delestras Stephanie , Nguyen Christina , Marchand Valerie , Belli Dominique , Bonnabry Pascal , Bajwa Nadia , Fonzo‐Christe Caroline
Published: December 2019

Background

Education and training may improve the prescription of pediatric parenteral nutrition. The aim was to evaluate the impact of an e‐learning method on parenteral nutrition prescription skills among pediatric residents in 2 pediatric hospitals.

Methods

A randomized double‐blind control study was conducted over a 9‐month period among pediatric residents in HOSP1, Geneva, Switzerland, where physicians prescribe parenteral nutrition directly, and in HOSP2, Montreal, Canada, where physicians prescribe only occasionally because clinical pharmacists are devoted to this activity. The intervention consisted of an e‐learning session about key issues of parenteral nutrition. Physician parenteral nutrition knowledge was evaluated with a standardized questionnaire based on clinical cases before and after the e‐learning in the intervention groups; in the control groups, only the 2 tests were conducted. In HOSP1, participants also underwent iterative tests every 2 months to measure the retention of knowledge.

Results

Sixty‐five physicians participated. Initial knowledge scores were higher in HOSP1 (pretest scores 180 ± 29 vs 133 ± 24, p < 0.001). Overall, there was no significant difference in the impact of the e‐learning intervention between the control and e‐learning groups (p > 0.05). A significant knowledge improvement was observed in HOSP2 in the e‐learning group (p = 0.033). Iterative tests in HOSP1 showed persistence of knowledge without significant differences between the groups. E‐learning satisfaction among the participants was outstanding (100%).

Conclusion

E‐learning seems to be an effective method for teaching parenteral nutrition among pediatric residents and fellows at the beginning of the training. High satisfaction with this teaching method was observed in this study.
Characterization and discrimination of microbial community and co‐occurrence patterns in fresh and strong flavor style flue‐cured tobacco leaves
Authors: Zhang Qianying , Geng Zongze , Li Dongliang , Ding Zhongyang
Published: December 2019

Fermentation, also known as aging, is vital for enhancing the quality of flue‐cured tobacco leaves (FTLs). Aged FTLs demonstrate high‐quality sensory characteristics, while unaged FTLs do not. Microbes play important roles in the FTL fermentation process. However, the eukaryotic microbial community diversity is poorly understood, as are microbial associations within FTLs. We aimed to characterize and compare the microbiota associated with two important categories, fresh and strong flavor style FTLs, and to reveal correlations between the microbial taxa within them. Based on 16S and 18S rRNA Illumina MiSeq sequencing, the community richness and diversity of prokaryotes were almost as high as that of eukaryotes. The dominant microbes of FTLs belonged to seven genera, including Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Methylobacterium, Acinetobacter, Sphingomonas, Neophaeosphaeria, and Cladosporium, of the Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Ascomycota phyla. According to partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA), Xanthomonas, Franconibacter, Massilia, Quadrisphaera, Staphylococcus, Cladosporium, Lodderomyces, Symmetrospora, Golovinomyces, and Dioszegia were significantly positively correlated with fresh flavor style FTLs, while Xenophilus, Fusarium, unclassified Ustilaginaceae, Tilletiopsis, Cryphonectria, Colletotrichum, and Cyanodermella were significantly positively correlated with strong flavor style FTLs. Network analysis identified seven hubs, Aureimonas, Kocuria, Massilia, Brachybacterium, Clostridium, Dietzia, and Vishniacozyma, that may play important roles in FTL ecosystem stability, which may be destroyed by Myrmecridium. FTL microbiota was found to be correlated with flavor style. Species present in lower numbers than the dominant microbes might be used as microbial markers to discriminate different flavor style samples and to stabilize FTL microbial communities. This research advances our understanding of FTL microbiota and describes a means of discriminating between fresh and strong flavor FTLs based on their respective stable microbiota.