bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ Grown Iron Oxides on Carbon Nanofibers as Freestanding Anodes in Aqueous Supercapacitors
Authors: Pai Rahul , Singh Arvinder , Simotwo Silas , Kalra Vibha
Published: March 2018

Iron oxides are promising materials for application in supercapacitors owing to their high theoretical redox capacitance (2299 F g−1). Nevertheless, iron oxide nanostructures experience constant stress during cycling due to repeated expansion and contraction resulting in structural degradation. Such structural instability makes it challenging to develop freestanding and binder‐free iron oxide‐based electrodes with superior electrochemical performance. In this work, the authors report a facile way to fabricate iron‐based carbon nanofibers using a simple and fast technique of electrospinning followed by an in situ electrochemical conversion. The final composite electrode consists of iron oxide embedded in carbon nanofibers which possesses a robust contact and support in addition to freestanding and binder‐free nature. The electrodes exhibit a capacitance of 460 F g−1 at a galvanostatic discharge current density of 1 A g−1 and retains ∼82% of its capacitance after 5000 cycles in a wide negative potential window of 1.3 V. Extensive spectroscopic investigation is conducted to monitor phase transformation of the electrodes during oxidation and reduction to provide a understanding of the redox mechanism during electrochemical cycling.
Polymer Nanocomposites with Ultrahigh Energy Density and High Discharge Efficiency by Modulating their Nanostructures in Three Dimensions
Authors: Zhang Xin , Jiang Jianyong , Shen Zhonghui , Dan Zhenkang , Li Ming , Lin Yuanhua , Nan Ce‐Wen , Chen Longqing , Shen Yang
Published: March 2018

Manipulating microstructures of composites in three dimensions has been a long standing challenge. An approach is proposed and demonstrated to fabricate artificial nanocomposites by controlling the 3D distribution and orientation of oxide nanoparticles in a polymer matrix. In addition to possessing much enhanced mechanical properties, these nanocomposites can sustain extremely high voltages up to ≈10 kV, exhibiting high dielectric breakdown strength and low leakage current. These nanocomposites show great promise in resolving the paradox between dielectric constant and breakdown strength, leading to ultrahigh electrical energy density (over 2000% higher than that of the bench‐mark polymer dielectrics) and discharge efficiency. This approach opens up a new avenue for the design and modulation of nanocomposites. It is adaptable to the roll‐to‐roll fabrication process and could be employed as a general technique for the mass production of composites with intricate nanostructures, which is otherwise not possible using conventional polymer processing techniques.
Monolayer Nanosheets with an Extremely High Drug Loading toward Controlled Delivery and Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Peng Liuqi , Mei Xuan , He Jun , Xu Jiekun , Zhang Weiku , Liang Ruizheng , Wei Min , Evans David G. , Duan Xue
Published: March 2018

2D nanomaterials have attracted considerable research interest in drug delivery systems, owing to their intriguing quantum size and surface effect. Herein, Gd3+‐doped monolayered‐double‐hydroxide (MLDH) nanosheets are prepared via a facile bottom‐up synthesis method, with a precisely controlled composition and uniform morphology. MLDH nanosheets as drug carrier are demonstrated in coloading of doxorubicin and indocyanine green (DOX&ICG), with an ultrahigh drug loading content (LC) of 797.36% and an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 99.67%. This is, as far as it is known, the highest LC level at nearly 100% of EE among previously reported 2D drug delivery systems so far. Interestingly, the as‐prepared DOX&ICG/MLDH composite material shows both pH‐controlled and near‐infrared‐irradiation‐induced DOX release, which holds a promise in stimulated drug release. An in vivo dual‐mode imaging, including near‐infrared fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging, enables a noninvasive visualization of distribution profiles at the tumor site. In addition, in vitro and in vivo therapeutic evaluations demonstrate an excellent trimode synergetic anticancer activity and superior biocompatibility of DOX&ICG/MLDH. Therefore, MLDH nanosheets provide new perspectives in the design of multifunctional nanomedicine, which shows promising applications in controlled drug delivery and cancer theranostics.
Field‐Dependent Electrical and Thermal Transport in Polycrystalline WSe2
Authors: Kim WungYeon , Kim HyunJeong , Hallam Toby , McEvoy Niall , Gatensby Riley , Nerl Hannah C. , O'Neill Katie , Siris Rita , Kim Gyu‐Tae , Duesberg Georg S.
Published: March 2018

Owing to their desirable electrical and thermoelectric properties, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have attracted significant attention. It is important to develop an easy synthetic method and a simple device fabrication process for TMDs. In this study, WSe2 films were synthesized on a large scale by thermally assisted conversion (TAC) of W films on SiO2/Si substrates at 600 °C. The TAC process yields homogeneous polycrystalline films of controlled thickness over large areas which have the advantage that they can be adapted for mass production for applications in electronics and thermoelectrics. In this regard, pre‐patterning of the deposited metal films allows for devices to be easily fabricated without any etch process. UV‐lithography‐defined W structures have been deposited and after conversion to WSe2 their electrical and thermoelectric properties have been studied. Using e‐beam lithography, a field effect transistor (FET) with a WSe2 channel was fabricated. This showed p‐type behavior and reasonable field effect mobility value. The thermoelectric properties of WSe2 thin films were analyzed by additionally integrating micro heating elements to the WSe2 FET. The maximum Seebeck coefficient and power factor (S2·σ) values were calculated to be ≈61 mV·K−1 (Vg = 45 V) and ≈1.3 nW·K−2·cm−1, respectively.
Magnetic Diode Behavior at Room Temperature in 2D Honeycombs
Authors: Summers Brock , Dahal Ashutosh , Singh Deepak K.
Published: March 2018

The magnetic analog of a semiconductor diode, demonstrating unidirectional electrical transport, is a highly desirable functionality for spintronics application, as it can play a dual role as magnetic memory device and logic element. However, creating such a functional material or device with operation ability at room temperature in the absence of any external tuning parameter, for instance a magnetic field, is a challenge till date. In this study, the finding of semiconductor diode‐type rectification in a 2D honeycomb lattice, made of an ultrasmall permalloy magnet with a typical length of ≈12 nm is reported. The unidirectional electrical transport behavior, characterized by the asymmetric colossal enhancement in differential conductivity at a modest current application of ≈10–15 µA, persists to T = 300 K in honeycomb lattice of a moderate thickness of ≈6 nm. Importantly, the unidirectional biasing arises without the application of a magnetic field with an output power, ≈30 nW, by three orders of magnitude smaller than a semiconductor junction diode. Together, these properties provide a new vista for spintronics research.
Theoretical and Experimental Insight into the Effect of Nitrogen Doping on Hydrogen Evolution Activity of Ni3S2 in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Kou Tianyi , Smart Tyler , Yao Bin , Chen Irwin , Thota David , Ping Yuan , Li Yat
Published: March 2018

Nickel sulfide (Ni3S2) is a promising hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst by virtue of its metallic electrical conductivity and excellent stability in alkaline medium. However, the reported catalytic activities for Ni3S2 are still relatively low. Herein, an effective strategy to boost the H adsorption capability and HER performance of Ni3S2 through nitrogen (N) doping is demonstrated. N‐doped Ni3S2 nanosheets achieve a fairly low overpotential of 155 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and an excellent exchange current density of 0.42 mA cm−2 in 1.0 m KOH electrolyte. The mass activity of 16.9 mA mg−1 and turnover frequency of 2.4 s−1 obtained at 155 mV are significantly higher than the values reported for other Ni3S2‐based HER catalysts, and comparable to the performance of best HER catalysts in alkaline medium. These experimental data together with theoretical analysis suggest that the outstanding catalytic activity of N‐doped Ni3S2 is due to the enriched active sites with favorable H adsorption free energy. The activity in the Ni3S2 is highly correlated with the coordination number of the surface S atoms and the charge depletion of neighbor Ni atoms. These new findings provide important guidance for future experimental design and synthesis of optimal HER catalysts.
Bone marrow transplantation stimulates neural repair in Friedreich's ataxia mice
Authors: Kemp Kevin C. , Hares Kelly , Redondo Juliana , Cook Amelia J. , Haynes Harry R. , Burton Bronwen R. , Pook Mark A. , Rice Claire M. , Scolding Neil J. , Wilkins Alastair
Published: March 2018

Objective

Friedreich's ataxia is an incurable inherited neurological disease caused by frataxin deficiency. Here, we report the neuroreparative effects of myeloablative allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in a humanized murine model of the disease.

Methods

Mice received a transplant of fluorescently tagged sex‐mismatched bone marrow cells expressing wild‐type frataxin and were assessed at monthly intervals using a range of behavioral motor performance tests. At 6 months post‐transplant, mice were euthanized for protein and histological analysis. In an attempt to augment numbers of bone marrow–derived cells integrating within the nervous system and improve therapeutic efficacy, a subgroup of transplanted mice also received monthly subcutaneous infusions of the cytokines granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor and stem cell factor.

Results

Transplantation caused improvements in several indicators of motor coordination and locomotor activity. Elevations in frataxin levels and antioxidant defenses were detected. Abrogation of disease pathology throughout the nervous system was apparent, together with extensive integration of bone marrow–derived cells in areas of nervous tissue injury that contributed genetic material to mature neurons, satellite‐like cells, and myelinating Schwann cells by processes including cell fusion. Elevations in circulating bone marrow–derived cell numbers were detected after cytokine administration and were associated with increased frequencies of Purkinje cell fusion and bone marrow–derived dorsal root ganglion satellite‐like cells. Further improvements in motor coordination and activity were evident.

Interpretation

Our data provide proof of concept of gene replacement therapy, via allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, that reverses neurological features of Friedreich's ataxia with the potential for rapid clinical translation. Ann Neurol 2018;83:779–793
Evaluation of Variation in Protein Composition on Solubility, Emulsifying and Gelling Properties of Soybean Genotypes Synthesizing β' Subunit
Authors: Pavlicevic Milica Z. , Tomic Milos D. , Djonlagic Jasna A. , Stanojevic Sladjana P. , Vucelic Radovic Biljana V.
Published: March 2018

The effects of subunit composition of two major proteins of soybean: glycinin (11S) and β‐conglycinin (7S) in nine different genotypes, on solubility and emulsifying and gelling properties at different pH (3, 5, 6, and 8) were examined. High‐protein genotypes (more than 40%) contained low amounts of the β′ subunit. The main factors influencing solubility at pH 6 were the content of α′, α (r = 0.89 and r = 0.91 at P < 0.05, respectively) and β′ subunit contents (r = −0.71 at P < 0.05) of β‐conglycinin, while at pH 3 acidic subunits in glycinin had a positive correlation with solubility (r = 0.69 at P < 0.05). Emulsion activity at pH 6 was higher for genotypes synthesizing β′ subunit (r = 0.57 at P < 0.05). Genotypes synthesizing higher amounts of α′ and α subunit had higher emulsion stability at pH 6 (r = 0.85 and r = 0.92 at P < 0.05, respectively) and pH 8 (r = 0.91 and r = 0.97 at P < 0.05, respectively). The rheological measurements showed that genotypes with 11S/7S ratio higher than 2.2 formed gels with enhanced storage moduli. This influence was largely due to the high content of SH groups in glycinin acidic polypeptides resulting in stabilization of gels via disulfide bonding. Gels prepared from genotypes containing higher amounts of β′ subunit of β‐conglycinin exhibited reduced elastic properties. Genotypes showing better solubility also had higher emulsion stability, but formed weaker gels and had lower emulsion activity near neutral pH.
Isolation of High Oleate Recombinants in Peanut by Near Infra‐Red Spectroscopy and Confirmation With Allele Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction Marker
Authors: Mondal Suvendu , Nazareth Jennifer , Bhad Poonam G. , Badigannavar Anand M.
Published: March 2018

Near infrared (NIR) spectrophotometer offers rapid, noninvasive, nondestructive, and high‐throughput phenotyping of seed samples for use in agriculture and industry. In this study, a reflectance‐based NIR spectrophotometer was calibrated and used for the isolation of desirable higher‐oleic‐acid peanut recombinants from single‐seed‐derived segregating populations at F7 and F8 generations. A calibration model was developed through partial least‐square regression using wet chemistry data from 158 peanut genotypes. Desirable prediction for oil, palmitic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid in intact seed was obtained based on this calibration. It detected significant high correlations (r) and coefficient of determination (R2) between the actual gas chromatography values and NIR predicted values of fatty acid profile in another 123 peanut genotypes that were generated from crosses involving a high‐oleate mutant and Spanish bunch varieties with early maturity. From this recombinant single‐seed‐derived progenies, 15 higher‐oleate recombinants were isolated and later genotyped through an in‐house developed polymerase chain reaction‐based allele specific marker. The present study has generated high‐oleate peanut recombinants with early maturity in Spanish bunch background. The breeding materials generated here will be evaluated for yield attributing traits at different locations in future.
Cellular Changes in “Hass” Avocado Mesocarp During Cold‐Pressed Oil Extraction
Authors: Yang Shuo , Hallett Ian , Rebstock Ria , Oh Hyunah E. , Kam Rothman , Woolf Allan B. , Wong Marie
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to understand factors affecting oil release from “Hass” avocado cells during the cold‐pressed oil extraction process. Early‐season “Hass” avocado fruit and pulp were sampled from a commercial extraction process. Light microscopy and electrical impedance spectroscopy were used to examine avocado flesh structure at defined steps during the extraction process (destoning, grinding, malaxing, and decanting). Most parenchyma cells were ruptured during destoning, grinding, and mixing before malaxing. In contrast, the other oil bearing cells, idioblast cells, appeared to remain unruptured and intact during the extraction process. The greatest reduction in electrical resistance was observed after the destoning step. There were also significant differences between the resistances of flesh after destoning, grinding, and prior to malaxing samples. Malaxing for two hours assisted the process of oil aggregation, which led to a greater oil yield. These findings will help to develop methods to enhance oil extraction from early‐season “Hass” avocado fruit.
Enzymatic Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity of 1‐Caffeoylglycerol Prepared from Alkyl Caffeates and Glycerol
Authors: Meng Xiang‐Yun , Xu Yan , Wu Jin‐Xian , Zhu Chang‐Tong , Zhang Dong‐Yang , Wu Guo‐Hua , Wu Fu‐An , Wang Jun
Published: March 2018

Caffeic acid (CA) as a strong antioxidant has lower solubility in nonpolar media, which limits its application in the food industry. To increase the lipophilicity of CA, 1‐caffeoylglycerol (1‐CG) was synthesized by lipase‐catalyzed transesterification of alkyl caffeates in solvent‐free system and its antioxidant capacity was investigated. Methyl caffeate was screened as the appropriate substrate from tested alkyl caffeates with a yield of 90.63%. Ethyl acetate was used for extracting 1‐CG from enzymatic reactants and could be easily recycled. The produced 1‐CG had 2.5‐ and 10‐fold lower values of half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) (10.86 and 3.99 μM) than butylated hydroxyanisole by 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging and β‐carotene‐linoleic acid assays, respectively. Thus, 1‐CG is an excellent antioxidant for application in the functional food industry. Using alkyl caffeates and glycerol as substrates to produce 1‐CG catalyzed by immobilized lipase in a solvent‐free system is a simple, selective, and safe bioprocess that can readily be achieved in the food industry, and the product 1‐CG could be widely applied in food, nutraceutical, and biotechnological products.
Ultrastructure of Highly Ordered Granules in Alveolar Type II Cells in Several Species
Authors: Miller Marian L. , Porollo Aleksey , Wert Susan
Published: March 2018

Alveolar Type II cells from seven mammalian species were examined for a protein in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), which showed a multilayered, repeating motif. Each motif, 100 nm in width, comprised two parallel outer dense layers, a less dense central layer, and often 1–3 faint layers on either side of the latter. Outer layers showed periodicities at 3–4 densities/100 nm of width, while layers on either side of the central layer showed 5–7 densities/100 nm of width. RER membranes were ribosome‐free when parallel to these layers, but showed four ribosomes per motif at the growing ends: one ribosome at each outer dense layer, and one on either side of the less dense central layer. Granules appeared as single or as multiple motifs, stacked, curved, folded, or branching together within the same RER profile. Hexagons of around 30 nm in diameter with central densities were seen in tangential cuts of outer dense layers. Granule incidence varied: guinea pig > ferret > dog. Possible homologous structures occurred in rabbit and cat, but not in rat or mouse. Surfactant protein A (SP‐A), a C‐type lectin produced in Type II cells, forms trimers and bouquet‐like 18‐mer and can oligomerize further. Two pairs of SP‐A 18‐mers with carbohydrate recognition domains pointing inwardly and outwardly, stacked vertically as a column of four molecules, then repeated side by side in rows, approximated the size and layering patterns observed in these granules. Sequence analyses of SP‐A from these species showed phylogenetic distances consistent with the observed occurrence and frequency of patterned granules. Anat Rec, 301:1290–1302, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Common Language Description of the Term Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (RMDs) for Use in Communication With the Lay Public, Healthcare Providers, and Other Stakeholders Endorsed by the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)
Authors: van der Heijde Désirée , Daikh David I. , Betteridge Neil , Burmester Gerd R. , Hassett Afton L. , Matteson Eric L. , van Vollenhoven Ronald , Lakhanpal Sharad
Published: March 2018

A European League Against Rheumatism–American College of Rheumatology working group consisting of practicing and academic rheumatologists, a rheumatology researcher, and a patient representative created a succinct general statement describing rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) in adults and children in language that can be used in conversations with the lay public, media, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. Based on the literature review, several elements were deemed important for inclusion in the description of RMDs. First, RMDs encompass many different diseases that can affect individuals at any age, including children. Second, there are various pathophysiological pathways underlying different RMDs. Third, the impact of RMDs on individuals and society should be emphasized. The working group agreed that the language should be comprehensible to the lay public. Thus, the following description of RMDs has been developed: “Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are a diverse group of diseases that commonly affect the joints, but can affect any organ of the body. There are more than 200 different RMDs, affecting both children and adults. They are usually caused by problems of the immune system, inflammation, infections, or gradual deterioration of joints, muscles, and bones. Many of these diseases are long term and worsen over time. They are typically painful and limit function. In severe cases, RMDs can result in significant disability, having a major impact on both quality of life and life expectancy.” This description can be used by rheumatology groups, researchers, and those who work in advocacy and education related to RMDs.
Designing for mobile experience beyond the native ad click: Exploring landing page presentation style and media usage
Authors: Goyal Nitesh , Bron Marc , Lalmas Mounia , Haines Andrew , Cramer Henriette
Published: March 2018

Many free mobile applications are supported by advertising. Ads can greatly affect user perceptions and behavior. In mobile apps, ads often follow a “native” format: they are designed to conform in both format and style to the actual content and context of the application. Clicking on the ad leads users to a second destination, outside of the hosting app, where the unified experience provided by native ads within the app is not necessarily reflected by the landing page the user arrives at. Little is known about whether and how this type of mobile ads is impacting user experience. In this paper, we use both quantitative and qualitative methods to study the impact of two design decisions for the landing page of a native ad on the user experience: (i) native ad style (following the style of the application) versus a non‐native ad style; and (ii) pages with multimedia versus static pages. We found considerable variability in terms of user experience with mobile ad landing pages when varying presentation style and multimedia usage, especially interaction between presence of video and ad style (native or non‐native). We also discuss insights and recommendations for improving the user experience with mobile native ads.
Elucidating the Impact of CHO Cell Culture Media on Tryptophan Oxidation of a Monoclonal Antibody Through Gene Expression Analyses
Authors: He Luhong , Desai Jairav X. , Gao Jinxin , Hazeltine Laurie B. , Lian Zhirui , Calley John N. , Frye Christopher C.
Published: March 2018

Oxidation of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) is a common chemical modification with potential impact on a therapeutic protein's activity and immunogenicity. In a previous study, it was found that tryptophan oxidation (Trp‐ox) levels of two mAb produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were significantly lowered by modifying cell culture medium/feed. In this study, transcriptome analysis by RNA‐Seq is applied to further elucidate the underlying mechanism of those changes in lowering the Trp‐ox levels. Cell samples from the 5L fed‐batch conditions are harvested and subjected to RNA‐Seq analysis. The results showed that the cell culture changes had little impact on neither the expression of the mAb transgenes nor genes related to glycosylation. However, those changes did significantly alter the expression of multiple genes (p‐value ≤0.05 and absolute fold change ≥1.5 or adjusted p‐value ≤0.1) involved in transport of copper, regulation of glutathione, iron storage, heme reduction, oxidative phosphorylation, and Nrf2‐mediated antioxidative response. These findings suggest a key underlying mechanism in lowering Trp‐ox levels by CDM was likely to be collectively controlling ROS levels through regulation of those genes’ expression. This is the first example, to our knowledge, applying transcriptomic analysis to mechanistically understand the impact of cell culture on mAb oxidation.
Twenty-year experience of paediatric thyroid surgery using intraoperative nerve monitoring
Authors: Schneider R , Machens A , Sekulla C , Lorenz K , Weber F , Dralle H
Published: March 2018

Background

There are few data on intermittent and continuous intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) during thyroidectomy in children.

Methods

All children aged 18 years or younger who had standard thyroid operations using intermittent or continuous IONM between January 1998 and December 2016 were included in the study. The impact of age and type of IONM on basal amplitude, latency and complications after thyroidectomy were assessed.

Results

A total of 504 children were included in the study. With continuous IONM, median basal amplitude and latency increased significantly with age, more on the left side (from 199 to 870 μV, and from 3·88 to 5·75 ms) than on the right (from 340 to 778 μV, and from 2·63 to 3·50 ms). Compared with intermittent IONM with needle electrode, continuous IONM with tube electrode resulted in an increase in median basal amplitude in children aged 13–18 years on both sides (from 675 to 778 μV on the right and from 450 to 870 μV on the left), and a decrease in median latency in all children older than 3 years: in children aged 4–6 years, from 4·20 to 3·00 ms on the right and from 6·10 to 4·63 ms on the left; in children aged 7–12 years, from 4·60 to 3·50 ms and from 6·00 to 5·25 ms respectively; and in children aged 13–18 years, from 4·60 to 3·50 ms and from 6·40 to 5·75 ms. Overall, wound infection, but not bleeding/haematoma or vocal fold palsy, affected younger children more: 3 per cent of children aged 3 years or less; 2 per cent of children aged 4–6 years; and 0 per cent of children aged over 6 years (P = 0·031). With continuous IONM, no wound infection, bleeding/haematoma or permanent vocal fold palsy was noted in any age group.

Conclusion

Continuous IONM measures nerve electrophysiology more accurately than intermittent IONM during thyroidectomy in children.
Analysis of the Relation between Coupled Sink and Purification Based on Hydrogen Network Integration
Authors: Huang Lingjun , Li Wei , Mao Jinbing , Liu Guilian
Published: March 2018

In a hydrogen network, sinks and sources are generally connected to reactors or purifiers, which affect their compositions and flow rates. The relationship between these streams is studied based on the integration of the hydrogen network to identify the feasible and optimal operating conditions of reactors and purifiers. Equations are deduced to describe the quantitative relationship between hydrogen consumption, hydrogen concentration, flow rates of coupled sink and source, purification feed, and purified product. The purification and hydrogen‐consuming reactor parameters can be optimized in the design and operation stage of a hydrogen network. The case study proves that the proposed method is simple, easy to understand, and can be applied to identify the variation trend line and feasible region accurately without tedious calculation.
Electro Discharge Machining – A Suitable Fabrication Process for High‐Pressure/High‐Temperature Equipment
Authors: Hertweck Benjamin , Kimmel Anna-Carina L. , Steigerwald Thomas G. , Alt Nicolas S. A. , Schlücker Eberhard
Published: March 2018

Electro discharge machining (EDM) is an important manufacturing process for hard‐to‐cut materials like nickel‐based alloys, e.g., alloy 718. Its high yield strength at high temperature make it a suitable material for vessels for high‐pressure/high‐temperature applications, in particular for ammonothermal pressure vessels. This report first summarizes the relationship between microstructure and properties of alloy 718 for practitioners. Second, it focuses on the metallographic description of alloy 718 surfaces proceeded by EDM and its behavior during use as equipment for ammonoacidic systems. Furthermore, the finding of suitable post‐processing, namely honing, to achieve high stability of the surface at high‐pressure atmosphere is included.
Simulation and Experimental Investigation of Labyrinth Seals for Reciprocating Piston Compressors
Authors: Schaller Andreas , Darvishsefat Novin , Schlücker Eberhard
Published: March 2018

To optimize the performance of oil‐free reciprocating piston compressors, the leakage flow through the piston seal has to be minimized. Therefore, the effects of the geometrical parameters and shapes of labyrinth seals on the leakage flow are examined. The main geometrical parameters and shapes are investigated by means of computational flow dynamics simulations. The optimum geometries obtained from the simulations are experimentally tested on a compressor rig. The rectangle labyrinth shows the lowest leakage followed by a novel semicircle geometry and the triangle geometry shows the highest leakage flow among the labyrinths. The straight seal exhibits the highest leakage flow rate. It can be concluded that the rectangle labyrinth reduces the leakage flow rate in the most efficient way.
Phase boundaries for synthetic light oils and gas condensate mixtures using predictive equations of state with a solid solution model
Authors: Nasrifar Khashayar , Javanmardi Jafar
Published: March 2018

Phase boundaries for five synthetic paraffinic mixtures were predicted using a previously developed Gibbs energy minimization algorithm. In this method, the vapour and liquid phases were described by cubic equations of state (EoS). These EoS employed a predictive temperature‐dependent group‐contribution binary interaction parameter model. The solid phase was described using a universal quasi‐chemical activity coefficient (UNIQUAC) solid solution model. Using this algorithm, the phase boundaries were calculated from a temperature‐search strategy. The predicted phase boundaries were found to be in good agreement with experimental phase boundaries for vapour‐liquid (VL), solid‐liquid (SL), solid‐vapour (SV), and solid‐vapour‐liquid (SVL) regions. The model was also used to predict the phase boundaries at low temperatures where no experimental data were available.
Highly selective preparation of valuable dinitronaphthalene from catalytic nitration of 1‐nitronaphthalene with NO2 over HY zeolite
Authors: Deng Renjie , You Kuiyi , Zhao Fangfang , Liu Pingle , Luo He'an
Published: March 2018

In this work, a simple method for the highly selective preparation of valuable dinitronaphthalene from 1‐nitronaphthalene employing NO2 as a nitrating agent has been developed. The results demonstrated that HY zeolite as an eco‐friendly and stable catalyst exhibits good catalytic performances. The total selectivity to valuable dinitronaphthalene compounds including 1,5‐, 1,4‐, and 1,3‐dinitronaphthalene can reach 87.6 % in our present nitration reaction. Meanwhile, the physico‐chemical properties of catalysts were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TG/DTG, BET, and NH3‐TPD, and the probable nitration reaction mechanism was also suggested in this paper. The present nitration process seems to be a mild, eco‐friendly, and economical route for the preparation of valuable dinitronaphthalene compounds.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling Studies of Propargyl‐Containing 2,4,6‐Trisubstituted Pyrimidine Derivatives as Potential Anti‐Parkinson Agents
Authors: Kumar Bhupinder , Kumar Mohit , Dwivedi Ashish Ranjan , Kumar Vinod
Published: March 2018

Monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) inhibitors are potential drug candidates for the treatment of various neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease. A total of 20 new propargyl‐containing 2,4,6‐trisubstituted pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized and screened for MAO inhibition using Amplex Red assays. All the synthesized compounds were found to be reversible and selective inhibitors of the MAO‐B isoform at sub‐micromolar concentrations. MVB3 was the most potent MAO‐B inhibitor with an IC50 value of 0.38±0.02 μμ, whereas MVB6 (IC50=0.51±0.04 μμ) and MVB16 (IC50=0.48±0.06 μμ) were the most selective for MAO‐B with a selectivity index of more than 100‐fold. In cytotoxic studies, these compounds were found to be nontoxic to human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells at concentrations of 25 μm. MVB6 was found to decrease the intracellular level of reactive oxygen species to 68 % at 10 μm concentration, whereas other compounds did not produce significant changes in reactive oxygen species levels. In molecular modeling studies, MVB3 displayed strong binding affinity for the MAO‐B isoform with a dock score of −10.45, in agreement with the observed activity. All the compounds fitted well in the hydrophobic cavity of MAO‐B. Thus, propargyl‐substituted pyrimidine derivatives can be promising leads in the development of potent, selective and reversible MAO‐B inhibitors for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Modeling and Simulation Support Eltrombopag Dosing in Pediatric Patients With Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Wire Mary B. , Li Xiaobin , Zhang Jianping , Sallas William , Aslanis Vassilios , Ouatas Taoufik
Published: March 2018

Our objective was to support initial eltrombopag doses and dose titration based on modeling and simulation of plasma exposure and platelet count response in pediatric patients aged 1–17 years with previously treated chronic immune thrombocytopenia enrolled in two clinical studies. Data from 168 pediatric patients were used to develop a life‐span population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic model including three pharmacokinetic and four pharmacodynamic compartments enabling simulation of platelet counts for various starting doses and dose titration schedules. This work supported initial eltrombopag doses of 50 mg once daily (q.d.) for non‐Asian patients aged ≥ 6 years and 25 mg q.d. for Asian patients, regardless of age, and for all patients aged 1–5 years, regardless of ethnic origin. Doses were escalated at 2‐week intervals or reduced as needed according to each patient's platelet counts to both minimize the time to achieve target platelet counts and mitigate thrombocytosis. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00908037, NCT01520909.
Star‐Shaped Push‐Pull Molecules with a Varied Number of Peripheral Acceptors: An Insight into Their Optoelectronic Features
Authors: Klikar Milan , Seintis Kostas , Polyzos Ioannis , Pytela Oldřich , Mikysek Tomáš , Almonasy Numan , Fakis Mihalis , Bureš Filip
Published: March 2018

Star‐shaped molecules with a gradually varied number of peripheral acceptors were designed, synthesized, and subsequently investigated by using differential scanning calorimetry, electrochemistry, and linear absorption and emission spectra. Two‐photon absorption properties were studied by two‐photon absorption fluorescence. Experimental data were completed by the results of quantum chemical calculations and thorough structure‐property relationships were elucidated. The performed analysis showed that structural features such as the number of CN groups, star‐shaped arrangement, π‐linker composition, and multipodality are the most important factors affecting optoelectronic features of the studied chromophores.
Model‐free quantification and visualization of colocalization in fluorescence images
Authors: Taylor Aaron B. , Ioannou Maria S. , Aaron Jesse , Chew Teng‐Leong
Published: March 2018

The spatial association between fluorescently tagged biomolecules in situ provides valuable insight into their biological relationship. Within the limits of diffraction, such association can be measured using either Pearson's Correlation Coefficient (PCC) or Spearman's Rank Coefficient (SRC), which are designed to measure linear and monotonic correlations, respectively. However, the relationship between real biological signals is often more complex than these measures assume, rendering their results difficult to interpret. Here, we have adapted methods from the field of information theory to measure the association between two probes' concentrations based on their statistical dependence. Our approach is mathematically more general than PCC or SRC, making no assumptions about the type of relationship between the probes. We show that when applied to biological images, our measures provide more intuitive results that are also more robust to outliers and the presence of multiple relationships than PCC or SRC. We also devise a display technique to highlight regions in the input images where the probes' association is higher versus lower. We expect that our methods will allow biologists to more accurately and robustly quantify and visualize the association between two probes in a pair of fluorescence images. © 2018 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Electrochemical Formation of Nanostructured Gold Surfaces on Glassy Carbon for the Determination of Dopamine
Authors: Cevallos‐Morillo Carlos Alberto , Hernández‐Vargas Salvador G. , Aguilar‐Cordero Julio C.
Published: March 2018

Nanostructured gold surfaces were prepared by potentiostatic, potentiodynamic or galvanostatic Au electrodeposition on glassy carbon electrodes. The nanostructured gold electrodes (nsAu/GC) were used for the determination of dopamine (DA) in aqueous media. A directly proportional relationship was found between the peak current for DA (obtained by square wave voltammetry, SWV) and its concentration for all cases. However, the best performance for DA determination was attained with potentiodynamically electrodeposited surfaces. The SWV peak current was linearly dependent on DA concentration up to 10 μM, with a detection limit (3σ) of 0.57 μM, and a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9966. A study on the effect of common interfering species such as ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) on DA determination was also carried out. The use of a nanostructured surface gives rise to peaks for AA and UA that appear at 0.15–0.20 V above the peak potential for DA. The detection limit obtained for dopamine is below 1 μM in the presence of 0.1 mM AA and 0.1 mM UA. Thus, nanostructuring of glassy carbon surfaces with gold conveniently and easily improves the detection of DA in the presence of their principal interfering species.
Batch‐injection Analysis Better than ever: New Materials for Improved Electrochemical Detection and On‐site Applications
Authors: Rocha Diego P. , Cardoso Rafael M. , Tormin Thiago F. , de Araujo William R. , Munoz Rodrigo A. A. , Richter Eduardo M. , Angnes Lúcio
Published: March 2018

Since the development of batch‐injection analysis (BIA) in 1990, the technique has been constantly upgraded, especially for electrochemical systems, including the creation of novel cell designs and association with new accessories to cover a wide range of applications. BIA systems have provided faster, portable, and more precise analyses. In addition, application of new materials as working electrodes provide improvement on sensitivity and selectivity, resulting in unique advantages for such analytical systems. This review focuses on the most recent advances of BIA systems, including the evolution of designs and materials used to construct BIA cells, with special emphasis to novel materials applied for improved electrochemical sensing. Modified electrodes with inorganic and organic nanomaterials on different substrates, including disposable platforms (screen‐printed electrodes and paper‐based devices) are highlighted. Boron‐doped diamond electrodes (BDDE), carbon‐nanotube and graphene‐modified electrodes have been combined with BIA systems for a wide range of applications that demand on‐site analyses.
Chromatographic Determination of Sugar Probes Used for Gastrointestinal Permeability Test by Employing Nickel‐Copper Nanoalloy Embedded in Carbon Film Electrodes
Authors: Shiba Shunsuke , Maruyama Rina , Kamata Tomoyuki , Kato Dai , Niwa Osamu
Published: March 2018

Co‐sputtered Ni/Cu nanoalloy embedded in carbon film electrodes were applied to an isocratic high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) electrochemical detector to analyze urinary sugar probes used to assess gastrointestinal permeability. Electrode activity was easily controlled by varying the amounts of embedded nanoalloys without changing the Ni/Cu ratio. The high electrocatalytic activity of a nanoalloy makes it possible to achieve a limit of detection (LOD) of several tens of nM, which is one or two orders of magnitude lower than that of conventional pulsed amperometric detection using a gold electrode (Au‐PAD). Moreover, Ni/Cu nanoalloy embedded in carbon film exhibits higher resistivity to electrode fouling by artificial urine components than Au‐PAD, indicating that our electrode is a promising material for detecting sugar probes in real urine samples even under normal amperometric conditions.
Simple, low‐cost fabrication of semi‐circular channel using the surface tension of solder paste and its application to microfluidic valves
Authors: Yan Sheng , Li Yuxing , Zhu Yuanqing , Liu Minsu , Zhao Qianbin , Yuan Dan , Yun Guolin , Zhang Shiwu , Wen Weijia , Tang Shi‐Yang , Li Weihua
Published: March 2018

This work presents a simple, low‐cost method to fabricate semi‐circular channels using solder paste, which can amalgamate the cooper surface to form a half‐cylinder mold using the surface tension of Sn–Pd alloy (the main component in solder paste). This technique enables semi‐circular channels to be manufactured with different dimensions. These semi‐circular channels will then be integrated with a polymethylmethacrylate frame and machine screws to create miniaturized, portable microfluidic valves for sequential liquid delivery and particle synthesis. This approach avoids complicated fabrication processes and expensive facilities and thus has the potential to be a useful tool for lab‐on‐a‐chip applications.
Key HLA‐DRB1‐DQB1 haplotypes and role of the BTNL2 gene for response to a hepatitis B vaccine
Authors: Nishida Nao , Sugiyama Masaya , Sawai Hiromi , Nishina Sohji , Sakai Aiko , Ohashi Jun , Khor Seik‐Soon , Kakisaka Keisuke , Tsuchiura Takayo , Hino Keisuke , Sumazaki Ryo , Takikawa Yasuhiro , Murata Kazumoto , Kanda Tatsuo , Yokosuka Osamu , Tokunaga Katsushi , Mizokami Masashi
Published: March 2018

Approximately 5‐10% of individuals who are vaccinated with a hepatitis B (HB) vaccine designed based on the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C fail to acquire protective levels of antibodies. Here, host genetic factors behind low immune response to this HB vaccine were investigated by a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) association tests. The GWAS and HLA association tests were carried out using a total of 1,193 Japanese individuals including 107 low responders, 351 intermediate responders, and 735 high responders. Classical HLA class II alleles were statistically imputed using the genome‐wide SNP typing data. The GWAS identified independent associations of HLA‐DRB1‐DQB1, HLA‐DPB1 and BTNL2 genes with immune response to a HB vaccine designed based on the HBV genotype C. Five HLA‐DRB1‐DQB1 haplotypes and two DPB1 alleles showed significant associations with response to the HB vaccine in a comparison of three groups of 1,193 HB vaccinated individuals. When frequencies of DRB1‐DQB1 haplotypes and DPB1 alleles were compared between low immune responders and HBV patients, significant associations were identified for three DRB1‐DQB1 haplotypes, and no association was identified for any of the DPB1 alleles. In contrast, no association was identified for DRB1‐DQB1 haplotypes and DPB1 alleles in a comparison between high immune responders and healthy individuals. Conclusion: The findings in this study clearly show the importance of HLA‐DR‐DQ (i.e., recognition of a vaccine related HB surface antigen (HBsAg) by specific DR‐DQ haplotypes) and BTNL2 molecules (i.e., high immune response to HB vaccine) for response to a HB vaccine designed based on the HBV genotype C. (Hepatology 2018).
Contemporary Issues in Women's Health
Authors: Boama Vincent , Guinto Valerie T. , Sosa Claudio G.
Published: March 2018

European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology guidelines on recurrent pregnancy loss

Ursodeoxycholic acid for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Preterm delivery and the maternal risk of cardiovascular disease

Resources for Women's Health
Early diabetes screening in pregnancy
Authors: Shinar Shiri , Berger Howard
Published: March 2018

The present literature review was conducted to evaluate early diabetes screening in pregnancy. The review focuses on the various guidelines for early screening, the target populations for screening, and the assessment of various early screening targets and strategies. The advantages and disadvantages of each screening method are highlighted. The review emphasizes that there are no validated criteria for selecting high‐risk pregnant women for early screening. The different early screening modalities, including fasting plasma glucose, random plasma glucose, postload glucose, and hemoglobin A1c, lack concordance and have not been validated for the early diagnosis of diabetes in pregnancy. Moreover, the benefit of early screening by earlier initiation of treatment has not been shown. Until a randomized controlled trial demonstrates benefit to screening and validates a particular screening method, it is not possible to provide evidence to support any single strategy for early diabetes screening in pregnancy.
The effect of premature luteinizing hormone increases among high ovarian responders undergoing a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist ovarian stimulation protocol
Authors: Geng Yudi , Lai Qiaohong , Xun Yang , Jin Lei
Published: March 2018

Objective

To explore factors causing a premature rise in luteinizing hormone among high ovarian responders undergoing the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist ovarian stimulation protocol.

Methods

The present retrospective study included healthy women undergoing fresh cycles using a fixed GnRH antagonist protocol with a predicted high response and antral follicle count (AFC) of at least 15 at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Tongji Hospital, China, between January 1 and December 31, 2016. Treatment‐related characteristics, hormone changes, and pregnancy outcomes were compared between patients who did or did not experience a premature luteinizing hormone rise.

Results

There were 314 patients included; 49 experienced premature luteinizing hormone increases. Among patients who experienced a premature rise in luteinizing hormone, a lower two pronuclear embryo rate (P=0.038); fewer high‐quality embryos (P=0.020); higher serum luteinizing hormone (P=0.006), progesterone (P=0.013), and estradiol (E2) levels (P=0.003) on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration; a lower clinical pregnancy rate (P=0.031); and a higher cancellation rate (P=0.006) were observed. AFC of at least 22 (P=0.001) and E2 of 669 pg/mL or higher at the start of GnRH antagonist administration were predictive of early (P=0.036) and late (P=0.033) premature luteinizing hormone increases.

Conclusion

Earlier administration of GnRH antagonist could avoid premature luteinizing hormone increases among high ovarian responders, especially those with a starting AFC of 22 or more.