bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of cuff occlusion on the pulse wave transit time from the heart to the cuff
Authors: Jobbágy Ákos , Nagy Péter
Published: June 2018

Background: Pulse wave transit time (PWTT) is widely used to characterize the dynamic properties of the arteries. PWTT is most often calculated as the time interval from the R peak in the electrocardiogram (start of the pulse wave) to the rise in the finger photoplethysmogram (arrival of the pulse wave). This is the PWTTHF. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of cuff occlusion on PWTT, and using this information to improve the reliability of cuff-based indirect blood pressure (BP) measurement.Methods: PWTT was measured with a home health monitoring device that inflates and deflates the cuff slowly (6 mmHg/s). The change in the arterial wall rigidity caused by cuff occlusion is different in the parts of the arterial section proximal and distal to the cuff. Accordingly, PWTT was divided into two parts: PWTT from the heart to the cuff (PWTTHC) and PWTT from the cuff to the fingertip (PWTTCF). Seven patients with various cardiovascular diseases (55–66 years old), seven healthy senior subjects (55–65 years old) and seven healthy young subjects (22–26 years old) were included in the research.Results: Changes in PWTT characterise appropriately the effect of cuff occlusion on BP measurement. Cuff occlusion affected PWTTHC and PWTTCF differently; it increased the former and decreased the latter. Increased PWTTHC reflects a less rigid arterial wall, resulting in an underestimation of BP. The changes in PWTT values are person-specific and not group-specific (patient, healthy senior, and healthy youth).Conclusion: Occlusion with the cuff is an excitation to the cardiovascular system, causing a temporary change in the dynamic properties of the arteries from the heart to the cuff. The change influences the result of indirect BP measurement. Arterial rigidity in the part proximal to the cuff can be characterized by PWTTHC, which provides different information about the arteries than the widely used PWTTHF.
Neželeni dogodek v zdravstveni dejavnosti – kako naprej?
Authors: Stražišar Borut , Stražišar Branka
Published: June 2018

Each case of unwanted event in health practice that ends with death or a heavy injury quickly becomes main topic of public discussion about the quality of health service. Due to use of unclear terminology there is a false common perception about doctors’ responsibility. Such perception also puts unnecessary pressure on all actors in different official procedures. The mentioned perception is partly also generated by inadequate actions of health providers in unwanted events. Health providers mostly do not have an adequate system of organizational, legal, informational and personal actions in case of unwanted events. The article shows how such a system could be used for risk management in the case of unwanted events.
Zastrupitev z guarano: prikaz dveh primerov
Authors: Leben Lara , Brvar Miran
Published: June 2018

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) is a South American plant that contains twice more caffeine compared to coffee beans, and has a stimulatory effect. Thus guarana preparations in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, teas, syrups and energy drinks contain a lot of caffeine, which can rapidly cause poisoning even when only slightly overdosed.Caffeine poisoning may result in irritability, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, muscle twitching, nausea or vomiting, rapid heart beat or cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, sweating, diuresis and gastroinestinal disturbance.This report presents two cases of guarana overdose with the common caffeine poisoning symptoms and signs. Guarana in therapeutic doses can exacerbate underlying cardiac disease (especially cardiac arrhythmias, coronary heart disease, heart failure) and diabetes. Furthermore, children, pregnant and nursing women should avoid guarana as well.Treatment of guarana poisoning is symptomatic, mainly with benzodiazepines and by fluid and electrolyte substitution.
Le leadership associé à l’exercice de la fonction de dirigeant d’une organisation : de quoi s’agit-il?
Authors: Brassard André , Lapointe Pierre
Published: June 2018

Le présent texte vise à recenser les différentes significations relatives à la nature du leadership associé à la fonction de dirigeant d’une organisation et qui ont émergé progressivement dans la documentation portant sur l’administration des organisations, dont l’administration de l’éducation. La documentation consultée, importante, quoique limitée, comprend des textes de différentes natures produits à partir des années 1930 jusqu’à 2015. Deux significations génériques du concept de leadership ressortent explicitement ou implicitement chez les auteurs : soit le leadership est un exercice d’influence concentré, soit il est un exercice d’influence distribué. Se situant à l’intérieur de l’une ou l’autre de ces significations génériques, sept significations spécifiques ont été trouvées. Elles se différencient en fonction de deux dimensions : la relation qui existe entre le leadership et l’exercice de la fonction de dirigeant d’une organisation, et le type de ressources mobilisées. Certaines des significations se subdivisent selon que l’exercice de l’influence s’appuie sur l’ensemble des ressources du pouvoir, ou selon qu’il mobilise des ressources autres que l’autorité et la contrainte. Deux des significations viennent de la distinction posée par plusieurs auteurs entre leadership et administration, ces deux modes d’action étant complémentaires chez les uns et incompatibles chez d’autres.
Leadership : « lâcher prise » pour que s’exprime l’acte productif collectif
Authors: Mauny Christophe , Frantz Adeline
Published: June 2018

Dans un contexte politique, administratif, éducatif et pédagogique qui se complexifie, l’apport du leadership peut contribuer à faire converger les pratiques individuelles vers la construction de compétences collectives pour des orientations partagées en faveur de l’éducation des élèves. Partant du contexte éducatif français, cet article théorique et expérientiel appréhende le leadership dans sa dimension collective et pose l’hypothèse que le « lâcher-prise » constitue un levier important du pilotage dans la gouvernance des systèmes. Par conséquent, il doit faire l’objet d’une attention particulière. Plus qu’une simple posture caractéristique de la définition du leader, le « lâcher-prise » est une démarche aux formes multiples au regard des stratégies déployées et des objets de réflexion. En ce qu’elle est d’abord l’expression de relations intrapersonnelles et interpersonnelles, la mobilisation collective est nécessairement liée au processus de négociation et conjugue une diversité de gestes professionnels. C’est au travers de ce prisme que nous identifierons quatre situations typiques amenant à s’interroger sur le « lâcher-prise » pour que l’acte de pilotage s’exprime collectivement et localement.
Leadership transformationnel des directions d’école et communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle : une analyse
Authors: Labelle Jean , Jacquin Philippe
Published: June 2018

L’objectif de cette étude consiste à présenter une analyse d’écrits scientifiques récents concernant le leadership transformationnel des directions d’école oeuvrant en communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle. Pour ce faire, l’article effectue un survol des différents styles de leadership dans le but d’offrir un cadre de référence intégrant la notion de leadership transformationnel au sein d’un réseau notionnel plus large. Puis, il définit la communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle en mettant en évidence ses caractéristiques. L’article croise ensuite la notion de leadership transformationnel avec celle de la communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle pour effectuer une analyse des plus récents écrits scientifiques portant sur le leadership transformationnel des directions d’école qui oeuvrent au sein des communautés d’apprentissage professionnelles. En conclusion, des pistes de recherche sont dégagées pour les chercheuses, les chercheurs et les directions d’école qui désirent mieux comprendre et exercer le leadership transformationnel au sein des communautés d’apprentissage professionnelles.
Récits numériques de jeunes ayant vécu l’exil. Identité, école et migration
Authors: Lamothe-Lachaine Audrey
Published: June 2018

Le milieu scolaire québécois se démarque par la diversité culturelle qu’apportent les élèves issus de l’immigration. Parmi ces élèves, certains ont vécu l’exil. Ces différentes voix semblent cependant encore peu représentées dans la recherche en éducation. Cet article porte sur un projet qui explore différents enjeux identitaires au fil des parcours scolaires et migratoires de trois jeunes ayant le statut de réfugié. Les données de cette recherche, basée sur un atelier participatif menant à la création de récits numériques, sont issues d’outils méthodologiques qualitatifs comprenant des entrevues individuelles, un groupe de discussion et diverses réalisations de jeunes, dont les récits numériques. Les résultats témoignent de l’unicité des histoires, mais aussi de particularités sur le plan scolaire qui révèlent des formes de rupture, voire d’exclusion. Les récits numériques permettent une lecture personnelle du parcours de ces jeunes et soulignent la charge émotive qu’engendre l’immigration forcée.
Comprehensive analysis of mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades in chrysanthemum
Authors: Song Aiping , Hu Yueheng , Ding Lian , Zhang Xue , Li Peiling , Liu Ye , Chen Fadi
Published: June 2018

Background

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, an important type of pathway in eukaryotic signaling networks, play a key role in plant defense responses, growth and development.

Methods

Phylogenetic analysis and conserved motif analysis of the MKK and MPK families in Arabidopsis thaliana, Helianthus annuus and Chrysanthemum morifolium classified MKK genes and MPK genes. qRT-PCR was used for the expression patterns of CmMPK and CmMKK genes, and yeast two-hybrid assay was applied to clear the interaction between CmMPKs and CmMKKs.

Results

We characterized six MKK genes and 11 MPK genes in chrysanthemum based on transcriptomic sequences and classified these genes into four groups. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that CmMKKs and CmMPKs exhibited various expression patterns in different organs of chrysanthemum and in response to abiotic stresses and phytohormone treatments. Furthermore, a yeast two-hybrid assay was applied to analyze the interaction between CmMKKs and CmMPKs and reveal the MAPK cascades in chrysanthemum.

Discussion

Our data led us to propose that CmMKK4-CmMPK13 and CmMKK2-CmMPK4 may be involved in regulating salt resistance and in the relationship between CmMKK9 and CmMPK6 and temperature stress.
Allometric shell growth in infaunal burrowing bivalves: examples of the archiheterodontsClaibornicardia paleopatagonica(Ihering, 1903) andCrassatella kokeniIhering, 1899
Authors: Perez Damián Eduardo , Santelli María Belén
Published: June 2018

We present two cases of study of ontogenetic allometry in outlines of bivalves using longitudinal data, a rarity among fossils, based on the preserved post-larval record of shells. The examples are two infaunal burrowing bivalves of the southern South America,Claibornicardia paleopatagonica(Archiheterodonta: Carditidae) (early Paleocene) andCrassatella kokeni(Archiheterodonta: Crassatellidae) (late Oligocene–late Miocene). Outline analyses were conducted using a geometric morphometric approach (Elliptic Fourier Analysis), obtaining successive outlines from shells’ growth lines, which were used to reconstruct ontogenetic trajectories. In both taxa, ontogenetic changes are characterized by the presence of positive allometry in the extension of posterior end, resulting in elongated adult shells. This particular allometric growth is known in others infaunal burrowing bivalves (Claibornicardia alticostataand someSpissatellaspecies) and the resulting adult morphology is present in representatives of several groups (e.g., Carditidae, Crassatellidae, Veneridae, Trigoniidae). Taxonomic, ecological and evolutionary implications of this allometric growth pattern are discussed.
Solubility and subcellular localization of the three Drosophila RDGC phosphatase variants are determined by acylation
Authors: Strauch Lisa , Pfannstiel Jens , Huber Armin , Voolstra Olaf
Published: June 2018

Protein phosphorylation is an abundant molecular switch that regulates a multitude of cellular processes. In contrast to other subfamilies of phosphoprotein phosphatases, the PPEF subfamily is only poorly investigated. Drosophila retinal degeneration C (RDGC) constitutes the founding member of the PPEF subfamily. RDGC dephosphorylates the visual pigment rhodopsin and the ion channel TRP.However, rdgC null mutant flies exhibit rhodopsin and TRP hyperphosphorylation, altered photoreceptor physiology, and retinal degeneration. Here, we report the identification of a third RDGC protein variant and show that the three RDGC isoforms harbor different N‐termini that determine solubility and subcellular targeting due to fatty acylation. Taken together, solubility and subcellular targeting of RDGC splice variants are determined by their N‐termini.
Emergency Department Visits and Ambient Temperature: Evaluating the Connection and Projecting Future Outcomes
Authors: Lay C. R. , Mills D. , Belova A. , Sarofim M. C. , Kinney P. L. , Vaidyanathan A. , Jones R. , Hall R. , Saha S.
Published: June 2018

The U.S. Global Climate Change Research Program has identified climate change as a growing public health threat. We investigated the potential effects of changes in ambient daily maximum temperature on hyperthermia and cardiovascular emergency department (ED) visits using records for patients age 64 and younger from a private insurance database for the May–September period for 2005–2012. We found a strong positive relationship between daily maximum temperatures and ED visits for hyperthermia but not for cardiovascular conditions. Using the fitted relationship from 136 metropolitan areas, we calculated the number and rate of hyperthermia ED visits for climates representative of year 1995 (baseline period), as well as years 2050 and 2090 (future periods), for two climate change scenarios based on outcomes from five global climate models. Without considering potential adaptation or population growth and movement, we calculate that climate change alone will result in an additional 21,000–28,000 hyperthermia ED visits for May to September, with associated treatment costs between $6 million and $52 million (2015 U.S. dollars) by 2050; this increases to approximately 28,000–65,000 additional hyperthermia ED visits with treatment costs between $9 million and $118 million (2015 U.S. dollars) by 2090. The range in projected additional hyperthermia visits reflects the difference between alternative climate scenarios, and the additional range in valuation reflects different assumptions about per‐case valuation.
Universal Tree of Life
Authors: Forterre Patrick , Da Cunha Violette , Gaïa Morgan
Published: June 2018

The first tree of life based on the comparison of ribosomal RNA (ribonucleic acid) allowed classifying all ribosome‐encoding organisms into three domains: Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya. Phylogenomics analyses later on show that these domains probably emerged from a last universal common ancestor (LUCA) simpler than modern organisms. Different results are however still obtained regarding the relationships between Archaea and Eukarya when relying on concatenations of universal proteins. Recent analyses have revealed that the topology obtained in these studies is strongly dependent on the universal proteins and species data sets. On the basis of this observation, our recent phylogenetic analyses presently support the sisterhood of Archaea and Eukarya. Viruses, defined as virion‐encoding organisms, cannot be formally located in the tree of life but populate it entirely from its trunk to the leaves.

Key Concepts

Ribosome‐encoding organisms have been classified into three domains based on their 16S ribosomal RNA sequences.

The last universal common ancestor (LUCA) was probably much simpler than modern organisms.

The tree of life can be theoretically determined from the phylogenetic analysis of universal proteins.

Different universal proteins strongly favour opposite scenarios for the origin of eukaryotes.

The addition of fast‐evolving organisms to species data sets favours the branching of eukaryotes within archaea.

Phylogenies of RNA polymerases, the largest universal proteins, support the monophyly of the three domains and the sisterhood of Archaea and Eukarya.

Viruses cannot be formally located in the universal tree of life, but infect the universal tree from the trunk to the leaves.
Sulfur Metabolism in Plants
Authors: Jobe Timothy O , Kopriva Stanislav
Published: June 2018

Sulfur is an essential element found in plants in a variety of compounds with many different functions. The sulfur‐containing amino acids cysteine and methionine are essential components of proteins. Sulfur is the active component of many coenzymes, such as iron–sulfur centres, lipoic acid or coenzyme A, and metabolites important for plant defence against biotic and abiotic stress, for example glutathione or glucosinolates. In addition, the sulfur‐containing natural compounds glucosinolates and alliins are important for human food and health. Sulfur is taken up as inorganic sulfate from the soil, reduced to sulfide and incorporated into amino acid cysteine, which serves as a donor of reduced sulfur for other metabolites. Sulfate uptake and assimilation are highly regulated by sulfur supply and demand. Research into plant sulfur nutrition has been boosted by the growing appearance of sulfur‐deficiency syndromes in crops, which lowers grain quality and increases disease susceptibility, caused by a reduction in atmospheric sulfur dioxide emissions.

Key Concepts

Sulfur is an essential nutrient for all organisms, and a large portion of sulfur in nature exists in bioorganic compounds.

Sulfur is a very mobile element moving between oceans, atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems often undergoing transformations of its chemical state in the biosphere.

In the sulfate assimilation pathway, sulfate taken up by sulfate transporters, is reduced to sulfide and incorporated into bioorganic compounds, forming the amino acid cysteine.

The sulfate assimilation pathway is present in bacteria, fungi, plants and algae but not in metazoans or in most parasitic microorganisms.

Sulfate assimilation is a highly regulated process requiring coordination with carbon and nitrogen metabolism across a range of tissues and in multiple subcellular organelles.

Sulfate assimilation is regulated in a demand‐driven manner through a robust transcriptional network, but also includes post‐transcriptional and post‐translational regulation.

In Arabidopsis, Sulfur LIMitation 1 (SLIM1) is a transcriptional activator of many sulfate transporters and genes involved in the sulfur starvation response.

The sulfur‐containing tripeptide glutathione is important as redox buffer, acts as a storage and transport form of reduced sulfur and regulates the cell cycle and protein translation.

Sulfur‐containing natural compounds glucosinolates and alliins are responsible for the smell and taste of cruciferous and allium family vegetables and for the benefits of these vegetables for human health.
Dendritic Cell Therapy
Authors: Dastmalchi Farhad , Karachi Aida , Mitchell Duane , Rahman Maryam
Published: June 2018

The role of immunology is now critical for the understanding of cancer pathophysiology and treatment. Dendritic cells (DCs) are immune cells that serve the unique purpose of bridging innate immunity with the adaptive immune response. Owing to their specialised role, they have been leveraged to deliver immunotherapy for cancer.

Key Concepts

Dendritic cells are antigen presenting cells that present antigens to naïve T cells serving as a link between the innate and adaptive immune response.

Dendritic cells can be generated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, loaded with an antigen and given back to the patient as a vaccine.

Dendritic cells can various antigens including non-infectious antigens related to disease such as cancer.

Several dendritic cell vaccines have been tested for efficacy in cancer and one is currently FDA approved for prostate cancer.

Dendritic cell vaccines have been tested in patients with cancer with promising results.
Molecular Genetics of Essential Tremor
Authors: Houle Gabrielle , Dion Patrick A , Rouleau Guy A
Published: June 2018

Essential tremor (ET) is a movement disorder characterised by involuntary and rhythmic shaking, especially in the hands. The primary symptom associated with ET is an action tremor, which occurs with the purposeful use of a body part, like the hand. ET has a strong genetic component as 50–70% of cases have a familial history where transmission is typically autosomal dominant. The high rate of misdiagnosis, which is in part due to the absence of biomarkers, imaging or genetic markers, complicates the identification of genetic risk factors. Another challenging aspect is the overlapping clinical and pathological features between ET and Parkinson's disease (PD), along with the evidence of increased odds of developing PD when affected by ET. Decades of research have identified several ET loci and candidate genes, albeit replication studies, when available, yielded mixed results, and in most cases, evidence supporting variant causality remains poor. Nonetheless, these associations provide valuable insights into the complexity of the genetics underlying the disorder.

Key Concepts

Essential tremor is a neurological disorder characterised by involuntary and rhythmic shaking.

The causes of essential tremor are unknown.

Strong evidence supports high heritability for essential tremor.

Decades of research have suggested multiple
loci
and genes associated with the disorder.

Few of these genetic associations have been replicated in independent cohorts.
English Teacher Critical Education inBrazil
Authors: de Almeida Mattos Andréa Machado
Published: June 2018

This entry presents a short review of language teacher education (LTE) practices in Brazil, following the international development of the area. The entry focuses on past and present perspectives of LTE in addition to presenting future possibilities. In the first section, a very short historical overview of the area is presented, discussing the three main approaches to LTE, which developed at the end of the 20th century: the behavioral view, the cognitive view, and the interpretivist view. Critical perspectives on LTE are also presented, focusing on critical literacy and critical pedagogy. The last section brings some future dimensions for LTE in Brazil and abroad, highlighting the practices of critical literacy and its implementation in language classrooms.
English Learner Demographic Trends, Educational Responses, and Tentative Predictions
Authors: Reynolds Kate Mastruserio
Published: June 2018

The United States is undergoing significant shifts in birth rates and immigration, changing the population of PreK‐12 learners. The numbers of Hispanic and Asian English learners (ELs) are increasing. This trend and its continuity will be described and important directions highlighted. Future directions will then be discussed on how best to serve ELs and prepare educators for increased numbers of ELs through diverse educator recruitment, diversity training, culturally congruent/responsive/relevant pedagogy, and academic and language instruction. How these trends will modify general educators’ knowledge, performance and dispositional competencies in areas such as content‐based instruction, language knowledge, and second language acquisition principles will also be addressed. Models of teaching may be modified in light of the changing student population to include more dual‐language immersion programs in the languages of Hispanic and Asian learners.
Olfactory dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Viguera Cristina , Wang Jiangxia , Mosmiller Elizabeth , Cerezo Aiana , Maragakis Nicholas J.
Published: June 2018

We utilized the well‐validated University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) to examine whether olfactory dysfunction occurs in ALS participants. After adjusting for relevant confounders in a multiple linear regression model, ALS participants scored significantly lower on the UPSIT compared with control participants, with an estimated mean difference of 2.31 points (P = 0.015). ALS participants also had twice the rate of olfactory dysfunction (microsmia or anosmia). This study suggests that olfactory dysfunction exists in ALS patients, which expands our understanding of the extramotor findings in ALS. Future investigations could determine whether there are correlations between olfactory dysfunction and specific ALS phenotypes.
Learning‐based iterative modular adaptive control for nonlinear systems
Authors: Benosman Mouhacine , Farahmand Amir‐Massoud , Xia Meng
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we study the problem of adaptive trajectory tracking control for a class of nonlinear systems with structured parametric uncertainties. We propose to use an iterative modular approach: we first design a robust nonlinear state feedback that renders the closed‐loop input‐to‐state stable (ISS). Here, the input is considered to be the estimation error of the uncertain parameters, and the state is considered to be the closed‐loop output tracking error. Next, we propose an iterative adaptive algorithm, where we augment this robust ISS controller with an iterative data‐driven learning algorithm to estimate online the parametric uncertainties of the model. We implement this method with two different learning approaches. The first one is a data‐driven multiparametric extremum seeking method, which guarantees local convergence results, and the second is a Bayesian optimization‐based method called Gaussian Process Upper Confidence Bound, which guarantees global results in a compact search set. The combination of the ISS feedback and the data‐driven learning algorithms gives a learning‐based modular indirect adaptive controller. We show the efficiency of this approach on a two‐link robot manipulator numerical example.
Macroscopic Layered Organogel–Hydrogel Hybrids with Controllable Wetting and Swelling Performance
Authors: Zhao Tianyi , Wang Guangyan , Hao Dezhao , Chen Lie , Liu Kesong , Liu Mingjie
Published: June 2018

Soft gels that integrate the water retention of hydrogels and the water swelling resistance of organogels are sought by researchers. Such materials have useful properties and potential applications in stretchable and biointegrated fields, such as tissue engineering, microfluidics, and biomedical devices. This study reports a simple yet versatile method for assembling hydrogels and organogels into covalently tethered hybrids to provide robust properties, such as excellent stretchability, tough interfacial bonds, enduring antiswelling, and low dehydration. The proposed method is simple and can generally be applied to hydrogels that contain hydroxyl terminal groups and commonly used organogels that can copolymerize with double‐bond groups. The unique property of being externally hydrophobic and internally hydrophilic enables the organogel–hydrogel hybrids to be applied to many fields, such as mobility control of water droplets, printing, and 3D structure development. The organogel hydrogel hybrids not only present superior wettability performances, such as water retention and swelling resistance, but also present applicable functions that make them useful in tissue engineering and biomedical devices in vivo.
Single‐Atom Engineering of Directional Charge Transfer Channels and Active Sites for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Cao Shaowen , Li Han , Tong Tong , Chen Hsiao‐Chien , Yu Anchi , Yu Jiaguo , Chen Hao Ming
Published: June 2018

Efficiency of layered photocatalysts such as graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) is still too low due to the poor utilization of photoexcited‐charge carriers. The major drawback is that the weak van der Waals force among g‐CN layers is unfavorable for the charge transfer between the adjacent layers and the intrinsically π‐conjugated planes with inefficient random in‐plane charge migration. Herein, an atomically dispersed Pd layered photocatalyst with both bridged sites of adjacent layers and surface‐sites of g‐CN is demonstrated, providing directional charge‐transfer channels and targeting active sites for photocatalytic water reduction. Both theoretical prediction and empirical characterizations are conducted to achieve the successful synthesis of single‐atom engineered Pd/g‐CN hybrid and the excellent separation of charge transfer as well as the efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, much better than that of the optimized Pt/g‐CN benchmark. The finding in this work provides a rational way for tailoring the performance and engineering of single‐atomic noble metal.
Redox‐Activated Near‐Infrared‐Responsive Polyoxometalates Used for Photothermal Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ma Mengmeng , Gao Nan , Sun Yuhuan , Du Xiubo , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: June 2018

Adjustable structure, excellent physiochemical properties, and good biocompatibility render polyoxometalates (POMs) as a suitable drug agent for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, previous works using POMs against AD just focus on the inhibition of amyloid‐β (Aβ) monomer aggregation. In consideration that both Aβ fibrils and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are closely associated with clinical development of AD symptoms, it would be more effective if POMs can disaggregate Aβ fibrils and eliminate ROS as well. Herein, a redox‐activated near‐infrared (NIR) responsive POMs‐based nanoplaform (rPOMs@MSNs@copolymer) is developed with high photothermal effect and antioxidant activity. The rPOMs@MSNs@copolymer can generate local hyperthermia to disaggregate Aβ fibrils under NIR laser irradiation because of POMs (rPOMs) with strong NIR absorption. Furthermore, Aβ‐induced ROS can be scavenged by the antioxidant activity of rPOMs. To the authors' knowledge, there is no report of using rPOMs for NIR photothermal treatment of AD. This work may promote the development of multifunctional inorganic agents for biomedical applications.
Adsorption and Detection of Hazardous Trace Gases by Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Woellner Michelle , Hausdorf Steffen , Klein Nicole , Mueller Philipp , Smith Martin W. , Kaskel Stefan
Published: June 2018

The quest for advanced designer adsorbents for air filtration and monitoring hazardous trace gases has recently been more and more driven by the need to ensure clean air in indoor, outdoor, and industrial environments. How to increase safety with regard to personal protection in the event of hazardous gas exposure is a critical question for an ever‐growing population spending most of their lifetime indoors, but is also crucial for the chemical industry in order to protect future generations of employees from potential hazards. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are already quite advanced and promising in terms of capacity and specific affinity to overcome limitations of current adsorbent materials for trace and toxic gas adsorption. Due to their advantageous features (e.g., high specific surface area, catalytic activity, tailorable pore sizes, structural diversity, and range of chemical and physical properties), MOFs offer a high potential as adsorbents for air filtration and monitoring of hazardous trace gases. Three advanced topics are considered here, in applying MOFs for selective adsorption: (i) toxic gas adsorption toward filtration for respiratory protection as well as indoor and cabin air, (ii) enrichment of hazardous gases using MOFs, and (iii) MOFs as sensors for toxic trace gases and explosives.
Development of Bismuth Ferrite as a Piezoelectric and Multiferroic Material by Cobalt Substitution
Authors: Hojo Hajime , Oka Kengo , Shimizu Keisuke , Yamamoto Hajime , Kawabe Ryo , Azuma Masaki
Published: June 2018

Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) is the most widely studied multiferroic material with robust ferroelectricity and antiferromagnetic ordering at room temperature. One of the possible device applications of this material is one that utilizes the ferroelectric/piezoelectric property itself such as ferroelectric memory components, actuators, and so on. Other applications are more challenging and make full use of its multiferroic property to realize novel spintronics and magnetic memory devices, which can be addressed electrically as well as magnetically. This progress report summarizes the recent attempt to control the piezoelectric and magnetic properties of BiFeO3 by cobalt substitution.
Emerging Hierarchical Aerogels: Self‐Assembly of Metal and Semiconductor Nanocrystals
Authors: Cai Bin , Sayevich Vladimir , Gaponik Nikolai , Eychmüller Alexander
Published: June 2018

Aerogels assembled from colloidal metal or semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) feature large surface area, ultralow density, and high porosity, thus rendering them attractive in various applications, such as catalysis, sensors, energy storage, and electronic devices. Morphological and structural modification of the aerogel backbones while maintaining the aerogel properties enables a second stage of the aerogel research, which is defined as hierarchical aerogels. Different from the conventional aerogels with nanowire‐like backbones, those hierarchical aerogels are generally comprised of at least two levels of architectures, i.e., an interconnected porous structure on the macroscale and a specially designed configuration at local backbones at the nanoscale. This combination “locks in” the inherent properties of the NCs, so that the beneficial genes obtained by nanoengineering are retained in the resulting monolithic hierarchical aerogels. Herein, groundbreaking advances in the design, synthesis, and physicochemical properties of the hierarchical aerogels are reviewed and organized in three sections: i) pure metallic hierarchical aerogels, ii) semiconductor hierarchical aerogels, and iii) metal/semiconductor hybrid hierarchical aerogels. This report aims to define and demonstrate the concept, potential, and challenges of the hierarchical aerogels, thereby providing a perspective on the further development of these materials.
Recent Advances in Morphology Optimization for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Lee Hansol , Park Chaneui , Sin Dong Hun , Park Jong Hwan , Cho Kilwon
Published: June 2018

Organic photovoltaics are an important part of a next‐generation energy‐harvesting technology that uses a practically infinite pollutant‐free energy source. They have the advantages of light weight, solution processability, cheap materials, low production cost, and deformability. However, to date, the moderate photovoltaic efficiencies and poor stabilities of organic photovoltaics impede their use as replacements for inorganic photovoltaics. Recent developments in bulk‐heterojunction organic photovoltaics mean that they have almost reached the lower efficiency limit for feasible commercialization. In this review article, the recent understanding of the ideal bulk‐heterojunction morphology of the photoactive layer for efficient exciton dissociation and charge transport is described, and recent attempts as well as early‐stage trials to realize this ideal morphology are discussed systematically from a morphological viewpoint. The various approaches to optimizing morphologies consisting of an interpenetrating bicontinuous network with appropriate domain sizes and mixed regions are categorized, and in each category, the recent trends in the morphology control on the multilength scale are highlighted and discussed in detail. This review article concludes by identifying the remaining challenges for the control of active layer morphologies and by providing perspectives toward real application and commercialization of organic photovoltaics.
Necklace‐Like Structures Composed of Fe3N@C Yolk–Shell Particles as an Advanced Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Zhen , Fang Yongjin , Zhang Jintao , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: June 2018

It is of great importance to develop cost‐effective electrode materials for large‐scale use of Na‐ion batteries. Here, a binder‐free electrode based on necklace‐like structures composed of Fe3N@C yolk–shell particles as an advanced anode for Na‐ion batteries is reported. In this electrode, every Fe3N@C unit has a novel yolk–shell structure, which can accommodate the volumetric changes of Fe3N during the (de)sodiation processes for superior structural integrity. Moreover, all reaction units are threaded along the carbon fibers, guaranteeing excellent kinetics for the electrochemical reactions. As a result, when evaluated as an anode material for Na‐ion batteries, the Fe3N@C nano‐necklace electrode delivers a prolonged cycle life over 300 cycles, and achieves a high C‐rate capacity of 248 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1.
Unlockable Nanocomplexes with Self‐Accelerating Nucleic Acid Release for Effective Staged Gene Therapy of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Nie Jing‐Jun , Qiao Bokang , Duan Shun , Xu Chen , Chen Boya , Hao Wenjing , Yu Bingran , Li Yulin , Du Jie , Xu Fu‐Jian
Published: June 2018

Nucleic acid (NA)‐based therapy is proposed to address serious diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Powerful NA delivery vehicles are essential for effective gene therapy. Herein, a novel type of delivery vehicle, an unlockable core–shell nanocomplex (Hep@PGEA) with self‐accelerating NA release, is structurally designed. Hep@PGEA is composed of disulfide‐bridged heparin nanoparticle (HepNP) core and low‐toxicity PGEA cationic shell. In comparison with NA, heparin, a negatively charged polysaccharide macromolecule, exhibits stronger interactions with cationic species. Upon the breakdown of redox‐responsive HepNP cores, unlocked heparin would interact with the outer cationic shells and replace the condensed NA to facilitate NA release. Such unique Hep@PGEA is successfully explored for effective miRNA–pDNA staged gene therapy of myocardial infarction (MI), one of the most serious CVDs. With the progression of MI, glutathione amounts in heart tissues increase. MiR‐499 (for the inhibition of cardiomyocyte apoptosis) and plasmid encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (for the promotion of angiogenesis) are sequentially delivered for systemic treatment of MI. Such treatment produces impressive results in restoring heart function and suppressing cardiac hypertrophy. Due to the wide existence of redox agents in cells, the proposed unlockable delivery nanovehicle and staged therapy strategy can provide new methods to effectively treat different serious diseases.
High‐Mobility p‐Type and n‐Type Copper Nitride Semiconductors by Direct Nitriding Synthesis and In Silico Doping Design
Authors: Matsuzaki Kosuke , Harada Kou , Kumagai Yu , Koshiya Shogo , Kimoto Koji , Ueda Shigenori , Sasase Masato , Maeda Akihiro , Susaki Tomofumi , Kitano Masaaki , Oba Fumiyasu , Hosono Hideo
Published: June 2018

Thin‐film photovoltaics (PV) have emerged as a technology that can meet the growing demands for efficient and low‐cost large‐scale cells. However, the photoabsorbers currently in use contain expensive or toxic elements, and the difficulty in bipolar doping, particularly in a device structure, requires elaborate optimization of the heterostructures for improving the efficiency. This study shows that bipolar doping with high hole and electron mobilities in copper nitride (Cu3N), composed solely of earth‐abundant and environmentally benign elements, is readily available through a novel gaseous direct nitriding reaction applicable to uniform and large‐area deposition. A high‐quality undoped Cu3N film is essentially an n‐type semiconductor, while p‐type conductivity is realized by interstitial fluorine doping, as predicted using density functional theory calculations and directly proven by atomically resolved imaging. The synthetic methodology for high‐quality p‐type and n‐type films paves the way for the application of Cu3N as an alternative absorber in thin‐film PV.
Ambient Condition Production of High Quality Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Evlashin Stanislav A. , Svyakhovskiy Sergey E. , Fedorov Fedor S. , Mankelevich Yuri A. , Dyakonov Pavel V. , Minaev Nikita V. , Dagesyan Sarkis A. , Maslakov Konstantin I. , Khmelnitsky Roman A. , Suetin Nikolay V. , Akhatov Iskander S. , Nasibulin Albert G.
Published: June 2018

Reduced graphene oxide (GO) becomes one of the most popular materials for applications in various optical, electronic, and sensor devices. Even though many methods are already reported for reduced graphene oxide synthesis, they usually raise issues related to their efficiency, quality, and environmental impact. This work demonstrates a simple, environmental friendly, and effective method for reducing graphene oxide under ambient conditions using nanosecond infrared laser irradiation. As a result, a Raman band intensity ratio of I(G)/I(D) of 4.59 is achieved with an average crystallite size of ≈90 nm. This graphene is of higher quality than what can be achieved with most of the existing methods. Additionally, the demonstrated reduction technique allows the selective reduction of graphene oxide and control the amount of functional groups on the surface of the material. Gas sensors fabricated according to the proposed technique efficiently detect NO2, NH3, and H2S with the sensitivity down to 10 ppm.
Effects of H1 antihistamine addition to intranasal corticosteroid for allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seresirikachorn Kachorn , Chitsuthipakorn Wirach , Kanjanawasee Dichapong , Khattiyawittayakun Likhit , Snidvongs Kornkiat
Published: June 2018

Background

A combination of H1 antihistamine (AH) with intranasal corticosteroid (INCS) is commonly prescribed to patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) who have an inadequate response to monotherapy. In this systematic review we aimed to determine the effects of AH combined with INCS (AH‐INCS) for treating AR.

Methods

Literature searches were performed using Medline and Embase. Randomized, controlled trials that studied the effects of AH‐INCS vs INCS monotherapy for treating patients with AR were included. The primary outcomes were total nasal symptom scores, total ocular symptom scores, and disease‐specific quality of life. The secondary outcomes were objective tests for nasal patency and adverse events.

Results

Sixteen studies (4026 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Compared with INCS, AH‐INCS decreased total nasal symptom scores (standardized mean difference [SMD], −0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.19 to −0.06; p < 0.001; 10 trials, 3348 patients) and total ocular symptom scores (SMD, −0.12, 95% CI, −0.20 to −0.04; p = 0.003; 6 trials, 2378 patients). Subgroup analysis indicated no benefit with the oral AH‐INCS combination but did show benefit with intranasal AH‐INCS (SMD, −0.18; 95% CI, −0.27 to −0.09; p < 0.001). There were no significant differences with regard to disease‐specific quality of life (SMD, −0.07; 95% CI, −0.16 to 0.02; p = 0.12; 6 trials, 1981 patients), nasal inspiratory flow (MD, −0.03 L/min; 95% CI, −0.57 to 0.50; p = 0.91; 1 trial, 54 patients), or adverse events.

Conclusion

Intranasal AH‐INCS has benefit over INCS on nasal and ocular symptom improvement for treating AR. Oral AH‐INCS is not recommended.
Carbon Nanosheets by Morphology‐Retained Carbonization of Two‐Dimensional Assembled Anisotropic Carbon Nanorings
Authors: Mori Taizo , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Dalui Amit , Mitoma Nobuhiko , Suzuki Kengo , Matsumoto Mutsuyoshi , Aggarwal Nikhil , Patnaik Archita , Acharya Somobrata , Shrestha Lok Kumar , Sakamoto Hirotoshi , Itami Kenichiro , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: June 2018

Two‐dimensional (2D) carbon nanomaterials possessing promising physical and chemical properties find applications in high‐performance energy storage devices and catalysts. However, large‐scale fabrication of 2D carbon nanostructures is based on a few specific carbon templates or precursors and poses a formidable challenge. Now a new bottom‐up method for carbon nanosheet fabrication using a newly designed anisotropic carbon nanoring molecule, CPPhen, is presented. CPPhen was self‐assembled at a dynamic air–water interface with a vortex motion to afford molecular nanosheets, which were then carbonized under inert gas flow. Their nanosheet morphologies were retained after carbonization, which has never been seen for low‐molecular weight compounds. Furthermore, adding pyridine as a nitrogen dopant in the self‐assembly step successfully afforded nitrogen‐doped carbon nanosheets containing mainly pyridinic nitrogen species.
Enantioselective Synthesis of (−)‐Halenaquinone
Authors: Goswami Subir , Harada Kenichi , El‐Mansy Mohamed F. , Lingampally Rajinikanth , Carter Rich G.
Published: June 2018

The efficient, 12–14 step (LLS) total synthesis of (−)‐halenaquinone has been achieved. Key steps in the synthetic sequence include: (a) proline sulfonamide‐catalyzed, Yamada–Otani reaction to establish the C6 all‐carbon quaternary stereocenter, (b) multiple, novel palladium‐mediated oxidative cyclizations to introduce the furan moiety, and (c) oxidative Bergman cyclization to form the final quinone ring.
A Peapod‐like CoP@C Nanostructure from Phosphorization in a Low‐Temperature Molten Salt for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Zhiliang , Yang Sungjin , Sun Bingxue , Chang Xinghua , Zheng Jie , Li Xingguo
Published: June 2018

A mild phosphorization process in low‐temperature molten salt (NaCl‐KCl‐AlCl3) has been developed to synthesize peapod‐like CoP@C nanostructures by using low‐toxicity industrial PCl3 as the phosphorus source and Mg as the reductant at 250 °C. Importantly, high efficiency of the phosphorous source is achieved since only stoichiometric PCl3 is required to complete the reaction. The molten NaCl‐KCl‐AlCl3 not only provides a liquid environment but also participates in the electron transport by the reversible conversion of the Al3+/Al redox couple. The obtained 0D‐in‐1D peapod CoP@C structure exhibits excellent lithium storage performance, delivering a superiorly stable capacity of 500 mAh g−1 after 800 cycles at a high current of 1.0 A g−1.
High‐Throughput Design of Biocompatible Enzyme‐Based Hydrogel Microparticles with Autonomous Movement
Authors: Keller Shauni , Teora Serena P. , Hu Guo Xun , Nijemeisland Marlies , Wilson Daniela A.
Published: June 2018

Micro‐ and nanomotors and their use for biomedical applications have recently received increased attention. However, most designs use top‐down methods to construct inorganic motors, which are labour‐intensive and not suitable for biomedical use. Herein, we report a high‐throughput design of an asymmetric hydrogel microparticle with autonomous movement by using a microfluidic chip to generate asymmetric, aqueous, two‐phase‐separating droplets consisting of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and dextran, with the biocatalyst placed in the PEGDA phase. The motor is propelled by enzyme‐mediated decomposition of fuel. The speed of the motors is influenced by the roughness of the PEGDA surface after diffusion of dextran and was tuned by using higher molecular weight dextran. This roughness allows for easier pinning of oxygen bubbles and thus higher speeds of the motors. Pinning of bubbles occurs repeatedly at the same location, thereby resulting in constant circular or linear motion.