bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Storage (
SMES
and Flywheels)
Authors: Morandi Antonio
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Parameters of an Energy Storage System

Applications of Energy Storage

SMES

Flywheels
Types ofSQUIDs
Authors: Fagaly Robert L.
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

RFandDC SQUIDs

Other Modulation Schemes

Sensitivity

Other Types ofSQUIDs

Limitations onSQUIDTechnology

Environmental Noise

Cryogenic Requirements
Novel challenges in spinal muscular atrophy – How to screen and whom to treat?
Authors: Saffari Afshin , Kölker Stefan , Hoffmann Georg F. , Weiler Markus , Ziegler Andreas
Published: November 2018

In recent years, disease‐modifying and life‐prolonging therapies for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) have been developed. However, patients are currently diagnosed with significant delay and therapies are often administered in advanced stages of motor neuron degeneration, showing limited effects. Methods to identify children in presymptomatic stages are currently evaluated in newborn screening programs. Yet, not all children develop symptoms shortly after birth raising the question whom to treat and when to initiate therapy. Finally, monitoring disease progression becomes essential to individualize management. Here, we review the literature on screening approaches, strategies to predict disease severity, and biomarkers to monitor therapy.
Highly Stretchable, Elastic, and Ionic Conductive Hydrogel for Artificial Soft Electronics
Authors: Zhou Yang , Wan Changjin , Yang Yongsheng , Yang Hui , Wang Shancheng , Dai Zhendong , Ji Keju , Jiang Hui , Chen Xiaodong , Long Yi
Published: November 2018

High conductivity, large mechanical strength, and elongation are important parameters for soft electronic applications. However, it is difficult to find a material with balanced electronic and mechanical performance. Here, a simple method is developed to introduce ion‐rich pores into strong hydrogel matrix and fabricate a novel ionic conductive hydrogel with a high level of electronic and mechanical properties. The proposed ionic conductive hydrogel is achieved by physically cross‐linking the tough biocompatible polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel as the matrix and embedding hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) biopolymer fibers inside matrix followed by salt solution soaking. The wrinkle and dense structure induced by salting in PVA matrix provides large stress (1.3 MPa) and strain (975%). The well‐distributed porous structure as well as ion migration–facilitated ion‐rich environment generated by embedded HPC fibers dramatically enhances ionic conductivity (up to 3.4 S m−1, at f = 1 MHz). The conductive hybrid hydrogel can work as an artificial nerve in a 3D printed robotic hand, allowing passing of stable and tunable electrical signals and full recovery under robotic hand finger movements. This natural rubber‐like ionic conductive hydrogel has a promising application in artificial flexible electronics.
2D Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheets with Time‐Dependent and Multilevel Memristive Switching
Authors: Ding Guanglong , Wang Yaxin , Zhang Guixian , Zhou Kui , Zeng Kelin , Li Zongxiao , Zhou Ye , Zhang Chen , Chen Xiaoli , Han Su‐Ting
Published: November 2018

Metal–organic framework (MOF) nanosheets have attracted significant interests for sensing, electrochemical, and catalytic applications. Most significantly, 2D MOF with highly accessible sites on the surface is expected to be applicable in data storage. Here, the memory device is first demonstrated by employing M‐TCPP (TCPP: tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphyrin, M: metal) as resistive switching (RS) layer. The as‐fabricated resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices exhibit a typical electroforming free bipolar switching characteristic with on/off ratio of 103, superior retention, and reliability performance. Furthermore, the time‐dependent RS behaviors under constant voltage stress of 2D M‐TCPP–based RRAMs are systematically investigated. The properties of the percolated conducting paths are revealed by the Weibull distribution by collecting the measured turn‐on time. The multilevel information storage state can be gotten by setting a series of compliance current. The charge trapping assisted hopping is proposed as operation principle of the MOF‐based RRAMs which is further confirmed by atomic force microscopy at electrical modes. The research is highly relevant for practical operation of 2D MOF nanosheet–based RRAM, since the time widths, magnitudes of pulses, and multilevel‐data storage can be potentially set.
Metal‐Organic Precursor–Derived Mesoporous Carbon Spheres with Homogeneously Distributed Molybdenum Carbide/Nitride Nanoparticles for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Media
Authors: Li Shuang , Cheng Chong , Sagaltchik Anton , Pachfule Pradip , Zhao Changsheng , Thomas Arne
Published: November 2018

The generation of hydrogen through water electrolysis is considered as a sustainable approach for future fuel production. Molybdenum (Mo)‐based compounds are reported as highly active and inexpensive alternatives to platinum‐based electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Currently, the major challenge for Mo‐based HER electrocatalysts lies in establishing new concepts of micro‐/nanostructure design to enhance the hydrogen evolution kinetics and realizing facile, large‐scale, and green fabrication processes. Here, a fast, scalable, and eco‐friendly metal‐organic coordination precursor–assisted strategy is reported for synthesizing novel hierarchically mesoporous Mo‐based carbon electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen production. Benefiting from homogeneously distributed Mo‐based nanocrystallites/heterojunctions and uniform mesopores, the Mo‐based mesoporous electrocatalyst shows high hydrogen evolution activity and stability with a low overpotential of 222 mV at 100 mA cm−2 (Pt/C: 263 mV), ranging among the best non‐noble metal HER catalysts in alkaline condition. Overall, the discovery of using dopamine–molybdate coordination precursor with silica nanoparticles will not only create a new pathway for controllable synthesis of diverse kinds of micro‐/nanostructured Mo‐based catalysts, but also take a step toward the fast and scale‐up production of advanced mesoporous carbon electrodes for a broad range of applications.
2D Nanocomposite of g‐C3N4 and TiN Embedded N‐Doped Graphene for Photoelectrochemical Reduction of Water Using Sunlight
Authors: Shanker Golla Shiva , Bhosale Reshma , Ogale Satishchandra , Nag Angshuman
Published: November 2018

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a sustainable pathway for solar to hydrogen conversion. Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) nanosheets have the suitable bandgap and band‐edge energies to act as a visible‐light photocatalyst for water splitting, but the fast recombination of photoexcited electron–hole pair limits the efficiency. Herein, N‐doped few‐layer graphene (NFG) dressed with titanium nitride (TiN) nanocrystals (TiN‐NFG) is introduced as an efficient co‐catalyst which improved the water reduction activity of g‐C3N4 by 16 times. The 2D nanocomposite of g‐C3N4:TiN‐NFG has an extended interface for efficient separation of photoexcited electron–hole pair through electron transfer from g‐C3N4 to TiN‐NFG. The metal‐like electronic structure of TiN in combination with good charge conducting capability of NFG reduces the charge transfer resistance at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Both these aspects are responsible for the enhanced PEC activity leading to a photocurrent density of −196 µA cm−2 at 0.11 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode as a photocathode for the g‐C3N4:TiN‐NFG nanocomposite. The nanocomposite is stable, low cost (free from noble metals), and the extent of enhancement in the PEC efficiency for reduction reaction is remarkable compared to prior literature.
Domino Reactions Initiated by Copper‐Catalyzed Aryl‐I Bond Thiolation For the Switchable Synthesis of 2,3‐Dihydrobenzothiazinones and Benzoisothiazolones
Authors: Xiong Jin , Zhong Guofeng , Liu Yunyun
Published: November 2018

The three‐component reactions of o‐iodobenzamides, elemental sulfur and dichloromethane (DCM) providing 2,3‐dihydro‐4H‐benzo[e][1,3]thiazin‐4‐ones (2,3‐dihydrobenzothiazinones) are accomplished via copper‐catalyzed aryl C−I thiolation and subsequent N‐, S‐hetero ring formation. In addition, the in situ aryl C−I bond thiolation is also employed for the switchable synthesis of benzo[d]isothiazol‐3(2H)‐ones (benzoisothiazolones) by subjecting o‐iodobenzamides, elemental sulfur to the copper‐catalyzed condition with microwave irradiation.

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Guest‐Triggered Aggregation‐Induced Emission in Silver Chalcogenolate Cluster Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Hui , Luo Peng , Wei Zhong , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Huang Ren‐Wu , Dong Xi‐Yan , Li Kai , Zang Shuang‐Quan , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: November 2018

Utilizing aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) as ligands has proven to be an effective strategy for constructing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with intense luminescent properties. However, highly luminescent AIEgen‐based MOFs with adjustable emission properties are rarely achieved because of the rigid conformation of AIEgens in the crystalline state. Here, a dual‐node 3D silver chalcogenolate cluster MOF (1) is designed and synthesized, where the AIE ligand shows relatively flexible and rotatable conformations. The conformations of AIE ligands in 1 are switchable by the absorption/desorption of guest molecules. As a result, 1 exhibited not only intense but also guest molecule switched luminescent properties. More importantly, the switching rate is tunable by using different guest molecules. 1 provides a unique visualized prototype to understand the mechanism of guest‐triggered aggregation‐induced emission in MOFs.
The Vacancy‐Induced Electronic Structure of the SrTiO3−δ Surface
Authors: Cook Seyoung , Dylla Maxwell T. , Rosenberg Richard A. , Mansley Zachary R. , Snyder G. Jeffrey , Marks Laurence D. , Fong Dillon D.
Published: November 2018

The emergence of a 2D electron gas (2DEG) on the (001) surface of oxygen‐deficient strontium titanate (SrTiO3−δ) is investigated. Using in situ soft X‐ray spectroscopy and effective mass modeling, a series of quantitative band diagrams are developed to describe the evolution of near‐surface and bulk carrier concentrations, downward band bending, and Fermi level along a lateral gradient of oxygen vacancies formed on SrTiO3−δ by direct‐current resistive heating under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Electrons are accumulated over a 3 nm region near the surface, confined within a potential well with saturated 300 meV downward band bending. The relation between Fermi levels and carrier concentrations near the surface suggests the density of states near the surface is much lower than the bulk density of states, which is consistent with the quantum‐confined subbands of a 2DEG. The quantitative relationship between the surface and bulk electronic structures developed in this work provides a guide for precise engineering of the oxygen‐vacancy‐induced 2DEG in SrTiO3.
Self‐Supported Tin Sulfide Porous Films for Flexible Aluminum‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liang Kun , Ju Licheng , Koul Supriya , Kushima Akihiro , Yang Yang
Published: November 2018

High‐performance flexible batteries are promising energy storage devices for portable and wearable electronics. Currently, the major obstacle to develop flexible batteries is the shortage of flexible electrodes with excellent electrochemical performance. Another challenge is the limited progress in the flexible batteries beyond Li‐ion because of a safety concern for the Li‐based electrochemical system. In this work, a self‐supported tin sulfide (SnS) porous film (PF) is fabricated as a flexible cathode material in an Al‐ion battery, which delivers a high specific capacity of 406 mAh g−1. A capacity decay rate of 0.03% per cycle is achieved, indicating a good stability. The self‐supported and flexible SnS film also shows an outstanding electrochemical performance and stability during dynamic and static bending tests. In situ transmission electron microscopy demonstrates that the porous structure of SnS is beneficial for minimizing the volume expansion during charge/discharge. This leads to an improved structural stability and superior long‐term cyclability.
Directional Preference of DNA‐Mediated Electron Transfer in Gold‐Tethered DNA Duplexes: Is DNA a Molecular Rectifier?
Authors: Kékedy‐Nagy László , Ferapontova Elena E.
Published: November 2018

Electrical properties of self‐assembling DNA nanostructures underlie the paradigm of nanoscale bioelectronics, and as such require clear understanding. DNA‐mediated electron transfer (ET) from a gold electrode to DNA‐bound Methylene Blue (MB) shows directional preference, and it is sequence‐specific. During the electrocatalytic reduction of [Fe(CN)6]3− catalyzed by DNA‐bound MB, the ET rate constant for DNA‐mediated reduction of MB reaches (1.32±0.2)103 and (7.09±0.4)103 s−1 for (dGdC)20 and (dAdT)25 duplexes. The backward oxidation process is less efficient, making the DNA duplex a molecular rectifier. Lower rates of ET via (dGdC)20 agree well with its disturbed π‐stacked sub‐molecular structure. Such direction‐ and sequence‐specific ET may be implicated in DNA oxidative damage and repair, and be relevant to other polarized surfaces, such as cell membranes and biomolecular interfaces.
A Noble‐Metal‐Free Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Catalyst for the Highly Efficient Conversion of CO2 with Propargylic Alcohols
Authors: Hou Sheng‐Li , Dong Jie , Jiang Xiao‐Lei , Jiao Zhuo‐Hao , Zhao Bin
Published: November 2018

Cyclization of propargylic alcohols with CO2 is an important reaction in industry, and noble‐metal catalysts are often employed to ensure the high product yields under environmentally friendly conditions. Herein a porous noble‐metal‐free framework 1 with large 1D channels of 1.66 nm diameter was synthesized for this reaction. Compound 1 exhibits excellent acid/base stability, and is even stable in corrosive triethylamine for one month. Catalytic studies indicate that 1 is an effective catalyst for the cyclization of propargylic alcohols and CO2 without any solvents under mild conditions, and the turnover number (TON) can reach to a record value of 14 400. Furthermore, this MOF catalyst also has rarely seen catalytic activity when the biological macromolecule ethisterone was used as a substrate. Mechanistic studies reveal that the synergistic catalytic effect between CuI and InIII plays a key role in the conversion of CO2.
Halogen Bonding Directed Supramolecular Quadruple and Double Helices from Hydrogen‐Bonded Arylamide Foldamers
Authors: Liu Chuan‐Zhi , Koppireddi Satish , Wang Hui , Zhang Dan‐Wei , Li Zhan‐Ting
Published: November 2018

Halogen bonding has been used to glue together hydrogen‐bonded short arylamide foldamers to achieve new supramolecular double and quadruple helices in the solid state. Three compounds, which bear a pyridine at one end and either a CF2I or fluorinated iodobenzene group at the other end, engage in head‐to‐tail N⋅⋅⋅I halogen bonds to form one‐component supramolecular P and M helices, which stack to afford supramolecular double‐stranded helices. One of the double helices can dimerize to form a G‐quadruplex‐like supramolecular quadruple helix. Another symmetric compound, which bears a pyridine at each end, binds to ICF2CF2I through N⋅⋅⋅I halogen bonds to form two‐component supramolecular P and M helices, with one turn consisting of four (2+2) molecules. Half of the pyridine‐bearing molecules in two P helices and two M helices stack alternatingly to form another supramolecular quadruple helix. Another half of the pyridine‐bearing molecules in such quadruple helices stack alternatingly with counterparts from neighboring quadruple helices, leading to unique quadruple helical arrays in two‐dimensional space.
An Intrinsic Flame‐Retardant Organic Electrolyte for Safe Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yang Huijun , Guo Cheng , Chen Jiahang , Naveed Ahmad , Yang Jun , Nuli Yanna , Wang Jiulin
Published: November 2018

Safety concerns pose a significant challenge for the large‐scale employment of lithium–sulfur batteries. Extremely flammable conventional electrolytes and dendritic lithium deposition cause severe safety issues. Now, an intrinsic flame‐retardant (IFR) electrolyte is presented consisting of 1.1 m lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide in a solvent mixture of flame‐retardant triethyl phosphate and high flashpoint solvent 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethyl‐2,2,3,3‐tetrafluoropropyl (1:3, v/v) for safe lithium–sulfur (Li−S) batteries. This electrolyte exhibits favorable flame‐retardant properties and high reversibility of the lithium metal anode (Coulombic efficiency >99 %). This IFR electrolyte enables stable lithium plating/stripping behavior with micro‐sized and dense‐packing lithium deposition at high temperatures. When coupled with a sulfurized pyrolyzed poly(acrylonitrile) cathode, Li−S batteries deliver a high composite capacity (840.1 mAh g−1) and high sulfur utilization of 95.6 %.
Triple‐Shelled Manganese–Cobalt Oxide Hollow Dodecahedra with Highly Enhanced Performance for Rechargeable Alkaline Batteries
Authors: Jiao Chuangwei , Wang Zumin , Zhao Xiaoxian , Wang Huan , Wang Jing , Yu Ranbo , Wang Dan
Published: November 2018

Precisely carving of multi‐shelled manganese–cobalt oxide hollow dodecahedra (Co/Mn‐HD) with shell number up to three is achieved by a controlled calcination of the Mn‐doped zeolitic imidazolate framework ZIF‐67 precursor (Co/Mn‐ZIF). The unique multi‐shelled and polycrystalline structure not only provides a very large electrochemically active surface area (EASA), but also enhances the structural stability of the material. The residual C and N in the final structures might aid stability and increase their conductivity. When used in alkaline rechargeable battery, the triple‐shelled Co/Mn‐HD exhibits high electrochemical performance, reversible capacity (331.94 mAh g−1 at 1 Ag−1), rate performance (88 % of the capacity can be retained with a 20‐fold increase in current density), and cycling stability (96 % retention over 2000 cycles).
Aqueous Solution Processing of Combustible Precursor Compounds into Amorphous Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) Semiconductors for Thin Film Transistor Applications
Authors: Sanctis Shawn , Hoffmann Rudolf C. , Koslowski Nico , Foro Sabine , Bruns Michael , Schneider Jörg J.
Published: November 2018

Combustion synthesis of semiconducting amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide IGZO (In:Ga:Zn, 7:1:1.5) thin films was carried out using urea nitrate precursor compounds of indium(III), gallium(III) and zinc(II). This approach provides further understanding towards the oxide formation process under a moderate temperature regime by employment of well‐defined coordination compounds. All precursor compounds were fully characterized by spectroscopic techniques as well as by single crystal structure analysis. Their intrinsic thermal decomposition was studied by a combination of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy (TG‐MS/IR). For all precursors a multistep decomposition involving a complex redox‐reaction pathway under in situ formation of nitrogen containing molecular species was observed. Controlled thermal conversion of a mixture of the indium, gallium and zinc urea nitrate complexes into ternary amorphous IGZO films could thus be achieved. Thin film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated from a defined compositional mixture of the molecular precursors. The TFT devices exhibited decent charge carrier mobilities of 0.4 and 3.1 cm2/(Vs) after annealing of the deposited films at temperatures as low as 250 and 350 °C, respectively. This approach represents a significant step further towards a low temperature solution processing of semiconducting thin films.
Improved Efficacy of Antibody Cancer Immunotherapeutics through Local and Sustained Delivery
Authors: Huynh Vincent , Jesmer Alexander H. , Shoaib Muhammad M. , D'Angelo Anthony D. , Rullo Anthony F. , Wylie Ryan G.
Published: November 2018

Antibodies are a growing class of cancer immunotherapeutics that facilitate immune‐cell‐mediated killing of tumors. However, the efficacy and safety of immunotherapeutics are limited by transport barriers and poor tumor uptake, which lead to high systemic concentrations and potentially fatal side effects. To increase tumor antibody immunotherapeutic concentrations while decreasing systemic concentrations, local delivery vehicles for sustained antibody release are being developed. The focus of this review is to define the material properties required for implantable controlled antibody delivery and highlight the controlled‐release strategies that are applicable to antibody immunotherapeutics.
Phosphorus‐Containing Block Copolymers from the Sequential Living Anionic Copolymerization of a Phosphaalkene with Methyl Methacrylate
Authors: Chen Leixing , Rawe Benjamin W. , Adachi Kaoru , Gates Derek P.
Published: November 2018

Although living polymerization methods are widely applicable to organic monomers, their application to inorganic monomers is rare. For the first time, we show that the living poly(methylenephosphine) (PMPn−) anion can function as a macroinitiator for olefins. Specifically, the phosphaalkene, MesP=CPh2 (PA), and methyl methacrylate (MMA) can be sequentially copolymerized using the BnLi‐TMEDA initiator system in toluene. A series of PMPn‐b‐PMMAm copolymers with narrow dispersities are accessible (Đ=1.05–1.10). Analysis of the block copolymers provided evidence for ‐P‐CPh2‐CH2‐CMe(CO2Me)‐ switching groups. Importantly, this indicates that the ‐P‐CPh2− anion directly initiates the anionic polymerization of MMA and stands in stark contrast to the isomerization mechanism followed for the homopolymerization of PA. For the first time, the glass transition of a PMPn homopolymer has been measured (Tg=45.1 °C, n=20). The PMPn‐b‐PMMAm copolymers do not phase separate and show a single Tg which increases with higher PMMA content.
Machine Learning Supporting Experimental Design for Product Development in the Lab
Authors: Babutzka Jens , Bortz Michael , Dinges Andreas , Foltin Gregor , Hajnal David , Schultze Hergen , Weiss Horst
Published: November 2018

An interactive decision support framework is presented that assists lab researchers in finding optimal product recipes. Within this framework, an approach for sequential experimental design for black box models in a multicriteria optimization context is introduced. An additional criterion involving the prediction error to design new experiments is used with the goal to get a reliable estimate of the Pareto frontier within a few experimental iterations. The resulting decision support approach accompanies the chemist through the whole workflow and supports the user via interactive, graphical elements.
Ethical considerations about emergent surgical hospitalizations in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Lee Katherine C. , Cooper Zara
Published: November 2018

Unexpected, emergent surgical hospitalizations are common among patients with advanced cancer near end of life and pose an ethical challenge for acute care clinicians, including hospitalists, oncologists, and proceduralists. Referring to the principles of autonomy, beneficence, and nonmaleficence can guide clinicians to provide goal‐concordant care during an acute hospitalization that maximizes patient outcomes without prolonging suffering during the dying process.
Backward sensitivity analysis and reduced‐order covariance estimation in noninvasive parameter identification for cerebral arteries
Authors: Rapadamnaba Robert , Nicoud Franck , Mohammadi Bijan
Published: November 2018

Using a previously developed inversion platform for functional cerebral medical imaging with ensemble Kalman filters, this work analyzes the sensitivity of the results with respect to different parameters entering the physical model and inversion procedure, such as the inlet flow rate from the heart, the choice of the boundary conditions, and the nonsymmetry in the network terminations. It also proposes an alternative low complexity construction for the covariance matrix of the hemodynamic parameters of a network of arteries including the circle of Willis. The platform takes as input patient‐specific blood flow rates extracted from magnetic resonance angiography and magnetic resonance imaging (dicom files) and is applied to several available patients data. The paper presents full analysis of the results for one of these patients, including a sensitivity study with respect to the proximal and distal boundary conditions. The results notably show that the uncertainties on the inlet flow rate led to uncertainties of the same order of magnitude in the estimated parameters (blood pressure and elastic parameters) and that three‐lumped parameters boundary conditions are necessary for a correct retrieval of the target signals.
A kind of epistasis‐tunable test functions for genetic algorithms
Authors: Mo Hongqiang , Li Zhong , Zhu Chunmei
Published: November 2018

Genetic algorithm (GA) is one of the most popular algorithms of evolutionary computation. To evaluate the performance of GAs, test functions with different levels of epistasis have been included in most of the commonly used benchmark platforms. Such test functions have been produced in general by assuming an underlying linear model for the fitness of a string, in which variable interaction should be known beforehand. This paper proposes to compose epistasis‐tunable test functions via linear combinations of simple basis functions so as to avoid explicit dependence on the knowledge of variable interaction. It is remarked that, for a GA with a binary encoding, a linearly separable fitness function, ie, a zero‐epistasis fitness function, can be decomposed into a superposition of periodical basis functions whose frequencies are exponential to 2. A kind of epistasis‐tunable test functions is accordingly produced by summing up sinusoidal basis functions with such frequencies and proper phases. The merits of thus constructed test functions are: Both the locations and values of the global maxima are trivially known; their degrees of epistasis are smoothly tunable simply by changing the locations of the global maxima. Finally, illustration examples are studied, and the results confirm the claims about the merits.
Effect of Coordination Modes on the Tunable Luminescence of 1,10‐Phenanthroline‐Based Complexes
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Rui , Jin Xin‐Xin , Zhou Xin , Zhang Yunxia , Leung Chi‐Fai , Xiang Jing
Published: November 2018

Two luminescent compounds [Zn(L)2](ClO4)2 (1) and [Na(L)(MeOH)(μ‐ClO4)]n (2) are obtained from the reactions of 2,9‐bis(carbomethoxy)‐1,10‐phenanthroline (L) with corresponding hydrated perchlorate salts in MeOH. Their crystal structures are determined by X‐ray crystallography. 1 is a mononuclear 8‐coordinate Zn2+ compound and 2 is a ClO4−‐bridged 1D polymer, where the ligand L exhibits different coordination modes (carbonyl O vs methoxyl O coordination). Although the luminescence of these two compounds originates similarly from the ligand‐centered π→π* transitions, it is interesting to note that their emissions are significantly influenced by the different coordination modes of L. The relationship between their structures and emission properties has been investigated in detail. The stability and energy difference between these two coordination modes in these two compounds are analyzed by Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations.
Three Generations of Cobalt Porphyrins as Catalysts in the Oxidation of Cycloalkanes
Authors: Pamin Katarzyna , Tabor Edyta , Górecka Sylwia , Kubiak Władysław W. , Rutkowska‐Zbik Dorota , Połtowicz Jan
Published: November 2018

Three generations of cobalt porphyrins were synthesized, physicochemically characterized by FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy as well as cyclic voltammetry and applied as catalysts in the oxidation of cycloalkanes with atmospheric molecular oxygen under mild conditions. All examined catalysts were active in the tested reaction, and their catalytic activity varied with the nature and number of substituents on the porphyrin ring. Introduction of electron‐withdrawing or electron‐donating substituents at the porphyrin rings increases the activity of metalloporphyrin complexes. It was found, for the first time, that generation II cobalt porphyrins show higher activity in cycloalkane oxidation than cobalt porphyrins of generation III. The lower catalytic activity of generation III cobalt porphyrins can be attributed to the saddle‐shaped deformation of the porphyrin macrocycle. DFT modeling of Co porphyrins and their interactions with molecular oxygen provided explanations for the observed effects. On the basis of prior reports and the obtained results, a reaction mechanism is proposed and discussed.
Efficient Catalysts In situ Generated from Zinc, Amide and Benzyl Bromide for Epoxide/CO2 Coupling Reaction at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Han Feng , Yan Shaorui , He Mingyue , Miao Chengxia , He Liang‐Nian
Published: November 2018

Herein, in situ generated efficient catalysts were designed for fixation of CO2 to cyclic carbonates under mild conditions. Zinc bromide and N,N‐dibenzyl‐N,N‐dimethylammonium bromide, being proved as active catalyst species, were in situ generated from cheap Zn powder, dimethyl formamide and benzyl bromide, and catalyzed the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 and various terminal epoxides in moderate to excellent yields at 80 °C and atmospheric pressure of CO2. The protocol circumvents the preparation of active catalysts, simultaneously possesses good catalytic activity under mild conditions.
Deposit modeling for archaeological projects: Methods, practice, and future developments
Authors: Carey Chris , Howard Andy J. , Corcoran Jane , Knight David , Heathcote Jen
Published: November 2018

This paper considers the application of deposit modeling within archaeological projects, summarizing the results of a Historic England funded project aimed at developing “good practice” for the application of these techniques within terrestrial environments. It provides an overview of what deposit modeling is, the environments where it can be used and the methods most commonly used. The paper identifies a series of issues and challenges in using deposit models within archaeological investigations, such as the archiving of geotechnical data, the testing of deposit models against the distribution of archaeological sites and features, and integrating sediment stratigraphies derived from deposit modeling with post‐excavation records. We argue that deposit modeling is a valuable tool for archeologists to employ and can be used to design appropriate excavation strategies to target sites and features, thereby increasing the information yield of a project. In this sense deposit modeling can be used as a framework for archaeological projects that are investigating sediment sequences in complex geomorphological environments, starting with pre‐evaluation data gathering, through to focusing excavation strategies, and within the post‐excavation analysis. Whilst this paper is focused upon the terrestrial archaeological record, the themes discussed have resonance for archaeological records across the globe, including the offshore zone.
Assessment of herd effects among women and heterosexual men after girls‐only HPV16/18 vaccination in the Netherlands: A repeated cross‐sectional study
Authors: Woestenberg Petra J , Bogaards Johannes A , King Audrey J , Leussink Suzan , van der Sande Marianne AB , Hoebe Christian JPA , van Benthem Birgit HB ,   on behalf of the Medical Microbiological Laboratories and the Public Health Services
Published: November 2018

Data on the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination on the population HPV prevalence are largely obtained from women. We assessed the impact of the girls‐only HPV16/18 vaccination program in the Netherlands that started in 2009, on trends in HPV prevalence among women and heterosexual men, using data from the PASSYON study. In this cross‐sectional study, the HPV prevalence among 16‐ to 24‐year‐old visitors to sexually transmitted infection clinics was assessed in 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015. We compared the genital postvaccination HPV prevalence with the prevaccination prevalence (2009) using Poisson GEE models. In total, we included 4,996 women and 1,901 heterosexual men. The percentage of women who reported to be vaccinated increased from 2.3% in 2009 to 37% in 2015. Among all women, the HPV16/18 prevalence decreased from 23% prevaccination to 15% in 2015 (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 0.62, ptrend < 0.01). Among heterosexual men, the HPV16/18 prevalence decreased from 17% prevaccination to 11% in 2015 (aPR 0.52, ptrend < 0.01). Of the heterosexual men with a steady partner, HPV16/18 prevalence was lower among those whose steady partner had been vaccine‐eligible in the national immunization program (aPR 0.13). Among unvaccinated women, the HPV16/18 prevalence in 2015 was not different from prevaccination. The decreasing HPV16/18 prevalence among heterosexual men and the reduced HPV16/18 prevalence among heterosexual men with a vaccine‐eligible steady partner strongly suggests herd protection from girls‐only vaccination. Absence of notable herd effects among unvaccinated women 6 years postvaccination may be due to the moderate vaccine uptake among girls in the Netherlands.
Commodity prices and fiscal policy design: Procyclical despite a rule
Authors: Bjørnland Hilde C. , Thorsrud Leif Anders
Published: November 2018

Recent studies offer evidence of reduced fiscal procyclicality to commodity price changes in resource‐rich countries—a feature commonly attributed to the adoption of fiscal policy rules. We revisit this issue and find that, by controlling for global activity shocks while allowing for time‐varying changes in both fiscal policy and the volatility of shocks, this finding does not hold. To show this we develop a time‐varying dynamic factor model, allowing for a multiple of shocks, stochastic volatility and time‐varying parameters, and estimate it on data for Norway, whose handling of resource wealth is often cited as exemplary.
NOTCH1 regulates the proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells by cooperating with long non‐coding RNA HCG18 and microRNA‐34c‐5p
Authors: Xu Zhihui , Huang Banggao , Zhang Qi , He Xiang , Wei Haibin , Zhang Dahong
Published: November 2018

In recent years, the NOTCH signaling pathway has been gradually studied in human malignancies. Inactivation of the NOTCH signaling pathway was uncovered to be correlated with the carcinogenesis of bladder cancer (BCa). Nevertheless, the specific molecular mechanism of NOTCH1 (one of the core factors of the NOTCH signaling pathway) is not well elucidated in BCa. This study focused on the mechanism by which NOTCH1 affects the biological behaviors of BCa cells. According to the experimental results of quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, NOTCH1 was dysregulated in BCa tissues and cell lines. The prognostic value of NOTCH1 for the patients with BCa was determined using the Kaplan‐Meier method. Mechanism investigations revealed that NOTCH1 is a target of miR‐34c‐5p in BCa. Furthermore, microarray analysis was used to find the dysregulated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA), which can bind with miR‐34c‐5p. Mechanism experiments further demonstrated the rationality of the HCG18‐miR‐34c‐5p‐NOTCH1 pathway. Functional assays were then applied to validate the inhibitory influences of NOTCH1 on the proliferation and migration of BCa cells. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of NOTCH1 could be affected by miR‐34c‐5p or lncRNA HCG18. All findings in this study revealed that NOTCH1 suppresses the BCa progression by cooperating with lncRNA HCG18 and miR‐34c‐5p.
Investigating the role of CRIPTO‐1 (TDGF‐1) in glioblastoma multiforme U87 cell line
Authors: Alowaidi Faisal , Hashimi Saeed M , Nguyen Maria , Meshram Mallika , Alqurashi Naif , Cavanagh Brenton L , Bellette Bernadette , Ivanovski Saso , Meedenyia Adrian , Wood Stephen A
Published: November 2018

Cripto‐1 has been implicated in a number of human cancers. Although there is high potential for a role of Cripto‐1 in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) pathogenesis and progression, few studies have tried to define its role in GBM. These studies were limited in that Cripto‐1 expression was not studied in detail in relation to markers of cancer initiation and progression. Therefore, these correlative studies allowed limited interpretation of Criptos‐1's effect on the various aspects of GBM development using the U87 GBM cell line. In this study, we sought to delineate the role of Cripto‐1 in facilitating pathogenesis, stemness, proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis in GBM. Our findings show that upon overexpressing Cripto‐1 in U87 GBM cells, the stemness markers Nanog, Oct4, Sox2, and CD44 increased expression. Similarly, an increase in Ki67 was observed demonstrating Cripto‐1's potential to induce cellular proliferation. Likewise, we report a novel finding that increased expression of the markers of migration and invasion, Vimentin and Twist, correlated with upregulation of Cripto‐1. Moreover, Cripto‐1 exposure led to VEGFR‐2 overexpression along with higher tube formation under conditions promoting endothelial growth. Taken together our results support a role for Cripto‐1 in the initiation, development, progression, and maintenance of GBM pathogenesis. The data presented here are also consistent with a role for Cripto‐1 in the re‐growth and invasive growth in GBM. This highlights its potential use as a predictive and diagnostic marker in GBM as well as a therapeutic target.
Programmed cell death protein 4 deficiency suppresses foam cell formation by activating autophagy in advanced glycation end‐product low‐density lipoprotein–induced macrophages
Authors: Li Shan , Gao Guangdong , Wu Fuyun , Liu Dan , Zhao Hongyan , Ke Jing , Liu Ying , Li Fei , Li Jian , Chen Zongyun , Tang Zhiming , Bai Lei , Zhang Jinxuan , Zheng Wei , Chen Xin
Published: November 2018

Background

Advanced glycation end‐product is a modified form of low‐density lipoprotein (AGE‐LDL) and accelerates atherosclerosis through undefined mechanisms. Programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4), a transcriptional regulator, plays an important role in the regulation of autophagy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of PDCD4 involved in AGE‐LDL–induced foam cell formation.

Methods

The characterization of AGE‐LDL was measured by the thiobarbituric assay and agarose gel electrophoresis in vitro. RAW264.7, THP‐1 cell line and primary peritoneal macrophages of mice were transfected with shPDCD4 plasmid AGE‐LDL–induced foam cell formation was stained by Oil Red, and the levels of autophagy and apoptosis were determined by Western blot analysis. Autophagosome was observed with immunofluorescence microscopy. Mitochondrial membrane potential and autophagic flux were assessed by flow cytometry.

Results

AGE modification resulted in significant reduction of absorbance shown by thiobarbituric assay and augmentation of electrophoresis mobility. Further studies suggest that macrophages exposed AGE‐LDL triggered autophagy in the early stage of foam cell formation. PDCD4 deficiency enhanced lipoautophagy but inhibited apoptosis and mitochondria dysfunction. Previous studies have been reported that autophagy is an adaptive response might prevent lesional macrophage apoptosis. In our study, we found PDCD4 deficiency attenuated apoptosis and AGE‐LDL–induced foam cell formation relied on increased autophagy.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that PDCD4 deficiency can facilitate autophagy and benefit for AGE‐LDL–induced foam cell formation.
Phosphoinositide‐specific phospholipase C in normal human liver and in alcohol abuse
Authors: Fais Paolo , Leopizzi Martina , Di Maio Valeria , Longo Lucia , Della Rocca Carlo , Tagliaro Franco , Bortolotti Federica , Lo Vasco Vincenza Rita
Published: November 2018

The phosphoinositide (PI) signal transduction pathway participates in liver metabolism. Abnormal activity or expression of PI‐specific phospholipase C (PLC) enzymes has been described in different liver diseases. We resume the role of the PI metabolism in liver and PLC abnormalities in different liver diseases. Moreover, we present the results of PLC analyses in a normal human liver and an alcohol‐damaged liver. PLC enzymes and the expression of the corresponding genes in liver biopsies from individuals deceased for complications of the alcoholic liver disease (ALD) at different stages compared with normal controls (deceased individuals with histologically normal livers without alcohol addiction anamnesis) were analyzed by using immunohistochemistry and molecular biology techniques. The expression panel of PLCs was described in normal and alcohol abuse liver. Our observations suggest that the regulation of PLC expression might be due to posttranscriptional events and that alcohol affects the epigenetic control of PLC expression belonging to PI signaling. We also describe the alternate expression of PLCB1 and PLCH1 genes in liver. Our results corroborate literature data suggesting that PLC enzymes are differently expressed in normal versus pathological liver, playing a role in the histopathogenesis of liver tissue damage. The expression and/or localization of selected PLC isoforms is especially affected in alcohol‐related liver tissue histopathology. Our present observations confirm that the modulation of protein synthesis plays a role in the regulation of PLC enzymes. We also suggest that this modulation might act at the transcription level. Further studies are required to investigate related epigenetic mechanisms.
Pre‐eclampsia onset and SPARC: A possible involvement in placenta development
Authors: Tossetta Giovanni , Fantone Sonia , Giannubilo Stefano R. , Marinelli Busilacchi Elena , Ciavattini Andrea , Castellucci Mario , Di Simone Nicoletta , Mattioli‐Belmonte Monica , Marzioni Daniela
Published: November 2018

Pre‐eclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disorder commonly diagnosed in the latter half of pregnancy and it is a leading cause of intrauterine fetal growth retardation (IUGR). The aim of this study was to investigate the localization and the role of SPARC, secreted protein acidic, and rich in cysteine, in PE and PE–IUGR placentas in comparison with normal placentas. SPARC was mainly expressed in the villous and extravillous cytotrophoblastic cells in first trimester, whereas in PE, PE–IUGR and at term placentas, SPARC immunostaining was visible in both cytotrophoblastic cells and syncytiotrophoblast. SPARC expression significantly decreased in normal placenta from first to third trimester and a further significant reduction was demonstrated in PE and PE–IUGR. The latter downregulation of SPARC depends on hypoxic condition as shown by in vitro models. In conclusion, SPARC can play a pivotal role in PE and PE–IUGR onset and it should be considered as a key molecule for future investigations in such pathologies.
A genetic variant in LINGO2 contributes to the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in a Chinese population
Authors: Su Tong , Ren Qingxia , Lu Yingying , Tai Wen , Zhu Yuan , Li Zhengying , Wen Juan , Hu Lingmin , Zhang Le , Ma Jiehua
Published: November 2018

Genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) showed that three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs10968576, rs1412239, and rs824248) in the leucine‐rich repeat and Ig domain containing 2 (LINGO2) were associated with obesity or type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to determine the influence of the LINGO2 variants on the gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. Thus, we performed a case–control study including 964 GDM cases and 1,021 controls to test the associations between the three LINGO2 variants (rs10968576, rs1412239, and rs824248) and susceptibility to GDM. Logistic regression analyses showed no significant association between LINGO2 variations (rs10968576 and rs1412239) and GDM susceptibility, but we observed that LINGO2 rs824248 A > T was significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM using the dominant model (TT/AT vs. AA: adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05–1.51; p = 0.012) and the additive model (TT vs. AT vs. AA: adjusted OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03–1.31; p = 0.016). In the additive model, a stronger risk effect of rs824248 was observed among obese women (prepregnancy body mass index [BMI] > 22 kg/m2, adjusted OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.12–1.59) compared with that in lean women (prepregnancy BMI ≤ 22 kg/m2, adjusted OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.86–1.21; p = 0.029 for heterogeneity test). Further interactive analyses also detected a significant multiplicative interaction between rs824248 and prepregnancy BMI for the risk of GDM (p = 0.041). These findings indicate that LINGO2 rs824248 may serve as a susceptibility marker for GDM in Chinese females.
Glucose addition‐induced changes in the growth and chemical compositions of a freshwater microalga Chlorella kessleri
Authors: Deng Xiang‐Yuan , Xue Chun‐Ye , Chen Biao , Amoah Philip Kwabena , Li Da , Hu Xiao‐Li , Gao Kun
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

In recent years, mixotrophic culture of algal cells has been gaining increasing interest, largely because it offers an efficient means of commercial production of lipids and other value‐added products. In this work, the impacts of glucose addition on the biomass production, chemical composition and fatty acid profiles of Chlorella kessleri were investigated to exploit the relationships between extra organic carbon and changes in the distribution of chemical compositions in algal cells.

RESULTS

Results showed that C. kessleri grew fast in the mixotrophic cultures with a maximum algal biomass and specific growth rate of 4.46 g L−1 and 1.27 day−1, respectively. Glucose in the cultures was absorbed and utilized effectively by this alga, whose uptake efficiencies ranged from 88.2% to 98.3%, but it had a negative impact on the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments. Additionally, the culture's pH and chemical composition, including pigments, carbohydrate, protein and lipids, in this alga varied with the change of glucose concentrations in the cultures. The fatty acid profiles of this alga indicated that its biomass could be used as live feeds in aquaculture or a good‐quality feedstock for biodiesel production.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that adding an extra organic carbon source (glucose) to a photoautotrophic culture was a potentially effective way to improve the performance in mixotrophically culture of microalgae, for example in terms of higher biomass and lipid production. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Optimization and Applicability of a Novel Sensor for Potentiometric Determination of Anionic Surfactants
Authors: Samardžić Mirela , Petrušić Sanja , Hajduković Mateja , Škobić Marija
Published: November 2018

Novel potentiometric sensors for anionic surfactant (AS) determination, with different percentages of tetraoctadecylammonium tetraphenylborate (TODA‐TPB) as sensing materials and different electrolytes (sodium chloride, lithium chloride, sodium dodecyl sulfate (NaDS), sodium tetraphenylborate, sodium acetate, and potassium chloride) at varied concentration levels, were developed and compared. The sensor with best response characteristics was further characterized. It had a fast response time (5 s), a low signal drift (2.0 and 2.9 mV h−1 in a detergent solution and NaDS, respectively), a wide pH working range (3–11), and a longer lifetime of 6 months. This novel sensor was characterized with Nernstian response toward NaDS (−58.0 mV decade−1 of activity), a wide working range (1.3 · 10−7–5 · 10−3 M), and a low limit of detection (1.0 · 10−7 M). It proved to be an accurate and reliable sensor for AS determination in multicomponent mixtures of AS and household wastewater using a potentiometric titration method. Nonionic surfactants, which are commonly mixed with AS in commercial products to obtain better properties of products, had an insignificant impact on AS determination.