bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Solvent Molecule Driven Pure PEDOT:PSS Actuator
Authors: Xiong Liukang , Jin Hongrun , Lu Yucheng , Li Xiaogang , Ai Xin , Yang Hui , Huang Liang
Published: June 2020

Actuators which mechanically respond to various external stimuli are promising for diverse applications including soft robots, energy generators, artificial muscles, and sensors. Herein, a PEDOT:PSS film based vapor‐driven soft actuator by using H2SO4 treated process is presented. This actuator exhibits rapid (0.24 s for one actuation) and robust (>1000 times without obvious fatigue) responses to stimuli of various organic solvents with reversible large‐shape deformations. By coating gold on the one side of the PEDOT:PSS film with subsequent generation of specific patterns, the designed bilayer‐structured actuator achieves controllable actuation including vertical and helical bending. Furthermore, a walking robot and a vapor‐driven generator are successfully constructed with remarkable performances upon vapor stimuli using the proposed PEDOT:PSS film based actuator. The achievement presented here opens a new avenue for a new generation of robots and smart sensors.
Comparison of Type of Rubber in PLA/Rubber/Kenaf Biocomposite: Rheological, Mechanical and Morphological Properties
Authors: Alias Nur Fazreen , Ismail Hanafi , Ishak Ku Marsilla Ku
Published: June 2020

Polylactic acid/rubber/kenaf biocomposites are prepared via melt blending in an internal mixer, followed by compression molding. The effect of different type of rubber is studied based on processing torque, tensile properties, and morphology. Natural rubber (NR) and acrylonitrile butadiene rubber are used, respectively. The content of rubber is fixed at 10 wt%, while kenaf loading has been varied from 0 to 20 phr. Incorporation of NR in biocomposite showed higher processing and stabilization torque compared to acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, However, NR offers higher tensile strength and elongation at break to the biocomposite due to superior properties of NR and strain‐induced crystallization phenomenon. Based on tensile‐fractured morphology, biocomposite with NR shows more tearing effect, which is associated with higher strength. In regard to kenaf loading, the results show that higher kenaf loading causes the tensile properties to decrease and also higher processing torque during mixing. Besides, poor interfacial adhesion is shown by biocomposite with high kenaf loading in the field emission scanning electron microscope micrograph, proven by a smoother fractured surface and more voids due to filler pull‐out.
Mechanical Properties, Set and Rebound Resilience Characteristics of Natural Rubber/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Blend on Various Ratios
Authors: Indrajati Ihda Novia , Setyorini Ike
Published: June 2020

In this study, natural rubber/ethylene vinyl acetate (NR/EVA) blends are formulated by simple blend using two roll mill. The set properties, both compression and tension, are evaluated as a function of NR/EVA ratios. The ratio of NR/EVA ranges from 100/0 to 95/5, 90/10, 85/15, and to 80/20. Compression and tension set are performed on vulcanized rubber samples at ambient and elevated temperature (100 °C) with constant compression or elongation at 25% of initial value. All tests are carried out for 72 h. Air‐circulated oven is used to conduct testing at elevated temperature. Crosslink density before and after testing is also monitored by equilibrium swelling method. Tensile properties and hardness are also measured to support the discussion. The results show that compression and tension set at ambient temperature tend to increase upon the EVA concentration in the formulation. Set properties are independent of EVA concentration at elevated temperature. Incorporation of EVA decreases the rebound resilience property and thermal aging tends to increase it. The rebound resilience ranges from 31% to 40% for original samples, and from 33% to 43% for aged samples.
Synthesis and Characterization of Bacterial Cellulose/Nano‐Graphite Nanocomposite Membranes
Authors: Aritonang Henry F. , Wulandari Restu , Wuntu Audy D.
Published: June 2020

A bacterial cellulose (BC)/nano‐graphite nanocomposite membrane has been synthesized by impregnating nano‐graphite into the BC membrane. Microscopic measurements show that nano‐graphite flakes are evenly distributed in the BC matrix, and the thickness size of a nano‐graphite is around 28 nm. In addition, X‐ray measurements showed that the best average size of nano‐graphite crystallites in the BC matrix is 33.4 nm. Nano‐graphite flakes entered the membrane pores and are trapped between the nano fibrils of cellulose. This process is assisted by an ultrasonic process (contact time). For each concentration of nano‐graphite or graphite solution, mass of the nanocomposite membrane containing nano‐graphite is greater than that containing graphite. The mass is increased with increasing contact time between nano‐graphite solutions and BC membranes. The increasing mass indicated the increase in the carbon content which is shown by energy dispersive spectroscopy data. Conductivity of the nanocomposite membrane, in consequence, is significantly increased with the increasing concentration of nanographite solution. For contact time of 24 h, the conductivity is 1.74 S cm−1.
The Effect of the Addition of Lactic Acid as a Modifier to the Morphology and Thermal Properties of Cellulose Nano Fiber Paper
Authors: Kustiyah Elvi , Marsya Mutia Anissa , Firdaus Dick Ferieno , Purwanto Geris , Chalid Mochamad
Published: June 2020

This study discusses on an attempt to create a transparent conductive paper made by a facile process and environmentally friendly cellulose‐based sorghum as a substitute for glass coating in the display industry that has the advantage of being able to be formed and folded. Sorghum stems with a relatively high cellulose content of around 40% make it a potential material to be used as a conductive transparent paper. The isolation of microfibrillated cellulose from sorghum stem waste using chemicals and sonication methods to obtain cellulose nanofibril (CNF) within a nanometer size range are discussed in this research. Furthermore, lactic acid (LA) as a modifier is added with varying concentrations to explore the effect of its addition on the processing of the transparent paper made from the CNF. Characterization in this study includes several aspects: to investigate the morphology of the CNF paper is carried out by scanning electron microscope. In addition, thermal strength for the product is analyzed using thermal gravimetric analysis. It is found that the CNF paper with 0.5 wt% of LA able to increase paper drying time while still able to maintain the morphology of the transparent paper.
The Effect of Synthetic Conditions on the Characteristics of Carrageenan‐Doped Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)
Authors: Diah Anang W. M. , Wirayudha Agung , Kandolia Trisanti V. , Pujianti Ni K. T. , Widyakirana Iis , Hasriani Nurul A. Safitra , Saehana Sahrul , Holdsworth Clovia I.
Published: June 2020

Carrageenan‐doped poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is synthesized via oxidative polymerization of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene monomer, using Na2S2O8 and Fe2(SO4)3 as oxidation agents, at a controlled pH of 10–11, in the presence of carrageenan as the doping agent (dopant). As with polystyrene sulfonate, the most common doping agent for PEDOT, carrageenan also possess ─SO3− functional groups that are capable of interacting with PEDOT chains. The PEDOT/carrageenan (PEDOT/Carr) dispersions are prepared in this study in 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 ratios by weight. Different types of carrageenans result in PEDOT/Carr dispersions of different processabilities. The PEDOT/Carr ratios are investigated for their effects on the physical properties of the films. The results show that carrageenan is successfully doped to PEDOT to form PEDOT/Carr complex. Increasing amount of carrageenan in dispersion result in more processable PEDOT/Carr dispersions.
Increased Electrical Conductivity of PANi: Anionic Surfactant Addition during Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Hafizah Mas A. E. , Mahar Ahmad L. , Suparno  , Andreas  , Manaf Azwar
Published: June 2020

Electrically conductive polyaniline (PANi) doped with anionic surfactants is successfully synthesized and characterized. The conductive PANi is prepared by chemical oxidation polymerization reaction with the addition of two types of anionic surfactant solutions respectively 1% Sodium Octyl Sulfate (NaC8H17SO4, SOS) and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (NaC12H25SO4, SDS), followed by doping with a strong perchloric acid (HClO4). The addition of each surfactant solution has increased the electrical conductivity value of surfactant free PANi from 0.089 to 1.16 S cm−1 (SOS) and 1.12 S cm−1 (SDS) respectively. The viscosity value of surfactant free PANi is 1.97 mPa s which is much lower when compared with those of PANi containing surfactants in which the value is 3.58 and 4.20 mPa s for 1% of SDS added PANi each. The chain length of anionic surfactant has no major effect on the conductivity of PANi. The latter is only affected by the presence of SO3− group in hydrophobic part of surfactant.
Utilization of Chitosan as Coating Material in Making NPK Slow Release Fertilizer
Authors: Gumelar Muhammad D. , Hamzah Moh. , Hidayat Ade S. , Saputra Dita A. , Idvan
Published: June 2020

In the implementation of fertilization, only about 50% of the fertilizer can be absorbed by plants while some are degraded or drifted by groundwater so that fertilization becomes inefficient which will also pollute the environment with the content of N, P, and K. The loss of N as nitrogen gas due to denitrification is up to 30–40%, the loss of N as ammonia gas due to volatilization is about 10–20, the loss of N as nitrate due to the washing by water flow is about 44%, and erosion can reach 45%. One solution to this problem is using a slow release fertilizer (SRF) where the nutrient is released slowly within a certain time. The SRF technology modifies the fertilizer utilizing chitosan coating on granule surface of the fertilizer. Liquid chitosan is used for coating and it is sprayed on the surface of fertilizer granule in the rotary pan granulator. It is found that the resistance of the chitosan coated fertilizer in the water is about 3–6 months. The characteristics of the nutrients released from SRF NPK 16‐16‐16 coated with chitosan are about 103.26 mg nutrients of N, 21.8 mg nutrients of P, and 65.62 mg nutrients of K within a month of immersion time.
Co‐Monomer Type Influence on the Physical and Optical Properties of High Density Polyethylene Synthesized by Chrome Catalyst
Authors: Ruminten Ranis Sinar , Herlambang Bayu Alam
Published: June 2020

High‐density polyethylene (HDPE) with similar density and Melt Index (MI) is synthesized by using a chrome‐based catalyst with different co‐monomers, 1‐hexene (HDPE‐H) and 1‐butene (HDPE‐B). Both samples have a density of 0.955 g cm−3 and MI of 0.1 g per 10 min. The same density and MI have been chosen to minimize the variable that can affect the test result. Different co‐monomers will generate different short‐chain branching (SCB) which will affect the microstructure of polymer, as well as both physical and optical properties. Physical properties are evaluated such as dart drop impact, film impact, tensile strength, and elongation. Optical properties such as gloss and haze are also evaluated. Physical properties tend to have a better result along with the length of SCB. Meanwhile, the optical properties have a better result when the SCB is shorter. The result of the study exhibits that the type of co‐monomer in HDPE affects the quality of the film in terms of physical and optical properties.
Novel Variants in ATM Causing Mild Ataxia‐Telangiectasia: From Benchside to Bedside and Back Again
Authors: Perez Maturo Josefina , Gonzalez Cid Marcela , Zavala Lucia , Rodriguez Quiroga Sergio , Kauffman Marcelo Andres
Published: June 2020

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Postgraduate nursing internationality education: A study in establishing an English nursing course
Authors: Liu Yong‐bing , Gong Wei‐juan , Mao Xin‐e
Published: June 2020

Aim

The study was to explore the significant influence of an English nursing course in nursing postgraduate internationalization education.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Method

The research object included three grades (a total of 18) of nursing postgraduate students in the Nursing School of Yangzhou University. A standardized four‐section questionnaire designed by the authors was applied to the survey.

Results

88.89% were satisfied with the course design and application of the English nursing course, and the scores for all 6 items were above the average, but only 44.4% of the postgraduate students understood the course completely. In teaching design and content aspect, 88.9%–94.4% postgraduate nurses felt that the course learning requirements were clear and could improve their knowledge and capacity for scientific research. All of the postgraduate nurses were identified with the teacher's moral and academic characters.

Conclusions

To establish English nursing courses for nursing postgraduate students is beneficial for postgraduate internationalization education.
Rising expectations: Natural resources graduate student authorship of publications
Authors: Copenheaver Carolyn A.
Published: June 2020

Publication patterns of natural resources graduate students from nine U.S. universities were compared across seven decades in an effort to assist graduate students and faculty members in setting realistic expectations for publication. Graduate students steadily increased their level of publication in peer‐reviewed journals across the study period. In the 1950s, 0% of doctoral students published their research and by the 2000s, 73% of doctoral students published their research. There was also an increasing temporal trend in the number of co‐authors on graduate student publications. In the 1960s, 50% of graduate student publications had two co‐authors and in the 2000s, 28% of graduate‐student publications had two authors; 29% had three authors; 21% had four authors; 13% had five authors; and 10% had six or more authors. Publications authored by doctoral students received significantly more citations (average of 23.2 citations per publication) than those publications authored by master's students (average of 17.1 citations per publication). As expectations for graduate student publication and ability to work on larger research teams rise, it is important that universities and faculty advisors provide resources and training to allow graduate students to successfully reach these new expectations.
A comprehensive review of the polymer‐based hydrogels with electrochemically synthesized silver nanoparticles for wound dressing applications
Authors: Nešović Katarina , Mišković‐Stanković Vesna
Published: June 2020

Modernization and improvement of wound dressing materials is an important topic in biomaterials and biomedicine fields, as the traditional materials are inadequate and susceptible to bacterial infections. In recent times, polymer‐based hydrogel materials have presented themselves as excellent candidates for new‐generation wound dressings with improved properties, such as high sorption ability, good mechanical properties, and low adhesiveness. Additionally, cross linked hydrogel matrices serve as excellent carriers for controlled release of antibacterial agents, such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which are preferred over conventional antibiotics due to multi‐phase mechanism of action and low susceptibility to induce bacterial resistance. Their incorporation inside polymer matrices allows improvement of wound dressing properties and sustained protection against bacterial infection. Electrochemical methods for AgNPs synthesis are facile and green alternatives to chemical routes, allowing the formation of highly stable AgNPs with strong antibacterial effect. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the existing research on the topic of electrochemically synthesized silver nanoparticles incorporated in polymer matrices with a special focus on the chitosan‐based hydrogels as prospective materials for wound dressing applications.
Drought‐induced protein (Di19‐3) plays a role in auxin signaling by interacting with IAA14 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Maitra Majee Susmita , Sharma Eshan , Singh Brinderjit , Khurana Jitendra P.
Published: June 2020

The members of early auxin response gene family, Aux/IAA, encode negative regulators of auxin signaling but play a central role in auxin‐mediated plant development. Here we report the interaction of an Aux/IAA protein, AtIAA14, with Drought‐induced‐19 (Di19‐3) protein and its possible role in auxin signaling. The Atdi19‐3 mutant seedlings develop short hypocotyl, both in light and dark, and are compromised in temperature‐induced hypocotyl elongation. The mutant plants accumulate more IAA and also show altered expression of NIT2, ILL5, and YUCCA genes involved in auxin biosynthesis and homeostasis, along with many auxin responsive genes like AUX1 and MYB77. Atdi19‐3 seedlings show enhanced root growth inhibition when grown in the medium supplemented with auxin. Nevertheless, number of lateral roots is low in Atdi19‐3 seedlings grown on the basal medium. We have shown that AtIAA14 physically interacts with AtDi19‐3 in yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H), bimolecular fluorescence complementation, and in vitro pull‐down assays. However, the auxin‐induced degradation of AtIAA14 in the Atdi19‐3 seedlings was delayed. By expressing pIAA14::mIAA14‐GFP in Atdi19‐3 mutant background, it became apparent that both Di19‐3 and AtIAA14 work in the same pathway and influence lateral root development in Arabidopsis. Gain‐of‐function slr‐1/iaa14 (slr) mutant, like Atdi19‐3, showed tolerance to abiotic stress in seed germination and cotyledon greening assays. The Atdi19‐3 seedlings showed enhanced sensitivity to ethylene in triple response assay and AgNO3, an ethylene inhibitor, caused profuse lateral root formation in the mutant seedlings. These observations suggest that AtDi19‐3 interacting with AtIAA14, in all probability, serves as a positive regulator of auxin signaling and also plays a role in some ethylene‐mediated responses in Arabidopsis.

Significance Statement

This study has demonstrated interaction of auxin responsive Aux/IAA with Drought‐induced 19 (Di19) protein and its possible implication in abiotic stress response.
Transient dynamics of cold‐rolled and subsequently thermally rejuvenated atactic‐polystyrene using broadband dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Grigoriadi Kalouda , Wübbenhorst Michael , van Breemen Lambèrt C. A. , Putzeys Tristan , Gennaro Alessia , Anderson Patrick D. , Hütter Markus
Published: June 2020

The effect of plastic deformation on the molecular dynamics of atactic polystyrene (a‐PS) was studied by broadband dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (BDRS), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and polarized‐light microscopy. Sheets of a‐PS have been subjected to cold rolling, that is, mechanical rejuvenation, followed by a quenching step and fast heating above its glass‐transition temperature, resulting in thermal rejuvenation. Cold rolling revealed, in addition to the known α‐ and γ(I)‐relaxations, four hitherto unknown relaxation processes (II, III, IV and V). Using the framework of craze formation and multiplicity of the glass transition (E. Donth, G. H. Michler, Colloid Polym. Sci. 1989, 267, 557–567), supported by an activation‐enthalpy/entropy analysis (Starkweather, W. Howard, Macromolecules 1981, 14, 1277–1281), the following physical picture emerges: (a) processes I and II represent local conformation transitions γ referring to chains of two different degrees of stretching (T/G‐ratio); and (ii) processes III and IV were identified as helix‐inversion processes of T2G2 helices as reported earlier for syndiotactic‐rich PS—an assignment supported by FTIR results. Finally, the relaxation V could be attributed to the onset of the fibrillar glass transition (within crazes), leading to stress release by collapse of the fibrils and hence dying out of process V. Polarized‐light microscopy confirmed the creation of oriented structures and internal stresses upon cold rolling, and their removal upon thermal rejuvenation.
Decision‐making in cancer care for people living with dementia
Authors: Griffiths Alys Wyn , Ashley Laura , Kelley Rachael , Cowdell Fiona , Collinson Michelle , Mason Ellen , Farrin Amanda , Henry Ann , Inman Hayley , Surr Claire
Published: June 2020

Objective

Increasing numbers of people are expected to live with comorbid cancer and dementia. Cancer treatment decision‐making for these individuals is complex, particularly for those lacking capacity, requiring support across the cancer care pathway. There is little research to inform practice in this area. This ethnographic study reports on the cancer decision‐making experiences of people with cancer and dementia, their families, and healthcare staff.

Methods

Participant observations, informal conversations, semi‐structured interviews, and medical note review, in two NHS trusts. Seventeen people with dementia and cancer, 22 relatives and 19 staff members participated.

Results

Decision‐making raised complex ethical dilemmas and challenges and raised concerns for families and staff around whether correct decisions had been made. Whose decision it was and to what extent a person with dementia and cancer was able to make decisions was complex, requiring careful and ongoing consultation and close involvement of relatives. The potential impact dementia might have on treatment understanding and toleration required additional consideration by clinicians when evaluating treatment options.

Conclusions

Cancer treatment decision‐making for people with dementia is challenging, should be an ongoing process and has emotional impacts for the individual, relatives, and staff. Longer, flexible, and additional appointments may be required to support decision‐making by people with cancer and dementia. Evidence‐based decision‐making guidance on how dementia impacts cancer prognosis, treatment adherence and efficacy is required.
Neuropsychological outcomes following pediatric lung transplantation
Authors: Gold Anna , Young Julia Mary , Solomon Melinda , Grasemann Hartmut
Published: June 2020

Objective

Lung transplantation (LTx) is a treatment option for eligible children with end‐stage pulmonary diseases. Improving our understanding of longer‐term developmental outcomes in pediatric LTx recipients is important for strategized interventions targeting cognitive difficulties.

Methods

Neuropsychological assessments were completed for children who received LTx at our center (2009‐2017). Assessments comprised tasks of general intellect, memory, visual‐perception, academics, and executive functioning as well as caregiver questionnaires of adaptive, executive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Results were compared to age‐matched population norms. Between‐group nonparametric tests were performed pre‐LTx vs post‐LTx and for children with a primary diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF) vs other diagnoses (non‐CF).

Results

Neuropsychological outcomes were assessed for 21 children post‐LTx, with a median age (interquartile range) at the time of transplant of 11.52 (6.89, 14.12) years. Eleven children completed pre‐ and post‐transplant assessments and within this group, improvements for verbal learning (P = .02), aspects of mood, behavior, and adaptive functioning were observed over time (all P < .05). Post‐transplant whole group analysis suggested age‐appropriate abilities across most cognitive domains, with a relative weakness for executive functioning. Emotional or behavioral difficulties were not endorsed by caregivers. Across pulmonary diagnoses, higher levels of emotional, behavioral, and executive functioning difficulty were reported in the non‐CF group (all P < .05).

Conclusions

Overall, LTx has a positive impact on cognitive functioning, particularly learning, adaptive functioning, mood, and behavior. Children transplanted for non‐CF related diseases demonstrated greater challenges, highlighting the need for targeted assessments and interventions across the transplant process to support the complex needs of this population.
Fear‐avoidance beliefs: A predictor for postpartum lumbopelvic pain
Authors: Fernando Mia , Nilsson‐Wikmar Lena , Olsson Christina B.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate potential prognostic factors of self‐reported lumbopelvic pain 6 months postpartum for pregnant women with and without lumbopelvic pain.

Methods

Questionnaires were answered at gestational weeks 34–37 and again at 6 months postpartum. Psychosocial determinants and lumbopelvic pain symptoms were investigated using a visual analogue scale to assess pain intensity, and further using the Disability Rating Index, the Nottingham Health Profile, the Pain Catastrophizing Scale and the Fear‐Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Of the 260 women who answered the questionnaires on both occasions, 186 did not suffer from lumbopelvic pain 6 months after pregnancy. The remaining 74 did. The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that fear‐avoidance beliefs was a significant predictor of lumbopelvic pain 6 months postpartum, with an odds ratio of 1.060 (p ≤ .05).

Conclusion

Women with high fear‐avoidance beliefs at 34–37 weeks of gestation had a higher risk of having lumbopelvic pain at 6 months postpartum. We theorize that early lumbopelvic pain intervention postpartum may be important in avoiding chronicity. Women at risk can be identified through clinically relevant questions which may help the clinician to choose appropriate rehabilitation strategies.
Harnessing synthetic biology to enhance heterologous protein expression
Authors: Zarzhitsky Shlomo , Jiang Alex , E. Stanley Elizabeth , H. Hecht Michael
Published: June 2020

The ability to express heterologous proteins in microbial hosts is crucial for many areas of research and technology. In most cases, however, successful expression and purification of the desired protein require fusion to another protein. To date, all fusion partners have been chosen from natural sequences, which evolved for other purposes, and may not be optimal fusion partners. However, the rise of synthetic biology and protein design make it possible to design and optimize fusion proteins using novel sequences that did not arise in nature. Here, we describe a series of De novo Expression Enhancer Proteins (DEEPs) that facilitate high‐level expression and facile purification of heterologous proteins and peptides. To test the DEEP system, a de novo protein was fused to several target proteins covering a range of sizes and solubilities. In all cases, fusions to DEEP outperformed fusions to SUMO, a commonly used natural fusion partner. The availability of novel proteins that can be engineered for specific fusion applications could be beneficial to enhance the expression of a wide range of heterologous proteins.
A multicenter, phase I, pharmacokinetic study of osimertinib in cancer patients with normal renal function or severe renal impairment
Authors: Vishwanathan Karthick , Sanchez‐Simon Inmaculada , Keam Bhumsuk , Penel Nicolas , de Miguel‐Luken Maria , Weilert Doris , Mills Andrew , Marotti Marcelo , Johnson Martin , Ravaud Alain
Published: June 2020

Osimertinib is a third‐generation, irreversible, oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that potently and selectively inhibits both EGFR‐TKI sensitizing and EGFR T790M and has demonstrated efficacy in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) central nervous system metastases. In this phase I study, we assessed the effects of normal renal function (NRF) and severe renal impairment (SRI) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of osimertinib in patients with solid tumors. Part A: patients with NRF (creatinine clearance [CrCL] ≥90 mL/min), and SRI, (CrCL <30 mL/min), received a single 80‐mg oral dose of osimertinib and standard PK measures were assessed. Part B: patients with SRI were treated for 3 months to obtain safety data, if deemed clinically appropriate. The geometric mean osimertinib plasma concentrations were higher in patients with SRI (n = 7) vs NRF (n = 8) and were highly variable. Osimertinib exposure based on Cmax and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve, was 1.19‐fold (90% CI: 0.6, 2.0) and 1.85‐fold (90% CI: 0.9, 3.6), respectively, higher for patients with SRI vs patients with NRF, with no clear correlation between CrCL and exposure. No new safety signals were identified after 12 weeks of osimertinib 80 mg continuous dosing. PK parameters pooled across this study and other phase I, II, and III osimertinib clinical studies (exploratory population PK analysis), showed minimal correlation between CrCL and total clearance. In conclusion, no dose adjustment is required for osimertinib for patients with SRI.
Insight into the bovine milk peptide LPcin‐YK3 selection in the proteolytic system of Lactobacillus species
Authors: Sung Woo Yong , Yu Ji Won , Hwang Jong Tae , Nam Hee Jin , Park Ji Ye , Kim Yongae , Cho Jang‐Hee
Published: June 2020

Antimicrobial peptides are class of small, positively charged peptides known for their broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity. Antimicrobial activities for most antimicrobial peptides have largely remained elusive, particularly in the lactic acid bacteria. However, recently our investigation using LPcin‐YK3, an antimicrobial peptide from bovine milk, suggests that in vitro antimicrobial activity was reduced over 100‐fold compared with pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, for the structural study of how antimicrobial peptide undergoes its reaction at the proteolytic pathway of lactic acid bacteria based on degradation assay and propidium iodide staining, we performed molecular docking for interaction between oligopeptide‐binding protein A and LPcin‐YK3 peptide. Given that degradation related to the LPcin‐YK3 peptide in lactic acid bacteria proteolytic system, the inhibitory inactivity of LPcin‐YK3 against beneficial lactic acid bacteria strains may be one of the primary pharmacological properties of recombinant peptide discovered in bovine milk. These results provide structural and functional insights into the proteolytic mechanism and possibility as a putative substrate of oligopeptide‐binding protein A in respect of LPcin‐YK3 peptide.
A data‐based private learning framework for enhanced security against replay attacks in cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Zhai Lijing , Vamvoudakis Kyriakos G.
Published: June 2020

This article develops a data‐based and private learning framework of the detection and mitigation against replay attacks for cyber‐physical systems. Optimal watermarking signals are added to assist in the detection of potential replay attacks. In order to improve the confidentiality of the output data, we first add a level of differential privacy. We then use a data‐based technique to learn the best defending strategy in the presence of worst case disturbances, stochastic noise, and replay attacks. A data‐based Neyman‐Pearson detector design is also proposed to identify replay attacks. Finally, simulation results show the efficacy of the proposed approach along with a comparison of our data‐based technique to a model‐based one.
On shared gamma‐frailty conditional Markov model for semicompeting risks data
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Ying , Bakoyannis Giorgos , Gao Sujuan
Published: June 2020

Semicompeting risks data are a mixture of competing risks data and progressive state data. This type of data occurs when a nonterminal event is subject to truncation by a well‐defined terminal event, but not vice versa. The shared gamma‐frailty conditional Markov model (GFCMM) has been used to analyze semicompeting risks data because of its flexibility. There are two versions of this model: the restricted and the unrestricted model. Maximum likelihood estimation methodology has been proposed in the literature. However, we found through numerical experiments that the unrestricted model sometimes yields nonparametrically biased estimation. In this article, we provide a practical guideline for using the GFCMM in the analysis of semicompeting risk data that includes: (a) a score test to assess if the restricted model, which does not exhibit estimation problems, is reasonable under a proportional hazards assumption, and (b) a graphical illustration to justify whether the unrestricted model yields nonparametric estimation with substantial bias for cases where the test provides a statistical significant result against the restricted model. This guideline was applied to the Indianapolis‐Ibadan Dementia Project data as an illustration to explore how dementia occurrence changes mortality
risk.
Wrinkled Flower‐Like Reduced Graphene Oxide for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Lai Liuqin , Su Siyu , Li Rong , Dai Huimin , Zhu Xiaohong
Published: June 2020

The preparation of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by an oxidation‐reduction chemical reaction is very extensive. However, during the oxidation process, the obtained graphene oxide (GO) is usually not uniform in size and contains some incompletely oxidized graphite particles. To obtain uniformly small‐sized GO and remove impurities, we put forward here a simple suction filtration process, that is, when GO passes through the filter, it is preferentially selected. In this way, we provide a facile but effective method for the screening of GO and then obtain wrinkled flower‐like rGO (WF rGO) with excellent electrochemical performance. We also perform a design of experiments to optimize the reduction procedure. It is found that such factors as the reaction time, temperature, reductant and KOH content all affect the microstructure and electrochemical properties of rGO. With the optimized reduction procedure used, the specific capacitance of rGO can reach 231 F/g at the current density of 0.5 A/g. Furthermore, through the suction filtration along with the optimization of reduction, the WF rGO shows a much higher specific capacitance of 272 F/g. On this basis, the energy density of a symmetric rGO//rGO capacitor device arrives at 10.9 Wh/kg at a power density of 0.5 kW/kg and 8.2 Wh/kg at 12.6 kW/kg, and the capacitance keeps 91.5 % after 10,000 cycles. Moreover, the WF rGO//WF rGO device possesses a significantly higher energy density of 12.1 Wh/kg at a power density of 0.5 kW/kg and 9.7 Wh/kg at 24.2 kW/kg, and the capacity perfectly remains 94 % of its initial value after 10,000 cycles.
Chalcone‐Quinoline Conjugates as PotentialT. cruziCruzipain Inhibitors: Docking Studies, Molecular Dynamics and Evaluation of Drug‐Likeness
Authors: Yepes Andrés F. , Quintero‐Saumeth Jorge , Cardona‐G Wilson
Published: June 2020

We reported in a previous work the synthetic route of a novel series of conjugates based on chalcone‐quinoline, some of them were active againstT. cruzi, even more active than the clinical drug benznidazole. Those results motivated us to pursue further computational studies. Thus, molecular docking was used to determine thein‐silicoinhibition effects for the compounds against cruzipain (PDB:3IUT), an important druggable target for antiparasitic diseases. Notably, the docking results showed that the most experimental active compounds within two series,1 a–fand2 a–f, namely (E)‐1‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐3‐(4‐((9‐(quinolin‐8‐yloxy)nonyl)oxy)phenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (1 e) and (E)‐3‐(furan‐2‐yl)‐1‐(4‐((5‐(quinolin‐8‐yloxy)pentyl)oxy)phenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (2 c), also have the highest docking score (−7.3 and −7.4 kcal mol−1, respectively). The good correlation between docking and the experimental data profile lead us to propose inhibition of cruzipain as the potential mechanism of action for the novel conjugates. By combining molecular dynamics with MM/PBSA methods, the stability and rationality of molecular docking studies were validated, and drug‐likeness studies showed suitable pharmacokinetics properties.
Photoelectrochemical Activity of Ag Coated 2D‐TiO2/RGO Heterojunction for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction and Environmental Remediation
Authors: Saquib Mohammad , Kaushik Ravinder , Halder Aditi
Published: June 2020

Intermittent nature of renewable energy led us more to incline over energy conversion and storage. Thus, use of solar radiation towards energy conversion e. g. hydrogen evolution, environmental‐remediation etc. are emerging areas where the materials should be capable of absorbing light energy and transform this absorbed energy into other application. In the present work, the photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic activity of the Ag/TiO2 /RGO catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and methyl orange dye degradation has been reported. Ag/TiO2 /RGO catalyst showed the highest current density for HER which was ca. 2 and 3 times more than Ag NPs and TiO2 nanoflakes, respectively. The interfacial charge transfer between RGO‐TiO2‐Ag hetero‐junction actually improves the charge separation and increases both the photocatalytic activity and hydrogen generation. The composite was also equally capable to degrade environmental pollutant and with the addition of silver, methyl orange dye degradation percentage enhances from 8.9 % (TiO2 nanoflakes) to 81 % (for Ag/TiO2/RGO) with the increment in rate constant from 9.38 X 10−4 (TiO2 nanoflakes) to 1.69×10−2 min−1.
Altering the Electrocatalytic Activity of Plasmonic Cu/Cu2O Nanocomposites towards Water Splitting through Surface Functionalization with Various Amino Acids
Authors: Kumar Pavitra V. , Ingole Pravin P.
Published: June 2020

Present study explores stabilization of copper/cuprous oxide nanomaterials using amino acids as capping agents. The one‐pot and time efficient synthesis method have been employed to synthesize amino acids functionalized copper nanomaterials. The nanomaterials are composed of both copper (0) and copper (I) species and are stable towards environmental oxidation under ambient conditions. Eight different amino acids were used for surface functionalization of the Cu/Cu2O nanocomposites where the type of amino acids are found to play an important role in manipulating the morphology, crystalline nature and the optical properties of the synthesized nanocomposites. Moreover, these materials are tested for electrochemical water splitting process and are found superior to traditional Cu‐based electro‐catalysts reported in literature. The capping with amino acids lead to modification in the electro‐chemical parameters such as charge carrier density, flat band potential, electrochemical surface area, etc. activity dependent on amino acid used. Among these amino acids, Alanine capped nanocomposites gave highest current density of 125±5 mA cm−2 at an over potential of −0.4 V vs. RHE.
The Study on Encapsulation of Copper Nanoparticles in Modified Poly‐Styrene Resin Metrix and its Catalytic Evaluation in Microwave‐Assisted Sonogashira Coupling
Authors: Patel Sunil B. , Vasava Dilip V.
Published: June 2020

We have synthesized Cu@Fun.XAD‐16 resin and typified the catalyst by using SEM, HR‐TEM, XRD, RAMAN, XPS, EDX and FT‐IR. From the analysis, we have found the size of zero ‐valent copper nanoparticles was between 10–20 nm, from the XPS analysis, it was confirmed that the Cu was present in both zero‐valent and oxide form. After ensuring the encapsulation we have applied the catalyst in the sonogashira coupling reaction between terminal alkynes and acyl chloride. We have achieved an excellent yield of ynones up to 98 % in the sonogashira coupling reaction by using conventional microwave under solvent‐free conditions. In post reaction TEM, XPS and XRD were studied to ensure the stability of the synthesized catalyst. From the post‐analysis, we have found that there was no notable change take place in the catalyst. We have developed an energy‐efficient and rapid sustainable protocol for the access of various substituted ynones.
Tandem Michael‐Type Reactions with 3‐Substituted Coumarins: Phosphorylation Protocol
Authors: Petkova‐Yankova Nevena I. , Nikolova Rositca D.
Published: June 2020

A tandem hydrogenation / phosphorylation reactions with 3‐substituted 2‐oxo‐2H‐1‐benzopyranes and diethyl phosphorochloridate is described. The reaction proceeds with high regioselectivity for the O‐phosphorylation product in very good yield. Bromo derivatives of the studied 2‐oxo‐2H‐1‐benzopyranes were applied in phosphorylation reaction under Arbuzov reaction conditions, affording O‐phosphorylation product. One‐pot reactions with electrophiles as ethyl chloroformate and N‐bromosuccinimide are also reported.
Facile Synthesis of a NiCo2O4 Nanoparticles Mesoporous Carbon Composite as Electrode Materials for Supercapacitor
Authors: Nguyen Nghia V. , Tran Thu V. , Luong Son T. , Pham Thao M. , Nguyen Ky V. , Vu Thao D. , Nguyen Hieu S. , To Nguyen V.
Published: June 2020

Combination the materials together is a direct and forceful strategy to improve the electrochemical properties of each raw material. Herein, we present the method of hydrothermal process and treatment/calcination combination that is easy to synthesize a NiCo2O4 nanoparticles‐mesoporous carbon composite (C/NiCo2O4). The result study electrochemical properties of materials revealed that the C/NiCo2O4 composite has excellent electrochemical properties compare with pristine NiCo2O4 or carbon. In particular, maximum specific capacitance of C/NiCo2O4 material at a current density of 1 A.g−1 is 204.28 F.g−1, meanwhile the Cs of carbon and NiCo2O4 are 25.06 F.g−1 and 178.78 F.g−1, respectively. In addition, C/NiCo2O4 material also showed excellent capacitance retention, Cs maintained to 90.35% after 3000 charge‐discharge continuous cycles. The results show that the C/NiCo2O4 is a promising material for application as supercapacitor electrode.
Green and Efficient Iron‐Catalysed Synthesis of Polyfunctionalized Benzofuran‐4(5H)‐one Derivatives via Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling
Authors: Singh Manjit , Yadav Vijay B. , Danish Ansari Mohd , Malviya Manisha , Siddiqui I. R.
Published: June 2020

An efficient and facile protocol for the synthesis of a multi‐functional 6,7‐dihydrobenzofuran‐4(5H)‐ones and their derivatives using iron salt in the presence of air via reactions of readily available dimedone, acetophenone and isocyanide as starting materials. This approach illustrate operational simplicity, offering a modified and expedient methodology for the direct construction of synthetically useful benzofuran derivatives in good to excellent yields. Benzofuran derivatives have many biological importance. This documented strategy, provide a cost effective and environmentally benign alternative to the other existing method.
Methyl Salicylate Functionalized Magnetic Chitosan Immobilized Palladium Nanoparticles: An Efficient Catalyst for the Suzuki and Heck Coupling Reactions in Water
Authors: Hasan Kamrul
Published: June 2020

A heterogeneous catalyst was fabricated by immobilization of chitosan (CS) on magnetic Fe3O4 following the deposition of palladium nanoparticles on its modified surface. The prepared catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The catalyst was investigated for the Suzuki‐Miyaura and Heck‐Mizoroki cross‐coupling reactions and afforded arylated products with high turnover number TON (980) and turnover frequency TOF (980 h−1). The optimized catalytic system was found practical and green as catalyst loading was low (0.10 mol%), water used as solvent and the catalyst was separated with external magnet. A wide variety of aryl halides including electro withdrawing and releasing groups were investigated and found excellent to good yield of Suzuki and Heck cross‐coupled products. Furthermore, the catalyst was recovered and reused up to seven times for Suzuki coupling reactions with 97% efficiency.
Shedding Light on Metal‐Based Nanoparticles in Zebrafish by Computed Tomography with Micrometer Resolution
Authors: Cörek Emre , Rodgers Griffin , Siegrist Stefan , Einfalt Tomaz , Detampel Pascal , Schlepütz Christian M. , Sieber Sandro , Fluder Pascal , Schulz Georg , Unterweger Harald , Alexiou Christoph , Müller Bert , Puchkov Maxim , Huwyler Jörg
Published: June 2020

Metal‐based nanoparticles are clinically used for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. After parenteral administration, they will distribute throughout different organs. Quantification of their distribution within tissues in the 3D space, however, remains a challenge owing to the small particle diameter. In this study, synchrotron radiation‐based hard X‐ray tomography (SRμCT) in absorption and phase contrast modes is evaluated for the localization of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) in soft tissues based on their electron density and X‐ray attenuation. Biodistribution of SPIONs is studied using zebrafish embryos as a vertebrate screening model. This label‐free approach gives rise to an isotropic, 3D, direct space visualization of the entire 2.5 mm‐long animal with a spatial resolution of around 2 µm. High resolution image stacks are available on a dedicated internet page (http://zebrafish.pharma-te.ch). X‐ray tomography is combined with physico‐chemical characterization and cellular uptake studies to confirm the safety and effectiveness of protective SPION coatings. It is demonstrated that SRμCT provides unprecedented insights into the zebrafish embryo anatomy and tissue distribution of label‐free metal oxide nanoparticles.
A New Mechanism of Light‐Induced Bubble Growth to Propel Microbubble Piston Engine
Authors: Yan Xin , Xu Jinliang , Meng Zhijun , Xie Jian , Wang Hao
Published: June 2020

Radiation pressure refers to the momentum transfer of photons during light “particles” impacting a surface. The force is too small to drive microengines. Different from the classical radiation pressure, the indirect radiation pressure (Fm) is introduced, coming from the momentum change of light‐induced bubble expansion. Fm is shown to obey Fm ∼ (I·rb)2, behaving faster growth of indirect radiation pressure versus light intensity I and bubble radius rb. An effective bubble size range is identified for Fm to suppress other forces for bubble in liquid. The top laser irradiation on nanofluid is used in this experiment. A well‐defined bubble pulsating flow, being a new principle of bubble piston engine, is demonstrated. During pulse on (≈ns scale), Fm exceeding other forces generates an extremely large acceleration, which is three to four orders larger than the gravity acceleration, propelling the bubble traveling downward. During pulse off, the bubble is floating upward due to the nonexistence of Fm. In such a way, the piston engine sustains the oscillating ranges of 38–347 µm for bubble diameters and 2.7–457.9 µm for traveling distances of piston. This work is useful to manipulate bubble dynamics in solar energy systems, and can find various applications in optofluidics.