bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Graphene Oxide‐Cadmium Sulfide Nanorods Decorated with Silver Nanoparticles for Efficient Photocatalytic Reduction Carbon Dioxide Under Visible Light
Authors: Zhu Zezhou , Han Ying , Chen Caiping , Ding Zhengxin , Long Jinlin , Hou Yidong
Published: January 2018

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction is an attractive approach for the direct conversion of solar energy into chemical fuels. In this study, we synthesized a composite material that consists of Ag, reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and CdS nanorods as a photocatalyst for CO2 reduction. The morphological, structural, optical, and electrochemical properties of the resultant nanocomposite (Ag‐RGO‐CdS) were investigated by using various physical techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, TEM, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV/Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy). Our results indicate that the Ag‐RGO‐CdS nanocomposites exhibit an enhanced photocatalytic activity for the conversion of CO2 into CO, and the optimum activity is achieved over 1.0 wt %Ag‐3.0 wt %RGO‐CdS. This enhanced performance can be ascribed to the multifunctional promoting effects of RGO and Ag in the composite. On one hand, RGO and Ag can act as electron acceptors, which enhances the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers. On the other hand, the incorporation of RGO and Ag can improve the adsorption and activation of CO2, which results in the enhancement of the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO. Furthermore, a possible mechanism for photocatalytic CO2 reduction over the Ag‐RGO‐CdS nanocomposites was proposed. This study demonstrates a semiconductor‐based hybrid for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction by virtue of the combinational effect of dual cocatalysts.
Electrochemistry of Polyoxometalates: From Fundamental Aspects to Applications
Authors: Ueda Tadaharu
Published: January 2018

Electrochemistry of polyoxometalates is very rich, as many of them can accommodate many electrons without their structure changing. Recently, extensive attention has been paid to the development of new‐generation batteries including fuel cells and redox flow batteries with polyoxometalates as catalysts. On the other hand, the detailed voltammetric behavior of polyoxometalates still remains unclear although a huge number of polyoxometalates have been prepared and characterized. This Review addresses the electrochemical properties of various polyoxometalates from fundamental and practical points of view.
SnS/SnSb@C Nanofibers with Enhanced Cycling Stability via Vulcanization as an Anode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Jian , Shang Chaoqun , Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Junjun , Liu Ying , Gu Shuai , Zhou Liangjun , Cheng Hua , Gu Yingying , Lu Zhouguang
Published: January 2018

Exploring resource‐abundant and high‐performance anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries remains a critical challenge in current research. For example, the practical applications of sodium‐ion batteries are restricted by the severe volume variation of active materials on the anode, which often results in irreversible capacity loss and poor cycling performance. Utilizing the different redox potential of metals is shown to be an effective way to alleviating volume changes. Here, we demonstrate that SnS/SnSb‐nanoparticle‐decorated carbon nanofibers (SnS/SnSb@C) prepared via vulcanization are a promising candidate as the anode material for sodium‐ion batteries. The resultant SnS/SnSb@C composites show an impressive electrochemical performance, featuring a large discharge capacity (1028 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1), rate capability (159 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1), and excellent cycling stability (270 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 after 200 cycles). The different sodiation/desodiation potential of Sn and Sb in the SnS/SnSb@C composite helps to alleviate the volume expansion during cycling, and the defects within carbon nanofibers caused by sulfur doping further promote fast ion and electron transport in sodium‐ion batteries.
K3Li3Gd7(BO3)9: A New Gadolinium‐Rich Orthoborate for Cryogenic Magnetic Cooling
Authors: Xia Mingjun , Shen Shipeng , Lu Jun , Sun Young , Li Rukang
Published: January 2018

Magnetic cooling technology based on magnetocaloric effect (MCE) has attracted great interest in obtaining extremely low temperatures, for example, for space exploration. Here, we grew a new gadolinium‐rich orthoborate K3Li3Gd7(BO3)9 (1) as a promising cryogenic magnetic coolant. It exhibits a complicated three dimensional framework constructed from BO3 groups and gadolinium‐oxygen chains. The Gd−O chain consists of two types of clusters of Gd3O20 and Gd3O19 interconnection by Gd(4)O8 polyhydron. Due to its high gadolinium concentration, a large −ΔSm of 56.6 J kg−1 K−1 for 1 was obtained at 2 K and ΔH=7 T, much larger than that of the commercial benchmark Gd3Ga5O12 (GGG) crystal (38.4 J kg−1 K−1), suggesting it to be an excellent MCE material.
Nickel‐Catalyzed C−S Bond Formation via Decarbonylative Thioetherification of Esters, Amides and Intramolecular Recombination Fragment Coupling of Thioesters
Authors: Lee Shao‐Chi , Liao Hsuan‐Hung , Chatupheeraphat Adisak , Rueping Magnus
Published: January 2018

A nickel catalyzed cross‐coupling protocol for the straightforward C−S bond formation has been developed. Various mercaptans and a wide range of ester and amide substrates bearing various substituents were tolerated in this process which afforded products in good to excellent yields. Furthermore, an intramolecular protocol for the synthesis of thioethers starting from thioesters has been developed. The utility of this protocol has been demonstrated in a new synthetic protocol of benzothiophene.
Features of Auxiliaries That Enable Native Chemical Ligation beyond Glycine and Cleavage via Radical Fragmentation
Authors: Loibl Simon F. , Dallmann Andre , Hennig Kathleen , Juds Carmen , Seitz Oliver
Published: January 2018

Native chemical ligation (NCL) is an invaluable tool in the total chemical synthesis of proteins. Ligation auxiliaries overcome the requirement for cysteine. However, the reported auxiliaries remained limited to glycine‐containing ligation sites and the acidic conditions applied for cleavage of the typically applied N‐benzyl‐type linkages promote side reactions. With the aim to improve upon both ligation and cleavage, we systematically investigated alternative ligation scaffolds that challenge the N‐benzyl dogma. The study revealed that auxiliary‐mediated peptide couplings are fastest when the ligation proceeds via 5‐membered rather than 6‐membered rings. Substituents in α‐position of the amine shall be avoided. We observed, perhaps surprisingly, that additional β‐substituents accelerated the ligation conferred by the β‐mercaptoethyl scaffold. We also describe a potentially general means to remove ligation auxiliaries by treatment with an aqueous solution of triscarboxyethylphosphine (TCEP) and morpholine at pH 8.5. NMR analysis of a 13C‐labeled auxiliary showed that cleavage most likely proceeds through a radical‐triggered oxidative fragmentation. High ligation rates provided by β‐substituted 2‐mercaptoethyl scaffolds, their facile introduction as well as the mildness of the cleavage reaction are attractive features for protein synthesis beyond cysteine and glycine ligation sites.
Syntheses of Amino‐Substituted Iridabenzofurans and Subsequent Selective N‐Functionalisation
Authors: Frogley Benjamin J. , Perera Lakshika C. , Wright L. James
Published: January 2018

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of L. J. Wright at the University of Auckland. The image depicts fused‐ring metallabenzenes undergoing remarkable transformations. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201704677.
Selective Binding and Precipitation of Cesium Ions from Aqueous Solutions: A Size‐Driven Supramolecular Reaction
Authors: Bengiat Ravell , Bogoslavsky Benny , Mandler Daniel , Almog Joseph
Published: January 2018

The nuclear disasters of Chernobyl and Fukushima presented an urgent need for finding solutions to treatment of radioactive wastes. Among the by‐products of nuclear fission is radioactive 137Cs, which evokes an environmental hazard due to its long half‐life (>30 years) and high solubility in water. In this work, a water‐soluble organic ligand, readily obtained from alloxan and 1,3,5‐benzenetriol, has been found to selectively bind and precipitate Cs+ ions from aqueous solutions. The special rigid structure of the ligand, which consists of a “tripodal” carbonyl base above and below an aromatic plane, contributes to the size‐driven selectivity towards the large Cs+ ions and the formation of a giant, insoluble supramolecular complex. In addition to the low costs of the ligand, high yields and effectiveness in precipitating Cs+ ions, the Cs‐complex revealed a high endurance to continuous doses of γ‐radiation, increasing its potential to act as a precipitating agent for 137Cs.
Effects of metalaxyl enantiomers stress on root activity and leaf antioxidant enzyme activities in tobacco seedlings
Authors: Fang Song , Tao Yi , Zhang Yizhi , Kong Fanyu , Wang Yunbai
Published: January 2018

The objective of this experiment was to study the effects of metalaxyl enantiomers on the activity of roots and antioxidative enzymes in tobacco seedlings. Water culture experiment was conducted to analyze the effects of different concentrations of metalaxyl enantiomers (30 and 10 mg L−1) on root activity and leaf superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) content of tobacco seedlings. The results showed that metalaxyl significantly inhibited root activity and significantly improved leaf SOD, POD, and CAT activities and MDA content. A better physiological response in tobacco seedlings was observed at 30 mg L−1 than at 10 mg L−1 metalaxyl. The stereoselectivity for different enantiomers had no obvious effect on root activity and the leaf POD activity, but it affected significantly the SOD and CAT activities and MDA content. The SOD activity was promoted more by R‐enantiomer than by S‐enantiomer at 30 mg L−1 metalaxyl, and the same effect was observed on CAT activity from the beginning to the end of the stress period. The MDA content under the stress by R‐enantiomer was higher than that under the stress by S‐enantiomer at 10 mg L−1 metalaxyl.
Efficiently Cooperative Energy Transfer Up‐Conversion Luminescence in Tb3+ /Yb3+ Co‐Doped Cubic Na5Lu9F32 Single Crystals by Vertical Bridgman Method
Authors: He Shinan , Xia Haiping , Zhang Jianli , Zhu Yongsheng , Chen Baojiu
Published: January 2018

Tb3+/Yb3+ co‐doped Na5Lu9F32 single crystals with ≈1.0 mol% Tb3+ concentrations and various Yb3+ are prepared by Bridgman method. Several visible up‐conversion (UC) luminescence are observed following the excitation of 980 nm laser diode (LD) as well as its pump power dependence on UC emission of the crystals. The quadratic dependence of pump power on UC emission reveals that two‐photon UC processes are mainly responsible for the 486 nm and 543 nm emissions of Tb3+/Yb3+ co‐doped system in Na5Lu9F32 single crystals. It is proposed that cooperative energy transfer (CET) from two excited Yb3+ ions to the ground state of Tb3+ ions is in charge of the ≈486 nm, ≈543 nm and ≈620 nm, which are attributing to 5D4 → 7F6, 5D4 → 7F4 and 5D4 → 7F3, respectively, are obtained in Tb3+/Yb3+ doped Na5Lu9F32 single crystals. Furthermore, a favorable yellowish green light performance can be achieved with certain Yb3+ concentrations and 1.0 mol% Tb3+ co‐doped samples, and its external quantum efficiency approached to 1.25% under 5.5 W cm−2 980 nm excitation which makes further research valuable in developing processable UC materials for electro‐optical devices.
Synthesis, Growth and Optical, Mechanical, Electrical and Surface Properties of an Inorganic New Nonlinear Optical Crystal: Sodium Cadmium Tetra Chloride (SCTC)
Authors: Packiya raj M. , Ravi Kumar S.M. , Sivavishnu D. , Kubendiran T. , Anbarasi A. , Allen Moses S.E.
Published: January 2018

A new inorganic nonlinear optical single crystal of sodium cadmium tetra chloride (SCTC) is successfully grown from aqueous solution by the slow evaporation technique at room temperature. The crystalline nature of the grown crystal is analyzed by powder X‐ray diffraction. The lattice parameters and crystal system is confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Optical transmission study on SCTC crystal shows high transmittance in the entire UV–Vis region. The mechanical strength of the grown crystal is estimated by Vicker's microhardness test. The second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency of the crystal is measured by Kurtz's powder technique infers that the crystal has nonlinear optical (NLO) efficiency 1.75 times that of KDP. The variation of dielectric constant and dielectric loss as a function of log frequency at various temperature reveals that the crystal shows normal dielectric behaviour. The growth process of SCTC crystal is analysed by etching study. The features of surface of grown crystal is analysed by SEM/EDAX spectrum. The third order nonlinear optical property is investigated for the grown crystal by z – scan technique and the results indicates that SCTC crystal should be a promising material for nonlinear optical device applications.
Two Stages Statistical Fault Analysis Method for Midori and Its Evaluation
Authors: NOZAKI YUSUKE , IKEZAKI YOSHIYA , YOSHIKAWA MASAYA
Published: January 2018

The risk of an illegal attack against the sensor devices used by the sensor network has been recently reported. Therefore, it is important that a security countermeasure by using an encryption technique. Then, lightweight block ciphers, which can realize low power, small area, and low latency, have been attracted attention as security countermeasures. Midori is a lightweight block cipher designed for the low power. Regarding the hardware security, the threat of fault analysis for a cryptographic circuit is pointed out. It is important that the tamper resistance verification of lightweight block ciphers against the fault analysis for the security of the future sensor devices. However, the fault analysis for lightweight block ciphers has barely been studied. Therefore, this study proposes a new fault analysis method for Midori. The proposed method performs the statistical analysis for the estimation of the key. Moreover, the proposed method performs two stages statistical fault analysis to analyze the all secret keys of Midori. Simulation results demonstrated the validity of the proposed method and the vulnerability of Midori against the proposed method.
The innate immune system in chronic cardiomyopathy: a European Society of Cardiology (ESC) scientific statement from the Working Group on Myocardial Function of the ESC
Authors: Frantz Stefan , Falcao‐Pires Ines , Balligand Jean‐Luc , Bauersachs Johann , Brutsaert Dirk , Ciccarelli Michele , Dawson Dana , de Windt Leon J. , Giacca Mauro , Hamdani Nazha , Hilfiker‐Kleiner Denise , Hirsch Emilio , Leite‐Moreira Adelino , Mayr Manuel , Thum Thomas , Tocchetti Carlo G. , van der Velden Jolanda , Varricchi Gilda , Heymans Stephane
Published: January 2018

Activation of the immune system in heart failure (HF) has been recognized for over 20 years. Initially, experimental studies demonstrated a maladaptive role of the immune system. However, several phase III trials failed to show beneficial effects in HF with therapies directed against an immune activation. Preclinical studies today describe positive and negative effects of immune activation in HF. These different effects depend on timing and aetiology of HF. Therefore, herein we give a detailed review on immune mechanisms and their importance for the development of HF with a special focus on commonalities and differences between different forms of cardiomyopathies. The role of the immune system in ischaemic, hypertensive, diabetic, toxic, viral, genetic, peripartum, and autoimmune cardiomyopathy is discussed in depth. Overall, initial damage to the heart leads to disease specific activation of the immune system whereas in the chronic phase of HF overlapping mechanisms occur in different aetiologies.
Synthetic High‐Valent M–O–X Oxidants
Authors: Pirovano Paolo , McDonald Aidan R.
Published: January 2018

High‐valent metal–oxygen species (M–O–X species, as opposed to terminal metal‐oxo, M=O, species) have been found to constitute a large family of capable oxidants. Herein, synthetic high‐valent complexes with hydroxide, alkoxide and other anionic O‐atom ligands, as well as O–Lewis acid adducts, are reviewed with a focus on their reactivity. Mn, Fe and Ru complexes are described, as well as recent additions to the field containing late transition metals (Co, Ni, Cu). These species are competent in a range of oxidations, and in particular they are capable of hydrogen atom transfer from strong C–H bonds. We explore how their reaction mechanisms and oxidising potency are modulated by the O‐atom ligand.
Phospholipid Complex of ICA and ICA II Prepared by Wet Media Milling for Improving Bioavailability
Authors: Pan Caiyun , Cao Xiuxiu , Tang Lihua , Zhang Yu , He Haibing , Yin Tian , Piao Hongyu , Tang Xing
Published: January 2018

In order to enhance the lipophilicity and thus oral bioavailability of icariin (ICA) and icariside II (ICA II) of total flavonoids of epimedium (TFE), a total flavonoids of epimedium–phospholipid complex (TFE‐PLC) is prepared by wet media milling. The stabilizers Aerosi and SDS are used to formulate TFE‐PLC nanosuspensions (TFE‐PLC–Ns) to improve the dispersion of TFE–PLC. FTIR and DSC data confirms the formation of TFE‐PLC. The oil solubility of ICA and ICA II in the complex in octanol is improved nearly four times over that in TFE. The logP of ICA in TFE‐PLC is significantly increased with a value from 1.61 to 2.02 at pH 4.5, and ICA II, from 3.24 to 4.77. The mean diameter of the TFE‐PLC‐Ns is reduced from 6.166 to 0.424 μm, and its dissolution is improved over TFE. In the in vivo evaluation, TFE‐PLC‐Ns exhibits a considerable enhancement with larger AUC0–t and shorter Tmax than TFE and TFE‐PLC. The relative bioavailability of ICA in TFE‐PLC and TFE‐PLC‐Ns are 181.75 and 249.05%, respectively, and for ICA II are 401.63 and 684.70%, respectively. Therefore, it suggests that TFE‐PLC‐Ns has possibilities in enhancing oral bioavailability of TFE, which may be due to its improved lipophilicity and wettability.

Practical Applications: The oral bioavailability of ICA and ICA II in TFE are very low due to their poor lipophilicity and cell permeability. Here, TFE‐PLC‐Ns is proposed, which is prepared by wet media milling for improving lipophilic properties and oral bioavailability. In addition, some proofs of TFE‐PLC are investigated in detail, and TFE‐PLC‐Ns significantly increased the oral bioavailability of ICA and ICA II in TFE. Therefore, the authors recommend a potential drug vehicle of TFE‐PLC‐Ns for oral administration of ICA and ICA II, and a novel method of phospholipid complex preparation for industrial manufacture.

In this article, the total flavonoids of epimedium–phospholipid complex (TFE‐PLC) is prepared to enhance the lipophilicity of icariin (ICA) and icariside II (ICA II) in TFE. Aerosi and SDS are used to formulate TFE‐PLC nanosuspensions (TFE‐PLC‐Ns) to improve the dispersion of TFE‐PLC. And finally, TFE‐PLC‐Ns exhibits enhanced oral bioavailability of ICA and ICA II compared with them in TFE and TFE‐PLC.
About the Technological Readiness of the H2 Generation by Hydrolysis of B(−N)−H Compounds
Authors: Demirci Umit B.
Published: January 2018

At the beginning of the new millennium, hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) was presented as a promising on‐board technology to generate H2 for light‐duty vehicles. Years later, other B(−N)−H compounds (e.g., lithium borohydride (LiBH4) and ammonia borane (NH3BH3)) emerged as attractive alternatives whereas NaBH4 was struggling with several issues jeopardizing its implementation. Actually, efforts in the research and development of H2 generation by hydrolysis of B(−N)−H compounds have been intensive since the advent of NaBH4 almost 20 years ago. There may be a question with respect to this: What is the technological readiness of the promising hydrolytic B(−N)−H compounds? This Review aims at providing relevant elements in response to this question. In the first part, the most mature B(−N)−H compounds are discussed at length. In the second part, a survey of all other candidates is proposed. It is concluded that NaBH4 is the best hydrolytic B(−N)−H compound for marketing on a broad scale, but there are still key challenges to address.
Methylated PACs are more potent than their parent compounds: A study of aryl hydrocarbon receptor–mediated activity, degradability, and mixture interactions in the H4IIE-luc assay
Authors: Lam Monika M. , Bülow Rebecca , Engwall Magnus , Giesy John P. , Larsson Maria
Published: January 2018

Twenty-six polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs; including native polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], hydroxylated PAHs, alkylated and oxygenated PAHs, and [alkylated] heterocyclic compounds) were investigated for their aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-mediated potencies in the H4IIE-luc bioassay. Potential degradabilities of PACs were investigated by use of various durations of exposure (24, 48, or 72 h), and various mixtures of PACs including PAHs, alkylated and oxygenated PAHs, and heterocyclic compounds were tested for their joint AhR-mediated potency. Additive behaviors of PACs in mixtures were studied by comparing observed mixture potencies with mixture potencies predicted by use of the concentration addition model. Methylated derivatives were more potent than their parent compounds in the H4IIE-luc assay. A time-dependent decrease in relative potency was observed for all AhR-active compounds, which may be indicative of in vitro biotransformation. Monomethylated compounds seemed to be more rapidly transformed than analogous unsubstituted compounds. In addition, the results showed that the predictive power of the concentration addition model increased with the number of compounds, suggesting additivity in multicomponent mixtures. Due to the greater potency of methylated derivatives and their ubiquitous occurrence, there is a need for further research on the toxicity and mixture behavior of these environmentally and toxicologically relevant compounds. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1409–1419. © 2018 SETAC

Abstract

Mixture interactions of polycyclic aromatic compounds in the H4IIE-luc assay.
Carbon‐Based Sunlight Absorbers in Solar‐Driven Steam Generation Devices
Authors: Dao Van‐Duong , Choi Ho‐Suk
Published: January 2018

Carbon‐based sunlight absorbers in solar‐driven steam generation have recently attracted much attention due to the possibility of huge applications of low‐cost steam for medical sterilization or sanitization, seawater desalination, chemical distillation, and water purification. In this minireview, recent developments in carbon‐based sunlight absorbers in solar‐driven steam generation systems are reviewed, including graphene, graphite, carbon nanotubes, other carbon materials, and carbon‐based composite materials, highlighting important contributions worldwide that promise low‐cost, efficient, robust, reusable, chemically stable, and excellent broadband solar absorption. Furthermore, the crucial challenges associated with employing carbon materials in this field are emphasized.
The retinal ganglion cell layer predicts normal‐appearing white matter tract integrity in multiple sclerosis: A combined diffusion tensor imaging and optical coherence tomography approach
Authors: Alves Carolina , Batista Sónia , d'Almeida Otília C. , Sousa Lívia , Cunha Luís , Bernardes Rui , Castelo‐Branco Miguel
Published: January 2018

We investigated the relationship between retinal layers and normal‐appearing white matter (WM) integrity in the brain of patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), using a combined diffusion tensor imaging and high resolution optical coherence tomography approach. Fifty patients and 62 controls were recruited. The patients were divided into two groups according to presence (n = 18) or absence (n = 32) of optic neuritis. Diffusion tensor data were analyzed with a voxel‐wise whole brain analysis of diffusion metrics in WM with tract‐based spatial statistics. Thickness measurements were obtained for each individual retinal layer. Partial correlation and multivariate regression analyses were performed, assessing the association between individual retinal layers and diffusion metrics across all groups. Region‐based analysis was performed, by focusing on tracts associated with the visual system. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were computed to compare the biomarker potential for the diagnosis of MS, using the thickness of each retinal layer and diffusion metrics. In patients without optic neuritis, both ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner plexiform layer thickness correlated with the diffusion metrics within and outside the visual system. GCL thickness was a significant predictor of diffusion metrics in the whole WM skeleton, unlike other layers. No association was observed for either controls or patients with a history of optic neuritis. ROC analysis showed that the biomarker potential for the diagnosis of MS based on the GCL was high when compared to other layers. We conclude that GCL integrity is a predictor of whole‐brain WM disruption in MS patients without optic neuritis.
Risk factors for stress urinary incontinence after native‐tissue vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Frigerio Matteo , Manodoro Stefano , Palmieri Stefania , Spelzini Federico , Milani Rodolfo
Published: January 2018

Objective

To identify risk factors for postoperative stress urinary incontinence (POSUI) after native‐tissue prolapse repair without a concomitant anti‐incontinence procedure.

Methods

The present single‐center retrospective study included women with genital prolapse who underwent high uterosacral ligament suspension without a concomitant anti‐incontinence procedure during 2008–2013. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for POSUI (identified through clinical interview and International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire–Short Form [ICIQ‐SF] self‐administration) at 6 months.

Results

In total, 87 (20.9%) of 417 women developed POSUI. Preoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urodynamically diagnosed SUI were significantly associated with POSUI; moreover, women with POSUI had a higher preoperative ICIQ‐SF score, a lower opening detrusor pressure, and a lower detrusor pressure at maximum flow than did women without POSUI (P<0.05 for all comparisons). In the multivariate analysis, preoperative SUI (odds ratio 3.11), a detrusor pressure at maximum flow of less than 30 cm H2O (odds ratio 2.93), and urodynamically diagnosed SUI (odds ratio 2.26) were independent risk factors for POSUI.

Conclusion

Preoperative urodynamic parameters, obtained before prolapse repair surgery, were associated with POSUI and could be useful in providing adequate counseling to facilitate decision making on whether to add a concomitant anti‐incontinence procedure.
Dyadic coping and marital adjustment during pregnancy: A cross‐sectional study of Italian couples expecting their first child
Authors: Molgora Sara , Acquati Chiara , Fenaroli Valentina , Saita Emanuela
Published: January 2018

Although the transition to parenthood is currently defined as a normative event, it can be potentially stressful for the couple relationship as it may contribute to psychological distress and reduced marital satisfaction. Using the systemic‐transactional conceptualisation of stress and coping as a theoretical framework, we claimed that the ability of the parents‐to‐be to adjust to their new roles and identity is influenced by dyadic coping strategies. This study examined the effects of dyadic coping on marital adjustment in a sample of 78 primiparous couples. Women and partners completed the Dyadic Adjustment Scale and the Dyadic Coping Questionnaire during late pregnancy. Data were analysed using the Actor‐Partner Interdependence Model. Results revealed that both women and partners' scores on positive dyadic coping behaviours contributed to higher marital adjustment, suggesting that risks for marital dissatisfaction may exist for couples not able to implement adaptive dyadic coping strategies, or for those unsatisfied with the implemented coping behaviours.
The model of children's social adjustment under the gender‐roles absence in single‐parent families
Authors: Chen I‐Jun , Zhang Hailun , Wei Bingsi , Guo Zeyao
Published: January 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the gender‐role types and child‐rearing gender‐role attitude of the single‐parents, as well as their children's gender role traits and family socio‐economic status, on social adjustment. We recruited 458 pairs of single parents and their children aged 8–18 by purposive sampling. The research tools included the Family Socio‐economic Status Questionnaire, Sex Role Scales, Parental Child‐rearing Gender‐role Attitude Scale and Social Adjustment Scale. The results indicated: (a) single mothers' and their daughters' feminine traits were both higher than their masculine traits, and sons' masculine traits were higher than their feminine traits; the majority gender‐role type of single parents and their children was androgyny; significant differences were found between children's gender‐role types depending on different raiser, the proportion of girls' masculine traits raised by single fathers was significantly higher than those who were raised by single mothers; (b) family socio‐economic status and single parents' gender‐role types positively influenced parental child‐rearing gender‐role attitude, which in turn, influenced the children's gender traits, and further affected children's social adjustment.
Modified Kappa‐Carrageenan as a Heterogeneous Green Catalyst for the Synthesis of Nitrogen and Sulfur‐Containing Indenone‐Fused Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Bayat Mohammad , Nasri Shima
Published: January 2018

The three component reaction of aromatic aldehydes and 1,3‐indandione in the presence of 4‐amino‐6‐hydroxy‐2‐mercaptopyrimidine is catalyzed by active kappa‐carrageenan under mild conditions to afford the desired products in clean reaction profiles. The kappa carrageenan sources are bioavailable and are extracted from Chondrus crispus, a red seaweed. The catalyst could be prepared by mixing of kappa‐carrageenan in a mechanical mortar for 5 min in a simple step. Good yields with superior atom economy, green and recyclable catalyst with natural source, and simple work‐up are the main advantages of the method for the synthesis of dihydropyridopyrimidines.
The Effects of Visual Arts Pedagogies on Children's Intrinsic Motivation, Creativity, Artistic Skill, and Realistic Drawing Ability
Authors: Chad‐Friedman Emma , Lee Yoona , Liu Xiaodong , Watson Malcolm W.
Published: January 2018

This exploratory study compared the effects of two different teaching methods (teacher‐directed vs. choice‐based) on the overall art skills, realistic drawing ability, intrinsic motivation to pursue art, and creativity in art productions in children attending the two art programs. The sample consisted of 83 third graders who completed two art exercises and an intrinsic motivation questionnaire. Using the Consensual Assessment Technique, 20 undergraduate art majors rated each drawing on creativity, overall artistic skill, and realistic drawing ability; these scores showed high‐internal consistency and served as measures for art skills and creativity. Children from the teacher‐directed program scored significantly higher on art skill (M = 3.09) than the children from the choice‐based program (M = 2.53,p = .025). Children from the teacher‐directed program also performed better on realistic drawing (M = 3.7,p = .038) than the children from the choice‐based program (M = 2.99). Art teaching method did not predict intrinsic motivation or creativity. Further analyses showed significant correlations between intrinsic motivation scores and overall art skill (r = .376,p = .002) and realistic drawing skill (r = .335,p = .007). Participating in the teacher‐directed program is associated with higher levels of artistic skill and realistic drawing ability, which are correlated with increased intrinsic motivation.
Selective extraction of bisphenol A from water by one‐monomer molecularly imprinted magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Zhenkun , Zhang Yanfang , Su Yu , Qi Jinxia , Jia Yinhang , Huang Changjiang , Dong Qiaoxiang
Published: January 2018

One‐monomer molecularly imprinted magnetic nanoparticles were prepared as adsorbents for selective extraction of bisphenol A from water in this study. A single bi‐functional monomer was adopted for preparation of the molecularly imprinted polymer, avoiding the tedious trial‐and‐error optimizations as traditional strategy. Moreover, bisphenol F was used as the dummy template for bisphenol A to avoid the interference from residual template molecules. These nanoparticles showed not only large adsorption capacity and good selectivity to the bisphenol A but also outstanding magnetic response performance. Furthermore, they were successfully used as magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbents of bisphenol A from various water samples, including tap water, river water, and seawater. The developed method was found to be much more efficient, convenient, and economical for selective extraction of bisphenol A compared with the traditional solid‐phase extraction. Separation of these nanoparticles can be easily achieved with an external magnetic field, and the optimized adsorption time was only 15 min. The recoveries of bisphenol A in different water samples ranged from 85.38 to 93.75%, with relative standard deviation lower than 7.47%. These results showed that one‐monomer molecularly imprinted magnetic nanoparticles had the potential to be popular adsorbents for selective extraction of pollutants from water.
The changing copyright landscape in academic publishing
Authors: Dodds Francis
Published: January 2018

Key points

This article marks the publication of the Tenth edition Clark's Publishing Agreements: A book of precedents.

The growing complexity of traditional assignment agreements is accompanied by researchers’ misunderstanding about their rights.

There is a shifting balance between assignment and licensing of rights in an author's work.

Academics continue to agree standard assignment contracts even where they disagree with the principles.

Publishers are loosening control over copyright in response to demands from funders and a growing minority of researchers.

There is a complex range of researchers’ attitudes to copyright issues.
Solid lubrication in fluid film lubrication
Authors: de Oliveira M.M. , Hammes G. , Binder C. , Klein A.N. , de Mello J.D.B.
Published: January 2018

This work aims to study the effect of solid lubrication combined with a liquid lubricant in a cooperative lubrication regime. The solid lubricant consists of sintered composites, which contain solid lubricant dispersed in a metallic matrix. The durability of the lubricious regime (μ < 0.2) was studied. The combined action significantly increased the durability of the lubricious regime (3 orders of magnitude). Additionally, the use of 3D triboscopy made it possible, using an original approach, to verify a significant increase in the friction coefficient at the dead centres of the strokes. This difference between the friction coefficients was discussed in terms of the debris accumulation and the change in the lubrication regime. A preponderant role was assigned to the accumulation of debris.
Incorporation of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Nanocapsules
Authors: Ronco Ludmila I. , Feuser Paulo E. , da Cas Viegas Alexandre , Minari Roque J. , Gugliotta Luis M. , Sayer Claudia , Araújo Pedro H. H.
Published: January 2018

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) encapsulated in polymeric systems are promising materials for hyperthermia treatments and targeting drug delivery in cancer therapy. To improve the encapsulation efficiency of therapeutic drugs, high amounts of fatty acids can be incorporated into the polymer matrix. The effect of the monounsaturated fatty acid oleic acid (OA)/Crodamol (triacylglycerol of saturated fatty acids) ratio in the incorporation of MNPs in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocapsules by miniemulsion polymerization is investigated. The OA/Crodamol ratio affects polymerization kinetics, polymer microstructure, and nanocapsules morphology. Furthermore, MNPs are efficiently encapsulated in PMMA nanocapsules with high Crodamol content while preserving their super‐paramagnetic behavior with considerable magnetization saturation values.
B2O3/SiO2/Phenolic Resin Hybrid Materials Produced by Simultaneous Twin Polymerization of Spiromonomers
Authors: Weißhuhn Julia , Seifert Andreas , Dzhagan Volodymyr , Palaniyappan Saravanan , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Wagner Guntram , Spange Stefan
Published: January 2018

A synthetic procedure for boron oxide/silica/carbon polymer hybrid materials is presented, which does not need water as a reagent. For this purpose, the combined polymerization of the two twin monomers 2,2′‐spirobi[4H‐1,3,2‐benzodioxasiline] 1 and spiroboronate tetra‐n‐butylammonium bis(ortho‐hydroxymethylphenolato)borate 2 is successful to produce homogeneous hybrid materials by thermal treatment in the melt at 180 °C. The achieved hybrid material shows a ternary composition. It consists of silica, polyborate‐tetra(n‐butyl)ammonium, and phenolic resin. The tetra(n‐butyl)ammonium cation within the hybrid material, originating from monomer 2, can be easily sacrificed by Hofmann degradation at 300 °C. Thereby, it serves as the proton source for the BOH moiety. This thermal treatment finally results in the formation of the boron oxide network. The reaction between both inorganic networks under the formation of SiOB bonds occurs at 450 °C in air atmosphere, which is proven with infrared spectroscopy. Oxidation and carbonization of the hybrid materials provide composite materials with a similar composition of C/B2O3/SiO2. Their use as effective flame retardant materials is demonstrated.
Aqueous Solution‐Processable, Flexible Thin‐Film Transistors Based on Crosslinked Chitosan Dielectric Thin Films
Authors: Singh Ranjodh , Lin Yen‐Ting , Ko Fu‐Hsiang
Published: January 2018

The hydrophilic character of chitosan (CS) limits its use as a gate dielectric material in thin‐film transistors (TFTs) based on aqueous solution‐processable semiconductor materials. In this study, this drawback is overcome through controlled crosslinking of CS and report, for the first time, its application to aqueous solution‐processable TFTs. In comparison to natural CS thin films, crosslinked chitosan (Cr‐CS) thin films are hydrophobic. The dielectric properties of Cr‐CS thin films are explored through fabrication of metal–insulator–metal devices on a flexible substrate. Compared to natural CS, the Cr‐CS dielectric thin films show enhanced environmental and water stabilities, with a high breakdown voltage (10 V) and low leakage current (0.02 nA). The compatibility of Cr‐CS dielectric thin films with aqueous solution‐processable semiconductors is demonstrated by growing ZnO nanorods via a hydrothermal method to fabricate flexible TFT devices. The ZnO nanorod‐based TFTs show a high field‐effect mobility (linear regime) of 10.48 cm2 V−1 s−1. Low temperature processing conditions (below 100 °C) and water as the solvent are utilized to ensure the process is environmental friendly to address the e‐waste problem.
Hydroperoxide Traces in Common Cyclic Ethers as Initiators for Controlled RAFT Polymerizations
Authors: Eggers Steffen , Abetz Volker
Published: January 2018

Herein, a reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is introduced for reactive monomers like N‐acryloylpyrrolidine or N,N‐dimethylacrylamide working without a conventional radical initiator. As a very straightforward proof of principle, the method takes advantage of the usually inconvenient radical‐generating hydroperoxide contaminations in cyclic ethers like tetrahydrofuran or 1,4‐dioxane, which are very common solvents in polymer sciences. The polymerizations are surprisingly well controlled and the polymers can be extended with a second block, indicating their high livingness. “Solvent‐initiated” RAFT polymerizations hence prove to be a feasible access to tailored materials with minimal experimental effort and standard laboratory equipment, only requiring the following ingredients: hydroperoxide‐contaminated solvent, monomer, and RAFT agent. In other respects, however, the potential coinitiating ability of the used solvent is to be considered when investigating the kinetics of RAFT polymerizations or aiming for the synthesis of high‐livingness polymers, e.g., multiblock copolymers.
P‐Type Low‐Molecular‐Weight Hydrogelators
Authors: Draper Emily R. , Dietrich Bart , Brasnett Christopher , Sproules Stephen , McDonald Tom O. , Seddon Annela M. , Adams Dave J.
Published: January 2018

As the use of low‐molecular‐weight gelators (LMWGs) as components in single and multicomponent systems for optoelectronic and solar cell applications increases, so does the need for more functional gelators. There are relatively few examples of p‐type gelators that can be used in such systems. Here, the synthesis and characterization of three amino‐acid‐functionalized p‐type gelators based on terthiophene, tetrathiafulvalene, and oligo(phenylenevinylene) are described. The cores of these molecules are already used as electron donors in optoelectronic applications. These newly designed molecules can gel water to form highly organized structures, which can be dried into thin films that show p‐type behavior.
A Continuum Model of Mucosa with Glycan‐Ion Pairing
Authors: Sterling James D. , Baker Shenda M.
Published: January 2018

Advances in the study of glycosoaminoglycan biohydrogels, label‐free electrokinetic analysis of soft‐diffuse layers in contact with saline solutions, and elucidation of ion‐specific behavior in many biochemical systems offer the opportunity to marry these principal features in a new mathematical model of the mucosal glycocalyx. The model is based on the electroquasistatic subset of Maxwell's equations in the form of the steady‐state continuum Poisson–Boltzmann equation for electrostatics with explicit incorporation of pairwise binding of ions to fixed charged‐groups in the hydrogel. The pairwise association is modeled using reversible bimolecular reactions via stoichiometric dissociation constants that represent the rule of matching water affinities—the observation that similar hydration structures of the pair results in less dissociation. Applications of the model to specific gels and salts, including a heparin star polyethylene glycol (starPEG) biohydrogel and the airway surface liquid layer in cystic fibrosis, are presented to postulate some quantitative consequences of glycocalyx ion partitioning.
Lactic Acid Bacteria May Impact Intestinal Barrier Function by Modulating Goblet Cells
Authors: Ren Chengcheng , Dokter‐Fokkens Jelleke , Figueroa Lozano Susana , Zhang Qiuxiang , de Haan Bart J. , Zhang Hao , Faas Marijke M. , de Vos Paul
Published: January 2018

Scope

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are recognized to promote gastrointestinal health by mechanisms that are not fully understood. LABs might modulate the mucus and thereby enhance intestinal barrier function. Herein, we investigate effects of different LAB strains and species on goblet cell genes involved in mucus synthesis.

Methods and results

Gene expression profiles of goblet‐cell‐associated products (mucin MUC2, trefoil factor 3, resistin‐like molecule β, carbohydrate sulfotransferase 5, and galactose‐3‐O‐sulfotransferase 2) induced by LAB or their derived conditioned medium in human goblet cell line LS174T are studied. Effects of LAB on gene transcription are assessed with or without exposure to TNF‐α, IL‐13, or the mucus damaging agent tunicamycin. LAB do impact the related genes in a species‐ and strain‐specific fashion and their effects are different in the presence of the cytokines and tunicamycin. Bioactive factors secreted by some strains are also found to regulate goblet cell‐related genes.

Conclusion

Our findings provide novel insights in differences in modulatory efficacy on mucus genes between LAB species and strains. This study further unravels direct interactions between LAB and intestinal goblet cells, and highlights the importance of rationally selecting appropriate LAB candidates to achieve specific benefits in the gut.
Highly Dispersible and Bioavailable Curcumin but not Native Curcumin Induces Brown‐Like Adipocyte Formation in Mice
Authors: Nishikawa Sho , Kamiya Misa , Aoyama Hiroki , Nomura Mami , Hyodo Takuma , Ozeki Aoi , Lee Hyunjin , Takahashi Tsukasa , Imaizumi Atsushi , Tsuda Takanori
Published: January 2018

Scope

The induction of brown‐like adipocytes in white adipose tissue (WAT) is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders via the ability of these cells to release excess energy as heat in association with uncoupling protein 1. Some experimental trials suggest that curcumin (a yellow pigment from turmeric) has a suppressive effect on the accumulation of body fat. However, there is little evidence to show that curcumin induces the formation of brown‐like adipocytes and the molecular mechanisms involved remain elusive. In addition, in most experimental trials, high doses of curcumin are administered.

Methods and results

Highly dispersible and bioavailable curcumin (HC, i.e., 4.5 mg native curcumin kg–1) but not the same dose of native curcumin induces the formation of brown‐like adipocytes in mouse inguinal WAT. Moreover, the formation of brown‐like adipocytes induced by HC in inguinal WAT may be mediated by the production of local norepinephrine from accumulated alternatively activated macrophages.

Conclusion

These novel findings suggest that curcumin increases energy expenditure by inducing the formation of brown‐like adipocytes via a unique molecular mechanism. Importantly, they show that HC has significant bioactive effects in vivo at lower doses of curcumin.
Noninvasive reconstruction of placental methylome from maternal plasma DNA: Potential for prenatal testing and monitoring
Authors: Sun Kun , Lun Fiona M.F. , Leung Tak Y. , Chiu Rossa W.K. , Lo Y.M. Dennis , Sun Hao
Published: January 2018

Objective

During human pregnancy, the DNA methylation of placental tissue is highly relevant to the normal growth and development of the fetus; therefore, methylomic analysis of the placental tissue possesses high research and clinical value in prenatal testing and monitoring. Thus, our aim is to develop an approach for reconstruction of the placental methylome, which should be completely noninvasive and achieve high accuracy and resolution.

Results

We propose a novel size‐based algorithm, FEtal MEthylome Reconstructor (FEMER), to noninvasively reconstruct the placental methylome by genomewide bisulfite sequencing and size‐based analysis of maternal plasma DNA. By applying FEMER on a real clinical dataset, we demonstrate that FEMER achieves both high accuracy and resolution, thus provides a high‐quality view of the placental methylome from maternal plasma DNA. FEtal MEthylome Reconstructor could also predict the DNA methylation profile of CpG islands with high accuracy, thus shows potential in monitoring of key genes involved in placental/fetal development. Source code and testing datasets for FEMER are available at http://sunlab.cpy.cuhk.edu.hk/FEMER/.

Conclusion

FEtal MEthylome Reconstructor could enhance the noninvasive fetal/placental methylomic analysis and facilitate its application in prenatal testing and monitoring.