bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyaluronan‐Based Nanohydrogels for Targeting Intracellular S. Aureus in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Montanari Elita , Oates Angela , Di Meo Chiara , Meade Josephine , Cerrone Rugiada , Francioso Antonio , Devine Deirdre , Coviello Tommasina , Mancini Patrizia , Mosca Luciana , Matricardi Pietro
Published: April 2018

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most significant human pathogens that is frequently isolated in a wide range of superficial and systemic infections. The ability of S. aureus to invade and survive within host cells such as keratinocytes and host immune cells has been increasingly recognized as a potential factor in persistent infections and treatment failures. The incorporation of antibiotics into hyaluronan‐cholesterol nanohydrogels represents a novel paradigm in the delivery of therapeutic agents against intracellular bacteria. The work presented herein shows that NHs quickly enter human keratinocytes and accumulate into lysosomes. When used for targeting intracellular S. aureus the antimicrobial activity of loaded levofloxacin is enhanced, possibly changing the antibiotic intracellular fate from cytosol to lysosome. Indeed, gentamicin, an antibiotic that predominantly accumulates in lysosomes, shows significant and equal antibacterial activity when entrapped into NHs. These results strongly suggest that lysosomal formulations may display preferential activity toward intracellular S. aureus, opening new avenues for the use of HA‐based NHs for treatment of such skin infections.
Metal‐Halide Perovskites for Gate Dielectrics in Field‐Effect Transistors and Photodetectors Enabled by PMMA Lift‐Off Process
Authors: Daus Alwin , Roldán‐Carmona Cristina , Domanski Konrad , Knobelspies Stefan , Cantarella Giuseppe , Vogt Christian , Grätzel Michael , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Tröster Gerhard
Published: April 2018

Metal‐halide perovskites have emerged as promising materials for optoelectronics applications, such as photovoltaics, light‐emitting diodes, and photodetectors due to their excellent photoconversion efficiencies. However, their instability in aqueous solutions and most organic solvents has complicated their micropatterning procedures, which are needed for dense device integration, for example, in displays or cameras. In this work, a lift‐off process based on poly(methyl methacrylate) and deep ultraviolet lithography on flexible plastic foils is presented. This technique comprises simultaneous patterning of the metal‐halide perovskite with a top electrode, which results in microscale vertical device architectures with high spatial resolution and alignment properties. Hence, thin‐film transistors (TFTs) with methyl‐ammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) gate dielectrics are demonstrated for the first time. The giant dielectric constant of MAPbI3 (>1000) leads to excellent low‐voltage TFT switching capabilities with subthreshold swings ≈80 mV decade−1 over ≈5 orders of drain current magnitude. Furthermore, vertically stacked low‐power Au‐MAPbI3‐Au photodetectors with close‐to‐ideal linear response (R2 = 0.9997) are created. The mechanical stability down to a tensile radius of 6 mm is demonstrated for the TFTs and photodetectors, simultaneously realized on the same flexible plastic substrate. These results open the way for flexible low‐power integrated (opto‐)electronic systems based on metal‐halide perovskites.
Superior Energy Storage Performances of Polymer Nanocomposites via Modification of Filler/Polymer Interfaces
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Bao‐Wen , Dong Lijie , Liu Hanxin , Chen Wen , Shen Yang , Nan Ce‐Wen
Published: April 2018

Dielectric polymer nanocomposites by integration of high‐E
b polymer matrix and high‐D(εr) ceramic fillers have shown great potential for dielectric and energy storage applications in modern electronic and electrical systems. Interface between ceramic fillers and polymer matrix is considered as a predominant factor to determine the dielectric performances of the nanocomposites. This review analyzes the influence of the interface on dielectric responses and breakdown strength in the nanocomposites, and discusses the viability of current interface engineering strategies in improving their energy storage capabilities. Two scopes of current interface modification approaches are focused from both structural and functional considerations in the dielectric ceramics/polymer nanocomposites: first, the organic/inorganic interface compatibility can be modified to generate homogeneous dispersion of ceramic nanoparticles in polymer matrix, which is the premise of fully realizing the synergistic combination of advantages of polymer and ceramic fillers; second, regulated local electrical and dielectric behaviors in interface region enable the enhancement of dielectric properties (both high dielectric constant and high breakdown strength) in resultant nanocomposites. In the last part, some present challenges and future perspectives are proposed to utilize the interface strategy for developing high energy density ceramics/polymer nanocomposites for dielectric and energy storage applications.
Enhanced Oxygen Ion Conductivity in Composite Film Electrolytes with Aligned Nanowires
Authors: Zhang Mengfei , Li Tianjun , Li Zheng , Xing Yan , Zhao Xiaohui , Shahid Muhammad , Yuan Yajie , Nishijima Hiroki , Pan Wei
Published: April 2018

Recently, tuning oxygen ionic transport in film through tensile stress has generated much interest. Herein, composite samarium neodymium codoped ceria (SNDC) thin film electrolytes are fabricated with aligned yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) nanowires to increase the oxygen conductivity by introducing tensile strain. The morphologies and oxygen‐ion conductivities are studied according to the diameter of YSZ nanowires in the composite electrolytes. The composite SNDC film electrolytes with YSZ nanowires exhibit great long‐term chemical stability with excellent conductivity at intermediate temperature, which is more than twice times higher than that of SNDC film. By using Raman spectrum and sin2 ψ‐methodology, it is found that this conductivity enhancement originates from the bending surface of the film on the nanowires that can produce tensile strain paralleled to the film surface.
High‐Loading Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Nanocomposite Fabric Coatings Obtained by Capillarity‐Assisted “Excess Assembly” for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Lan Chuntao , Li Chenglong , Hu Jiyong , Yang Shuguang , Qiu Yiping , Ma Ying
Published: April 2018

This work presents the fabrication of high‐loading carbon nanotube (CNT)/polymer nanocomposite coatings via capillarity‐assisted assembly on fabrics for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. The nanocomposite coatings formed by step‐by‐step assembly on fabrics possess a CNT loading as high as 70.9 wt%. The assistance of the capillary force in the textile increases the mass of CNTs deposited on the fabric by two orders of magnitude compared to that deposited through common electrostatic assembly. The coated fabrics thus exhibit a good EMI shielding effectiveness of 11.9 dB, indicating their capability to resist 92.7% of electromagnetic irradiation. Moreover, the nanocomposite coatings are only micrometers thick, so the coated fabrics are soft, flexible, and air permeable. In this work, a simple, scalable, and versatile method is developed to fabricate effective EMI shielding coatings on fabrics. Capillarity‐assisted assembly, which is highly controllable, represents an attractive strategy to construct high‐efficiency EMI shielding coatings through composition optimization of coatings.
Mechanisms for Enhancing Polarization Orientation and Piezoelectric Parameters of PVDF Nanofibers
Authors: Yousry Yasmin Mohamed , Yao Kui , Chen Shuting , Liew Weng Heng , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: April 2018

Many emerging applications strongly demand flexible and efficient electromechanical conversion materials. Polymeric piezoelectric materials, with ability of large area and low temperature processing, are attractive to obtain wide applications for electromechanical sensors, transducers, and mechanical energy harvesters. A major drawback of the polymeric piezoelectric materials is their much lower piezoelectric performance property, such as piezoelectric strain coefficient, than their ceramic counterparts. Here, outstanding piezoelectric performance properties with giant effective strain and voltage coefficients of −116 pm V−1 and −1180 V mm N−1 are achieved in electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber films from the precursor solution modified with hydrated salt. The experimental results and theoretical analysis clarify a synergistic interactive role from the hydrated salt and the electric field during electrospinning, effectively leading to polarization enhancement and alignment, and hence the giant macroscopic piezoelectric coefficients in the obtained electrospun fiber films. The demonstrated results and the understanding on the underlying mechanism exhibit the potential and strategy in achieving high‐performance functional materials through dedicated control on their nanostructures and polarizations.
Toward MRI‐based whole‐brain health assessment: The brain atrophy and lesion index (BALI)
Authors: Grajauskas Lukas A. , Guo Hui , D'Arcy Ryan C.N. , Song Xiaowei
Published: April 2018

There have been many attempts to assess the elements of age‐ and dementia‐ related neurodegenerative changes in the brain using MRI; however, traditionally assessments focus only on single deficit. Over the past few years, our group has worked to create and validate the Brain Atrophy and Lesion Index (BALI) as an MRI‐based whole‐brain structural degeneration rating scale. The BALI can be used for applications in aging and dementia across the entire brain and can be applied to common clinical MR images. As a whole‐brain structural health assessment, the BALI gives a more representative picture of how the brain ages. During the aging process, multiple elements of degeneration accumulate and interact to overwhelm repair processes and cause high‐level failure in the function of the brain. To reflect this process, the BALI combines the assessment of several neurodegeneration changes into one scale. The BALI evaluation can be performed quickly and has been validated for use by non‐neuroradiology expert raters trained with the method. This review gives a brief overview of the content of the BALI; covers the development, refinement, and application of the method; and provides insights about future development and clinical implementation of MRI‐based whole‐brain health assessment in aging and dementia.
Mentoring Program Enhancements Supporting Effective Mentoring of Children of Incarcerated Parents
Authors: Stump Kathryn N. , Kupersmidt Janis B. , Stelter Rebecca L. , Rhodes Jean E.
Published: April 2018

Children of incarcerated parents (COIP) are at risk for a range of negative outcomes; however, participating in a mentoring relationship can be a promising intervention for these youth. This study examined the impact of mentoring and mentoring program enhancements on COIP. Secondary data analyses were conducted on an archival database consisting of 70,729 matches from 216 Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) local agencies to establish the differential effects of mentoring on COIP. A subset of 45 BBBS agencies, representing 25,252 matches, participated in a telephone interview about program enhancements for better serving COIP. Results revealed that enhanced program practices, including having specific program goals, providing specialized mentor training, and receiving additional funding resulted in better outcomes for COIP matches. Specifically, specialized mentor training and receiving additional funding for serving matches containing COIP were associated with longer and stronger matches. Having specific goals for serving COIP was associated with higher educational expectations in COIP. Results are discussed in terms of benefits of a relationship‐based intervention for addressing the needs of COIP and suggestions for program improvements when mentoring programs are serving this unique population of youth.
Neurodevelopmental outcome in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and management
Authors: Swillen Ann , Moss Edward , Duijff Sasja
Published: April 2018

The 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2 DS) places affected individuals at an increased risk for neurodevelopmental/cognitive, behavioral and social–emotional difficulties. Poor cognitive functioning and intellectual disabilities, attention and executive functioning deficits, learning disorders, emotional dysregulation and impairments in social processing are common among individuals with 22q11.2 DS. Identifying risk and protective/resilience factors that can be detected in early life and can predict neurodevelopmental outcomes for people with 22q11.2 DS is of significant clinical relevance and might allow for early detection and intervention. Given the focus of this review, we will discuss the possible contributing factors that influence the neurodevelopmental outcome in 22q1.2 DS, the cognitive phenotype in 22q11.2 DS, the different developmental trajectories across life span, and the implications for clinical practice and management.
X‐linked intellectual disability update 2017
Authors: Neri Giovanni , Schwartz Charles E. , Lubs Herbert A. , Stevenson Roger E.
Published: April 2018

The X‐chromosome comprises only about 5% of the human genome but accounts for about 15% of the genes currently known to be associated with intellectual disability. The early progress in identifying the X‐linked intellectual disability (XLID)‐associated genes through linkage analysis and candidate gene sequencing has been accelerated with the use of high‐throughput technologies. In the 10 years since the last update, the number of genes associated with XLID has increased by 96% from 72 to 141 and duplications of all 141 XLID genes have been described, primarily through the application of high‐resolution microarrays and next generation sequencing. The progress in identifying genetic and genomic alterations associated with XLID has not been matched with insights that improve the clinician's ability to form differential diagnoses, that bring into view the possibility of curative therapies for patients, or that inform scientists of the impact of the genetic alterations on cell organization and function.
Mutations in SZT2 result in early‐onset epileptic encephalopathy and leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Pizzino Amy , Whitehead Matthew , Sabet Rasekh Parisa , Murphy Jennifer , Helman Guy , Bloom Miriam , Evans Sarah H. , Murnick John G. , Conry Joan , Taft Ryan J. , Simons Cas , Vanderver Adeline , Adang Laura A.
Published: April 2018

Early‐onset epileptic encephalopathies (EOEEs) are a genetically heterogeneous collection of severe epilepsies often associated with psychomotor regression. Mutations in SZT2, a known seizure threshold regulator gene, are a newly identified cause of EOEE. We present an individual with EOEE, macrocephaly, and developmental regression with compound heterozygous mutations in SZT2 as identified by whole exome sequencing. Serial imaging characterized the novel finding of progressive loss of central myelination. This case expands our clinical understanding of the SZT2‐phenotype and emphasizes the role of this gene in the diagnostic investigation for EOEE and leukoencephalopathies.
Fickle Reactivity of Allenes in Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed C−H Functionalizations
Authors: Santhoshkumar Rajagopal , Cheng Chien‐Hong
Published: April 2018

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalizations with allenes lead to unique selectivity challenges due to the presence of two adjacent carbon–carbon double bonds, which enables a series of atom‐ and step‐economical alkenylation, allenylation, allylation, dienylation, and annulation reactions of different substrates. This Focus Review highlights the recent remarkable advancements made in transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization with allenes.
The profile of Japanese Association for Acute Medicine – out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest registry in 2014–2015
Authors: Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iwami Taku , Atsumi Takahiro , Endo Tomoyuki , Kanna Tomoo , Kuroda Yasuhiro , Sakurai Atsushi , Tasaki Osamu , Tahara Yoshio , Tsuruta Ryosuke , Tomio Jun , Nakata Kazuyuki , Nachi Sho , Hase Mamoru , Hayakawa Mineji , Hiruma Takahiro , Hiasa Kenichi , Muguruma Takashi , Yano Takao , Shimazu Takeshi , Morimura Naoto ,   The special committee that aims to improve survival after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) by providing evidence‐based therapeutic strategy and emergency medical system from the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM)
Published: April 2018

Aim

To describe the registry design of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine – out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (JAAM‐OHCA) Registry as well as its profile on hospital information, patient and emergency medical service characteristics, and in‐hospital procedures and outcomes among patients with OHCA who were transported to the participating institutions.

Methods

The special committee aiming to improve the survival after OHCA by providing evidence‐based therapeutic strategies and emergency medical systems from the JAAM has launched a multicenter, prospective registry that enrolled OHCA patients who were transported to critical care medical centers or hospitals with an emergency care department. The primary outcome was a favorable neurological status 1 month after OHCA.

Results

Between June 2014 and December 2015, a total of 12,024 eligible patients with OHCA were registered in 73 participating institutions. The mean age of the patients was 69.2 years, and 61.0% of them were male. The first documented shockable rhythm on arrival of emergency medical services was 9.0%. After hospital arrival, 9.4% underwent defibrillation, 68.9% tracheal intubation, 3.7% extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 3.0% intra‐aortic balloon pumping, 6.4% coronary angiography, 3.0% percutaneous coronary intervention, 6.4% targeted temperature management, and 81.1% adrenaline administration. The proportion of cerebral performance category 1 or 2 at 1 month after OHCA was 3.9% among adult patients and 5.5% among pediatric patients.

Conclusions

The special committee of the JAAM launched the JAAM‐OHCA Registry in June 2014 and continuously gathers data on OHCA patients. This registry can provide valuable information to establish appropriate therapeutic strategies for OHCA patients in the near future.
Anodic Hydrazine Oxidation Assists Energy‐Efficient Hydrogen Evolution over a Bifunctional Cobalt Perselenide Nanosheet Electrode
Authors: Zhang Jun‐Ye , Wang Hongming , Tian Yifan , Yan Ya , Xue Qi , He Ting , Liu Hongfang , Wang Chundong , Chen Yu , Xia Bao Yu
Published: April 2018

Water electrolysis is a promising source of hydrogen; however, technological challenges remain. Intensive efforts have focused on developing highly efficient and earth‐abundant electrocatalysts for water splitting. An effective strategy is proposed, using a bifunctional tubular cobalt perselenide nanosheet electrode, in which the sluggish oxygen evolution reaction is substituted with anodic hydrazine oxidation so as to assist energy‐efficient hydrogen production. Specifically, this electrode produces a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at −84 mV for hydrogen evolution and −17 mV for hydrazine oxidation in 1.0 m KOH and 0.5 m hydrazine electrolyte. An ultralow cell voltage of only 164 mV is required to generate a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for 14 hours of stable water electrolysis.
Experimentelle Bestimmung des aktiven Zentrums im heteronuklearen Redox‐System [AlVOx]+./CO/N2O (x=3, 4) durch Gasphasen‐Infrarotspektroskopie
Authors: Debnath Sreekanta , Knorke Harald , Schöllkopf Wieland , Zhou Shaodong , Asmis Knut R. , Schwarz Helmut
Published: April 2018

Das aktive Zentrum der Sauerstoffatom‐Übertragungsreaktion [AlVO4]+.+CO→[AlVO3]+.+CO2 wurde durch schwingungsspektroskopische Untersuchungen an kryogenen Ionen in Kombination mit Elektronenstrukturberechnungen bestimmt. Infrarot‐Photodissoziationsspektren der entsprechenden He‐ und CO‐Komplexe dieser heteronuklearen Metalloxidkationen zeigen, dass [AlVO3]+. im Unterschied zu [AlVO4]+. keine endständige Al‐Ot‐Gruppe mehr enthält, sehr wohl aber noch die V=Ot‐Gruppe aufweist. Somit entspricht die Al‐Ot‐Einheit, in Einklang mit der theoretischen Voraussage, dem aktiven Zentrum des Redox‐Systems [AlVOx]+./CO/N2O (x=3, 4).
Experimental Identification of the Active Site in the Heteronuclear Redox Couples [AlVOx]+./CO/N2O (x=3, 4) by Gas‐Phase IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Debnath Sreekanta , Knorke Harald , Schöllkopf Wieland , Zhou Shaodong , Asmis Knut R. , Schwarz Helmut
Published: April 2018

Cryogenic ion vibrational spectroscopy was used in combination with electronic structure calculations to identify the active site in the oxygen atom transfer reaction [AlVO4]+.+CO→[AlVO3]+.+CO2. Infrared photodissociation spectra of messenger‐tagged heteronuclear clusters demonstrate that in contrast to [AlVO4]+., [AlVO3]+. is devoid of a terminal Al−Ot unit while the terminal V=Ot group remains intact. Thus it is the Al−Ot moiety that forms the active site in the [AlVOx]+./CO/N2O (x=3, 4) redox couples, which is in line with theoretical predictions.
Palladium(II)‐N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes: Efficient Catalysts for the Direct C‐H Bond Arylation of Furans with Aryl Halides
Authors: Kaloğlu Murat , Özdemir İsmail
Published: April 2018

This paper contains the synthesis and characterization of the seven new benzimidazolium salts and their corresponding new palladium(II)‐NHC complexes with the general formula [PdX2(NHC)2], (NHC = N‐heterocyclic carbene, X = Cl or Br), and also their catalytic activity in direct C‐H bond arylation of 2‐substituted furan derivatives with aryl bromides and aryl chlorides. Under the optimal conditions, these palladium(II)‐NHC complexes showed the good catalytic performance for the direct C‐H bond arylation of 2‐substituted furans with (hetero)aryl bromides, and with readily available and inexpensive aryl chlorides. The C‐H bond arylation regioselectively produced C5‐arylated furans by using 1 mol% of the palladium(II)‐NHC catalysts in moderate to high yields.
The clientelism trap in Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, and its impact on aid policy
Authors: Wood Terence
Published: April 2018

Clientelism is a central feature of politics in Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Most voters vote in search of personalized or localized benefit, and most politicians focus on delivering benefits to their supporters at the expense of national governance. In this article, I explain how clientelism impedes development in both countries. I then describe underdevelopment's role in causing clientelism. I also explain the resulting trap: clientelism causes underdevelopment, and underdevelopment causes clientelism. Because of the trap, clientelism will shape the two countries' politics for the foreseeable future. However, the history of other countries gives cause to believe it can be overcome in the long‐run. In the second half of the paper, I explain how change may occur. I also outline implications for aid policy, looking at how clientelism constrains the impact aid can have, and explaining how donors can act to maximize their impact in a difficult environment.
Photoredox‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Oxidation of Arylacetic Acids
Authors: Sakakibara Yota , Cooper Phillippa , Murakami Kei , Itami Kenichiro
Published: April 2018

A photoredox‐catalyzed decarboxylative oxidation of arylacetic acids, which are privileged scaffolds in pharmaceuticals, is reported herein. The established method is operationally simple and a variety of substrates are applicable, providing rapid access to dehomologated bioisosteres of common pharmaceuticals.
Introduction of Feedback Linearization to Robust LQR and LQI Control – Analysis of Results from an Unmanned Bicycle Robot with Reaction Wheel
Authors: Owczarkowski Adam , Horla Dariusz , Zietkiewicz Joanna
Published: April 2018

In this paper, the Jacobian‐linearization‐ and feedback‐linearization‐based techniques of obtaining linearized model approaches are combined with a family of robust LQR control laws to identify the pairing which results in superior control performance of the bicycle robot, despite uncertainty and constraints, what is the main contribution of the paper. The control performance is analyzed using various indices, related, e.g. to energy consumption of the considered laws, with the experiments conducted on a real bicycle robot. As a result, the easily‐implementable controller is obtained, which requires only to perform a set of off‐line computations with a single additional parameter δ in comparison with a standard linear‐quadratic controller, to obtain a state‐feedback vector, which, when implemented to the control system, ensures proper regulation of the output signal of the plant, despite uncertainty or possible actuator failures, obtaining energy‐efficient control law.
Can reducing black carbon and methane below RCP2.6 levels keep global warming below 1.5 °C?
Authors: Jones Andy , Haywood James M. , Jones Chris D.
Published: April 2018

Methane and black carbon aerosols have been identified as exerting the two strongest positive radiative forcings after carbon dioxide and therefore drastic reductions in these atmospheric constituents could potentially offer strong leverage in reducing global warming. Using the HadGEM2‐ES model, we reduce concentrations of methane and black carbon while holding all other emissions at representative concentration pathway RCP2.6 levels to examine whether we can achieve the target of keeping global‐mean temperature rise below 1.5 °C relative to the pre‐industrial level during the remainder of the 21st century. We find that even total cessation of black carbon aerosol emissions is ineffective in attaining this goal. Reducing methane concentrations at four times the rate assumed in RCP2.6 is able to return warming levels to below 1.5 °C by the 2070s but overshoots the target level prior to that. As RCP2.6 represents an optimistic scenario relative to the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions, our results highlight the importance of deep and rapid reductions in both CO2 and methane emissions if humanity is serious about attaining the 1.5 °C target.
Gyroidal Porous Carbon Activated with NH3 or CO2 as Lithium−Sulfur Battery Cathodes
Authors: Krüner Benjamin , Dörr Tobias S. , Shim Hwirim , Sann Joachim , Janek Jürgen , Presser Volker
Published: April 2018

Ordered mesoporous carbon materials, prepared from co‐assembly of a block copolymer and a commercial resol, were investigated as a sulfur host for LiS‐battery cathodes. We studied two activation methods for such carbons, namely annealing in ammonia (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2). We found that both activation environments drastically increased the specific surface area and establish a micro‐ and mesoporous pore structure. Treatment with NH3 also introduced nitrogen groups, which increased the initial specific capacity. The non‐activated carbon yielded carbon/sulfur cathodes with an initial capacity of ∼900 mAh/gsulfur (150 mAh/gsulfur after 100 cycles). The initial capacity was increased to 1300 mAh/gsulfur for the NH3 activated sample but with poor cycling stability. Enhanced performance stability was found for the CO2 treated sample with an initial capacity of 1100 mAh/gsulfur (700 mAh/gsulfur after 100 cycles).
Multicenter analysis of stereotactic radiotherapy of the resection cavity in patients with brain metastases
Authors: Combs Stephanie E. , Bilger Angelika , Diehl Christian , Bretzinger Eva , Lorenz Hannah , Oehlke Oliver , Specht Hanno M. , Kirstein Anna , Grosu Anca‐Ligia
Published: April 2018

Brain metastases show a recurrence rate of about 50% after surgical resection. Adjuvant radiotherapy can prevent progression; however, whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT) can be associated with significant side effects. Local hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (HFSRT) is a good alternative to provide local control with minimal toxicity. In this multicenter analysis, we evaluated the treatment outcome of local HFSRT after resection brain metastases in 181 patients. Patient's characteristics, treatment data as well as follow‐up data were collected and analyzed with special focus on local control, locoregional control and survival. After a median follow‐up of 12.6 months (range 0.3–80.2 months), the crude rate for local control was 80.5%; 1‐ and 2‐year local recurrence‐free survival rates were 75% and 70% (median not reached). Resection cavity size was a significant predictor for local recurrence (P = 0.033). The median overall survival was 16.0 months. Both graded prognostic assessment score and recursive partitioning analysis were accurate predictors of survival. HFSRT leads to excellent local control and has a high potential to consolidate results after surgery; acute and late toxicity is low. Distant intracerebral metastases occur frequently during follow‐up, and therefore, a close patient monitoring needs to be warranted if whole‐brain radiotherapy is omitted.
Genetic correction of serum AFP level improves risk prediction of primary hepatocellular carcinoma in the Dongfeng–Tongji cohort study
Authors: Wang Ke , Bai Yansen , Chen Shi , Huang Jiao , Yuan Jing , Chen Weihong , Yao Ping , Miao Xiaoping , Wang Youjie , Liang Yuan , Zhang Xiaomin , He Meian , Yang Handong , Guo Huan , Wei Sheng
Published: April 2018

Serum alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) is the most commonly used tumor biomarker for screening and diagnosis of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the predictive effect for HCC risk is still unsatisfactory. The aim of this prospective study was to estimate whether the individual genetic correction could improve the prediction efficiency of AFP for HCC risk. A prospective analysis with 9819 baseline HCC‐free individuals based on a large population‐based Chinese cohort study was performed. Two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with serum AFP level were used to calculate the genetic corrected AFP level (rs12506899 and rs2251844). Statistical analysis including logistic regression analysis and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to assess the discriminative ability of the original and genetic corrected AFP level for HCC risk. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were presented. Fifty‐seven participants were diagnosed with HCC for the first time. After adjusting AFP level with genetic effects, the participants for HCC risk increased compared to those with AFP level alone (OR = 5.34, 95% CI = 2.57–11.13; P < 0.001 vs. OR = 5.04, 95% CI = 2.46–10.30; P < 0.001). In addition, the area under the curve (AUC) for the discrimination of HCC elevated from 0.611 to 0.726. The efficiency in HCC prediction using serum AFP level can be improved by adjusting AFP level based on genetic effects. The genetic correction effect on serum AFP should be considered in the clinic application of such tumor biomarkers.
Chemical Variation in Essential Oils from the Oleo‐gum Resin of Boswellia carteri: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: DeCarlo Anjanette , Johnson Stephen , Poudel Ambika , Satyal Prabodh , Bangerter Loren , Setzer William N.
Published: April 2018

Frankincense, the oleo‐gum resin of Boswellia species, has been an important element of traditional medicine for thousands of years. Frankincense is still used for oral hygiene, to treat wounds, and for its calming effects. Different Boswellia species show different chemical profiles, and B. carteri, in particular, has shown wide variation in essential oil composition. In order to provide insight into the chemical variability in authentic B. carteri oleoresin samples, a hierarchical cluster analysis of 42 chemical compositions of B. carteri oleo‐gum resin essential oils has revealed at least three different chemotypes, i) an α‐pinene‐rich chemotype, ii) an α‐thujene‐rich chemotype, and iii) a methoxydecane‐rich chemotype.
Agkihpin, a Distinct SVTLE from the Venom of Gloydius halys Pallas: Purification, Characterization and Structure–Activity Determination
Authors: Tang Yulu , Huang Miao , Hu Qiping , Wu Huayu , Yao Jiali , Sun Kejian , Li Xiaolong
Published: April 2018

Blood clots produced by snake‐venom thrombin‐like enzymes (SVTLEs) are cleared rapidly, which makes SVTLEs attractive as potential candidates for antithrombotic therapy. We isolated a SVTLE, agkihpin, from the venom of Gloydius halys Pallas. Agkihpin was confirmed to a single‐chain TLE with molecular mass of 25.5 kD, pI of 7.43, optimal pH of 8.0 (hydrolyzing TAME), linked carbohydrate absent, and weak fibrinogen clotting activity. It was also found that (i) G. halys might be the latest species in SVTLEs phylogenetic tree; (ii) different level of conservation was shown among the SVTLEs from the Viperidae snakes. Some of those site may account for different activities exhibited by those SVTLEs, especially position 181, at which a fibrinogenolytic activity increase was found when a basic and larger amino acid substituted by a neutral and smaller one; (iii) an extra α‐helix constructed with a ‘Pro + acidic amino acid + aromatic amino acid’ pattern was found in the SVTLEs from Gloydius and Agkistrodon snakes, although it does not necessarily imply an effect on the fibrinogenolytic activity of the SVTLEs. This study provided some new insight into the activity of SVTLE.
Effects of COL8A1 on the proliferation of muscle‐derived satellite cells
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Wang Zhao , Tong Huili , Yan Yunqin , Li Shufeng
Published: April 2018

Collagen type VIII alpha 1 chain (COL8A1) is a component of the extracellular matrix. Our previous studies suggested that COL8A1 is associated with the proliferation of muscle‐derived satellite cells (MDSCs). Additionally, it has been demonstrated that COL8A1 promotes the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and liver cancer cells. Therefore, we predicted that COL8A1 is associated with the proliferation of bovine MDSCs, which have potential applications in research. In this study, we constructed vectors to activate and repress COL8A1 in bovine MDSCs using the CRISPR/Cas9 technique and determined the effects of COL8A1 modulation by EdU labeling, Western blotting, and dual‐luciferase reporter assays. The results showed that activation of COL8A1 increased the number of EdU‐positive cells and expression of the proliferation markers cyclin B1 (CCNB1) and P‐AKT. The expression of P‐Akt was unchanged after addition of LY294002 (a protein kinase inhibitor capable of blocking the signal transduction pathway of the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase). In contrast, repression of COL8A1 reduced the number of EdU‐positive cells and expression of CCNB1 and P‐AKT. We also observed upregulation and downregulation of COL8A1 following the overexpression and repression of EGR1, respectively. The dual‐luciferase reporter assay revealed that EGR1 regulates the promoter activity of COL8A1. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that EGR1 positively regulates the expression of COL8A1, which in turn promotes the proliferation of bovine MDSCs via the PI3 K/AKT signaling pathway.
Photoxidation of Benzyl Alcohol with Heterogeneous Photocatalysts in the UV Range: The Complex Interplay with the Autoxidative Reaction
Authors: Pavan Mariela J. , Fridman Helena , Segalovich Gal , Shames Alexander I. , Lemcoff N. Gabriel , Mokari Taleb
Published: April 2018

In conventional studies of heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation, it is crucial to evaluate by means of control experiments the relevance of the “non‐catalyzed” autoxidation reaction under irradiation. If the autoxidation is found to be negligible, it is usually considered that it can be safely disregarded. However, in the case of aromatic aldehydes’ synthesis such as benzaldehyde, irradiating with UV light may lead to a more complex mechanism than previously thought. Herein, we prove that neglecting the autoxidative reaction can lead to a misinterpretation of the mechanism as well as an overestimation of the catalyst's efficiency, even if the control experiment exhibits zero yield. As an example, we studied the synthesis of benzaldehyde from benzyl alcohol by UV‐A irradiation with and without TiO2 and CdS nanoparticles; without catalyst, after a long induction time, the aldehyde enhances its own production through an autocatalytic reaction activated by the same light wavelengths utilized for the nanocatalysts. The long induction time leads to considering the autocatalysis to be deceptively negligible. However, the nanoparticles act as a fast initiator of the benzaldehyde autocatalysis, in such a way that the oxidation rate reached a similar performance with nanoparticles and after removing them. This suggests that the commonly ignored autocatalysis of benzaldehyde indeed is a relevant parallel pathway to the heterogeneous catalysis mechanism.
Electrodeposition of Cobalt Phosphosulfide Nanosheets on Carbon Fiber Paper as Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Liu Zhenchuan , Zhang Junfeng , Liu Yangxing , Zhu Weikang , Zhang Xiangwen , Wang Qingfa
Published: April 2018

To maximize the activity and durability of transition metal sulfides for water oxidation is still a great challenge. Herein, we developed a new cobalt phosphosulfide nanosheet on carbon fiber paper (CFP) substrate electrocatalyst (Co2−xSP/CFP) following a simple two‐step electrodeposition method. The cobalt sulfide nanosheets were first deposited onto CFP by cyclic voltammetry. Then, the surface structure and P/S ratio as well as the Co3+/Co2+ ratio of the phosphosulfide nanosheets were well tuned by regulating the cycling numbers of the phosphorous electrodeposition. Benefiting from the hierarchical structure, distinct phosphosulfide species, as well as a high Co3+ content derived from partial S substitution with P and nonstoichiometric phase, the as‐synthesized Co2−xSP/CFP exhibits remarkable activity with an overpotential of 279 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, a low Tafel slope of 54 mV dec−1 and excellent long‐term stability towards OER (overpotential increase of only 4.7 % within 60 h). Structural analysis after stability test indicates that cobalt oxide/hydroxide species are formed on the surface, which contribute to the high performance and excellent durability for oxygen evolution. This provides a simple and facile approach to rationally design and synthesize transition metal phosphosulfides for advanced electrochemical application.
In Situ Synthesis of Mn3O4 Nanoparticles on Hollow Carbon Nanofiber as High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Battery Anode
Authors: Zhang Dan , Li Guangshe , Fan Jianming , Li Baoyun , Li Liping
Published: April 2018

The practical applications of Mn3O4 in lithium‐ion batteries are greatly hindered by fast capacity decay and poor rate performance as a result of significant volume changes and low electrical conductivity. It is believed that the synthesis of nanoscale Mn3O4 combined with carbonaceous matrix will lead to a better electrochemical performance. Herein, a convenient route for the synthesis of Mn3O4 nanoparticles grown in situ on hollow carbon nanofiber (denoted as HCF/Mn3O4) is reported. The small size of Mn3O4 particles combined with HCF can significantly alleviate volume changes and electrical conductivity; the strong chemical interactions between HCF and Mn3O4 would improve the reversibility of the conversion reaction for MnO into Mn3O4 and accelerate charge transfer. These features endow the HCF/Mn3O4 composite with superior cycling stability and rate performance if used as the anode for lithium‐ion batteries. The composite delivers a high discharge capacity of 835 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1, and 652 mA h g−1 after 240 cycles at 1000 mA g−1. Even at 2000 mA g−1, it still shows a high capacity of 528 mA h g−1. The facile synthetic method and outstanding electrochemical performance of the as‐prepared HCF/Mn3O4 composite make it a promising candidate for a potential anode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
Emerging Applications of Bioinspired Slippery Surfaces in Biomedical Fields
Authors: He Wenqing , Liu Peng , Zhang Jianqiang , Yao Xi
Published: April 2018

In this minireview, we summarize the recent development of liquid‐infused slippery surfaces (LISS) for biomedical applications. The selected topics are divided into two parts: the material designs and emerging strategies to fabricate slippery surface, and their applications with strong and direct relevance to biomedical areas including antibiofouling, antithrombosis, medical device coatings and surface enhanced/assisted detection. We also describe the most critical directions in need of development to adapt this new approach to biomedical use.
Char quality response surfaces from torrefaction of coppiced willow in a horizontal moving bed pilot plant
Authors: Campbell William A. , Woytiuk Kurt , Gerspacher Regan , Coller Amy , Evitts Richard W.
Published: April 2018

Characterizing the operation of a novel torrefaction plant based on horizontal moving bed reactors was the focus of this research work. Coppiced willow biomass was used as the feedstock for the torrefaction experiments carried out with this plant. The operating temperature and torrefaction residence time were each varied over a wide range in order to understand how these two parameters each influence torrefaction severity. The torrefaction severity was characterized by developing response surface plots for torrefaction metrics, including mass yield, energy yield, milling energy, and elemental composition.

The operating conditions were varied from 220–280 °C with an 8–24 min residence time. The coppiced willow biomass was processed into a granular form, resulting in an average length and diameter of 19.3 and 7.5 mm, respectively. The operating conditions were found to produce a wide range of torrefaction severities with a mass yield range from 64.7–91.6 %. Temperature was found to have a greater influence over severity than exposure time. In order to understand the uncertainty of the measurements, experiments were repeated at a central point (250 °C and 16 min) six times. The repeatability was found to be ±0.72 % at the 95 % confidence limit. The response surfaces for mass and energy yield indicate that, for this feedstock, torrefaction severity below 80 % mass yield can be achieved in under 10 min at temperatures of 255 °C and above. This performance compares very favourably with other continuously fed pilot scale torrefaction plants.
Biomass‐gas‐and‐nuclear‐to‐liquids (BGNTL) processes part I: Model development and simulation
Authors: Scott J. Alexander , Adams Thomas A.
Published: April 2018

New polygeneration processes for the co‐production of liquid fuels (Fischer‐Tropsch liquids, methanol, and dimethyl ether) and electricity are presented. The processes use a combination of biomass, natural gas, and nuclear energy as primary energy feeds. Chemical process models were created and used to simulate candidate versions of the process, using combinations of models ranging from complex multi‐scale models to standard process flowsheet models. The simulation results are presented for an Ontario, Canada case study to obtain key metrics such as efficiency and product conversions. Sample Aspen Plus files are provided in the supplementary material to be used by others.
Physically crosslinked KOH impregnated polyvinyl alcohol based alkaline membrane for direct methanol fuel cell
Authors: Gupta Uday Kumar , Pramanik Hiralal
Published: April 2018

A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) based alkaline membrane was developed in the laboratory for use in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). This study investigates the performance of the alkaline PVA membrane, crosslinked by a physical crosslinking method. The membrane was characterized using water uptake, KOH uptake, ion exchange capacity, and ionic conductivity methods. The anode and cathode electrocatalysts were Pt‐Ru (30:15 % by wt)/carbon black (C) and Pt (40 % by wt)/high surface area carbon (CHSA), respectively. A similar electrocatalyst loading in the order of 1 mg/cm2 was used at the anode and cathode. The cell voltage and current density data were recorded for different concentrations of fuel (methanol) and electrolyte (KOH). The optimum conditions for the fuel cell were 2 M methanol mixed in 3 M KOH solution at a flow rate of 2 mL/min with a cathode feed of humidified oxygen at a flow rate of 100 mL/min. The DMFC was operated at 30 °C, irrespective of other operating conditions. The maximum open circuit voltage of 0.6 V, current density of 7.71 mA/cm2 at a cell voltage of 0.23 V, and maximum power density of 1.79 mW/cm2 were obtained at the optimum cell condition. The KOH‐doped PVA solid electrolyte was successfully tested in a direct methanol fuel cell, which results in excellent power density. Single cell test results prove that the physically crosslinked KOH‐doped PVA electrolyte could be used as a suitable solid electrolyte in a fuel cell.
Synthesis, Structure and Biological Activities of Novel 2‐(Trifluoromethyl)‐ 6‐arylimidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]‐thiadiazole (bis‐)Mannich Base Derivatives Containing Substitutedpiperazine Moiety
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Zhengming , Song Haibin , Wang Baolei
Published: April 2018

A convenient and practicable method for the synthesis of the novel 2‐(trifluoromethyl)‐6‐arylimidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]‐thiadiazole (bis‐)Mannich base derivatives containing various substitutedpiperazine motif has been developed based on the fused‐heterocycle intermediate. The new structures were identified through melting points,1H NMR,13C NMR,19F NMR, elemental analysis (or HRMS) and X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction. The pesticidal bioassays showed that some of compounds exhibited good fungicidal activities againstCercospora arachidicola,Physalospora piricolaandRhizoctonia cerealiat 50 mg/L; some of them displayed favourable insecticidal activities against oriental armyworm (Mythimna separataWalker) at 200 mg/L, particularly,VkandVmwith mortality rate of 75% and 80% respectively, could be considered as new insecticidal lead compounds for further structural optimization.
Left‐Right Symmetry or Asymmetry of Cells on Stripe‐Like Micropatterned Material Surfaces
Authors: Hu Yiwen , Yao Xiang , Liu Qiong , Wang Yi , Liu Ruili , Cui Shuquan , Ding Jiandong
Published: April 2018

Material surfaces can induce cell responses such as contact guidance, yet little attention has been paid to further cell orientation. Herein, we report an interesting phenomenon of cell orientation beyond the classic contact guidance on a stripe‐like micropattern with cell‐adhesive arginine‐ glycine‐aspartate (RGD) peptides on a nonfouling background decorated by poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). Such a micropattern with cell adhesion contrast led to significant contact guidance after cell seeding. What is more, the localized and elongated cells were found to be further orientated out of the adhesive stripes, and even an anticlockwise rotation was observed for rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs). The left‐right asymmetry of rMSCs stood only in statistics, for we observed all cases including clockwise orientation, anticlockwise orientation or just keeping the orientation of previous contact guidance. We further found that human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs) preferred a clockwise rotation, while human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) exhibited no significant preference to either direction, which indicated that the left‐right symmetry or asymmetry was cell‐type dependent. The present report has partially confirmed the cell chirality and revealed its complexity, calling for further careful and comprehensive investigation of the challenging topic of cell chirality on material surfaces.