bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decontamination of Bacterial Spores Using a Bio-reaction System
Authors: Seo Yeonghwan , Park Hanwool , Lee Hongsuk , Kim Seongjoo
Published: October 2024

This report describes the test results of decontamination of Bacillus atrophaeus spores. The spore solution at 109 cfu/mL concentration was treated with chemical decontaminants, hydrogen peroxide, DF-200, sodium dichloroisocyanurate(NaDCC), and perasasfe. DF-200 was not suitable for decontamination of the spore solution. Among them, the optimal decontamination reaction conditions of perasafe and NaDCC　were established from test tube experiments in a mL-scale, and they were validated in a bio-reaction system in a L-scale. The optimal conditions of perasafe and NaDCC were 1.0 % of concentration with 5 minutes of reaction time and 0.3 % of concentration with 10 minutes of reaction time, respectively. Also, both decontaminants required adequate agitation for decontamination. The results in the bio-reaction system were similar with the results from the smaller scale using test tubes, showing that the optimal conditions from the smaller scale experiments can be applied to the larger scale.
Terrestrial biospheric and oceanic CO2 uptakes estimated from long‐term measurements of atmospheric CO2 mole fraction, δ13C, and δ(O2/N2) at Ny‐Ålesund, Svalbard
Authors: Goto Daisuke , Morimoto Shinji , Ishidoya Shigeyuki , Aoki Shuji , Nakazawa Takakiyo
Published: May 2017

Systematic observations of CO2 mole fraction, the isotopic ratio δ13C of CO2, and oxygen to nitrogen ratio (δ(O2/N2)) in the atmosphere have been carried out at Ny‐Ålesund, Svalbard, since 1991, 1996, and 2001, respectively. The CO2 mole fraction shows a clear seasonal cycle superimposed on a secular increase with an average rate of 2.0 ppm yr−1 for the period of 1996–2013. On the other hand, δ13C and δ(O2/N2) decrease secularly at an average rate of −0.020‰ yr−1 for 1996–2013 and −19.9 per meg yr−1 for 2001–2013, respectively. Based on the observed secular trends of the CO2 mole fraction and δ(O2/N2), the average CO2 uptake during 2001–2013 was estimated to be 1.6 ± 0.8 and 2.3 ± 0.5 GtC yr−1 for the terrestrial biosphere and the ocean, respectively. By using the observed CO2 and δ13C, the corresponding CO2 uptakes of 1.3 ± 0.6 and 2.6 ± 0.5 GtC yr−1 were obtained for the same period. The estimates from the two methods are in good agreement with each other. The terrestrial biospheric CO2 uptake derived by the latter method showed large interannual variability in association with El Niño events. On the other hand, the oceanic uptake increased secularly with less interannual variability during 1996–2013.
Contribution of Socioeconomic Status to Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Kaplowitz Elianna T. , Ferguson Sancia , Guerra Marta , Laskin Carl A. , Buyon Jill P. , Petri Michelle , Lockshin Michael D. , Sammaritano Lisa R. , Branch D. Ware , Merrill Joan T. , Katz Patricia , Salmon Jane E.
Published: May 2017

Objective

We examined rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO) by race/ethnicity among women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with and without antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), and whether socioeconomic status (SES) accounted for differences.

Methods

Data were from the PROMISSE (Predictors of Pregnancy Outcome: Biomarkers in Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) study, a multicenter study that enrolled 346 patients with SLE and 62 patients with SLE and aPL (50% white, 20% African American, 17% Hispanic, 12% Asian/Pacific Islander). Measures of SES were educational attainment, median community income, and community education. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine odds of APO for each racial/ethnic group, controlling first for age and clinical variables, and then for SES.

Results

The frequency of APO in white women with SLE, with and without aPL, was 29% and 11%, respectively. For African American and Hispanic women it was approximately 2‐fold greater. In African American women with SLE alone, adjustment for clinical variables attenuated the odds ratio (OR) from 2.7 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.3–5.5) to 2.3 (95% CI 1.1–5.1), and after additional adjustment for SES, there were no longer significant differences in APO compared to whites. In contrast, in SLE patients with aPL, whites, African Americans, and Hispanics had markedly higher risks of APO compared to white SLE patients without aPL (OR 3.5 [95% CI 1.4–7.7], OR 12.4 [95% CI 1.9–79.8], and OR 10.4 [95% CI 2.5–42.4], respectively), which were not accounted for by clinical or SES covariates.

Conclusion

This finding suggests that for African American women with SLE without aPL, SES factors are key contributors to disparities in APO, despite monthly care from experts, whereas other factors contribute to disparities in SLE with aPL.
Sub‐Micrometer Zeolite Films on Gold‐Coated Silicon Wafers with Single‐Crystal‐Like Dielectric Constant and Elastic Modulus
Authors: Tiriolo Raffaele , Rangnekar Neel , Zhang Han , Shete Meera , Bai Peng , Nelson John , Karapetrova Evguenia , Macosko Christopher W. , Siepmann Joern Ilja , Lamanna Ernesto , Lavano Angelo , Tsapatsis Michael
Published: May 2017

A low‐temperature synthesis coupled with mild activation produces zeolite films exhibiting low dielectric constant (low‐k) matching the theoretically predicted and experimentally measured values for single crystals. This synthesis and activation method allows for the fabrication of a device consisting of a b‐oriented film of the pure‐silica zeolite MFI (silicalite‐1) supported on a gold‐coated silicon wafer. The zeolite seeds are assembled by a manual assembly process and subjected to optimized secondary growth conditions that do not cause corrosion of the gold underlayer, while strongly promoting in‐plane growth. The traditional calcination process is replaced with a nonthermal photochemical activation to ensure preservation of an intact gold layer. The dielectric constant (k), obtained through measurement of electrical capacitance in a metal–insulator–metal configuration, highlights the ultralow k ≈ 1.7 of the synthetized films, which is among the lowest values reported for an MFI film. There is large improvement in elastic modulus of the film (E ≈ 54 GPa) over previous reports, potentially allowing for integration into silicon wafer processing technology.
A General Engineering Applicable Superlubricity: Hydrogenated Amorphous Carbon Film Containing Nano Diamond Particles
Authors: Cao Zhongyue , Zhao Wenwen , Liang Aimin , Zhang Junyan
Published: May 2017

Designing promising mechanical systems with ultra‐low friction performance and establishing superlubricity regimes are desirable not only to greatly save energy but also to reduce hazardous waste emissions. However, very few macroscale superlubricity regimes for engineering applications have been reported. Here, this study demonstrates that sustained superlubricity can be achieved at engineering scale when the contact pressure is higher than 2 GPa. Such engineering superlubricity originates from the in situ formation of curved graphene ribbons or onion carbon tribofilms at the sliding interface. Experimental data also demonstrate that the wear of the amorphous carbon film containing some nanodiamond particles against Al2O3 ball is consistent with atomic attrition. A feasible two‐stage mechanism is proposed to explain the friction and wear behaviors. This finding in amorphous carbon films will not only enrich the understanding of superlubricity behavior but also be helpful to establish more superlubricity regimes for more engineering applications.
Nanostructured Fe2O3 Processing via Water‐Assisted ALD and Low‐Temperature CVD from a Versatile Iron Ketoiminate Precursor
Authors: Peeters Daniel , Sadlo Alexander , Lowjaga Katarina , Mendoza Reyes Oliver , Wang Lidong , Mai Lukas , Gebhard Maximilian , Rogalla Detlef , Becker Hans‐Werner , Giner Ignacio , Grundmeier Guido , Mitoraj Dariusz , Grafen Markus , Ostendorf Andreas , Beranek Radim , Devi Anjana
Published: May 2017

Vapor phase deposited iron oxide nanostructures are promising for fabrication of solid state chemical sensors, photoelectrodes for solar water splitting, batteries, and logic devices. The deposition of iron oxide via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or atomic layer deposition (ALD) under mild conditions necessitates a precursor that comprises good volatility, stability, and reactivity. Here, a versatile iron precursor, namely [bis(N‐isopropylketoiminate) iron(II)], which possesses ideal characteristics both for low‐temperature CVD and water‐assisted ALD processes, is reported. The films are thoroughly investigated toward phase, composition, and morphology. As‐deposited ALD grown Fe2O3 layers are amorphous, while the CVD process in the presence of oxygen leads to polycrystalline hematite layers. The nanostructured iron oxide grown via CVD consists of nanoplatelets that are appealing for photoelectrochemical applications. Preliminary tests of the photoelectrocatalytic activity of CVD‐grown Fe2O3 layers show photocurrent densities up to 0.3 mA cm−2 at 1.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and 1.2 mA cm−2 at 1.6 V versus RHE under simulated sunlight (1 sun). Surface modification by cobalt oxyhydroxide (Co‐Pi) co‐catalyst is found to have a highly beneficial effect on photocurrent, leading to maximum monochromatic quantum efficiencies of 10% at 400 nm and 4% at 500 nm at 1.5 V versus RHE.
Solution Coating of Superior Large‐Area Flexible Perovskite Thin Films with Controlled Crystal Packing
Authors: Li Jianbo , Liu Yucheng , Ren Xiaodong , Yang Zhou , Li Ruipeng , Su Hang , Yang Xiaoming , Xu Junzhuo , Xu Hua , Hu Jian‐Yong , Amassian Aram , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: May 2017

Solution coating of organohalide lead perovskites offers great potential for achieving low‐cost manufacturing of large‐area flexible optoelectronics. However, the rapid coating speed needed for industrial‐scale production poses challenges to the control of crystal packing. Herein, this study reports using solution shearing to confine crystal nucleation and growth in large‐area printed MAPbI3 thin films. Near single‐crystalline perovskite microarrays are demonstrated with a high degree of controlled macroscopic alignment and crystal orientation, which exhibit significant improvements in optical and optoelectronic properties comparing with their random counterparts, spherulitic, and nanograined films. In particular, photodetectors based on the confined films showing intense anisotropy in charge transport are fabricated, and the device exhibits significantly improved performance in all aspects by one more orders of magnitude relative to their random counterparts. It is anticipated that perovskite films with controlled crystal packing may find applications in high‐performance, large‐area printed optoelectronics, and solar cells.
Surface and proton conductivity properties of electrospun poly(vinyl butyral)/polyaniline nanofibers
Authors: Baştürk Emre , Çakmakçi Emrah , Madakbaş Seyfullah , Kahraman Memet Vezir
Published: May 2017

Proton‐conductive electrospun nanofibers are promising potential materials for several advanced technological applications such batteries, sensors, and fuel cells. In this work, we prepared poly(vinyl butyral)/polyaniline (PVB/PANI) nanofibers via electrospinning and determined their proton conductivities. Structural characterization of the nanofibers was performed by FTIR analysis. Surface morphology of the nanofibers was determined by SEM and AFM. The addition of PANI significantly affected the fiber morphology, and over 90% reduction (with respect to neat PVB nanofibers) in the average nanofiber diameters was observed. Nanofiber mats were doped with polyphosphoric acid. The proton conductivity of the 2 wt.% PANI containing blend nanofibers was found as 18 × 10−6 S/cm at room temperature and at 100% humidity.
Synthesis and characterization of a high performance polyamide‐6 elastomer based on poly(ether‐block‐amide) multiblock copolymer by reactive processing in torque rheometer
Authors: Lei Yuan , Li Changbing , Fu Xiaowei , Lei Jingxin , Zhou Changlin
Published: May 2017

The polyamide‐6 based poly(ether‐block‐amide) (PEBA) multiblock copolymers were reactively prepared in typical processing equipment, torque rheometer. The reactive processing conditions of PEBA were discussed in details on the base of the tensile strength as the main quantization parameter and the torque rheological curves. The optimized reaction temperature, reaction time, and rotational speed were 150°C, 10 min, and 40 rpm respectively. The chemical structure, tensile properties, thermal transition, thermal stability, water absorption, and solubility in organic solvents of PEBA prepared in optimized reaction conditions were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, tensile testing, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and soaking testing in water and organic solvents. The tensile strength and elongation at break of PEBA are 35.9 MPa and 580% respectively. The glass transition temperature and melting temperature of soft segment of PEBA are −50 and 15°C, respectively; the glass transition temperature and melting temperature of hard segment of PEBA are 50 and 140°C respectively. Meanwhile, the PEBA has low water absorption, robust organic solvent resistance, and good thermal stability. The optimization process of PEBA will give the deep understanding of reactive processing of polymer materials.
Efficient Plastic Perovskite Solar Cell with a Low‐Temperature Processable Electrodeposited TiO2 Compact Layer and a Brookite TiO2 Scaffold
Authors: Lin Ssu‐Yu , Su Tzu‐Sen , Hsieh Tsung‐Yu , Lo Pei‐Chia , Wei Tzu‐Chien
Published: May 2017

Recent research on fabricating scaffold‐type perovskite solar cells on plastic substrates has reported noteworthy progress in replacing the high‐temperature processing of TiO2 scaffolds and compact layers with various low‐temperature processes. Herein, recent progress in the laboratory is reported regarding the development of electrodeposited TiOx compact layers and brookite TiO2 scaffolds, both of which can be processed under 150 °C without greatly sacrificing their photovoltaic performance. Through systematic characterization of device properties and careful optimization of the fabrication conditions, a record‐high 15.76% power conversion efficiency of a plastic TiO2 scaffold‐type perovskite solar cell is demonstrated. In addition, bending durability and preliminary stability tests on this plastic perovskite solar cell show promising results and indicate clear directions for future improvement.
MOF‐Templated Synthesis of Ultrasmall Photoluminescent Carbon‐Nanodot Arrays for Optical Applications
Authors: Gu Zhi‐Gang , Li De‐Jing , Zheng Chan , Kang Yao , Wöll Christof , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2017

Arrays of ultrasmall and uniform carbon nanodots (CDs) are of pronounced interest for applications in optical devices. Herein, we describe a low‐temperature calcination approach with rather inexpensive reactants. After glucose molecules had been loaded into the pores of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), well‐defined CD arrays were produced by heating to 200 °C. The size and spacing of the CDs could be controlled by the choice of templating MOF: HKUST‐1, ZIF‐8, or MIL‐101. The sizes of the obtained CDs were approximately 1.5, 2.0, and 3.2 nm, which are close to the corresponding MOF pores sizes. The CD arrays exhibited interesting photophysical properties, including photoluminescence with tunable emission and pronounced nonlinear optical (NLO) effects. The NLO properties of the obtained CD arrays were significantly different from those of a CD suspension, thus indicating the existence of collective phenomena.
Monitoring the Discontinuous Dodecamer–Icosamer Transition of a Calix[4]arene‐Derived Surfactant by Time‐Resolved Small‐Angle X‐ray Scattering
Authors: Takahashi Rintaro , Matsumoto Sakiko , Fujii Shota , Narayanan Theyencheri , Sakurai Kazuo
Published: May 2017

Calix[4]arene‐derived surfactants form monodisperse micelles with a well‐defined aggregation number (Nagg) of 4, 6, 8, 12, or 20, corresponding to the Platonic solids. This feature is in strong contrast to conventional micelles. In this study, a transition from a dodecamer (Nagg=12) to an icosamer (Nagg=20) was induced by a rapid increase in the NaCl concentration (CNaCl) using a stopped‐flow device and directly observed by time‐resolved small‐angle X‐ray scattering. TheNaggremained unchanged during the first 60 s after the increase inCNaCl , and then abruptly increased to 20. This feature resembles phase transitions in supersaturated or supercooled states, or highly cooperative phenomena. We surmise that this finding may be due to the fact that only a fewNaggvalues are thermodynamically allowed whenNaggis sufficiently small. This is the first observation of such an induction time in micellar aggregation.
PrB7−: A Praseodymium‐Doped Boron Cluster with a PrII Center Coordinated by a Doubly Aromatic Planar η7‐B73− Ligand
Authors: Chen Teng‐Teng , Li Wan‐Lu , Jian Tian , Chen Xin , Li Jun , Wang Lai‐Sheng
Published: May 2017

The structure and bonding of a Pr‐doped boron cluster (PrB7−) are investigated using photoelectron spectroscopy and quantum chemistry. The adiabatic electron detachment energy of PrB7− is found to be low [1.47(8) eV]. A large energy gap is observed between the first and second detachment features, indicating a highly stable neutral PrB7. Global minimum searches and comparison between experiment and theory show that PrB7− has a half‐sandwich structure with C6v symmetry. Chemical bonding analyses show that PrB7− can be viewed as a PrII[η7‐B73−] complex with three unpaired electrons, corresponding to a Pr (4f26s1) open‐shell configuration. Upon detachment of the 6s electron, the neutral PrB7 cluster is a highly stable PrIII[η7‐B73−] complex with Pr in its favorite +3 oxidation state. The B73− ligand is found to be highly stable and doubly aromatic with six delocalized π and six delocalized σ electrons and should exist for a series of lanthanide MIII[η7‐B73−] complexes.
Mapping Hydration Water around Alcohol Chains by THz Calorimetry
Authors: Böhm Fabian , Schwaab Gerhard , Havenith Martina
Published: May 2017

THz spectroscopy was used to probe changes that occur in the dynamics of the hydrogen bond network upon solvation of alcohol chains. The THz spectra can be decomposed into the spectrum of bulk water, tetrahedral hydration water, and more disordered (or interstitial) hydration water. The tetrahedrally ordered hydration water exhibits a band at 195 cm−1 and is localized around the hydrophobic moiety of the alcohol. The interstitial component yields a band at 164 cm−1 which is associated with hydration water in the first hydration shell. These temperature‐dependent changes in the low‐frequency spectrum of solvated alcohol chains can be correlated with changes of heat capacity, entropy, and free energy upon solvation. Surprisingly, not the tetrahedrally ordered component but the interstitial hydration water is found to be mainly responsible for the temperature‐dependent change in ΔCp and ΔG. The solute‐specific offset in free energy is attributed to void formation and scales linearly with the chain length.
Instant Hydrogelation Inspired by Inflammasomes
Authors: Wang Huaimin , Feng Zhaoqianqi , Lu Alvin , Jiang Yujie , Wu Hao , Xu Bing
Published: May 2017

Based on the recent near‐atomic structures of the PYRIN domain of ASC in the protein filament of inflammasomes and the observation that the active form of vitamin B6 (pyridoxal phosphate, P5P) modulates the self‐assembly of ASC, we rationally designed an N‐terminal capped nonapeptide (Nap‐FFKKFKLKL, 1) to form supramolecular nanofibers consisting of α‐helix. The addition of P5P to the solution of 1 results in a hydrogel almost instantly (about 4 seconds). Several other endogenous small molecules (for example, pyridoxal, folinic acid, ATP, and AMP) also convert the solution of 1 into a hydrogel. As the demonstration of correlating assemblies of peptides and the relevant protein epitopes, this work illustrates a bioinspired approach to develop supramolecular structures modulated by endogenous small molecules.
Crystalline Hollow Microrods for Site‐Selective Enhancement of Nonlinear Photoluminescence
Authors: Chen Bing , Kong Wei , Liu Yong , Lu Yunhao , Li Mingyu , Qiao Xvsheng , Fan Xianping , Wang Feng
Published: May 2017

A class of one‐dimensional hollow microstructure is described, which was formed by a kinetically controlled crystal growth process. A hexagonal‐phase NaYbF4 microrod comprising isolated holes along the longitudinal axis was synthesized by a one‐pot hydrothermal method with the assistance of citrate ligands. The structural void feature modulates light intensity across the microrods as a result of interference arising from light scattering and reflection by the inner walls. A single crystal comprising a structural void was doped with upconverting lanthanide ions. Upon near‐infrared excitation of the doped crystal spatially resolvable optical codes were produced.
Total Synthesis of Echinoside A, a Representative Triterpene Glycoside of Sea Cucumbers
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Shao Xiaofei , Li Wei , Zhang Xiaheng , Yu Biao
Published: May 2017

Echinoside A, a sulfonylated holostane tetrasaccharide with potent anticancer and antifungal activity, was synthesized in a longest linear sequence of 35 steps and 0.6 % overall yield. The synthetic approach is adaptable to the synthesis of congeners and analogues, as exemplified by the ready synthesis of ds‐echinoside A and echinoside B, and thus will facilitate in‐depth studies on the promising biological effects of echinoside A. Moreover, the present synthesis demonstrates the feasibility of synthetic access to the characteristic complex triterpene glycosides that occur ubiquitously in sea cucumbers.
Synthesis of Fe3O4@SiO2@DOPisatin‐Ni(II) and Cu(II) nanoparticles: Highly efficient catalyst for the synthesis of sulfoxides and disulfides
Authors: Hajjami Maryam , Sharifirad Fatemeh , Gholamian Fatemeh
Published: May 2017

The catalytic activity of two magnetic catalysts Fe3O4@SiO2@DOPisatin‐M(II) (M = Ni, Cu) was investigated in the environmentally green H2O2 oxidant‐based oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides and oxidative coupling of thiols to disulfides. By using these catalysts, various substrates were successfully converted into their corresponding product. These catalysts could also be reused multiple time without significant loss of activity. The physical and chemical properties of the catalysts were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).
Embedded silver‐nanowire electrode in an acrylic polymer–silicate nanoparticle composite for highly robust flexible devices
Authors: Hwang Byungil , Kim Minha , Cho Sung Min , Becker Stefan , Kim Yong‐Hoon , Kim Hyoungsub
Published: May 2017

In this study, we explored Ag‐nanowire electrodes embedded on the surface of an elastic acrylic polymer–silicate nanoparticle composite resin (iGloss) for mechanically robust flexible electronic devices. Nanoindentation analysis indicated that the iGloss film was suitable for flexible electronic applications, having modulus and hardness values similar to those of a conventional poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate. In situ resistance monitoring for up to 3000 bending cycles revealed that the Ag‐nanowire–iGloss electrode was highly flexible without showing an increase in the resistance. In addition, while a PET substrate carrying Ag nanowires exhibited significantly degraded optical properties with an increase in scratch damage, the Ag‐nanowire–iGloss electrode exhibited superior wear resistance, even when it was subjected to a severe mechanical scratch test. Finally, as a possible application, we demonstrated a flexible, organic, light‐emitting diode with an Ag‐nanowire–iGloss electrode as both the anode and the substrate. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45203.
Performance of white light emitting diodes prepared by casting wavelength‐converting polymer on InGaN devices
Authors: Chang Chi‐Jung , Leong Yun‐Yi , Lai Chun‐Feng , Chiou Wei‐Yung , Su Min‐Ju , Chang Shinn‐Jen
Published: May 2017

UV‐curable siloxane oligomers prepared by a hydrosilylation reaction were used as encapsulant. Two fluorescent copolymers with emission covering the range of green and red light were synthesized and blended with the UV‐curable siloxane oligomers and photoinitiator to make the wavelength‐converting polymer (WCP). WCP was casted on blue light emitting InGaN diodes and UV cured to fabricate white light emitting diodes (WLEDs). Effects of monomer compositions on the fluidity of uncured oligomer, together with the optical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the cured polysiloxane were studied. We also investigated the influence of red fluorescent polymer which was comprised of repeating units of dioctylfluorene, bisthienyl‐benzothiadiazole, and benzothiadiazole segments on the color rendering index, correlated color temperature, and luminous efficacy of WLED. Because of the good match between the absorption and emission features of the segments in the fluorescent copolymers, white LEDs can be produced by fluorescent copolymer blends which can support incomplete energy transfer. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45210.
NLFXLMS and THF‐NLFXLMS Algorithms for Wiener‐Hammerstein Nonlinear Active Noise Control
Authors: Srazhidinov Radik , Kamil Raja , Mohd Noor Samsul Bahari
Published: May 2017

Nonlinear Filtered‐X LMS (NLFXLMS) is an indirect adaptive control algorithm for nonlinear active noise control (NANC) system. The algorithm has been developed for both Hammerstein and Wiener secondary paths where the nonlinearity is represented by scaled error function (SEF) and tangential hyperbolic function (THF). NLFXLMS algorithm is limited in practical application because the degree of nonlinearity has to be known in advance. This limitation leads to the development of the THF‐NLFXLMS algorithm where the degree of nonlinearity is estimated by modelling the secondary path. In this work, the NLFXLMS and THF‐NLFXLMS are extended to Wiener‐Hammerstein system. The performance of the proposed Wiener‐Hammerstein THF‐NLFXLMS is compared with NLFXLMS algorithm which is considered as the benchmark and second order Volterra algorithm of comparable computational complexity. Simulation results show that the THF‐NLFXLMS has a similar performance to NLFXLMS and outperforms the second order Volterra algorithm as the system becomes more nonlinear.
Fuzzy Sliding‐mode Strategy for Air–fuel Ratio Control of Lean‐burn Spark Ignition Engines
Authors: Wu Hsiu‐Ming , Tafreshi Reza
Published: May 2017

Minimization of emissions of carbon dioxide and harmful pollutants and maximization of fuel economy for lean‐burn spark ignition (SI) engines relies to a large extent on precise air–fuel ratio (AFR) control. However, the main challenge of AFR control is the large time‐varying delay in lean‐burn engines. Since the system is usually subject to external disturbances and uncertainties, a high level of robustness in AFR control design must be considered. We propose a fuzzy sliding‐mode control (FSMC) to track the desired AFR in the presence of periodic disturbances. The proposed method is model free and does not need any system characteristics. Based on the fuzzy system input–output data, two scaling factors are first employed to normalize the sliding surface and its derivative. According to the concept of the if‐then rule, an appropriate rule table for the logic system is designed. Then, based on Lyapunov stability criteria, the output scaling factor is determined such that the closed‐loop stability of the internal dynamics with uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) performance is guaranteed. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control scheme are evaluated under various operating conditions. The baseline controllers, namely, a PI controller with Smith predictor and sliding‐mode controller, are also used to compare with the proposed FSMC. It is shown that the proposed FSMC has superior regulation performance compared to the baseline controllers.
Transgenic SCs expressing GDNF‐IRES‐DsRed impair nerve regeneration within acellular nerve allografts
Authors: Ee Xueping , Yan Ying , Hunter Daniel A. , Schellhardt Lauren , Sakiyama‐Elbert Shelly E. , Mackinnon Susan E. , Wood Matthew D.
Published: May 2017

Providing temporally regulated glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) to injured nerve can promote robust axon regeneration. However, it is poorly understood why providing highly elevated levels of GDNF to nerve can lead to axon entrapment in the zone containing elevated GDNF. This limited understanding represents an obstacle to the translation of GDNF therapies to treat nerve injuries clinically. Here, we investigated how transgenic Schwann cells (SCs) overexpressing GDNF‐IRES‐DsRed impact nerve regeneration. Cultured primary SCs were transduced with lentiviruses (GDNF‐overexpressing transgenic SCs), one of which provides the capability to express high levels of GDNF and regulate temporal GDNF expression. These SC groups were transplanted into acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) bridging a 14 mm rat sciatic nerve defect. GDNF‐overexpressing transgenic SCs expressing GDNF for as little as 1 week decreased axon regeneration across ANAs and caused extensive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. To determine whether additional gene expression changes beyond GDNF transgene expression occurred in GDNF‐overexpressing transgenic SCs, microarray analysis of GDNF‐overexpressing transgenic SCs compared to untreated SCs was performed. Microarray analysis revealed a set of common genes regulated in transgenic SC groups expressing high levels of GDNF compared to untreated SCs. A co‐culture model of GDNF‐overexpressing transgenic SCs with fibroblasts (FBs) revealed differential FB ECM‐related gene expression compared to untreated SCs. These data suggest a component of axon entrapment is independent of GDNF's impact on axons. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2121–2130. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light‐emitting Diode Using a Novel Starburst‐type Donor and Acceptor Material as a Co‐host
Authors: Cha Jae‐Ryung , Lee Chil Won , Gong Myoung‐Seon
Published: May 2017

Starburst‐type hole‐transporting and electron‐transporting materials, tris(3‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)phenyl)amine (
TmCTA
), 2,4,6‐tri([1,1′‐biphenyl]‐3‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (1), 2,4,6‐tris(3′‐methyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐3‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (2), and 2,4,6‐tris(3′,5′‐dimethyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐3‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (3) having high triplet energies and excellent thermal stabilities were synthesized. Deposited films of
TmCTA
, with 1, 2, or 3 as hosts, were doped with the blue phosphorescent dopant bis[2‐(4,6‐difluorophenyl)pyridinato‐C2
,N](picolinato)iridium(III) (FIrpic) and their device characteristics were evaluated. In co‐deposited films, the molecular weight ratio of
TmCTA
to 1, 2, or 3 was 1: 1, and these co‐hosts formed exciplexes. By comparison with those of single‐host systems, the PL spectra of the co‐deposited films were red‐shifted, suggesting that exciplexes are formed by the two constituent molecules. When doped with 10% FIrpic,
TmCTA
:1 device showed an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 14.56% (maximum 16.46%) at 1000 cd/m2; similar results were obtained for the remaining films. The EQE roll‐offs in the co‐host systems are much smaller than those of single‐host device using
TmCTA
.
1H‐NMR‐based Metabolomic Study of Miamiensis avidus‐infected Olive Flounder
Authors: Yoon Dahye , Yoon Changshin , Choi Hyeonsoo , Noh Hyeonkyung , Ok Youngjun , Kim Do‐Hyung , Kim Heui‐Soo , Kim Suhkmann
Published: May 2017

The scuticociliate Miamiensis avidus (M. avidus) is an aetiological agent of mass mortalities in cultured fish worldwide. The external signs of infection by this histiophagous parasite are hemorrhage, muscle ulceration, and exophthalmia. In this study, we infected olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) with M. avidus under laboratory conditions, and used
1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to detect the metabolomic alterations during the infection. Multivariate data analysis showed that there were distinct differences in metabolomes between the control and the infected groups. Analysis of the metabolomic changes indicated that the olive flounder experienced severe metabolic shifts to anaerobic respiration and hypoxia.
Rest and exercise hemodynamic and metabolic findings in active duty soldiers referred for cardiac catheterization to exclude heart disease: Insights from past invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing using multisensor high fidelity catheters
Authors: Watts James A. , Kelly Faith R. , Bauch Terry D. , Murgo Joseph P. , Rubal Bernard. J.
Published: May 2017

Objective

This study describes results of iCPET from the past, which used submaximal stress and multisensor high‐fidelity catheters to exclude heart disease in a unique population of young adults.

Background

There has been resurgence in comprehensive hemodynamic evaluation of complex cardiovascular patients. Although dynamic assessments during cardiac catheterization have become commonplace, there remains limited information regarding left and right heart hemodynamic changes during supine exercise in young adults.

Methods

The study population was derived from a retrospective review of catheterization records at Brooke Army Medical Center for active duty patients (ages: 19–40 years) in whom hemodynamic waveforms were obtained with multisensor high‐fidelity catheters and supine exercise testing (53.1 ± 12.6 watts) and angiography performed to exclude heart disease. We report findings from 41 males and 1 female (ages: 19–40 years) found free of heart disease.

Results

Submaximal exercise was associated with ≈ fourfold (P < 0.001) increase in minute ventilation (VE), O2 consumption (VO2) and carbon dioxide production (VCO2). VE/VCO2 ratio decreased (−16.8 ± 13.9%, P < 0.001) and VE/VCO2 slope was 22.6 ± 0.6 (±SE). Cardiac index (CI) increased with VO2 (ΔCI/ΔVO2 slope = 7.6 ± 2.2). Heart rate increased nearly 10 bpm per 100 mL O2/min/M2, whereas, changes in stroke volume were more variable. Pulmonary artery (PA) saturations fell from 77 to 55% (P < 0.001). No change was noted in mean right atrial pressures; PA pressures increased ≈10 mm Hg (P < 0.001). Pulmonary capillary wedge and left ventricular end‐diastolic pressures increased ≈2 mm Hg (P < 0.001) but variability noted between individuals.

Conclusion

This study provides insight into past practices of invasive cardiopulmonary testing and furthers the understanding of metabolic and hemodynamic changes in a young population during supine submaximal exercise. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of long‐term mortality according to obesity in patients with successful percutaneous chronic total occlusion interventions using drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Won Ki‐Bum , Yoon Hyuck‐Jun , Lee Sang‐Gon , Cho Yun‐Kyeong , Nam Chang‐Wook , Hur Seung‐Ho , Lee Seung‐Whan , Lee Pil‐Hyung , Ahn Jung‐Min , Park Duk‐Woo , Kang Soo‐Jin , Kim Young‐Hak , Lee Cheol‐Whan , Park Seong‐Wook , Park Seung‐Jung
Published: May 2017

Objective

To evaluate the long‐term mortality according to obesity in patients with chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions after successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Despite the potential impact of coronary revascularization and lesion severity on the obesity paradox, the long‐term survival according to obesity in CTO patients after successful PCI has been unknown.

Methods and results

Between January 2003 and September 2014, we examined 1,172 consecutive Korean patients with 1,190 CTO lesions who underwent successful drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation in two tertiary academic medical centers. The primary and secondary endpoints were all‐cause and cardiac death, respectively. Obesity was defined as a body mass index ≥25.0 kg/m2, based on the criteria for Asians. The median follow‐up time was 4.4 years. The prevalence of obesity was 54.4%. During the follow‐up periods, the occurrence of all‐cause (6.1 vs. 10.7%) and cardiac death (3.8 vs. 6.7%) was lower in obese patients than in non‐obese patients (P <0.05, respectively). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that obese patients had lower cumulative rates of all‐cause and cardiac death than did non‐obese patients (log‐rank P <0.05, respectively). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that age ≥65 years (hazard ratio [HR], 3.62), diabetes mellitus (HR, 1.94), renal dysfunction (HR, 7.03), systolic heart failure (HR, 2.61), and obesity (HR, 0.58) were associated with all‐cause death (P <0.05). Multivariate Cox regression models showed that high BMI was independently associated with the decreased risk of all‐cause death.

Conclusions

Obese patients appear to have a lower long‐term mortality than do non‐obese patients in CTO after successful PCI using DES. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stable Performance of Aluminum‐Metal Battery by Incorporating Lithium‐Ion Chemistry
Authors: Yoo Dong‐Joo , Kim Joo‐Seong , Shin Jaeho , Kim Ki Jae , Choi Jang Wook
Published: May 2017

Based on the recent discovery of the ionic liquid involving the AlCl4−‐Al2Cl7− redox couple as an electrolyte, aluminum (Al) rechargeable batteries have received revamped interest. However, the corrosive nature of the chloride ion and Al2Cl7− makes it challenging to find suitable current collectors and cathode materials. Here, we screen various metals and carbon materials as current collectors, and indeed find that none of the metals commonly used for battery current collectors is stable against corrosion from the electrolyte. Only pyrolytic graphite is stable, but exhibits undesired AlCl4− intercalation at 1.7 V vs. Al/Al3+. The addition of lithium chloride (LiCl) salt to the electrolyte not only eliminates AlCl4− intercalation through Li−AlCl4− coordination, but also extends the stable voltage window to 2.3 V vs. Al/Al3+. Moreover, the incorporation of Li ions allows us to engage the established LiFePO4 olivine cathode in Li‐ion batteries. This Al−Li hybrid cell exhibits an operation voltage of 1.3 V with robust cyclability (83.4 % retention after 400 cycles) and minimal self‐discharge. This series of results suggest that proper employment of Li‐ion chemistry can improve the electrochemical performance and safety of Al rechargeable batteries.
Tuning the Sensitivity of Fluorescent Porphyrin Dimers to Viscosity and Temperature
Authors: Vyšniauskas Aurimas , Ding Dong , Qurashi Maryam , Boczarow Igor , Balaz Milan , Anderson Harry L. , Kuimova Marina K.
Published: May 2017

Conjugated porphyrin dimers have emerged as versatile viscosity‐sensitive fluorophores that are suitable for quantitative measurements of microscopic viscosity by ratiometric and fluorescence lifetime‐based methods, in a concentration‐independent manner. Here, we investigate the effect of extended conjugation in a porphyrin‐dimer structure on their ability to sense viscosity and temperature. We show that the sensitivity of the fluorescence lifetime to temperature is a unique property of only a few porphyrin dimers.
Unraveling the Multistimuli Responses of a Complex Dynamic System of Pseudopeptidic Macrocycles
Authors: Valdivielso Angel M. , Puig‐Castellví Francesc , Atcher Joan , Solà Jordi , Tauler Romà , Alfonso Ignacio
Published: May 2017

Dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs) are excellent benchmark models to study the stimuli‐responsiveness of chemical networks. However, increasingly complex systems are difficult to analyze with simple data analysis methods, because many variables and connections must be considered for their full understanding. Here we propose the use of multivariate data analysis methods to bisect the evolution of a complex synthetic dynamic library of pseudopeptidic macrocycles, containing side chains with charges of different sign. Several stimuli (ionic strength, pH and the presence of a biogenic polyamine) were applied to the same dynamic chemical mixture, and the adaptation of the whole system was characterized by HPLC and analyzed with principal component analysis (PCA) and multivariate curve resolution‐alternating least squares (MCR‐ALS) methods. Both multivariate data analysis chemometric approaches are an excellent combination to extract both qualitative and semi‐quantitative information about the adaptive process of the library upon the action of each stimulus. The resolution of the system with these chemometric tools proved to be especially useful when two inter‐connected stimuli were combined in the same dynamic system. Our results demonstrate the utility of these two approaches for the analysis of complex dynamic chemical systems and open the way toward the application of these powerful tools in the emergent field of systems chemistry.
Structural Dependence of Competitive Adsorption of Water and Methanol on TiO2 Surfaces
Authors: Wang Zhengming , Xiong Feng , Sun Guanghui , Jin Yuekang , Huang Weixin
Published: May 2017

Employing TiO2 anatase (001)‐(1 × 4), rutile (110) and rutile (011)‐(2 × 1) single crystal surfaces, we comprehensively studied the effects of TiO2 surface structures on the competitive adsorption of water and methanol by means of low energy electron diffraction, thermal desorption spectra and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The relative adsorption strengths of chemisorbed methanol and water vary with the TiO2 surface structures and the adsorption sites. This leads to TiO2 surface structure‐dependent competitive adsorption of water and methanol. The chemisorption of CH3OH on TiO2 anatase (001)‐(1 × 4) surface is seldom affected by pre‐covered water at low coverages but is affected by pre‐covered water at high coverages; the chemisorption of CH3OH on TiO2 rutile (110) surface is seldom affected by pre‐covered water; and the chemisorption of CH3OH on TiO2 rutile (011)‐(2 × 1) surface is affected by pre‐covered water even at low coverages. These results deepen the fundamental understandings of surface chemistry on TiO2 surfaces.
Effect of Sodium on the Structure‐Performance Relationship of Co/SiO2 for Fischer‐Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Dai Yuanyuan , Yu Fei , Li Zhengjia , An Yunlei , Lin Tiejun , Yang Yanzhang , Zhong Liangshu , Wang Hui , Sun Yuhan
Published: May 2017

A series of Co/SiO2 catalysts with different sodium (Na) loadings (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 wt%) were prepared and evaluated for Fischer‐Tropsch reaction to study the effect of Na on the catalyst structure and catalytic performance. The addition of Na was found to decrease the catalytic activity and hydrocarbon selectivity, but increase CO2 selectivity due to the enhanced WGS activity. The addition of Na also resulted in higher selectivity to oxygenates (alcohols and aldehydes) and O/P ratio as well as the shift of hydrocarbons to lower carbon numbers. Structure characterization revealed a decrease in the surface area and particles size for the calcined samples with the addition of Na. Co2C was formed during the reaction process for the Na‐promoted catalysts. As a result, a new Co/Co2C bifunctional active sites were generated for oxygenates formation leading to increasing oxygenates selectivity. In addition, the Co2C nanoparticles alone may also act as dual active sites for oxygenate formation at high reaction pressure over the promoted catalysts with high Na loading.
Supramolecular Hydrogels of Indole‐Capped Short Peptides as Vaccine Adjuvants
Authors: Wang Zhongyan , Cai Yanbin , Yi Linan , Gao Jie , Yang Zhimou
Published: May 2017

Many materials as immune adjuvant are researched to help raise immnogenicity of subunit vaccines. Among them, peptide‐based hydrogels are gradually coming into notice because of their application in drugs delivery, cancer cell inhibition, vaccine adjuvants and detection of important analytes. In this work, we introduced a novel aromatic capping group based on indole to construct short peptide‐based supramolecular hydrogelators Indol‐GFFY and Indol‐GDFDFDY and demonstrated their potential applications as vaccine adjuvants.
Impact of the environment on cancer: Seeing the forest for the trees
Authors: Gomez Scarlett Lin , Shariff‐Marco Salma , Cheng Iona , Reynolds Peggy
Published: May 2017

The study by Jagai et al. is a valuable resource for researchers to focus on better understanding associations between environmental quality and cancer incidence, as well as for policy makers to target specific regions and environmental factors within those regions to reduce the burden of cancer in the United States. This study also demonstrates the value of environmental geospatial data, a key tool that provides the empirical scientific evidence base to allow scientists to identify disease‐contributing factors and identify vulnerable communities.

See also pages 2901‐8.
Color loci placemaking: The urban color between needs of continuity and renewal
Authors: Boeri Cristina
Published: May 2017

The article presents the theoretical framework and the operational concepts of a research, finalized to explore and verify the prerequisites of an approach to urban color that, while recognizing to color the flexible as well as transient capacity to respond to the successive and multiple demands that characterize the urban space, sees a possible way of coexisting between the needs of continuity and renewal. Searching to understand the modalities and possibilities through which colour can intervene in the processes of transformation of the city to support both the needs of resignification and reappropriation and those of conservation and enhancement of the vital identity of each single place, the research looked on one side to the experiences gained within the colour plans and Lenclos' geography of colour and on the other side to the different and diversified experiences developed within the idea and practice of placemaking, aimed at the recognition and enhancement of the collective and plural creative dimension that colour seems effectively able to interpret. The term “color loci placemaking” was introduced to summarize this mode/possibility of understanding and approaching urban color, characterized especially by the attention for the specificity of each single place and the human factor underpinning place‐experience.
Influence of vehicle on historical pigments colour
Authors: Gueli Anna M. , Pasquale Stefania , Troja Sebastiano O.
Published: May 2017

The colour of a paint layer is determined by the pigments mixed with a vehicle and painted on a support. According to their chemical nature, the vehicles are substances that, after drying or hardening, produce an uniform and homogeneous layer. With the aim of quantifying the influence of the medium on the specification of the painting colour, we realized samples of paintings. We considered pigments and dyes of the artist's hues using the vehicles typical of ancient times: oils (especially linseed and poppy oils), casein and egg yolk, mixed according to old recipes. Measurements were performed by reflectance spectrophotometry observing the Spectral Reflectance Factor (%SRF) trend and calculating colour changes. The colorimetric study was carried out in the CIELAB colour space related to the CIE 1964 standard observer and with the D65 illuminant. The results were evaluated also on the basis of the distribution of pigment particles on paint layers observed by scanning electron microscopy.