bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Role of Squared Neutron Number in Reducing Nuclear Binding Energy in the Light of Electromagnetic, Weak and Nuclear Gravitational Constants – A Review
Authors: Seshavatharam U. V. S. , Lakshminarayana S.
Published: June 2020

With reference to authors recently proposed three virtual atomic gravitational constants and nuclear elementary charge, close to stable mass numbers, it is possible to show that, squared neutron number plays a major role in reducing nuclear binding energy. In this context, Z=30 onwards, ‘inverse of the strong coupling constant’, can be inferred as a representation of the maximum strength of nuclear interaction and 10.09 MeV can be considered as a characteristic nuclear binding energy coefficient. Coulombic energy coefficient being 0.695 MeV, semi empirical mass formula - volume, surface, asymmetric and pairing energy coefficients can be shown to be 15.29 MeV, 15.29 MeV, 23.16 MeV and 10.09 MeV respectively. Volume and Surface energy terms can be represented with (A-A2/3-1)*15.29 MeV. With reference to nuclear potential of 1.162 MeV and coulombic energy coefficient, close to stable mass numbers, nuclear binding energy can be fitted with two simple terms having an effective binding energy coefficient of  [10.09-(1.162+0.695)/2] = 9.16 MeV. Nuclear binding energy can also be fitted with five terms having a single energy coefficient of 10.09 MeV. With further study, semi empirical mass formula can be simplified with respect to strong coupling constant.
Study of Energy of Formation for FexNi1-x Liquid Binary Alloys
Authors: S. Chowdhury M. S. , A. Rashid Mohammad , Rahman M. A. , Ziauddin Ahmed A. Z.
Published: June 2020

In this present study we have systematically calculated the free energy of formation for FexNi1-x binary alloys at a thermodynamic state T = 1920 K. A microscopic theory bases on first order perturbation theory along with a reference hard sphere liquid has been applied. The interionic interaction is described by Bretonnet-Silbert local pseudopotential that capable of takes into account the s-d hybridization in electro-ion interaction in transition metals. The effective hard sphere diameters have been determined using linearized Weeks-Chandler-Andersen (LWCA) perturbation theory and the partial structure calculated in line with Ashcroft and Langreths original work. The calculated theoretical value and available experimental data for free energy of formation are in agreement quite satisfactorily.
Methodology of master planning in the design of People's Commune‐Case study on the plan of Weixing Commune, Suiping County, Zhumadian City, Henan Province‐
Authors: Yu Fei , Nakatani Norihito
Published: June 2020

This study aims to grasp the process of modernization in rural China during a period of social transformation that saw the overlapping of Communism and Modernism. Founded in 1958, Weixing Commune was the first funded People's Commune and a group of architectural professionals participated in its design. The analysis of the concept and planning method of Weixing commune clearly indicates that, when facing the task of designing the commune in the 1950s under the communist ideology, the design group tried to adapt the concept of modern urban planning from the west.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Patient Education Tools for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Lopez‐Olivo Maria A. , Lin Heather , Rizvi Tara , Barbo Barthel Andrea , Ingleshwar Aparna , des Bordes Jude K. A. , Jibaja‐Weiss Maria , Volk Robert J. , Suarez‐Almazor Maria E.
Published: June 2020

Objective

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of 2 educational tools for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by comparing a newly developed video tool, including storylines and testimonials, combined with a written booklet to the same written booklet alone.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial. Our primary outcome was disease knowledge. Secondary outcomes were decisional conflict, self‐efficacy, effective health care management, and satisfaction. Outcomes were measured before and after reviewing the materials, and 3 and 6 months later. Linear mixed‐effects models were performed to evaluate changes over time.

Results

In total, 221 participants received an educational video and booklet (n = 111) or a booklet alone (n = 110). The mean age was 50.8 years, mean disease duration was 4.8 years, 85% were female, and 24% had limited health literacy levels. Within groups, most outcomes improved between baseline and follow‐up, but there were no statistically significant differences across groups. Patients receiving the video and booklet were more likely than those receiving the booklet alone to rate the presentation as excellent for providing information about the impact of RA, medication options, evidence about medications, benefits of medication, and self‐care options. Factors significantly associated with greater improvements in knowledge and decisional conflict from baseline to 6 months included limited health literacy, lower educational level, and shorter disease duration.

Conclusion

Regardless of the delivery method, outcomes were improved up to 6 months after educational materials were delivered. Our findings support the implementation of self‐administered educational materials in clinical settings, as they can result in sustained improvements in disease knowledge and decisional conflict.
Fabrication of MAPbBr3 Single Crystal p‐n Photodiode and n‐p‐n Phototriode for Sensitive Light Detection Application
Authors: Liang Feng‐Xia , Jiang Jing‐Jing , Zhao Yao‐Zu , Zhang Zhi‐Xiang , Wu Di , Zeng Long‐Hui , Tsang Yuen Hong , Luo Lin‐Bao
Published: June 2020

In this study, MAPbBr3 single crystal (MSC) p‐n perovskite homojunction photodiode and n‐p‐n phototriode are successfully fabricated through controlled incorporation of Bi3+ ions in solution. Optoelectronic analysis reveals that the photodiode shows typical photovoltaic behavior and the best photovoltaic performance can be achieved when the n‐type MSC is grown in 0.3% Bi3+ feed solution. The as‐assembled p‐n MSC photovoltaic detector displays obvious sensitivity to 520 nm illumination, with a high responsivity of up to 0.62 A W‐1 and a specific detectivity of 2.16 × 1012 Jones, which surpass many those of MSC photodetectors previously reported. Further performance optimization can be realized by constructing an n‐p‐n phototriode using the same growth method. The photocurrent magnification rate of the as‐fabricated n‐p‐n phototriode can reach a maximum value of 2.9 × 103. Meanwhile, a higher responsivity of 14.47 A W‐1, specific detectivity of 4.67 × 1013 Jones, and an external quantum efficiency of up to 3.46 × 103 are achieved under an emitter–collector bias of 8 V. These results confirm that the present p‐n and n‐p‐n MSC homojunctions are promising device configurations, which may find potential application in future optoelectronic devices and systems.
Transient Support from Fibroblasts is Sufficient to Drive Functional Vascularization in Engineered Tissues
Authors: Song Hyun‐Ho Greco , Lammers Alex , Sundaram Subramanian , Rubio Logan , Chen Amanda X. , Li Linqing , Eyckmans Jeroen , Bhatia Sangeeta N. , Chen Christopher S.
Published: June 2020

Formation of capillary blood vasculature is a critical requirement for native as well as engineered organs and can be induced in vitro by coculturing endothelial cells with fibroblasts. However, whether these fibroblasts are required only in the initial morphogenesis of endothelial cells or needed throughout is unknown, and the ability to remove these stromal cells after assembly can be useful for clinical translation. In this study, a technique termed CAMEO (Controlled Apoptosis in Multicellular Tissues for Engineered Organogenesis) is introduced, whereby fibroblasts are selectively ablated on demand, and it is utilized to probe the dispensability of fibroblasts in vascular morphogenesis. The presence of fibroblasts is shown to be necessary only during the first few days of endothelial cell morphogenesis, after which they can be ablated without significantly affecting the structural and functional features of the developed vasculature. Furthermore, the use of CAMEO to vascularize a construct containing primary human hepatocytes that improved tissue function is demonstrated. In conclusion, this study suggests that transient, initial support from fibroblasts is sufficient to drive vascular morphogenesis in engineered tissues, and this strategy of engineering‐via‐elimination may provide a new general approach for achieving desired functions and cell compositions in engineered organs.
Bench‐to‐Bedside Lessons Learned: Commercialization of an Acellular Nerve Graft
Authors: Kasper Mary , Deister Curt , Beck Florence , Schmidt Christine E.
Published: June 2020

Peripheral nerve injury can result in debilitating outcomes including loss of function and neuropathic pain. Although nerve repair research and therapeutic development are widely studied, translation of these ideas into clinical interventions has not occurred at the same rate. At the turn of this century, approaches to peripheral nerve repair have included microsurgical techniques, hollow conduits, and autologous nerve grafts. These methods provide satisfactory results; however, they possess numerous limitations that can prevent effective surgical treatment. Commercialization of Avance, a processed nerve allograft, sought to address limitations of earlier approaches by providing an off‐the‐shelf alternative to hollow conduits while maintaining many proregenerative properties of autologous grafts. Since its launch in 2007, Avance has changed the landscape of the nerve repair market and is used to treat tens of thousands of patients. Although Avance has become an important addition to surgeon and patient clinical options, the product's journey from bench to bedside took over 20 years with many research and commercialization challenges. This article reviews the events that have brought a processed nerve allograft from the laboratory bench to the patient bedside. Additionally, this review provides a perspective on lessons and considerations that can assist in translation of future medical products.
Polymeric Nanocarriers with Controlled Chain Flexibility Boost mRNA Delivery In Vivo through Enhanced Structural Fastening
Authors: Miyazaki Takuya , Uchida Satoshi , Nagatoishi Satoru , Koji Kyoko , Hong Taehun , Fukushima Shigeto , Tsumoto Kouhei , Ishihara Kazuhiko , Kataoka Kazunori , Cabral Horacio
Published: June 2020

Messenger RNA (mRNA) shows high therapeutic potential, though effective delivery systems are still needed for boosting its application. Nanocarriers loading mRNA via polyion complexation with block catiomers into core‐shell micellar structures are promising systems for enhancing mRNA delivery. Engineering the interaction between mRNA and catiomers through polymer design can promote the development of mRNA‐loaded micelles (mRNA/m) with increased delivery efficiency. Particularly, the polycation chain rigidity may critically affect the mRNA‐catiomer interplay to yield potent nanocarriers, yet its effect remains unknown. Herein, the influence of polycation stiffness on the performance of mRNA/m by developing block complementary catiomers having polycation segments with different flexibility, that is, poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(glycidylbutylamine) (PEG‐PGBA) and PEG‐poly(L‐lysine) (PEG‐PLL) is studied. PEG‐PGBA allows more than 50‐fold stronger binding to mRNA than the relatively more rigid PEG‐PLL, resulting in mRNA/m with enhanced protection against enzymatic attack and polyanions. mRNA/m from PEG‐PGBA significantly enhances mRNA in vivo bioavailability and increased protein translation, indicating the importance of controlling polycation flexibility for forming stable polyion complexes with mRNA toward improved delivery.
Fiber‐Reinforced Viscoelastomers Show Extraordinary Crack Resistance That Exceeds Metals
Authors: Cui Wei , King Daniel R. , Huang Yiwan , Chen Liang , Sun Tao Lin , Guo Yunzhou , Saruwatari Yoshiyuki , Hui Chung‐Yuen , Kurokawa Takayuki , Gong Jian Ping
Published: June 2020

Soft fiber‐reinforced polymers (FRPs), consisting of rubbery matrices and rigid fabrics, are widely utilized in industry because they possess high specific strength in tension while allowing flexural deformation under bending or twisting. Nevertheless, existing soft FRPs are relatively weak against crack propagation due to interfacial delamination, which substantially increases their risk of failure during use. In this work, a class of soft FRPs that possess high specific strength while simultaneously showing extraordinary crack resistance are developed. The strategy is to synthesize tough viscoelastic matrices from acrylate monomers in the presence of woven fabrics, which generates soft composites with a strong interface and interlocking structure. Such composites exhibit fracture energy, Γ, of up to 2500 kJ m−2, exceeding the toughest existing materials. Experimental elucidation shows that the fracture energy obeys a simple relation, Γ = W · lT, where W is the volume‐weighted average of work of extension at fracture of the two components and lT is the force transfer length that scales with the square root of fiber/matrix modulus ratio. Superior Γ is achieved through a combination of extraordinarily large lT (10–100 mm), resulting from the extremely high fiber/matrix modulus ratios (104–105), and the maximized energy dissipation density, W. The elucidated quantitative relationship provides guidance toward the design of extremely tough soft composites.
Air‐Stable Organic Radicals: New‐Generation Materials for Flexible Electronics?
Authors: Ji Lei , Shi Junqing , Wei Juan , Yu Tao , Huang Wei
Published: June 2020

In the last few years, air‐stable organic radicals and radical polymers have attracted tremendous attention due to their outstanding performance in flexible electronic devices, including transistors, batteries, light‐emitting diodes, thermoelectric and photothermal conversion devices, and among many others. The main issue of radicals from laboratory studies to real‐world applications is that the number of known air‐stable radicals is very limited, and the radicals that have been used as materials are even less. Here, the known and newly developed air‐stable organic radicals are summarized, generalizing the way of observing air‐stable radicals. The special electric and photophysical properties of organic radicals and radical polymers are interpreted, which give radicals a wide scope for various of potential applications. Finally, the exciting applications of radicals that have been achieved in flexible electronic devices are summarized. The aim herein is to highlight the recent achievements in radicals in chemistry, materials science, and flexible electronics, and further bridge the gap between these three disciplines.
Stable and Biocompatible Carbon Nanotube Ink Mediated by Silk Protein for Printed Electronics
Authors: Liang Xiaoping , Li Haifang , Dou Jinxin , Wang Qi , He Wenya , Wang Chunya , Li Donghang , Lin Jin‐Ming , Zhang Yingying
Published: June 2020

Ink‐based processes, which enable scalable fabrication of flexible devices based on nanomaterials, are one of the practical approaches for the production of wearable electronics. However, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which possess great potential for flexible electronics, are facing challenges for use in inks due to their low dispersity in most solvents and suspicious cytotoxicity. Here, a stable and biocompatible CNT ink, which is stabilized by sustainable silk sericin and free from any artificial chemicals, is reported. The ink shows stability up to months, which can be attributed to the formation of sericin–CNT (SSCNT) hybrid through non‐covalent interactions. It is demonstrated that the SSCNT ink can be used for fabricating versatile circuits on textile, paper, and plastic films through various techniques. As proofs of concept, electrocardiogram electrodes, breath sensors, and electrochemical sensors for monitoring human health and activity are fabricated, demonstrating the great potential of the SSCNT ink for smart wearables.
Crystallization in Confinement
Authors: Meldrum Fiona C. , O'Shaughnessy Cedrick
Published: June 2020

Many crystallization processes of great importance, including frost heave, biomineralization, the synthesis of nanomaterials, and scale formation, occur in small volumes rather than bulk solution. Here, the influence of confinement on crystallization processes is described, drawing together information from fields as diverse as bioinspired mineralization, templating, pharmaceuticals, colloidal crystallization, and geochemistry. Experiments are principally conducted within confining systems that offer well‐defined environments, varying from droplets in microfluidic devices, to cylindrical pores in filtration membranes, to nanoporous glasses and carbon nanotubes. Dramatic effects are observed, including a stabilization of metastable polymorphs, a depression of freezing points, and the formation of crystals with preferred orientations, modified morphologies, and even structures not seen in bulk. Confinement is also shown to influence crystallization processes over length scales ranging from the atomic to hundreds of micrometers, and to originate from a wide range of mechanisms. The development of an enhanced understanding of the influence of confinement on crystal nucleation and growth will not only provide superior insight into crystallization processes in many real‐world environments, but will also enable this phenomenon to be used to control crystallization in applications including nanomaterial synthesis, heavy metal remediation, and the prevention of weathering.
Propagation Control of Octahedral Tilt in SrRuO3 via Artificial Heterostructuring
Authors: Jeong Seung Gyo , Han Gyeongtak , Song Sehwan , Min Taewon , Mohamed Ahmed Yousef , Park Sungkyun , Lee Jaekwang , Jeong Hu Young , Kim Young‐Min , Cho Deok‐Yong , Choi Woo Seok
Published: June 2020

Bonding geometry engineering of metal–oxygen octahedra is a facile way of tailoring various functional properties of transition metal oxides. Several approaches, including epitaxial strain, thickness, and stoichiometry control, have been proposed to efficiently tune the rotation and tilt of the octahedra, but these approaches are inevitably accompanied by unnecessary structural modifications such as changes in thin‐film lattice parameters. In this study, a method to selectively engineer the octahedral bonding geometries is proposed, while maintaining other parameters that might implicitly influence the functional properties. A concept of octahedral tilt propagation engineering is developed using atomically designed SrRuO3/SrTiO3 (SRO/STO) superlattices. In particular, the propagation of RuO6 octahedral tilt within the SRO layers having identical thicknesses is systematically controlled by varying the thickness of adjacent STO layers. This leads to a substantial modification in the electromagnetic properties of the SRO layer, significantly enhancing the magnetic moment of Ru. This approach provides a method to selectively manipulate the bonding geometry of strongly correlated oxides, thereby enabling a better understanding and greater controllability of their functional properties.
Facilitating Interfacial Stability Via Bilayer Heterostructure Solid Electrolyte Toward High‐energy, Safe and Adaptable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Sun Jianqi , Yao Xiangming , Li Yaogang , Zhang Qinghong , Hou Chengyi , Shi Qiuwei , Wang Hongzhi
Published: June 2020

Solid‐state electrolytes are widely anticipated to enable the revival of high energy density and safe metallic Li batteries, however, their lower ionic conductivity at room temperature, stiff interfacial contact, and severe polarization during cycling continue to pose challenges in practical applications. Herein, a dual‐composite concept is applied to the design of a bilayer heterostructure solid electrolyte composed of Li+ conductive garnet nanowires (Li6.75La3Zr1.75Nb0.25O12)/polyvinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP) as a tough matrix and modified metal organic framework particles/polyethylene oxide/PVDF‐HFP as an interfacial gel. The integral ionic conductivity of the solid electrolyte reaches 2.0 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature. In addition, a chemically/electrochemically stable interface is rapidly formed, and Li dendrites are well restrained by a robust inorganic shield and matrix. As a result, steady Li plating/stripping for more than 1700 h at 0.25 mA cm−2 is achieved. Solid‐state batteries using this bilayer heterostructure solid electrolyte deliver promising battery performance (efficient capacity output and cycling stability) at ambient temperature (25 °C). Moreover, the pouch cells exhibit considerable flexibility in service and unexpected endurance under a series of extreme abuse tests including hitting with a nail, burning, immersion under water, and freezing in liquid nitrogen.
The Synergism of DMSO and Diethyl Ether for Highly Reproducible and Efficient MA0.5FA0.5PbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Yi , Chen Min , Zhou Yuanyuan , Li Wenhao , Lee Yonghui , Kanda Hiroyuki , Gao Xiao‐Xin , Hu Ruiyuan , Brooks Keith Gregory , Zia Rashid , Kinge Sachin , Padture Nitin P. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: June 2020

Composition and film quality of perovskite are crucial for the further improvement of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), including efficiency, reproducibility, and stability. Here, it is demonstrated that by simply mixing 50% of formamidinium (FA+) into methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3), a highly crystalline, stable phase, and compact, polycrystalline grain morphology perovskite is formed by using a solvent‐mediated phase transformation process via the synergism of dimethyl sulfoxide and diethyl ether, which shows long carrier lifetime, low trap state density, and a record certified 21.8% power conversion efficiency (PCE) in pure‐iodide, alkaline‐metal‐free MA0.5FA0.5PbI3 perovskite‐based PSCs. These PSCs show very high operational stability, with 85% PCE retention upon 1000 h 1 Sun intensity illumination. A 17.33% PCE module (6.5 × 7 cm2) is also demonstrated, attesting to the scalability of such devices.
Regioselective Generation of Single‐Site Iridium Atoms and Their Evolution into Stabilized Subnanometric Iridium Clusters in MWW Zeolite
Authors: Liu Lichen , Lopez‐Haro Miguel , Meira Debora M. , Concepcion Patricia , Calvino Jose J. , Corma Avelino
Published: June 2020

Preparation of supported metal catalysts with uniform particle size and coordination environment is a challenging and important topic in materials chemistry and catalysis. In this work, we report the regioselective generation of single‐site Ir atoms and their evolution into stabilized subnanometric Ir clusters in MWW zeolite, which are located at the 10MR window connecting the two neighboring 12MR supercages. The size of the subnanometric Ir clusters can be controlled by the post‐synthesis treatments and maintain below 1 nm even after being reduced at 650 °C, which cannot be readily achieved with samples prepared by conventional impregnation methods. The high structure sensitivity, size‐dependence, of catalytic performance in the alkane hydrogenolysis reaction of Ir clusters in the subnanometric regime is evidenced.
Beryllium Atom Mediated Dinitrogen Activation via Coupling with Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Deng Guohai , Pan Sudip , Wang Guanjun , Zhao Lili , Zhou Mingfei , Frenking Gernot
Published: June 2020

The reactions of laser‐ablated beryllium atoms with dinitrogen and carbon monoxide mixtures form the end‐on bonded NNBeCO and side‐on bonded (η2‐N2)BeCO isomers in solid argon, which are predicted by quantum chemical calculations to be almost isoenergetic. The end‐on bonded complex has a triplet ground state while the side‐on bonded isomer has a singlet electronic ground state. The complexes rearrange to the energetically lowest lying NBeNCO isomer upon visible light excitation, which is characterized to be an isocyanate complex of a nitrene derivative with a triplet electronic ground state. A bonding analysis using a charge‐ and energy decomposition procedure reveals that the electronic reference state of Be in the NNBeCO isomers has an 2s02p2 excited configuration and that the metal‐ligand bonds can be described in terms of N2→Be←CO σ donation and concomitant N2←Be→CO π backdonation. The results demonstrate that the activation of N2 with the N−N bond being completely cleaved can be achieved via coupling with carbon monoxide mediated by a main group atom.
Platinum‐ and CuOx‐Decorated TiO2 Photocatalyst for Oxidative Coupling of Methane to C2 Hydrocarbons in a Flow Reactor
Authors: Li Xiyi , Xie Jijia , Rao Heng , Wang Chao , Tang Junwang
Published: June 2020

Oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) is considered one of the most promising catalytic technologies to upgrade methane. However, C2 products (C2H6/C2H4) from conventional methane conversion have not been produced commercially owing to competition from overoxidation and carbon accumulation at high temperatures. Herein, we report the codeposition of Pt nanoparticles and CuOx clusters on TiO2 (PC‐50) and use of the resulting photocatalyst for OCM in a flow reactor operated at room temperature under atmospheric pressure for the first time. The optimized Cu0.1Pt0.5/PC‐50 sample showed a highest yield of C2 product of 6.8 μmol h−1 at a space velocity of 2400 h−1, more than twice the sum of the activity of Pt/PC‐50 (1.07 μmol h−1) and Cu/PC‐50 (1.9 μmol h−1), it might also be the highest among photocatalytic methane conversions reported so far under atmospheric pressure. A high C2 selectivity of 60 % is also comparable to that attainable by conventional high‐temperature (>943 K) thermal catalysis. It is proposed that Pt functions as an electron acceptor to facilitate charge separation, while holes could transfer to CuOx to avoid deep dehydrogenation and the overoxidation of C2 products.
Regenerable Covalent Organic Frameworks for Photo‐enhanced Uranium Adsorption from Seawater
Authors: Cui Wei‐Rong , Li Fang‐Fang , Xu Rui‐Han , Zhang Cheng‐Rong , Chen Xiao‐Rong , Yan Run‐Han , Liang Ru‐Ping , Qiu Jian‐Ding
Published: June 2020

Uranium is a key resource for the development of the nuclear industry, and extracting uranium from the natural seawater is one of the most promising ways to address the shortage of uranium resources. Herein, a semiconducting covalent organic framework (named NDA‐TN‐AO) with excellent photocatalytic and photoelectric activities was synthesized. The excellent photocatalytic effect endowed NDA‐TN‐AO with a high anti‐biofouling activity by generating biotoxic reactive oxygen species and promoting photoelectrons to reduce the adsorbed UVI to insoluble UIV, thereby increasing the uranium extraction capacity. Owing to the photoinduced effect, the adsorption capacity of NDA‐TN‐AO to uranium in seawater reaches 6.07 mg g−1, which is 1.33 times of that in dark. The NDA‐TN‐AO with enhanced adsorption capacity is a promising material for extracting uranium from the natural seawater.
Immunological Evaluation of Co‐Assembling a Lipidated Peptide Antigen and Lipophilic Adjuvants: Self‐Adjuvanting Anti‐Breast‐Cancer Vaccine Candidates
Authors: Aiga Taku , Manabe Yoshiyuki , Ito Keita , Chang Tsung‐Che , Kabayama Kazuya , Ohshima Shino , Kametani Yoshie , Miura Ayane , Furukawa Hiroto , Inaba Hiroshi , Matsuura Kazunori , Fukase Koichi
Published: June 2020

Co‐assembling vaccines composed of a lipidated HER2‐derived antigenic CH401 peptide and either a lipophilic adjuvant, Pam3CSK4, α‐GalCer, or lipid A 506, were evaluated as breast cancer vaccine candidates. This vaccine design was aimed to inherit both antigen multivalency and antigen‐specific immunostimulation properties, observed in reported self‐adjuvanting vaccine candidates, by using self‐assembly and adjuvant‐conjugated antigens. Under vaccination concentrations, respective lipophilic adjuvants underwent co‐assembly with lipidated CH401, which boosted the anti‐CH401 IgG and IgM production. In particular, α‐GalCer was responsible for the most significant immune activation. Therefore, the newly developed vaccine design enabled the optimization of adjuvants against the antigenic CH401 peptide in a simple preparatory manner. Overall, the co‐assembling vaccine design opens the door for efficient and practical self‐adjuvanting vaccine development.
From Scientists to Scientists—Moving Angewandte into the Future
Authors: Beck‐Sickinger Annette G. , Carell Thomas , Dehnen Stefanie , Leitner Walter , Schreiner Peter R. , Wennemers Helma
Published: June 2020

On June 4, 2020, an Essay entitled „Organic synthesis–Where now?“ is thirty years old. A reflection on the current state of affairs was published on the website of Angewandte Chemie as an „Accepted Article“. The article should have never been published, and we join the editors of Angewandte Chemie in sincerely apologizing for the offensive and misguided essay.
Anchoring Supramolecular Polymers to Human Red Blood Cells by Combining Dynamic Covalent and Non‐Covalent Chemistries
Authors: Morgese Giulia , de Waal Bas F. M. , Varela‐Aramburu Silvia , Palmans Anja R. A. , Albertazzi Lorenzo , Meijer E. W.
Published: June 2020

Understanding cell/material interactions is essential to design functional cell‐responsive materials. While the scientific literature abounds with formulations of biomimetic materials, only a fraction of them focused on mechanisms of the molecular interactions between cells and material. To provide new knowledge on the strategies for materials/cell recognition and binding, supramolecular benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxamide copolymers bearing benzoxaborole moieties are anchored on the surface of human erythrocytes via benzoxaborole/sialic‐acid binding. This interaction based on both dynamic covalent and non‐covalent chemistries is visualized in real time by means of total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. Exploiting this imaging method, we observe that the functional copolymers specifically interact with the cell surface. An optimal fiber affinity towards the cells as a function of benzoxaborole concentration demonstrates the crucial role of multivalency in these cell/material interactions.
From Scientists to Scientists—Moving Angewandte into the Future
Authors: Beck‐Sickinger Annette G. , Carell Thomas , Dehnen Stefanie , Leitner Walter , Schreiner Peter R. , Wennemers Helma
Published: June 2020

On June 4, 2020, an Essay entitled “Organic synthesis–Where now?” is thirty years old. A reflection on the current state of affairs was published on the website of Angewandte Chemie as an “Accepted Article”. The article should have never been published, and we join the editors of Angewandte Chemie in sincerely apologizing for the offensive and misguided essay.
Design, synthesis, and study of Pd(II) ion‐imprinted functionalized polymer
Authors: Nozari Mohammad , Monier Mohammed , Bashal Ali H.
Published: June 2020

Selective metal ions’ extraction and recovery has various applications in the analytical field. Metal ions need to be extracted, detected, and quantified. For that purpose, ion‐imprinted polymers have earned a great deal of attention during the past two decades. Pd2+ ion‐imprinted hollow silica particles including an isatin Schiff base were prepared by Schiff base condensation of (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and isatin. The prepared Schiff base ligand was coordinated to the target Pd2+ cations, the polymerizable Pd‐complex was set aside to form gel in the company of tetraethoxysilane and the target Pd2+ cations were subsequently removed from the cross‐linked silica network by means of acidified thiourea solution. All materials throughout this synthesis process were investigated utilizing mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, FTIR, and 1H‐NMR. The morphological structure of both Pd2+ ion‐imprinted and non‐ion‐imprinted silica polymer were pictured by scanning electron microscopy. Several batches were studied exploiting both Pd2+ ion‐imprinted and non‐ion‐imprinted silica polymer to test their functionality for selective extraction of Pd2+ cations in multi‐ionic solution of Ni2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, and Pd2+.
Ecofriendly synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives and related heterocycles with anti‐inflammatory activities
Authors: AbdEl‐Azim Mohamed H. M. , Aziz Maged A. , Mouneir Samar M. , EL‐Farargy Ahmed F. , Shehab Wesam S.
Published: June 2020

A versatile, efficient, clean, and facile method was used for the synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives by the one‐pot three‐component condensation reaction of thiobarbituric acid and malononitrile with p‐chlorobenzaldehyde, using Fe3O4 or ZnO or Mn3O4 as nanostructure catalysts. The catalyst could be easily recovered using an external magnet and reused for six cycles with almost a consistent activity. A series of polyheterocyclic compounds containing five and/or six rings fused with each other was designed. The anti‐inflammatory activities for some of the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated. All the synthesized compounds were characterized on the basis of their elemental analyses and spectral data.
Astronomische Nachrichten—Broadband photometry of asteroid 6478 Gault: Activity and morphology
Authors: Borysenko Serhii , Baransky Alexander , Simon Andrii , Vasylenko Volodymyr
Published: June 2020

We present the results of a short observational program of asteroid 6478 Gault using ofVandRJohnson filters realized at the Kyiv Comet Station during January to April 2019. Color indices and distribution of brightness in the comet‐like tail were calculated. We conducted a comparative analysis of circumstances of the asteroid 6478 Gault activity with others morphologically similar active main‐belt asteroids.
Traces matter: Targeted optimization of monoclonal antibody N‐glycosylation based on/by implementing automated high‐throughput trace element screening
Authors: Markert Sven , Torkler Stephanie , Hohmann Katharina , Popp Oliver
Published: June 2020

The use of high‐throughput systems in cell culture process optimization offers various opportunities in biopharmaceutical process development. Here we describe the potential for acceleration and enhancement of product quality optimization and de novo bioprocess design regarding monoclonal antibody N‐glycosylation by using an iterative statistical Design of Experiments (DoE) strategy based on our automated microtiter plate‐based system for suspension cell culture. In our example, the combination of an initial screening of trace metal building blocks with a comprehensive DoE‐based screening of 13 different trace elemental ions at three concentration levels in one run revealed most effective levers for N‐glycan processing and biomass formation. Obtained results served to evaluate optimal concentration ranges and the right supplementation timing of relevant trace elements at shake flask and 2 L bioreactor scale. This setup identified manganese, copper, zinc, and iron as major factors. Manganese and copper acted as inverse key players in N‐glycosylation, showing a positive effect of manganese and a negative effect of copper on glycan maturation in a zinc‐dependent manner. Zinc and iron similarly improved cell growth and biomass formation. These findings allowed determining optimal concentration ranges for all four trace elements to establish control on desired product quality attributes regarding premature afucosylated and mature galactosylated glycan species. Our results demonstrates the power of combining robotics with DoE screening to enhance product quality optimization and to improve process understanding, thus, enabling targeted product quality control.
Splenic artery loops: Potential splenic plexus stimulation sites for neuroimmunomodulatory‐based anti‐inflammatory therapy?
Authors: Cleypool Cindy G. J. , Lotgerink Bruinenberg Dyonne , Roeling Tom , Irwin Eric , Bleys Ronald L. A. W.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The splenic plexus might represent a novel neuroimmunomodulatory therapeutic target as electrical stimulation of this tissue has been shown to have beneficial anti‐inflammatory effects. Tortuous splenic artery segments (splenic artery loops), including their surrounding nerve plexus, have been evaluated as potential stimulation sites in humans. At present, however, our understanding of these loops and their surrounding nerve plexus is incomplete. This study aims to characterize the dimensions of these loops and their surrounding nerve tissue.

Materials and Methods

Six formaldehyde fixed human cadavers were dissected and qualitative and quantitative macro‐ and microscopic data on splenic artery loops and their surrounding nerve plexus were collected.

Results

One or multiple loops were observed in 83% of the studied specimens. These loops, including their surrounding nerve plexus could be easily dissected free circumferentially thereby providing sufficient space for further surgical intervention. The splenic plexus surrounding the loops contained a significant amount of nerves that contained predominantly sympathetic fibers.

Conclusion

The results of this study support that splenic artery loops could represent suitable electrical splenic plexus stimulation sites in humans. Dimensions with respect to loop height and width, provide sufficient space for introduction of surgical instruments and electrode implantation, and, the dissected neurovascular bundles contain a substantial amount of sympathetic nerve tissue. This knowledge may contribute to further development of surgical techniques and neuroelectrode interface design.
Uridine phosphorylase 1 is a novel immune‐related target and predicts worse survival in brain glioma
Authors: Wang Jin , Xu Shihai , Lv Wen , Shi Fei , Mei Shanshan , Shan Aijun , Xu Jianzhong , Yang Ying
Published: June 2020

Uridine phosphorylase 1 (UPP1) has been reported as an oncogene in several malignancies. In glioma, the role of UPP1 remains unclear. This study was performed to explore its role in glioma at transcriptional level. Totally, 998 glioma patients with clinical data were enrolled, including 301 mRNA microarray data from Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) dataset and 697 RNAseq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Statistical analysis was performed with R language. UPP1 expression level was positively correlated with WHO grade of glioma. UPP1 was significantly upregulated in mesenchymal subtype and could serve as a potential biomarker for this subtype. Based on most correlated genes of UPP1, Gene ontology analysis revealed that UPP1 was profoundly associated with immune and inflammatory response. Gene Sets Variation Analysis was further performed and showed that UPP1 was particularly correlated with MHC‐II and LCK, which were mainly associated with activities of antigen‐presenting cells and T cells. Moreover, UPP1 was found to be synergistic with various immune checkpoint members, especially with PD1 pathway and B7‐H3. Finally, Kaplan‐Meier curves revealed that higher UPP1 indicated significantly shorter survival for glioma patients. Taken together, UPP1 played an oncogenic role in glioma via suppressing tumor‐related immune response.
Orphan nuclear receptor RORγ confers doxorubicin resistance in prostate cancer
Authors: Gao Menghan , Guo Lang , Wang Hong , Huang Jialuo , Han Fanghai , Xiang Songtao , Wang Junjian
Published: June 2020

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a malignant tumor with an extremely high prevalence. Doxorubicin is the first‐line clinical treatment for castration‐resistant PCa. Clinically, relapse is almost inevitable due to the cancer cells' increasing resistance to doxorubicin. Our previous studies have revealed that retinoic acid‐related orphan nuclear receptor γ (RORγ) is a key protein for cancer progression and a promising target for PCa therapy. Though, RORγ's role and mechanism in doxorubicin‐resistant PCa remain unclear. To study the mechanism of doxorubicin resistance, we generated a doxorubicin‐resistant PCa cell line C4‐2B (C4‐2B DoxR) in this study, by culturing cells in an increasing doxorubicin concentration. Here, we show that RORγ expression was upregulated in C4‐2B DoxR cells compared with that in normal C4‐2B cells. The RORγ‐stably‐overexpressing PCa cell line constructed by lentiviral transfection showed an obvious improvement in doxorubicin resistance and a trend toward castration resistance. Furthermore, RORγ‐specific small molecule inhibitors XY018, GSK805, and SR2211 can significantly inhibit the proliferation of C4‐2B DoxR cells and promote their apoptosis. Collectively, these results have demonstrated the correlation between the upregulation of RORγ and the development of PCa's doxorubicin resistance, thus providing new ideas for solving the problem of chemotherapy drug resistance in PCa.
Developmental stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and toxicological studies using foldscope microscope
Authors: Yesudhason Beryl Vedha , Selvan Christyraj Johnson Retnaraj Samuel , Ganesan Mijithra , Subbiahanadar Chelladurai Karthikeyan , Venkatachalam Saravanakumar , Ramalingam Arun , Benedict Johnson , Paulraj Vennila Devi , Selvan Christyraj Jackson Durairaj
Published: June 2020

Zebrafish (Danio rerio), is a well‐established vertebrate animal model widely used in developmental biology and toxicological research. In the present study, foldscope is used as an innovative tool to study the developmental stages and toxicological analysis of the zebrafish embryos. Briefly, the developmental stages, such as zygote, cleavage, blastula, gastrula, segmentation, and pharyngula formation are observed and documented using simple foldscope. Toxicological parameters upon exposure to different concentration of ethanol extract of Curcuma longa and its lead compound, ar‐turmerone along with rhodamine B (bio‐coupler) on zebrafish embryos are analyzed upto 72 hr using foldscopes in live condition. The lethal endpoints, such as coagulation, lack of somite formation, non‐detachment of tail, and lack of heartbeat are clearly monitored and documented using foldscope. Bio‐evaluation of test compounds with the aid of foldscope confirms that the toxicity is directly proportional to the concentration. Our results conclude that, ethanol extract of C. longa, ar‐turmerone and rhodamine B exposed embryos remains healthy up to 96, 48, and 24 µg concentrations, respectively. Embryos exposed to higher concentrations become coagulated, however normal physiological active movement of tail lashing and heartbeat are evident in lower concentration exposed embryos. Except coagulation, no other abnormalities are observed and interestingly, the hatching ability is not delayed, when compared with the control embryos. It is confirmed that the test compounds are not highly toxic to zebrafish embryos. Hence it can be used for further analysis, especially for studying the neural‐regeneration and its neuronal development in zebrafish embryos.
High‐Throughput Object Recognition and Sizing in Disperse Systems
Authors: Völp Annika Ricarda , Fessler Felix , Reiner Jasmin , Willenbacher Norbert
Published: June 2020

Size and shape of dispersed objects defines properties of suspensions, emulsions, and foams, such as stability, texture, and flow. Accordingly, a rational product design requires reliable size distribution analysis. This is particularly challenging in dense foams. An endoscopic setup was optimized for bubble imaging minimizing light reflections, uneven illumination, and foam distortion. A software tool was developed detecting large quantities of foam bubbles at dispersed phase fractions up to 93 % from images with spatially varying contrast within minutes based on the template matching algorithm. Reliability of the method is also illustrated for a bimodal glass bead mixture, anisotropic nanocrystals, and emulsion droplets during freezing.
Coffee‐ring‐effect‐induced water scale formation of silicic acid‐containing droplet
Authors: Hayashi Shogo , Kobayashi Tomoki , Saito Noritaka , Nakashima Kunihiko
Published: June 2020

The drying behavior of silicic acid‐containing water droplets on a glass substrate was investigated by using as‐prepared aqueous silica solutions of varying concentrations to simulate water scale‐like formation. The droplets of aqueous silica solution were found to form circumferential solid silica deposits (water scale). Additionally, the drying behavior of the silica droplets was observed under varying temperature and humidity. Optical microscopy images of the deposited material showed thicker deposits in the inner part of the circumference, indicating the so‐called rush‐hour effect and induced by the coffee‐ring effect. Thus, the formation of water scale observed in daily life can be attributed to the coffee‐ring effect. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the as‐prepared water scale consisted of polymerized silica spheres. The hardness of the water scale depended on the amount of silica deposited and the initial concentration of the silica solution. Thus, the formation of water scale in daily life was concluded to occur by two mechanisms: formation of silica spheres by silica polymerization and agglomeration‐deposition by the coffee‐ring effect.
Solution‐Based, Anion‐Doping of Li4Ti5O12 Nanoflowers for Lithium‐Ion Battery Applications
Authors: Salvatore Kenna L. , Lutz Diana M. , Guo Haoyue , Yue Shiyu , Gan Joceline , Tong Xiao , Liu Ping , Takeuchi Esther S. , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Marschilok Amy C. , Wong Stanislaus S.
Published: June 2020

Solution‐based, anionic doping represents a convenient strategy with which to improve upon the conductivity of candidate anode materials such as Li4Ti5O12 (LTO). As such, novel synthetic hydrothermally‐inspired protocols have primarily been devised herein, aimed at the large‐scale production of unique halogen‐doped, micron‐scale, three‐dimensional, hierarchical LTO flower‐like motifs. Although fluorine (F) doping has been explored, the use of chlorine (Cl) dopants is the primary focus here. Several experimental variables, such as dopant amount, lithium hydroxide concentration, and titanium butoxide purity, were probed and perfected. Furthermore, the Cl doping process did not damage the intrinsic LTO morphology. The analysis, based on interpreting a compilation of SEM, XRD, XPS, and TEM‐EDS results, was used to determine an optimized dopant concentration of Cl. Electrochemical tests demonstrated an increased capacity via cycling of 12 % for a Cl‐doped sample as compared with pristine LTO. Moreover, the Cl‐doped LTO sample described in this study exhibited the highest discharge capacity yet reported at an observed rate of 2C for this material at 143mAh g−1. Overall, these data suggest that the Cl dopant likely enhances not only the ion transport capabilities, but also the overall electrical conductivity of our as‐prepared structures. To help explain these favorable findings, theoretical DFT calculations were used to postulate that the electronic conductivity and Li diffusion were likely improved by the presence of increased Ti3+ ion concentration coupled with widening of the Li migration channel.
Cl2 Adsorption and Desorption over Ordered Mesoporous Carbon Materials as an Indicator for Catalytic Phosgene Formation
Authors: Bähr Alexander , Diedenhoven Jelka , Tüysüz Harun
Published: June 2020

The presented work evaluates the implementation of adsorption and desorption experiments with Cl2 over carbon materials towards the development of more active and stable catalysts for industrial phosgene synthesis. By using a soft templating method as a tool, ordered mesoporous carbon materials with tunable porosity, surface area, and degree of graphitization were synthesized and utilized as model system. The Cl2 adsorption/desorption properties of these materials were studied and compared to commercial activated carbon. To draw correlations between Cl2 adsorption/desorption behavior and catalytic performance, the materials were further tested in the phosgene formation in a plug flow reactor. However, the chemical reaction of Cl2 with carbon during the adsorption/desorption experiment hinders a direct correlation.