bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Black Phosphorus‐Based Semiconductor Heterojunctions for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Fulai , Huang Chen , Liu Chu‐Xuan , Shi Rui , Chen Yong
Published: November 2019

Solar‐to‐hydrogen (H2) conversion has been regarded as a sustainable and renewable technique to address aggravated environmental pollution and global energy crisis. The most critical aspect in this technology is to develop highly efficient and stable photocatalysts, especially metal‐free photocatalysts. Recently, black phosphorus (BP), as a rising star 2D nanomaterial, has captured enormous attention in photocatalytic water splitting owing to its widespread optical absorption, adjustable direct band gap, and superior carrier migration characteristics. However, the rapid charge recombination of pristine BP has seriously limited its practical application as photocatalyst. The construction of BP‐based semiconductor heterojunctions has been proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing the separation of photogenerated carriers. This Minireview attempts to summarize the recent progress in BP‐based semiconductor heterojunctions for photocatalytic water splitting, including type‐I and type‐II heterojunctions, Z‐Scheme systems, and multicomponent heterojunctions. Finally, a brief summary and perspective on the challenges and future directions in this field are also provided.
Total Syntheses of 11‐Acetoxy‐4‐deoxyasbestinin D, 4‐Deoxyasbestinin C, Asbestinin‐10, ‐20, ‐21 and ‐23
Authors: Campbell Angus , Som Ian Mat , Wilson Claire , Clark J. Stephen
Published: November 2019

Six members of the asbestinin family of marine diterpene natural products have been synthesized in an efficient and stereoselective manner from a single oxa‐bridged intermediate. Five of these natural products have not been synthesized previously and the structures of four of them have been confirmed as those proposed originally or following revisions to the original structures. The fifth natural product—asbestinin‐21—has been shown to be a diastereomer of the compound that had been proposed previously.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Visible Light Responses of Ti4Cu4‐Oxo Clusters with Mixed Valence Copper Ions
Authors: Hou Simin , Chen Shumei , Zhang Jian , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

In order to extend the absorption spectrum of polyoxo‐titanium clusters into the visible region, two new heterometal‐oxo clusters Ti4CuII2CuI2(μ3‐O)6(benzoate)10(MeCN)4 (PTC‐153) and Ti4CuII2CuI2(μ3‐O)6(benzoate)8(CH3COO)2(MeCN)4 (PTC‐154) were successfully synthesized. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies showed that these two heterometallic Ti4Cu4‐oxo clusters possessed Chinese knot‐shape structure and mixed valence Cu1+/2+ ions. UV‐visible spectroscopy analysis demonstrated that the visible light region absorption of PTC‐153 and PTC‐154 could be significantly enhanced by doping copper. Furthermore, their visible‐light driven photocurrent responses were studied by using samples of PTC‐153 and PTC‐154 as electrode precursors.
Flexible Fragment Growing Boosts Potency of Quorum‐Sensing Inhibitors against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Virulence
Authors: Zender Michael , Witzgall Florian , Kiefer Alexander , Kirsch Benjamin , Maurer Christine K. , Kany Andreas M. , Xu Ningna , Schmelz Stefan , Börger Carsten , Blankenfeldt Wulf , Empting Martin
Published: November 2019

Hit‐to‐lead optimization is a critical phase in drug discovery. Herein, we report on the fragment‐based discovery and optimization of 2‐aminopyridine derivatives as a novel lead‐like structure for the treatment of the dangerous opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We pursue an innovative treatment strategy by interfering with the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) quorum sensing (QS) system leading to an abolishment of bacterial pathogenicity. Our compounds act on the PQS receptor (PqsR), a key transcription factor controlling the expression of various pathogenicity determinants. In this target‐driven approach, we made use of biophysical screening via surface plasmon resonance (SPR) followed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC)‐enabled enthalpic efficiency (EE) evaluation. Hit optimization then involved growth vector identification and exploitation. Astonishingly, the latter was successfully achieved by introducing flexible linkers rather than rigid motifs leading to a boost in activity on the target receptor and anti‐virulence potency.
Systematic spatiotemporal mapping reveals divergent cell death pathways in three mouse models of hereditary retinal degeneration
Authors: Power Michael J. , Rogerson Luke E. , Schubert Timm , Berens Philipp , Euler Thomas , Paquet‐Durand François
Published: November 2019

Calcium (Ca2+) dysregulation has been linked to neuronal cell death, including in hereditary retinal degeneration. Ca2+ dysregulation is thought to cause rod and cone photoreceptor cell death. Spatial and temporal heterogeneities in retinal disease models have hampered validation of this hypothesis. We examined the role of Ca2+ in photoreceptor degeneration, assessing the activation pattern of Ca2+‐dependent calpain proteases, generating spatiotemporal maps of the entire retina in the cpfl1 mouse model for primary cone degeneration, and in the rd1 and rd10 models for primary rod degeneration. We used Gaussian process models to distinguish the temporal sequences of degenerative molecular processes from other variability sources.In the rd1 and rd10 models, spatiotemporal pattern of increased calpain activity matched the progression of primary rod degeneration. High calpain activity coincided with activation of the calpain‐2 isoform but not with calpain‐1, suggesting differential roles for both calpain isoforms. Primary rod loss was linked to upregulation of apoptosis‐inducing factor, although only a minute fraction of cells showed activity of the apoptotic marker caspase‐3. After primary rod degeneration concluded, caspase‐3 activation appeared in cones, suggesting apoptosis as the dominant mechanism for secondary cone loss. Gaussian process models highlighted calpain activity as a key event during primary rod photoreceptor cell death. Our data suggest a causal link between Ca2+ dysregulation and primary, nonapoptotic degeneration of photoreceptors and a role for apoptosis in secondary degeneration of cones, highlighting the importance of the spatial and temporal location of key molecular events, which may guide the evaluation of new therapies.
MXene‐Supported FeCo‐LDHs as Highly Efficient Catalysts for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Tian Ming , Jiang Yi , Tong Haili , Xu Yingming , Xia Lixin
Published: November 2019

Water oxidation is the rate‐determining step for water splitting. The layered double hydroxides (LDHs) play an important role in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Combining with some two‐dimensional (2D) materials with high surface area and electrical conductivity can greatly improve the performance of water oxidation. Herein, we report a composite material that FeCo layered double hydroxides (FeCo‐LDHs) were combined with single layer MXene (Ti3C2Tx). The single‐layer MXene takes full advantage of the more active sites, reflecting higher electrochemical activity than other forms of MXene (nanofiber and multilayer). The resulting FeCo‐LDH/MXene hybrid provides high electron transfer ability and electrochemically active surface area, leading to an enhancement of catalytic activity and durability for OER. An extremely low overpotential of 268 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 was achieved, which was lower than Graphene or MWCNT combined with FeCo‐LDH.
Antioxidant Activity of Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) Peel Extract in Soybean Oil during Storage and Deep Frying
Authors: Phuong Nguyen Nhat Minh , Le Thien Trung , Nguyen Minh Viet Thao , Van Camp John , Raes Katleen
Published: November 2019

Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel (RBP) is discarded as the main by‐product during processing of the fruit. Increasing attention is now paid to the valorization of RBP for the recovery of valuable compounds. Geraniin, ellagic acid, quercetin, and rutin are the main phenolic compounds found in methanolic RBP extract. Extracted rambutan peel powder (ERPP) is used to evaluate the oxidative stability of soybean oil stored at 4 and 30 °C in the dark and light and deep fried with potatoes at 160 °C. Tert‐butylhydroquinone (100 µg g−1 oil, TBHQ) serves as positive control. Oil supplemented with ERPP of 1000 µg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) g−1 of oil shows positive effects on the retardation of the oxidation process during storage in comparison with oil without addition. During deep frying, either ERPP (1000 µg GAE g−1) or TBHQ retards the lipid oxidation of oil. Levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances of potatoes fried in oil fortified with the extract and TBHQ (0.4–0.59 µg g−1) are much lower than those without the extract (1.31 ± 0.10 µg g−1) (p < 0.05). Therefore, RBP extract exhibits favorable antioxidant effects and can be used for effectively inhibiting lipid oxidation in oil during storage and deep frying.

Practical Applications: An extract from rambutan fruit peel containing phenolic compounds, that is, geraniin, ellagic acid, rutin, and quercetin showed promising results to be used as potential antioxidants in soybean oil during deep frying. Both oxidation of the frying oil as well as the oxidation of the food product, that is, potatoes were inhibited. These results demonstrated that rambutan fruit peel extract can be used as a natural antioxidant in frying oil to replace synthetic antioxidants, that is, TBHQ.
Chiral metal‐organic cages used as stationary phase for enantioseparations in capillary electrochromatography
Authors: He Li‐Xiao , Tian Chun‐Rong , Zhang Jun‐Hui , Xu Wen , Peng Bo , Xie Sheng‐Ming , Zi Min , Yuan Li‐Ming
Published: November 2019

Since some metal‐organic cages (MOCs) have been synthesized in past several years, the applications of MOCs such as drug delivery, molecular recognition, separation, catalysis, and gas storage, etc. have been witnessed with a significant increase. However, to the best of our knowledge, so far no one has used MOCs as chiral stationary phase to separate chiral compounds in CEC. In this study, three MOCs were developed as the stationary phase for CEC separation of enantiomers. The MOCs coated capillary column showed good chiral recognition ability for some chiral compounds, including amine, alcohols, ketone, etc. The influence of buffer concentration, applied voltage, pH of buffer solution on the chiral separations was also investigated. The RSDs of run‐to‐run, day‐to‐day, and column‐to‐column for retention time were 2.1‐4.67%, 1.2‐4.36%, and 3.62‐6.43%, respectively. This work reveals that the chiral MOCs material is feasible for the enantioseparation in CEC.
Experimental study on strain behavior and permeability evolution of sandstone under constant amplitude cyclic loading‐unloading
Authors: Liu Chao , Yu Beichen , Zhang Dongming , Zhao Honggang
Published: November 2019

The coupling of in situ stress, seepage, and fracture makes the strata exhibit complex strain behavior and permeability evolution under the stress path of cyclic loading‐unloading. In this study, the cyclic loading‐unloading experiments of constant amplitude axial stress of sandstone under the combination of different initial confining pressures and loading‐unloading rates are conducted. The experimental results show that the heterogeneity of sandstone, Poisson's ratio produced by adjacent loading‐unloading, and confining pressure determine the deformation characteristics of sandstone in lateral and axial directions. Sandstone can produce significant shear dilatancy at a low rate; this is because stress perturbation can activate more particle slippage and fracture structure changes. However, the fracture preferentially propagates along the end or edge of the crack with strong stress sensitivity to form a shear failure plane at high rate. The normalized permeability of sandstone decreases with an increase in the loading‐unloading rate before failure. The evolution of normalized permeability is closely related to the shear slip of fracture structure and sandstone particles. For the prevention of rock engineering disasters, the high loading‐unloading rate results in lower normalized permeability, which favors the prevention of gas‐type disasters in rocks with higher gas potential energy; however, it is not conducive to the prevention of rockburst.
Interleukin‐33 activates and recruits natural killer cells to inhibit pulmonary metastatic cancer development
Authors: Qi Lu , Zhang Qiuyan , Miao Yuhui , Kang Wenyao , Tian Zhigang , Xu Damo , Xiao Weihua , Fang Fang
Published: November 2019

Increasing evidence suggests that IL‐33 plays an important role in regulating tumor development. However, conflicting results, obtained from numerous studies, have highlighted the divergent functions of IL‐33. The detailed mechanisms by which IL‐33 modulates tumor development merit further investigation. Here, we report that IL‐33 administration can effectively inhibit the development of pulmonary metastasis of breast cancer in a mouse. In our model, IL‐33 promotes the production of TNF‐α by macrophages, which increases IL‐33 specific receptor (ST2) expression on natural killer (NK) cells and is pivotal in IL‐33‐induced NK cell activation. IL‐33 treatment also facilitates the production of CCL5 in the lung by eosinophils and CD8+ T cells, which mediates the recruitment of NK cells to the tumor microenvironment. The systemic activation and local recruitment of NK cells result in potent tumor rejection in the lung. Our study reports a novel mechanism for the IL‐33‐meditated suppression of metastatic cancer and provides potential therapeutic strategies for targeting metastatic tumor.
Postpartum hemorrhage care bundles to improve adherence to guidelines: A WHO technical consultation
Authors: Althabe Fernando , Therrien Michelle N.S. , Pingray Veronica , Hermida Jorge , Gülmezoglu Ahmet M. , Armbruster Deborah , Singh Neelima , Guha Moytrayee , Garg Lorraine F. , Souza Joao P. , Smith Jeffrey M. , Winikoff Beverly , Thapa Kusum , Hébert Emmanuelle , Liljestrand Jerker , Downe Soo , Garcia Elorrio Ezequiel , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam , Byaruhanga Emmanuel K. , Lissauer David M. , Oguttu Monica , Dumont Alexandre , Escobar Maria F. , Fuchtner Carlos , Lumbiganon Pisake , Burke Thomas F. , Miller Suellen
Published: November 2019

Objective

To systematically develop evidence‐based bundles for care of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

An international technical consultation was conducted in 2017 to develop draft bundles of clinical interventions for PPH taken from the WHO's 2012 and 2017 PPH recommendations and based on the validated “GRADE Evidence‐to‐Decision” framework. Twenty‐three global maternal‐health experts participated in the development process, which was informed by a systematic literature search on bundle definitions, designs, and implementation experiences. Over a 6‐month period, the expert panel met online and via teleconferences, culminating in a 2‐day in‐person meeting.

Results

The consultation led to the definition of two care bundles for facility implementation. The “first response to PPH bundle” comprises uterotonics, isotonic crystalloids, tranexamic acid, and uterine massage. The “response to refractory PPH bundle” comprises compressive measures (aortic or bimanual uterine compression), the non‐pneumatic antishock garment, and intrauterine balloon tamponade (IBT). Advocacy, training, teamwork, communication, and use of best clinical practices were defined as PPH bundle supporting elements.

Conclusion

For the first response bundle, further research should assess its feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness; and identify optimal implementation strategies. For the response to refractory bundle, further research should address pending controversies, including the operational definition of refractory PPH and effectiveness of IBT devices.
The use of optical coherence tomography and convolutional neural networks to distinguish normal and abnormal oral mucosa
Authors: Heidari Andrew E. , Pham Tiffany T. , Ifegwu Ibe , Burwell Ross , Armstrong William B. , Tjoson Tjoa , Whyte Stephanie , Giorgioni Carmen , Wang Beverly , Wong Brian J. F. , Chen Zhongping
Published: November 2019

Incomplete surgical resection of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the most common cause of local HNSCC recurrence. Currently, surgeons rely on preoperative imaging, direct visualization, palpation and frozen section to determine the extent of tissue resection. It has been demonstrated that optical coherence tomography (OCT), a minimally invasive, nonionizing near infrared mesoscopic imaging modality can resolve subsurface differences between normal and abnormal head and neck mucosa. Previous work has utilized two‐dimensional OCT imaging which is limited to the evaluation of small regions of interest generated frame by frame. OCT technology is capable of performing rapid volumetric imaging, but the capacity and expertise to analyze this massive amount of image data is lacking. In this study, we evaluate the ability of a retrained convolutional neural network to classify three‐dimensional OCT images of head and neck mucosa to differentiate normal and abnormal tissues with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 70%, respectively. This method has the potential to serve as a real‐time analytic tool in the assessment of surgical margins.
Induction and measurement of the early stage of a host‐parasite interaction using a combined optical trapping and Raman microspectroscopy system
Authors: Sinjab Faris , Elsheikha Hany M. , Dooley Max , Notingher Ioan
Published: November 2019

Understanding and quantifying the temporal acquisition of host cell molecules by intracellular pathogens is fundamentally important in biology. In this study, a recently developed holographic optical trapping (HOT)‐based Raman microspectroscopy (RMS) instrument is applied to detect, characterize and monitor in real time the molecular trafficking of a specific molecular species (isotope‐labeled phenylalanine (L‐Phe(D8)) at the single cell level. This approach enables simultaneous measurement of the chemical composition of human cerebrovascular endothelial cells and the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii in isolation at the very start of the infection process. Using a model to decouple measurement contributions from host and pathogen sampling in the excitation volume, the data indicate that manipulating parasites with HOT coupled with RMS chemical readout was an effective method for measurement of L‐Phe(D8) transfer from host cells to parasites in real‐time, from the moment the parasite enters the host cell.
Gene expression and methylation profiles identified CXCL3 and CXCL8 as key genes for diagnosis and prognosis of colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhao Qing‐Qing , Jiang Chun , Gao Qian , Zhang Ying‐Ying , Wang Guo , Chen Xiao‐Ping , Wu Shao‐Bin , Tang Jie
Published: November 2019

Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the most common malignant tumors with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Due to the poor clinical outcomes, it is indispensable to investigate novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of COAD. The aim of this study is to explore key genes as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of COAD for clinical utility. Gene expression profiles (GSE44076 and GSE44861) and gene methylation profile (GSE29490) were analyzed to identify the aberrantly methylated‐differentially expressed genes by R language and Perl software. Function enrichments were performed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway. Moreover, hub genes were identified through protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. Besides, key genes were found by the module analysis and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) survival analysis. Finally, TCGA data and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) was used to validate the key genes involved in COAD. Our study found two hypomethylation‐high‐expression genes (CXCL3 and CXCL8) in COAD tissues compared with the adjacent normal tissues. These results were also confirmed by RT‐qPCR with 25 pairs of COAD and adjacent normal tissues. Meanwhile, low expression of the two genes was associated with poor survival in patients with COAD. CXCL3 and CXCL8 may serve as key genes in the diagnosis and prognosis for COAD.
An efficient method for hatching diapausing embryos of Daphnia pulex species complex (Crustacea, Anomopoda)
Authors: Luu Dustin H.‐K. , Vo Hillary P. , Xu Sen
Published: November 2019

A general method for efficiently hatching sexually produced diapausing embryos of the microcrustacean Daphnia is valuable for establishing Daphnia as a genetic model system. In this study, we examine the effect of ultraviolet light and different amounts of storage time in darkness on the hatching efficiency in two species of the Daphnia pulex species complex, D. pulex and Daphnia pulicaria. We identified a set of lighting conditions that can trigger 80% to ~100% hatching rate for embryos produced through selfing, outcrossing, and obligate parthenogenesis. Furthermore, we found that a storage time of at least 2 weeks in the dark before exposing embryos to ultraviolet light is critical for achieving high hatching rate. The identification of these key factors for hatching diapausing embryos can greatly facilitate future Daphnia research involving complex breeding designs as well as investigating the genetic switch that activates the hatching of diapausing embryos.
Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging in late‐onset Pompe disease: Clinical utility and correlation with functional measures
Authors: Khan Aleena A. , Boggs Tracy , Bowling Michael , Austin Stephanie , Stefanescu Mihaela , Case Laura , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: November 2019

Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) has clinical utility in measuring the amount of fatty infiltration in late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD). Muscle strength and function testing also provide valuable insight to the progression of myopathy seen in these patients. The main purpose of this study was to determine how closely muscle strength and functional testing correlate to the amount of fatty infiltration seen on WBMRI. LOPD patients were followed longitudinally and WBMRI, muscle strength testing using the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale, muscle function testing using the Gait, Stairs, Gowers, Chair (GSGC) score, and labs including urinary glucose tetrasaccharide (Glc4) were performed at each visit. The amount of fat seen on WBMRI was quantified using proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and correlated to appropriate muscle strength and functional tests. Nineteen patients with LOPD aged 10 to 67 years were followed for a 1 to 2 year duration. There was a small increase of 1.26% (±2.57%) in overall PDFF per year in patients on ERT. Muscle strength (mMRC) and functional testing (GSGC) correlated highly with PDFF (r = −.7596,P < .0001 andr = .8267,P < .0001, respectively). Time to carry out individual tasks of the GSGC also correlated highly with PDFF of the muscles involved. Glc4 levels were normal on most visits (27/39) despite varying severity of muscle weakness in patients. Muscle strength and GSGC scores correlate highly with PDFF values from WBMRI. They may be used in assessing severity of muscle disease and to follow LOPD patients over time.
Multimodel ensemble projection of meteorological drought scenarios and connection with climate based on spectral analysis
Authors: Aryal Yog , Zhu Jianting
Published: November 2019

Potential change in the hydrological cycles may lead to changes in extreme events such as drought due to the changes in intensity, frequency, and seasonality of precipitation and evaporative demand. In this study, projected drought scenarios and associated uncertainties in the late 21st century over the Continental United States are analysed based on seven regional climate models (RCMs) contributing to the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment. Meteorological drought scenarios are analysed based on standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI). Here, we propose a new multimodel ensemble approach based on the similarity of spectral power of different frequency components of the SPEI time series. The approach combines output from different RCMs based on their ability to produce the observed power spectra as well as convergence towards the average spectra from all participating RCMs in the future climate. Furthermore, to understand the SPEI variability associated with climate teleconnection, continuous wavelet transform‐based spectral coherency between the SPEI and two climate indices: the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) is analysed. Results show that among‐model uncertainty is the dominant source of uncertainties in the projected drought scenarios with contributions as large as 97% to the total uncertainty. Fifteen to 20% more frequent droughts are projected in future climate due to a decrease in mean SPEI as well as an increase in the variability of SPEI. Observed SPEI variability is strongly associated with ENSO variability while PDO modulates the strength of correlation between the SPEI and the ENSO. Spectral analysis of future SPEI shows that the increase in the SPEI variability is due to an increase in interannual variability as well as an enhanced ENSO teleconnection over the study area. The results show the increased role of climatic variability and hence the enhanced predictability of drought scenarios in the future climate.
In Vivo Reflectance Confocal Microscopy of Gold Microparticles Deposited in the Skin. A Case Report on Cutaneous Chrysiasis
Authors: Fuchs Christine S.K. , Ardigo Marco , Haedersdal Merete , Mogensen Mette
Published: November 2019

Cutaneous chrysiasis is gold deposition in the dermis, described after parenteral administration of gold salts or after topical exposure to gold‐containing materials. Gold microparticles (GMPs) have versatile therapeutic effects and are increasingly used in medicine. This case report describes the development of a blue‐gray macule following the facial application of GMPs and laser treatment of acne vulgaris. Dermoscopy showed a nonspecific homogenous blue‐gray pattern, gradually fading over an 8‐month‐period. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) detected hyperreflective, subcellular particles in the papillary dermis, localized around hair follicles, eccrine glands, and inside macrophages. Histopathological evaluation, darkfield illumination with hyperspectral imaging, and neutron activation analysis confirmed the presence of GMPs in the dermis. RCM allowed non‐invasive fast visualization of aggregates of hyperreflective particles in the dermis and can potentially be used for monitoring localized cutaneous chrysiasis and other metal deposition conditions over time. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐Assembly and Adjustable Ion Conducting Behavior of Graphene Oxide Liquid Crystalline Network Membranes
Authors: Song Ying , Wang Jiwei , Yan Guiyang , He Xiaozhi , Jia Yinggang , Meng Fanbao
Published: November 2019

Self‐assembly of graphene oxide liquid crystalline network (GO‐LCNs) membranes is constructed for the first time via Langmuir–Blodgett assembly technique. The GO‐LCNs are synthesized by hydrogen‐bonded self‐assembly between carboxyl groups on graphene oxide and pyridinyl groups on liquid crystalline polymers. These GO‐LCNs membranes possess distinct microstructures and show adjustable ion conducting behavior due to GO planar structure induced by mesogen oriention of liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystalline behavior of the GO‐LCNs is identified by combining polarized optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X‐ray diffraction measurements. The liquid crystalline properties of GO‐LCNs are adjusted by the composition of the liquid‐crystalline polymers. The microstructures and ion conducting behavior of GO‐LCNs membranes are investigated by applying different electromagnetic field, which are identified by different ionic conductivity of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulphonyl)imide organic solution passed through the membranes. Ionic conductivity of solutions is increased nearly 100‐fold and tenfold for an orientated GO‐LCNs membrane. These GO‐LCNs are promising materials in numerous applications such as high‐performance electrode material, ion battery materials, proton conductors, and so on.
Phototropic Multiresponsive Active Nanogels
Authors: Otsuka Issei , Zhang Xuewei , Winnik Françoise M.
Published: November 2019

Aqueous dispersions of nanogels that respond to switches in environmental pH and/or temperature by changes in their hydrodynamic radius (Rh) and/or ζ‐potential are prepared by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization‐induced thermal (70 °C) self‐assembly (PITSA) of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) in the presence of a poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA)‐substituted macromolecular chain transfer agent and a cross‐linker. Photochromic spiropyran (SP) moieties are coupled to the carboxylic acid groups of the nanogels. Upon UV irradiation, the neutral SP isomerizes to the zwitterionic merocyanine (ME) form. Upon UV light irradiation, microgels formed by assembly of SP nanogels undergo a collective motion toward the UV‐light source.
Retina Thickness as a Marker of Neurodegeneration in Prodromal Lewy Body Disease
Authors: Lee Jee‐Young , Ahn Jeeyun , Oh Sohee , Shin Joo Young , Kim Yu Kyeong , Nam Hyunwoo , Jeon Beomseok
Published: November 2019

Objectives

We investigated retinal change and its relationship with neurodegeneration markers in a prodromal Parkinson cohort.

Methods

A total of 30 patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder were recruited. Participants underwent olfactory testing, macular optical coherence tomography, microperimetry, contrast sensitivity test, and brain N‐(3‐[18F]fluoropropyl)‐2‐carbomethoxy‐3‐(4‐iodophenyl) nortropane positron emission tomography. We measured the ganglion cell complex thicknesses and investigated its correlation with olfactory function and striatal dopamine transporter availability. A linear mixed‐effect model was applied with adjustment for multiple comparisons.

Results

The parafoveal ganglion‐cell‐complex thickness in this cohort lay between our healthy control and drug‐naïve Parkinson's disease group data. Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder patients also had contrast sensitivity impairment as in Parkinson's disease with a nonsignificant change in macular sensitivities. Macular ganglion cell complex thickness correlated with olfactory scores and with striatal dopamine transporter availabilities.

Conclusions

Macular ganglion cell complex thinning may be a marker of neurodegeneration in prodromal Parkinson's disease. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Improved Kinetic Rate Constants for Nylon 6, Nylon 6,6, and Nylon 6/6,6 Copolymer
Authors: Liu Fei F. , McAuley Kim B.
Published: November 2019

Nylon 6 and 6,6 literature data are collected over a wide range of water concentrations and temperatures (0 ≤ [W]0 ≤ 40.8 wt%, 200 ≤ T ≤300 °C) and used to fit parameters in an updated batch reactor model. The resulting copolymerization model uses side reactions to account for the complex influence of water on kinetics and reaction equilibria. The proposed parameter estimates result in a significant improvement in the fit to the data, corresponding to a 73% reduction in the weighted‐least‐squares objective function compared to when the parameters of Arai et al. are used. Copolymerization simulations are conducted at industrially relevant conditions, shedding light on the complex influence of water and on the potential to include waste nylon 6 cyclic dimer in the feedstock. The model and parameter estimates will be helpful in future models of nylon 6/6,6 copolymerization in continuous reactor systems.
Measuring employees' psychological capital using data mining approach
Authors: Alola Uju Violet , Atsa'am Donald Douglas
Published: November 2019

In this research, the logistic regression model was employed to develop a classifier that measures psychological capital of workers in organization. Psychological capital (PsyCap) is the positive state of an individual, comprising of self‐efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience. Employees with high psychological capital contribute positively to objectives and business strategy of an organization. An experimental dataset comprising of the psychological capital information of 329 employees in an organization was used to fit a data mining classification model. To ensure model accuracy, 220 observations were used as training set, whereas 109 were set aside to validate the model. Various statistical tests for goodness of fit and predictive accuracy were deployed to test model performance. The model has the ability to classify an individual's psychological capital into either high or low class with a predictive accuracy of 93%. The classification model is expected to serve as a tool in human resource management when measuring psychological capital of employees during recruitment interviews and promotion appraisals.
Cystic fibrosis in Turkey: First data from the national registry
Authors: Dogru Deniz , Çakır Erkan , Şişmanlar Tuğba , Çobanoğlu Nazan , Pekcan Sevgi , Cinel Güzin , Yalçın Ebru , Kiper Nural , Şen Velat , S. Şen Hadice , Ercan Ömür , Keskin Özlem , B. Eltan Sevgi , Al Shadfan Lina M. , Yazan Hakan , Altıntaş Derya U. , Şaşihüseyinoğlu Şenay , Sapan Nihat , Çekiç Şükrü , Çokuğraş Haluk , A. Kılınç Ayşe , R. Gürsoy Tuğba , Aslan Ayşe T. , Bingöl Ayşen , Başaran Abdurrahman E. , Özdemir Ali , Köse Mehmet , Hangül Melih , Emiralioğlu Nagehan , Tuğcu Gökçen , Yüksel Hasan , Yılmaz Özge , Orhan Fazıl , Gayretli Aydın Zeynep G. , Topal Erdem , Tamay Zeynep , Süleyman Ayşe , Can Demet , Bal Cem M. , Çaltepe Gönül , Özçelik Uğur
Published: November 2019

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) care has been implemented in Turkey for a long time; however, there had been no patient registry. For this purpose, the Turkish National CF Registry was established. We present the first results of registry using data collected in 2017.

Methods

The data were collected using a data‐entry software system, which was accessed from the internet. Demographic and annually recorded data consisted of 15 and 79 variables, respectively.

Results

There were 1170 patients registered from 23 centers; the estimated coverage rate was 30%. The median age at diagnosis was 1.7 years (median current age: 7.3 years); 51 (4.6%) patients were aged over 18 years. Among 293 patients who were under 3 years of age, 240 patients (81.9%) were diagnosed through newborn screening. Meconium ileus was detected in 65 (5.5%) patients. Genotyping was performed in 978 (87.4%) patients and 246 (25.2%) patients' mutations were unidentified. The most common mutation was deltaF508 with an allelic frequency of 28%, followed by N1303K (4.9%). The median FEV1% predicted was 86. Chronic colonization with Pseudomonas aeruginosa was seen in 245 patients. The most common complication was pseudo‐Bartter syndrome in 120 patients. The median age of death was 13.5 years in a total of 15 patients.

Conclusions

Low coverage rate, lack of genotyping, unidentified mutations, and missing data of lung functions are some of our greatest challenges. Including data of all centers and reducing missing data will provide more accurate data and help to improve the CF care in Turkey in the future.
Bond Strain and Rotation Behaviors of Anharmonic Thermal Carriers in ‐RDX
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , VanGessel Francis G. , Chung Peter W.
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we examine how bond strain and rotation carry heat in the molecular crystal α‐RDX. We calculate anharmonic lifetimes and then rank order the phonons and their distortions to the lattice by their importance as carriers of thermal energy. The motions of the atoms that constitute the strain and rotation are determined using the phonon mode energy and mode shapes under the harmonic approximation. To draw the distinction between propagating and diffusive carriers, we additionally compare the thermal conductivity estimates from three microscale models: phonon gas model, Cahill‐Watson‐Pohl formula and Allen‐Feldman harmonic theory. We found that the modes that contribute substantially to the thermal conductivity are also the dominant contributors to the strain and rotation of all bonds in
‐RDX, among which N−N and N−O bonds were found to exhibit the largest strains and rotations. We also found that on average, the N−N bonds exhibit the largest deformation,
more strain and
more rotation than N−O bonds. Our calculations confirm that large straining of the N−N and N−O bonds results from relatively larger displacement of the nitrogen atom in the nitro group −NO2.
Linking extreme precipitation in Southeast Asia to equatorial waves
Authors: Ferrett Samantha , Yang Gui‐Ying , Woolnough Steven J. , Methven John , Hodges Kevin , Holloway Christopher E.
Published: November 2019

Equatorially trapped waves, such as Kelvin Waves, Equatorial Rossby Waves and Westward‐moving Mixed Rossby–Gravity (WMRG) Waves, play a major role in organising tropical convection on synoptic to sub‐seasonal time‐scales. These waves have the potential to provide an important source of predictability for high‐impact weather in Southeast (SE) Asia and the Tropics more widely. To aid understanding of the role played in high‐impact weather by such waves, the observed statistical relationship between identified equatorial waves and heavy rainfall in SE Asia is examined for the period 1998–2016. Increases in the amount of precipitation and the likelihood of extreme precipitation in SE Asia are linked to all three types of waves that are included in analysis; Kelvin, equatorial Rossby and WMRG waves. There is both increased mean rainfall and increased probability of occurrence of heavy rainfall on days when high‐amplitude waves propagate over SE Asia. In particular, heavy precipitation can be up to three times more likely in regions of SE Asia during equatorial waves, including Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Kelvin waves have a large influence on heavy rainfall over Indonesia, WMRG and Kelvin waves impact Malaysia rainfall, and equatorial Rossby and WMRG waves are linked to increased rainfall over the Philippines. Based on this study it can be concluded that the probability of extreme precipitation in this region is dependent on equatorial wave activity. Therefore, the skill in probabilistic prediction of extreme precipitation in SE Asia would be expected to be conditional on the skill in equatorial wave prediction, and the modelled relationship between equatorial waves and convection.
A robust S2 control chart with Tukey's and MAD outlier detectors
Authors: Abbas Nasir
Published: November 2019

Shewhart S2 control chart is one of the most commonly used tools to monitor the dispersion of a process. In this article, we evaluate the performance of S2 control chart when the unknown parameter is estimated from Phase‐I samples. Average ARL and standard deviation of ARL metrics are used to evaluate the performance. In the first stage of the study, new control limit coefficients are derived so that the average ARL is equal to the pre‐fixed ARL, ie, 370. Secondly, different proportion of outliers is contaminated into Phase‐I samples, and the resulting elevated average ARL and standard deviation of ARL are measured. Finally, the application of Tukey's outlier detector is proposed with Phase‐I samples so that the elevation caused by the outliers can be controlled and the average ARL can be pulled back close to the pre‐fixed ARL. For illustration, the proposed procedures are applied to a data on compressive strength of parts manufactured by an injection molding process.
Facile Preparation of BiOCl/ZnO Heterostructure with Oxygen‐Rich Vacancies and Its Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Liu Xingqi , Xu Haiming , Li Dongya , Zou Zhongwei , Xia Dongsheng
Published: November 2019

Photocatalysis is an effective technique for degrading contaminants, however, its effect is inhibited by the high recombination rate of photo‐induced carriers in the photocatalyst. Therefore, this drawback can be overcome by defect engineering (such as oxygen vacancies) and heterostructure, which can expand light response as well as promote the separation and migration of photo‐induced carriers. Herein, BiOCl/ZnO nanocomposite was successfully synthesized by microwave strategy. Experimental results indicated that tetracycline hydrochloride (TC‐HCl, 100 mg/L) was decomposed 90% in 60 min by BiOCl/ZnO heterostructure under visible light, which is 3.34 and 1.08 times higher than that of pristine BiOCl and ZnO, respectively. Various characterizations demonstrated that oxygen vacancy and heterostructures not only extend the light response range but also improve the separation and migration efficiency of photo‐induced carriers, and thereby BiOCl/ZnO heterostructure exhibit excellent photocatalytic performance under vis‐light. This work paves a new way to decorate wide band gap photocatalyst by point defect and heterostructures, and provides a good reference for its application.
3D Printed Tubulanes as Lightweight Hypervelocity Impact Resistant Structures
Authors: Sajadi Seyed Mohammad , Woellner Cristiano F. , Ramesh Prathyush , Eichmann Shannon L. , Sun Qiushi , Boul Peter J. , Thaemlitz Carl J. , Rahman Muhammad M. , Baughman Ray H. , Galvão Douglas S. , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: November 2019

Lightweight materials with high ballistic impact resistance and load‐bearing capabilities are regarded as a holy grail in materials design. Nature builds these complementary properties into materials using soft organic materials with optimized, complex geometries. Here, the compressive deformation and ballistic impact properties of three different 3D printed polymer structures, named tubulanes, are reported, which are the architectural analogues of cross‐linked carbon nanotubes. The results show that macroscopic tubulanes are remarkable high load‐bearing, hypervelocity impact‐resistant lightweight structures. They exhibit a lamellar deformation mechanism, arising from the tubulane ordered pore structure, manifested across multiple length scales from nano to macro dimensions. This approach of using complex geometries inspired by atomic and nanoscale models to generate macroscale printed structures allows innovative morphological engineering of materials with tunable mechanical responses.
In Situ Ag Nanoparticles Reinforced Pseudo‐Zn–Air Reaction Boosting Ag2V4O11 as High‐Performance Cathode Material for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Qian , Liu Yuyi , Ma Kaixuan , Yang Gongzheng , Wang Chengxin
Published: November 2019

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs), which are low‐cost and environmentally friendly, have been regarded feasible for large‐scale energy storage. But the widespread application of AZIBs is hindered by lack of suitable cathode materials with high capacity and long cycle life. The zinc‐storage mechanisms, especially the formation of basic zinc salt (BZS), are still unclear. Here, Ag2V4O11 is developed as a cathode material for AZIBs, which delivers a specific capacity of 213 mA h g−1 and excellent cycling performance (93% capacity retention after 6000 cycles). The reversible formation/decomposition of BZS and reduction/oxidation of metallic Ag are ascertained during the insertion/extraction of Zn(H2O)62+. Remarkably, the phase composition of BZS in Zn(CF3SO3)2‐based electrolyte is identified first. The role of in situ formed Ag nanoparticles is simulated by employing the commercial Ag nanoparticles as an additive into the V2O5‐based electrodes. The introduction of Ag significantly improves the specific capacity (at least 50% improvement) and accordingly it is proposed that the pseudo‐Zn–air reaction (oxygen reduction reaction‐like redox reaction happens on material surface in a closed system) promotes the electrochemical performance of Ag2V4O11. This work reveals the BZS rather than unknown new phases on the electrode surface and puts forward a possible way in raising electrochemical properties by utilizing the pseudo‐Zn–air reaction.
Revealing the Critical Factor in Metal Sulfide Anode Performance in Sodium‐Ion Batteries: An Investigation of Polysulfide Shuttling Issues
Authors: Hu Mingxiang , Ju Zhengyu , Bai Zhongchao , Yu Kang , Fang Zhiwei , Lv Ruitao , Yu Guihua
Published: November 2019

Metal sulfides are a class of promising anodes for sodium‐ion batteries with high theoretical capacities. However, the properties of intrinsic metal sulfide anodes usually decay rapidly at initial cycling of batteries. Previously, it was believed that the low conductivity and volume expansion of metal sulfides lead to the poor performance. Here, using in situ batteries followed by the assistance of spectral analysis, it is shown that the polysulfide shuttling effect is one of the crucial factors for the degradation of metal sulfide anodes beyond traditional consensus of low conductivity and volume expansion. Furthermore, a novel strategy by controlling the dissolution of sodium polysulfides in selected electrolyte is proposed to enable intrinsic metal sulfides to work stably in polysulfide‐insoluble fluoroethylene carbonate electrolyte, which would decay fast in polysulfide‐soluble propylene carbonate electrolyte. This work has deepened the understanding of electrochemical reaction mechanisms of metal sulfide anodes and expanded the strategies to optimize the electrochemical performance of metal sulfides anodes.
Native‐English‐Speaking Teachers: Disconnections Between Theory, Research, and Practice
Authors: Copland Fiona , Mann Steve , Garton Sue
Published: November 2019

Native‐English‐speaking teachers (NESTs) have long been in demand for perceived benefits of the skills they bring to the classroom. However, the notion that native speakers provide the best models of the target language and thus make the best teachers of the language has been criticised in the literature. This article reports on the disconnection between academic literature on NESTs and the realities they report. Drawing on data from an investigation into NEST schemes globally, the article suggests that lived classroom experiences of NESTs are complex, They are also often bilingual, experienced, and qualified, and regard local English teachers (LETs) they work with as experts and in control of how English is practised in the classroom. These characteristics contrast with much of the academic literature, which explores the concept of native speakerism, which tends to view NESTs negatively. The article proposes that one reason for the disconnection between theory and practice is the parallel lives of researchers and teachers, whether NESTs or LETs. Thus, each group’s realities and concerns are not always understood by the other. The article suggests that a substantial group of bilingual and bicultural NESTs consider the country where work home, so future theorisations of NESTs and native speakerism should take account of these teachers.