bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Situ Synthesis of a Supramolecular Hydrogelator at an Oil/Water Interface for Stabilization and Stimuli‐Induced Fusion of Microdroplets
Authors: Nishida Yuki , Tanaka Akiko , Yamamoto Shota , Tominaga Yudai , Kunikata Nobuaki , Mizuhata Minoru , Maruyama Tatsuo 
Published: June 2017

AbstractSupramolecular hydrogels are expected to have applications as novel soft materials in various fields owing to their designable functional properties. Herein, we developed an in situ synthesis of supramolecular hydrogelators, which can trigger gelation of an aqueous solution without the need for temperature change. This was achieved by mixing two precursors, which induced the synthesis of a supramolecular gelator and its instantaneous self‐assembly into nanofibers. We then performed the in situ synthesis of this supramolecular gelator at an oil/water interface to produce nanofibers that covered the surfaces of the oil droplets (nanofiber‐stabilized oil droplets). External stimuli induced fusion of the droplets owing to disassembly of the gelator molecules. Finally, we demonstrated that this stimuli‐induced droplet fusion triggered a synthetic reaction within the droplets. This means that the confined nanofiber‐stabilized droplets can be utilized as stimuli‐responsive microreactors.
An Interconnected Ternary MIn2S4 (M=Fe, Co, Ni) Thiospinel Nanosheet Array: A Type of Efficient Platinum‐Free Counter Electrode for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Hou Wenjing , Xiao Yaoming , Han Gaoyi 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThe ternary iron‐group thiospinels of metal diindium sulfides (MIn2S4, M=Fe, Co, Ni) with a vertically aligned nanosheet array structure are fabricated through an in situ solvothermal method on F‐doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates, which are employed as one type of platinum (Pt)‐free counter electrodes (CEs) in structure‐dependent dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A DSSC assembled with ternary CoIn2S4 CE achieves an photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.83 %, outperforming than that of FeIn2S4 (7.18 %) and NiIn2S4 (8.27 %) CEs under full sunlight illumination (100 mW cm−2, AM 1.5 G), which is also comparable with that of the Pt CE (8.19 %). Putting aside that the interconnected nanosheet array provides fast electron transfer and electrolyte diffusion channels, the highest PCE of CoIn2S4 based DSSC results from its largest specific surface area (144.07 m2 g−1), providing abundant active sites and the largest electron injection efficiency from CE to electrolyte.
Bright, Multi‐responsive, Sky‐Blue Platinum(II) Phosphors Based on a Tetradentate Chelating Framework
Authors: Liu Lijie , Wang Xiang , Wang Nan , Peng Tai , Wang Suning 
Published: June 2017

AbstractA new class of highly efficient and stable, blue‐phosphorescent PtII complexes based on a tetradentate chelating framework has been found to exhibit highly sensitive and reversible responses to multiple external stimuli including temperature, pressure, and UV irradiation with distinct phosphorescent color switching—from blue to red or white. Intermolecular excimer formation is the main origin of this intriguing multi‐response phenomenon. Highly efficient singlet‐oxygen sensitization by the PtII compounds yields UV‐light‐induced phosphorescence enhancement and color switching.
A Rechargeable Li‐CO2 Battery with a Gel Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Li Chao , Guo Ziyang , Yang Bingchang , Liu Yao , Wang Yonggang , Xia Yongyao 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThe utilization of CO2 in Li‐CO2 batteries is attracting extensive attention. However, the poor rechargeability and low applied current density have remained the Achilles’ heel of this energy device. The gel polymer electrolyte (GPE), which is composed of a polymer matrix filled with tetraglyme‐based liquid electrolyte, was used to fabricate a rechargeable Li‐CO2 battery with a carbon nanotube‐based gas electrode. The discharge product of Li2CO3 formed in the GPE‐based Li‐CO2 battery exhibits a particle‐shaped morphology with poor crystallinity, which is different from the contiguous polymer‐like and crystalline discharge product in conventional Li‐CO2 battery using a liquid electrolyte. Accordingly, the GPE‐based battery shows much improved electrochemical performance. The achieved cycle life (60 cycles) and rate capability (maximum applied current density of 500 mA g−1) are much higher than most of previous reports, which points a new way to develop high‐performance Li‐CO2 batteries.
Developing PES membrane by modified Co3O4–OA nanoparticles for direct contact membrane distillation process
Authors: Gholamzadeh Nika , Peyravi Majid , Jahanshahi Mohsen , Hoseinpour Hamzeh , Rad Ali Shokuhi 
Published: June 2017

AbstractModified hydrophobic cobalt oxide (Co3O4) nanoparticles were used to develop polyethersulfone (PES) nanocomposite membranes via phase inversion technique for direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD). Co3O4 nanoparticles were treated by oleic acid (OA) to decrease the surface energy and agglomeration. The effect of incorporating different concentrations of Co3O4–OA nanoparticles (0–4 wt%) into the PES dope solution was studied. The prepared membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle and porosity and pore size measurements. Due to the increase in pore size, the membrane performance improved, and the vapour flux increased upon the incorporation of 4 wt% of nanoparticles. The salt rejection was greater than 99.8% when a 3.5 g/L sodium chloride. As a result, the Co3O4–OA modified PES membrane could provide an opportunity for desalination by DCMD process with good perm selectivity. Copyright © 2017 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular cloning and analysis of a C‐type lectin from silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Shahzad Toufeeq , Zhan Ming‐Yue , Yang Pei‐Jin , Yu Xiao‐Qiang , Rao Xiang‐Jun 
Published: June 2017

AbstractC‐type lectins (CTLs) play a variety of roles in plants and animals. They are involved in animal development, pathogen recognition, and the activation of immune responses. CTLs carry one or more non‐catalytic carbohydrate‐recognition domains (CRDs) to bind specific carbohydrates reversibly. Here, we report the molecular cloning and functional analysis of a single‐CRD CTL, named C‐type lectin‐S2 (BmCTL‐S2) from the domesticated silkmoth Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae). The ORF of CTL‐S2 is 666 bp, which encodes a putative protein of 221 amino acids. BmCTL‐S2 is expressed in a variety of immune‐related tissues, including hemocytes and fat body among others. BmCTL‐S2 mRNA level in the midgut and the fat body was significantly increased by bacterial challenges. The recombinant protein (rBmCTL‐S2) bound different bacterial cell wall components and bacterial cells. rBmCTL‐S2 also inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Taken together, we infer that BmCTL‐S2 is a pattern‐recognition receptor with antibacterial activities.
Computationally‐Light Non‐Lifted Data‐Driven Norm‐Optimal Iterative Learning Control
Authors: Chi Ronghu , Hou Zhongsheng , Jin Shangtai , Huang Biao 
Published: June 2017

AbstractComputational complexity and model dependence are two significant limitations on lifted norm optimal iterative learning control (NOILC). To overcome these two issues and retain monotonic convergence in iteration, this paper proposes a computationally‐efficient non‐lifted NOILC strategy for nonlinear discrete‐time systems via a data‐driven approach. First, an iteration‐dependent linear representation of the controlled nonlinear process is introduced by using a dynamical linearization method in the iteration direction. The non‐lifted NOILC is then proposed by utilizing the input and output measurements only, instead of relying on an explicit model of the plant. The computational complexity is reduced by avoiding matrix operation in the learning law. This greatly facilitates its practical application potential. The proposed control law executes in real‐time and utilizes more control information at previous time instants within the same iteration, which can help improve the control performance. The effectiveness of the non‐lifted data‐driven NOILC is demonstrated by rigorous analysis along with a simulation on a batch chemical reaction process.
A modified gradient‐based algorithm for solving extended Sylvester‐conjugate matrix equations
Authors: Ramadan Mohamed A. , Bayoumi Ahmed M. E. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractIn this paper, we present a modified gradient‐based algorithm for solving extended Sylvester‐conjugate matrix equations. The idea is from the gradient‐based method introduced in [14] and the relaxed gradient‐based algorithm proposed in [16]. The convergence analysis of the algorithm is investigated. We show that the iterative solution converges to the exact solution for any initial value based on some appropriate assumptions. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and to test its efficiency and accuracy compared with those presented in [14] and [16].
Conversion Economics of Forest Biomaterials: Risk and Financial Analysis of CNC Manufacturing
Authors: de Assis Camilla Abbati , Houtman Carl , Phillips Richard , Bilek E.M. (Ted) , Rojas Orlando J. , Pal Lokendra , Peresin Maria Soledad , Jameel Hasan , Gonzalez Ronalds 
Published: June 2017

AbstractCommercialization of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) presents opportunities for a wide range of new products. Techno‐economic assessments can provide insightful information for the efficient design of conversion processes, drive cost‐saving efforts, and reduce financial risks. In this study, we conducted techno‐economic assessments for CNC production using information from the USDA Forest Products Laboratory Pilot Plant, literature, and discussions with experts. Scenarios considered included variations related to greenfield, co‐location, and acid recovery. Operating costs, capital investment, minimum product selling price (MPSP), financial performance metrics, and the effect of drying and higher reaction yields on CNC manufacturing financials were estimated for each scenario. The lowest MPSP was found for the co‐location without acid recovery scenario, mainly driven by capital investment. Risk analysis indicates 95% probability of manufacturing costs lower than USD 5900/t of CNC (dry equivalent) and a MPSP lower than USD 7200/t of CNC (dry equivalent). Finally, based on our analysis, we provide guidance on process optimizations that can improve the economic performance of CNC manufacturing process. In addition, a risk profile of the CNC manufacturing business is provided. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Structural and luminescent studies of erbium‐doped CaZrO3 green‐emitting nanophosphors
Authors: Ballem Evangeline , Azeem Abdul , Rayavarapu Prasada Rao , Divi Haranath 
Published: June 2017

AbstractErbium (Er) (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt%)‐doped CaZrO3 nanophosphors were synthesized by the sol–gel method using poly(vinyl alcohol) as the chelating agent. Their structural and photoluminescence properties were studied using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy (FESEM‐EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The XRD patterns of the samples confirm that nanoscale crystallite sizes. Agglomeration of the samples was observed using field emission scanning electron microscopy images. Energy dispersive spectroscopy measurements confirmed the existence of Ca, Zr, O and Er in the samples. Average particle sizes for the samples were calculated from transmission electron microscopy images. FTIR spectra clearly show characteristic absorption bands related to the metal oxides, as well as some other organic molecules. The photoluminescence spectra show bands in the green region. The Commission International de l'Eclairage coordinates were calculated and found to be in green region.
Chemiluminescence selectivity enhancement in the on‐chip Ru(bpy)32+ system: The potential role of buffer type and pH in the determination of hydrochlorothiazide in combined formulations and human plasma
Authors: Kadavilpparampu Afsal Mohammed , Al Lawati Haider A.J. , Suliman Fakhr Eldin O. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractA simple and highly selective on‐chip Ru(bpy)32+–oxidant chemiluminescence (CL) approach for estimation of a diuretic drug, hydrochlorothiazide (HCZ), in biological fluids was realized in the presence of other fixed‐dose combination drugs by manipulating simultaneously the method of active species (Ru(bpy)33+) production and type of carrier buffer with pH used for the CL reaction. Chemical oxidation processes involved in the Ru(bpy)32+–Ce(IV) CL system have been successfully miniaturised in this study using a microfabricated device to generate Ru(bpy)33+ instantaneously. The proposed system was then screened using HCZ and other drugs in the presence of various buffers and pH to explore the difference in CL emission. Ammonium formate buffer (0.15 M) at pH 4.5 exhibited excellent selectivity towards HCZ when Ru(bpy)33+ was produced by chemical oxidation using Ce(IV). The newly developed conditions do not involve any kind of prior separation or isolation procedure to remove other combination therapy drugs in formulation and biological samples. The method under fully optimised conditions exhibited wide linearity over the concentration range 0.5–1000 ng ml−1 and low detection and quantification limits of 0.13 and 0.47 ng ml−1 respectively for HCZ. Acceptable levels of recoveries were obtained for HCZ from human plasma using the proposed method (98.9–100.8%) in the presence of other antihypertensive combination therapy drugs. This study postulates that such miniaturised devices may find applications especially for on‐site analysis, such as doping control examinations.
E‐learning website evaluation and selection using multi‐attribute decision making matrix methodology
Authors: Garg Rakesh 
Published: June 2017

AbstractE‐learning website selection is a deliberate decision with a significant influence on the educational sector. E‐learning website selection decision is based on multiple attributes/criteria. In the present research, the various attributes having a huge influence in the evaluation process of E‐learning websites that are termed collectively as ranking criteria were identified and extracted from the available literature at the first step. Now, the relative importance or the significance of each ranking criteria was determined by collecting data through the interviews with experts and applying some aggregate operations on that data. Simply, the priority weight of each ranking criteria was determined at the second step. The third step is concerned with the evaluation work of the alternatives against the identified ranking criteria by considering the priority weights determined at the second step. In the present study, E‐learning websites selection problem is resolved using matrix method which is capable to solve such types of multiple‐attribute decision making (MADM) problems. Further, the results obtained from the proposed methodology are compared with the existing approaches namely Weighted Distance Based Approximation and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution to validate the applicability and utility of the proposed method.
Intergroup contact and minority group empowerment: The perspective of Roma and non‐Roma adolescents in Macedonia
Authors: Kamberi Ermira , Martinovic Borja , Verkuyten Maykel 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThis study focused on the endorsement of Roma empowerment in Macedonia among Roma (N = 187) and non‐Roma (Macedonian, Albanian, and Turkish; N = 627) adolescents. Using structural equation modelling, we examined the mediating roles of out‐group feelings, negative Roma stereotypes, and perceived social injustice towards the Roma in the association between out‐group contact and endorsement of Roma empowerment. In line with the prejudice reduction model, we found for the non‐Roma sample that the endorsement of Roma empowerment was higher among adolescents who had more frequent (as well as more positive) contact with Roma, and this was due to more positive feelings towards the Roma, less negative Roma stereotypes, and, in the case of Albanian and Turkish minorities, more perceived social injustice towards the Roma. There was little evidence for the collective action approach in the Roma sample.
Synthetic Nucleic Acid Analogues in Gene Therapy: An Update for Peptide–Oligonucleotide Conjugates
Authors: Taskova Maria , Mantsiou Anna , Astakhova Kira 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThe main objective of this work is to provide an update on synthetic nucleic acid analogues and nanoassemblies as tools in gene therapy. In particular, the synthesis and properties of peptide–oligonucleotide conjugates (POCs), which have high potential in research and as therapeutics, are described in detail. The exploration of POCs has already led to fruitful results in the treatment of neurological diseases, lung disorders, cancer, leukemia, viral, and bacterial infections. However, delivery and in vivo stability are the major barriers to the clinical application of POCs and other analogues that still have to be overcome. This review summarizes recent achievements in the delivery and in vivo administration of synthetic nucleic acid analogues, focusing on POCs, and compares their efficiency.
Length and pressure matter: Expediting evidence‐based progress in femoropoliteal intervention
Authors: Chatterjee Arka , Hillegass William B. 
Published: June 2017

Key Points

Preprocedural lesion length and ankle‐brachial indices (ABI) synergistically predict 12‐month patency and repeat revacularization in claudicants treated with bare metal nitinol stents for femoropopliteal disease.
This predictive length‐ABI model will permit broader evidence‐based indirect comparisons of newer femoropopliteal approaches such as drug eluting balloon treatment with or without atherectomy.
The length‐ABI model is a step to supplement and supplant randomized controlled trials with indirect comparisons as the necessary evidence source expediting innovation and optimizing personalized endovascular therapy for infrainguinal obstructive peripheral arterial disease.
Ending “poke until you get a gusher”: Part II—the evidence based approach to vascular access revisited
Authors: Turi Zoltan G. 
Published: June 2017

Key Points

Puncture above the common femoral bifurcation and below the inguinal ligament is optimal
A vast majority of femoral bifurcations occur below the middle third of the femoral head while the inferior epigastric artery rarely descends below the middle third
Fluoroscopy or if possible, ultrasound, should be used for femoral access to optimize safe puncture
From D2B to B2D: Value based STEMI care!
Authors: Ebinger Joseph , Henry Timothy D. 
Published: June 2017

Key Points

Use of the CADILLIAC Risk Score can accurately identify patients for safe early discharge after PCI for STEMI.
Early discharge has the potential to both improve the quality and decrease the cost of care for STEMI patients.
Prospective validation of this risk score and formal cost analysis would facilitate widespread utilization.
The problem of delirium following transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Orvin Katia , Kornowski Ran 
Published: June 2017

Key Points

Delirium is a common condition among elderly patients, particularly those hospitalized following surgical procedures.
A study indicates that delirium occurs in 1 out of 5 patients following TAVR and it was found to be associated with diminished survival, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare utilization.
Delirium is potentially preventable and treatable clinical syndrome.
Toward Wearable Energy Storage Devices: Paper‐Based Biofuel Cells based on a Screen‐Printing Array Structure
Authors: Shitanda Isao , Momiyama Misaki , Watanabe Naoto , Tanaka Tomohiro , Tsujimura Seiya , Hoshi Yoshinao , Itagaki Masayuki 
Published: June 2017

AbstractA novel paper‐based biofuel cell with a series/parallel array structure has been fabricated, in which the cell voltage and output power can easily be adjusted as required by printing. The output of the fabricated 4‐series/4‐parallel biofuel cell reached 0.97±0.02 mW at 1.4 V, which is the highest output power reported to date for a paper‐based biofuel cell. This work contributes to the development of flexible, wearable energy storage device.
The Catalytic Mechanism of the Pyridoxal‐5′‐phosphate‐Dependent Enzyme, Histidine Decarboxylase: A Computational Study
Authors: Fernandes Henrique Silva , Ramos Maria João , Cerqueira Nuno M. F. S. A. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThe catalytic mechanism of histidine decarboxylase (HDC), a pyridoxal‐5′‐phosphate (PLP)‐dependent enzyme, was studied by using a computational QM/MM approach following the scheme M06‐2X/6–311++G(3df,2pd):Amber. The reaction involves two sequential steps: the decarboxylation of l‐histidine and the protonation of the generated intermediate from which results histamine. The rate‐limiting step is the first one (ΔG≠=17.6 kcal mol−1; ΔGr=13.7 kcal mol−1) and agrees closely with the available experimental kcat (1.73 s−1), which corresponds to an activation barrier of 17.9 kcal mol−1. In contrast, the second step is very fast (ΔG≠=1.9 kcal mol−1) and exergonic (ΔGr=−33.2 kcal mol−1). Our results agree with the available experimental data and allow us to explain the role played by several active site residues that are considered relevant according to site‐directed mutagenesis studies, namely Tyr334B, Asp273A, Lys305A, and Ser354B. These results can provide insights regarding the catalytic mechanism of other enzymes belonging to family II of PLP‐dependent decarboxylases.
Graphene/Group 5 Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Composites for Electrochemical Applications
Authors: Wang Yong , Sofer Zdeněk , Luxa Jan , Chia Xinyi , Pumera Martin 
Published: June 2017

AbstractIn comparison to the extensive research and great success attained by Group 6 transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) as hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts, there is limited research focused on metallic Group 5 TMDs for use as electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution. Density functional theory calculations have pointed out that Group 5 TMDs are highly favorable for HER, especially vanadium disulfide. In this work, nanocomposites of graphene and Group 5 TMDs were synthesized by thermal exfoliation of graphene oxide/TMD precursors in an H2S atmosphere or in a H2 atmosphere as a control. Graphene oxide was prepared by the Hummers method while vanadium tetrachloride, niobium pentachloride, and tantalum pentachloride were utilized as TMD precursors. Then the potential of these nanocomposites as electrocatalysts towards HER was explored. Although these nanocomposites do not have comparable HER performance to Group 6 TMDs, they exhibit higher electrocatalytic activity in comparison with thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO) in the absence of TMD modification. In addition, the capacitive performance of these materials was also investigated in consideration of the high capacitance of graphene. It was indicated that the presence of TMDs on graphene actually suppress the capacitance performance of graphene itself.