bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transplantation of adipose-derived stem cells overexpressing inducible nitric oxide synthase ameliorates diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction in rats
Authors: Zhang Yan , Yang Jun , Zhuan Li , Zang Guanghui , Wang Tao , Liu Jihong
Published: August 2019

Background

Erectile dysfunction is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have attracted much attention as a promising tool for the treatment of diabetes mellitus-induced erectile dysfunction (DMED). Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) plays an important role in protecting penile tissues from fibrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of ADSCs overexpressing iNOS on DMED in rats.

Methods

ADSCs were isolated and infected with adenovirus overexpressing iNOS (named as ADSCs-iNOS). The expression of iNOS was detected using western blot analysis and real-time PCR. Rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control group, DMED group, ADSCs group, ADSCs-EGFP group and ADSCs-iNOS group. 5 × 105 cells were given once via the intracorporal route. Two weeks after treatment, erectile function was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve. Penile tissues were obtained and evaluated at histology level.

Results

We found that ADSCs-iNOS had significantly higher expression of iNOS at mRNA and protein levels and generated more nitric oxide (NO). ADSCs-iNOS reduced collagen I and collagen IV expression of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) in cell co-culture model. Transforming growth factor-β1 expression in CCSMCs reduced following co-culture with ADSCs-iNOS. Injection of ADSCs-iNOS significantly ameliorated DMED in rats and decreased collagen/smooth muscle cell ratio of penile tissues. Moreover, elevated NO and cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations were detected in penile tissues of ADSCs-iNOS group.

Conclusion

Taken together, ADSCs-iNOS significantly improved erectile function of DMED rats. The therapeutic effect may be achieved by increased NO generation and the suppression of collagen I and collagen IV expression in the CCSMCs to decrease penile fibrosis.
Estudo de caso na pró-reitora de gestão de pessoas da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul: análise através da matriz de risco
Authors: Assunção André Rodrigo Brites , Silva Marcelo Ribeiro , Rosa Renato de Oliveira , Campeão Patrícia
Published: August 2019

O gerenciamento de riscos apresenta-se como uma ferramenta que auxilia as organizações a alcançarem seus objetivos estratégicos e de rentabilidade, prevenindo falhas e perdas. O aumento da complexidade de organizações contemporâneas torna esta ferramenta ainda mais importante. Apesar disto, ainda há pouca literatura no Brasil que trata deste tema, resultando em uma heterogeneidade de práticas adotadas pelas diversas organizações. Neste contexto, esta pesquisa busca demonstrar um método simples e prático fundamentado em base teórica, de identificação e avalição de riscos através do mapeamento de processos, visando contribuir para gerenciamento de riscos. Apresenta-se como um estudo de caso realizado na Coordenadoria de Administração de Pessoal da Pró-Reitoria de Gestão de Pessoas Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul. A pesquisa embasou-se na experiência do autor e na literatura existente. As rotinas foram avaliadas por meio da necessidade de mapeamento de processo, seu entendimento e relação com controles internos utilizando a ferramenta de controle para a gestão de riscos.
The Effect of Oral Intake of Sodium Benzoate on the Activity of Liver Marker Enzymes and Electrolyte Level of the Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Oghenetekevwe Efekemo, , Bassey Essien, Eka , Oronne Akaninwor, Joyce
Published: August 2019

The in vivo effect of oral administration of varying concentrations (150, 250, 500 mg/kg body wt) of sodium benzoate (a known preservative in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry) on serum liver marker enzyme activity and electrolyte levels of wistar albino rats were investigated. The oral intake was administered at 24 hour intervals for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The groups were labeled; control (group 1), 7days (group 2), 14days (group 3), 21 days (group 4) and 28days (group 5). The rats were fed normal diet ad libitum and blood sample for the determination was taken at the end of the duration. For serum electrolytes, the result obtained for sodium benzoate concentrations administered showed significant (p≤0.05) increase in sodium (Na+) for groups 3, 4 and 5 for 150 mg/kg body wt. and group 2, 3, 4 and 5 for 250 mg/kg body wt and 500mg/kg body wt. of experimental rats. Chloride (Cl-) showed significant (p≤0.05) increase at all administered groups for 250 mg/kg and 500mg/kg. Potassium (K+) was only significantly increased at group 5 for 500mg/kg body wt. while for bicarbonate (HCO3) it showed no significant change in all treated groups. Values were all compared to the control. For liver marker enzymes, sodium benzoate significantly increased (p≤0.05) aspartate transaminase (AST) activity of experimental rats in groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 of 250 mg/kg body wt. and 500mg/kg body wt., alanine transaminase (ALT) showed significant increase (p≤0.05)  in group 4 and 5 for 250 mg/kg body wt and group 2, 3, 4 and 5 for 500 mg/kg body wt., alkaline phosphatase (ALP) showed significant (p≤0.05) increase in group 2, 3, 4 and 5 for 500 mg/kg body wt.These findings suggest possible changes in blood chemistry due to the preservative.
Determining Optimal Solution of Short Term Loan Use to Maximize Net Farm Return in Jorhat District of Assam
Authors: Deka Pallavi , Barman Sinki , Deka Nivedita , Hazarika Jayanta Prasad
Published: August 2019

The present study of Determining optimal solution of short term loan use to maximize net farm return in Jorhat District of Assam was undertaken to examine the possibilities and prospects of increasing net return through optimal allocation of resources under existing financial environment. The study was carried out through collection of data by interview method and linear programming technique was used to develop optimum plans for different farms of the study area. The results of the study brought out that there was a tremendous scope to shift the resource allocation to more revenue generating high value crops. The analysis of the results shows that the farmer’s optimal cropping pattern was sugarcane, pea, potato, cauliflower and cabbage in all the farm groups. The operation wise labour use was also increasing significantly in optimal plan. The results showed that in order to obtain an optimum farm credit farm plan, the short term farm credit were used. The optimum farm credit was reached when the net revenue were maximum in all the farm groups. Credit played an important role in increasing net farm return. The effect of credit on income was inversely related with the size of the farm whereas the credit needs were directly related to the farm size.
On Summing Formulas of Generalized Hexanacci and Gaussian Generalized Hexanacci Numbers
Authors: Soykan Yüksel
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we present linear summation formulas for generalized Hexanacci numbers and generalized Gaussian Hexanacci numbers. Also, as special cases, we give linear summation formulas of Hexanacci and Hexanacci-Lucas numbers; Gaussian Hexanacci and Gaussian Hexanacci-Lucas numbers. We present the proofs to indicate how these formulas, in general, were discovered. In fact, all the listed formulas may be proved by induction, but that method of proof gives no clue about their discovery.
Soft‐Switching in Power Electronic Converters–An Introduction
Authors: Moschopoulos Gerry
Published: August 2019

Power electronic converters serve as the standard interface between source and load in almost any electrical equipment. They have power semiconductor devices that are operated as ON/OFF switches at high switching frequencies. These switching devices are not ideal, however, and generate a considerable amount of switching losses that reduce converter efficiency. The main cause of these losses is the overlap of voltage and current that occurs whenever a switch transitions from being fully on or fully off, or vice versa. A significant reduction of these switching losses can be achieved if a converter switch is made to operate with “soft‐switching,” with switching transitions that are gradual as opposed to sudden or hard. Soft‐switching methods can generally be classified as being either zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) with the switch voltage made to be zero during a switching transition or zero‐current switching (ZCS) with the switch voltage made to be zero during a switching transition. Making either the voltage or current of a switch zero during a switching transition ensures the reduction of any overlap of voltage and current and thus the reduction of switching losses.

In this article, the basic principles of soft‐switching for dc‐dc power converters operating with high switching frequencies (>50 kHz) are reviewed. A number of soft‐switching methods for simple single‐switch converters such as the boost and buck converters are presented along with methods for more sophisticated dc‐dc converters such as the forward, flyback, and full‐bridge converters. Each method is described in some detail and its strengths and weaknesses are discussed. The article also presents some brief discussion of soft‐switching methods for ac‐dc converters and dc‐ac inverters as well.
miRNA expression changes during the course of neoadjuvant bevacizumab and chemotherapy treatment in breast cancer
Authors: Lindholm Evita Maria , Ragle Aure Miriam , Haugen Mads Haugland , Kleivi Sahlberg Kristine , Kristensen Vessela N. , Nebdal Daniel , Børresen‐Dale Anne‐Lise , Lingjærde Ole Christian , Engebraaten Olav
Published: August 2019

One of the hallmarks of cancer is sustained angiogenesis. Favorable results have been reported in some breast cancer (BC) patients receiving antiangiogenic therapy with bevacizumab (Bev) in combination with chemotherapy, and further knowledge on how Bev can be optimally combined with conventional treatment to increase efficacy is strongly needed. In this randomized, neoadjuvant phase II clinical trial, 132 patients with HER2‐negative, nonmetastatic BC were treated with Bev in combination with sequential chemotherapy. Biopsies were sampled before treatment, after 12 weeks with anthracycline and after taxane therapy at week 25. MicroRNA (miRNA) expression profiling was performed on biopsies from each time point. Altogether, 241 biopsies were analyzed with the aim of identifying miRNA‐based biomarkers of response to therapy. Results from the miRNA analyses were reported for the ER‐positive cohort, which were previously demonstrated to benefit from antiangiogenic therapy in this study. For both treatment arms of this cohort, significantly different expression was observed for 217 miRNAs between objective responding and nonresponding patients before treatment initiation. These miRNAs have been linked to regulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and tumor growth, among other processes. Bev in combination with chemotherapy resulted in similar miRNA changes to chemotherapy alone. However, the deregulation of miRNA expression occurred earlier in the Bev arm. In both arms, tumor suppressor miRNAs were found upregulated after treatment, while oncogenic miRNAs were downregulated in the Bev arm. Patients responding to Bev showed a strong correlation between deregulated miRNAs and decreased proliferation score during the course of treatment, with downregulation of miR‐4465 as the strongest indicator of reduced proliferation. Integrative analyses at miRNA‐, gene‐, and protein expression further indicated a longitudinal decrease in proliferation. Altogether, the results indicate that proliferation might represent a predictive factor for increased Bev sensitivity, which may aid in the identification of patients who could potentially benefit from Bev.
n
‐Dimensional Quadrature
Authors: Wingate Beth A.
Published: August 2019

This article discusses
n
‐dimensional quadrature. To show how dimensionality complicates integration rules this article focus on polynomial integration over squares and triangles where quadrature points are required to be on the boundary. In the case of a square, high quality formulae, called Gauss–Lobatto quadrature, are available as tensor products of 1‐dimensional quadrature. In triangles it has been shown that analogous Gauss–Lobatto formulae do not even exist.
Variogram
Authors: Franco‐Villoria Maria
Published: August 2019

Data collected over space are usually not independent; instead, observations close in space tend to be more similar than those further apart. The variogram stands as a very useful tool for summarizing and assessing the spatial dependence structure.
Spatial Survival Model
Authors: Hanson Timothy , Zhou Haiming
Published: August 2019

This article provides an overview of the incorporation of spatial information into the analysis of time‐to‐event data, that is, survival analysis. Both frequentist and Bayesian approaches are discussed, but Bayesian models are given more exposure here simply because there are more software packages enabling the easy fitting of Bayesian models.
Meta‐Analysis of Rare Events
Authors: Liu Dungang
Published: August 2019

Rare events are events that occur infrequently. Such events are often unwanted, uncomfortable, and dangerous to individuals or society. A common and important example in health care research is adverse events (e.g., deaths) in clinical trials. Of growing interest is a possible association of adverse events, rarely observed, with the intervention. Owing to the sparseness of rare events data, meta‐analysis of multiple similar or relevant studies may be the only effective way to identify potential safety issues. Meta‐analysis of rare events, however, presents special methodological challenges. This article reviews the relevant statistical issues and methodological developments over the past two decades. Topics covered include choice of effect measures, zero events and continuity corrections, choice between fixed‐ and random‐effects models, and appropriateness of standard and newly developed meta‐analytic methods.
Climate Change and Stomatal Physiology
Authors: Matthews Jack S. A. , Lawson Tracy
Published: August 2019

Stomata control the uptake of CO
2
into the leaf along with water loss through transpiration and are critical for maintaining plant water status and leaf temperature. The predicted changes in future climate conditions; including atmospheric [CO
2
], temperature, and water availability will greatly influence stomatal development and functional response. As stomata account for 95% of terrestrial gaseous fluxes of water and carbon, their behaviour has major consequences for global hydrological and carbon cycles, with implications for precipitation patterns, land run‐off and drought events. Furthermore, as water demand for agricultural practices is predicted to increase, crop production for sustainable food security will require improvements in plant water use efficiency, to which stomatal conductance and dynamic responses to environmental conditions are key components. Stomatal response is often the combination of several environmental and internal stimuli, and is, therefore, difficult to predict across ecosystem types. Here, we review stomatal response to key environmental factors at the leaf and ecosystem levels, and highlight the influence of changes in stomatal anatomical and functional behaviour on earth systems and ecosystem function in the face of climate change.
The Evolution of Symbiotic Plant–Microbe Signalling
Authors: Clear Michael R. , Hom Erik F. Y.
Published: August 2019

Plants form beneficial symbioses with a variety of different microbes. Among these, the root associated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, ectomycorrhizal fungi, rhizobial, and actinobacterial symbioses are some of the best understood. The successful establishment of these symbioses relies on a complex, coordinated signal exchange that arose from hundreds of millions of years of coevolution between plants and their associated microbes. Despite the diversity of these microbial symbionts, common signalling mechanisms were evolved that include the manipulation of host immunity and the use of similar plant‐ and microbe‐derived signals and receptors. Owing to the plethora of information on these diverse symbioses, their signalling mechanisms are rarely reviewed together and even less so within an evolutionary context. We provide an overview of what is known regarding the evolution of these signals in an effort to highlight knowledge gaps in our understanding of plant–microbe symbiosis.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in Fruits during Cold Storage
Authors: Cainelli Nadia , Ruperti Benedetto
Published: August 2019

Cold storage of fruits is exploited to prolong postharvest life and marketing period by minimising their metabolic activity. However, exposure of fruits to nonfreezing low temperatures for prolonged periods of time may also lead to the development of cold‐inducible physiological disorders termed chilling injuries. Chilling injuries represent an economically relevant problem that may occur in an unpredictable way depending on the sensitivity of the fruits to low temperature. In this article, we consider the main aspects of cold stress signalling and responses taking place in fruits during storage and during the following period of warming at room temperature that often results in the further induction of chilling injury symptoms. A vast amount of research has contributed to the identification of several biochemical and molecular events underlying cold stress responses in fruits. Convincing evidence shows that ethylene plays a pivotal regulatory role, through a complex interplay with other hormones, but early inducing factors remain elusive. Recent studies based on system analyses of cold‐dependent trancriptomic and metabolomic changes have contributed to shed light on some early regulatory events which may contribute to determining the fruits' sensitivity to cold stress. A better understanding of these phenomena is essential to optimise cold storage conditions and for an efficient use of resources to deliver a more sustainable fruit supply chain.
Self‐Powered Sensors Enabled by Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Indoor Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Mathews Ian , Kantareddy Sai Nithin Reddy , Sun Shijing , Layurova Mariya , Thapa Janak , Correa‐Baena Juan‐Pablo , Bhattacharyya Rahul , Buonassisi Tonio , Sarma Sanjay , Peters Ian Marius
Published: August 2019

A new approach to ubiquitous sensing for indoor applications is presented, using low‐cost indoor perovskite photovoltaic cells as external power sources for backscatter sensors. Wide‐bandgap perovskite photovoltaic cells for indoor light energy harvesting are presented with the 1.63 and 1.84 eV devices that demonstrate efficiencies of 21% and 18.5%, respectively, under indoor compact fluorescent lighting, with a champion open‐circuit voltage of 0.95 V in a 1.84 eV cell under a light intensity of 0.16 mW cm−2. Subsequently, a wireless temperature sensor self‐powered by a perovskite indoor light‐harvesting module is demonstrated. Three perovskite photovoltaic cells are connected in series to create a module that produces 14.5 µW output power under 0.16 mW cm−2 of compact fluorescent illumination with an efficiency of 13.2%. This module is used as an external power source for a battery‐assisted radio‐frequency identification temperature sensor and demonstrates a read range by of 5.1 m while maintaining very high frequency measurements every 1.24 s. The combined indoor perovskite photovoltaic modules and backscatter radio‐frequency sensors are further discussed as a route to ubiquitous sensing in buildings given their potential to be manufactured in an integrated manner at very low cost, their lack of a need for battery replacement, and the high frequency data collection possible.
Real‐Time Quantification of Cell Internalization Kinetics by Functionalized Bioluminescent Nanoprobes
Authors: Wu Di , Yang Yilong , Xu Pengcheng , Xu Duo , Liu Yang , Castillo Roxanne , Yan Ran , Ren Jie , Zhou George , Liu Chaoyong , Qin Meng , Du Juanjuan , Hou Lihua , Chen Irvin , Kang Chunsheng , Jin Lihua , Wen Jing , Chen Wei , Lu Yunfeng
Published: August 2019

Cells transport mass dynamically, crossing cell membranes to maintain metabolism and systemic homeostasis, through which biomolecules are also delivered to cells for gene editing, cell reprograming, therapy, and other purposes. Quantifying the translocation kinetics is fundamentally and clinically essential, but remains limited by fluorescence‐based technologies, which are semi‐quantitative and only provide kinetics information at cellular level or in discrete time. Herein, a real‐time method of quantifying cell internalization kinetics is reported using functionalized firefly‐luciferase nanocapsules as the probe. This quantitative assay will facilitate the rational design of delivery vectors and enable high‐throughput screening of peptides and other functional molecules, constituting an effective tool for broad applications, including drug development and cancer therapy.
Carbon Nanotube Yarn for Fiber‐Shaped Electrical Sensors, Actuators, and Energy Storage for Smart Systems
Authors: Jang Yongwoo , Kim Sung Min , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: August 2019

Smart systems are those that display autonomous or collaborative functionalities, and include the ability to sense multiple inputs, to respond with appropriate operations, and to control a given situation. In certain circumstances, it is also of great interest to retain flexible, stretchable, portable, wearable, and/or implantable attributes in smart electronic systems. Among the promising candidate smart materials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibit excellent electrical and mechanical properties, and structurally fabricated CNT‐based fibers and yarns with coil and twist further introduce flexible and stretchable properties. A number of notable studies have demonstrated various functions of CNT yarns, including sensors, actuators, and energy storage. In particular, CNT yarns can operate as flexible electronic sensors and electrodes to monitor strain, temperature, ionic concentration, and the concentration of target biomolecules. Moreover, a twisted CNT yarn enables strong torsional actuation, and coiled CNT yarns generate large tensile strokes as an artificial muscle. Furthermore, the reversible actuation of CNT yarns can be used as an energy harvester and, when combined with a CNT supercapacitor, has promoted the next‐generation of energy storage systems. Here, progressive advances of CNT yarns in electrical sensing, actuation, and energy storage are reported, and the future challenges in smart electronic systems considered.
Genetic Logic Gates Enable Patterning of Amyloid Nanofibers
Authors: Kalyoncu Ebuzer , Ahan Recep Erdem , Ozcelik Cemile Elif , Seker Urartu Ozgur Safak
Published: August 2019

Distinct spatial patterning of naturally produced materials is observed in many cellular structures and even among communities of microorganisms. Reoccurrence of spatially organized materials in all branches of life is clear proof that organization is beneficial for survival. Indeed, organisms can trick the evolutionary process by using organized materials in ways that can help the organism to avoid unexpected conditions. To expand the toolbox for synthesizing patterned living materials, Boolean type “AND” and “OR” control of curli fibers expression is demonstrated using recombinases. Logic gates are designed to activate the production of curli fibers. The gates can be used to record the presence of input molecules and give output as CsgA expression. Two different curli fibers (CsgA and CsgA‐His‐tag) production are then selectively activated to explore distribution of monomers upon coexpression. To keep track of the composition of fibers, CsgA‐His‐tag proteins are labeled with nickel–nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni–NTA‐) conjugated gold nanoparticles. It is observed that an organized living material can be obtained upon inducing the coexpression of different CsgA fibers. It is foreseen that living materials with user‐defined curli composition hold great potential for the development of living materials for many biomedical applications.
Multifunctional Chemical Linker Imidazoleacetic Acid Hydrochloride for 21% Efficient and Stable Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Jiangzhao , Zhao Xing , Kim Seul‐Gi , Park Nam‐Gyu
Published: August 2019

Chemical interaction at a heterojunction interface induced by an appropriate chemical linker is of crucial importance for high efficiency, hysteresis‐less, and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Effective interface engineering in PSCs is reported via a multifunctional chemical linker of 4‐imidazoleacetic acid hydrochloride (ImAcHCl) that can provide a chemical bridge between SnO2 and perovskite through an ester bond with SnO2 via esterification reaction and an electrostatic interaction with perovskite via imidazolium cation in ImAcHCl and iodide anion in perovskite. In addition, the chloride anion in ImAcHCl plays a role in the improvement of crystallinity of perovskite film crystallinity. The introduction of ImAcHCl onto SnO2 realigns the positions of the conduction and valence bands upwards, reduces nonradiative recombination, and improves carrier life time. As a consequence, average power conversion efficiency (PCE) is increased from 18.60% ± 0.50% to 20.22% ± 0.34% before and after surface modification, respectively, which mainly results from an enhanced voltage from 1.084 ± 0.012 V to 1.143 ± 0.009 V. The best PCE of 21% is achieved by 0.1 mg mL−1 ImAcHCl treatment, along with negligible hysteresis. Moreover, an unencapsulated device with ImAcHCl‐modified SnO2 shows much better thermal and moisture stability than unmodified SnO2.
Modulating the Charge Transport in 2D Semiconductors via Energy‐Level Phototuning
Authors: Qiu Haixin , Zhao Yuda , Liu Zhaoyang , Herder Martin , Hecht Stefan , Samorì Paolo
Published: August 2019

The controlled functionalization of semiconducting 2D materials (2DMs) with photoresponsive molecules enables the generation of novel hybrid structures as active components for the fabrication of high‐performance multifunctional field‐effect transistors (FETs) and memories. This study reports the realization of optically switchable FETs by decorating the surface of the semiconducting 2DMs such as WSe2 and black phosphorus with suitably designed diarylethene (DAE) molecules to modulate their electron and hole transport, respectively, without sacrificing their pristine electrical performance. The efficient and reversible photochemical isomerization of the DAEs between the open and the closed isomer, featuring different energy levels, makes it possible to generate photoswitchable charge trapping levels, resulting in the tuning of charge transport through the 2DMs by alternating illumination with UV and visible light. The device reveals excellent data‐retention capacity combined with multiple and well‐distinguished accessible current levels, paving the way for its use as an active element in multilevel memories.
Room‐Temperature Stimulated Emission and Lasing in Recrystallized Cesium Lead Bromide Perovskite Thin Films
Authors: Pourdavoud Neda , Haeger Tobias , Mayer Andre , Cegielski Piotr Jacek , Giesecke Anna Lena , Heiderhoff Ralf , Olthof Selina , Zaefferer Stefan , Shutsko Ivan , Henkel Andreas , Becker‐Koch David , Stein Markus , Cehovski Marko , Charfi Ouacef , Johannes Hans‐Hermann , Rogalla Detlef , Lemme Max Christian , Koch Martin , Vaynzof Yana , Meerholz Klaus , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Scheer Hella‐Christin , Görrn Patrick , Riedl Thomas
Published: August 2019

Cesium lead halide perovskites are of interest for light‐emitting diodes and lasers. So far, thin‐films of CsPbX3 have typically afforded very low photoluminescence quantum yields (PL‐QY < 20%) and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) only at cryogenic temperatures, as defect related nonradiative recombination dominated at room temperature (RT). There is a current belief that, for efficient light emission from lead halide perovskites at RT, the charge carriers/excitons need to be confined on the nanometer scale, like in CsPbX3 nanoparticles (NPs). Here, thin films of cesium lead bromide, which show a high PL‐QY of 68% and low‐threshold ASE at RT, are presented. As‐deposited layers are recrystallized by thermal imprint, which results in continuous films (100% coverage of the substrate), composed of large crystals with micrometer lateral extension. Using these layers, the first cesium lead bromide thin‐film distributed feedback and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers with ultralow threshold at RT that do not rely on the use of NPs are demonstrated. It is foreseen that these results will have a broader impact beyond perovskite lasers and will advise a revision of the paradigm that efficient light emission from CsPbX3 perovskites can only be achieved with NPs.
3D Printing of Bismaleimides: From New Ink Formulation to Printed Thermosetting Polymer Objects
Authors: Gouzman Irina , Atar Nurit , Grossman Eitan , Verker Ronen , Bolker Asaf , Pokrass Mariana , Sultan Shai , Sinwani Omer , Wagner Annika , Lück Thomas , Seifarth Christian
Published: August 2019

Additive manufacturing is a novel manufacturing paradigm which has numerous potential applications in industry and research. PolyJet technology allows printing of extremely complex geometrical structures with high precision and smooth surface. New engineering polymers with diverse characteristics should be developed to expand PolyJet applications. Bismaleimides (BMIs) are very attractive polymers due to their excellent thermal, mechanical, and chemical stability, and their good dielectric properties. However, BMIs are currently not available as inks for PolyJet technology. Low‐viscosity aliphatic BMIs are used to develop a novel UV‐curable ink. The UV reactivity and ink viscosity are optimized by addition of an environmentally friendly diluent and a mixture of photoinitiators. Optimization of the jetting and printing conditions allows for the first ever production of 3D thermosetting BMI objects by PolyJet technology. Thermal post curing is used to enhance mechanical properties and thermal stability of the printed material. It is found to have a thermal decomposition temperature,T5%, of about 400 °C, low dielectric constant, high dielectric strength, and low moisture absorption. The resulting properties of the printed BMI material open a wide range of potential applications in fields such as robotics, electronics, automotive, aerospace, and space technology.
Releasing the Trapped Light for Efficient Silver Nanowires‐Based White Flexible Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Wei , Li Yan‐Qing , Shen Yang , Zhang Yue‐Xing , Jin Teng‐Yu , Chen Jing‐De , Zhang Xiao‐Hong , Tang Jian‐Xin
Published: August 2019

Flexible organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) are attracting tremendous attention due to their promise as a key element in bendable display and curved lighting applications. However, their performance in terms of efficiency and bendability is limited, since flexible transparent electrodes with superior electrical, optical, and mechanical properties are rare. Here, a multifunctional electrode architecture that is based on flexible plastic, and consists of electrically conductive silver nanowires, a nanopatterned ZnO outcoupling layer, and a hole‐injection polymer layer, is proposed for the actualization of high‐performance flexible OLEDs. The trapped light in the waveguide and substrate modes is effectively released by integrating aperiodic nanostructures into high‐refractive‐index ZnO layers on both sides of the plastic substrate. A maximum external quantum efficiency of 61.7% and a power efficiency of 126.6 lm W−1 are achieved for the white‐emission flexible OLEDs with broadband and angle‐independent outcoupling enhancement. In addition, the proposed approach allows for high‐level mechanical flexibility, retaining over 80% of the initial efficiency after 3000 cycles of repeated bending.
Fundamental Thermoelectric Properties in Organic Heterojunctions from Molecular to Thin‐Film and Hybrid Designs
Authors: Xiong Yan , Xu Ling , Sun Lin , Wu Ping , Xie Guo , Hu Bin
Published: August 2019

Organic heterojunctions have become a unique platform to explore superior thermoelectric performance based on the fundamental possibilities of separately controlling electrical and thermal transport through interfaces structured at different length scales. Particularly, the “heterojunctions” present artificially made components, in addition to each component used to form heterojunctions, to further control electrical and thermal conductions toward developing high‐performance thermoelectrics. Potentially, in organic heterojunctions, the different components (organic–organic, organic–inorganic) possess low thermal and high electrical conductivities, which present the necessary conditions for developing high thermoelectric actions. Furthermore, organic heterojunctions provide an opportunity to form electrically conductive but thermally resistive interfaces between different components at different length scales from molecular to thin‐film and hybrid designs, functioning as a third component, upon combing two components. In particular, the interface can be facilely tuned toward ultimately separating electrical and thermal conduction by rationally selecting electric, polarization and thermal parameters. In this Review, the fundamental thermoelectric properties of organic heterojunctions from molecular to thin‐film and hybrid designs are presented. The thermoelectric performances enhanced by interface effects are also highlighted. Finally, the outlook for the further thermoelectric developments is discussed.
Slot‐Die and Roll‐to‐Roll Processed Single Junction Organic Photovoltaic Cells with the Highest Efficiency
Authors: Lee Jeongjoo , Seo You‐Hyun , Kwon Sung‐Nam , Kim Do‐Hyung , Jang Seokhoon , Jung Hyeonwoo , Lee Youngu , Weerasinghe Hasitha , Kim Taehyo , Kim Jin Young , Vak Doojin , Na Seok‐In
Published: August 2019

The record efficiency of the state‐of‐the‐art polymer solar cells (PSCs) is rapidly increasing, due to the discovery of high‐performance photoactive donor and acceptor materials. However, strong questions remain as to whether such high‐efficiency PSCs can be produced by scalable processes. This paper reports a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.5% achieved with single‐junction ternary PSCs based on PTB7‐Th, PC71BM, and COi8DFIC fabricated by slot‐die coating, which shows the highest PCE ever reported in PSCs fabricated by a scalable process. To understand the origin of the high performance of the slot‐die coated device, slot‐die coated photoactive films and devices are systematically investigated. These results indicate that the good performance of the slot‐die PSCs can be due to a favorable molecule‐structure and film‐morphology change by introducing 1,8‐diiodooctane and heat treatment, which can lead to improved charge transport with reduced carrier recombination. The optimized condition is then used for the fabrication of large‐area modules and also for roll‐to‐roll fabrication. The slot‐die coated module with 30 cm2 active‐area and roll‐to‐roll produced flexible PSC has shown 8.6% and 9.6%, respectively. These efficiencies are the highest in each category and demonstrate the strong potential of the slot‐die coated ternary system for commercial applications.
Relationship between occupational noise exposure and hypertension: A cross‐sectional study in steel factories
Authors: Zhou Fan , Shrestha Ankita , Mai Shiqi , Tao Zhimin , Li Jiahui , Wang Zhi , Meng Xiaojing
Published: August 2019

Background

Hazardous exposure to occupational noise may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension. This study was performed to assess the relationship between noise exposure and hypertension prevalence in steelworkers.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey using self‐reported noise exposure and audiometrically measured hearing loss was performed. One thousand eight hundred and seventy‐four workers were interviewed. Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for hypertension by noise exposure. Linear regression analysis was used to test associations between noise exposure and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Results

Occupational noise‐exposed subjects had significantly higher blood pressure levels than nonexposed subjects (SBP: 123.18 ± (standard deviation) 12.44 vs 119.80 ± 12.50 mm Hg; DBP: 77.86 ± 9.34 vs 75.49 ± 8.73 mmHg). The prevalence of hypertension was approximately 5% in the control group without noise exposure or hearing impairment and increased from 6% to 21% across the range of increasing degree of hearing loss and, separately, of cumulative exposure time. Noise exposure (any) was associated with an increase in the prevalence of hypertension (odds ratio, 2.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15‐3.58). Noise‐induced hearing loss and cumulative noise exposure time were positively correlated with BP (hearing loss: SBP: β = .09, 95% CI: 0.04‐0.15 mm Hg, DBP: β = .11, 95% CI: 0.06‐0.17 mm Hg; cumulative exposure time: SBP: β = .10, 95% CI: 0.04‐0.15 mm Hg, DBP: β = .09, 95% CI: 0.04‐0.15 mm Hg).

Conclusions

Noise exposure measured in two different ways was strongly associated with the prevalence of hypertension in steelworkers. Reducing noise in the steel factory could be a way of decreasing the risk of hypertension in this population.
Survival outcomes and prognostic factors of squamous cell carcinomas arising from sinonasal inverted papillomas: a retrospective analysis of 120 patients
Authors: Li Yunxia , Wang Chengshuo , Wang Ru , He Shizhi , Feng Ling , Ma Hongzhi , Lian Meng , Shi Qian , Zhong Qi , Chen Xiaohong , Fang Jugao , Zhang Luo
Published: August 2019

Background

This study aimed to analyze the prognostic factors and survival outcomes of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) originating from sinonasal inverted papillomas (IPs), based on data from a single institution.

Methods

The data from 120 patients treated at the affiliated Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, for SCC originating from sinonasal IPs between 2005 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Data related to demographic features, tumor characteristics, treatment modality, and clinical outcomes were collected. Survival data were investigated using the Kaplan‐Meier method, Cox regression analysis, and the nomogram model predictive of survival probabilities.

Results

Among 1034 patients with sinonasal IPs, 120 patients (11.6%) with malignancy were identified. The overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) rates at 5 years were 56.0% and 42.3%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that synchronous tumors and tumor stage were independent predictive factors for the risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.954; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.022‐3.737,p= 0.043; HR, 1.737, 95% CI, 1.095‐2.770,p= 0.020, respectively). The surgical margin was another important independent predictor, with patients with negative margins demonstrating a more than 2‐fold improved survival compared to those with positive margins (HR, 2.095; 95% CI, 1.031‐4.243;p= 0.041).

Conclusion

The main factors affecting the prognosis and outcomes were synchronous tumors, advanced tumor stage, and positive surgical margins. These findings highlight the importance of tumor biology and early detection in patient outcomes. In addition, risk factors should be taken into consideration during treatment planning and subsequent tumor surveillance.
Diverse phenotypes and endotypes of fungus balls caused by mixed bacterial colonization in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Kim Dong‐Kyu , Wi Young Chan , Shin Su‐Jin , Kim Kyung Rae , Kim Dae Woo , Cho Seok Hyun
Published: August 2019

Background

The pathogenic roles of fungus and bacteria in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remain unclear. Recently, we described the bacterial ball, which is distinct from the fungus ball, as an unusual phenotype of bacterial infection. In this study, we investigated the clinical, histopathologic, and immunologic characteristics of sinonasal microorganic materials, including fungus ball and bacterial ball.

Methods

In this study, we enrolled 80 CRS patients with sinonasal microorganic materials and 10 control subjects who underwent skull base surgery or endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy and had no signs or symptoms of nasal inflammation. All specimens were stained with hematoxylin‐eosin, Gomori‐methenamine‐silver, and Gram stain to identify fungal organisms and Gram‐positive/negative bacterial colonies. The expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α; interleukin (IL)‐1β; S100A7; S100A8/A9; and short, palate, lung, and nasal epithelial clone 1 (SPLUNC1) were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using sinus lavage fluid.

Results

We histologically classified sinonasal microorganic materials into the following 4 groups: fungus ball (n = 45); bacterial ball (n = 6); mixed ball (formed by a mixture of fungus and bacteria, n = 27); and double ball (formed by separate fungal and bacterial balls, n = 2). Compared with the fungus ball, the mixed ball was more frequently detected in immunocompromised patients (p < 0.0001). In addition, TNF‐α expression was significantly higher in fungus and mixed balls than in control, whereas the mixed ball showed higher expression of IL‐1β compared with the fungus ball. Moreover, the expression of S100A7 and S100A8/A9 protein in the mixed ball was significantly decreased when compared with the fungus ball, whereas there was no significant difference in SPLUNC1 expression between fungus and mixed balls.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that fungal and bacterial interactions are diverse in CRS. Specifically, the mixed ball is prevalent in CRS with an immunocompromised state and it may decrease epithelial barrier function.
Process intensification in catalytic wet air oxidation of phenol via coupling gas‐liquid microdispersion with trickle bed reactors
Authors: Tan Jing , Nie Miaomiao , Li Zhikang , Ji Yani , Chen Shijie , Deng Wensheng , Chen Lai , Lu Yun , Su Yuefeng
Published: August 2019

Intensified trickle bed reactors were developed for catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) of phenol, by generating microbubbles before gas/liquid fluid flows along catalyst packed‐beds. By coupling gas‐liquid microdispersion module, phenol disappearance rate significantly increases under the same operating conditions and phenol conversion reaches 92% in 22 seconds at 160°C and 1000 kPa. Effects of operating conditions were studied systematically and results demonstrated characteristics of high‐interaction regime at low Reynolds number. Comparison of effects among mass transfer and reaction steps shows CWAO reaction is controlled by resistance to liquid‐solid mass transfer of phenol in most cases, while gas‐liquid mass‐transfer‐resistance is ignorable. A dimensionless correlation, Sh = 2.29φ−0.91(ReL + ReG)0.04, was established, by considering influences of liquid film thickness and fluid flow situations on liquid‐solid mass transfer coefficient in microbubble‐in‐liquid/catalyst‐particle system. The study would provide an effective method for intensifying CWAO and other liquid‐solid‐mass‐transfer‐resistance‐controlled gas/liquid/solid catalytic reactions and help understand mass transfer mechanism in new gas/liquid/solid system.
Development of castor oil–based polymers: A review
Authors: Nekhavhambe Edza , Mukaya Hembe E. , Nkazi Diakanua B.
Published: August 2019

Vegetable oils are a vital commodity in the industry because of the persisting challenges encountered with the utilization of fossil fuels, specifically petroleum. Petroleum‐based polymers are a part of our day to day life, thus it is of importance to find sustainable ways to produce such indispensable commodities. Although various vegetable oils have been utilized to produce polymers, castor oil surpasses other vegetable oils, as it does not compete with the food industry as it is nonedible and as it is a natural polyol and has been used for polyurethane synthesis. Because of the versatility of castor oil chemistry, polymers such as epoxies, polyamides, and polyesters can be synthesized. The review focuses on the importance of castor oil toward the synthesis of various polymers and their versatile applications.
In Situ Self‐Assembled Nanofibers Precisely Target Cancer‐Associated Fibroblasts for Improved Tumor Imaging
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐Xiao , Li Li‐Li , Zhao Ying , An Hong‐Wei , Cai Qian , Lang Jia‐Yan , Han Xue‐Xiang , Peng Bo , Fei Yue , Liu Hao , Qin Hao , Nie Guangjun , Wang Hao
Published: August 2019

Tumor complexity makes the development of highly sensitive tumor imaging probes an arduous task. Here, we construct a peptide‐based near‐infrared probe that is responsive to fibroblast activation protein‐α (FAP‐α), and specifically forms nanofibers on the surface of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in situ. The assembly/aggregation‐induced retention (AIR) effect results in enhanced accumulation and retention of the probe around the tumor, resulting in a 5.5‐fold signal enhancement in the tumor 48 h after administration compared to that of a control molecule that does not aggregate. The probe provides a prolonged detectable window of 48 h for tumor diagnosis. The selective assembly of the probe results in a signal intensity over four‐ and fivefold higher in tumor than in the liver and kidney, respectively. With enhanced tumor imaging capability, this probe can visualize small tumors around 2 mm in diameter.
Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)/mesoporous silica thermosensitive composite hydrogels for drug loading and release
Authors: Zhang Zhaofu , Wang Shuo , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Zhang Qihai , Li Lifang
Published: August 2019

Temperature‐sensitive hydrogels are attracting increasing attention for controlled drug delivery. However, achieving high drug loadings and sustained drug release remains challenging. Herein, we describe the successful synthesis of a series of novel temperature‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPA)/mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) hydrogels by physical crosslinking of NIPA with MSN. The external and internal structures, temperature sensitivity, drug‐loading capacity, and blood compatibility of the PNIPA/MSN composite hydrogels are studied. Results show that MSN addition improved the network structure and adjusted the size of the hole, MSN could also act as drug carrier, thereby enhancing the drug loading capacity. The composite hydrogels underwent a phase transition at 33.7 °C (at the lower critical solution temperature). The hemolysis rate of the composite hydrogels was less than 1%, thus they can be classified as a nonhemolytic materials with good biocompatibility. The composite hydrogels reported here thus have great potential in drug transport and temperature‐activated drug release. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48391.